DE102024110141A1 - Fixable pusher device for an analysis device - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (100), in particular a sample handling device for an analysis device (10), is described, the device (100) comprising:i) an object handling device (110), in particular a robot arm, configured to handle an object, in particular an analytical sample;ii) a needle (150), in particular a sample needle, which is coupled to the object handling device (110), in particular fixedly;iii) a movable element (120), in particular a pusher device, which is movably coupled to the object handling device (110), wherein the movable element (120) is at least partially movable with respect to the coupled needle (150); andiv) a fixing mechanism (130) configured to fix the movable element (120) in at least one position.

Description

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a device, in particular a sample handling device for an analysis device, the device comprising: an object handling device configured to handle an object, a needle coupled to the object handling device, a movable element movably coupled to the object handling device, and a fixing mechanism configured to fix the movable element in at least one position. The invention further relates to a corresponding method.

Analysis devices such as sample separation devices are intended for the analysis of a sample, in particular a fluid sample, e.g. for carrying out a chromatographic separation of the sample.

In an HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) analysis device, for example, a liquid (mobile phase) is moved through a so-called stationary phase (for example in a chromatographic column) at a very precisely controlled flow rate (for example in the range of microliters to milliliters per minute) and at a high pressure (typically 20 to 1000 bar and beyond, currently up to 2000 bar), at which the compressibility of the liquid can be noticeable, in order to separate individual fractions of a sample liquid introduced into the mobile phase. After passing through the stationary phase, the separated fractions of the fluidic sample are detected in a detector. Such an HPLC system is known, for example, from the EP0,309,596B1 by the same applicant, Agilent Technologies, Inc.

In order to introduce a (fluidic) sample into such an analysis device, a robot arm is usually used to which a sample needle is attached. In this way, a high degree of automation and a high level of accuracy can be achieved. In order to ensure that the sample needle can be easily removed from a sample container (e.g. a vial) (the sensitive sample needle can get stuck), a stripping device is usually used, which ensures that the sample container is reliably stripped and is not taken or lifted by the sample needle. Such a stripping device is also referred to as a pusher device or stripper device. A pusher device is used, for example, in WO 2021/171232 A1 described.

In known applications, such a (vial) pusher device is used passively (without its own drive device, e.g. spring-loaded) or actively driven (with its own drive). A passive pusher device is, for example, only deflected in the vertical direction (Z-axis) by the drive of the associated robot arm. An active pusher device, on the other hand, has its own drive and can be positioned and held at any position within the movement path. This means that when using an active pusher device, it is possible to carry out additional functions with robotics. The disadvantage of an active pusher device, however, is the additional costs and space required for an additional drive.

EPIPHANY

There may be a need to use a sample handling device of an analytical device efficiently, cost-effectively, and flexibly.

The object is achieved by means of the independent claims. Further embodiments are shown in the dependent claims.

• i) eine Objekthandhabungsvorrichtung (z.B. ein Roboterarm), eingerichtet zum Handhaben (Transportieren, Bewegen, Probe aufnehmen/abgeben) eines Objekts, insbesondere einer analytischen (fluidischen) Probe.
• ii) eine Nadel (Probennadel), die mit der Objekthandhabungsvorrichtung gekoppelt ist (insbesondere fest gekoppelt bzw. fixiert ist).
• iii) ein bewegliches Element (insbesondere eine Pusher-Vorrichtung), das mit der Objekthandhabungsvorrichtung beweglich gekoppelt ist (insbesondere einen Rückstellmechanismus aufweist), wobei das bewegliche Element zumindest teilweise bezüglich der (fest) gekoppelten Nadel beweglich ist.
• iv) einen (lösbaren) Fixiermechanismus (z.B. ein Magnet, etc.), der eingerichtet ist das bewegliche Element in zumindest einer Position zu fixieren (insbesondere eingerichtet diese Fixierung wieder zu lösen).

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a device is described, in particular a sample handling device for an analysis device (eg an HPLC), the device comprising:

• i) an object handling device (e.g. a robotic arm) adapted to handle (transport, move, pick up/dispense sample) an object, in particular an analytical (fluidic) sample.
• ii) a needle (sampling needle) coupled to the object handling device (in particular firmly coupled or fixed).
• iii) a movable element (in particular a pusher device) which is movably coupled to the object handling device (in particular having a return mechanism), wherein the movable element is at least partially movable with respect to the (fixedly) coupled needle.
• iv) a (releasable) fixing mechanism (e.g. a magnet, etc.) which is designed to fix the movable element in at least one position (in particular designed to release this fixation again).

