Control method and apparatus for pipetting device, and storage medium

Abstract

A control method and apparatus for a pipetting device, and a storage medium. The control method for a pipetting device comprises: receiving layout information and liquid type information input by a user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of an operating platform of a pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents liquid parameters of pipetting operations to be executed by the pipetting device; acquiring source plate information and destination plate information corresponding to all the pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and the destination plate information are respectively used for determining liquid aspiration positions and liquid dispensing positions of pipetting operations to be executed by the pipetting device for a first liquid; on the basis of the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information and the destination plate information, determining operation parameters of the pipetting operations; and on the basis of the operation parameters, controlling the pipetting device to execute the pipetting operations.

Description

Control methods, apparatus and storage media for pipetting devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411901073.8, filed on December 20, 2024, entitled "Control method, apparatus and storage medium for pipetting device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of control, and more specifically to a control method for a pipetting apparatus, a control device for a pipetting apparatus, electronic equipment, storage media, and computer program products. Background Technology

[0003] Pipettes are highly automated devices used for the precise transfer and measurement of liquids. These devices can replace manual pipetting operations, thereby significantly improving work efficiency, reducing human error, and ensuring the consistency and repeatability of pipetting operations.

[0004] However, existing technical solutions typically assign source and final plate information for each liquid in each channel of the pipetting device. With advancements in biotechnology, chemical analysis, and pharmaceutical development, there is a growing need to handle increasingly complex pipetting tasks with a large volume of different liquids. Existing pipetting devices struggle to meet the diverse and complex pipetting requirements of various application scenarios. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention was proposed in view of the above-mentioned problems.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a control method for a pipetting device is provided, comprising:

[0007] The system receives layout information and liquid type information input by the user. The layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device. It acquires source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations. The source plate information and end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device on the first liquid, respectively. Based on the layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information, the system determines the operating parameters of the pipetting operation. According to the operating parameters, the system controls the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the control method for a pipetting device further includes: receiving script information input by a user, wherein the script information includes a file containing source plate information and end plate information; and obtaining source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, including: obtaining all source plate information and end plate information corresponding to a first liquid according to the file.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the control method for a pipetting device further includes: providing a file template and generating a file in response to a first operation by a user on the file template.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the document also includes concentration information of the first liquid; a control method for a pipetting device, further comprising: acquiring a target volume of the first liquid; determining operating parameters for a pipetting operation based on layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information, including: determining a first volume of the first liquid based on the concentration information and the target volume; and determining operating parameters for a pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the control method for a pipetting device further includes: acquiring a replenishment threshold; determining operating parameters for a pipetting operation based on a first volume of a first liquid, layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information, including: determining a second volume of a second liquid that needs to be replenished for the first liquid based on the first volume and the replenishment threshold, wherein when the volume of the first liquid is less than the replenishment threshold, the first volume of the first liquid needs to be replenished to the replenishment threshold using the second liquid; determining operating parameters for the pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, the second volume of the second liquid, layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information; and controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation based on the operating parameters, including: controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation for the first liquid and the second liquid based on the operating parameters.

[0012] In one possible implementation, after controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to operating parameters, the control method for the pipetting device further includes: controlling the pipetting device to perform a mixing operation of a first liquid and a second liquid.

[0013] In one possible implementation, a first human-computer interaction interface is provided to the user. The first human-computer interaction interface includes one or more script information modules, wherein each script information module includes at least one or more script command information, and each script command information corresponds to one or more sub-operations in the pipetting operation of the pipetting device; receiving script information input by the user includes: in response to the user's operation on the script information module, obtaining script information.

[0014] In one possible implementation, in response to a user's operation on a script information module, obtaining script information includes: in response to a user's operation on a script information module, displaying the script command module and control command module corresponding to the script information module; in response to a user's operation on a control command module, obtaining corresponding control command information, wherein the control command information includes variable information; and in response to a user's operation on a script command module, obtaining corresponding script command information, wherein the variable information is associated with parameters in the script command information.

[0015] In one possible implementation, in response to a user's operation on a script information module, obtaining script information includes: in response to a user's operation on a script information module, displaying a second human-computer interaction interface, the second human-computer interaction interface including a first operable control and a second operable control; the first operable control is used to receive a file; the second operable control is used to receive the liquid absorption parameters and liquid spraying parameters of a first liquid.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the aspiration parameters include aspiration offset parameters, and the spray parameters include spray offset parameters; controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to the operating parameters includes: controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to the aspiration offset parameters, the spray offset parameters, and the operating parameters.

[0017] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a control device for a pipetting apparatus is also provided, comprising a receiving module, an acquiring module, a determining module, and a control module. The receiving module is configured to receive layout information and liquid type information input by a user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting apparatus, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting apparatus; the acquiring module is configured to acquire source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and end plate information are respectively used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting apparatus for a first liquid; the determining module is configured to determine the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information; and the control module is configured to control the pipetting apparatus to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

[0018] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is also provided, comprising: a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described above.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a storage medium is also provided, on which program instructions are stored, which, when executed, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described above.

[0020] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a computer program product is also provided, comprising computer program instructions that, when executed, perform the control method for a pipetting device as described above.

[0021] The above technical solution determines the aspiration and dispensing positions for each pipetting operation by acquiring the source and end-plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations. This allows for the determination of the pipetting position for all operations, enabling flexible setting of the position for each operation to meet complex pipetting needs. Furthermore, it provides a simple control method for performing complex pipetting operations at specified positions, avoiding complex user configuration and improving the user experience.

[0022] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and in order to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the more detailed description of the embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided to further illustrate the embodiments of the invention and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of the invention to explain the invention and do not constitute a limitation thereof.

[0024] Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a control method for a pipetting device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a human-computer interaction interface for setting layout information according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a file template according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a first human-computer interaction interface according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a first human-computer interaction interface according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a second human-computer interaction interface according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 shows a schematic block diagram of a control device for a pipetting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 shows a schematic block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention more apparent, exemplary embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely a subset of embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] To at least address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a control method for pipetting devices. This control method can be used for the automatic control of various pipetting devices. Pipetting devices may include pipetting workstations, automated pipetting systems, pipettes, etc.

