Automation-friendly removable lid and instructions for use

Abstract

An automation-compatible removable lid is provided. The removable lid includes a top surface surrounded by a peripheral rim. The removable lid further includes a septum portion configured to receive an extractor, such as a pipette tip, inserted therethrough. The septum portion is further configured to grip the extractor to facilitate removal of the lid.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to removable lids for automated systems and methods for removing such lids. The purpose of the lid and method may include minimizing evaporation of reagents or samples stored in containers used in automated instruments and protecting reagents and samples in such instruments from light. [Background technology]

[0002] Many automated systems require the removal of lids used to cover containers. Such automated systems may be used within automated instruments. Such automated instruments may also include robotic gripper arms, robotic pipetting systems, or other handling mechanisms for manipulating multiwell plates, plate lids, pipette tips, and other consumables. They may manipulate samples and reagents stored within containers during protracted experiments. These experiments may extend for up to 8 hours or more. Liquids, samples, or other reagents contained within open containers may be exposed to the internal or ambient (e.g., external) atmosphere, evaporate, or be exposed to light.

[0003] Evaporation causes the loss of components contained in the reagent or sample, e.g., volatile components, thereby changing the concentration of dissolved substances in the reagent or sample. Exposure to light can also have detrimental effects on reagent or sample components that are light-sensitive. These effects can affect the activity and / or quantity of the reagent or sample. For certain reagents or samples, this can be particularly important when open containers are left in the system for several hours before use. Also, for reagents or samples containing components with high vapor pressures, such as ethanol and acetonitrile, the effects of evaporation can be noticeable over a much shorter period of time. Similarly, for light-sensitive reagents or samples, exposure to light can be detrimental over short or long periods of time, depending on the sensitivity of the components to light.

[0004] Various approaches to controlling reagent evaporation have been attempted using additional robotic hardware to complement automated liquid handling systems. For example, automated analytical devices may include lid opening and closing hardware. Such hardware may include, for example, mechanical systems and robotic components configured to facilitate lid opening. However, having additional robotic hardware to open and close lids on reagent containers in an automated analytical system adds additional complexity.

[0005] The embodiments provided herein address these aforementioned shortcomings in providing a lid that facilitates both the addition of reagents and other substances through the lid and automated removal of the lid. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to a substance containment system adapted for use in a system, such as an assay system, that includes a container having a body adapted to hold a reagent or sample, and at least one lid configured to be placed on the container.

[0007] In one embodiment, a lid adapted for use in an automated system is provided, the lid including: an upper surface; a rim disposed on a periphery of the upper surface, the rim including a periphery and at least one skirt, the periphery configured to rest against a lip portion of a container; and a plurality of angular segments of the upper surface defined by a cut pattern and defining a septum portion of the upper surface, the plurality of angular segments configured to allow an extractor to be inserted through the cut pattern and to grip the extractor by frictional forces such that the lid is detached from the container when the extractor is pulled away from the container.

[0008] In one embodiment, a substance containment system for use in an automated system is provided, the substance containment system including a container configured to contain a substance and a lid configured to cover the container, the lid including a top surface, a rim disposed on a periphery of the top surface, the rim including a periphery and at least one skirt, the periphery configured to rest against a lip portion of the container, and a plurality of angular segments of the top surface defined by a cut pattern and defining a septum portion of the top surface, the plurality of angular segments configured to allow an extractor to be inserted through the cut pattern and to grip the extractor by frictional forces such that the lid is detached from the container when the extractor is pulled away from the container.

[0009] The mass of the lid may be less than about 5 grams, preferably less than about 2.5 grams or about 1 gram, more preferably less than about 0.75 grams. The extractor may include at least one pipette tip. The corner segments are preferably coated with a friction-enhancing material. In one embodiment, the at least one lid includes four corner segments. In another embodiment, the at least one lid includes a plurality of disposable lids. The at least one lid may be attached to a pierceable liquid-tight layer.

[0010] The reagents or samples contained in the containers described herein may be liquid and may be selected from the group consisting of a sample to be analyzed, a reagent, a diluent, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, at least one lid is substantially transparent, opaque, or UV-resistant. At least one lid may be made from a hydrophobic material or coated with a hydrophobic coating. At least one lid may be made from high-density polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, preferably having a thickness of about 0.0025 inches to about 0.030 inches. In one embodiment, the lid may be made from a conductive polymer blend or an antistatic or static-dissipative material. Such compositions may reduce the effects of static charge buildup on the lid and the resulting attractive or repulsive forces between the lid and other objects, which may cause unintended movement of the lid or difficulty in handling and placing the lid.

[0011] In one embodiment, a method for removing a lid from a container in an automated system is provided, the method including placing a lid on a container to cover a sample or reagent in the container, the lid including a scoring pattern, penetrating the lid through the scoring pattern with an extractor, moving the extractor away from the container with the lid attached by frictional forces, and discarding the extractor and lid.

