WO2006048643A1 - Systeme de distribution de liquide - Google Patents

Systeme de distribution de liquide Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2006048643A1
WO2006048643A1 PCT/GB2005/004239 GB2005004239W WO2006048643A1 WO 2006048643 A1 WO2006048643 A1 WO 2006048643A1 GB 2005004239 W GB2005004239 W GB 2005004239W WO 2006048643 A1 WO2006048643 A1 WO 2006048643A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
armature
dispensing system
liquid
liquid dispensing
cartridge
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.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/GB2005/004239
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Mark Caswell
Richard Nighy
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.)
Norgren Ltd
Original Assignee
Norgren Ltd
IMI Norgren Ltd
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 Norgren Ltd, IMI Norgren Ltd filed Critical Norgren Ltd
Priority to US11/795,425 priority Critical patent/US20080135583A1/en
Priority to EP05800070A priority patent/EP1812800A1/fr
Publication of WO2006048643A1 publication Critical patent/WO2006048643A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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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
    • B01L3/02—Burettes; Pipettes
    • B01L3/0241—Drop counters; Drop formers
    • B01L3/0265—Drop counters; Drop formers using valves to interrupt or meter fluid flow, e.g. using solenoids or metering valves
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F11/00—Apparatus requiring external operation adapted at each repeated and identical operation to measure and separate a predetermined volume of fluid or fluent solid material from a supply or container, without regard to weight, and to deliver it
    • G01F11/02—Apparatus requiring external operation adapted at each repeated and identical operation to measure and separate a predetermined volume of fluid or fluent solid material from a supply or container, without regard to weight, and to deliver it with measuring chambers which expand or contract during measurement
    • G01F11/021—Apparatus requiring external operation adapted at each repeated and identical operation to measure and separate a predetermined volume of fluid or fluent solid material from a supply or container, without regard to weight, and to deliver it with measuring chambers which expand or contract during measurement of the piston type
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N35/00—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor
    • G01N35/10—Devices for transferring samples or any liquids to, in, or from, the analysis apparatus, e.g. suction devices, injection devices
    • G01N35/1002—Reagent dispensers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2200/00—Solutions for specific problems relating to chemical or physical laboratory apparatus
    • B01L2200/06—Fluid handling related problems
    • B01L2200/0605—Metering of fluids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2400/00—Moving or stopping fluids
    • B01L2400/04—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means
    • B01L2400/0475—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific mechanical means and fluid pressure
    • B01L2400/0487—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific mechanical means and fluid pressure fluid pressure, pneumatics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2400/00—Moving or stopping fluids
    • B01L2400/06—Valves, specific forms thereof
    • B01L2400/0633—Valves, specific forms thereof with moving parts
    • B01L2400/0666—Solenoid valves

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a liquid dispensing system for dispensing sub- millilitre volumes of liquid. Such small volumes are used in laboratory experiments and tests such as in vitro diagnosis of conditions from samples such as blood serum, urine and the like. This invention could also be applied in the field of drink dispensing.
  • In vitro diagnosis requires the use of between two and five reagents (most commonly three) stored in a machine and added successively to a prepared sample.
  • the reagents are generally expensive, so that it is advantageous to use as little as possible for each test, particularly in view of the fact that medical staff require an increasing number of tests to be done in order to confirm diagnoses. It is important that the volumes of reagent used are measured accurately, so that the test results are accurate and repeatable.
  • the amount of reagent used is in the range of
  • the liquid is usually dispensed via pipettes or syringes, using systems involving valves and seals, which suffer from hysteresis and so affect accuracy.
  • a further problem with dispensing liquids is cross-contamination, which occurs when the reagent touches samples, other reagents or non-sterile surfaces. Drops of liquid tend to be left on the dispenser, and these may be difficult to remove without touching. Obviously, cross-contamination needs to be avoided if the tests are to be accurate and repeatable.
