Adapter for receiving a pipette tip, method for using an adapter, and pipetting device

Abstract

The invention relates to an adapter (1) for a pipetting device (100), the adapter having an adapter element (2) for receiving a pipette tip (3) and comprising a channel (4) which is arranged in the adapter element (2) and through which an interior (5) of the pipette tip (3) can be fluidically connected to the pipetting device (100). The adapter element (2) comprises a first receiving element (6) for receiving a first pipette tip (3) and comprises a second receiving element (7) for receiving a second pipette tip (3.5) that differs from the first pipette tip (3), wherein the first receiving element (6) and the second receiving element (7) are arranged in different regions of the channel (4) in such a way that different pipette tips (3) can be received by the first receiving element (6) and the second receiving element (7).

Description

[0001] Hombrechtikon Systems Engineering AG, Garstliqweq 6, CH-8634

[0002] Hombrechtikon

[0003] Adapter for holding a pipette tip, method for using a

[0004] Adapters and pipetting device

[0005] The invention relates to an adapter for receiving a pipette tip, a method for receiving a pipette tip and a pipetting device with an adapter for receiving a pipette tip as well as a pipetting machine according to the preamble of the independent claims.

[0006] In current technology, pipettes are used for dispensing liquids. They are most commonly used in the medical field, where pipette tips are typically disposable plastic items to prevent contamination. For small volumes, micropipettes are used, capable of dispensing volumes of approximately 100 nanoliters and less. For repetitive tasks, electronically controlled pipettes are available, particularly for use in laboratory automation systems and robots.

[0007] Some pipettes work on the displacement principle, whereby a movable piston displaces or draws in air, causing a liquid to enter or leave the pipette tip.

[0008] As an alternative to the positive displacement principle, prior art pipettes exist that operate on the air cushion principle. A corresponding pipetting device is known, for example, from DE10237770A1. In this device, an air column separates the liquid drawn into the pipette tip from the interior of the pipette. The movement of a pump element creates a vacuum in the pipette tip, causing the liquid to rise into the tip. The air column moved by the pump element creates a fluid flow, which in turn moves the liquid into and out of the pipette tip.

[0009] Furthermore, devices are known in the prior art that are used exclusively for dispensing liquids. Unlike pipettes, these devices generally have a reservoir from which the liquid is dispensed. A specific volume is dispensed repeatedly from the reservoir. A corresponding liquid dispensing device is known from US 7,303,728 B2. Additionally, a liquid dispensing system for dispensing liquid volumes in the submicroliter range is known from WO 2006005923 A1.

[0010] In the prior art, it is common practice to attach pipette tips to the pipette using an adapter. A corresponding device is shown in EP2687292B1, wherein the pipette tip has an engagement groove with which it is placed onto the pipette adapter. However, such adapters can only accommodate pipette tips with the same sized engagement groove. Typically, during this process, the pipette tip is pushed onto the adapter and held in place by clamping force, thus creating a sealing fluid connection between the adapter and the pipette tip.

[0011] However, this procedure only works if the pipette tip is shaped in such a way that it fits snugly enough against the adapter to be held in place by the clamping force and to create a sealing connection.

[0012] In everyday laboratory work, it is common to need to add or remove different quantities of fluids from a container during an experiment. Since extreme precision is often required, pipettes are used to ensure that the exact amount of fluid required is added or removed. It is standard practice to use different pipette tips for pipetting different volumes.

[0013] In practice, this means that pipette tips need to be changed frequently. The problem is that different pipette tips have different shapes. Pipette tips with a larger volume also have a larger opening for attaching them to the pipette than pipette tips with a smaller volume.

[0014] It is therefore common practice in the prior art to use different pipettes with corresponding adapters for differently shaped pipette tips. However, it is more common for the "small" and "large" pipette tips to have the same sized engagement groove. Thus, adapters are used for pipettes to accommodate pipette tips, and only one size of pipette tip fits on each adapter, as in EP2687292B1.

[0015] Pipette tips are typically supplied in transport boxes called racks. In the laboratory, a tip is only removed from such a container when it is needed for a specific step. Moving individual tips around without immediate use is not standard practice, as this poses a risk of contamination. Consequently, the pipette tips are removed directly from the racks for use. This is done by attaching the pipette tip to the adapter while it is still positioned in the rack. The adapters for holding pipette tips, therefore, dictate the required spacing between the pipette tips in the rack to ensure clean and controlled insertion by the adapter.Conversely, this means that the "small" pipette tips are arranged in the racks with more space between them than would be necessary for safe transport from the manufacturer to the laboratory.

[0016] Furthermore, pipetting devices with multiple separate adapters are known in the prior art. These adapters are either designed to accommodate multiple tips simultaneously or to accommodate pipette tips with different sized engagement grooves.