[0034] Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a control method for a pipetting device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the control method includes steps S1100, S1200, S1300, and S1400.

[0035] In step S1100, layout information and liquid type information input by the user are received. The layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device.

[0036] Layout information indicates the position of components such as microplates, waste bins, and test tubes on the working platform of the pipetting apparatus. The positional information of the components in the layout information corresponds one-to-one with their actual positions on the working platform. Liquid type information indicates the parameters for performing a pipetting operation on a specific liquid, which may include aspiration rate, lead-in gas seal, tail-out gas seal, and spray rate.

[0037] The device can receive layout and liquid type information input by the user according to pipetting needs. It provides a human-machine interface (HMI) where the user can set the layout information according to pipetting requirements. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of an HMI for setting layout information according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 2, in this HMI, the first sub-interface 210 can display all devices supported by the pipetting device. Only waste bins, microplates, and test tubes are shown as examples in Figure 2. The user can set the devices from the first sub-interface 210 to the second sub-interface 220 according to pipetting needs. The position of the device in the second sub-interface 220 corresponds to its position on the working platform of the pipetting device. The second sub-interface 220 in Figure 2 has three areas where devices can be set; areas outside these three areas cannot be used. The first area contains one waste bin, the second area contains two test tubes, and the third area contains four microplates. Specific device models are not shown in Figure 2; devices of the same type can correspond to different models. For example, microplates can be divided into deep-well plates, shallow-well plates, etc.

[0038] Similarly, users can set liquid type information through the human-computer interaction interface. Each liquid can have preset liquid type information, which users can adjust in the human-computer interaction interface to reduce the complexity of user settings. It is understandable that different liquids can have different liquid type information. Furthermore, for the same liquid, such as water, different liquid type information can be set according to needs, such as volume, number of sprays, amount of pre-pipette gas seal, amount of tail gas seal, etc., so that in subsequent operations, it is easier to select different liquid type information for different pipetting operations of that liquid.

[0039] In step S1200, source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations are acquired. The source plate information and end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device on the first liquid, respectively.

[0040] Both the source plate and the end plate can be well plates, such as shallow-well plates or microplates. The source plate can be understood as the source of the liquid in a pipetting operation (liquid aspiration), and the end plate can be understood as the destination of the liquid in a pipetting operation (liquid spraying). A pipetting operation moves liquid from a well in the source plate to a well in the end plate. Specifically, a first liquid can be aspirated from the source plate and sprayed onto the end plate. The first liquid in different source plates can be of different types. The source plate and end plate can be different for each pipetting operation. Source plate information can indicate the aspiration position in a single pipetting operation of the first liquid. Source plate information can include information about which well plate on the work platform it is and which well position on that well plate. For example, any well plate can be assigned a number, which can be used to identify the specific well plate. For each well plate, a Cartesian coordinate system can be established for that well plate, thereby representing each specific well position on the well plate through coordinate positions. End plate information can indicate the spray position in a single pipetting operation of the first liquid. Similarly, the final plate information can also include which specific perforated plate on the work platform and the specific hole position on that perforated plate.

[0041] In some embodiments, users can configure the source and end plates for each pipetting operation according to their pipetting needs, thereby obtaining source and end plate information for all pipetting operations. In other embodiments, source and end plate information for each pipetting operation can be automatically generated according to pipetting needs.

[0042] In step S1300, the operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined based on the layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information.

[0043] Operating parameters may include the aspiration position, spray position, aspiration parameters, and spray parameters.

[0044] The layout information indicates the position of each component on the working platform of the pipetting apparatus. Therefore, the positions of the source plate and the end plate on the working platform can be determined based on the layout information. Furthermore, the aspiration position and the spray position can be determined. For example, the source plate can be a microplate, and its position on the working platform and the specific orifice position during aspiration can be determined. Similarly, the specific position of the end plate on the working platform and the specific orifice position during spray can be determined. The source plate stores a first liquid. The aspiration parameters and spray parameters for performing pipetting operations on the first liquid in the source plate can be determined based on the liquid type information corresponding to the first liquid. For example, the aspiration rate, the amount of the lead-in gas seal, the amount of the tail gas seal, and the spray rate when spraying the first liquid onto the end plate can be determined. Therefore, the operating parameters for the pipetting operation can be determined based on the layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and end plate information.

[0045] In step S1400, the pipetting device is controlled to perform a pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

[0046] The pipetting device can be controlled to perform corresponding pipetting operations based on the operating parameters for each operation. In some embodiments, control commands can be generated based on the operating parameters for each pipetting operation to control the relevant mechanical devices of the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation. For example, the movement, aspiration, and dispensing of the pipette in the pipetting device can be controlled.

[0047] The above technical solution determines the aspiration and dispensing positions for each pipetting operation by acquiring the source and end-plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations. This allows for the determination of the pipetting position for all operations, enabling flexible setting of the position for each operation to meet complex pipetting needs. Furthermore, it provides a simple control method for performing complex pipetting operations at specified positions, avoiding complex user configuration and improving the user experience.

[0048] For example, the control method for a pipetting device further includes: step S1500 receiving script information input by a user.

[0049] Script information can include relevant information for controlling the pipetting device to perform pipetting operations. For example, script information may include operational information such as pipette tip manipulation, aspiration, dispensing, and tip dropping, as well as control information such as cyclic operations and decision-making operations. Complex pipetting operations can be achieved by associating control information with operational information. Furthermore, script information also includes files containing source and final plate information. Users can import these files into the script information when configuring it. Users can configure the file containing source and final plate information according to their pipetting needs. The file can be in any format that can store source and final plate information, such as Excel, Word, or TXT.

[0050] Step S1200 obtains the source plate information and final plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, including step S1210, which obtains all source plate information and final plate information corresponding to the first liquid from the file. The file contains source plate information and final plate information, which can be obtained by parsing the file. For example, the obtained source plate information and final plate information may include the following information: the source plate corresponding to the first pipetting operation is the well positions in the first row and first column of microplate 1, and the final plate is the well positions in the first row and first column of microplate 2; the source plate corresponding to the first liquid in the second pipetting operation is the well positions in the second row and first column of microplate 1, and the final plate is the well positions in the first row and first column of microplate 3.

