CPC Definition - Subclass B01L

Last Updated Version: 2023.08
CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
Relationships with other classification places
  • Apparatus for medical or pharmaceutical purposes — A61
  • Apparatus for industrial purposes or laboratory apparatus whose construction and performance are comparable to that of similar industrial apparatus. See the relevant classes for industrial apparatus, particularly subclasses of classes B01 or C12.
  • Separating or distilling apparatus — B01D
  • Mixing or stirring devices — B01F
  • Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology — C12M
  • Microorganisms or enzymes; Compositions thereof; Propagating, preserving or maintaining microorganisms; Mutation or genetic engineering; Culture media —C12N
  • Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions or test papers therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions; Condition-responsive control in microbiological or enzymological processes — C12Q
  • Atomisers — B05B
  • Sieves — B07B
  • Corks or bungs — B65D
  • Handling liquids in general — B67
  • Vacuum pumps — F04
  • Tubes or tube joints — F16L
  • Apparatus specially adapted for investigating or analysing materials — G01, particularly G01N
  • Electrical or optical apparatus — see the relevant classes in sections G and H
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology

C12M

Microorganisms or enzymes; Compositions thereof; Propagating, preserving or maintaining microorganisms; Mutation or genetic engineering; Culture media

C12N

Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions or test papers therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions; Condition-responsive control in microbiological or enzymological processes

C12Q

Apparatus specially adapted for investigating or analysing materials

G01, G01N

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus for medical or pharmaceutical purposes

A61

Mixing or stirring devices

B01F

Atomisers

B05B

Sieves

B07B

Corks or bungs

B65D

Handling liquids in general

B67

Vacuum pumps

F04

Siphons

F04F 10/00

Taps or stop-cocks

F16K

Tubes or tube joints

F16L

Special rules of classification

Classification Rules:

Groups B01L 1/00B01L 99/00 are given for invention information, i.e. the information is such that, if you do a search on this subject-matter, it is important to see the document. The definitions below give guidance as to scope and limits of the respective groups. Additional information is classified with Indexing symbols in the range B01L 1/00B01L 99/00. These symbols are used with or without a group in B01L. In addition to a group in B01L, indexing symbols in the range B01L 2200/00B01L 2400/00 are applied where possible to all documents classified in B01L. Indexing symbols B01L 2200/00B01L 2400/00 are not used for documents without a group in B01L. Also, if documents have only an indexing symbol in the range B01L 1/00B01L 99/00, no Indexing symbol is used.

Double classification:

Often double classification will be necessary, also within B01L itself. For example, in documents relating to sample containers it might be that a document is classified for sample taking in A61B 10/0045, for sample storage, in B01L 3/50, and for a specific analysis technique, in G01N.

Enclosures; Chambers (provided with manipulation devices or glove boxes B25J 21/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Chambers, enclosures, rooms and cupboards for laboratory use which have no specific application.

Air-pressure chambers.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Chambers provided with manipulation devices, glove boxes

B25J 21/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fume cupboards

B08B

Cooling chambers

F25D

Air-pressure chambers; Air-locks therefor
Definition statement

This place covers:

Incubator or conditioning cabinet not otherwise provided for. Doors and bayonet designs.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glove boxes

B25J

Vacuum locks for discharge tubes

H01J 37/18

{Environmental chambers (incubators for culturing cells C12M 41/14; test chambers to test weather resistance G01N 17/002)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Closed chambers, not otherwise provided for, to provide a defined environment such as temperature, pressure, humidity and other gas concentrations, climate chambers.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Incubators for culturing cells

C12M 41/14

Test chambers to test weather resistance

G01N 17/002

Dust-free rooms or enclosures
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Treatment rooms for medical purposes

A61G 10/00

Clean rooms for industrial use

F24F 3/167

Ventilation

F24F 7/00

{for storing hazardous materials in the laboratory, e.g. cupboards, waste containers (sample containers B01L 3/50)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Enclosures or chambers for storing hazardous materials in the laboratory.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sample containers

B01L 3/50

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Refuse receptacles

B65F 1/00

Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Simple fluid transfer means, such as tubes, valves or fittings.

