Pipette position controller of analysis apparatus, detects first and second positions on paths of motion relative to sample vessels using optical technique

摘要

Pipette position controller of analysis apparatus, comprising detector (3a, 3b) that detects first and second positions on paths of motion relative to the sample vessels (1) in e.g. a microtitration plate, using optical techniques, is new. An Independent claim is included for the method of pipette positioning, using a light beam. The pipette (2) is moved relative to the sample vessels along a second path. At least one second position of the pipette is detected on the second path with the light beam. The first path runs parallel or at right angles to the sample vessels and the second runs at right angles or parallel to the vessels. A first position of the pipette is detected when it is moved through the light beam. A second position is detected when it is moved out of the light beam. To detect these positions, intensity measurement is effected. The intensity profile is measured. The first position is determined from its minimum and/or from the mean value of the flanks of the intensity profile, at approximately half the maximum height, and/or the measurement curve is approximated by a parabola. The second position is determined from the mean of maximum and minimal values and/or from the turning point of the intensity profile. An optical beam is used for detection.