JP2023121661A - Chip rack, dispensing device, and observation system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a chip rack capable of space saving when handling a large number of samples with a small quantity, a dispensing device, and an observation system capable of improving the work efficiency of observation by making the work for preparing samples into an observable state rapid and easy.SOLUTION: Provided are: a chip rack that includes a chip-holding stand for holding chips and a container holding stand for holding a container storing samples and in which the chip-holding stand and the container holding stand are arranged so that tips of the chips enter the inside of the container; a dispensing device including the chip rack; and an observation system. This enables space saving of the chip rack and the dispensing device, and by using the dispensing device to observe observation objects placed and fixed between two sheets, samples can be swiftly prepared and the observation work can be simplified. Accordingly, a large number of samples with a small quantity can be properly and easily handled.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a tip rack on which disposable tips are placed, and a dispensing apparatus and an observation system equipped with the tip rack.

In recent years, improvements in information processing technology and analysis technology have made it possible to acquire and analyze a large amount of data. Accompanying this, it is becoming more and more important to acquire data on various objects (samples), create a database through analysis, and effectively utilize the data.

In addition, with recent advances in technology in the medical and biological fields, the handling of samples such as blood collected from the human body as well as cells and microorganisms is increasing. These samples are characterized by a small quantity of each, but a large number of them.

As one of the techniques for handling a small amount and a large number of samples, there is a pipetting device for pipetting a sample from a container containing the sample.
For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a dispensing unit that aspirates samples in a plurality of containers accommodated in a rack and injects the samples into the wells as a dispensing device for dispensing into a microplate with a large number of wells. and a moving mechanism for moving at least one of the microplate and the dispensing unit in three axial directions, and the dispensing unit includes a plurality of nozzles arranged at the same intervals as the containers accommodated in the rack. are described. In Patent Document 1, when disposable tips are used as nozzles in a dispensing unit, a rack containing containers and a rack containing disposable chips are provided, and these two types of racks are arranged side by side with microplates. A dispensing device is described.

JP 2008-170332 A

2. Description of the Related Art As described in Patent Document 1, a technique of dispensing samples from a plurality of containers using a plurality of nozzles is widely known in order to rapidly handle a large number of small amounts of samples. At this time, the use of disposable tips is also widely practiced because contamination between samples can be suppressed and washing operation is not required.
In addition, as described in Patent Document 1, generally, in a pipetting apparatus, separate and individual spaces are required for a location where a container containing a sample is arranged and a location where a disposable tip is arranged. .
Furthermore, as described in Patent Document 1, in such a pipetting device, a pipetting nozzle having a disposable tip attached to its tip is composed of a disposable tip, a container containing a sample, and a sample pipetting destination ( multi-well plate, etc.), and a moving mechanism for that purpose is provided.

Here, in the conventional pipetting apparatus as described in Patent Document 1, as the number of samples to be handled increases, the number of disposable tips and containers required increases, and the space for arranging them increases. also increases. In addition, since the dispensation nozzle moves a longer distance, the movement mechanism itself becomes larger, and a space for securing the movement distance of the dispensation nozzle is required for the apparatus as a whole. For this reason, in order to deal with an increase in the number of samples to be handled, it is necessary to increase the size of the pipetting apparatus and to increase the cost associated therewith.

In addition, as one of techniques for handling a small amount and a large number of samples, there is a demand for acquisition of observation data using samples as observation objects. Especially in the fields of medicine and biology, the use of cells, microorganisms, and the like as objects to be observed is increasing. At this time, there is a tendency to observe living organisms such as living cells and microorganisms in a living state (hereinafter simply referred to as "living organisms") rather than dead cells or dead microorganisms, and to obtain observation data.
However, in the conventional observation method using a slide, there is a risk that the state and position of the object to be observed may change during the process of preparing the slide and transporting it to the microscope stage. operation becomes more complicated, and it is difficult to obtain accurate observation data. It is also known to use a multi-well plate having a plurality of wells into which samples are dispensed by a pipetting device when a living organism is to be observed. There is a problem that it is difficult and difficult to observe. Therefore, there is a demand for a new observation technique that does not rely on slides or multiwell plates used in conventional observation techniques.

An object of the present invention is to provide a tip rack and a pipetting device that can save space in handling a small amount and a large number of samples, and a tip rack and a pipetting device that can quickly and easily prepare a sample so that it can be observed. An object of the present invention is to provide an observation system capable of improving work efficiency.

As a result of intensive studies on the above-mentioned problems, the inventors of the present invention found that it is possible to save the space of the tip rack and the pipetting apparatus by integrally placing the container containing the sample and the tip. . Furthermore, the present inventors have discovered that by placing and fixing an observation object between two sheets for observation, it is possible to quickly and easily prepare a sample of the observation object. I found it and completed the present invention.
That is, the present invention is the following tip rack, dispensing device and observation system.

A tip rack according to the present invention for solving the above problems comprises a tip holding base for holding a tip and a container holding base for holding a container in which a sample is stored, so that the tip end of the tip can enter the inside of the container. , a chip holding base and a container holding base are arranged.
In the tip rack of the present invention, the tips and the container in which the sample is stored are mounted integrally, and the tips are arranged so that the tips of the tips enter the container. . As a result, when handling a small amount or a large number of samples, compared to storing and using a rack holding tips and a rack holding containers side by side, the space for storing and using tips and containers can be halved. It becomes possible. Furthermore, the height of the tip rack can be set lower than when the tips and containers are simply stacked vertically, and the space of the tip rack can be saved.

A pipetting apparatus according to the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems comprises the tip rack, a sample aspirating section for aspirating the sample in the container, and a sample transport section for moving the sample aspirated by the sample aspirating section. It has characteristics.
By using the tip rack described above, the pipetting apparatus of the present invention can reduce the space for storing and using the tips and the container, and since the tip and the container are integrated in the tip rack, The mounting of the chip and the suction of the sample can be performed at the same place, and the subsequent moving distance of the sample can be shortened. As a result, it becomes possible to reduce the size of the dispensing device.

An observation system according to the present invention for solving the above problems includes a first sheet, an arrangement means for arranging an observation object on the first sheet, and an observation object after the observation object is arranged on the first sheet. , a second sheet to be superimposed on the first sheet, and observing means for observing the observed object fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet, wherein the arranging means comprises the dispensing means. It has the feature of including an apparatus.
The observation system of the present invention uses the above-described pipetting apparatus, places and fixes an object to be observed between two sheets, and observes in that state to produce a prepared slide using a cover glass and a slide glass. It is possible to observe a sample regardless of its fabrication. As a result, in preparation of a sample for observation, it is possible to reduce the size of the apparatus, greatly simplify the sample preparation process itself, and speed up the observation work. In addition, since the object to be observed is fixed between the two sheets, an unnecessarily strong external force is not applied to the object to be observed. Therefore, it becomes easy to handle living organisms such as living cells and microorganisms in a living state as objects to be observed. Therefore, with the observation system of the present invention, it is possible to improve the work efficiency related to observation of a small amount and a large number of observation objects, and in particular, work efficiency can be improved even in the creation of a database of observation data on living organisms and the effective use of data. can be done.

