CA2068205A1 - Hinged centrifuge tube adapter - Google Patents
Hinged centrifuge tube adapterInfo
- Publication number
- CA2068205A1 CA2068205A1 CA 2068205 CA2068205A CA2068205A1 CA 2068205 A1 CA2068205 A1 CA 2068205A1 CA 2068205 CA2068205 CA 2068205 CA 2068205 A CA2068205 A CA 2068205A CA 2068205 A1 CA2068205 A1 CA 2068205A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- adapter
- segments
- segment
- tube
- axis
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
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- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 claims description 34
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000005119 centrifugation Methods 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 10
- 230000004323 axial length Effects 0.000 description 9
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 4
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- YBYIRNPNPLQARY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1H-indene Chemical compound C1=CC=C2CC=CC2=C1 YBYIRNPNPLQARY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 241000353097 Molva molva Species 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000452 restraining effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 2
- 101100298295 Drosophila melanogaster flfl gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 241001508687 Mustela erminea Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920002274 Nalgene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 101150084935 PTER gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004721 Polyphenylene oxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- RJKFOVLPORLFTN-LEKSSAKUSA-N Progesterone Chemical compound C1CC2=CC(=O)CC[C@]2(C)[C@@H]2[C@@H]1[C@@H]1CC[C@H](C(=O)C)[C@@]1(C)CC2 RJKFOVLPORLFTN-LEKSSAKUSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000001133 acceleration Effects 0.000 description 1
- DHKHKXVYLBGOIT-UHFFFAOYSA-N acetaldehyde Diethyl Acetal Natural products CCOC(C)OCC DHKHKXVYLBGOIT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 125000002777 acetyl group Chemical class [H]C([H])([H])C(*)=O 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 238000005266 casting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005242 forging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920006380 polyphenylene oxide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- BALXUFOVQVENIU-KXNXZCPBSA-N pseudoephedrine hydrochloride Chemical compound [H+].[Cl-].CN[C@@H](C)[C@@H](O)C1=CC=CC=C1 BALXUFOVQVENIU-KXNXZCPBSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
- B04B—CENTRIFUGES
- B04B5/00—Other centrifuges
- B04B5/04—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers
- B04B5/0407—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers for liquids contained in receptacles
- B04B5/0414—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers for liquids contained in receptacles comprising test tubes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
- B04B—CENTRIFUGES
- B04B5/00—Other centrifuges
- B04B5/04—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers
- B04B5/0407—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers for liquids contained in receptacles
- B04B2005/0435—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers for liquids contained in receptacles with adapters for centrifuge tubes or bags
Landscapes
- Centrifugal Separators (AREA)
- Measurement Of The Respiration, Hearing Ability, Form, And Blood Characteristics Of Living Organisms (AREA)
Abstract
An adapter for a centrifuge tube (T) comprises two segments (12 and 14) that are hinged along a hinge axis that extends perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
Description
2~20~rj ::: ~O '31/063'73 l~cr/aJs~f~j6~ 6 I:I~!~
S H~GED ~ ~1Q~ lVBE ~DA~
5~C~LATED APPLI~ATION
This application is a continua~ion-in-part of applicatior 10 Serial Number 07/432,646, filed November 7, 1 989 in ~he names of Rornanausl~as and Sheerarl and assigned to the assignee of the present invention.
BACKGRQUND C)F THE INVEl\lTI(:)N
Field of thQ Invçn~tjQn The present invention relates to an adapter for holdiTIg a centrifuge ~ube in a centrifuge rotor cavity, and in particular, to an adapter having two segmen~s~
the segments being in most cases joined by a hinge, ~he hinge 2 0 axis extending perpendicular to Ihe axis of the adapter.
::~ Descr~2tion Qf ~he P~ Art In the operation of a cenerifuge it is important that the size and shape of the tube in which a liquid sample is carried closely conforms to the size 25 and shape of the cavity in the centrifuge rotor in which the tube is received. During centrifugation the centrifugal force exerted on the tube itself and the liquid therein acts to deform the centrifuge tube. A centrifuge tube which does not closely conform ~o the rotor cavity may thus be deformed to the point 30 of rupture. E~ven if the tube does not rupture the deforma~ior may make the tube difficult to remove from the rotor e~vity.
MoreoYer, eYe n if the deformed tube is removable from the ~: rotor, the return of the tube to its u~ldeformed shape may agitate the contents of the tube to an extent that destroys the 3 ~ sample separation.
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When the shape and size of a centrifuge tube does not closely conform to the shape and siz:e of the rotor cavity in which it is to be disposed a device Icnown as a tube adapter is 5 usually employed~ The tube adapter has an interior cavity having a shape and size which closely conforms to the shape and size of the centrifllge tube being adapted. The exterior shape and size of the adapter closely conforms to the shape arld size of the rotor caYity in which is is to be used. The adapter 10 serves to support a tube within the cavi~y in which it is received and thus serves to prevent deformation of the tube during centrifugation.
Exemplary of an adapter formed of a single unitary 1~ member is ~he device disclosed in United States Patent 4,304,356 (Chulay et al.). This adapter supports only the neck region of the centrifuge tube and is fabrica~ed of a material having a lower density than ~he liquid being being ca~ied therein ~o prevent bottoming of the adapter in the rotor cavity 2 0 in the event of tube rupture.
Exemplary of an adapter formed of two piece construction is the device shown in United S~ates Patent 3,674,197 (Mitchell et al.~, assigned to the assignee of this 2 5 invention. This adapter comprises two discrete segments~ each of which has an indentation therein. When joined the indentations forlm a recess for receiving a collapsible bag during centrifugation. The adapter disclosed in this patent includes aperture(s) through which tubes from the bag exit the 3 0 adapter. Thus, the possibility exists that the bag may extrucle through these apertures if the adapter were to undergo centrifugation in a vertical angle rotor.
An adapter arrangetnent formed of two discrete adapter 3 5 segments and useful to support the capped end of a centrifuge '~ ' , . ~
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tube is avail~ble as part vf ~he Nalgene Ultra-Lok Tube Sys~em sold by Fisher Scientific Incorporated.
lJnited States Patent 4,692,137 (Anthony) discloses a 5 tube adapter having two segments which are hinged along ~ne lateral edges of the segments. The hinge axes align in parallel relationship to the axis of the cavity in which the adapter is received. The disposition of hinges along the lateral edges of the segments is believed disadvanl~ageous in that such a 10 disposition m~y interfere with the insertion or removal of the adapter into or from the rotor cavity.
-o-O-o-Vnited States Patent 3,~98,383 (Romanauskas et al.) and United States Patent 4,015,775 (Rohde)~ both assigned to the assignee of the present invention, disclose centrifuge rotors of the vertical angle type. In such a rotor the axis of the rotor cavities is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. When 20 using a vertical angle rotor it is necessary that a cap be provided at the mouth of each cavity to impose a vertical restraining force on the ~ube disposed in the cavity. Even though the tube may be disposed in an adapter received wilthin the cavity, without such a capping arrangement the possibility 2 ~ exists that the pressure of the liquid during centrifugation may rupture the tube. United States Patent 3~998,383 (Romanauskas et al.) exempli~les a typical capping arrangement for a vertical angle rotor.
3 0 Such capping arrangements must be individually threaded into the rotor ~ody. Moreover, in order to provide proper support it is necessary that the capping arrangement be in intimate contact with the tube. Improper assembly can thus lead to the possibility of tube rupture and/or cap failure. ~;or .
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lhese reasons such capping arrllrlgements are believed disadvantageous.
In view of the foregoing it is believed advantageous to 5 provide an adapter for use in a vertical angle rotor tha~
eliminates the necessity of a capping mechanism for ~he rotor c~vity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIQN
The present invention relates to an adapter having an axis therethrough for supporting a centrifuge tube within a caYity in a centrifuge rotor. The cavity itself has an axis theretllrough, with ~he axis of ~he adapter, in use, aligning in 15 parallel relationship with the axis of the cavity. The adap~er comprises a first and a second adapter segmellt, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon. Each segment has an indentation in the mating surface thereof. The segments may be connected by at least one hinge that 2 û supports the segments for relative pivotal movement about hinge axis from an open to a mated position. The hinge axis extends perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
When in the maaed position the mating surfaces of the 2 5 segments are in con~acting relationship and the indentations therein cooperate to define a recess having a predetermined shape. ln one embodiment of the adap~er of the present invelltion, used with a centrifuge tube having a body with a neck thereon in which a portion of the neck has a constricted 3 0 region when the tube is capped, the indentation in each segment is shaped such that when the segments are in lhe mated position tbe recess is sized to closely correspond to the configuration of at least the neck of the tube. In this embodiment at least one of the segments has a feature on the 3 5 matin~ surface thereof that projecls into the indentation ~, .
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~; W(3 ~3 1 /~)6373 i~c5 / ~J~ IJgl ~J~j 32 therein. When the segrnents are in the mated position and the neck of the tube is received withlin the adapter the featu~e is received wilhin the constricted re,gion of the neck of the tube A collar may be provided to preve.nt the bot~oming of ~he tube 5 in the c~vity.
In another embodiment of the adapter of the preserlt invention the indentation in each segment is shaped such ~hæ~
when ~he segments are in the malted position the recess so 10 defined is sized to closely correspond to the size and configuratiorl of the centrifuge tube over its entire length.
