Condensate collector

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a chamber comprising at least one target area prone to form condensation water, the chamber comprising: at least one condensation water collector, said condensation water collector comprising at least one first part and at least one second part, said at least one first part being arranged to collect condensation water from said at least one target area, said at least one second part being outside said at least one target area, and said condensation water collector further comprising a porous material, said porous material being arranged between the first part and the second part and being configured to transport the collected condensation water, the chamber further comprising a condensation water removal device, the condensation water removal device being configured to remove condensation water from the second part, whereby condensation water can be transported from the first part to the second part via the porous material.

Description

[0001] This invention application is a divisional application of the patent application filed on September 21, 2016, with application number 201610836993.5 and invention title "Condensate Collector". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a chamber containing a condensate collector. Background Technology

[0003] In some known analytical system compartments (e.g., reagent container compartments or sample container compartments), condensation formation can be a problem. For example, to access containers inside the compartment, such as to sample material from them, it is necessary to be close to the interior of the compartment. On the other hand, the interior space of the compartment may be cooled. In this case, condensation may occur. For example, condensation may form near or at an opening through which access to containers inside the compartment is made. Condensation formation can have various adverse effects. For example, condensation may drip into or onto containers located inside the compartment, or onto other sensitive components of the compartment, thus interfering with the sampling process or damaging compartment components. Condensation formation in compartments is also a problem in many other technical systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a first general aspect, a chamber comprising at least one target area prone to condensation includes at least one condensate collector, the condensate collector including at least one first portion for collecting condensate from the at least one target area and at least one second portion outside the at least one target area. The condensate collector further includes a porous material disposed between the first and second portions and configured to transport the collected condensate. The chamber further includes a condensate removal device configured to remove condensate from the second portion, thereby enabling the condensate to be transported from the first portion to the second portion via the porous material.

[0005] The first overall aspect of the room may have one or more of the following advantages.

[0006] First, a condensate collector reduces the likelihood of condensate dripping or flowing into locations that could damage the chamber or materials stored within it (e.g., samples or reagents). Specifically, in some examples of the chamber, the condensate source may be located directly above containers stored within it (e.g., the condensate source may be located in an opening used to insert a pipette into the chamber, where warm, humid air comes into contact with the chamber's cooled surfaces). In these examples, the condensate collector, in its first general aspect, directs the condensate away from the target area to a location where it can be treated (e.g., through discharge or evaporation).

[0007] Secondly, condensate collectors can be constructed and shaped to carry condensate to any location inside or outside the room. The porous material of the condensate collector can function like a wick and transport condensate. In some cases, the condensate can even overcome gravity and move upwards, and / or, a considerable distance upwards (e.g., across the entire height or width of the room). In this way, condensate collectors can be flexibly adapted to a wide range of room sizes and geometries.

[0008] Third, condensate collectors can operate without moving parts. This makes them less complex and less prone to error. In particular, in some cases, condensate collectors can passively transport condensate out of the chamber (e.g., by capillary forces and / or gravity acting on porous materials), thereby replacing any additional condensate management devices inside the chamber.

[0009] Fourth, in some examples, the condensate collector can be integrated with existing components in the chamber cooling system as a condensate removal device. For example, the fan of the chamber cooling system can be used to dry the area of ​​the condensate collector. Furthermore, or alternatively, the heat exchanger of the chamber cooling system can be used as a condenser to remove evaporated condensate from the air circulating in the chamber. In this way, when implementing the condensate removal device of the first overall aspect in some examples, no additional components may be required, or only a few additional components may be needed, which may make the solution less complex and more efficient.

[0010] In some paragraphs of this invention, it is explained that the condensate collector of this invention reduces the likelihood of condensate droplet formation or completely prevents condensate droplet formation. However, this does not mean that the condensate collector of this invention has this effect under all possible operating conditions. Clearly, condensate formation depends on indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity. Therefore, even if a particular condensate collector can prevent condensate droplet formation under certain operating conditions, this may not be the case under other operating conditions, for example, if the moisture content or temperature gradient between the interior and exterior environments exceeds a predetermined limit. However, this does not mean that such a condensate collector is not the condensate collector described in this invention.

[0011] Furthermore, it is possible that the condensate collector of the present invention cannot collect condensate or reduce or prevent the formation of condensate droplets when the amount of condensate removed by the condensate removal device is insufficient. Again, this does not mean that such a condensate collector is not a condensate collector of the present invention.

[0012] The chamber of this invention can be part of an analytical system. The analyzers or analytical work units of the analytical system may be partially or completely included in the chamber of this invention. Furthermore, the chamber of this invention may include multiple analyzers or analytical work units.

[0013] As used herein, "analytical system" includes components operatively coupled to one or more analytical work units, pre-analysis work units, and post-analysis work units, wherein a control unit is operable to control said work units. Furthermore, the control unit may be operable to evaluate and / or process collected analytical data, control the loading, storage, and / or unloading of samples for any analyzer, initialize the analytical system for preparing samples, sample tubes, or reagents for said analysis, or perform other analytical or hardware or software operations.

[0014] As used herein, the term “analyzer” or “analytical work unit” includes any device or component that may induce a biological sample to react with reagents in order to obtain a measurement.

