LU501823B1

LU501823B1 - Method for determining a function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed

Info

Publication number: LU501823B1
Application number: LU501823A
Authority: LU
Inventors: Felicia TRUCKENMÜLLER; Johannes Köppern
Original assignee: Dispendix Gmbh
Priority date: 2022-04-10
Filing date: 2022-04-10
Publication date: 2023-10-10

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining a function of a dispensing device, wherein the function is used for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step, wherein the method comprises performing at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps for dispensing liquid from at least one first receptacle, which comprises an inlet opening for inletting a liquid into the at least one first receptacle and an outlet opening for dispensing liquid from the at least one first receptacle when a pressure is applied on the liquid, determining at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by performing at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process and by using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process and determining the function of the dispensing device by using the at least one determined total volume of liquid.

Description

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 1

LU501823

Method for determining a function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed

The invention relates to a method for determining a function of a dispensing device. Additionally, the invention relates to a dispensing system comprising at least one dispensing device for dispensing liquid, a computer program product, a computer readable data carrier and a data carrier signal.

Liquid handling is a fundamental process in many laboratories. In modern life science laboratories, high-throughput liquid handling is frequently needed for the purpose of efficiency. For liquid dispensing at the micro-, nano-, or even picolitre level, the surface adhesion is a fundamental factor that affects the performance. Basically, liquid-dispensing technologies have to overcome surface adhesion and dispense the droplet from the dispensing tool. When the volume is very small, gravity is not sufficient for dropping viscous samples. A variety of methods have been developed to overcome the problem by generating additional driving forces to dispense the droplet. In general, those methods can be classified into two categories: contact and noncontact dispensing, respectively.

In contact dispensing techniques, such as pipetting, a touch-off is necessary to complete the liquid dispensing. When the liquid attaches to a substrate, a drag-back action is done to overcome the surface tension between liquid and the dispensing tip, without which the liquid will not drop.

Contact dispensing is most popular for dispensing samples of small volume from nano- to microliter because of its simplicity, reliability, and low cost. However, reliable dispensing requires an accurate positioning system. Furthermore, special attention must be paid to hard contact, which may damage the dispenser tip by colliding with the container.

In noncontact dispensing techniques, the liquid is ejected from an orifice instead of using a contact between the liquid and the surface container. It reduces or eliminates some disadvantages of contact dispensing mentioned above. In particular, cross-contamination can be avoided. The most common approaches are based on the inkjet printing technology, thereby using different dispensing means, such as solenoid valves, piezoelectric dispensers, acoustic dispensers, electrostatic devices, etc.

Typically, liquid handling refers to small volume dispensing operations, however, at the micro-, nano- or picolitre level, the number of transferred samples can be huge. Under these conditions,

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LU501823 liquid handling by hand can be very time-consuming and, in some cases, impractical.

Consequently, there is a strong demand for automated liquid handling systems. From the prior art, dispensing device are known that comprise a dispensing head by means of which a pressure is applied on a liquid in a receptacle having an outlet opening. Due to the pressure a liquid is dispensed from the receptacle. There exists the need to secure that the dispensed liquid volume corresponds with a predetermined liquid volume independent of several parameters like the receptacle volume and/or the used liquid type. This is in particular important for liquids that are expensive and/or there the available liquid volume is small.

In known devices a function is used to determine the volume of liquid to be dispensed. However, the function is identified for a specific control variable value and/or a predetermined volume of liquid arranged in the receptacle from which the liquid shall be dispensed. As the dispensing device can be operated under control variable values and/or different volumes of liquid arranged in the receptacle it would be necessary to identify several functions. However, the determination of a function is a time-consuming task so that it is accepted that the dispensed volumed does not correspond to the predetermined volume of liquid that should be dispensed.

The object of the invention is to provide a method by means of which a function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed can be determined quickly.

The object is solved by a method for determining a function of a dispensing device, wherein the function is used for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step, wherein the method comprises performing at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps for dispensing liquid from at least one first receptacle, which comprises an inlet opening for inletting a liquid into the at least one first receptacle and an outlet opening for dispensing liquid from the at least one first receptacle when a pressure is applied on the liquid, determining at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by performing at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process and by using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process and

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LU501823 determining the function of the dispensing device by using the at least one determined total volume of liquid.

Another object of the invention is to provide a dispensing system by means of which the function can be determined quickly.

The object is solved by at least one dispensing device, wherein the at least one dispensing device comprises at least one holder for holding at least one carrier comprising at least one first receptacle, which comprises an inlet opening for inletting liquid into the at least one first receptacle and an outlet opening for dispensing liquid from the at least one first receptacle, at least one dispensing head for providing a pressure on the at least one first receptacle for dispensing liquid from the at least one first receptacle, at least one control unit that is configured to act on the at least one dispensing head so that at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps is performed, to determine at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by performing at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process and by using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process and to determine a function of the dispensing device by using the determined at least one total volume of liquid, wherein the function is used for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step.

It has been recognized that the volume of liquid arranged in the receptacle has a significant impact on the accuracy of the dispensing step so that a plurality of functions are needed to ensure an accurate liquid dispensing. The invention has the advantage that a plurality of functions can be identified in an easy and quick manner. This enables that the dispensing device can be used for different volumes of liquid arranged in the receptacle and/or can be operated by different control variable values wherein the volume of dispensed liquid corresponds or basically corresponds with a predetermined volume of liquid that is asked by an operator.

It was realized that the function can be identified in a training mode by using at least two dispensing

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LU501823 processes and a predetermined function. Thereby, the function of the dispensing device can be determined quickly.

Additionally, the invention has the advantage that a plurality of functions can be determined and stored in the control unit of the dispensing device. In particular, functions that are identified for different volumes of liquid arranged in the receptacle from which the liquid is dispensed can be stored in the control unit and/or an electric or electronical memory. This enables that in operation of the dispensing device the function is selected that is assigned to the volume of liquid arranged in the receptacle. Thus, it is secured that the dispensed volume of liquid corresponds or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid to be dispensed independent on the volume of liquid arranged in the receptacle and/or the control variable value. With “basically corresponds” it is meant that it is regarded as sufficient that the volume of dispensed liquid is within a predetermined range around the predetermined volume of liquid.

A function is understood as an assignment of values. This means, a value is assigned to another value because the values are interrelated. The function can be a mathematical equation, however, is not limited to the mathematical equation. For example, a table comprising values which are assigned to each other is also covered by a “function”. The output of the function can be a volume of liquid to be dispensed and/or the function can assign a control variable of the dispensing device to the volume of liquid to be dispensed.