-~-O-o-ln ano~her aspect the present invention relates to an adapter for supporting a closed centrifuge tube having a predetermined size and configuration wi~hin a cavity in a vertical angle cen~rifuge rotor. The rotor is rotatable ~o a predetermined maximum speed. The adap~er has a central axas 2 0 extending ~herethrough that, in use, aligns in parallel relationship both with the axis of the rotor cavity in which ~he adapter is disposed and with the axis of rotation of the vertical angle rotor. The adapter comprises a ~irst and a second adapter segment, each of which has an exterior surface and a 2 5 mating surface thereon. Each segmerlt has an indentation in the mating surface thereof. The indentations are shaped such that when the segments are joined along their mating surfaces the inden~ations cooperate to define a recess able to totally surround a centrifuge tube disposed ~herein. Each adapter 3 0 segment is fabricated; of a material that has sufficient strengeh to withstand the vertical forces created by the pressure of a liquid under centrifugation. Thus, use of an adapter in accordance with this aspect of the present invention permits a tube to be centrifuged in a vertical angle centrifuge rotor -;. . , . :
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WO 91/06373 PCT/lJS90/06:~26 ~-:
without the necessity of a capping mechanism being placed in the rotor cavity.
In s~ill another aspect the Imating surface on each adapter 5 segment defines a predetermined angle with respect to a plane t4at is normal to a plane containing the line of action along which lhe adapter segments are joined. Inclination of the mating surfaces of the adapter se gments allows the same to displace rela~ive to each other to totally fill the rotor cavity in 10 which they ~re disposed without any separation being defined between the segments. Inclined mating surfaces may be provided on any of the adapter segments disclosed in ~he present application.
1 5 BRIEF DESCRTPT10~ OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be more fully understood from ~he following detailed description thereof, taken in connec~10n wi~h the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this 2 0 application and in which:
Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an adapter according to a first embodiment of the present invention for supporting the neck region of a centrifuge tube of the type in 25 which a por~ion of the tube neclc has a constricted region thereon when capped, the adapter being shown in the open position;
igure 2 is a fragmentary elevation view, in section, of 3 0 the tube adapter of Figure 1 in use and supporting the neck portion of a centrifuge tube in a fixed angle rotor cavity;
Figurc 3 an exploded perspective view of an adapter aceording to a second embodiment of the present invention for . .
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3 ~ 5 .i wo ~ 6373 Pcr/u~
supporting the full lengt~l of a centrifuge tube within a rotor cavity, the adapter being silown in the open position;
Figure 4 is a fragmentary elevation view7 in section, of S ~he tube adapter of Figure 2 in use and supporting a eentrifuge tube over its entire axial length in a fixed angle rotor cavi~y;
Figure ~ is a perspec~ive view similar to Figure 3 of a modification of the embodiment of the tube adapter there 10 shown for use with an open top tube;
.
Figure 6 is a fragmentary elevation view, in section, of the centrifuge tube adapter of Figure 5 in use and suppor~ing a centrifuge tube over its entire axial length in a fixed angle 15 rotor cavity~
Pigure 7A is a perspective view of an adapter in accordance with another aspect of ~he present invention used to support a closed tube wiehin the cavity of a vertical angle 2 0 rotor, the adapter segments being independent of each other~
while Figure 7B is a modification of the embodiment of adapter shown in Figure 7A in which the adapter segments are hinged9 Figure 8 is a fragmentary elevational view of an adapter 25 shown in either Figure 7A or 733 in use and supporting a centrifuge tube over its entire axial length in a vertical angle centrifuge rotor cavity, with a por~ion of the tube being broken away, and !' :
Figures 9.A and 9B are sectional views taken along sec~ion lines 9A-9A, 9B-9B in Figure 8 showing the inclination of Ithe mating surfaces of the adapter segments, the view of Figure 9A
illustrating the ~elationship of the adapter segments with respect to each other, with respect to the tube received in the 35 adap~er, and with respect to the rotor cavity in which the .
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adapter is p!aced while rotor is at rest while the view of Figure 9B shows ~he rela~ionship of the adapter segments with respec~
to each other, with respect to the tube received in the adayter, and with respect to the rotor cavity in which the adapter is 5 placed when the rotor is rotating.
DETAILED D~CRI~IOI~ OF T~IE INVlE~lON
Throughout ~he following detailed description, similar 10 reference numerals refer to similar elements in all Figures of the drawings.
Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an adapter, generally indicated by the reference character 10, according to 15 a first embodiment of the present invention. The adap~er 10 in accordance with this embodiment is useful for suppor~ing a centrifuge tube T of the type having a body portion B with a closed end C, the body B taperirlg through a lransition region to a narrowed neck region N. The neck N serves as the liquid 20 port through which a liquid under test may be loaded into the tube T. When the tube T is capped at least vne portion D of the neck N becomes radially inwardly constricted, thereby forming a constricted region in the neck of the tube. Preferably the capping assembly disclosed in United States Patent 4,5529278 25 (Romanauskas) is used to cap the tube, so that the neck N of the tube has a corrugated configuration imparted thereto. The corrugated configuration has at least one but preferably a plurality of circumferentially extending corrugatiolls formed ir the neck N. It should be understood that any other capping 30 arrangement may be used, so long as any ~rm of constricted region ;s imparted to the configuration of the neck N.
The adapter 10 is comprised of a first adapter segment 12 and an identical second adapter segment 14. :Each segment 35 12, 14 has an exterior surface 16 and a planar mating surface ~820~
NO '~I/06373 PCl~U~g~1t~ 3 ~t~
18 thereon. Thc ex~elinr surface 16 of each segment is defined by a gellerally cylindrical la~eral ~surface portion 20 and a planar upper surface portion 22. In the preferred instance an enlarged collar 24 is disposed intermediate the lateral surfase 5 por~ion 20 and the upper surface portion 22 When the segments 12, 14 are ma~ed together the mating surfaces 18 thereof are joined in abutting contact. As will become clearer herein the member so produced has an axis 10A (best seen in Figure 2) extending therethrough. As is best seen in Figure 2 10 the configuration and size of the adjacent lateral surface portions 20 closely corresponds lo the configuration and diameter of a rotor cavity 40 in which lhe adapter 10 is used.
The upper surface portions 22 of the conjoined segments are accessible when the adapter 10 is received in the rotor cavity 15 40.
The segments 12 and 14 are connected and supported for relative pivotal movement with respect to each other by a~
least one hinge 26. The hinge 26 may take the form of a liYe 2 0 hinge bridging the upper surface portions 22 of the segments 12, 14, or may, if desired, take the form of a coined hinge. The term "live hinge" refers to a hinge type, typically made of a polypropylene maierial, which must be flexed or bent before ~he plastic is cooled or permanently set. Such hinges are 2 ~ complete without secondary operations. The term "coined hinge" refers to a hinge that is cold-formed, usually by a stamping operation. The stamping operation creates a narrower and a thinner flexing region wbich defines a hinge.
These forms of hinges are defined in the Handbook of Plastics 30 and iElastomers, McGraw-Hill Book Company 1975, ~Charles Harper, Editor) at page 12-9.
However Eormed, in accordance with the present invention the axis 26A of ~he hinge 26, that is, the axis about 35 which occurs the relative pivotal motion of the segments, ...... .
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WO !)1/06373 2 0 6 8 2 a ~ rcr/us~0~,)63~f ~
extends perpendicul~r to the axis lOA of the adapter 10. This relationship of the hinge axis 26A to the axis 10A of the adapter 10 is best illustrated in Figure 2.
The mating surface 18 of each of the adapter segmen~
I 2, 14 has an indentation 28 ~herein. The indentation 28 in each segment 12, 14 corresponds to the size and contour of at leasl a portion of the tube T. Thus, when the segments 127 14 are mated, the indentations 28 therein cooperate to define a recess 30 (Figure 2) that colTespondls to the size and shape of at least a predetermined portion of the tube T that is received therein .
ln the embodiment of Figure 1, in which the adapter 10 1~ is configured an~ sized to support only the neck N and the transition region R of the tube T, at least one but preferably both indenta~ions 28 contains a feature 34, in the form of a circumferentially exlending ridge, that corresponds in size and~
is located complementarily to the position of the constrictiorl D
~0 in the neck N of the tube.
The adapter 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is especially useful when the diameter of body B of the tube T is equal to the diameter of a cavity 40 in a centrifuge rotor 42, but the overall leng~h L of the tube T is less than the axial length of the cavity. The rotor cavity 40 has an axis 40A ~herethrough that aligns in parallel relationship with the axis 10A of the adapter ', 10 when the same is disposed therein. In,use,,as is best seen in connection with Figure 2, the adapter 10 defined by the mated segments 12, 14 serves to support the neck N and the transition region R of the tube T within the cavity 40.
To mount the tube T in the caYity, the tube T is inserted into one of the segments 12, 14, so that ~he feature 34 on the 3 ~ segment(s) is received within the constricted region D in the ..... ~ , .
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neck N of ~he tube T when the segments are in the mated posilion. The segments 12, 14 are then pivoted about the hinge axis 26A to place the mating surfaces 18 thereon in abu~ting contact. This closes the adapter 10 around the tube T and Ihus 5 permits the tube T to be manipula~ed by manipulation of tlh~
a~apter 10. The tube T and the adapter 10 are then axially inserted into the cavity 40. The preferred instance the tube T
bottoms against lhe elosed end of the ca~ity 40.
.
The axial length of the adapter 10 is selected such that when the tube T is receiYed in the cavity 40, the upper surface portions 18 on the segments 12, 14 are accessible to a user.
The hinge 26 may be formed so as to define a useful lifting appliance, as shown in Figure 2. Thus, to withdraw the tube T
15 at the end of a centrifugation run, a user grasps the hinge 26 and lifts the tube ~rom the cavity 40. It should be appreciated from the foregoing that the ~ea~ure 34 in such an instance defines a lifting surface which acts against the material of ~he tube in the constricted region D in the neck N thereof, and thus 20 serves to transmit the lifting force to the tube T to withdraw the same ~rom the cavity. The tube T may is withdrawn without unduly agi~ating the separation within the tube T.
In some cases the rotor 42 may have a shoulder 44 25 defined about ~he mouth vf the cavity 40. The shoulder 44 is preferably located on the rotor 42 at a position that is axially beneath the collars 24 on the segments 12, 14 when the adapter is received within thc caviiy, thereby to guard against the possibility that tube rupture will permit the adapter 10 to 30 enter into the cavity 40.
