Door, laboratory workstation and control method

Abstract

The invention relates to a door integrated into a laboratory workstation comprising a horizontally extending work surface for providing a work area on the work surface, wherein the door is configured to be movable relative to the work surface in a vertical direction perpendicular to the work surface, and the door comprises an access opening configured to be changeable back and forth between a loading state or a closed state for allowing or restricting limited manual access of a user to the work area, the laboratory workstation comprising a processing unit or being configured to be connectable to an external processing unit, wherein the door is movable relative to the work surface between a safe position, an access position and a loading position, and wherein the position of the door is under control of the processing unit, the processing unit being configured to control one or more automated process operations in the work area or parts thereof depending on the position of the door.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a door for a laboratory workstation. The laboratory workstation includes a horizontally extending work surface for providing a work area thereon. The door is configured to be movable relative to the work surface between a safe position (where the door is closed for manual user access to the work area) and an access position (where the work area is open for manual user access). The invention also relates to a laboratory workstation and a method for controlling manual access to the workstation. Background Technology

[0002] Automation of laboratory processes, for example, for increasing throughput and reducing errors, is well known in the art. Several basic laboratory processes may be performed in an automated manner on different equipment (here referred to as laboratory workstations). Automating laboratory processes involves, for example, the transport and / or sorting of laboratory equipment (such as laboratory tubes, basins, and / or containers for receiving or handling liquids), but may also involve liquid handling processes, such as aspirating and / or dispensing liquids, or other liquid handling-related operations, such as requiring the use of additional equipment (such as heating or cooling devices, mixing devices, etc.). Ideally, the necessary goods for the desired process are provided before the process begins to allow the process to proceed undisturbed. The provision and / or configuration of goods (such as laboratory equipment) are typically performed manually by the user. Because automated processes often involve the application of robotic systems, such as robotic arms for moving items or pipette tips for handling fluids or liquids, special care must be taken to ensure that no unintended interactions between the user and the robotic system occur while the robotic item is in operation, in order to protect the user and ensure that the automated process is undisturbed. As a safety measure, the use of protective screens is well known. Such a protective screen separates the work area of ​​the lab workstation where the robot operates from user interference. The screen can be removed once the automation process is complete. Typically, these screens are configured as doors that can slide up and down for opening and closing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide an alternative solution for protecting the work area of ​​a laboratory workstation from unwanted user interference, while allowing user access when needed.

[0004] This problem is solved by providing a door for a laboratory workstation according to the present invention. The laboratory workstation includes a horizontally extending work surface for providing a work area thereon. The door is configured to be movable relative to the work surface in a vertical direction perpendicular to the work surface between a safe position (where the door is closed for manual user access to the work area), an access position (where the work area is open for manual user access), and a loading position.

[0005] According to the invention, a door includes an access opening configured to reversibly change between an open state and a closed state to allow or restrict limited, manual access to a work area by a user. In a secure position, the access opening is closed by being positioned below the work surface by the door. In a loaded position, the access opening is aligned with the work surface, entering a loaded state to allow limited access to the work area. The door's position is controlled by a processing unit. The processing unit is further configured to control the operation of one or more automated processes within the work area or a portion thereof based on the door's position.

[0006] The door according to the invention is understood as a movable, detachable protective device used to protect, for example, people present near equipment having one or more operating machines, or to protect such operating equipment from harm by users. As an example, the door may be a flat, screen-like structure.

[0007] The door according to the invention is particularly suitable for laboratory workstations, such as liquid handling equipment, where robotic devices perform various processes automatically, as liquid handling necessitates the occasional loading or reloading of samples, reagents, or other equipment into the liquid handling workstation. However, the door according to the invention is further suitable for use with other equipment involving automated movement, which occasionally requires access to the equipment, although such equipment should preferably continue moving. In all these cases, the door provides the possibility of actual access to the equipment without completely halting the automated process, while ensuring the safety of the user who must operate the equipment.

[0008] The door according to the invention is described in more detail in the context of a laboratory workstation, wherein a robotic device moves relative to a work surface and a corresponding work area thereon and according to desired operations. Typically, such process operations are stored in software in a processing unit, which acts as a higher-level control to manage their execution. Door mobility is typically enabled between a safe position and an access position to control manual access by a user to the work surface and / or work area. In the safe position, the door substantially closes the work area and correspondingly also closes the work surface, thus preventing manual access by the user. Gas and / or temperature exchange may or may not be performed as needed. In the access position, the door is moved open such that the work area and the corresponding work surface are opened on the user side so that the user can access substantially the entire work surface. According to the invention, the door can be moved to a loading position to allow limited access.

[0009] In the context of this invention, a laboratory workstation is understood as a device for use in, for example, chemical, biological, or medical laboratories, to provide automated solutions for performing one or more simple or complex work processes. Such laboratory workstations typically include one or more robotic components for performing the desired processes. Suitable laboratory workstations are, for example, devices for handling laboratory equipment (e.g., for sorting laboratory equipment or laboratory articles such as tubes, pipette tips, etc.) or liquid handling devices for performing more complex process operations (such as pipetting operations, which may include, for example, aspirating and / or dispensing liquids using pipette tips, and may also include transporting and / or sorting liquid handling tubes on a work surface).

[0010] This type of device, capable of performing liquid handling steps automatically, is also called a liquid handling workstation. By using such a liquid handling workstation, liquids can be transferred between different containers according to a pre-programmed process.

[0011] In this context, a process operation is a step or multiple steps or operations of a defined work process. The present invention particularly relates to a door for a device on which such work processes can be performed in a partially or fully automated manner. Possible processes that can be performed automatically include, for example, the repositioning of laboratory items or the pipetting of liquids. Liquid pipetting includes, for example, aspiration and dispensing of liquids, as well as mixing processes that are repetitive aspiration and dispensing. Repositioning may include, for example, moving one or more robotic arms. Each process can typically be further subdivided into different sub-steps or process operations.

[0012] For example, complex process operations are different process steps that are linked together in a specific order to form a desired longer process. Complex process operations include the execution of dilution series, the execution of analyses such as ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), or the purification of nucleic acids such as DNA, for example, using magnetic bead separation or solid phase extraction.

[0013] One or more process operations can be controlled by a processing unit. This processing unit (also referred to herein as a processor or controller) can control such process operations based on previously stored commands. These commands can be stored, for example, as software programs, upon which the processing unit controls laboratory workstations and / or functionally connected devices and / or robotic devices. Such robotic devices are, for example, robotic arms comprising one or more grippers and / or pipette tips. Devices connected to the laboratory workstation can be, for example, incubators, mixing equipment, stacking equipment for laboratory items, centrifuges, etc.

[0014] To control one or more process operations, the processing unit is functionally connected to a laboratory workstation to which the door according to the invention is applicable. Such a processing unit typically controls, for example, a pipetting robot, the liquid to be used, aspiration, dispensing and / or mixing steps or other pipetting steps of a pipette tip, and / or may also control one or more functions of other connected devices or robotic devices.

[0015] According to the invention, the state of a door, particularly its position, is controlled by a processing unit. This processing unit may be the processing unit of an associated device (such as a laboratory workstation). Alternatively, the door may be functionally connected to its own processing unit, which controls the door's position. To coordinate door control when connected to a corresponding device, the door's processing unit may be functionally connected to the processing unit of the associated device (e.g., a laboratory workstation). The processing unit in the context of this invention may be an internal or external processor. An internal processor may be, for example, an integrated processor, while an external processor may be, for example, a processor of a personal computer or another functionally connected device.

[0016] For example, laboratory items can be vessels used for processing samples. Such vessels are, for example, tubes made of glass or plastic and can be configured to receive different volume sizes. For instance, tubes for processing smaller volumes of samples can be plastic tubes suitable for receiving small volumes of liquid (such as 10 µl or up to 1500 µl), or tubes for receiving larger volumes of liquid (up to 50 ml or 100 ml). Vessels used to hold larger volumes of liquid (such as washing solutions or buffer solutions) are called containers. Also known as microplates, these are used where multiple sample vessels (so-called “wells”) are summarized on a standardized platform, and samples are arranged at high density on the platform to automate high-throughput processes. Typical microplates used in automation are, for example, 96-well plates, 384-well plates, or 1536-well plates, which allow for the systematic examination of large numbers of samples. Today, microplates are primarily sold in standard form (e.g., ANSI SLAS 1-4 2004 standard; American National Standards Institute, 2006). The standard involves array type, center distance of wells, and base area of ​​microplate, i.e., footprint. The footprint of all types of microplates is basically the same.

[0017] Another type of laboratory item specifically used in liquid handling workstations is a carrier for storing or organizing other glassware such as tubes, containers, or microplates, pipette tips, or storage boxes for pipette tips, which can be placed on the pipettes of the pipette tips. Typically, such pipette tips are arranged in corresponding storage boxes in a standardized array of pipette arrays suitable for simpler automated pipette tips. These pipette tips are, for example, disposable pipette tips or so-called fixed pipette tips.

[0018] The working surface according to the invention is essentially a horizontally extending surface adapted to hold, for example, carriers or laboratory items (such as tubes or microplates). The term "working surface" here refers to a two-dimensional plane on which items or equipment are placed, while the term "working area" refers to the three-dimensional space above the working surface, in which a sequence of movements, for example, occurs as part of a process operation. Such movements can be performed, for example, by robotic devices (such as a robotic arm with a gripper or a pipette tip), but can also be performed by the user's movements, for example, when equipping the working surface in preparation for a desired automated process operation.

[0019] Typically, the work surface and / or the corresponding work area on it are accessible to the user from one side (i.e., from the side where the user stands in front of the lab workstation). Access to this side of the work surface can be controlled for the user by using a door. It may be suitable to provide additional protection on those sides of the work surface and work area that are not typically accessed manually by the user.