• i) (bewegliches) Koppeln eines beweglichen Elements, insbesondere einer Pusher-Vorrichtung, mit einer Objekthandhabungsvorrichtung, die mit einer Nadel gekoppelt ist, so dass das bewegliche Element zumindest teilweise bezüglich der gekoppelten Nadel beweglich ist, und ii) (reversibles) Fixieren des beweglichen Elements in zumindest einer Position.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method is described comprising:

• i) (movable) coupling of a movable element, in particular a pusher device device, with an object handling device coupled to a needle such that the movable element is at least partially movable with respect to the coupled needle, and ii) (reversibly) fixing the movable element in at least one position.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a sampler (or sample chamber) for an analysis device is described, wherein the sampler comprises a device as described above.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an analysis device (e.g. an HPLC) is described for carrying out an analysis method (e.g. a sample separation in a chromatographic column), the analysis device comprising: a device or a sample dispenser as described above.

In the context of this document, the term "sample handling device" can be understood in particular as a device that is suitable for handling a (fluidic) sample and/or a sample container (which is designed to store a fluidic sample). Such a sample handling device can be located in a sampler of an analysis device. The sample handling device can have a drive (e.g. an electric motor) to move an object handling device in one or more spatial directions. In particular, the object handling device can be set up to be moved in the vertical direction in order to pick up the sample and release it again after transport (by means of a sample needle).

In the context of the present document, the term "movable element" may in particular refer to a part of the (sample handling) device that can be moved in relation to the object handling device and accordingly also relative to the needle. Preferably, the movable element is a passive element that is only indirectly moved by moving the object handling device (and does not have its own motor). In one embodiment, the movable element is realized as a pusher device that is movable in particular in relation to the (fixed) needle (and independently of the needle). In one embodiment, a part of the pusher device is at least partially arranged around the needle in order to strip a sample container from which the needle takes a sample. In a further embodiment, the pusher device has a return mechanism (e.g. a spring) that moves the pusher device back to an initial position (e.g. by means of a bar coupled to the spring).

In the context of the present document, the term "drive" or "drive device" may in particular refer to a device suitable for supplying a driving force to the object handling device or the movable element. In one example, the drive device may be configured to move a robot arm in a sampler space. In particular, the drive device may be configured to move the robot arm in a vertical direction (up and down). In a preferred embodiment, the driving force may be increased when the object handling device (in particular a part of the movable element) is pressed against an object (preferably a part of the movable element is pressed against the surface). The drive device may, for example, comprise a motor, such as an electric motor.

In the context of the present document, the term "fixing mechanism" can refer in particular to an element, a device, or a functionality that is configured to fix the movable element in a certain position or to release this fixation again. For fixing, for example, a holding force can be provided to (a part of) the movable element in order to thereby hold the movable element in place (in the desired position). In one embodiment, the fixing is a releasable or reversible coupling. In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism is configured such that only two states (bistable) can be possible: holding and non-holding. Such a fixing mechanism can be set up, for example, with a magnet that exerts a releasable holding force on the movable element in a certain desired position.

In a preferred embodiment, the fixing mechanism may comprise fixing and releasing the fixing. This may be the same mechanism (e.g. push-push) or a different mechanism (e.g. sticking and peeling).

In the context of this document, the term "fluid" is understood to mean in particular a liquid and/or a gas, optionally containing solid particles. The term "fluid sample" is understood to mean in particular a medium, more particularly a liquid, which contains the material actually to be analyzed (for example a biological sample), such as a protein solution, a pharmaceutical sample, etc.

In the context of this document, the term "mobile phase" is understood to mean in particular a fluid, more particularly a liquid, which serves as a carrier medium for transporting the fluidic sample between a fluid drive and a sample separation device. However, the mobile phase can also be used in a fluid conveying device to influence the fluidic sample. For example, the mobile phase can be a solvent (for example organic and/or inorganic) or a solvent composition (for example water and ethanol).

In the context of the present document, the term "analysis device" can in particular refer to a device that is capable and configured to examine a fluidic sample, in particular to separate it, further in particular to separate it into different fractions. For example, such sample separation can be carried out by means of chromatography or electrophoresis. The analysis device can preferably be a liquid chromatography sample separation device.

In the context of the present application, the term "sample needle" can be understood in particular as a hollow body with a lumen or through-hole through which a fluidic sample can be guided. In particular, a fluidic sample can be introduced into a sample handling device (for example sucked in) and/or guided out of a sample handling device (for example ejected) through the lumen or through-hole. A sample needle can be elongated and rotationally symmetrical and can therefore have an axis of symmetry.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the invention can be based on the idea that a sample handling device of an analysis device can be used efficiently, cost-effectively and flexibly if a movable element (which is movable in relation to an object handling device (a robot arm) and a needle coupled thereto) is fixed in one or more (desired) positions by means of a fixing mechanism, in particular where the movable element is a passive element or does not have its own drive. In other words, if a passive pusher device is locked in one or more positions, the same possibilities and advantages can arise as with an active pusher device with its own drive; but without an additional drive and the corresponding expenditure.

