Method and apparatus for precision changing of micropipettes

摘要

A semi-automated method of replacing micropipettes using a micromanipulator is disclosed. A first micropipette is moved at a known angle from a work position to a distal position under automatic control of the micromanipulator. A replacement micropipette is then mounted in the micromanipulator and is moved under automatic control to a position proximate to the work position. The distance between the work position and the proximate position is substantially equal to the range of manufacturing variability of the micropipettes. The second micropipette is then moved by manual control of the micromanipulator from the proximate position to the work position by moving it in a linear path along the known angle so that the final approach to the work position can be visually monitored.