A dual pipetting tip connector

Abstract

A pipetting tip connector (1) including a sleeve (2) with a wall providing a bore (3) connecting a proximal opening (6) to a distal opening (7), the wall comprising an outer surface (4) and an inner surface (5). A proximal connector (8) is located at a proximal section (9) of the sleeve (2) configured for connecting to a pipettor (11) and a distal connector (12) is located at a distal section (10) of the sleeve (2) configured for connecting to a pipetting tip (13). The distal connector (12) comprises two different and distinct connecting features (14,15), each for connecting to two different and distinct corresponding connecting features (16,17) on two different pipetting tips (13, 13a).

Description

[0001] A dual pipetting tip connector

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The current invention relates to a pipetting tip connector for a pipette whereby the pipetting tip connector includes two distinct connecting features for connecting to two different distinct corresponding connecting features on two different pipetting tips. Further a laboratory automation apparatus comprising the pipetting tip connector and a kit of parts comprising the pipetting tip connector and a pipettor for a pipette are disclosed.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Pipetting of liquids is one of the basic operations executed in an analytical or clinical laboratory. A pipette is used for the accurate dispensing of small volumes of a liquid and the liquid may be, for example a sample liquid, a reagent, or a processing liquid. Processing liquids may include reagents, buffer solutions, solvents, cleaning or staining solutions. Reagents may include solutions with chemical reactants, acids, bases, nucleotides, oligonucleotides, biological reagents and the like.

[0006] The pipette includes a pipettor configured for aspirating and / or dispensing of the liquids through a pipetting tip that is attached to the pipettor. The pipetting tips may have different sizes for aspirating and dispensing different volumes of the liquids since each operation in the clinical or analytical laboratory may require the dispensing of different liquid volumes.

[0007] The pipette includes a connector for connecting the pipettor to the pipetting tip. One end of the connector is adapted for connecting to the pipettor and the opposite end is adapted for connecting to the pipetting tip. The pipetting tips each have a complementary connection feature. Not all connection features on the pipetting tips are identical, for example very small (for example 15pl or 50|_il) pipetting tips have a different connection feature compared to large volume pipetting tips (for example 200pl or 1 OOOpl pipetting tips) due to the tip dimensions required for accommodating to the different volumes.

[0008] A connector for the pipettor with a single connection feature for the pipetting tip may therefore not be compatible for use with the whole size range of pipetting tips. A plurality of connectors may be required, each with a connection feature compatible with a part of the range thus requiring an exchange of the connector to cover the full range.

[0009] The pipette may be a handheld device that is manual driven whereby the plunger movement required for aspiration and dispensing of liquid is fully operator driven. Alternatively, the handheld pipette may include an electromechanical drive which provides the plunger movement upon actuation by the operator.

[0010] The pipette may be an automatic pipette that is integrated in a laboratory automation apparatus whereby the operations are programmed in advance and subsequently executed without the intervention of a laboratory technician. The pipette may be coupled to a robotic arm and the robotic arm can move the pipette to different locations on a work surface of the laboratory automation apparatus whereby different operations may be executed at the different locations. For example, liquid samples may be aspirated from a sample container and a controlled volume may be dispensed in a well plate. Different reagents, solvents or buffer solutions may be added to the well plate and the well plate may be thermally treated, shaken and the like. Each operation may require a different sized pipetting tip for pipetting a different liquid volume of a different liquid. Analytical analysis equipment such as a microplate reader may be used to complete the assay and determine, for example, which components and its respective concentration are present in the sample liquid.

[0011] The pipette for the laboratory automation apparatus may include a connector provided as a monolithic block with a plurality of connector cones for connecting at once to 96 or 384 small (15 pl, 50pl or 125 pl) pipetting tips. An example is presented in US10807086B2. Each connector cone comprises a plurality of connecting features located on the outside surface of each connector cone for connecting to corresponding connecting features on the inside of the pipetting tips. The plurality of connecting features are axially spaced in a cascade arrangement along the axis of the connector thereby increasing the length of the connector and also the lengths of the counter connectors on the pipetting tips. The small volume pipetting tips may be densely packed in a pipetting tray and arranged according to an ANSI / SLAS format, and the robotic arm lowers the monolithic block with the plurality of connector cones for pick-up of the identical pipetting tips from the tray. This system is adapted for pick-up of pipetting tips for a high throughput diagnostic test method such as the preparation and testing of COVID samples.

[0012] Alternatively, the laboratory automation apparatus includes a pipette with, for example two, four, eight or twelve separated and individually controllable pipettes, or so-called pipetting channels and each channel includes a connector for connecting to a pipetting tip. The plurality of channels is coupled to the robotic arm for movement of the channels across the work surface and the robotic arm may include a spreader device for adjusting the distance between two adjacent channels of the pipettor resulting in a highly flexible apparatus that can be easily adjusted and programmed to different tasks that need to be executed on the working surface. Adjustment to different well plate formats may be easily achieved. The connectors for such a multichannel pipette are typically identical for each channel and adapted for the pickup of pipetting tips having one type of counter connector.

