Plunger for low-volume syringe pipette

One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for use with a syringe or pipette that may provide improved dispensing of fluids from the syringe or pipette. For example, typical syringes or pipettes can draw in a desired volume of fluid, and subsequently dispense the same volume. As described herein, a device can be configured to draw in a first volume and subsequently dispense the first volume and a second volume of fluid, such that portions of the fluid, such as liquids, that may be retained in the syringe or pipette can be displaces by the second volume.

BACKGROUND

Pipettes and syringes are common tools used in medicine, consumer products, and/or scientific research, for example, for injecting measured amounts of liquid and/or transporting a measured volume of liquid. These tools can be comprised of varying designs, depending on the intended use, for example, having differing volumes and/or levels of precision, for transferring small amounts or specified volumes of liquids or injecting very-low volumes of liquid. Further, they can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, polymers, metals, etc. and can also comprise more complex adjustable or automated pipettes. When drawing a liquid into the device, a partial vacuum may be created above the liquid-holding chamber to draw up, and subsequently inject/dispense the liquid.

SUMMARY

As provided herein, one or more devices and techniques for use with a syringe or pipette that may provide improved resolution in drawing and dispensing a low or specified volume of liquids. For example, typical syringes or pipettes utilize a one to one ratio when operating the actuator/plunger to draw or dispense liquids. As an example, a syringe or pipette may be configured to draw or dispense a low or specified volume while the actuator/plunger translates in a manner that is typical for a much larger volume. In this way, for example, the user can operate the device in a typical manner while merely dispensing a low or specified volume of liquid, thereby providing greater granularity in dispensing from the device.

Further, a user of a pipette (e.g., syringe) may draw a desired volume of fluid into a fluid holding chamber and desire to dispense substantially all of the volume of fluid held in the holding chamber. Occasionally, for example, due to liquid surface tension or some other form of attraction, a portion of the liquid may remain in the pipette or syringe upon application of a dispensing action, intending to dispense substantially all of the liquid from the pipette. When the fluid volume is targeted by the pipette, fluid retained in the pipette may yield an undesired result. Therefore, providing a blow-out volume may facilitate dispensing substantially all of the fluid from the pipette. That is, for example, the pipette may be configured to dispense a volume of fluid greater than the volume of fluid drawn into the pipette, thereby providing a blow-out volume dispensed subsequent to dispensing a primary volume, which is substantially equivalent to the volume of fluid drawn into the pipette.

In one implementation, an apparatus for use with a syringe or pipette can comprise a shaft that is configured to selectively engage with a pipette or syringe. Further, a first biasing component can be disposed on the shaft, and the first biasing component can be configured to provide a first biasing force between the shaft and the pipette or syringe. Additionally, a second biasing component can be disposed on the shaft, and the second biasing component can be configured to provide a second biasing force between a distal end of the shaft and a collar engaged with the shaft.

In one implementation, a plunger, which can be used by the syringe or pipette, can be configured to facilitate drawing a first volume of fluid into the pipette. Further, the plunger may be configured to facilitate dispensing the first volume of fluid from the pipette. Additionally, the plunger may be configured to facilitate dispensing a second volume of fluid from the pipette, subsequent to the dispensing of the first volume of fluid from the pipette, where the dispensing of the second volume of fluid may mitigate retention of drawn fluid by the pipette.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An apparatus may be devised that can be used to transfer a desired volume of fluid, comprising, for example, what may typically be considered to be a low volume (e.g., ultra-low, such as less than a milliliter) or specified volume of fluid in conjunction with medical, consumer, and/or scientific research utilization. As one example, a pipette-type application use of the apparatus may utilize chambers comprising different volumes, where the difference in volumes may comprise a volume of fluid displaced by the apparatus (e.g., either into or out-of the pipette). In this example, the displaced volume may comprise a small fraction of the total volume of the chamber. This may allow for a relatively normal use of a coupled actuator (e.g., plunger), while providing fine grained transfer of a fluid. Further, for example, graduation indicators on the pipette, for example, may provide visual identification of the desired low-volume for a user.

FIGS. 1A and 1Bare component diagrams illustrating example implementations of an exemplary apparatus100for use with a syringe or pipette. InFIGS. 1A and 1B, the exemplary apparatus100comprises a chamber body102. The chamber body102comprises a first chamber104, a second chamber106, and a fluid port108. In one implementation, as illustrated in the exemplary apparatus100ofFIGS. 1A and 1B, the first chamber104and second chamber106can be disposed in a sequential arrangement, for example, such that they share a similar central, longitudinal axis. However, the arrangement of the first chamber104and second chamber106is not limited to this example implementation. In other implementations, the respective chambers may be arranged in a geometrically parallel disposition, for example, such that the respective chambers are coupled side-by-side. As another example, the first chamber (e.g.,104) may be disposed orthogonal to the second chamber (e.g.,106). It is anticipated that those skilled in the art may devise alternate arrangements for the respective chambers implemented in the apparatus used in the pipette or syringe. For example, the chambers may be aligned at a desired angle (e.g., any angle designed for a particular purpose) to each other; and/or the chambers' axes may not be aligned with each other (e.g., the axis may be offset from each other).

