Laboratory instrument with fixation mechanism for fixing an object carrier

Abstract

Laboratory instrument (100) for securing an object carrier (102), wherein the laboratory instrument (100) comprises a base assembly (104) for receiving the object carrier (102), a movable first positioning fixture (106) for securing to a first edge region of the object carrier (102), a second positioning fixture (108) for securing to a second edge region of the object carrier (102), a securing mechanism (114) for securing the object carrier (102) to the base assembly (104) between the first positioning fixture (106) and the second positioning fixture (108) by moving at least the first positioning fixture (106), and an actuating device (116) for actuating the securing mechanism (114) for switching at least the first positioning fixture (106) between an operating state for securing the object carrier (102) and an operating state for releasing the object carrier (102), wherein the securing mechanism (114) comprises at least one guide body (120) which is guidable in at least one guide groove (118) such that an actuation force for actuating the actuating device (116) for switching the securing mechanism (114) into the operating state for releasing the object carrier (102) is smaller than a release force which is applied by the object carrier (102) for releasing a secured object carrier (102).

Description

[0001] This invention relates to laboratory instruments and methods for fixing objects in a carrier.

[0002] EP2547431 discloses an apparatus for positioning a functional device, wherein the apparatus has a main body; a carrier element that can be disposed on the main body for receiving the functional device; a positioning fastener that is displaceably mounted to clamp the functional device; an actuating device configured such that by actuating the actuating device, the positioning fastener can switch between an operating state of engaging the functional device and an operating state of releasing the functional device; and a force transmission element configured to transmit an actuating force from the actuating device to the positioning fastener. The actuating device and the force transmission element are connected such that, in the operating state of engaging the functional device, the force transmission element transmits the functional device force of the functional device to the actuating device, such that the actuating device remains in a stopped position relative to the carrier element even under the action of the transmitted functional device force.

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide laboratory instruments and methods for securing object carriers in a simple, robust, and fault-tolerant manner.

[0004] This objective is achieved by having the features of the independent claim. Other exemplary embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0005] According to an exemplary embodiment of a first aspect of the invention, a laboratory instrument for securing an object carrier is provided, wherein the laboratory instrument includes: a base assembly for receiving the object carrier; a movable first positioning fastener for securing to a first edge region of the object carrier; a second positioning fastener for securing to a second edge region of the object carrier; a securing mechanism for securing the object carrier to the base assembly between the first and second positioning fasteners by moving at least the first positioning fastener (particularly relative to the base assembly); and an actuation device for actuating the securing mechanism to switch at least the first positioning fastener between an operating state of securing the object carrier and an operating state of releasing the object carrier, wherein the securing mechanism includes at least one guide body that can be guided in at least one guide groove (particularly capable of bidirectional displacement) such that the actuating force of the actuation device for switching the securing mechanism to the operating state of releasing the object carrier is less than the release force exerted by the object carrier for releasing the secured object carrier.

[0006] According to another exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, a method for securing an object carrier is provided, wherein the method includes receiving the object carrier on a base assembly. Additionally, the method may include actuating an actuating mechanism or actuating device to act on a securing mechanism, thereby securing the object carrier to the base assembly between a movable first positioning fastener and a second positioning fastener by moving at least a first positioning fastener, such that the first positioning fastener is secured to a first edge region of the object carrier, and the second positioning fastener is secured to a second edge region of the object carrier. Furthermore, the method may include guiding at least one guide body in at least one guide groove of the securing mechanism such that the actuating force for switching the securing mechanism to an operating state of releasing the object carrier (particularly previously secured) is less than the release force exerted by the object carrier for releasing the secured solid carrier.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of a second aspect of the present invention, a laboratory instrument for securing an object carrier is provided, wherein the laboratory instrument includes: a base assembly for receiving the object carrier; a movable first positioning fastener for securing to a first edge region of the object carrier; a second positioning fastener for securing to a second edge region of the object carrier; a securing mechanism for securing the object carrier to the base assembly between the first and second positioning fasteners by moving at least the first positioning fastener; and an actuation device for actuating the securing mechanism to switch at least the first positioning fastener between an operation state of securing the object carrier and an operation state of releasing the object carrier, wherein the securing mechanism is disposed along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the base assembly such that a central region of the base assembly surrounded by the outer periphery is left vacant.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment of a second aspect of the present invention, a method for securing an object carrier is provided, wherein the method includes receiving the object carrier on a base assembly, actuating an actuation mechanism or actuation device to act on a securing mechanism to secure the object carrier to the base assembly between a movable first positioning fastener and a second positioning fastener by moving at least a first positioning fastener, such that the first positioning fastener is secured to a first edge region of the object carrier and the second positioning fastener is secured to a second edge region of the object carrier, and providing the securing mechanism along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the base assembly such that a central region of the base assembly surrounded by the outer periphery is left vacant.

[0009] In the context of this application, the term "laboratory instrument" should be specifically understood to mean equipment, tools and accessories used in chemical laboratories, biochemical laboratories, biophysical laboratories, pharmaceutical laboratories and / or medical laboratories for performing chemical, biochemical, biophysical, pharmaceutical and / or medical procedures, such as sample handling, sample preparation, sample separation, sample testing, sample research, synthesis and / or analysis.

[0010] In the context of this application, the term "object carrier" may be specifically understood to mean a device configured to receive a medium (e.g., a liquid and / or solid and / or gaseous medium) to be processed in a laboratory. In particular, the object carrier for receiving the substance may be present in a container, or preferably configured to contain multiple substances in different containers. For example, the object carrier may be a sample carrier plate, such as a microtiter plate having multiple cavities.

[0011] In the context of this application, the term "positioning fastener" should be specifically understood to mean a body, component, or mechanism configured to adjoin or be applied to an edge region of an object carrier in order to exert a fixing and / or positioning effect thereon. In particular, the positioning fastener may apply at least a temporary fastening force to the object carrier.

[0012] In the context of this application, the term "edge region of an object carrier" should be understood to mean a location on or near the outer perimeter of an object carrier. In particular, the edge of an object carrier may be defined by the sidewalls of the object carrier.

[0013] In the context of this application, the term "fixing mechanism" should be specifically understood to mean an arrangement of cooperating elements or components that together apply a fixing force to a carrier of an object, thereby fixing the carrier of the object in a pre-specified position.

[0014] In the context of this application, the term "actuator" should be specifically understood to mean a mechanical device that enables a user, actuator, and / or robot manipulator to apply actuating force to a laboratory instrument in order to set a defined operating mode. In particular, at least a portion of the actuator may be connected to the exterior of the laboratory instrument to allow the user and / or robot processor, in particular, access to the actuator. Optionally or additionally, at least a portion of the actuator may also be housed within the laboratory instrument to enable access to actuators also connected within the laboratory instrument. The actuator may be implemented, for example, by means of a longitudinal force on a longitudinally displaceable element and / or by means of a steering force on a pivotable lever.

[0015] In the context of this application, the phrase "the actuating force for switching the fixed mechanism to the operating state of releasing the object carrier is less than the release force exerted by the object carrier to release the fixed object carrier" should be specifically understood to mean asymmetrical force transmission, which combines low-force actuation of the actuating device with an unnecessary, substantially more forced release of the object carrier from the laboratory instrument. In other words, the force transmission mechanism can ensure that the actuating force exerted externally on the object carrier for switching between fixing and releasing the object carrier is less than, in particular, at most half, the release force exerted by the object carrier on the laboratory instrument (e.g., when performing track mixing or vibrational motion).

[0016] In the context of this invention, the term "fixation mechanism along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the base assembly, such that the central region of the base assembly surrounded by the outer periphery is left vacant" should be specifically understood to mean a fixing mechanism whose elements or components are exclusively arranged along the outer edge of the laboratory instrument, such that a major portion (particularly at least 50%, more particularly, at least 80%) of the surface area of ​​the base assembly is surrounded by these elements or components. Therefore, the surface area can be used to perform other tasks.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the invention (which may be used in conjunction with or independently of the second aspect), a laboratory instrument is provided that allows for low-force actuation for mounting or dismounting an object carrier to be secured, while simultaneously providing reliable protection against undesirable release of the mounted object carrier due to forces that impair actuation (particularly shaking forces during mixed operation). Low-force actuation can be achieved, for example, in a user-friendly manner by means of the user's muscle strength or by means of an automated unit such as an actuator or robot. Simultaneously, undesirable release of the object carrier from its fixed structure due to the moving forces of the object carrier can be reliably prevented, for example, during the movement of the object carrier along a track path to mix the medium in the object carrier. Low-force operation of this type of laboratory instrument can be achieved by means of an asymmetric force transmission mechanism that transmits the actuating force in different directions to the guide body in the guide groove, without transmitting release forces or centrifugal forces from the object carrier to the guide body in the guide groove. For example, the actuating force can guide the guide body along the guide groove in a low-friction manner, while the release force or centrifugal force on the guide body acts at an angle or even perpendicular to the extension direction of the guide groove, thus making release impossible, preventing, or at least substantially preventing it. Advantageously, the guide body and guide groove can be accommodated in virtually any selectable location on the laboratory instrument, for example, outside the receiving area for the object carrier on the base assembly of the laboratory instrument. In this way, for example, an interactive device (e.g., a temperature control device) that functionally cooperates with the object carrier can be placed, for example, in the central space of the base assembly, without interacting undesirably with the fixing mechanism (e.g., an assembly of the guide body and guide groove that may be located in a corner). Therefore, good user comfort can be achieved by synergistically combining an effective self-locking effect that prevents the object carrier from releasing, and a high degree of design freedom in integrating the interactive device for interacting with the installed object carrier. Furthermore, this type of laboratory instrument can be structurally compact.

[0018] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the invention (which may be used in conjunction with or independently of the first aspect), a securing mechanism is provided for securing an object carrier to the laboratory instrument by actuating an actuating device that extends partially or completely around the central region of a base assembly of the laboratory instrument. In other words, the securing mechanism may be guided along the edge of the base assembly and may also be guided around the outer edge of the object carrier. Since the securing mechanism for securing the object carrier does not have any components extending into the inner region of the base assembly (on which at least a portion of the object carrier is positioned), the central region below the object carrier remains empty to receive an interaction device for functional cooperation with the object carrier. This means that the securing mechanism is not subject to any limitations regarding direct functional interaction between the laboratory instrument and the object carrier thereon. Advantageously, with this type of annular peripheral securing mechanism, even when significant operating forces (e.g., centrifugal forces on the medium in a mixture carrier) act on the object carrier during operation of the laboratory instrument, a robust self-locking effect is achieved by means of low-force actuation via an actuating device connected to its exterior and preventing undesirable release of the object carrier from the laboratory instrument.

[0019] Other exemplary embodiments of laboratory instruments and methods will be described below.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide body can be a guide pin. This type of guide pin can move along a guide groove formed therein within a guide structure (particularly a guide disc, etc.), and can cooperate with a linear guide or a portion of such a linear guide to convert a steering force applied to the guide disc by means of an actuation device into a linear force in a low-force manner, moving one or more positioning fasteners outward to mount or dismount an object carrier, or moving one or more positioning fasteners inward to clamp an object carrier. In the context of this application, the term "guide disc" as used herein should be understood to mean a circular guide disc or a guide disc of other shapes. Generally, any other type of guide structure can be used instead of a guide disc. For example, a rigid assembly including a positioning pin and a guide body can be mounted so as to be linearly displaceable relative to the housing of a base assembly. Meanwhile, the guide body can engage in a guide groove of the guide disc, which rotates by means of a fixing mechanism when the actuation device is actuated. Due to the restricted guidance of the guide body in the guide groove, the rotation of the guide disc generates a force that causes longitudinal displacement of the guide body and the rigid assembly of the positioning fastener within the linear guide. Clearly, as the guide plate moves due to the actuation of the actuator, the guide plate, carrying the guide pin, is guided along a defined trajectory within the guide groove. In this way, the guide pin can displace the relevant positioning fixture (e.g., radially) in a corner area of ​​the laboratory instrument outward by means of a linear guide. When the actuating force is no longer applied, for example, a pre-tensioning device (e.g., a mechanical spring) can pull the actuator back to its original position, and the guide pin also moves back along the guide groove, and the relevant positioning fixture moves inward. Alternatively, the guide plate can be rotatably mounted on the housing of the main body.

[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide groove can be curved, particularly arcuate. Preferably, the guide groove is shaped like a curved track, and thus defines the guided movement of the guide body along a predetermined track defined therebetween the initial and end abutments of the guide groove. In other words, the guide groove can be arcuate, defined at the beginning and end by corresponding abutments, and the guide pin can slide along the guide groove in a predetermined manner.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide recess can be formed as a guide disk. The disk can be a geometry (e.g., in the form of a cylinder) whose diameter is larger than its thickness, particularly by a significant factor. The disk can be, for example, a circular disk or a polygonal disk. For example, the guide recess can be configured as a guide groove, i.e., an elongated slot-shaped recess extending to the bottom defined by the guide disk. Alternatively, the guide disk can also be configured as a through-hole.

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment, a guide disc (which may also be replaced by a body of different shapes) is rotatably mounted in a base assembly, particularly by means of a sliding mount. This type of guide disc can be rotatably mounted on the central axis of the base assembly. The rotational force applied to the guide disc by an actuating device can then be converted into a linear force by means of a guide pin, which causes the associated positioning fastener to displace linearly. In other exemplary embodiments, other shapes forming the guide groove can be used as alternatives for the guide disc. The sliding mount for rotatably mounting the guide disc to the base assembly constitutes a particularly simple structural solution and provides a more robust mount than other types of mounts. However, in other exemplary embodiments, other types of mounts or rotary bearings, particularly ball bearings, can be used instead of sliding mounts on the guide disc. Ball bearings have the advantage of low friction.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide disk may be positioned in a corner of the base assembly. In a top view of the laboratory instrument, the guide disk may be positioned entirely or primarily outside the central region of the base assembly, thus positioning it outside the object carrier; in the central region, the medium (particularly a fluid sample) to be processed by the laboratory instrument is located. Therefore, when working with the laboratory instrument, the function of the guide disk does not affect the function of the object carrier.

[0025] According to exemplary embodiments, the steering pulley can be disposed in at least one other corner of the base assembly, particularly rotatably mounted by means of a sliding mount. This type of steering pulley can facilitate the transmission of force between the actuating device and at least one positioning fixture, or can be integrated into the force transmission path between the actuating device and at least one positioning fixture. Specifically, this type of steering pulley can, for example, deflect the actuating force at one corner of the base assembly by 90°, and thus form part of a fixing mechanism located only on the outer periphery. Two steering pulleys can also be provided on laboratory instruments, preferably in two opposing corners. The sliding mount for rotatably mounting the steering pulley constitutes a particularly simple structural solution and produces a more robust mount than other types of bearings. However, in other exemplary embodiments, other types of mounts or rotary bearings, particularly ball bearings, can be used on the steering pulley instead of sliding mounts. The use of ball bearings produces particularly low friction.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide body can be rigidly connected to the first positioning fastener. Therefore, when the guide disc rotates due to actuation of the actuating device, causing the guide body to move along the guide groove, the guide body moves relative to the base assembly together with the first positioning fastener, and preferably in a linear manner. This type of restricted guidance ensures that the first positioning fastener can be moved by actuation of the actuating device.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism may include two guide grooves (each of which may be formed, for example, in a corresponding guide disc), wherein a corresponding guide (e.g., a corresponding guide pin) can be guided in each guide groove. This type of arrangement results in symmetrical transmission of force and thus reduces bearing force.

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, each guide groove can be disposed in a corresponding guide disc. Preferably, two guide discs can be disposed at mutually opposite corners of the base assembly. Each guide disc can then move an associated positioning fixture, which advantageously results in a more uniform guidance of forces from the actuation device to the fixing mechanism and from the fixing mechanism to the object carrier. Alternatively, in laboratory instruments, four guide discs can preferably be provided at the four corners of the base assembly.