  • a further problem with dispensing small volumes of liquid is that, in order to maintain accuracy, it must be ensured that all of the liquid intended to be dispensed is actually expelled from the dispensing device.
  • the aim of the invention is to increase the accuracy of dispensing small volumes of liquid (from 2 to 80 microlitres) from a machine, while avoiding cross-contamination, and providing ease of replenishment of the liquids in the machine, such as by the use of disposable cartridges.
  • a liquid dispensing system comprising a cartridge in which liquid to be dispensed is retained and at least one solenoid assembly, the solenoid assembly comprising a coil and an armature, the armature being movably mounted within the cartridge and the coil being separate from the cartridge, movement of the armature acting to expel liquid from the cartridge.
  • the coil can be made part of the dispensing apparatus and the cartridge, which contains the armature, can be mounted within the coil.
  • the cartridge can be replaced.
  • the cartridge is disposable. This reduces the chance of contamination and the cartridge can be constructed in a factory to dispense accurate and consistent volumes of liquid, such as a reagent. The use of the armature movement to actively expel the liquid assists in accurate dispensing.
  • the cartridge when assembled, comprises the cartridge body, the armature, a return spring for the armature, and a nozzle assembly.
  • the liquid is expelled through the nozzle assembly.
  • the armature is biased by the return spring towards a first position, and towards a second position by activation of the coil.
  • the armature is moved in one direction by activation of the coil, and in the opposite direction by the return spring.
  • the armature conveniently moves axially within the cartridge.
  • the arrangement may be such that in the first position the armature closes off flow through the nozzle assembly.
  • the normal position of the armature that is, with the coil inactive or when the cartridge is not installed in the dispensing system
  • the nozzle assembly is closed off, when the cartridge is installed in the dispensing system, but no liquid is being dispensed.
  • the spring is normally separate from the cartridge, armature and nozzle assembly.
  • the arrangement may be such that in the first position the armature allows flow through the nozzle assembly. Activation of the coil then moves the armature to dispense the liquid, while the return spring simply returns the armature to the first position.
  • the return spring may be integrally formed with the nozzle assembly. This is advantageous from a manufacturing point of view, as it reduces the number of components.
  • the armature comprises iron or other magnetic material.
  • the armature can be constructed relatively inexpensively and is thus disposable as the solenoid coil is separate from it.
  • the armature slides within the cartridge.
  • the cartridge may be disposed within the coil when the cartridge is mounted in the dispensing system.
  • the cartridge has two chambers, of which the first chamber is a reservoir for the liquid and the second chamber retains the armature.
  • the second chamber is disposed within the coil when the cartridge is mounted in the dispensing system.
  • the armature may define a dispensing chamber in the second chamber in which the liquid to be dispensed collects. This is advantageous as a measured quantity of liquid can be transferred to the dispensing chamber from the reservoir before dispensing.
  • the armature has a fluid flow path for transferring fluid from the reservoir to the dispensing chamber.
  • the fluid flow path may comprise a bore through the armature. Alternatively it may comprise an annular groove in its outer surface.
  • axial movement of the armature in one direction dispenses the liquid and in the other direction, pumps liquid from the reservoir into the dispensing chamber.
  • the nozzle assembly may also include a one-way valve, such as a "duck- bill” valve.
  • a one-way valve such as a "duck- bill" valve.
  • the dispensing system includes one solenoid coil.
  • it may comprise two solenoid coils.
  • the cartridge may contain two armatures and two dispensing chambers.
  • the reservoir may have a pressure/vacuum source attached thereto.
  • the pressure/vacuum source can be used to control more carefully the amount of fluid dispensed, and, if a vacuum is applied to the reservoir, the hydrostatic pressure of a large head of liquid in the reservoir can be supported.
  • the cartridge includes a lid having a moulded hinge. This allows the liquid in the reservoir to be agitated or refilled as necessary.
  • the nozzle assembly is mounted with the cartridge by interference fit or with adhesive or it may be integrally moulded therewith.