[0012] The method may further include minimizing evaporation from at least one reagent or sample in the container. The method may also include minimizing light exposure to at least one reagent or sample in the container. The sample or reagent may be volatile or light-sensitive, and the lid is preferably substantially transparent, opaque, or UV-resistant. The system may include an automated handling subsystem that performs steps (b)-(d).

[0013] The extractor may include at least one pipette tip, and the at least one container may be covered with a separate lid. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] The accompanying drawings illustrate non-limiting exemplary embodiments and form a part of this specification and are to be read in conjunction with it, like reference numerals being used to indicate like parts in the various views.

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 shows a pipette tip having a cut pattern and penetrating a lid covering a container of reagent. [Figure 2(a)] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a container and a removable lid according to an embodiment herein. [Figure 2(b)] FIG. 10 is a top view of a removable lid according to an embodiment herein. [Figure 2(c)] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a container and removable lid according to embodiments herein. [Figure 3(a)]FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a removable lid according to an embodiment herein. [Figure 3(b)] FIG. 10 is a side view of a lid of a removable lid according to embodiments herein. [Figure 3(c)] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a removable lid according to an embodiment herein. [Figure 3(d)] FIG. 3(d) is a cross-sectional view of the removable lid of FIG. 3(c) along line 3(d), according to embodiments herein. [Figure 3(e)] FIG. 3(e) is a cross-sectional view of the removable lid of FIG. 3(c) along line 3(e), according to embodiments herein. [Figure 4(a)] 10 is a 3D stress plot of a removable lid with a displaced septum portion, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 4(b)] 10 is a 3D displacement plot of a removable lid with a displaced septum portion, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 4(c)] 10 is a 3D stress plot of a removable lid with a displaced septum portion, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 4(d)] 10 is a 3D displacement plot of a removable lid with a displaced septum portion, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 4(e)] 10 is a 3D stress plot of a removable lid with a displaced septum portion, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 4(f)] 10 is a 3D displacement plot of a removable lid with a displaced septum portion, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 5(a)] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a removable lid sized and dimensioned for a multiwell plate, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 5(b)] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a removable lid sized and dimensioned for a multiwell plate, according to embodiments herein. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a removable lid composite according to an embodiment herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] An automated instrument is an instrument that, after being loaded with samples, assay consumables, or reagents to be analyzed, performs an analysis or assay according to instructions with substantially no input from a technician. Such automated instruments often include automated liquid handling systems. The duration of an analysis or assay performed by an automated instrument can extend for several hours, during which time some reagents, such as tripropylamine (TPA), ethanol, and acetonitrile, or portions of the sample may evaporate. Other reagents or samples may be sensitive to light. Thus, reagent containers, sample containers (e.g., assay plates), troughs, and other containers associated with the use of automated instrumentation systems frequently require lids.

[0017] Conventional methods, systems, and devices for removing lids can introduce several drawbacks. First, the robotic arms (or other robotic lid removal devices) employed to remove lids in some existing systems can collide with or otherwise interfere with the automated pipetting heads in these systems. While both the automated robotic lid removal device and the automated pipettor can operate independently, they may operate within the same volume, thus creating a risk of contacting, colliding, or otherwise interfering with one another.

[0018] Second, system run time (e.g., the time to perform all steps of an assay) can be significantly prolonged due to the need to introduce a robotic lid removal device to remove lids during assay execution. Lids may remain on vessels in the system for as long as possible to reduce evaporation and other problems caused by open vessels. Therefore, pipetting operations must be temporarily suspended to allow lid removal by the robotic lid removal device. In some cases, to ensure that the robotic lid removal device and the automated pipettor do not interfere, the automated pipettor may be removed from the working volume to allow for the introduction of the robotic lid removal device. Swapping two automated components back and forth within the working volume can add significant time to assay execution.

[0019] Third, switching between the robotic lid removal device and the automated pipettor increases the time that reagents, samples, and other fluids are exposed to the lidless environment before pipetting occurs. Thus, even though the lid prevents evaporation while covering the vessel, the time it takes to switch automated components creates a window during which evaporation can occur.

[0020] Fourth, in some systems, the robotic lid removal device is designed and optimized to work with a particular type of lid having specific characteristics, which necessitates the use of specific lids in particular systems, and therefore the use of different types of lids that may be supplied for different types of products may be limited.

[0021] Aspects of the present disclosure address each of these shortcomings. The present disclosure is directed to removable lids for troughs, reagent containers, assay plates, and other containers, and methods of using them. As disclosed herein, the lid and container may comprise a material containment system. The lid is configured to be removed from the container by an automated, semi-automated, or manual handling system, such as a robot or automated pipettor. Such a robotic system may be part of an automated instrument.

