Dispense volume limiting device and method

Abstract

A device for dispensing fluid includes a sample tube defining an interior volume, a transition member fluidly connected to the interior volume, a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening, a dispense port, a target dispense volume receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member and fluidly connected to the dispense port, an overflow receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member, where the overflow receptacle is fluidly connected to the lower opening of the vent, and a actuator, where the actuator is positionable in a first position, in which a lower seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, a third position, in which an upper seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, and a second position in which the lower seal and the upper seal are disengaged from the upper opening of the vent.

Description

DISPENSE VOLUME LIMITING DEVICE AND METHODCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 718,043, filed November 8, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to dispensing a target volume of fluid from a device.BACKGROUND

[0003] To perform tests on a biological sample, a syringe is often used to dispense the sample onto a device fortesting. For instance, a user, such as a laboratory technician, may dispense sample extract onto a cartridge for testing and imaging. For some uses, such as electrowetting, a very small sample volume (e g., 50 microliters (pL)) is required to perform tests. Manually working with volumes this small can be challenging, as often users must count drops from a syringe to estimate the sample volume dispensed. This can result in a variation of sample volume actually dispensed onto a cartridge.SUMMARY

[0004] In one example, a device for dispensing fluid includes a sample tube defining an interior volume, a transition member fluidly connected to the interior volume, a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening, a dispense port, a target dispense volume receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member and fluidly connected to the dispense port, an overflow receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member, where the overflow receptacle is fluidlyconnected to the lower opening of the vent, and a actuator, where the actuator is positionable in a first position, in which a lower seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, a third position, in which an upper seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, and a second position in which the lower seal and the upper seal are disengaged from the upper opening of the vent.

[0005] In another example, a method for dispensing fluid includes positioning an actuator in a first position within a sample tube of a device, the actuator including a lower seal and an upper seal spaced apart from the lower seal, the device including a sample tube defining an interior volume, a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening spaced apart from the upper opening, and a target dispense volume receptacle, where in the first position, the lower seal of the actuator is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, moving the actuator into a second position within the sample tube of the device, where moving the actuator into the second position includes disengaging the lower seal of the actuator from the upper opening of the vent, moving the actuator into a third position within the sample tube of the device, where in the third position, the upper seal of the actuator is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, and passing a sample fluid out of the target dispense volume receptacle.

[0006] The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed can be achieved independently in various examples or may be combined in yet other examples. Further details of the examples can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Various aspects and features of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings wherein:

[0008] Fig. 1A schematically depicts a perspective view of a device for dispensing fluid, the device including a stand, a cap, and an actuator, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0009] Fig. IB schematically depicts a bottom perspective view of the device of Fig. 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0010] Fig. 2A schematically depicts a section view of the device of Fig. 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;.

[0011] Fig. 2B schematically depicts a section view of the device of Fig. 1A with the stand removed, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0012] Fig. 2C schematically depicts the device of Fig. 1 A with the stand removed and the cap in a closed position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0013] Fig. 2D schematically depicts the device of Fig. 1A with the actuator depressed, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0014] Fig. 3 illustrates a method of dispensing fluid with the device of Fig. 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.

[0015] All the figures are schematic, not necessarily to scale, and generally only show parts which are necessary to elucidate example embodiments, wherein other parts may be omitted or merely suggested.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinbelow with reference to the accompanying drawings. That which is encompassed by the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example. Furthermore, like numbers refer to the same or similar elements or components throughout.

[0017] Within examples, the present disclosure provides a device and associated methods for managing the dispense volume of a sample. In some testing scenarios, a small and precise volume of liquid sample is placed on a device fortesting, such as by imaging, performance of microfluidic assays, immunoassays, polymerase chain reactions (PCR) assays, or the like. To place the liquid on the device, users may dispense the sample onto the device with a syringe, managing the volume dispensed by counting the number of droplets dispensed. This results in an imprecise and unrepeatable volume of sample volume dispensed onto the device. For some uses, such as electrowetting, a very small and precise sample volume (e g., 50 pl.) is required to perform tests. Manually working with volumes this small can be challenging, and managing the volume dispensed via counting droplets is inadequate.

[0018] The example devices and methods disclosed herein address these issues. An example device disclosed herein includes a target dispense volume receptacle and an overflow receptacle. The target dispense volume receptacle holds the required volume for the desired test, plus or minus a tolerance around that value, while other / excess fluid is positioned in the overflow receptacle. The target dispense volume receptacle is fluidly connected to a dispense port, while the overflow receptacle is separated from the dispense port. In this manner, only the fluid in the target dispense volume receptacle is ultimately dispensed from the device.