[0020] Laboratory workstations may also include robotic devices. Typical robotic devices include, for example, robotic arms with grippers, which allow equipment on a work surface to be moved in a targeted manner within the work area, such as for repositioning on the work surface. Another typical robotic device is a pipette head. A pipette head has one or more automatically operated pipettes arranged on it. A distinction can be made between single-channel pipette heads, which include a single pipette, and multi-channel pipette heads, which may include, for example, eight or more pipettes. In liquid handling equipment, the use of multi-channel pipette heads, including, for example, 96 pipettes, is well-known. Typically, the pipettes of a multi-channel pipette head are arranged relative to each other at a distance equal to the well-axis distance of a standard microplate.

[0021] The access opening according to the invention is an opening in a door that allows, for example, a user to enter the associated device from the outside through the door. Accordingly, the access opening is opened continuously through an opening in the door.

[0022] The location of the access opening within the door can be adapted to the size of the area behind the door, which can be accessed through the opening. Two or more access openings can be provided within the door; for example, each access opening addresses a defined area behind the door.

[0023] Alternatively, the shape and size of the access opening can be adapted to the area behind the door to be accessed. For example, the access opening can be rectangular, circular, or other suitable shapes.

[0024] When in a secure position, the door provides comprehensive protection for the user, preventing unintentional interference with machinery operating behind it. Doors may include a transparent area through which the user can visually inspect the area, even if that area is protected from manual access.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiment mentioned therein (unless there is a contradiction), the processing unit is configured to allow one or more automated processes to operate in a portion of a work area that is inaccessible to the user through an access opening when the door is moved to the loading position.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiment mentioned herein (unless contradictory), the processing unit is configured to allow one or more automated processes to operate throughout the work area when the door is moved to a secure area. In another embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiment mentioned herein (unless contradictory), the processing unit is configured to restrict or prevent the operation of one or more automated processes in or within the work area when the door is moved to a loading or access position.

[0027] In the context of this invention, it is described that a processing unit can issue commands to a robotic device to perform one or more operations of a desired process. Information about the different operations or steps required for the process is typically stored in software that the processing unit can functionally access. It can be specified that in such software (or software program), not only are such operations stored, but also the permissible spatial range is stored. Thus, when one or more process operations are permitted, the processing unit can initiate the stored software program to perform a specific process operation within a defined territorial extension. Restrictions on the process may still allow the execution of operations, but under well-defined conditions and to a minimum, while preventing the complete cessation of any operation to be performed. Similar to allowing process operations to be performed automatically, restrictions here can describe specific operations that can be performed by the robotic device, and which are stored in software in which operations can be performed.

[0028] In the context of this invention, the processing unit may, for example, identify the position of the door via user input or a request, as required by the software-controlled robotic device to perform one or more procedural operations. It may be specified, for example, that the user is required to inform the processing unit where he / she has moved the door and ultimately confirm that the procedural operation can be performed by the robotic device. There may also be one or more defined safety-related interrupts for the processing unit, stored in the software in a hierarchical definition, so that, for example, in any case, the pipetting step is completed before the door moves out of a safe position. The user's required input or request may be submitted to the software, for example, via a corresponding interface such as a touchscreen or another computer surface.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiment mentioned or to be mentioned herein (unless there is a contradiction), the processing unit (9) is configured to: - When the door (1) moves into the loading position (6), it allows one or more automated process operations in a portion of the work area (4) that are inaccessible to the user through the access opening (8), and - When the door (1) moves into the safe position (5), one or more automated processes are allowed to operate throughout the work area (4), and - When the door (1) moves to the loading position (6) or access position (7), restrict or prevent one or more automatic process operations in the work area (4) or its parts.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the door includes at least one sensor functionally connected to the processing unit. The sensor is configured to monitor the position of the door.

[0031] The term "sensor" refers not only to a single signal detector but also to a sensor unit that includes a probe or signal detector and a trigger, which includes or releases a signal detectable by the probe. In this context, it can be specified that when referring to a door including a sensor, the door may include a probe, and the device on which the door is mounted includes a trigger; conversely, the door includes a trigger, and the device on which the door is mounted includes a probe. It can be specifically specified that the sensor monitors the position of the door relative to a working surface or working area on which the robotic device can move.

[0032] The sensor or a portion thereof is functionally connected to the processing unit, wherein the processing unit is configured to recognize an incoming signal from the sensor indicating that the door is in a defined position, and to process the signal to allow an automated process to be executed depending on the detected door position.

[0033] Therefore, for functionally connected sensors, the processing unit can control one or more automatic process operations based on the sensor's signal.

[0034] Sensors can be, for example, Hall effect sensors, optical sensors, capacitive or inductive sensors, force sensors, ultrasonic sensors, or other active or passive sensors.

[0035] The sensor can be configured to continuously monitor the position of the door, and / or the processing unit can be configured to continuously control the sensor signal, or to control the sensor at predefined time points or in conjunction with predefined process operations.

[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, which can be combined with any other implementation already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the door includes two or more sensors. In each case, at least one sensor is assigned to a security position, and / or a loading position and / or an access position.

[0037] For example, it could be specified that at least one sensor is assigned to both a safe location and a loading location, while the assignment of sensors to access locations can be optional. From a safety perspective, this might be desirable, as the need to control potential interference between the user and the robotic equipment may be higher in the safe location and / or the loading location. Conversely, it could be specified that no movement of any robotic equipment is permitted in the access location.

[0038] It can also be stipulated that sensors be used to monitor the position of doors that are also in access locations, for example, as a further security measure.

[0039] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the door includes a locking mechanism in each case for being locked in a safe position and / or a loaded position, the locking mechanism being functionally connected to the processing unit.

[0040] It can be stipulated that, by using a locking mechanism, the door is locked at least in a safe or loaded position, where further control of manual user access is required since robotic equipment can be allowed to move in these situations.

[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), each locking mechanism is functionally connected to at least one sensor.

[0042] It can be specified that the sensor is configured to monitor the door's position by monitoring the state of the associated locking mechanism. For example, the sensor can monitor whether the door's locking mechanism is closed at a safe position and conclude that the door is in a safe position and locked there. If the sensor detects that the locking mechanism at the safe position is open, the sensor can be configured to conclude that the door is not in a safe position. This can be provided, for example, in particularly robust locking mechanisms that are not easily overcome unintentionally by a user.

[0043] Alternatively, it can be specified that the sensor directly monitors the position of the door, as described above, and that its functional connection with the locking mechanism and preferably with the processing unit allows for the identification of the door's position and allows the sensor to send signals to the processing unit to, for example, activate the locking mechanism to change its state. For example, when the door is identified by the sensor as being in a safe position, the processing unit can activate the locking mechanism to change it to a closed state, thereby locking the door in the safe position.

[0044] It can be specified that the locking mechanism is functionally connected to, for example, two separate sensors: one sensor monitors the state of the locking mechanism as explained above, while the other sensor monitors the position of the door. This might be particularly desirable, for example, at a secure position, not only to lock the door in the secure position, but also to further allow control over whether the door actually remains in the secure position.

[0045] Here, the processing unit can be configured to control one or more automated process operations based on signals from one or more sensors that monitor the position of the gate.

[0046] In one embodiment of the invention, which can be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the processing unit is configured to: - Close the locking mechanism to perform one or more automated process operations in the work area or its parts; and / or - When automated process operations are performed in the work area or its parts, the locking mechanism remains locked; and / or - Depending on the state of the locking mechanism, this causes one or more automated process operations to be performed in the work area or its components; and / or - Open the locking mechanism based on the status of one or more automated process operations performed in the work area or its parts; and / or - Keep the locking mechanism open when no automated process is being performed in the work area or its parts; and / or - Control the state of the locking mechanism; and / or - Stop one or more automated process operations that are being performed in the work area or its parts when the position of the door changes or the state of the locking mechanism changes.

[0047] The state of the locking mechanism refers to whether it is closed or open. In the closed state, the door is fixed in the corresponding position and cannot be moved, while in the open state, the door is not fixed in the corresponding position and can be moved to another position, for example.

[0048] For example, as mentioned above, it can be specified that the control or change of the state of the locking mechanism involves the use of one or more sensors.

[0049] Therefore, the processing unit or underlying software can identify (e.g., via sensors) a process being performed in the work area and hold the door in position via a locking mechanism, for example, until the process is complete, or until the user inputs or requests the software, for example, that he / she needs limited access to the work area for loading or reloading. In the latter case, it can be specified that the software allows the ongoing process to be interrupted after a predefined operation (e.g., after a pipetting step), where the robotic devices involved are stopped for user access, and the remaining operation can then continue when the door is moved back to a safe position. For example, in the event of a disposable pipette tip or reagent depletion, the software might stop the ongoing operation (e.g., at a predefined sub-step) and allow the door to be moved out of the safe position.

[0050] To control whether to execute or pause automated process operations, the processing unit can use communication with one or more sensors, communication with one or more locking mechanisms, or a combination thereof, to identify when the door has moved to, for example, one of the working positions that requires user input.

[0051] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the locking mechanism is selected from the group consisting of mechanical locking systems, electrical locking systems, and magnetic locking systems or combinations thereof.

[0052] It can be specified that the locking mechanism consists of two parts, one located on the door and the other on the device on which the door is mounted. The two parts used for locking can only interact when the door is in the desired position. Therefore, it can be specified that the door includes a separate locking mechanism for each position (safe position, loaded position, access position). Alternatively, it can be specified that, for example, the same locking mechanism is used for two or more positions, with individual locking mechanisms used for specific positions.