[0017] Pipettes with multiple adapter / pipette tip receptacles are known from the prior art. Each of these receptacles is connected to the pipette via a flow channel. The individual receptacles are equipped with valves to prevent leakage from one of the adapter's receptacles from altering the aspirated volume.

[0018] These pipettes feature adapters / pipette tip receptacles of different sizes arranged side by side. Depending on the desired pipette tip, either the larger or smaller receptacle can be used to hold the corresponding tip, while the other receptacle remains freely accessible.

[0019] One disadvantage of these well-known pipettes, however, is that the arrangement of the pipette tip attachment points side by side consumes a lot of space and makes the pipette's construction considerably more complex. This is particularly problematic in automated processes. In these processes, the pipette tips are automatically mounted onto the adapters, often with several pipettes operating simultaneously and controlled concurrently. Therefore, the pipette tips must be positioned at consistent intervals to allow for automated mounting.

[0020] The distances must be chosen so that the adapters known from the prior art can accommodate both large and small pipette tips, which means that the distances at which these must be positioned to each other are determined and limited by the width of the adapters.

[0021] Furthermore, it is necessary to store the pipette tips in so-called (multi-)racks, where they must be arranged with more space between them than would be necessary for safe transport. This results in fewer pipette tips being transported per rack, which in turn leads to increased transport and material costs for each individual pipette tip. This also places a burden on the environment and increases resource consumption, as more material is needed to package the pipette tips, and fewer pipette tips can be transported per unit of freight volume.

[0022] Another problem with the current state of the art is that existing adapters are difficult to manufacture. Due to their design with adjacent pipette tip receptacles, they require separate internal channels and / or valves to ensure proper function. Manufacturing such a channel necessitates precise, and therefore time-consuming and expensive, production processes.

[0023] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device for holding pipette tips that eliminates the disadvantages known from the prior art; in particular to improve an adapter for holding a pipette tip in such a way that the use of pipette tips is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly, efficiency is increased and the error rate is reduced.

[0024] This problem is solved according to the invention by an adapter for receiving a pipette tip, a method for using an adapter, a pipetting device and a pipetting machine with the features of the independent claims.

[0025] The dependent claims relate to particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0026] According to the invention, an adapter for a pipetting device is proposed, comprising an adapter element for receiving a pipette tip. The adapter further includes a channel arranged within the adapter element, through which an interior of the pipette tip can be fluid-connected to the pipetting device (thus ensuring, in particular, the uptake of liquid from and into the pipette tip).

[0027] The adapter element comprises a first receiving element for a first pipette tip and a second receiving element for a second pipette tip that differs from the first. The first and second receiving elements can be positioned in or on different parts of the channel such that they can accommodate different pipette tips. Specifically, the first and second receiving elements are to be understood as distinct pipette tip receiving points, each capable of accommodating different pipette tips.

[0028] Preferably, the adapter element can be tubular in shape, with the channel located inside the tubular element. The receiving points can be located at various sections of the tubular element (particularly on an outer side facing away from the channel) and / or within the tubular element (particularly on an inner side facing the channel). The receiving elements are preferably designed as areas integrated into the adapter element with structures for receiving the pipette tips. Furthermore, the adapter element can also have additional receiving elements for receiving other different pipette tips.

[0029] In particular, the first and second receiving elements are part of a single adapter element (where, specifically, there is only a single channel without branches within the adapter element). No separate elements are required to accommodate different pipette tips. Furthermore, no valves are needed to make the receiving elements flow-independent of each other, as is the case in the prior art. The first and second receiving elements can thus be understood as different parts / sections of the (single) adapter element.

[0030] The fact that different pipette tips can be received by the first receiving element and the second receiving element can, within the scope of the invention, be understood to mean in particular that the pipette tips differ in shape, size, volume, thickness, and / or material. This can apply to the entire pipette tip or only to sections thereof, such as the area of ​​the pipette tip used to attach it to a pipette or pipetting device (also called the engagement groove). These examples are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. However, the pipette tips preferably differ in the size / diameter of the engagement groove. As described below, according to the invention, pipette tips can be arranged on either the inside or the outside of the adapter.If a pipette tip is positioned on the outside of the adapter, the term "diameter" refers specifically to the adapter's outer diameter. If a pipette tip is positioned on the inside of the adapter, the term "diameter" refers specifically to the adapter's inner diameter.

[0031] According to the invention, the pipette tip can be attached to the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element by means of clamping force, thereby simultaneously establishing a sealing fluid connection between the adapter and the pipette tip. This allows the pipette tip to be easily picked up and dispensed, thus increasing the working speed.

[0032] Of course, fastening using, for example, a

[0033] Screw thread, click mechanism or plug-in mechanism, as well as all other mechanisms known from the prior art are conceivable.

