EP1358011A2 - Closure for a reagent container - Google Patents

Closure for a reagent container

Info

Publication number
EP1358011A2
EP1358011A2 EP02706718A EP02706718A EP1358011A2 EP 1358011 A2 EP1358011 A2 EP 1358011A2 EP 02706718 A EP02706718 A EP 02706718A EP 02706718 A EP02706718 A EP 02706718A EP 1358011 A2 EP1358011 A2 EP 1358011A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pipette
conical insert
reagent container
closure
needle
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP02706718A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1358011B1 (en
Inventor
Reinhard Krause
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Merck Patent GmbH
Original Assignee
Merck Patent GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Merck Patent GmbH filed Critical Merck Patent GmbH
Publication of EP1358011A2 publication Critical patent/EP1358011A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1358011B1 publication Critical patent/EP1358011B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
    • B01L3/508—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes rigid containers not provided for above
    • B01L3/5082—Test tubes per se
    • B01L3/50825—Closing or opening means, corks, bungs
    • 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
    • B01L3/021—Pipettes, i.e. with only one conduit for withdrawing and redistributing liquids
    • B01L3/0217—Pipettes, i.e. with only one conduit for withdrawing and redistributing liquids of the plunger pump type
    • B01L3/022—Capillary pipettes, i.e. having very small bore
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
    • B65D51/002—Closures to be pierced by an extracting-device for the contents and fixed on the container by separate retaining means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T436/00—Chemistry: analytical and immunological testing
    • Y10T436/25—Chemistry: analytical and immunological testing including sample preparation
    • Y10T436/2575—Volumetric liquid transfer

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a closure for reagent containers and a method for removing reagents with pipettes or pipetting needles.
  • liquid chemicals and various samples such as serum, plasma, liquor, etc. are stored in glass or plastic containers.
  • the removal is done manually using e.g. a pipette or syringe or automatically e.g. through the pipette needle of an automatic pipetting machine.
  • the reagent containers As a rule, it is necessary to keep the reagent containers closed during storage so that the contents are not lost through evaporation, are exposed to moisture or otherwise age due to contact with air. Therefore, the reagent containers must be opened before taking a sample. After removal, the container must be closed again.
  • Screw caps must be unscrewed manually or mechanically before the reagent is taken and then screwed on again. This is complex and can only be carried out with difficulty by automatic pipetting machines. You can also use
  • Screw lids can easily be confused with a high throughput of containers, since the lids must be put aside during removal. It can happen that a wrong cover is screwed on when closing. This in turn can lead to confusion of the contents of the container or to contamination. Stoppers:
  • stopper closures e.g. loosen if there is overpressure in the vessel.
  • closures have a membrane made of plastic or e.g. Latex compounds that are pierced with a pipette or needle for sampling.
  • a flat membrane has been replaced by a conical indentation which can be pierced in the tip to remove liquid.
  • the disadvantage of these types of closures is that the nature of the membrane often does not meet all the requirements placed on it. For one thing, it can be too stable to be punctured. On the other hand, it happens that the membrane no longer completely seals the container after tapping.
  • a small amount of substance sticks to the membrane from the outside of the pipette, dries there if necessary or changes due to the influence of air / moisture and reaches e.g. the next time it is taken back into the container, where it then contaminates the contents.
  • the membrane may dissolve or particles of the membrane may get into the container.
  • Foil or a stopper are cut crosswise so that a pipette or needle can be inserted into the intersection of the incisions.
  • An example can be found in WO 90/09330.
  • the disadvantage of this method is that a tight seal of the container is no longer guaranteed, especially when used repeatedly.
  • chemical residues may also be deposited on the membrane when inserting and executing the pipette.
  • incorrect liquid detection e.g. liquid detection by induction
  • a conductive surface e.g. slides along the wet surface of a membrane. This can lead to pipetting of air bubbles, for example.
  • the object of the present invention was therefore to find a closure for reagent containers which is suitable for both manual and automatic sampling, which seals the container tightly during storage and which avoids contamination of the contents of the container when it is removed.
  • a closure which has a screw or cover cap with a conical insert oriented in the direction of the filling material.
  • the conical insert is cut at least once, so that it can be bent apart in the lower region, and additionally has, for example, an annular web in the central region.
  • a pipette with a release sleeve ie a thickened portion placed at a certain distance from the end of the needle, is inserted to remove the liquid.
  • the trigger sleeve hits onto the web of the conical insert and thus causes the divided walls of the cone to bend apart.
  • the pipette needle enters the container without touching the cone, ie the closure. If the pipette needle and the trigger sleeve are withdrawn, the walls of the cone close again, since the trigger sleeve no longer pushes the bridge apart. The vessel is tightly closed again.
  • the present invention therefore relates to a closure for a reagent container consisting of an attachment part (6) for attachment to the reagent container (7) and a conical insert (4), the conical insert (4) being incorporated into an opening in the attachment part and one has a conical or pyramid-shaped wall which ends in a tip in the direction of the reagent container, characterized in that the conical or pyramid-shaped wall is divided into lobes by at least one cut through the tip and has a release web (3) on the side facing away from the reagent container ,
  • the conical insert on the side facing the reagent container is provided with pressure springs, elastic bands or an elastic membrane.
  • the present invention also relates to a method for removing liquids from reagent containers that are provided with a closure according to the invention, characterized by the following method steps ) is provided with a release sleeve (2); b) Vertical insertion of the pipette needle (1) into the center of the conical insert (4) of the closure according to the invention until the end of the pipette needle (5) is immersed in the liquid, the tabs on Release web (3) of the conical insert (4) are pressed outwards by the release sleeve (2) so that the pipette needle (1) does not touch the conical insert (4); c) aspirating or injecting liquid; d) The pipette is pulled back vertically, the tabs of the conical insert (4) closing tightly again as soon as the release sleeve (2) no longer presses the tabs outwards.
  • the present invention also relates to a pipetting device consisting of at least one reagent container which is provided with a closure according to the invention and at least one pipette which has a pipette needle with a trigger sleeve.
  • Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of possible cuts in the conical insert.
  • Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a closure according to the invention in closed (A) and open (B) form.
  • the closure according to the invention is suitable for any type of reagent container which, on the one hand, should be closed as tightly as possible during storage and, on the other hand, should not be opened in an additional work step for removal, in particular for multiple removal.
  • these are reagent containers for chemical, biological or medical applications.
  • the closure is suitable for manual removal and is particularly preferred for use in automatic pipetting machines.
  • the closure according to the invention comprises an attachment part which enables it to be fixed on the reagent container.
  • This can be a screw or plug cap or, for example, also a sealing ring that is fastened by means of a metal clip. It is preferably a screw cap.
  • a conically shaped insert is typically worked into the center of the attachment part of the closure. Accordingly, there is a typically ring-shaped opening in the center of the attachment part, into which the conical insert is incorporated.
  • Top part and conical insert can be made from one or more parts and materials.
  • the rest of the closure can be made from a part consisting of a sealing ring and a conical insert.
  • the conical insert has a conical wall or a pyramid-shaped wall (i.e. a wall of at least three surfaces converging downwards), with the tip of the cone or pyramid downwards, i.e. towards the contents of the reagent container.
  • the height and base area of the conical insert depend on the diameter and the height of the reagent container to be closed.
  • the insert In order for the container to be able to hold a sufficiently large amount of liquid, the insert should typically protrude no further than up to half the height of the container.
  • the conical insert has at least one notch, preferably 2 to 5
  • FIG. 1 An illustration of possible arrangements of the incisions can be found in Figure 1.
  • the conical insert is shown schematically as a view of the tip of a cone.
  • the incisions are such that the wall of the insert is completely cut through, preferably symmetrically, from the top of the cone or pyramid. Accordingly, several lobes are created, which form the lower part of the cone or pyramid up to the tip. Typically, the incisions do not reach the top of the cone or pyramid.