The segments 12, 14 with the hinge 26 therebetween are preferably integrally formed from a suitable material, such as polypropylene. Of course, the segments 12, 14 may be 3 S otherwise fa~ricated from one or more pieces, using other , . . .
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manufacLuring techniques and other materials, and assembled to define ~he adapter 10. Similar techniques may be used to form any other embodiment of ~he adapter illustrated and discussed herein. i~ `
For those instances wherein ~he diameter of the tube 1` is less than the corresponding diameter of the cavity 40 the adapter 10' shown in Figures 3 andl 4 finds utility. In this embodirnent of the invention the recess 30' (lFigure 4) formed 10 by the cooperative association of the indentations 28' in the mated adapter segments 12', 14' is configured to correspond to the size and shape of the tube T' over the entire axial length L' thereof. For this purpose the segments 12', 14' are each provided with an axial extension 36 having a bottom wall 38.
15 The bottom wall 38 need not completely close the bottom of the adapter 12't 14,, as is illus~rated, but may only partly close the same. The presence of the ex~ension 36 and ghe bottorn wall 38 permit the recess 30' defined when the segments 12';
14' are joined to receive the entire axial length L' of the tube T'.
Figure 4 illustrates this embodiment of the invention in use. When the tube T' is received in the ~ecess 30' the closed end C' of the ~ube T' is con~acted by the interior surface of the bottom wall 38. Preferably the inden~ations 28' in the 25 segments 12', 14' are placed such that the tube T' lies as close to the bottom of the rotor cavity 40, thereby to maximize the centrifugal force imposed on the liquid sample. It should also be noted that in this embodiment of the invention the feature 34 present in the embodiment of Figure 1 is not ~equired, since 30 the requisite lifting force transmission surface is defined by ~he bottom wall 38 operating against the bottorn end C' of the tube T'. lt is also noted that in this embodiment of the invention the collar 24 may be elimhlated.
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f- `- w~ )fi373 2 ~ >cr/u~J~ t~
Figure 5 illustrates a modific;ltion of the embodiment of the invention shown in ~igure 3 :In this embodiment, the tube T" has the form of ~ test tube, witll no constric~ion present to define a neck N. In this instance, the segments 12", 14" are 5 modified to exhibit indentations 28" similar to those show n i~
Figure 3, but which correspond in size and sllape to the test tube T" over the entire axial length L" thereof.
In whatever one of the embodiments used, the hinge 10 between the segments is disposed on the upper surface portion of the exterior surface of ~he adap~er segments. Such a dispositiosl is believed advanIageous in that it locales the hinge at a position where the hinge does not interfere with the receipt of the adapter within the rotor cavity. At the same 15 time the hinge defines a useful lifting appliance.
-o -~ -o-Although the adapter previously illustrated and 20 discussed may find utility in the environment of a ver~ical angle rotor, such a utilizat;on may typically require the provision of a suitable capping arrangement to prevent tube failure. The capping arrangement is required in the case tha~
the adapter does not completely surround the tube, such as 25 shown in Figures 1 and 2. Hvwever, a eapping arrangement is also required If the adapter does completely surrourld the tube, as shown in Figures 3 through 6, but does not have sufficient strength to withstand the vertical force due to liquid pressure under centrifugation.
As outlined earlier, cappin~ arrangement may be viewed as disadvantageous for various reasons. Accnrdingly, it is believed desirable to provide an adap~er able to support a closed tube T in a vertical angie rotor without the necessity of a 35 capping mechanism. F;igures 7A and 7B illustrate such an :, . .. . .
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adapter iJl accordarlce with another aspect of the present invention. Figure 7A illus~rates an unhinged embodimen~ of the vertical angle rotor adapter, while Figure 7B shows a hinged embodiment thereof.
The Yertical angle rotor adapter shown in Figures 7A an~
7B is generally indicated by the reference character 103 arld is generally similar to the adapters 10' and 10" discussed in connectiorl with Figures 3 and 5 in the sense that the adap~er 10 1 03 is arranged to l~otally surround the tube r disposed therewithin. The adapter 103 cvmprises a first adapter segment 123 and a second adapter segment 143. 13ach segment 123, 143 has an exterior ~urface 163 thereon. The exterior surface 163 of each segment 123, 143 is defined by a generally cylindrical 15 lateral surface portion 203 and a planar upper surface portion 223.
In accordance with the embodiment of the inven~ion shown in Figures 7A and 7B the adapter segment 123 has a 2 0 planar mating surface 183 thereon while the adapter segmen~
143 has a planar mating surface 193 thereon. Por a reason which is explained more fully herein the mating surfaces 183 and 193 on ~he segments 123 and 143, respectively, are angled with respect to a predetermined reference plane, to be defined.
25 The inclinativn of the mating surfaces 183 and 193 on the segments 123 and 143, respectively, is believed best seen in - Figures 9A and 9B. It should be understood that ~he mating surfaces of the adapter segments in any of the embodimenss shown in Figures 1 through 6 may also be inclined in the 30 manner shown in Figures 9A and 9B.
The mating surfaces 183 and 193 of each of the adapter segments 123 ~md 143, respectively, each have an indentation 283 therein. The indentation 283 in each segment 123 and 143 35 corresponds to the size and contour of the entire axial length L
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of the tube T. Thus, when ~he segments 123 and 143 are mated the indentations ~83 therein cooperale to define a recess 303 (Figure 8) that corresponds to the size and shape of the entire axial lerlg~h of the tube T (Figures 1 and 8) that is received S therein. That is to say, the indentations 283 in e2ch segmen~
are shaped such that when the se~gments 123 and 143 are joined along their respec~ive mating surfaces 183 and 193 the indeneations 283 in each segment cooperate to define a recess 303 able to totally surround a cenbrifuge tube T disposed 1 0 therein .
Figure 8 illustrates the adapter 103 in accordance witlh this aspect of the present invention in use in the environmen~
of a vertical angle centrifuge rotor 42V. In such a rotor the axis 1 S of each cavity 40V is parallel or approaching parallel (with an inclination angle of not more than fifteen (15) degrees) to the axis of rotation A of the rotor. As seen from Figure 8 the adapter 103 has a central axis 103A that in use, aligns wi~h ~he axis of the cavity 40V in which it is disposed and with the axis 20 of rotation A of the vertical angle rotor 42Y.
In the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 7A, the segments 123, 143 are independent of each other. These segments 123, 143 may be joined by moving each segmen~
25 toward the other along a line of action 48 ~hereby to bring the mating surfaces 1237 143 thereof in abu~ting contac~. As used herein tbe term "line of action" is meant to denote that direction of motion which joins the segments 123, 143 such that, in - a given predetermined plane perpendicular to the 30 central axis 103A simultaneous contact of both sides of the segments 123, 143 occurs.
In Figure 7B the segments 123, 143 are connected and supported for relative pivotal movement with respect to each 3 5 other by at least one hinge 263. The pivotal axis 263A (Figure , ~ ~
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wo ~ )6373 ,6 8) of the hinge 263, that is, the axis about which occurs the relative pivotal motion of the segments 123, 143, extends perpendicular to the axis 103A of the adapter 103. As discussed earlier Ihe hinge 263 may take the form of a live 5 hinge bridging the upper surface portions ~23 of the segme~l~s 123, 143, or may, if desired, take the form of a coined hinge~
Accordingly the segmen~s 123, 143, as shown in the embodiment of Flgure 7B rnay also be joined by moving each segment toward the other along the line of action 48. In the 10 embodimene of Figure 7B it is noted that the line of action 48 also lies in the plane perpendicular to Ihe pivotal axis 263A of the hinge 263.
With reference to the sectional ~iews of Figures 9A and 15 9B, the inclination of the surfaces 1~3, 193 may be most clearly seen. (Seetioning of the adapter has been ommitted from Figures 9A and 9B for clarity of illustration). When the segments 123, 143 are joined, the tube T is totally surrounded by the adapter 103. By inclining the mating surfaces 183, 193 2 0 the segments 1237 143 may expand during centrifugation ~o fill the entirety of the rotor caYity 40V. Thus, any variations in the size of the various cavities 40V in a giverl rotor, variations in cavity size from rotor to rotor, and Yariations in the thickness of the segments from adapter to adapter may be 2 5 accommodated without breaking the total containmenl of the tube T by the adapter.
It is also clear from Figure 9A that when the segments 123, 143 are mated the interior surface of the interior recess 3 0 303 of the adapter 103 is interrupted by the inwardly projecting corners 50 on the mating surface 193 of the segmenl 143. The corners S0 lie inwardly of the corresponding corners ~2 defined OII the mating surface 123. The radial distance R
measured betweell the central axis 103A and the interior 3~ surface of the adapter segment 143 in the region of the . ................................................ .
'i (~ ~ wo 91/~6373 ' PCl/lJS~Jo~32~, l7 indentation ~83 therein is less than the radial di5tance R2 measured between the central axis 103A and the interior surface of the adapter segment 1~3 in the region of the indentation 283 therein. For reference purposes it is 5 convenient at ~his point to define the radial distance R3 as ~he distance between the central axis 103 and -the exterior surface of the adapter segment 143 in Ihe region of the indentation 283 ~herein and the radial distance R2 as the distance between ~he central axis 103 and the exterior surface of ~he adapter 10 segment 123 in ~he region of the inden~ation 283 therein. The thickness of the segment 123 is equal to the difference between the distances lR4 and R2, while thickness of the segment 143 is equal to the difference between the distances R3 and R1.