  • the nozzle assembly has a nozzle and a shroud to protect the nozzle from damage or contamination.
  • the nozzle or dispensing chamber may have a hydrophobic coating to aid complete expulsion of liquid therefrom. Preferably, they both have a hydrophobic coating.
  • liquid dispensing system of the invention is adapted to dispense microlitres of liquid.
  • Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the cartridge and solenoid coil according to the invention
  • Figure 2 shows a modification to the nozzle assembly shown in Figure 1;
  • Figures 3a and 3b show a first embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 4 shows a modification to the nozzle of the dispensing system shown in Figures 3a and 3b;
  • Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of the invention
  • Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show a third embodiment of the invention
  • Figures 7a, 7b and 7c show a fourth embodiment of the invention
  • Figures 8a, 8b and 8c show a fifth embodiment of the invention that incorporates a collar section on the armature
  • Figure 9 is a perspective view of the armature and the collar section of the fifth embodiment.
  • Figures 10a, 10b and 10c show a sixth embodiment of the invention that incorporates two solenoid assemblies.
  • the liquid dispensing system 1 of Figure 1 comprises a cartridge 2, an armature 3 and a nozzle assembly 4.
  • the cartridge 2 comprises a hollow body 5, which is divided into a first chamber 6 and a second chamber 7 by a valve seat 8.
  • the first chamber 6 forms a reservoir which, in use, retains liquid to be dispensed by the system.
  • the second chamber 7 defines an axial armature bore within which the armature 3 can move.
  • the nozzle assembly 4 retains the armature 3 in the bore 7.
  • the liquid dispensing system 1 also includes a solenoid coil 15 of conventional construction having a bore 16 therethrough. Thus, the solenoid coil 15 and the armature 3 together form a solenoid assembly.
  • the second chamber 7 of the cartridge 2 is, in use, adapted to be mounted within the bore 16, thereby enabling the magnetic field generated by the coil 15 to move the armature 3. Movement of the armature 3 causes liquid from the reservoir 6 to be expelled through the nozzle assembly 4.
  • the nozzle assembly 4 comprises a body 11 of a diameter to closely fit within the bore 7, an elongate nozzle 12, a shroud 13 and an integrally formed spring member 14.
  • the elongate nozzle 12 comprises a tapering cylindrical member extending from the body 11, which has a dispensing bore 17 therethrough.
  • the dispensing bore 17 also extends through the nozzle assembly body 11.
  • the spring member 14 is helical and is moulded integrally with the body 11. When the nozzle assembly 4 is mounted within bore 16, the spring member 14 abuts a shoulder 18 on the armature 3 to bias the armature 3 into a first position in which it is adjacent the reservoir 6.
  • the shroud 13 is annular and extends from the body 11 concentrically with the nozzle 12.
  • the annular shroud 13 also extends radially outwards adjacent its junction with the body 11 to define a shoulder 19.
  • the shoulder 19 is adapted to abut the free end of the second chamber 7 to ensure that the nozzle assembly 4 is appropriately mounted therein.
  • the shroud 13 protects the nozzle 12 from damage.
  • the nozzle 12 may comprise or be coated with a hydrophobic material to aid the expulsion of liquid therefrom.
  • FIG. 2 A modification to the nozzle assembly 4 is shown in. Figure 2 in which the shroud 13 comprises two arcuate sections 20, 20' defining two diametrically opposed slots 21, 21' . This allows the shroud 13 to provide protection for the nozzle 12 and is also easier and cheaper to manufacture, as the nozzle assembly can be moulded across the slots 21, 21' .
  • Figure 2 also shows a modification to the spring member 14.
  • the spring member 14 comprises two spring sections 22, 22' .
  • the spring sections 22, 22' first extend in a longitudinal direction from diametrically opposed edges of body 11 and then extend circumferentially.
  • the inwardly facing sides 23 of the spring sections 22, 22' are arcuate and define a gap to receive the armature 3, with the spring sections 22, 22' in abutment with the armature shoulder 18.