[0013] The laboratory automation apparatus requires a pipettor for controlling the aspiration and dispensing of the liquid such as for example a so-called air displacement pipettor or an air restriction pipettor. An example of an Air Displacement Pipettor (ADP) is disclosed in US7976749B2 where a piston is motor driven in a cylinder thereby changing the total volume of a chamber defined by the cylinder and the pipetting tip fluidically coupled to the cylinder. An under pressure may be created by retracting the piston which is used for aspirating liquids when the distal end of the pipetting tip is in contact with the liquid, and an over pressure may be created by advancing the piston that is used for dispensing the aspirated liquid through the pipetting tip. An example of an Air Restriction Pipettor (ARP) is disclosed in EP2569642A1. The pipetting channels are fluidically connected to a vacuum reservoir and / or to a pressure reservoir. The individual channels are separated from the vacuum respectively from the pressure reservoir by two-way valves. The pipetting device is operated by opening and closing the two-way valve between the vacuum reservoir and the pipetting tip respectively between the pipetting tip and the pressure source. Based on valve timing, a specific amount of liquid is provided into, or dispensed from the pipetting channel. Alternatively, a System Liquid filled system may be used (Sys. Liq.). where incompressible liquid in a tubing is displaced by means of a motor-driven syringe pump moving a piston of a syringe in a cylinder for creating under / over pressure in the pipetting tip during liquid aspiration / dispensing.

[0014] A connector for a pipettor including a mechanical connecting feature for connecting to pipetting tips including a single corresponding mechanical connecting feature is presented in US10910749B2. The connector for the pipettor includes additionally an electrical connecting feature for electrically connecting the pipettor to the pipetting tip.

[0015] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] It may be desired to have pipettes suitable for a plurality of different pipetting tips having different connecting feature on the tip thereby broadening the range of pipetting tips that may be used in combination with the pipette. It may be desired to have a laboratory automation apparatus with a multi-channel pipette capable of handling a broad range of pipetting tips leading to a more versatile and flexible apparatus.

[0017] It is an objective of the present invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and provide a versatile and compact pipetting tip connector for a pipettor of a pipette with at least two distinct connection features for the pipetting tips. Furthermore, a laboratory automation apparatus including the pipetting tip connector is disclosed. Those objectives are solved by the independent claims, further exemplary embodiments are evident from the dependent claims and the following description including the Figures.

[0018] A first aspect relates to a pipetting tip connector for a pipette including a sleeve with a wall providing a bore connecting a proximal opening to a distal opening and the wall includes an outer surface and an inner surface. A proximal connector is located at a proximal section of the sleeve and configured for connecting to a pipettor of the pipette. A distal connector is located at a distal section of the sleeve and configured for connecting to a pipetting tip. The distal connector comprises two distinct connecting features, each for connecting to two different and distinct corresponding connecting features on two different pipetting tips.

[0019] The two different pipetting tips, a first pipetting tip and a second pipetting tip may include two different corresponding connecting features, a first corresponding connecting feature and a second corresponding connecting feature. The two different pipetting tips may be configured for pipetting of two different liquid volumes; the two different pipetting tips may be two different volume-sized pipetting tips having two different corresponding connecting features. Alternatively, the two different pipetting tips may be configured for pipetting two equal liquid volumes, thus the two different pipetting tips may be two equal volume-sized pipetting tips having two different corresponding connecting features. The size of the corresponding connection feature may define the maximum packing density for the pipetting tips in a pipetting tray. The pipetting tips with the smaller connectors may therefore promote an efficient use of space on, for example a work surface of a laboratory automation apparatus or a space efficient storage and packaging of the pipetting tips in pipetting trays. The pipetting tip connector facilitates the use of pipetting tips with different sizes and two different corresponding connecting features thereby rendering a versatile pipette for use with a broad range of pipetting tips that may consume less space.

[0020] The proximal connector may be configured for a screw-type, a press-fit, a form-fit or an adhesive connection to the pipettor of the pipette.

[0021] In an embodiment, the distal connector includes a first connecting feature on the outer surface of the wall surrounding the bore and a second connecting feature on the inner surface of the wall. The two connecting features on the distal connector are preferably distinct, different and spatially separated from each other in a distal sleeve section. The separation on the inner and outer wall surfaces may be in an axial and / or a radial direction. Preferably, the first and second connecting features are located in the vicinity of each other, for example one is located on the inside surface and the other at the outside surface but axially the two features are within the vicinity of each other for a compact arrangement on the connector.

[0022] The first and second connecting features may be provided by the outer wall respectively the inner wall, for example as tubular or cylindrical surfaces. The first and second connecting features may be integrally formed on the distal section of the sleeve. The first connection feature may be provided by the outer wall surface itself, for example for a friction fit engagement with a corresponding inner wall of a tubular corresponding connector on the pipetting tip. The second connecting feature may be provided by the inner wall surface itself, for example for a friction fit engagement with a corresponding outer wall of a tubular corresponding connector of the different pipetting tip. The friction fit is supported by a dimensional difference between the connecting feature and the corresponding connecting feature and may provide an interference fit after connecting the pipetting tip or the different pipetting tip to the connector. A facet, a slanted or rounded entrance surface may be provided at the distal end of the connector facilitating the entrance of the corresponding connector of the pipetting tip or the different pipetting tip.