InFIG. 1A, the chamber body102of the exemplary apparatus100comprises a third volume114. The third volume114can be defined by at least a first chamber wall116, the first seal110, and the second seal112, when the first seal110and second seal112are disposed in a first position118, respectively. Further, as illustrated inFIG. 1B, the third volume114(fromFIG. 1A) can be defined by a sum of a fourth volume120, which can be defined by at least a second chamber wall124, the first seal110, and the second seal112, and a fifth volume122comprising fluid displaced at the fluid port108, when the first seal110and second seal112are disposed in a second position126, respectively.

As an illustrative example, inFIGS. 1A and 1B, the third volume can be defined differently depending on a position of the first seal110and second seal112in the chamber body. That is, for example, when the first and second seals110,112are disposed in the first position118, substantially the entire third volume is disposed in within the first chamber104. Alternately, when the first and second seals110,112are disposed in the second position126, the third volume can be divided between the second chamber106and the volume displaced at the fluid port108.

In one implementation, translating the first and second seals110,112between the first position118and the second position126may effectively force a portion of the third volume114to be displaced at the fluid port108. As an example, a third volume of fluid disposed in the first chamber104may be displaced into the second chamber106and out of the fluid port108when the first and second seals110,112are translated between the first position118and the second position126. That is, in this example, a first fraction of the third volume of fluid can be displaced into the second chamber106and a second fraction of the third volume of fluid can be displaced at (e.g., out of) the fluid port108. It should be noted that the term “fluid” may be representative of any fluid (e.g., liquid, gas, plasma) that is typically indicated by the study of fluid mechanics. Nonlimiting examples of fluid that may be used with the present invention may include water, medicinal fluids, solutions, paint, adhesives, lubricating fluids, oil, grease, sealants, coatings and the like.

FIG. 2is a component diagram illustrating an example implementation200of an apparatus for use with a syringe or pipette. With continued reference toFIGS. 1A, 1B, in one implementation, as illustrated inFIG. 2, a first seal210can be operably coupled226with a second seal212, such that the second seal212may be translated in a second chamber206of a chamber body202in proportion to a translation of the first seal210in a first chamber204of the chamber body. That is, for example, translating the first seal210inside the first chamber204(e.g., either toward or away from the second seal212) will result in the second seal212being translated in a same manner (e.g., either toward or away from the first seal210) in the second chamber206.

In one implementation, the translation of the first seal210in the first chamber204can result in a substantially equivalent translation of the second seal212in the second chamber206. As an example, if the first seal210is translated in a first direction a, a third distance b in the first chamber204, the second seal212will be translated in the first direction a, a distance substantially equivalent to the third distance b in the second chamber206. In this implementation, for example, the first seal210may be operably coupled226to the second seal212by a type of rigid assembly, such as bar, rod, wire, or otherwise direct-drive connector assembly that allows the two seals210,212to move in concert with each other in the same direction and over the same relative distance.

In one implementation, the translation of the first seal210in the first chamber204may result in a proportional and non-equivalent translation of the second seal212in the second chamber206. As an example, if the first seal210is translated in the first direction a, the third distance b in the first chamber204, the second seal212may be translated in the first direction a, a fourth distance c in the second chamber206, where c is substantially proportional to the third distance b, but where the fourth distance c is not equivalent to the third distance b. That is, the third distance b may be greater than or less than the fourth distance c, for example, where the relationship between the third distance b and the fourth distance c may be represented as a ratio b:c. In this implementation, for example, the first seal210may be operably coupled226to the second seal212by a type of non-rigid assembly, such as spring assembly, gear assembly, or otherwise non-direct drive connector that allows the two seals210,212to move in the same direction, but at different relative translation rates.

In one implementation, the first chamber204and the second chamber206may comprise a substantially similar dimension, such as a diameter. For example, a diameter of the chamber body202may comprise a non-varying diameter barrel. In one implementation, the first seal210may be operably coupled226to the second seal212by a type of variable length link, further coupled with the actuator228. For example, the variable length link can couple the first seal210and second seal212in the non-varying diameter barrel of the chamber body202. In this example, using the actuator228to translate the first seal210in the first chamber204may result in a substantially proportional translation of the second seal212in the second chamber206.

In one implementation, as illustrated in the example,200ofFIG. 2, actuator228may be operably coupled with the first seal210. The actuator228can be configured to apply a translation force to the first seal210. As an example, the actuator228may be coupled with a user interface250(e.g., a grip, such as a thumb press) to which the user can apply the translation force (e.g., in or out). In this example, applying the translation force inward may result in the first seal210being translated toward the fluid port208(e.g., and therefore resulting in the second seal212translating forward). Further, applying the translation force to the actuator228outward (e.g., pulling the user interface250) can result in the first seal210being translated away from the fluid port208.

FIG. 3Ais a component diagram illustrating an example implementation300of an apparatus for use with a syringe or pipette. With continued reference toFIGS. 1A, 1B and 2, in one implementation, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, the first seal110(e.g.,210ofFIG. 2) can be configured to slidably translate along a central, longitudinal axis330of the first chamber104. Further, the second seal112(e.g.,212ofFIG. 2) can be configured to slidably translate along a central, longitudinal axis332of the second chamber106.

In one implementation, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, the central, longitudinal axis330of the first chamber104may be axially aligned with the central, longitudinal axis332of the second chamber106. In other implementations, the central, longitudinal axis330of the first chamber104may be aligned in parallel (e.g., geometrically) with the central, longitudinal axis332of the second chamber106. In another implementation, the central, longitudinal axis330of the first chamber104may be aligned orthogonally to the central, longitudinal axis332of the second chamber106.