  • this modification to the spring member 14 results in less linear travel but is easier and cheaper to manufacture.
  • the cartridge 2 has a hinged lid 24 that provides access to the reservoir 6.
  • the lid 24 allows the reservoir 6 of the cartridge 2 to be filled with liquid, such as a reagent for diagnostic testing, and for the liquid to be agitated as necessary.
  • the cartridge 2 also has clips 25 projecting from the body 5 which allow the cartridge 2 to be mounted within dispensing apparatus (not shown) , or the like, so that the cartridge 2 can be appropriately positioned with the coil 15.
  • the cartridge 2 may be of plastics and formed integrally with the hinged lid 24 by injection moulding or any other appropriate method. It will be appreciated that the material used for the cartridge will depend upon the liquid that is to be dispensed, to ensure that the cartridge material does not react or degrade in the presence of the liquid.
  • the nozzle assembly 4 may also be formed by injection moulding.
  • the armature 3 or a proportion thereof may be of iron or other magnetic material. Further, the armature 3 may be coated to ensure it does not react or degrade in the presence of the liquid.
  • the cartridge 2, armature 3 and nozzle assembly 3 are simple and inexpensive to manufacture and thus can be disposable.
  • Figures 3a and 3b show, in section, a first embodiment of the liquid dispensing system 1 assembled and mounted in the bore 16 of the solenoid coil 15.
  • the armature 3 has a fluid flow path 26 that extends axially part way through the armature and then radially.
  • aperture 27, formed in the base of the armature 3, adjacent the nozzle assembly 4 is connected via the flow path 26 to aperture 28 formed in a circumferential side of the armature 3, adjacent the reservoir 6.
  • the armature ledge 18 is located around the periphery of aperture 27 and thus the spring member 14 has a smaller diameter.
  • the reservoir 6 has a port 30 formed in its side wall for applying pressure or a vacuum to the reservoir 6.
  • the solenoid coil 15 has terminals 10 for connecting it to a control system of the dispensing apparatus (not shown) .
  • the reservoir 6 is filled with liquid 31 and is sealed by the lid 24.
  • the coil 15 is not activated and thus the spring member 14 urges the armature 3 into the first position.
  • the nozzle assembly 4 and the armature 3 define therebetween a dispensing chamber 32 in the second chamber 7.
  • the armature 3 is adapted such that it projects into the reservoir 6 such that aperture 28 is open to the liquid 31.
  • the liquid 31 from the reservoir enters aperture 28, travels through the fluid flow path 26 and out of aperture 27, and collects in the dispensing chamber 32.
  • the liquid is prevented from draining from the nozzle 12 due to the surface tension formed at the free end of the dispensing bore 17.
  • the form, and in particular the diameter, of the nozzle 12 is chosen to ensure that the particular liquid 31 being dispensed is able to exhibit sufficient surface tension to be retained in trie dispensing chamber 32.
  • the pressure port 30 may apply a vacuum to the reservoir 6 to allow a larger "head" of liquid in the reservoir 6 to be supported by the surface tension at the dispensing nozzle 12.
  • the exact location of the armature 3 in the first position and the diameter of the dispensing chamber 32 is chosen so that a precise measured volume of liquid collects in the dispensing chamber 32, to ensure accurate and repeatable dispensing.
  • the electrical power to the solenoid coil 15 is removed and the armature 3 will be urged to return to the first position by the spring member 14.
  • the volume of the dispensing chamber 32 increases, which leads to a decrease in pressure within chamber 32. This decrease in pressure effectively pumps liquid 31 from the reservoir 6 into the dispensing chamber 32, once the aperture 28 is open to the reservoir 6.
  • the pressure/vacuum port 30 is omitted.
  • the dispensing bore 17 is elongated with a length of capillary tubing, and the spring 14 is constructed so that the force acting on the armature returns it relatively slowly to the first position.