According to the present invention, there are provided a tip rack and a pipetting device that enable space saving in handling a small amount of a large number of samples, and a quick and easy work of preparing a sample in an observable state. It is possible to provide an observation system capable of improving work efficiency.

1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a tip rack according to the first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the mode of the container held by the tip rack in the first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory view showing installation means for the tip rack in the first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the installation means relating to the tip rack in the first embodiment of the present invention; 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a dispensing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a schematic explanatory drawing which shows the observation system in the 1st embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of the tip rack in the second embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a mode when the tip rack according to the second embodiment of the present invention is applied to a pipetting apparatus; FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the tip rack in the second embodiment of the present invention;

Embodiments of a tip rack, a dispensing device, and an observation system according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The observation method in the present invention shall be replaced with the explanation of the operation of the observation system in the present invention.
It should be noted that the tip rack, the pipetting device and the observation system described in the embodiments are merely examples for explaining the tip rack, the pipetting device and the observation system according to the present invention, and are not limited to these. do not have.

In the tip rack, pipetting apparatus, and observation system of the present invention, the sample to be pipetted and observed (also referred to as "observation object" in the observation system) is not particularly limited, and data obtained by analysis and observation in various fields can be used. can be used as a sample for which accumulation and analysis are required. In addition, the form of the sample is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that it can be sucked through the chip and placed on the sheet during observation, and it is in the form of a liquid or a solution containing the object to be observed.
With recent advances in medicine and biology, the importance of accumulating and analyzing data related to cells, microorganisms, and the like is increasing. Therefore, samples of the present invention include cells, microorganisms, etc., for which collection of medical and biological data is regarded as important. In particular, it is preferable to use living organisms such as living cells and microorganisms in a living state, which are difficult to observe in conventional sample preparation such as slides, as samples (objects to be observed). Further, other examples of the sample as the object to be observed in the present invention include powders and solid flakes of metals and rocks, as well as solutions containing fine particles of organic and inorganic substances.
In the following embodiments, the sample (object to be observed) is mainly described using a solution, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[First embodiment]
(tip rack)
FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a tip rack according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, the tip rack 100A in this embodiment includes a tip holder 110 for holding a tip 111 and a container holder 120 for holding a container 121 in which a sample S is stored. Be prepared. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the tip holder 110 and the container holder 120 are arranged such that the tip 111 a of the tip enters the container 121 .
Here, the tip end 111a should at least enter the inside of the container 121, and it does not matter whether the sample S stored in the container 121 and the tip end 111a are in contact with each other. . In the tip rack 100A of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the tips 111a of the tips are in contact with (immersed in) the sample S as an example.
In addition, the number of chips 111 and containers 121 to be placed in the tip rack 100A in this embodiment is not particularly limited, and the numbers of chips 111 and containers 121 shown in each drawing below are examples.

The tip 111 is for aspirating and discharging a sample, and as shown in FIG. 1, has a conical body 111b tapered at the tip 111a side and a flange 111c. Also, the tip 111 in this embodiment is preferably a disposable tip that can be replaced for each sample S. FIG. This eliminates the need for a configuration related to cleaning operation in the pipetting device 200, which will be described later, so that the space-saving effect of the present invention can be exhibited more effectively.

The material, shape, size (full length or capacity), etc. of the tip 111 are not particularly limited, and known ones can be used. For example, the type of tip 111 can be appropriately selected according to the size of the container 121 and the properties and amount of the sample S in the container 121 . As the chip 111 in this embodiment, for example, a resin chip that is commercially available and widely used as a disposable chip can be used.
Also, the chip 111 may be provided with a filter. As a result, when the sample S is sucked using the tip 111, cross contamination due to excessive suction of the sample S or vapor (aerosol) derived from the sample S is suppressed, and foreign matter from the outside of the tip 111 is removed from the tip. It becomes possible to suppress mixing into the inside 111 and the inside 121 of the container.

The container 121 may be any container as long as it can store the sample S, and the material, shape, size (length or capacity), etc. of the container 121 are not particularly limited, and known containers can be used. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the container 121 may have a collar portion 121a for holding on the container holding base 120. As shown in FIG. Furthermore, the container 121 may be disposable like the chip 111, or may be reusable.
Examples of the container 121 in this embodiment include a glass vial, a resin vial, and a resin container called a PCR tube.

The upper part of the container 121 in this embodiment is formed so that the tip end 111a can enter inside the container 121 . Examples of the structure of the upper part of the container 121 include, for example, a structure in which the upper part of the container 121 is fully open, and a structure in which the tip 111 itself (conical body 111b portion) is fitted after the tip end 111a enters a part of the upper part of the container 121. etc. Further, the container 121 may be provided with a sealing structure 122 for reducing the contact between the sample S and the outside air before and after the tip end 111a enters.

FIG. 2 shows an example of the structure of the container 121 in this embodiment. In addition, in FIG. 2, the upper side is a side view, and the lower side is a plan view seen from above.
FIG. 2(A) shows a structure having a collar portion 121a and having an entirely open upper portion. FIG. 2B shows a structure having a collar portion 121a and forming an edge portion 121b for inserting the chip 111 inside the container 121. As shown in FIG. At this time, the edge portion 121b may be made of the same material as the container 121 itself, and is made of a flexible material (rubber, elastomer, etc.) to facilitate insertion of the tip 111. It can be a thing.
On the other hand, FIG. 2(C) shows a sealing structure 122 provided with a lid portion 123 having a shape that fits over the upper portion of the container 121, and the tip end 111a can enter into this lid portion 123. For example, a notch portion 123a may be provided. Moreover, the lid portion 123 is preferably made of a flexible material. As a result, the tip end 111a can enter the inside of the container 121 through the cutout 123a, and after the tip tip 111a has entered, the cutout 123a is deformed in accordance with the cone 111b, resulting in a sealed state. can be maintained.
FIG. 2D shows another example of the sealing structure 122, in which a covering portion 124 made of a thin film member covering the upper portion of the container 121 is provided. For example, a notch 124a may be provided to allow entry. Moreover, it is preferable that the covering portion 124 be made of a flexible material. As a result, the tip end 111a can enter the inside of the container through the cut portion 124a, and after the tip tip 111a has entered, the cut portion 124a is deformed in accordance with the cone 111b, and the sealed state is achieved. can be maintained.