[0019] Some example devices and methods disclosed herein include a vent and one or more seals on the actuator of the device. The vent and seals control the pressure distribution and fluid distribution in the device as a user depresses the actuator. As the user depresses the actuator, pressure will increase inside the sample tube. Without the vent, the increase in pressure may cause the fluid to flow directly through the target dispense volume receptacle and out of the dispense port. The vent allows air to escape from the overflow receptacle, reducing pressure in the sample tube and restricting fluid from dispensing through the dispense port.

[0020] Once the target dispense volume receptacle is filled and excess fluid is deposited into the overflow receptacle, a seal on the actuator blocks the vent. As the user continues to depress the actuator, the increase in pressure in the sample tube will force fluid from the target dispense volume receptacle out of the dispense port. Because the overflow receptacle is separated from the dispense port, fluid in the overflow receptacle will not be dispensed.

[0021] From a user’ s perspective, operation of the device is similar to that of a standard syringe (i.e., the operator depresses the actuator to dispense the fluid). In this way, minimal training is required for the operator to use the present device. Further, the operator no longer needs to count drops or otherwise monitor the fluid dispensed to achieve the desired target dispense volume, thus significantly simplifying the user’s operation while increasing the accuracy of the dispensed volume as compared to conventional devices / methods.

[0022] Now referring to the Figures, Figs. 1A-1B illustrate a device 100 for dispensing fluid. The device 100 includes a sample tube 104 and an actuator 102 positionable at least partially within the sample tube 104. In practice, an operator depresses the actuator 102 into the sample tube 104, similar to operating a standard syringe. However, as described in greater detail herein, the device 100 controls the volume of fluid dispensed to a targeted dispense volume. In embodiments, theactuator 102 includes seals 126, 128. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 1 A, the seals include an upper seal 128 and a lower seal 126. The upper seal 128 and the lower seal 126 are spaced apart from one along the actuator 102. In operation, the upper seal 128 and the lower seal 126 selectively restrict airflow through a vent 124, as described in greater detail herein. In example implementations, the lower seal 126 and / or the upper seal 128 include materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and / or silicon. Other example materials are possible. In some examples, the lower seal 126 and / or the upper seal 128 can include ridges which may reduce friction on an inner surface of the sample tube 104 as compared to seals that do not include ridges.

[0023] The sample tube 104 includes a sidewall 103 that defines an interior chamber 105. In embodiments, the interior chamber 105 receives deposited fluids (e.g., a biological sample, biological sample extract and / or the like).

[0024] In embodiments, the device 100 includes a filter 112, a transition member 114, a target dispense volume receptacle 116, an overflow receptacle 118, and a dispense port 120. In embodiments, the filter 112 is positioned between the interior chamber 105 of the sample tube 104 and the dispense port 120, such that fluid moving from the interior chamber 105 through the dispense port 120 passes through the filter 112.

[0025] In some embodiments, the filter 112 is fluidly connected to the transition member 114 and the interior chamber 105. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 1 A, the filter 112 is positioned between the interior chamber 105 and the transition member 114, such that fluid passing from the interior chamber 105 to the transition member 114 passes through the filter 112. In some embodiments, the filter 112 is positioned between the transition member 115 and the target dispense volume receptacle 116, such that fluid passing from the transition member 115 to thetarget dispense volume receptacle 1 16 passes through the filter 112. In some embodiments, the filter 112 is positioned between the target dispense volume receptacle 116 and the dispense port 120, such that fluid passing from the target dispense volume receptacle 116 to the dispense port 120 passes through the filter 112. While in the embodiment in Figs. 1A and IB the device 100 is depicted as having a single filter 112, it should be understood that this is merely an example, and the device can include any suitable number of filters positioned at any suitable location between the interior chamber 105 and the dispense port 120.

[0026] In example implementations, the filter 112 is a porous member. In practice, different devices can include filters having varying filter characteristics (e.g., permeability, flow control, porosity, etc.). Different filter characteristics may be used for different applications. For instance, it may be advantageous to have a greater porosity for certain types of biological samples or tests. To facilitate this, sintered porous members may be utilized to achieve the desired size and distribution of pores based on the sample type and test. In example implementations, the filter 112 can include, but is not limited to, materials such as polymers and ceramics. In example implementations, the filter 112 can include hydrophobic material or material to inhibit clogging the filter. Example hydrophobic materials and / or coatings can include, but are not limited to, Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW PE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Other example materials are possible.