[0029] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism can be configured such that when a release force is applied to release the object carrier, the displacement force acts on the guide body at an angle (i.e., at an angle other than zero, particularly an acute or right angle) to the guide disc, especially laterally (preferably perpendicularly) to the guide disc. Therefore, when the fixing mechanism is configured to apply a force perpendicular to the guide groove in the force transmission direction from the object carrier to the fixing mechanism, undesirable movement of the object carrier from the fixing device of the guide body is mechanically impossible or at least severely suppressed due to high friction. In particular, the guide body can be guided in the curved guide groove of the guide disc without needing to actuate the actuator via a positioning fastener on the guide body (and therefore without needing to rotate the guide disc) by centrifugal force acting on the object carrier (due to mixing), or without needing linear displacement of the positioning fastener along the guide groove, but rather impacting the guide disc at an angle or laterally to the guide groove.

[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism can be configured such that when an actuating device is activated to switch the fixing mechanism to an operational state for releasing an object carrier, a displacement force acts on the guide body along or longitudinally toward the guide groove. This direction of force transmission from the actuating device to the fixing mechanism allows the guide body to slide along the guide groove in a low-friction manner to move the associated positioning fixture in a defined manner. In particular, when the actuating device is actuated (and therefore when the guide disc is rotated), the guide body can move within the curved guide groove of the guide disc, and the positioning fixture is linearly displaced along the guide groove without impacting the guide disc at an angle or laterally toward the guide groove.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, a closed fixing mechanism may be disposed along the outer periphery of the base assembly, thereby leaving the central region of the base assembly surrounded by the outer periphery vacant. For example, the fixing mechanism may advantageously be closed and configured annularly, such that only the outer periphery of the base assembly is occupied by components of the fixing mechanism, while the central region surrounded by the outer periphery is completely free of components of the base assembly. For example, the central region may remain completely or partially vacant (e.g., as a flow space for cooling gas), or it may be equipped with an interaction device that can be configured to interact with the medium of the mounted object carrier. For example, at least a portion of the central region may be used to cool the object carrier or sample carrier by using forced convection of airflow or gas flow.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism can be—preferably entirely—arranged along the underside of the base assembly away from the object carrier. Particularly preferably, the fixing mechanism extends on the underside of the base assembly, surrounding the entire outer peripheral edge. In this type of configuration, not only is the entire upper side of the base assembly left unused to receive an object carrier of the same size, but a large central area on the underside of the base assembly can be used to accommodate the interactive device.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism can extend along the entire outer periphery of the base assembly. In particular, the force transmission path of the fixing mechanism can extend in a closed loop along the entire outer periphery of the base assembly. This type of force transmission can be generated, for example, by means of a toothed belt that extends completely along all side edges of the base assembly, and the direction of its force transmission is changed at each corner of the base assembly by means of corresponding components of the fixing mechanism (particularly by means of one or more guide discs and / or one or more deflecting elements).

[0034] According to exemplary embodiments, a laboratory instrument may include at least one interactive device that is wholly or partially disposed in an empty central region of a base assembly (and / or wholly or partially disposed in an empty central region of a carrier body of the laboratory instrument) and / or operatively configured via an empty central region of the base assembly (particularly on an object carrier or a medium contained therein). In the context of this invention, the term "interactive device" should be understood to mean a device that, in addition to securing the object carrier by means of fixing mechanisms and positioning fasteners and actuating it by means of actuating devices (and optionally a combination thereof), provides at least one additional function for functionally influencing the medium in the object carrier. In this type of interactive device, this may, for example, be a device for setting or influencing at least one operating parameter (e.g., temperature) of the medium in the object carrier, which senses and characterizes the medium in the object carrier (e.g., using an optical sensor system) and / or intentionally manipulates the medium in the object carrier (e.g., by means of electromagnetic radiation or by means of magnetic force to stimulate it).

[0035] According to exemplary embodiments, the interaction device may be selected from: a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of a medium in an object carrier, an optical device for optical interaction with the medium in the object carrier, and a magnetic mechanism for magnetic interaction with the medium in the object carrier. For example, the temperature of a medium (e.g., a liquid sample) in the object carrier or in its individual compartments can be regulated by means of a temperature control device mounted on a base assembly below the object carrier. This may include heating the medium to a temperature above ambient temperature and / or cooling the medium to a temperature below ambient temperature. For example, heating or cooling may be performed by means of a heating wire (for heating) or by means of a Peltier element (for selective heating or cooling). Since there is no fixing mechanism in the central region of the base assembly, this can be used to house the temperature control device or at least a portion thereof. However, an active optical device may also be housed in the central region of the base assembly to optically interact with the medium in the mounted object carrier. For example, such an active optical device may include an electromagnetic radiation source that irradiates the medium in the object carrier with electromagnetic radiation (particularly visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, X-rays, etc.). For example, this type of electromagnetic radiation can be used to irradiate the medium in an object carrier to stimulate the medium, induce chemical reactions within the medium, and / or heat the medium. This type of active optical device may also include an electromagnetic radiation detector that detects electromagnetic radiation propagated by the medium in the object carrier. A magnetic mechanism disposed beneath the object carrier in an empty central region of the base assembly and / or the carrier body to generate a magnetic effect on the medium in the object carrier can, for example, magnetically separate, stimulate, or otherwise influence the medium.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism may include a closed annular force transmission mechanism along the outer periphery of the base assembly, particularly a toothed belt. This type of toothed belt may engage with teeth on the exterior of a guide disc and / or steering pulley of the fixing mechanism, or with an actuating device. For example, by means of the engagement of the teeth of the actuating device with the toothed belt, or by clamping the actuating device onto the toothed belt, actuating force from a user, robot, or actuator can be transmitted to the toothed belt, causing the toothed belt to circumferentially displace, for example, bidirectionally, on the base assembly. By means of the peripheral connection of the toothed belt, the toothed belt can transmit the force applied by the actuating device to at least one guide disc, which is thus rotated. The rotation of the guide disc, in turn, causes a guide body to move within a guide groove on the guide disc. This guide body then moves the associated positioning fixing element outward.

[0037] Furthermore, at least one steering pulley in at least one corner of the base assembly can be integrated into the force transmission, which closes in the circumferential direction using a fully circumferential toothed belt. Thus, advantageously, at least one guide disc and at least one steering pulley can be force-coupled by means of a circularly closed force transmission mechanism.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fixing mechanism may include at least one guide body that can be guided in at least one guide groove, such that the actuating force of the actuating device for switching the fixing mechanism to the operating state of releasing the object carrier is at most half of the release force exerted by the object carrier to release the fixed object carrier. In this way, a strong self-locking effect can be combined with an actuating device that can be actuated in a force-saving manner.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, when transitioning between the operating state of the fixed object carrier and the operating state of the released object carrier, the first positioning fixture can be linearly displaced by means of a linear guide. Displacement force can be applied to this type of linear guide through a guide body in the guide groove of the guide plate, thereby allowing the relevant positioning fixture to displace along a linear trajectory.

[0040] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first positioning fastener may include a first positioning pin and / or the second positioning fastener may include a second positioning pin, and the object carrier may engage between the first positioning pin and the second positioning pin. The positioning pins of the two respective positioning fasteners may be rigidly connected together (e.g., via an L-shaped profile) and configured such that they engage on adjacent side edges of an object carrier (which may be generally rectangular in shape), for example, adjacent to the corners of the object carrier and laboratory instruments. In this way, the object carrier can be reliably engaged at the mutually opposing corner regions of the respective positioning fasteners, preferably each corner region having two positioning pins, and can be protected against release forces in all directions.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first and second locating pins may have a vertical retention profile configured to prevent the object carrier from being released from the base assembly in the vertical direction (e.g., by means of a tapered structure), and preferably to prevent it from being released from the base assembly (e.g., by means of a horizontal abutment surface on the underside of the head of the respective locating pin). For example, for this purpose, the locating pin has a head that is thickened or widened in the opposite direction, which prevents the object carrier from vertically detaching from the laboratory instrument even when a vertical release force is applied. Particularly preferably, the retention profile has a horizontal abutment surface on the head of the locating pin, which holds the object carrier in the case of vertical lifting.

[0042] According to exemplary embodiments, laboratory instruments may include an object carrier, particularly a sample carrier plate, received on a substrate assembly. Specifically, the object carrier may be a sample carrier plate, preferably comprising a plurality (particularly at least 10, more particularly at least 100) sample receiving containers or sample wells, which are arranged, for example, in a matrix. More specifically, this type of sample carrier plate may be a microtiter plate. Advantageously, the object carrier receiving surface on the upper side of the substrate assembly and the structure on the lower side of the object carrier are structurally matched.

[0043] According to an exemplary embodiment, the laboratory instrument may include a carrier body with a mixing drive mechanism specifically configured to generate orbital mixing motion, wherein, when in a movable mounted state, particularly when moving along an orbital path on the carrier body by means of a mixing actuator, a base assembly is configured for mixing a medium contained in an object carrier. The term "orbital motion" as used herein should be understood to mean movement of the object carrier and the medium contained therein about a center formed by (at least) two eccentric shafts. In other words, the plate of the base assembly receiving the object carrier may be driven by two eccentric wheels (i.e., two eccentrically configured eccentric shafts), which are in turn synchronously driven by an electric motor or other drive device. The resulting orbital motion can cause particularly effective mixing of the medium (particularly liquids, solids, and / or gases) in the receiving container of the object carrier.

[0044] According to an exemplary embodiment, the mixing mechanism can be disposed along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the vehicle body, leaving the central region of the vehicle body surrounded by the outer periphery vacant. More precisely, an eccentric wheel for performing the track mixing motion extends vertically out of the housing of the vehicle body to engage in a corresponding groove on the underside of the base assembly in a force-transmitting manner, such that eccentric rotation of the eccentric wheel causes track movement of the base assembly. Advantageously, the eccentric wheel can be positioned at the opposing side edges of the vehicle body, leaving the central region on the upper side of the vehicle body vacant. A drive device (particularly an electric motor) for driving the eccentric wheel can be recessed below the eccentric wheel in the bottom region of the vehicle body, such that an open cavity on the upper side of the base assembly between the eccentric wheels leaves the central region vacant to accommodate the interaction device.

[0045] According to an exemplary embodiment, the hybrid drive mechanism and the fixing mechanism can be separated from each other. Advantageously, the hybrid drive mechanism can be specifically configured in the vehicle body, and the fixing mechanism can be specifically configured in the base assembly. In this way, the hybrid drive mechanism and the fixing mechanism can remain functionally and spatially separated from each other. In other words, the fixing mechanism can be actuated to release the object vehicle, or to fix the object vehicle by actuating the actuating device without actuating the object vehicle, without affecting the hybrid drive mechanism. Conversely, the hybrid drive mechanism can be started by means of its drive device to drive the eccentric wheel without affecting the fixing mechanism. In other words, the actuating device and the fixing mechanism can be mechanically separated from the hybrid drive mechanism. This means that undesirable interactions between the fixing function and the hybrid function can be avoided, and the two functions can be used independently of each other.

[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment, a fixing mechanism is used to clamp an object carrier between a first positioning fixing member and a second positioning fixing member. Specifically, the movable first positioning fixing member can be moved between a clamped state and a released state by actuating the actuating device and therefore the fixing mechanism. If the second positioning fixing member is also configured to be movable, this also only allows movement between the clamped state and the released state by actuating the actuating device, thereby actuating the fixing mechanism. The movement of the first and second positioning fixing members can be synchronized by means of the fixing mechanism, particularly by means of a force transmission mechanism.

[0047] According to an exemplary embodiment, the laboratory instrument may have a pretensioning element configured to pretension a fixing mechanism to an operational state of fixing an object carrier. This pretensioning element can engage the fixing mechanism via an actuation device, applying a pretensioning force directly opposing (i.e., antiparallel to) the actuating force to transition the fixing mechanism from an operational state of fixing the object carrier to an operational state of releasing the object carrier. When the actuating force is no longer applied, the previously tensioned pretensioning element returns to its equilibrium state, thereby applying a fixing force to the object carrier. In other words, by means of the pretensioning element, the laboratory instrument can be pretensioned to an engaged state of the object carrier without any actuating force. This further improves the operational safety of the laboratory instrument, as an active actuating force must be applied to release the object carrier. Preferably, the pretensioning element can be formed from at least one mechanical spring, particularly at least one helical spring. The pretensioning element can also be formed as a pair of springs or a spring assembly. The mechanical spring used to form the pretensioning element can also be configured as a leaf spring or a coil spring. Furthermore, according to another exemplary embodiment, the pretensioning element can be formed by cooperative magnets, for example by means of a pair of mutually repelling magnets that move toward each other when the actuation device is actuated, or a pair of mutually attracting magnets that move away from each other when the actuation device is actuated.

[0048] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second positioning fastener can be movable relative to the base assembly, or it can be rigidly connected to the base assembly. If the second positioning fastener is configured to be movable and preferably positioned at an angle to the base assembly opposite to the first positioning fastener, a particularly symmetrical force transmission can be applied from the base assembly to the object carrier, and the object carrier can be symmetrically coupled between the two movable positioning fasteners. On the other hand, if the second positioning fastener is statically connected to the base assembly, the laboratory instrument becomes particularly easy to manufacture.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, the laboratory instrument may include a third positioning fastener for securing to a third edge region of an object carrier, and preferably, a fourth positioning fastener for securing to a fourth edge region of the object carrier. Each of the third and fourth positioning fasteners may optionally be movable relative to the base assembly or rigidly connected to the base assembly. The four positioning fasteners at the four corners of the object carrier secure the secured object carrier in a particularly reliable manner.

[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment, the laboratory instrument may include a functional assembly with a carrier plate on which actuation devices and fixing mechanisms are pre-assembled. Therefore, the functional assembly can be provided as a pre-assembled module, wherein the actuation devices and fixing mechanisms are pre-assembled on a plate-like support, such as a structured panel. This means that the laboratory instrument can be manufactured in a low-cost manner. Furthermore, constructing the functional assembly with the carrier plate provides a flat design and thus a compact implementation of the laboratory instrument.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment, a base assembly (which may in particular be formed as a single unit, and more particularly formed of a single material) is configured to receive a pre-assembled functional assembly and a positioning assembly including a first positioning fastener or a second positioning fastener. In particular, the base assembly may be manufactured or cast into a single body. This also provides a simple method for manufacturing laboratory instruments. Thus, the base assembly may be a second module or a second assembly of a laboratory instrument to be assembled. Furthermore, the positioning assembly may be pre-assembled and connected to the functional assembly during final assembly. This type of pre-assembled or modular system enables the production of laboratory instruments in a simple manner.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first and second positioning fasteners may include a positioning sleeve with a through hole, into which a fastening element for securing the positioning sleeve may be introduced or has been introduced. This type of sleeve-shaped positioning fastener is particularly easy to assemble, disassemble, or replace by using screws (or bolts, etc.) as fastening elements. Furthermore, this configuration allows for easy adjustment of the height of the respective positioning fastener. To secure the positioning fastener, a fastening element, such as a screw, may be screwed into the through hole of the positioning sleeve and may be fastened and engaged on the underside of the positioning sleeve.