FIGS. 3B-3Eare component diagrams illustrating alternate example implementations320,340,360,380of an apparatus for use with a syringe or pipette. In the example implementation320ofFIG. 3B, the first chamber104is disposed adjacent to (e.g., parallel to) the second chamber106of the chamber body102. In this implementation, for example, the first seal110and second seal112may be configured to translate in their respective chambers in opposite directions when fluid is displaced at the fluid port. Further, in this implementation, the second end320a,320bof the respective chambers can comprise an opening in a chamber wall between the respective chambers104,106, for example.

In another implementation340, as illustrated inFIG. 3C, the first and second chambers104,106may comprise a donut shape, for example, where a central portion of the respective chambers comprises a separate, central chamber342(e.g., of filled portion), that is not fluidly coupled with the first and second chambers104,106. In this implementation, for example, a varying-sized central chamber342may be configured to allow the second chamber106to have a smaller volume than the first chamber104. Further, in this implementation the first and second seals110,112can be configured to accommodate the central chamber342, for example, by comprising donut-shaped configuration.FIG. 3Dillustrates another example implementation360, where the chamber body comprises an alternate central chamber362design. In this implementation, the chamber body102and the alternate central chamber362comprise a varied width (e.g., diameter), thereby accommodating a different volume for the first and second chamber104,106.

FIG. 3Ecomprises another example implementation380, where the width (e.g., diameter) of the chamber body102constantly decreases from the first end322of the first chamber104to the first end324of the second chamber106. As an illustrative example, in this implementation, the chamber body may comprise a frustoconical shape. Further, in this implementation, the first seal110and the second seal112may respectively be configured to deform (e.g., contract and expand) in a manner that allows them to continue to provide a fluid seal when translating along the constantly decreases width of the chamber body102. In one implementation, a variable length linked coupling (e.g., described above inFIG. 2) may be disposed in the chamber body102that comprises constantly decreasing diameter. Further, in one or more implementations, the variable length linked coupling, or a rigidly linked coupling (e.g., described above inFIG. 2) may be implemented in any of the example implementations described herein.

It will be appreciated that the apparatuses, devices, and methods, described herein, are merely limited to the example implementations described herein. It is anticipated that those skilled in the art may devise alternate arrangements and shapes for the chambers and chamber bodies, etc. For example, the chamber body (e.g., in cross-section) may comprise a circle, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, or some other polygon shape configured to provide a desired operation. Further, for example, the first and second chambers104,106may be arranged in a variety of ways, such as sequentially, in parallel (e.g., geometrically), one inside the other, etc. Additionally, in one implementation, the first and second chamber104,106may respectively comprise different diameters geometries. For example, the first chamber104may comprise a first diameter geometry (e.g., round) and the second chamber106may comprise a second diameter geometry (e.g., donut-shaped).

As illustrated inFIG. 3A, the first chamber104can comprise at least a first chamber wall116, a first end322, and a second end320a. In one implementation, the first end322can comprise an opening to the outside of the chamber body102. As an example, the first end322of the first chamber104may comprise an opening that comprises a fluid communication between the inside of the first chamber104and the outside of the chamber body102, such that a fluid may pass from the first chamber104to the outside. As an illustrative example, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, if the first seal110is slidably translated toward the first end322, and the space between the first seal110and the first end322comprised a fluid gas (e.g., air), the fluid gas may be displaced from inside the first chamber104to the outside at the first end322.

In one implementation, the second end320aof the first chamber104can comprise an opening in fluid communication with the second chamber106. Further, the second chamber106can comprise at least a second chamber wall124, a first end324, and a second end320b. In one implementation, the second end320bmay comprise an opening that is in fluid communication with the first chamber104. That is, for example, the second end320aof the first chamber104may be adjacent to (e.g., and congruent with) the second end320bof the second chamber106.

As an illustrative example, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, if the first seal110is slidably translated toward the second end320a, and the space between the first seal110and the second end320acomprised a fluid (e.g., gas such as air; or fluid liquid), at least a portion of the fluid may be displaced from the first chamber104, through opening at the second end320a/320b, into the second chamber106(e.g., and another portion of fluid may be displaced out of the chamber body102through the fluid port108). As another example, if the first seal110is slidably translated toward the first end322, thereby resulting in the second seal to be translated toward its second end320b, fluid disposed in the second chamber, between the second seal112and the second end320b, may be displaced from the second chamber106, through opening at the second end320b/320a, into the first chamber104(e.g., and fluid may be displaced into the first chamber104from outside the chamber body102through the fluid port108).

It will be appreciated that, while particular implementations have been illustrated and described, herein, the shape, size and/or dimensions of the exemplary pipette or syringe may not be limited to these example implementations. For example, the fluid port may be implemented in a variety of locations and having various dimensions, comprising various diameters, shapes, and/or lengths. Several example implementations are described below. As an example, the fluid port may comprise a connection means that allows the fluid port to be operably coupled with a device for use in transfer and/or injection of fluids. As another example, the fluid port may be coupled with an elongated tube used to visually observe an amount of fluid displaced through the fluid port.