[0053] For example, a suitable locking mechanism could be based on the use of a bolt that counteracts an end stop. The bolt could be located on the door, while the end stop is located, for example, on a laboratory workstation, or vice versa. The position of the bolt or end stop could be controlled by a processing unit, for example, to extend the bolt at a desired time, thus ensuring that the door is not moved beyond a defined position, since an extended bolt might not pass through the end stop. To allow the door to move out of that position, the bolt can be retracted under the control of the processing unit. The processing unit identifies the position of the bolt, for example, by means of a sensor coupled to the bolt or a corresponding drive mechanism. Alternatively, the end stop could be configured to be movable relative to the bolt for engaging the bolt when the door should be locked in a defined position. In this case, similarly, the mobility of the end stop could be under the control of the processing unit.

[0054] As a further example, a suitable locking mechanism could be based on a ball spring counteracted by a complementary recess. The ball spring could be located on the door, while the complementary recess is located on the lab workstation, or vice versa. The ball spring engages in the complementary recess for locking only when the door is moved to a defined position relative to the lab workstation. The user can move the ball spring out of the recess by applying force or, for example, under the control of the processing unit.

[0055] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other implementation thereof (unless there is a contradiction), the door is configured as a sliding door.

[0056] Alternatively, the door can be a revolving door or a flip-up door.

[0057] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other implementation thereof (unless there is a contradiction), the door consists of two or more sliding door components.

[0058] It can be specified that the processing unit is configured to control the position of one or more, preferably each sliding door component.

[0059] In one embodiment of the invention, which can be combined with any other implementation already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the door includes two access openings.

[0060] The door can be specified to include separate access openings for loading or unloading different items on the work surface. For example, one access opening could be provided for loading or unloading samples, while another could be provided for loading or unloading reagents and / or laboratory items, such as disposable pipette tips, tubes, etc. This concept can be implemented, for example, by defining different loading zones on the workbench to protect the door configuration. Each loading zone can be assigned to a different access opening and can be configured to allow the exchange of, for example, samples, reagents, or laboratory items. This may require different equipment for different loading zones, such as specially assigned storage locations, different carriers for holding liquid handling tubes or disposable pipette tip storage boxes, etc. The configuration of the loading zones can be stored separately in the processing unit and the corresponding software.

[0061] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the door is incorporated into a laboratory workstation that includes a processing unit or is configured to connect to an external processing unit.

[0062] Another aspect of the invention relates to a laboratory workstation comprising a door according to the invention, and further comprising: - A horizontally extending work surface used to provide a work area. - At least one robotic device for automatically performing one or more process operations, and - A processing unit configured to control one or more automated process operations.

[0063] The laboratory workstation also includes a door as described in one embodiment or a combination of the above embodiments.

[0064] The door is movable relative to the working surface in a vertical direction perpendicular to the working surface between a safe position (where the door is closed for manual user access to the working area), an access position (where the working area is open for manual user access), and a loaded position. The door includes an access opening configured to reversibly change between the open, loaded, or closed states.

[0065] In the safe position, the access opening is closed by being positioned below the work surface by the door. In the loaded position, the access opening is aligned with the work surface, entering the loaded state to allow limited access to the work area.

[0066] The processing unit of the laboratory workstation is configured to control the activity of at least one robotic device for performing one or more automated process operations in the work area or its parts, depending on the location of the door.

[0067] The door can be configured according to one of the embodiments described above or a combination of the embodiments.

[0068] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other implementations already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the door is a sliding door that is vertically movable along one or more guide rails mounted on a laboratory workstation.

[0069] Alternatively, the door can be a revolving door or a flip-up door.

[0070] It can be specified that the guide rail includes a mechanical stop by which the door is guided to the desired position. It can also be specified that sensors are used to monitor whether the door is guided and positioned accordingly. Additionally, it can be specified that a locking mechanism is used to hold the door in the desired position, as discussed above and below. As an example, a simple ball spring can be provided in the door, engaging with the mechanical stop in the guide rail to lock the door in the desired position. To move the door out of the desired position, the user only needs to exert force on the door. However, more complex locking mechanisms may provide additional safety measures, such as ensuring that the door does not move out of the safe position solely due to user force. This may involve using additional sensors that monitor the locking mechanism itself.

[0071] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other implementation thereof (unless there is a contradiction), the door consists of two or more sliding door components.

[0072] It can be specified that the processing unit is configured to control the position of one or more, preferably each sliding door component.

[0073] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the door and / or laboratory workstation includes at least one sensor functionally connected to the processing unit and configured to monitor the position of the door relative to the working surface of the laboratory workstation.

[0074] As explained above in the context of doors, the term sensor herein can describe a sensor unit comprising a probe or signal detector and a trigger that includes or releases a signal detectable by the probe. It can be specified that a door may include a probe, and a laboratory workstation on which the door is mounted includes a trigger; conversely, the door may include a trigger, and the laboratory workstation may include a probe. It can be specifically specified that the sensor monitors the position of the door relative to the working surface or working area of ​​the laboratory workstation.

[0075] As mentioned above, the sensor, or a portion thereof, is functionally connected to the processing unit, which is configured to recognize incoming signals from the sensor indicating that the door is in a defined position, and process these signals to allow the execution of automated processes depending on the detected door position. Therefore, for a functionally connected sensor, the processing unit can control the operation of one or more automated processes based on the sensor's signals.

[0076] Sensors can be, for example, Hall effect sensors, light sensors (light barriers), capacitive or inductive sensors, force sensors, ultrasonic sensors, or other active or passive sensors.

[0077] The sensor can be configured to continuously monitor the position of the door, and / or the processing unit can be configured to continuously control the sensor signal, or to control the sensor at predefined time points or in conjunction with predefined process operations.

[0078] It can be specified that a laboratory workstation includes two or more sensors. In each case, at least one sensor is assigned to a safe location, and / or a loading location and / or an access location.

[0079] For example, it could be specified that at least one sensor is assigned to both a safe location and a loading location, while the assignment of sensors to access locations can be optional. From a safety perspective, this might be desirable, as the need to control potential interference between the user and the robotic equipment may be higher in the safe location and / or the loading location. Conversely, it could be specified that no movement of any robotic equipment is permitted in the access location.

[0080] It can also be stipulated that sensors be used to monitor the position of doors that are also in access locations, for example, as a further security measure.

[0081] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiment already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), in each case, the door and / or laboratory workstation includes at least one locking mechanism for locking the door on the laboratory workstation in a secure position and / or a loaded position and / or an access position. Each locking mechanism is functionally connected to the processing unit.

[0082] It can be specified that, by using a locking mechanism, the door is locked at least in a safe position or a loaded position, where, since movement of robotic equipment is permitted, further control of manual user access is required. Optionally, it can be specified that, additionally, as discussed above, another locking mechanism is used to lock the door in an access position.

[0083] It can be specified that, according to an embodiment of the locking mechanism, the door is indeed locked in a defined position, which includes the door being fixed in that position. Alternatively, the door can be locked in a position that only includes blocking the door in the defined position (e.g., blocking allows the door to move in a safety-acceptable direction while blocking movement in a direction that should be prevented). The term locking includes both locking and blocking.

[0084] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), each locking mechanism is functionally connected to at least one sensor.

[0085] It can be specified that the sensor is configured to monitor the door's position by monitoring the state of the associated locking mechanism. For example, the sensor can monitor whether the door's locking mechanism is closed at a safe position and conclude that the door is in a safe position and locked there. If the sensor detects that the locking mechanism at the safe position is open, the sensor can be configured to conclude that the door is not in a safe position. This can be provided, for example, in particularly robust locking mechanisms that are not easily overcome unintentionally by a user.

[0086] Alternatively, it can be specified that the sensor directly monitors the position of the door, as described above, and that its functional connection with the locking mechanism and preferably with the processing unit allows for the identification of the door's position and allows the sensor to send signals to the processing unit to, for example, activate the locking mechanism to change its state. For example, when the door is identified by the sensor as being in a safe position, the processing unit can activate the locking mechanism to change it to a closed state, thereby locking the door in the safe position.

[0087] It can be specified that the locking mechanism is functionally connected to, for example, two separate sensors: one sensor monitors the state of the locking mechanism as described above, while the other sensor monitors the position of the door. This may be particularly desirable, for example, in a secure position, not only for locking the door in the secure position, but also for further allowing control over whether the door actually remains in the secure position.

[0088] Here, the processing unit can be configured to control one or more automated process operations based on signals from one or more sensors that monitor the position of the gate.

[0089] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the locking mechanism is selected from the group consisting of mechanical locking systems, electrical locking systems, and magnetic locking systems or combinations thereof.

[0090] It can be specified that the locking mechanism consists of two parts, one located on the door and the other on the device on which the door is mounted. The two parts used for locking can only interact when the door is in the desired position. Therefore, it can be specified that the door includes a separate locking mechanism for each position (safe position, loaded position, access position). Alternatively, it can be specified that, for example, the same locking mechanism is used for two or more positions, with individual locking mechanisms used for specific positions.

[0091] For example, a suitable locking mechanism could be based on the use of a bolt that counteracts an end stop. The bolt could be located on the door, while the end stop is located, for example, on a laboratory workstation, or vice versa. The position of the bolt or end stop could be controlled by a processing unit, for example, to extend the bolt at a desired time, thus ensuring the door is not moved beyond its defined position, since an extended bolt might not pass through the end stop. Such a bolt might prevent the door from moving in an undesirable direction at its defined position. To allow the door to move out of that position, the bolt can be retracted under the control of the processing unit. The processing unit identifies the bolt's position, for example, through a sensor coupled to the bolt or a corresponding drive mechanism. Alternatively, the end stop could be configured to be movable relative to the bolt for engaging the bolt when the door should be locked in its defined position. In this case, similarly, the mobility of the end stop might be under the control of the processing unit.