[0053] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first and second positioning fasteners may include an external profile, particularly external threads, for engagement in an object carrier. The profile is preferably a sharply edged external thread, or optionally a different type of knurling, or even a raised arrangement. By virtue of the profile preferably composed of external threads, the object carrier (e.g., a microtiter plate) can be held engaged particularly reliably, and unwanted movement of the object carrier relative to the positioning fasteners can be prevented. Clearly, the bends in the external threads can be anchored or hooked into the plastic material of the object carrier, thus improving the operational safety of the laboratory instrument.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment, a laboratory instrument may include a tensioning device for tensioning a closed annular force transmission mechanism for tolerance compensation fixing. This type of tensioning device allows for adjustment of the length of the force transmission mechanism. With the aid of this tensioning device, the length of the closed annular force transmission mechanism, particularly the toothed belt, can be precisely adjusted to the precise dimensions of the laboratory instrument components, particularly the precise position and size of the cam disc and steering pulley. Preferably, this tensioning device can be located in the area of ​​the actuation device. The force transmission mechanism can be tensioned by means of this tensioning device. This allows for simple and efficient adjustment of tolerances in the components of the laboratory instrument. When such a tensioning device is provided, the components of the laboratory instrument can therefore be manufactured with larger tolerances and thus at a lower cost without compromising the operational accuracy of the laboratory instrument.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment, the base assembly may be an annular body having a central through-hole (which may correspond to an empty central region of the base assembly). Optionally or additionally, the carrier body on which the base assembly can be movably mounted may also be an annular body having a central through-hole (which may correspond to an empty central region of the carrier body). Figures 65 to 72Examples of suitable exemplary embodiments can be seen in the diagram. In this type of structure, the corresponding central region can be left empty, forming a central through-hole in the base assembly and a central through-hole in the carrier body. The base assembly and carrier body are respectively annular in shape, making it particularly advantageous that, when mounted together, the base assembly and carrier body together have a common through-hole formed by their empty central regions. Advantageously, in this type of laboratory instrument where the object carrier is mounted on the base assembly, the medium received therein can be accessed from the underside of the laboratory instrument through the through-holes in the carrier body and base assembly, so that interactive devices (e.g., temperature control devices, optical sensor devices, and / or magnetic manipulation, for example for magnetic separation purposes) can interact with the medium.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment, a detachably mounted and thermally conductive temperature control adapter (particularly having a thermal conductivity of at least 50 W / mK, for example, composed of a metal such as aluminum) can be disposed on a base assembly to control the temperature of an object carrier or container (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 9 This allows for the flexible installation of temperature control adapters when specific temperature control of an object carrier or individual sample container is required.

[0057] In particular, the temperature control adapter may include a receiving opening for shape-fitting an object carrier or container (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 This provides the opportunity to control the temperature of an object carrier or container in a highly thermally conductive and intuitive manner, in a way that is both concrete and easy to use, and flexible.

[0058] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0059] Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0060] Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram of a laboratory instrument with a flat-bottomed adapter according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0061] Figure 3 It shows that according to Figure 1 A laboratory instrument having a temperature control adapter mounted thereon in the form of a thermally conductive frame having a receiving opening for receiving a laboratory container or object carrier.

[0062] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 2 Exploded view of laboratory instruments.

[0063] Figure 5 It shows that according to Figure 2 Another exploded view of the laboratory instruments.

[0064] Figure 6 A laboratory instrument without temperature control is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 7 A laboratory instrument with locating pins in all four corner areas is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0066] Figure 8 A laboratory instrument with locating pins in all four corner areas and a flat-bottomed adapter is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0067] Figure 9 It shows that according to Figure 7 Laboratory instruments, which have mounting on them and Figure 8 Different optional temperature control adapters are available.

[0068] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 7 Another three-dimensional view of the laboratory instruments.

[0069] Figure 11 A laboratory instrument according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0070] Figure 12 It shows that according to Figure 11 Another view of the laboratory instruments.

[0071] Figure 13 A bottom view of the base assembly of a laboratory instrument having locating pins in two corner regions, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0072] Figure 14 It shows that according to Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of the base component.

[0073] Figure 15 A bottom view of the base assembly of a laboratory instrument having locating pins in the four corner regions is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0074] Figure 16 It shows that according to Figure 15 Cross-sectional view of the base component.

[0075] Figure 17 A bottom view of a laboratory instrument according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0076] Figure 18 It shows that according to Figure 17 A docking station for laboratory instruments.

[0077] Figure 19 and Figure 20 Top and bottom views of an expansion dock according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0078] Figure 21 A base station is shown, which is configured here to use multiple [various methods / methods]. Figure 19 An expansion dock is used to mount a base plate of multiple laboratory instruments according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the expansion dock being inserted into the base plate.

[0079] Figure 22A A top view of a guide plate for a fixing mechanism for laboratory instruments according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0080] Figure 22B The installation and operational status are shown according to Figure 22A The guide plate, which has been rotated by the actuation of the actuator.

[0081] Figure 22C It shows that according to Figure 22B A guide plate that is in the installed state but in a different operating state, wherein the actuation of the actuator does not occur and therefore the guide plate does not rotate.

[0082] Figure 23 It shows that according to Figure 22A A 3D view of the boot disk.

[0083] Figure 24 A three-dimensional view of a positioning fastener according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0084] Figure 25 It shows that according to Figure 24 Another three-dimensional view of the positioning and fixing component.

[0085] Figure 26 It shows that according to Figure 24 The positioning and fixing parts plus according to Figure 23 A 3D view of the boot disk.

[0086] Figure 27 A cross-sectional view shows the housing within the base assembly. Figure 26 Assembly components.

[0087] Figure 28 The cross-sectional view shows the results according to Figure 27 Another view of the assembly.

[0088] Figure 29A three-dimensional diagram of a portion of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0089] Figure 30 A three-dimensional diagram of a portion of a laboratory instrument according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0090] Figure 31 The internal structure of the carrier body of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0091] Figure 32 It shows that according to Figure 31 A top view of the internal structure of the vehicle's main body.

[0092] Figure 33 It shows that according to Figure 31 and Figure 32 The exposed interior of the vehicle's main body.

[0093] Figure 34 It shows that according to Figure 33 A bottom view of the exposed interior of the vehicle's main body.

[0094] Figure 35 A pendulum support for a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0095] Figure 36 A cross-sectional view shows an inclined pendulum support between the carrier body and the base assembly of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 37 An actuator for an automatic actuation device of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0097] Figure 38 The internal structure of the carrier body of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0098] Figure 39 It shows that according to Figure 38 Another view of the assembly.

[0099] Figure 40 A top view of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, on which an object carrier is mounted, the object carrier being engaged by a positioning fastener of the laboratory instrument.

[0100] Figure 41 It shows that according to Figure 40 The assembly, in which the object carrier has been released from the positioning fixture.

[0101] Figure 42A top view of the carrier body of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, in an actuated position having a locking object carrier.

[0102] Figure 43 It shows that according to Figure 42 The assembly is in the actuated position of the object carrier that unlocks it.

[0103] Figure 44 A three-dimensional diagram of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the cooling airflow is schematically illustrated.

[0104] Figure 45 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the cooling airflow is schematically illustrated.

[0105] Figure 46 A top view of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0106] Figure 47 It shows that according to Figure 46 A cross-sectional view of the laboratory instrument along section line AA.

[0107] Figure 48 A top view of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0108] Figure 49 It shows that according to Figure 48 A cross-sectional view of the laboratory instrument along section line BB.

[0109] Figure 50 A three-dimensional diagram of the base assembly of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0110] Figure 51 It shows that according to Figure 50 Another 3D diagram of the base component.

[0111] Figure 52 A three-dimensional diagram of the base assembly of a laboratory instrument according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0112] Figure 53 It shows that according to Figure 52 A bottom view of the base component.

[0113] Figure 54 It shows that according to Figure 52 A top view of the base assembly, with the positioning fastener in a locked state.

[0114] Figure 55 It shows that according to Figure 52A top view of the base assembly, with the positioning fastener in the unlocked state.

[0115] Figure 56 It shows that according to Figure 52 A perspective top view of the base component.

[0116] Figure 57 A three-dimensional diagram of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0117] Figure 58 It shows that according to Figure 57 A bottom view of the base assembly of the laboratory instrument.

[0118] Figure 59 A three-dimensional view of the base assembly of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, having positioning fasteners at all four corners, is shown.

[0119] Figure 60 It shows that according to Figure 59 Top view of the base component.

[0120] Figure 61 It shows that according to Figure 59 A 3D view of the underside of the base component.

[0121] Figure 62 It shows that according to Figure 59 The bottom view of the base component, i.e., the lower side.

[0122] Figure 63 It shows that according to Figure 59 A bottom view of the base components, and in Figure 62 Hidden components.

[0123] Figure 64 A three-dimensional diagram of a laboratory instrument with an object carrier mounted thereon is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Figure 65 A three-dimensional diagram of a laboratory instrument according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0125] Figure 66 It shows that according to Figure 65 A three-dimensional image of the exposed main body of the laboratory instrument.

[0126] Figure 67 An eccentric component with leveling mass is shown as part of a hybrid drive mechanism for a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] Figure 68 The basis shown is a vehicle with an object mounted thereon. Figure 65 Laboratory equipment.

[0128] Figure 69 It shows that according to Figure 65 The lower side of the laboratory instruments.

[0129] Figure 70 It shows that according to Figure 65 The laboratory instruments have no bottom cover on the underside.

[0130] Figure 71 It shows that according to Figure 65 A top view of the laboratory equipment.

[0131] Figure 72 It shows that according to Figure 65 A cross-sectional view of the laboratory instruments.

[0132] Figure 73 It shows that according to Figure 65 Different views of the components of the laboratory instrument.

[0133] Figure 74 It shows that according to Figure 65 Different views of the components of the laboratory instrument.

[0134] Figure 75 A three-dimensional view of a laboratory instrument with a frame-like leveling mass according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein two additional illustrations of a double eccentric element can be seen.

[0135] Figure 76 It shows that according to Figure 75 Different views of the components of the laboratory instrument.

[0136] Figure 77 A three-dimensional top view of a base assembly of a laboratory instrument with positioning fasteners and a fixing mechanism according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0137] Figure 78 It shows that according to Figure 77 A three-dimensional bottom view of the base assembly with positioning fasteners and fixing mechanisms.

[0138] Figure 79 It shows that according to Figure 77 and Figure 78 A three-dimensional bottom view of the functional assembly components of a laboratory instrument.

[0139] Figure 80 It shows that according to Figure 79 Cross-sectional view of the functional assembly.

[0140] Figure 81 It shows that according to Figures 77 to 80 A 3D model of the integrated base assembly of the laboratory instrument.

[0141] Figure 82 A cross-sectional view of a positioning assembly with positioning fasteners for a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0142] Figure 83 A three-dimensional bottom view of a base assembly of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The base assembly includes positioning fasteners and fixing mechanisms as well as a cooling body.

[0143] Figure 84 It shows that according to Figure 83 A three-dimensional top view of the main body of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device.

[0144] Figure 85 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, and a view is shown according to... Figure 83 The base components and according to Figure 84 The connection area between the main bodies of the vehicle.

[0145] Figure 86 A three-dimensional view of the carrier body of a laboratory instrument having a normal force generating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0146] Figure 87 It shows the method of using with respect to Figure 86 A three-dimensional bottom view of the base assembly of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device, which is a collaborative vehicle body with positioning and fixing components and a cooling body.

[0147] Figure 88 A three-dimensional view of the carrier body of a laboratory instrument having a normal force generating device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0148] Figure 89 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the instrument can be used according to... Figure 88 The main body of the vehicle.

[0149] Figure 90 A three-dimensional view of the carrier body of a laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0150] Figure 91 It shows that according to Figure 90 A cross-sectional view of the laboratory instruments.

[0151] Figure 92 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0152] Figure 93 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument with a normal force generating device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0153] Figure 94 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument having a normal force generating device and a magnetic field shielding device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0154] The same or similar components in the various figures are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0155] Before describing the exemplary embodiments of the present invention in more detail, some general aspects of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be explained:

[0156] In traditional laboratory instruments, the position of a microtiter plate is limited only by a fixed support. A disadvantage here is the high manufacturing tolerance of the sample carrier, produced from plastic using an injection molding process. In automated operating systems with fixed positioning fixtures, the position is typically positioned slightly further to allow for the safe and automated placement and removal of the object using clamps. As the diameters of containers and orifices become smaller, for example, for microtiter plates with 384 or 1536 orifices, positioning alone is insufficient. Furthermore, in such traditional laboratory instruments, there is a risk of unimpeded displacement of the sample carrier due to external mechanical influences. Moreover, uncontrolled displacement can damage automated pipetting devices and even lead to incorrect handling of adjacent samples.

[0157] Furthermore, conventional mechanisms for receiving sample carriers are used, where the sample carriers are pushed to their respective application edges by means of spring elements. A disadvantage of these spring-loaded mechanisms is that the sample carriers are subjected to force and the force must be removed. Due to their structure or frictional connections, many clamps and sample carriers cannot withstand high forces. There is a risk of accidental displacement between the clamps and the sample carriers. A disadvantage of conventional devices is that, in this case, the mechanism lacks a self-locking effect. This means that although positioning can be achieved, the device is unsuitable for applications such as locking devices for mixing devices, or for preventing relative movement under strong external forces. Another disadvantage is that the construction space at the center of the object mounting device in a typical positioning device is almost entirely used up, thus preventing its integration with other functions. Furthermore, the self-locking effect in conventional mechanisms is not independent of the actual position of the positioning fastener in the locked state. However, due to manufacturing tolerances, different sizes of different types of sample carriers, and differences in the base height of microtiter plates, the exact position of the positioning fastener in the locked state varies.

[0158] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a laboratory instrument is provided that exhibits a strong self-locking effect, preventing unintended release of the mounted object carrier from the instrument, as the guide body is guided in the guide groove of the fixing mechanism. Simultaneously, the configuration of the laboratory instrument allows a small actuating force acting on the actuating device in nearly opposite force transmission directions to be sufficient to displace the positioning fixture between the mounted and unmounted states of the object carrier. If the described self-locking fixing mechanism is used in conjunction with a cooperating actuating device on the outer peripheral edge of the base assembly of the laboratory instrument (without reaching the central region of the base assembly), the central region can be used to accommodate interactive devices (e.g., for temperature control, optical measurement, and / or magnetic manipulation of the medium in the object carrier, e.g., for magnetic separation purposes), without being limited by the fixing mechanism and the actuating device.

[0159] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention produce small laboratory instruments for selectively securing object carriers, which can be advantageously configured, in particular, for the automated mixing and / or temperature control of media (e.g., biological samples) within laboratory containers of the object carrier. The laboratory container can preferably, but not exclusively, be a sample carrier plate, more specifically a microtiter plate. Such microtiter plates can be used in fully automated liquid handling systems, automated sample preparation systems, and / or analytical devices. The external geometry of the microtiter plate has been standardized, allowing for installation and handling of laboratory instruments from different manufacturers and with different functionalities.

[0160] An important feature of laboratory instruments used to process sample carriers of this type with small diameter containers is the precise positioning within the laboratory instrument and the overall system at a higher level, so that the individual containers can be safely moved through fully automated liquid handling systems or other operating devices.

[0161] In this respect, advantageous processing methods consist of reproducible and complete mixing of samples and reagents in the individual containers of the object carrier. This presents a challenge, particularly with the decreasing sample volume and container geometry. Here, it is necessary to overcome surface forces, which become increasingly important with decreasing size, to induce relative movement of the sample within the container. This is advantageous for good mixing.

[0162] Good mixing can be achieved, for example, by moving the sample container without using mixing tools. Acceleration occurs by moving the sample within the container using centrifugal force, thereby causing mixing of the substances contained therein. In this respect, orbital mixing motion in a horizontal plane is particularly advantageous. By selecting appropriate operating conditions as functions of geometric, chemical, and physical parameters (especially suitable amplitude and mixing frequency for orbital motion), effective and reproducible mixing can be produced.