[0027] In some examples and referring to Figs. 1A-2B, the filter 112 includes one or more indentations 113. The one or more indentations 113 extend inwardly from a top side of the filter 112. Without being bound by theory, the indentations 113 assist in reducing clogging of the filter 112. In some examples the sample fluid can include particulate matter, such as in examples in which the sample fluid contains fecal matter. The particulate matter may accumulate on the topsurface of the filter 112, thereby restricting flow of fluid through the top surface and through the filter 112. The indentations 113 increase the effective surface area of the top surface of the filter 112 as compared to filters that do not include indentations 113. As such, the indentations 113 provide increased surface area for particulate matter to accumulate as compared to filters that do not include indentations 113, thereby allowing more portions of the top surface of the filter 112 to remain unobstructed and allow fluid to enter the filter 112.

[0028] In the example in Fig. 1A, the filter 112 includes a spiral pattern of oval-shaped indentations extending radially outwards. In some embodiments, the filter 112 can include a circular indentation at or near the center of the filter 112. Many example patterns are possible.

[0029] The transition member 114 is fluidly connected to the interior chamber 105, the target dispense volume receptacle 116, and the overflow receptacle 118. In embodiments, the transition member 114 is positioned between the interior chamber 105 and the target dispense volume receptacle 116 and between the interior chamber 105 and the overflow receptacle 118. Accordingly fluid passing from the interior chamber 105 to the target dispense volume receptacle 116 or the overflow receptacle 118 passes through the transition member 114.

[0030] In embodiments, the transition member 114 defines one or more overflow orifices 140. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 1A, the one or more overflow orifices 140 are positioned between the interior chamber 105 of the sample tube 104 and the overflow receptacle 118, such that fluid passing from the interior chamber 105 to the overflow receptacle 118 pass through the one or more overflow orifices 140.

[0031] As shown in Fig. 2A, the transition member 114, in embodiments, defines a target orifice 119 positioned between the interior chamber 105 of the sample tube 104 and the targetdispense volume receptacle 1 16. Accordingly, fluid passing from the interior chamber 105 to the target dispense volume receptacle 116 passes through the target orifice 119.

[0032] The target dispense volume receptacle 116 is fluidly connected to the dispense port 120. With the device 100 in an upright position, as depicted in Figs. 1A-2B, the dispense port 120 is positioned below the target dispense volume receptacle 116. In example implementations, the target dispense volume receptacle 116 has a suitable volume for the corresponding use of the fluid. For instance, the fluid may include biological sample extract to be utilized in electrowetting. In these examples, the target dispense volume receptacle 116 may have a volume between about 50 microliters (pL) and about 100 pL. In some examples, the target dispense volume receptacle 116 may have a volume of about 30 pL. Alternatively, the target dispense volume receptacle 116 may have a volume of about 250 pL. Many example volumes of the target dispense volume receptacle 116 are possible. The volume may vary between example implementations, tailored to the needs of the user (e.g., type of testing, type of imaging, type of sample, etc.).

[0033] Fluid deposited into the interior chamber 105 of the sample tube 104 can flow from the transition member 114 into the target dispense volume receptacle 116 (via the target orifice 119) or the overflow receptacle 118 (via the one or more overflow orifices 140). In some examples, the fluid is gravity fed through the interior chamber 105 to the transition member 114. In some embodiments, the fluid may be pushed from the interior chamber 105 into the transition member 114 as the actuator 102 is depressed.

[0034] In either instance, with the device 100 is in an upright position as depicted in Figs. 1 A- 2B, fluid passing from the interior chamber 105 moves into the transition member 114. In the transition member 114, the fluid passes through the one or more overflow orifices 140 of the transition member 114, or through the target orifice 110 to the target dispense volume receptacle116. Once the target dispense volume receptacle 116 is filled with fluid, further fluid cannot flow into the target dispense volume receptacle 116, and instead flows through the one or more overflow orifices 140 of the transition member 114 into the overflow receptacle 118.

[0035] In embodiments, the overflow receptacle 118 defines a fill level 117 (Fig. 2A) at the top of the overflow receptacle 118. The fill level 117 of the overflow receptacle 118 generally corresponds to the bottom of the overflow orifices 140 of the transition member 114. Without being bound by theory, with the device 100 in the upright position as shown in Fig. 1A, fluid in the overflow receptacle 118 below the fill level 117 is separate from fluid within target dispense volume receptacle 116. In other words, as the result of gravity, fluid from the overflow receptacle 118 below the fill level 117 is restricted from flowing to the target dispense volume receptacle 116 with the device 100 in the upright position. Accordingly, when dispensed with the device 100 in the upright position, only fluid in the target dispense volume receptacle 116 is dispensed out of the dispense port 120, while excess fluid remains in the overflow receptacle 118.