Since the container 121 having the structure shown in FIG. 2A can be commercially available, there is an advantage that many containers 121 can be easily procured. On the other hand, the container 121 having the structure shown in FIGS. 2B to 2D requires processing of the commercially available product, but can reduce the contact between the sample S and the outside air, so the sample S evaporates. It has the advantage of being able to suppress deterioration and the like.
In addition, the structure of the container 121 shown in FIG. 2 shows an example, and is not limited to this.

The chip holding base 110 is for holding the chip 111 and may have any structure as long as it holds the chip 111 .
As an example of the chip holding table 110 in this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. The holding hole 110a is provided so that when the tip 111 is inserted from above the tip holding table 110, a flange portion 111c provided on the tip upper portion is engaged. Thereby, the chip 111 can be held on the chip holding base 110 .
Here, the shape of the holding hole 110a is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a shape with a rectangular cross section and a shape with a trapezoidal cross section in the plate-like member 110b. From the viewpoint of holding the tip 111 more stably, it is preferable that the shape of the holding hole 110a is matched with the shape of the tip 111 (the shape of the upper portion of the cone 111b).

As will be described later, the tip rack 100A in this embodiment also functions as a place where the tips 111 are attached in the sample aspirating section of the pipetting device 200. FIG. For this reason, it is preferable that the chip holder 110 has a structure capable of stably holding the chip 111 and is made of a material or structure that has strength enough to withstand the external pressure when the chip 111 is mounted.

The container holding table 120 is for holding the container 121 and may have any structure as long as it holds the container 121 .
As an example of the container holding table 120 in this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. There are many things. The holding hole 120a is provided so that when the container 121 is inserted from the upper portion of the container holding base 120, the collar portion 121a provided on the upper portion of the container is engaged. Thereby, the container 121 can be held on the container holding table 120 .
Here, the shape of the holding hole 120a is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a shape with a rectangular cross section and a shape with a trapezoidal cross section in the plate-like member 120b. From the viewpoint of holding the container 121 more stably, it is preferable to make the shape of the holding hole 120a match the shape of the container 121 (the shape of the side surface of the container 121).

As will be described later, the tip rack 100A in this embodiment also functions as a place where the tips 111 are attached in the sample aspirating section of the pipetting device 200. FIG. Therefore, like the chip holder 110, the container holder 120 also has a structure capable of stably holding the container 120, and is made of a material or has a structure that is strong enough to withstand the external pressure when the chip 111 is attached. It is preferable to consist of

Both the chip holder 110 and the container holder 120 are arranged inside the housing 101 . Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the tip holding table 110 and the container holding table 120 are arranged such that the tip end 111a of the tip held by the tip holding table 110 enters the inside of the container 121 held by the container holding table 120. placed and fixed in the At this time, by setting the tip end 111a in contact with (immersed in) the sample S, it becomes possible to mount the tip 111 and aspirate the sample S at the same place in the dispensing device 200 described later. This facilitates shortening of the time required for this and miniaturization of the dispensing device 200 .

At this time, the installation means for arranging and fixing the chip holding table 110 and the container holding table 120 within the housing 101 is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a housing 101 is provided with a locking portion 102, and a tip holding base 110 and a container holding base 120 are respectively locked to this locking portion 102. For example, the holding table 110 and/or the container holding table 120 are integrally molded.

When the locking portion 102 is provided in the housing 101 as an installation means for arranging and fixing the chip holding base 110 and the container holding base 120, the locking portion 102 and the housing 101 may be integrated. The stop portion 102 itself may have a structure that is detachable from the housing 101 . An example of the locking portion 102 integrated with the housing 101 is to provide a structure protruding from the inner wall surface of the housing 101 at a location where the chip holder 110 and/or the container holder 120 are arranged. Further, examples of the locking portion 102 having a structure that can be attached to and detached from the housing 101 include a frame, a plate-like structure, a rod-like structure, and the like.

FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory view (perspective view) showing an example of installation means in the tip rack 100A of this embodiment.
In FIG. 3, as an example of the structure of the housing 101, a box-shaped structure having an opening 101a at the top is shown. Further, in FIG. 3, a locking portion 102a (a structure protruding from the inner wall surface of the housing 101) integrated with the housing 101 is provided at a location where the container holding base 120 is arranged, while the chip holding base 110 is arranged. In order to fix it, a locking portion 102b (frame body) having a structure detachable from the housing 101 is provided.
As shown in FIG. 3, as means for installing the tip holder 110 and the container holder 120 in the tip rack 100A of this embodiment, the container holder 120 holding the container 121 from the opening 101a side is installed inside the housing 101. After fixing by the engaging portion 102a, the engaging portion 102b and the tip holding table 110 holding the tip 111 are put into the housing 101 in this order. At this time, the height of the engaging portion 102b is set so that the tip end 111a enters the inside of the container 121. As shown in FIG. This makes it possible to reduce the area of the storage/usage space of the tip 111 and the container 121 to half compared with the case where the rack holding the tip 111 and the rack holding the container 121 are stored and used side by side. Furthermore, the height of the tip rack 100A can be set lower than when the tips 111 and the containers 121 are simply stacked in the vertical direction, and the space of the tip rack 100A can be saved.
FIG. 3 shows that after the chip holder 110 is put into the housing 101, the lid 103 is provided to cover the opening 101a of the housing 101 from above. The presence or absence of the lid 103 is not particularly limited, and the lid 103 may be omitted.

FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory view (perspective view) showing another aspect of the installation means of each holding table in the tip rack 100A of this embodiment.
FIG. 4 shows, as an example of the structure of the housing 101, a box-shaped structure having an opening 101a on the top and an opening 101b on the side. Further, in FIG. 4, a locking portion 102c integrated with the housing 101 (a structure projecting from the inner wall surface of the housing 101) is provided at a location where the container holding base 120 is arranged, and a location where the chip holding base 110 is arranged. 2 shows that a locking portion 102d integrated with the housing 101 (a structure protruding from the inner wall surface of the housing 101) is provided.
As a means for installing the chip holding table 110 and the container holding table 120 in FIG. 4, the container holding table 120 holding the container 121 is laterally moved into the housing 101 from the opening 101b side, and fixed by the engaging portion 102c. After that, the chip holder 110 holding the chip 111 is put into the housing 101 from the opening 101a side and fixed by the locking portion 102d.
In the installation means of each holding base in the tip rack 100A shown in FIG. Compared to arranging the container 121, it is possible to suppress human error in the arranging operation such as unintended dropping of the container 121. FIG.
FIG. 4 shows that in addition to the lid 103 for closing the opening 101a of the housing 101, a lid 104 for closing the opening 101b is provided. is not particularly limited, and the lids 103 and 104 may be omitted.
In addition, in order to smoothly move the container holding base 120 laterally, the engaging portion 102c and/or the container holding base 120 may be provided with a shape or structure that reduces friction. The material for 120 may be selected.