[0015] The analyzer is operable to determine parameter values ​​of a sample and its components through various chemical, biological, physical, optical, or other technical procedures. The analyzer may be operable to measure the parameters of a sample or at least one analyte and return the obtained measurements. A list of possible analytical results returned by the analyzer includes, but is not limited to, the concentration of the analyte in the sample, qualitative results indicating the presence of the analyte in the sample (corresponding to concentrations above the detection level), optical parameters, nucleic acid sequences, data obtained from mass spectrometry of proteins or metabolites, and various types of physical or chemical parameters. The analytical work unit may include units for pipetting, dispensing, and mixing samples and / or reagents. The analyzer may include a reagent holding unit for holding reagents for performing the analysis. Reagents may be arranged in the form of containers or cartridges containing individual reagents or batches of reagents, placed in appropriate receiving sections or locations within a storage chamber or delivery system. The analyzer may include a consumable supply unit. The analyzer may include process and detection systems whose workflows are optimized for certain types of analysis. Examples of such analyzers include clinical chemistry analyzers, coagulation chemistry analyzers, immunochemistry analyzers, urine analyzers, and nucleic acid analyzers, which are used to detect the results of chemical or biological reactions or to monitor the progress of chemical or biological reactions.

[0016] The term "sample" refers to material that may potentially contain the analyte of interest. Patient samples can be derived from any biological source, such as physiological fluids, including blood, saliva, lens fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, sweat, urine, feces, semen, milk, ascites, secretions, synovial fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, tissue, cultured cells, etc. Patient samples may be pretreated before use, such as preparing plasma from blood, diluting viscous liquids, lysing, etc. Treatment methods may involve filtration, distillation, condensation, inactivation of interfering components, and addition of reagents. Patient samples can be used directly, such as those obtained from the source, or patient samples can be used to modify the properties of the sample after pretreatment. In some embodiments, the initial solid or semi-solid biological material can be liquefied by dissolving or suspending it with a suitable liquid medium. In some embodiments, the sample may be suspected of containing an antigen or nucleic acid. The sample and / or reagents may be stored in the chamber of the analytical system.

[0017] This invention includes:

[0018] 1. A chamber comprising at least one target area prone to condensation, said chamber (1) comprising:

[0019] At least one condensate collector (5; 5a-5e),

[0020] The condensate collector (5; 5a-5e) comprises at least one first part (10) and at least one second part (11), the at least one first part being arranged to collect condensate from the at least one target area, and the at least one second part being located outside the at least one target area.

[0021] The condensate collector (5; 5a-5e) comprises a porous material disposed between the first portion (10) and the second portion (11) and configured to transport the collected condensate; and

[0022] A condensate removal device (4, 7; 53) is configured to remove condensate from the second part (11), thereby enabling the condensate to be transported from the first part (10) through the porous material to the second part (11).

[0023] 2. The chamber according to claim 1, wherein the condensate removal device (4, 7) includes a fan (7) configured to generate a gas flow (12) through the second part (11) to allow the condensate collected by the porous material to evaporate from the condensate collector (5; 5a-5e).

[0024] 3. The chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the condensate removal device includes a heater configured to heat the second portion to allow the condensate collected by the porous material to evaporate from the condensate collector.

[0025] 4. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the condensate collector (5) extends through the wall of the chamber (1) to place the second portion (11) of the condensate collector (5) outside the chamber (1).

[0026] 5. The chamber according to any one of items 2 or 3, wherein the second part (11) is arranged inside the chamber (1), and the fan (7) generates a gas flow (12) inside the chamber.

[0027] 6. The room according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the target area is the opening (6; 6a; 6b) of the room, and the first portion (10) is arranged in the opening (6; 6a; 6b).

[0028] 7. The chamber according to item 6, wherein the chamber includes a plurality of openings (6; 6a; 6b) as a target area, and wherein a single condensate collector (5) includes a plurality of first portions (11) arranged in the plurality of openings (6; 6a; 6b) to collect condensate at each of the plurality of openings (6; 6a; 6b).

[0029] 8. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the condensate collector (5) is an integral part of the wall of the chamber (1).

[0030] 9. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the target area includes one or more openings (6; 6a; 6b) in the chamber, and wherein the chamber (1) is configured to be pressurized to generate a gas flow from the interior of the chamber (1) through the one or more openings (6; 6a; 6b).

[0031] 10. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the at least one condensate collector (5a-5e) has the shape of a plug or insert with a through hole.

[0032] 11. The room according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the second portion (11) extends toward and / or through the drainage system (15), the drainage system (15) being located inside or outside the room (1).

[0033] 12. The chamber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the porous material is hydrophilic, preferably, the porous material includes a hydrophilic coating.

[0034] 13. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the surface of the condensate collector (5; 5a-5e) for collecting condensate is open.

[0035] 14. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the chamber further comprises at least one condensation zone (4; 53) for condensing water removed from the condensate collector (5; 5a-5e).

[0036] 15. The chamber according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the at least one condensate collector (5; 5a-5e) and the condensate removal device (4, 7; 53) are configured to prevent condensate from forming droplets inside the chamber (1). Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1a An example chamber is shown that includes a condensate removal device and a condensate collector according to the present invention.

[0038] Figure 1b Show Figure 1a Details, including the condensate collector according to the invention.

[0039] Figure 2a Another example chamber according to the present invention includes a condensate removal device and a condensate collector.

[0040] Figure 2b Show Figure 2a Details, including the condensate collector according to the invention.

[0041] Figure 3 This illustration shows a portion of another example chamber comprising three condensate collectors according to the present invention.

[0042] Figure 4 A third example chamber according to the present invention is shown, comprising a condensate removal device and a condensate collector.