In one implementation, the first end324of the second chamber106can comprise an opening to the outside of the chamber body102. As an example, the first end324of the second chamber106may comprise an opening that comprises a fluid communication between the inside of the second chamber106and the outside of the chamber body102, such that a fluid may pass from the second chamber106to the outside. As an illustrative example, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, if the second seal112is slidably translated toward the first end324, and the space between the second seal112and the first end324comprised a fluid gas (e.g., air), the fluid gas may be displaced from inside the second chamber106to the outside of the chamber body102, at the first end324.

FIGS. 4A-4Care component diagrams illustrating example implementations400,440,480of an apparatus for use with a syringe or pipette. With continued reference toFIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3A-3E, in one implementation, as illustrated inFIGS. 4A and 4B, the first position118of the first seal110and the second seal112can comprise the first seal110disposed at the first end322of the first chamber104, and the second seal112disposed at the second end320bof the second chamber106. Further, in one implementation, the second position126of the first seal110and the second seal112can comprise the first seal110disposed at the second end320aof the first chamber104, and the second seal112disposed at the first end324of the second chamber106.

As illustrated inFIGS. 4A-4C, in one implementation, the first chamber104comprising a sixth volume402defined by the first seal110and the second end320aof the first chamber104. Further, the second chamber106can comprise a seventh volume404defined by the second seal112and the first end324of a second chamber106. Additionally, the fluid port108can be configured to transfer an eighth volume406between the inside of the chamber body102and the outside of the chamber body102. In one implementation, the third volume114is substantially equivalent to the sum of the sixth volume402, the seventh volume404and the eighth volume406, during translation of the first seal110and second seal112.

As an illustrative example, the third volume114, as illustrated inFIG. 1A, is substantially equivalent to the sixth volume402, as illustrated inFIG. 4A, when the first seal110and second seal112are disposed in the first position118. Therefore, in this example, the seventh volume404and eighth volume406may respectively comprise zero. Alternately, when the first seal110and second seal112are disposed in the second position, as illustrated inFIG. 4B(e.g., andFIG. 1B), the sixth volume402may comprise zero, and the third volume114may be substantially equivalent to the sum of the seventh volume404and the eighth volume406. Further, the first and second seal110,112may be disposed in a third position482, comprising a position between the first position118and the second position126.

That is, in the example440ofFIG. 4B, the amount of fluid displaced (e.g.,406) from inside the chamber body102to outside, via the fluid port108, may comprise the difference between the sixth volume402(from example,400) and the seventh volume404(from example440). However, in the example480ofFIG. 4C, the amount of fluid displaced from inside the chamber body102to outside, via the fluid port108, may comprise the difference between the third volume114and the sum of sixth volume402and the seventh volume404.

In one implementation, the volume difference between the sixth and seventh volumes402,404, can be dictated by a size of the respective first and second chambers104,106. This difference, for example, can dictate the amount of fluid displaced at the fluid port108. In one implementation, the ratio of the third volume114to the fifth volume122(e.g., displaced at the fluid port) can comprise ten to one or greater (>10:1), one hundred to one or greater (>100:1), one-thousand to one or greater (>1,000:1), or ten-thousand to one or greater (>10,000:1) (e.g., or some other ratio). As an example, a syringe and/or pipette may be devised that can displace (e.g., draw and/or discharge) in a granularity of microliters (μl), while the chamber body (e.g.,102) may displace in a granularity of milliliters (ml) (e.g., between the first and second chambers104,106).

As an illustrative example, the chamber body (e.g.,102) of the syringe and/or pipette may comprise a first chamber (e.g.,104) configured to hold a sixth volume (e.g.,402) of 10 ml, and second chamber (e.g.,106) configured to hold the seventh volume (e.g.,404) of 9.99 ml, which would result in an eighth volume (e.g.,406) of 10 μl. In this example, translating the first seal (e.g.,110) from the first end (e.g.,322) of the first chamber to the second end (e.g.,320a) of the first chamber (e.g., and therefore resulting in the translation of the second seal (e.g.,112) from the second end (e.g.,324) of the second chamber to the second end (e.g.,320b) of the second chamber) would result in 10 μl being displaced (e.g., discharged) from the first chamber to the outside of the chamber body at the fluid port (e.g.,108). Conversely, translating the first seal from the second end of the first chamber to the first end of the first chamber (e.g., and therefore resulting in the translation of the second seal from the first end of the second chamber to the second end of the second chamber) would result in 10 μl being displaced (e.g., drawn) into the first chamber from the outside of the chamber body at the fluid port.

A syringe or pipette may be devised that can be used to transfer a low volume (e.g., ultra-low volume) of fluid when compared with an amount of fluid internally displaced by actuation of the syringe or pipette. That is, for example, a user of the syringe or pipette may be able to apply a force vector to an actuator that is typical of a large volume transfer, but it result in merely a low volume transfer (e.g., collection or dispersal) of the fluid (e.g., liquid, gas, plasma).

FIGS. 5A, 5B and 6are perspective illustrations of one or more portion of an example pipette device500, which comprise one or more portions the systems described herein. In this example implementation500, inFIG. 5A, a first chamber504(e.g.,104ofFIG. 1) and second chamber506(e.g.,106ofFIG. 1) are comprised in a chamber body502(e.g.,102ofFIG. 1). The first chamber comprises a first chamber wall516, a first end522, and a second end520a. The second chamber506comprise a second chamber wall534, a first end524, and a second end520b, where, the second chamber506is in fluid communication with the first chamber504. Further, the example pipette device500comprises a fluid port508(e.g.,108ofFIG. 1) that is disposed in fluid communication with the first chamber504and the outside of the first and second chambers504,506.