In the tip rack 100A shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the tip 111 and the container 121 can be exchanged and replenished while being held by the tip holder 110 and the container holder 120, respectively. This makes it easy to handle many chips 111 and containers 121 (samples S) at once.

As another example of the means for installing each holder in the tip rack 100A, the container holder 120 is integrally molded in the housing 101, and after holding the container 121 on the container holder 120 from the opening 101a side, the tip is mounted. For example, the chip holding table 110 holding the chip 111 is inserted and fixed by the locking portion 120 (the locking portion having a structure integrated with the housing 101 or a structure detachable from the housing 101). In this case, since the number of parts constituting the tip rack 100A is reduced, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing time and cost.
At this time, the container holding base 120 integrally molded in the housing 101 has holes matching the shape of the lower portion of the container 121 in addition to the plate-like member 120b having a plurality of holding holes 120a as shown in FIG. It can be used as a structure. This makes it possible to fix the container 121 more firmly.

(dispensing device)
FIG. 5 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of the dispensing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 5, the pipetting apparatus 200 in this embodiment includes a tip rack 100A, a sample aspirator 210 for aspirating the sample S in the container 121, and a sample transporter for moving the sample aspirated by the sample aspirator 210. a part 220; In FIG. 5, dashed-dotted line arrows indicate connections that enable data input/output and control.

By using the tip rack 100A, the pipetting device 200 of the present embodiment can arrange the container 121 containing the sample S and the tip 111 at the same place, which saves space compared to the conventional pipetting device. become possible.

The structure of the sample suction unit 210 is not particularly limited as long as it can suction the sample S in the container 121 arranged in the tip rack 100A. For example, as an example of the sample suction unit 210, as shown in FIG.
Here, the dispensing nozzle 211 has a structure that fits over the tip 111 in the tip rack 100A and is movable in the XYZ axial directions via the sample transport section 220 . Also, the dispensing pump 212 may be any pump capable of sucking and discharging the sample S in the container 121 via the tip 111, and examples thereof include a syringe pump comprising a combination of a syringe and a piston. Further, the control unit 213 is not particularly limited as long as it can control the movement (lifting and horizontal movement) of the dispensing nozzle 211 and the driving of the dispensing pump 212. .

The sample transport section 220 is for moving the sample S sucked by the sample suction section 210 to a predetermined position. The sample transport unit 220 may be a mechanism that moves the dispensing nozzle 211, and in addition to the lifting mechanism (movement in the Z-axis direction) of the dispensing nozzle 211, horizontal movement (movement in the X-axis and Y-axis directions) is possible. and a moving mechanism 221 having the following. Moreover, it is preferable that the moving mechanism 221 is controlled together with the dispensing pump 212 by the control unit 213 so that the dispensing apparatus 200 can be made space-saving.

An example of the dispensing operation by the dispensing device 200 of this embodiment will be shown.
First, the pipetting nozzle 211 in the sample aspirator 210 is moved horizontally and vertically, and the tip 111 in the tip rack 100A is attached to the tip of the pipetting nozzle 211 .
Then, the dispensing nozzle 211 is maintained at the position where the tip 111 is mounted, and the dispensing pump 212 is driven to suck the sample S from the tip end 111a.
After that, by moving the pipetting nozzle 211 upward, the chip 111 containing the sample S is taken out from the tip rack 100A, and the moving mechanism 221 moves the chip 111 (sample S) to the position where the sample S is to be pipetted ( transfer to a multiwell plate, etc.).
Then, the dispensing pump 212 is driven to discharge the sample S in the tip 111, completing the dispensing operation.

In this dispensing operation, an operation for improving the dispensing accuracy may be performed together. For example, after the tip 111 is attached to the dispensing nozzle 211, an operation related to the removal of air bubbles mixed in the tip 111, or during suction by the dispensing pump 212, the setting of the suction amount considering the mixing of bubbles and the An operation related to suction based on the setting may be mentioned.

Note that the pipetting device 200 of this embodiment may be provided with a known configuration as a pipetting device in addition to the tip rack 100, the sample aspirating section 210, and the sample transporting section 220. FIG. For example, the pipetting apparatus 200 of this embodiment may be provided with a removal mechanism for removing the tip 111 after the pipetting operation, or a disposal unit for collecting the removed tip 111 .
Here, the tip 111 in this embodiment is basically removed and discarded after one use. In cases such as when it is necessary to suppress contamination due to unintended movement, after the dispensing operation, the tip 111 attached to the dispensing nozzle 211 is returned to the container 121 by the moving mechanism 221, and the dispensing operation is performed again. It can be a thing.
In the dispensing apparatus 200 of this embodiment, when disposable tips are used as the tips 111 in the tip rack 100, there is no need to provide a configuration related to cleaning. In order to suppress contamination in 211, a cleaning mechanism may be provided.

In the pipetting apparatus 200 of this embodiment, by using the tip rack 100A, the space for storing and using the tips 111 and the containers 121 can be reduced, and the tips 111 and the containers 121 are integrated within the tip rack 100A. Therefore, the mounting of the tip 111 and the suction of the sample S can be performed at the same place, and the moving distance of the sample S after that can be shortened. As a result, the size of the dispensing device 200 can be reduced.

(observation system)
FIG. 6 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of the observation system in the first embodiment of the invention.
As shown in FIG. 6, the observation system 1 in this embodiment includes a first sheet 2a, a second sheet 2b, an arrangement means 3 for arranging a sample S (object to be observed S), and an observation means 4. is provided. A seat moving mechanism 5 is provided for the first seat 2a and the second seat 2b. Furthermore, a dispensing device 200 is provided as the placement means 3 . In FIG. 6, dashed-dotted line arrows indicate connections that enable data input/output and control.

The observation system 1 in this embodiment uses the dispensing device 200 as the arrangement means 3, arranges the observation object S on the first sheet 2a, and then overlaps the second sheet 2b from above. An observation object S is fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and observation is performed by the observation means 4 in this state. That is, in place of the conventional prepared slide consisting of a cover glass and a slide glass, a sample obtained by superimposing the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b in this embodiment is used for observation. Further, by providing the sheet moving mechanism 5 for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, it becomes possible to perform operations from preparation of the observation sample to observation of the sample as a series of operations. This simplifies the work of preparing and transporting a sample in conventional observation using a slide, and makes it possible to improve the working efficiency of observation.