[0023] In an embodiment, the distal connector includes not more than two connecting features.

[0024] The first connecting feature on the outer surface of the wall of the distal connector is configured for connecting to the first corresponding connecting feature on or at an inner surface of a proximal tubular connector of the pipetting tip. The second connecting feature on the inner surface of the wall of the distal connector is configured for connecting to the second corresponding connecting feature on or an outer surface of a proximal tubular connector of the different pipetting tip.

[0025] In another embodiment, the distal connector includes the first connecting feature on the outer surface of the wall surrounding the sleeve and the second connecting feature also located on the outer surface of the wall. The two connecting features on the distal connector are preferably distinct, different and spatially separated from each other. The separation of the first and second connecting features on the outer wall surface may be in an axial and / or a radial direction. Preferably the two connecting features are in the vicinity of each other for a compact design as a cascade of axially spaced apart connecting features located all on the inside surface or located all on the outside surface may lengthen the pipetting tip connector. The first connecting feature on the outer surface of the wall of the distal connector is configured for connecting to the first corresponding connecting feature on an inner surface of a proximal tubular connector of the pipetting tip. The second connecting feature on the outer surface of the wall of the distal connector is configured for connecting to the second corresponding connecting feature an inner surface of a proximal tubular connector of the different pipetting tip. Using both the inner wall and the outer wall of the sleeve may promote a compact arrangement of the connecting features.

[0026] In another embodiment, the distal connector includes a first connecting feature on the inner surface of the wall surrounding the bore and a second connecting feature also located on the inner surface of the wall. The two connecting features on the distal connector are preferably distinct, different and spatially separated from each other. The separation of the first and second connecting features on the inner wall surface may be in an axial and / or a radial direction. The first connecting feature on the inner surface of the wall of the distal connector is configured for connecting to the first corresponding connecting feature on an outer surface of a proximal tubular connector of the pipetting tip. The second connecting feature on the inner surface of the wall of the distal connector is configured for connecting to the second corresponding connecting feature an outer surface of a proximal tubular connector of the different pipetting tip.

[0027] The first and second connecting features on the distal connector are configured for connecting to the first and second corresponding connecting features on the pipetting tips in a press-fit engagement. Alternatively, the first and second connecting features on the distal connector are configured for connecting to the first and second corresponding connecting features on the pipetting tips in a form-fit engagement. For the form fit engagement, the pipettor or the pipette or the pipette tip connector may include a mechanism for compressing or decompressing an elastic element that at least partially surrounds the connector. Compressing the elastic element, for example by axially shifting the mechanism may radially expand the elastic element for a form-fit engagement with the pipetting tip. Reverse shifting within the mechanism may decompress the elastic element for releasing the form-fit engagement. The elastic element may be an O-ring.

[0028] The pipetting tips may be disposable or reusable pipetting tips. The disposable pipetting tips may be made from an at least partially conductive material. The disposable pipetting tips may be constructed from an at least partially elastically deformable material. The disposable pipetting tips may be constructed from a polymer selected from a polypropylene or a polyethylene. The disposable pipetting tips may be constructed from a carbon filled polypropylene.

[0029] The sleeve of the pipetting tip connector may be a rigid and longitudinal sleeve defining a longitudinal sleeve axis. Alternatively, the sleeve is a two-part sleeve connected by a joint for positioning pipetting tips off-axis with respect to the longitudinal axis of the pipette. Alternatively, the sleeve is an at least partially flexible sleeve.

[0030] The sleeve of the pipetting tip connector may be a cylindrical sleeve. Alternatively, the cross section of the sleeve is ellipse, rectangular, triangular or equilateral triangular shaped providing a rotationally secured coupling between the pipetting tip connector and the pipetting tip.

[0031] The second connecting feature may include a cylindrical inner surface on the distal sleeve section for surrounding the outer surface of the proximal tubular connector of the different pipetting tip, or different volume-sized pipetting tip. The pipetting tip connector may be polished. The cylindrical inner surface may be polished or the outer surface of the connector may be polished. The cylindrical inner surface may be coated with a noble metal. The proximal tubular connector of the pipetting tip includes at least a proximal cylindrical section fitting, or press-fitting into the cylindrical inner surface of the pipetting tip connector.