  • the conical insert also has release webs on the inside, ie on the side facing away from the contents of the container to be closed.
  • This Tripping bars are typically located approximately halfway up the cone or pyramid.
  • the trigger bars are formed by protruding the wall or by a bead placed on the wall. It can be a ring or, for example, several interrupted individual webs that are at the level of the cone or
  • the conical insert is incorporated or inserted in the center of the attachment part and extends vertically downward into the interior of the vessel to be closed.
  • the attachment part is shaped in such a way that it forms an extension of the neck of the vessel upwards and the conical insert of the closure according to the invention is located inside the attachment part and hardly or not at all extends into the interior of the vessel.
  • the closure according to the invention is designed for vessels which e.g. be set at an angle in the template of an automatic pipetting machine. Then the conical insert is preferably installed obliquely in the attachment part, or the entire closure according to the invention is aligned obliquely, so that vertical pipetting is possible despite the oblique position of the vessel.
  • the closure according to the invention can consist of plastic, metal, glass, ceramic or of composite materials, which are mainly composed of the materials mentioned. It is preferably made of plastic.
  • the top part and the conical insert can consist of the same or different materials. Furthermore, the top part and conical insert itself can also consist of one or more materials.
  • the conical insert for example, be provided with a chemically inert coating, for example Teflon, on the side facing the interior of the vessel.
  • a pipette or syringe is typically used for the proper removal of liquid from a reagent container which is closed with a closure according to the invention.
  • the tip or needle hereinafter generally referred to as the pipette needle, is provided with a release sleeve for this purpose.
  • the trigger sleeve is a typically rod-shaped molded body which has a bore along the longitudinal axis into which the pipette needle can be inserted.
  • the ends of the molded body are preferably obliquely flattened or rounded.
  • the cross section of the rod-shaped shaped body can e.g. represent a circle, oval, square or triangle.
  • the size of the diameter of the shaped body can change along the longitudinal axis of the rod, so that it e.g. the largest in the middle of the longitudinal axis
  • the release sleeve is particularly preferably a cylindrical shaped body with a round cross section, the cross section of which is reduced towards the ends.
  • the shape and size of the release sleeve must be matched to the size of the closure according to the invention and in particular the shape of the conical insert and the release bar.
  • the trigger sleeve is attached to the pipette needle at a certain distance from the end of the needle.
  • the distance to the end of the needle and the extent (diameter and length) of the release sleeve is determined by the size and extent of the closure according to the invention.
  • the trigger sleeve must be designed and positioned so that when the pipette needle is inserted, the trigger sleeve touches the trigger bar of the conical insert before the pipette needle itself can touch the closure. Due to the pressure of the release sleeve
  • Trigger bars pressed outwards and the flaps of the conical insert bent apart. This creates one at the top Opening through which the end of the needle can be immersed when the pipette is inserted further into the reagent solution.
  • the pipette needle is pulled out of the vessel again, the end of the needle not touching the closure according to the invention, since the release sleeve keeps the flaps of the conical insert apart until the pipette needle leaves the interior of the reagent container. The flaps then close together and the conical insert closes the container tightly.
  • the trigger sleeve must be long enough to push the trigger bars apart while the pipette needle is immersed in the reagent, so that the pipette needle does not touch the closure, more precisely the conical insert of the closure.
  • the release sleeve can be made of plastic, metal, ceramic or glass, for example. It must not slip along the pipetting needle during the pipetting process, especially when it comes into contact with the trigger bar. Therefore, the trigger sleeve is preferably pinned, fixed with brackets or particularly preferably glued or worked directly into the needle.
  • the distance between the trigger sleeve and the end of the pipette needle is determined by the depth of the conical insert and the position of the trigger web.
  • the trigger sleeve must ensure that the flaps of the conical insert are opened before the end of the pipette needle reaches the tip of the cone.
  • When handling ensure that the pipette is not immersed so far in the sample solution that the trigger sleeve comes into contact with the liquid. This is usually not a problem with automatic pipetting machines, since the time of immersion in the liquid is determined by means of induction measurement and the needle is then no longer inserted much deeper.
  • the pipette needle when using a closure according to the invention in combination with a pipette needle with a trigger sleeve, the pipette needle does not touch the closure of the reagent container at any time during the sampling. There can be no reagent deposits on the closure, so that possible contamination of the contents of the vessel is avoided, for example due to dropping of dried reagent residues.
  • the individual flaps of the conical insert must close tightly again after the sample has been taken.
  • This can e.g. can be supported by providing the conical insert on the side facing the inside of the vessel with pressure springs, elastic bands or a stocking-shaped, elastic membrane which has an opening at the tip.
  • the conical insert should be made of a material that is not too brittle to close tightly again after the flaps have been folded out.
  • the material should be stable enough so that the flaps are folded far enough apart, especially in the area of the tip, when the pipette is inserted. If necessary, this can be achieved by using several layers of material, e.g. an elastic and tightly fitting layer to the inside of the vessel and a more stable, harder outer layer.
  • the walls of the conical insert can have other seals, struts or reinforcements.
  • FIG. 2 shows a closed according to the invention
  • a pipetting device for carrying out the pipetting method according to the invention accordingly comprises at least one pipette (i.e. pipette, syringe or automatic pipetting device) whose pipetting needle has a trigger sleeve and a reagent container which is closed with the closure according to the invention.
  • pipette i.e. pipette, syringe or automatic pipetting device
  • the pipetting method comprises the following steps: provision of a closed according to the invention
  • the pipette needle is provided with a trigger sleeve

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Clinical Laboratory Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Hematology (AREA)
  • Automatic Analysis And Handling Materials Therefor (AREA)
  • Sampling And Sample Adjustment (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a closure for a reagent container (7) with a screw-cap or lid (6), comprising a conical insert (4), reaching in the direction of the contents. The conical insert (4) is cut at least once, such that said insert may be bent apart in the lower region thereof and further comprises, for example, an annular step (3) in the middle region thereof. In the rest state the cone completely seals the reagent container. For the removal of liquid, a pipette with a release sleeve (2), in other words, a broadening (2) at a particular separation from the needle end (1), is introduced. The release sleeve contacts the step of the conical insert (3) and produces a separation of the divided walls of the cone. The pipette needle enters the container without making contact with the cone, in other words with the closure. As the pipette needle, complete with release sleeve (2), is withdrawn, the walls of the cone close back together, as the release sleeve (2) is no longer pressing on the step (3).

Description

VerschluƟ fĆ¼r ReagenzbehƤlterĀ Closure for reagent containers
Die Erfindung betrifft einen VerschluƟ fĆ¼r ReagenzbehƤlter und ein Verfahren zur Entnahme von Reagenzien mit Pipetten oder Pipettiernadeln.The invention relates to a closure for reagent containers and a method for removing reagents with pipettes or pipetting needles.
In medizinischen, chemischen oder biologischen Laboratorien werden flĆ¼ssige Chemikalien sowie diverse Proben, wie Serum, Plasma, Liquor etc., in Glas- oder Kunststoff behƤltern aufbewahrt. Die Entnahme erfolgt manuell mittels z.B. einer Pipette oder Spritze oder automatisch z.B. durch die Pipettiemadel eines Pipettierautomaten.In medical, chemical or biological laboratories, liquid chemicals and various samples such as serum, plasma, liquor, etc. are stored in glass or plastic containers. The removal is done manually using e.g. a pipette or syringe or automatically e.g. through the pipette needle of an automatic pipetting machine.