[0022] As disclosed herein and described in more detail below, the removable lid includes a slit or notch that creates or defines a septum portion of the lid by defining an angled segment that bends to allow one or more extractors, such as pipette tips, to penetrate the lid. The angled segment is further configured to grip the extractor after the extractor enters the container. When the extractor or pipette head is lifted away from the container, the lid is also lifted away due to the gripping force of the angled segment. In embodiments, the lid is discarded when an automated handling system releases the extractor into a solid waste container. Thus, the removable lids disclosed herein are configured to allow lifting and removal by a pipette head of an automated pipetting system.

[0023] Thus, the removable lid addresses the problems discussed above by eliminating the need for the use of a specific robotic lid removal device to accomplish lid removal. By employing an automated pipetting system for the lid removal task, many of the drawbacks associated with automated lid removal systems can be reduced or eliminated. First, because both the robotic lid removal device and the automated pipetting system do not need to operate within the same working volume, the possibility of collision, contact, and / or interference between such systems can be significantly reduced. Second, because both the robotic lid removal device and the automated pipetting system do not need to operate within the same working volume, there is no need to switch between one automated component and another, thereby eliminating the extra runtime incurred by such switching. Third, because the automated pipetting system used to remove the lid can be immediately used for pipetting purposes without the need to switch between automated systems within the working volume, evaporation can be reduced. Finally, the removable lids disclosed herein can offer increased versatility. Because the removable lids disclosed herein are configured for removal by the pipetting head, they may eliminate the need for a specially designed / configured robotic gripper or lid removal device. Thus, removable lids as described herein may be compatible with more existing systems.

[0024] While some reagent containers exist that have securely attached lids with features that allow a pipette head to penetrate, these are significantly different from the lids disclosed in the present embodiments. A probe, such as a pipette tip, pushes aside these attached lids to access the liquid reagents in the container. These lids must remain on the reagent container throughout the operation of the automated system. If such lids grip a pipette head in a manner consistent with the embodiments described herein, they may not function as intended, causing the system and assay execution to fail. Disadvantages of such attached lids with slits are that they remain attached or adhered to the reagent container, accessing the liquid contents therein requires a probe to be firmly aligned with the slit each time liquid reagent is needed for analysis, and a relatively large force is required to push aside the passage feature in the elastomeric lid.

[0025] Although the embodiments discussed herein are described with respect to the use of a pipette head as an extractor, other suitable extractors may be used, including any device or structure having the shape and size of a pipette head. The extractor need not be a pipette head, although this may be convenient since it does not require the addition of additional materials to the system. Some embodiments may include a structure configured for use in an automated pipetting system without having all of the features of a pipette head. For example, such a structure may have a solid core and / or be made from a different material than the pipette head.

[0026] The present disclosure is further directed to a method for removing a lid from a container in a system or instrument, including, but not limited to, an automated instrument. The method may be useful, for example, for minimizing evaporation or light exposure in an automated system or instrument and reducing the aforementioned drawbacks associated with some robotic lid removal devices and / or systems. In the disclosed method, a lid is provided that removably fits onto the lip or upper portion of a reagent or sample container. A system or instrument operator may place the lid on the container before loading labware into the system or instrument. The lid may remain in place until the sample or reagent in the container is used to minimize evaporation or light exposure. An extractor, preferably a disposable pipette tip attached to an automated pipetting system or liquid handling / manipulation system, may be used to pierce the lid at the score pattern or septum. Friction or gripping forces between the extractor and the lid keep the lid attached or adhered to the extractor. When the extractor is lifted away from the container, the lid is removed, and the lid is discarded when the extractor is released. An advantage of the disclosed method is that it does not require the complex removal or cap removal devices described in the prior art. Furthermore, the inventive method utilizes consumables typically included in automated assay instruments, such as pipette tips as extractors, to remove the cap, thereby simplifying the cap removal process.

[0027] In non-limiting embodiments, the disclosed lids can be used in automated techniques, including, but not limited to, partially automated, e.g., one or more modular instruments, or fully integrated automated instruments. Alternatively, the disclosed lids can be used in any assay or liquid handling or manipulation system.

[0028] An exemplary automation system or device (both modular and fully integrated) may include the following automation subsystems: a computer subsystem, which may include hardware (e.g., personal computer, laptop, hardware processor, disks, keyboard, display, printer), software (e.g., drivers, driver controllers, and processes such as data analyzers), and databases; a liquid handling or manipulation subsystem, e.g., sample handling and reagent handling, e.g., robotic pipetting heads, syringes, stirrers, ultrasonic mixers, magnetic mixers; a sample, reagent, and consumable storage and handling subsystem, e.g., robotic manipulators, tube or lid or foil piercing devices, lid removers, linear and carousel conveyors, and other transport devices. assay reaction subsystems, e.g., fluid-based and consumable-based (such as tubes and multi-well plates); vessel and consumable washing subsystems, e.g., plate washers; magnetic separator or magnetic particle concentration subsystems, e.g., flow cell, tube, and plate type; detection subsystems, e.g., colorimetric, fluorescent, and ECL detectors; temperature control subsystems, e.g., air handling, air cooling, air warming, fans, blowers, water baths; waste subsystems, e.g., liquid and solid waste containers; globally unique identifier (GUI) detection subsystems, e.g., 1D and 2D barcode scanners, such as flatbed and pen-type, and RFID reading devices.

