EP1171240B2 - Pipette tip, pipetting device and combination consisting of a pipette tip and pipetting device - Google Patents

Pipette tip, pipetting device and combination consisting of a pipette tip and pipetting device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1171240B2
EP1171240B2 EP00926950A EP00926950A EP1171240B2 EP 1171240 B2 EP1171240 B2 EP 1171240B2 EP 00926950 A EP00926950 A EP 00926950A EP 00926950 A EP00926950 A EP 00926950A EP 1171240 B2 EP1171240 B2 EP 1171240B2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pipette tip
pipette
coupling
axial
unit according
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EP00926950A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1171240A1 (en
EP1171240B1 (en
Inventor
Armin Panzer
Johann L. Camenisch
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Hamilton Bonaduz AG
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Hamilton Bonaduz AG
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/02—Burettes; Pipettes
    • B01L3/0275—Interchangeable or disposable dispensing tips
    • B01L3/0279—Interchangeable or disposable dispensing tips co-operating with positive ejection means

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the attachment of a pipette tip to a pipetting device.
  • Pipetting devices are used for example in the field of molecular biology or medical analysis for liquid transfer.
  • special pipette tips are often used, which are attached to the pipetting device and intended for single use.
  • Such disposable tips are also known by the name "Tip".
  • the pipetting device may be a manual pipetting device having only a single pipetting unit.
  • pipetting machines or so-called pipetting robots are often used which have a multiplicity of pipetting units arranged in a row or in a matrix. With such automatic pipetting can be simultaneously sucked from a variety of vessels samples and released elsewhere.
  • the pipette tips have hitherto (see, for example, US-A-5,851,491) mostly been designed with a conically widening jacket area with which they are placed on a correspondingly conically shaped coupling attachment of the pipetting device, or rather of the respective pipetting unit.
  • the pipette tip is pressed so tightly on the coupling lug that adjusts a frictional interference fit between the pipette tip and the coupling lug.
  • the material of the pipette tip has a certain elasticity, which causes the pipette tip to expand when being pressed onto the coupling cone.
  • a pipetting unit described in EP 0 760 255 A1 has an adjustable pretensioning element in the form of an inflatable rubber sleeve, the edge of which facing the pipette tip abutting against a radial axial abutment surface of the pipette tip. Since the edge of the rubber boot is more or less elastic, but can not be spoken of a precise adhered Ankoppelwolf in the attack trap. If the pipette tip is not pushed up to the immediate stop on the edge of the rubber sleeve, but its stop surface has a more or less large clearance from the rubber cuff, this distance remains more or less preserved when inflating the rubber boot, which drastically shifts the positioning accuracy.
  • the push-on end of the pipette tip in turn only has a radial axial stop surface, but no surface component of an engagement surface facing away from the pin-up direction for an O-ring serving as a biasing member.
  • the O-ring is not adjustable via an actuator of the pipette between a bias state and a release state.
  • a defined position of the pipette tip relative to the coupling approach is of particular importance, in particular in pipetting machines having a multiplicity of pipetting units.
  • Different positions of the pipette tips in pipetting machines with several tens or even several hundred pipetting units may, for example during liquid aspiration, cause some pipette tips to dive properly into their associated vessels or in wells of a microtiter plate, while leaving other pipette tips above the liquid level in the vessels or wells.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to show a way, as in particular in automatic pipetting with a variety of pipetting the dosing accuracy can be improved during liquid transfer.
  • the present invention provides a pipetting unit according to claim 1.
  • the pipette tip for attachment to a pipetting device
  • the pipette tip has a jacket and a passage opening enclosed by the jacket, the passage opening extending along a longitudinal axis between a front end of the pipette tip intended for immersion in a medium to be pipetted and a plug-in end of the pipette tip opposite in the axial direction and wherein the pipette tip near the Aufstekkendes has a coupling region for coupling with a coupling lug of the pipetting device.
  • the jacket carries in the coupling region axial positioning means, which are intended to cooperate with complementary counter axial positioning means of the coupling lug and define together with the counter Axialposition réellesstoffn an axial coupling position of the pipette tip on the pipetting device.
  • the axial positioning means make it possible to obtain a predetermined defined axial position of the pipette tip relative to the pipetting device each time the pipette tip is attached to the pipetting device. This enables positionally exact and positionally identical equipping of all pipetting units of a pipetting machine with pipette tips.
  • the pipette tip with its push-on end will be able to be pushed onto the coupling projection in advance, for which reason the axial positioning elements will expediently be arranged at least in part on the inner circumference of the jacket at an axial distance from the insertion end of the pipette tip.
  • the shell inner circumference may have an envelope formed essentially of cylindrical sections, at least in the coupling region.
  • the axial positioning means may comprise at least one axial stop arranged on the shell, which is intended to cooperate with a complementary counter-stop of the coupling lug.
  • the axial stop engages with the counterstop of the coupling lug, resulting in a defined axial position of the pipette tip.
  • the coupling lug also carries an elastically deformable O-ring, which comes through axial crushing and consequent radial expansion in frictional engagement with a Dichülumblee the pipette tip, a particularly simple, yet highly accurate attachment option for the pipette tip is given to the pipetting.
  • the axial stop can be formed by an axial step shoulder of the inner circumference of the circumference, which connects a first cylindrical inner circumferential section of larger diameter closer to the upper end of the Aufstekkende with a second cylindrical outer circumferential cylindrical section of smaller diameter.
  • the diameter reduction from the first to the second shell inner peripheral portion, effected by the stepped shoulder can be between 0.8 and 1.2 mm, preferably between 0.9 and 1.1 mm, most preferably about 1.0 mm.
  • the diameter of the first shell inner peripheral portion may be between 6.5 and 7.1 mm, preferably between 6.7 and 6.9 mm, most preferably about 6.8 mm.
  • the diameter of the second shell inner peripheral portion may be between 5.5 and 6.1 mm, preferably between 5.7 and 5.9 mm, most preferably about 5.8 mm. It is advisable to define a standard coupling interface between the pipette tip and the pipetting device, so that pipette tips with different receiving volumes for liquids to be pipetted, but with standardized coupling regions, can be combined with one and the same pipetting device.
  • the exact axial positioning of the pipette tip by its axial stop and the counter-stop of the coupling lug can be further improved in that the jacket in the coupling region has an engagement surface for a held on the pipetting device biasing member, which is intended, in the Ankoppelungs ein the pipette tip whose axial stop axially bias against the counter-stop of the coupling lug.
  • a structurally particularly simple solution can consist in that the engagement surface is at the same time designed for sealing engagement of a sealing element forming the biasing member of elastically deformable material, which serves to seal the pipette tip against the coupling approach.
  • the sealing element therefore not only assumes sealing function, but at the same time also pretensioning function.
  • For the sealing element can be used on known solutions.
  • the sealing element may be formed by an O-ring and according to US-A-5,063,790 be axially compressible by a squeezing device of the pipetting device. It can then be provided that the attack surface is designed and located on the jacket that in the Ankoppelungs ein the pipette tip, the sealing element in an axially uncompressed state substantially vorspannkraftindem engagement with the attack surface and in the course of an axial compression in vorspannkraftinden engagement with the attack surface passes.
  • the attack surface is formed on an incorporated into the shell inner circumference Ringnüt into which the sealing element of the coupling lug can "snap".
  • the engagement surface is preferably arranged axially between the axial stop and the second end of the pipette tip.
  • a pipetting apparatus having at least one pipetting unit having a pipetting channel extending along a channel axis and a coupling lug for coupling a pipette tip, in particular of the type described above, the coupling lug for interacting with axial positioning of the pipette tip certain complementary Jacob-Axialpositiontechniksstoff, which together with define an axial coupling position of the pipette tip on the pipetting unit to the axial positioning means.
  • the coupling lug can be plugged into the pipette tip ahead with a push-on end, it then being expedient to arrange the counter-axial positioning means at least partially on the outer circumference of the coupling lug at an axial distance from the push-on end.
  • the outer periphery of the coupling projection can have an envelope essentially formed by cylindrical sections, at least in the region of the coupling projection projecting into the pipette tip in the coupling position.
  • the counter-axial positioning means may comprise at least one complementary counter-abutment on the coupling tab intended to cooperate with an axial stop of the pipette tip.
  • This counter-stop can be formed by a stepped shoulder on the outer circumference of the coupling lug.
  • the coupling lug can carry a sealing element serving for sealing between the pipette tip and the coupling lug, in particular an O-sealing ring, of elastically deformable material, wherein the pipetting unit can be assigned a squeezing device for axially compressing the sealing element.
  • the sealing element can not only assume a sealing function, but also a biasing function, if the pipette tip has a correspondingly designed and localized engagement surface for the sealing element, which has a radial surface component and can be loaded with an axial force component of the sealing element.
  • a pipette tip of the type described above may be combined with a pipetting device of the type described above.
  • FIG. 1 One recognizes there a pipette tip 1, also referred to as a tip, with a jacket 5 which is rotationally symmetrical about a longitudinal axis 3 and which encloses a through-opening 7 passing axially through the pipette tip 1.
  • a coupling region 11 which serves for coupling to a not shown in Fig. 1 pipetting.
  • the Aufstekkende 9 opposite the pipette tip 1 has a mouth end 13, which is intended for immersion in the medium to be pipetted.
  • the sheath 5 of the pipette tip 1 has an outer circumference 15 and an inner circumference 17.
  • the inner periphery 17 has a cylindrical inner peripheral portion 19, which extends substantially from the Aufsteckende 9 to an annular stepped shoulder 21, to which a further cylindrical inner peripheral portion 23 connects.
  • the stepped shoulder 21 forms an axially directed stop surface.
  • a circumferentially extending annular groove 25 is incorporated in the jacket 5. This axially between the Aufsteckende 9 and the Stufanabsatz 21 arranged annular groove 25 has in the sectional view of FIG. 1, a groove contour which follows a circular arc.
  • the jacket 5 has a first conical wall section 27 and a second conical wall section 29, whose conicity is weaker than that of the wall section 27.
  • the jacket 5 is designed with a smaller wall thickness than in the coupling region 11. There, the greater wall thickness in the coupling region 11 increases the stability and rigidity of the pipette tip 1. This allows a secure and leak-free coupling of the pipette tip 1 to a pipetting device.
  • the inner diameter of the shell 5 in the region of the inner peripheral portion 19 may be about 6.8 mm and in the region of the inner peripheral portion 23 about 5.8 mm.
  • the stepped shoulder 21 can be arranged at an axial distance from the end 9 of about 5 mm.
  • the radius of curvature of the circular contour of the annular groove 25 may be about 0.6 mm.
  • the maximum radial depth of the annular groove 25 may be about 0.2 mm.
  • the axial distance between the step 21 and the axial center of the annular groove 25, so the lowest point, may be about 2.1 mm.
  • the pipetting unit 201 has a pipetting tube 205, which contains a pipetting channel 207, which runs along a channel axis 209 and continues in the coupling state of the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201 from the through opening 107 of the pipette tip 101.
  • the coupling projection 203 comprises a at the lower end of the pipette 205 fixedly attached thereto, for example, pressed or screwed coupling sleeve 211.
  • An O-ring 213 of elastically deformable and optionally electrically conductive material is pushed onto the pipette 205 and is located at the pipette tip 101 axially remote from the end face of the coupling sleeve 211.
  • a ferrule 215 is pushed onto the pipetting tube 205. This ferrule 215 is axially displaceable relative to the pipetting tube 205 and serves for the axial crushing of the O-ring seal 213.
  • the ferrule 215 can be actuated by means not shown actuating means.
  • actuating means may allow manual or automatic actuation of the ferrule 215.
  • the ferrule 215 may be hydraulically actuable. It is also conceivable to provide a screw drive for the adjustment of the ferrule 215, which can be actuated by hand, but which can also be actuated by means of an electric motor.
  • an ejector 217 which is movable axially relative to the pipetting tube 205, is also provided, which in the embodiment illustrated is designed as the ejector tube enclosing the ferrule 215 and the pipetting tube 205.
  • the manner of operation of the ejector 217 will be discussed later.
  • annular stepped shoulder 219 is formed, which abuts when provokekken the coupling projection 203 in the pipette tip 101 to the stepped shoulder 121 of the pipette tip 101.
  • the coupling sleeve 211 Towards the end of the coupling projection 203 leading to the insert, the coupling sleeve 211 has a cylindrical outer peripheral portion 221 whose diameter is matched to the diameter of the inner peripheral portion 123 of the pipette tip 101 in the sense of a smooth attachment of the pipette tip 101 to the coupling projection 203.
  • another cylindrical outer circumference section 223 of the coupling sleeve 211 adjoins the stepped shoulder 219, the diameter of which is matched to the diameter of the inner circumferential section 119 of the pipette tip 101 in the same sense.
  • Fig. 3 shows the state when the pipette tip 101 is attached and the O-ring seal 213 is still squeezed. It can be seen that the axial distance of the stepped shoulder 219 of the coupling sleeve 211 of the axial end face of the coupling sleeve 211, on which the O-ring 213 rests, is dimensioned such that in the Aufsteckposition shown in Fig. 3, the O-ring 213 axially something is offset from the annular groove 125. More specifically, the axial center of the annular groove 125 is offset slightly from the axial center of the uncompressed O-ring 213 toward the pipette tip 101.
  • Figs. 4 and 4a of which Fig. 4 shows the state in which the crushing of the O-ring seal 213 is completed and the final assembly position of the pipette tip 101 is made to the pipetting unit 201, and of which Figs 4a shows an enlarged section in the region of the O-sealing ring 213.
  • the ferrule 215 has at its end facing the O-ring 213 a leading tip 225 which, when approaching the ferrule 215 to the O-ring 213 between them and the pipetting tube 205 penetrates, so that the O-ring 213 is not only axially compressed, but also by the tip 225 is pressed radially slightly to the annular groove 125 out.
  • the O-ring 213 experiences a total increase in its outer diameter. Its radially pressed-out parts can escape into the free space through the annular groove 125, which is indicated by dashed lines in Fig. 4a.
  • This attack surface 127 has a radial component due to their curvature, so that when the O-ring 213 presses against the engagement surface 127, a force on the Pipette tip 101 is exerted with an axial component.
  • This axial force biases the stepped shoulder 121 of the pipette tip 101 axially against the stepped shoulder 219 of the coupling sleeve 211, whereby a secure axial hold of the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201 is brought about.
  • the ferrule 215 is raised axially from its squish position shown in Fig. 4, whereby the O-ring 213 relaxes again and withdraws from the annular groove 125.
  • the prestressing force exerted on the stepped shoulders 121, 219 in the coupling state according to FIG. 4 is thereby canceled. It finally turns back to the state shown in Fig. 3. Conveniently, in this condition shown in FIG.
  • the O-ring 213 will not be completely out of contact with the inner periphery 117 of the pipette tip 101, but in such engagement with the inner periphery 117 of the pipette tip 101 that the pipette tip 101 will not be detached from the pipetting unit 201 falls down.
  • the O-ring seal 213 may abut at the transition edge designated 129 between the annular groove 125 and the cylindrical inner peripheral portion 119 of the pipette tip 101.
  • this transition edge 129 must be moved past the O-ring seal 213, which is only possible with a simultaneous slight radial compression of the O-ring seal 213.
  • this radial compression of the O-ring 213 has a friction-increasing effect, which in itself would run counter to the requirement for a smooth stripping of the pipette tip 101 from the pipetting unit 201.
  • the cylindrical inner peripheral portion 119 of the pipette tip 101 situated above the annular groove 125 is preferably stepped, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 4a.
  • the transition edge 129 At a small axial distance from the transition edge 129, it has a step extension formed by a step 131, which causes a corresponding increase in diameter of this inner peripheral portion 119.
  • the ejector 217 is provided. This can be operated in various ways. For example, a hydraulic or electromotive operation of the ejector 217 is conceivable. Alternatively, a biasing spring, not shown, can be attached to the devaluation element 217, which is stretched when placing the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201, when the pipette tip 101 with its front end 109 pushes the ejector tube forming the ejector 217 upwards. Then, when the pinch seal of the O-ring 213 is released, this ejector bias spring can relax again.
  • the ejector biasing spring will be sized so that the force exerted by it in the tensioned state on the Abwerferrohr 217 force does not exceed the axial holding force of the O-ring 213. At the same time, it will be dimensioned so that the force exerted on the pipette tip 101 in the course of its relaxation is sufficient to move the edge 129 past the O-sealing ring 213.
  • Fig. 5 shows the discharge state in which the ejector 217 is moved down and the pipette tip 101 is completely moved past the O-ring seal 213.
  • the pipetting tube 205 of the pipetting unit 201 will be associated with suitable suction means, which make it possible to generate a negative pressure in the pipetting channel 207 and thus in the pipette tip 101, which leads to the aspiration of liquid to be pipetted.
  • suction means may comprise, for example, a piston which is axially movable in the pipetting tube 205 and which is axially adjustable by means of electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic actuating means.
  • the pipette tip 101 is preferably made of a plastic material, for example by injection molding.
  • This plastic material may be electrically conductive in order to be able to conduct conductance measurements on the liquid to be pipetted in a manner known per se.
  • the coupling sleeve 211 and the pipetting tube 205 may be made of conductive materials.
  • metals are preferably used here, although plastic materials for the coupling sleeve 211 and the pipetting tube 205 are not excluded.
  • the capacity of the disposable pipette tip 101 may be, for example, between 0.1 and 1300 ⁇ l.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Clinical Laboratory Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Devices For Use In Laboratory Experiments (AREA)
  • Automatic Analysis And Handling Materials Therefor (AREA)
  • Sampling And Sample Adjustment (AREA)