  • the return force needs to be chosen so that the velocity of the armature creates sufficient force to draw in liquid from the reservoir 6 to the dispensing chamber 32, but not enough to overcome the surface tension at the capillary end of the bore 17, so that air is not drawn in.
  • the spring force can be altered for different liquids according to their viscosity to achieve this result. Activation of the coil, however, will cause a more rapid movement of the armature, so that the pressure created in the dispensing chamber 32 is sufficient to overcome the surface tension and dispense the liquid.
  • Figure 4 shows a modification to the nozzle assembly 4 of the embodiment shown in Figures 3a and 3b, which also addresses this problem.
  • the pressure/vacuum, port 30 is absent and the nozzle 12 incorporates a one-way "duck-bill" style valve 33.
  • the valve 33 only permits flow out of the dispensing bore 17.
  • the dispensing system 1 does not rely on surface tension to retain a measured volume in the dispensing chamber 32. This obviates the need for the pressure/vacuum port 30.
  • the valve 33 prevents air entering the dispensing chamber 32 through the dispensing bore 17 and therefore the reduction in pressure in the dispensing chamber 32 will solely cause liquid 31 from the reservoir 6 to be drawn into chamber 32.
  • activation of the coil 15 moves the armature 3 away from the bore 17 to allow liquid to flow into the dispensing chamber 32 from the reservoir 6.
  • the armature 3 returns under the force of the spring 14 to dispense the liquid.
  • Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of the invention having a modified armature 3.
  • the remainder of the liquid dispensing system 1 is the same as the first embodiment and corresponding reference numerals have been applied to corresponding parts .
  • the armature 3 of Figure 5 does not have a machined fluid flow path 26 through the body of the armature 3.
  • the liquid dispensing system 1 of this embodiment operates in a similar manner to the previous embodiment in that liquid 31 collects in the dispensing chamber 32 when the armature 3 is in the first position. Similarly, the surface tension of the liquid 31 at the free end of the dispensing bore 17 retains the liquid 31 in the chamber 32.
  • the solenoid coil 15 Upon activation of the solenoid coil 15, the armature 3 is driven into the second position by the magnetic force, against the force of the spring member 14. This dispensing stroke forces the fluid 31 in the dispensing chamber 32 out of the nozzle 12.
  • Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show a third embodiment that includes a modified armature 3 and second chamber 7.
  • the armature 3 comprises a cylindrical body having a circumferential groove 34 therein, such that when the armature 3 is in the first position (see Figure 6a) , the groove 34 is open to the reservoir 6.
  • the second chamber 7 also has a groove in its inner wall that forms an intermediate chamber 35.
  • the intermediate chamber 35 is positioned such that when the armature 3 is in the second position the groove 34 aligns with the chamber 35. In the second position, liquid 31 is prevented from flowing freely from the reservoir 6 to the intermediate chamber 35 by a radial flange 36 of the armature 3. .
  • liquid 31 from the reservoir 6 collects within the groove 34 when the armature 3 is in the first position.
  • Activation, of the solenoid coil 15 draws the armature 3 downwards into the second position against the force of the spring member 14.
  • the liquid that has collected with the groove 34 is drawn downwards with the armature 3.
  • the groove 34 is aligned with the intermediate chamber 35.
  • the pumping stroke, in which liquid 31 is urged from the reservoir 6, occurs when the armature moves from the first position to the second position.
  • the solenoid coil 15 is deactivated, the armature returns to the first position under the force of spring member 1-4.
  • the liquid 31 transferred to the intermediate chamber 35 is then able to flow from the chamber 35 into the dispensing chamber 32.
  • the majority of the liquid collects in the dispensing bore 17 and the majority of the dispensing chamber 32 is filled with air.
  • the liquid is held in the dispensing bore 17 by surface tension.
  • the liquid is dispensed when the solenoid coil 15 is activated once again and the armature 3 moves to the second position.
  • the resulting pressure from reduction in volume of the dispensing chamber 32 overcomes the surface tension and forces the liquid from the dispensing bore 17.