[0029] Systems or modules that perform sample preparation can be combined with (or be attached to, adjacent to, or robotically linked or coupled to) systems or modules that perform assays, perform detection, or both. Multiple modular systems of the same type can be combined to increase throughput. Modular systems can be combined with modules that perform other types of analysis, such as chemical, biochemical, and nucleic acid analysis.

[0030] Automated systems consistent with the present disclosure may enable batch, random-access, and point-of-care workflows, as well as single, medium, and high sample throughput. The systems may include, for example, one or more of the following devices: plate sealers (e.g., Skymark), plate washers (e.g., TECAN, Biotech), reagent dispensers and / or automated pipetting and / or liquid handling stations (e.g., Skymark, Lab Systems, Beckman, TECAN), incubators (e.g., Skymark), plate shakers (e.g., Skymark), compound library or sample storage containers and / or compound and / or sample retrieval modules. One or more of these devices may be coupled to the inventive apparatus via a robotic assembly, thus enabling the entire assay process to be performed automatically. According to further embodiments, containers (e.g., plates) are manually transferred between the apparatus and various devices by manually moving them (e.g., stacks of plates).

[0031] The automated system may be configured to perform one or more of the following functions: (a) moving consumables such as plates into, out of, and into the detection subsystem, (b) moving consumables between other subsystems, (c) storing consumables, (d) handling samples and reagents (e.g., adapted to mix reagents and / or introduce reagents into the consumable), (e) shaking consumables (e.g., to mix reagents and / or increase reaction rate), (f) washing consumables (e.g., washing plates and / or performing assay wash steps (e.g., well aspiration)), (g) measuring ECL in consumables such as flow cells, or tubes or plates. The automated system may be configured to handle multi-well plates, such as 96- or 384-well plates.

[0032] Exemplary automated systems are discussed and described in commonly owned International Patent Application Publication Nos. 2018 / 017156 and 2017 / 015636, entitled "Integrated Consumable Data Management System & Platform," discussed above, and International Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 164477, entitled "High Throughput System for Performing Assays Using Electrochemiluminescence including a Consumable Shaking Apparatus." These three references are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0033] 2(a) and 2(b) illustrate a container and removable lid consistent with embodiments herein. The lid 10a and container 14a comprise a substance containment system 5a. The removable lid 10a includes a top surface 13a having a rim 27a disposed around its periphery. The top surface 13a is a substantially planar piece of material. The removable lid 10a further includes at least one intersecting cut pattern 12 configured to define a septum portion 17a and cover the container 14a. The intersecting cut pattern 12 may include at least two intersecting cut lines penetrating the top surface 13a of the removable lid 10a, forming a star-shaped pattern that creates a plurality of angle segments 16a to define the septum portion 17a. As illustrated, lid 10a may include a cutout pattern 12a to allow an extractor, such as pipette tip 1021 illustrated in FIG. 1, from a robotic or automated pipetting system to be inserted therethrough. Lid 10a is configured with a depth d that allows lid 10a to rest securely on container 14a, as described below. Extractor / pipette tip 1021, when inserted through the cross cutout, can be used to lift and transport lid 10a from container 14a and discard it into a solid waste container.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the lid 10a can be removably seated on the upper edge of the container 14a without significantly contacting, touching, or gripping the vertical sides of the container. The lid 10a includes a rim 27a that includes an upper peripheral edge 11a, an outer skirt 18a, and an inner skirt 19a. The inner skirt 19a projects substantially vertically upward from the outer peripheral edge of the top surface 13a of the lid 10a. The upper peripheral edge 11a extends horizontally from the inner skirt 19a to create an annular surface. The outer skirt 18a projects substantially vertically downward from the outer peripheral edge of the upper peripheral edge 11a. The rim 27a thus defines an annular recess 28a configured with a diameter suitable for resting on the upper rim 25a of the container 14a. The underside of upper rim 11 a may be configured to rest on container 14 a, and rim 27 a may be configured not to grip or otherwise attach to container 14 a. Outer skirt 18 a may have a diameter greater than the diameter of upper rim 25 a of container 14 a. Inner skirt 19 a may have a diameter less than the diameter of upper rim 25 a of container 14 a. Thus, frictional contact between rim 27 a and container 10 a is minimized or reduced to zero or near zero.