InFIG. 5B, an example device580comprises a first seal510and a second seal512. As illustrated inFIG. 6, the first seal510can be disposed in the first chamber504, and may be configured to provide a fluid seal between the first end522and the second end520aof the first chamber504. Further, the first seal510can be configured to translate between the first end522and the second end520aof the first chamber504to facilitate displacing fluid from the first chamber504. As shown inFIG. 6, the second seal512can be disposed in the second chamber506, and may be configured to provide a fluid seal between the first end524and the second end520bof the second chamber506. Additionally, the second seal512can be configured to translate between the first end524and the second end520bof the second chamber506to facilitate displacing fluid from the second chamber506.

In one implementation, the first seal510can be configured to facilitate displacement of fluid (e.g., gas, such as air; liquid; or plasma) from the first chamber504and into the second chamber506and/or the fluid port508. Further, the first seal510can be configured to facilitate replacement of fluid into the first chamber504from the second chamber506and/or the fluid port508. That is, for example, the first chamber504may comprise a third volume of fluid602disposed between the first seal510and the second end520aof the first chamber504.

In this example, when the first seal510is translated from the first end522toward the second end520a, the third volume of fluid602may be displaced into the second chamber506and the fluid port508; resulting in a fourth volume of fluid604in the second chamber506, and a fifth volume of fluid606at the fluid port508. Further, in this example, the amount of fluid displaced from the first chamber504(e.g., the third volume of fluid602) may be substantially equivalent to the fourth volume of fluid604and the fifth volume of fluid606.

As another example, when the first seal510is translated from the second end520atoward the first end522, the fourth volume of fluid604may be displaced into the first chamber504from the second chamber, and the fifth volume of fluid606may be displaced from the fluid port508. This can result in the third volume of fluid602in the first chamber504. Further, in this example, the amount of fluid displaced into the first chamber504(e.g., the third volume of fluid602) may be substantially equivalent to the fourth volume of fluid604from the second chamber506and the fifth volume of fluid606from the fluid port508. In one implementation, the fifth volume of fluid606, displaced at the fluid port508, upon translation of the first seal510in the first chamber504may be substantially equivalent to the difference between the sum of the third volume of fluid602and fourth volume of fluid604, when the first seal510is disposed at the second end520a, and the sum of the third volume of fluid602and fourth volume of fluid604, when the first seal510is disposed at the first end522.

As illustrated inFIGS. 5B and 6, the first seal510can be operably coupled526with the second seal512. The coupling526between the first seal510and the second seal512can be configured to facilitate in translation of the second seal512at a substantially similar rate as a translation of the first seal510. That is, for example, when an actuator528, which is operably coupled with the first seal510, is activated by applying a translation force, such as at an activator grip550, the translation force is applied to the first seal510. In this example, the translation force applied to the first seal may result in a translation force being applied to the coupling526. This, in-turn, can apply a translation force to the second seal512at a substantially similar rate, resulting in the first and second seals510,512being translated in their respective chambers504,506at substantially similar rate. In another implementation, the coupling526between the first seal510and the second seal512may be configured to facilitate translation of the second seal512at a rate proportional to the rate of translation of the first seal510.

Further, as illustrated inFIGS. 5A, 5B and 6, the second end520bof the second chamber506comprise an opening in fluid communication with an opening in the second end520aof the first chamber504. Further, the first end522of the first chamber504can comprise an opening in fluid communication with the outside of the first chamber504. Additionally, the first end524of the second chamber506can comprise an opening in fluid communication with the outside of the second chamber506.

In one implementation, as illustrated inFIG. 6, the fluid port508can be configured to be fluidly coupled with a graduated chamber560, where the graduated chamber560can be configured to hold fluid in a visually demarcated position568. For example, the exemplary pipette device500can be configured to draw fluid650(e.g., a desired target liquid) into the graduated chamber560, such as by drawing the grip550, which, in-turn, can translate the first seal510and second seal512, drawing the fifth volume of fluid606across the fluid port508and into the first chamber504. In this example, the amount of fluid650drawn into the pipette may be substantially equivalent to the fifth volume of fluid606. The volume of fluid650drawn into the pipette can be visually observed in the graduated chamber560, for example.

In one implementation, a volume comprised in the graduated chamber560may be substantially equivalent to (e.g., or greater than) the fifth volume of fluid606translated across the fluid port508. For example, the difference between the volume displaced at the first chamber504and the volume displace at the second chamber506, when the first seal510and second seal512are translated in the respective chambers, should be less than or equal to the volume comprised in the graduated chamber560. In this way, for example, a fluid transferred or by the pipette or syringe device may not be displaced into the interior of the chamber body502. As another example, where the fifth volume606is one hundred microliters (1000) the volume of the graduated chamber560should be greater than or equal to πr2×length of the graduated chamber560.

In one implementation, as illustrated inFIGS. 5A, 5B and 6, the example pipette device500may comprise user interface features564,566, which may be configured to allow a user to appropriately grip the pipette device500during use. For example, one or more of a user's fingers or other portions of the user's hand may be placed at the user interface features564,566, which may allow for an ergonomic use of the device.