The predetermined number of dispensing steps can be a number of 1 or greater than 1. An operator can enter said number via an input means into the dispensing device. The total volume of liquid is the volume that is dispensed in all dispensing steps performed in the first dispensing process.

The predetermined function is a function that can be stored in the control unit of the dispensing device. An output of the predetermined function is the volume of liquid dispensed per dispensing step. The predetermined function can be identified for a predetermined volume of liquid that is arranged in a receptacle. For the case that the predetermined function is a mathematical equation all coefficients of the function are known and do not have to be determined. The predetermined function can be determined before the inventive method is performed. Additionally, the function to be identified in the inventive method can be assigned to another volume of liquid arranged in a receptacle than the predetermined function.

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LU501823

The receptacle, in particular the first receptacle and/or the second receptacle, is capable of holding and releasing a liquid onto a target plate only when a defined pressure, in particular pressure pulse, is applied on top of the receptacle. In particular, the pressure is applied on the liquid arranged in the receptacle. When there is no pressure pulse applied on the receptacle, no liquid is released since 5 capillary forces keep the liquid in the cavity. That means, no liquid is released due to the atmosphere pressure acting on the liquid.

A receptacle in particular the first and/or second receptacle, can be made out of polymers (e.g., polypropylene), metals (e.g., aluminum, copper) and/or glass. When a pressure, in particular pressure pulse is applied, on top of the receptacle a liquid droplet or liquid jet is released on a target carrier arranged below the receptacle. With “applying pressure on the liquid” it is meant that a pressure being different, in particular higher, than the atmospheric pressure is applied on the liquid.

The receptacle, in particular the first receptacle and/or the second receptacle, can be arranged in a through hole of a carrier, in particular a carrier element, in a releasable manner. That means, the connection between the receptacle and the carrier element can be disconnected without destroying the receptacle and/or the carrier element. Additionally, the receptacle can be inserted into the through hole or removed from the through hole without the use of any tools. Alternatively, the receptacle and the carrier element can be made in one form. In said embodiment each receptacle bottom has at least one outlet opening. Said embodiment can be used if the carrier has 384 or more receptacles.

The carrier can have one or more receptacles. Carriers that have more than one receptacle are also indicated as multiwell plate. In particular, carriers are known that have 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, 384, 1536 and 3456 receptacles. The receptacles are arranged in a matrix structure on the carrier element, in particular in the through holes of the carrier element.

The outlet opening of the receptacle, in particular of the first receptacle and/or the second receptacle, can have a diameter between 60pm (micrometer) and 200um, in particular 100um. The dispensed liquid can be a liquid droplet or a liquid jet and/or have a volume of at least 10 nanoliters.

In particular, the dispensed liquid can have a volume in the range between 10 nanoliters to 100 nanoliters. Larger volumes are achieved by applying up to 100 pulses per second on the receptacle.

The maximum volume of the dispensed liquid per receptacle is the receptacle volume. The receptacle can have a volume between 80 microliters to 800 microliters. The initial volume of liquid

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LU501823 arranged in the receptacle can be between 10 microliters to 500 microliters.

The liquid depends on the usage field of the dispensing device. The liquid can contain at least one biological particle. The biological particles may be microorganisms such as bacteria, archaean, yeast, fungi, and viruses or cells, DNA, RNA, or proteins. The liquid may have a single or multiple of the aforementioned biological particles. The liquid can promote the growth of the biological particles, in particular cells, arranged in the liquid. Alternatively, the liquid can comprise merely liquids, e.g. one or more chemical reagents.

A control variable can be a variable by means of which liquid dispensing is controlled and/or by means of which the volume of liquid to be dispensed can be set. In particular, the control variable can be a time duration over which a valve of the dispensing device is kept open so that pressure is applied on the liquid. The valve can be part of the dispensing device, in particular the dispensing head, and can be fluidically connected to a pressure source. Alternatively, the control variable of the dispensing process can be the pressure to be applied on the liquid. The pressure to be applied on the liquid and the time duration depend on each other. That means, by knowing one of the two values the other value can be determined for a specific dispensing device. The pressure can be time dependent. In particular, the pressure applied on the liquid can be a time dependent function. Thus, the control variable can be a pressure integral.

With “dispensing process” it is meant that the dispensing steps are performed in which the liquid arranged in a receptacle is dispensed. Thus, “first dispensing process” means that several first dispensing steps are performed in which liquid is dispensed from the first receptacle. “Second dispensing process” means that several second dispensing steps are performed in which liquid is dispensed from the second receptacle.

The first dispensing process is dependent on a control variable value. This means, the dispensing process is performed by using the control variable value. For example, a pressure applied on the liquid arranged in the first receptacle can be used in the first dispensing process in order to dispense liquid from the first receptacle. The first dispensing process is performed by using the same control variable value. This means, all dispensing steps can be performed, in particular are performed, by using the same control variable value. Alternatively, it is possible that the first dispensing process is performed by using different control variables. In other words, a part of the first dispensing steps is performed by a control variable value and another part of the first

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LU501823 dispensing steps is performed by another control variable value.

The result of each first dispensing process is that a total volume of liquid is dispensed. This total volume of liquid is determined by among other using a second dispensing process as it is explained below. That means, if several first dispensing processes are performed so that liquid is dispensed in several receptacles, several second dispensing processes have to be performed in order to determine several total volumes of liquid that are arranged in the receptacles into which the liquid is dispensed. The number of second dispensing processes corresponds to the number of first dispensing processes.

The control unit is an electric or electronic unit. The control unit can comprise one or more processors for processing data. Alternatively, the control unit can be a processor for processing data. In particular, the control unit can comprise a printed circuit board. . The control unit can be used for controlling the dispensing device, in particular the dispensing head.

According to an embodiment several first dispensing processes can be performed. The first dispensing processes can comprise a predetermined number of dispensing steps, respectively. The predetermined number of dispensing steps of the first dispensing processes can differ from each other. Additionally or alternatively, the first dispensing processes can differ from each other in the control variable value. That means, the first dispensing processes are dependent on different control variable values, in particular the pressure applied to the liquid arranged in the first receptacles. The total volumes of liquids dispensed in the first dispensing processes depend on the control variable values.