[0051] The above technical solution obtains all source and final board information corresponding to the first liquid by receiving script information from a file containing source board and final board information. Obtaining source and final board information in file format facilitates unified management of this information by the user, enabling complex pipetting operations at specified locations and significantly improving the application capability of the pipetting device in complex pipetting scenarios.

[0052] For example, a control method for a pipetting device further includes: providing a file template and generating a file in response to a first operation by a user on the file template.

[0053] The file template may include a fixed-format section and an editable data section. The fixed-format section may include titles, headers, etc., to help users fill in the file template as required. Users can fill in the corresponding source plate information and final plate information in the editable data section according to their pipetting needs. Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a file template according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 3, the first area 310 is the fixed-format section of the file template, which includes the title content of number, concentration, source plate, and final plate. The second area 320 is the editable data section of the file template, where users can fill in the number, concentration information, source plate information, and final plate information under the corresponding title according to specific pipetting needs. The first operation may be that the user edits the editable area in the file using a mouse, keyboard, or other device. For example, filling in the source plate information and final plate information in the file. In some embodiments, the file template may be in Excel format.

[0054] The above technical solution provides a file template that users can manipulate to obtain a file containing source and final plate information. The operation is simple and allows for flexible specification of the source and final plate positions for each pipetting operation, fulfilling complex pipetting needs.

[0055] For example, the document also includes concentration information of the first liquid. The control method for the pipetting device further includes: obtaining a target volume of the first liquid.

[0056] Users can set the concentration of the first liquid for each source plate in the file. It is understood that the concentration of the first liquid in different source plates can be different. The target dosage can be the mass of the solute in the first liquid. In some embodiments, an input interface for the target dosage of the first liquid can be provided to obtain the target dosage of the first liquid set by the user. In other embodiments, the user can set the target dosage of the first liquid in the script information when setting the script information. The first liquid in each source plate can correspond to the same target dosage. Alternatively, the target dosage of the first liquid in different source plates can be different.

[0057] Step S1300, based on layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and final plate information, determines the operating parameters for the pipetting operation, which may include steps S1310 and S1320.

[0058] In step S1310, the first volume of the first liquid is determined based on the concentration information and the target dosage.

[0059] The target dosage can be the mass of the solute in the first liquid. The first volume of the first liquid with the target dosage can be calculated based on the concentration information of the first liquid in each source plate and the target dosage. Specifically, the target dosage can be divided by the value corresponding to the concentration information to obtain the corresponding first volume.

[0060] For example, the target amount of the first liquid in all source plates can be 10 nanograms. The concentration of the first liquid in source plate 1 is 0.1 nanograms per microliter, and by calculating (10 / 0.1), the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to source plate 1 can be determined to be 100 microliters. The concentration of the first liquid corresponding to source plate 2 is 0.2 nanograms per microliter, and by calculating (10 / 0.2), the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to source plate 2 can be determined to be 50 microliters.

[0061] In step S1320, the operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined based on the first volume of the first liquid, layout information, liquid type information, source plate information, and final plate information.

[0062] Operating parameters may include the aspiration position, spray position, aspiration parameters, and spray parameters. Aspiration parameters may include the aspiration volume. In some embodiments, the aspiration volume for aspirating the first liquid from each source plate can be determined based on the first volume of the first liquid. The aspiration volume can be the amount of first liquid that can be aspirated from the source plate during pipetting, so that the first volume of first liquid can be transferred to the corresponding final plate.

[0063] The above technical solution determines the first volume by using the concentration information and target volume of the first liquid, and further determines the operating parameters of the pipetting operation accordingly. While specifying the source and end plates for the pipetting operation, the target volume for each pipetting operation can also be specified, thereby automatically determining the pipetting volume. This meets the pipetting needs of complex application scenarios while avoiding complex configuration by the user.

[0064] For example, the control method for the pipetting device described above further includes: obtaining a replenishment threshold.

[0065] The replenishment threshold represents the minimum amount of liquid expected to be held at a hole in the final plate. When the initial liquid level is greater than or equal to the replenishment threshold, the amount of liquid held at the hole in the final plate is already greater than or equal to the minimum amount expected to be held at that hole, and no liquid needs to be added to that hole. Therefore, the amount of liquid that needs to be added to that hole is determined to be 0. When the initial liquid level is less than the replenishment threshold, the amount of liquid held at that hole is less than the minimum amount expected to be held at that hole. Therefore, the amount of liquid in that hole needs to be replenished to the replenishment threshold.

[0066] In some embodiments, an input interface may be provided for obtaining a user-inputted fluid infusion threshold. In other embodiments, the fluid infusion threshold may be obtained from script information. The file containing source board information and final board information may also contain fluid infusion threshold information.

[0067] The above step S1320 determines the operation parameters of the pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, layout information, liquid type information, source plate information and end plate information, and may include steps S1321 and S1322.

[0068] In step S1321, based on the first volume and the replenishment threshold, the second volume of the second liquid that needs to be replenished for the first liquid is determined.

[0069] When the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to a hole position on the terminal plate is less than the replenishment threshold, a second volume of the second liquid can be added to the hole position on the terminal plate to replenish the volume of the first liquid to equal the replenishment threshold. The first liquid and the second liquid can be the same liquid or different liquids. In some embodiments, the first liquid can be a solution of a certain substance, and the second liquid can also be a solution of that substance. In other embodiments, the first liquid can be a solution of a certain substance, and the second liquid can be water. The second volume of the second liquid that needs to be added to the first liquid can be determined by subtracting the first volume from the replenishment threshold. For example, the replenishment threshold corresponding to all hole positions on the terminal plates is 200 μL. If the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to the hole position on terminal plate 1 is 100 μL, then the second volume of the corresponding second liquid is 100 μL. If the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to the hole position on terminal plate 2 is 50 μL, then the second volume of the corresponding second liquid is 150 μL. Alternatively, the replenishment thresholds corresponding to different hole positions on different terminal plates can be different.

[0070] In step S1322, the operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined based on the first volume of the first liquid, the second volume of the second liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information.