[0092] As a further example, a suitable locking mechanism could be based on a ball spring counteracted by a complementary recess. The ball spring could be located on the door, while the complementary recess is located on the lab workstation, or vice versa. The ball spring engages in the complementary recess for locking only when the door is moved to a defined position relative to the lab workstation. The user can move the ball spring out of the recess by applying force or, for example, under the control of the processing unit.

[0093] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the laboratory workstation includes a loading area on a working surface through which a user can manually access the loading area when the access opening is in a loaded state. The loading area includes at least one carrier movably mounted on the working surface, configured to accommodate one or more laboratory items, and movable on the working surface and toward the access opening when the access opening is in a loaded state.

[0094] In the context of this application, the loading area is understood as an area of ​​the work area that a user can manually access through an access opening when the door is in the loading position. Typically, access is required, for example, when loading or unloading samples, reagents, disposable pipette tips, or other laboratory items onto a work surface. For safety reasons, no robotic device should pass through the loading area during loading or unloading.

[0095] It can be specified that tubes containing samples, reagent containers, or storage boxes for disposable pipette tips, etc., are stored on a working surface on a correspondingly adapted carrier. Here, the carrier provides the possibility of storing the corresponding items in an organized manner, which can also be accessed by robotic equipment. Such a carrier can be further configured to move along the working surface toward or ultimately through the access opening when the door is in the loading position, to simplify the loading or unloading process. To control the position of the carrier on the working surface via the processing unit, sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors) can be used, where the sensor probe is located on the carrier and the signal trigger is located on the working surface, and vice versa. For example, if two sensors are used, the processing unit can detect whether the carrier has moved out of the access opening or whether the carrier is in the "working position" on the working surface.

[0096] When a door includes two or more access openings, it can be specified that, correspondingly, two or more loading areas are defined on the working surface and the working area, respectively. For example, one loading area is configured for loading or unloading a sample, while another access opening is configured for loading or unloading a reagent or disposable tip. Two or more access openings, or corresponding two or more loading areas, may be suitable for a larger working surface. In the case of a smaller working surface, it can be specified that samples, reagents, and disposable tips are loaded or unloaded on a single loading area, which can be provided by allocating appropriate space on the working surface for each element to be loaded or unloaded.

[0097] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the laboratory workstation includes an appliance compartment below the work surface for accommodating one or more devices or components thereof required to perform automated process operations.

[0098] Such equipment required to perform automated process operations may be, for example, a cooling unit (e.g., a Peltier element) of a cooler or a heating unit of a heater, a pipette tip for collecting used liquids, a container for collecting waste liquids or storing system liquids, or components of equipment for controlling humidity in work areas, power supplies, pumps, etc.

[0099] The equipment compartments can be organized in such a way that different areas within the compartments are assigned to different equipment, and one of these areas is accessible via an access opening, for example, when the door is in a safe position. For instance, it can be specified that a waste bin is accessible when aligned with an access opening in a safe position, allowing waste generated during the process to be removed through this access opening if one or more robotic devices in the work area are automatically performing process operations.

[0100] In one embodiment of the invention, which can be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the door is divided into at least two distinct portions, each extending in the vertical direction with heights h1 and h2, and in the horizontal direction with lengths l1 and l2. The first lower loading portion, with height h1 and length l1, includes an access opening, and the second upper protective portion, with height h2 and length l1, includes an optically transparent area for visual inspection of the working area.

[0101] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the lower appliance compartment includes a drawer that a user can manually access via an access opening when the door is moved to a safe position.

[0102] Such a drawer can, for example, be configured to occupy a waste container, such as for used pipette tips that have already been ejected from the pipette tip after use, as mentioned above. In this case, it is conceivable that these ejected pipette tips are guided into the drawer from the pipette end through the working surface, for example by means of a funnel. Although one or more automated process operations are performed in the work area, and accordingly one or more robotic devices are moving there, the provision of the drawer allows for easy emptying of the waste container.

[0103] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), at least one robotic device is selected from the group consisting of a robotic arm (including a clamping mechanism) and a pipetting tip.

[0104] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless there is a contradiction), the laboratory workstation is a liquid handling workstation that includes at least a pipette tip.

[0105] Alternatively, a laboratory workstation could be a tube sorter or a cell culture station for analyzing and culturing cells.

[0106] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for controlling manual access to the work area of ​​a laboratory workstation, the method comprising the following steps: - Provides laboratory workstations, including: - A horizontally extending work surface used to provide a work area. - At least one robotic device for automatically performing one or more process operations in a work area under the control of a processing unit. - According to the invention, the door is movable in a vertical direction perpendicular to the working surface to allow or restrict manual access, and includes an access opening, and - A processing unit configured to control one or more automatic process operations in a work area or its parts based on the position of the door.

[0107] - Position the door in a safe position, thereby closing the work area for manual user access. The processing unit controls the door to be in the safe position.

[0108] It can be specified, as discussed herein, that the processing unit can be controlled in position via functionally connected sensors and optional locking mechanisms. Ideally, the working surface is equipped with samples, reagents, and laboratory items (e.g., with microplates, disposable pipette tips, etc.) before the working area is closed.

[0109] - Under the control of the processing unit, one or more process operations are performed automatically in the work area using at least one robotic device.

[0110] It can be stipulated that users must issue corresponding commands to the processing unit to initiate the desired process in the work area.

[0111] It can be specified that the processing unit allows the robotic device to move throughout the work area.

[0112] - Pause one or more process operations in the work area or its parts, and then allow the door to move to the loading position, each under the control of the processing unit. - Move the door from the safe position to the loading position to allow the user limited, manual access to the work area or its parts via the access opening.

[0113] It can be stipulated that the user must provide the processing unit with a command requiring access to the loading area, at which point the processing unit may allow the door to be moved out of the safe position. Alternatively, it can be stipulated that the door automatically moves from the safe position to the loading position.

[0114] It can also be stipulated that, upon user command, any movement of robotic equipment present in the work area be paused. If the robotic equipment is currently moving, it is foreseeable that it will pause after a specific operation is completed.

[0115] Alternatively, it can be specified that only the movement of the existing robotic devices within the loading area is suspended, while other movements and process operations occurring outside the loading area can be performed. In this case, the processing unit can be configured to control the door to move into the loading position, rather than into the access position. This can be achieved, for example, by means of sensors and locking mechanisms as discussed herein. Via the processing unit, it can be specified that, for example, the locking mechanism for the safety position is opened, and simultaneously, the locking mechanism for the loading position is activated to prevent the door from moving beyond the loading position.

[0116] -The gate is controlled by the processing unit to be in the loading position, and

[0117] - When one or more process operations are paused and the door is in the loading position under the control of the processing unit, the working surface is loaded or unloaded by accessing the opening.

[0118] Loading or reloading the work surface may include, for example: - Unload samples from the work surface, such as pre-treated samples, to make room for additional samples; - Load additional samples onto the work surface and integrate them into the already running process operation; - Load reagents or laboratory items (such as disposable pipette tips) onto the work surface; - To unload reagents or laboratory items from the work surface, for example, to make room for other reagents or laboratory items; - Refilling the reagent in the fluid container, wherein, for example, the empty container is first unloaded from the work surface, the reagent is refilled outside the laboratory workstation, and then the refilled fluid container is loaded back onto the work surface; and - Refilling the inventory of laboratory items, for example, refilling storage boxes using disposable pipette tips, where empty storage boxes are first unloaded from the laboratory workstation and refilled using disposable pipette tips, and then reloaded onto the work surface, or a full storage box is loaded onto the work surface.

[0119] The door and / or laboratory workstation may be configured according to one of the embodiments described above or according to a combination of one or more embodiments.

[0120] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the method further includes the following steps after loading or unloading the working surface: - Move the door to a safe position, and control the door to be in the safe position under the control of the processing unit, and then... - One or more process operations that are paused in the work area under the control of the processing unit. It can be specified that when the door is in the safe position, the entire work area can be used for the currently executing automated process.

[0121] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the working surface of the laboratory workstation includes a loading area that a user can manually access through an access opening when the door is in the loading position. When the door is in the loading position, in order to load or unload the working surface, - Process operations executed in the loading area are paused under the control of the processing unit, while one or more other process operations executed outside the loading area in the working area continue, or - All process operations performed in the work area are paused.

[0122] As discussed above, in the safe position, the access opening is closed by being positioned below the working surface by a door; in the loaded position, the access opening is aligned with the working surface, entering a loaded state to allow limited access to the working area; and in the access position, the working area is open for manual user access. The processing unit can be specified as follows: - When the door moves to the loading position, it allows operation of one or more automated processes in a portion of the work area that is inaccessible to a user through the access opening, and / or - When the door moves to the safe position, it allows one or more automated processes to operate throughout the work area, and / or - When the door moves to the loading or access position, restrict or prevent the operation of one or more automated processes in the work area or its parts.

[0123] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the door and / or laboratory workstation includes at least one sensor functionally connected to the processing unit. The at least one sensor monitors the position of the door relative to the working surface of the laboratory workstation.

[0124] As discussed above, it can be specified that one sensor is assigned to each of the security location, loading location, and access location so that all three locations can be monitored. However, it can be specified that at least one sensor is assigned to the security location and at least one sensor is assigned to the loading location. Additional sensors can be provided for further monitoring of the locking mechanism. The above discussion and statements regarding sensors also apply here.