A mechanical locking mechanism of the pusher device can, for example, trigger or release the locking mechanism by moving to a certain position within the sample feeder space (using the robot arm). The fixing mechanism can, for example, be designed as a push-push mechanism, magnetic, or via a lever mechanism and can be triggered in any axis of movement. In one example, the locking/locking mechanism is triggered by a movement in the rotation axis of the robot arm, but can also be triggered by movement in the Z axis.

In an exemplary embodiment, a pusher device can be fixed in a respective axial position (in relation to the needle). Preferably, no active element such as a drive is used, so that the pusher device is moved purely "passively". According to the invention, a mechanism can be provided to lock the axial position of the pusher device in at least one axial position that differs, for example, from the starting position, for example so that the needle protrudes from the pusher device. This can enable certain specific functionalities of the pusher device and/or the needle.

EXEMPLARY IMPLEMENTATION EXAMPLES

In one embodiment, the movable element is a passive element, in particular one that is free from a drive, in particular a motor. In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism is a passive mechanism, in particular one that is free from the drive. In one embodiment of the method, the movable element is moved freely from a drive. In one embodiment of the method, the fixing is carried out freely from the drive. This allows costs, space and effort to be saved.

In the context of this document, the term "passive device" can be understood in particular as a device which is set up to fix/release a movable element such as a pusher device without an active drive or a (direct) coupling to an active drive. In particular, the device does not have such a drive or such a drive coupling or is free of it. The term "drive" can refer to a device which is suitable for providing a physical, in particular mechanical, force. The drive can preferably be an electric motor.

In one embodiment, the at least one fixed position of the movable element comprises at least one of the following: an initial position, a starting position, an end position, a needle-exposing position. Different positions may be used for different This can be particularly useful for certain applications. This allows the sample handling device to be used much more flexibly. For example, fixing it in the starting position can enable efficient calibration (see 3A to 3D ). In another example, exposing the sample needle can enable interesting applications such as transporting sample containers with the sample needle.

In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism is designed to fix (and release) the movable element in two or more positions. This allows the operation of the sample handling device to be particularly flexible and efficient. In one embodiment, a step-by-step change or a stepless change is possible between the two or more positions. Depending on the design of the fixing mechanism, several defined fixing positions can be provided, or stepless fixing is possible, which also allows fine adjustments to be made.

In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism comprises at least one of the following: a latching, an unlatching, a retracting, an extending, a pushing in, a pushing out, a plugging, an unplugging, an adhering, a filing, a clamping, a clamping out, a deflecting, a steering, a push-push mechanism, a lever mechanism, an application of a magnetic attraction force, an application of an electromagnetic attraction force.

These are just a few illustrative examples, a variety of possibilities can be implemented to implement efficient and reliable fixation (but also a release of this fixation).

Here, special attention can be paid to differentiating between triggering/activating the fixation and the reverse of this, i.e. releasing the fixation. The same mechanism could be used for both (e.g. push-push), but this does not necessarily have to be the case. For example, a distinction can be made between i) fixation by gluing (e.g. Velcro) or adhering (e.g. magnet) and ii) releasing this fixation by a pulling or pushing force. In other words: fixing and releasing can be the same mechanism or a different mechanism.

In one embodiment, locking positions (e.g. on the robot arm or object handling device) can be provided. In one embodiment, a fixing pin can be pushed in (and pulled out again). In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism can be activated electrically, e.g. by means of an electromagnet. In one embodiment, a part of the movable element can be retracted into a fixing position (and extended again).

In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism comprises a holding element, in particular which comprises at least one of the following: a magnet, an electromagnet, a spring, a clicker, a suction cup, a Velcro tape, a reusable adhesive, a friction fit, a fixing pin, a hook, a latch, a Velcro tape.

These are just a few illustrative examples, a variety of possibilities can be implemented to implement an efficient and reliable fixation (but also a release of this fixation) using one or more holding elements. Fixation using a holding force H and release using a pressure force Z, which counteracts the holding force H, is clearly shown for the example of a magnet in the 2A and 3A-3D Furthermore, a plurality of holding elements (e.g. one above the other in a vertical direction) can be provided in order to provide several fixing positions.

In one embodiment, the device comprises: a positioning element that specifies one or more positions for fixing the movable element, in particular in the vertical direction. This can have the advantage that two or more fixing positions can be provided coupled to one another. The positions can be provided in steps or continuously. In an illustrative example, several magnets can be arranged one above the other in the vertical direction, whereby each magnet can then represent a fixing position. In the position to be fixed, for example, the corresponding magnet can be pushed towards the movable element in order to establish the fixation (see e.g. the illustration in 2 B) To release this fixation, the magnet can be pushed away from the movable element. In another example, a magnet can be moved in a vertical direction, thereby enabling a stepless fixation.