[0035] As illustrated, cut pattern 12a can include two intersecting line cuts that form four corner segments 16a of septum portion 17a. Cut pattern 12a can have any suitable number of intersecting line segments, such as three, four, or five, and a corresponding number of corner segments 16a, such as six, eight, or ten. The material and surface roughness of lid 10a are selected in conjunction with the material and surface roughness of an extractor, such as pipette tip 1021, so that segments 16a can grip the extractor during a lifting operation and the frictional force between the extractor and corner segments 16a is sufficient to support the weight of lid 10a. Frictional forces, if any, between rim 11 a and container 14 a and between skirts 18 a, 19 a and container 14 a are minimal or nearly zero due to the fit of lid 10 a on container 14 a. If the sample or reagent wets lid 10 a, a small amount of surface tension may exist between the sample or reagent contained in the container and lid 10 a. Corner segment 16 a, in conjunction with the extractor, is configured to generate a lifting force greater than the weight of lid 10 a plus any friction or surface tension holding lid 10 a against container 14 a.

[0036] In further embodiments, the upper rim 25a may be configured to provide a gripping or frictional force on the container 14a that, when added to the weight of the lid 10a, is less than the force generated through the diaphragm portion 17a by the extractor used to lift the lid 10a. In further embodiments, the inner skirt 19a and the outer skirt 18a may protrude from the lid 10a and the rim 11a at an angle other than substantially perpendicular to the lid 10a. In further embodiments, the lid 10a may have a shape other than circular, such as square and / or rectangular. In such embodiments, the rim 10a may not be annular in shape, but may be shaped to fit the outer periphery of the lid 10a in any shape.

[0037] In a further embodiment, the corner segments (16a) may be coated with a friction-enhancing material, such as an adhesive, to increase their stickiness. After the extractor is inserted through the cut pattern (12a), the friction-enhancing layer increases the coefficient of friction, thereby increasing the frictional force applied when the lid (10a) is removed. When a friction-enhancing layer is used, lids with greater weight can be lifted. Alternatively, the friction-enhancing layer may be coated on the extractor, or on both the extractor and the cut pattern.

[0038] The lid 10a may be made from a relatively rigid or non-elastomeric material, such as polyester, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or polycarbonate. Therefore, flexibility of the lid 10a may be provided by a cut pattern. The lid 10a may be thermoformed or vacuum formed, and the cut pattern 12a may be die-cut. Thermoforming is a process in which a plastic sheet is heated and its shape is molded onto a mold using air pressure, while vacuum forming is a similar process but uses a vacuum instead of air pressure. The lid 10a may be made from polystyrene, polypropylene, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), or any other material commonly used in biological research. Additionally, the lid 10a may be made from a conductive, antistatic, and / or static dissipative material.

[0039] To further minimize inconsistent evaporation and condensation, the lid 10a may be made from a hydrophobic polymer and / or other hydrophobic material. In embodiments, the bottom of the lid 10a may be coated with a hydrophobic coating or otherwise rendered hydrophobic.

[0040] The mass of the lids disclosed herein can typically be, for example, less than about 5 grams or less than about 2.5 grams. The mass of the lid can also be less than about 1 gram or less than about 0.75 grams. For example, the lid (10c) illustrated in Figures 3(a) and 3(b) can have a mass of about 0.67 grams. The weight of the lid is simply calculated based on the gravitational constant at sea level, which is about 9.8 m / s. 2The weight of the lid (10c) shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b) is approximately 0.006566 kilopounds (or kilogram force), which is equivalent to 0.0144452 lbf or 0.231 ounce-force. One pound-force (lbf) is the force of gravity at sea level times one pound of mass.

[0041] Lids as disclosed herein can have a weight of less than about 1.5 ounces by weight, preferably less than about 1.25 ounces by weight. In embodiments, the weight can be less than about 1 ounce by weight, less than about 0.75 ounces by weight, or less than about 0.5 ounces by weight.

[0042] Lids consistent with embodiments herein may be made from high density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) having a top thickness of about 0.0025 inches to about 0.030 inches, about 0.005 inches to about 0.020 inches, or about 0.0125 inches to about 0.0175 inches, or about 0.015 inches. The lid may be made from a clear plastic such as PVC to allow visual confirmation of the presence of reagents in the container prior to loading. The lid may be made from an opaque material such as high impact polystyrene if the reagent is light sensitive. The lid may also be UV (ultraviolet) resistant, for example, made from a UV resistant material or coated with a UV resistant coating.