[0125] In one embodiment of the invention, which may be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the door and / or laboratory workstation includes a locking mechanism for locking the door in a secure position and / or a loaded position and / or an access position, the locking mechanism being controlled by a processing unit, wherein the processing unit controls one or more automated process operations based on the state of the locking mechanism.

[0126] In one embodiment of the invention, which can be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the locking mechanism is functionally connected to at least one sensor. This sensor monitors the position of the door relative to the working surface of the laboratory workstation by monitoring the state of the associated locking mechanism.

[0127] In one embodiment of the invention, which can be combined with any other embodiments already mentioned or to be mentioned (unless contradictory), the processing unit controls: - When the door is locked in the safe position, the locking mechanism of the door remains locked as long as the robotic equipment moves within the work area, and / or - When the door is locked in the loading position or when the door is locked in the safety position, the door locking mechanism remains locked as long as the robot is in the work area but moving outside the loading area, and / or - The robotic equipment in the laboratory does not move when the door is moved in or locked in the access position.

[0128] The above discussions and statements regarding sensors, sensor components or sensor units, and locking mechanisms also apply here.

[0129] The features of the above embodiments of the device / process can be used in any combination unless they contradict each other. Attached Figure Description

[0130] Embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. They illustrate...

[0131] Figure 1 A schematic overview of the work area of ​​a laboratory workstation, including clamping mechanisms and pipette tips; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a door with an access opening in a front view; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the back of a door with an access opening; Figure 4 A schematic overview of a laboratory workstation, which includes a door in the loading position and a transparent area that allows observation of the workstation's pipette tip; Figures 5A-5CA perspective view of a laboratory workstation located on a workbench, the workstation including a door with an access opening, wherein the door... Figure 5A Move to the access location. Figure 5B Move to a safe location, and Figure 5C Move the middle to the loading position; Figures 6A-6D A schematic overview of a door that is vertically movable relative to the work surface of a laboratory workstation. Figure 6A Move to a safe location. Figure 6B Move the middle to the loading position. Figure 6C Move to the access location. Figure 6D It consists of two sliding door components; Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the height of a door with two locking mechanisms and sensors, shown in relation to the working surface of a laboratory workstation that includes complementary components of the locking mechanisms and sensors; Figure 8 A schematic overview of possible method steps for using the door according to the invention installed on a laboratory workstation. Detailed Implementation

[0132] Figure 1 A schematic overview of an exemplary laboratory workstation 2 that can be used in conjunction with the door 1 of the present invention is shown. For illustrative purposes, the laboratory workstation 2 is shown without the door 1. The laboratory workstation 2 includes a work surface 3, which is shown herein as a continuous desktop. However, multiple parts of the surface may also be used. Above the work surface 3 is a work area 4. The work surface 3 refers to a two-dimensional surface on which, for example, laboratory items 23 (e.g., containers with samples) may be placed, or other equipment 18 for automated process operations may be placed, while the work area 4 refers to the three-dimensional space above the work surface 3, in which one or more robotic devices 17 move to perform one or more process operations. The equipment 18 required for automated processing placed on the work surface is, for example, a vibrating screen, incubator, microscope, centrifuge, etc., for microplates.

[0133] The user can access the working surface 3 and the working area 4 from the front (the longitudinal side opposite the guide rail 24). Access is controlled by a door, while other sides of the working surface 3 are blocked from access, for example, by a housing assembly (not shown here).

[0134] The illustrated laboratory workstation 2 includes two robotic devices 17, one configured as a clamping mechanism (see the right arm) and the other configured as a pipette tip (see the left arm). The clamping mechanism here includes a gripper with two gripping fingers, while in this case, the pipette tip includes two pipettes. One pipette is shown with an attached pipette tip (near the guide pipette), while the other pipette is shown without an attached pipette tip, exposing its tapered end.

[0135] Each robotic device 17 can move along the x-direction via guide rail 24. Additionally, the gripper of the clamping mechanism can also move along the y and z directions. Similarly, each pipette of the pipette head can move along the y and z directions. In this configuration, most of the working surface 3 can be addressed by the pipette or the clamping mechanism. The presence of two robotic devices 17 results in certain limitations on the mobility of each robotic device 17 on guide rail 24 and the accessibility of the corresponding working surface 3. The processing unit 9 is configured to control the movement of each robotic device 17 for performing automated process operations, but also for avoiding potential collisions with the present robotic devices 17. As discussed herein, the same processing unit 9 can be used to additionally control the position of the door 1 and integrate the control of the door 1 with the control of the movement of (the) robotic devices 17 and the implementation of process operations, although a separate but functionally connected processing unit 9 may also be used.

[0136] Figure 2 A schematic overview of an embodiment of a door 1 with an access opening 8 according to the present invention is shown in the front view. The access opening 8 is arranged at the bottom of the door 1. The door 1 shown here is particularly suitable for closing the work area 4 of a laboratory workstation 2, for example... Figure 1 The work area is shown in the diagram, and it can be moved vertically. The vertical direction here is... Figure 1 The z-direction shown corresponds to the working surface, which is perpendicular to the working surface. The door is a sliding door and can be moved relative to the working surface 3 via a door rail system including door rail 21. Door rail 21 is intended to be located at... Figure 2 The right and left sides of door 1 are shown in the image, and... Figure 3 As clearly shown in the diagram, door 1 includes a clamping rail 22 on its underside. The processing unit 9, functionally connected to the locking mechanism 10 and sensor 11, is not shown here.

[0137] The access opening 8 divides the door 1 into a service section 13 and a protective section 14. The service section 13, with a length l1 and a height h1, corresponds to the lower part of the door 1 where the access opening 8 is located. Even when the door 1 is not fully opened, this section allows the user limited access to the work surface 3 and / or the work area 4, as the opening 8 is aligned with the work surface 3 in the loading position 6. The protective section 14, with a length l2 and a height h2, indicates the area of ​​the door 1. When the door 1 is in the safe position, the door 1 substantially completely covers the sides of the work surface 3 and the work area 4 thereon, making manual access impossible for the user. The door 1 includes a transparent area 12 in the protective section 14, so the user can still visually access the shielded work area 4 in the safe position 5.

[0138] Figure 3 A schematic overview of an embodiment of a door 1 with an access opening 8 according to the present invention is shown in the rear view. Also here, the door 1 includes a transparent area 12 for allowing visual access to the work surface 3 when the door 1 is closed to the work area 4 and the work surface 3. The door 1 can be seen here on the right and left sides by means of its door track 21, which is movably mounted on the laboratory workstation 2.

[0139] The locking mechanism 10 can be seen on the lower side. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 10 is a simple mechanical stop. Here, the locking mechanism 10 is arranged in combination with the sensor 11. The mechanical stop provides a locking function to secure the door 1 in a desired position, for example, in conjunction with a movable bolt (not shown), which can block the mechanical stop when the bolt extends and the door 1 moves. The processing unit 9 (not shown here) can control whether the bolt extends or retracts, thereby controlling whether the door 1 remains in the desired position or can be moved out of or beyond that position.

[0140] On the right side of door 1, an additional locking mechanism 10 coupled to sensor 11 can be seen. This locking mechanism 10 is shown as lateral movement toward a mechanical stop on the bottom side. This has the advantage that the additional locking mechanism 10 does not interfere with, for example, movable bolts. Alternatively, the additional locking mechanism 10 can interact with a separate counterpart (not shown), and sensor 11 can indicate the state of the additional locking mechanism for, for example, providing information to processing unit 9 as to whether it is in a locked or unlocked state.

[0141] Figure 4 A door 1 according to the invention is shown, integrated into a laboratory workstation 2, in this case, into a liquid handling workstation. Door 1 is mounted on the liquid handling workstation and is movable vertically along a door track 21. Figure 4In the diagram, door 1 is shown in the loading position, so the carrier 20 loaded with laboratory items 23 (in this case, tubes) can be seen through the access opening 8 of the door. The loading area 19 behind door 1 is accessible through the access opening 8, and includes parts of the working surface 3 and the working area 4.

[0142] For illustrative purposes, door 1 is shown open in an area covered by a transparent screen. This reveals robotic device 17, in this case, a pipette with a pipette tip and attached pipette tip, and a guide rail 24 on which the pipette tip is movably mounted. Integrated processing unit 9 coordinates the functions of the liquid handling workstation and integrated door 1.

[0143] Below the work area, instrument compartment 15 is visible. This compartment provides storage space for instruments or equipment required for automated sample processing, but storing them there would unnecessarily take up space on work surface 3. For example, cooling units or pipette tip waste containers could be stored more efficiently outside work area 4. Waste container boxes are visible in instrument compartment 15, while other instruments or their components are concealed there.

[0144] The locking mechanism 10 on the lower side of door 1 is also schematically indicated, which can interact with the supplementary locking mechanism 10 at the lower end of the liquid handling workstation. Together, they can form a functional locking mechanism 10. For example, sensor 11 can be used to monitor whether the door is in the assigned position, or whether the locking mechanism is open or closed, or both.

[0145] Laboratory workstation 2 includes an integrated processing unit 9, which is not explicitly shown in the figure.

[0146] The structure shown by the dashed line is located in the plane behind the visible front plane.

[0147] exist Figures 5A to 5C In this configuration, a door 1, including an access opening 8, is mounted on a laboratory workstation 2 and moves vertically to three different positions. Each laboratory workstation 2 includes an integrated processing unit 9, which is not explicitly shown.

[0148] exist Figure 5A In the middle, door 1 is moved to access position 7. In this position, the user has full access to the working surface 3, for example, the working surface 3 used for operating equipment for a specific process or for exchanging equipment. Figure 5A In this example, a pipette tip is shown as present as a robotic device 17. Therefore, laboratory workstation 2 is configured here as a liquid handling workstation. The pipette tip can move through work area 4 during automated process operation, although movement of robotic device 17 is stopped as a safety measure in access locations.