[0034] Connection methods. Even a non-removable connection is conceivable.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element has a radially circumferential mounting structure (in particular, two or more of these), wherein the pipette tip can be attached to the radially circumferential mounting structure. Compared to simply placing the pipette tip onto an adapter without a radially circumferential mounting structure, this results in a more secure fit of the pipette tip on the adapter, thus preventing the pipette tip from falling off and simultaneously increasing the quality of the work performed.

[0036] Furthermore, the more secure connection allows the use of pipette tips that are longer and / or have a larger volume capacity than those commonly available, as the risk of them falling off is minimized. The use of such pipette tips can be advantageous in certain applications.

[0037] When working in the laboratory, the safety of those present is paramount. Therefore, it must be ensured that no substances unintentionally escape from the pipette tip. Potentially hazardous or otherwise dangerous substances are frequently used in laboratory settings, and their release from the container, for example through spillage or the pipette tip falling off the pipetting device, must be prevented. Pipette tips must therefore be precisely seated on the pipettes or pipetting devices to prevent them from falling off, which could contaminate the surrounding area. Furthermore, the samples being worked with may require lengthy preparation processes and are valuable beyond that, which is why contamination from, for example, a falling pipette tip or other unforeseen events must be strictly avoided. Moreover, the precise seating of a pipette tip on the pipette or pipetting device is crucial.The pipetting device is essential for generating a reliable flow connection. If the pipette tip is not properly seated, the volume being measured can be inaccurate. Furthermore, the purity of the samples is improved by the design of the channel in the adapter according to the invention compared to the prior art. As explained above, the prior art requires the use of an adapter with a branched channel for accommodating pipette tips of different sizes. Such a channel is difficult to manufacture and therefore carries the risk of defects, e.g., structural flaws, which can distort a measurement. This problem is reduced by the simpler structure of the adapter according to the invention.

[0038] According to the invention, a positioning section for positioning the pipette tip can be arranged in addition to the circumferential mounting structure. This positioning section can have structural features that allow the pipette tip to be positioned precisely at a desired location. In particular, the structural feature can be that the diameter of the positioning section corresponds to the diameter of the engagement groove of the pipette tip. The circumferential mounting structures, on the other hand, have a larger diameter to ensure that the pipette tip can be securely attached. The positioning section is preferably arranged between two circumferential mounting structures.

[0039] The positioning section can be particularly important, for example, when analyzing a fluid in the pipette tip and precisely positioning the beam path. This improves the quality of the analysis. At the same time, it increases the working speed, as the correct positioning is achieved automatically and therefore requires less rigorous verification.

[0040] In another embodiment of the adapter, the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element can have a tapered section. This tapered section can be located on the outside or inside of the adapter. If it is located on the outside, it primarily facilitates the attachment of the pipette tip and simultaneously increases the working speed, as the attachment process requires less time. Of course, other shapes or structures that facilitate attachment are also conceivable. However, a tapered shape has the advantage of being easier to manufacture.If the conical section is arranged on the inside, it primarily serves to create a secure, fluid-tight connection between the adapter and the pipette tip. According to the invention, a conical section can be arranged both on the inside and on the outside of the adapter, so that the adapter has the advantages of both structures.

[0041] The adapter element can be tubular, as described above. According to the invention, the first receiving element can accommodate pipette tips with a diameter of less than 9 mm, preferably pipette tips with a diameter between 0.5 mm and 8 mm, and particularly preferably pipette tips with a diameter between 4 mm and 6 mm. If the first receiving element is arranged on the outside of the adapter element, the outer diameter of the adapter element in the area where the first receiving element is arranged (at least partially) corresponds to the aforementioned diameter of the pipette tips, thus enabling the pipette tips to be clamped onto the adapter and simultaneously establishing a sealing fluid connection between the adapter and the pipette tip.If the first receiving element is arranged on the inside of the adapter element, the inner diameter of the adapter element in the area (at least partially) where the first receiving element is located corresponds to the aforementioned diameter of the pipette tips, thus enabling the insertion of the pipette tips. This is intended to create a "press-fit" connection, simultaneously establishing a sealing fluid connection between the adapter and the pipette tip. Naturally, the advantages of an adapter that can accommodate different pipette tips, as described above, are also present here. The adapter element can be tubular, as described above. According to the invention, the second receiving element can accommodate pipette tips with a diameter between 4 and 15 mm, preferably pipette tips with a diameter between 8 and 12 mm, and particularly preferably pipette tips with a diameter between 6 and 10 mm.If the second receiving element is located on the outside of the adapter element, the outer diameter of the adapter element in the area where the second receiving element is located (at least partially) corresponds to the previously mentioned diameter of the pipette tips, thus enabling the pipette tips to be clamped onto the adapter and simultaneously creating a sealing fluid connection between the adapter and the pipette tip. If the second receiving element is located on the inside of the adapter element, the inner diameter of the adapter element in the area where the second receiving element is located corresponds to the previously mentioned diameter of the pipette tips, thus enabling the pipette tips to be inserted. This is intended to provide a press-fit connection.