[0071] In some embodiments, the location of the source plate containing the second liquid can be determined based on the layout information. The parameters required for pipetting operations with the second liquid can be determined based on the liquid type information of the second liquid, where the second volume of the second liquid represents the pipetting volume. Thus, relevant operational parameters for the second liquid in the pipetting operation can be determined. In some embodiments, when the first volume of the first liquid is less than the replenishment threshold, a second volume of water (second volume = replenishment threshold - first volume) can be pipetted into the well of the final plate. This achieves a uniform concentration of the liquid in the final plate, meeting user needs and improving user experience. For example, the replenishment threshold for all wells in the final plate is 100 μL, and the target volume of the first liquid in all source plates can be 250 nanograms. If the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to the well of final plate number 1 is 100 μL (the concentration of the first liquid is 2.5 nanograms per μL, first volume = 250 / 2.5), then the second volume of the second liquid is 0 μL, meaning that no concentration adjustment is needed for the well of final plate number 1. The first volume of the first liquid corresponding to the hole of the No. 2 end plate is 25 microliters (the concentration of the first liquid is 10 nanograms per microliter, and the first volume = 250 / 10). Therefore, the second volume of the corresponding second liquid is 75 microliters. In other words, 75 microliters of water need to be added to the hole of the No. 2 end plate to adjust the concentration, thus achieving the purpose of concentration homogenization.

[0072] It is understood that the above description only illustrates a portion of the operating parameters. Parameters related to the first liquid in pipetting operations will not be elaborated upon here.

[0073] Step S1400 controls the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to the operating parameters, which may include: step S1410, controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation for the first liquid and the second liquid according to the operating parameters.

[0074] Control commands for pipetting operations on a first liquid and a second liquid can be generated separately based on operating parameters to control the actuators of the pipetting device to perform pipetting operations on the first and second liquids respectively. The pipetting operations on the first and second liquids can be performed separately. In some embodiments, the pipetting operation on the first liquid can be performed first based on operating parameters. After all the first liquids corresponding to all end plates have been pipetted, a second liquid replenishment operation can be performed on the first liquids requiring the second liquid, to replenish the first liquids whose first volume is less than the replenishment threshold to the replenishment threshold. In other embodiments, the second liquid pipetting operation can be performed on the first liquids requiring the second liquid after each pipetting operation on the first liquid, to replenish the first liquids to the replenishment threshold.

[0075] For example, the first volume of the first liquid corresponding to the well positions of different end plates can be different, but the corresponding target dosage can be the same. In other words, the amount of solute in the first liquid after the pipetting operation in the well positions of different end plates is the same. The first volume of the first liquid can be replenished to the replenishment threshold by a second liquid. The second liquid can be water. Thus, it is possible to dilute the first liquid of different concentrations to the same concentration, that is, to achieve concentration homogenization as mentioned above.

[0076] The above technical solution involves adding a second volume of second liquid to a first liquid whose first volume is less than the replenishment threshold, so that the volume of liquid at the orifice of the final plate reaches the replenishment threshold. This enables automatic pipetting operations for specific relationships between two liquids; for example, it can automatically dilute first liquids of different concentrations to the same concentration (i.e., concentration homogenization mentioned above), without requiring complex configuration by the user, thus improving the user experience.

[0077] For example, after controlling the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to the operating parameters in step S1400, the above-mentioned control method for the pipetting device further includes: controlling the pipetting device to perform a mixing operation of the first liquid and the second liquid.

[0078] Optionally, the mixing operation may include, after both the first and second liquids have been pipetted to the orifices of the final plate, using a pipette of the pipetting device to aspirate and spray the liquid from the orifices of the final plate. The aspiration and spraying positions are the same during the mixing operation, without changing the orifice position of the liquid on the final plate. It is understood that the mixing operation may include multiple aspirations and sprays. This can be configured according to pipetting requirements. The first and second liquids at the orifices of the final plate are mixed through aspiration and spraying. This method directly utilizes the pipette to perform the mixing operation, eliminating the need for additional components and control operations, reducing the cost of the pipetting equipment and simplifying the control process.

[0079] Alternatively, the mixing operation may include, after transferring both the first and second liquids to the wells of the middle plate, using a pipette or stirring rod of a pipetting device to stir the liquids at the wells of the end plate to ensure that the first and second liquids are mixed evenly.

[0080] In some embodiments, the mixing operation can be performed after each pipetting operation on the second liquid. In other embodiments, the mixing operation can be performed after all pipetting operations on the second liquid have been completed.

[0081] The above technical solution, after performing pipetting operations on both the first and second liquids, can automatically mix the first and second liquids evenly through a mixing operation. This eliminates the need for complex user configuration and improves the user experience.

[0082] For example, a first human-computer interaction interface is provided to the user, which includes one or more script information modules. Each script information module includes at least one or more script command information, and each script command information corresponds to one or more sub-operations in the pipetting operation of the pipetting device.

[0083] In some embodiments, a first human-computer interaction interface (HCI) may be provided to the user. The HCI may include multiple functional areas. For example, it may include a script list area and a script editing area. The user can select or create one or more script information modules in the script list area. Different script information modules can correspond to different pipetting operations, meeting different pipetting needs. The currently selected script information module can be displayed and edited in the script editing area.

[0084] Each script information module includes at least one or more script command information. Each script command information corresponds to one or more sub-operations in the pipetting process of the pipetting device. For example, the script command information can correspond to the command operation of a single operation such as picking up the pipette tip, aspirating liquid, dispensing liquid, or discarding the pipette tip. It can be understood that single operations can be combined into one command operation. For example, the operations of picking up and discarding the pipette tip can be combined into one operation, and the command operation of the pipetting device corresponding to this script command information can complete both the operations of picking up and discarding the pipette tip.

[0085] At least one script information module also includes variable information. This variable information can be used to configure complex pipetting operations. Specifically, the variable information is associated with parameters in the script command information. The values ​​of parameters in the script command information can be set or changed by configuring and calculating the variable information in the script information module. For example, the variable information can be used to set control structures such as loops, selections, and parameter initialization to achieve complex pipetting operations.

[0086] Step S1500 receives script information input by the user, including: Step S1510 responds to the user's operation on the script information module by obtaining script information.