[0163] According to exemplary embodiments, laboratory instruments for automated mixing and / or temperature control of samples in microtiter plates can be used in drug research, chemical synthesis of substances, microbiology, cell culture in nutrient solutions, or analysis of blood or tissue samples. In this regard, there is a need for parallel processing of individual samples with decreasing volumes and decreasing numbers simultaneously. In this respect, it is particularly advantageous if all samples are processed reproducibly under as identical conditions as possible.

[0164] In addition to mixing samples, it is advantageous to have the opportunity to control the temperature precisely above and / or below ambient temperature. All samples should be exposed to the most similar conditions possible.

[0165] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, laboratory instruments are provided with object mounting devices for sample carriers (particularly microtiter plates or other object carriers, such as glass slides), which can be operated automatically and manually by an actuation device. This type of laboratory instrument can advantageously be configured with positioning and locking devices, which are configured as fixing mechanisms. Such fixing mechanisms can be used, for example, for fixing and positioning in liquid handling systems, systems for sample preparation, and analytical systems. The driving and mounting of mixing devices can also be used in laboratory instruments according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. The fixing mechanism or object mounting device can also be used to fix and position the sample carrier on the shaker tray of the mixing device. Furthermore, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it is feasible to integrate a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of the sample to be above and / or below ambient temperature in the mixing device and / or object mounting device or fixing mechanism.

[0166] Therefore, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, laboratory instruments with object mounting devices can be provided, which may be equipped with locking or securing mechanisms that can be manually or automatically actuated. In particular, such object mounting devices with automatic locking mechanisms can be used for mixing and temperature control devices, or optionally, specifically for the precise positioning and securing of sample carriers. With a suitable design of the object mounting device, all the wells of the microtiter plate can be accessed from below if the central region of the base assembly of the securing mechanism remains empty. For example, this central region can be left empty and used as an optical channel for measurement or other operations (e.g., magnetic separation).

[0167] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a laboratory instrument is provided for receiving a carrier of objects, particularly a microtiter plate. Advantageously, the microtiter plate or other carrier can be placed on the loading surface manually or with clamps, allowing for very precise positioning and fixation. For example, this allows samples contained in the carrier to be handled with an automated pipetting device. The smaller the diameter of the individual orifices of the carrier, the more advantageous it is for precise or repeatable positioning. In this respect, the risk of unintentional displacement due to external mechanical influences is reduced or even eliminated compared to conventional laboratory instruments without fixation devices in liquid handling systems according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0168] Laboratory instruments according to exemplary embodiments of the invention have the advantage of repeatable and precise positioning and fixation of sample carriers in the horizontal plane. This is particularly advantageous for automated liquid handling systems and small container sizes. Furthermore, a high self-locking effect of the positioning fixture is achieved from the perspective of the object carrier (particularly the sample carrier plate). This high self-locking effect clearly allows for the use of only a small closing force to securely clamp the object carrier to the fixing mechanism, compared to a higher holding force. Obviously, this high self-locking effect particularly results in the fact that only a small spring force is required to close or fix it. This results in less deformation of the elastic sample carrier plate or other object carrier. Furthermore, this self-locking effect, combined only with a small spring or closing force, also reduces deformation of (e.g., elastic) sample carrier plates (e.g., made of plastic). Moreover, due to this low deformation, this means improved positioning accuracy of the individual containers of the object carrier in the vertical direction. Advantageously and additionally, the high self-locking mechanism already described can optionally omit permanent magnets for increasing the force in the locked state, which is advantageous for the undisturbed implementation of applications using magnetic particles. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the invention, the sample carrier can be centrally clamped in the horizontal plane by two or four movable positioning fasteners, or by a combination of one movable positioning fastener and one or more fixed positioning fasteners. Additionally, exemplary embodiments of the invention allow for low-force or even weak insertion and removal of the sample carrier using clamps, and secure fixation in a locked state. With the aid of a suitable geometry of the positioning pins, laboratory instruments according to exemplary embodiments of the invention can also accommodate strong forces in the vertical direction (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 29 and Figure 30In particular, this enables safe use in applications that generate strong forces in the vertical direction (e.g., "microplate transfection"). Furthermore, it is advantageous when a sealing film or cap is used on a sample carrier that must be punctured (e.g., due to forces generated by the rapid upward movement of the pipette tip). In exemplary embodiments of the laboratory instrument, where all components (particularly all components of the fixing mechanism and / or actuation device) are housed in the edge region, the complete object carrier (particularly all the orifices of the microtiter plate and all its containers) can be accessed from below. This is advantageous for, for example, optical measurements, magnetic separation, and other operations. Furthermore, this allows for the construction of suitable mixing devices with automatic plate clamping.

[0169] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide laboratory instruments with object mounting devices for receiving, positioning, and locking object carriers, particularly platform sample carriers (e.g., microtiter plates and / or glass slides). In this regard, the positioning and locking of the object carriers can be achieved by (e.g., electromechanical) actuators and / or by manual actuation. Manual actuation allows the operator to load and unload particularly quickly, or to unlock in case of defects.

[0170] The object mounting device of the laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be used to position and secure sample containers in liquid handling systems or other sample handling and analysis units. Furthermore, this type of laboratory instrument, having a mixing device for moving object carriers (particularly sample carriers or sample containers), can be used to generate mixtures of the samples contained therein.

[0171] Integrating fixation mechanisms into the mixing devices of laboratory instruments can be expensive because the object mounting device must be installed in a movable manner and the fixed object carrier must always be securely maintained during relocation. Furthermore, very high mixing frequencies and accelerations are sometimes required to overcome surface forces and ensure the safe mixing of samples in small-volume or geometrically small containers.

[0172] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, to increase the operational safety and lifespan of laboratory instruments, the fixing device of the object mounting device is separated from the actuator, and despite this, the object carrier is always securely held in place. During movement (in the case of a mixing process), the object carrier can be securely held in place because, for example, in the case of an unsealed container of a microtiter plate, unintentional release could lead to contamination of the surrounding system, potentially causing significant damage.

[0173] To maintain the force required to actuate the actuator, and thus indirectly keep the fixing mechanism small while still achieving good safety against unintentional release of the object carrier from the laboratory instrument, the fixing mechanism can advantageously be configured to achieve a high self-locking effect from the angle of the object carrier (especially the sample carrier), and despite this, only a small force is sufficient from the angle of manual actuation of the actuator or actuation device. This has the advantage of being able to use small-sized actuators.

[0174] Furthermore, the aforementioned self-locking effect is particularly advantageous when a mixing device that generates high forces in the horizontal plane is integrated into laboratory instruments. In liquid handling systems, due to various reasons (e.g., when a cap or solid membrane is punctured), strong forces can be transmitted vertically to the sample carrier, which the laboratory instrument can withstand due to the self-locking effect already described.

[0175] Because the laboratory instruments according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be adapted to different requirements and types of object carriers (and particularly containers), the locating pins present on the displaceable locating fasteners (also referred to as locating slides) can be designed as practically installable and replaceable fasteners. Therefore, the fasteners can be modified in various ways (e.g., by appropriate selection or configuration of the locating pins).

[0176] The laboratory instrument according to an exemplary embodiment may be provided with two linearly movable positioning fixtures that clamp the object carrier (particularly a sample carrier plate) in the center. According to other exemplary embodiments, for example, one movable positioning fixture and three fixed positioning fixtures may be used, or in practice, four movable positioning fixtures may be used.

[0177] According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, actuation of the fixing mechanism (for opening or closing) can be achieved by generating movement of a timing belt or toothed belt. This actuation, by means of an actuating device, can optionally be performed automatically or manually. Furthermore, such a fixing mechanism may also include rotating one of the rotatably mounted elements (particularly a guide disc or cam disc). Actuation of the actuating device can be achieved automatically or manually. Actuation of the actuating device can be achieved, for example, by linear displacement or rotation of the actuating member. In particular, in an exemplary embodiment having only one linearly movable positioning fixing member and a fixed anchor rod as an additional fixed positioning fixing member, optionally, a timing drive can be omitted, and the movable fixing member can be moved directly by rotation of the connecting element (particularly the guide disc or cam disc) to move the positioning fixing member.

[0178] Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0179] The laboratory apparatus 100 shown is used to releasably attach an object carrier 102 to its upper side. Although in Figure 1 The object carrier 102 is not shown in the image, but... Figure 44 An object carrier 102 configured as a plastic microtiter plate is shown by way of example.

[0180] The laboratory instrument 100 shown has a stationary carrier body 138 as the lower part and a base assembly 104 movably mounted thereon as the upper part, wherein the latter is used to releasably receive an object carrier 102.

[0181] A first positioning fastener 106, for fastening to a first edge region of the object carrier 102 and linearly movable outward or inward, is disposed on the upper side of the base assembly 104. The first positioning fastener 106 is disposed at a first corner 110 of the base assembly 104. Furthermore, another positioning fastener 108, for connecting to a second edge region of the object carrier 102 and linearly movable outward or inward, is disposed on the upper side of the base assembly 104. The second positioning fastener 108 is disposed at a second corner 112 of the base assembly 104. Alternatively, the second positioning fastener 108 can also be rigidly connected to the base assembly 104. Both the first positioning fastener 106 and the second positioning fastener 108 have two positioning pins 134, which engage corresponding corner regions of the rectangular object carrier 102 to securely clamp the object carrier 102 between the positioning fasteners 106 and 108. A fixing mechanism 114 within the base assembly 104 (in...) Figure 13 (As shown in more detail by way of example) for clamping the object carrier 102 between the first positioning fastener 106 and the second positioning fastener 108. By means of Figure 5 The text is incomplete and contains numerous errors. A proper translation is not possible without the full context. Figure 13 The actuation device 116 shown in detail allows the object carrier 102 to be actuated between an engagement or fixation configuration and a release configuration for placing or removing the object carrier 102.

[0182] Figure 1 A thermal coupling plate 166 is also shown on the exposed upper side or mounting surface of the base assembly 104. The thermal coupling plate 166 may be made of a highly thermally conductive material (e.g., metal) to control the temperature of the object carrier 102 and the liquid medium filled therein, particularly to heat or cool it. The thermal coupling plate 166 forms part of the loading surface of the object carrier 102. The thermal coupling plate 166 is surrounded by a thermally insulating frame 204 (e.g., made of plastic). Figure 13As can be seen, the lower side of the thermal coupling plate 166 can be thermally coupled to the cooling body 164, for example, to dissipate heat from the object carrier 102 and the fluid medium received therein. For this purpose, ambient air can flow into the interior of the laboratory instrument 101 through the cooling opening 162, which serves as an air inlet, in the housing of the carrier body 138, absorb the heat released by the cooling body 164, and then flow out of the laboratory instrument 100 in a heated state. Although Figure 1 The cooling opening 162 serves as an inlet for ambient air to enter the interior of the laboratory instrument 100, but Figure 5 Another cooling opening 162 is shown as an outlet for air from inside the laboratory instrument 100. Optionally, air can also be drawn in through an air inlet, for example by means of a cooling fan 210 (see [link]). Figure 31 Air outlets are used as ventilation openings.

[0183] Figure 1 The laboratory instrument 100 without an optional temperature control adapter is shown. Figure 2 The temperature control adapter is shown in the attached figure with reference numeral 202.

[0184] Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of a laboratory instrument 100 having a flat-bottomed adapter as a temperature control adapter 202, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown. On the upper side of the laboratory instrument 100... Figure 2 The temperature control adapter 202 shown is used to control the temperature of the flat-bottomed microtiter plate (not shown), which serves as the object carrier 102. Therefore, Figure 2 The laboratory instrument 100 has a high thermal conductivity temperature control adapter 202 made of a metallic material, which can be connected to a base assembly 104, i.e., by means of a fastening screw 206 on the base assembly 104, which is thermally coupled to the base assembly 104 for mounting the object carrier 102 ( Figure 2 (Not shown) Thermally coupled to the base assembly 104. According to Figure 2 The temperature control adapter 202 is configured to be located directly and substantially on the entire surface of the thermal coupling plate 166 and is inserted into the thermal insulation frame 204 in a form-fitting manner. In this way, the temperature control adapter 202 can be releasably secured to the thermal coupling plate 166 of the base assembly 104 by threads.

[0185] Figure 3 It shows that it is equipped with as Figure 2 The alternative temperature control adapter 202 is based on Figure 1The laboratory instrument 100, in which the temperature control adapter is configured as a metal frame having a plurality of receiving openings 208 arranged in a matrix therein for receiving laboratory containers (not shown) in a form-fitting manner, or for form-fitting insertion of an object carrier 102 having a bottom complementary to the receiving openings 208. Therefore, according to Figure 3 The temperature control adapter 202, configured as a metal frame, is placed on the thermal coupling plate 166 and fastened to the base assembly 104 by means of fastening screws 206. The object carrier 102 can then be inserted into... Figure 3 The temperature control adapter 202.

[0186] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 2 An exploded view of the laboratory instrument 100 is shown, and the installation of a flat temperature control adapter 202 for controlling the temperature of an object carrier 102 configured as a flat-bottomed microtiter plate is illustrated. Figure 5 Another exploded view of the same laboratory instrument 100 is shown. As can be seen, the temperature control adapter 202 can be screwed onto the thermal coupling plate 166 by means of a fastening screw 206. For example, the temperature control adapter 202, made of a highly thermally conductive material (e.g., metal), can be used to control the temperature of a microtiter plate with 96 orifices.

[0187] It is possible Figures 1 to 5 Mixing devices are used in each of the laboratory instruments 100 to mix the contents of laboratory containers in the mixture carrier 102. Additionally, an object mounting device for receiving the materials to be mixed (i.e., the object carrier 102) is provided in the form of a base assembly 104. Inside the carrier body 138 is a mixing drive mechanism 140 (in... Figure 31 (As shown in more detail by way of example), through this hybrid drive mechanism, the base assembly 104 plus the object carrier 102 received thereon and fixed thereon can move in a hybrid motion relative to a stationary frame in the form of the carrier body 138. The movement preferably takes place along a closed path, particularly as a mixed orbital motion. Clearly, the movement of the base assembly 104 plus the object carrier 102 can, for example, follow a circular path in the horizontal plane. Meanwhile, there is little or no movement in the vertical direction, thus reliably preventing the sample from splashing or spilling from the open containers (e.g., microtiter plates) of the object carrier 102, or wetting the lids of these containers.

[0188] For example, the amplitude or orbital radius of the mixing motion generated by the mixing drive mechanism 140 can be from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. The mixing frequency can preferably be from 25 rpm to 5000 rpm, and other values ​​are also feasible. The contents of laboratory containers can be mixed using this mixing device or by this mixing drive mechanism 140. To increase flexibility, receiving devices can be provided for different types of laboratory containers. For example, reaction vessels with contents volumes of 0.2 mL to 2.0 mL, cryogenic containers, sample plates (especially microtiter plates) (e.g., with 96, 384, or 1536 individual containers), Falcon containers (e.g., container volumes of 1.5 mL to 50 mL), glass slides, glass containers, beakers, etc., can be used.

[0189] Advantageously, the object mounting device in the form of a base component 104 has a positioning and locking mechanism, which, for example, in Figure 13 The fixing mechanism 114 is shown in the diagram. The fixing mechanism 114 of the laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be operated automatically or manually. Manual operation by the user can, for example, be achieved by actuation... Figure 5 The sliding member 117 of the actuator 116 shown is operated from outside the laboratory instrument 100. Figure 13 The associated actuation device 116 is shown in detail. Robots and the like can also actuate the sliding member 117 from an external region of the laboratory instrument 100. According to another embodiment, actuator 262 (see, for example, [reference needed]) Figure 31 It can act inside the laboratory instrument 100, or more precisely, inside the carrier body 138, on the actuator 116 inside the laboratory instrument 100, or more precisely, inside the base assembly 104.

[0190] Using the fixing mechanism 114 and the actuation device 116, different laboratory containers (but particularly sample carriers) can be fixed, positioned and securely connected to the base assembly 104, which serves as a shaker tray, as object carriers 102.