In one embodiment, the fixing mechanism can be triggered (and released again) by means of at least one of the following: automatically, manually, by hand, via a control device, mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically. These are just a few examples; a variety of implementations are possible, with the choice can also depend on the desired application.

In one embodiment, the movable element comprises a pusher device (or a (sample container) pushing device) (see definition above). In one embodiment, the pusher device comprises: a guide structure which is arranged at least partially around the needle. This allows the sensitive needle to be reliably protected. In one example, the needle is not exposed in the starting position and is enclosed by the guide structure (at least partially, e.g. as rod-shaped elements).

In one embodiment, the pusher device (or the guide structure) has a closure element with an opening through which the needle can be guided (in an aligned manner). This allows the needle to be exposed quickly and efficiently during use (e.g. sample collection).

In one embodiment, the needle is at least partially exposed in at least one fixed position of the movable element. This is clearly shown, for example, in 2 B shown: the movable element is deflected and the needle is guided through the opening of the movable element and exposed. In this position, the movable element can now be fixed so that the needle remains exposed.

In one embodiment, the device is set up so that the at least partially exposed needle can be used to transport an object, in particular a sample container and/or a filter element. For this specific application, a disadvantage of sample reception is redesigned as an advantage: without a pusher device that strips the sample container, there is a high probability that the sample needle will "get stuck" in the sample container. Interestingly, however, this circumstance can also be used advantageously to transport the sample container with the needle. This can make an additional gripper device for transporting sample containers obsolete. Furthermore, this application can overcome sample carryover. In one example, corresponding sample containers can be designed without a septum. In another application, the (exposed) sample needle can be used to push a (dirty) sample through a filter.

In one embodiment, the movable element is movably coupled to the object handling device by means of a flexible element, in particular a spring element. The flexible element can provide a restoring force so that the movable device is moved back to the starting position after being deflected. In this way, an active drive for the pusher device can be dispensed with.

In one embodiment, the movable element is configured to return to an original position after each movement (or deflection). In one embodiment, the flexible element is designed to always move the movable element back to the original position. This can be implemented, for example, with a spring element as described above.

In one embodiment, the guide structure is coupled to a lever element. In one embodiment, the lever element is coupled to the flexible element. This allows the deflection or resetting to be implemented efficiently and reliably.

In one embodiment, the object handling device is configured to move the needle to at least one of the following: a start position, a sample container, a sample pick-up position, a needle seat, a needle washing device, a sample injection. Thus, important functionalities related to analytical devices can be fulfilled directly by the (sample handling) device. Each of these applications can also serve as the object onto which the device is pressed.

In one embodiment, the sample container comprises at least one of: a vial, a bottle, a sample bottle, a sample tube, a micro reaction vessel, a (micro) titer plate, a deep well plate. In one example, the sample container may be any device suitable for directly or indirectly storing a (fluidic) sample.

In one embodiment, the object handling device is configured as a robot arm, in particular with a drive provided on an extremity of the robot arm. Appropriately configured robot arms are established in the area of the sample dispenser, so that simple implementation can be enabled.

In one embodiment, the device is designed as at least one of the following: a sample handling device, a dosing device, a pipetting device, an injection device, a transport device, in particular for transporting sample containers. Thus, the described disclosure can be directly applied for a variety of technically and economically important purposes.

In one embodiment, a fixing position can be at (approximately) a quarter, half or three quarters of the deflection of the movable element. Distances to the starting position can be eg 10 mm or more, in particular 25 mm or more. In one embodiment, two or more, in particular three or more, further in particular five or more, fixing positions are provided.

According to one embodiment, the analysis device is designed as a sample separation device. According to one embodiment, the analysis device has a fluid drive for driving a mobile phase and a fluidic sample injected into the mobile phase. According to one embodiment, the analysis device has a sample separation device for separating the fluidic sample injected into the mobile phase. According to one embodiment, the analysis device is configured to analyze at least one physical, chemical and/or biological parameter of the fluidic sample. According to one embodiment, the analysis device is configured as a sample separation device for separating the fluidic sample.

In the context of the present application, the term "sample separation device" can be understood in particular as a device for analyzing a fluidic sample, in particular into different fractions. For this purpose, components of the fluidic sample can first be adsorbed on the sample separation device and then desorbed separately (in particular fractionally). For example, such a sample separation device can be designed as a chromatographic separation column.