[0087] After a user selects or creates a script information module, the first human-computer interaction interface can provide a script editing area corresponding to that module. This editing area can include variable information and script command information. The user can edit the variable information and script command information according to pipetting needs to obtain the required information. The script editing area corresponding to the module can also include a file interface for obtaining a file containing source board information and final board information, so that the script information includes that file. Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a first human-computer interaction interface according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 4, the first human-computer interaction interface can include a script list area 410 and a script editing area 420. The script list area can display the names of one or more script information modules, and the user can select or create a script information module in the script list area 410. The user can edit the currently selected script information module in the script editing area 420 to obtain variable information and script command information.

[0088] The above technical solution provides a first human-computer interaction interface. Users can operate the script information module and obtain script information through this interface. By using a simple interactive method, complex pipetting operations at specified locations can be set, improving the user experience.

[0089] For example, S1510 responds to the user's operation on the script information module, including steps S1511, S1512 and S1513.

[0090] In step S1511, in response to the user's operation on a script information module, the script command module and control command module corresponding to the script information module are displayed.

[0091] In some embodiments, a user can select or create a script information module. For example, a user can operate a script information module using input devices such as a mouse or keyboard. Based on the user's operation, the corresponding script command module and control command module are displayed.

[0092] A control system for a pipetting device can have multiple script command modules and control command modules. These modules correspond to one or more script information modules. In other words, for each script information module, its corresponding script command modules and control command modules are all or some of the configured ones. For a newly created script information module, all script command modules and control command modules configured in the pipetting device's control system can be displayed, allowing the user to select and configure them according to the specific needs of the current script information module.

[0093] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a first human-computer interaction interface according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 5, the first human-computer interaction interface includes a script list area 510, which displays the names of one or more script information modules. The first human-computer interaction interface also includes a script editing area 520, which displays the script command module and control command module corresponding to a script information module currently operated by the user. In Figure 5, these are shown as script command module 1, script command module 2, script command module 3, and control command module 1.

[0094] In step S1512, in response to the user's operation on the control command module, the corresponding control command information is obtained. The control command information includes variable information.

[0095] Users can operate the control command modules displayed in the first human-computer interaction interface. These modules can perform operations such as looping, selection, judgment, and variable setting. Each control command module can correspond to different control command information. In response to user operations on the control command modules, the corresponding control command information can be obtained. The control command information may include variable information. In some embodiments, different control command modules can operate on the same variable.

[0096] In some embodiments, a control command module can be operated on first to set a variable. Then, other control command modules can operate on this variable, such as increasing or decreasing it. Thus, complex pipetting operations can be achieved through looping, selection, and judgment operations involving this variable in the control command modules.

[0097] Referring again to the first human-computer interaction interface shown in Figure 5, the script information module may include a script information module 1 for pipetting the first liquid. The user can edit the control command module 1 corresponding to this script information module 1 in the script editing area 520 according to the pipetting requirements of the first liquid, to obtain the control command information corresponding to this control command module 1. This control command information may include variable information, such as the target volume of the first liquid. For clarity, the specific calculations and parameters in the control command module 1 are not shown in Figure 5.

[0098] In step S1513, in response to the user's operation on the script command module, the corresponding script command information is obtained. The variable information is associated with the parameters in the script command information.

[0099] Users can operate the script command modules corresponding to the script information modules displayed in the first human-computer interaction interface. Different script command modules can correspond to different command operations, such as single operations like picking up the nozzle, aspirating liquid, spraying liquid, and discarding the nozzle, or combinations of multiple single operations. For example, for picking up the nozzle, users can use the corresponding script command module to set the nozzle type and position. For spraying liquid, users can use the corresponding script command module to set the spraying method, number of channels, nozzle spacing, and spray volume. The system can respond to user operations on the script command modules and obtain script command information. As mentioned earlier, the script command information may involve parameters. These parameters can be associated with the variable information obtained in step S1512. For example, in the above spraying operation, the spray volume can be set using variables, and the spray volume can be changed by changing the value of the variables in the control command module.

[0100] Referring again to Figure 5 and the above embodiment of pipetting the first liquid, the user can edit script command module 1, script command module 2, and script command module 3 in the script editing area 520 according to pipetting needs to obtain the corresponding script command information. For clarity, the specific operations and parameters in script command module 1, script command module 2, and script command module 3 are not shown in Figure 5.

[0101] The above technical solution obtains control command information and script command information in response to user operations on the control command module and script command module, respectively. Modular operation allows for complex pipetting operations at specified locations while facilitating user operation, accelerating the editing efficiency of the control flow for the pipetting device, and significantly improving the user experience.

[0102] Optionally, as shown in Figure 5, the first human-machine interface may include a template area 530 in addition to the script list area 510 and the script editing area 520. The template area 530 can display the names of all script command modules and control command modules in the control system of the pipetting device. Each script command module name and control command module name corresponds to a script command template module and a control command template module, respectively.

[0103] The control method for pipetting devices may further include: in response to a user's operation on a script command template module, determining the script command module corresponding to the currently selected script information module.

[0104] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the user can select a script information module in the script list area 510. Then, the user can operate on the script command template modules in the template area 530 according to pipetting needs. One or more script command template modules that meet pipetting needs can be selected from the multiple script command template modules included in the script command template module list for use as the script command module corresponding to the currently selected script information module. As mentioned earlier, in response to further operations performed by the user on the script command module in the script editing area 520, the corresponding script command information can be obtained.

[0105] Similarly, the control method for pipetting devices may also include: in response to a user's operation on the control command template module, determining the control command module corresponding to the currently selected script information module.

[0106] Taking the embodiment shown in Figure 5 as an example, after a user selects a script information module in the script list area, they can operate on the control command template module in the template area 530 according to their pipetting needs. One or more control command template modules that meet the pipetting needs can be selected from the control command template modules in the template area 530 for use as the control command module corresponding to the currently selected script information module. As mentioned earlier, in response to further user operations on the control command module in the script editing area 520, the corresponding control command information can be obtained.