[0042] The different diameters of the adapter elements offer the advantage that different pipette tips can be used on the same adapter, enabling faster work by eliminating the need for time-consuming and complex pipette changes or modifications to the pipetting device. This also improves comparability and, consequently, the quality of the work, as the same pipette can always be used. In contrast, current technology often requires changing the pipette, which, due to differences in the measuring and fitting accuracy of each individual pipette, can lead to deviations in the actual pipetted volume.

[0043] Furthermore, the maintenance and regular inspection of pipettes are essential to preserve their functionality. These inspections represent a significant cost factor, as they require skilled personnel, expensive spare parts, and time. By reducing the number of pipettes or pipetting devices required, which the inventive adapter enables through increased efficiency, these costs can also be reduced.

[0044] A further advantage of the invention is that, by enabling the use of pipette tips of different sizes on the same adapter, the spacing between the pipettes in the racks in which they are usually supplied can be changed. This means that it is possible to place the pipette tips closer together, as space does not need to be left between them as is usually the case, so that the side-by-side arrangement of the different pipette tip holding points known from the prior art does not interfere with the sampling process.

[0045] According to the invention, the adapter can have a channel arranged in an interior space of the adapter element. The first receiving element and / or the second receiving element can be arranged on the interior space of the adapter element and / or the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element can be arranged on an exterior surface of the adapter element. The arrangement of the first and / or second receiving element on the interior or exterior surface can be adapted according to external circumstances. For example, the interior arrangement is preferable if the pipette tip to be received has a small diameter, thus saving space.The internal arrangement can be such that the pipette tip is inserted into the adapter so that it rests against the inside of the adapter and can be held there by means of clamping force, while at the same time a sealing fluid connection can be established between the adapter and the pipette tip.

[0046] The external arrangement can be used, for example, with pipette tips that have a large diameter, thus saving space by utilizing the space within the tip. The external arrangement can be implemented by inserting the adapter into the pipette tip so that the tip rests against the outside of the adapter and is held there by clamping force, thereby simultaneously creating a sealing fluid connection between the adapter and the pipette tip.

[0047] In one embodiment of the invention, the adapter can include a release mechanism that is movable relative to the adapter element such that the pipette tip can be removed from the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element. This has the advantage of allowing rapid ejection, which increases working speed and thus efficiency. It also increases safety, as the pipette tip, which may be filled with potentially hazardous substances, does not need to be removed manually.

[0048] According to the invention, the ejection mechanism can be movably arranged in the channel. This has the advantage that pipette tips located inside can also be ejected without having to do so manually and thus without exposing oneself to the risk of coming into contact with the potentially hazardous substance in the pipette tip or of contaminating the pipette or the adapter.

[0049] According to the invention, the ejection mechanism can be movably arranged on the outside of the adapter element, so that the adapter and ejection mechanism form a single unit and are interchangeable together. This has the advantage, among others, that the adapter and the ejection mechanism can be precisely matched. This can be done either during the production of these parts or in a subsequent adjustment step. Precise matching increases the accuracy of the stripping process and thus avoids errors. This, for example, minimizes health risks, improves the quality of work, and prevents sample rejection caused by errors and the associated costs. In a further embodiment, specially shaped pipette tips are shown, the selection of which can be precisely adapted according to the arrangement of the ejection mechanism on the adapter.For example, pipette tips with wings can be used when the ejection mechanism is located on the outside of the adapter element. These wings can be arranged radially on the outside of the pipette tip to provide a larger surface area for the ejection mechanism to engage.

[0050] Similarly, pipette tips are conceivable that are particularly suitable for being ejected by an ejection mechanism located inside the channel. These pipette tips can, for example, have an internal filter, as is known from the prior art. Such a filter normally serves to filter mixtures of substances in the pipette tip and / or to prevent substances from being drawn into the pipette itself. As is known from the prior art, filters of this type can be pressed into the pipette tip after its manufacture. According to the invention, however, such a filter can also be used as a resistance or point of application to eject the pipette tip by applying pressure against this structure via the ejection mechanism.According to the invention, it is therefore conceivable to introduce a ring structure into the pipette tip instead of the known filters, so that this structure rests against the inside of the pipette tip and serves as a resistance or point of application for the ejection mechanism, whereby the fluid flow between the adapter and the pipette tip can be maintained through the hole in the ring structure. Instead of the ring structure, inner wings can also be used, with these forming the contact surface for the ejection mechanism, analogous to the principle of wings arranged radially outside the pipette tip for an ejection mechanism located on the outside of the adapter element. Pipette tips that can be attached to the second receiving element differ in their filter arrangement from the prior art.Since the second receiving element is positioned closer to the pump element compared to the prior art, the adapter must extend further into the pipette tip to securely hold it. If a pipette tip with a filter is to be used, the filter must also be positioned further towards the center of the pipette tip to prevent the adapter, which extends further into the pipette tip, from coming into contact with the filter and thus preventing secure attachment of the pipette tip to the second receiving element.