According to one embodiment, the analysis device is a chromatography device, in particular a liquid chromatography device, a gas chromatography device, an SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography) device or an HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) device.

According to one embodiment, the analysis device is configured as a microfluidic device. According to one embodiment, the analysis device is configured as a nanofluidic device.

According to one embodiment, the sample separation device is designed as a chromatographic separation device, in particular as a chromatography separation column.

According to one embodiment, the fluid drive is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluidic sample under high pressure.

According to one embodiment, the fluid drive is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluidic sample with a pressure of at least 500 bar, in particular of at least 1000 bar, further in particular of at least 1200 bar.

According to one embodiment, the analysis device has a detector for detecting the analyzed, in particular separated, fluidic sample.

According to one embodiment, the analysis device comprises a fractionator for fractionating separate fractions of the fluidic sample.

The analytical device can be a microfluidic instrument, a life science instrument, a liquid chromatography instrument, a gas chromatography instrument, an HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography), a UHPLC system or an SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography) instrument. However, many other applications are possible.

According to one embodiment, the sample separation device can be designed as a chromatographic separation device, in particular as a chromatography separation column. In a chromatographic separation, the chromatography separation column can be provided with an adsorption medium. The fluidic sample can be held on this and only subsequently detached again fractionally in the presence of a specific solvent composition, whereby the separation of the sample into its fractions is accomplished.

A pumping system for conveying fluid can, for example, be designed to convey the fluid or the mobile phase through the system at a high pressure, for example several 100 bar up to 1000 bar and more.

The analysis device can have a sample injector for introducing the sample into the fluidic separation path. Such a sample injector can have a sample or injection needle that can be coupled to a needle seat in a corresponding fluid path, wherein the sample needle can be moved out of this needle seat to take up sample. After reinserting the sample needle into the needle seat, the sample can be located in a fluid path that can be switched into the separation path of the system, for example by switching a valve. In another embodiment of the invention, a sample injector or sampler be used with a sample needle that is operated without a needle seat.

According to one embodiment, the needle arrangement can have a sample receiving volume, in particular a sample loop, which is fluidically coupled to the sample needle. This can be understood in particular as a capillary piece, in the interior of which a receiving volume is formed for receiving a defined amount of fluidic sample.

The analysis device can have a fraction collector for collecting the separated components. Such a fraction collector can, for example, lead the different components of the separated sample into different liquid containers. The analyzed sample can also be fed to a drain container.

Preferably, the analysis device may comprise a detector for detecting the separated components. Such a detector may generate a signal which may be observed and/or recorded and which is indicative of the presence and amount of the sample components in the fluid flowing through the system.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

• 1 zeigt eine Analysevorrichtung, gemäß einem exemplarischen Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• Die 2A und 2B zeigen jeweils eine Probenhandhabungsvorrichtung, gemäß exemplarischen Ausführungsbeispielen der Erfindung.
• Die 3A bis 3D zeigen den Einsatz einer Probenhandhabungsvorrichtung, gemäß einem exemplarischen Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.

Other objects and many of the attendant advantages of embodiments of the present invention will be readily appreciated and better understood by reference to the following more detailed description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Features that are substantially or functionally the same or similar are designated by the same reference numerals.

• 1 shows an analysis device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
• The 2A and 2 B each show a sample handling device according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.
• The 3A to 3D show the use of a sample handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The representation in the drawing is schematic.

1 shows the basic structure of an HPLC system as an example of an analysis device 10 designed as a sample separation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as can be used for liquid chromatography, for example. A fluid conveyor or a fluid drive 20, which is supplied with solvents from a feed device 25, drives a mobile phase through a sample separation device 30 (such as a chromatographic column) that contains a stationary phase. The feed device 25 comprises a first fluid component source for providing a first fluid or a first solvent component A (for example water) and a second fluid component source for providing another second fluid or a second solvent component B (for example an organic solvent). An optional degasser 27 can degas the solvents provided by means of the first fluid component source and by means of the second fluid component source before they are fed to the fluid drive 20.

A sampler 40, which can also be referred to as an injector, is arranged between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 in order to first take a sample liquid or a fluidic sample from a sample container 180 into a sample receiving volume in an injector path 195 (shown only schematically), and then to introduce it into a fluidic separation path between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 by switching an injection valve of the injector 40 at a mixing point 45. The fluidic sample can be taken from the sample container 180 in particular by moving a sample needle 150 out and into the sample container 180, by means of a fluid conveying device designed as a dosing device, fluidic sample is sucked from the sample container 180 through the sample needle 150 into the sample receiving volume 151, and the sample needle 150 is then retracted again. The sample needle 150 is fixed, the retraction and extension refers to the pusher device (movable element).