[0036] In some example implementations and as shown in Fig. 2A, the sample tube 104 includes a stand 130 coupled to the dispense port 120. The stand 130 allows the device 100 to stand vertically on a surface such as a countertop or the like. This allows a user to more easily dispense or deposit the sample into the sample tube 104. Further, the stand 130 can help prevent spillage of the fluid and / or the biological sample by stabilizing the sample tube 104 on the surface, countertop, or the like.

[0037] In examples, the stand 130 is removably coupled with the dispense port 120. Removing the stand 130 from the sample tube 104 exposes the dispense port 120, as shown in FIG. 2B. The user can remove the stand 130 after the sample has been deposited into the sample tube 104 and the sample and / or fluid is ready to be dispensed. In examples, the stand 130 is frangibly coupledto the dispense port 120. For example in some embodiments, one or more perforations are positioned between the dispense port 120 and the stand 130 for ease of removal. The user can apply force to twist or bend the stand 130 to remove it from the sample tube 104 and expose the dispense port 120.

[0038] In example embodiments, the device 100 includes the vent 124. The vent 124 defines a lower opening 132 and an upper opening 134 spaced apart from the lower opening 132. In example configurations, the lower opening 132 is fluidly connected to the overflow receptacle 118. In example configurations, the upper opening 134 is fluidly connected to a portion of the sample tube 104 above the transition member 114. In some examples, the upper opening 134 is positioned near the top of the sample tube 104. In embodiments, the upper opening 134 is positioned to selectively engage the actuator 102, as described in greater detail herein.

[0039] In examples, the lower opening 132 defines a lower opening size (i.e., a two- dimensional area of the lower opening 132). In some examples, the lower opening size is greater than a size of the dispense port 120. In some embodiments, the lower opening size of the lower opening 132 is about the same as the dispense port 120. In some embodiments, the relationship between the lower opening size of the lower opening 132 and the size of the dispense port 120 is inversely related to the viscosity of the sample being prepared. For example, in devices 100 for use with samples having a relatively low viscosity, the lower opening size of the lower opening 132 may be selected to be significantly larger than the size of the dispense port 120. By contrast, with samples having a relatively high viscosity, the lower opening size of the lower opening 132 may be selected to be comparatively closer to the size of the dispense port 120.

[0040] As noted above, the device 100 includes the actuator 102 positionable at least partially within the sample tube 104. In practice, the actuator 102 is moved into the sample tube 104 todispense fluid in the sample tube 104, similar to a standard syringe. In examples, the actuator includes the lower seal 126 and the upper seal 128 that selectively engage the upper opening 134 of the vent 124.

[0041] For instance and as shown in Fig. 2A, the actuator 102 is positionable in a first position in which the lower seal 126 is aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. In the first position, the lower seal 126 engages the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. Engagement between the lower seal 126 and the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 restricts the passage of air out of the vent 124 through the upper opening 134.

[0042] In example configurations and as shown in Fig. 1A, the upper seal 128 and the lower seal 126 are spaced apart from one another. In embodiments, the actuator includes a length 136 is positioned between the upper seal 128 and the lower seal 126. The length 136, in embodiments defines a span (e.g., a diameter in embodiments in which the length 136 is cylindrically-shaped) that is less than a span of the upper seal 128 and the lower seal 126. Because the span of the length 136 of the actuator 102 is less than the span of the upper seal 128 and the span of the lower seal 126, when the length 136 is vertically aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent, the length 136 of the actuator 102 is spaced apart from the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. Because the length 136 is spaced apart from the upper opening 134 of the vent 124, air is allowed to escape from the overflow receptacle 118 to the sample tube 104 through the vent 124 when the length 136 is aligned with the upper opening 134.

[0043] In example implementations, the actuator 102 includes a sample inlet 106. The sample inlet 106 includes an opening at the top of the actuator 102 to allow a user to deposit sample into the device 100. In some examples, the sample inlet 106 is defined by an inner cavity of the actuator 102. In embodiments, the sample inlet 106 is fluidly connected to the sample tube 104 via the inlet108. In example implementations, the inlet 108 is sufficiently large enough to allow a user to insert a device (e.g., a syringe, a fecal sample collection device, or the like) through the sample inlet 106 and into the sample tube 104.