In an embodiment in which several first dispensing processes are performed, several total volumes of liquid are determined. In particular, the total volume of liquid dispensed in each first dispensing process of the several first dispensing processes can be determined. The function can be determined by using the several determined total volumes of liquid. The accuracy of the function increases the more total volumes of liquid are determined.

The predetermined number of dispensing steps can be chosen such that liquid remains in the first receptacle after the dispensing steps of the first dispensing process are performed. Thus, it is ensured that liquid is dispensed in each dispensing step of the first dispensing process. The first receptacle can be filed with a predetermined liquid volume before the dispensing steps are

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LU501823 performed. By knowing the volume of liquid arranged in the first receptacle it is possible to predetermine the number of dispensing steps to be performed in the first dispensing step. This is possible as a range of volume of liquid that is usually dispensed in a dispensing step is known. Thus, the predetermined number of dispensing steps can always be chosen such that a liquid remains in the first receptacle. Additionally or alternatively, it is possible to choose the predetermined number of dispensing steps such that the dispensed liquid volume is in a liquid volume range assigned to the predetermined function. In said case the function result of the predetermined function is accurate.

By filing the first receptacle with a predetermined volume of liquid, the function can be determined in an easy manner as it is explained below.

The first receptacle can be filed with a predetermined liquid volume wherein the predetermined liquid volume is outside a range of liquid volume which is assigned to the predetermined function.

Otherwise, a function is identified by using the method that corresponds or basically corresponds to the predetermined function. Additionally, filling with another liquid volume ensures that the dispensing device operates more accurate as the identified function and the predetermined function cover a larger range of volume of liquid arranged in a receptacle as one function alone. “Assigning” means that the predetermined function was identified for a specific volume of liquid arranged in a receptacle. That means, the predetermined function provides accurate results if the dispensing device comprises a receptacle containing said liquid volume or a volume range comprising said specific liquid volume.

The liquid from the first receptacle can be dispensed into a target receptacle of a target carrier. The target receptacle can be the second receptacle. Alternatively, the target receptacle can be another receptacle than the second receptacle. In said case the volume of dispensed liquid is, in particular manually or automatically, transferred from the target receptacle to the second receptacle before the second dispensing process is performed. The second receptacle can be emptied before the first dispensing process is performed. That means, the second receptacle only contains liquid from the first receptacle after the first dispensing process is performed.

The second receptacle can comprise an inlet opening for inletting liquid into the second receptacle and an outlet opening for dispensing liquid from the second receptacle. Thus, the second receptacle can be formed identical to the first receptacle.

For the case that the carrier has several first receptacles the target carrier has several first

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LU501823 receptacles. In particular, the target receptacle can be assigned to a first receptacle such that only liquid from the assigned first receptacle is dispensed into the target receptacle, in particular the second receptacle.

According to an embodiment in the second dispensing process the liquid from the second receptacle is dispensed into a second target receptacle. The second dispensing process can be dependent on at least one control variable. This means, the dispensing steps of the second dispensing process can be dependent on the same control variable value. Alternatively, a part of the dispensing steps of the second dispensing steps can be dependent on a control variable value and a further part of the dispensing steps of the second dispensing process can be dependent on a further control variable value. For example, different pressures can be applied on the liquid arranged in the second receptacle for controlling the dispensing steps. Using of different control variable values within the same second dispensing process has the advantage that the second receptacle can be faster emptied than if the same control variable value is used for all dispensing steps of the second dispensing process. This results as the volume of liquid dispensed in a dispensing step is dependent on the control variable as it is explained below.

An acquisition device can, in particular automatically, determine whether a liquid is dispensed in the dispensing step of the second dispensing process. Based on said information, in particular the control unit, can determine that and/or when all liquid is dispensed from the second receptacle.

With “automatically” it is meant that the acquisition device can determine itself whether a liquid is dispensed or not. That means, the decision can be taken without an involvement of the operator of the dispensing device. The acquisition device is an electric or electronic device.

The acquisition device can comprise an acquiring whether a liquid is dispensed from the receptacle without to come in physical contact with the liquid. In particular, the acquisition device can optically acquire whether a liquid is dispensed from the receptacle. In that case the acquisition device can comprise a source for emitting a wave, in particular a light beam, and a receiver for receiving the wave, in particular the light beam. The acquisition device can be arranged below the receptacle and/or can be arranged such that the dispensed liquid has to pass between a passage between the source and receiver. This means, the dispensed liquid interrupts the emitted wave, in particular the light beam. Thus, the acquisition device acquires that a liquid is dispensed when the dispensed liquid interrupts the emitted wave, in particular light beam. If the light beam is not interrupted, no liquid is dispensed from the receptacle. Alternatively, other acquisition processes exist by means of

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LU501823 which it is possible to determine whether a liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step.

The acquisition device can be electrically connected with the control unit. In particular, the acquisition device can transmit an acquisition result, in particular whether a liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process, to the control unit. The control unit can trigger the acquisition device to start with the acquisition. In particular, the control unit can trigger the acquisition device to start with acquisition when the control unit acts on the dispensing head of the dispensing device to perform dispensing steps and/or to stop with the dispensing steps. The control unit can trigger the dispensing head such that dispensing steps are performed until the control unit receives from the acquisition device the information that no liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step.

If more receptacles are provided, an acquisition device can be assigned to a receptacle, respectively.

This means, the number of acquisition devices corresponds with the number of receptacles.

As it is explained below more in detail, after performing the dispensing steps of the second dispensing process, the volume of dispensed liquid and the control variable assigned to said volume of dispensed liquid is known for each dispensing step. This information enables to determine the function of the dispensing device as it is explained below more in detail. As the predetermined function assigns the volume of dispensed liquid and the control variable to each other, it is possible that the dispensing steps of the second dispensing process are performed by using different control variable values.

In the first dispensing process it is not necessary to determine whether a liquid is dispensed as the number of dispensing steps of the first dispensing process is predetermined. However, the number of dispensing steps of the second dispensing process is not predetermined so that the acquisition device acquires whether a liquid is dispensed in the dispensing step of the second dispensing process.

In both the first dispensing process and the second dispensing process the control variable value for each dispensing step is known. The at least one control variable value used in the second dispensing process can be identical or different to the control variable value used in the first dispensing process.

According to an embodiment the control unit can determine a volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process by using the predetermined function. As it is

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LU501823 explained below, the determination of the volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step can be performed fast and easy.