Various containers, in particular for sample or reagent storage also comprising microfluidic structures.

Droppers comprising various fluid dispensing means such as pipettes, burettes and droplet dispensers.

Spatulas.

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Petri dishes

C12M 1/22

Tube or bottle type

C12M 1/24

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Chemical reactors

B01J 19/00

Bottles

B65D

Culturing devices

C12M 23/02

Receptacles for volumetric purposes

G01F

Analysis of a material

G01N

Special rules of classification

Due to the diversity of the subgroups in this group the head group is only rarely used to classify. It is preferred to use all relevant main groups instead.

Burettes; Pipettes
Definition statement

This place covers:

Burettes, pipettes, pipette tips, droplet counters, droplet dispensers (droppers), and other laboratory devices to withdraw and discharge a liquid.

Relationships with other classification places

This class relates to generally to manually operated devices, but is not restricted to hand held devices. Automation of pipetting stations is classified in G01N 35/10.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Manual dosing

B05B

Closures with discharging devices

B65D 47/00

Dispensing not otherwise provided for

B67D

Repeated volume dosing of fluids in general

G01F 11/00

Dispensing of fluids in automatic analysers

G01N 35/10

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Pipette

Means with one port

Burette

Means with two ports

Dropper

Means to dispense the liquid dropwise

{Burettes, i.e. for withdrawing and redistributing liquids through different conduits}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Burettes, i.e. for withdrawing and redistributing liquids through different conduits.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

If the volume dispensed is droplet sized

B01L 3/0241

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Medical burettes

A61M 5/1412

{Pipettes, i.e. with only one conduit for withdrawing and redistributing liquids}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Pipettes, i.e. with only one conduit for withdrawing and redistributing liquids.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

If the volume dispensed is droplet sized

B01L 3/0241

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pipette type sampler or inoculator for cell handling

C12M 33/04

Special rules of classification

If used to fill standard multiwell plates use B01L 2300/0829.

{Accessories for glass pipettes; Gun-type pipettes, e.g. safety devices, pumps}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group covers accesories for (traditional) glass pipettes, such as safety devices to protect the user from inhaling hazardous fluids or pumps. This group also encompasses gun-type pipettors.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Gun type pipettors in general

G01F 11/026

{of the plunger pump type (medical syringes A61M)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Piston or plunger-type pipettes.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Medical syringes

A61M 5/178

Fluid dosing with measuring chambers in general

G01F 11/02

{Capillary pipettes, i.e. having very small bore (B01L 3/0224 - B01L 3/0237 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Pipettes where a piston or plunger is moved within a capillary.

Relationships with other classification places

Pipettes having a capillary needle but no plunger within the capillary are not classified here, use Indexing Code B01L 2300/0838 in combination with appropriate group in B01L 3/02 instead.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Capillary pipette without piston

B01L 3/021, B01L 3/0241

Pippetes having mechanical means to set stroke length

B01L 3/0224

Details of electronic control, e.g. relating to user interface

B01L 3/0237

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Microinjections

C12N 15/89

{having several coaxial pistons}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Plunger pipettes with coaxial pistons. This group does NOT cover multiple parallel plungers.

{Repeating pipettes, i.e. for dispensing multiple doses from a single charge}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Drop counters; Drop formers

B01L 3/0241

{Drop counters; Drop formers (making arrays for combinatorial libraries B01J 19/0046; automation of dispensing for analysis G01N 35/10)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Droplet dispensers and droplet counters. This group covers the constructional details of the dispensing part itself not the automation aspects.