FIGS. 7 and 8are perspective illustrations of one or more portion of an example syringe device700, which comprise one or more portions the systems described herein. The example, syringe device700comprises a chamber body702, a first chamber704, and a second chamber706. The first chamber704comprises a first end722and a second end720ain fluid communication with a second end720bof the second chamber706, which further comprises a first end724. The example, syringe device700can further comprise a fluid port708in fluid communication with the first chamber704. The first end722of the first chamber704is in fluid communication with the outside of the chamber body702; and the first end724of the second chamber706is in fluid communication with the outside of the chamber body702.

In one implementation, the example, syringe device can comprise a graduated chamber760in fluid communication with the fluid port708. The graduated chamber760may comprise graduation marks768configured to provide a visually guide for a volume of fluid disposed in the graduated chamber760. In this implementation, the example, syringe device700can comprise a needle receiving component762, configured to operably couple with a syringe needle module802, for example, to provide a seal between the graduated chamber760and a needle. In one implementation, the needle receiving component762can comprise an appropriate coupling means for any type of needle or injection device, and is not limited to that depicted inFIG. 7. Further, in one implementation, the syringe device may comprise a fixed needle or injection device, for example, which is fixedly coupled with the syringe device.

As illustrated inFIG. 8, the example syringe device can comprise a first seal810, disposed in the first chamber704, and a second seal812, disposed in the second chamber706. Further, in one implementation, as illustrated inFIGS. 7 and 8, the example, syringe device700may comprise user interface features764,766, configured to facilitate use of the syringe device700by a user. Additionally, the first and second seals810,812may be operably coupled by a coupler826; and the first seal may be operably coupled with an actuator828, configured to apply a translation force to the first seal810, which in-turn may result in a translation force applied to the second seal812, via the coupler826.

A method may devised for transferring a low volume of fluid, using a syringe or pipette, such by using one or more of the apparatus, devices, syringes and/or pipettes described herein. That is, for example, a user may be able use an example pipette or syringe, using an amount of force and over a period of time that is typical of a large volume transfer, but it resulting in merely a low volume transfer of the fluid. As an example, the user may be able to apply an amount of force over a period of time equivalent to drawing or displacing ten milliliters, however, they may be merely drawing or displacing 10 microliters.

FIG. 9is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method900for transferring a low volume of fluid, using a syringe or pipette. The exemplary method900begins at902. At904, a first seal is translated in a first chamber of a chamber body using an actuator that applies a translation force to the seal. At906, a second seal is translated in a second chamber of the chamber body. In this implementation, the second chamber is in fluid communication with the first chamber, and the second seal is translated in response to the translation of the first seal.

At908, as a result of the translation of the first and second seals, a volume of fluid950is displaced across a fluid port that can be disposed between the first seal and the second seal in the chamber body. In this implementation, the volume of fluid displaced950is substantially equivalent to a difference between a third volume and a fourth volume952, where the third volume can be defined by an interior wall of the chamber body wall, the first seal and the second seal when the first seal and second seal are disposed in a first position. Further, the fourth volume can be defined by an interior wall of the chamber body wall, the first seal and the second seal when the first seal and second seal are disposed in a second position.

As an example, when the first seal is disposed at the first end of the first chamber, and the second seal is disposed at the second end of the second chamber, the third volume may comprise substantially all of the volume of the second chamber. Further, in this example, when the first seal is disposed at the second end of the first chamber, and the second seal is disposed at the first end of the second chamber, the fourth volume may comprise substantially all of the volume of the second chamber. Additionally, the third volume may be larger than the fourth volume, for example, where the third volume may comprise one or more milliliters and the fourth volume may be less than the third volume by one or more microliters. In this way, for example, the fifth volume may comprise one or more microliters. In one implementation, the volume of fluid displaced950across the fluid port may be less than or equal to one tenth of the third volume; less than or equal to one hundredth of the third volume; less than or equal to one, one thousandth of the third volume; or less than or equal to one, ten thousandth of the third volume (e.g., or some other ratio).

In one aspect, as illustrated inFIGS. 10A-10I, a plunger1002may be utilized by a pipette1004(e.g., syringe) to facilitate drawing a fluid into the pipette1004, and subsequently dispensing the fluid from the pipette1004. As described above, a pipette or syringe can be used to transfer fluid, such as a liquid or gas, from a first location to a second location. For example, the pipette or syringe may be used to draw a desired amount of medicine from a container, and dispense the medicine for a patient. In another implementation, the desired amount of medicine may be first introduced through a drug delivery system for the patient. As described above, the plunger1002may translate inside the chamber(s) of the pipette1004, which can facilitate displacement (e.g., drawing or dispensing) of the fluid, which is further facilitated by one or more seals1010operably disposed on a shaft1012of the plunger1002.

In one implementation, the plunger1002can be configured to provide for drawing a first volume of fluid into the pipette1004. Further, the plunger may be configured to provide for dispensing the first volume of fluid from the pipette1004, and dispensing a second volume of fluid from the pipette1004. In one implementation, the second volume may comprise a blow-out volume, which may be utilized by a user to mitigate retention of a fluid by the pipette1004. That is, for example, the blow-out volume may be initiated subsequent to dispensing the first volume, in order to further displace at least some of a fluid that may have been retained by the pipette or syringe (e.g., at a displacement port, such as due to surface tension or some other attraction between the pipette and a fluid). As an example, a liquid drawn into a chamber of the pipette1004may comprise the first volume. In this example, the plunger1002may be activated to dispense the liquid from the chamber, where the dispensing comprises displacement of the first volume. However, as an example, a portion of the liquid may remain engaged with the pipette, such as at the port, and the plunger1002can be used to dispense the eighth (e.g., blow-out) volume in order to attempt to displace the engaged liquid from the pipette1004. This may be advantageous when attempting to transfer ultra-low volumes or specified volumes of fluid, for example.