Abstract

A pipette device has a coupling stud on which a pipette tip can be stuck in a slipping-on direction for coupling. The coupling stud has an adjustable prestress member that can be adjusted into a prestress state and a release state via an actuation device which is provided in the coupling stud. The pipette tip has an axial stop which interacts with a counter-stop of the coupling stud in an axial coupling position of the pipette tip. The prestress member in its prestress state acts upon a working surface of the stuck-on pipette tip having a surface component of the pipette tip, which extends radially inward, turned away from the stuck on direction, in such a way that it abuts sealingly on the working surface, and prestresses the pipette tip on the pipette unit into the axial coupling position. The prestress member, in its releasing state, substantially releases the working surface of the pipette tip (101).

Description

Die Erfindung befaßt sich mit der Anbringung einer Pipettenspitze an einer Pipettiervorrichtung.The invention relates to the attachment of a pipette tip to a pipetting device.

Pipettiervorrichtungen werden beispielsweise im Bereich der Molekularbiologie oder der medizinischen Analyse zum Flüssigkeitstransfer eingesetzt. Dabei werden oftmals spezielle Pipettenspitzen verwendet, die an der Pipettiervorrichtung angebracht werden und zum Einmalgebrauch bestimmt sind. Solche Wegwerfspitzen sind auch unter der Bezeichnung "Tip" bekannt. Bei der Pipettiervorrichtung kann es sich um eine manuelle Pipettiervorrichtung handeln, die lediglich eine einzige Pipettiereinheit aufweist. Im Zuge der fortschreitenden Automatisierung, die in modernen Analyselabors Einzug hält, werden oftmals auch Pipettierautomaten oder sogenannte Pipettierroboter eingesetzt, die eine Vielzahl von in einer Reihe oder in einer Matrix angeordneten Pipettiereinheiten aufweisen. Mit solchen Pipettierautomaten können gleichzeitig aus einer Vielzahl von Gefäßen Proben angesaugt und an anderer Stelle wieder abgegeben werden.Pipetting devices are used for example in the field of molecular biology or medical analysis for liquid transfer. In this case, special pipette tips are often used, which are attached to the pipetting device and intended for single use. Such disposable tips are also known by the name "Tip". The pipetting device may be a manual pipetting device having only a single pipetting unit. In the course of advancing automation, which is finding its way into modern analysis laboratories, pipetting machines or so-called pipetting robots are often used which have a multiplicity of pipetting units arranged in a row or in a matrix. With such automatic pipetting can be simultaneously sucked from a variety of vessels samples and released elsewhere.

Die Pipettenspitzen werden bisher (siehe z.B. die US-A-5,851 491) zumeist mit einem sich konisch erweiternden Mantelbereich ausgeführt, mit dem sie auf einen entsprechend konisch geformten Koppelansatz der Pipettiervorrichtung, oder besser der jeweiligen Pipettiereinheit, aufgesetzt werden. Dabei wird die Pipettenspitze so fest auf den Koppelansatz aufgedrückt, daß sich ein reibschlüssiger Preßsitz zwischen der Pipettenspitze und dem Koppelansatz einstellt. Um die gewünschte Dichtigkeit herbeizuführen, sind vergleichsweise hohe Anpreßkräfte erforderlich. Das Material der Pipettenspitze weist eine gewisse Elastizität auf, die dazu führt, daßsich die Pipettenspitze beim Aufpressen auf den Koppelkonus dehnt. Es können hierdurch Mikrorisse in der Pipettenspitze entstehen, die Ursache für Leckage sind. Auch Schmutzpartikel auf dem Koppelkonus können zu Leckage führen. Die hohen Anpreßkräfte bei der Anbringung der Pipettenspitze haben darüber hinaus den Nachteil, daß für den Abwurf der Pipettenspitze entsprechend hohe Kräfte aufgebracht werden müssen.The pipette tips have hitherto (see, for example, US-A-5,851,491) mostly been designed with a conically widening jacket area with which they are placed on a correspondingly conically shaped coupling attachment of the pipetting device, or rather of the respective pipetting unit. In this case, the pipette tip is pressed so tightly on the coupling lug that adjusts a frictional interference fit between the pipette tip and the coupling lug. In order to bring about the desired tightness, comparatively high contact forces are required. The material of the pipette tip has a certain elasticity, which causes the pipette tip to expand when being pressed onto the coupling cone. This can result in microcracks in the pipette tip, which are the cause of leakage. Also dirt particles on the coupling cone can lead to leakage. The high contact forces in the attachment of the pipette tip also have the disadvantage that correspondingly high forces must be applied for the ejection of the pipette tip.

Zur Vermeidung der hohen Anpreßkräfte ist vorgeschlagen worden (siehe US-A-5,063,790), den Koppelansatz mit einem O-Dichtring auszuführen. Die Pipettenspitze wird dabei locker über den Koppelansatz gestülpt. Sodann kann der O-Dichtring mittels einer Quetscheinrichtung so komprimiert werden, daß er sich in seiner radialen Richtung ausdehnt und einen reibschlüssigen Halt der Pipettenspitze herstellt. Um die Pipettenspitze abzuwerfen, genügt es, den O-Dichtring zu entlasten, so daß er sich wieder einengt und der Reibschluß zwischen der Pipettenspitze und dem O-Dichtring aufgehoben wird. Dies hat den Vorteil, daß weder bei der Anbringung der Pipettenspitze, noch bei ihrem Abwurf hohe Kräfte auf die Pipettenspitze aufgebracht werden müssen.To avoid the high contact forces has been proposed (see US-A-5,063,790) to perform the coupling approach with an O-ring seal. The pipette tip is slipped loosely over the coupling approach. Then, the O-ring can be compressed by means of a squeezing device so that it expands in its radial direction and produces a frictional grip of the pipette tip. To eject the pipette tip, it is sufficient to relieve the O-ring, so that it restricts again and the frictional engagement between the pipette tip and the O-ring is released. This has the advantage that high forces do not have to be applied to the pipette tip either during the attachment of the pipette tip or during its ejection.

Eine in der EP 0 760 255 A1 beschriebene Pipettiereinheit weist ein verstellbares Vorspannorgan in Form einer Aufblas-Gummimanschette auf, deren der Pipettenspitze zugewandter Rand an einer radialen Axialanschlagsfläche der Pipettenspitze anliegt. Da der Rand der Gummimanschette mehr oder weniger elastisch ist, kann jedoch nicht von einer präzise eingehaltenen Ankoppelstellung im Anschlagsfalle gesprochen werden. Falls die Pipettenspitze nicht bis zum unmittelbaren Anschlag an den Rand der Gummimanschette aufgeschoben wird, sondern seine Anschlagsfläche einen mehr oder weniger großen lichten Abstand zur Gummimanaschette aufweist, bleibt dieser Abstand beim Aufblasen der Gummimanschette mehr oder weniger erhalten, was die Positioniergenauigkeit drastisch verschechtert.A pipetting unit described in EP 0 760 255 A1 has an adjustable pretensioning element in the form of an inflatable rubber sleeve, the edge of which facing the pipette tip abutting against a radial axial abutment surface of the pipette tip. Since the edge of the rubber boot is more or less elastic, but can not be spoken of a precise adhered Ankoppelstellung in the attack trap. If the pipette tip is not pushed up to the immediate stop on the edge of the rubber sleeve, but its stop surface has a more or less large clearance from the rubber cuff, this distance remains more or less preserved when inflating the rubber boot, which drastically shifts the positioning accuracy.

Bei der in der EP 0 148 333 A1 gezeigten Pipettiereinheit, weist das Aufsteckende der Pipettenspitzewiederum lediglich eine radiale Axialanschlagsfläche auf, jedoch keine von der Aufsteckerichtung abgewandte Flächenkomponente einer Angriffsfläche für einen als Vorspannorgan dienenden O-Ring. Der O-Ring ist nicht über eine Betätigungseinrichtung der Pipettiereinheit zwischen einem Vorspannzustand und einem Freigabezustand verstellbar.In the pipetting unit shown in EP 0 148 333 A1, the push-on end of the pipette tip in turn only has a radial axial stop surface, but no surface component of an engagement surface facing away from the pin-up direction for an O-ring serving as a biasing member. The O-ring is not adjustable via an actuator of the pipette between a bias state and a release state.

Wenn eine Pipettenspitze, die in ihrem zur Kopplung mit dem Koppelansatz bestimmten Bereich konusförmig ausgebildet ist, auf den Koppelkonus der erstgenannten Lösung aufgepreßt wird oder an dem Koppelansatz unter Quetschung eines O-Dichtrings bzw. einer Gummimanschette angebracht wird, ergibt sich in beiden Fällen das Problem, daß die Position der Pipettenspitze relativ zu dem Koppelansatz nicht definiert einstellbar ist. Im ersten Fall haben unterschiedliche Anpreßkräfte zur Folge, daß die Pipettenspitze unterschiedlich weit auf den Koppelkonus aufgeschoben wird. Dies hängt mit der Aufweitung der Pipettenspitze zusammen, die je nach Höhe der Anpreßkräfte unterschiedlich stark ist. Im zweiten Fall drückt der O-Dichtring - wenn er gequetscht wird - gegen eine Konusfläche der Pipettenspitze. Wenn anfänglich noch kein Reibschluß zwischen dem O-Dichtring und der Pipettenspitze existiert, kann die radiale Expansion des O-Dichtrings zu einem Verrutschen der Pipettenspitze führen.If a pipette tip which is cone-shaped in its intended for coupling with the coupling lug portion is pressed onto the coupling cone of the former solution or attached to the coupling lug with crushing an O-ring or a rubber sleeve, the problem arises in both cases in that the position of the pipette tip can not be set in a defined manner relative to the coupling projection. In the first case, different contact forces result in the pipette tip being pushed onto the coupling cone to different extents. This is related to the expansion of the pipette tip, which is different depending on the height of the contact forces. In the second case, when crushed, the O-ring presses against a cone surface of the pipette tip. If there is initially no frictional engagement between the O-ring and the pipette tip, the radial expansion of the O-ring may result in slippage of the pipette tip.

Eine definierte Position der Pipettenspitze relativ zu dem Koppelansatz ist jedoch insbesondere bei Pipettierautomaten, die eine Vielzahl von Pipettiereinheiten aufweisen, von wesentlicher Bedeutung. Unterschiedliche Positionierungen der Pipettenspitzen bei Pipettierautomaten mit mehreren zehn oder garmehreren hundert Pipettiereinheiten können beispielsweise bei der Flüssigkeitsansaugung dazu führen, daß einige Pipettenspitzen ordnungsgemäß in die ihnen zugeordneten Gefäße oder in Vertiefungen einer Mikrotiterplatte eintauchen, während andere Pipettenspitzen über dem Flüssigkeitspiegel in den Gefäßen oder Vertiefungen bleiben. Ebenso kann es vorkommen, daß einzelne Pipettenspitzen am Grund der Gefäße oder Vertiefungen anstoßen und hierdurch ihre Mündungsöffnung mindestens zum Teil versperrt wird. Die Folge kann eine ungenügende Dosiergenauigkeit sowohl bei der Flüssigkeitsaufnahme als auch bei der Flüssigkeitsabgabe sein.However, a defined position of the pipette tip relative to the coupling approach is of particular importance, in particular in pipetting machines having a multiplicity of pipetting units. Different positions of the pipette tips in pipetting machines with several tens or even several hundred pipetting units may, for example during liquid aspiration, cause some pipette tips to dive properly into their associated vessels or in wells of a microtiter plate, while leaving other pipette tips above the liquid level in the vessels or wells. Likewise, it may happen that individual pipette tips at the bottom of the vessels or wells abut and thereby at least partially obstructs their mouth opening. The result may be insufficient dosing accuracy in both fluid intake and fluid delivery.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, einen Weg aufzuzeigen, wie insbesondere bei automatischen Pipettiervorrichtungen mit einer Vielzahl von Pipettiereinheiten die Dosiergenauigkeit beim Flüssigkeitstransfer verbessert werden kann.The object of the invention is therefore to show a way, as in particular in automatic pipetting with a variety of pipetting the dosing accuracy can be improved during liquid transfer.

Zur Lösung der genannten Aufgabe sieht die vorliegende Erfindung eine Pipettiereinheit gemäß Anspruch 1 vor.To achieve the stated object, the present invention provides a pipetting unit according to claim 1.

Bei einer Pipettenspitze zur Anbringung an einer Pipettiervorrichtung weist die Pipettenspitze einen Mantel und eine von dem Mantel umschlossene Durchgangsöffnung auf, wobei sich die Durchgangsöffnung längs einer Längsachse zwischen einem zum Eintauchen in zu pipettierendes Medium bestimmten Stirnende der Pipettenspitze und einem in Achsrichtung gegenüberliegenden Aufsteckende der Pipettenspitze erstreckt und wobei die Pipettenspitze nahe des Aufstekkendes einen Koppelbereich zur Kopplung mit einem Koppelansatz der Pipettiervorrichtung aufweist.In the case of a pipette tip for attachment to a pipetting device, the pipette tip has a jacket and a passage opening enclosed by the jacket, the passage opening extending along a longitudinal axis between a front end of the pipette tip intended for immersion in a medium to be pipetted and a plug-in end of the pipette tip opposite in the axial direction and wherein the pipette tip near the Aufstekkendes has a coupling region for coupling with a coupling lug of the pipetting device.

Erfindungsgemäß ist vorgesehen, daß der Mantel in dem Koppelbereich Axialpositionierungsmittel trägt, welche zur Zusammenwirkung mit komplementären Gegen-Axialpositionierungsmitteln des Koppelansatzes bestimmt sind und zusammen mit den Gegen-Axialpositionierungsmitteln eine axiale Ankopplungsstellung der Pipettenspitze an der Pipettiervorrichtung definieren. Die Axialpositionierungsmittel ermöglichen es, bei jeder Anbringung der Pipettenspitze an der Pipettiervorrichtung stets eine vorbestimmte definierte Axialposition der Pipettenspitze relativ zu der Pipettiervorrichtung zu erhalten. Dies ermöglicht eine positionsgenaue und positionsgleiche Bestückung aller Pipettiereinheiten eines Pipettierautomaten mit Pipettenspitzen. Beim Einfahren in Gefäße oder in Vertiefungen einer Mikrotiterplatte treten dann keine unterschiedlichen Axialpositionen der einzelnen Pipettenspitzen auf, weswegen von jeder Pipettiereinheit die gleiche Flüssigkeitsdosis angesaugt oder abgegeben werden kann. Dies ergibt eine insgesamt erhöhte Dosiergenauigkeit der Pipettiervorrichtung.According to the invention, the jacket carries in the coupling region axial positioning means, which are intended to cooperate with complementary counter axial positioning means of the coupling lug and define together with the counter Axialpositionierungsmitteln an axial coupling position of the pipette tip on the pipetting device. The axial positioning means make it possible to obtain a predetermined defined axial position of the pipette tip relative to the pipetting device each time the pipette tip is attached to the pipetting device. This enables positionally exact and positionally identical equipping of all pipetting units of a pipetting machine with pipette tips. When retracting into vessels or in wells of a microtiter plate then no different axial positions of the individual pipette tips occur, which is why the same dose of liquid can be sucked in or delivered from each pipetting unit. This results in an overall increased metering accuracy of the pipetting device.

In der Regel wird die Pipettenspitze mit ihrem Aufsteckende voraus auf den Koppelansatz aufsteckbar sein, weshalb die AxialpositioniemngsrnitteJ zweckmäßigerweise mindestens zum Teil am innenumfang des Mantels in axialem Abstand von dem Aufsteckende der Pipettenspitze angeordnet sein werden. Der Mantelinnenumfang kann zumindest in dem Koppelbereich eine im wesentlichen von zylindrischen Abschnitten gebildete Einhüllende besitzen.As a rule, the pipette tip with its push-on end will be able to be pushed onto the coupling projection in advance, for which reason the axial positioning elements will expediently be arranged at least in part on the inner circumference of the jacket at an axial distance from the insertion end of the pipette tip. The shell inner circumference may have an envelope formed essentially of cylindrical sections, at least in the coupling region.

Die Axialpositionierungsmittel können mindestens einen an dem Mantel angeordneten Axialanschlag umfassen, welcher zur Zusammenwirkung mit einem komplementären Gegenanschlag des Koppelansatzes bestimmt ist. Bei der Ankopplung der Pipettenspitze an den Koppelansatz gelangt der Axialanschlag in Eingriff mit dem Gegenanschlag des Koppelansatzes, wodurch sich eine definierte Axialposition der Pipettenspitze ergibt. Wenn der Koppelansatz zudem einen elastisch verformbaren O-Dichtring trägt, der durch axiale Quetschung und dadurch bedingte radiale Ausdehnung in reibschlüssigen Eingriff mit einer Dichüläche der Pipettenspitze gelangt, ist eine besonders einfache, aber dennoch hochgenaue Anbringmöglichkeit für die Pipettenspitze an der Pipettiervorrichtung gegeben.The axial positioning means may comprise at least one axial stop arranged on the shell, which is intended to cooperate with a complementary counter-stop of the coupling lug. When the pipette tip is coupled to the coupling lug, the axial stop engages with the counterstop of the coupling lug, resulting in a defined axial position of the pipette tip. If the coupling lug also carries an elastically deformable O-ring, which comes through axial crushing and consequent radial expansion in frictional engagement with a Dichüläche the pipette tip, a particularly simple, yet highly accurate attachment option for the pipette tip is given to the pipetting.

Fertigungstechnisch einfach kann der Axialanschlag von einem axialen Stufenabsatz des Mantelinnenumfangs gebildet sein, welcher einen dem Aufstekkende näheren ersten zylindrischen Mantelinnenumfangsabschnitt größeren Durchmessers mit einem dem Aufsteckende ferneren zweiten zylindrischen Mantelinnenumfangsabschnitt kleineren Durchmessers verbindet. Dabei werden die folgenderi Maße empfohien: Die durch den Stufenabsatz bewirkte Durchmesserverkleinerung vom ersten zum zweiten Mantelinnenumfangsabschnitt kann zwischen 0,8 und 1,2 mm, vorzugsweise zwischen 0,9 und 1,1 mm, höchstvorzugsweise etwa i ,0 mm betragen. Der Durchmesser des ersten Mantelinnenumfangsabschnitts kann zwischen 6,5 und 7,1 mm, vorzugsweise zwischen 6,7 und 6,9 mm, höchstvorzugsweise etwa 6,8 mm betragen. Was den Durchmesser des zweiten Mantelinnenumfangsabschnitts anbelangt, so kann dieser zwischen 5,5 und 6,1 mm, vorzugsweise zwischen 5,7 und 5,9 mm, höchstvorzugsweise etwa 5,8 mm betragen. Es empfiehlt sich, eine Standard-Koppelschnittstelle zwischen der Pipettenspitze und der Pipettiervorrichtung festzulegen, so daß Pipettenspitzen mit unterschiedlichen Aufnahmevolumina für zu pipettierende Flüssigkeiten, aber mit genormten Koppelbereichen, mit ein und derselben Pipettiervorrichtung kombiniert werden können.In terms of manufacturing technology, the axial stop can be formed by an axial step shoulder of the inner circumference of the circumference, which connects a first cylindrical inner circumferential section of larger diameter closer to the upper end of the Aufstekkende with a second cylindrical outer circumferential cylindrical section of smaller diameter. The following measures are recommended: The diameter reduction from the first to the second shell inner peripheral portion, effected by the stepped shoulder, can be between 0.8 and 1.2 mm, preferably between 0.9 and 1.1 mm, most preferably about 1.0 mm. The diameter of the first shell inner peripheral portion may be between 6.5 and 7.1 mm, preferably between 6.7 and 6.9 mm, most preferably about 6.8 mm. As for the diameter of the second shell inner peripheral portion, it may be between 5.5 and 6.1 mm, preferably between 5.7 and 5.9 mm, most preferably about 5.8 mm. It is advisable to define a standard coupling interface between the pipette tip and the pipetting device, so that pipette tips with different receiving volumes for liquids to be pipetted, but with standardized coupling regions, can be combined with one and the same pipetting device.

Die genaue axiale Positionierung der Pipettenspitze durch ihren Axialanschlag und den Gegenanschlag des Koppelansatzes kann dadurch noch weiter verbessert werden, daß der Mantel in dem Koppelbereich eine Angriffsfläche für ein an der Pipettiervorrichtung gehaltenes Vorspannorgan aufweist, welches dazu bestimmt ist, in der Ankoppelungsstellung der Pipettenspitze deren Axialanschlag axial gegen den Gegenanschlag des Koppelansatzes vorzuspannen. Eine konstruktiv besonders einfache Lösung kann dabei darin bestehen, daß die Angriffsfläche zugleich zur dichtenden Anlage eines das Vorspannorgan bildenden Dichtelements aus elastisch verformbarem Material ausgebildet ist, welches der Abdichtung der Pipettenspitze gegenüber dem Koppelansatz dient. Das Dichtelement übernimmt demnach nicht nur Dichtfunktion, sondern gleichzeitig auch Vorspannfunktion. Für das Dichtelement kann auf an sich bekannte Lösungen zurückgegriffen werden. So kann das Dichtelement von einem O-Ring gebildet werden und entsprechend der US-A-5,063,790 durch eine Quetscheinrichtung der Pipettiervorrichtung axial komprimierbarsein. Es kann dann vorgesehen sein, daß die Angriffsfläche derart gestaltet und an dem Mantel lokalisiert ist, daß in der Ankoppelungsstellung der Pipettenspitze das Dichtelement in einem axial unkomprimierten Zustand im wesentlichen außer vorspannkrafterzeugendem Eingriff mit der Angriffsfläche steht und im Zuge einer axialen Komprimierung in vorspannkrafterzeugenden Eingriff mit der Angriffsfläche gelangt.The exact axial positioning of the pipette tip by its axial stop and the counter-stop of the coupling lug can be further improved in that the jacket in the coupling region has an engagement surface for a held on the pipetting device biasing member, which is intended, in the Ankoppelungsstellung the pipette tip whose axial stop axially bias against the counter-stop of the coupling lug. A structurally particularly simple solution can consist in that the engagement surface is at the same time designed for sealing engagement of a sealing element forming the biasing member of elastically deformable material, which serves to seal the pipette tip against the coupling approach. The sealing element therefore not only assumes sealing function, but at the same time also pretensioning function. For the sealing element can be used on known solutions. Thus, the sealing element may be formed by an O-ring and according to US-A-5,063,790 be axially compressible by a squeezing device of the pipetting device. It can then be provided that the attack surface is designed and located on the jacket that in the Ankoppelungsstellung the pipette tip, the sealing element in an axially uncompressed state substantially vorspannkrafterzeugendem engagement with the attack surface and in the course of an axial compression in vorspannkrafterzeugenden engagement with the attack surface passes.

Die durch Zusammenwirkung der Angriffsfläche mit dem Dichtelement erzeugten axialen Haltekräfte sorgen für einen besseren Halt der Pipettenspitze an dem Koppelansatz, als dies bei der Lösung nach der US-A-5,063,790 der Fall ist. Es ist auch keine derart starke Quetschung des Dichtelements wie bei der US-A-5,063,790 nötig, um einen sicheren axialen Halt der Pipettenspitze zu erzielen, was die Lebensdauer des Dichtelements erhöht.The axial holding forces generated by the interaction of the engagement surface with the sealing element provide a better grip of the pipette tip on the coupling approach, as is the case in the solution according to US-A-5,063,790. Also, no such strong crushing of the sealing element as in US-A-5,063,790 is necessary to achieve a secure axial hold of the pipette tip, which increases the life of the sealing element.

Die Angriffsfläche ist an einer in den Mantelinnenumfang eingearbeiteten Ringnüt ausgebildet in die das Dichtelement des Koppelansatzes "einrasten" kann. Bei Betracbtung in einem die Längsachse enthaltenden Schnitt ist die Ringnüt kreisbogenförmig gekrümmt, wobei ihr Krümmungsradius zwischen 0,3 und 0,9 mm, vorzugsweise zwischen 0,4 und 0,8 mm, höchstvorzugsweise zwischen 0,5 und 0,7 mm betragen kann. Die Angriffsfläche ist bevorzugt axial zwischen dem Axialanschlag und dem zweiten Stimende der Pipettenspitze angeordnet.The attack surface is formed on an incorporated into the shell inner circumference Ringnüt into which the sealing element of the coupling lug can "snap". When Betracbtung in a section containing the longitudinal axis of the ring groove is arcuate curved, with their radius of curvature between 0.3 and 0.9 mm, preferably between 0.4 and 0.8 mm, most preferably between 0.5 and 0.7 mm may be , The engagement surface is preferably arranged axially between the axial stop and the second end of the pipette tip.

Bei einer Pipettiervorrichtung mit mindestens einer Pipettiereinheit , welche einen längs einer Kanalachse verlaufenden Pipettierkanal und einen Koppelansatz zur Ankopplung einer Pipettenspitze, insbesondere der vorstehend beschriebenen Art, besitzt, weist der Koppelansatz zur Zusammenwirkung mit Axialpositionierungsmitteln der Pipettenspitze bestimmte komplementäre Gegen-Axialpositionierungsmittel auf, welche zusammen mit den Axialpositionierungsmitteln eine axiale Ankoppelungsstellung der Pipettenspitze an der Pipettiereinheit definieren.In a pipetting apparatus having at least one pipetting unit having a pipetting channel extending along a channel axis and a coupling lug for coupling a pipette tip, in particular of the type described above, the coupling lug for interacting with axial positioning of the pipette tip certain complementary Gegen-Axialpositionierungsmittel, which together with define an axial coupling position of the pipette tip on the pipetting unit to the axial positioning means.

Wiederum kann der Koppelansatz mit einem Aufsteckende voraus in die Pipettenspitze einsteckbar sein, wobei es sich dann zweckmäßigerweise empfiehlt, die Gegen-Axialpositionierungsmittel mindestens zum Teil am Außenumfang des Koppelansatzes in axialem Abstand von dem Aufsteckende anzuordnen.Again, the coupling lug can be plugged into the pipette tip ahead with a push-on end, it then being expedient to arrange the counter-axial positioning means at least partially on the outer circumference of the coupling lug at an axial distance from the push-on end.

In Entsprechung zu der zuvor erwähnten zylindrischen Ausgestaltung des Mantelinnenumfangs der Pipettenspitze kann der Außenumfang des Koppelansatzes zumindest in dem in der Ankoppelungsstellung in die Pipettenspitze hineinragenden Bereich des Koppelansatzes eine im wesentlichen von zylindrischen Abschnitten gebildete Einhüllende besitzen,In correspondence with the aforementioned cylindrical configuration of the shell inner circumference of the pipette tip, the outer periphery of the coupling projection can have an envelope essentially formed by cylindrical sections, at least in the region of the coupling projection projecting into the pipette tip in the coupling position.

Die Gegen-Axialpositionierungsmittel können mindestens einen zur Zusammenwirkung mit einem Axialanschlag der Pipettenspitze bestimmten komplementären Gegenanschlag an dem Koppelansatz umfassen. Dieser Gegenanschlag kann von einem Stufenabsatz am Außenumfang des Koppelansatzes gebildet sein.The counter-axial positioning means may comprise at least one complementary counter-abutment on the coupling tab intended to cooperate with an axial stop of the pipette tip. This counter-stop can be formed by a stepped shoulder on the outer circumference of the coupling lug.

Der Koppelansatz kann ein der Abdichtung zwischen der Pipettenspitze und dem Koppelansatz dienendes Dichtelement, insbesondere einen O-Dichtring, aus elastisch verformbarem Material tragen, wobei der Pipettiereinheit eine Quetscheinrichtung zum axialen Komprimieren des Dichtelements zugeordnet sein kann. Das Dichtelement kann nicht nur eine Dichtfunktion, sondern zugleich auch eine Vorspannfunktion übernehmen, wenn die Pipettenspitze eine entsprechend gestaltete und lokalisierte Angriffsfläche für das Dichtelement aufweist, die eine radiale Flächenkomponente besitzt und mit einer axialen Kraftkomponente von dem Dichtelement belastet werden kann.The coupling lug can carry a sealing element serving for sealing between the pipette tip and the coupling lug, in particular an O-sealing ring, of elastically deformable material, wherein the pipetting unit can be assigned a squeezing device for axially compressing the sealing element. The sealing element can not only assume a sealing function, but also a biasing function, if the pipette tip has a correspondingly designed and localized engagement surface for the sealing element, which has a radial surface component and can be loaded with an axial force component of the sealing element.

Schließlich kann eine Pipettenspitze der vorstehend beschriebenen Art mit einer Pipettiervorrichtung dervorstehend beschriebenen Art kombiniert sein.Finally, a pipette tip of the type described above may be combined with a pipetting device of the type described above.

Die Erfindung wird im folgenden anhand der beigefügten Zeichnungen näher erläutert. Es stellen dar:

Fig. 1
im Schnitt ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Pipettenspitze und
Fig. 2-5
Situationen beim Ankoppeln einer Pipettenspitze an eine Pipettiervorrichtung und beim Abwerfen der Pipettenspitze.
The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show:
Fig. 1
in section, an embodiment of a pipette tip according to the invention and
Fig. 2-5
Situations when coupling a pipette tip to a pipetting device and when ejecting the pipette tip.

Es wird zunächst auf Fig. 1 verwiesen. Man erkennt dort eine auch als Tip bezeichnete Pipettenspitze 1 mit einem um eine Längsachse 3 rotationssymmetrischen Mantel 5, der eine axial durch die Pipettenspitze 1 hindurchgehende Durchgangsöffnung 7 umschließt. Im Bereich ihres in Fig. 1 oberen, offenen Aufsteckendes 9 weist die Pipettenspitze 1 einen Koppelbereich 11 auf, der zur Ankopplung an eine in Fig. 1 nicht näher dargestellte Pipettiervorrichtung dient. Dem Aufstekkende 9 gegenüberliegend weist die Pipettenspitze 1 ein Mündungsende 13 auf, das zum Eintauchen in zu pipettierendes Medium bestimmt ist.Reference is first made to FIG. 1. One recognizes there a pipette tip 1, also referred to as a tip, with a jacket 5 which is rotationally symmetrical about a longitudinal axis 3 and which encloses a through-opening 7 passing axially through the pipette tip 1. In the region of its in Fig. 1 upper open Aufsteckendes 9, the pipette tip 1 a coupling region 11, which serves for coupling to a not shown in Fig. 1 pipetting. The Aufstekkende 9 opposite the pipette tip 1 has a mouth end 13, which is intended for immersion in the medium to be pipetted.

Der Mäntel 5 der Pipettenspitze 1 weist einen Außenumfang 15 und einen Innenumfang 17 auf. In dem Koppelbereich 11 weist der Innenumfang 17 einen zylindrischen Innenumfangsabschnitt 19 auf, der im wesentlichen von dem Aufsteckende 9 bis zu einem ringförmigen Stufenabsatz 21 reicht, an den sich ein weiterer zylindrischer Innenumfangsabschnitt 23 anschließt. Der Stufenabsatz 21 bildet eine axial gerichtete Anschlagfläche. Im Bereich des Innenumfangsabschnitts 19 ist eine in Umfangsrichtung verlaufende Ringnut 25 in den Mantel 5 eingearbeitet. Diese axial zwischen dem Aufsteckende 9 und dem Stufanabsatz 21 angeordnete Ringnut 25 besitzt in der Schnittdarstellung der Fig. 1 eine Nutkontur, die einem Kreisbogen folgt.The sheath 5 of the pipette tip 1 has an outer circumference 15 and an inner circumference 17. In the coupling region 11, the inner periphery 17 has a cylindrical inner peripheral portion 19, which extends substantially from the Aufsteckende 9 to an annular stepped shoulder 21, to which a further cylindrical inner peripheral portion 23 connects. The stepped shoulder 21 forms an axially directed stop surface. In the region of the inner peripheral portion 19, a circumferentially extending annular groove 25 is incorporated in the jacket 5. This axially between the Aufsteckende 9 and the Stufanabsatz 21 arranged annular groove 25 has in the sectional view of FIG. 1, a groove contour which follows a circular arc.

Im Anschluß an den Koppelbereich 11 weist der Mantel 5 einen ersten konischen Wandabschnitt 27 und einen zweiten konischen Wandabschnitt 29 auf, dessen Konizität schwächer als die des Wandabschnitts 27 ist. Im Bereich der Wandabschnitte 27 und 29 ist der Mantel 5 mit einer geringeren Wandstärke als in dem Koppelbereich 11 ausgeführt. Die größere Wandstärke im Koppelbereich 11 erhöht dort die Stabilität und Steifigkeit der Pipettenspitze 1. Dies erlaubt eine sichere und leckagefreie Ankopplung der Pipettenspitze 1 an eine Pipettiervorrichtung.Following the coupling region 11 points the jacket 5 has a first conical wall section 27 and a second conical wall section 29, whose conicity is weaker than that of the wall section 27. In the region of the wall sections 27 and 29, the jacket 5 is designed with a smaller wall thickness than in the coupling region 11. There, the greater wall thickness in the coupling region 11 increases the stability and rigidity of the pipette tip 1. This allows a secure and leak-free coupling of the pipette tip 1 to a pipetting device.

Als Zahlenbeispiel für die in Fig. 1 dargestellte Pipettenspitze kann der Innendurchmesser des Mantels 5 im Bereich des Innenumfangsabschnitts 19 etwa 6,8 mm betragen und im Bereich des Innenumfangsabschnitts 23 etwa 5,8 mm betragen. Der Stufenabsatz 21 kann in einem axialen Abstand von dem Stimende 9 von etwa 5 mm angeordnet sein. Der Krümmungsradius der Kreiskontur der Ringnut 25 kann etwa 0,6 mm betragen. Die maximale radiale Tiefe der Ringnut 25 kann etwa 0,2 mm betragen. Der axiale Abstand zwischen der Stufe 21 und dem axialen Zentrum der Ringnut 25, also deren tiefster Stelle, kann etwa 2,1 mm betragen.As a numerical example of the pipette tip shown in Fig. 1, the inner diameter of the shell 5 in the region of the inner peripheral portion 19 may be about 6.8 mm and in the region of the inner peripheral portion 23 about 5.8 mm. The stepped shoulder 21 can be arranged at an axial distance from the end 9 of about 5 mm. The radius of curvature of the circular contour of the annular groove 25 may be about 0.6 mm. The maximum radial depth of the annular groove 25 may be about 0.2 mm. The axial distance between the step 21 and the axial center of the annular groove 25, so the lowest point, may be about 2.1 mm.

In den weiteren Figuren werden für gleiche oder gleichwirkende Komponenten der Pipettenspitze gleiche Bezugszeichen wie in Fig. 1 verwendet, jedoch erhöht um die Zahl 100. Zur Vermeidung von Wiederholungen wird auf die vorstehenden Ausführungen zur Fig. 1 verwiesen.In the other figures, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1 are used for identical or equivalent components of the pipette tip, but increased by the number 100. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the above statements to FIG.

Im oberen Teil der Fig. 2 erkennt man einen Ausschnitt einer Pipettiereinheit 201, die Teil einer manuell oder automatisch bedienbaren Pipettiervorrichtung ist und einen Koppelansatz 203 aufweist, der zur Kopplung mit der Pipettenspitze 101 bestimmt ist. Die angesprochene Pipettiervorrichtung kann bei Ausbildung als Pipettierroboter eine Vielzahl solcher Pipettiereinheiten 201 tragen, beispielsweise bis zu einigen hundert. Die Pipettiereinheit 201 weist ein Pipettierrohr 205 auf, das einen Pipettierkanal 207 enthält, welcher längs einer Kanalachse 209 verläuft und im Ankopplungszustand der Pipettenspitze 101 an der Pipettiereinheit 201 von der Durchgangsöffnung 107 der Pipettenspitze 101 fortgesetzt wird. Der Koppelansatz 203 umfaßt eine am unteren Ende des Pipettierrohrs 205 fest an diesem angebrachte, beispielsweise aufgepreßte oder aufgeschraubte Koppelhülse 211. Ein O-Dichtring 213 aus elastisch verformbarem und gewünschtenfalls elektrisch leitendem Material ist auf das Pipettierrohr 205 aufgeschoben und liegt an der der Pipettenspitze 101 axial abgewandten Stirnseite der Koppelhülse 211 an. Ferner ist eine Quetschhülse 215 auf das Pipettierrohr 205 aufgeschoben. Diese Quetschhülse 215 ist axial relativ zu dem Pipettierrohr 205 verschiebbar und dient zur axialen Quetschung des O-Dichtrings 213. Die Quetschhülse 215 ist mittels nicht näher dargestellter Betätigungsmittel betätigbar. Diese Betätigungsmittel können eine manuelle oder automatische Betätigung der Quetschhülse 215 ermöglichen. Beispielsweise kann die Quetschhülse 215 hydraulisch betätigbarsein. Denkbar ist es auch, einen Schraubtrieb für die Verstellung der Quetschhülse 215 vorzusehen, der von Hand betätigbar sein kann, der aber auch mittels eines Elektromotors betätigbar sein kann.2 shows a section of a pipetting unit 201, which is part of a manually or automatically operable pipetting device and has a coupling projection 203, which is intended for coupling to the pipette tip 101. When addressed as a pipetting robot, the addressed pipetting device can carry a large number of such pipetting units 201, for example up to a few hundred. The pipetting unit 201 has a pipetting tube 205, which contains a pipetting channel 207, which runs along a channel axis 209 and continues in the coupling state of the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201 from the through opening 107 of the pipette tip 101. The coupling projection 203 comprises a at the lower end of the pipette 205 fixedly attached thereto, for example, pressed or screwed coupling sleeve 211. An O-ring 213 of elastically deformable and optionally electrically conductive material is pushed onto the pipette 205 and is located at the pipette tip 101 axially remote from the end face of the coupling sleeve 211. Furthermore, a ferrule 215 is pushed onto the pipetting tube 205. This ferrule 215 is axially displaceable relative to the pipetting tube 205 and serves for the axial crushing of the O-ring seal 213. The ferrule 215 can be actuated by means not shown actuating means. These actuating means may allow manual or automatic actuation of the ferrule 215. For example, the ferrule 215 may be hydraulically actuable. It is also conceivable to provide a screw drive for the adjustment of the ferrule 215, which can be actuated by hand, but which can also be actuated by means of an electric motor.

Zum Abwerfen der Pipettenspitze 101 ist ferner noch ein axial relativ zu dem Pipettierrohr 205 beweglicher Abwerfer 217 vorgesehen, der im dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel als die Quetschhülse 215 und das Pipettierrohr 205 umschließendes Abwerferrohr ausgebildet ist. Auf die Art und Weise der Betätigung des Abwerfers 217 wird weiter unten noch eingegangen.For ejecting the pipette tip 101, an ejector 217, which is movable axially relative to the pipetting tube 205, is also provided, which in the embodiment illustrated is designed as the ejector tube enclosing the ferrule 215 and the pipetting tube 205. The manner of operation of the ejector 217 will be discussed later.

An der Koppelhülse 211 ist ein zum Stufenabsatz 121 der Pipettenspitze 101 komplementärer ringförmiger Stufenabsatz 219 ausgebildet, der bei Einstekken des Koppelansatzes 203 in die Pipettenspitze 101 an den Stufenabsatz 121 der Pipettenspitze 101 anschlägt. Durch Zusammenwirken dieser beiden Stufenabsätze 121, 219 wird im Endmontagezustand die axiale Position der Pipettenspitze 101 relativ zu der Pipettiereinheit 201 exakt festgelegt. Zu dem beim Einstekken vorlaufenden Ende des Koppelansatzes 203 hin weist die Koppelhülse 211 einen zylindrischen Außenumfangsabschnitt 221 auf, dessen Durchmesser auf den Durchmesser des Innenumfangsabschnitts 123 der Pipettenspitze 101 im Sinne eines leichtgängigen Aufsteckens der Pipettenspitze 101 auf den Koppelansatz 203 abgestimmt ist. Zur axial anderen Seite hin schließt an den Stufenabsatz 219 ein weiterer zylindrischer Au-βenumfangsabschnitt 223 der Koppelhülse 211 an, dessen Durchmesserin dem gleichen Sinne auf den Durchmesser des Innenumfangsabschnitts 119 der Pipettenspitze 101 abgestimmt ist.At the coupling sleeve 211 a complementary to the stepped shoulder 121 of the pipette tip 101 annular stepped shoulder 219 is formed, which abuts when Einekken the coupling projection 203 in the pipette tip 101 to the stepped shoulder 121 of the pipette tip 101. By interaction of these two stepped heels 121, 219, the axial position of the pipette tip 101 relative to the pipetting unit 201 is exactly determined in the final assembly state. Towards the end of the coupling projection 203 leading to the insert, the coupling sleeve 211 has a cylindrical outer peripheral portion 221 whose diameter is matched to the diameter of the inner peripheral portion 123 of the pipette tip 101 in the sense of a smooth attachment of the pipette tip 101 to the coupling projection 203. At the axially opposite side, another cylindrical outer circumference section 223 of the coupling sleeve 211 adjoins the stepped shoulder 219, the diameter of which is matched to the diameter of the inner circumferential section 119 of the pipette tip 101 in the same sense.

Fig. 3 zeigt den Zustand, wenn die Pipettenspitze 101 aufgesteckt ist und der O-Dichtring 213 noch ungequetscht ist. Man erkennt, daß der axiale Abstand des Stufenabsatzes 219 der Koppelhülse 211 von der axialen Stirnfläche der Koppelhülse 211, auf der der O-Dichtring 213 aufliegt, derart bemessen ist, daß in der in Fig. 3 gezeigten Aufsteckposition der O-Dichtring 213 axial etwas gegenüber der Ringnut 125 versetzt ist. Genauer gesagt ist das axiale Zentrum der Ringnut 125 gegenüber dem axialen Zentrum des unkomprimierten O-Dichtrings 213 etwas zur Pipettenspitze 101 hin versetzt. Ausgehend von dieser Aufsteckposition wird die Quetschhülse 215 axial nach unten in Richtung zu der Pipettenspitze 101 bewegt, um eine axiale Quetschung des O-Dichtrings 213 herbeizuführen. Diesbezüglich wird auf die Fig. 4 und 4a verwiesen, von denen die Fig. 4 den Zustand zeigt, in dem die Quetschung des O-Dichtrings 213 abgeschlossen ist und die Endmontagestellung der Pipettenspitze 101 an der Pipettiereinheit 201 hergestellt ist, und von denen die Fig. 4a einen vergrößerten Ausschnitt im Bereich des O-Dichtrings 213 zeigt. Bei Betrachtung der letzteren Figur erkennt man, daß die Quetschhülse 215 an ihrem dem O-Dichtring 213 zugewandten Ende eine vorlaufende Spitze 225 aufweist, welche bei Annäherung der Quetschhülse 215 an den O-Dichtring 213 zwischen diesen und das Pipettierrohr 205 eindringt, so daß der O-Dichtring 213 nicht nur axial komprimiert wird, sondern durch die Spitze 225 auch radial etwas zur Ringnut 125 hin gedrückt wird. Im Zuge seiner Quetschung erfährt der O-Dichtring 213 insgesamt eine Vergrößerung seines Außendurchmessers. Seine radial herausgedrückten Teile können in den durch die Ringnut 125 freigesparten Raum entweichen, was in Fig. 4a gestrichelt angedeutet ist. Die in die Ringnut 125 entweichenden Teile des O-Rings 213 versuchen, sich in der Ringnut 125 zu entspannen und auszudehnen, wobei sie zur Anlage am Boden der Ringnut 125 gelangen und gegen diesen drücken. Der zuvor angesprochene axiale Versatz der Ringnut 125 gegenüber dem O-Dichtring 123 bewirkt dabei, daß der O-Dichtring 213 vorrangig gegen den in Fig. 4a axial oberen Bereich des Bodens der Ringnut 125 drückt. In diesem Bereich bildet der Boden der Ringnut 125 eine Angriffsfläche 127 für den O-Dichtring 213. Diese Angriffsfläche 127 besitzt aufgrund ihrer Krümmung eine radiale Komponente, so daß dann, wenn der O-Dichtring 213 gegen die Angriffsfläche 127 drückt, eine Kraft auf die Pipettenspitze 101 mit einer axialen Komponente ausgeübt wird. Diese axiale Kraft spannt den Stufenabsatz 121 der Pipettenspitze 101 axial gegen den Stufenabsatz 219 der Koppelhülse 211 vor, wodurch ein sicherer axialer Halt der Pipettenspitze 101 an der Pipettiereinheit 201 herbeigeführt wird. Infolge der Kraft, mit der der O-Dichtring 213 gegen die Angriffsfläche 127 drückt, stellt sich auch eine dichte Anlage der 0-Dichtrings 213 an der Angriffsfläche 127 ein, so daß eine sichere Abdichtung zwischen der Pipettenspitze 101 und der Pipettiereinheit 201 gewährleistet ist.Fig. 3 shows the state when the pipette tip 101 is attached and the O-ring seal 213 is still squeezed. It can be seen that the axial distance of the stepped shoulder 219 of the coupling sleeve 211 of the axial end face of the coupling sleeve 211, on which the O-ring 213 rests, is dimensioned such that in the Aufsteckposition shown in Fig. 3, the O-ring 213 axially something is offset from the annular groove 125. More specifically, the axial center of the annular groove 125 is offset slightly from the axial center of the uncompressed O-ring 213 toward the pipette tip 101. Starting from this plug-on position, the ferrule 215 is moved axially downwards in the direction of the pipette tip 101, in order to bring about an axial crushing of the O-ring 213. In this regard, reference is made to Figs. 4 and 4a, of which Fig. 4 shows the state in which the crushing of the O-ring seal 213 is completed and the final assembly position of the pipette tip 101 is made to the pipetting unit 201, and of which Figs 4a shows an enlarged section in the region of the O-sealing ring 213. Looking at the latter figure, it can be seen that the ferrule 215 has at its end facing the O-ring 213 a leading tip 225 which, when approaching the ferrule 215 to the O-ring 213 between them and the pipetting tube 205 penetrates, so that the O-ring 213 is not only axially compressed, but also by the tip 225 is pressed radially slightly to the annular groove 125 out. In the course of its squeezing the O-ring 213 experiences a total increase in its outer diameter. Its radially pressed-out parts can escape into the free space through the annular groove 125, which is indicated by dashed lines in Fig. 4a. The escaping into the annular groove 125 parts of the O-ring 213 try to relax in the annular groove 125 and expand, and they come to rest against the bottom of the annular groove 125 and press against it. The above-mentioned axial offset of the annular groove 125 relative to the O-ring 123 in this case causes the O-ring 213 primarily presses against the in Fig. 4a axially upper portion of the bottom of the annular groove 125. In this area, the bottom of the annular groove 125 forms an engagement surface 127 for the O-ring seal 213. This attack surface 127 has a radial component due to their curvature, so that when the O-ring 213 presses against the engagement surface 127, a force on the Pipette tip 101 is exerted with an axial component. This axial force biases the stepped shoulder 121 of the pipette tip 101 axially against the stepped shoulder 219 of the coupling sleeve 211, whereby a secure axial hold of the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201 is brought about. Due to the force with which the O-ring 213 presses against the engagement surface 127, a tight contact of the 0-sealing ring 213 on the engagement surface 127, so that a secure seal between the pipette tip 101 and the pipetting unit 201 is ensured.

Man erkennt in Fig. 4a, daß der O-Dichtring 213 in seiner gequetschten Stellung (gestrichelt dargestellt) den axial unteren Bereich der Ringnut 127 nicht notwendigerweise vollständig ausfüllt. Zwar kann dies so sein; wichtig istjedoch, daß die Eingriffsverhältnisse zwischen dem gequetschten O-Dichtring 213 und der Ringnut 125 so eingestellt sind, daß von dem O-Dichtring 213 stets eine solche resultierende Axialkraft auf die Pipettenspitze 101 ausgeübt wird, daß die zuvor angesprochene Andrückung des Stufenabsatzes 121 der Pipettenspitze 101 gegen der Stufenabsatz 219 der Koppelhülse 211 herbeigeführt wird. Der endgültige Ankoppelungszustand der Pipettenspitze 101 an der Pipettiereinheit 201, in dem durch axiale Quetschung und radiale Expansion des O-Dichtrings 213 der sichere und dichtende Halt der Pipettenspitze 101 an der Pipettiereinheit 201 herbeigeführt ist, ist in Fig. 4 gezeigt.It can be seen in Fig. 4a that the O-ring seal 213 (shown in phantom) in its crimped position, the axial lower portion of the annular groove 127 is not necessarily completely filled. While this may be so; However, it is important that the engagement conditions between the crimped O-ring 213 and the annular groove 125 are set so that the O-ring 213 always such a resultant axial force is exerted on the pipette tip 101, that the above-mentioned Andrückung the stepped paragraph 121 of the pipette tip 101 against the stepped shoulder 219 of the coupling sleeve 211 is brought about. The final state of coupling of the pipette tip 101 to the pipetting unit 201, in which the secure and sealing grip of the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201 is brought about by axial pinching and radial expansion of the O-sealing ring 213, is shown in FIG.

Zum Abwerfen der Pipettenspitze 101 wird die Quetschhülse 215 aus ihrer in Fig. 4 gezeigten Quetschstellung axial hochgefahren, wodurch sich der O-Dichtring 213 wieder entspannt und aus der Ringnut 125 zurückzieht. Die im Ankopplungszustand gemäß Fig. 4 auf die Stufenabsätze 121, 219 ausgeübte Vorspannkraft wird dabei aufgehoben. Es stellt sich schließlich wieder der in Fig. 3 gezeigte Zustand ein. Zweckmäßigerweise wird der O-Dichtring 213 in diesem Zustand gemäß Fig. 3 nicht völlig außer Kontakt mit dem Innenumfang 117 der Pipettenspitze 101 sein, sondern in solchem Eingriff mit dem Innenumfang 117 der Pipettenspitze 101 stehen, daß die Pipettenspitze 101 nicht von alleine von der Pipettiereinheit 201 herabfällt.For ejecting the pipette tip 101, the ferrule 215 is raised axially from its squish position shown in Fig. 4, whereby the O-ring 213 relaxes again and withdraws from the annular groove 125. The prestressing force exerted on the stepped shoulders 121, 219 in the coupling state according to FIG. 4 is thereby canceled. It finally turns back to the state shown in Fig. 3. Conveniently, in this condition shown in FIG. 3, the O-ring 213 will not be completely out of contact with the inner periphery 117 of the pipette tip 101, but in such engagement with the inner periphery 117 of the pipette tip 101 that the pipette tip 101 will not be detached from the pipetting unit 201 falls down.

Bei Betrachtung der Fig. 4a kann in dieser Situation beispielsweise der O-Dichtring 213 an der mit 129 bezeichneten Übergangskante zwischen der Ringnut 125 und dem zylindrischen Innenumfangsabschnitt 119 der Pipettenspitze 101 anstoßen. Zum Abwerfen der Pipettenspitze 101 muß dann diese Übergangskante 129 an dem O-Dichtring 213 vorbeibewegt werden, was nur unter einer gleichzeitigen geringfügigen radialen Komprimierung des O-Dichtrings 213 möglich ist. Diese radiale Komprimierung des O-Dichtrings 213 wirkt jedoch reibungserhöhend, was an sich der Forderung nach einem leichtgängigen Abstreifen der Pipettenspitze 101 von der Pipettiereinheit 201 zuwider laufen würde. Aus diesem Grund ist der oberhalb der Ringnut 125 befindliche zylindrische Innenumfangsabschnitt 119 der Pipettenspitze 101 bevorzugt gestuft ausgeführt, wie dies insbesondere in Fig. 4a zu erkennen ist. In geringem axialen Abstand von der Übergangskante 129 weist er eine durch eine Stufe 131 gebildete Stufenerweiterung auf, die eine entsprechende Durchmesservergrößerung dieses Innenumfangsabschnitts 119 bewirkt. Wenn der O-Ring 213 die zwischen der Übergangskante 129 und der Stufe 131 gebildete "Einschnürzone" überwunden hat, kann er sich vollständig entspannen und verliert den Kontakt mit dem Innenumfang 117 der Pipettenspitze 101, so daß dann die Pipettenspitze 101 leichtgängig von der Pipettiereinheit 201 abgestreift werden kann.Considering Fig. 4a, in this situation, for example, the O-ring seal 213 may abut at the transition edge designated 129 between the annular groove 125 and the cylindrical inner peripheral portion 119 of the pipette tip 101. To eject the pipette tip 101 then this transition edge 129 must be moved past the O-ring seal 213, which is only possible with a simultaneous slight radial compression of the O-ring seal 213. However, this radial compression of the O-ring 213 has a friction-increasing effect, which in itself would run counter to the requirement for a smooth stripping of the pipette tip 101 from the pipetting unit 201. For this reason, the cylindrical inner peripheral portion 119 of the pipette tip 101 situated above the annular groove 125 is preferably stepped, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 4a. At a small axial distance from the transition edge 129, it has a step extension formed by a step 131, which causes a corresponding increase in diameter of this inner peripheral portion 119. When the O-ring 213 has overcome the "pinch zone" formed between the transition edge 129 and the step 131, it can completely relax and lose contact with the inner periphery 117 of the pipette tip 101, so that the pipette tip 101 smoothly moves from the pipetting unit 201 can be stripped off.