In der Regel ist es notwendig, die ReagenzbehƤlter bei der Lagerung geschlossen zu halten, damit der Inhalt nicht durch Verdunstung verloren geht, der Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt ist oder durch Kontakt mit Luft auf andere Weise altert. Daher mĆ¼ssen die ReagenzbehƤlter vor der Entnahme einer Probe geƶffnet werden. Nach der Entnahme muƟ der BehƤlter wieder verschlossen werden.As a rule, it is necessary to keep the reagent containers closed during storage so that the contents are not lost through evaporation, are exposed to moisture or otherwise age due to contact with air. Therefore, the reagent containers must be opened before taking a sample. After removal, the container must be closed again.
FĆ¼r ReagenzbehƤlter sind verschiedenste VerschlĆ¼sse bekannt:Various closures are known for reagent containers:
SchraubverschlĆ¼sse:screw:
SchraubverschlĆ¼sse mĆ¼ssen vor der Reagenzentnahme manuell oder mechanisch abgedreht werden und anschlieƟend wieder zugeschraubt werden. Dies ist aufwendig und kann von Pipettierautomaten nur schwer durchgefĆ¼hrt werden. AuƟerdem kann die Verwendung vonScrew caps must be unscrewed manually or mechanically before the reagent is taken and then screwed on again. This is complex and can only be carried out with difficulty by automatic pipetting machines. You can also use
Schraubdeckeln bei einem hohen Durchsatz an BehƤltern leicht zu Verwechslungen fĆ¼hren, da die Deckel wƤhrend der Entnahme zur Seite gelegt werden mĆ¼ssen. So kann es vorkommen, dass beim VerschlieƟen ein falscher Deckel aufgeschraubt wird. Dies kann wiederum zu Verwechslungen des Inhaltes der BehƤlter fĆ¼hren oder zu Verunreinigungen. StopfenverschlĆ¼sse:Screw lids can easily be confused with a high throughput of containers, since the lids must be put aside during removal. It can happen that a wrong cover is screwed on when closing. This in turn can lead to confusion of the contents of the container or to contamination. Stoppers:
Bei StopfenverschlĆ¼ssen treten die gleichen Nachteile wie bei SchraubverschlĆ¼ssen auf. Zudem kƶnnen sich StopfenverschlĆ¼sse z.B. bei Ɯberdruck im GefƤƟ selbst lƶsen.The same disadvantages occur with plug closures as with screw closures. In addition, stopper closures e.g. loosen if there is overpressure in the vessel.
MembranverschlĆ¼sse:Membrane closures:
Diese VerschlĆ¼sse weisen eine Membran aus Kunststoff oder z.B. Latexverbindungen auf, die zur Probenentnahme mit einer Pipette oder Nadel durchstochen wird. In EP 0 504 697 wurde eine flache Membran durch eine kegelfƶrmig nach innen verlaufende Einbuchtung ersetzt, die zur FlĆ¼ssigkeitsentnahme in der Spitze durchstochen werden kann. Nachteil dieser VerschluƟarten ist, dass die Beschaffenheit der Membran oft nicht alle an sie gestellten Anforderungen erfĆ¼llt. Zum einen kann sie zu stabil sein, um durchstochen werden zu kƶnnen. Andererseits kommt es vor, dass die Membran nach dem Anstich den BehƤlter nicht mehr vollstƤndig abdichtet. AuƟerdem bleibt bei jedem Durchstich eine kleine Menge an Substanz von der Aussenseite der Pipette an der Membran hƤngen, trocknet dort gegebenenfalls ein oder verƤndert sich durch die Luft/Feuchtigkeitseinwirkung und gelangt z.B. bei der nƤchsten Entnahme zurĆ¼ck in den BehƤlter, wo sie dann den Inhalt kontaminiert. Weiterhin kann es vor allem bei bestimmten Chemikalien zu einem Anlƶsen der Membran kommen oder Partikel der Membran kƶnnen in den BehƤlter gelangen.These closures have a membrane made of plastic or e.g. Latex compounds that are pierced with a pipette or needle for sampling. In EP 0 504 697, a flat membrane has been replaced by a conical indentation which can be pierced in the tip to remove liquid. The disadvantage of these types of closures is that the nature of the membrane often does not meet all the requirements placed on it. For one thing, it can be too stable to be punctured. On the other hand, it happens that the membrane no longer completely seals the container after tapping. In addition, with every puncture, a small amount of substance sticks to the membrane from the outside of the pipette, dries there if necessary or changes due to the influence of air / moisture and reaches e.g. the next time it is taken back into the container, where it then contaminates the contents. Furthermore, especially with certain chemicals, the membrane may dissolve or particles of the membrane may get into the container.
KreuzschnittverschlĆ¼sse: Diese VerschlĆ¼sse Ƥhneln den MembranverschlĆ¼ssen. Eine Membran,Cross-cut closures: These closures are similar to membrane closures. A membrane,
Folie oder ein Stopfen sind kreuzweise eingeschnitten, so daƟ eine Pipette oder Nadel in den Schnittpunkt der Einschnitte eingefĆ¼hrt werden kann. Ein Beispiel findet sich in WO 90/09330. Nachteil dieser Methode ist, dass insbesondere bei mehrfacher Benutzung ein dichter VerschluƟ des BehƤlters nicht mehr garantiert ist. Zudem werden auch hier beim EinfĆ¼hren und AusfĆ¼hren der Pipette gegebenenfalls ChemikalienrĆ¼ckstƤnde an der Membran abgelagert. AutomatenverschlĆ¼sse:Foil or a stopper are cut crosswise so that a pipette or needle can be inserted into the intersection of the incisions. An example can be found in WO 90/09330. The disadvantage of this method is that a tight seal of the container is no longer guaranteed, especially when used repeatedly. In addition, chemical residues may also be deposited on the membrane when inserting and executing the pipette. Machine closures:
In Pipettierautomaten werden verschiedene, meist komplizierte Vorrichtungen integriert, die durch mechanisch oder elektrisch betƤtigte Schieber, Scheiben etc. eine Ɩffnung frei geben, durch die pipettiert werden kann. Ein Beispiel hierfĆ¼r findet sich in US 5,542,575. Aufgrund des groƟen mechanischen Aufwands und des Kostenaufwands finden derartige Vorrichtungen nur fĆ¼r wenige ReagenzbehƤlter in Pipettierautomaten Anwendung. Zur manuellen Entnahme sind sie nicht geeignet.Various, mostly complicated, devices are integrated in automatic pipetting devices, which open mechanically or electrically operated slides, disks etc. to open an opening through which pipetting can be carried out. An example of this can be found in US 5,542,575. Because of the great mechanical complexity and the cost, such devices are only used for a few reagent containers in automatic pipetting devices. They are not suitable for manual removal.
Bei VerschlĆ¼ssen fĆ¼r Pipettierautomaten ist zudem zu beachten, daƟ eine falsche FlĆ¼ssigkeitsdetektion (z.B. bei FlĆ¼ssigkeitsdetektion durch Induktion) verursacht werden kann, wenn die Pipettiertnadel bei der Entnahme vor dem Eintauchen in die Probe an einer leitenden OberflƤche, wie z.B. der feuchten OberflƤche einer Membran entlanggleitet. Dadurch kann es beispielsweise zum Pipettieren von Luftblasen kommen.With closures for automatic pipetting devices, it should also be noted that incorrect liquid detection (e.g. liquid detection by induction) can be caused if the pipetting needle is removed from a conductive surface, e.g. slides along the wet surface of a membrane. This can lead to pipetting of air bubbles, for example.
Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung war es daher, einen VerschluƟ fĆ¼r ReagenzbehƤlter zu finden, der sich sowohl zur manuellen wie auch zur automatischen Probenentnahme eignet, der den BehƤlter wƤhrend der Lagerung dicht abschlieƟt und der eine Kontamination des Inhalts des BehƤlters bei der Entnahme vermeidet.The object of the present invention was therefore to find a closure for reagent containers which is suitable for both manual and automatic sampling, which seals the container tightly during storage and which avoids contamination of the contents of the container when it is removed.