[0043] Figure 2(c) illustrates a lid 10b and a container 14b consistent with embodiments herein. The lid 10b and the container 14b constitute a material containment system 5b. The lid 10b is similar to the lid 10a illustrated in Figures 2(a) and 2(b) and includes all of the features and functionality of the lid 10a, except where expressly noted. The lid 10b includes a rim 27b having an inner skirt 19b and a peripheral edge 11b similar to that of the rim 27a, but without an outer skirt. The inner skirt 19b projects upward from the outer periphery of the lid 10b. The peripheral edge 11b provides an annular surface that projects horizontally from the inner skirt 19b and provides a surface that rests against the upper edge 25b of the container 14b. In further embodiments, inner skirt 19a may project from lid 10b at an angle other than substantially perpendicular to lid 10b. Lid 10b may be operated by an extractor in the same manner as lid 10a described above.

[0044] Frictional force is well understood and is the product of the normal force, i.e., the resultant force normal to the contact surfaces, times the coefficient of friction between the two surfaces in contact with each other. In this embodiment, the extractor is in substantially static contact with segment (16b), so the coefficient of friction is a static coefficient. The normal force is provided by a spring-like force exerted by segment (16b) on the extractor.

[0045] FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) illustrate an additional embodiment of a removable lid 10c consistent with the present disclosure. The lid 10c, in conjunction with a suitable container (not shown), can constitute a material containment system (not shown). The lid 10c is similar to lids 10a and 10(b) and includes all of the features and functionality of lids 10a and 10b, except where explicitly noted. The lid 10c is sized and dimensioned to fit a reagent container having a rectangular prism shape and has two sets of cut patterns 12c on its top surface 13c that define two septum portions 17c. The lid of FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) is designed to fit a container, such as the container 1018 illustrated in FIG. 1. Two pipette tips 1021, controlled by a robotic pipetting system or an automated robotic arm, can be inserted into the lid 10c. The lid is then secured or attached to the pipette tip by friction, and as the pipette tip 1021 is lifted away from the container 1018, the lid 10c is also lifted away. When the pipette tip 1018 is released and discarded, so is the lid 10c. The robotic pipetting system can then obtain additional pipette tips to draw sample or reagents from the open container 1018 to perform or continue the assay or analysis. The lid 10c shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b) includes a rim 27c that includes a peripheral edge 11c that surrounds the periphery of the top surface 13c and an outer skirt 18c that protrudes from the peripheral edge 11c, but does not include an inner skirt. The outer skirt 18c is further configured to surround the upper edge of the container on which the lid 10c is placed. The outer skirt 18c may help prevent the lid 10c from sliding or falling off the container.

[0046] Figures 3(c)-3(e) illustrate a removable lid 10d and container 14d consistent with embodiments herein. The lid 10d and container 14d comprise a substance containment system 5d. The lid 10d is similar to lids 10a, 10(b), and 10(c) and includes all of the features and functionality of lids 10a, 10(b), and 10(c) except where expressly noted. Figures 3(c)-3(e) illustrate an embodiment in which the entire rim 27d is configured to rest inside the periphery of the lip of the container 14d covered by the lid 10d.

[0047] The rim 27d is formed by an inner skirt 19d that projects generally vertically downward from the top surface 13d of the lid 10d around the periphery of the lid 10d, a peripheral edge 11d that projects generally horizontally in all directions from the inner skirt 19d, and an outer skirt 19d that projects generally vertically upward from the peripheral edge 11d around the periphery. The lid 10d further includes an outer lip 35 that projects generally horizontally from the outer skirt 18d. The lid 10d is configured so that the outer lip 35 can rest on the upper edge of the container 14d while the rim 27d is positioned inside the container 14d. Furthermore, the outer lip 35 may be configured so that it does not extend beyond the upper edge 25d of the container 14d. In this manner, multiple containers 14 may be placed side by side. The size of the rim (27) may be configured to provide a secure, yet removable, fit for the lid (10d) on the container. The rim (27d) may be configured so that the weight of the lid combined with the frictional force between the outer skirt (18d) and the inner edge of the container (14d) is less than the frictional force on the extractor provided by the corner segments (16d) during the removal operation.

[0048] In embodiments, outer skirt 18d may be configured to contact the inner edge of container 14d. In further embodiments, outer skirt 18d may be configured and sized to allow lid 10d to rest on the upper edge of container 14d without contact between outer skirt 18d and container 14d. In embodiments, inner skirt 19d, outer skirt 18d, perimeter edge 11d, and outer lip 35 may protrude at angles other than those described above while still maintaining lid 10d suitably on container 14d.

[0049] Figures 4(a)-4(f) show the results of a finite element analysis (FEA) performed on a simplified lid design consistent with embodiments herein and having four corner segments. The analysis is limited to the area around the cut pattern, e.g., the septum portion, and is based on a force of 0.2 lbf applied to the cut pattern. The coefficient of friction between the corner segment and the extractor / pipette tip is approximately 0.250. The stress plots (4(a), 4(c), and 4(e)) have been normalized so that the maximum plotted value is equal to the yield strength of the modeled lid material and thickness. The yield strength or yield point of a material is defined as the stress at which the material begins to deform plastically. Before reaching the yield point, the material deforms elastically and returns to its original shape when the applied stress is removed. Once the yield point is passed, some of the deformation becomes permanent and irreversible.