Each configuration of the observation system 1 will be described in detail below.

The first sheet 2a is for supporting the observation object S on which the observation object S is arranged. Further, the second sheet 2b is overlapped with the first sheet 2a on which the observation object S is arranged, and thereby the observation object S is fixed.

The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are not particularly limited in terms of material and shape, as long as the observation object S can be placed thereon and the observation means 4 can observe the first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b.
The shape of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be any shape as long as it has a width sufficient to ensure an observation field of view by the observation means 4, which will be described later. Moreover, as a shape of the 1st sheet|seat 2a and the 2nd sheet|seat 2b, setting it as a roll-shaped film is mentioned, for example. As a result, the sheet can be easily moved by the sheet moving mechanism 5, which will be described later. Moreover, it is preferable that the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b have a cartridge type replaceable structure. As a result, the sheets can be easily exchanged, so that it is possible to improve the working efficiency of observation.

Examples of the material of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b in this embodiment include materials that are light transmissive, insoluble in water, and impermeable to water. Moreover, it is more preferable to have resistance to organic solvents. Examples of such materials include resin films and glass films. For example, by using resin films such as polyethylene film, polypropylene film, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, which are widely available in the market and inexpensive, the running cost for observation can be reduced. A polyethylene film is known to have a high permeability to terahertz waves, and can be particularly suitably used when electron beam observation is used as the observation means 4 .
Further, it is more preferable that the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are made of a material having low autofluorescence and light absorption in addition to the light transmission property. Thereby, the influence on the observation by the observation means 4 can be suppressed. As such a material, for example, a resin film with low light absorption, such as a cycloolefin film, or a glass film may be used. In particular, a film made of glass is preferably used as a substitute for a slide for optical observation. Autofluorescence and light absorption in the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be dealt with by correcting the background during observation with the observation means 4. FIG.
Furthermore, it is preferable that the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are resistant to various sterilization treatments (electron beam sterilization, ultraviolet sterilization, heat sterilization, etc.). As a result, when a living body is used as the observation target S, it is possible to suppress contamination by bacteria and microorganisms other than the observation target. Further, when a living body is used as the observation object S, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be selected or imparted with oxygen permeability/impermeability. For example, if the living body is anaerobic, it is preferable to select a material that is impermeable to oxygen for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. On the other hand, if the living body is aerobic, it is preferable to select a material having oxygen permeability for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. This makes it possible to control the influence of oxygen on the living body during observation work.

The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be made of the same material, or may be made of different materials. Further, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may have the same thickness or may have different thicknesses. For example, when the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are adhered or cut by the recovering means 6, which will be described later, a thin sheet surface suitable for thermal bonding of the sheets and a thick sheet surface suitable for cutting and storing the sheets are used. For example, it should be combined with a surface.

Also, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be subjected to surface treatment. The type of surface treatment is not particularly limited.
For example, as an example of surface treatment, there is a treatment related to surface properties against water, such as hydrophilic treatment and water-repellent treatment. The surface properties with respect to water include wettability and water contact angle in addition to hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity.
At this time, the entire sheet may be subjected to hydrophilic treatment or water-repellent treatment, but there may be a case in which the portions to be subjected to hydrophilic treatment or water-repellent treatment have a certain pattern. For example, hydrophilic treatment is performed so that square, rectangular, circular, or elliptical patterns are arranged at regular intervals, and an observation object S made of an aqueous solution is arranged at the locations where the hydrophilic treatment has been performed by the arrangement means 3, which will be described later. . As a result, it is possible to stably arrange the observation target S at the site where the surface treatment is performed.
In particular, it is preferable that one or a part of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b have different surface properties against water. As a result, when the aqueous solution containing the object to be observed S is arranged on the first sheet 2a and then the second sheet 2b is overlaid, the aqueous solution spreads appropriately between the sheets, and the interval between the sheets is kept constant. becomes easier. Therefore, it is possible to stably fix the observation object S, and to improve the working efficiency of observation by the observation means 4 .

Another example of the surface treatment is to apply a substance for immobilizing the observation object S. For example, when the observation object S is a living body, the substances to be applied to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b include antibodies against the living body, proteins, peptides, enzymes, nucleic acids, bases, and sugars that bind to the living body. Chains, phospholipids, glycolipids, and the like. As a result, it is possible to stably arrange the observation target S at the site where the surface treatment is performed.
Furthermore, as another example of surface treatment, applying a reagent for observing the observation object S can be mentioned. Examples of such reagents include staining reagents, fluorescent reagents, and various probes. This facilitates observation of the observation object S at the surface-treated portion by the observation means 4, and makes it possible to improve the work efficiency related to observation.

Further, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may incorporate various kinds of identification information for facilitating identification during observation. Such identification information includes identification information related to size such as grids and scale bars, markers provided at predetermined intervals, guides such as codes (numbering, character codes, barcodes, etc.), and location information. Information for identification which concerns, etc. are mentioned. Further, means for incorporating the identification information include printing the identification information on the first sheet 2a or the second sheet 2b in advance, manually writing the information, and the like.

The arranging means 3 is for performing an arranging step of arranging the observed object S on the first sheet 2a.
The arranging means 3 of this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of arranging the observed object S. In addition, it is preferable to select the placement means 3 that matches the form of the observation object S (liquid or solid).

A specific example of the arrangement means 3 is one using a dispensing device 200 as shown in FIG. As a result, it is possible to reduce the size of the apparatus for arranging the observation target S in the observation system 1, and it is possible to reduce the size of the observation system 1 as a whole.

The dispensing device 200 as the disposing means 3 drops and discharges the observation object S in the container 121 onto the first sheet 2a via the tip 111. FIG.
Here, the controller 213 preferably performs angle control of the tip 111 in addition to position control of the tip 111 . This makes it possible to adjust the angle and position of the chip 111 with respect to the first sheet 2a and arrange the observation object S at an arbitrary position on the first sheet 2a. Further, the angle and position of the chip 111 may be adjusted by the control unit 213 to arrange the observation object S on the second sheet 2b. As a result, as will be described later, it is also possible to place different objects on the first sheet 2a and on the second sheet 2b.

As an example of position control of the tip 111 by the control unit 213, the tip 111 may be moved to a position away from the first sheet 2a when the observation work is temporarily stopped and restarted, such as immediately after the type of the observation object S is changed. After the tip 111 is moved and a certain amount of the liquid in the tip 111 is discharged as waste liquid, the tip 111 is moved onto the first sheet 2a, and the observation object S is arranged. As a result, it is possible to prevent waste liquid unsuitable for observation from being placed on the first sheet 2a, and to improve the working efficiency related to observation.