[0191] Furthermore, the laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a temperature control device to set the contents of the object carrier 102 and / or temperature control adapter 202, and thus the laboratory container contents in contact with it, to a defined temperature, which may be, for example, higher or lower than the ambient temperature. For example, the temperature range supported by such a temperature control device may be -20°C to 120°C.

[0192] The laboratory instrument 100 shown is specifically designed for use in automated laboratory systems. For this purpose, control electronics, including a microprocessor, can be integrated into the laboratory instrument 100. Furthermore, the laboratory instrument 100 can be equipped with cables for an external power supply and for communication with advanced systems. Suitable communication interfaces include RS232, CAN, Bluetooth, WLAN, and USB, but other standards are also acceptable.

[0193] Laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a replaceable temperature control adapter 202 for thermally coupling a laboratory container of object carrier 102 to the temperature control adapter 202. This type of temperature control adapter 202 can have a wide variety of forms (see [link]). Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 9 The temperature control adapter 202 can be connected to the contact surface of the temperature control device on the upper side of the base assembly 104 using the central fastening screw 206.

[0194] The base assembly 104 can also be designated as an object mounting device and also serves as a shaker tray. Specifically, the base assembly 104 can receive all the components necessary to secure the object carrier 102 (particularly a sample carrier). Furthermore, the entire shaker tray or a portion thereof can be simultaneously configured as a cooling body (e.g., it can be made of aluminum) that can contact an integrated Peltier element. The contact surface of a temperature control device in the form of a thermal coupling plate 166 can be used to contact a replaceable temperature control adapter 202. This contact surface or thermal coupling plate 166 can be selectively heated or cooled by a Peltier element or other temperature control element integrated into the shaker tray or base assembly 104.

[0195] The vehicle body 138 is configured as a fixed frame, which includes, for example, control electronics, a drive unit 150 and eccentric elements 152, 154 of a hybrid drive mechanism 140, at least one fan (advantageously a radial fan for compact construction space) to move air and cool the cooling body 164, and thus the base assembly 104 or rocker tray (e.g., see...). Figure 31 ).

[0196] according to Figures 1 to 5 An exemplary embodiment employs a linearly movable positioning fastener 106, 108 having a positioning pin 134 with a lower cylindrical shape and an upper conical shape; the positioning pin may also have different shapes. Clearly, the positioning pin 134 moves outward to unlock the object carrier 102 and moves inward to lock the object carrier 102.

[0197] like Figure 5As can be seen, the actuation device 116 is provided with a longitudinally movable lever for manually actuating the positioning fasteners 106 and 108 (for example, it can be actuated for emergency unlocking or for quick loading or unloading by the user).

[0198] The laboratory instrument 100 may also include a light guide for optically displaying the status of the laboratory instrument 100, which may be illuminated by an internal light-emitting diode. For example, a red light 119 may indicate a defect, a green light may indicate an operational status ready for action, and a yellow light may indicate a loss of communication.

[0199] Figure 6 A laboratory instrument 100 without a temperature control device is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, based on... Figure 6 The laboratory instrument 100 provides functions including clamping and mixing capabilities for the plate-shaped object carrier 102.

[0200] Figure 7 A laboratory instrument 100 with positioning fasteners in all four corner regions is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. Although Figures 1 to 6 An embodiment of a laboratory instrument 100 with two positioning fasteners 106, 108 is shown, but according to Figures 7 to 10 In an exemplary implementation, four positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, and 144 are provided, all of which are movable. Therefore, according to... Figure 7 The laboratory instrument 100 also includes a third positioning fastener 142 having two positioning pins 134 for application to a third edge region of an object carrier 102 (not shown), and a fourth positioning fastener 144 having two positioning pins 134 for fastening to a fourth edge region of this type of object carrier 102. The third positioning fastener 142 is located at a third angle 146 of the base assembly 104. The fourth positioning fastener 144 is located at a fourth angle 148 of the base assembly 104.

[0201] Figure 8 A laboratory instrument 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, having positioning fasteners in all four corner regions and a temperature control adapter 202 configured as a flat-bottomed adapter for controlling the temperature of a flat-bottomed microtiter plate. In addition to the additional positioning fasteners 142, 144, according to… Figure 8 The exemplary implementation corresponds to that according to Figure 2 Exemplary implementations.

[0202] Figure 9 It shows that according to Figure 7 Laboratory instrument 100, which has mounted thereon Figure 8An optional temperature control adapter 202, configured herein as a metal frame having multiple receiving openings 208 arranged herein in a matrix, for receiving a laboratory container or object carrier 102 (not shown). Apart from the different configurations of the additional positioning fasteners 142, 144 and the temperature control adapter 202, according to... Figure 9 The exemplary implementation corresponds to that according to Figure 3 Exemplary implementations.

[0203] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 7 Another three-dimensional view of the laboratory instrument 100, in which cooling openings 162 serving as air outlets can be seen in the housing of the carrier body 138.

[0204] Figure 11 A laboratory instrument 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 12 It shows that according to Figure 11 Another view of the laboratory instrument 100. This exemplary embodiment shows an optional structure of air inlet and air outlet (which can also be interchanged, i.e., constructed in reverse) in the housing of the carrier body 138 in the form of cooling openings 162. Figure 11 and Figure 12 In laboratory instrument 100, the surface (especially the length) is enlarged in order to reduce the construction height. Advantageously, according to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The laboratory instrument 100 can be used in systems with limited construction height. Alternatively, the width or other dimensions of the laboratory instrument 100 can be varied.

[0205] Figure 13 A bottom view of the base assembly 104 of a laboratory instrument 100 having positioning fasteners in two corner regions, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Clearly, Figure 13 The bottom view constitutes a rocker tray with two positioning fasteners 106 and 108.

[0206] In particular, Figure 13 An example is shown of a fixing mechanism 114 for securing an object carrier 102 to a base assembly 104 between a first positioning fastener 106 and a second positioning fastener 108 by moving two positioning fasteners 106, 108. Furthermore, Figure 13 Details of the actuation device 116 are shown, which is used to actuate the fixing mechanism 114 in order to switch the two positioning fasteners 106, 108 between the operating state of fixing the object carrier 102 and the operating state of releasing the object carrier 102.

[0207] refer to Figures 22A to 28The fixing mechanism 114 includes two guide bodies 120 in the form of guide pins, which can be guided in corresponding guide grooves 118 of corresponding guide discs 122. The guide grooves 118 exist as curved grooves in the circular guide discs 122. The two guide discs 122 are rotatably mounted in opposing corners 110, 112 of a generally rectangular base assembly 104, where positioning fasteners 106 or 108 are also disposed. The guide bodies 120 simultaneously form... Figure 24 and Figure 25 The rigid assembly 213 shown includes a pair of locating pins 134 of associated locating fasteners 106, 108 and a guide rail 214 to allow assembly 212 to move linearly along linear guide 132. Clearly, each assembly 212 forms its respective locating fastener 106 or 108.

[0208] according to Figure 13 The fixing mechanism 114 is configured such that the actuating force of the actuating device 116, used to switch the fixing mechanism 114 to the operating state of releasing the object carrier 102, is less than the release force exerted by the fixed object carrier 102, for example, by the fixed object carrier 102 configured in a mixed motion. Therefore, the release force can be a force caused by the mixed motion of the object carrier 102, and this force should not cause the object carrier 102 to be released from the laboratory instrument 100. The force transmission mechanism of the already described fixing device 114 combines the low-force actuation capability of the actuating device 116 with a strong self-locking action to prevent undesirable shaking of the fixed object carrier 102 during mixed operation. Clearly, the actuating device 116 can therefore be actuated with a moderate actuating force to move the positioning fasteners 106, 108, while the object carrier 102 clamped between the positioning fasteners 106, 108 can only shake freely under very high forces due to the said self-locking action. Reference is now made to... Figures 22A to 22C Actuation of actuator 116 causes guide 120 to move along guide groove 118, which can be achieved with a small force (see [link]). Figure 22B Conversely, the force acting on the clamped object carrier 102 subjected to mixed motion results in a force on the guide body 120 in the guide groove 118, but does not actuate the actuator 116, thereby causing the guide disc 122 not to rotate, and thus causing the positioning fasteners 106, 108 not to move (see...). Figure 22C ). Figure 22C The force arrow 218 is actually almost transverse to the positioning groove 118. This asymmetrical force transmission principle results in comfortable actuation of the actuator 116, and at the same time results in the self-locking action or inherent protection of the laboratory instrument 100 against undesirable release of the object carrier 102 from the positioning fasteners 106, 108.

[0209] See again Figure 13 ,according to Figure 22A Two guide discs 122 are disposed in opposing first and second corners 110, 112 of the base assembly 104. Therefore, each of the two guide recesses 118 is disposed in a corresponding guide disc 122, which are disposed in opposing first and second corners 110, 112 of the base assembly 104. Corresponding rotatably mounted steering pulleys 124 are disposed in the third and fourth corners 146 and 148 of the base assembly 104.

[0210] Advantageously, the fixing mechanism 114 includes a ring-closed force transmission mechanism 130, which is configured here as a ring-closed toothed belt. The toothed belt extends generally rectangularly along the entire outer periphery of the base assembly 104 and extends continuously along the outer edge of the base assembly 104. Here, according to... Figure 13 In the installed state, the teeth of the toothed belt are engaged in the corresponding gear 216 (which can also be described as a toothed belt pulley or a timing belt pulley), which is rigidly connected to the corresponding guide disc 122 (see...). Figure 23 In this way, the actuating force applied to the actuator 116 can be transmitted by clamping the actuator 116 onto a toothed belt or by engaging the teeth (not shown) of the actuator 116 present on the toothed belt, which rotates slightly clockwise or counterclockwise due to its annular closed configuration. The torsion of the toothed belt acts on the gear 216 of the guide disc 122 and the gear (not shown) of the steering pulley 124. The rotation of the gear 216 of the guide disc 122 causes a force to act on the guide body 120, which can move along the guide groove 118. Due to the linear guide rail 132 or guide rail 214 of the assembly 212, the assembly 212 can only move radially outward or radially inward in a straight line. Since the guide body 120 forms part of the rigid assembly 212, actuation of the actuator 116 causes the assembly 212 to move linearly inward or outward. In this way, actuation of the actuator 116 causes the positioning fixture 106 or 108 to move in a straight line inward or outward.

[0211] from Figure 13 As can be clearly seen, the fixing mechanism 114 is arranged along the entire edge and periphery of the base assembly 104, leaving the central region 126 of the base assembly 104 surrounded by the periphery empty. In addition, the annular closed fixing mechanism 114 extending along the entire periphery edge of the base assembly 104 is arranged along the underside of the base assembly 104 away from the object carrier 102.

[0212] Regarding the actuation device 116, it should also be noted that it is coupled to a pretensioning element 198 in the form of a pair of helical springs (or even just one helical spring), the pretensioning element being configured to pretension the actuation device 116 corresponding to the operating state of the fixing mechanism 114 of the fixed object carrier 102. Optionally, a torsion spring, magnet, or other component can be used as the pretensioning element 198 to generate a properly oriented pretensioning force. In other words, the actuation device 116, together with the pretensioning element 198, preloads the object carrier 102 into a fixed state between the positioning fixtures 106, 108, such that the release of the object carrier 102 from the laboratory instrument 100 requires an active force applied to the actuation device 116. This increases the operational safety of the laboratory instrument 100 and prevents unintended release of the object carrier 102. After the object carrier 102 is placed on the base assembly 104, it is sufficient for the user to release the previously actuated actuator 116, and the pretensioning element 198 pulls inward the linearly moving positioning fasteners 106, 108. This then securely clamps the object carrier 102.

[0213] Advantageously, the fixing mechanism 114 extends only along the outer periphery of the base assembly 104, leaving the central region 126 of the base assembly 104 unoccupied. In other words, neither the fixing mechanism 114 nor the actuation device 116 includes any components located outside the outer periphery of the base assembly 114, nor any components extending into the central region 126 of the base assembly 104. Therefore, the central region 126 of the base assembly 104 is left unoccupied for other task or functional components.

[0214] Figure 13 An interactive device 128 disposed in an empty central region 126 of the base assembly 104 is shown by way of example. Thus, the interactive device 128 can extend through the empty central region 126 of the base assembly 104. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the interactive device 128 is a cooling body 164 for cooling the object carrier 102 or a temperature control adapter 202 as described above. It can be seen that the cooling body 164 includes a large plate cross-section thermally coupled to a thermal coupling plate 166. Furthermore, the cooling body 164 may include a plurality of cooling fins extending outward from the plate cross-section, and channels are formed therebetween to allow airflow or cooling gas to pass through. Of course, other alternative interactive devices 128 are also feasible, such as optical devices for optical interaction with the medium in the object carrier 102, or magnetic mechanisms (not shown) for magnetic interaction with the medium in the object carrier 102.

[0215] therefore, Figure 13A base assembly 104 is shown in an embodiment having two positioning fasteners 106, 108, which functions from below as an object mounting device and a rocker tray. The base assembly 104 receives the components and may also include a cooling body 164 for a temperature control device.

[0216] Guide discs 122 serve as rotatably mounted cam discs for guiding or linearly moving positioning fasteners 106, 108. Each guide disc 122 includes a track-shaped groove as a guide recess 118 into which a guide body 120, formed as a circular guide pin, engages. The latter is rigidly fixed to the linearly mounted positioning fasteners 106, 108. Rotatably mounted steering pulleys 124 cyclically operate as a timing belt for a force transmission mechanism 130. The timing belt can be configured as a toothed belt and allows the positioning fasteners 106, 108 to move synchronously together.

[0217] In addition, the lower side of the base assembly 104 includes a pendulum support 174 (see...). Figure 35 and Figure 36 The bearings 220 (four in the exemplary embodiment shown) are advantageously suitable for axial mounting in a plane.

[0218] also, Figure 13 Two ball bearings 222 are shown. In the assembled state of laboratory instrument 100, a first eccentric member 152 (or a first eccentric shaft) or a second eccentric member 154 (or a second eccentric shaft) is engaged in the ball bearings 222 (see [reference]). Figure 31 Clearly, the ball bearing 222 can be used to deflect the base assembly 104 or the rocker tray relative to the stationary frame in the form of the carrier body 138 along a circular path in a plane.

[0219] according to Figure 13 Actuation device 116 is configured as a linearly mounted slider for manual or automatic actuation to unlock the sample carrier or other object carrier 102. When no force (manually or via actuator) is applied to the slider, it returns to its initial position via a pre-tensioning element 198 configured as a spring. Actuation device 116 is connected to force transmission mechanism 130, which is configured as a timing belt that causes rotational movement of guide disc 122, thereby causing linear movement of positioning fasteners 106, 108. More precisely, according to Figure 13 The pretensioning element 198 is configured as a tensioning spring for moving the linearly mounted slider and thus the positioning fasteners 106, 108 in the direction of the object carrier 102 (i.e., for pretensioning in the locked state).

[0220] Furthermore, a cable (particularly a flat cable, see reference numeral 121) is used to electrically connect the base assembly 104 to the vehicle body 138. At this point, the Peltier element (or other heating element) can be powered, and an optional sensor system (particularly a temperature sensor) can be connected.

[0221] Figure 14 It shows that according to Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the base component 104. More precisely, Figure 14 A cross-sectional view through the cooling body 164 or the cooling fins (center) is shown.

[0222] Reference numeral 224 shows a temperature control element, configured herein as a Peltier element for controlling the temperature (particularly heating or cooling) of the thermal coupling plate 166 (which can also be described as a thermal contact assembly). A replaceable temperature control adapter 202 can be thermally connected to the temperature control element 224, which in turn can control the temperature of the laboratory container.