[0051] It goes without saying that the ejection mechanism can be operated not only manually, but also automatically, for example by means of a control device.

[0052] Furthermore, an inventive method for receiving pipette tips by means of an inventive adapter according to one of the is proposed, which comprises the following steps: providing the adapter for receiving pipette tips, receiving the pipette tip on the first receiving element or the second receiving element.

[0053] In an inventive method for picking up pipette tips, the pipette tip can be ejected after being picked up. This has the advantage that a new pipette tip can be picked up directly, thus increasing the working speed.

[0054] Furthermore, a pipetting device according to the invention for dispensing a liquid by means of a fluid flow is proposed, wherein the adapter comprises a means for filling and emptying a pipette tip attached to the adapter by means of the fluid flow, the pipette tip being fluidly connected to the means for filling and emptying via the channel of the adapter. The means for filling can, for example, be a pipette plunger. This can be operated manually or automatically. Of course, other means suitable for generating a fluid flow are also conceivable.

[0055] In one embodiment of a pipetting device according to the invention, the means for filling and emptying can be a device for generating or changing pressure, in particular a pump with a pump chamber for generating a fluid flow. Such a pump has, among other advantages, that the volume of the fluid flow can be precisely determined, controlled, and adjusted.

[0056] In one embodiment of a pipetting device according to the invention, the device comprises a plurality of adapters. This makes it possible to accept and / or repel several pipette tips in parallel.

[0057] This offers advantages for both automation and parallel processing, particularly for processing identical samples as well as different samples.

[0058] Especially for parallel work with different samples, an improved fit of the pipette tips on the adapter, as taught according to the invention, is essential to prevent the risk of errors, such as contamination.

[0059] For the purposes of this application, the term "multiple" is to be understood as "at least two".

[0060] A pipetting device according to the invention can have a sample module for holding sample containers. This simplifies holding the individual samples and simultaneously enables safe parallel processing of the individual samples.

[0061] Furthermore, an inventive pipetting system is proposed, comprising an inventive pipetting device and a movement device for moving the pipetting device within the space / pipetting system. The inventive pipetting device can be moved in all spatial directions by means of the movement device. The movement device enables precise movement of the pipetting device, thus increasing the quality of the work, as the pipetting device does not need to be held manually. This reduces the occurrence of errors when picking up pipette tips due to incorrect or poor positioning of the pipette tip relative to the adapter. In addition to eliminating this source of error, the potential hazards for personnel on site are also reduced, as spillage of samples by the user is prevented.

[0062] In one embodiment of the pipetting robot according to the invention, the pipetting robot can comprise a plurality of pipetting devices. This has the advantage that parallel operation is possible, and thus the advantages of increased work quality, speed, and safety described above can also be utilized in the pipetting robot.

[0063] In another embodiment of the pipetting machine according to the invention, the machine has a control module for controlling the movement device. This control module allows for remote and automated operation of the pipetting device. This results in the well-known advantages of automation. For example, the error rate can be reduced, consistent quality of work can be ensured, and time and therefore costs for production and personnel can be saved.

[0064] In one embodiment of an automated pipetting system according to the invention, the system and / or the pipetting device has a sensor module that can provide the control module with information for the automated control of the movement device. This information makes it possible to check and, if necessary, correct the relative positions of the individual components of the automated pipetting system, thus reducing the error rate when picking up or dispensing the pipette tip. Furthermore, the use of a sensor module and the associated checking and correction of the relative positions of the components of the automated pipetting system allows for autonomous operation. This frees up personnel resources, as the time required for controlling and monitoring the automated pipetting system can be reduced. In addition, this also increases safety, as no personnel come into contact with the substances during operation.Information can be transmitted via a wired connection or wirelessly. In wireless data transmission, the data / signal is transmitted through free space (air or vacuum) as the transmission medium. Transmission can occur using directed or non-directed electromagnetic waves. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi are preferred technologies.

[0065] In a pipetting machine according to the invention, the device includes a reservoir for pipette tips. This allows for faster processing because new pipette tips can be provided directly and thus quickly refilled. Furthermore, providing a reservoir of pipette tips minimizes the likelihood of contamination, as less frequent external interaction with the pipetting machine is required.