Relationships with other classification places

The integration into automated systems is classified for instance in G01N 35/10 and B01J 19/0046

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Making arrays for combinatorial libraries

B01J 19/0046

Spraying or atomising in general

B05B

Printing

B41J

Automation of dispensing for analysis

G01N 35/10

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for dispensing and evacuation of reagents to make chemical libraries

B01J 2219/00351

Microinjections

C12N 15/89

Investigating characteristics of particles

G01N 15/00

Special rules of classification

If used to fill standard multiwell plates use B01L 2300/0829.

{using pins}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Droplet dispensers using pins.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Nibs, quills, pens for writing and drawing

B43K 1/00

Special rules of classification

Use B01L 2400/02 for details of printing action.

{using stamps}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stamps in general

B41K

{using touch-off at substrate or container}
Definition statement

This place covers:

In touch-off dispensers the liquid contacts the target surface while it still hangs at the dispenser thus leading to a bridge between the two bodies. Capillary forces draw the liquid subsequently, at least in part, to the target surface.

{using pulse dispensing or spraying, eg. inkjet type, piezo actuated ejection of droplets from capillaries}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ink jet printing of ink

B41J 2/01

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Nozzles and apparatus for spraying or atomising in general

B05B 1/00

nebulizers for MS after chromatography

G01N 30/724

Introducing samples into mass spectrometers

H01J 49/04

{Dropper bottles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Eye dropper

A61F 9/0026

Packaging container closures with dropper

B65D 47/18

{Interchangeable or disposable dispensing tips}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Pipette tips, note that the subgroup also covers ejection means for pipette tips.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pipette tip racks

B01L 9/543

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "chip (in English translations of Japanese documents)" and " (pipette) tips"
{co-operating with positive ejection means}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Pipette tip ejectors.

Relationships with other classification places

Note that this is not restricted to the features of the tip itself but can also relate to the ejection mechanism of the pipette.

{mounted within a receptacle (wash bottles B01L 3/10)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Eye dropper

A61F 9/0026

{Apparatus for withdrawing or distributing predetermined quantities of fluid (B01L 3/02 takes precedence; sample taking G01N 1/00; sample taking within automatic analysers G01N 35/00; volume measuring in general G01F)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Fluid handling apparatus not provided for in B01L 3/02, this group is restricted to gas, beads or pulverized materials.

Relationships with other classification places

The subgroup is used as residual group for liquid handling.

{for liquids}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Liquid handling apparatus not provided for in B01L 3/02.

Crystallising dishes
Relationships with other classification places

Often used in combination with classes in B01L 3/50.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Crystallization for separation

B01D 9/00

Sugars

C07H

Single crystal crystallization

C30B 7/00

Crystals of macromolecules

C30B 29/58

Special rules of classification

If used as a sample container double classify with relevant class in B01L 3/50

Flasks
Definition statement

This place covers:

Flasks used in the lab and not otherwise provided for. Flasks usually comprise an inlet which is smaller than the main body.

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Specially adapted for distillation

B01D

Gas jars or cylinders
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Gas storage containers in general

F17C

Retorts
Definition statement

This place covers:

Retorts are simple distillation apparatuses. They often comprise round bases and turned down necks.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Distillation, microdistillation

B01D

{Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes (devices for taking samples of blood A61B 5/15)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Simple containers that only store the sample and also more complex containers with integrated passive or active parts, which inter alia transport samples within them.

Relationships with other classification places

Containers for chemical synthesis, even if of small size, are classified in B01J.

Containers specific to a single analytical technique are usually classified in the respective field, e.g. in G01N, C12M. Documents are double classified in both places when, due to their constructional aspects, they are also relevant for other applications.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices for taking samples of blood

A61B 5/15

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Reagent containers

B01L 3/52

Labcontainer with identification means

B01L 3/545

Transport containers for preserved human or animal parts

A01N 1/02

Body liquid sampling

A61B 10/0045

Medical containers

A61J

Synthesis reactors

B01J

Containers for storage of materials

B65D

Constructional details of bioreactors for culturing

C12M 23/00

Petri dishes

C12M 23/10

Cuvettes constructions

G01N 21/03

Microscopic slides

G02B 21/34

Special rules of classification

It is important to note that this group is restricted to sample containers and not to lab containers in general.