The placement means 3 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. For example, a plurality of chips 111 may be used as the placement means 3 . When a plurality of chips 111 are provided as the arranging means 3, the objects arranged on the first sheet 2a by the arranging means 3 are not only the object S to be observed, but also reagents necessary for observing the object S to be observed. It can be a thing.
In particular, when the observation object S is a solution containing a living body, it is preferable to arrange the staining reagent widely used for observing living bodies by the arrangement means 3 . At this time, instead of directly supplying the staining reagent to the observation object S placed on the first sheet 2a, the observation object S and the staining reagent are mixed. This makes it possible to suppress contamination in the chip 111 . For example, the observation object S and the staining reagent are arranged adjacently on the first sheet 2a to the extent that they do not contact each other, and the angle of the tip 111 on which the observation object S is arranged and the tip on which the staining reagent is arranged For example, the angle of 111 may be different, and the observation object S and the staining reagent may be arranged on the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, respectively.

In addition, what is arranged by the arranging means 3 other than the observation object S is not limited to reagents (staining reagents) necessary for observing the observation object S, and the effects of environmental changes on the observation object S are not limited. Examples include chemical substances (reagents) for observation. For example, when the observation object S is a solution containing a living body, a solution with a high salt concentration or pH is arranged by the arrangement means 3 and mixed with the observation object S, so that the effect of the salt concentration or pH on the living body can be obtained. Observations may be made. As a result, it is possible to quickly and easily acquire observation data associated with environmental changes for the observation object S. FIG.

After arranging the observation object S on the first sheet 2a by the arranging means 3, the second sheet 2b is overlapped from above, so that observation is performed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. Object S can be fixed. Note that means for overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b is not particularly limited. For example, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be overlapped using a sheet moving mechanism 5, which will be described later. This makes it easy to automate the work related to sample preparation for observation.

The observation means 4 is for performing an observation process of observing an observation object S fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.
The observing means 4 is not particularly limited as long as it can acquire observation data of the observed object S. For example, image acquisition means for obtaining information related to the shape of the observation object S, optical analysis means, radiation analysis means, magnetic field analysis means, and electron beam diffraction means for obtaining information based on various analyzes of the observation object S etc.
As the observation means 4 in this embodiment, utilization of the structure of a microscope is mentioned. In particular, it is preferable to use the configuration of an optical microscope. This makes it possible to obtain an enlarged image of the observation object S for detailed observation, and facilitates combination with various analysis means.

The observation means 4 includes an objective lens 40, an eyepiece lens, and a reflecting mirror (light source) that are generally used for observation with an optical microscope. In addition, it is preferable to provide an image acquisition means (such as a CCD camera) for acquiring an image instead of the eyepiece, so that image data can be automatically collected. As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency related to the acquisition and analysis of observation data. Note that FIG. 6 shows only the objective lens 40 as the observation means 4 and omits other components.
In the observation system 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, two sheets (the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b) held by the sheet moving mechanism 5 are placed below the objective lens 40. It is not essential to provide a stage in a general optical microscope in order to observe the observation object S which is installed and fixed between two sheets.
Although FIG. 6 shows the structure of an erect microscope in which the objective lens 40 is above the observation object S, the structure is not limited to this, and the objective lens 40 is below the observation object S. It may also utilize the structure of an inverted microscope. Also, a plurality of objective lenses 40 may be provided to observe the observation object S from a plurality of directions.

The observation data obtained by the observation means 4 are preferably sorted and analyzed as necessary. For example, a data storage unit and a data analysis unit for accumulating and analyzing data are provided, and necessary arithmetic processing is performed by inputting observation data. As a result, it becomes possible to create a database of observation data relating to the observation object S and to effectively utilize the data.

The sheet moving mechanism 5 is for supporting and moving the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.
The sheet moving mechanism 5 includes unwinding rolls 50a and 50b as an unwinding section 50 for unwinding and supplying the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and winding the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. Winding rolls 51a and 51b are provided as a winding section 51 for picking up and collecting, and a driving section (not shown) for rotationally driving the winding section 51 (winding rolls 51a and 51b) is provided. Note that FIG. 6 shows that the winding rolls 51a and 51b are provided as the winding unit 51, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b unwound from the unwinding section 50 (unwinding rolls 50a and 50b) may be wound and collected by one winding roll. This makes it possible to simplify the structure of the device.

The sheet moving mechanism 5 preferably has a speed adjusting function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. As the speed adjustment function 53, for example, a rotational drive control unit 53a capable of recording the number of revolutions or measuring the winding diameter of the driving unit related to the rotational driving of the winding unit 51 and capable of controlling the number of revolutions. to be provided. This makes it possible to adjust the winding (recovery) speed of the sheet and adjust the moving speed of the sheet.

By providing the speed adjusting function 53 as the sheet moving mechanism 5, it becomes possible to control the amount of the observation object S dropped from the arranging means 3 and arranged on the first sheet 2a. That is, the speed adjustment function 53 controls the rotation drive control unit 53a so that the movement speed of the sheet is appropriate, thereby controlling the liquid volume and droplet shape of the observation object S placed on the first sheet 2a. can be brought into a state suitable for observation by the observation means 4.

The sheet moving mechanism 5 in this embodiment may have a function of controlling movement and stopping of the sheet together with a speed adjusting function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, the drive unit for rotating the winding unit 51 may be controlled to move the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b by a certain distance or for a certain period of time and then stop them for a certain period of time. Here, this control may be performed by the rotation drive control section 53a, or may be provided by a separate control section. As a result, when observing the observation object S by the observing means 4, the observation object S can be intermittently moved, and observation can be performed while the observation object S is in a stationary state. It is possible to improve the accuracy.
Other examples of control related to sheet movement in the sheet moving mechanism 5 include, for example, an operation in which the sheet is repeatedly moved and stopped as an operation mode for observing the observation object S, and an operation mode for arranging the observation object S. As the operation mode, switching between different operation modes, such as an operation of moving the sheet at a constant speed, can be mentioned. As a result, the observation conditions in the observation means 4 can be set more freely, and the observation object S can be arranged more accurately.

The sheet moving mechanism 5 in this embodiment may be provided with tension control means for tension control of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. For example, a tension detector may be provided between the unwinding section 50 and the winding section 51 . As a result, the tension of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be controlled more precisely, and the distortion of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be reduced. It becomes possible to reduce the deviation of the movement speed of the sheet 2b, and it becomes possible to improve the accuracy of observation. Further, as another example of the tension control means, the unwinding section 50 may also be provided with a driving section and a rotational drive control section for rotational driving, or a sheet feeding section may be provided between the unwinding section 50 and the tip 111 for rotational driving. establishment of a department. Thereby, tension control can be performed with higher precision.