[0066] To further reduce the risk of contamination, the automated pipetting system, or at least the pipetting device, can be housed in an enclosure. Specifically, the enclosure completely surrounds the automated pipetting system or the pipetting device, creating a treatment chamber where work can be carried out in a hermetically sealed environment. However, beneficial effects can also be achieved with an enclosure that does not provide a hermetical seal. Furthermore, a simple partition to reduce drafts and / or a cover can also be used to surround the automated pipetting system or the pipetting device.

[0067] A particular advantage of the adapters according to the invention is that known laboratory automation systems and pipetting devices can be easily upgraded to a pipetting automation system or a pipetting device according to the invention, since the existing adapters can be replaced by the adapters according to the invention. It goes without saying that the embodiments mentioned here are not limiting in nature and that the various features of the embodiments, as well as the embodiments themselves, can be combined with one another.

[0068] The invention will now be explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments and with reference to the drawings. The drawings show:

[0069] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an adapter known from the prior art for receiving a pipette tip;

[0070] Fig. 2: a schematic representation of an embodiment of an adapter according to the invention for receiving a pipette tip;

[0071] Fig. 3: a schematic representation of an adapter according to the invention with a pipette tip attached;

[0072] Fig. 4: a schematic representation of an adapter according to the invention with a pipette tip arranged on the outside of the channel;

[0073] Fig. 5: a schematic representation of a pipette tip for attachment to and wiping off from an adapter according to the invention with ejection device;

[0074] Fig. 6: a schematic representation of a preferred shape and arrangement of pipette tips for an adapter according to the invention;

[0075] Fig. 7: a schematic representation of pipette tips with ring structure or filter, for attaching to and ejecting from an adapter according to the invention with ejection device.

[0076] Fig. 8: A schematic representation of a pipetting device according to the invention in a housing; For an explanation of a known adapter for a pipette, reference is made below to Fig. 1, with reference to which the prior art is described in more detail. To distinguish the prior art from the present invention, the reference numerals relating to features of known examples are provided with an apostrophe, while features of embodiments according to the invention are provided with reference numerals that do not contain an apostrophe.

[0077] Fig. 1 shows an adapter 1' for a pipetting device 100' with an adapter element 2' for receiving a pipette tip 3' comprising a channel 4' arranged in the adapter element 2' through which an interior of the pipette tip is fluid-connected to the pipetting device (not shown here). The adapter element 2' has a first / single receiving element 6' for receiving a first pipette tip and a release mechanism 14' attached to the outside of the adapter element 2', which is movable relative to the adapter element 2' such that the pipette tip (not shown here) can be released.

[0078] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of an adapter 1 according to the invention for a pipetting device with an adapter element 2 for receiving a pipette tip 3 comprising a channel 4 arranged in the adapter element 2 through which an interior of the pipette tip is fluid-connected to the pipetting device (not shown here).

[0079] Furthermore, the adapter element 2, which includes a first receiving element 6 for receiving a first pipette tip and a second receiving element 7 for receiving a second pipette tip which differs from the first pipette tip in size / diameter of an engagement groove, is shown.

[0080] The first receiving element 6 and the second receiving element 7 are arranged in different areas of the channel 4 such that different pipette tips can be received by the first receiving element 6 and the second receiving element 7. The first receiving element 6 and the second receiving element 7 are different pipe sections of the adapter element 2 and have different diameters.

[0081] The first pipette tip can be attached to the first receiving element 6 by means of clamping force. The second pipette tip can also be attached to the second receiving element 7 by means of clamping force, thereby simultaneously establishing a sealing fluid connection between the adapter 1 and the first and / or second pipette tip, both at the first receiving element 5 and at the second receiving element 7.

[0082] The first receiving element 6 and the second receiving element 7 of the adapter 1 for a pipetting device each comprise two radially circumferential mounting structures 8, wherein the pipette tip 3 can be attached to the radially circumferential mounting structure 8.

[0083] Between the surrounding fastening structures 8 is a positioning section 9 for positioning the pipette tip (not shown).

[0084] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an adapter 1 according to the invention, wherein the first receiving element 6 of the adapter 1 for a pipetting device 100 has a conically tapered section 12 to enable secure and fluid-tight insertion of the pipette tip 3.

[0085] The first receiving element 6 accommodates a pipette tip 3. The diameter of the engagement cone of the received pipette tip 3 can correspond to the diameter of the first receiving element 6. This is therefore a conical connection, in which the pipette tip connects to the adapter 1 on an inner surface of the adapter 1. The second receiving element 7 can accommodate a pipette tip (not shown) with an engagement groove whose inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the engagement cone.