  • the ⁇ tir in the dispensing chamber 32 is also forced out of the bore 17, which helps to ensure that all of the liquid is actively expelled from the dispensing chamber 32 and bore 17.
  • FIG. 7a, 7b and 7c A fourth embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 7a, 7b and 7c, in which there are modifications to the armature 3, the second chamber 7 and nozzle assembly 4.
  • the armature 3 comprises a body 37 of smaller diameter than the second chamber 7 and has an annular peripheral flange 38 that extends radially outward to a diameter that approaches the internal diameter of the second chamber 7.
  • the armature 3 also carries seals 40, 41 in its top and bottom faces respectively.
  • the second chamber 7 includes an annular elastomeric inlet seal 42 mounted within the second chamber 7, adjacent the junction with the reservoir 6.
  • the inlet seal 42 prevents flow between itself and the wall of the second chamber 7 and has an aperture 43.
  • the seal 42 is comparable to the valve seat 8 shown in Figure 1.
  • the nozzle assembly 4 also has an annular elastomeric outlet seal 44 in the nozzle body 11, which surrounds the proximal end of the dispensing bore 17.
  • the spring member 14 has been omitted from these Figures for clarity, but would extend from the nozzle assembly body 11 and abut flange 38 of the armature 3.
  • FIG 7a the armature 3 is shown in the first position, wherein the dispensing chamber 32 is sealed from the reservoir 6 by seal 40 on the armature 3 abutting the inlet seal 42.
  • the armature 3 moves to the second position.
  • the seal 40 moves away from the inlet seal 40 and into sealing contact with the outlet seal 44 on the nozzle assembly 4.
  • This movement of the armature 3 acts as a pumping stroke, drawing liquid 31 from the reservoir 6, past the flange 38 into the dispensing chamber 32 (as shown in Figure 7b) .
  • Deactivation of the solenoid coil 15 causes the armature 3 to return to the first position under the force of the spring member (not shown) .
  • seals 41 and 44 are separated, which allows a proportion of the liquid in the dispensing chamber 32 to flow into the dispensing bore 17.
  • the liquid 31 is retained in the dispensing bore 17 by surface tension (see Figure 7c) .
  • the solenoid coil 15 is activated again and thus the armature 3 moves to the second position, a proportion of the liquid in the dispensing chamber is expelled from the nozzle 12.
  • liquid is dispensed and pumped from the reservoir 6 on the same stroke of the armature 3 from the first to the second position.
  • FIG. 8a, 8b and 8c A fifth embodiment is shown in Figures 8a, 8b and 8c.
  • the nozzle assembly 4 comprises an elongate nozzle 12 that first extends radially from an aperture 48 in the second chamber 7 and then axially, adjacent the coil 15 (when the second chamber 7 is mounted within the solenoid coil aperture 16).
  • the second chamber 7 includes an extension portion 45 that extends into the reservoir 6 and has an open end 47 and an inlet aperture 46 in its side wall.
  • the second chamber 7 also includes a hollow guide member 50 having a cylindrical open bore 51.
  • the armature 3 comprises a head portion 52 having a support section 53 and a guide section 54, separated by a shoulder 55, depending axially therefrom.
  • the guide section 54 is received in the bore 51 of the guide member 50 and can axially slide therein.
  • An annular slider member 56 is slidably mounted on the support section 53 of armature 3. Thus, the slider member 56 can slide between the head portion 52 and shoulder 55.
  • the slider member 56 has a series of circumferentially spaced axial channels 57 (see Figure 9) that allows liquid to flow through the member 56.
  • Figure 8a shows the armature 3 biased into the first position by the spring member (not shown) in which the head 52 extends into the extension portion 45, adjacent the reservoir 6.
  • the slider member 56 abuts the shoulder 55 and as such, seals the inlet aperture 46. Liquid 31 from previous cycles is shown in the dispensing chamber 32 and the dispensing bore 17.