1~ To accommodate the instance where the ro~or cavity 40V
is at its largest possible tolerance and the thickness of the segments of the adapter are at ~heir smallest possible tolerance, the arc leng~h of the inner surfaee of the segmeng 143 (i.e.~ the distance between the points 50-50) in a plane 20 perpendicular to the adapter axis 103A (the plane of Figure 9A) plus the arc length of the inner surface of the segment 123 (iOe., the distance be~ween ~he points 52-52) in the same plane must e~ual the circumference of the inside of the adap~er in a plane perpendicular to the`adapter axis 103A in the case when 2 ~ the adap~er of the smallest segment thickness is conformed ~o the largest rotor cavity, as illustrated in Figure 9B.
The magnitude of angles of inclination of the surfaces may be measured by leference to a reference plane 54. The 3 0 reference plane 54 is that plane that contains both the vertieal eentral axis 103 of the adapter 103 and at least one of the inwardly projecting corners 50 of the adapter segment 143.
Alternatively, the reference plane 54 rnay be defined as the plane that is nonTIal to the line of action 48 (superimposed on 35 Figure 9A) along which the segments 123, 143 are joined :;
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~oge~her. Measured with respect lo the reference plane 54 the inclination of the surfaces 183 and 193 lies in the range of ;~ngles from about 10 to about 80 degrees. Preferably, each angle is forty five (45) degrees.
It should be no~ed that although the surfaces 183 and lg3 are shown as being inclined to the~ same degree (i.e., the ~Igies of the surfaces 183 and 193 with respect to the reference plane 54 are equal~, such is not necessalily required. It is only 10 necessary that the inclination of the surfaces 183 and 193 be such that the segments are maintained in mu;ual contact if they expand during centrifugation to fill the cavity 40V. It should also be noted that the segments 123 and 143 may be other than circular, and can be ellipsoidal, if desired.
An adapter in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention may be fabricated ~rom any suitable material so long as the resulting adapter has sufficient s~reng~ih (as that term is defined herein). The material of choice mus~
2 0 exhibi~ other desirable properties, such as appropriate ultima~e strength, appropriate modulus of elasticity, suitable chemical compatibility with any liquid sample being centrifuged and ability to withstand autoclaving. Suitable plastic materials include polypropylene, polyamide, acetal, polyphenylene oxide, 2 5 polyvinyl choloride, polycarbonate or polyethylene. Other plastic or metallic materials (either homogeneous (neat) or fiber reinforced) with similar or be~ter mechanical and chemical properties for the application under consideration may also be used. The adapter may be formed in any 3 0 convenient manner consistent with the material selec~ed~ suc~a as molding, machining, casting or forging.
In order to support a tube T in a vertical angle ro~or without the assistance of the restraining force provided by a 3 5 capping mechanism, the adapter 103 must exhibit sufficient :. . . ~ .
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'' ' .. wo ~I/06373 PC~r/UX9~/~63 s~ength to absorb the forces imposed orl the ~ube T by the pressure of the liquid therein. Thus, as ~he term is used herein,"sufficient strength" means that the adapter must be able to withstand the forces imposed on it during 5 centrifugation without failing or deforming to the extent tha~
the tube carried therein rupture,s.
Whether a given adapter sufficient streng~h, and thus falls within the scope of the claims of the present invention9 10 can be determined from various readily ascertainable operating parameters of the vertical angle rotor in which the adapter is to be used and the application to which ~he adapter is to be put. These parameters are the speciffc weight of the liquid sample within the tube received by adapter, the radius 1~ R i which represents the minimum distance to the sample from the axis A of rotation (Figure 8), the diarneter D~ (Figure 8) of ~he rotor cavity, the thickness of the adapter segment, the inside diameter of the tube, and the speed of rotation of the vertical angle rotor.
The pressure at any location across the diameter of the tube in which the liquid sample is disposed is ~2 2~ P= _ o (Ro2 -Ri2) (1) 2g where P is the pressure (psi), ~ is the rotational veloci~y of the rotor (radians per 3 0 second), g is acceleration due to gravîty (inches per second~), is the specific weight of tbe sample (Lbf per inch3), .
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WO 91/06373 , ~ `/U~ 6'.~2 Ro is the distance to the point of interest x where the pressure value is desired from the center of rotation (inches), and Rj is the minimum distance to the sample from the axis A of rotation (inches).
The total vertieal force F that the adapter must wit~stahd is then found by integrating this pressure funetion over the circular cross sectional area of the inside of the tube.
'1 0 Knowing the adapter dimensions and the force F, the average stress in the wall of the adapter can be de~ermine(l in accordance with the relationship:
s-- ~2) (~/4 )( Do2 - Dj~) 20 where s is the s~ess (psi), F is the force (Lbf) Dois the diameter of the rotor cavityt and Di is the inside diameter of the adapter when operating at speed, which equals the dian2eter of the rotor cavity minus the thickness of each of the segments of the adapter (Figure 9B).
Based on the identily of the material used in the given 3 0 adapter, the modulus of elasticity of that material may be readily obtained. An estima~ion of the vertical deformation o the adapter may be found by multiplying thc initial length of the adapter by the average stress divided by the modulus of modulus of e.las~icity of the adapter material. If the average 35 stress calculated in Equation (2) is less than the ultimate .
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2 ~ 2 0 ~j ";'WO 91/06373 ' PC~/US9(~/OC32 strength of ~he ad~pter material, and the predicted deforma~ion is less that the deformation ~hat will cause first leakage in ~he lube carried within the adapter, then the given adapter is to be construed to have sufficient strength for at S least one operating cycle, and the:refore fall within the contemplation of the present invention. The determination of sufficient strength as set forth above under operatin~
conditions will verify both the analysis and the conclusion of the sufficiency of strength of the adapter.
It should be understood that it is within the contemplation of this in~ention to use an adapter in accordance herewith to support a tube or a predetermined portion thereof within a cavity provided in another adapter, ~hereby making 15 ~he use of the adapter in accordance with this invention amenable for use in the environment of a swinging bucket rotor. --o-~-o-Those skilled in ~he art, having the benefit of the teachings of the present invention may impart numerous modificat;ons thereto. It should be understood that such modifications are to be construed ~o lie within the scope of the 2 5 present inven~ion, as defined by the appended claims.
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
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5~C~LATED APPLI~ATION
This application is a continua~ion-in-part of applicatior 10 Serial Number 07/432,646, filed November 7, 1 989 in ~he names of Rornanausl~as and Sheerarl and assigned to the assignee of the present invention.
BACKGRQUND C)F THE INVEl\lTI(:)N
Field of thQ Invçn~tjQn The present invention relates to an adapter for holdiTIg a centrifuge ~ube in a centrifuge rotor cavity, and in particular, to an adapter having two segmen~s~
the segments being in most cases joined by a hinge, ~he hinge 2 0 axis extending perpendicular to Ihe axis of the adapter.
::~ Descr~2tion Qf ~he P~ Art In the operation of a cenerifuge it is important that the size and shape of the tube in which a liquid sample is carried closely conforms to the size 25 and shape of the cavity in the centrifuge rotor in which the tube is received. During centrifugation the centrifugal force exerted on the tube itself and the liquid therein acts to deform the centrifuge tube. A centrifuge tube which does not closely conform ~o the rotor cavity may thus be deformed to the point 30 of rupture. E~ven if the tube does not rupture the deforma~ior may make the tube difficult to remove from the rotor e~vity.
MoreoYer, eYe n if the deformed tube is removable from the ~: rotor, the return of the tube to its u~ldeformed shape may agitate the contents of the tube to an extent that destroys the 3 ~ sample separation.
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When the shape and size of a centrifuge tube does not closely conform to the shape and siz:e of the rotor cavity in which it is to be disposed a device Icnown as a tube adapter is 5 usually employed~ The tube adapter has an interior cavity having a shape and size which closely conforms to the shape and size of the centrifllge tube being adapted. The exterior shape and size of the adapter closely conforms to the shape arld size of the rotor caYity in which is is to be used. The adapter 10 serves to support a tube within the cavi~y in which it is received and thus serves to prevent deformation of the tube during centrifugation.
Exemplary of an adapter formed of a single unitary 1~ member is ~he device disclosed in United States Patent 4,304,356 (Chulay et al.). This adapter supports only the neck region of the centrifuge tube and is fabrica~ed of a material having a lower density than ~he liquid being being ca~ied therein ~o prevent bottoming of the adapter in the rotor cavity 2 0 in the event of tube rupture.
Exemplary of an adapter formed of two piece construction is the device shown in United S~ates Patent 3,674,197 (Mitchell et al.~, assigned to the assignee of this 2 5 invention. This adapter comprises two discrete segments~ each of which has an indentation therein. When joined the indentations forlm a recess for receiving a collapsible bag during centrifugation. The adapter disclosed in this patent includes aperture(s) through which tubes from the bag exit the 3 0 adapter. Thus, the possibility exists that the bag may extrucle through these apertures if the adapter were to undergo centrifugation in a vertical angle rotor.
An adapter arrangetnent formed of two discrete adapter 3 5 segments and useful to support the capped end of a centrifuge '~ ' , . ~
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tube is avail~ble as part vf ~he Nalgene Ultra-Lok Tube Sys~em sold by Fisher Scientific Incorporated.
lJnited States Patent 4,692,137 (Anthony) discloses a 5 tube adapter having two segments which are hinged along ~ne lateral edges of the segments. The hinge axes align in parallel relationship to the axis of the cavity in which the adapter is received. The disposition of hinges along the lateral edges of the segments is believed disadvanl~ageous in that such a 10 disposition m~y interfere with the insertion or removal of the adapter into or from the rotor cavity.
-o-O-o-Vnited States Patent 3,~98,383 (Romanauskas et al.) and United States Patent 4,015,775 (Rohde)~ both assigned to the assignee of the present invention, disclose centrifuge rotors of the vertical angle type. In such a rotor the axis of the rotor cavities is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. When 20 using a vertical angle rotor it is necessary that a cap be provided at the mouth of each cavity to impose a vertical restraining force on the ~ube disposed in the cavity. Even though the tube may be disposed in an adapter received wilthin the cavity, without such a capping arrangement the possibility 2 ~ exists that the pressure of the liquid during centrifugation may rupture the tube. United States Patent 3~998,383 (Romanauskas et al.) exempli~les a typical capping arrangement for a vertical angle rotor.
