Portable pipetter stand

Abstract

A stand for a pipette controller is provided, the stand including a housing having a cradle configured to hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing, including a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use, a second position for storing the pipette controller such that a grip of the pipette controller can be ergonomically grasped by a user of the pipette controller during intermittent use, and a third position for storing the pipette controller such that, when a pipette is connected to a pipette connector of the pipette controller, the connected pipette controller does not contact the surface supporting the stand and the base of the stand. The stand also functions as a charger for charging the pipette controller in at least one position.

Description

Description of Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 857,445, filed June 5, 2019, the contents of which are relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Technical Field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to devices for holding handheld pipettors. The present disclosure relates specifically to pipettor stands and / or chargers that store pipettors in multiple positions, and methods of using the same. [Background technology]

[0003] Pipetting fluids, for example, in a laboratory environment, is accomplished by a variety of methods, including the use of various mechanical pipetting devices. Various mechanical devices, such as pipette controllers, pipette guns, or pipettors, are known, which use vacuum and air pressure to aspirate and eject fluids, e.g., to aspirate and eject liquids from a pipette. A typical pipettor includes a handheld unit that communicates with a laboratory pipette at one end, pneumatically connected to a remote or locally located air pressure source. A trigger-activated valve within the pipettor regulates the flow of air from the pipettor to the pipette, controlling the aspirating or ejecting of liquid from the pipette. The operator can adjust the flow of air to the pipette by pressing either the positive or negative pressure trigger on the pipettor. Some pipettor guns are provided with a universal nosepiece attachment to accommodate and communicate with pipettes of various lengths and diameters. An example of a pipettor is the Corning® Strippettor™ Ultra Pipemer Controller. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Pipette controllers can be used with holders, holsters, or stands for holding or storing the pipette controller when not in use. However, such holders may not be configured to allow operators to quickly and easily place and remove the pipette controller from the holder during use. This minor inconvenience is often not recognized or even taken for granted as interfering with an operator's primary use of the pipette controller (e.g., transferring liquids), since operators remove and place the pipette controller only at the beginning and end of use. However, this view does not reflect the real-world conditions in which many operators work. For example, pipette controller operators may need to repeatedly place and remove the pipette controller during use. In some cases, operators may want to place the pipette controller while the pipette is still attached to the controller's nozzle. However, due to the wide variety of pipette lengths and pipette controller designs, the attached pipette may come into contact with environmental surfaces (e.g., laboratory counter surfaces) and become physically damaged or contaminated. Thus, various interferences with such operations due to the structure of the holder can result in an inefficient use of time and resources.

[0005] There is a need for a stand for a pipette controller that allows for efficient and convenient workflow and handling for the pipette controller operator, while preventing the attached pipette from coming into contact with potentially contaminating or damaging surfaces in the laboratory environment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment disclosed herein, a stand for a pipette controller is provided. The stand includes a housing having a cradle configured to hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing. The housing further includes a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more sidewalls extending from the base to the top of the housing. The cradle is disposed within an opening in the top portion of the housing. The at least three different positions of the pipette controller include (i) a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use, (ii) a second position for storing the pipette controller such that a grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller during intermittent use, and (iii) a third position for storing the pipette controller such that, when a pipette is connected to the pipette connector of the pipette controller, the connected pipette does not contact the surface supporting the stand and the base of the stand.

[0007] In the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position, in which the pipette controller stands off the bottom of the grip, which is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0008] In the second position, the pipette controller is in a tilted position. In the tilted position, the pipette controller is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to the upright position of the pipette controller. In some embodiments, the predetermined angle ranges from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees. In the tilted position, at least one of the grip and the pipette connector of the pipette controller is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, in the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller is positioned within the cradle, and the pipette connector is positioned above the stand. In the third position, the pipette connector is oriented such that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0010] In another embodiment, a pipette controller kit is provided. The kit includes a pipette controller, the pipette controller including a grip to be held by a user's hand, a pipette connector that connects to a pipette at an upper end opposite a lower end of the pipette that dispenses liquid, and an intermediate portion that connects the grip to the pipette connector. The kit also includes a stand for holding the pipette controller. The stand includes a housing having a cradle configured to hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing. The housing further includes a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more sidewalls extending from the base to the top of the housing. The cradle is disposed within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0011] In another embodiment, a stand for a pipette controller is provided, including a housing having a cradle configured to hold the pipette controller and a charging means disposed within the cradle. The cradle can hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing, and the charging means can charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is held within the cradle in at least one of the three positions. The housing can further include a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing. The cradle is disposed within an opening in the top portion of the housing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stand for a pipette controller according to some embodiments disclosed herein, showing the pipette controller in a first position within the stand. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a stand for the pipette controller of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments, showing the pipette controller in a second position within the stand. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a stand for the pipette controller of FIGS. 1 and 2 according to some embodiments, showing the pipette controller in a third position within the stand and a pipette connected to a nozzle of the pipette controller. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a stand for a pipette controller according to some embodiments, showing a cradle for the stand that stores the pipette controller in multiple positions. [Figure 5] Figure 4. Cross-section of the stand for the pipette controller DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Various embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail, where appropriate, with reference to the drawings. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the invention, which is limited only by the appended claims. Furthermore, any examples described herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to describe some of the many possible embodiments of the claimed invention.