  • the armature 3 Upon activation of the coil 15 the armature 3 is drawn into the second position where, in this embodiment, the slider member 56 abuts the guide member 50.
  • This downward movement of the armature 3 is the active dispensing stroke, which reduces the volume of the dispensing chamber 32 and therefore causes liquid 31 to be expelled from the dispensing chamber 32 and bore 17.
  • a sixth embodiment is shown in Figure 10a, 10b and 10c.
  • the construction of the liquid dispensing system 1 in this embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the cartridge 2 includes third section 59 which extends within an aperture of a second coil 58 and has a second nozzle 60 and second armature 61 mounted within.
  • the second coil has terminals 62 for connecting it to the control system of the dispensing apparatus (not shown).
  • the second armature 61 has a bore therethrough in which is mounted a one-way valve 63.
  • the third section 59 defines a second dispensing chamber 64 having a second dispensing bore 65.
  • Operation of the first armature 3 is the same as described for the first embodiment, except that downward movement of the armature 3 performs a dosing stroke, in which a measured amount of liquid is transferred through the one-way valve 63 of the second armature 61 , into the second dispensing chamber 64 (as shown in. Figure 10b) .
  • the second coil 58 can be activated to move the second armature 61 through an active dispensing stroke from a first position in which it is adjacent the nozzle 4, downward to a second position where it abuts the second nozzle 60.
  • the liquid in the second dispensing chamber 64 is expelled from th& second dispensing bore 65 (as shown in Figure 10c) .
  • the solenoid coils 15 and 58 can then be deactivated so that the first armature 3 returns to the first position under the force of spring member 14 and the second armature returns to its first position under the force of a return spring (not shown).
  • a measured quantity of liquid 31 is transferred between dispensing chambers 32, 64 it is isolated from the effect of the hydrostatic pressure in the reservoir 6. This is advantageous as the volume of liquid to be dispensed is unaffected by the change in hydrostatic pressure as the quantity of fluid in the reservoir decreases.
  • the use of two armatures 3, 61 and two dispense chambers 32, 64 also ensures a consistent dispense volume irrespective of the viscosity of the liquid as at no stage does movement of the armature force liquid back into the reservoir 6. By appropriately sequencing the activation of the solenoid coils 15, 58 a fast and reliable dispense rate can be achieved.
  • the pressure/vacuum source may be incorporated in any of the embodiments shown or equally omitted, depending upon the application of the liquid dispensing system and the type of liquid being dispensed.
  • the pressure/vacuum source can be used to allow greater control of the amount of liquid being dispensed.
  • a vacuum can be applied to reduce the pressure in the reservoir 6, thereby impeding the flow of liquid from the reservoir 6.
  • pressure could be applied to urge liquid from the reservoir 6, to promote rapid and complete filling of th& dispense chamber 32, for example.
  • the "duck-bill" valve 33 or any other suitable one-way valve may also be included in any of the embodiments.
  • the armature or nozzle assembly may be coated in or comprise a material suitable for use with the liquid being dispensed which, in particular, maybe a hydrophobic material to promote full expulsion from the dispensing chamber 32 and bore 17 on the active dispensing stroke.
  • the spring member 14 may be omitted and the armature 3 may be returned to its first position by a reversal of the magnetic field generated by coil 15.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Clinical Laboratory Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Biochemistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Immunology (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Coating Apparatus (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention décrit un système de distribution de liquide qui comprend une cartouche (2) dans laquelle est contenu un liquide destiné à être distribué et au moins un ensemble solénoïde. L’ensemble solénoïde comprend une bobine (15) et une armature (3), l’armature (3) étant montée de façon mobile à l’intérieur de la cartouche (2) et la bobine (15) étant séparée de la cartouche (2). Le mouvement de l’armature (3) agit pour expulser le liquide à partir de la cartouche (2).