3 0 Such capping arrangements must be individually threaded into the rotor ~ody. Moreover, in order to provide proper support it is necessary that the capping arrangement be in intimate contact with the tube. Improper assembly can thus lead to the possibility of tube rupture and/or cap failure. ~;or .
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lhese reasons such capping arrllrlgements are believed disadvantageous.
In view of the foregoing it is believed advantageous to 5 provide an adapter for use in a vertical angle rotor tha~
eliminates the necessity of a capping mechanism for ~he rotor c~vity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIQN
The present invention relates to an adapter having an axis therethrough for supporting a centrifuge tube within a caYity in a centrifuge rotor. The cavity itself has an axis theretllrough, with ~he axis of ~he adapter, in use, aligning in 15 parallel relationship with the axis of the cavity. The adap~er comprises a first and a second adapter segmellt, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon. Each segment has an indentation in the mating surface thereof. The segments may be connected by at least one hinge that 2 û supports the segments for relative pivotal movement about hinge axis from an open to a mated position. The hinge axis extends perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
When in the maaed position the mating surfaces of the 2 5 segments are in con~acting relationship and the indentations therein cooperate to define a recess having a predetermined shape. ln one embodiment of the adap~er of the present invelltion, used with a centrifuge tube having a body with a neck thereon in which a portion of the neck has a constricted 3 0 region when the tube is capped, the indentation in each segment is shaped such that when the segments are in lhe mated position tbe recess is sized to closely correspond to the configuration of at least the neck of the tube. In this embodiment at least one of the segments has a feature on the 3 5 matin~ surface thereof that projecls into the indentation ~, .
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~; W(3 ~3 1 /~)6373 i~c5 / ~J~ IJgl ~J~j 32 therein. When the segrnents are in the mated position and the neck of the tube is received withlin the adapter the featu~e is received wilhin the constricted re,gion of the neck of the tube A collar may be provided to preve.nt the bot~oming of ~he tube 5 in the c~vity.
In another embodiment of the adapter of the preserlt invention the indentation in each segment is shaped such ~hæ~
when ~he segments are in the malted position the recess so 10 defined is sized to closely correspond to the size and configuratiorl of the centrifuge tube over its entire length.
-~-O-o-ln ano~her aspect the present invention relates to an adapter for supporting a closed centrifuge tube having a predetermined size and configuration wi~hin a cavity in a vertical angle cen~rifuge rotor. The rotor is rotatable ~o a predetermined maximum speed. The adap~er has a central axas 2 0 extending ~herethrough that, in use, aligns in parallel relationship both with the axis of the rotor cavity in which ~he adapter is disposed and with the axis of rotation of the vertical angle rotor. The adapter comprises a ~irst and a second adapter segment, each of which has an exterior surface and a 2 5 mating surface thereon. Each segmerlt has an indentation in the mating surface thereof. The indentations are shaped such that when the segments are joined along their mating surfaces the inden~ations cooperate to define a recess able to totally surround a centrifuge tube disposed ~herein. Each adapter 3 0 segment is fabricated; of a material that has sufficient strengeh to withstand the vertical forces created by the pressure of a liquid under centrifugation. Thus, use of an adapter in accordance with this aspect of the present invention permits a tube to be centrifuged in a vertical angle centrifuge rotor -;. . , . :
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without the necessity of a capping mechanism being placed in the rotor cavity.
In s~ill another aspect the Imating surface on each adapter 5 segment defines a predetermined angle with respect to a plane t4at is normal to a plane containing the line of action along which lhe adapter segments are joined. Inclination of the mating surfaces of the adapter se gments allows the same to displace rela~ive to each other to totally fill the rotor cavity in 10 which they ~re disposed without any separation being defined between the segments. Inclined mating surfaces may be provided on any of the adapter segments disclosed in ~he present application.
1 5 BRIEF DESCRTPT10~ OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be more fully understood from ~he following detailed description thereof, taken in connec~10n wi~h the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this 2 0 application and in which:
Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an adapter according to a first embodiment of the present invention for supporting the neck region of a centrifuge tube of the type in 25 which a por~ion of the tube neclc has a constricted region thereon when capped, the adapter being shown in the open position;
igure 2 is a fragmentary elevation view, in section, of 3 0 the tube adapter of Figure 1 in use and supporting the neck portion of a centrifuge tube in a fixed angle rotor cavity;
Figurc 3 an exploded perspective view of an adapter aceording to a second embodiment of the present invention for . .
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supporting the full lengt~l of a centrifuge tube within a rotor cavity, the adapter being silown in the open position;
Figure 4 is a fragmentary elevation view7 in section, of S ~he tube adapter of Figure 2 in use and supporting a eentrifuge tube over its entire axial length in a fixed angle rotor cavi~y;
Figure ~ is a perspec~ive view similar to Figure 3 of a modification of the embodiment of the tube adapter there 10 shown for use with an open top tube;
.
Figure 6 is a fragmentary elevation view, in section, of the centrifuge tube adapter of Figure 5 in use and suppor~ing a centrifuge tube over its entire axial length in a fixed angle 15 rotor cavity~
Pigure 7A is a perspective view of an adapter in accordance with another aspect of ~he present invention used to support a closed tube wiehin the cavity of a vertical angle 2 0 rotor, the adapter segments being independent of each other~
while Figure 7B is a modification of the embodiment of adapter shown in Figure 7A in which the adapter segments are hinged9 Figure 8 is a fragmentary elevational view of an adapter 25 shown in either Figure 7A or 733 in use and supporting a centrifuge tube over its entire axial length in a vertical angle centrifuge rotor cavity, with a por~ion of the tube being broken away, and !' :
Figures 9.A and 9B are sectional views taken along sec~ion lines 9A-9A, 9B-9B in Figure 8 showing the inclination of Ithe mating surfaces of the adapter segments, the view of Figure 9A
illustrating the ~elationship of the adapter segments with respect to each other, with respect to the tube received in the 35 adap~er, and with respect to the rotor cavity in which the .
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adapter is p!aced while rotor is at rest while the view of Figure 9B shows ~he rela~ionship of the adapter segments with respec~
to each other, with respect to the tube received in the adayter, and with respect to the rotor cavity in which the adapter is 5 placed when the rotor is rotating.
DETAILED D~CRI~IOI~ OF T~IE INVlE~lON
Throughout ~he following detailed description, similar 10 reference numerals refer to similar elements in all Figures of the drawings.
Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an adapter, generally indicated by the reference character 10, according to 15 a first embodiment of the present invention. The adap~er 10 in accordance with this embodiment is useful for suppor~ing a centrifuge tube T of the type having a body portion B with a closed end C, the body B taperirlg through a lransition region to a narrowed neck region N. The neck N serves as the liquid 20 port through which a liquid under test may be loaded into the tube T. When the tube T is capped at least vne portion D of the neck N becomes radially inwardly constricted, thereby forming a constricted region in the neck of the tube. Preferably the capping assembly disclosed in United States Patent 4,5529278 25 (Romanauskas) is used to cap the tube, so that the neck N of the tube has a corrugated configuration imparted thereto. The corrugated configuration has at least one but preferably a plurality of circumferentially extending corrugatiolls formed ir the neck N. It should be understood that any other capping 30 arrangement may be used, so long as any ~rm of constricted region ;s imparted to the configuration of the neck N.
The adapter 10 is comprised of a first adapter segment 12 and an identical second adapter segment 14. :Each segment 35 12, 14 has an exterior surface 16 and a planar mating surface ~820~
NO '~I/06373 PCl~U~g~1t~ 3 ~t~
18 thereon. Thc ex~elinr surface 16 of each segment is defined by a gellerally cylindrical la~eral ~surface portion 20 and a planar upper surface portion 22. In the preferred instance an enlarged collar 24 is disposed intermediate the lateral surfase 5 por~ion 20 and the upper surface portion 22 When the segments 12, 14 are ma~ed together the mating surfaces 18 thereof are joined in abutting contact. As will become clearer herein the member so produced has an axis 10A (best seen in Figure 2) extending therethrough. As is best seen in Figure 2 10 the configuration and size of the adjacent lateral surface portions 20 closely corresponds lo the configuration and diameter of a rotor cavity 40 in which lhe adapter 10 is used.
The upper surface portions 22 of the conjoined segments are accessible when the adapter 10 is received in the rotor cavity 15 40.
The segments 12 and 14 are connected and supported for relative pivotal movement with respect to each other by a~
least one hinge 26. The hinge 26 may take the form of a liYe 2 0 hinge bridging the upper surface portions 22 of the segments 12, 14, or may, if desired, take the form of a coined hinge. The term "live hinge" refers to a hinge type, typically made of a polypropylene maierial, which must be flexed or bent before ~he plastic is cooled or permanently set. Such hinges are 2 ~ complete without secondary operations. The term "coined hinge" refers to a hinge that is cold-formed, usually by a stamping operation. The stamping operation creates a narrower and a thinner flexing region wbich defines a hinge.
These forms of hinges are defined in the Handbook of Plastics 30 and iElastomers, McGraw-Hill Book Company 1975, ~Charles Harper, Editor) at page 12-9.
However Eormed, in accordance with the present invention the axis 26A of ~he hinge 26, that is, the axis about 35 which occurs the relative pivotal motion of the segments, ...... .
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extends perpendicul~r to the axis lOA of the adapter 10. This relationship of the hinge axis 26A to the axis 10A of the adapter 10 is best illustrated in Figure 2.