[0044] In some examples, the sample is a liquid biological sample such as: (i) blood; (ii) urine; (iii) saliva; (iv) fecal matter; (v) secretion; (vi) excretion; (vii) Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA); (viii) lavage fluids; (ix) body cavity fluids; (x) semen; and (xi) bacteria, or any other suitable liquid, semi-liquid, or liquified sample for interrogation. In example embodiments, these liquid biological samples may be collected and deposited into the sample tube 104 by way of a syringe, for example. In some examples, the liquid biological sample can be gravity fed from the sample inlet 106 into the sample tube 104 by way of the inlet 108. In other examples, a device used for depositing the sample, such as a syringe, can be inserted through the sample inlet 106 and into the sample tube 104 by way of the inlet 108.

[0045] In some examples, the biological sample is a solid biological sample, such as: (i) ear wax; (ii) skin cells; (iii) fecal matter; and (iv) biopsied samples. In example embodiments, these solid biological samples may be collected and deposited into the sample inlet 106 via an applicator (e.g., a cotton swab). In examples where an applicator is used to deposit the sample, the applicator can be inserted through the sample inlet 106 and into the sample tube 104. The sample inlet 106 is fluidly connected to the sample tube 104 by way of the inlet 108.

[0046] In some example implementations, the device 100 can include one or more reagents to mix with the biological sample. For instance, in embodiments in which the device 100 includes a reagent or reagents, the reagent or reagents may be positioned in the sample tube 104 and / or the target dispense volume receptacle 116. In examples, the reagents can include one or more of: (i) a binding reagent; (ii) a wash reagent; (iii) a conjugate reagent; (iv) a fluorescent stain; (v) markers;or (vi) transport (e g., oil). In practice, different devices can include different reagents suitable for the desired test to performed and / or sample type. For instance, in some examples, the device can include reagents suitable for immunoassay. In some examples, the device 100 can include reagents suitable for PCR. Many examples are possible.

[0047] As noted above, in some example implementations, the sample inlet 106 has an opening which allows a user to deposit a sample into the device 100. In examples, the actuator 102 includes a cap 122. The cap 122 is compatible with and can be secured to the sample inlet 106. Once the cap 122 is coupled with the sample inlet 106, flow of fluids through the opening of the sample inlet 106 is restricted. This helps prevent spillage and / or contamination of the fluid.

[0048] In some examples, such as the examples shown in Figs. 1 A-2D, the cap 122 is coupled to the actuator 102. For instance, there may be a flexible portion 139 and / or hinge connecting the cap 122 to the actuator 102. In other examples, the cap 122 may be a separate component that is compatible with the sample inlet 106.

[0049] In some example implementations, the device may include a gripping portion 138. The gripping portion 138 can help provide stability as the user depresses the actuator 102. In example configurations, the gripping portion 138 can include a pair of handles and extending in opposite radial directions from the sample tube 104. This configuration is merely an example. Other configurations of gripping portions are possible.

[0050] Now referring to Figs. 2A-2D, different stages of using the device 100 are depicted. As shown in Fig. 2A, in the first position, the lower seal 126 of the actuator 102 is aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. In this position, the lower seal 126 restricts air from escaping from the overflow receptacle 118. Accordingly, air and / or fluids in the device 100 are restricted from escaping the device 100 through the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 (because ofengagement of the lower seal 126 with the upper opening) or through the dispense port 120 (because of the stand 130).

[0051] In the first position, the sample inlet 106 is exposed (i.e., the cap 122 may be in an open position) allowing a user to deposit a sample into the device 100. For instance, in some examples, a liquid biological sample can be gravity fed from the sample inlet 106 into the sample tube 104 by way of the inlet 108. In some examples, a device used for depositing the sample, such as a syringe, can be inserted through the sample inlet 106 and into the sample tube 104 by way of the inlet 108. In some examples, solid biological samples may be collected and deposited into the sample tube 104 via an applicator (e.g., a cotton swab). In examples where an applicator is used to deposit the sample, the applicator can be inserted through the sample inlet 106 and into the sample tube 104. The sample inlet 106 is fluidly connected to the sample tube 104 by way of the inlet 108. Once the sample is deposited into the device 100, the sample is positioned in the sample tube 104 above the filter 112.

[0052] Now referring to Fig. 2B, the device 100 is depicted with the stand 130 is removed. This exposes the dispense port 120, which will allow sample to be dispensed. As shown in Fig. 2B, the lower seal 126 of the actuator 102 is still aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 in the first position.