The stationary phase of the sample separation device 30 is intended to separate components of the sample. A detector 50, which can have a flow cell, detects separated components of the sample. A fractionation device or fractionator 60 can be provided to dispense separated components of the sample into containers provided for this purpose. Liquids that are no longer required can be dispensed into a drain container or waste line.

While a fluid path between the fluid drive 20 and the sample separation device 30 is typically under high pressure, the sample liquid is first fed under normal pressure into a from the liquid path, namely the sample loop or the sample receiving volume 151, of the sample application unit or the injector 40. The sample liquid is then introduced into the high-pressure separation path. A sample loop as a sample receiving volume (also referred to as a sample loop) can be understood as a section of a fluid line that is designed to receive or temporarily store a predetermined amount of fluid sample. Preferably, before the sample liquid in the sample receiving volume 151, which is initially under normal pressure, is connected to the high-pressure separation path, the contents of the sample receiving volume 151 are brought to the system pressure of the analysis device 10 designed as an HPLC by means of a dosing device in the form of the fluid conveying device. A control device 70 controls the individual components 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 90, etc., of the analysis device 10.

The sample is injected into a needle seat 190 which is connected to a mixing position 45 via the sample injection path 195. Prior to injection, the sample is stored in a sample container 180. A sample handling device 100 is used to i) collect the sample from the sample container 180, ii) move the sample towards the needle seat 190 and iii) inject the sample into the sample injection path 195.

The sample handling device 100 comprises an object handling device 110, here a robot arm, for handling/moving the fluidic sample. For this purpose, a sample needle 150 (possibly further coupled to a sample receiving volume, such as a sample loop 151) is firmly coupled to the object handling device 110. By means of a drive device 140, such as a motor, the sample handling device 100 can be moved within the sample dispenser 40 in all three spatial directions (x, y, z).

In particular, the drive device 140 is configured to provide a drive force Z to the object handling device 110 to drive the object handling device 110 in the vertical direction (along the Z axis). This allows the sample needle 150 to be moved (vertically) into and out of the sample container 180. Furthermore, the sample needle 150 can be moved (vertically) into and out of the needle seat 190.

In order to enable efficient and reliable movement of the sample needle 150 out of the sample container 180, the sample handling device 100 has a movable element 120 which is movably coupled to the object handling device 110, such that the movable element 120 is at least partially movable in relation to the fixedly coupled needle 150. The movable element 120 comprises, for example, a pusher device for pushing the sample container 180 out after the sample has been taken out of the sample container 180.

The 2A and 2 B each show a sample handling device 100 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.

2A shows a side view of a sample handling device 100 according to an embodiment. In this side view, a holding element 130 is visible, which is arranged on the underside of the object handling device 110 near the sample needle 150. The holding element 130 acts in this example as a fixing mechanism and holds the movable element 120 (here a pusher device) in the starting position in relation to the object handling device 110 by a holding force H. The holding element 130 is configured to hold the movable element 120 in a bistable state (either a stable or a metastable state) by the holding force H.

When the object handling device 110 is moved (by the drive device 140) in the vertical direction onto a surface (in particular, the upper surface of a sample container 180) and pressed onto this surface, the movable element 120 (which here is a passive device without its own drive) is moved by the pressing force (in fact, a part of the movable element 120 (the lower region of the guide structure 122) is pressed onto the surface).

In the side view, it can also be seen that the movable element 120 essentially has three sub-elements: guide structure 122, spring element 125, and lever element 126. The guide structure 122 is partially arranged around the fixed sample needle 150 (e.g. in the form of several rods). At the lower area of the guide structure 122, a closing element is provided, which has an opening 121. This opening 121 is intended so that the tip of the sample needle 150 can move through. This can also serve to align the sample needle 150. The pusher device 120 can be moved relative to the (fixed) sample needle 150, so that the sample needle 140 can be guided out through the opening 121 and also back in again. The guide structure 122 (in particular the closing element) are intended for the actual stripping of the sample container 180 (after sampling).

Furthermore, the movable element 120 has the lever element 126, which movably couples the guide structure 122 to the object handling device 110. If the guide structure 122 is pressed onto an object (such as the sample container) 180 by means of the robot arm 110, the guide structure 122 (supported by the lever element 126) is moved upwards (deflected), whereby the sample needle 150 is guided through the opening 121 and exposed.

Finally, the spring element 125 couples the lever element 126 and the object handling device 110 in such a way that a restoring force S is provided. This pulls the guide structure 122 and the lever element 126 back to the starting position as soon as the pressure from the drive device 140 decreases. During this restoring, the sample needle 150 (after the sample has been taken) is retracted through the opening 121. The movable element 120 (in particular the guide structure 122) now acts as a stripping device for the sample container 180.