The mating surface 18 of each of the adapter segmen~
I 2, 14 has an indentation 28 ~herein. The indentation 28 in each segment 12, 14 corresponds to the size and contour of at leasl a portion of the tube T. Thus, when the segments 127 14 are mated, the indentations 28 therein cooperate to define a recess 30 (Figure 2) that colTespondls to the size and shape of at least a predetermined portion of the tube T that is received therein .
ln the embodiment of Figure 1, in which the adapter 10 1~ is configured an~ sized to support only the neck N and the transition region R of the tube T, at least one but preferably both indenta~ions 28 contains a feature 34, in the form of a circumferentially exlending ridge, that corresponds in size and~
is located complementarily to the position of the constrictiorl D
~0 in the neck N of the tube.
The adapter 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is especially useful when the diameter of body B of the tube T is equal to the diameter of a cavity 40 in a centrifuge rotor 42, but the overall leng~h L of the tube T is less than the axial length of the cavity. The rotor cavity 40 has an axis 40A ~herethrough that aligns in parallel relationship with the axis 10A of the adapter ', 10 when the same is disposed therein. In,use,,as is best seen in connection with Figure 2, the adapter 10 defined by the mated segments 12, 14 serves to support the neck N and the transition region R of the tube T within the cavity 40.
To mount the tube T in the caYity, the tube T is inserted into one of the segments 12, 14, so that ~he feature 34 on the 3 ~ segment(s) is received within the constricted region D in the ..... ~ , .
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neck N of ~he tube T when the segments are in the mated posilion. The segments 12, 14 are then pivoted about the hinge axis 26A to place the mating surfaces 18 thereon in abu~ting contact. This closes the adapter 10 around the tube T and Ihus 5 permits the tube T to be manipula~ed by manipulation of tlh~
a~apter 10. The tube T and the adapter 10 are then axially inserted into the cavity 40. The preferred instance the tube T
bottoms against lhe elosed end of the ca~ity 40.
.
The axial length of the adapter 10 is selected such that when the tube T is receiYed in the cavity 40, the upper surface portions 18 on the segments 12, 14 are accessible to a user.
The hinge 26 may be formed so as to define a useful lifting appliance, as shown in Figure 2. Thus, to withdraw the tube T
15 at the end of a centrifugation run, a user grasps the hinge 26 and lifts the tube ~rom the cavity 40. It should be appreciated from the foregoing that the ~ea~ure 34 in such an instance defines a lifting surface which acts against the material of ~he tube in the constricted region D in the neck N thereof, and thus 20 serves to transmit the lifting force to the tube T to withdraw the same ~rom the cavity. The tube T may is withdrawn without unduly agi~ating the separation within the tube T.
In some cases the rotor 42 may have a shoulder 44 25 defined about ~he mouth vf the cavity 40. The shoulder 44 is preferably located on the rotor 42 at a position that is axially beneath the collars 24 on the segments 12, 14 when the adapter is received within thc caviiy, thereby to guard against the possibility that tube rupture will permit the adapter 10 to 30 enter into the cavity 40.
The segments 12, 14 with the hinge 26 therebetween are preferably integrally formed from a suitable material, such as polypropylene. Of course, the segments 12, 14 may be 3 S otherwise fa~ricated from one or more pieces, using other , . . .
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manufacLuring techniques and other materials, and assembled to define ~he adapter 10. Similar techniques may be used to form any other embodiment of ~he adapter illustrated and discussed herein. i~ `
For those instances wherein ~he diameter of the tube 1` is less than the corresponding diameter of the cavity 40 the adapter 10' shown in Figures 3 andl 4 finds utility. In this embodirnent of the invention the recess 30' (lFigure 4) formed 10 by the cooperative association of the indentations 28' in the mated adapter segments 12', 14' is configured to correspond to the size and shape of the tube T' over the entire axial length L' thereof. For this purpose the segments 12', 14' are each provided with an axial extension 36 having a bottom wall 38.
15 The bottom wall 38 need not completely close the bottom of the adapter 12't 14,, as is illus~rated, but may only partly close the same. The presence of the ex~ension 36 and ghe bottorn wall 38 permit the recess 30' defined when the segments 12';
14' are joined to receive the entire axial length L' of the tube T'.
Figure 4 illustrates this embodiment of the invention in use. When the tube T' is received in the ~ecess 30' the closed end C' of the ~ube T' is con~acted by the interior surface of the bottom wall 38. Preferably the inden~ations 28' in the 25 segments 12', 14' are placed such that the tube T' lies as close to the bottom of the rotor cavity 40, thereby to maximize the centrifugal force imposed on the liquid sample. It should also be noted that in this embodiment of the invention the feature 34 present in the embodiment of Figure 1 is not ~equired, since 30 the requisite lifting force transmission surface is defined by ~he bottom wall 38 operating against the bottorn end C' of the tube T'. lt is also noted that in this embodiment of the invention the collar 24 may be elimhlated.
.
f- `- w~ )fi373 2 ~ >cr/u~J~ t~
Figure 5 illustrates a modific;ltion of the embodiment of the invention shown in ~igure 3 :In this embodiment, the tube T" has the form of ~ test tube, witll no constric~ion present to define a neck N. In this instance, the segments 12", 14" are 5 modified to exhibit indentations 28" similar to those show n i~
Figure 3, but which correspond in size and sllape to the test tube T" over the entire axial length L" thereof.
In whatever one of the embodiments used, the hinge 10 between the segments is disposed on the upper surface portion of the exterior surface of ~he adap~er segments. Such a dispositiosl is believed advanIageous in that it locales the hinge at a position where the hinge does not interfere with the receipt of the adapter within the rotor cavity. At the same 15 time the hinge defines a useful lifting appliance.
-o -~ -o-Although the adapter previously illustrated and 20 discussed may find utility in the environment of a ver~ical angle rotor, such a utilizat;on may typically require the provision of a suitable capping arrangement to prevent tube failure. The capping arrangement is required in the case tha~
the adapter does not completely surround the tube, such as 25 shown in Figures 1 and 2. Hvwever, a eapping arrangement is also required If the adapter does completely surrourld the tube, as shown in Figures 3 through 6, but does not have sufficient strength to withstand the vertical force due to liquid pressure under centrifugation.
As outlined earlier, cappin~ arrangement may be viewed as disadvantageous for various reasons. Accnrdingly, it is believed desirable to provide an adap~er able to support a closed tube T in a vertical angie rotor without the necessity of a 35 capping mechanism. F;igures 7A and 7B illustrate such an :, . .. . .
~ .
wo ~l/0637.~ 8 2 0 .~ ""~
adapter iJl accordarlce with another aspect of the present invention. Figure 7A illus~rates an unhinged embodimen~ of the vertical angle rotor adapter, while Figure 7B shows a hinged embodiment thereof.
The Yertical angle rotor adapter shown in Figures 7A an~
7B is generally indicated by the reference character 103 arld is generally similar to the adapters 10' and 10" discussed in connectiorl with Figures 3 and 5 in the sense that the adap~er 10 1 03 is arranged to l~otally surround the tube r disposed therewithin. The adapter 103 cvmprises a first adapter segment 123 and a second adapter segment 143. 13ach segment 123, 143 has an exterior ~urface 163 thereon. The exterior surface 163 of each segment 123, 143 is defined by a generally cylindrical 15 lateral surface portion 203 and a planar upper surface portion 223.
In accordance with the embodiment of the inven~ion shown in Figures 7A and 7B the adapter segment 123 has a 2 0 planar mating surface 183 thereon while the adapter segmen~
143 has a planar mating surface 193 thereon. Por a reason which is explained more fully herein the mating surfaces 183 and 193 on ~he segments 123 and 143, respectively, are angled with respect to a predetermined reference plane, to be defined.
25 The inclinativn of the mating surfaces 183 and 193 on the segments 123 and 143, respectively, is believed best seen in - Figures 9A and 9B. It should be understood that ~he mating surfaces of the adapter segments in any of the embodimenss shown in Figures 1 through 6 may also be inclined in the 30 manner shown in Figures 9A and 9B.
The mating surfaces 183 and 193 of each of the adapter segments 123 ~md 143, respectively, each have an indentation 283 therein. The indentation 283 in each segment 123 and 143 35 corresponds to the size and contour of the entire axial length L
, :. ' : ' .
: .............. . `: ... ... . , .: .
. , . . .
f;i ~(3~
- WO 9 1 t0637~ 1 /VS !)flfl~tj 3Z~
of the tube T. Thus, when ~he segments 123 and 143 are mated the indentations ~83 therein cooperale to define a recess 303 (Figure 8) that corresponds to the size and shape of the entire axial lerlg~h of the tube T (Figures 1 and 8) that is received S therein. That is to say, the indentations 283 in e2ch segmen~
are shaped such that when the se~gments 123 and 143 are joined along their respec~ive mating surfaces 183 and 193 the indeneations 283 in each segment cooperate to define a recess 303 able to totally surround a cenbrifuge tube T disposed 1 0 therein .
Figure 8 illustrates the adapter 103 in accordance witlh this aspect of the present invention in use in the environmen~
of a vertical angle centrifuge rotor 42V. In such a rotor the axis 1 S of each cavity 40V is parallel or approaching parallel (with an inclination angle of not more than fifteen (15) degrees) to the axis of rotation A of the rotor. As seen from Figure 8 the adapter 103 has a central axis 103A that in use, aligns wi~h ~he axis of the cavity 40V in which it is disposed and with the axis 20 of rotation A of the vertical angle rotor 42Y.
In the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 7A, the segments 123, 143 are independent of each other. These segments 123, 143 may be joined by moving each segmen~
25 toward the other along a line of action 48 ~hereby to bring the mating surfaces 1237 143 thereof in abu~ting contac~. As used herein tbe term "line of action" is meant to denote that direction of motion which joins the segments 123, 143 such that, in - a given predetermined plane perpendicular to the 30 central axis 103A simultaneous contact of both sides of the segments 123, 143 occurs.