Es wurde gefunden, daƟ diese Anforderungen von einem VerschluƟ erfĆ¼llt werden, der eine Schraub- oder Deckelkappe mit einem in Richtung des FĆ¼llguts ausgerichteten konisches Einsatz aufweist. Der konische Einsatz ist mindestens einmal eingeschnitten, so daƟ er im unteren Bereich auseinandergebogen werden kann, und weist zusƤtzlich im mittleren Bereich einen z.B. ringfƶrmigen Steg auf. Im Ruhezustand verschlieƟt der Konus den ReagenzbehƤlter vollstƤndig. Zur FlĆ¼ssigkeitsentnahme wird eine Pipette mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse, d.h. einer in bestimmtem Abstand zum Ende der Nadel aufgesetzten Verdickung, eingefĆ¼hrt. Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse trifft auf den Steg des konischen Einsatzes und bewirkt so ein Auseinanderbiegen der geteilten WƤnde des Konus. Die Pipettiemadel gelangt in den BehƤlter ohne den Konus, d.h. den VerschluƟ, zu berĆ¼hren. Wird die Pipettiemadel mitsamt der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse zurĆ¼ckgezogen, so schlieƟen sich die WƤnde des Konus wieder, da die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse den Steg nicht mehr auseinanderdrĆ¼ckt. Das GefƤƟ ist wieder dicht verschlossen.It has been found that these requirements are met by a closure which has a screw or cover cap with a conical insert oriented in the direction of the filling material. The conical insert is cut at least once, so that it can be bent apart in the lower region, and additionally has, for example, an annular web in the central region. In the idle state, the cone closes the reagent container completely. A pipette with a release sleeve, ie a thickened portion placed at a certain distance from the end of the needle, is inserted to remove the liquid. The trigger sleeve hits onto the web of the conical insert and thus causes the divided walls of the cone to bend apart. The pipette needle enters the container without touching the cone, ie the closure. If the pipette needle and the trigger sleeve are withdrawn, the walls of the cone close again, since the trigger sleeve no longer pushes the bridge apart. The vessel is tightly closed again.
Gegenstand der vorliegenden Erfindung ist daher ein VerschluƟ fĆ¼r einen ReagenzbehƤlter bestehend aus einem Aufsatzteil (6) zur Befestigung auf dem ReagenzbehƤlter (7) und einem konischen Einsatz (4), wobei der konische Einsatz (4) in eine Ɩffnung des Aufsatzteils eingearbeitet ist und eine kegelfƶrmige oder pyramidenfƶrmige Wand aufweist, die in einer Spitze in Richtung des ReagenzbehƤlters endet, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daƟ die kegelfƶrmige oder pyramidenfƶrmige Wand durch mindestens einen durch die Spitze gehenden Einschnitt in Lappen unterteilt ist und auf der vom ReagenzbehƤlter abgewandten Seite einen Auslƶsesteg (3) aufweist.The present invention therefore relates to a closure for a reagent container consisting of an attachment part (6) for attachment to the reagent container (7) and a conical insert (4), the conical insert (4) being incorporated into an opening in the attachment part and one has a conical or pyramid-shaped wall which ends in a tip in the direction of the reagent container, characterized in that the conical or pyramid-shaped wall is divided into lobes by at least one cut through the tip and has a release web (3) on the side facing away from the reagent container ,
In einer bevorzugten AusfĆ¼hrungsform ist der konische Einsatz auf der dem ReagenzbehƤlter zugewandten Seite mit Andruckfedern, elastischen BƤndern oder einer elastischen Membran versehen.In a preferred embodiment, the conical insert on the side facing the reagent container is provided with pressure springs, elastic bands or an elastic membrane.
Gegenstand der vorliegenden Erfindung ist auch ein Verfahren zur Entnahme von FlĆ¼ssigkeiten aus ReagenzbehƤltern, die mit einem erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ versehen sind, gekennzeichnet durch folgende Verfahrensschritte a) Bereitstellen eines erfindungsgemƤƟ verschlossenen ReagenzbehƤlters und einer Pipette (d.h. Pipette, Spritze oder Pipettierautomat), deren Pipettiemadel (1 ) mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) versehen ist; b) Senkrechtes EinfĆ¼hren der Pipettiemadel (1) in die Mitte des konischen Einsatzes (4) des erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses bis das Ende der Pipettiemadel (5) in die FlĆ¼ssigkeit eintaucht, wobei die Lappen am Auslƶsesteg (3) des konischen Einsatzes (4) von der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) nach auƟen gedrĆ¼ckt werden, so daƟ die Pipettiemadel (1 ) den konischen Einsatz (4) nicht berĆ¼hrt; c) Ansaugen oder Einspritzen von FlĆ¼ssigkeit; d) Senkrechtes ZurĆ¼ckziehen der Pipette, wobei sich die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes (4) wieder dicht schlieƟen, sobald die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) die Lappen nicht mehr nach auƟen drĆ¼ckt.The present invention also relates to a method for removing liquids from reagent containers that are provided with a closure according to the invention, characterized by the following method steps ) is provided with a release sleeve (2); b) Vertical insertion of the pipette needle (1) into the center of the conical insert (4) of the closure according to the invention until the end of the pipette needle (5) is immersed in the liquid, the tabs on Release web (3) of the conical insert (4) are pressed outwards by the release sleeve (2) so that the pipette needle (1) does not touch the conical insert (4); c) aspirating or injecting liquid; d) The pipette is pulled back vertically, the tabs of the conical insert (4) closing tightly again as soon as the release sleeve (2) no longer presses the tabs outwards.
Gegenstand der vorliegenden Erfindung ist auch eine Pipettiervorrichtung bestehend aus mindestens einem ReagenzbehƤlter, der mit einem erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ versehen ist, und mindestens einer Pipette, die eine Pipettiemadel mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse aufweist.The present invention also relates to a pipetting device consisting of at least one reagent container which is provided with a closure according to the invention and at least one pipette which has a pipette needle with a trigger sleeve.
Abbildung 1 zeigt eine schematische Darstellung mƶglicher Einschnitte des konischen Einsatzes.Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of possible cuts in the conical insert.
Abbildung 2 zeigt eine schematische Darstellung eines erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses in geschlossener (A) und geƶffneter (B) Form.Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a closure according to the invention in closed (A) and open (B) form.
Der erfindungsgemƤƟe VerschluƟ ist fĆ¼r jede Art von ReagenzbehƤltern geeignet, die zum einen bei der Lagerung mƶglichst dicht verschlossen sein sollen und zum anderen zur Entnahme, insbesondere zur mehrfachen Entnahme, nicht in einem zusƤtzlichen Arbeitsschritt geƶffnet werden sollen. Insbesondere sind dies ReagenzbehƤlter fĆ¼r chemische, biologische oder medizinische Anwendungen. Der VerschluƟ eignet sich zu manuellen Entnahme und besonders bevorzugt zum Einsatz in Pipettierautomaten.The closure according to the invention is suitable for any type of reagent container which, on the one hand, should be closed as tightly as possible during storage and, on the other hand, should not be opened in an additional work step for removal, in particular for multiple removal. In particular, these are reagent containers for chemical, biological or medical applications. The closure is suitable for manual removal and is particularly preferred for use in automatic pipetting machines.