The predetermined function can be a polynomial of n-th degree, wherein n is an integer number between 2 to 9, in particular 3. The predetermined function can be independent of the volume of the liquid arranged in the second receptacle. Additionally or alternatively, the predetermined function can be dependent on the control variable, in particular pressure applied to the liquid arranged in the second receptacle. As it is discussed above, the predetermined function is identified for a predetermined range of volume arranged in a receptacle. That means, the function determines in said volume range a volume of dispensed liquid that corresponds or basically corresponds with the actually dispensed volume of liquid. In other words, in said volume range an accurate volume of dispensed liquid can be determined by the control unit.

A predetermined function result of the predetermined function can be calculated by using a polynomial of n-th degree, in particular wherein n is an integer number between 2 to 6, in particular 3. The control variable, in particular pressure applied to the liquid, can be the variable of the polynomial. Thus, by choosing a control variable value, in particular the applied pressure, the function result can be calculated. The function can have the following equation:

F2 = (ao + a1*U +... + an*U") wherein “F2” is a predetermined function result, “u” is a control variable, “ao … an” are the constants of the polynomial of the function and “n” is an integer value.

The dispensing device can comprise a pressure sensor for measuring pressure within the receptacle. In particular, the pressure sensor measures the pressure in a non-liquid area of the receptacle and/or above the liquid. The pressure sensor can be attached on a dispensing line of the dispensing head by means of which the receptacle is applied with pressure.

According to an embodiment the total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process can be determined by using the determined volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process. In particular, the total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process corresponds to the volume of liquid determined by using the predetermined function if one dispensing step is performed in the second dispensing process or the sum of the

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LU501823 volumes of liquid determined by using the predetermined function if several dispensing steps are performed. In the end the total volume that is dispensed in the first dispensing process can be determined in an easy and quick manner.

The volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process can be determined by using the determined total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process and the predetermined number of dispensing steps performed in the first dispensing process. In particular, the volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process can be determined by dividing the determined total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process by the predetermined number of dispensing steps performed in the first dispensing process. In cases in which several first dispensing processes are performed, several volume of liquids dispensed in a dispensing step of one of said several first dispensing processes are determined. As discussed before several first dispensing processes can be performed that differ from each other in the used control variable value. For example, four first dispensing processes can be performed that differ from each other in the pressure applied on the liquid in the respective first receptacle.

After determining the volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process, a data triple is present comprising information about the volume of liquid arranged in the first receptacle, the volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process and the control variable value that was used in the first dispensing process. The data triple is known for each first dispensing process if several first dispensing processes are made. Based on said data the control unit can determine the function for determining the volume of liquid to be dispensed from a receptacle.

Thereto, the at least one coefficient, in particular all coefficients, of the function can be determined on the basis of the determined at least one volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process. The at least one coefficient, in particular all coefficients of the function, is set such that the function result that corresponds with the volume of liquid to be dispensed corresponds or basically corresponds with the determined volume of dispensed liquid. The control unit can determine the at least one coefficient. Alternatively or additionally, a data processing unit comprising one or more processors can determine the at least one coefficient.

The at least one coefficient, in particular all coefficients of the function, can be set such that a

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LU501823 difference between the function result and the determined volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one dispensing process is minimal. In particular, the at least one coefficient can be set such that the difference between the function result and the volume of dispensed liquid is minimal.

Additionally or alternatively the at least one coefficient is determined by using a regression analysis, in particular a least square algorithm. Both options provide an easy possibility to determine the function for determining the volume of liquid to be dispensed. With “basically corresponds” it is meant that it is regarded as sufficient that the volume of liquid to be dispensed is within a predetermined range around the predetermined volume of liquid.

The function can be the same type as the predetermined function. Additionally or alternatively, The function can be a polynomial of n-th degree, wherein n is an integer number between 2 to 9, in particular 3. The function can be independent of the volume of the liquid arranged in the first receptacle. Additionally or alternatively, the function can be dependent on the control variable, in particular pressure applied to the liquid arranged in the first receptacle.

A function result of the function can be calculated by using a polynomial of n-th degree, in particular wherein n is an integer number between 2 to 6, in particular 3. The control variable, in particular pressure applied to the liquid, can be the variable of the polynomial. Thus, by choosing a control variable value, in particular the applied pressure, the function result can be calculated. The function can have the following equation:

F1 = (ao + a1*U +... + An*U") wherein “F1” is a function result, “u” is a control variable, “ao … an” are the constants of the polynomial of the function and “n” is an integer value.

The at least one control unit can act on the at least one dispensing head so that the at least one first dispensing process and/or second dispensing process is performed. In particular, the control unit can act on the dispensing head so that a predetermined number dispensing steps are performed in the second dispensing process. Alternatively, the control unit can act on the dispensing head until the acquisition device acquires that no liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process.

The at least one dispensing device can comprise at least one target carrier holder for a target carrier

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LU501823 comprising at least one target receptacle, in particular the second receptacle, for receiving the liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process. Thus, the dispensing device can comprise two holders for holding the carrier and the target carrier. The holder for receiving the carrier can be adapted such that the holder can receive the target carrier. Thereto, after at least one first dispensing process is performed, the carrier is removed from the holder and the target carrier is inserted into the holder.

This embodiment has the advantage that the function can be determined by using only one dispensing device.

Alternatively, the function can be determined by using at least two, in particular merely two, dispensing devices, namely a first dispensing device and a second dispensing device. Thereto, according to an aspect of the invention a dispensing system is provided that comprises the first dispensing device, the second control device and at least one control unit. The first dispensing device has a first holder for holding the carrier comprising the at least one first receptacle and a first dispensing head for providing a pressure on the first receptacle for dispensing liquid from the first receptacle.

The second dispensing device comprises a second holder for holding the at least one second receptacle, a second dispensing head for providing a pressure on the second receptacle for dispensing liquid from the second receptacle and an acquisition device for, in particular automatically, determining whether a liquid is dispensed.

The at least one control unit can be configured such to act on the first dispensing head so that at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps is performed. The target carrier with the first receptacles can be removed from the first dispensing device and transported to the second dispensing device. The target carrier is inserted into the second holder of the second dispensing device.

Afterwards, the control unit determines at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by acting on the second dispensing head so that the second dispensing process is performed. The at least one second dispensing process comprises at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process. Additionally, the control unit uses a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process. The control unit can determine a function of the first dispensing

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LU501823 device by using the determined at least one total volume of liquid for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step.

The control unit can be a control unit that controls both dispensing devices. Alternatively, the dispensing device can have separate control units wherein the determinations can be performed by at least one of said control units.