Um das Abstreifen der Pipettenspitze 101 von der Pipettiereinheit 201 nicht manuell bewerkstelligen zu müssen, ist der Abwerfer 217 vorgesehen. Dieser kann auf verschiedenste Weise betätigt werden. Beispielsweise ist eine hydraulische oder elektromotorische Betätigung des Abwerfers 217 denkbar. Alternativ kann an dem Abwerter 217 eine nicht näher dargestellte Vorspannfeder angreifen, die beim Aufsetzen der Pipettenspitze 101 auf die Pipettiereinheit201 gespannt wird, wenn die Pipettenspitze 101 mit ihrem Stirnende 109 das den Abwerfer217 bildende Abwerferrohr nach oben drückt. Wenn dann die Quetschung des 0-Dichtrings 213 aufgehoben wird, kann sich diese Abwerfer-Vorspannfeder wieder entspannen. Durch ihre Federkraft drückt sie das Abwerferrohr 217wieder nach unten, was mit einem Abwurf der Pipettenspitze 101 einhergeht. Es versteht sich, daß die Abwerfer-Vorspannfeder so bemessen sein wird, daß die von ihr im gespannten Zustand auf das Abwerferrohr 217 ausgeübte Kraft nicht die axiale Haltekraft des O-Dichtrings 213 übersteigt. Zugleich wird sie so bemessen sein, daß die Kraft, die im Zuge ihrer Entspannung auf die Pipettenspitze 101 ausgeübt wird, ausreicht, um die Kante 129 an dem O-Dichtring 213 vorbeizubewegen.In order not to have to accomplish the stripping of the pipette tip 101 from the pipetting unit 201 manually, the ejector 217 is provided. This can be operated in various ways. For example, a hydraulic or electromotive operation of the ejector 217 is conceivable. Alternatively, a biasing spring, not shown, can be attached to the devaluation element 217, which is stretched when placing the pipette tip 101 on the pipetting unit 201, when the pipette tip 101 with its front end 109 pushes the ejector tube forming the ejector 217 upwards. Then, when the pinch seal of the O-ring 213 is released, this ejector bias spring can relax again. Due to its spring force, it presses down the ejector tube 217 again, which is accompanied by a drop of the pipette tip 101. It is understood that the ejector biasing spring will be sized so that the force exerted by it in the tensioned state on the Abwerferrohr 217 force does not exceed the axial holding force of the O-ring 213. At the same time, it will be dimensioned so that the force exerted on the pipette tip 101 in the course of its relaxation is sufficient to move the edge 129 past the O-sealing ring 213.

Fig. 5 zeigt den Abwurfzustand, in dem der Abwerfer 217 nach unten bewegt ist und die Pipettenspitze 101 vollständig an dem O-Dichtring 213 vorbeibewegt ist.Fig. 5 shows the discharge state in which the ejector 217 is moved down and the pipette tip 101 is completely moved past the O-ring seal 213.

Es versteht sich, daß dem Pipettierrohr 205 der Pipettiereinheit 201 geeignete Saugmittel zugeordnet sein werden, die es erlauben, in dem Pipettierkanal 207 und damit in der Pipettenspitze 101 einen Unterdruck zu erzeugen, der zum Einsaugen zu pipettierender Flüssigkeit führt. Diese Saugmittel können beispielsweise einen in dem Pipettierrohr 205 axial beweglich angeordneten Kolben umfassen, der mittels elektrischer, hydraulischer oder pneumatischer Betätigungsmittel axial verstellbar ist.It is understood that the pipetting tube 205 of the pipetting unit 201 will be associated with suitable suction means, which make it possible to generate a negative pressure in the pipetting channel 207 and thus in the pipette tip 101, which leads to the aspiration of liquid to be pipetted. These suction means may comprise, for example, a piston which is axially movable in the pipetting tube 205 and which is axially adjustable by means of electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic actuating means.

Die Pipettenspitze 101 wird bevorzugt aus einem Kunststoffmaterial hergestellt, beispielsweise durch Spritzgießen. Dieses Kunststoffmaterial kann elektrisch leitfähig sein, um in an sich bekannter Weise Leittähigkeitsmessungen an der zu pipettierenden Flüssigkeit durchführen zu können. Dementsprechend können auch die Koppelhülse 211 und das Pipettierrohr205 aus leitfähigen Materialien bestehen. Aus Festigkeits- und Verschleißgründen werden hier bevorzugt Metalle zum Einsatz kommen, wenngleich Kunststoffmaterialien für die Koppelhülse 211 und das Pipettierrohr 205 nicht ausgeschlossen sind. Das Fassungsvermögen der als Wegwerfartikel ausgebildeten Pipettenspitze 101 kann beispielsweise zwischen 0,1 und 1300 µl liegen. The pipette tip 101 is preferably made of a plastic material, for example by injection molding. This plastic material may be electrically conductive in order to be able to conduct conductance measurements on the liquid to be pipetted in a manner known per se. Accordingly, the coupling sleeve 211 and the pipetting tube 205 may be made of conductive materials. For strength and wear reasons, metals are preferably used here, although plastic materials for the coupling sleeve 211 and the pipetting tube 205 are not excluded. The capacity of the disposable pipette tip 101 may be, for example, between 0.1 and 1300 μl.

Claims (12)

  1. Pipette unit (201) with a pipette tip for a pipette device, wherein the pipette unit (201) has a coupler attachment (203), on which the pipette tip can be attached in a slipping-on direction for coupling, wherein the coupler attachment (203) has an adjustable prestress mechanism (213) that can be adjusted into a prestress state and a release state via an actuation device (215), which is provided in the coupler attachment, characterised in that the pipette tip (101) has an axial stop (121), which interacts with a counter-stop (219) of the coupler attachment (203) in an axial coupling position of the pipette tip (101), in that the prestress mechanism (213), in its prestress state, engages on a working surface (127) of the attached pipette tip (101) with a surface component of the pipette tip (101), which runs radially inward, turned away from the attachment direction, in such a way that it abuts on the working surface in a sealed manner, and prestresses the pipette tip (101) on the pipette unit (201) into the axial coupling position, and in that the prestress mechanism (213), in its release state, substantially releases the working surface (127) of the pipette tip (101), the working surface (127) being formed by an annular groove (125) which is curved in the shape of an arc.
  2. Pipette unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the axial stop (121) is located, at least in part, on an inside circumference (117) of a jacket (105) of the pipette tip, at an axial distance from the plug-end (109) of the pipette tip (101).
  3. Pipette unit according to claim 2, characterised in that the jacket inside circumference (117) has, at least in the coupling region (111), an envelope, which is substantially formed by cylindrical sections (119,123).
  4. Pipette unit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the axial stop (121) is formed by a stepped heel of the jacket inside circumference (117), which connects a first cylindrical jacket inside circumference section (119) having a larger diameter, which is closer to the plug-end (109), with a second cylindrical jacket inside circumference section (123) having a smaller diameter, which is further from the plug-end (109).
  5. Pipette unit according to claim 4, characterised in that the diameter diminution from the first (119) to the second (123) jacket inside circumference section, brought about by the stepped heel (121), is between 0.8 and 1.2 mm
  6. Pipette unit according to either claim 4 or claim 5, characterised in that the diameter of the first jacket inside circumference section (119) is between 6.5 and 7.1 mm.
  7. Pipette unit according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterised in that the diameter of the second jacket inside circumference section (123) is between 5.5 and 6.1 mm
  8. Pipette unit according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the groove cross-section of the annular groove (125) is limited by an arc and has a radius of curvature between 0.3 and 0.9 mm.
  9. Pipette unit according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the working surface (127) is located axially between the axial stop (121) and the plug-end (109) of the pipette tip (101).
  10. Pipette unit according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the counter-stop (219) is formed by a stepped heel on the outside circumference of the coupler attachment (203).
  11. Pipette unit according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the coupler attachment (203) carries a sealing element (213) that is used for sealing between the pipette tip (101) and the coupler attachment (203), made of elastically defonnable and, if desired, electrically conductive material, and a squeezing device (215) for the axial compression of the sealing element (213) is associated with the pipette unit (201).
  12. Pipette unit according to claim 11, characterised in that the sealing element (213) is an O-ring.
EP00926950A 1999-04-16 2000-04-14 Pipette tip, pipetting device and combination consisting of a pipette tip and pipetting device Expired - Lifetime EP1171240B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19917375 1999-04-16
DE19917375A DE19917375C2 (en) 1999-04-16 1999-04-16 Pipetting unit
PCT/EP2000/003423 WO2000062933A1 (en) 1999-04-16 2000-04-14 Pipette tip, pipetting device and combination consisting of a pipette tip and pipetting device

Publications (3)

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EP1171240A1 EP1171240A1 (en) 2002-01-16
EP1171240B1 EP1171240B1 (en) 2003-07-02
EP1171240B2 true EP1171240B2 (en) 2006-06-14

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EP00926950A Expired - Lifetime EP1171240B2 (en) 1999-04-16 2000-04-14 Pipette tip, pipetting device and combination consisting of a pipette tip and pipetting device

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US9415388B2 (en) 2016-08-16
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US20060233669A1 (en) 2006-10-19
EP1171240B1 (en) 2003-07-02
US7033543B1 (en) 2006-04-25
DE19917375C2 (en) 2001-09-27
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JP3977597B2 (en) 2007-09-19
ES2197094T5 (en) 2006-11-16
DE50002736D1 (en) 2003-08-07
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WO2000062933A1 (en) 2000-10-26
ATE244070T1 (en) 2003-07-15

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