The sheet moving mechanism 5 in this embodiment includes an unwinding roll 50a and a winding roll 51a that support and move the first sheet 2a, or an unwinding roll 50b that supports and moves the second sheet 2b and a winding roll. Either one or both of the rolls 51b are preferably vertically movable. This makes it possible to adjust the distance between the first seat 2a and the second seat 2b.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, as a support mechanism 52 for applying an appropriate tension to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b and overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, upper and lower It is preferable to provide a plurality of movable support rollers 52a. Thereby, the movement of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be stably performed. In addition, by providing the support mechanism 52, it becomes possible to improve the accuracy of position adjustment related to the superposition of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and to easily adjust the distance between the two sheets. . 6 shows that the support mechanism 52 is provided on the side of the second seat 2b, but is not limited to this, and may be provided on the side of the first seat 2a. may be provided on both the sheet 2a side and the second sheet 2b side. Also, the locations and the number of the support mechanisms 52 are not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, support mechanisms 52 are provided on both the upstream side and the downstream side in the movement direction of the sheet and on the sheet upper side (the upper side of the second sheet 2b) with respect to the objective lens 40 of the observation means 4. are provided to enable stable support of the sheet. Other examples include providing the support mechanism 52 on the lower side of the sheet (the lower side of the first sheet 2a) or on the side of each sheet on which the observation object S is arranged. Also, the number of supporting mechanisms 52 may be reduced to simplify the structure.

Further, the support mechanism 52 may be provided with a speed adjusting function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, a measurement unit for measuring the rotation speed or rotation speed of the support roller 52a and a rotation drive control unit capable of controlling the rotation drive of the support roller 52a can be provided. Each sheet (the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b) moves as the support roller 52a is driven to rotate. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the moving speed of the sheet by controlling the rotational driving of the support roller 52a.

Further, it is preferable that the observation system 1 in this embodiment is provided with a control means C for adjusting various operations in the placement means 3 , the observation means 4 and the sheet moving mechanism 5 . More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, it is connected to the placement means 3 (control section 213), the observation means 4 and the sheet moving mechanism 5 (speed adjustment function 53) to enable data input/output and control. For example, a control unit C1 is provided. The controller C1 may be provided for each means, but as shown in FIG. 6, it is preferable to connect a plurality of means to one controller C1 so as to be able to comprehensively control them. As a result, it is possible to easily and efficiently perform the adjustment of various operations and the operation related to the adjustment.
Examples of operations to be controlled by the control unit C1 include an operation related to the operation of the observation unit 4, an operation related to acquisition and storage of observation data by the observation unit 4, and data related to the observation results of the observation unit 4. In addition to the placement operation (dispensing operation) of the observation object S on the sheet (first sheet 2a) by the control unit 213 of the placement means 3, the speed adjustment function 53 (rotational drive control unit 53a ) and the operation directly related to the horizontal movement of the sheet, such as the movement speed of the sheet and the movement and stop of the sheet, by controlling the rotational drive of the support mechanism 52, and the horizontal movement of the sheet by the drive control of the support mechanism 52. seat motions, such as motions associated with In addition, it is preferable to control not only individual operations of each of the various means, but also operations resulting from a combination of multiple operations of the various means. For example, it is possible to control a series of operations such as acquisition of observation data by the observation means 4 in accordance with the timing when the movement of the sheet is stopped by the sheet moving mechanism 5, For each S, a series of operations related to the arranging means 3, the observing means 4, and the sheet moving mechanism 5 can be controlled. As a result, it is possible to improve the accuracy of observation data acquired by the observation means 4 and to improve the work efficiency related to observation.

More specific examples of operations to be controlled by the control means C (control unit C1) in this embodiment will be listed below, but are not limited to these.
For example, the operation related to the operation of the observing means 4 includes operation of a microscope and a camera.
In addition, as for the operation related to acquisition and storage of observation data by the observation means 4, first, for acquisition of observation data, the observation method, observation time and observation conditions (magnification, etc.) using a microscope, and the photographing method and photographing method using a camera. Setting/selection of time, number of shots, shooting conditions, and the like can be mentioned. On the other hand, regarding saving of observation data, setting/selection of a data name, a data saving format, and a data saving location can be mentioned.
Further, as an operation (dispensing operation) of arranging the observation object S on the sheet (the first sheet 2a) by the arranging means 3, the amount of supply when arranging (supplying) the observation object S on the sheet, the supply Setting and selection of speed, supply interval, etc. can be mentioned.
Furthermore, the sheet operation related to the sheet moving mechanism 5 includes setting/selection related to the moving speed, moving time, stop time, and time until switching the type of observation object S, determination/execution related to emergency stop, Management of the amount of sheets, etc. are mentioned.
As described above, any one of these operations may be the object of control, or an arbitrary combination of a plurality of them may be the object of control. From the viewpoint of improving work efficiency related to observation, it is preferable to control a plurality of operations.

The observation system 1 in this embodiment may be provided with a configuration other than the one described above.
For example, the observation system 1 in this embodiment is preferably provided with a means for preventing contamination by impurities from the outside. As such means, it is possible to provide a sealed portion capable of accommodating the arranging means 3 and the sheet moving mechanism 5 to block contact with the external environment. Also, the entire observation system 1 may be installed in an environment such as a clean room or a clean bench. This makes it possible to suppress the influence of impurities from the outside during observation. Moreover, a member may be further provided for more reliably suppressing the entry of impurities from the outside. Such members include, for example, providing a filter or the like in the sealed portion.

In addition, as another means for preventing contamination of impurities from the outside, the observation system 1 in this embodiment may be provided with a static elimination mechanism such as an ionizer to eliminate static from the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. are mentioned. As a result, it is possible to reduce the adhesion of impurities to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and to reduce the influence of static electricity on other devices.

As described above, according to the observation system of the present embodiment, by using a space-saving dispensing device and placing and fixing an observation object between two sheets and observing in that state, Rapid sample preparation and sample observation can be performed without preparing a preparation using a cover glass and a slide glass. This greatly simplifies the steps involved in sample preparation, making it possible to quickly perform observation work. In addition, since the object to be observed is fixed between the two sheets, an unnecessarily strong external force is not applied to the object to be observed. Therefore, it becomes easy to handle living organisms such as living cells and microorganisms in a living state as objects to be observed.
Therefore, with the observation system of the present embodiment, it is possible to improve the efficiency of work related to observation of a large number of objects to be observed. can.