[0223] Furthermore, the temperature sensor 226 can be integrated into the thermal coupling plate 166, also referred to as the contact component. Optionally or additionally, the temperature sensor 226 can be disposed in the replaceable temperature control adapter 202 and / or in the sample container or sample to be processed. Additionally, the temperature sensor 226 can be disposed in the cooling body 164 or the shaker tray, which is advantageous for the purpose of effective control.

[0224] Reference numeral 228 describes the thermal insulation between the thermal coupling plate 166 and the cooling body 164.

[0225] The thermal insulation frame 204 is used for thermal insulation of the thermal coupling plate 166 and the cooling body 164. In addition, the thermal insulation frame 204 can withstand lateral forces in order to reduce the transmission of vibrations in the horizontal plane to the temperature control element 224, which is configured here as a Peltier element.

[0226] Figure 15 A bottom view of the base assembly 104 of a laboratory instrument 100 having positioning fasteners in the four corner regions is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In this respect, according to Figure 15 Exemplary implementations and Figure 13 The difference in the exemplary implementation is particularly that, instead of Figure 15 The base assembly 104 has guide pulleys 124 at its two corners 146 and 148, and movable positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, and 144 are provided at each corner 110, 112, 146, and 148. The force transmission mechanism 130, configured as a toothed belt, also extends along... Figure 15The base assembly 104 is positioned on the outer periphery of the base assembly 104 and is deflected 90° at each of the four corners 110, 112, 146, 148 of the base assembly 104 by the corresponding gear 216 of the corresponding guide disk 122.

[0227] Figure 16 It shows that according to Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the base component 104. According to... Figure 16 The cross-sectional view corresponds to the one based on Figure 14 The cross-sectional view is different in that... Figure 16 In the middle, positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, and 144 are set in all four corners 110, 112, 146, and 148.

[0228] Figure 17 A bottom view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the bottom connecting plate 230 of the carrier body 138 is equipped with an electrical connector 232. The connector 232 includes a Pogo Pin, i.e., a spring-loaded electrical contact. The laboratory instrument 100 can be powered by means of the connector 232 and can be coupled together for communication (e.g., according to RS232, USB or other communication interfaces).

[0229] Figure 18 It shows that according to Figure 17 The laboratory instrument 100 has a docking station 234. The docking station 234 has an electrical interface 236 that can be connected to a connector 232 on the underside of the laboratory instrument 100. Furthermore, the docking station 234 is provided with a cable 238. For example, Figure 18 The assembly shown can be installed in a higher-level system, allowing for quick replacement of laboratory instrument 100 without the need for wiring. This has the advantage of rapid replacement in case of failure or during maintenance without the loss of instrument.

[0230] Figure 19 and Figure 20 A top view and a bottom view of a docking station 234 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown. Figure 20 As shown, the electrical interface 236 can be connected to the upper side of the docking station 234 via a board, and to one or more electronic components 240 that can be mounted on the inside of the docking station 234.

[0231] Figure 21 A substrate 242 for mounting a plurality of laboratory instruments 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown, 15 instruments can be provided according to... Figure 19 and Figure 20The mounting base, in the form of a docking station 234, is equipped with an electrical interface 236 to form an insertion connection with the connector 232 of the corresponding laboratory instrument 100. Thus, the laboratory instrument with its connector 232 (preferably equipped with a Pogo Pin) and the corresponding connector in the form of the electrical interface 236 on the substrate 242 form a higher level of instrumentation for providing power and communication. This allows for quick replacement of the laboratory instrument 100 (e.g., in case of defect or for maintenance).

[0232] from Figures 17 to 21 As can be seen, the laboratory instrument 100 according to the exemplary embodiment can even be implemented without external wiring, instead using connectors 232 for connecting to power and communication devices. This type of connector 232 can, for example, be integrated into a substrate 242 of a higher-level system (see...). Figure 21 In particular, it is inserted into. For example, this type of connector 232 can be provided with Pogo Pin contacts.

[0233] In another exemplary embodiment of laboratory instrument 100, it is equipped with cables for power supply and communication.

[0234] Figure 22A A top view of the guide plate 122 of the fixing mechanism 114 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 23 It shows that according to Figure 22A A 3D diagram of the boot disk 122.

[0235] also, Figure 22B The installation and operation states are shown according to... Figure 22A The guide disk 122, which is rotated about the pivot point 215 or has already rotated about the pivot point 215 via the actuation device 116 (see rotation arrow 213). Figure 22C It shows that according to Figure 22B The guide disk 122 is in an installed state but in a different operating state, wherein the actuator 116 is not actuated, so the guide disk 122 has not rotated or has rotated.

[0236] A radially outward force can also be generated by applying force to the guide slider (particularly generated by the object carrier 102 mounted on the base assembly 104 during mixing operations) (see Figure 22C(Ref. 218 in the accompanying drawings). However, without the actuation device 116, the guide disc 122 will not rotate, and thus, despite the force applied in the direction of arrow 218, the guide body 120 will not move, because the force on the guide body 120, configured as a pin, acts in the direction of pivot point 215 at the center of the guide disc 122, and is therefore transverse to or almost perpendicular to the guide groove 118. Therefore, according to Figure 22B This causes actuation of the actuator 116, resulting in rotation of the guide disc 122, which in turn causes the guide body 120 to be positioned and displaced low-power within the guide groove 118. Conversely, according to... Figure 22C The force acting solely on the guide body 120 will not cause any rotation of the guide disc 122, therefore the positioning retainer 106 will not move outward. This force acts on the guide body 120 almost perpendicular to the guide groove 118. Therefore, this force on the guide body 120 will not cause rotation of the guide disc 122. At most a very small rotation of the guide disc 122 optimally produces a very small displacement of the system of reference numerals 120, 106, 108. In this way, according to Figure 22B The low-power actuation capability of the actuator 116 can be combined with a high self-locking action without the need for such actuation (see [link]). Figure 22C ).

[0237] See again Figure 22A This guide plate 122 (which can be configured as a cam plate with guide grooves) can, for example, be mounted on... Figure 13 In the base component 104 shown. Figure 22A A view of an assembly having such a guide disk 122, which has a mounting member rotatable from above, is shown. Figure 22A As can be seen, the guide body 120, configured as a guide pin, can move within a curved track-shaped guide groove 118. The guide groove 118 is formed as a groove in the main surface of the guide disc 122. During installation, the guide disc 122 is rotatably mounted on the base assembly 104. Figure 13 The fixing mechanism 114 shown is Figure 22A The components forming part of it are preferably configured such that when a vibration release force is applied by the clamped object carrier 102 during mixing operations, the displacement force acts transversely to the guide groove 118 on the guide body 120 (see [reference]). Figure 22C (Ref. 218 in the accompanying drawings). Furthermore, the fixing mechanism 114 is configured such that when the actuating device 116 is actuated to actuate the fixing mechanism 114 between an operating state where the object carrier 102 is idle and an operating state where the object carrier 102 is engaged, a displacement force acts on the guide body 120 along the guide groove 118 (see Figure 118). Figure 22B ).

[0238] therefore, Figure 22A A guide groove 118, configured as a guide recess, is shown on a guide disk 123 configured as a cam disk, which is rotatably mounted relative to the rocker tray of the object mounting device or base assembly 104. A guide body 120, configured as a guide pin, extends into the guide groove 118, forming a rigid portion of the corresponding positioning fastener 106 or 108. The guide body 120 and / or guide disk 122 can be circular or disc-shaped, but can also have any other shape. Therefore, Figure 23 A guide disk 122 configured as a cam disk is shown, the cam disk having a gear 216 rigidly connected thereto. The guide disk 122, together with the gear 216, is rotatably mounted on a plate-like base 250. The base 250 may be provided with one or more through holes 252 for... Figure 23 The assembly shown is screwed onto the housing of the base assembly 104.

[0239] Figure 24 A three-dimensional view of a positioning fastener 106 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 25 It shows that according to Figure 24 Another three-dimensional view of the positioning fastener 106.

[0240] Figure 24 and Figure 25 The rigid assembly of the positioning fastener 106 shown, which has a linear sliding mount or linear guide 132, also includes a guide 120 configured as a pin that engages with the positioning fastener according to the diagram when the laboratory instrument 100 is in operation. Figure 22A In the guide groove 118 of the guide disk 122.

[0241] When the laboratory instrument 100 switches between the operating state of the fixed object carrier 102 and the operating state of the released object carrier 102, the first positioning fixture 106 shown can move along the linear guide 132, which can be longitudinally movably received in a corresponding guide seat in the housing of the base assembly 104 (see, for example, [reference]). Figure 56 Therefore, the guide body 120 forms a locating pin, for example, which is connected by a screw. Figure 25 and Figure 26 On the assembly, it corresponds to a linearly movable positioning fastener 106. Alternatively, this connection can also be achieved in other ways. Clearly, the guide 120 serves as a guide pin engaging with the grooved guide recess 118 of the guide disc 122, and ensures the linear displacement of the positioning fastener 106 (due to...). Figure 24 and Figure 25 (The components are restricted in a recess of appropriate shape within the housing of the base component 104).

[0242] Figure 26 It shows that according to Figure 24 The positioning fastener 106 plus according to Figure 23 A 3D diagram of the boot disk 122. Therefore, it is clear that... Figure 26 It shows that according to Figure 24 and Figure 25 The operably interconnected assembly of the positioning fastener 106 and Figure 22A and Figure 23 A view of the cam disc assembly, without any mounting devices or rocker trays. Therefore, Figure 26 The cooperation between the guide plate 122 and the positioning fastener 106 is shown, which is achieved through the engagement of the guide body 120 of the positioning fastener 106 in the guide groove 118 in the guide plate 122. In operation, the guide plate 122 is rotatably mounted. For this purpose, the base 250 is screwed onto the housing of the base assembly 104, which serves as the mounting bracket for the guide plate 122, or otherwise connected. The guide plate 122 can also be directly rotatably mounted in the base assembly 104 of the object mounting device or in a shaker tray.

[0243] Figure 27 The following is shown in the housing 254 of the base assembly 104 according to Figure 26 Assembly components. Figure 28 It shows that according to Figure 27 Another view of the assembly.

[0244] The housing 254 (also called the shaker tray) of the base assembly 104 receives according to Figures 22A to 26 All components are integrated, and the cooling element can also function as a temperature control device. A guide disc 122, having a guide groove 118 configured as a guide channel, is rotatably mounted relative to the base assembly 104. A positioning fastener 106 is mounted to move linearly within the housing 254 of the base assembly 104.

[0245] Figure 29 A three-dimensional view of a portion of a laboratory apparatus 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. More precisely, Figure 29 An alternative exemplary implementation of the locating pin 134 is shown. Figure 29 The locating pin 134 has a laterally widened head with an enlarged profile on its underside. This facilitates the restraint of the object 102 secured by the locating pin 134 against appropriate forces, preventing movement in the vertical direction. Therefore, Figure 29 The optional configuration of the locating pin 134 shown provides increased security in the vertical direction for the corresponding locating fasteners 106, 108, etc.

[0246] Figure 30 A three-dimensional view of a portion of a laboratory instrument 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 30 Another exemplary embodiment of the locating pin 134 is shown, which allows for effective suppression of movement in the vertical direction against appropriate forces. Figure 29 In a similar way, according to Figure 30 The locating pins 134 have corresponding retaining profiles 136, which are configured such that the object carrier 102 cannot move away from the base assembly 104 in the vertical direction. Clearly, these locating pins 134 not only laterally clamp the object carrier 102 but also restrict its movement in the vertical direction, as they provide a vertical stop on the upper side of the object carrier 102 using the retaining profiles 136.

[0247] With the help of Figure 29 and Figure 30 Those skilled in the art will recognize that other alternative structures and shapes of the locating pin 134 can also increase safety in the vertical direction. Specifically, the locating pin 134 can also be non-cylindrical and / or structurally non-rotationally symmetric in order to modify the laboratory instrument 100 to suit optional requirements, the object carrier 102, and the carrier body 138.

[0248] Figure 31 The internal structure of the carrier body 138 or frame of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown from above. Figure 32 It shows that according to Figure 31 A top view of the internal structure of the vehicle body 138. Figure 33 The following shows the... Figure 31 and Figure 32 The exposed interior of the vehicle body 138. Figure 33 The vehicle body 138, which serves as a fixed frame assembly after the cover plate or connecting plate 230 has been removed, is shown below. Figure 34 The following shows the... Figure 33 A top view of the exposed interior of the vehicle body 138.

[0249] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figures 31 to 34 The carrier body 138 forms the lower part of the laboratory instrument 100 for mixing the medium in the object carrier 102. Figures 31 to 34 Not shown is a movable base assembly 104 for receiving an object carrier 102 to be mounted on the carrier body 138 for mixing (see, for example, see...). Figure 13 (See also) Figures 31 to 34 A hybrid drive mechanism 140 is provided on the vehicle body 138 to provide driving force for the medium in the object carrier 102 on the hybrid base assembly 104.

[0250] The hybrid drive mechanism 140 includes a drive unit 150, which is configured herein as an electric motor. A drive motor, such as a brushless DC motor, can be used as the drive unit 150. Furthermore, the hybrid drive mechanism 140 includes a first eccentric member 152 (also referred to as a first eccentric shaft) and a second eccentric member 154 (also referred to as a second eccentric shaft), both of which are driven by the drive unit 150. The eccentric members 152 and 154 are used to transmit the driving force (more precisely, driving torque) generated by the drive unit 150 to the base assembly 104 to stimulate the base assembly 104 and the object carrier 102 mounted thereon and fixed thereto, thereby performing a track-mixing motion to mix the medium within the object carrier 102.

[0251] Advantageously, both the first eccentric member 152 and the second eccentric member 154 are disposed on the outer peripheral edge 156 of the vehicle body 138, and thus outside the central region 158 of the vehicle body 138. In this way, a cavity is formed in the central region 158, defined by the drive device 150 on the underside and by the eccentric members 152, 154 on the lateral side, and by the housing 256 of the vehicle body 138. This cavity can be used to insert an interactive device (see reference numeral 128 and the above description, e.g.) Figure 13 Specifically, if a central region 126 without any fixing mechanism 114 is simultaneously generated in the base assembly 104 (e.g., see...), Figure 13 If this cavity is used, it can allow for a through-connection up to the upper region of the carrier body 138 and through the empty space of the base assembly 104 to the object carrier 102 mounted on the base assembly 104. This type of through-connection can be used, for example, for optical sensors or for optical stimulation devices, to optically influence the medium in the object carrier 102 of the laboratory instrument 100.

[0252] exist Figures 31 to 34 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the carrier body 138, which leaves the cavity empty, is configured to allow cooling fluid (particularly ambient air) to flow through the cavity from outside the laboratory instrument 100 (see [link]). Figure 44 and Figure 45 ).from Figure 31As can be clearly seen, the housing 256 of the vehicle body 138 has corresponding cooling openings 162 on its opposing sides. Cooling fluid (particularly ambient air) flows through these openings 162 from outside the laboratory instrument 100 through the cavity and then out of the instrument 100 again. This produces effective air cooling. Furthermore, a cooling body 164 mounted on the underside of the base assembly 104 can be housed within a cavity in the central region 158. Ambient air drawn into the vehicle body 138 by means of a cooling fan 210 can flow between the cooling fins of the cooling body, and thus absorbs heat from the cooling body 164 before the heated ambient air leaves the laboratory instrument 100 again. The airflow generated by the two cooling fans 210 exits through air outlets, i.e., after passing over the cooling body 164 or the base assembly 104 and carrying away heat accordingly, leaving the laboratory instrument 100.