{with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures (centrifugal-type cuvettes G01N 21/07; analysis by separation into components G01N 30/00; automatic analysers G01N 35/00)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample container where fluid is transported during use between different parts of the container.

Relationships with other classification places

In addition to storage of the sample these containers usually enable other function as well, such as sample preparation or analysis. Double classification is preferred.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo and taking blood samples

A61B 5/14

Taking bodily sample other than blood

A61B 10/0045

Devices for introducing media into the body

A61M

Specific analysis techniques

G01N

Sample preparation

G01N 1/00

Centrifugal-type cuvettes

G01N 21/07

Analysis by separation into components

G01N 30/00

Analysing biological materials

G01N 33/48

Automatic analysers

G01N 35/00

{Test tubes specially adapted for centrifugation purposes (centrifuges B04B 5/04)}
Relationships with other classification places

Non-tubular centrifugal sample containers are classified in B01L 3/502.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Centrifuges

B04B

Centrifugal type cuvettes

G01N 21/07

Physical separation of blood components

G01N 33/491

{with a sample being transported to, and subsequently stored in an absorbent for analysis}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional details and flow shaping in sample containers where liquid is transported through an absorbent, e.g. lateral flow devices.

Relationships with other classification places

Analysis technique, sensor details and chemistry of lateral flow devices are classified in G01N, e.g. G01N 33/543.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Layered products

B32B

Optical sensors

G01N 21/75

Electric, electro-chemical and magnetic analysis

G01N 27/00

Physical analysis of biological material

G01N 33/487

Immunoassays

G01N 33/543

Special rules of classification

Double classify with B01L 3/5027 or B01L 3/5027 for porous microchannels in a substrate.

{for parallel transport of multiple samples}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bioreactors

C12M

Centrifugal cuvettes

G01N 21/07

{Multi-well filtration}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Filtration per se

B01D

Bioreactors

C12M

Purifying or cleaning a sample

G01N 1/34

{by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip (B01L 3/5023 takes precedence; micromixers B01F 33/30; microreactors for synthesis B01J 19/0093; microcapillary devices in general B81B 1/00)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers with integrated microfluidic components. Microfluidic components are not restricted to capillary transport but are defined by their small size.

Relationships with other classification places

Microfluidic devices can be found in a number of different fields. This group covers only those devices that are used to analyse a sample. The focus is on the sample handling per se in such devices, i.e. handling of fluids, beads, single molecules. The specifics of the analysis itself is for example classified in G01N and C12Q.

Capillary fluid transport in porous materials as flow layers of sample containers, e.g. lateral flow devices, are classified in B01L 3/5023.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Micromixers

B01F 33/30

Microreactor for synthesis

B01J 19/0093

Microcapillary devices in general

B81B 1/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Microdevices for drug release

A61K 9/0097

Sample preparation

G01N 1/00

Introducing samples into mass spectrometers

H01J 49/04

Special rules of classification

For microfluidic devices characterized by the specific integrated thermal control, e.g. for PCR, use double classification with B01L 7/00.

Use index codes B01L 2200/00-B01L 2400/00 as complete as possible.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • " sample containers with integrated microfluidic components", "lab-on-a-chip" and "microfluidic device for analysis"
{characterised by the manufacture of the container or its components (by shaping or joining plastic parts B29C 59/00, B29C 65/00; by laminating B32B 37/00; manufacture of microstructural devices in general B81C)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers with integrated microfluidic components with specific manufacturing details.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Manufacture of microstructural devices in general

B81C

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Shaping or joining of plastics

B29C 59/00, B29C 65/00

Laminating

B32B 37/00

Microdevices for electrophoresis

G01N 27/44791

Photolithography

G03F 7/00

{characterised by interfacing components, e.g. fluidic, electrical, optical or mechanical interfaces}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Integrated microfluidic interfaces, i.e. the section of the interface which forms part of the container.