2 B shows another side view of a sample handling device 100 according to an embodiment. This example is similar to that of 2A very similar, showing a deflected state of the movable device 120. The guide structure 122 and the lever element 126 coupled thereto have been pushed upwards and the (fixed) sample needle 150 has been pushed through the opening 121 and is now exposed for sample collection. It is indicated that the spring element 125 will pull the guide structure 122 and the lever element 126 back to the starting position by means of the restoring force S as soon as no more pressure is exerted in the Z direction (by the drive 140, which presses the robot arm 110 downwards onto the sample container 180).

The fixing mechanism 130 is 2 B but designed differently than 2A . In 2 B Two different fixing mechanisms 130 are shown schematically, none of which fixes the movable element 120 in the starting position as is the case with 2A is the case. A first fixing mechanism 130 is designed as a holding element, eg a latch, which fixes or locks the lever arm 126 in the deflected position (eg by pushing it in). A second fixing mechanism 130 is designed as a fixing element 131 with a plurality of fixing positions. It is shown schematically that this fixing element 131 is mounted like a rod next to the movable element. Along the rod (in the vertical direction) there are several fixing positions at which the movable element 120 can be fixed.

In the example shown, the guide structure 122 is fixed at the uppermost fixing position, e.g. with a magnet, a latch, etc. This can allow flexible locking in the desired position. It can be advantageous to fix the movable element 120 as shown in a position in which the sample needle 150 is exposed. For example, the sample needle 150 can be used in a special application to transport sample containers 180.

The 3A to 3D show in detail the use of a sample handling device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

3A shows a sample handling device 100 as for 2 already described, which is placed above a sample container 180. It is also shown that the lever element 126 of the movable element 120 is arranged (essentially) parallel to the robot arm 110. In the movable element 120, the lever element 126 is coupled to the guide structure 122, which is responsible for the actual stripping of the sample container 180. It can be seen that pressing the guide structure 122 (by the drive 140 of the robot arm 110) onto the upper main surface of the sample container 180 can move the guide structure 122 together with the lever element 126 upwards (in the vertical direction). The lever element 126 is coupled to the object handling device 110 by a spring element 125, so that the movable element 120 moves back to its original position by means of a restoring force provided by the spring element 125 as soon as the pressure on the sample container 180 (by means of the drive 140 of the robot arm 110) decreases/stops.

3B : The drive device 140 now moves the object handling device or the robot arm 110 with the drive force Z in the vertical direction z downwards in the direction of the sample container 180. In this example, the fixing mechanism is designed as a holding element 130 (here, for example, a magnet) which fixes the movable element 120 in place, i.e. in the starting position. The holding force H is greater than the drive force Z. The movable element 120 therefore does not move and the pressure increases.

3C : The driving force Z is now increased, and it can be seen in the detailed view that the driving force Z overcomes the holding force H: the movable element 120 is moved away from the holding element 130 and the fixing mechanism is This departure can happen suddenly and at a certain driving force, whereby the exact break-off area/point can be measured by the electrical current applied to the driving device 140. This exact break-off area/point can be used for calibration, for example.

3D : After releasing the fixing mechanism 130, the sample handling device 100 functions as described above: The sample needle 150 is guided through an opening 121 of the guide structure 122 of the movable element 120 (and thereby aligned) and finally introduced into the sample container 180 for receiving the sample. The movable element 120 is moved relative to the object handling device 110 and the sample needle 150: the guide structure 122 is pressed upwards together with the lever element 126 coupled to it. In the absence of the driving force Z (when no more downward pressure is exerted), the restoring force S (triggered by the spring element 125) moves the movable element 120 back to its original position or starting position. The fixing mechanism 130 can grip again and fix the movable element 120 in this starting position.

In other words, it is shown that a magnet 130 (or other initial resistance) is used to create a hysteresis that locks/holds the movable element 120/126 and only releases it again once a defined force Z in the z-direction is reached. The current of the drive 140 can be monitored to determine the time or the current z-position when the movable element 120 is released from the rigid arm section 110.

[0097] Reference numerals

10

Analysis device

20

Fluid drive

25

Feeding device

27

Degasser

30

Sample separation device

40

Sampler, injector

50

detector

60

Fractionator

70

Control device

100

Sample handling device

110

object handling device, robot arm

120

Movable element, pusher device

121

Passage opening

122

Management structure

125

Flexible element, spring element

126

Lever element

130

Fixing mechanism, holding element

131

Fixing positions

140

drive

150

Sample needle

151

Sample volume

180

Sample container, vial

190

Needle seat

195

Injection path

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0309596 B1 [0003]
• WO 2021171232 A1 [0004]

Claims (20)