[0043] Figure 5 A fourth example chamber according to the present invention includes a condensate removal device and a condensate collector.

[0044] Figure 6 A fifth example chamber is shown, comprising a condensate removal device and a condensate collector according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The chamber containing the condensate collector and the method for removing condensate from the chamber of the present invention will then be discussed in more detail.

[0046] First, combine Figure 1a and Figure 1b Different aspects of the chamber of the present invention will be discussed. Subsequently, [the invention will be combined with...] Figures 2a to 6 The alternatives or additions to the chamber of the present invention are described in detail. Figure 1a The chamber 1 shown includes at least one target area 6 that is prone to condensation. The chamber includes at least one condensate collector 5a-5e, which includes at least one first part 10 and at least one second part 11. The first part 10 is arranged to collect condensate from the at least one target area. The second part 11 is outside the at least one target area and includes a porous material disposed between the first part 10 and the second part 11 and configured to transport the collected condensate. The chamber further includes condensate removal devices 4 and 7, which are configured to remove condensate from the second part 11, thereby facilitating the transport of condensate from the first part 10 through the porous material to the second part 11.

[0047] Figure 1a Chamber 1 includes multiple condensate collectors 5a-5e. These will be discussed in more detail later. Figure 1a The operation of the condensate collectors 5a-5e and the condensate removal devices 4 and 7.

[0048] As in Figure 1a As can be seen, chamber 1 includes a thermal insulator 2 in which a plurality of openings 6 are arranged. In one example, the plurality of openings 6 are configured to allow the insertion of a tool (e.g., a pipette or a needle) into chamber 1. Because the interior 3 of chamber 1 can be cooled, condensate can form in the areas of the openings 6. Without condensate collectors 5a-5e, droplets of condensate form at the openings 6 and may drip into chamber 1.

[0049] However, in Figure 1a In chamber 1, condensate collectors 5a-5e are configured to collect condensate at opening 6 (i.e., the target area). For example, the target area can be located near the upper end of condensate collectors 5a-5e (i.e., the outward-facing end of condensate collectors 5a-5e facing chamber 1). This can prevent or reduce the formation of condensate droplets at or near opening 6 of chamber 1.

[0050] In one example, chamber 1 comprises an analytical work unit of a biological sample analysis system or is part of an analytical work unit of a biological sample analysis system. In other examples, the chamber is configured to store biological samples, reagents to be used in the analysis of the biological samples, or both. For example, the chamber can be more than one of a sample storage chamber, a reagent storage chamber, a reagent manipulator chamber, a sample manipulator chamber, and a quality control chamber.

[0051] However, in other examples, the chamber of the present invention can also be used in systems for analyzing samples other than biological samples, or in systems with functions other than sample analysis. For example, the chamber of the present invention can be applied to systems for storing or transporting materials under cooling conditions. Generally, the chamber of the present invention can be used in all systems, including those with chambers that readily form condensate.

[0052] Figure 1a The condensate collectors 5a-5e are in the form of plugs or inserts and comprise a hydrophilic porous material. The collected condensate is able to diffuse within the collectors 5a-5e to different outer surfaces of the collectors 5a-5e, which form a second region of the condensate collectors 5a-5e (i.e., the region of the condensate collectors 5a-5e outside the target region where the condensate is collected).

[0053] In other examples, the condensate collector may include, as appropriate, an element arranged with two or more openings (e.g., all openings, such as...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 (The condensate collector in the room is adjacent.)

[0054] In addition to condensate collectors 5a-5e Figure 1a The chamber 1 includes a condensate removal device, which comprises a fan 7. The fan 7 is configured to generate an airflow 12 passing over the outer surfaces (i.e., the second region) of the condensate collectors 5a-5e. The airflow 12 causes the condensate stored in the condensate collectors 5a-5e to evaporate and thus removes the condensate (e.g., from the condensate collectors 5a-5e) from the condensate collectors 5a-5e. Figure 1b (As shown in the diagram). This removal process allows the condensate collectors 5a-5e to collect the new condensate that has condensed at the opening 6 (i.e., the target area) and to transport the condensate to the outer surface of the condensate collectors 5a-5e, where the newly collected condensate can be evaporated.

[0055] In other examples, chamber 1 may include another blower device besides a fan (this is also the case for other example chambers discussed in this invention). Generally, the chamber of this invention may include any means for generating an airflow over a second region of the condensate collector. Furthermore, condensate can be removed from the condensate collector of this invention using any gas flow other than air.

[0056] Return to Figure 1a In the chamber, the evaporated condensate is directed by the airflow generated by fan 7 towards the condenser 4 located inside chamber 1, where the evaporated condensate is condensed. Figure 1aIn this example, the condenser 4 includes a heat exchanger 4 of the cooling system of chamber 1. For example, the cooling system may include a Peltier element 16 coupled to the heat exchanger 4. The cold side (cooler side) of the Peltier element 16 is arranged adjacent to the heat exchanger 4 to cool the heat exchanger 4, which in turn is capable of cooling the air traveling through the heat exchanger 4. In this way, more than one surface of the heat exchanger 4 is sufficiently cooled such that water evaporated in the airflow condenses on the more than one surface. This process allows at least a portion of the evaporated water to be extracted from the airflow. In one example, the temperature of the more than one surface of the heat exchanger is below 10°C (e.g., below 5°C). In some examples, this results in a temperature below 15°C (below 10°C) inside the chamber.