[0053] While in Fig. 2B, the cap 122 is shown in an open position, the cap 122 can be closed before or after the stand 130 is removed. For instance, the user can move the cap 122 to a closed position, securing the cap 122 to the top portion of the actuator 102 before removing the stand 130.

[0054] Now referring to Fig. 2C, with the sample deposited into the sample tube 104, the cap 122 coupled to the sample inlet 106, and the stand 130 removed. An operator can begin to move the actuator 102 from the first position. In particular, the actuator 102 is moved from the firstposition, in which the lower seal 126 is engaged with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124, to a second position, in which the lower seal 126 is disengaged from the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. In the second position, the length 136 of actuator 102 is aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. In other words, neither the lower seal 126 or the upper seal 128 are aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 in the second position. Because the length 136 of the actuator 102 is aligned with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124, fluid (i.e., air) can pass out of the vent 124 through the upper opening 134.

[0055] As the actuator 102 moves into the sample tube 104, the sample is pushed through the fdter 112 and into the transition member 114. As described above, from the transition member 114, sample passes into the target dispense volume receptacle 116 and the overflow receptacle 118. Once the target dispense volume receptacle 116 is filled with the target dispense volume of fluid, excess fluid flows into the overflow receptacle 118. More particularly, fluid may flow from through the one or more overflow orifices 140 on the transition member 114 and into the overflow receptacle 118.

[0056] As the operator moves the actuator 102, the pressure will increase inside the sample tube 104. While the vent 124 is unobstructed by either the lower seal 126 or the upper seal 128, air may escape from the overflow receptacle 118 to back into the sample tube 104 through the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. In examples, the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 is located near and / or adjacent to a top portion of the sample tube 104 (e.g., in the opening that receives the actuator 102). This allows air to escape from the vent 124 into the atmosphere to release the pressure from the sample tube 104.

[0057] In embodiments, as the actuator 102 moves into the sample tube 104, air preferentially exits the device 100 through the vent 124 instead of sample exiting the device 100 through thedispense port 120. Tn particular, as the actuator 102 moves into the sample tube 104, the actuator 102 applies force to the air and sample within the sample tube 104. Under the applied force, the air and sample within the sample tube 104 are induced to exit the device 100, the air through the vent 124 and the sample through the dispense port 120. Without being bound by theory, the sample has a higher viscosity than air. As a result of having a higher viscosity than air, the sample is more resistant to exiting the device 100 through the dispense port 120 than air is resistant to exiting the device through the vent 124. In embodiments in which the lower opening size of the lower opening 132 is greater than the size of the dispense port 120, the air is further preferentially encouraged to exit the device 100 through the vent 124 as compared to sample exiting the device 100 through the dispense port 120.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 2D, as the user continues to move the actuator 102 further into the sample tube 104, the actuator 102 moves into a third position in which the upper seal 128 engages the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. Engagement of the upper seal 128 with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 restricts the flow of air through the vent 124. Because the flow of air out of the device 100 through the vent 124 is restricted, as the actuator 102 continues to move into the sample tube 104, sample fluid is pushed out of the dispense port 120. As the overflow receptacle 118 is separated from the target dispense volume receptacle 116 and the dispense port 120, the excess fluid in the overflow receptacle 118 is not dispensed through the dispense port 120. Instead, only the sample fluid within the target dispense volume receptacle 116 is dispensed from the device 100. As described above, dispensing a limited volume can be useful in certain implementations where the volume of fluid needed is small (e.g., electrowetting, PCR, etc.).

[0059] In some example embodiments, the sample can be used for a variety of tests. For instance, these tests may include imaging of one or more of the following: (i) fecal matter; (ii)blood; (iii) urine; (iv) saliva; (v) secretion; (vi) excretion; (vii) FNA; (viii) lavage fluids; (ix) body cavity fluids; (x) semen; (xi) ear wax; (xii) skin cells; (xiii) biopsied samples, (xiv) exotics; (xv) cultured cells; (xvi) bacteria; (xvii) worms; (xviii) parasites; and (xix) ear mites, among other possibilities. Test may additionally include one or more of the following: blood coagulation test, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, and / or immunoassay, among other possibilities. For example, in some example embodiments, these tests may include one or more of the following blood chemistry tests: SDMA, Total T4 (TT4), Bile Acids, C-reactive Protein (CRP), Progesterone, Fructosamine, and / or Phenobarbital (PHBR), among other possibilities. For example, in some example embodiments, these tests may include one or more of the following blood chemistry profile tests that measure one or more of the following: ALB, ALB / GLOB, ALKP, ALT, AMYL, AST, BUN, BUN / CREA, ca, CHOL, CK, Cl, CREA, CRP, FRU, GGT, GLOB, GLU, K, LAC, LDH, LIPA, Mg, Na, NH3, PHOS, TBIL, TP, TRIG and / or URIC, among other possibilities. Other examples are possible.EXAMPLE METHODS AND ASPECTS