[0107] The template area in the first interactive interface provides script command template modules and / or control command template modules. User operations on these modules determine the script command module and / or control command module corresponding to the currently selected script information module. Using templates to determine the script command module and / or control command module reduces the complexity of user operations, facilitates the setting of control flows for complex pipetting operations, and improves the user experience.

[0108] For example, S1510, in response to a user's operation on a script information module, obtains script information, including: displaying a second human-computer interaction interface in response to a user's operation on a script information module. The second human-computer interaction interface includes a first operable control and a second operable control. The first operable control is used to receive a file. The second operable control is used to receive the liquid absorption parameters and liquid spraying parameters of a first liquid.

[0109] When a user operates on a script information module, a second human-computer interaction interface, including a first operable control and a second operable control, can be displayed. The first operable control may include a file upload button, a drag-and-drop area, or any other operable control that allows the user to select and submit a file. The second operable control may include a text box, a slider, a drop-down menu, etc., allowing the user to precisely set the required liquid aspiration and spraying parameters. Liquid aspiration parameters include liquid aspiration offset, liquid aspiration speed, liquid aspiration volume, etc. Similarly, liquid spraying parameters include liquid spray offset, liquid spraying speed, liquid spraying volume, etc. Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of the second human-computer interaction interface according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 6, the first operable control 610 can be used to receive a file. Figure 6 shows two second operable controls 620, which can be used to receive the liquid aspiration parameters and liquid spraying parameters of the first liquid, respectively. It can be understood that if the liquid aspiration parameters and liquid spraying parameters include multiple parameters, more liquid aspiration parameters and liquid spraying parameters can be received by increasing the number of second operable controls.

[0110] The above technical solution receives files, aspiration parameters, and spray parameters through the first and second operable controls in the second human-computer interaction interface. Thus, complex pipetting operations at specified locations can be set up through simple interaction, improving the user experience.

[0111] For example, the liquid aspiration parameters include liquid aspiration offset parameters, and the liquid spraying parameters include liquid spray offset parameters.

[0112] The liquid aspiration offset parameter represents the offset relative to the standard liquid aspiration position. This parameter can include X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis offsets relative to the standard aspiration position. The X and Y axes represent the planar position of the aspiration position on the working platform of the pipetting device. The Z-axis represents the vertical position of the aspiration position relative to the plane of the pipetting platform. Since the aspiration position is located on the source plate, the liquid aspiration offset parameter can be set according to the source plate to adapt to different specifications and types of source plates. By adjusting the Z-axis offset, it is possible to control whether the liquid is aspirated below or above the liquid surface, thus solving problems such as liquid adhering to the wall or dripping. Similarly, the liquid spray offset parameter represents the offset relative to the standard liquid spray position. This parameter can include X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis offsets relative to the standard liquid spray position. Since the liquid spray position is located on the end plate, the liquid spray offset parameter can be set according to the end plate. Adjusting the liquid spray offset parameter can adapt to different specifications and types of end plates, while simultaneously preventing liquid splashing and spillage. The standard liquid aspiration position and standard liquid spraying position can be automatically determined based on the source board information and the final board information.

[0113] Step S1400 controls the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to the operating parameters, including: step S1430 controls the pipetting device to perform a pipetting operation according to the aspiration offset parameter, the spray offset parameter and the operating parameters.

[0114] During the aspiration operation in pipetting, the aspiration position can be adjusted according to the aspiration offset parameters. For example, the aspiration offset parameters include an X-axis offset of 2 mm, a Y-axis offset of -1 mm, and a Z-axis offset of 0 mm. During aspiration, the aspiration position can be offset relative to the standard aspiration position by 2 mm on the X-axis, -1 mm on the Y-axis, and no offset on the Z-axis. A standard aspiration position for a given aspiration might be X: 100 mm, Y: 100 mm, Z: 10 mm. The aspiration position adjusted by the aspiration offset parameters would be X: 102 mm, Y: 99 mm, Z: 10 mm. Similarly, during spraying, the spray position can be adjusted according to the spray offset parameters. Therefore, when performing pipetting operations, the pipetting device can execute the operation based on the aspiration and spray positions adjusted by the aspiration and spray offset parameters.

[0115] The above technical solution allows for adjustment of the aspiration and spray positions based on aspiration and spray offset parameters. This enables more precise control of the aspiration and spray positions, improving the accuracy of pipetting operations.

[0116] By way of example, according to a second aspect of the present invention, a control device for a pipetting apparatus is also provided. FIG7 shows a schematic block diagram of a control device 700 for a pipetting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG7, the control device 700 for a pipetting apparatus includes a receiving module 710, an acquiring module 720, a determining module 730, and a control module 740.

[0117] The receiving module 710 receives layout information and liquid type information input by the user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device. The acquiring module 720 acquires source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device for the first liquid, respectively. The determining module 730 determines the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information. The control module 740 controls the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

[0118] For example, the control device for a pipetting apparatus further includes a second receiving module. The acquisition module 720 includes a first acquisition submodule. The second receiving module is used to receive script information input by a user, wherein the script information includes a file containing source plate information and end plate information. The first acquisition submodule is used to acquire all source plate information and end plate information corresponding to the first liquid based on the file.

[0119] For example, a control device for a pipetting apparatus further includes a generation module. The generation module provides a file template and generates the file in response to a first operation by a user on the file template.

[0120] For example, the document also includes concentration information of the first liquid. The control device for the pipetting apparatus further includes a second acquisition module. The determination module 730 includes a first determination submodule and a second determination submodule. The second acquisition module is used to acquire the target volume of the first liquid. The first determination submodule is used to determine a first volume of the first liquid based on the concentration information and the target volume. The second determination submodule determines the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information.

[0121] For example, the control device for the pipetting apparatus further includes a third acquisition module. The second determining submodule includes a first determining unit and a second determining unit. The control module 740 includes a first control submodule. The first determining unit is used to determine a second volume of a second liquid that needs to be added to the first liquid based on the first volume and the replenishment threshold, wherein when the volume of the first volume is less than the replenishment threshold, the first volume of the first liquid needs to be replenished to the replenishment threshold using the second liquid. The second determining unit is used to determine the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, the second volume of the second liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information. The first control submodule is used to control the pipetting apparatus to perform the pipetting operation of the first liquid and the second liquid based on the operating parameters.