[0149] A carrier 20, comprising multiple laboratory items 23 such as reaction tubes, is positioned on the working surface 3. In this configuration, the carrier 20 is located on the working surface 3 within the loading area 19. Even when the door 1 is in the loading position 6, closing the working area 4, the user can still access the loading area 19 via the access opening 8. Figure 5C compared to).

[0150] Laboratory workstation 2 here includes an instrument compartment 15 beneath work surface 3. Instrument compartment 15 may provide space for devices 18 or components thereof that are necessary for performing automated process operations in work area 4 but should be removed from work area 4 due to lack of space or to allow for free movement of work area 4 for robotic devices 17, although these devices are not shown in instrument compartment 15 here. A vertically extending rod 26 in instrument compartment 15 is shown here as an example. Rod 26 may include drawers that can be pulled out and pushed in. For example, such a drawer may be a tablet of a waste bin for used laboratory items 23 (e.g., disposable pipette tips or microplates). It may be specified that laboratory workstation 2 includes more such rods 26, or that such rods 26 are located in different positions within instrument compartment 15, for example when door 1 is moved. Figure 5B In the safety position 5 shown, it is aligned with the access opening 8. In such an embodiment of the appliance compartment 15, the rod 26 will be accessible even when the work area 4 is manually closed for user access.

[0151] Figures 5A to 5C The laboratory workstation 2 shown also includes a processing unit 9 configured to control the operation of automated processes and the position of the door 1, and thus also control the access opening 8 for controlling user access based on possible movements of the robotic device 17.

[0152] exist Figure 5B In the middle, door 1 moves to the safe position 5. In this position, door 1 completely covers the side of work area 4 intended for user access, and manual access to work surface 3 and work area 4 is completely blocked by door 1 because access opening 8 moves below work surface 3 and work area 4. Figure 5B In this embodiment, the access opening 8 is located in front of the cover of the appliance compartment 15, such that the access opening 8 faces the cover.

[0153] When door 1 is in the safe position 5, automated process operations can be performed by one or more robotic devices 17 in the work area 4 without the risk of user interference. Typically, the position of door 1 is controlled by a processing unit 9, which may be identical to or functionally connected to the processing unit 9 of the laboratory workstation 2. In this way, robotic devices 17 can be stopped, for example, when door 1 is no longer in the safe position 5, or when a user enters a corresponding request to obtain access to the loading area by entering a corresponding command.

[0154] exist Figure 5C In the middle, door 1 is moved to loading position 6, where parts of the working area 4 are covered by door 1, but in this position, access opening 8 opens toward the working area 4, thereby allowing the user partial, restricted access to the working area 4 and / or the working surface 3. Figure 5C In this configuration, the access opening 8 is aligned with the working surface 3, such that the lower edge of the access opening 8 is at approximately the same height as the working surface 3. The lower end of the door 1 below the access opening 8 extends further towards the appliance compartment 15, thus keeping the remaining working surface 3 closed for manual access. In this way, the access opening 8 opens substantially entirely into the working area 4. The dimensions of the access opening 8 define the extent of partial, manual access.

[0155] The carrier 20 for holding laboratory items 23 is visible through access opening 8. Although the user cannot access the remaining work area 4, the loading area 19 can be manually accessed through access opening 8. Therefore, the user can remove equipment from the work surface 3 or insert equipment into the area 19 defined by the size of access opening 8. For ease of access, it can be specified that certain equipment is placed, for example, on carrier 20, which is configured to slide along a defined path on the work surface 3. In this way, the user does not need to lift and put down the carrier, but can easily allow the carrier to slide out of the access opening on the work surface and then slide back in.

[0156] It can be specified that there is more than one access opening 8 in door 1 to allow the user to access different, defined compartments of work surface 3 and / or work area 4. However, this may depend on the size of work surface 3.

[0157] In this embodiment, the rod 26 is accessible when the door 1 is in the loading position 6. It may be specified that in other embodiments, there are more rods in the appliance compartment 15, or the storage space in the appliance compartment 15 is organized in an off-center manner; for example, the rod 26 is a simple opening with access to the working surface 3.

[0158] To ensure that the door 1 is kept in the desired position, it is particularly suitable to provide a door lock controlled by the processing unit 9 with the help of one or more sensors 11, as will be shown later.

[0159] exist Figures 6A to 6D The diagram shows a highly schematic overview, particularly illustrating the position of door 1 relative to the working surface 3 of laboratory workstation 2. Door 1 and access opening 8 are shown in bold lines, while laboratory workstation 2, with its continuous working surface 3, is shown in dashed lines. For overview purposes, any possible robotic device 17 is not indicated here. Door 1 is movable in the vertical direction and can move to different positions, indicated by vertical arrows. Safe position 5, loading position 6, and access position 7 are shown in... Figure 6C As exemplarily indicated for a better overview, the horizontal arrow indicates the approximate location of the lower edge of door 1.

[0160] exist Figure 6A In the diagram, door 1 is moved to a safe position 5, where the work area 4 is substantially completely closed for manual user access via door 1. Access opening 8 is located below the work surface 3. Door 1 can only move upwards, and as in safe position 5, door 1 moves downwards to its lowest possible point. In the illustrated embodiment, door 1 is movable along two door rails 21, each located on one side of the work area 4 and on the laboratory workstation 2. Complementary door rails 21 can be anticipated on door 1 to allow for mobility. Door rails 21 are shown here extending above the laboratory workstation 2, which is likely necessary to provide additional stability.

[0161] Processing unit 9 is functionally connected to laboratory workstation 2 and door 1 for interactively coordinating one or more automated process operations with door 1. Figure 6A In the embodiment shown, laboratory workstation 2 does not include equipment compartment 15.

[0162] exist Figure 6B In the loading position 6, door 1 is moved to the loading position, where most of the working area 4 remains closed by door 1. However, in the loading position 6, the access opening 8 is aligned with the working surface 3, allowing the user limited access to the working surface and working area 4 through the access opening 8. As a protective measure, the processing unit 9 can be configured to restrict any possible movement of the robotic device 17 to areas on the working surface 3 that are inaccessible through the access opening 8. In this way, when equipment needs to be replaced on the working surface 3, even when the door is moved out of the safe position, it is not necessarily necessary to stop the ongoing automated process operation, but it can continue in a controlled manner in an area unaffected by user access.

[0163] In Figure C, door 1 is moved to access position 7, where the user has essentially access to the entire work area 4. In this position, door 1 is moved upwards to a height that does not interfere with the user's manual access, and the presence and location of access opening 8 are irrelevant here.

[0164] At the heights of the safe position 5, the loading position 6, and the access position 7, the laboratory workstation 2 includes a locking mechanism 10 in each case, and in this exemplary embodiment, a sensor 11 is present in each case. By using the locking mechanism 10, the door 1 can be locked into one of the desired positions 5, 6, and 7. Figure 6C In this configuration, door 1 is locked in access position 7. Sensor 11 monitors the status of the locking mechanism at access position 7 and provides corresponding feedback to processing unit 9. If the locking mechanism is not in the closed state and the position of door 1 is no longer guaranteed, processing unit 9 may trigger predefined safety measures. Such safety measures may be particularly important when loading position 6 and / or safety position 5 cannot be guaranteed.

[0165] Figure 6C The laboratory workstation 2 shown includes an instrument compartment 15 arranged below the work surface 3. Open compartments are embedded in the instrument compartment 15, providing easily accessible storage space, such as for waste bins (see...). Figure 4 The open compartment may include, for example, drawers for simplified access. When door 1 is in the access position 7, the lower appliance compartment 15 will not be covered by door 1. When door 1 is in the loading position 6, the appliance compartment 15 may be completely or partially covered by door 1, depending on the door 1's dimensions. When moved and / or locked in the safety position 5, the door will at least partially cover the appliance compartment 15. In the latter case, when an access opening is correspondingly arranged in the door, the open compartment (with) in the appliance compartment 15 can be accessed at least via access opening 8. Figure 6D compared to).

[0166] exist Figure 6D In one embodiment, a door 1 comprising two sliding door components is shown. Exemplarily, each door component is connected to a separate processing unit 9; however, the processing units 9 are functionally connected for coordinating operations. The left door component includes an access opening 8, while the right door component does not. Moving the left door component to a safe position 5 allows for the movement of one or more robotic devices 17 (not shown) in a work area 4 behind the left door component. The rod 26 is accessible because it is aligned with the access opening 8 in this position. Moving the right door component to an access position 7 allows the user full access to the work area 4 in the corresponding area, for example, to control or manipulate equipment within that portion of the work area 4.

[0167] Figure 7The longitudinal sectional view shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the height of the door and components of the laboratory workstation 2 relative to the working surface 3 of the workstation 2, featuring two locking mechanisms 10', 10'' and two corresponding sensors 11', 11''. The laboratory workstation 2 includes complementary components of the locking mechanisms 10', 10'' and the sensors 11', 11''. The door 1 is shown substantially moved into the safe position 5. The door 1 is further shown to be movable in a vertical direction perpendicular to the working surface, as indicated by the arrows. The dashed arrows thus indicate the direction of movement after the door 1 has moved out of the safe position 5, since in this embodiment, the door 1 has reached the lowest possible point at the safe position 5.

[0168] Laboratory workstation 2 includes a robotic device 17 configured with a pipette and an attached pipette tip (23). The pipette tip is mounted on a guide rail 24 for movement under the control of the processing unit 9. Laboratory workstation 2 is thus configured as a liquid handling workstation.

[0169] As mentioned herein, the term sensor 11 may describe a sensor unit comprising a probe (or signal detector) and a trigger that includes or releases a signal detectable by the probe. In this context, it may be specified that when referring to a door including a sensor, the door may include a probe, and the device on which the door is mounted includes a trigger; conversely, the door includes a trigger, and the device on which the door is mounted includes a probe. It may be specifically specified that the sensor monitors the position of the door relative to the working surface or working area on which the robotic device can move.

[0170] Laboratory workstation 2 and door 1 are equipped with various sensors 11, 11', 11''', 11'''', which are partially associated with locking mechanisms 10', 10'' or with other functions (see sensor 11'''').

[0171] The carrier 20 is placed on the working surface 3 and, exemplarily, carries the reagent tube 23. The carrier 20 is movable on the working surface, indicated by a double arrow. A handle on the carrier simplifies transport for the user. A portion of the sensor unit 11'' is mounted on the working surface 3, and the carrier 20 may include complementary sensor components 11''''. Through this sensor unit 11'''', the processing unit 9 is able to identify whether the carrier 20 has moved toward the door 1 (access opening 8) for loading or unloading.

[0172] Door 1 includes a handle at its lower end, extending to the right side of door 1. Door 1 also includes a locking mechanism 10'' at its lower end, arranged on door 1 offset from its cross-section. Locking mechanism 10'' here is a stop that extends from door 1 toward the inside of laboratory workstation 2. A complementary locking mechanism component 10'' is mounted below the work surface 3 for interaction with the stop. This complementary component 10'' is configured here as an extendable and retractable bolt, as indicated by the arrow. As the bolt moves toward door 1 (extends), it blocks the passage of the stop as door 1 moves upward. As long as the bolt remains extended, the passage of door 1 is blocked, and door 1 may not move further upward. Therefore, the bolt's function is to prevent door 1 from moving in one direction, rather than fixing door 1 in that position. In the illustrated embodiment, door 1 is held in the loaded position 6 by locking mechanism 10''. Sensor 11 monitors the position of the bolt and provides information to processing unit 9 for controlling the bolt position (indicated by the dashed line toward processing unit 9). It is possible that the retention of the door 1 is further reinforced, for example, through additional grilles in the housing or door rail 21.

[0173] Door 1 Figure 7 The door 1 is shown in the safe position 5. To hold the door 1 in the safe position, the door includes a locking mechanism component 10' that interacts with a complementary locking mechanism component 10' of the laboratory workstation 2 to form a functional locking unit for locking the door 1 in the safe position 5. The locking mechanism component 10' on the door 1 is arranged on a trapezoidal protrusion. When the two locking mechanism components 10' are sufficiently close to each other, locking of the two locking mechanism components 10' and thus locking the door 1 in the safe position 5 is possible.

[0174] The locking mechanism component 10', which locks the door 1 to the safe position 5, can be triggered by the interaction of sensor 11' or the individual sensor unit components 11'. When the probe and trigger have moved to close contact, the probe recognizes that the door 1 is in the safe position 5 by recognizing the signal of the trigger. The probe notifies the processing unit 9 that the door 1 has reached the safe position 5, and the processing unit 9 can then cause the locking mechanism component 10' to interact, thus locking the door 1 in the safe position 5.

[0175] In the embodiment shown here, the processing unit 9 can further identify when the door 1 is in the access position 7 via the sensor unit 11'''.

[0176] For example, a possible sensor 11 could be a combination of a Hall sensor and a magnet, a light barrier and a sign, a capacitive proximity sensor, or other sensor types.

[0177] exist Figure 8The diagram illustrates a schematic outline of possible method steps using a door according to the invention mounted on a laboratory workstation. A laboratory workstation 2 is provided, comprising a work surface 3 (having a work area 4 thereon), at least one robotic device 17 movable within the work area 4, and a door 1 movable relative to the work surface 3. The door 1 includes an access opening 8. The door 1 is movable to different positions to allow or restrict manual access by a user to the work surface 3 and the work area 4 through the access opening 8. The laboratory workstation 2 also includes a processing unit 9, which, considering the position of the door and the likelihood of user access to the work area 4, controls the movement of the robotic device within the work area 4 for automatically performing process operations.

[0178] By placing door 1 in the safe position, the work area 4 for manual user access is closed. In this position, the access opening does not face the work area 4. Typically, the user has equipped the work surface 3 with storage boxes for, for example, samples, reagents, microplates, and disposable pipette tips.

[0179] When door 1 is moved to the safe position 5, one or more process operations can be performed in the work area 4 without the risk of user interference. The user notifies the processing unit 9 that he / she has moved door 1 to the safe position and that the expected process may be necessary to begin. This can be done, for example, by pressing a button on a touchscreen or by entering a corresponding command into a computer that is included or functionally connected to the processing unit 9. It is possible that after such a command or input, the software first causes door 1 to be locked in the safe position 5 by the locking mechanism 10, and only after locking does the process operation effectively begin. As described herein, the software can control the locking via sensors.

[0180] In cases where the user needs access to work area 4 or work surface 3 during the expected process operation, the user typically notifies processing unit 9 accordingly to accommodate the movement of robot devices 17, for example, for safety reasons. For instance, when one or more process operations require the movement of robot devices 17 within loading area 19, one or more process operations may be paused, and the user will manually access that area when door 1 moves to loading position 6. Some operations may be completed to avoid invalidating the entire process. However, such process operations requiring the movement of robot devices (17) outside loading area 19 can be defined to continue.

[0181] Before door 1 can be moved out of the safe position 5, processing unit 9 may need to unlock door 1 from the safe position. Here, processing unit 9 may, for example, trigger the opening of the locking mechanism 10 by using a sensor for monitoring the status of the corresponding locking mechanism 10. When the required conditions are met, door 1 can move to the loading position 6.

[0182] For example, it is possible that when the locking mechanism 10 of the safety position 5 is opened, the other locking mechanism 10 of the loading position 6 is activated. This mutual coordination can be under the control of the processing unit 9.

[0183] When door 1 is moved or even locked into the loading position, the user can, for example, remove items from work surface 3 or load additional items, or correct the position of previously placed items while pausing any process operation that requires movement of robotic device 17 within loading area 19. Depending on the process to be performed, other operations involving movement of robotic device 17 outside loading area 19 can continue. For example, the user may wish to load additional samples, such as urgent samples that only arrive after the desired process has begun, reagents required for a process that needs to be refilled, or storage boxes for pipette tips that need to be provided.

[0184] After loading or unloading the work surface 3, the user moves the door 1 back to the safe position 5 to continue the process operation. It is possible that the locking mechanism 10 at the loading position 6 selectively allows the door 1 to move downwards while blocking upward movement (this would allow the user greater manual access to the work area, potentially causing dangerous interference with the moving robotic device 17). However, via sensor 11, the processing unit 9 identifies the door as soon as it reaches the safe position 5 and causes the locking mechanism at the safe position 5 to lock the door 1 there.

[0185] Depending on the specific circumstances, once the doors are moved (and locked individually) to a safe position, the process can continue or be stopped.

[0186] Figure Labels

[0187] 1 door

[0188] 2 Laboratory workstations

[0189] 3 Working surface

[0190] 4. Work Area

[0191] 5 Safe Locations

[0192] 6 Loading location

[0193] 7. Access Location

[0194] 8 Access openings

[0195] 9 Processing Units

[0196] 10 Locking mechanisms

[0197] 11 Sensors

[0198] 12 Transparent Areas

[0199] 13 Service Section

[0200] 14. Protected Part

[0201] 15. Equipment compartments

[0202] 17. Robotic Equipment

[0203] 18 Equipment for Automated Processes

[0204] 19 Loading Area

[0205] 20 carriers

[0206] 21 portal rails

[0207] 22 Clamping Rails

[0208] 23 Laboratory items

[0209] 24 Guide rails for (various) robotic devices

[0210] 26 Rod-shaped objects

[0211] h1 Service section height

[0212] h2 Height of the protected section

[0213] L1 Service Length

[0214] l2 Length S of the protected part

Claims

1. A door (1) integrated into a laboratory workstation (2) including a horizontally extending work surface (3) for providing a work area (4) on the work surface (3). The door (1) is configured to be movable relative to the work surface (3) in a vertical direction perpendicular to the work surface (3), and the door (1) includes an access opening (8) configured to change back and forth between a loaded state and a closed state to allow or restrict limited manual access to the work area (4) by the user. Its features are, The laboratory workstation (2) includes a processing unit (9) or is configured to connect to an external processing unit (9). The door (1) is movable relative to the work surface (3) between a safe position (5), an access position (7), and a loading position (6), in which the door (1) is closed for manual access to the work area (4) by the user, and in the access position (7) the work area (4) is open for manual access by the user. In the safe position (5), the access opening (8) is in the closed state by being positioned below the work surface (3) by the door (1), and in the loaded position (6), the access opening (8) is aligned with the work surface (3) and enters the loaded state to allow limited access to the work area (4), and The position of the door (1) is controlled by the processing unit (9), which is configured to control one or more automatic process operations in the work area (4) or its parts based on the position of the door (1).

2. The gate (1) as described in claim 1, wherein, The processing unit (9) is configured to: - When the door (1) moves into the loading position (6), one or more automated processes are allowed to operate in the portion of the work area (4) that is inaccessible to the user through the access opening (8), and / or - When the door (1) moves into the safe position (5), one or more automated processes are allowed to operate throughout the work area (4), and / or - When the door (1) moves into the loading position (6) or the access position (7), restrict or prevent one or more automatic process operations in the work area (4) or its parts.

3. The door (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, the door (1) comprising at least one sensor (11) functionally connected to the processing unit (9), the sensor (11) being configured to monitor the position of the door (1).

4. The gate (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, For being locked in the safe position (5) and / or the loading position (6), the door (1) includes a locking mechanism (10) functionally connected to the processing unit (9) in each case.

5. The gate (1) as described in claim 3, wherein, For being locked in the safe position (5) and / or the loading position (6), the door (1) includes a locking mechanism (10) functionally connected to the processing unit (9) in each case.

6. The gate (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein, Each locking mechanism (10) is functionally connected to at least one sensor (11).

7. The gate (1) as claimed in claim 5, wherein, Each of the locking mechanisms (10) is functionally connected to at least one sensor (11).

8. The gate (1) as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The processing unit (9) is configured to: - Close the locking mechanism (10) to perform one or more automated process operations in the work area (4) or its parts; and / or - When automatic process operations are performed in the work area (4) or its parts, the locking mechanism (10) remains locked; and / or - Depending on the state of the locking mechanism (10), cause one or more automated process operations to be performed in the work area (4) or its parts; and / or - Open the locking mechanism (10) according to the status of one or more automatic process operations performed in the work area (4) or its parts; and / or - When no automatic process operation is performed in the work area (4) or its parts, the locking mechanism (10) remains open; and / or - Control the state of the locking mechanism (10); and / or - When the position of the door (1) changes or the state of the locking mechanism (10) changes, stop one or more automatic process operations performed in the work area (4) or its parts.

9. The gate (1) as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The processing unit (9) is configured to: - Close the locking mechanism (10) to perform one or more automated process operations in the work area (4) or its parts; and / or - When automatic process operations are performed in the work area (4) or its parts, the locking mechanism (10) remains locked; and / or - Depending on the state of the locking mechanism (10), cause one or more automated process operations to be performed in the work area (4) or its parts; and / or - Open the locking mechanism (10) according to the status of one or more automatic process operations performed in the work area (4) or its parts; and / or - When no automatic process operation is performed in the work area (4) or its parts, the locking mechanism (10) remains open; and / or - Control the state of the locking mechanism (10); and / or - When the position of the door (1) changes or the state of the locking mechanism (10) changes, stop one or more automatic process operations performed in the work area (4) or its parts.

10. The gate (1) as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein, The locking mechanism (10) is selected from the group consisting of mechanical locking systems, electrical locking systems and magnetic locking systems or combinations thereof.

11. A laboratory workstation (2), comprising: - A horizontally extending working surface (3) for providing a working area (4) on the working surface (3). - At least one robotic device (17) for automatically performing one or more process operations, and - The processing unit (9) is configured to control one or more automatic process operations. The laboratory workstation (2) is characterized in that it further includes a door (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 10. The door (1) is movable relative to the working surface (3) in a vertical direction perpendicular to the working surface (3) between a safe position (5), an access position (7), and a loading position (6). In the safe position (5), the door (1) is closed for manual access to the working area (4) by the user. In the access position (7), the working area (4) is open for manual access by the user. The door (1) includes an access opening (8) configured to change back and forth between an open state, a loaded state, or a closed state. In the safe position (5), the access opening (8) is in the closed state by being positioned below the work surface (3) by the door (1), and in the loaded position (6), the access opening (8) is aligned with the work surface (3) and enters the loaded state to allow limited access to the work area (4), and The processing unit (9) of the laboratory workstation (2) is configured to control the activity of the at least one robotic device (17) to perform one or more automated process operations in the work area (4) or its portions based on the position of the door (1).

12. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 11, wherein, The door (1) is a sliding door (1) that is movable in the vertical direction along one or more guide rails (21) installed on the laboratory workstation (2).

13. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 11, wherein, The door (1) and / or the laboratory workstation (2) include at least one sensor (11) which is functionally connected to the processing unit (9) and configured to monitor the position of the door (1) relative to the working surface (3) of the laboratory workstation (2).

14. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 12, wherein, The door (1) and / or the laboratory workstation (2) include at least one sensor (11) which is functionally connected to the processing unit (9) and configured to monitor the position of the door (1) relative to the working surface (3) of the laboratory workstation (2).

15. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 11, wherein, In each case, the door (1) and / or the laboratory workstation (2) includes at least one locking mechanism (10) for locking the door (1) on the laboratory workstation (2) in the security position (5) and / or the loading position (6) and / or the access position (7), wherein each locking mechanism (10) is functionally connected to the processing unit (9).

16. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 14, wherein, In each case, the door (1) and / or the laboratory workstation (2) includes at least one locking mechanism (10) for locking the door (1) on the laboratory workstation (2) in the security position (5) and / or the loading position (6) and / or the access position (7), wherein each locking mechanism (10) is functionally connected to the processing unit (9).

17. The laboratory workstation (2) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the laboratory workstation (2) includes a loading area (19) on the working surface (3), and when the access opening (8) is in the loading state, the user can manually access the loading area (19) through the access opening (8). The loading area (19) includes at least one carrier (20) movably fixed on the working surface (3), the carrier (20) being configured to accommodate one or more laboratory items (23) and to move on the working surface (3) and toward the access opening (8) when the access opening (8) is in the loading state.

18. The laboratory workstation (2) as claimed in claim 16, the laboratory workstation (2) includes a loading area (19) on the working surface (3), wherein when the access opening (8) is in the loading state, the user can manually access the loading area (19) through the access opening (8). The loading area (19) includes at least one carrier (20) movably fixed on the working surface (3), the carrier (20) being configured to accommodate one or more laboratory items (23) and to move on the working surface (3) and toward the access opening (8) when the access opening (8) is in the loading state.

19. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 11, wherein, The laboratory workstation (2) includes an appliance compartment (15) below the work surface (3) for accommodating one or more devices (18) or components thereof required to perform automated process operations.

20. The laboratory workstation (2) as described in claim 18, wherein, The laboratory workstation (2) includes an appliance compartment (15) below the work surface (3) for accommodating one or more devices (18) or components thereof required to perform automated process operations.

21. A control method for controlling manual access to a work area (4) of a laboratory workstation (2), the control method comprising the following steps: - Provide laboratory workstations (2), which include: - A horizontally extending working surface (3) for providing a working area (4) on the working surface (3). - At least one robotic device (17) for automatically performing one or more process operations in the work area (4) under the control of the processing unit (9), The laboratory workstation (2) is characterized in that it further includes: - The door (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 is movable in a vertical direction perpendicular to the working surface (3) to allow or restrict manual access to the working area (4), and the door (1) includes an access opening (8), and - Processing unit (9), which is configured to control one or more automatic process operations in the work area (4) or its parts according to the position of the door (1). - This causes the door (1) to move into a safe position (5), and thus closes the work area (4) for manual user access, wherein the processing unit (9) controls the door (1) in the safe position (5). - Under the control of the processing unit (9), at least one robotic device (17) is used to automatically perform one or more process operations in the work area (4). - Pause one or more process operations in the work area (4) or its parts, and then allow the door (1) to move to the loading position (6), each operation under the control of the processing unit (9). - The door (1) is moved from the safe position (5) to the loading position (6) to allow limited, manual access to the work area (4) or its parts through the access opening (8), and the processing unit (9) controls the door (1) in the loading position (6), and - When the operation of one or more processes is paused and the door (1) is in the loading position (6) under the control of the processing unit (9), the working surface (3) is loaded or unloaded through the access opening (8).

22. The control method as described in claim 21, wherein, After loading or unloading the working surface (3), the control method further includes the following steps: - Move the door (1) into the safe position (5), and control the door (1) into the safe position (5) under the control of the processing unit (9), and subsequently - Under the control of the processing unit (9), the one or more suspended process operations continue to be performed in the work area (4).

23. The control method as described in claim 21 or 22, wherein, The working surface (3) of the laboratory workstation (2) includes a loading area (19) which can be manually accessed by the user through the access opening (8) when the door (1) is in the loading position (6). In order to load or unload the working surface (3), when the door (1) is in the loading position (6), - Under the control of the processing unit (9), the process operation performed in the loading area (19) is suspended, while one or more other process operations performed outside the loading area (19) in the working area (4) continue, or Suspend all process operations performed in the work area (4).

24. The control method as described in claim 21, wherein, The door (1) and / or the laboratory workstation (2) includes a locking mechanism (10) for locking the door (1) in the safe position (5) and / or the loading position (6) and / or the access position (7), the locking mechanism (10) being controlled by the processing unit (9), wherein the processing unit (9) controls one or more automated process operations based on the state of the locking mechanism (10).

25. The control method as described in claim 23, wherein, The door (1) and / or the laboratory workstation (2) includes a locking mechanism (10) for locking the door (1) in the safe position (5) and / or the loading position (6) and / or the access position (7), the locking mechanism (10) being controlled by the processing unit (9), wherein the processing unit (9) controls one or more automated process operations based on the state of the locking mechanism (10).

26. The control method as described in claim 24 or 25, characterized in that, The locking mechanism (10) is functionally connected to at least one sensor (11), wherein the sensor (11) monitors the position of the door (1) relative to the working surface (3) of the laboratory workstation (2) by monitoring the state of the associated locking mechanism (10).

27. The control method as described in claim 26, wherein, The processing unit (9) controls: - When the door (1) is locked in the safe position (5), the locking mechanism (10) of the door (1) remains locked as long as the robot device (17) moves in the work area (4), and / or - When the door (1) is locked in the loading position (6) or when the door (1) is locked in the safety position (5), the locking mechanism (10) of the door (1) remains locked as long as the robot device (17) moves within the working area (4) but outside the loading area (19), and / or - When the door (1) is moved or locked in the access position (7), the robotic device (17) of the laboratory workstation (2) does not move.

Images