Fluidic interfaces comprise inlets and outlets.

Optical interfaces may comprise lenses, prisms, mirrors.

Mechanical interfaces may comprise aligning marks, guides.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Holders for lab-on-a-chips

B01L 9/52

Handling and feeding of cartridges in automated analysers

G01N 35/00

{characterised by venting arrangements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means to remove air or gases from a microfluidic sample container.

Also comprises documents where bubble formation is avoided.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Venting, avoiding backpressure, avoid gas bubbles

B01L 2200/0684

{characterised by the means or forces applied to move the fluids (micropumps F04B 19/006, of the membrane type F04B 43/043)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means or forces to move fluid in microfluidic sample containers, e.g. integrated pumps.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Influencing the flow rate for a given force

B01L 3/502746

Infusion devices with flow control

A61M 5/168

Micropumps in general

F04B 19/006

Micropumps of the membrane type in general

F04B 43/043

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Micromixers

B01F 33/30

Special rules of classification

Use Indexing Codes B01L 2400/04 to specify the kind of force or means to move the fluid.

{characterised by integrated valves (microvalves F16K 99/0001)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group covers the constructional details of valves specific to microfluidic sample containers. It also covers valving schemes when they depend on integrated structures, like cascades of capillary valves.

Relationships with other classification places

External valve actuators are classified in F16K or G01N 35/00.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Throttle valves in microfluidic sample containers

B01L 3/502746

Microvalves and actuators in general

F16K 99/0001

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Valves in automated analysers

G01N 35/1097

Special rules of classification

For valve details use B01L 2400/06.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Valve

Means to stop or divert the whole flow of a fluid

{characterised by the means for controlling flow resistance, e.g. flow controllers, baffles (B01L 3/502738 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the flow resistance in a microfluidic sample container which is neither valving, where the flow is stopped, nor pumping, which is the source of the force for the flow.

For example, providing baffles in order to slow but not stop a flow in a specific section of a channel. Adapting the channel dimensions to obtain a specific flow pattern.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Valves for microfluidic sample containers

B01L 3/502738

Infusion devices with flow control

A61M 5/168

Flow control in general

G05D 7/00

Special rules of classification

For flow control details use B01L 2400/08.

{characterised by bulk separation arrangements on lab-on-a-chip devices, e.g. for filtration or centrifugation (separation in general B01D; microapparatus for analysis using electrophoresis G01N 27/44791; sample preparation G01N 1/28)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers with integrated microfluidic components with bulk separation such as filtration or centrifugation. In general, the flow direction of the bulk fluid is the same as the component which is separated. In a bulk separation a certain class of particles/fluid is usually separated from another class as a group. For example, centrifugation leads to a classification of particle groups based on their densitiy.

Relationships with other classification places

When the separation is the only purpose and the device is not combined with sample storage, i.e. not integrated, it should not be classified in this group.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Separation or sorting of particles or molecules on an individual level

B01L 3/502761

Separation in general

B01D

Microapparatus for analysis using electrophoresis

G01N 27/44791

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Centrifugal test tubes

B01L 3/5021

Separation of solids from solids or fluids by e.g.electric or magnetic means, dielectrophoresis

B03C

Sample preparation

G01N 1/28

Centrifugal-type cuvettes

G01N 21/07

Analysing blood by separating its components

G01N 33/491

Automatic analysers using bio-disks

G01N 35/00069

{specially adapted for handling suspended solids or molecules independently from the bulk fluid flow, e.g. for trapping or sorting beads, for physically stretching molecules (investigating characteristics of particles G01N 15/00)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Handling of suspended solids or molecules independent from the bulk fluid flow. In general, the fluid flow direction of the bulk fluid is different from the flow direction of the component to be separated. Handling may comprise trapping, sorting, stretching, orientating of particles or molecules.