Der erfindungsgemƤƟe VerschluƟ umfaƟt ein Aufsatzteil, das die Fixierung auf dem ReagenzbehƤlter ermƶglicht. Dies kann eine Schraub- oder Steckkappe sein oder z.B. auch ein Dichtungsring, der mittels einer Metallspange befestigt wird. Bevorzugt handelt es sich um eine Schraubkappe. In das Aufsatzteil des Verschlusses ist typischerweise mittig ein konisch geformter Einsatz eingearbeitet. Demnach befindet sich in der Mitte des Aufsatzteils eine typischerweise ringfƶrmige Ɩffnung, in die der konische Einsatz eingearbeitet ist. Aufsatzteil und konischer Einsatz kƶnnen aus einem oder mehreren Teilen und Materialien gearbeitet sein. Bei derThe closure according to the invention comprises an attachment part which enables it to be fixed on the reagent container. This can be a screw or plug cap or, for example, also a sealing ring that is fastened by means of a metal clip. It is preferably a screw cap. A conically shaped insert is typically worked into the center of the attachment part of the closure. Accordingly, there is a typically ring-shaped opening in the center of the attachment part, into which the conical insert is incorporated. Top part and conical insert can be made from one or more parts and materials. In the
Verwendung einer Metallspange zur Befestigung des Verschlusses auf dem ReagenzbehƤlter kann der Rest des Verschlusses aus einem Teil, bestehend aus Dichtungsring und konischem Einsatz gearbeitet sein.Using a metal clip to fasten the closure on the reagent container, the rest of the closure can be made from a part consisting of a sealing ring and a conical insert.
Der konische Einsatz weist eine kegelfƶrmige Wand oder eine pyramidenfƶrmige Wand (d.h. eine Wand aus mindestens drei nach unten zusammenlaufenden FlƤchen) auf, wobei die Spitze des Kegels bzw. der Pyramide nach unten, d.h. in Richtung des Inhalts des ReagenzbehƤlters, weist. Hƶhe und GrundflƤche des konischen Einsatzes sind abhƤngig vom Durchmesser und der Hƶhe des zu verschlieƟenden ReagenzbehƤlters.The conical insert has a conical wall or a pyramid-shaped wall (i.e. a wall of at least three surfaces converging downwards), with the tip of the cone or pyramid downwards, i.e. towards the contents of the reagent container. The height and base area of the conical insert depend on the diameter and the height of the reagent container to be closed.
Damit der BehƤlter eine ausreichend groƟe FlĆ¼ssigkeitsmenge aufnehmen kann, sollte der Einsatz typischerweise nicht weiter als bis maximal zur halben Hƶhe des BehƤlters in diesen hineinragen.In order for the container to be able to hold a sufficiently large amount of liquid, the insert should typically protrude no further than up to half the height of the container.
Der konische Einsatz weist mindestens einen Einschnitt, bevorzugt 2 bis 5The conical insert has at least one notch, preferably 2 to 5
Einschnitte, auf. Eine Darstellung von mƶglichen Anordnungen der Einschnitte findet sich in Abbildung 1. Der konische Einsatz ist dabei schematisch als Aufsicht auf die Spitze eines Kegels dargestellt. Die Einschnitte sind so beschaffen, daƟ die Wand des Einsatzes von der Spitze des Kegels bzw. der Pyramide her, bevorzugt symmetrisch, vollstƤndig durchtrennt wird. Es werden demnach mehrere Lappen erzeugt, die den unteren Teil des Kegels oder der Pyramide bis zur Spitze bilden. Typischerweise reichen die Einschnitte nicht bis zum oberen Rand des Kegels bzw. der Pyramide.Incisions, on. An illustration of possible arrangements of the incisions can be found in Figure 1. The conical insert is shown schematically as a view of the tip of a cone. The incisions are such that the wall of the insert is completely cut through, preferably symmetrically, from the top of the cone or pyramid. Accordingly, several lobes are created, which form the lower part of the cone or pyramid up to the tip. Typically, the incisions do not reach the top of the cone or pyramid.
Der konische Einsatz weist zudem im Inneren, d.h. an der vom Inhalt des zu verschlieƟenden BehƤlters abgewandten Seite Auslƶsestege auf. Diese Auslƶsestege befinden sich typischerweise ca. auf halber Hƶhe des Kegels bzw. der Pyramide. Die Auslƶsestege werden gebildet durch eine AusstĆ¼lpung der Wand oder durch einen auf die Wand aufgesetzten Wulst. Es kann sich dabei um einen Ring handeln oder z.B. um mehrere unterbrochene einzelne Stege, die sich auf einer Hƶhe der Kegel- oderThe conical insert also has release webs on the inside, ie on the side facing away from the contents of the container to be closed. This Tripping bars are typically located approximately halfway up the cone or pyramid. The trigger bars are formed by protruding the wall or by a bead placed on the wall. It can be a ring or, for example, several interrupted individual webs that are at the level of the cone or
Pyramidenwand befinden. Im Fall mehrerer Stege muƟ sich auf jedem Lappen der Wand, der durch die Einschnitte gebildet wird, zumindest ein Steg befinden. Die Einschnitte des konischen Einsatzes reichen immer bis Ć¼ber den Auslƶsesteg hinaus, so daƟ der Kegel bzw. die Pyramide auf Hƶhe des Auslƶsestegs bereits in mehrere Lappen unterteilt ist.Pyramid wall. In the case of several webs, there must be at least one web on each tab of the wall formed by the incisions. The incisions of the conical insert always extend beyond the release web, so that the cone or pyramid is already divided into several lobes at the level of the release web.
Typischerweise ist der konische Einsatz mittig in das Aufsatzteil eingearbeitet oder eingesetzt und erstreckt sich senkrecht nach unten in das Innere des zu verschlieƟenden GefƤƟes. In bestimmten FƤllen ist es jedoch auch mƶglich, daƟ das Aufsatzteil derart geformt ist, daƟ es eine VerlƤngerung des GefƤƟhalses nach oben bildet und sich der konische Einsatz des erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses innerhalb des Aufsatzteiles befindet und kaum oder gar nicht bis in das Innere des GefƤƟes hineinragt. Genauso ist es mƶglich, daƟ der erfindungsgemƤƟe VerschluƟ fĆ¼r GefƤƟe ausgelegt ist, die z.B. in der Vorlage eines Pipettierautomaten schrƤg eingestellt werden. Dann wird der konische Einsatz bevorzugt schrƤg in das Aufsatzteil eingebaut, bzw. der gesamte erfindungsgemƤƟe VerschluƟ schrƤg ausgerichtet, so daƟ trotz der SchrƤglage des GefƤƟes ein senkrechtes Pipettieren mƶglich ist.Typically, the conical insert is incorporated or inserted in the center of the attachment part and extends vertically downward into the interior of the vessel to be closed. In certain cases, however, it is also possible that the attachment part is shaped in such a way that it forms an extension of the neck of the vessel upwards and the conical insert of the closure according to the invention is located inside the attachment part and hardly or not at all extends into the interior of the vessel. It is also possible that the closure according to the invention is designed for vessels which e.g. be set at an angle in the template of an automatic pipetting machine. Then the conical insert is preferably installed obliquely in the attachment part, or the entire closure according to the invention is aligned obliquely, so that vertical pipetting is possible despite the oblique position of the vessel.
Der erfindungsgemƤƟe VerschluƟ kann aus Kunststoff, Metall, Glas, Keramik oder aus Kompositwerkstoffen, die vorwiegend aus den genannten Materialien zusammengesetzt sind, bestehen. Bevorzugt besteht er aus Kunststoff. Dabei kƶnnen Aufsatzteil und konischer Einsatz aus demselben oder aus unterschiedlichen Materialien bestehen. Weiterhin kƶnnen auch Aufsatzteil und konischer Einsatz selbst aus einem oder mehreren Materialien bestehen. Insbesondere kann der konische Einsatz beispielsweise auf der dem GefƤƟinnenraum zugewandten Seite mit einer chemisch inerten Beschichtung, z.B. Teflon, versehen sein.The closure according to the invention can consist of plastic, metal, glass, ceramic or of composite materials, which are mainly composed of the materials mentioned. It is preferably made of plastic. The top part and the conical insert can consist of the same or different materials. Furthermore, the top part and conical insert itself can also consist of one or more materials. In particular, the conical insert for example, be provided with a chemically inert coating, for example Teflon, on the side facing the interior of the vessel.