[0122] For example, after controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters, the control device for the pipetting device further includes a second control module. The second control module is used to control the pipetting device to perform a mixing operation between the first liquid and the second liquid.

[0123] For example, a first human-computer interaction interface is provided to the user. This first interface includes one or more script information modules, each including at least one or more script command information entries, each corresponding to one or more sub-operations in the pipetting operation of the pipetting device. A second receiving module includes a first receiving submodule that, in response to the user's operation on the script information modules, acquires the script information.

[0124] For example, the first receiving submodule includes a first display unit, a first acquisition unit, and a second acquisition unit. The first display unit is used to display the script command module and control command module corresponding to a script information module in response to a user's operation on that script information module. The first acquisition unit is used to acquire corresponding control command information, wherein the control command information includes variable information, in response to a user's operation on the script command module. The second acquisition unit is used to acquire corresponding script command information, wherein the variable information is associated with parameters in the script command information, in response to a user's operation on the script command module.

[0125] For example, the first receiving submodule includes a second display unit. The second display unit is used to display a second human-computer interaction interface in response to a user's operation on a script information module. The second human-computer interaction interface includes a first operable control and a second operable control; the first operable control is used to receive the file; the second operable control is used to receive the liquid absorption parameters and liquid spraying parameters of the first liquid.

[0126] For example, the aspiration parameters include aspiration offset parameters, and the spray parameters include spray offset parameters. The control module 740 includes a second control submodule. The second control submodule is used to control the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation based on the aspiration offset parameters, the spray offset parameters, and the operating parameters.

[0127] By way of example, according to a third aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is also provided. FIG8 shows a schematic block diagram of an electronic device 800 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 800 includes a processor 810 and a memory 820. The memory 820 stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor 810, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described above.

[0128] By way of example, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a storage medium is also provided, on which program instructions are stored, which, when executed, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described above. The storage medium may, for example, include an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), a portable read-only memory (CD-ROM), a USB memory, or any combination of the above storage media. The storage medium may be any combination of one or more computer-readable storage media.

[0129] By way of example, according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a computer program product is also provided, including computer program instructions that, when executed, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described above. Example

[0130] Example 1. A control method for a pipetting device, wherein,

[0131] Receive layout information and liquid type information input by the user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device;

[0132] Obtain source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and the end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device on the first liquid, respectively;

[0133] Based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information, the operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined.

[0134] The pipetting device is controlled to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

[0135] Example 2. The control method for a pipetting device according to Example 1, wherein the control method for a pipetting device further includes:

[0136] Receive script information input by the user, wherein the script information includes a file containing source board information and final board information;

[0137] The acquisition of source plate information and final plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations includes:

[0138] Based on the document, obtain all source plate information and final plate information corresponding to the first liquid.

[0139] Example 3. The control method for a pipetting device according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the control method for a pipetting device further includes:

[0140] Provide file templates,

[0141] The file is generated in response to the user's first action on the file template.

[0142] Example 4. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the document further includes concentration information of the first liquid;

[0143] The control method for the pipetting device further includes:

[0144] Obtain the target dosage of the first liquid;

[0145] The step of determining the operating parameters for the pipetting operation based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the final plate information includes:

[0146] Based on the concentration information and the target dosage, determine the first volume of the first liquid;

[0147] The operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined based on the first volume of the first liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information.

[0148] Example 5. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein,

[0149] The control method for the pipetting device further includes:

[0150] Obtain the fluid replacement threshold;

[0151] The step of determining the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the final plate information includes:

[0152] Based on the first volume and the replenishment threshold, a second volume of the second liquid that needs to be replenished for the first liquid is determined, wherein when the volume of the first volume is less than the replenishment threshold, the first volume of the first liquid needs to be replenished to the replenishment threshold using the second liquid;

[0153] The operating parameters of the pipetting operation are determined based on the first volume of the first liquid, the second volume of the second liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information.

[0154] The step of controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters includes:

[0155] According to the operating parameters, the pipetting device is controlled to perform pipetting operations on the first liquid and the second liquid.

[0156] Example 6. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein, after controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters, the control method for the pipetting device further includes:

[0157] The pipetting device is controlled to perform a mixing operation between the first liquid and the second liquid.

[0158] Example 7. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein,

[0159] Provide a first human-computer interaction interface for users. The first human-computer interaction interface includes one or more script information modules. Each script information module includes at least one or more script command information. Each script command information corresponds to one or more sub-operations in the pipetting operation of the pipetting device.

[0160] The script information received from user input includes:

[0161] In response to the user's operation on the script information module, the script information is obtained.

[0162] Example 8. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein obtaining the script information in response to a user's operation on the script information module includes:

[0163] In response to a user's operation on a script information module, the corresponding script command module and control command module are displayed.

[0164] In response to the user's operation on the control command module, the corresponding control command information is obtained, wherein the control command information includes variable information;

[0165] In response to the user's operation on the script command module, the corresponding script command information is obtained, wherein the variable information is associated with the parameters in the script command information.

[0166] Example 9. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein obtaining the script information in response to a user's operation on the script information module includes:

[0167] In response to a user's operation on a script information module, a second human-computer interaction interface is displayed, the second human-computer interaction interface including a first operable control and a second operable control;

[0168] The first operable control is used to receive the file;

[0169] The second operable control is used to receive the liquid absorption parameters and liquid spraying parameters of the first liquid.

[0170] Example 10. A control method for a pipetting device according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the aspiration parameters include aspiration offset parameters, and the spray parameters include spray offset parameters;

[0171] The step of controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters includes:

[0172] The liquid pipetting device is controlled to perform the liquid pipetting operation based on the liquid aspiration offset parameter, the liquid spraying offset parameter, and the operating parameters.

[0173] Example 11. A control device for a pipetting apparatus, comprising:

[0174] The receiving module is used to receive layout information and liquid type information input by the user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device;

[0175] The acquisition module is used to acquire source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device on the first liquid, respectively.

[0176] The determination module is used to determine the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information;

[0177] The control module is used to control the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

[0178] Example 12. An electronic device, comprising: a processor and a memory, wherein,

[0179] The memory stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor, are used to perform a control method for a pipetting device as described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 10.