[0014] The following describes the internal operation of a pipette controller. This is merely to illustrate the function of the pipette controller and the context for its use, and is not intended to limit the types of pipette controllers compatible with the embodiments disclosed herein. A pipette controller (e.g., pipette controller 150 in FIG. 1 ) may include, within its body, an adjustment means capable of operably adjusting the flow of air to a connected pipette (e.g., pipette 160 in FIG. 3 ). For example, the pipette controller may include a valve assembly connected at one end to a positive pressure source via a pressure duct and connected at the other end to a negative pressure air source (i.e., a vacuum source). The valve may be connected at another end to a pipette flow duct. The positive pressure source and the vacuum source may be located external to the body of the pipette controller or may be directly incorporated within the body. The pipette flow duct extends within the body of the pipette controller, connected at one end to the valve assembly and at the other end to a pipette connector (e.g., pipette connector 154 in FIG. 1 ). Thus, fluid communication is established within the pipette flow duct from the valve assembly to the pipette attached to the pipette connector.

[0015] To better understand the features and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein, the operation of the pipette controller will now be described. As previously described, in operation, a pipette is attached to the pipette controller via the pipette connector. The end of the pipette is then immersed in the liquid to be aspirated into the pipette. The operator then presses a trigger (e.g., trigger 156a in FIG. 1 ), which creates a vacuum in a duct within the body of the pipette controller that is in fluid communication with the pipette via the pipette connector. The vacuum thus draws fluid into the pipette. After a desired amount of liquid has been aspirated into the pipette, the trigger is released to stop the uptake of fluid into the pipette. After placing the pipette in or over a receptacle into which the liquid contained therein will be expelled, the trigger (e.g., trigger 156b in FIG. 1 ) is pressed, which releases the vacuum or applies positive pressure within a chamber within the pipette controller that is fluidly connected to the pipette. The desired amount of liquid can then be expelled from the pipette into the receiving receptacle.

[0016] The aforementioned pipette controller operations may be repeated multiple times by an operator. During the course of these operations, the operator may need or desire to set the pipette controller down at various times. For example, the operator may need to set the pipette controller down for extended periods of time when not in use, or for short periods of time to rest or perform other laboratory tasks. In the case of battery-powered electronic pipettes, the pipette controller may also need to be charged by placing it on a charger or connecting it to a power source. However, setting down the pipette controller can be cumbersome or inconvenient when a long pipette is attached. If the tip of the pipette contacts a surface such as a table, the pipette may be damaged, or its contents may become contaminated or leak. For these and other reasons, stands are sometimes used to securely hold pipette controllers. However, even these stands may cause long pipettes to contact surfaces depending on the position of the controller on the stand, and are generally not designed to hold the pipette controller with the pipette attached. This requires removing the pipette before placing the controller back in the stand, which is time-consuming and wasteful of material. Furthermore, the stand does not hold the pipette controller in a manner that makes it convenient to repeatedly place the pipette controller in and remove it from the stand during short downtime.

[0017] In view of the aforementioned problems, embodiments disclosed herein provide improved stands for pipette controllers, including charging stands for electronic pipette controllers, and methods for using the same. In particular, in some embodiments, the stands allow the pipette controller to be stored within the stand in multiple positions relative to the stand. In some embodiments, the pipette controller may be placed within the stand in two, three, or more positions. At least one position allows the pipette controller to be stored in an upright position. At least one position allows the pipette controller to be stored with the grip of the pipette controller oriented at a predetermined angle for easy and ergonomic gripping by an operator. At least one position allows the pipette controller to be stored with a pipette attached. In the case of a battery-powered, rechargeable pipette controller, the stand also functions as a charger, allowing the pipette controller to be charged while stored in the stand in one or more of the aforementioned positions. In some embodiments, the pipette controller can be charged while stored in the stand in an upright position.

[0018] Thus, the embodiments disclosed herein provide a stand that can hold a pipette controller in multiple positions for various situations, including a long-term storage or charging position, a short-term storage position that allows for easy placement and removal, and a storage position in which the pipette may remain attached. Thus, the embodiments disclosed herein improve the efficiency and ease of use in operating the pipette controller. Further aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein are described below with reference to the drawings.

[0019] A stand for a portable pipette controller in some embodiments is shown in Figure 1. The stand 100 includes a base 102 that rests on an underlying support or surface and optionally includes one or more legs 105 attached to the base 102. The stand 100 further includes one or more side walls 104a, 104b (see also side walls 104c, 104d in Figure 4) extending from the base toward the top of the stand 100, where a cradle 106 is provided for storing a pipette controller 150. The side walls may be understood to include different side walls joined at corners or intersections, different surfaces separated by gaps or other features, one or more continuous side walls including smooth transitions or curves, etc., around the entire perimeter or a portion of the perimeter of the stand 100.