The first dispensing device can comprise a pressure sensor for measuring pressure within the first receptacle. The second dispensing device can comprise a further pressure sensor for measuring pressure within the second receptacle. The second dispensing device can comprise the acquisition device for automatically determining whether a liquid is dispensed from a receptacle, in particular the second receptacle. Alternatively, if the function determination shall be performed by merely one dispensing device, said dispensing device comprises the acquisition device.

The second dispensing device can comprise a further target carrier holder for a further target carrier comprising at least one second target receptacle for receiving the liquid dispensed from the second receptacle. The further target carrier can be a multiwell.

It is clear that in the training mode more than one function of the dispensing device can be determined by the control unit. Thereto, several dispensing processes are performed that differ from each other in the volume of liquid that is arranged in the respective first receptacle.

A function that is determined in the aforementioned manner can be used in an operation mode of the dispensing device. That means, the function can be used in an operation dispensing process for setting a volume of liquid to be dispensed by the dispensing device. The operation mode differs from the training mode discussed above in that in the operation mode the function determined in the training mode is used whereas in the training mode the function is determined.

In the operation mode of the dispensing device the volume of liquid to be dispensed can be set such that it corresponds or basically corresponds with a predetermined volume of liquid. Thereto, the control variable, in particular pressure applied to the liquid, is set such that the volume of liquid dispensed in the dispensing step corresponds with or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid. The predetermined volume of liquid can be provided by the operator of the dispensing device.

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LU501823

The control variable, in particular pressure applied to the liquid, can be the control variable of the setting process. That means, the control unit determines the control variable, in particular pressure to be applied to the liquid, such that the volume of liquid to be dispensed or that is dispensed in a operation dispensing process corresponds with or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid. Thus, the control of the operation dispensing process is easy as the control unit has to identify a control variable, in particular a pressure value, that leads to that the volume of liquid to be dispensed corresponds with or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid. With “basically corresponds” it is meant that it is regarded as sufficient that the volume of liquid to be dispensed is within a predetermined range around the predetermined volume of liquid.

The control variable, in particular pressure to be applied to the liquid, can be determined on the basis of a predetermined volume of the liquid to be dispensed. Using a polynomial has the advantage that the control variable value, in particular the pressure applied on the liquid, can easily be determined so that the determined volume of liquid to be dispensed corresponds or basically corresponds with a predetermined volume of liquid. The determination of the control variable is particularly easy if the function is an inverse function. The provision of an inverse function, in particular polynomial, has the advantage that the control variable value, in particular pressure to be applied on the liquid, can be calculated very accurate. This is possible as in the inverse function the function can be solved for the control variable value, in particular pressure to be applied on the liquid. Thus, in particular only, said parameter has to be set in order to receive a wished volume of liquid that is dispensed in the operation dispensing process.

According to an aspect of the invention at least one dispensing device, in particular two dispensing devices are used in a method according to the invention.

According to a further aspect of the invention a computer program product is provided wherein the computer program product comprises instructions which, in particular when the program is executed by the control unit, cause that the dispensing system executes the steps of the inventive method. In particular, the control unit can cause the dispensing device to carry out the steps of the inventive method. Additionally, a computer-readable data carrier is provided wherein the computer- readable data carrier has stored thereon the computer program product. Also a data carrier signal is provided wherein the data carrier signal carries the computer program product.

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 17

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In the figures, the subject matter of the invention is shown schematically, with identical or similarly acting elements being mostly provided with the same reference signs. Therein shows:

Fig. 1 a cross section view of a part of a dispensing device,

Fig.2 a cross section view of a dispensing system with a part of a further dispensing device according to a first embodiment,

Fig. 3 across section view of a dispensing system with a part of two dispensing devices according to a second embodiment,

Fig. 4 a flow chart of the method for setting the volume of liquid to be dispensed, wherein the method is performed in the dispensing device according to the first or second embodiment,

Fig. 5 a flow chart showing the determination of the function according to the invention and

Fig. 6 a perspective view of a part of a dispensing device.

Fig. 1 shows a cross section of a part of a dispensing device 5 according to a first embodiment. In particular, fig. 1 shows a hollow dispensing line 15 of a dispensing head 8. The dispensing head 8 is arranged in its dispensing position in which a dispensing line 15 is arranged on a first receptacle 2 comprising liquid 1. Thus, the dispensing head 8 is not in direct contact with the liquid 1. The dispensing head 8 comprises a seal 16 that is arranged between the dispensing line 15 and the receptacle. Additionally, the dispensing is electrically connected with a non-shown control unit. The control unit can control at least one valve arranged in the dispensing head for applying the pressure to the liquid arranged in the receptacle.

The first receptacle 2 is arranged on a carrier 7 and comprises an outlet opening 4 at its bottom.

Additionally, the first receptacle 2 comprises an inlet opening 3 through which liquid 1 can be inserted into the first receptacle 2. The inlet opening 3 and the outlet opening 4 are arranged at ends of the first receptacle 2 that are opposite to each other.

By applying a pressure on the liquid 1 by means of the dispensing line 15 a droplet is dispensed

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 18

LU501823 from the first receptacle 2. The pressure apply is indicated by the arrow in figure 1. The pressure enters the receptacle via the inlet opening 3. A pressure sensor 10 is attached on the dispensing line 15. The pressure sensor 10 is configured to measure the pressure arranged in the area of the receptacle that is arranged above the liquid. Additionally, it is possible to measure a time duration in which the pressure is applied to the liquid 1. In order to apply a pressure on the liquid a non-shown valve is opened.

Fig. 2 shows a cross section of a dispensing system 20 with a part of a dispensing device 5 according to a second embodiment. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the structure of the carrier 7. The carrier 7 does not have a first receptacle 2 that can be released from the carrier 7. The first receptacle 2 and the carrier 7 are formed as one part. Each of the first receptacles 2 has the outlet opening 4 at its bottom. Likewise, to the embodiment shown in fig. 1, the outlet opening 4 has such a size that capillary forces are so high that liquid 1 cannot flow out of the first receptacle 2 if no pressure is applied on the liquid by means of the dispensing head 8. As is evident from fig. 2, the control unit 9 is connected to the dispensing head 8.

The dispensing device 5 comprises several acquisition devices 17. Each of the acquisition devices 17 comprises a source 18 for emitting a light beam and receiver 19 for receiving the emitted light beam. The acquisition device 17 is arranged below the carrier 7 and a holder 6 for holding the carrier 7. In particular, the acquisition device 17 is attached to the lower surface of the holder 6 that faces a target carrier 12 discussed below.