[0032] The cylindrical inner surface may include an inlet section at the distal end of the sleeve. The inlet section may be polished. The inlet section may have an enlarged diameter compared to the diameter of the cylindrical inner surface. The inlet section may have a conical shape. The inlet section facilitates the entrance and guidance of the second corresponding connecting feature on an outer surface of a proximal tubular connector of the different pipetting tip. The inlet section may be rimmed, or the inlet section may have a cone shape. The inlet section may include an elastic element. The inlet section may include a sealing surface and the cylindrical inner surface and / or the inlet section may be coated with a metal, preferably a noble metal such as gold, silver or platinum. The sealing surface contributes to a leakage free engagement between the pipetting tip connector and the pipetting tip. The coating with a noble metal prevents corrosion such that all liquids, including strong acids and cleaning reagents like bleach may be used for pipetting or for cleaning.

[0033] In an embodiment, the second connecting feature on the distal connector comprises a stop surface on the inside of the distal sleeve section. The stop surface is configured to abut a counter stop surface of the pipetting tip thereby providing a defined axial position for the pipetting tip with respect to the pipetting tip connector and thus also a defined axial position for the pipetting tip on the pipette. The stop surface may be located at the distal end of the sleeve. Alternatively, the stop surface is proximal to the distal end of the sleeve. The stop surface may be located on the outer wall surface or on the inner wall surface of the pipetting tip connector. The stop surface may be a circumferential rim protruding inwards from the inner surface or outwards from the outer surface. The stop surface may be oriented essentially perpendicular to the sleeve axis or tilted with respect to the sleeve axis. The counter stop surfaces on the pipetting tips are oriented accordingly perpendicular to or tilted with respect to the tip axis. The stop surface may facilitate an accurate axial positioning of the pipetting tip during pick-up.

[0034] The second connecting feature provided as a cylindrical inner surface is configured for surrounding and engaging the second corresponding connecting feature on the pipetting tip which may be sleeve shaped with an outer wall engaging the cylindrical inner surface. The footprint of the second corresponding feature may be reduced compared to a corresponding connecting feature provided on an inner surface of the pipetting tip. The reduced footprint may enable a space saving arrangement of the pipetting tips in a pipetting tray.

[0035] The first connecting feature of the distal connector includes the first connecting feature on the outer surface of the wall surrounding the bore. The first connecting feature includes at least one circumferential rim extending radially outwards from the outer surface for connecting to an inner surface of the proximal tubular connector of the pipetting tip. Alternatively, the first connecting feature includes a cone. The first connecting feature may provide a sealing surface between the pipetting tip connector and the pipetting tip when the pipetting tip is attached. The first connecting feature may include a plurality of circumferential rims extending radially outwards from the outer surface of the sleeve. The plurality of rims may be axially spaced apart from each other and / or radially spaced apart from each other. At least one of the circumferential rims provides a sealing surface with an attached pipetting tip whereas the other rim may provide for additional sealing and / or axial guidance of the pipetting tip when attaching the tip to the connector. As an example, the first connecting feature of the distal connector includes two circumferential rims, a first rim provides for the sealing whereas a second rim proximal to the first rim may support the axial alignment of the tip axis and the pipette axis during attachment.

[0036] The pipetting tip connector may be constructed from a metal or a ceramic. The metal may be a metal alloy such as brass. The pipetting tip connector may be coated with a different metal such as a noble metal.

[0037] The pipetting tip connector may be configured for use in a laboratory automation apparatus comprising the pipette, or the pipetting tip connector may be configured for use in a handheld pipette.

[0038] Another aspect relates to a laboratory automation apparatus comprising the pipetting tip connector. The laboratory automation apparatus includes a robotic arm holding at least one pipette with a pipettor having the pipetting tip connector. The robotic arm may move the pipette holding a pipetting tip to different locations on a working surface of the laboratory automation for aspirating and / or dispensing of liquids from, or into different labware components. The robotic arm may include a plurality of pipettes (or pipetting channels) each equipped with the pipetting tip connector and the robotic arm may include a spreading device for adjusting the distance between two adjacent pipettes. The robotic arm may hold for example eight pipettes with the pipetting tip connector each having the two distinct connecting features, each for connecting to two different and distinct corresponding connecting features on two different pipetting tips. This broadens the range of pipetting tips that can be used in combination with the laboratory automation apparatus.

[0039] Another aspect relates to a handheld pipette comprising the pipetting tip connector.

[0040] Another aspect relates to an assembly including the pipetting tip connector and one of the pipetting tip or the different sized pipetting tip. Another aspect relates to an assembly of a pipettor, for example an ADP,ARP or Sys.Liq. and the pipetting tip connector.

[0041] Another aspect relates to a kit of parts comprising the pipetting tip connector and at least one of the pipetting tip or the different sized pipetting tip.

[0042] Another aspect relates to a kit of parts of the pipetting tip connector and the pipettor.

[0043] The invention will now be described based on the drawings. It will be understood that the embodiments and aspects of the invention described herein are only examples and do not limit the protective scope of the claims in any way. The invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents. It will be understood that features of one aspect or embodiment of the invention can be combined with a feature of a different aspect or aspects and / or embodiments of the invention.