[0020] In some embodiments, the stand 100 includes one or more electrical components disposed within the stand 100. The electrical components can communicate with external devices via a port 140 disposed in the side wall 104b. In some specific embodiments, the electrical components can include one or more electrodes for charging a battery-powered pipette controller. For example, the port 140 can be a power port for receiving power from an external power source. As described below, the stand 100 can include a charging electrode within the cradle 106 that is electrically connected to the port 140 and adapted to connect to a corresponding electrode on the pipette controller 150 to charge the battery within the pipette controller 150. However, embodiments are not limited to this particular configuration. For example, it is contemplated that the port 140 can be operably connected to an inductive charging mechanism (e.g., an induction coil) disposed within the stand 100 to inductively charge the pipette controller 150 (e.g., an induction coil within the controller). As an aspect of some embodiments, port 140 can be used to communicate other information between pipette controller 150 and stand 100 via corresponding electrodes or connections provided between pipette controller 150 and stand 100. In some embodiments, such information can be transmitted wirelessly between pipette controller 150 and stand 100 and / or wirelessly to a computer (e.g., a desktop, laptop, smartphone, or control / monitoring station) separate from stand 100.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1 , pipette controller 150 includes a body having a grip 152 at one end and a pipette connector 154 at the other end. Pipette connector 154 may be generally cylindrical or conical in shape with an opening (not shown) at the bottom for mating with a pipette. Pipette controller 150 includes triggers 156 a, 156 b for controlling the aspiration and dispensing of liquid through the pipette and may include additional buttons, triggers, or controls for performing various functions (e.g., releasing the pipette). It is intended that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to only the pipette controller shown in FIG. 1 . That is, the embodiments disclosed herein may also be used with other pipette controllers.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1 , the pipette controller 150 is stored in a first position within the stand 100. As described in more detail below, aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein relate to a stand capable of storing the pipette controller in multiple positions. For example, in some embodiments, the first position can be used when the pipette controller 150 needs to be charged or for long-term storage of the pipette controller. Other positions can be used when the pipette controller is placed on the stand temporarily and can be easily removed by an operator. That is, one or more positions are particularly useful when the pipette controller is repeatedly placed on the stand and removed again, allowing for more ergonomic or user-friendly storage of the pipette controller on the stand. Furthermore, one or more positions allow the pipette controller to be placed on the stand even when a pipette is attached to the pipette controller. In this description, "position" is used to describe the orientation of the pipette controller relative to the stand 100 when the pipette controller is stored or held in the stand.

[0023] The first orientation in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is characterized by the pipette controller 150 being in a generally upright position. In the upright position, the grip 152 and pipette connector 154 are generally vertical, and the central portion of the pipette controller connecting the grip 152 and pipette connector 154 is generally horizontal. "Regarding generally vertical" and "regularly horizontal" means that these portions are approximately vertical and horizontal, respectively, and not at an exact angle (e.g., 90 degrees or 0 degrees). For example, the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 is slightly tilted and is therefore assumed to be tilted at an angle relative to the bottom surface of the grip or the base 102 of the stand 100. The vertical and horizontal described herein are relative to a coordinate system defined by the stand 100, with the base 102 of the stand defining the horizontal plane of the coordinate system, and the vertical direction of the coordinate system extending upward from the base 102 (as shown in FIG. 1). The first orientation can also be characterized as the pipette controller 150 effectively standing up from the base of the grip 152.

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates the pipette controller 150 stored in the stand 100 in a second orientation. In one or more embodiments, the second orientation places the pipette controller 150 in a tilted or angled position, as compared to FIG. 1 , in which the pipette controller 150 is stored in a first, upright orientation. In particular, the pipette controller 150 is tilted so that the pipette connector 154 is lower than in the first orientation. Thus, the grip 152 is also tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to the horizontal plane of the stand base 102. In some embodiments, the pipette connector 154 rests on a surface within the cradle 106, as shown in FIG. 2 and described further below.

[0025] 1 , the operator can grasp the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150, but the upright position of the grip 152 in the first position may require the operator's wrist to be radially displaced (or radially flexed) when placing the pipette controller 150 in or removing it from the stand 100. This wrist angle is due, in part, to the height of the surface (e.g., a countertop or lab bench) on which the stand 100 is placed. However, in the second position, the grip 152 is at a more comfortable angle when the stand 100 is placed on a countertop or lab bench. Thus, when placing the pipette controller 150 on the stand for short or intermittent periods, the operator can choose to place the pipette controller 150 in the second position (FIG. 2) rather than the first position (FIG. 1), allowing the operator to enjoy more ergonomic operating conditions and thereby reducing the likelihood of operation-related injuries, such as repetitive stress injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as discomfort.

[0026] 3 shows the pipette controller 150 stored in the stand 100 in a third position. In some embodiments, in the third position, the pipette controller 150 is in a substantially horizontal position. In the substantially horizontal position, the pipette connector 154 is oriented horizontally, so that the pipette 160 attached to the pipette connector 154 is above and out of contact with the stand 100 or any surface on which the stand 100 is placed (e.g., a counter surface). Furthermore, the third position allows for easy attachment and detachment of the pipette 160 to and from the pipette connector 154.

[0027] Further features of the stand 100 are shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 for some embodiments. In particular, detailed aspects of an embodiment of the cradle 106 are shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. The cradle 106 is formed as a cavity or recess within the stand 100 and is bounded at least in part by side walls 104 a, 104 b, 104 c, and 104 d. A grip-receiving space is formed at the distal end of the cradle (i.e., the end of the cradle 106 distal to the cradle opening 114 on the side wall 104 b) for receiving the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 when in the first orientation. The grip-receiving space is defined by a bottom surface 108 of the cradle 106, which is bounded at least in part by the side wall 109. The grip-receiving space is configured to allow the pipette controller 150 to be placed on the stand 100 in the first orientation (see FIG. 1 ) such that the pipette controller 150 is stored upright. Thus, the grip storage space has a shape defined by the bottom surface 108 and sidewalls 109 that closely fits over at least the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150. In some embodiments, the grip storage space can include support flanges on the sidewalls 109 that can help guide the grip 152 into the appropriate position within the grip storage space and also apply pressure to the grip 152 to support the upright position of the pipette controller 150 in the first orientation.