[0086] The schematic representation of an adapter 1 according to the invention in Fig. 3 also shows that the channel 4 is arranged in an interior 5 of the adapter element 2 and the first receiving element 6 is arranged on the interior 5 of the adapter element 2 and the second receiving element 7 is arranged on an outer side 13 of the adapter element 2.

[0087] The adapter 1 includes a release mechanism 14 which is movable to the adapter element 2 in such a way that the pipette tip 3 can be removed from the first receiving element 6 and / or second receiving element 7.

[0088] According to the ejection mechanism 14 shown in Fig. 3, this is movably arranged in the channel 4 and can eject the pipette tip 3, which is located in the interior 5 of the adapter element 2, from the interior 5 by pressing against its end located in the interior 5.

[0089] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of an adapter 1 according to the invention, in which a pipette tip 3 is arranged on a first receiving element 6 of the adapter element 2 and can be ejected by means of an ejection mechanism 14, which is arranged in the interior 5 of the channel 4, by pressing against the pipette tip 3. Fig. 4 also shows an embodiment in which the ejection mechanism 14 is movably arranged on the outer side 13 of the adapter 1 and can be brought into contact with the pipette tip 3.5 in such a way that the pipette tip 3.5 can be ejected from the second receiving element 7. Particularly preferably, the adapter comprises both an outer and an inner ejection mechanism, which can be moved together, i.e., simultaneously.

[0090] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of an adapter 1 according to the invention, wherein a pipette tip 3 is arranged on a first receiving element 6 on an outer side 13 of the adapter 1. The ejection mechanism 14 is movably arranged on an outer side 13 of the adapter element 2 and can be brought into contact with the pipette tip 3 in such a way that the pipette tip 3 can be ejected from the first receiving element 6.

[0091] The pipette tip 3 shown schematically in Fig. 5 has wings 15 which offer a larger surface area for the ejection mechanism 14 and thus simplify ejection.

[0092] Fig. 6 shows the schematic arrangement of pipette tips 3 without (6A) and with (6B) wings 15 in a rack in top view.

[0093] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of two adapters 1 (A and B) according to the invention, wherein a pipette tip 3 is attached to the first receiving element 6 of each adapter 1. The pipette tips 3 for adapter A have a ring element 16 that can be ejected by means of an ejection mechanism 14 located in the interior 5 of the channel 4. The pipette tips 3 for adapter B have a filter 16 that can be ejected by means of an ejection mechanism 14 located in the interior 5 of the channel 4.

[0094] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a pipetting machine 110 according to the invention, arranged in a housing.

[0095] The pipetting machine 110 comprises a treatment chamber 1100 for receiving a sample and a pipetting device 100 according to the invention, which is arranged in the treatment chamber 1100 for carrying out at least one processing step on a sample 71. The pipetting machine also comprises a sample module 72 in which sample containers 73 are arranged.

[0096] The pipetting machine 110 comprises a pipetting device 100 and a movement device 21 for moving the pipetting device 100. The movement device 21 allows the pipetting device 100 to move in all directions in space.

[0097] By means of an adapter 1 according to the invention, a pipette tip 3 can also be attached to a pipetting device 100 and, after attachment, removed again from the adapter 1 and thus from the pipetting device 100. After removal from the pipetting device 100, the pipette tip 3 can also be removed from the pipetting machine 110.

[0098] The pipetting device 100, for dosing a liquid by means of a fluid flow, can comprise a means 20 for filling and emptying a pipette tip 3 attached to the adapter 1 by means of the fluid flow, wherein the pipette tip 3 is fluidically connected to the means 20 for filling and emptying via the channel 4 of the adapter 1.

[0099] The means 20 for filling and emptying is a device for generating or changing a pressure, and may in particular be a pump with a pump chamber for generating a fluid flow.

[0100] The pipetting device 100 can include a variety of adapters 1.

[0101] The pipetting machine 110 can have a large number of pipetting devices 100.

[0102] The pipetting machine 110 has a control module 22 for controlling the movement device 21.

[0103] It is possible that the pipetting machine 110 and / or the pipetting device 100 has a sensor module 23 that provides the control module 22 with information for the automated control of the movement device 21. The pipetting machine 110 has reservoirs 24 for pipette tips 3.

[0104] The features described above therefore allow, for the first time, an adapter for receiving a pipette tip, a method for using an adapter, a pipetting device and a pipetting machine to be owned or used on which more than one type of pipette tip can be attached, without the adapter having pipette tip receiving points arranged next to each other.

[0105] This teaches a safer, more space-saving, more economical and more ecological adapter, the advantages of which are also evident in the above-described method, pipetting device and pipetting apparatus, all of which utilize the adapter.

[0106] These advantages are achieved, among other things, by reducing the amount of raw materials required to transport and manufacture the pipette tips. Furthermore, working speed increases because the pipette tips fit more securely on the adapters than with previous technologies. Additionally, the adapter and pipette tips can be attached to each other in such a way that the risk of slippage is reduced, which in turn allows for faster and safer work.