[0044] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Embodiments of the present invention are described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings presenting:

[0046] Figure 1 : A laboratory automation apparatus with two pipetting channels,

[0047] Figure 2: Schematic representation for an ADP for a laboratory automation apparatus,

[0048] Figure 3: Schematic representation for an ARP for a laboratory automation apparatus,

[0049] Figure 4: Schematic representation for a cross section of a pipetting tip connector,

[0050] Figure 5a: Schematic representation for a cross section of a pipetting tip connector with two distinct connecting features on an outside surface at the distal section of the connector,

[0051] Figure 5b: Schematic representation for a cross section of a pipetting tip connector with two distinct connecting features on an inside surface and on an outside surface at the distal section of the connector,

[0052] Figure 5c: Schematic representation for a cross section of a pipetting tip connector with two distinct connecting features on an inside surface at the distal section of the connector,

[0053] Figure 5d: Schematic representation for a cross section of a pipetting tip connector with two distinct connecting features on an inside surface and on an outside surface at the distal section of the connector,

[0054] Figure 6: Cylindrical-shaped sleeve for the pipetting tip connector,

[0055] Figure 7: Rectangular-shaped sleeve for the pipetting tip connector,

[0056] Figure 8: Cross section for a pipetting tip connector,

[0057] Figure 9: Assembly for the pipetting tip connector of Figure 8 and an attached pipetting tip, Figure 10: Assembly for the pipetting tip connector of Figure 8 and an attached different sized pipetting tip,

[0058] Figure 11 : Magnified view of the assembly presented in Figure 9,

[0059] Figure 12: Magnified view of the assembly presented in Figure 10.

[0060] Figure 13 a: Pipetting tip with a first corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0061] Figure 13b: Pipetting tip with a second corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0062] Figure 13c: Different sized pipetting tip with a first corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0063] Figure 13d: Different sized pipetting tip with a second corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0064] Figure 13e: Pipetting tip with a different first corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0065] Figure 13f: Pipetting tip with a different second corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0066] Figure 13g: Different sized pipetting tip with a different first corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0067] Figure 13h: Different sized pipetting tip with a different second corresponding connecting feature located at the proximal connector,

[0068] Figure 14a: Longitudinal section for an assembly of a pipetting tip connector and a pipetting tip,

[0069] Figure 14b: Longitudinal section of a pipetting tip connector and a different sized pipetting tip.

[0070] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0071] Definition: The distal end or distal direction is defined by the flow direction for the liquid, thus the distal tip of a pipette is defined by the outlet of the pipette tip when dispensing a liquid and the proximal end is opposite to the distal end. The indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. For example, “a first connecting feature” does not exclude the fact that there may be two connecting features that functionally or structurally fulfill the purpose of “a first connecting feature”. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps. The wording of “a connecting feature” is equivalent to a connector, a connection, a coupling, a coupler, or an adapter. Distinct refers to something that is clearly defined and easily distinguishable, for example by the eye. Different refers to something that is not the same as another thing. It emphasizes variation or dissimilarity, but the difference is not necessarily clearly distinguishable. A schematic drawing for a laboratory automation apparatus 24 including a work surface 29 defining an x-y plane. A robotic arm 28 is axially spaced apart from the work surface in the z-direction and is adapted to move two pipettes with two pipettors 11 in the space above the work surface 29. Each of the two pipettors 11 includes a pipetting tip connector 1 for connecting a pipetting tip 13 to the pipettor 11. The pipettor 11 facilitates the pipetting of liquids, e.g. aspiration from, or dispensing of liquids to labware components such as well plates or sample containers that are present on the work surface 29 of the laboratory automation apparatus 24. A spreading device may be incorporated in the robotic arm 28 that is used for adjusting the space between the two pipettors 11 and thereby also between the two pipetting tips 13. A controller 30 of the laboratory automation apparatus is configured to control the movements of the robotic arm 28 and or the dispensing / aspiration of liquids using the pipettors 11.

[0072] The pipettor 11 may be part of an air displacement pipettor (ADP) as schematically presented in Figure 2 or may be part of an air restriction pipettor (ARP) as schematically presented in Figure 3. The ADP includes a syringe 37 providing a chamber 34 with one open end closed by a moveable plunger 35 and the opposite end coupled to the pipetting connector 1. A drive 36, for example an electromechanical drive such as a spindle drive, can advance or retract the plunger 35 in the syringe 37 for providing an under- or overpressure in the pipetting tip 13 attached to the pipetting tip connector 1. The under- or overpressure is used during aspiration respectively dispensing of liquids. The ARP includes a chamber 34 with an outlet connecting the pipetting tip connector 1 to the ARP. A pressure reservoir 31 and a vacuum reservoir 32 are coupled to the chamber 34 via two valves 33. Depending on the valve timing, e.g. the opening and closing of the valves 33, an under- or overpressure is created within the chamber 34 that is used for aspiration or dispensing of liquids via the pipetting tip 13 that is coupled to the pipetting tip connector 1.