[0028] As an aspect of some embodiments, an electrical interface 142 is provided on the bottom surface 108. In some embodiments, the interface 142 is a charging port and is adapted to contact a charging electrode on the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150. The interface 142 or charging port is operably connected to a port 140 at the proximal end of the stand 100, near the opening 114 in the cradle 106. It is also intended that the interface 142 be used to send and receive information to and from the pipette controller 150.

[0029] In some embodiments, the cradle 106 further includes a raised bottom wall 110 between the grip storage space and the opening 114. The raised bottom wall 110 can be configured to support the pipette controller 150 when the cradle 106 is in at least one of the second and third positions. For example, in the third position, the raised bottom wall 110 can be elevated to a position where the back of the grip 152 rests on at least a portion of the raised bottom wall 110. The longitudinal side walls 116a, 116b extend from the raised bottom wall 110 to at least the tops of the side walls 104a, 104c. In some embodiments, the longitudinal side walls 116a, 116b can be configured to provide additional support to the pipette controller 150 when the cradle 106 is in at least one of the second and third positions. In particular, when the pipette controller 150 is stored in the third position, the longitudinal side walls 116a, 116b can be sized and shaped to approximately fit a portion of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150, thereby helping to securely hold the pipette controller 150 in the third position.

[0030] Moving further toward the opening 114, the cradle 106 can include a sloped bottom wall 111 where the cradle descends from a raised bottom wall 110 to a lowered bottom wall 112 of the cradle 106. Similar to the raised bottom wall 110, the lowered bottom wall 112 can be configured to support the backside of the grip 152 in the third position. The lowered bottom wall 112 can include one or more pipettor stabilizing members 122a, 122b that contact the body of the pipette controller 150 when stored in the third position to provide additional support for maintaining the pipette controller 150 in the third position.

[0031] When the pipette controller 150 is stored in the second position (e.g., pipette controller 150 of FIG. 2), a portion of the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 can rest on the distal portion of the bottom surface 108 without interference from the interface 142 (e.g., a charging port or electrodes). Optionally, the cradle 106 can include a distal shelf 113 that is higher than the bottom surface 108. The distal shelf 113 includes a substantially horizontal surface (113) sized to extend a distance to a distal sidewall 118 of the cradle 106 such that the front of the bottom of the grip 152 can rest on the horizontal surface of the distal shelf 113 when the pipette controller 150 is placed in the second position within the stand 100. Additionally, the distal sidewall 118 can optionally provide rearward support for the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150. In this way, the bottom of the grip 152 can be securely held by the stand 100 when the pipette controller 150 is stored in the second position.

[0032] Additionally, in some aspects of the embodiments, the cradle 106 includes a pipette connector mounting portion 120 at a proximal end of the cradle 106, near the cradle opening 114. The pipette connector mounting portion 120 is configured such that a portion of the pipette connector 154 is supported by the pipette connector mounting portion 120 when the pipette controller 150 is stored in the second position. The pipette connector mounting portion 120 may form a generally cylindrical, wedge-shaped cavity to accommodate the generally cylindrically shaped pipette connector 154. However, in some aspects of the embodiments, the pipette connector mounting portion 120 may be shaped differently as needed to accommodate the shape of the pipette connector.

[0033] Additionally, the pipette connector rest 120 may be formed as a raised portion in the cradle 106, such that the pipette connector 154 rests on the raised portion of the pipette connector rest 120, holding the pipette connector 154 at a desired angle that is comfortable for the operator of the pipette controller. In some embodiments, the height of the pipette connector 154 is user-configurable so that a comfortable angle for the pipette controller in the second position can be easily achieved.

[0034] As mentioned above, embodiments disclosed herein relate to a stand that holds a pipette controller in multiple positions. In some embodiments, the stand also functions as a charger for charging the pipette controller when held in at least one of these positions. As a charger, the stand includes any suitable charging means known to those skilled in the art. For example, the charging means may be electrodes positioned in electrical contact with electrodes in the pipette controller, the electrodes of the stand being electrically connected or connectable to a power source. As another example, the charging means may be inductive charging means, such as an induction coil in the charging stand, that can inductively charge the pipette controller via a corresponding induction coil in the pipette controller.

[0035] Further details of aspects of the embodiments are provided below: It is intended that any aspect described herein is compatible with all disclosed embodiments and therefore can be combined in any combination.

[0036] As mentioned above, embodiments disclosed herein relate to a stand for a pipette controller. The stand includes a housing having a cradle configured to hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing. The housing may further include a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing. The cradle is disposed within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the at least three different positions of the pipette controller can include (i) a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use, (ii) a second position for storing the pipette controller during intermittent use such that a grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller, and (iii) a third position for storing the pipette controller such that when a pipette is connected to the pipette connector of the pipette controller, the connected pipette does not contact the surface supporting the stand and the base of the stand.