[0057] The cooling system of the chamber further includes a heat exchanger 8 and a fan 9 arranged outside the chamber 1, the heat exchanger 8 and fan 9 being configured to carry heat away from the hot surface (the hotter surface) of the Peltier element 16. However, these components... Figure 1a The presence of an external heat exchanger 8 or an external fan 9 is purely optional. Other examples of chamber 1 do not have an external heat exchanger 8 or an external fan 9.

[0058] Furthermore, the condensate removal device of the present invention can also be used with other cooling devices besides the Peltier element 16. Generally speaking, any cooling device that provides cooling capacity to chamber 1 can be used to cool more than one surface of the condenser of the condensate removal device, so that the evaporated water can condense at more than one cooled surface.

[0059] The chamber 1 may include a drainage system 15, which is configured to drain condensate from the interior 3 of the chamber 1. For example, condensate may drip from more than one cooled surface of the heat exchanger 4 and collect in the lower part of the chamber where the drainage system 15 is located.

[0060] In this manner, the likelihood of condensate droplets forming at the target area is reduced compared to chambers without condensate collectors 5a-5e. In some cases, the formation of condensate droplets can be avoided altogether. In this invention, the condensate collector includes a first region and a second portion, the first region being adjacent to the target area for collecting condensate, and the condensate being removed from the second portion. However, this does not mean that condensate is only conveyed to and removed from the second region. Rather, condensate may diffuse throughout the entire condensate collector. Furthermore, as an alternative, condensate may also be removed (e.g., by airflow) from the first region adjacent to the target area.

[0061] In other examples, the specific form of the condensate collectors 5a-5e, as well as the specific construction and arrangement of the fan 7 and the heat exchanger 16, can be modified. For example, the shape of the condensate collectors 5a-5e can differ from... Figure 1a The plug shape is shown. It should be understood that, for example, in an example where it is not necessary to insert the workpiece through the condensate collector, the condensate collector does not need a central opening. Furthermore, in other examples, any surface cooled sufficiently to separate the evaporated water from the airflow within chamber 1 can be used as a condenser (e.g., a particularly cold section of the interior of the chamber).

[0062] Figure 2a and Figure 2b The room is Figure 1a A variation of the room. Figure 2a The chamber 1 includes, optionally, a funnel 14 for drawing air from the outside of the chamber 1. The air drawn in through the funnel 14 is cooled (and, if necessary, dried) at the heat exchanger 4, and then circulated through the interior by the fan 7. As discussed above, the circulating airflow is able to remove condensate from the condensate collectors 5a-5e.

[0063] exist Figure 2a and Figure 2b In addition, the fan 7 can be configured to generate a higher pressure inside the chamber 1 compared to the outside of the chamber 1. This increased pressure can generate an airflow 16 exiting from the opening of the chamber 1 (such as...). Figure 2b (As shown in the image). In one example, fan 7 is capable of operating at 10m per hour. 3 and 500m per hour 3 Between the air (e.g., 50m) 3 and 150m 3 This can further reduce the amount of condensation (especially dripping) in one or more target areas. In a chamber without increased pressure, airflow entering the interior through the chamber opening may draw in humid air through the opening. This can cause additional condensation to form in the area of ​​the opening.

[0064] Able to change in many ways Figure 1a or Figure 2a The described condensate removal device can also be arranged in a room without openings. In one example, the room can be a sealed room with a cover or door for access to the interior. In these examples, condensate collectors can be arranged in different target areas within the sealed room where condensate is likely to form. For example, the room may include more than one target area within a particularly cold region of the room. In other examples, besides in Figure 1a and Figure 2a In addition to the opening for introducing tools (e.g., straws) into the chamber, the chamber may have other openings leading to the surrounding environment.

[0065] Based on Figure 1 to... Figure 2b After explaining several aspects of the condensate removal system, we will then combine... Figure 3Discuss the details of the example condensate collector.

[0066] Figure 3 Condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c are arranged in the inner wall of the insulation section 2 of the chamber, at the inward end of the opening for introducing tools into the chamber. The condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c provide internal channels for tools to be inserted into the chamber. Figure 3 In the example, the internal channel has a tapered inlet suitable for receiving pipetting tools.

[0067] As discussed above, the condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c comprise a porous material configured to collect condensate (in a first region) and release condensate (in a second region).

[0068] The pore geometry and size of a porous material can be chosen in any suitable manner to achieve this purpose. The term "porous" is not limited to the sponge-like material of this invention. Rather, a porous material may also comprise pores extending only in one or only two dimensions. Furthermore, a porous material can be ordered or disordered. For example, a porous material may comprise a cluster of tubes extending through the material. In other examples, a porous material may comprise multiple channels extending through the material. In still other examples, a porous material may comprise regularly arranged interconnected cavities that form channels extending through the porous material.

[0069] Porous materials can have an average pore size between 1 μm and 100 μm (e.g., between 20 μm and 40 μm). The term "pore size" is defined in this invention as the diameter of the circle inscribed within the pore cross-section of the porous material in a direction orthogonal to the intended flow direction of the condensate. For example, in Figure 1b and Figure 2b In this example, the expected flow direction of the condensate is generally downward (i.e., inward) from the target area where the condensate is collected. In another example, in... Figure 4 In the condensate collector, in the area extending through the chamber wall, the expected condensate flow direction is outward.

[0070] In some examples, finer pore sizes can improve the ability of condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c to transport condensate over longer distances, at the cost of a reduced amount of condensate stored in the porous material.

[0071] To collect condensate from a target area and to release the collected condensate into the airflow circulating in the room, porous materials may include more than one open surface. In other words, a network of pores, grooves, channels, or tubes within the porous material may be accessible at more than one surface of the condensate collector. For example, in Figure 3In the example, the condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c may include perforated surfaces on the surface of the internal channels formed inside the condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c, as well as on the surface adjacent to the interior of the chamber.

[0072] In one example, the porous material of condensate collectors 5a, 5b, and 5c is hydrophilic. The term "hydrophilic material" as used in this invention can include materials manufactured to have hydrophilic properties, as well as materials treated to exhibit hydrophilic properties. Furthermore, the term "hydrophilic material" is used to describe the hydrophilic properties of porous materials used in condensate collectors. Some materials may not exhibit hydrophilicity in other configurations (e.g., in the form of a flat surface), but are hydrophilic when in a specific porous configuration. In other words, in some examples, the hydrophilicity of the porous material of this invention can be generated by the geometry of the porous material.

[0073] In some examples, the porous material is permanently hydrophilic. "Permanently hydrophilic" means that the chamber comprising the porous material operates under the intended operating mode for a period of more than one week (and, where applicable, more than one month). In one example, the porous material may comprise a hydrophilic coating extending onto a portion or the entire pore network formed on the substrate material.

[0074] Porous materials can include ceramic, glass, or plastic materials, or combinations of two or more of these materials. Even though the previous discussion of porous materials has touched upon… Figure 3 The example shown is a specific condensate collector, but different aspects of porous materials are not limited to this specific form of condensate collector. Instead, the porous materials described above can also be used in other condensate collectors discussed in this invention.

[0075] Figure 3 The condensate collectors 5a, 5b, 5c (or any other condensate collector of the present invention) can be manufactured by injection molding, milling or sintering or by a combination of these techniques.

[0076] In the preceding paragraphs, combined with Figure 3 The example of a condensate collector discusses the properties that porous materials in condensate collectors may exhibit. Next, we will combine... Figures 4 to 6 Several alternative geometries for the condensate collector in a condensate removal device are discussed.

[0077] exist Figure 4 In this embodiment, the condensate collector 5 has an elongated shape and extends through the wall of the chamber 1. The condensate collector 5 is configured to collect condensate at multiple target areas at the opening of the chamber 1. However, in other examples, the target areas may also include other areas inside the chamber (e.g., in a chamber without openings) where condensate is easily formed.

[0078] Furthermore, the condensate collector 5 is configured to deliver the collected condensate to a second area 11 located outside the chamber 1. Optionally, the condensate collector 5 can be arranged such that condensate cannot be released from the condensate collector 5 between the target area and the second area 11 outside the chamber 1. For example, the porous material of the condensate collector 5 can be closed-cell at the surface between the target area and the second area outside the chamber 1. Alternatively, the porous material of the condensate collector 5 can be coated on the surface between the target area and the second area outside the chamber 1.

[0079] In addition, with Figure 1a and Figure 2a Compared to the room, Figure 4 Room 1 includes different arrangements of condensate removal devices. Figure 4 The condensate removal device is arranged outside the chamber 1. For example, the condensate removal device may include a fan 7 (or other air or gas movement device) and a heat exchanger 4, at least partially arranged outside the chamber. Furthermore, the condensate removal device cooperates with a Peltier element 16 arranged in the wall of the chamber 1. Figure 4 In this example, fan 7 moves air through heat exchanger 4 in contact with the hot surface of Peltier element 16. The hot surface of Peltier element 16 heats the air, which then moves along a second region 11 of condensate collector 5 disposed outside chamber 1. In the second region 11, the heated airflow 12 causes condensate stored in the second region 11 to evaporate and carries the evaporated condensate away from condensate collector 5. Condensate collector 5 may include optional orifices or other openings in the second region 11. This can increase the surface of condensate collector 5 exposed to airflow 12 and thus increase the amount of condensate evaporating from the second region 11.

[0080] As the stored condensate is removed from the condensate collector 5 by the airflow 12 generated by the fan 7, the condensate collector is once again placed under conditions for collecting condensate in the target area 10 inside the chamber 1. Under some operating conditions, the condensate collector 5 can generate a continuous flow of condensate from the inside of the chamber 1 to the outside space. In some examples, the formation of condensate droplets at the opening of the chamber 1 can be avoided.

[0081] In this way, by using components of the cooling unit in the chamber, a condensate removal device can be formed without adding a large number of new components. The fan and heat exchanger are arranged inside the chamber. Figure 1a and Figure 2a This is also the case in the example. Having some components for both cooling and condensate management reduces the complexity of the chamber compared to examples where the two functions are separate.

[0082] However, in other examples, some parts of the condensate removal device may be dedicated components of the condensate removal device (the chamber may include additional cooling devices). In one example, the airflow removing the collected condensate from the condensate collector 5 may be generated by a dedicated fan or other blower of the condensate removal device. In another example, the airflow may be generated by a fan or blower of a different component outside the chamber condensation system (e.g., a cooling system fan of the analytical system processing unit).

[0083] Figure 4 Room 1 does not have an internal fan or other blower device for circulating air within the room (e.g., in...). Figure 1a and Figure 2a (As shown in the diagram). Instead, chamber 1 includes a heat-conducting element 17 (e.g., a metal element) that is coupled to a Peltier element 16 and extends inside chamber 1. The cold surface (cooler surface) of the Peltier element 16 can cool the heat-conducting element 17 and thus the interior of chamber 1.

[0084] In other examples, combinations are possible. Figure 1a or Figure 2a and Figure 4 The arrangement of the room. For example, the condensate removal device may include an external condensate removal device arranged outside the room and an internal condensate removal device arranged inside the room. Thus, the condensate collector can be configured to transport the collected condensate to a second area outside the room and a second area inside the room. In one example, the condensate removal device includes: a fan arranged outside the room and configured to generate an airflow through the second area of ​​the external condensate collector; and a second fan configured to generate a second airflow through a different second area inside the room.

[0085] The previous examples discussed condensate removal devices including fans (or other blowers). Furthermore, or alternatively, the condensate removal devices described herein may include one or more heaters arranged to heat a second region of the condensate collector. For example, these one or more heaters may be arranged in conjunction with the second region (e.g., in…) Figure 4 or Figure 5 The second zone (shown as an outdoor area) is adjacent to the condensate collector. When the second zone of the condensate collector is heated by more than one heater, the collected condensate will evaporate from the second zone.

[0086] Figure 5 A further example of the chamber of the present invention is shown. The condensate removal device of chamber 1 is combined as follows: Figure 4 The discussed external condensate removal device. Furthermore, the condensate collector 5 has a shape similar to... Figure 4 The shape of the condensate collector.

[0087] However, Figure 5 The condensate collector 5 is not attached to the inner wall of chamber 1. Instead, the condensate collector 5 forms part of the wall of chamber 1 (in...). Figure 5 In this example, it is part of the chamber's cover. Furthermore, the thermal insulation 2 of the chamber does not extend above the condensate collector. In other words, the condensate collector 5 forms part of the outer wall of the chamber 1. In this example, the condensate collector 5 can provide thermal insulation in the area of ​​the outer wall formed by the condensate collector 5.

[0088] exist Figure 5 In this example, the condensate collector 5 can collect condensate in a target area adjacent to the opening 6 of chamber 1 and transport the collected condensate to a second area 11 outside the chamber, as in combination with... Figure 4 The room was discussed.

[0089] also, Figure 5 The condensate collector 5 can also be configured to face the outer surface adjacent to the outside of the chamber (e.g., Figure 5 The collected condensate is transported to the upper surface of the condensate collector 5. At this outer surface, the collected condensate can evaporate into the ambient atmosphere.

[0090] In other examples, the outer surface of the condensate collector 5 away from the target area and the second area may be at least partially sealed off from the opening, preventing the collected condensate from evaporating at that outer surface. In yet another example, the outer surface of the condensate collector 5 away from the target area and the second area may be at least partially coated with an impermeable coating, preventing the collected condensate from evaporating.

[0091] As in Figure 5 As can be seen, the condensate collector 5, which forms part of the exterior wall, can also be included in a second area outside the room, such as in... Figure 4 As discussed in [the document]. Furthermore, or as an alternative, Figure 4 Condensate collector 5 can be used with Figure 1a or Figure 2a The condensate removal device assembly shown generates an airflow inside chamber 1.

[0092] In another example, the condensate collector can be connected with... Figure 5 The different methods shown form integral parts of the chamber walls. For example, a chamber with more than one opening may include more than one condensate collector, and in the area of ​​the more than one opening, each condensate collector may form part of the chamber wall. For example, the condensate collector may form Figure 1a and Figure 2a The area of ​​the opening wall shown is for inserting the tool.

[0093] In another example, the room does not have an "active" condensate removal device located outside the room (e.g., Figure 4 or Figure 5 The room can also operate without external fans and heat exchangers. In these examples, the ambient atmosphere, which is hotter and / or drier than the atmosphere inside the room, causes the collected condensate to evaporate from the second area of ​​the condensate collector to the outside of the room.

[0094] In one example, the chamber includes at least one condensate collector and a porous material having a first portion inside the chamber and a second portion extending through the chamber wall to the outside of the chamber. The porous material is configured to collect condensate inside the chamber and guide the condensate toward the outside of the chamber.

[0095] The chamber in this example does not have an "active" condensate removal device, which can be combined with all the features of the chamber with an "active" condensate removal device described in this article.

[0096] Figure 6 A further example of the condensate collector of the present invention is shown. Figure 6 The room includes further aspects of the condensate management system of the present invention.

[0097] on the one hand, Figure 6 Chamber 1 comprises two sub-chambers, 1a and 1b. Furthermore, Figure 6 The condensate collector 5 is a condensate collector comprising multiple parts. Finally, Figure 6 The example chamber 1 includes a condensate removal device in the form of a condensation zone 53 for condensing water stored in a condensate collector 5. Even though these different features are combined in... Figure 6 The chamber is shown in the diagram, but the chamber of the present invention may also include only one or two of these features. Furthermore, or alternatively, Figures 1a to 5 The room can also have Figure 6 One or more features of the room. For example, Figure 4 or Figure 5 The room may include, for example Figure 6 The diagram shows two or more sub-compartments and / or a condensate collector divided into multiple sections.

[0098] exist Figure 6In one example, each of the two sub-chambers 1a and 1b has one or more openings 6a and 6b, which are arranged to lead to the interior of the respective sub-chamber 1a and 1b. A condensate collector 5 continuously extends through the openings 6a and 6b of the first and second sub-chambers to collect condensate at each opening 6a and 6b. In other examples, each of the sub-chambers 6a and 6b may include one or more dedicated condensate collectors. Furthermore, or alternatively, a chamber may include more than two sub-chambers and a single condensate collector arranged to collect condensate from a target area in each of the more than two sub-chambers.

[0099] and, Figure 6 The condensate collector 5 forms part of the wall of the second sub-chamber 1b, while it is covered by the thermal insulation portion 2 in the region of the first sub-chamber 1a. For example, the first sub-chamber 1a can be cooled to a colder temperature than the second sub-chamber, thus requiring better thermal insulation. In other examples, the condensate collector may form part of the wall of both (or more) sub-chambers. In yet another example, the condensate collector may be covered by the thermal insulation portion of the respective chamber of the two (or more) sub-chambers.

[0100] and, Figure 6 The condensate collector of the chamber comprises multiple parts. For example, the first part 51 of the condensate collector is configured to allow the collected condensate to move at least partially in an uphill direction. This uphill transport can be achieved by capillary forces in the porous material of the condensate collector 5. In combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples, the condensate collector shown may also have a section adapted to transport the collected condensate along an uphill direction. For example, the condensate collector may be adapted to the shape of the interior (e.g., the shape of the upper part of the interior).

[0101] also, Figure 6 The condensate collector 5 includes a second part 52 in which the collected condensate is conveyed downhill. This downhill conveying of the condensate can be achieved by gravity, capillary action, or a combination of both. Again, in Figures 1a to 5 The collected water can also be transported downhill in a section of the chamber (e.g., to transport the collected condensate to a second section located at a specific point in the chamber where the condensate removal device can remove the collected condensate from the water collector).

[0102] at last, Figure 6 The condensate collector 5 is connected to the condensate removal device 53, which is in the form of a condensation zone for the collected condensate. Figure 6In the example, the condensation zone forms a pointed surface, where condensate droplets can form.

[0103] As in Figure 6 As can be seen, a condensation zone is formed inside the drainage system 15 in the wall of chamber 1. Condensate can drip from the condensation zone and be collected outside chamber 1. In this way, condensate can be removed from chamber 1 to the external environment. In other examples, a condensate removal device 53 in the form of a condensation zone can be formed outside the chamber.

[0104] In other examples, condensate can be collected in a container arranged inside the chamber. The container can be configured to be removed from the chamber for disposal of the collected condensate. In other examples, the container can be connected to a pumping circuit to remove the condensate. The container for collecting condensate can also be other chambers described in this invention (e.g., Figure 1a or Figure 2a In the room.

[0105] As in Figure 6 As can be seen, the condensate removal device 53 is separated from the target area for collecting condensate. In this way, condensate droplets can be prevented from forming in key areas inside the room.

[0106] As Figure 4 room and Figure 5 The chamber, for example, Peltier element 16 can cool heat-conducting element 17 (e.g., a metal element), which in turn cools the interior of sub-chambers 1a, 1b. Depending on the situation, the hot surface of Peltier element 16 can be equipped with heat exchanger 4 and fan 7 to remove heat from the hot surface of Peltier element 16.

[0107] In other examples, Figure 6 The condensate collector can be combined with Figure 1a or Figure 2a The discussed indoor active cooling is combined. For example, a condensate collector can directly deliver condensate to the drainage system 15 or collect condensate evaporated by the airflow circulating inside room 1.

[0108] In other examples, the condensate collector described herein can be used to remove more than one condensate removal device in the form of a condensation zone (e.g., as in...). Figure 6 (as in the room) and one or more second areas outside the room (e.g., as in) Figure 4 or Figure 5 (as in the chamber). Generally, the chambers described herein can utilize different types of condensate removal devices or more than one predetermined type of condensate removal device in parallel.

[0109] Several examples of the chambers of the present invention have been discussed in the preceding detailed description. However, the chambers of the present invention can also be constructed as arranged as described in the following aspects:

[0110] 1. A chamber comprising at least one target area prone to condensation, said chamber comprising:

[0111] At least one condensate collector,

[0112] The condensate collector includes at least one first part and at least one second part, the at least one first part being arranged to collect condensate from the at least one target area, and the at least one second part being located outside the at least one target area.

[0113] The condensate collector includes a porous material disposed between the first portion and the second portion and configured to transport the collected condensate; and

[0114] A condensate removal device is configured to remove condensate from the second part, thereby enabling the condensate to be transported from the first part through the porous material to the second part.

[0115] 2. The chamber according to aspect 1, wherein the condensate removal device includes a fan configured to generate a gas flow through the second portion, enabling the condensate collected by the porous material to evaporate from the condensate collector.

[0116] 3. The chamber according to aspect 2, wherein the gas is air.

[0117] 4. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the condensate removal device includes a heater configured to heat the second portion so that the condensate collected by the porous material can evaporate from the condensate collector.

[0118] 5. The chamber according to any one of the foregoing aspects, wherein the condensate collector extends through the wall of the chamber to place a second portion made of the porous material outside the chamber.

[0119] 6. The room according to any one of aspects 2 to 4, wherein the second portion is arranged inside the room and the fan generates the gas flow inside the room.

[0120] 7. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the condensate collector has an elongated shape.

[0121] 8. The chamber according to any one of the foregoing aspects, wherein the porous material is adapted to transport the collected condensate at least partially by capillary force.

[0122] 9. The room according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the target area is an opening of the room, and the first portion is arranged in the opening.