[0253] from Figure 31 As can be most clearly seen, a leveling mass 172, used to at least partially compensate for the imbalance caused by the first eccentric member 152 and the second eccentric member 154, is connected to the shaft of the drive unit 150. It can be seen that the leveling mass 172 is asymmetrically connected to the drive unit 150 with respect to the direction of rotation of the shaft and moves together with the drive unit 150. Clearly, the leveling mass 172 is oriented to level the two eccentric members 152, 154 during operation of the laboratory instrument 100. For example, when the two eccentric members 152, 154 are oriented completely to the left, the leveling mass is oriented completely to the right.

[0254] Advantageously, the laboratory instrument 100 has four pendulum supports 174, which are mounted in pairs on opposite sides of the carrier body 138 and the base assembly 174. Reference will be made below. Figure 35 and Figure 36 The structure and operation of these pendulum supports 174 are described in more detail.

[0255] Figure 31 and Figure 32 A first eccentric member 152 and a second eccentric member 154 are shown disposed on opposite side edges of the carrier body 138 and offset from each other in the lateral direction. A drive unit 150 is disposed between the first eccentric member 152 and the second eccentric member 154. Furthermore, the drive unit 150 is connected to the first eccentric member 152 and the second eccentric member 154 for synchronous movement of the first eccentric member 152 and the second eccentric member 154. When the eccentric members 152, 154 transmit their eccentric drive movement to the base assembly 104, the mixing drive mechanism 140 is configured for track mixing motion. Therefore, the base assembly 104 is in a state where it can move along a track path on the carrier body 138 by means of the mixing drive mechanism 140 in order to mix the medium contained in the object carrier 102.

[0256] Advantageously, in this respect, the hybrid drive mechanism 140 and the fixing mechanism 114 are functionally and spatially separated from each other, that is, they can operate independently of each other. When the hybrid drive mechanism 138 forms part of the vehicle body 138, the fixing mechanism 114 is part of the base assembly 104.

[0257] Figures 31 to 34 The vehicle body 138 is shown as an assembly with a static frame. Figures 31 to 34 The components associated with the mixing device are shown, but the base component 104 or shaker tray is not connected.

[0258] Two eccentric elements 152, 154 each form an eccentric shaft to deflect the base assembly 104 and generate a mixed orbital motion in the horizontal plane. Advantageously, two eccentric elements 152, 154 are used opposite each other. The two eccentric elements 152, 154 are synchronously driven by a drive unit 150. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a leveling mass 172 connected to the shaft of the drive unit 150 is rotatably mounted in the housing 256 of the carrier body 138 to compensate for imbalances. When mixing, the leveling mass 172 is synchronously driven by the drive unit 150 with the eccentric shaft or eccentric elements 152, 154. Furthermore, the leveling mass 172 includes a notch 270 that engages in the plunger 268 of the solenoid 266 to provide a defined zero position in the horizontal plane. This is advantageous because even small containers of the object carrier 102 fixed to the base assembly 104 can be safely handled by pipetting devices or other operating units.

[0259] also, Figure 31 and Figure 32 A slider 258 is shown that can be linearly displaced, which actuates a slider 260 of an actuator 116 that can be linearly displaced (see...). Figure 13 This opens the fixing mechanism 114 or locking device, and thus unlocks the object carrier 102.

[0260] Furthermore, an electromechanical actuator 262 is provided, which pivots the lever by means of rotational motion and generates displacement of the slider 258 via a connecting rod 264. Thus, the connecting rod 264 connects the pivotal motion of the lever of the actuator 262 with the linearly displaceable slider 258. It can be seen that the actuator 262 is mounted on the carrier body 138. The actuator 262 is used for automated electromechanical control of an actuation device 116 mounted on the base assembly 104, under which the actuation device 116 selectively actuates the fixing mechanism 114 to engage or release the object carrier 102.

[0261] For reference Figure 32A bistable solenoid 266 is used in the vehicle body 138, and the bistable solenoid 266 can lock the leveling mass 172. For this purpose, a plunger 268 can be locked onto the solenoid 266 in the notch 270 of the leveling mass 172. The back of the plunger 268 can extend into a light guide 272 in the unlocked state. The light guide 272 monitors the plunger 268 of the solenoid 266.

[0262] Advantageously, when the laboratory apparatus 100 is mixed, the leveling mass 172 and the two eccentric elements 152, 154 move synchronously. The eccentric elements 152, 154, or eccentric shafts, deflect the base assembly 104, which acts as a shaker tray during the mixing operation. The eccentric elements 152, 154 both move synchronously with the leveling mass 172 because they are driven by the drive unit 150 via a timing belt or toothed belt 168, 170. The first toothed belt 168 provides torque coupling between the shaft of the drive unit 150 and the shaft of the first eccentric element 152. The second toothed belt 170 provides torque coupling between the shaft of the drive unit 150 and the shaft of the second eccentric element 154. This... Figure 33 and Figure 34 As shown in the image.

[0263] The leveling mass 172 is used to compensate for the imbalance caused by the moving mass and is provided with a notch 270 for stopping by the solenoid 266, thereby defining the zero position of the rocker tray.

[0264] according to Figure 33 The drive unit 150 is securely connected to or directly drives the leveling mass 172. Two eccentric shafts move synchronously and in the same position via two timing belts or toothed belts 168, 170 and timing pulleys on the eccentric members 152, 154. The two timing belts or toothed belts 168, 170 connect the drive unit 150, the leveling mass 172, and the two eccentric members 152, 154. The timing pulleys (e.g., gears) are connected non-rotationally to the eccentric members 152, 154, or the eccentric shafts, which in turn deflect the base assembly 104.

[0265] For example, the two fans 210 can be configured as radial fans to provide convective heat transfer along the cooling body 164 or base assembly 104. Alternatively, only one fan may be provided, or at least three fans may be provided. One or more fans may also be constructed in a manner different from radial fans.

[0266] Figure 33 and Figure 34 The electronic board 274 shown can be used within the housing 256 of the vehicle body 138. This type of electronic board 274 can be equipped with a microprocessor for independently controlling all functions of the laboratory instrument 100. For example, it can simply send commands and receive responses. The entire control and regulation of the laboratory instrument 100 can be performed by these internal electronic devices.

[0267] As an alternative to the exemplary embodiment described, the driving and installation of the mixing device can also be done without the use of a temperature control device (components such as temperature control element 224 and integrated coolant 164). This results in an even simpler structure for the laboratory instrument 100.

[0268] Figure 35 A separate pendulum support 174 is shown for a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 36 An inclined pendulum support 174 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown between a carrier body 138 and a base assembly 104. In other words, Figure 36 The pendulum support 174 is shown in the state of being installed in the laboratory instrument 100.

[0269] The pendulum support 174 shown can be movably mounted between the carrier body 138 and the base assembly 104. More precisely, the bottom of the pendulum support 174 can be mounted in a first recess 176 in the support body 138, while the top is mounted in a second recess 178 in the base assembly 104. A first guard plate 180 on the carrier body 138 can be in physical contact with the bottom surface of the pendulum support 174. Furthermore, a second guard plate 182 on the base assembly 104 can be configured to be in physical contact with the top surface of the pendulum support 174. The pendulum support 174 and the guard plates 180, 182 are configured to interact substantially entirely through rolling friction, and preferably substantially without sliding friction. The pendulum support 174 has a laterally widened top section 184 and a laterally widened bottom section 186. Between the top section 184 and the bottom section 186 is a pin section 188. The outer surface of the top section 184 can be configured as a first spherical surface 190. Accordingly, the outer surface of the bottom section 186 can be configured as a second spherical surface 192. Advantageously, the first radius R1 of the first spherical surface 190 and the second radius R2 of the second spherical surface 192 are both greater than the axial length L of the pendulum support 174.

[0270] Advantageously, the two guard plates 182 and 184 can be made of ceramic. The pendulum support 174 can be made of plastic. This combination of materials has shown to be particularly advantageous tribologically, resulting in low wear and low-noise operation. Plastic is used to reduce noise and, due to its relatively high conformability compared to rigid materials, results in lower loads due to the favorable Hertzian stress of the spherical-plane contact.

[0271] therefore, Figure 35 and Figure 36A pendulum support 174 with a spherical end is shown. The pendulum support 174 shown is made of plastic, while the guard plates 182, 184 preferably have flat upper and lower guard surfaces made of ceramic. The pendulum support 174, made of plastic, is fitted into cylindrical recesses 176, 178 in the vehicle body 138 or base assembly 104.

[0272] The larger the corresponding sphere diameter (2×R1 or 2×R2), the smaller the load or pressure. Another advantage of the pendulum support 174 compared to balls having the same radius as the ends of the pendulum support 174 is the significantly smaller radial range of the pendulum support 174. This saves space and results in a compact configuration for the laboratory instrument 100.

[0273] like Figure 31 and Figure 32 As can be seen, the four pendulum supports 174 with spherical ends are preferably used for axially mounting the base assembly 104 relative to the carrier body 138. However, a different number of pendulum supports 174 is also feasible, for example, three or at least five. The pendulum supports 174 are located in recesses 176, 178 and are thus laterally guided. The ceramic guards 180, 182 and the plastic pendulum supports 174 advantageously work together to reduce noise during mixed operation of the laboratory instrument 100.

[0274] Figure 37 An actuator 262 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in an uninstalled state. (See above reference) Figure 31 and Figure 32 The function of actuator 262 is described.

[0275] Figure 38 The interior of the carrier body 138 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Actuator 262 is located within... Figure 38 It is shown in its locked position. Actuator 262 is used to actuate slider 258.

[0276] Figure 39 It shows that according to Figure 38 Another view of the assembly. Actuator 262 in Figure 39 The image shows the object carrier 102 in its unlocked position. In this position, the object carrier 102, such as a sample plate, can be freely removed from the laboratory instrument 100. The actuator 262 shown is used to actuate the slider 258, so that the slider 258 is in the unlocked position. Figure 39 The shown and Figure 38The positions shown are different. The slider 258 serves as a connecting element and, during operation, presses against the opening lever or slider 260 of the base assembly 104, causing the slider 260 to move linearly and thus actuating the power transmission mechanism 130, which is configured, for example, as a synchronization mechanism (see...). Figure 13 As Figure 38 and Figure 39 Alternatively, in the exemplary implementation, a rotary or purely linear actuator 262 may also be used. Figure 38 and Figure 39 The slider 258 is used as a slider that can be linearly displaced.

[0277] Figure 40 A top view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, on which an object carrier 102 is mounted, the object carrier 102 being engaged by a locating pin 134 of the laboratory instrument 100. In the view shown, the object carrier 102 (here, a sample carrier plate) is locked and shown from above.

[0278] Actuator 262 opens and is configured to close the mechanism via one or more spring pretensioning elements 198.

[0279] Figure 41 It shows that according to Figure 40 The assembly in which the object carrier 102 is now released from the locating pin 134. Figure 41 The view from above shows the object carrier, which is formed as a sample carrier plate, in an unlocked state.

[0280] Figure 42 A top view of the carrier body 138 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, in the actuator position having a locking object carrier 102. Figure 43 It shows that according to Figure 42 The assembly is located in the actuator position of the unlocked object carrier 102.

[0281] Figure 44 A three-dimensional view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein a cooling airflow 276 is illustrated. For example, ambient air may be drawn in by a fan 210 and flow into the interior of the laboratory instrument 100 through a cooling opening 162 in the side wall of the carrier body 138. Inside the laboratory instrument 100, the airflow 276 carries away heat, for example, on the underside of the cooling body 164, and then, in a heated state, flows out of the laboratory instrument 100 through another cooling opening 162 further upwardly disposed in the opposite side wall of the laboratory instrument 100. Figure 44 The airflow between the inlet and outlet is shown.

[0282] Figure 45 A cross-sectional view, more precisely a longitudinal section, of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 45 The airflow 276 inside the laboratory instrument 100 is clearly shown. This airflow serves to cool the base assembly 104, or it may serve as a coolant, or it may include a coolant 164 (especially a coolant with cooling fins).

[0283] Figure 46 A top view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, and section line AA is shown. Figure 47 It shows that according to Figure 46 The laboratory instrument 100 is viewed in cross-section along section line AA and thus along the two eccentric axes or eccentric elements 152, 154. Because they are located in the edge regions, the central space is advantageously left unused for the cooling body 164. Alternatively, the unused central regions 126 / 158 can be used as optical channels to the object carrier 102 fixed to the base assembly 104 (particularly to a sample carrier present on an object mounting device or shaker tray). This can be used, for example, for optical sensor systems or for optical stimulation of the medium in the object carrier 102.

[0284] In particular, Figure 47 The serrated springs 278 on the eccentric members 152 and 154 are shown to generate force on the axial bearing by means of the pendulum support 174. This obviously prevents the single-lobe bearing from rising.

[0285] Furthermore, compensating elements 280, such as O-rings or circular rings or different devices, can be connected to corresponding eccentric elements 152, 154 to compensate for misalignment. This is advantageous to ensure that despite misalignment of eccentric elements 152, 154, the axial mounting of the base assembly 104 always remains on the pendulum support 174. Figure 35 and Figure 36 The pendulum support 174 described in the text is particularly advantageous, but these can also be replaced by ball bearings.

[0286] Preferably, the shaft diameter can be smaller than the ball bearing diameter, and particularly preferably significantly smaller than the ball bearing diameter. This ensures a separate linear contact between the O-ring and the inner ring of the bearing. Therefore, this ensures that only linear contact exists between the compensating element 280 (e.g., configured as an O-ring) and the inner ring of the bearing.

[0287] Figure 48 A top view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, and section line BB is also shown. Figure 49 It shows that according to Figure 48The laboratory instrument 100 is shown in a cross-sectional view along section line BB to illustrate the pendulum support installation.

[0288] The upper and lower sides of each pendulum support 174, shown and made of plastic, are spherically shaped. Ideally, the radius R1 or R2 is chosen to be as large as possible. Due to the conformability of the plastic and the sufficiently large radius R1 or R2, the Hertzian stress between the plane and the sphere, and therefore the load, can be kept low. This increases the service life of the pendulum support 174 and the guard plates 180, 182, which are preferably supported by ceramic. The movement of the pendulum support 174 on the guard plates 180, 182 advantageously occurs through rolling friction. It has been shown that the surfaces of the guard plates 180, 182, being as hard as possible, are advantageous.

[0289] Figure 50 A three-dimensional view of the base assembly 104 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 51 It shows that according to Figure 50 Another three-dimensional view of the base assembly 104 is shown. The base assembly 104 shown is equipped with a movable positioning fastener 106 and additional static positioning fasteners 108, 142, 144. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the static positioning fasteners 108, 142, 144 are formed of solid anchors or solid anchor rods.

[0290] Figure 52 A three-dimensional view of the base assembly 104 of a laboratory instrument 100 having two displaceable positioning fasteners 106, 108 in opposite angular regions 110, 112 of the base assembly 104 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown above. Figure 53 It shows that according to Figure 52 Bottom view of the base component 104. Figure 54 It shows that according to Figure 52 A top view of the base assembly 104, wherein the positioning fasteners of the displaceable positioning fasteners 106 and 108 are in a locked state. Figure 55 It shows that according to Figure 52 A top view of the base component 104, wherein the locating pin 134 is in the unlocked state. Figure 56 It shows that according to Figure 52 A perspective view of the base component 104, showing hidden wires that are not visible in themselves. Figure 57 The basis for showing the locked state of the object carrier 102 is shown. Figure 52 A three-dimensional view of the base assembly 104 of the laboratory instrument 100. The object carrier 102 is configured here as a sample carrier plate (e.g., a microtiter plate with 384 wells), which is fixed to the base assembly 104 as an object mounting device in the operating state shown. Figure 58The following diagram shows the basis for the inserted sample carrier plate. Figure 57 Bottom view of the base component 104 of the laboratory instrument 100.