[0038] In the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position, in which the pipette controller stands off the bottom of the grip, which is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0039] In the second position, the pipette controller is in a tilted position. In the tilted position, the pipette controller is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to the upright position of the pipette controller. In some embodiments, the predetermined angle ranges from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees. In the tilted position, at least one of the grip and the pipette connector of the pipette controller is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, in the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller is positioned within the cradle, and the pipette connector is positioned above the stand. In the third position, the pipette connector is oriented such that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0041] The housing may further include a charging means disposed within the cradle, the charging means configured to charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is stored within the cradle in at least one of the three positions. The stand may also include a power supply means for supplying power to the charging means. The power supply means may include at least one of a battery and a power port, the power port configured to supply power to the charging means from an external power source. The charging means may be at least one of an electrode configured to electrically couple with an electrode in the pipette controller and an inductive charging coil configured to inductively couple with an induction coil in the pipette controller.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cradle includes a bottom surface having different heights. The cradle can include a first portion configured to support a bottom of a grip of the pipette controller in a first orientation. The first portion can be substantially flat and can include charging means configured to charge the pipette controller via a charging input on the grip of the pipette controller.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the pipette controller includes a grip for holding by a user's hand, a pipette connector for connecting to the pipette at an upper end opposite the lower end of the pipette that dispenses liquid, and an intermediate portion for connecting the grip to the pipette connector. The grip can include one or more controls for controlling operation of the pipette via the pipette connector.

[0044] In some embodiments, a pipette controller kit is provided, the kit including a pipette controller, the pipette controller including a grip to be held by a user's hand, a pipette connector to be connected to a pipette at an upper end opposite a lower end of the pipette that dispenses liquid, and an intermediate portion to connect the grip to the pipette connector, the kit further including a stand according to any one of the above aspects or embodiments.

[0045] In some embodiments, a stand for a pipette controller is provided, including a housing having a cradle configured to hold the pipette controller and a charging means disposed within the cradle. The cradle can hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing, and the charging means can charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is held within the cradle in at least one of the three positions. The housing can further include a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing. The cradle is disposed within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0046] The at least three different positions can include (i) a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use, (ii) a second position for storing the pipette controller such that a grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller during intermittent use, and (iii) a third position for storing the pipette controller such that when a pipette is connected to the pipette connector of the pipette controller, the connected pipette does not contact the surface supporting the stand and the base of the stand.

[0047] In the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position, with the pipette controller rising from the bottom of the grip and the bottom of the grip supported within the cradle of the stand. In the second position, the pipette controller is in an inclined position, with the pipette controller tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to the upright position of the pipette controller. The predetermined angle ranges from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees. In the inclined position, at least one of the grip of the pipette controller and the pipette connector is supported within the cradle of the stand. In the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, with the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller positioned within the cradle and the pipette connector positioned above the stand. In the third position, the pipette connector is oriented so that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0048] The cradle includes a first portion configured to support a bottom of the grip of the pipette controller in a first orientation, the first portion being substantially flat.

[0049] Mode of Implementation Below are descriptions of various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Each embodiment may include one or more of various features, properties, or advantages of the disclosed subject matter. The embodiments are intended to illustrate some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and should not be considered a comprehensive or exhaustive description of all possible embodiments.

[0050] Aspect 1 relates to a stand for a pipette controller, including a housing having a cradle configured to hold a pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing.

[0051] Aspect 2 relates to the stand of aspect 1, wherein the housing further includes a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing.

[0052] Aspect 3 relates to the stand of aspect 2, wherein the cradle is provided within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0053] Aspect 4 relates to the stand of any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the at least three different positions include a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use, a second position for storing the pipette controller such that a grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller during intermittent use, and a third position for storing the pipette controller such that, when a pipette is connected to a pipette connector of the pipette controller, the connected pipette does not contact the surface supporting the stand and the base of the stand.

[0054] Aspect 5 relates to the stand of aspect 4, wherein in the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position.

[0055] Aspect 6 relates to the stand of aspect 5, wherein in the vertical position, the pipette controller rises from the bottom of the grip, the bottom of the grip being supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0056] Aspect 7 relates to the stand of aspect 4 or aspect 6, wherein in the second position, the pipette controller is in an inclined position.

[0057] Aspect 8 relates to the stand of aspect 7, wherein in the tilted position, the pipette controller is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to an upright position of the pipette controller.

[0058] A 9th aspect relates to the stand of Aspect 8, wherein the predetermined angle range is from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, from about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees.

[0059] Aspect 10 relates to a stand according to any one of aspects 4 to 9, wherein in the tilted position, at least one of the grip and the pipette connector of the pipette controller is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0060] Aspect 11 relates to a stand according to any one of aspects 4 to 10, wherein in the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller is positioned within the range of the cradle, and the pipette connector is positioned above the stand.

[0061] Aspect 12 relates to a stand according to any one of aspects 4 to 11, wherein in the third position, the pipette connector is oriented such that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0062] Aspect 13 relates to a stand described in any one of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the housing further includes a charging means provided within the cradle, and the charging means is configured to charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is held within the cradle in at least one of the three positions.

[0063] Aspect 14 relates to the stand of aspect 13, wherein the stand includes a power supply means for supplying power to the charging means.