[0073] A schematic representation for a cross section of the pipetting tip connector 1 is presented in Figure 4. The pipetting tip connector includes a sleeve 2 coupling a proximal opening 6 to a distal opening 7. The sleeve includes a wall with an inner wall surface 5 and an outer wall surface 4. A proximal connector 8 is located at a proximal section 9 of the sleeve 2. The proximal connector 8 is adapted for connection to the pipettor 11, for example by a screw type of connection. A distal connector 12 is located at a distal section 10 of the sleeve 2 which is adapted for connecting to a pipetting tip. The connection to the pipetting tip may be a form-fit or a friction fit connection. For a form-fit connection, the pipetting tip connector may include a separate mechanism acting on an elastic element such as an O-ring located in the distal section 10 of the pipetting tip connector 1. Compression of the elastic element by the mechanism radially expands the element for engaging a pipetting tip in a form fit engagement. Relaxation of the element leads to shrinkage of the element facilitating release of the pipetting tip. Alternatively, the distal connector may be dimensionally oversized with respect to a counter connector of the pipetting tip and entrance of the distal end of the connector elastically deforms the counter connector for a press-fit or friction fit engagement.

[0074] The distal connector 12 may include a first connecting feature 14 and a second connecting feature 15, see Figure 5a. The distal connector may also include a plurality of connecting features, for example three or four connecting features. The first and second connecting features 14,15 are preferably located radially or axially close to each other for a compact design. The first connecting feature 14 in this example is located proximal to the second connecting feature 15. The first and second connecting features 14,15 may have a different geometrical shape, in this example the first connecting feature 14 is a rectangularly shaped ring surrounding the sleeve 2 and the second connecting feature 15 is a semi-circular shaped ring surrounding the sleeve 2. The first and second connecting features 14,15 may be integrally formed with the sleeve 2, for example using milling or injection molding techniques. Alternatively, the first and second connecting features 14,15 are provided as add-ons for a modular approach. The first and second connecting features may be each constructed from the same material or from two different material having two different elastic properties. One or both of the first and second connecting features may be constructed from an elastic material such as an O-ring.

[0075] The first and second connecting features 14,15 are both located on the outer wall of the sleeve as presented in Figure 5a, or the first and second connecting features 14,15 are both located on the inner wall of the sleeve as presented in Figure 5c, or the first connecting feature 14 is located on the outside wall of the sleeve and the second connecting feature 15 is located on the inner wall of the sleeve as depicted in Figure 5b. Finally, the configuration for the first connecting feature 14 on the inner wall and the second connecting feature 15 on the outer wall is presented in Figure 5d. Having the connecting features on the inside and outside wall surface facilitates an axially compact arrangement as the first and second connecting features may be located axially at the same position.

[0076] The sleeve 2 may be a cylindrical sleeve (Figure 6) or may have a square shape (Figure 7). Alternatively, the cross section of the sleeve includes an ellipse or triangle. The sleeve 2 is constructed from a mechanically stiff material for absorbing the axial forces during pick-up of the pipetting tips.

[0077] An example for a pipetting tip connector 1 including a cylindrical sleeve is presented in Figure 8. The proximal section 9 of the sleeve includes a recess 38 which may be used for connecting the connector 1 to the pipettor. A flange 39 extends radially from the outer sleeve surface and includes a stop surface 27 for abutting and axially positioning the pipetting tip connector 1 with respect to a counter stop surface on the pipettor. The proximal section may include a threading for a screw type connection between the pipettor and the pipetting tip connector 1. Alternatively, the proximal section is adapted for a press-fit / form fit engagement with a corresponding bore in a distal surface of the pipettor, or the pipetting tip connector is adhesively connected to the pipettor. The distal section 10 includes the first connecting feature 14 provided as a circumferential rim radially extending outwards from the outer sleeve surface and is located close to the distal end of the sleeve. The first connecting feature 14 on the outer surface may include a conical section at the distal end facilitating entering a bore of the pipetting tip. The first connecting feature 14 may further include another circumferential rim 14 radially extending from the outer surface located closer to the flange 39. The other first connecting feature 14 may support the axial guidance of the pipetting tip. The first connecting features 14 are configured for engaging a first corresponding connecting feature on the pipetting tip as will be explained below. The distal section 10 further includes a cylindrical inner surface 19 providing the second connecting feature 15 for the pipetting tip connector 1. The inner surface 19 may include a rimmed section 23 having an enlarged diameter. The rimmed section 23 and / or the cylindrical inner surface 19 may provide a sealing surface for an air-tight connection for an assembly of the pipetting tip connector 1 and a pipetting tip. The inner surface 19, and / or the rimmed section 23 may be metal coated providing a corrosion resistant and / or wear resistant coating for the second connecting feature 15. The pipetting tip connector 1 includes a stop surface 26 which may provide an axial stop for a corresponding stop on a pipetting tip thereby providing an accurate axial tip positioning. The pipetting tip connector is preferably made from a metal alloy, for example brass.