In Figure 7B the segments 123, 143 are connected and supported for relative pivotal movement with respect to each 3 5 other by at least one hinge 263. The pivotal axis 263A (Figure , ~ ~
206~20S
wo ~ )6373 ,6 8) of the hinge 263, that is, the axis about which occurs the relative pivotal motion of the segments 123, 143, extends perpendicular to the axis 103A of the adapter 103. As discussed earlier Ihe hinge 263 may take the form of a live 5 hinge bridging the upper surface portions ~23 of the segme~l~s 123, 143, or may, if desired, take the form of a coined hinge~
Accordingly the segmen~s 123, 143, as shown in the embodiment of Flgure 7B rnay also be joined by moving each segment toward the other along the line of action 48. In the 10 embodimene of Figure 7B it is noted that the line of action 48 also lies in the plane perpendicular to Ihe pivotal axis 263A of the hinge 263.
With reference to the sectional ~iews of Figures 9A and 15 9B, the inclination of the surfaces 1~3, 193 may be most clearly seen. (Seetioning of the adapter has been ommitted from Figures 9A and 9B for clarity of illustration). When the segments 123, 143 are joined, the tube T is totally surrounded by the adapter 103. By inclining the mating surfaces 183, 193 2 0 the segments 1237 143 may expand during centrifugation ~o fill the entirety of the rotor caYity 40V. Thus, any variations in the size of the various cavities 40V in a giverl rotor, variations in cavity size from rotor to rotor, and Yariations in the thickness of the segments from adapter to adapter may be 2 5 accommodated without breaking the total containmenl of the tube T by the adapter.
It is also clear from Figure 9A that when the segments 123, 143 are mated the interior surface of the interior recess 3 0 303 of the adapter 103 is interrupted by the inwardly projecting corners 50 on the mating surface 193 of the segmenl 143. The corners S0 lie inwardly of the corresponding corners ~2 defined OII the mating surface 123. The radial distance R
measured betweell the central axis 103A and the interior 3~ surface of the adapter segment 143 in the region of the . ................................................ .
'i (~ ~ wo 91/~6373 ' PCl/lJS~Jo~32~, l7 indentation ~83 therein is less than the radial di5tance R2 measured between the central axis 103A and the interior surface of the adapter segment 1~3 in the region of the indentation 283 therein. For reference purposes it is 5 convenient at ~his point to define the radial distance R3 as ~he distance between the central axis 103 and -the exterior surface of the adapter segment 143 in Ihe region of the indentation 283 ~herein and the radial distance R2 as the distance between ~he central axis 103 and the exterior surface of ~he adapter 10 segment 123 in ~he region of the inden~ation 283 therein. The thickness of the segment 123 is equal to the difference between the distances lR4 and R2, while thickness of the segment 143 is equal to the difference between the distances R3 and R1.
1~ To accommodate the instance where the ro~or cavity 40V
is at its largest possible tolerance and the thickness of the segments of the adapter are at ~heir smallest possible tolerance, the arc leng~h of the inner surfaee of the segmeng 143 (i.e.~ the distance between the points 50-50) in a plane 20 perpendicular to the adapter axis 103A (the plane of Figure 9A) plus the arc length of the inner surface of the segment 123 (iOe., the distance be~ween ~he points 52-52) in the same plane must e~ual the circumference of the inside of the adap~er in a plane perpendicular to the`adapter axis 103A in the case when 2 ~ the adap~er of the smallest segment thickness is conformed ~o the largest rotor cavity, as illustrated in Figure 9B.
The magnitude of angles of inclination of the surfaces may be measured by leference to a reference plane 54. The 3 0 reference plane 54 is that plane that contains both the vertieal eentral axis 103 of the adapter 103 and at least one of the inwardly projecting corners 50 of the adapter segment 143.
Alternatively, the reference plane 54 rnay be defined as the plane that is nonTIal to the line of action 48 (superimposed on 35 Figure 9A) along which the segments 123, 143 are joined :;
, .~ . . . .
,., ' ~
.
wo 91t~6373 ~ ~ ~ 8 ~ ~ ~ Pcr/us~t~/,3fi:3~s ~-,~
~oge~her. Measured with respect lo the reference plane 54 the inclination of the surfaces 183 and 193 lies in the range of ;~ngles from about 10 to about 80 degrees. Preferably, each angle is forty five (45) degrees.
It should be no~ed that although the surfaces 183 and lg3 are shown as being inclined to the~ same degree (i.e., the ~Igies of the surfaces 183 and 193 with respect to the reference plane 54 are equal~, such is not necessalily required. It is only 10 necessary that the inclination of the surfaces 183 and 193 be such that the segments are maintained in mu;ual contact if they expand during centrifugation to fill the cavity 40V. It should also be noted that the segments 123 and 143 may be other than circular, and can be ellipsoidal, if desired.
An adapter in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention may be fabricated ~rom any suitable material so long as the resulting adapter has sufficient s~reng~ih (as that term is defined herein). The material of choice mus~
2 0 exhibi~ other desirable properties, such as appropriate ultima~e strength, appropriate modulus of elasticity, suitable chemical compatibility with any liquid sample being centrifuged and ability to withstand autoclaving. Suitable plastic materials include polypropylene, polyamide, acetal, polyphenylene oxide, 2 5 polyvinyl choloride, polycarbonate or polyethylene. Other plastic or metallic materials (either homogeneous (neat) or fiber reinforced) with similar or be~ter mechanical and chemical properties for the application under consideration may also be used. The adapter may be formed in any 3 0 convenient manner consistent with the material selec~ed~ suc~a as molding, machining, casting or forging.
In order to support a tube T in a vertical angle ro~or without the assistance of the restraining force provided by a 3 5 capping mechanism, the adapter 103 must exhibit sufficient :. . . ~ .
!
'' ' .. wo ~I/06373 PC~r/UX9~/~63 s~ength to absorb the forces imposed orl the ~ube T by the pressure of the liquid therein. Thus, as ~he term is used herein,"sufficient strength" means that the adapter must be able to withstand the forces imposed on it during 5 centrifugation without failing or deforming to the extent tha~
the tube carried therein rupture,s.
Whether a given adapter sufficient streng~h, and thus falls within the scope of the claims of the present invention9 10 can be determined from various readily ascertainable operating parameters of the vertical angle rotor in which the adapter is to be used and the application to which ~he adapter is to be put. These parameters are the speciffc weight of the liquid sample within the tube received by adapter, the radius 1~ R i which represents the minimum distance to the sample from the axis A of rotation (Figure 8), the diarneter D~ (Figure 8) of ~he rotor cavity, the thickness of the adapter segment, the inside diameter of the tube, and the speed of rotation of the vertical angle rotor.
The pressure at any location across the diameter of the tube in which the liquid sample is disposed is ~2 2~ P= _ o (Ro2 -Ri2) (1) 2g where P is the pressure (psi), ~ is the rotational veloci~y of the rotor (radians per 3 0 second), g is acceleration due to gravîty (inches per second~), is the specific weight of tbe sample (Lbf per inch3), .
.
.. ...
.
.
2 (3 6 ~3 2 ~J ~
WO 91/06373 , ~ `/U~ 6'.~2 Ro is the distance to the point of interest x where the pressure value is desired from the center of rotation (inches), and Rj is the minimum distance to the sample from the axis A of rotation (inches).
The total vertieal force F that the adapter must wit~stahd is then found by integrating this pressure funetion over the circular cross sectional area of the inside of the tube.
'1 0 Knowing the adapter dimensions and the force F, the average stress in the wall of the adapter can be de~ermine(l in accordance with the relationship:
s-- ~2) (~/4 )( Do2 - Dj~) 20 where s is the s~ess (psi), F is the force (Lbf) Dois the diameter of the rotor cavityt and Di is the inside diameter of the adapter when operating at speed, which equals the dian2eter of the rotor cavity minus the thickness of each of the segments of the adapter (Figure 9B).
Based on the identily of the material used in the given 3 0 adapter, the modulus of elasticity of that material may be readily obtained. An estima~ion of the vertical deformation o the adapter may be found by multiplying thc initial length of the adapter by the average stress divided by the modulus of modulus of e.las~icity of the adapter material. If the average 35 stress calculated in Equation (2) is less than the ultimate .
: .
: . , .
2 ~ 2 0 ~j ";'WO 91/06373 ' PC~/US9(~/OC32 strength of ~he ad~pter material, and the predicted deforma~ion is less that the deformation ~hat will cause first leakage in ~he lube carried within the adapter, then the given adapter is to be construed to have sufficient strength for at S least one operating cycle, and the:refore fall within the contemplation of the present invention. The determination of sufficient strength as set forth above under operatin~
conditions will verify both the analysis and the conclusion of the sufficiency of strength of the adapter.
It should be understood that it is within the contemplation of this in~ention to use an adapter in accordance herewith to support a tube or a predetermined portion thereof within a cavity provided in another adapter, ~hereby making 15 ~he use of the adapter in accordance with this invention amenable for use in the environment of a swinging bucket rotor. --o-~-o-Those skilled in ~he art, having the benefit of the teachings of the present invention may impart numerous modificat;ons thereto. It should be understood that such modifications are to be construed ~o lie within the scope of the 2 5 present inven~ion, as defined by the appended claims.
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
'` .
Claims (21)
1. An adapter for supporting a centrifuge tube within a cavity in a centrifuge rotor, the tube having a predetermined size and configuration, the adapter having an axis extending therethrough that, in use, aligns in parallel relationship with an axis of the rotor cavity in which the adapter is disposed, the adapter comprising:
a first and a second adapter segment, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon, each segment having an indentation in the mating surface thereof, at least one hinge connecting the segments and supporting the relative pivotal movement, about a hinge axis, of at least one segment with respect to the other from an open to a mated position, the hinge axis extending perpendicular to the axis of the adapter, in the mated position, the mating surfaces of the segments being disposed in contacting relationship and the indentations therein cooperating to define a recess having a size and shape that corresponds to the size and shape of at least a portion of the tube.
a first and a second adapter segment, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon, each segment having an indentation in the mating surface thereof, at least one hinge connecting the segments and supporting the relative pivotal movement, about a hinge axis, of at least one segment with respect to the other from an open to a mated position, the hinge axis extending perpendicular to the axis of the adapter, in the mated position, the mating surfaces of the segments being disposed in contacting relationship and the indentations therein cooperating to define a recess having a size and shape that corresponds to the size and shape of at least a portion of the tube.