Zur sachgerechten FlĆ¼ssigkeitsentnahme aus einem ReagenzbehƤlter, der mit einem erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ verschlossen ist, wird typischerweise eine Pipette oder Spritze verwendet. Deren Spitze oder Nadel, im weiteren allgemein als Pipettiemadel bezeichnet, wird dazu mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse versehen. Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse ist ein typischerweise stabfƶrmiger Formkƶrper, der entlang der LƤngsachse eine Bohrung aufweist, in die die Pipettiemadel eingefĆ¼hrt werden kann. Die Enden des Formkƶrpers sind bevorzugt schrƤg abgeflacht oder abgerundet. Der Querschnitt des stabfƶrmigen Formkƶrpers kann z.B. einen Kreis, ein Oval, ein Quadrat oder ein Dreieck darstellen. Weiterhin kann sich die GrĆ¶ĆŸe des Durchmessers des Formkƶrpers entlang der LƤngsachse des Stabes Ƥndern, so daƟ er z.B. in der Mitte der LƤngsachse den grĆ¶ĆŸtenA pipette or syringe is typically used for the proper removal of liquid from a reagent container which is closed with a closure according to the invention. The tip or needle, hereinafter generally referred to as the pipette needle, is provided with a release sleeve for this purpose. The trigger sleeve is a typically rod-shaped molded body which has a bore along the longitudinal axis into which the pipette needle can be inserted. The ends of the molded body are preferably obliquely flattened or rounded. The cross section of the rod-shaped shaped body can e.g. represent a circle, oval, square or triangle. Furthermore, the size of the diameter of the shaped body can change along the longitudinal axis of the rod, so that it e.g. the largest in the middle of the longitudinal axis
Durchmesser aufweist und zu den Enden hin dĆ¼nner wird. Besonders bevorzugt handelt es sich bei der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse um einen zylindrischen Formkƶrper mit rundem Querschnitt, dessen Querschnitt sich zu den Enden hin verkleinert. Form und GrĆ¶ĆŸe der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse mĆ¼ssen auf die GrĆ¶ĆŸe des erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses und insbesondere die Form des konischen Einsatzes und des Auslƶsestegs abgestimmt sein.Has diameter and becomes thinner towards the ends. The release sleeve is particularly preferably a cylindrical shaped body with a round cross section, the cross section of which is reduced towards the ends. The shape and size of the release sleeve must be matched to the size of the closure according to the invention and in particular the shape of the conical insert and the release bar.
Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse wird mit bestimmtem Abstand zum Ende der Nadel auf die Pipettiemadel aufgesteckt. Der Abstand zum Ende der Nadel und die Ausdehnung (Durchmesser und LƤnge) der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse wird bestimmt durch die GrĆ¶ĆŸe und Ausdehnung des erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses. Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse muƟ so beschaffen und positioniert sein, daƟ beim EinfĆ¼hren der Pipettiemadel die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse den Auslƶsesteg des konischen Einsatzes berĆ¼hrt, bevor die Pipettiemadel selbst den VerschluƟ berĆ¼hren kann. Durch den Druck der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse werden dieThe trigger sleeve is attached to the pipette needle at a certain distance from the end of the needle. The distance to the end of the needle and the extent (diameter and length) of the release sleeve is determined by the size and extent of the closure according to the invention. The trigger sleeve must be designed and positioned so that when the pipette needle is inserted, the trigger sleeve touches the trigger bar of the conical insert before the pipette needle itself can touch the closure. Due to the pressure of the release sleeve
Auslƶsestege nach auƟen gedrĆ¼ckt und die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes auseinander gebogen. Dadurch entsteht an der Spitze eine Ɩffnung, durch die das Ende der Nadel bei weiterem EinfĆ¼hren der Pipette in die Reagenzlƶsung getaucht werden kann. Nach dem Pipettiervorgang wird die Pipettiemadel wieder aus dem GefƤƟ gezogen, wobei das Ende der Nadel den erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ nicht berĆ¼hrt, da die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes so lange auseinander hƤlt, bis die Pipettiemadel das Innere des ReagenzbehƤlters verlƤƟt. AnschlieƟend schlieƟen sich die Lappen wieder zusammen und der konische Einsatz schlieƟt den BehƤlter dicht ab.Trigger bars pressed outwards and the flaps of the conical insert bent apart. This creates one at the top Opening through which the end of the needle can be immersed when the pipette is inserted further into the reagent solution. After the pipetting process, the pipette needle is pulled out of the vessel again, the end of the needle not touching the closure according to the invention, since the release sleeve keeps the flaps of the conical insert apart until the pipette needle leaves the interior of the reagent container. The flaps then close together and the conical insert closes the container tightly.
Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse muƟ so lang sein, daƟ sie wƤhrend des Eintauchens der Pipettiemadel in das Reagenz die Auslƶsestege auseinanderdrĆ¼ckt, so daƟ die Pipettiemadel den VerschluƟ, genauer den konischen Einsatz des Verschlusses, nicht berĆ¼hrt.The trigger sleeve must be long enough to push the trigger bars apart while the pipette needle is immersed in the reagent, so that the pipette needle does not touch the closure, more precisely the conical insert of the closure.
Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse kann beispielsweise aus Kunststoff, Metall, Keramik oder Glas bestehen. Sie darf wƤhrend des Pipettiervorgangs, insbesondere beim Kontakt mit dem Auslƶsesteg, nicht entlang der Pipettiemadel verrutschen. Daher wird die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse bevorzugt festgesteckt, mit Halterungen fixiert oder besonders bevorzugt angeklebt oder direkt in die Nadel eingearbeitet.The release sleeve can be made of plastic, metal, ceramic or glass, for example. It must not slip along the pipetting needle during the pipetting process, especially when it comes into contact with the trigger bar. Therefore, the trigger sleeve is preferably pinned, fixed with brackets or particularly preferably glued or worked directly into the needle.
Der Abstand der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse zum Ende der Pipettiemadel wird bestimmt durch die Tiefe des konisches Einsatzes und die Lage des Auslƶsestegs. Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse muƟ beim EinfĆ¼hren der Pipette fĆ¼r das Aufklappen der Lappen des konischen Einsatzes sorgen, bevor das Ende der Pipettiemadel die Spitze des Konus erreicht. Bei der Handhabung ist zu beachten, daƟ die Pipette nicht so weit in die Probenlƶsung getaucht wird, daƟ auch die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse in Kontakt mit der FlĆ¼ssigkeit kommt. Bei Pipettierautomaten ist dies in der Regel kein Problem, da mittels Induktionsmessung der Zeitpunkt des Eintauchens in die FlĆ¼ssigkeit bestimmt wird und die Nadel danach nicht mehr wesentlich tiefer eingefĆ¼hrt wird. Somit berĆ¼hrt die Pipettiemadel bei der Verwendung eines erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses in Kombination mit einer Pipettiemadel mit AuslƶsehĆ¼lse zu keinem Zeitpunkt der Probenentnahme den VerschluƟ des ReagenzbehƤlters. Es kann nicht zu Reagenzablagerungen an dem VerschluƟ kommen, so daƟ eine mƶgliche Kontamination des GefƤƟinhalts z.B. durch ZurĆ¼ckfallen angetrockneter Reagenzreste vermieden wird.The distance between the trigger sleeve and the end of the pipette needle is determined by the depth of the conical insert and the position of the trigger web. When the pipette is inserted, the trigger sleeve must ensure that the flaps of the conical insert are opened before the end of the pipette needle reaches the tip of the cone. When handling, ensure that the pipette is not immersed so far in the sample solution that the trigger sleeve comes into contact with the liquid. This is usually not a problem with automatic pipetting machines, since the time of immersion in the liquid is determined by means of induction measurement and the needle is then no longer inserted much deeper. Thus, when using a closure according to the invention in combination with a pipette needle with a trigger sleeve, the pipette needle does not touch the closure of the reagent container at any time during the sampling. There can be no reagent deposits on the closure, so that possible contamination of the contents of the vessel is avoided, for example due to dropping of dried reagent residues.
Damit der ReagenzbehƤlter wƤhrend der Lagerung dicht verschlossen ist, mĆ¼ssen die einzelnen Lappen des konischen Einsatzes nach erfolgter Probenentnahme wieder dicht schlieƟen. Dies kann z.B. unterstĆ¼tzt werden, indem der konische Einsatz auf der zum Inneren des GefƤƟes gerichteten Seite mit Andruckfedern, elastischen BƤndern oder einer strumpffƶrmigen, elastischen Membran, die an der Spitze eine Ɩffnung hat, versehen wird. Insgesamt sollte der konische Einsatz aus einem Material gefertigt sein, daƟ nicht zu sprƶde ist um nach dem Ausklappen der Lappen wieder dicht zu schlieƟen. Weiterhin sollte das Material stabil genug sein, damit beim EinfĆ¼hren der Pipette die Lappen insbesondere im Bereich der Spitze weit genug auseinander geklappt werden. Gegebenenfalls kann dies durch die Verwendung von mehreren Werkstoffschichten, z.B. einer elastischen und dicht schlieƟenden Schicht zum GefƤƟinneren und einer stabileren, hƤrteren Aussenschicht realisiert werden. Genauso kƶnnen die WƤnde des konischen Einsatzes sonstige Dichtungen, Verstrebungen oder VerstƤrkungen aufweisen.To ensure that the reagent container is tightly closed during storage, the individual flaps of the conical insert must close tightly again after the sample has been taken. This can e.g. can be supported by providing the conical insert on the side facing the inside of the vessel with pressure springs, elastic bands or a stocking-shaped, elastic membrane which has an opening at the tip. Overall, the conical insert should be made of a material that is not too brittle to close tightly again after the flaps have been folded out. Furthermore, the material should be stable enough so that the flaps are folded far enough apart, especially in the area of the tip, when the pipette is inserted. If necessary, this can be achieved by using several layers of material, e.g. an elastic and tightly fitting layer to the inside of the vessel and a more stable, harder outer layer. Likewise, the walls of the conical insert can have other seals, struts or reinforcements.
Abbildung 2 zeigt einen erfindungsgemƤƟ verschlossenenFigure 2 shows a closed according to the invention
ReagenzbehƤlter in geschlossenem Zustand (A) und geƶffnet wƤhrend des Pipettiervorgangs (B).Reagent container in the closed state (A) and opened during the pipetting process (B).
(A): Der ReagenzbehƤlter (7) ist mit dem erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ bestehend aus Aufsatzteil (6) und konischem Einsatz (4) mit Auslƶsesteg (3) dicht verschlossen. Beim senkrechten EinfĆ¼hren der Pipette (1) mit AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) berĆ¼hrt das Ende der Pipettiemadel (5) den VerschluƟ nicht. (B): Durch die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) werden die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes (4) am Auslƶsesteg (3) nach auƟen gedrĆ¼ckt und das Ende der Pipettiemadel (5) kann in den ReagenzbehƤlter (7) getaucht werden. Die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) darf den FlĆ¼ssigkeitsspiegel nicht berĆ¼hren. In geƶffnetem Zustand ist Gasaustausch mit der Umgebung mƶglich, so daƟ bei(A): The reagent container (7) is tightly closed with the closure according to the invention consisting of the attachment part (6) and conical insert (4) with the release web (3). When the pipette (1) with the release sleeve (2) is inserted vertically, the end of the pipette needle (5) does not touch the closure. (B): The tabs of the conical insert (4) on the trigger bar (3) are pressed outwards by the trigger sleeve (2) and the end of the pipette needle (5) can be dipped into the reagent container (7). The release sleeve (2) must not touch the liquid level. In the open state, gas exchange with the environment is possible, so that at
FlĆ¼ssigkeitsentnahme kein Unterdruck entsteht.Liquid withdrawal no negative pressure arises.
Eine Pipettiervorrichtung zur DurchfĆ¼hrung des erfindungsgemƤƟen Pipettierverfahrens umfaƟt demnach zumindest eine Pipette (d.h. Pipette, Spritze oder Pipettierautomaten) deren Pipettiemadel eine AuslƶsehĆ¼lse aufweist und einen ReagenzbehƤlter, der mit dem erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ verschlossen ist.A pipetting device for carrying out the pipetting method according to the invention accordingly comprises at least one pipette (i.e. pipette, syringe or automatic pipetting device) whose pipetting needle has a trigger sleeve and a reagent container which is closed with the closure according to the invention.
Das Pipettierverfahren umfaƟt die folgenden Schritte: - Bereitstellung eines erfindungsgemƤƟ verschlossenenThe pipetting method comprises the following steps: provision of a closed according to the invention
ReagenzbehƤlters und einer Pipette, deren Pipettiemadel mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse versehen istReagent container and a pipette, the pipette needle is provided with a trigger sleeve
- Senkrechtes EinfĆ¼hren der Pipettiemadel in die Mitte des konischen Einsatzes des erfindunggemƤƟen Verschlusses bis das Ende der Pipettiemadel in die FlĆ¼ssigkeit eintaucht. Dabei werden die Lappen am- Vertical insertion of the pipette needle into the center of the conical insert of the closure according to the invention until the end of the pipette needle is immersed in the liquid. The rags on
Auslƶsesteg des konischen Einsatzes von der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse nach auƟen gedrĆ¼ckt, so daƟ die Pipettiemadel den konischen Einsatz nicht berĆ¼hrt.Release web of the conical insert pressed outwards by the release sleeve so that the pipette needle does not touch the conical insert.
- Ansaugen oder Einspritzen von FlĆ¼ssigkeit - Senkrechtes ZurĆ¼ckziehen der Pipette, wobei sich die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes wieder dicht schlieƟen, sobald die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse die Lappen nicht mehr nach auƟen drĆ¼ckt.- Sucking in or injecting liquid - Vertical withdrawal of the pipette, the flaps of the conical insert tightly closing again as soon as the release sleeve no longer presses the flaps outwards.
Somit bieten der erfindungsgemƤƟe VerschluƟ bzw. das erfindungsgemƤƟe Verfahren folgende Vorteile:The closure according to the invention and the method according to the invention thus offer the following advantages:
- dichter VerschluƟ des ReagenzbehƤlters, so daƟ z.B. kein Feuchtigkeitsaustausch mit der Umgebung stattfinden kann; - die Entnahme der FlĆ¼ssigkeit kann erfolgen, ohne daƟ in einem zusƤtzlichen Arbeitsschritt ein Schraubverschluss, Stopfen oder Ƥhnliches entfernt werden muƟ;- tight sealing of the reagent container so that, for example, no moisture exchange with the surroundings can take place; - The liquid can be removed without having to remove a screw cap, stopper or the like in an additional step;
- die Kontaminationsgefahr durch verwechselte VerschlĆ¼sse wird vermieden;- The risk of contamination from mixed up closures is avoided;
- die Kontaminationsgefahr durch Kontakt der Pipettiemadel mit dem VerschluƟ wird vermieden;- The risk of contamination from contact of the pipette needle with the closure is avoided;
- der VerschluƟ schlieƟt auch nach mehreren Entnahmen dicht ab;- The closure closes tightly even after several withdrawals;
- GƤngige Pipettierautomaten kƶnnen ohne aufwendige UmrĆ¼stung mit dem erfindungsgemƤƟen VerschluƟ arbeiten, da zur Anpassung nur eine mit AuslƶsehĆ¼lse versehene Pipettiemadel eingesetzt werden muƟ;- Common automatic pipetting machines can work with the closure according to the invention without time-consuming retrofitting, since only a pipette needle provided with a release sleeve has to be used for adaptation;
- Bei der Entnahme der FlĆ¼ssigkeit aus dem ReagenzbehƤlter entsteht bei der Verwendung des erfindungsgemƤƟen Verschlusses kein Unterdruck, da wƤhrend der Entnahme das GefƤƟ durch das AuseinanderdrĆ¼cken der Lappen des konischen Einsatzes nicht vollstƤndig dicht verschlossen ist;- When the liquid is removed from the reagent container, there is no negative pressure when using the closure according to the invention, since during the removal the vessel is not completely sealed due to the flaps of the conical insert being pushed apart;
- Bei Pipettierautomaten werden Pipettierfehler verhindert, da die Pipettiemadel nicht vor Kontakt mit der Probe auf den VerschluƟ trifft, der gegebenenfalls bei einer Induktionsmessung die FlĆ¼ssigkeits- OberflƤche vortƤuschen kann.- In the case of automatic pipetting devices, pipetting errors are prevented, since the pipetting needle does not hit the closure before contact with the sample, which, if necessary, can simulate the liquid surface during an induction measurement.