A device (100), in particular a sample handling device for an analysis device (10), the device (100) comprising: an object handling device (110), in particular a robot arm, configured to handle an object, in particular an analytical sample; a needle (150), in particular a sample needle, which is coupled to the object handling device (110), in particular fixedly; a movable element (120), in particular a pusher device, which is movably coupled to the object handling device (110), wherein the movable element (120) is at least partially movable with respect to the coupled needle (150); and a fixing mechanism (130) configured to fix the movable element (120) in at least one position, in particular in at least two positions. The device (100) according to Claim 1 , wherein the movable element (120) is a passive element, in particular which is free from a drive (140), in particular a motor; and/or wherein the fixing mechanism (130) is a passive mechanism, in particular which is free from the drive (140). The device (100) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the at least one fixed position of the movable element (120) comprises at least one of the following: an origin position, a starting position, an end position, a needle-exposing position. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing mechanism (130) is designed to fix the movable element (120) in two or more positions, wherein a step-by-step change or a stepless change is possible between the two or more positions. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing mechanism (130) comprises at least one of the following: a latching, a retracting, a sliding in, a plugging in, an adhesion, a clamping, a deflection, a push-push mechanism, a lever mechanism, a magnetic attraction force, an electromagnetic attraction force. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixation mechanism (130) comprises a retaining element comprising at least one of the following: a magnet, an electromagnet, a spring, a clicker, a suction cup, a Velcro strap, a reusable adhesive, a friction fit, a fixation pin, a hook. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: a positioning element which specifies one or more positions for fixing the movable element (130), in particular in the vertical direction. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing mechanism (130) can be triggered by means of at least one of the following: automatically, manually, by hand, via a control device, mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable element (120) comprises a pusher device, and wherein the pusher device comprises: a guide structure (122) which is arranged at least partially around the needle (150), in particular wherein the pusher device comprises a closing element with an opening (121) through which the needle (150) can be guided. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the needle (150) is at least partially exposed in at least one fixed position of the movable element (130). The device (100) according to Claim 10 , wherein the device (100) is configured such that the at least partially exposed needle (150) can be used to transport an object, in particular a sample container (180) and/or a filter element. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable element (130) is movably coupled to the object handling device (110) by means of a flexible element (125), in particular a spring, in particular wherein the coupling has a lever element (126); and/or wherein the movable element (120) is configured to return to an original position after each movement; and/or wherein the flexible element (125) is configured to always move the movable element (120) back to the original position. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the object handling device (110) is arranged to move the needle (150) to at least one of the following: a start position, a sample container ter (180), a sample receiving position, a needle seat, a needle washing device, a sample injection. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the object handling device (110) is configured as a robot arm, in particular wherein a drive (140) is provided on an extremity of the robot arm. The device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (100) is designed as at least one of the following: a sample handling device, a dosing device, a pipetting device, an injection device, a transport device, in particular for transporting sample containers. A sample dispenser (40) for an analysis device (10), wherein the sample dispenser (40) comprises a device (100) according to one of the preceding claims. An analysis device (10) for carrying out an analysis method, the analysis device (10) comprising: a device (100) or a sample dispenser (40) according to one of the preceding claims. The analysis device (10) according to Claim 17 , further comprising at least one of the following features: the analysis device (10) is designed as a sample separation device; the analysis device (10) has a fluid drive (20) for driving a mobile phase and a fluidic sample injected into the mobile phase; the analysis device (10) has a sample separation device (30) for separating the fluidic sample injected into the mobile phase; the analysis device (10) is configured to analyze at least one physical, chemical and/or biological parameter of the fluidic sample; the analysis device (10) is configured as a sample separation device for separating the fluidic sample; the analysis device (10) is a chromatography device, in particular a liquid chromatography device, a gas chromatography device, an SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography) device or an HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) device; the analysis device (10) is configured as a microfluidic device; the analysis device (10) is configured as a nanofluidic device; the sample separation device (30) is designed as a chromatographic separation device, in particular as a chromatography separation column; the fluid drive (20) is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluidic sample under high pressure; the fluid drive (20) is configured to drive the mobile phase and the fluidic sample with a pressure of at least 500 bar, in particular of at least 1000 bar, further in particular of at least 1200 bar; the analysis device (10) has a detector (50) for detecting the analyzed, in particular separated, fluidic sample; the analysis device (10) has a fractionator (60) for fractionating separated fractions of the fluidic sample. A method comprising: movably coupling a movable element (120), in particular a pusher device, to an object handling device (110) coupled to a needle (150), such that the movable element (120) is at least partially movable with respect to the coupled needle (150); and fixing the movable element (120) in at least one position. The procedure according to Claim 19 , wherein the movable element (130) is moved freely by a drive; and/or wherein the fixing is carried out freely by the drive.

Images