[0180] Example 13. A storage medium storing program instructions, wherein the program instructions, when executed, are used to perform a control method for a pipetting device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0181] Example 14. A computer program product comprising computer program instructions, wherein the computer program instructions, when executed, are used to perform a control method for a pipetting device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0182] Those skilled in the art can understand the specific implementation schemes and beneficial effects of the control devices, electronic devices, storage media, and computer program products for pipetting equipment by reading the above description of the control methods for pipetting equipment. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0183] Although exemplary embodiments have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various changes and modifications can be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this application as claimed in the appended claims.

[0184] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0185] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0186] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification provided herein. However, it will be understood that embodiments of this application may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0187] Similarly, it should be understood that, in order to streamline this application and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, features of this application may sometimes be grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof in the description of exemplary embodiments of this application. However, this approach should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed application requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the corresponding claims, its inventive point lies in solving the corresponding technical problem with features fewer than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of this application.

[0188] Those skilled in the art will understand that, apart from the mutual exclusion of features, all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) and all processes or units of any method or apparatus so disclosed can be combined in any combination. Unless otherwise expressly stated, each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature that serves the same, equivalent, or similar purpose.

[0189] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features but not others included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, in the claims, any one of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0190] The various component embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, or as software modules running on one or more processors, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that microprocessors or digital signal processors (DSPs) can be used in practice to implement some or all of the functions of some modules in the control device for a pipetting apparatus according to embodiments of this application. This application can also be implemented as an apparatus program (e.g., a computer program and computer program product) for performing part or all of the methods described herein. Such an implementation of this application can be stored on a computer-readable medium or can take the form of one or more signals. Such signals can be downloaded from an Internet website, provided on a carrier signal, or provided in any other form.

[0191] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative of this application and not restrictive, and that those skilled in the art can devise alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. This application can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc., does not indicate any order. These words can be interpreted as names.

[0192] The above description is merely a specific embodiment or illustration of the embodiments of this application. The scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. The scope of protection of this application shall be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A control method for a pipetting device, characterized in that, Receive layout information and liquid type information input by the user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device; Obtain source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and the end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device on the first liquid, respectively; Based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information, the operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined. The pipetting device is controlled to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

2. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control method for the pipetting device further includes: Receive script information input by the user, wherein the script information includes a file containing source board information and final board information; The acquisition of source plate information and final plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations includes: Based on the document, obtain all source plate information and final plate information corresponding to the first liquid.

3. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The control method for the pipetting device further includes: Provide file templates, The file is generated in response to the user's first action on the file template.

4. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The document also includes the concentration information of the first liquid; The control method for the pipetting device further includes: Obtain the target dosage of the first liquid; The step of determining the operating parameters for the pipetting operation based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the final plate information includes: Based on the concentration information and the target dosage, determine the first volume of the first liquid; The operating parameters for the pipetting operation are determined based on the first volume of the first liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information.

5. The control method for a pipetting device according to claim 4, wherein, The control method for the pipetting device further includes: Obtain the fluid replacement threshold; The step of determining the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the first volume of the first liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the final plate information includes: Based on the first volume and the replenishment threshold, a second volume of the second liquid that needs to be replenished for the first liquid is determined, wherein when the volume of the first volume is less than the replenishment threshold, the first volume of the first liquid needs to be replenished to the replenishment threshold using the second liquid; The operating parameters of the pipetting operation are determined based on the first volume of the first liquid, the second volume of the second liquid, the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information. The step of controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters includes: According to the operating parameters, the pipetting device is controlled to perform pipetting operations on the first liquid and the second liquid.

6. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, After controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters, the control method for the pipetting device further includes: The pipetting device is controlled to perform a mixing operation between the first liquid and the second liquid.

7. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein, Provide a first human-computer interaction interface for the user. The first human-computer interaction interface includes one or more script information modules. Each script information module includes at least one or more script command information. Each script command information corresponds to one or more sub-operations in the pipetting operation of the pipetting device. The script information received from user input includes: In response to the user's operation on the script information module, the script information is obtained.

8. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The step of obtaining the script information in response to a user's operation on the script information module includes: In response to a user's operation on a script information module, the corresponding script command module and control command module are displayed. In response to the user's operation on the control command module, the corresponding control command information is obtained, wherein the control command information includes variable information; In response to the user's operation on the script command module, the corresponding script command information is obtained, wherein the variable information is associated with the parameters in the script command information.

9. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The step of obtaining the script information in response to a user's operation on the script information module includes: In response to a user's operation on a script information module, a second human-computer interaction interface is displayed, the second human-computer interaction interface including a first operable control and a second operable control; The first operable control is used to receive the file; The second operable control is used to receive the liquid absorption parameters and liquid spraying parameters of the first liquid.

10. The control method for a pipetting apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The liquid absorption parameters include liquid absorption offset parameters, and the liquid spraying parameters include liquid spray offset parameters; The step of controlling the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters includes: The liquid pipetting device is controlled to perform the liquid pipetting operation based on the liquid aspiration offset parameter, the liquid spraying offset parameter, and the operating parameters.

11. Control device for a pipetting apparatus, characterized in that include: The receiving module is used to receive layout information and liquid type information input by the user, wherein the layout information represents the layout of the working platform of the pipetting device, and the liquid type information represents the liquid parameters of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device; The acquisition module is used to acquire source plate information and end plate information corresponding to all pipetting operations, wherein the source plate information and end plate information are used to determine the aspiration position and spray position of the pipetting operation performed by the pipetting device on the first liquid, respectively. The determination module is used to determine the operating parameters of the pipetting operation based on the layout information, the liquid type information, the source plate information, and the end plate information; The control module is used to control the pipetting device to perform the pipetting operation according to the operating parameters.

12. An electronic device comprising: Processor and memory, characterized in that, The memory stores computer program instructions, which, when executed by the processor, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. A storage medium on which program instructions are stored, characterized in that, The program instructions, when executed, are used to perform the control method for a pipetting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A computer program product comprising computer program instructions, characterised in that, The computer program instructions, when executed, perform a control method for a pipetting apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 10.

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