[0064] Aspect 15 relates to the stand of aspect 14, wherein the power supply means includes at least one of a battery and a power port configured to supply power to the charging means from an external power source.

[0065] Aspect 16 relates to the stand of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the cradle includes a bottom surface having different heights.

[0066] Aspect 17 relates to a stand described in any one of aspects 13 to 16, wherein the charging means is at least one of an electrode configured to electrically couple with an electrode in the pipette controller and an inductive charging coil configured to inductively couple with an induction coil in the pipette controller.

[0067] Aspect 18 relates to the stand of any one of Aspects 1 to 17, wherein the cradle includes a first portion configured to support the bottom of the grip of the pipette controller in the first position.

[0068] Example 19 relates to the stand of Example 18, wherein the first portion is substantially flat.

[0069] Aspect 20 relates to the stand of Aspect 18 or Aspect 19, wherein the first portion includes a charging means configured to charge the pipette controller via a charging input provided in the grip of the pipette controller.

[0070] Aspect 21 relates to a stand according to any one of aspects 1 to 20, wherein the pipette controller includes a grip to be held by a user's hand, a pipette connector to be connected to the pipette at an upper end opposite the lower end of the pipette that dispenses liquid, and an intermediate portion to connect the grip to the pipette connector.

[0071] Aspect 22 relates to the stand of aspect 21, wherein the grip includes one or more controls for controlling operation of the pipette via the pipette connector.

[0072] Aspect 23 relates to a pipette controller kit comprising a pipette controller including a grip to be held by a user's hand, a pipette connector to be connected to the pipette at an upper end opposite the lower end of the pipette that drips liquid, and an intermediate portion to connect the grip to the pipette connector, and a stand described in any one of aspects 1 to 22.

[0073] Aspect 24 relates to a stand for a pipette controller, the stand including a housing including a cradle configured to hold a pipette controller and a charging means provided within the cradle, the cradle configured to hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing, and the charging means configured to charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is held within the cradle in at least one of the three positions.

[0074] Aspect 25 relates to the stand of aspect 24, wherein the housing further includes a base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing.

[0075] Aspect 26 relates to the stand of aspect 25, wherein the cradle is provided within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0076] Aspect 27 relates to the stand of any one of Aspects 24 to 26, wherein the at least three different positions include a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use, a second position for storing the pipette controller such that a grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller during intermittent use, and a third position for storing the pipette controller such that, when a pipette is connected to the pipette connector of the pipette controller, the connected pipette does not contact the surface supporting the stand and the base of the stand.

[0077] Aspect 28 relates to the stand of aspect 27, wherein in the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position.

[0078] Aspect 29 relates to the stand of aspect 28, wherein in the vertical position, the pipette controller rises from the bottom of the grip, and the bottom of the grip is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0079] Aspect 30 relates to the stand according to any one of Aspects 27 to 29, wherein in the second position, the pipette controller is in an inclined position.

[0080] Aspect 31 relates to the stand of aspect 30, wherein in the tilted position, the pipette controller is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to an upright position of the pipette controller.

[0081] Aspect 32 relates to the stand of aspect 31, wherein the predetermined angle range is from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, from about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees.

[0082] Aspect 33 relates to a stand described in any one of aspects 30 to 32, wherein in the inclined position, at least one of the grip and the pipette connector of the pipette controller is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0083] Aspect 34 relates to a stand according to any one of aspects 27 to 33, wherein in the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller is positioned within the cradle, and the pipette connector is positioned above the stand.

[0084] Aspect 35 relates to a stand described in any one of aspects 27 to 34, wherein in the third position, the pipette connector is oriented such that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0085] Aspect 36 relates to the stand of any one of Aspects 27 to 35, wherein the cradle includes a first portion configured to support the bottom of the grip of the pipette controller in the first position.

[0086] Example 37 relates to the stand of Example 36, wherein the first portion is substantially flat.

[0087] definition When used in describing embodiments disclosed herein, the term "about" refers to values ​​and ranges of, for example, the amount, concentration, volume, process temperature, process time, flow rate, pressure, viscosity, and the like of a component in a composition, or dimensions of a component, and similar values ​​and ranges thereof, and refers to variations in the numerical values ​​that may occur, for example, through common measuring and handling procedures used in preparing a material, composition, composite, concentrate, component, article of manufacture, or use composition, through inadvertent errors in these procedures, differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of starting materials or components used to carry out the method, and similar considerations. The term "about" also encompasses amounts that change with aging of a composition or formulation having a particular initial concentration or mixture, and amounts that change by mixing or processing a composition or formulation having a particular initial concentration or mixture.

[0088] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and as used herein includes cases where the event or circumstance occurs and cases where it does not occur.

[0089] As used herein, the indefinite article "a" or "an" and the corresponding definite article "the" mean at least one, or one or more, unless otherwise specified.

[0090] Specific preferred values ​​and ranges disclosed for elements such as compositions, ingredients, additives, dimensions, conditions, etc. are exemplary only and do not exclude other values ​​stated or other values ​​within stated ranges. The systems, kits, and methods disclosed herein can include any value or any combination thereof set forth herein, including values, particular values, more specific values, preferred values, and express or implied intermediate values ​​and ranges.