[0050] Figure 4(a) shows a 3D stress plot for an HDPE lid having a thickness of approximately 0.010 inches, and Figure 4(b) shows its 3D displacement plot. Figures 4(c) and 4(d) are similar plots based on a PVC lid having a thickness of 0.010 inches, and Figures 4(e) and 4(f) are similar plots based on a PVC lid having a thickness of 0.005 inches. Figures 4(a), 4(c), and 4(e) show that the corner segment displacement is both plastic and elastic for each of these examples. The elastic deformation indicates that the corner segment can continue to provide force to an extractor inserted therethrough. The plastic deformation indicates that the corner segment does not return to its original position once the extractor is removed. Since the lid is intended to be discarded and no longer used as a cover, it is not necessary for the corner segment to return to its original position.

[0051] Some conventional products require that the material and design of the lid, once pierced, elastically return to its original shape and therefore remain in an elastically deformed form. Such is necessary for the lid's continued operation as a cover. Savings can be realized by not requiring a lid design that remains in an elastically deformed form, including, but not limited to, using non-elastomeric materials, using thinner materials, and eliminating the need for a tight fit between the lid and the container to maintain the lid on the container. Thus, in embodiments, corner segments of the lid can be configured to plastically deform when an extractor is inserted therethrough.

[0052] 5(a) and 5(b) illustrate a lid 10e and a container 14e consistent with embodiments herein. The lid 10e and the container 14e comprise a substance containment system 5e. The lid 10e is similar to the lid 10(c) and includes all of the features and functionality of the lid 10c, except where expressly stated. The lid 1010 may be sized and dimensioned to fit loosely over the container 14e. In this embodiment, the container may be a multiwell plate 20. The multiwell plate 20, when filled with reagents and samples, may be incubated for a significant amount of time on a shaker / heater, such as those disclosed in commonly owned WO2018 / 017156 and WO2017 / 015636, and WO2016 / 164477. A lid 10e placed on a multiwell plate 20 can reduce evaporation and / or exposure to light of reagents and samples. Similar to the previous embodiment, the lid 10e illustrated in FIG. 5(a) includes at least one (two, as shown) notch pattern 12e and angular segment 16e defining a septum portion 17e adapted to be pierced and lifted by an extractor or pipette tip 1021, as discussed above. The lid 10e includes a rim 27e having a peripheral edge 11e surrounding the periphery of the top surface 13e and an outer skirt 18e protruding from the peripheral edge 11e, but no inner skirt. The outer skirt 18e is configured to surround the top of the multiwell plate 20 when the lid 10e is placed on the multiwell plate 20. As shown in Figure 5(b), the lid 10e may further include downwardly oriented dimples 35. The downwardly oriented dimples may help further reduce evaporation by providing a surface on which evaporated water may condense and drip back into the wells of the multiwell plate 20. Each cut pattern 12e is located within the area of ​​a single dimple 35.

[0053] FIG. 6 illustrates a removable lid and container consistent with embodiments herein. FIG. 6(b) illustrates lid 10(f) in cross section. Lid 10(f) is configured to be placed on a reagent bottle 21 as a container. Lid 10(f) and reagent bottle 21 together form a substance containment system 5f. Lid 10(f) is similar to lids 10(a), 10(b), 10(c), 10(d), and 10(e) and includes all the features and functionality of those lids, except where expressly noted. Lid 10(f) includes score lines 12f and corner segments 16f on its top surface 13(f) that define a septum portion (not shown), and a rim 27f. The rim 27f includes an outer skirt 18f and a peripheral edge 11f configured to contact the upper edge of the container 14f and allow the lid 10f to rest on the container 14f. The lid 10f further includes a sealing layer 26 attached to the underside of the top surface 13f, the sealing layer 26 comprising a pierceable or frangible material secured to the lid 10f. The sealing layer 26 provides a seal between the lid 10f and the top of the container 14f. During use, a pipette or extractor can pierce the sealing layer during insertion through the septum portion. In embodiments, the lid 10f can be pre-installed on the reagent bottle 21 and held in place by the cap 22 to provide a fluid-tight seal to the reagent bottle 21.

[0054] The sealing layer (26) is configured to seal the top of the reagent bottle 21 when the lid (10f) is placed on the reagent bottle 21. The sealing layer (26) may extend coextensively with the top surface 13(f) and / or may extend further or less to provide a proper seal. In an embodiment, the sealing layer (26) may extend only to cover the cut pattern 12(f).