[Second embodiment]
FIG. 7 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of the tip rack in the second embodiment of the present invention.
The tip rack 100B according to the second embodiment is the tip rack 100A according to the first embodiment, further provided with an adjusting section 130 for adjusting the distance between the sample S in the container 121 and the tip end 111a. The description of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment will be omitted.

In the tip rack 100B of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. The distance between the sample S in the container and the tip end 111a is reduced by lowering the tip holding base 110 between the locking portion 102b and the tip holding base 110 by pressure from above. is provided with an adjustment unit 130 that adjusts the As a result, while the sample S and the tip end 111a are normally separated from each other in the tip rack 100, the position of the tip holding table 110 is lowered by the adjustment unit 130 to bring the tip end 111a into contact with the sample S during the dispensing operation. It is possible to attach the tip 111 and suck the sample S at the same location.

The adjuster 130 lowers the tip holder 110 by pressure from above to adjust the distance between the sample S in the container 121 and the tip end 111a.
An example of the adjusting section 130 in this embodiment is to provide a structure that expands and contracts under pressure from above. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, a spring-like structure 131 may be provided between the locking portion 102b and the chip holder 110. As shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a schematic explanatory diagram when the tip rack 100B of this embodiment is applied to the dispensing device 200. As shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 8, when the dispensing nozzle 211 is lowered from the top of the tip rack 100B with respect to the tip 111 and the dispensing nozzle 211 is pushed into the tip 111 to mount the tip 111, the spring which is the adjusting part 130 is pushed. The shaped structure 131 is compressed, and the position of the chip holder 110 is lowered. As a result, the tip end 111a of the tip contacts the sample S, so that the attachment of the tip 111 and the suction of the sample S can be performed at the same place.
By removing the tip 111 from the tip rack 100 after the sample S is aspirated, the spring-like structure 131 is restored and the tip end 111a and the sample S are separated from each other.

By using a structure that expands and contracts under pressure from above as the adjusting section 130, it is possible to bring the sample S into contact with the tip end 111a only during the dispensing operation. Although FIG. 7 shows that the spring-like structure 131 is provided as the adjusting portion 130 on the upper portion of the engaging portion 102b, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the locking portion 102b as a whole may be a spring-like structure, and the function of the locking portion 102b and the adjustment portion 130 may be shared.
The adjustment unit 130 can be particularly suitably used when the state where the tip end 111a and the sample S are in contact with each other for a long time is not preferable, such as when the sample S tends to be adsorbed to the tip 111 .

FIG. 9 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the tip rack 100B in this embodiment.
Another example of the adjustment part 130 in the tip rack 100B of this embodiment is one having a structure that maintains the lowered state of the tip holder 110 by pressure from above. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, there is provided a fitting structure 132 that fits with the chip holding table 110 by pressure from above. At this time, a hole 110c is provided on the tip holding base 110 side, and this hole 110c and the fitting structure 132 are fitted to a certain extent, thereby stably holding the state in which the tip end 111a and the sample S are spaced apart. be able to. Then, the hole 110c and the fitting structure 132 are completely fitted by the pressure from above, and the chip holder 110 is lowered by the height of the fitted hole 110c. Although FIG. 9 shows that the fitting structure 132 is provided on the upper portion of the locking portion 102b, the locking portion 102b and the fitting structure 132 may be integrated.
Here, the pressure applied from above is not limited to that applied when the tip 111 is attached to the dispensing nozzle 211 . For example, when placing the tip rack 100B in the dispensing device 200, the operator may press the tip holder 110 from above to fit the tip holder 110 and the fitting structure 132 together.
This adjustment unit 130 has the advantage that the tip ends 111a of the entire tip rack 100B can be brought into contact with the sample S all at once, and the movement control of the dispensing nozzle 211 is not complicated.

The embodiments described above are examples of the tip rack, the pipetting device, and the observation system. The tip rack, the pipetting apparatus, and the observation system according to the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described above. and the viewing system may be modified.

For example, as the tip rack in this embodiment, a tip rack is provided in which the size of the housing is set according to the sizes of the containers and chips to be used, and the sizes of usable containers and chips are specified for each housing. It may be assumed that As a result, in fields where the types and sizes of containers and chips used for dispensing operations are specified to some extent, the cost associated with provision can be reduced, and stable supply as a product becomes possible.
On the other hand, in the tip rack of this embodiment, it is possible to change the arrangement of the tip holding table and the container holding table in the housing by selecting or exchanging the engaging portion, so that one housing can handle containers and chips of different sizes. may be provided to provide a flexible tip rack. As a result, it is possible to reduce the size of the entire tip rack and to provide products with expanded types of usable containers and tips.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The tip rack and pipetting apparatus of the present invention are suitable for use in various technical fields that require sample pipetting operations as one of techniques for handling a small amount of a large number of samples.
Further, the observation system of the present invention can be used for various observations of samples (objects to be observed) as one of techniques for handling a small amount and a large number of samples. In particular, it is suitably used in observation of a living body as an observation object.

Reference Signs List 100A, 100B tip rack, 101 housing, 101a, 101b opening, 102, 102a to 102d locking portion, 103, 104 lid, 110 tip holding base, 110a holding hole, 110b plate member, 110c hole, 111 Chip 111a tip 111b cone 111c flange 120 container holding base 120a holding hole 120b plate member 121 container 121a flange 121b rim 122 sealing structure 123 lid 123a cut Inset part 124 Covering part 124a Notch part 130 Adjusting part 131 Spring-like structure 132 Fitting structure 200 Dispensing device 210 Sample suction part 211 Dispensing nozzle 212 Dispensing pump 213 Control part , 220 sample conveying unit 221 moving mechanism 1 observation system 2a first sheet 2b second sheet 3 arrangement means 4 observation means 40 objective lens 41a and 41b cameras 5 sheet movement mechanism 50 unwinding Part, 50a, 50b unwinding roll, 51 winding section, 51a, 51b winding roll, 52 support mechanism, 52a support roller, 53 speed adjustment function, 53a rotation drive control section, C control means, C1 control section, S sample (Object to be observed)

Claims (3)

a chip holder for holding a chip;
a container holding base that holds a container in which the sample is stored,
A tip rack, wherein the tip holding base and the container holding base are arranged so that the tips of the tips enter into the inside of the container. A tip rack according to claim 1;
a sample aspirator for aspirating the sample in the container;
and a sample conveying unit for moving the sample sucked by the sample sucking unit. a first sheet;
arranging means for arranging an observation target on the first sheet;
a second sheet to be superimposed on the first sheet after the observation object is arranged on the first sheet;
observation means for observing the observation object fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet;
An observation system, wherein said positioning means includes the pipetting device according to claim 2 .