[0060] Now referring to Figs. 1A-3, an example method of dispensing fluid with the device 100 is disclosed. Method 300 may include one or more operations, functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 302-306. Although the blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may also be performed in parallel, and / or in a different order than those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combined into fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and / or removed based upon the desired implementation.

[0061] At block 302, method 300 involves positioning the actuator 102 of the device 100 in the first position. In the first position, the lower seal 126 is engaged with the upper opening 134 ofthe vent 124. As described above, with the actuator 102 in the first position, liquid sample can be introduced into the device 100.

[0062] At block 304, method 300 involves moving the actuator 102 into the sample tube 104 into a second position. In the second position, the lower seal 126 of the actuator 102 is disengaged from the upper opening 134 of the vent 124. As described above, moving the actuator 102 into the sample tube pushes sample into the target dispense volume receptacle 116 and / or the overflow receptacle 118.

[0063] At block 306, method 300 involves moving the actuator 102 into a third position. In the third position, the upper seal 128 of the actuator 102 is engaged with the upper opening 134 of the vent 124 of the sample tube 104. With the upper seal 128 of the actuator 102 engaged with the upper seal 128, sample within the target volume receptacle 116 is dispensed from the dispense port 120.

[0064] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth below in numbered embodiments, in which:

[0065] In a first aspect Al, the present disclosure provides a device for dispensing fluid includes a sample tube defining an interior volume, a transition member fluidly connected to the interior volume, a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening, a dispense port, a target dispense volume receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member and fluidly connected to the dispense port, an overflow receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member, where the overflow receptacle is fluidly connected to the lower opening of the vent, and a actuator, where the actuator is positionable in a first position, in which a lower seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, a third position, in which an upper seal is engaged with the upper opening ofthe vent, and a second position in which the lower seal and the upper seal are disengaged from the upper opening of the vent.

[0066] In a second aspect A2, the present disclosure provides the device of aspect Al, further comprising a filter fluidly connected to the transition member.

[0067] In a third aspect A3, the present disclosure provides the device of aspect A2 wherein the filter comprises hydrophobic material.

[0068] In a fourth aspect A4, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al- A3, wherein the upper opening of the vent is positioned above the transition member.

[0069] In a fifth aspect A5, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al- A4, wherein the lower opening of the vent defines a lower opening size that is greater than a size of the dispense port.

[0070] In a sixth aspect A6, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al- A5, wherein the actuator comprises a length between the lower seal and the upper seal, the length having a span that is less than the lower seal and the upper seal.

[0071] In a seventh aspect A7, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al- A6, wherein with the actuator in the second position, air can escape from the overflow receptacle through the upper opening of the vent.

[0072] In an eighth aspect A8, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al- A7, wherein with the actuator in the third position, sample is dispensed from the target dispense volume receptacle through the dispense port.

[0073] In a ninth aspect A9, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al-A8, further comprising a stand removably coupled to the dispense port.

[0074] In a tenth aspect Al 0, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al -A9, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet and wherein the sample inlet is fluidly connected to the sample tube with the actuator positioned at least partially within the sample tube.

[0075] In an eleventh aspect Al 1, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects A1-A10, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet and a cap, wherein the cap is configured to couple to the sample inlet.

[0076] In a twelfth aspect A12, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects Al-Al l, wherein the target dispense volume receptacle has a volume between 10 uL -250 pL.

[0077] In a thirteenth aspect A13, the present disclosure provides the device of any of aspects A1-A12, further comprising a reagent positioned within the sample tube.

[0078] In a fourteenth aspect A14, the present disclosure provides a method for dispensing fluid, the method including positioning an actuator in a first position within a sample tube of a device, the actuator including a lower seal and an upper seal spaced apart from the lower seal, the device including a sample tube defining an interior volume, a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening spaced apart from the upper opening, and a target dispense volume receptacle, where in the first position, the lower seal of the actuator is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, moving the actuator into a second position within the sample tube of the device, where moving the actuator into the second position includes disengaging the lower seal of the actuator from the upper opening of the vent, moving the actuator into a third position within the sample tube of the device, where in the third position, the upper seal of the actuator is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, and passing a sample fluid out of the target dispense volume receptacle.