[0078] An assembly for the pipetting tip connector 1 of Figure 8 and a pipetting tip 13 is presented in Figure 9, the pipetting tip 13 is configured for aspirating or dispensing a volume of 200 pl. The pipetting tip 13 includes a first corresponding connecting feature 16 located on the inner surface 18b of a tubular connector 18 at the proximal end of the pipetting tip 13. The distal section 10 of the pipetting tip connector 1 fits into the opening of the proximal tubular connector 18 during assembly such that the first connecting feature 14 on the connector 1 engages the first corresponding connecting feature 16 on the pipetting tip 13. The first corresponding connecting feature 16 may the inner surface 18b that may be elastically deformed upon entrance of the pipetting tip connector 1. A detail for the engagement between the distal section of the pipetting tip connector 1 and the pipetting tip 13 is shown in Figure 11. The first connecting feature 14 proximate to the distal end provides a tight sealing between the pipetting tip 13 and the pipetting tip connector 1. The first connecting feature 14 facing the flange 39 may provide a sealing surface and may provide guidance for axial orientation of the pipetting tip 13 such that the longitudinal axis of the pipetting tip 13 is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the pipetting tip connector 1.

[0079] An assembly for a pipetting tip connector 1 of Figure 8 and a different pipetting tip 13a is presented in Figure 10. The different pipetting tip 13a includes a different proximal tubular connector 18, provided on an outer surface 18a. The tubular connector 18 of the different pipetting tip 13a provides the second corresponding connecting feature 17 for engaging the second connecting feature 15 on the pipetting tip connector 1. The different pipetting tip 13a includes a different proximal tubular connector 18 and a has a different size of 125 pl compared to the assembly presented in Figure 9 for a 200 pl tip. A detail for the engagement between the proximal tubular connector 18 for the different pipetting tip 13a that is inserted into the cylindrical inner surface 19 of the pipetting tip connector 1 is shown in Figure 12. The outer surface 18a of the proximal tubular connector 18 provides the second corresponding connecting feature 17 engaging the inner surface 19 of the connector 1 providing the second connecting feature 15. The proximal end of the tubular connector 18 abuts the stop surface 26 when inserted thereby providing a defined axial position for the different pipetting tip 13a. A detail for the assembly presented in Figure 9 is displayed in Figure 11.

[0080] Further exemplary embodiments for pipetting tips 13 and different pipetting tips 13a with first and second corresponding connecting features 16,17 are presented in Figures 13a to 13g. The pipetting tips may have the same volume in that the inner volume of the pipetting tips can accommodate the same maximum aspiration volume. The pipetting tips 13 in Figures 13a, 13b, 13e and 13g represent pipetting tips with an identical maximum aspiration volume. The pipetting tips may have a different corresponding connecting features 16, 17 which are geometrically shaped as a semi-circle (Figures 13a and 13b) or as a rectangular cut-out (Figures 13e and 13f). The pipetting tips in Figures 13c, 13d, 13g and 13h represent the different pipetting tips 13a with a volume that is different (larger) compared to the pipetting tips 13 in Figure 13. The different pipetting tips 13a may have a different corresponding connecting features 16, 17 which are geometrically shaped as a semi-circle (Figures 13g and 13h) or as a rectangular cut-out (Figures 13c and 13d).

[0081] The geometrical compatibility of the rectangular shaped first connecting features 14 and the semicircular shaped second connecting features 15 presented in Figure 5 for the pipetting tip connector with the corresponding connecting features 16, 17 on the pipetting tips 13 or the different pipetting tip 13 a. is presented in Figure 13 is tabulated below:

[0082] The distal connectors 12 presented in Figures 5b and 5d each having a connecting feature on the inner wall and on the outer wall of the tubular sleeve are compatible with four pipetting tips having the same size but a different corresponding connecting feature or they have the same corresponding connecting feature but a different size thus showing the versatility of a pipetting connector having two distinct and different connecting features.

[0083] The size of the footprint of the tubular connector 18 for the pipetting tip 13 is indicated by the arrows 40,41 in Figures 13a and 13b. A proximal tubular connector 18 having a smaller footprint 41 may enable a more dense packaging of the pipetting tips in a box, a pipetting tray or in a packaging. This is also shown in Figures 9 and 10 for the assemblies, a tubular connector 18 fitting in the tubular inner surface 19 may have smaller lateral dimensions.

[0084] Another example for the pipetting tip connector 1 with a pipetting tip 13 or a different pipetting tip 13a is presented in Figure 14a and Figure 14b. The proximal connector 8 at the proximal section of the sleeve 2 is configured for coupling to a pipettor. The sleeve 2 includes the outer wall surface 4 and the inner wall surface 5 which also provide for the distal connector 12 at the distal section 10 of the sleeve 2. The outer wall surface 4 provides the first connecting feature 14 configured for connecting to the first corresponding connecting feature 16 located at the inner surface 18b of the tubular proximal connector of the pipetting tip 13 (see Figure 14a). The inner wall surface 5 provides the second connecting feature 15 configured for connecting to the second corresponding connecting feature 17 located at an outer surface 18a of the tubular proximal connector of the different pipetting tip 13a (see Figure 14b). The distal connector 12 provides two different and distinct connecting features 16, 18 which are tubular shaped and configured for engaging two different and distinct corresponding connecting features on two different pipetting tips. The distal connector is shaped as sleeve with an inner and outer wall for engaging two different sleeves in a friction fit engagement. The distal end of the distal connector 12 may include a faceted surface on the inner wall and or on the outer wall surface. The distal connector 12 may include a rounded end surface on the inside or on the outside surface. The facetted surfaces or rounded surfaces may facilitate the entry of the corresponding connecting features on the pipetting tip. The footprint 41 for the different pipetting tip 13a is smaller compared to the footprint for the pipetting tip 13.