Usually particles or molecules are handled individually, thus they can be selectively handled irrespective of whether more particles or molecules of the same type/class exist in the sample. For example, a single DNA molecule may be stretched in a nanochannel although the sample comprises many more DNA molecules.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Investigating characteristics of particles

G01N 15/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Separation of solids from solids or fluids by e.g.electric or magnetic means, dielectrophoresis

B03C

Separating or Sorting solids from solids

B07B

Special rules of classification

When particles/molecules are separated as part of a whole class (as bulk) they are classified in B01L 3/502753.

Details of particle/molecule handling can be coded in B01L 2200/0647.

{characterised by multiphase flow arrangements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers with integrated microfluidic components having multiphase flow arrangements. Multiphase flow is meant to encompass flows where gas/liquid or liquid/liquid interfaces exist and kept during flow of the fluids. The fluids may be immiscible but under certain conditions this may not be necessary.

Special rules of classification

This group is only used in the rare event that none of the groups below are suitable.

{specially adapted for focusing or laminating flows}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers with integrated microfluidic components having laminated flow arrangements, such as a sheath flow.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Micromixers

B01F 33/30

Investigating characteristics of particles

G01N 15/00

{specially adapted for droplet or plug flow, e.g. digital microfluidics (automatic analysis using a stream of discrete samples in a tube system G01N 35/08)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Droplets or plug flow in sample containers with integrated microfluidic components, such as digital microfluidics.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Automatic analysis using a stream of discrete samples in a tube system (bench top sized)

G01N 35/08

{for moving individual droplets on a plate, e.g. by locally altering surface tension}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Moving droplets individually on a plate, for example by electrowetting.

The droplet may also be bordered by a cover plate in addition to a bottom plate. No side walls are present to guide the droplet.

Special rules of classification

If present, use Indexing Code for virtual walls B01L 2300/089

{using swabs}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers comprising both fluid transport and swabs. The invention is usually directed to the handling of the swab within the container and not the swab itself.

Relationships with other classification places

Swabs as sample taking devices are found in G01N 1/02 and A61B 10/0045.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for sampling bodily liquids

A61B 10/0045

Ear cleaners

A61F 11/006

Absorbent pads, swabs

A61F 13/15

Surgical swabs

A61F 13/36

Cell sampling container with a swab

C12M 1/30

Sampling with a swab

G01N 1/02, G01N 2001/028

{flexible containers not provided for above}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Flexible sample containers such as bags or foldable sample cards.

{Hinged, e.g. opposable surfaces}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Folded sample cards.

{rigid containers not provided for above}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers having rigid walls and which do not comprise any internal sample transport.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rigid sample containers with fluid transport

B01L 3/502

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Urine sample containers

A61B 10/007

Cuvettes

G01N 21/03

Microscopic slides

G02B 21/34

Vacuum locks for discharge tubes (and sample vessels to be used in vacuum)

H01J 37/18

{Test tubes per se}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers having the form of tubes, also covers centrifugal type test tubes and test tube caps.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sample containers with other geometrical forms

B01L 3/50

Test tubes with sample transport other than by centrifugation

B01L 3/502

Racks and holders for test tubes

B01L 9/06

Devices for taking samples of blood

A61B 5/14

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Producing plastic containers

B29D 22/003

Tubular or bottle type culture devices

C12M 23/08

{Closing or opening means, corks, bungs (closures for containers B65D; means for removing stoppers B67B 7/02)}
Relationships with other classification places

Test tube caps having additional chambers, e.g. for reagents, are also classified in B01L 3/502.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Producing plastic closure caps

B29D 99/0096

Closures for packaging containers

B65D 39/00 - B65D 55/00

Means for removing stoppers

B67B 7/02

Special rules of classification

For details use B01L 2300/04.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "stopper", "closure", "bung", "cork", "seal" and "cap"
{for multiple samples, e.g. microtitration plates}
Relationships with other classification places

Microarray sensors such as DNA-chips without any sample storage are classified elsewhere, e.g. in B01J 19/0046 or G01N 33/50.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Processes and Apparatus for making combinatorial libraries

B01J 19/0046

Chemical or biological libraries

C40B

Automated analysis with microtitration plates

G01N 35/028

Special rules of classification

Use B01L 2300/0829 for standard microtiter plate format.