[0055] In a further embodiment, the lid (10f) may be placed on the reagent bottle (21) after the cap (22) of the reagent bottle (21) has been removed, for example, before it is placed in the assay system during a preparation step.

[0056] While it is clear that the illustrative embodiments of the invention disclosed herein accomplish the objectives set forth above, it will be understood that numerous modifications and other embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art. It will therefore be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and embodiments as would fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A lid adapted for use in an automated pipetting system configured to withdraw material from a container by an extractor, comprising: top surface, a rim disposed around a periphery of the top surface, the rim comprising a periphery and at least one skirt, the rim configured to rest against a lip portion of the container without gripping the lip portion of the container; and a plurality of corner segments on the upper surface defined by a cut pattern on the upper surface and defining a diaphragm portion of the upper surface, the plurality of corner segments comprising: allowing at least one pipette tip of the automated pipetting system disposed on the extractor to be inserted through the cut pattern; deforms both elastically and plastically in response to the at least one pipette tip being inserted through the cut pattern; and a lid configured to grip the at least one pipette tip by frictional force in response to the deformation such that the lid is detached from the container when the extractor is pulled vertically away from the container.

2. The lid of claim 1 , wherein the lid has a mass of less than about 5 grams.

3. The lid of claim 2 , wherein the lid has a mass of less than about 2.5 grams.

4. The lid of claim 1 , wherein the lid has a mass of less than about 1 gram.

5. The lid of claim 1 , wherein the lid has a mass of less than about 0.75 grams.

6. The closure of claim 1 , wherein the corner segments are coated with a material having a coefficient of friction greater than the coefficient of friction of the corner segments.

7. A lid as described in claim 1, further comprising a penetrable liquid-tight layer positioned below the upper surface.

8. The lid of claim 1 , wherein the top surface comprises at least one of a substantially transparent, opaque, or UV-resistant material.

9. The lid of claim 1 , wherein the top surface comprises a hydrophobic material or a hydrophobic coating.

10. The lid of claim 1, wherein the top surface comprises high-density polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride.

11. The lid of claim 1, wherein the top surface comprises at least one of a conductive material, an antistatic material, and a static dissipative material.

12. 10. The lid of claim 1, wherein the top surface has a thickness of about 0.0025 inches to about 0.030 inches.

13. A material containment system for use in an automated pipetting system configured to withdraw a material in a container by an extractor, comprising: a container configured to contain the substance; a lid configured to cover the container, the lid comprising: top surface, a rim disposed around a periphery of the top surface, the rim comprising a periphery and at least one skirt, the rim configured to rest against a lip portion of the container without gripping the lip portion of the container; and a plurality of corner segments on the upper surface defined by a cut pattern on the upper surface and defining a diaphragm portion of the upper surface, the plurality of corner segments comprising: allowing at least one pipette tip of the automated pipetting system disposed on the extractor to be inserted through the cut pattern; deforms both elastically and plastically in response to the at least one pipette tip being inserted through the cut pattern; and A substance containment system configured to grip the at least one pipette tip by frictional force in response to the deformation so that the lid is removed from the container when the extractor is pulled vertically away from the container.

14. The substance containment system of claim 13 , wherein the substance is a reagent or a sample.

15. 14. The substance containment system of claim 13, wherein the frictional force gripping the extractor is greater than the force provided by the weight of the lid.

16. 14. The substance containment system of claim 13, wherein the frictional force gripping the extractor is greater than a binding force provided by the weight of the lid and a rim-container frictional force between the rim and the container.

17. A lid as described in claim 1, further comprising a second plurality of angular segments on the upper surface defined by a second cut pattern on the upper surface and defining a second septum portion on the upper surface, the second plurality of angular segments enabling a second pipette tip of the automated pipetting system to be inserted through the second cut pattern, and configured to plastically and elastically deform and grip the second pipette tip by frictional force so that the lid is removed from the container when the extractor is pulled away from the container.

18. The lid described in claim 1, wherein the container is a multi-well plate and the upper surface is further configured to cover at least two wells of the multi-well plate.

19. A lid as described in claim 1, wherein the container is a trough container.

20. A substance containment system as described in claim 13, wherein the lid further comprises a second plurality of angular segments on the upper surface defined by a second cut pattern on the upper surface and defining a second septum portion on the upper surface, the second plurality of angular segments enabling a second pipette tip of the automated pipetting system to be inserted through the second cut pattern, and configured to plastically and elastically deform and grip the second pipette tip by frictional force so that the lid is removed from the container when the extractor is pulled away from the container.

21. A material containment system as described in claim 13, wherein the container is a multi-well plate and the upper surface of the lid is further configured to cover at least two wells of the multi-well plate.

22. A material containment system as described in claim 13, wherein the container is a trough container.

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