[0091] Unless expressly stated otherwise, it is not intended that any method described herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a particular order. Thus, unless a method claim actually recites the order in which its steps must be followed, or unless the claim or specification specifically states that the steps are to be limited to a particular order, no particular order is intended to be implied.

[0092] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Since modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and variations of the disclosed embodiments that incorporate the spirit and scope of the disclosure may occur to those skilled in the art, the present disclosure should be construed as including all that come within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

[0093] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail.

[0094] Embodiment 1 a housing having a cradle configured to hold a pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing; Includes a stand for the pipette controller.

[0095] Embodiment 2 The housing comprises: A base and a top portion spaced from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing; 2. The stand of embodiment 1, further comprising:

[0096] Embodiment 3 3. The stand of claim 2, wherein the cradle is provided within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0097] Embodiment 4 The at least three different positions are: a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use; a second position for storing the pipette controller during intermittent use such that the grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller; and a third position for storing the pipette controller when a pipette is connected to the pipette connector of the pipette controller such that the connected pipette does not contact the stand and a surface supporting the base of the stand; The stand according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, comprising:

[0098] Embodiment 5 5. The stand of embodiment 4, wherein in the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position.

[0099] Embodiment 6 6. A stand as described in embodiment 5, wherein in the vertical position, the pipette controller rises from the bottom of the grip, the bottom of the grip being supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0100] Embodiment 7 7. The stand of claim 4 or 6, wherein in the second position, the pipette controller is in an inclined position.

[0101] Embodiment 8 8. The stand of embodiment 7, wherein in the tilted position, the pipette controller is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to the upright position of the pipette controller.

[0102] Embodiment 9 9. The stand of embodiment 8, wherein the predetermined angle ranges from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, from about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees.

[0103] Embodiment 10 10. A stand according to any one of embodiments 4 to 9, wherein in the tilted position, at least one of the grip and the pipette connector of the pipette controller is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0104] Embodiment 11 11. The stand according to any one of embodiments 4 to 10, wherein in the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller is positioned within the range of the cradle, and the pipette connector is positioned above the stand.

[0105] Embodiment 12 12. The stand of any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein in the third position, the pipette connector is oriented such that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0106] Embodiment 13 13. A stand as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the housing further includes a charging means provided within the cradle, the charging means configured to charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is held within the cradle in at least one of the three positions.

[0107] Embodiment 14 14. A stand as described in embodiment 13, wherein the stand includes a power supply means for supplying power to the charging means.

[0108] Embodiment 15 15. The stand of embodiment 14, wherein the power supply means includes at least one of a battery and a power port configured to supply power to the charging means from an external power source.

[0109] Embodiment 16 16. The stand of any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the cradle comprises bottom surfaces with different heights.

[0110] Embodiment 17 17. A stand according to any one of embodiments 13 to 16, wherein the charging means is at least one of an electrode configured to electrically couple with an electrode in the pipette controller and an inductive charging coil configured to inductively couple with an induction coil in the pipette controller.

[0111] Embodiment 18 A stand described in any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the cradle includes a first portion configured to support the bottom of the grip of the pipette controller in the first position.

[0112] Embodiment 19 19. The stand of embodiment 18, wherein the first portion is substantially flat.

[0113] Embodiment 20 20. A stand as described in embodiment 18 or embodiment 19, wherein the first portion includes a charging means configured to charge the pipette controller via a charging input provided in the grip of the pipette controller.

[0114] Embodiment 21 The pipette controller a grip to be held by a user's hand; a pipette connector connected to the pipette at an upper end opposite to a lower end of the pipette for dropping a liquid; an intermediate portion connecting the grip to the pipette connector; The stand according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, comprising:

[0115] Embodiment 22 22. The stand of embodiment 21, wherein the grip includes one or more controls for controlling operation of the pipette via the pipette connector.

[0116] Embodiment 23 1. A pipette controller, comprising: a grip that is held by the user's hand; a pipette connector that is connected to the pipette at an upper end opposite to the lower end of the pipette that dispenses the liquid; and an intermediate portion connecting the grip to the pipette connector; a pipette controller including: A stand according to any one of embodiments 1 to 22; Pipette controller kit with

[0117] Embodiment 24 A stand for a pipette controller, comprising: a housing including a cradle configured to hold a pipette controller and a charging means provided within said cradle; Including, the cradle is configured to hold the pipette controller in at least three different positions relative to the housing; The charging means is configured to charge the pipette controller while the pipette controller is held within the cradle in at least one of the three positions.

[0118] Embodiment 25 The housing comprises: A base and a top portion separated from the base by one or more side walls extending from the base to the top of the housing; 25. The stand of embodiment 24, further comprising:

[0119] Embodiment 26 26. A stand as described in embodiment 25, wherein the cradle is provided within an opening in the top portion of the housing.

[0120] Embodiment 27 The at least three different positions are: a first position for storing the pipette controller when not in use; a second position for storing the pipette controller during intermittent use such that the grip of the pipette controller can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller; and a third position for storing the pipette controller when a pipette is connected to the pipette connector of the pipette controller such that the connected pipette does not contact the stand and a surface supporting the base of the stand; 27. The stand according to any one of embodiments 24 to 26, comprising:

[0121] Embodiment 28 28. The stand of embodiment 27, wherein in the first position, the pipette controller is in a vertical position.