The acquisition device 17 is arranged such that a dispensed liquid passes between the source 18 and the receiver 19 and, thus, interrupts the non-shown light beam. Thus, the acquisition device 17 acquires that a liquid is dispensed from the first receptacle 2. Each of the first receptacles 2 of the carrier 7 is assigned to an acquisition device 17. Thus, the number of acquisition devices 17 corresponds with the number of first receptacles 2 from which liquid is dispensed. The acquisition devices 17 are electrically connected to the control unit 9.

A target carrier 12 is arranged below the carrier 7. The target carrier 12 comprises a plurality of second receptacles 13 for receiving the liquid dispensed from first receptacles 2 of the carrier 7. A target carrier holder 11 is provided that holds the target carrier 12. The target carrier holder 11 moves the target carrier 12 relative to the carrier 7. The control unit 9 is electrically connected with the target carrier holder 11.

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LU501823

The second receptacle 13 comprises likewise to the first receptacle 2 an outlet opening 4 and an inlet opening 3. Additionally, likewise to the first receptacle 2, liquid arranged in the second receptacle 13 cannot flow out the second receptacle 13 due to gravity force.

The dispensing head 8, the carrier 7 and the target carrier 12 can move relative to each other. The control unit 9 controls the movement of at least one of said components with respect to the remaining components.

As is described below more in detail, the control unit 9 is adapted to perform at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps for dispensing liquid from at least one first receptacle 2. Additionally, the control unit 9 is adapted to determine at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by performing at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle 13 comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process and by using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process. Additionally, the control unit 9 is adapted to determine the function of the dispensing device 5 by using the at least one determined total volume of liquid.

Fig. 3 shows a cross section view of a dispensing system 20 with a part of two dispensing devices, namely a first dispensing device 5a and a second dispensing device 5b according to the second embodiment. The two dispensing devices differ from each other in that the first dispensing device 5a does not comprise an acquisition device 17. The second dispensing device 5b comprises an acquisition device 17 and has the same structure as the dispensing device 5 shown in fig. 2.

However, in fig. 2 no carrier is arranged in the second holder 6b of the second dispensing device 5b.

The control unit 9 is electrically connected to both dispensing devices 5a, 5b and thus controls both dispensing devices 5a, 5b. The electrical connection is indicated by the dotted lines in figure 4. In both embodiments, the control unit 9 stores a predetermined function by means of which the volume of liquid dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing device 5b can be calculated.

Fig. 4 shows a flow chart of the method for setting the volume of liquid to be dispensed according to

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 20

LU501823 the invention wherein the method is performed in the dispensing device 5 according to the first or second embodiment. In particular, an operation mode of the dispensing device 5 is explained below.

In a first step S1 the user enters the predetermined volume of liquid 1 to be dispensed into the dispensing device 5 and the volume of liquid that is arranged in at least one first receptacle 2.

Thereto, the dispensing device 5 can have an input means like a keyboard and/or touch display. The user can enter one volume of liquid to be dispensed by each receptacle. Alternatively, it is possible to enter a volume of liquid to be dispensed separate for each receptacle 2.

In a second step S2, a control unit 9 sets a volume of liquid 1 to be dispensed by considering the entered, predetermined volume of liquid to be dispensed. In particular, the control unit 9 sets the volume of liquid 1 to be dispensed such that it corresponds or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid 1 that was entered in the first step S1. Thereto, the control unit 9 controls the dispensing head 8 such that a control variable, in particular the applied pressure or the time duration over which the valve is kept open, is set such so that the determined volume of liquid that is dispensed corresponds or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid.

The pressure can be time dependent. In particular, the pressure applied on the liquid can be a time dependent function. Thus, the control variable can be a pressure integral.

In the following, it is explained more in detail how the volume of liquid to be dispensed is set by the control unit 9. A possibility is to use a function, in particular a polynomial, to calculate the volume of liquid to be dispensed. In particular, the following equation is used to calculate the volume of liquid to be dispensed:

F1 = (ap + ar*u + az*u? + as*u3) wherein "F1” is the function result and corresponds with the volume of liquid to be dispensed, “u” is the control variable, “ao ... az” are the constants of the polynomial.

The coefficients of the function are determined in a training mode explained below. In addition to the predetermined function at least one function is stored in the control unit. The stored functions are assigned to different ranges of volume arranged in the first receptacle. The control unit choose in the second step S2 the stored function that is assigned to the volume of liquid provided by the operator in the first step S1.

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LU501823

The training mode is made in a step SO that is previous to the first step S1 and is explained in figure more in detail. The function result F1 is calculated by using a polynomial of 3" degree wherein the pressure u applied on the liquid 1 is the variable of the polynom. Alternatively, polynoms with other 5 degree may be used.

The control unit sets the control variable u applied to liquid 2 such that the calculated volume of liquid F1 to be dispensed corresponds or basically corresponds with the predetermined volume of liquid to be dispensed that was entered in the first step S1. As the function is an inverse function the control unit 9 can easily determine the control variable u.

In a third step S3 the control unit 9 acts on the dispensing head 8 such that the determined pressure is applied on the liquid 2. This leads to that liquid is dispensed from the receptacle wherein the dispensed liquid has the volume of liquid to be dispensed that was determined in the second step sa.

Fig. 5 a flow chart showing the determination of the function in the training mode of the dispensing device. The determination can be performed by the dispensing system as shown in fig. 2 or in fig. 3.

In both dispensing systems 20 shown in fig. 2 or fig. 3, in a first substep S01 the operator of the dispensing device 5 provides the volume of liquid arranged in the first receptacle 2, the predetermined number of dispensing steps that shall be performed in the first dispensing process and a control variable value, in particular, a pressure to be applied on the liquid arranged in the first receptacle 2. Alternatively, the control variable value can be predetermined so that there is no need that the value is provided by the operator. The number of dispensing steps is chosen such that liquid remains in the receptacle after the first dispensing process is performed. In other words, after the first dispensing process is performed, the receptacle 2 still contains liquid 1. The liquid 1 is dispensed from the first receptacle 2 into the second receptacle 13. In particular, the liquid is dispensed into the second receptacle 13 that is assigned to the first receptacle 2.

