Abstract: The invention relates to a pipetting arrangement comprising at least two sets of pipettes (9a; 9b; 9c; 9d). Each set of pipettes (9a; 9b; 9c; 9d) is operationally connected, via a controllable ON/OFF valve (11a; 11b; 11e; 11d) to a common aspiration port (7). Latter is connectable to a pumping arrangement (3). The valves (11a; 11b; 11e; 11d) are controlled by a timing-control unit (15) conceived to establish, by control of the valves (11a; 11b; 11e; 11d), the operational connections of the at least two sets of pipettes (9a; 9b; 9c; 9d) to the aspiration port (7) in a time-multiplexed manner.

Abstract: Seal assemblies and methods that include a seal lip that comprises an extended portion with generally constant cross-sectional width for low and generally constant friction during wear are described. The seal lip is loaded against a dynamic member by the aid of a spring energizer. The extended portion of the seal lip maintains constant torque resistance during movement of the dynamic member.

Abstract: A seal assembly configured for sealing a dynamic shaft includes an elastic seal member disposable in sealing communication with the dynamic shaft. The seal assembly further includes a coil spring and a shape memory alloy element. The coil spring is disposed in contact with the elastic seal member and configured for applying a compressive force to the elastic seal member. The shape memory alloy element is configured for applying pressure to the coil spring to thereby augment the compressive force.

Abstract: A seal assembly is for sealing a space between a housing and a shaft rotatable about a central axis. The seal assembly includes a seal body connectable with the housing and having an inner circumferential sealing surface. The sealing surface has opposing axial ends and is slidably contactable with the shaft outer surface to define a sealing interface. An annular biasing member, preferably a garter spring, is disposed about a portion of the seal body and has a centerline. The biasing member exerts a biasing force directed radially inwardly toward the centerline, such that the seal exerts a contact pressure on the shaft. Further, the biasing member is angularly positioned on the seal body such that the contact pressure extends axially along the shaft axis to direct substances entering the sealing interface toward a proximal axial end of the sealing surface when the shaft rotates about the central axis.

Abstract: This invention describes a seal ring which is consisted of a spiral spring wire acting as an expander device where in turn is inserted inside a C and or U shaped jacket made of a softer material such as elastomer or teflon in such a manner that forces the outer and inner lips of this jacket outwardly and inwardly accordingly to create a seal under extreme side loading and offsets of mating shaft.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for biasing a seal assembly in a high pressure fluid pump. In one embodiment, the fluid pump includes a reciprocating plunger, a seal carrier disposed about the plunger, and a seal supported by the seal carrier and sealably engaged with the plunger. The seal may be biased toward the seal carrier with a spring and may include a flange that engages the spring to restrict lateral motion of a spring relative to the reciprocating plunger. The flange may engage an inner and/or an outer surface of the spring. Where the spring is a coil spring, the flange may be continuous around the circumference of the spring or may include a plurality of spaced apart projections located around the circumference of the spring.