[0122] Embodiment 29 29. The stand of embodiment 28, wherein in the vertical position, the pipette controller rises from the bottom of the grip, the bottom of the grip being supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0123] Embodiment 30 30. The stand according to any one of embodiments 27 to 29, wherein in the second position, the pipette controller is in an inclined position.

[0124] Embodiment 31 31. A stand as described in embodiment 30, wherein in the tilted position, the pipette controller is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to the upright position of the pipette controller.

[0125] Embodiment 32 32. The stand of embodiment 31, wherein the predetermined angle range is from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, from about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees.

[0126] Embodiment 33 A stand according to any one of embodiments 30 to 32, wherein in the tilted position, at least one of the grip of the pipette controller and the pipette connector is supported within the cradle of the stand.

[0127] Embodiment 34 34. The stand of any one of embodiments 27 to 33, wherein in the third position, the pipette controller is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip of the pipette controller is positioned within the cradle, and the pipette connector is positioned above the stand.

[0128] Embodiment 35 35. The stand of any one of embodiments 27 to 34, wherein in the third position, the pipette connector is oriented such that the longitudinal axis of the pipette connected to the pipette connector is substantially parallel to the base.

[0129] Embodiment 36 A stand described in any one of embodiments 27 to 35, wherein the cradle includes a first portion configured to support the bottom of the grip of the pipette controller in the first position.

[0130] Embodiment 37 37. A stand as described in embodiment 36, wherein the first portion is substantially flat. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 100 Stand 102 Base 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d side wall 106 Cradle 108 bottom 109 Side wall 110 Raised floor of bottom wall 111 Sloping bottom wall 112 Low floor of bottom wall 113 Distal shelf 114 Opening 116a, 116b longitudinal side walls 118 Distal lateral wall 120 Pipette connector mounting area 122a, 122b Pipettor stabilizing member 140 port 142 Interface 150 Pipette Controller 152 Grip 154 Pipette Connector 160 pipettes

Claims

1. A stand (100) having a housing for a pipette controller (150) including a grip (152) to be held by hand, a pipette connector (154) to be connected to a pipette (160) at an upper end opposite to a lower end of the pipette (160) for dropping a liquid, and an intermediate portion to connect the grip (152) to the pipette connector (154), The housing comprises: a base 102; a cradle 106 defined by one or more side walls 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d extending from the base 102 to the top of the housing and formed as a recess within the housing extending longitudinally of the housing; The cradle 106 has a pipette connector mounting portion 120 capable of supporting the pipette connector 154 at a proximal end of the cradle 106, near an opening 114 provided at one end of the cradle 106; the cradle (106) has a grip-receiving space defined by a bottom surface (108) of the cradle (106) that is partially bounded by the side walls (104a, 104b, 104c, 104d) provided at a distal end of the cradle (106); a first position in which the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 is stored in a substantially vertical position by storing the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 in the bottom surface 108 of the grip storage space; a second position in which a portion of the bottom of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 is placed on a distal shelf 113 located higher than the bottom surface 108 on the distal end side of the grip storage space, storing the grip 152 in a position inclined with respect to the horizontal plane of the base 102 and supporting the pipette connector 154 by the pipette connector mounting portion 120; and a third position in which the back of the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 is stored in a bottom wall of the cradle 106 located between the grip storage space and the pipette connector mounting portion 120.

2. The at least three different positions are: holding the pipette controller 150 in the first position when not in use; holding the grip 152 of the pipette controller 150 in the second position so that it can be grasped by a user of the pipette controller 150 during intermittent use; 2. The stand 100 of claim 1, wherein when the pipette 160 is connected to the pipette connector 154 of the pipette controller 150, the connected pipette 160 is held in the third position in which it does not contact the surface supporting the stand 100 and the base 102 of the stand 100.

3. In the first position, the pipette controller 150 is in a vertical position; 3. The stand (100) of claim 2, wherein in the vertical position, the pipette controller (150) stands up from the bottom of the grip (152), the bottom of the grip (152) being supported within the cradle (106) of the stand (100).

4. In the second position, the pipette controller 150 is in an inclined position; 4. The stand (100) of claim 2 or 3, wherein in the tilted position, the pipette controller (150) is tilted forward at a predetermined angle relative to an upright position of the pipette controller (150).

5. 5. The stand (100) of claim 4, wherein the predetermined angle ranges from about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees.

6. 5. The stand (100) of claim 4, wherein the predetermined angle ranges from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees.

7. 5. The stand (100) of claim 4, wherein the predetermined angular range is approximately 45 degrees.

8. A stand (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein in the tilted position, at least one of the grip (152) and the pipette connector (154) of the pipette controller (150) is supported within the cradle (106) of the stand (100).

9. The stand (100) of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein in the third position, the pipette controller (150) is in a horizontal position, the distal side of the grip (152) of the pipette controller (150) is positioned within the cradle (106), and the pipette connector (154) is positioned above the stand (100).

10. 10. The stand (100) of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein in the third position, the pipette connector (154) is oriented such that a longitudinal axis of the pipette (160) connected to the pipette connector (154) is substantially parallel to the base (102).

11. 11. The stand (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises a charging means provided within the cradle (106), the charging means configured to charge the pipette controller (150) while the pipette controller (150) is held within the cradle (106) in at least one of the three different positions.

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