[0079] In a fifteenth aspect Al 5, the present disclosure provides the method of aspect A14, further comprising moving the sample fluid through a filter to the target dispense volume receptacle.

[0080] In a sixteenth aspect A16, the present disclosure provides the method of either of aspects A 14 or A 15 , further compri sing removing a stand from a di spense port to expose a di spense port.

[0081] In a seventeenth aspect A 17, the present disclosure provides the method of any of aspects A14-A16, further comprising passing sample into an overflow receptacle separated from the target dispense volume receptacle.

[0082] In an eighteenth aspect Al 8, the present disclosure provides the method of any of aspects A14-A17, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet, wherein the sample inlet is fluidly connected to the sample tube, and wherein the method further comprises depositing the sample fluid into the sample inlet.

[0083] In a nineteenth aspect A19, the present disclosure provides the method of aspect A18 wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet and a cap, and the method further comprises after depositing the sample fluid into the sample inlet, coupling the cap to the sample inlet.

[0084] In a twentieth aspect A20, the present disclosure provides the method of any of aspects A14-A19, further comprising passing air out of the upper opening of the vent with the actuator in the second position.

[0085] The singular forms of the articles "a, an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" can include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0086] Various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, but other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Additionally, the various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are provided for explanatory purposes and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A device for dispensing fluid, the device comprising: a sample tube defining an interior volume; a transition member fluidly connected to the interior volume; a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening; a dispense port; a target dispense volume receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member and fluidly connected to the dispense port; an overflow receptacle fluidly connected to the transition member, wherein the overflow receptacle is fluidly connected to the lower opening of the vent; and a actuator comprising a lower seal and an upper seal spaced apart from the lower seal, the actuator being positionable in the sample tube, wherein the actuator is positionable in a first position, in which the lower seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, a third position, in which the upper seal is engaged with the upper opening of the vent, and a second position in which the lower seal and the upper seal are disengaged from the upper opening of the vent.

2. The device of claim 1 further comprising a filter fluidly connected to the transition member.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the filter comprises hydrophobic material.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the upper opening of the vent is positioned above the transition member.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the lower opening of the vent defines a lower opening size that is greater than a size of the dispense port.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a length between the lower seal and the upper seal, the length having a span that is less than the lower seal and the upper seal.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein, with the actuator in the second position, air can escape from the overflow receptacle through the upper opening of the vent.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein with the actuator in the third position, sample is dispensed from the target dispense volume receptacle through the dispense port.

9. The device of claim 1, further comprising a stand removably coupled to the dispense port.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet and wherein the sample inlet is fluidly connected to the sample tube with the actuator positioned at least partially within the sample tube.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet and a cap, wherein the cap is configured to couple to the sample inlet.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the target dispense volume receptacle has a volume between10 pL -250 pL.

13. The device of claim 1, further comprising a reagent positioned within the sample tube.

14. A method for dispensing fluid, the method comprising: positioning an actuator in a first position within a sample tube of a device, the actuator comprising a lower seal and an upper seal spaced apart from the lower seal, the device comprising a sample tube defining an interior volume, a vent defining an upper opening and a lower opening spaced apart from the upper opening, and a target dispense volume receptacle, wherein in the first position, the lower seal of the actuator is engaged with the upper opening of the vent; moving the actuator into a second position within the sample tube of the device, wherein moving the actuator into the second position comprises disengaging the lower seal of the actuator from the upper opening of the vent; moving the actuator into a third position within the sample tube of the device, wherein in the third position, the upper seal of the actuator is engaged with the upper opening of the vent; and passing a sample fluid out of the target dispense volume receptacle.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising moving the sample fluid through a filter to the target dispense volume receptacle.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising removing a stand from a dispense port to expose a dispense port.

17. The method of claim 14, further comprising passing sample into an overflow receptacle separated from the target dispense volume receptacle.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet, wherein the sample inlet is fluidly connected to the sample tube, and wherein the method further comprises depositing the sample fluid into the sample inlet.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the actuator comprises a sample inlet and a cap, and the method further comprises: after depositing the sample fluid into the sample inlet, coupling the cap to the sample inlet.

20. The method of claim 14, further comprising passing air out of the upper opening of the vent with the actuator in the second position.

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