Auch ohne weitere AusfĆ¼hrungen wird davon ausgegangen, daƟ ein Fachmann die obige Beschreibung im weitesten Umfang nutzen kann. Die bevorzugten AusfĆ¼hrungsformen und Beispiele sind deswegen lediglich als beschreibende, keineswegs als in irgendeiner Weise limitierende Offenbarung aufzufassen.Even without further explanations, it is assumed that a person skilled in the art can use the above description to the greatest extent. The preferred embodiments and examples are therefore only to be regarded as descriptive, in no way as in any way limiting in any way.
Die vollstƤndige Offenbarung aller vor- und nachstehend aufgefĆ¼hrten Anmeldungen, Patente und Verƶffentlichungen, insbesondere der korrespondierenden Anmeldung DE 101 05 753.9, eingereicht am 08.02.2001 , ist durch Bezugnahme in diese Anmeldung eingefĆ¼hrt. The complete disclosure of all of the applications, patents and publications mentioned above and below, in particular the corresponding application DE 101 05 753.9, filed on February 8, 2001, is incorporated by reference into this application.

Claims

AnsprĆ¼che Expectations
1. VerschluƟ fĆ¼r einen ReagenzbehƤlter (7) bestehend aus einem Aufsatzteil (6) zur Befestigung auf dem ReagenzbehƤlter (7) und einem konischen Einsatz (4), wobei der konische Einsatz (4) in eine Ɩffnung des1. Closure for a reagent container (7) consisting of an attachment part (6) for attachment to the reagent container (7) and a conical insert (4), the conical insert (4) in an opening of the
Aufsatzteils (6) eingearbeitet ist und eine kegelfƶrmige oder pyramidenfƶrmige Wand aufweist, die in einer Spitze in Richtung des ReagenzbehƤlters endet, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daƟ die kegelfƶrmige oder pyramidenfƶrmige Wand durch mindestens einen Einschnitt in Lappen unterteilt ist und auf der vom ReagenzbehƤlter abgewandten Seite einen Auslƶsesteg (3) aufweist.Attachment part (6) is incorporated and has a conical or pyramid-shaped wall that ends in a tip in the direction of the reagent container, characterized in that the conical or pyramid-shaped wall is divided into tabs by at least one incision and on the side facing away from the reagent container a release bar (3).
2. VerschluƟ entsprechend Anspruch 1 , dadurch gekennzeichnet, daƟ der konische Einsatz (4) auf der dem ReagenzbehƤlter (7) zugewandten Seite mit Andruckfedern, elastischen BƤndern oder einer elastischen Membran versehen ist.2. Closure according to claim 1, characterized in that the conical insert (4) on the side facing the reagent container (7) is provided with pressure springs, elastic bands or an elastic membrane.
3. Verfahren zur Entnahme von FlĆ¼ssigkeiten aus ReagenzbehƤltern, gekennzeichnet durch folgende Verfahrensschritte a) Bereitstellen eines mit einem VerschluƟ entsprechend einem der AnsprĆ¼che 1 oder 2 verschlossenen ReagenzbehƤlters (7) und einer Pipette, deren Pipettiemadel (1 ) mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) versehen ist; b) Senkrechtes EinfĆ¼hren der Pipettiemadel (1 ) in die Mitte des konischen Einsatzes (4) des Verschlusses bis das Ende der Pipettiemadel (5) in die FlĆ¼ssigkeit eintaucht, wobei die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes (4) am3. A method for removing liquids from reagent containers, characterized by the following method steps a) providing a reagent container (7) closed with a closure according to one of claims 1 or 2 and a pipette, the pipette needle (1) of which is provided with a release sleeve (2) ; b) Vertical insertion of the pipette needle (1) into the center of the conical insert (4) of the closure until the end of the pipette needle (5) is immersed in the liquid, the tabs of the conical insert (4) on
Auslƶsesteg (3) von der AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) nach auƟen gedrĆ¼ckt werden, so daƟ die Pipettiemadel (1 ) den konischen Einsatz (4) nicht berĆ¼hrt; c) Ansaugen oder Einspritzen von FlĆ¼ssigkeit; d) Senkrechtes ZurĆ¼ckziehen der Pipette, wobei sich die Lappen des konischen Einsatzes (4) wieder dicht schlieƟen, sobald die AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) die Lappen nicht mehr nach auƟen drĆ¼ckt. Trigger web (3) are pressed outward by the trigger sleeve (2) so that the pipette needle (1) does not touch the conical insert (4); c) aspirating or injecting liquid; d) The pipette is pulled back vertically, the tabs of the conical insert (4) closing tightly again as soon as the release sleeve (2) no longer presses the tabs outwards.
4. Pipettiervorrichtung bestehend aus mindestens einem ReagenzbehƤlter (7), der mit einem VerschluƟ gemƤƟ Anspruch 1 oder 2 versehen ist, und mindestens einer Pipette, die eine Pipettiemadel (1 ) mit einer AuslƶsehĆ¼lse (2) aufweist. 4. Pipetting device consisting of at least one reagent container (7), which is provided with a closure according to claim 1 or 2, and at least one pipette, which has a pipetting needle (1) with a trigger sleeve (2).
EP02706718A 2001-02-08 2002-01-18 Closure for a reagent container Expired - Lifetime EP1358011B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10105753 2001-02-08
DE10105753A DE10105753C1 (en) 2001-02-08 2001-02-08 Closure used for reagent containers consists of a cap part for fixing to the container and a conical insert having a wall divided into tabs with a ridge on the side facing away from the container
PCT/EP2002/000463 WO2002062474A2 (en) 2001-02-08 2002-01-18 Closure for a reagent container

Publications (2)

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EP1358011A2 true EP1358011A2 (en) 2003-11-05
EP1358011B1 EP1358011B1 (en) 2008-08-06

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US (1) US7727474B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1358011B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE403495T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2002240911A1 (en)
DE (2) DE10105753C1 (en)
ES (1) ES2309150T3 (en)
PT (1) PT1358011E (en)
WO (1) WO2002062474A2 (en)

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US20040067169A1 (en) 2004-04-08
DE50212599D1 (en) 2008-09-18
US7727474B2 (en) 2010-06-01
ES2309150T3 (en) 2008-12-16
WO2002062474A2 (en) 2002-08-15
AU2002240911A1 (en) 2002-08-19
ATE403495T1 (en) 2008-08-15
DE10105753C1 (en) 2002-03-28
PT1358011E (en) 2008-11-12
WO2002062474A3 (en) 2002-12-05
EP1358011B1 (en) 2008-08-06

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