{specially adapted for heating or cooling samples (laboratory heating apparatus B01L 7/00; incubators C12M)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sample containers for thermal treatment of samples, such as PCR containers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Thermostats

B01L 7/00

{with covers or lids}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Constructional details of closures for multisample containers.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Closures for test tubes

B01L 3/50825

Handling of closures in automated systems

G01N 35/00

Special rules of classification

For details use Indexing Codes B01L 2300/04.

{using modular assemblies of strips or of individual wells}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multisample containers which can be assembled and/or disassembled during use but which form a single unit when they are assembled. These are typically assembled into a standard format using a frame.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Holders and racks for test tubes

B01L 9/06

{using arrays or bundles of open capillaries for holding samples}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Multiple parallel capillaries which hold a sample by surface tension at a specific location. The sample is not transported within the device except for filling or draining.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Parallel capillaries as sample containers involving transport within said capillaries

B01L 3/5027, B01L 3/5025

{confining liquids at a location by surface tension, e.g. virtual wells on plates, wires (B01L 3/50857 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Droplet is also moved, transported on the substrate

B01L 3/502

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Applying liquids to render a surface hydrophobic

B05D 5/08

Surface shaping of plastic parts

B29C 59/00

Maldi-TOF sample plates

H01J 49/0418

Special rules of classification

For multiple samples double classify with B01L 3/5085.

{Containers specially adapted for storing or dispensing a reagent (B01L 3/02 takes precedence; containers for medical or pharmaceutical purposes A61J 1/00; containers in general B65D; storing or dispensing test elements G01N 33/4875; automated reagent dispensing G01N 35/1002)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Reagent containers.

Relationships with other classification places

Sample containers with integrated reagent containers are not classified in this group. However, if the reagent container is a (modular) unit which can be inserted into a sample container and is thus not an integral part of the sample container it should be classified in this group.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Pipettes, Burettes, Droppers

B01L 3/02

Sample container

B01L 3/50

Automated reagent dispensers

G01N 35/1002

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sample containers

B01L 3/50

Lab container with identification means

B01L 3/545

Medical containers

A61J 1/00

Containers for storage of materials

B65D

Storing or dispensing test elements

G01N 33/4875

Special rules of classification

Sample containers having additional integrated compartments for reagents are not classfied in this group but in B01L 3/50 use mirror Indexing Codes B01L 3/52 instead or B01L 2200/16.

{with means for closing or opening}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Test tube closures

B01L 3/50825

Closures for multiwell containers

B01L 3/50853

{for a plurality of reagents}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sample containers for multiple samples

B01L 3/5085

{Labware with identification means (identification of carriers, materials or components in automatic analysers G01N 35/00732)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Labels, barcodes, RFIDs and other identification means used for labware.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Record carrier designed to carry digital markings like barcodes, RFID

G06K 19/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control arrangments for automated analysers

G01N 35/00584

{for laboratory containers}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data related to laboratory analysis

G16H 10/40

{Labware specially adapted for transferring fluids}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Simple labware to transfer fluids, in particular traditional glassware and its accessories, such as connectors, valves, tubes, funnels.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Pipettes, Burettes, Droppers

B01L 3/02

Devices for withdrawing samples

G01N 1/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Medical tubes, connectors, couplings, valves and the like

A61M 39/00

{Tubes; Conduits (in general F16L)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Pipes in general

F16L

{Joints or fittings (in general F16L); Separable fluid transfer means to transfer fluids between at least two containers, e.g. connectors}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

If connectors are integrated into a sample container use

B01L 3/502

Joints and fittings in general

F16L

{connecting two containers face to face, e.g. comprising a filter}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Direct connection between only two containers.