PCT/GB2005/004239 2004-11-03 2005-11-03 Systeme de distribution de liquide Ceased WO2006048643A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/795,425 US20080135583A1 (en) 2004-11-03 2005-11-03 Liquid Dispensing System
EP05800070A EP1812800A1 (fr) 2004-11-03 2005-11-03 Systeme de distribution de liquide

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0424313.5 2004-11-03
GBGB0424313.5A GB0424313D0 (en) 2004-11-03 2004-11-03 Liquid dispensing system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2006048643A1 true WO2006048643A1 (fr) 2006-05-11

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PCT/GB2005/004239 Ceased WO2006048643A1 (fr) 2004-11-03 2005-11-03 Systeme de distribution de liquide

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EP (1) EP1812800A1 (fr)
GB (1) GB0424313D0 (fr)
WO (1) WO2006048643A1 (fr)

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EP2374541A1 (fr) 2010-04-06 2011-10-12 Symbion Medical Systems Sàrl Cartouche de distribution jetable pour instrument d'analyse médicale
EP2662138A1 (fr) * 2012-05-08 2013-11-13 Roche Diagniostics GmbH Distributeur de microfluidique, cartouche et système d'analyse pour analyser un échantillon biologique
US20150140669A1 (en) * 2012-05-08 2015-05-21 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Cartridge for dispensing a fluid

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US8459509B2 (en) * 2006-05-25 2013-06-11 Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc. Fluid dispensing apparatus
EP2552512A1 (fr) * 2010-04-01 2013-02-06 Alpimed Sàrl Dispositif de distribution de fluide actionné par induction
US8752732B2 (en) 2011-02-01 2014-06-17 Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc. Fluid dispensing system
US8932543B2 (en) 2011-09-21 2015-01-13 Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc. Automated staining system and reaction chamber
US8580568B2 (en) 2011-09-21 2013-11-12 Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc. Traceability for automated staining system
US8550131B1 (en) 2013-01-02 2013-10-08 Liquid Squeeze, LLC Liquid dispensing device, system and method

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US4015755A (en) * 1975-12-12 1977-04-05 Edward Lerner Electromagnetically actuatable metering valve for successive delivery of measured volumes of fluid from a fluid reservoir
DE3131650A1 (de) * 1981-03-26 1982-10-14 DAGMA Deutsche Automaten- und Getränkemaschinen GmbH & Co KG, 2067 Reinfeld "verfahren und vorrichtung zum abgeben von viskosen konzentraten veraenderlicher viskositaet in genau dosierbaren mengen von variablem volumen"
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US20050035156A1 (en) * 2003-08-11 2005-02-17 Michael Hersch Fluid dispensing apparatus

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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EP2374541A1 (fr) 2010-04-06 2011-10-12 Symbion Medical Systems Sàrl Cartouche de distribution jetable pour instrument d'analyse médicale
CN102253233A (zh) * 2010-04-06 2011-11-23 新彼奥医疗系统公司 用于医疗化验仪器的一次性分配盒
US9114393B2 (en) 2010-04-06 2015-08-25 Symbion Medical Systems Sarl Disposable dispensing cartridge for medical assay instrumentation
EP2662138A1 (fr) * 2012-05-08 2013-11-13 Roche Diagniostics GmbH Distributeur de microfluidique, cartouche et système d'analyse pour analyser un échantillon biologique
WO2013167584A1 (fr) * 2012-05-08 2013-11-14 Roche Diagnostics Gmbh Distributeur micro-fluidique, cartouche et système d'analyse pour analyser un échantillon biologique
US20150140669A1 (en) * 2012-05-08 2015-05-21 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Cartridge for dispensing a fluid
US9341641B2 (en) * 2012-05-08 2016-05-17 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Cartridge for dispensing a fluid
US9469464B2 (en) 2012-05-08 2016-10-18 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Microfluidic dispenser, cartridge and analysis system for analyzing a biological sample
US10330693B2 (en) 2012-05-08 2019-06-25 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Cartridge for dispensing a fluid

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EP1812800A1 (fr) 2007-08-01
US20080135583A1 (en) 2008-06-12

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