In a second substep S02 a second dispensing process is performed. Thereto, in the dispensing system shown in fig. 2 the carrier 7 is removed from the holder 6 and is inserted into the holder 6 of the same dispensing device 5. Additionally, a non-shown further target carrier is inserted into the target carrier holder 11. The further target carrier can comprise further target receptacles that do

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 22

LU501823 not have an outlet opening. The further target receptacles of the further target carrier receive the liquid dispensed in the second dispensing process.

Afterwards, the control unit 9 acts on the dispensing head 8 so that a second dispensing process is performed wherein the second dispensing process comprises a plurality of dispensing steps. The acquisition device 17 acquires whether a liquid is dispensed from the second receptacle 13. The dispensing process is performed by using a control variable value that can predetermined and/or provided by the operator. After the acquisition device 17 acquires that no liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step the control unit 9 act on the dispensing head to stop the second dispensing process.

In the dispensing system 20 shown in fig. 3 the target carrier 12 is removed from the first target carrier holder 11a of the first dispensing device 5a and is inserted into the second holder 6b of the second dispensing device 5b. As is shown from fig. 3 the further target carrier 22 having receptacles 20 without an opening is arranged in the second target carrier holder 11b.

Afterwards, the control unit 9 acts on the second dispensing head 8 so that a second dispensing process is performed wherein the second dispensing process comprises a plurality of dispensing steps. The acquisition device 17 acquires whether a liquid is dispensed from the second receptacle 13. The dispensing process is performed by using a control variable value that is entered by the operator of the dispensing device 5 and/or that is predetermined. After the acquisition device 17 acquires that no liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step the control unit 9 act on the dispensing head to stop the second dispensing process.

The control unit 9 determines in a third substep S03 a total volume of liquid that is dispensed in the second dispensing step. Said total volume of liquid corresponds to the total volume of liquid that is dispensed in the first dispensing process. For determining the total volume of liquid dispensed in the second dispensing process, the control uses a predetermined function. The function is specified by the following equation:

F2 = (ao + ar*u + az*u? + as*u3) wherein "F2” is the function result and corresponds with the volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process, “u” is the control variable, “ao … a3” are the constants of the polynomial.

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The function result corresponds with the volume of liquid that is dispensed in one dispensing step of the second dispensing process. Thus, for both embodiments shown in fig. 2 and fig. 3, the control unit 9 calculates the total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process by summing the determined volumes of liquid dispensed the several dispensing steps.

In a next fourth substep S04 the volume of liquid dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process is calculated by the control unit. Thereto, the determined total volume of liquid is divided by the predetermined number of dispensing steps performed in the first dispensing process.

The aforementioned substeps are performed for all first dispensing processes when more several first dispensing processes are performed. Thus, the control unit 9 determines several volumes of liquid dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process.

After the volumes of liquids per dispensing step in each of the first dispensing processes is identified, the control unit 9 or another non-shown data processing unit determines the function of the dispensing device 5. This is done in a fifth substep S05. Thereto, the coefficients “ao … an” of the polynomial function discussed above are determined. The control unit 9 sets the coefficients such that a difference between the function result and the determined volume of liquid dispensing in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process is minimal. If more than two volumes of dispensed liquids are determined, said volumes of dispensed liquids are also considered for identifying the coefficients of the function. Alternatively or additionally, a regression analysis can be performed in order to identify the functions coefficients. After performing the fifth substep S05 the coefficients of the function are determined.

For the sake of completeness, the aforementioned function is assigned to a predetermined volume of liquid that is arranged in a receptacle. If the dispensing device shall be used for other liquid volumes arranged in the first receptacle the substeps S01 to S05 have to be repeated in order to identify at least one further function that is assigned to said liquid volume.

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a part of a dispensing device 5 for dispensing liquid located in a receptacle 2, wherein the view shows more details of the dispensing device 5 than in the figures 1-3.

All the dispensing devices shown in fig. 1-3 can be formed like the dispensing device 5 shown in fig.

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 24

LU501823 6.

The dispensing device 5 comprises a dispensing head 8. The dispensing head 8 is configured to dispense liquid located in the receptacle 2. Thereto, the dispensing head 8 has a pneumatic system including one or more valves (not shown in the figure) by means of which at least one receptacle 2 or several receptacles 2 can be provided with an impulse pressure that causes the liquid to drop from the outlet opening 4 of the respective receptacle 2.

Also, the device 5 comprises a holder 6, in which the carrier 7 is mounted in a detachable manner.

The dispensing head 8 is moveable relative to the holder 6 by means of a motor system (not shown in the figure). In particular, the dispensing head 8 can be moved relative to the carrier 7 so that the liquid of different receptacles 2 can be dispensed in sequence. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that the carrier 7 and/or the holder 6 moves relative to the dispensing head 8.

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Reference Signs 1 liquid 2 first receptacle 3 inlet opening 4 outlet opening 5 dispensing device 5a first dispensing device 5b second dispensing device 6 holder 6a first holder 6b second holder 7 carrier 8 dispensing head 8a first dispensing head 8b second dispensing head 9 control unit 10 pressure sensor 11 target carrier holder 11a first target carrier holder 11b second target carrier holder 12 target carrier 13 second receptacle 15 dispensing line 16 seal 17 acquisition device 18 source 19 receiver 20 further target receptacle 22 further target carrier

F1 function result of the function

F2 function result of the predetermined function an coefficient of function u control variable

Claims

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 26 LU501823 Patent Claims

1. Method for determining a function of a dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b), wherein the function is used for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step, wherein the method comprises performing at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps for dispensing liquid from at least one first receptacle (2), which comprises an inlet opening (3) for inletting a liquid (1) into the at least one first receptacle (2) and an outlet opening (4) for dispensing liquid from the at least one first receptacle (2) when a pressure is applied on the liquid, determining at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by performing at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle (13) comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process and by using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process and determining the function of the dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) by using the at least one determined total volume of liquid.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that several first dispensing processes are performed wherein a. the first dispensing processes comprises a predetermined number of dispensing steps respectively and/or wherein b. the first dispensing processes are dependent on different control variable values.

3. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that several total volumes of liquid are determined.

4. Method according to claim 3, characterized in that the function is determined by using the several determined total volumes of liquid.

5. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a. the predetermined number of dispensing steps is chosen such that liquid (1) remains in the first receptacle (2) after the at least one first dispensing process is performed

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 27 LU501823 and/or in that b. the first receptacle (2) is filed with a predetermined liquid volume before the first dispensing process is performed and/or in that

C. the first receptacle (2) is filed with a predetermined liquid volume wherein the predetermined liquid volume is outside a range of liquid volume which is assigned to the predetermined function.

6. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that a. the liquid from the first receptacle (2) is dispensed into a target receptacle, in particular the second receptacle (13), and/or in that b. the first receptacle (2) is assigned to a target receptacle, in particular a second receptacle (13).

7. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 6, characterized in that in the second dispensing process the liquid (1) from the second receptacle (13) is dispensed into a second target receptacle (20).

8. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a. the second dispensing process is dependent on at least one control variable value and/or in that b. it is, in particular automatically, determined whether a liquid (1) is dispensed in the dispensing step of the second dispensing process.

9. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process is determined by using the predetermined function.

10. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the predetermined function is at least one polynomial of n-th degree, wherein n is an integer number between 2 to 9, in particular 3.

11. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 10, characterized in that a. the predetermined function is independent of the volume of the liquid arranged in the first receptacle (2) and/or in that

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 28 LU501823 b. the predetermined function is dependent of the control variable of the second dispensing process and/or in that

C. the predetermined function is identified for a predetermined range of volume arranged in a receptacle.

12. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the predetermined function has the following equation F2 = (ao + a1*u +... + An*U") wherein “F2” is a function result of the predetermined function, “u” is a control variable of the second dispensing process, “ao … an” are the constants of the polynomial of the predetermined function and “n” is an integer value.

13. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process is determined by using the determined volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process.

14. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process is determined by using the determined total volume of liquid dispensed in the first dispensing process and the predetermined number of dispensing steps performed in the first dispensing process.

15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that a. at least one coefficient, in particular all coefficients, of the function is determined by using the at least one determined volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process or in that b. at least one coefficient, in particular all coefficients, of the function of the dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) is determined by using the at least one determined volume of dispensed liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step of the first dispensing process and the control variable value used in the first dispensing process.

16. Method according to claim 15, characterized in that a. the at least one coefficient is set such that a difference between a function result and

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 29 LU501823 the at least one volume of liquid that is dispensed in a dispensing step is minimal and/or in that b. the at least one coefficient is determined by using a regression analysis, in particular a least square algorithm.

17. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 16, characterized in that a. the function is at least one polynomial of n-th degree, wherein n is an integer number between 2 to 9, in particular 3 and/or in that b. the function is of the same type as the predetermined function.

18. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 17, characterized in that a. the function is independent of the volume of the liquid arranged in the first receptacle (2) and/or in that b. the function is dependent of the control variable of the first dispensing process.

19. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the function has the following equation F1 = (ao + a1*U +... + An*U") wherein “F1” is a function result of the function, “u” is a control variable of the first dispensing process, “ao … an” are the constants of the polynomial of the function and “n” is an integer value.

20. Method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 19, characterized in that in an operation mode of the dispensing device the determined function is used in an operation dispensing process for setting the volume of liquid to be dispensed.

21. Method according to claim 20, characterized in that a. the volume of liquid to be dispensed by the dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) is set such that it corresponds to or basically corresponds to a predetermined volume of liquid and/or in that b. the control variable of the dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) is set such that the volume of liquid dispensed in the dispensing step corresponds with a predetermined volume of

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 30 LU501823 liquid.

22. Dispensing system (20) comprising at least one dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b), in particular for executing a method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 21, wherein the at least one dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) comprises at least one holder (6, 6a, 6b) for holding at least one carrier (7) comprising at least one first receptacle (2), which comprises an inlet opening (3) for inletting liquid (1) into the at least one first receptacle (2) and an outlet opening (4) for dispensing liquid (1) from the at least one first receptacle (2), at least one dispensing head (8, 8a, 8b) for providing a pressure on the at least one first receptacle (2) for dispensing liquid (1) from the at least one first receptacle (2), at least one control unit (9) that is configured to act on the at least one dispensing head (8, 8a, 8b) so that at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps is performed, to determine at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by performing at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle (13) comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process and by Using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process and to determine a function of the dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) by using the determined at least one total volume of liquid, wherein the function is used for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step.

23. Dispensing system (20) according to claim 22, characterized in that the at least one control unit (9) acts on the at least one dispensing head (8, 8a, 8b) so that the at least one second dispensing process is performed.

24. Dispensing system (20) according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the at least one dispensing device (5) comprises at least one target carrier holder (11) for a target carrier (12) comprising at least one target receptacle, in particular the second receptacle (12), for receiving the liquid (1) dispensed in the first dispensing process.

25. Dispensing system (20) according to at least one of the claims 23 to 24, characterized in that the dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) comprises an acquisition device (17) for automatically determining

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 31 LU501823 whether a liquid is dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process.

26. Dispensing system (20) according to at least one of the claims 22 to 25, characterized in that the dispensing system (20) comprises a first dispensing device (5a), which has a first holder (6a) for holding the at least one first receptacle (2) and a first dispensing head (8a) for providing a pressure on the first receptacle (2) for dispensing liquid from the first receptacle (2), and a second dispensing device (5b), which comprises a second holder (6b) for holding the at least one second receptacle (13), a second dispensing head (8b) for providing a pressure on the second receptacle (13) for dispensing liquid from the second receptacle (13) and an acquisition device (17) for, in particular automatically, determining whether a liquid is dispensed in the dispensing step of the second dispensing process, and at least one control unit (9) that is configured to act on the first dispensing head (8a) so that at least one first dispensing process comprising a predetermined number of dispensing steps is performed, to determine at least one total volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process by acting on the second dispensing head (8b) so that at least one second dispensing process comprising at least one dispensing step for dispensing liquid from at least one second receptacle (13) comprising the volume of liquid dispensed in the at least one first dispensing process is performed and by using a predetermined function for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step of the second dispensing process and to determine a function of the first dispensing device (5a) by using the determined at least one total volume of liquid, wherein the function is used for determining a volume of liquid to be dispensed in a dispensing step.

27. Dispensing system (20) according to claim 26, characterized in that the second dispensing device (5b) comprises a second target carrier holder (11b) for a further target carrier (22) comprising at least one second target receptacle (20) for receiving the liquid dispensed from the second receptacle (13).

28. Using at least one dispensing device (5, 5a, 5b) in a method according to at least one of the claims 1 to 21.

10.04.2022 005A0012LU 32 LU501823

29. Computer program product comprising instructions which cause that the dispensing system of at least one of the claims 22 to 27 executes the method steps according to at least one of the claims 1 to 21.

30. Computer-readable data carrier having stored thereon the computer program product of claim 29.

31. Data carrier signal carrying the computer program product of claim 29.