In one implementation, the plunger1002may comprise a first biasing component1008(e.g., first spring, such as an action spring) and a second biasing component1006(e.g., a second spring, such as a blow-out spring). In this implementation, for example, the first biasing component1008may be selectively engaged with the shaft1012at a first shaft location1040, and configured to provide a first biasing force to the plunger1002during displacement (e.g., drawing and/or dispensing) of the first volume. Further, in this implementation, for example, the second biasing component1006may be selectively engaged with the shaft1012at a second shaft location1042, and configured to provide a second biasing force to the plunger1002during drawing of the first volume, and/or dispensing of the second volume. That is, for example, the action spring1008can bias the distal end1018of the plunger1002away from the distal end1016of the pipette1004, thereby allowing a fluid to be drawn up into the pipette1004when a force applied to the distal end1018of the plunger1002(e.g., by the user) is reduced (e.g., the plunger is released by the user). Further, for example, the blow-out spring1006can bias the distal end1018of the plunger1002away from a boss location1014on the shaft1012during dispensing the first volume from the pipette1004; where a distance (e.g., a second distance) between the boss location1014and the distal end of the plunger1002may be indicative of the second (blow-out) volume for the pipette1004.

That is, for example, when the plunger1002is depressed into the pipette1004(e.g., translating a first distance), the first spring1008(e.g., action spring) can compress, and provide the first biasing force, while the second spring1006(e.g., blow-out spring) may not compress, at least until the surface of the pipette stop shoulder1034meets the distal end1016of the syringe1004. In one implementation, in this example, the second biasing force can be greater than the first biasing force. In this implementation, application of a first compressing force can result in the action spring1008being compressed, for example, allowing the plunger to translate a first distance in the pipette, while the blow-out spring1006is not compressed by the first compressing force. Further, application of a second compressing force, which is greater than the first compressing force, for example, may allow the blow-out spring1006to be compressed, and may allow the plunger to translate a second distance in the pipette.

In one implementation, the proximal end of the action spring1008may selectively engage a shoulder1048disposed at or near a distal end1016of the pipette1004. That is, for example, the shoulder1048may provide a mechanical stop for the action spring1008, such that when the action spring1008is engaged with the shoulder1048, and engaged with a boss stop1022at the boss location1014, the action spring1008may be compressed when the plunger1002is depressed into the pipette1004. Further, the plunger1002may comprise a distal stop1024configured to selectively engage the second biasing component1006(e.g., blow-out spring) at the distal end1018. Additionally, the plunger1002may comprise a collar1026, which can be selectively engaged with the plunger shaft1012at the boss location1014. In one implementation, the collar1026may comprise a keyway1028configured to selectively engage with a corresponding key configuration of the boss stop1022. That is, for example, the collar keyway1028may be aligned with the corresponding key configuration of the boss stop1022, such that the collar1026may be slidably engaged with (e.g., slid into place at) the boss location1014.

In one implementation, the collar1026may be rotated around the shaft1012, such that a collar key stop1046(e.g., set of teeth keys) disposed on the collar1026do not aligned with the key configuration of the boss stop1022. In this way, for example, the collar1026may be biased against the key configuration of the boss stop1022by the second biasing component1006(e.g., blow-out spring), thereby allowing the collar1026to remain in place during operation of the plunger1002and pipette1004. In one implementation, the collar1026may comprise a second biasing component shoulder1032(e.g., a blow-out spring shoulder) and a pipette stop shoulder1034. In this implementation, for example, the second biasing component shoulder1032may be configured to engage the proximal end of the second biasing component1006, thereby providing a stop to mitigate the second biasing component1006translating toward the proximal end1038of the plunger when the second biasing component1006is compressed (e.g., compression of the blow-out spring).

Additionally, the pipette stop shoulder1034may provide a stop between the pipette1004, at the distal end1016, and collar1026. That is, for example, the first compressing force can be applied to the distal end1018of the plunger1002, resulting in the plunger1002being translated into the pipette1004, at least until the pipette stop shoulder1034meets the distal end1016of the pipette1004. In one implementation, the collar1026can be slidably engaged with the shaft1012, allowing the collar1026to translate toward the distal end1018of the plunger1002when the second compressing force is applied to the distal end1018of the plunger1002. For example, when the second compressing force is applied, the blow-out spring1006may begin to compress after the pipette stop shoulder1034has engaged with the distal end1016of the pipette1004, allowing the collar1026to translate toward the distal end1018of the plunger1002. In one implementation, the shaft1012can comprise a collar stop shoulder1044configured to provide a mechanical stop for the collar1026when it translates toward the distal end1018of the plunger1002. That is, for example, the collar1026may continue to translate toward the distal end1018of the plunger1002at least until the collar key stop1046disposed on the collar1026meets the collar shoulder stop1044disposed on the shaft1012. In this implementation, for example the proximal end1038of the plunger1002may also translate inside the pipette toward the proximal end1036of the pipette1004, thereby providing the second volume (e.g., blow-out volume), which may be dispensed from the pipette1004.