[0085] LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0086] 1 Pipetting tip connector 19 Cylindrical inner surface

[0087] 2 Sleeve 20 Inlet section

[0088] 3 Bore 30 21 Sealing surface

[0089] 4 Outer wall surface 22 Sealing surface

[0090] 5 Inner wall surface 23 Circumferential rim

[0091] 6 Proximal opening 24 Laboratory automation apparatus

[0092] 7 Distal opening 25 Assembly

[0093] 8 Proximal connector 35 26 Stop surface

[0094] 9 Proximal section 27 Stop surface

[0095] 10 Distal section 28 Robotic arm

[0096] 11 Pipettor 29 Work surface

[0097] 12 Distal connector 30 Controller

[0098] 13 Pipetting tip 40 31 Pressure reservoir

[0099] 13a Different pipetting tip 32 Vacuum reservoir

[0100] 14 First connecting feature 33 Valve

[0101] 15 Second connecting feature 34 Chamber

[0102] 16 First corresponding connecting 35 Plunger feature 45 36 Drive

[0103] 17 Second corresponding connecting 37 Syringe feature 38 Recess

[0104] 18 Proximal tubular connector 39 Flange

[0105] 18a Outer surface proximal tubular 40 Footprint tubular connector 18b connector 50 41 Footprint tubular connector 18a

[0106] 18b Inner surface proximal tubular connector

Claims

CLAIMS1. A pipetting tip connector (1) comprising: a sleeve (2) with a wall providing a bore (3) connecting a proximal opening (6) to a distal opening (7), the wall comprising an outer surface (4) and an inner surface (5), a proximal connector (8) located at a proximal section (9) of the sleeve (2) configured for connecting to a pipettor (11), a distal connector (12) located at a distal section (10) of the sleeve (2) configured for connecting to a pipetting tip (13), characterized in that the distal connector (12) comprises two different and distinct connecting features (14,15), integrally formed with the sleeve, each for connecting to one of two different and distinct corresponding connecting features (16,17) on two different pipetting tips (13, 13a), wherein the outer surface (4) of the distal connector (12) comprises a first connecting feature (14) and the inner surface (5) of the distal connector (12) comprises a second connecting feature (15).

2. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claim 1 wherein the first connecting feature (14) is configured for connecting to a first corresponding connecting feature (16) on an inner surface of a proximal tubular connector (18) of the pipetting tip (13), and the second connecting feature (15) is configured for connecting to a second corresponding connecting feature (17) on an outer surface of a proximal tubular connector (18) of the different pipetting tip (13a).

3. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the first and second connecting features (14,15) on the distal connector (12) are configured for connecting to the first and second corresponding connecting features (16,17) on the pipetting tips (13, 13a) in a press-fit engagement.

4. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the first and second connecting features (14,15) on the distal connector (12) are configured for connecting to the first and second corresponding connecting features (16,17) on the pipetting tips (13, 13a) in a form-fit engagement.

5. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claim 4 wherein the pipetting tip connector includes an O-ring and a mechanism for compressing and radially expanding the O-ring.

6. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to any of the previous claims wherein the sleeve (2) is a rigid longitudinal sleeve defining a longitudinal sleeve axis.

7. The pipetting tip connector ( 1 ) according to claim 6 wherein the sleeve (2) is a cylindrical sleeve.

8. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claim 7, wherein the second connecting feature (15) comprises a cylindrical inner surface (19) on the distal sleeve section (10) for surrounding the outer surface (18a) of the proximal tubular connector (18) of the different pipetting tip (13a).

9. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claim 8, wherein the cylindrical inner surface (19) comprises an inlet section (20) at the distal end.

10. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claim 9, wherein the distal connector comprises a sealing surface (21,22) on the inside of the distal sleeve section (10).

11. The pipetting tip connector (1) according to claim 10 wherein the inlet section (20) comprises the sealing surface (21).

12. The pipetting tip connector according to any of the previous claims wherein the first connecting feature (14) of the distal connector (12) comprises at least one circumferential rim extending radially outwards from the outer surface (4) for connecting to an inner surface (18b) of the proximal tubular connector (18) of the pipetting tip (13).

13. A laboratory automation apparatus (24) or a handheld pipette comprising the pipetting tip connector (1) according to any of the previous claims.

14. A kit of parts comprising the pipetting tip connector (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 12 and a pipettor (11).

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