[0123] 10. The chamber according to aspect 9, wherein the opening is configured to insert a tool into the chamber, the tool preferably being a pipette.

[0124] 11. The chamber according to aspect 9 or 10, wherein the chamber includes a plurality of openings as a target area, and wherein a single condensate collector includes a plurality of first portions arranged in the plurality of openings to collect condensate at each of the plurality of openings.

[0125] 12. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the condensate collector is an integral part of the wall of the chamber.

[0126] 13. The chamber according to aspect 12, wherein the condensate collector forms a cover or sidewall of the chamber.

[0127] 14. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the condensate collector includes an element extending in an upward direction and configured to guide condensate in the upward direction by capillary force.

[0128] 15. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the target region includes one or more openings in the chamber, and wherein the chamber is configured to be pressurized to generate a gas flow from the interior of the chamber through the one or more openings.

[0129] 16. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the at least one condensate collector has the shape of a plug or insert with a through hole.

[0130] 17. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the second portion extends toward or through a discharge port, the discharge port being located inside or outside the chamber.

[0131] 18. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the porous material has an average pore diameter between 10 μm and 100 μm.

[0132] 19. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the porous material is hydrophilic.

[0133] 20. The chamber according to aspect 19, wherein the porous material includes a hydrophilic coating.

[0134] 21. The chamber according to aspect 19 or 20, wherein the porous material is permanently hydrophilic.

[0135] 22. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the surface of the condensate collector for collecting condensate is open.

[0136] 23. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the porous material comprises a ceramic material, a glass material, or a plastic material, or a combination of two or more of these materials.

[0137] 24. The room according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the room is thermally insulated.

[0138] 25. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the chamber is frozen.

[0139] 26. The chamber according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the chamber further comprises at least one condensation zone for removing condensate from the condensate collector.

[0140] 27. The chamber according to aspect 26, wherein the chamber further includes a drainage system that discharges water condensed in the at least one condensation zone to the outside of the chamber.

[0141] 28. The room according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the at least one condensate collection device and the condensate removal device are configured to prevent the condensate from dripping into the room.

[0142] 29. A chamber, comprising:

[0143] At least one condensate collector,

[0144] The condensate collector has a first part and a second part, the first part being located inside the chamber, and the second part extending through the wall of the chamber to the outside of the chamber.

[0145] It includes a porous material configured to collect condensate inside the chamber and direct the condensate towards the outside of the chamber.

Claims

1. A chamber (1) being one or more of a sample storage chamber, a reagent storage chamber, a reagent manipulator chamber, a sample manipulator chamber and a quality control chamber comprising at least one target area prone to form condensed water, the chamber (1) comprising: at least one condensed water collector (5), wherein the condensed water collector (5) comprises at least a first portion (10) and at least a second portion (11), the at least first portion being arranged to collect condensed water from the at least one target area, and wherein the condensed water collector (5) comprises a porous material arranged between the first portion (10) and the second portion (11) and being configured to transport the collected condensed water; and a condensed water removal device (4, 7; 53) configured to remove condensed water from the second portion (11), whereby condensed water can be transported from the first portion (10) to the second portion (11) via the porous material, characterized in that the first portion (10) is located inside the chamber (1), and wherein the condensed water collector (5) extends through a wall of the chamber (1) to place the second portion (11) of the condensed water collector (5) outside the chamber (1), that the chamber (1) comprises a Peltier element (16), wherein a hot surface of the Peltier element (16) is configured to cooperate with the condensed water removal device to heat the second portion to enable evaporation of condensed water collected by the porous material from the condensed water collector, and a cold surface of the Peltier element (16) is configured to cool the inside of the chamber (1), that the target area is an opening (6) of the chamber and the first portion (10) is arranged in the opening (6), and that the opening (6) is configured to insert a tool into the chamber (1).

2. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the condensed water removal device (4, 7) comprises a fan (7) configured to generate a gas flow (12) through the second portion (11) to enable evaporation of condensed water collected by the porous material from the condensed water collector (5).

3. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the condensed water removal device comprises a heater configured to heat the second portion to enable evaporation of condensed water collected by the porous material from the condensed water collector.

4. The chamber according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, that the tool comprises a pipette.

5. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the chamber comprises a plurality of openings (6) as target areas, and wherein a single condensed water collector (5) comprises a plurality of first portions (10) arranged in the plurality of openings (6) to collect condensed water at each of the plurality of openings.

6. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the condensed water collector (5) is an integral part of a wall of the chamber (1).

7. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the target area comprises one or more openings (6) in the chamber, and wherein the chamber (1) is configured to be pressurized to generate a gas flow from the inside of the chamber (1) through the one or more openings (6).

8. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the porous material is hydrophilic.

9. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, that the porous material comprises a hydrophilic coating.

10. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, The surface of the condensate collector (5) to collect condensate is open.

11. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, The chamber further comprises at least one condensation zone (4; 53) for removing condensate from the condensate collector (5).

12. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, The at least one condensate collector (5) and the condensate removal device (4; 7; 53) are configured to prevent the condensate from dripping inside the chamber (1).

13. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, The chamber (1) is thermally insulated.

14. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, The chamber (1) is refrigerated.

15. The chamber of claim 1, wherein, The porous material has an average pore diameter between 1 pm and 100 pm. The chamber (1) is thermally insulated. The chamber (1) is refrigerated. The porous material has an average pore diameter between 1 pm and 100 pm.

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