2. The adapter of claim 1 wherein the centrifuge tube has a body with a neck thereon, a portion of the neck having a constricted region thereon when the tube is capped, the indentation in each segment being shaped such that when the segments are in the mated position the indentations cooperate to define a recess that corresponds to the size and shape of the neck of the tube, at least one of the segments having a feature on the mating surface thereof that projects into the indentation therein such that, when the segments are in the mated position and the tube is received within the adapter, the feature is received within the constricted region in the neck of the tube.
3. The adapter of claim 1 wherein the centrifuge tube has a body with a predetermined configuration over its entire length, the indentation in each segment being shaped such that when the segments are in the mated position the indentations cooperate to define a recess that corresponds to the size and shape of the centrifuge tube over its entire length.
4. The adapter of claim 3 further comprising an enlarged collar disposed on the exterior surface of at least one of the segments.
5. The adapter of claim 2 further comprising an enlarged collar disposed on the exterior surface of at least one of the segments.
6. The adapter of claim 1 further comprising an enlarged collar disposed on the exterior surface of at least one of the segments.
7. The adaptor of claim 3 wherein the mating surface on the first adapter segment defines a first predetermined angle with respect to a predetermined plane while the mating surface on the second adapter segment defines a second predetermined angle with respect to the predetermined reference plane, the reference plane being defined as the plane that contains the axis of the adapter and that lies normal to the line of action along which the segments of the adapter are mated.
8. An adapter for supporting a closed centrifuge tube within a cavity in a vertical angle centrifuge rotor comprising a first and a second adapter segment, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon, each segment having an indentation in the mating surface thereof, the indentation in each segment being shaped such that when the segments are joined along their mating surfaces the indentations cooperate to define a recess able to totally surround a centrifuge tube disposed therein, the adapter being fabricated of a material that has sufficient strength to withstand the vertical forces created by the pressure of a liquid carried in the tube under centrifugation.
9. The adaptor of claim 8 wherein the mating surface on the first adapter segment defines a first predetermined angle with respect to a predetermined plane while the mating surface on the second adapter segment defines a second predetermined angle with respect to the predetermined reference plane, the reference plane being defined as the plane that contains the axis of the adapter and that lies normal to the line of action along which the segments of the adapter are mated.
10. The adaptor of claim 9 wherein the first predetermined angle and the second predetermined angle are equal.
11. The adaptor of claim 9 wherein the first predetermined angle lies within the range from about ten (10) to about eighty (80) degrees.
12. The adaptor of claim 9 wherein the second predetermined angle lies within the range from about ten (10) to about eighty (80) degrees.
13. The adaptor of claim 14 wherein the second predetermined angle lies within the range from about ten (10) to about eighty (80) degrees.
14. An adapter for supporting a centrifuge tube having a predetermined size and configuration within a cavity in a centrifuge rotor, the adapter having an axis extending therethrough that, in use, aligns in parallel relationship with an axis of the rotor cavity in which the adapter is disposed, the adapter comprising:
a first and a second adapter segment, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon, each segment having an indentation in the mating surface thereof, the indentation in each segment being shaped such that when the segments are joined along their mating surfaces the indentations cooperate to define a recess able to totally surround a centrifuge tube disposed therein, the mating surface on the first adapter segment having a pair of edges thereon that projects into the recess in the adapter.
a first and a second adapter segment, each segment having an exterior surface and a mating surface thereon, each segment having an indentation in the mating surface thereof, the indentation in each segment being shaped such that when the segments are joined along their mating surfaces the indentations cooperate to define a recess able to totally surround a centrifuge tube disposed therein, the mating surface on the first adapter segment having a pair of edges thereon that projects into the recess in the adapter.
15. The adapter of claim 14 wherein the mating surface on the first adapter segment defines a first predetermined angle with respect to a predetermined reference plane while the mating surface on the second adapter segment defines a second predetermined angle with respect to the predetermined reference plane, the reference plane being defined as the plane that contains the axis of the adapter and that lies normal to the line of action along which the segments of the adapter are mated
16. The adapter of claim 15 wherein the centrifuge rotor is a vertical angle rotor, and wherein the adapter segments are fabricated of a material that has sufficient strength to withstand the vertical forces created by the pressure of a liquid under centrifugation.
17. The adapter of claim 14 wherein the centrifuge rotor is a vertical angle rotor, and wherein the adapter segments are fabricated of a material that has sufficient strength to withstand the vertical forces created by the pressure of a liquid under centrifugation.
18. The adapter of claim 17 further comprising at least one hinge connecting the segments and supporting the relative pivotal movement, about a hinge axis, of at least one segment with respect to the other from an open to a mated position, the hinge axis extending perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
19. The adapter of claim 16 further comprising at least one hinge connecting the segments and supporting the relative pivotal movement, about a hinge axis, of at least one segment with respect to the other from an open to a mated position, the hinge axis extending perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
20. The adapter of claim 15 further comprising at least one hinge connecting the segments and supporting the relative pivotal movement, about a hinge axis, of at least one segment with respect to the other from an open to a mated position, the hinge axis extending perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
21. The adapter of claim 14 further comprising at least one hinge connecting the segments and supporting the relative pivotal movement, about a hinge axis, of at least one segment with respect to the other from an open to a mated position, the hinge axis extending perpendicular to the axis of the adapter.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US43264689A | 1989-11-07 | 1989-11-07 | |
| US07/432,646 | 1989-11-07 | ||
| US55263190A | 1990-07-13 | 1990-07-13 | |
| US07/552,631 | 1990-07-13 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2068205A1 true CA2068205A1 (en) | 1991-05-08 |
Family
ID=27029583
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2068205 Abandoned CA2068205A1 (en) | 1989-11-07 | 1990-11-07 | Hinged centrifuge tube adapter |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (2) | EP0718039A2 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH0763655B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2068205A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE69028549T2 (en) |
| IE (1) | IE903997A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1991006373A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5935052A (en) * | 1993-05-27 | 1999-08-10 | Sorvall Products, L.P. | Adapter for centrifuge tube |
| US5422018A (en) * | 1994-01-31 | 1995-06-06 | Applied Imaging | Centrifuge tube and adaptor |
| US5901873A (en) * | 1997-04-25 | 1999-05-11 | Beckman Instruments, Inc. | Self-seating self-sealing labware adapter |
| WO1999046047A2 (en) * | 1998-03-10 | 1999-09-16 | Large Scale Proteomics Corporation | Detection and characterization of microorganisms |
| DE29903564U1 (en) | 1999-02-19 | 1999-08-12 | Schikore, Haro, Dipl.-Chem., 12685 Berlin | Set for biological tests |
| JP5105925B2 (en) | 2007-03-26 | 2012-12-26 | 京セラメディカル株式会社 | Centrifugal device |
| DK2190581T3 (en) | 2007-08-21 | 2013-03-04 | Nalge Nunc Int Corp | Centrifuge bottle closure and assembly thereof |
| EP2269740B1 (en) | 2009-06-30 | 2015-11-04 | Hitachi Koki CO., LTD. | Centrifugal separator |
| JP5333759B2 (en) * | 2009-06-30 | 2013-11-06 | 日立工機株式会社 | centrifuge |
| AT517083B1 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2016-11-15 | Greiner Bio-One Gmbh | Pick-up assembly, especially for a lower intake |
Family Cites Families (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3159298A (en) * | 1962-08-08 | 1964-12-01 | Saw Harold | Combined sealing cap and drinking vessel |
| US3674197A (en) * | 1970-09-08 | 1972-07-04 | Sorvall Inc Ivan | Washing means for flexible bags in split enclosures |
| US3998383A (en) * | 1975-07-16 | 1976-12-21 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Gradient separation apparatus |
| US4304356A (en) * | 1980-02-19 | 1981-12-08 | Beckman Instruments, Inc. | Supporting cap for sealed centrifuge tube |
| US4290550A (en) * | 1980-02-19 | 1981-09-22 | Beckman Instruments, Inc. | Modular supporting cap and spacer for centrifuge tubes |
| US4451250A (en) * | 1982-09-27 | 1984-05-29 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Inside adapter for a sample container |
| US4552278A (en) * | 1984-10-30 | 1985-11-12 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Crimpable capping assembly for a centrifuge tube |
| US4692137A (en) * | 1985-04-03 | 1987-09-08 | Beckman Instruments, Inc. | Split tube centrifuge rotor adapter |
-
1990
- 1990-11-06 IE IE399790A patent/IE903997A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1990-11-07 DE DE69028549T patent/DE69028549T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1990-11-07 WO PCT/US1990/006326 patent/WO1991006373A1/en not_active Ceased
- 1990-11-07 EP EP96102779A patent/EP0718039A2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1990-11-07 CA CA 2068205 patent/CA2068205A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1990-11-07 EP EP91900113A patent/EP0500768B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-11-07 JP JP3500793A patent/JPH0763655B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0500768A1 (en) | 1992-09-02 |
| DE69028549T2 (en) | 1997-04-17 |
| EP0500768B1 (en) | 1996-09-11 |
| DE69028549D1 (en) | 1996-10-17 |
| EP0718039A2 (en) | 1996-06-26 |
| WO1991006373A1 (en) | 1991-05-16 |
| JPH0763655B2 (en) | 1995-07-12 |
| EP0718039A3 (en) | 1996-07-31 |
| JPH05501673A (en) | 1993-04-02 |
| IE903997A1 (en) | 1991-05-08 |
| EP0500768A4 (en) | 1992-10-07 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |