Robot arm of automatic pipetting system

Abstract

A robotic arm of an automated pipetting system, comprising: a pipetting tip adapter; a slide switch that detects the presence of a pipette tip on a pipette tip adapter includes: first and second supports that slide relative to each other along an axis of movement between first and second positions; a conductive contact pad arranged on the first support; an electrically conductive terminal attached in physical contact to the second support when the support is in the first position, the terminal being an elastic and internally stable first wiping member extending along the axis of movement, the first wiping member being not in physical contact with the contact pad when the support is in the second position, and the second wiping member being not in physical contact with the contact pad when the support is in the first position. A current can flow between the first wiper and the contact pad when the support is in the first position, and the current between the wiper and the contact pad is interrupted when the support is in the second position. The use of a robotic arm in an automated pipetting system, a slide switch detects the presence of a pipetting tip on a tip adapter. An automated pipetting system includes a robotic arm that detects the presence of a pipetting tip on a tip adapter.

Description

technical field [0001] The invention relates to a robotic arm of an automated pipetting system comprising a pipette tip adapter and a slide switch for detecting the presence of a pipette tip on said adapter. Background technique [0002] Electrical switches are common and can be found in household appliances, automobiles, and basically any electrical device. There are many different types of electrical switches in use, the most common being electromechanical devices comprising one or more sets of movable electrical contacts which, when in contact, allow electrical current to pass between them. Many specialized forms exist to meet specific needs. In robotics, switches are often used as sensing elements to detect fluid levels, pressure, temperature or the position of mechanical parts. Such switches need to be small and meet high requirements with regard to service life. Reed switches have been widely used as sensing elements in robotics. They are actuated by electromagneti...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Even though these switches offer improved switching action, their mechanical resistance is still too high, their life cycle is too short for many robotic applications, and their structure, usually with a shell and pin, is not suitable for e.g. automatic pipetting systems most of the instruments

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