Claims

1. Adapter for a pipetting device (100) with an adapter element (2) for receiving a pipette tip (3) comprising a channel (4) arranged in the adapter element (2) through which an interior (5) of the pipette tip (3) can be fluid-connected to the pipetting device (100), the adapter element (2) comprising a first receiving element (6) for receiving a first pipette tip (3) and a second receiving element (7) for receiving a second pipette tip (3.5) different from the first pipette tip (3), characterized in that the first receiving element (6) and the second receiving element (7) are arranged in different areas of the channel (4) such that different pipette tips (3) can be received by the first receiving element (6) and the second receiving element (7).

2. Adapter according to claim 1, wherein the pipette tip (3) can be fluid-tightly attached to the first receiving element (6) and / or to the second receiving element (7) by means of clamping force.

3. Adapter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first receiving element (6) and / or the second receiving element (7) has a radially circumferential mounting structure (8), wherein the first pipette tip (3) and / or the second pipette tip (3.5) can be attached to the radially circumferential mounting structure (8).

4. Adapter according to claim 3, wherein in addition to the circumferential The mounting structure (8) includes a positioning section (9) for positioning the first pipette tip (3) and / or the second pipette tip (3.5).

5. Adapter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first receiving element (6) and / or the second receiving element (7) has a tapered section (12) to facilitate the insertion of the first pipette tip (3) and / or the second pipette tip (3.5).

6. Adapter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first receiving element (6) can receive a first pipette tip (3) with a diameter between 4-15 mm, preferably can receive a first pipette tip (3) with a diameter between 8 and 12 mm and particularly preferably can receive a first pipette tip (3) with a diameter between 6-10 mm.

7. Adapter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second receiving element (7) can receive a second pipette tip (3.5) with a diameter of less than 9 mm, preferably can receive a second pipette tip (3.5) with a diameter between 0.5 mm and 8 mm, and particularly preferably can receive a second pipette tip (3.5) with a diameter between 4 mm and 6 mm.

8. Adapter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the channel (4) is arranged in an interior (5) of the adapter element (2) and the first receiving element (6) and / or the second receiving element (7) is arranged on the interior (5) of the adapter element (2) and / or the first receiving element (6) and / or the second receiving element (7) is arranged on an outer side 13 of the adapter element (2).

9. Adapter according to one of the preceding claims comprising a release mechanism (14) which is movable to the adapter element (2) in such a way that the first pipette tip (3) and / or the second pipette tip (3.5) can be removed from the first receiving element (6) and / or second receiving element (7).

10. Adapter according to claim 9, wherein the ejection mechanism (14) is movably arranged in the channel (4).

11. Adapter according to claim 10, wherein the ejection mechanism (14) is movably arranged on an outer side (13) of the adapter element (2).

12. Method for receiving pipette tips (3) by means of an adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: Providing the adapter (1) to receive a first pipette tip (3) or a second pipette tip (3.5), Picking up the first pipette tip (3) or the second pipette tip (3.5) at the first recording element (6) or the second recording element (7).

13. Method for receiving pipette tips (3) according to claim 12, wherein the first pipette tip (3) and / or the second pipette tip (3.5) is dropped again after being taken up.

14. Pipetting device for dispensing a liquid by means of a fluid flow comprising an adapter (1) according to one of claims 1-11, a means (20) for filling and emptying a first pipette tip (3) and / or second pipette tip attached to the adapter (1). (3.5) through the fluid flow, wherein the first pipette tip (3) and / or the second pipette tip (3.5) is fluidically connected to the means (20) for filling and emptying via the channel (4) of the adapter (1).

15. Pipetting device according to claim 14, wherein the means (20) for filling and emptying is a device for generating or changing a pressure, in particular a pump with a pump chamber for generating a fluid flow.

16. Pipetting device according to one of claims 14 - 15, wherein the device comprises a plurality of adapters (1).

17. Pipetting machine comprising a pipetting device (100) according to one of claims 14-16, and a movement device (21) for moving the pipetting device (100).

18. Pipetting machine according to claim 17, wherein the pipetting machine (110) comprises a plurality of pipetting devices (100).

19. Pipetting machine according to one of claims 17-18, wherein the pipetting machine (110) has a control module (22) for controlling the movement device (21).

20. Pipetting machine according to one of claims 17-19, wherein the pipetting machine (110) and / or the pipetting device (100) has a sensor module (23) that can provide information to the control module (22) for the automated control of the motion device (21).

21. Pipetting machine according to one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the pipetting device (100) comprises a storage container (24) for first pipette tips (3) and / or second pipette tips (3.5).

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