{Seals (in general F16L)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Joints and fittings in general

F16L

{Valves, taps or stop-cocks (in combination with burettes B01L 3/0203; in general F16K)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Valves specifically used in connection with laboratory equipment.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Valves in general

F16K

Automated sample transfer characterised by valves

G01N 35/1097

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Burettes

B01L 3/0203

{Glassware}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Residual group for glassware not falling in any of the above groups, i.e. must by made of glass.

Gas handling apparatus (gas jars or cylinders B01L 3/12; cold traps or cold baffles B01D 8/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Gas jars or cylinders

B01L 3/12

Cold traps or cold baffles

B01D 8/00

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Separation of gases or vapours

B01D 53/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Gas generators

B01J 7/00

Steam traps

F16T

Gas vessels

F17C

Investigating gases

G01N 33/0004

Gas collection apparatus, e.g. by bubbling under water (for sampling G01N 1/22)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For sampling

G01N 1/22

Heating or cooling apparatus (autoclaves B01J 3/04); Heat insulating devices
Definition statement

This place covers:

Thermostats for heating or cooling and heat insulation devices.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Autoclaves

B01J 3/04

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Evaporators

B01D 1/00

Cold traps

B01D 8/00

Drying gases or vapours, e.g. desiccators

B01D 53/26

Heating or cooling for centrifuges

B04B 15/02

Incubators

C12M 41/14

Heating in general

F24

Cooling in general

F25

Drying ovens

F26B

Furnaces or ovens

F27

Heat exchanger in general

F28

Sample preparation

G01N 1/00

Controlling temperature.

G05D 23/00

Chip cooling

H02N 1/00

Electric heating

H05B

Special rules of classification

To specify the thermostating means, indexing symbol B01L 2300/18 and subgroups are used.

Water baths; Sand baths; Air baths
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Direct contact heat exchange appratus

F28C 3/00

Heat insulating devices, e.g. jackets for flasks
Definition statement

This place covers:

Stand alone heat insulation device.

{Cryostats}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Temperature processes for preservation of (parts of) animals or humans

A01N 1/0284

Refrigeration or cooling in general

F25

{with provision for submitting samples to a predetermined sequence of different temperatures, e.g. for treating nucleic acid samples (amplification or hybridisation processes per se C12Q 1/68; controlling sequential reactions for synthesis B01J 19/0046)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Thermocyclers and other thermostats where a sample is exposed to a defined sequence of different temperatures. For example used for PCR.

Relationships with other classification places

The specific analysis methods of polymerase chain reactions (PCR) are classified in C12Q 1/68.

Other integrated means such as specific detectors, or means for automation are classified in G01N.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

PCR methods

C12Q 1/68

Special rules of classification

Use double classification with microfluidic sample containers of B01L 3/5027.

{using spatial temperature gradients}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Thermostats creating a defined temperature gradient in space.

Supporting devices; Holding devices
Definition statement

This place covers:

Holding frame constructions, trays for drying labware or holders for labware not provided for in a subgroup.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Tweezers or tongs

B25B

Laboratory benches or tables; Fittings therefor
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Work space management systems

A47B 83/001

Dental work stands

A61G 15/14

Test-tube stands; Test-tube holders
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Automated analysers with conveyors for sample containers

G01N 35/026

{Clamping means, tongs (in general F16B 2/06)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Indicating positions of wells and other receptacles by numbers, characters, grooves or other means.

{Supports specially adapted for flat sample carriers, e.g. for plates, slides, chips}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Supports specially adapted for flat sample carriers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Staining of samples

G01N 1/30

Automated analysers

G01N 35/00

Microscopic slides

G02B 21/34

{Supports specially adapted for pipettes and burettes (automated pipetting stations G01N 35/10)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Supports specially adapted for pipettes and burettes.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Automated pipetting stations

G01N 35/10

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Packages for Syringes, Needles

A61M 5/002

Racks for Syringes, Needles

A61M 5/008

Positioning tool for sampling or inoculating

C12M 1/265