Further, in one implementation, at least a portion of the shaft1012(e.g., the second shaft location1042) may be so dimensioned to accommodate merely the second biasing component1006, such as the blow-out spring, for example, such that the blow-out spring1006is effectively retained on the shaft1012during pipette use. Further, in one implementation, at least a portion of the shaft1012(e.g., the first shaft location1040) may be so dimensioned to accommodate merely the first biasing component1008, such as the action spring. That is, for example, the dimension of the first shaft location1040may effectively retain the action spring1008in place during pipette operation. Additionally, in one implementation, the shaft1012may comprise one or more seal retention locations1030. In this implementation, a first seal retention location1030amay be configured to retain a first seal1010a, and a second seal retention location1030bmay be configured to retain a second seal1010b.

In one implementation, the pipette may comprise a first recessed pipette shoulder1048, where the shoulder (e.g., pipette fillet1020) can be recessed into the distal end1016of the pipette1004, as illustrated inFIG. 10D. In this implementation, for example, the first biasing component1008may engage with the recessed pipette shoulder1054inside the distal end1016of the pipette1004. Further, in one implementation, the shaft1012can comprise a shaft stop1052, for example, which can be disposed within the first shaft location, where the first biasing component1008may be engaged on the shaft1012. In this implementation, for example, the recessed pipette shoulder1048can be configured to provide a mechanical stop for the action spring1008when the plunger1002, and therefore the shaft1012, is translated toward the proximal end1036of the pipette1004, such as when the first compressing force is applied to the distal end1018of the plunger1002, the length of translation between the surface1034and surface1016can define the first volume. In other implementations, the volume can be modified to accommodate various volumes through any means chosen with sound engineering judgment. By way of nonlimiting example, the volume may be changed by adding a pin adjacent to the boss location1014or by changing the thickness of any components such as the various shoulders described herein.

In one implementation, the pipette can comprise a second recessed pipette shoulder1054, which, for example, may comprise a larger diameter than the first recessed pipette shoulder1048. In this implementation, for example, the second recessed pipette shoulder1054can be configured to provide a mechanical stop for the boss stop1022when the plunger1002, and therefore the shaft1012, is translated toward the proximal end1036of the pipette1004, such as when the first and second compressing force are applied to the distal end1018of the plunger1002. In this implementation, the length of translation between the boss stop1022and the second recessed pipette shoulder1054can define the second volume. That is, for example, the second volume of fluid drawn into or expelled out of the pipette may be directly related to the length of translation between the boss stop1022and the second recessed pipette shoulder1054.

In one aspect, one or more portions of plunger apparatus may be used in a pipette and/or syringe device, such as those described above (e.g., inFIGS. 1-8), and/or may be used in an example method, such as described above (e.g., inFIG. 9). In this aspect, in one implementation, as illustrated inFIGS. 10D and 10E, an example pipette-type device1004may comprise a pipette shaft1050, for example, which can be configured (e.g., dimensioned) to receive a plunger (e.g.,1002, or580ofFIG. 5B), such that the plunger may slidably translate in the shaft1050, resulting in fluid being drawn into and expelled from the pipette1004. Further, in one implementation in this aspect, the shaft1050may comprise a first chamber1068(e.g., such as104,204,504,704ofFIGS. 1-8), and a second chamber1066(e.g., such as106,206,506,706ofFIGS. 1-9).

In one implementation, as illustrated inFIGS. 10D and 10E, the example pipette device1004can comprise a fluid port1060(e.g.,508,708ofFIGS. 5 and 7respectively), which may fluidly couple the pipette shaft1050with a fluid chamber1062(e.g., graduated chamber560,760ofFIGS. 5 and 7, respectively). In this implementation, for example, the fluid chamber1062can be configured to hold fluid. For example, the exemplary pipette device1004can be configured to draw fluid (e.g., a desired target liquid) into the fluid chamber1062, such as by translating an engaged plunger away for the proximal end1036of the pipette1004. In this example, translating and engaged plunger away for the proximal end1036of the pipette1004can result in translation of the first plunger seal (e.g.,1030a) and second plunger seal (e.g.,1030b), drawing a volume of fluid across the fluid port1060from the fluid chamber1062and into the first chamber1068. In this example, the amount of fluid drawn into the proximal end1036of the pipette1004may be substantially equivalent to the volume of fluid drawn across the fluid port1060(e.g., as described above inFIG. 5).

Further, in one implementation, the pipette or syringe device1004can comprise a shaft port1064(e.g., first end of second chamber524,724ofFIGS. 5 and 7, respectively). As an example, the shaft port1064can be configured to receive fluid from outside the pipette1004(e.g., air in the environment outside the pipette) into the pipette shaft1050(e.g., the second chamber1066of the pipette shaft1050) when a plunger is translated toward the distal end1016of the pipette1004. Additionally, for example, the shaft port1064can be configured to expel fluid (e.g., air) from inside the pipette shaft1050to outside the pipette1004when a plunger is translated toward the proximal end1036of the pipette1004.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. Reference throughout this specification to “one implementation” or “an implementation” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementation is included in at least one implementation. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one implementation” or “in an implementation” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same implementation. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more implementations. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize many modifications may be made to this configuration without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter.

Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of the disclosure.

In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”