[0291] Figure 52 The linearly displaceable positioning fasteners 106, 108 shown have tapered positioning pins 134 (which may optionally have other shapes) in the upper region. In operation, the positioning pins 134 move away from the object carrier 102 (for unlocking) or toward the object carrier 102 (for locking). In at least some sections, the tapered positioning pins 134 can be interchangeably mounted on the base assembly 104, for example, by screwing them onto the respective positioning fasteners 106, 108.

[0292] Figure 52 An actuation device 116 is shown as a lever for manually actuating the positioning fasteners 106, 108. This type of manual operation can be advantageous, for example, for emergency unlocking or for laboratory personnel to quickly load / unload laboratory instruments 100.

[0293] The unoccupied central region 126 of the substrate assembly 104 provides accessibility to the object carrier 102, which is configured as a sample carrier. This free accessibility from below is achieved by positioning or connecting all components of the substrate assembly 104 in the edge regions. For example, this provides space-saving integration of temperature control devices. Due to the unoccupied central region 126 of the substrate assembly 104, even optical measurements of the medium in the object carrier 102 can be performed from below via the substrate assembly 104.

[0294] Figure 58 Corresponding rotatably mounted connecting elements in the form of guide discs 122 are shown at two corners of the base assembly 104, in which movable positioning fasteners 106, 108 are disposed, for guiding (more precisely linearly moving) the positioning fasteners 106, 108. The corresponding guide disc 122 (which may also be described as a cam disc) contains a track-like groove as a guide recess 118 into which guide bodies 120 (e.g., pins) of the linearly displaceable positioning fasteners 106, 108 extend. The guide bodies 120 thus engage in the guide recess 118 of the guide disc 122 (particularly in the track-like groove of the cam disc), and thus ensure linear displacement of the displaceable positioning fasteners 106, 108 caused by rotation. The guide disc 122 need not be a cylindrical disc, but can be a disc body containing track-like grooves, and can also be of different geometries.

[0295] also, Figure 58Two rotatably mounted steering pulleys 124 are shown in the toothed or synchronous belt of the force transmission mechanism 130 for fixing mechanism 114. The synchronous belt or toothed belt causes synchronous movement of all positioning and fixing elements 106, 108.

[0296] according to Figure 58 The actuating device 116 also has a linearly mounted slider 260 for manually or automatically actuating the fixing mechanism 114. For example, as Figure 31 The pin-shaped slider 258 of the vehicle body 138 shown can engage in a complementary-shaped recess of the slider 260 and be displaced. When no force is applied (manually or by actuator 262, see...) Figure 31 When the force is applied to the slider 260, the slider 260 moves backward to its initial position via the pretensioning element 198, which can be a mechanical spring (or other pretensioning element, such as a magnet). The slider 260 is securely connected to the timing belt or toothed belt of the force transmission mechanism 130, which generates synchronous rotational movement of the guide disc 122, thereby causing linear displacement of the positioning fasteners 106, 108.

[0297] The exemplary embodiment of the actuation device 116 described above is based on the linear displacement of the actuation device. However, it should be emphasized that the actuation device 116 of other exemplary embodiments of the present invention can also be actuated by rotation, pivoting or turning so as to act on the synchronous belt drive or other force transmission mechanism 130 in this way.

[0298] The pretensioning element 198, configured as a tensioning spring, can be configured to move the linearly mounted slider 260 back to its stop position, and thus move the positioning fasteners 106, 108 in the direction of the object carrier 102 (i.e., to the locked position). Therefore, the fixing mechanism 114 automatically closes if no actuating force is applied.

[0299] Figure 59 A three-dimensional view of the base assembly 104 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, having locating pins 134 at all four corners. Therefore, Figure 59 The base assembly 104 is shown from above, with four movable positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, 144 at all four corners 110, 112, 146, 148 of the base assembly 104. Figure 60 It shows that according to Figure 59 Top view of the base component 104. Figure 61 It shows that according to Figure 59 A three-dimensional view of the lower side of the base component 104. Figure 62 It shows that according to Figure 59 A view of the lower side of the base component 104. Figure 63 It shows that according to Figure 59 A bottom view of the base component 104 shows lines that are not visible in themselves. Figure 64 It shows that it has the following characteristics: Figures 59 to 63 A three-dimensional view of the base assembly 104 of the laboratory instrument 100 mounted on the object carrier 102.

[0300] Obviously, according to Figures 59 to 64 Guide discs 122, each having a guide groove 118, are disposed in each corner 110, 112, 146, 148 of the base assembly 104, wherein the respective guide bodies 120 of the corresponding movable positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, 144 engage in the associated guide groove 118. All four guide discs 120 are mechanically connected to the actuator 116 via a common toothed belt, which serves as a force transmission mechanism 130.

[0301] In each exemplary embodiment described herein, having at least one movable positioning fastener, sensor-based monitoring of the movement of the positioning fastener may be employed. Figures 59 to 64 The movement and position of the movable positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, 144, and thus the monitoring of their locked or unlocked operational states, can be achieved using one or more sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors in cooperation with magnets, optical guides, etc.). Sensor-based monitoring of the movement of the positioning fasteners is advantageous for the operational safety of liquid handling systems or mixing devices. Sensor-based monitoring may, for example, involve the linear position of the movable positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, 144, the position of the corresponding rotatably mounted guide plate 122 (or other connecting elements), or the linear position of the slider 260 of the actuation device 116.

[0302] Figure 62 Reference numeral 282 indicates a first possible sensor location (e.g., for linear monitoring of the actuation lever of actuator 116). Reference numeral 284 indicates another possible sensor location (e.g., for linear monitoring of the associated movable positioning fixture 106). Reference numeral 286 indicates a third possible sensor location (e.g., for monitoring the rotation of guide disc 122 or other connecting elements or steering pulley 124).

[0303] Figure 65 A three-dimensional view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the laboratory instrument 100 includes a mixing device. Figure 66 The above shows according to Figure 65 A three-dimensional drawing of the main body 138 of the vehicle for the laboratory instrument 100. Figure 67 It shows that according to Figure 66 The hybrid drive mechanism 140 of the vehicle body has an eccentric component 152 with a leveling mass 172. Figure 68 The diagram shows the basis on which the object carrier 102 is mounted. Figure 65 The laboratory instrument 100, the object carrier 102 is configured here as a microtiter plate. Figure 69 It shows that according to Figure 65 The lower side of laboratory instrument 100. Figure 70 It shows that according to Figure 65 The laboratory instrument 100 has no bottom cover on its lower side, meaning there is no cover underneath. Figure 71 It shows that according to Figure 65 A top view of laboratory instrument 100. Figure 72 It shows that according to Figure 65 A cross-sectional view of the laboratory instrument 100, more specifically, shows a cross-section of the hybrid drive mechanism 140, which includes eccentric elements 152, 154, a leveling mass 172, and a pendulum support 174.

[0304] from Figure 70 As can be seen, the vehicle body 138 has a ring-shaped closed force transmission mechanism 168, which is configured as a toothed belt with a closed outer periphery. This is used to transmit driving force from the drive unit 150 to a first eccentric member 152 in the first corner and a second eccentric member 154 in the second corner opposite to the first corner. The drive unit 150 is located in the third corner. The steering pulley 124 is located in the fourth corner.

[0305] from Figure 66 and Figure 67 As can be seen most clearly, the first leveling mass 172 is connected to the first eccentric member 152, so that it can rotate with it. In addition, the second leveling mass 172 is connected to the second eccentric member 154, so that it can rotate with it.

[0306] according to Figures 65 to 72 An exemplary embodiment illustrates a laboratory instrument 100, wherein an annular base assembly 104 has a rectangular outer contour and an annular carrier body 138 also has a rectangular outer contour. Through-holes in the annular base assembly 104 form an empty central region 126 of the base assembly 104. Correspondingly, through-holes in the annular carrier body 138 form an empty central region 158 of the carrier body 138. In the assembled state of the annular base assembly 104 and the annular carrier body 138, the empty central regions 126 and 158 are aligned or flush, such that the laboratory instrument 100 formed by the base assembly 104 and the carrier body 138 also has a central through-hole formed by the central regions 126 and 158.

[0307] The resulting laboratory instrument 100 has a mixing device and can also be used for any application requiring access to the object carrier 102 from below (particularly a sample carrier plate or an object carrier 102 with a laboratory container) or requiring a completely empty optical path. For example, the laboratory instrument 100 can be used for cell culture in nutrients while simultaneously measuring optical density (OD) online to monitor cell growth. To ensure good cell growth, the largest possible gas-liquid exchange surface is required. This can be generated by means of orbital mixing motion.

[0308] Because the space at the center of the laboratory instrument 100 is completely empty (see empty central areas 126, 158), the laboratory instrument 100 can be used for many other applications that require access to the sample container from below (such as temperature control, selection, magnetic separation, and other applications).

[0309] During magnetic separation, for example, continuous washing and separation steps can be performed without moving the object carrier 102 (e.g., a sample carrier plate) to another location. This can be achieved by positioning an electromagnet or a movable permanent magnet under the object carrier 102 configured as a sample carrier plate.

[0310] For example, sample carriers can be alternately placed on a mixing device and / or a temperature control device, and then placed on a magnetic separation device with permanent magnets by means of a gripper. Next, they can be transported back to the mixing device for a washing step. Moving the sample carrier to the magnetic separation location and then to the mixing device (e.g., for the washing step) can be omitted by using a combined laboratory instrument. However, this type of movement can be performed when such a combined laboratory instrument is unavailable and a separate location is used.

[0311] The laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is configured as a combination of an orbital rocker and an electrically switchable magnet or a linearly / rotatably movable permanent magnet in the direction of the sample carrier, saving space, time and unnecessary movement of the fully automated liquid handling system.

[0312] review Figures 65 to 72 The carrier body 138 forms a stationary frame. On the other hand, the base assembly 104 forms a shaker tray for receiving the object carrier 102, which is specifically configured as a sample plate or laboratory container. The sample plate container is advantageously fully accessible from below due to openings in the laboratory instrument 100 through the central regions 126, 158. This means that, for example, temperature control devices, optical measuring devices, and / or other interactive devices 128 can be placed in the central regions 126, 158.

[0313] According to Figures 65 to 72In one exemplary embodiment, the actuation device 116 has an actuation lever for unlocking or locking the object carrier 102. In the described exemplary embodiment, actuation is performed by rotation, but actuation can also be performed in different ways (e.g., by means of longitudinal displacement).

[0314] In addition, according to Figures 65 to 72 Exemplary implementations include movable positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, 144, but may optionally or additionally be combined with fixed positioning fasteners. For example, fixed anchor rods may be provided, but all positioning fasteners 106, 108, 142, 144 may also be movable.

[0315] like Figure 72 As shown, according to Figures 65 to 72 In an exemplary embodiment, the pendulum support 174 (single-bearing) having spherical ends at the top and bottom can be mounted on a flat plate surface. Preferably, at least three pendulum supports 174 are provided again; four are shown in the exemplary embodiment.

[0316] Two eccentric components 152, 154 or an eccentric shaft can be provided to deflect the base assembly 104 relative to the stationary vehicle body 138. According to... Figures 65 to 72 In an exemplary embodiment, the leveling mass 172 is used to compensate for the imbalance caused by the moving mass and is directly connected to the eccentric element 152 or 154.

[0317] Figure 70 The timing belt drive or toothed belt 168 shown for mechanically connecting the eccentric elements 152, 154 to the drive unit 150 and the tension pulley or guide pulley 124 can also be configured in different ways (e.g., according to...). Figure 34 The timing belt or toothed belt 168 is used to move the eccentric parts 152 and 154 synchronously.

[0318] Figure 73 It shows that according to Figure 65 Different views of the components of the laboratory instrument 100, which includes a mixing device with a leveling mass 172 having track movement. Figure 73 A cross-sectional view along section line CC is shown, along with details of that cross-sectional view.

[0319] Figure 74 It shows that according to Figure 65 Different views of the components of laboratory instrument 100. Figure 74 A cross-sectional view along section line DD is shown, along with details of the cross-sectional view and a three-dimensional view of the first eccentric member 152 with leveling mass 172. Figure 74 A cross-sectional view through the mixing device is shown, and a portion of the mixing drive mechanism 140 is also shown. Specifically, Figure 74 A first eccentric shaft or first eccentric element 122 with a leveling mass 172 rigidly connected thereto is shown. Furthermore, Figure 74 Two of the pendulum support members 174 of the pendulum support mount are shown, which enable axial mounting of the rocker tray or base assembly 104 relative to the carrier body 138 configured as a stationary frame. Furthermore, a serrated spring 278 is connected to a first eccentric member 152, which is used to generate contact pressure or normal force on the single-axis bearing. Although in Figure 74 Although not visible in the image, this type of sawtooth spring 278 is also connected to the second eccentric member 154. As an alternative to the sawtooth spring 278, a repulsive or attractive permanent magnet can also be implemented as a device to generate contact pressure.

[0320] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the compensation element 280 is configured as an O-ring for angle compensation. This exists Figure 74 The bearing is positioned on the outer ring of the bearing. In another embodiment, positioning on the eccentric shaft or the inner ring of the bearing can be achieved. Clearly, the compensating element 280 ensures that, in the event of angular errors in the eccentric elements 152, 154 or the bearing, the axial bearings of the base assembly 104 remain on all (preferably four) pendulum supports 174. The diameter of the shaft or bearing housing is preferably smaller or larger than the inner or outer ring of the bearing, so that transmission is achieved solely through the O-ring (or other compensating element 280).

[0321] Figure 75 A three-dimensional view of a laboratory instrument 100 having a frame-shaped leveling mass 172 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein two additional illustrations of the first eccentric member 152 can also be seen.

[0322] Two illustrations (i.e., a three-dimensional view and a cross-sectional view) show the first eccentric member 152 as a double eccentric member. This double eccentric member is formed by a first shaft segment 290, a second shaft segment 292, and a third shaft segment 294, wherein the second shaft segment 292 is axially positioned between the first shaft segment 290 and the third shaft segment 294. The second shaft segment 292 has a larger diameter than the first shaft segment 290 and the third shaft segment 294. Each shaft segment 290, 292, and 294 is configured as a cylinder. The central axis of the third shaft segment 294 is offset by a value e1 from the central axis of the first shaft segment 290. The central axis of the second shaft segment 292 is offset by a distance e2 relative to the central axis of the first shaft segment 290. The first shaft segment 290 is mounted in the carrier body 138, i.e., mounted in a stationary frame. The second shaft segment 292 (with eccentricity e2) is used to deflect the leveling mass 172. The third shaft segment 294 (with eccentricity e1) deflects the base assembly 104.

[0323] Despite Figure 75The second eccentric member 154 is not shown, but it can be configured in exactly the same way as the first eccentric member 152.

[0324] The double-eccentric component shown is particularly suitable for use with a track-moving frame-like leveling mass 172. Compared to the previously shown rotary leveling mass 172, the advantage of the track-moving frame-like leveling mass 172 is that it can be accommodated along the periphery in the edge region, allowing for a smaller overall construction space for the laboratory instrument 100 compared to the rotary mass. Furthermore, the larger mass makes it possible to compensate for even larger moving masses. The frame-like leveling mass 172 is preferably made of a high-density material and moves along the track like the base assembly 104, but in the opposite direction to the frame mount (i.e., the mounting position of the carrier body 138). Clearly, Figure 75 The frame-like leveling mass 172 is configured not to rotate, but rather to move eccentrically relative to the base assembly 104 (i.e., the rocker tray) and the load (particularly the object carrier 102). In this type of configuration, it is highly advantageous to use double eccentric elements as the first eccentric element 152 and the second eccentric element 154. The eccentric elements 152 and 154, configured as double eccentric elements, are used to deflect the base assembly 104 and produce a counteracting deflection of the (particularly frame-like) leveling mass 172. Figure 75 The eccentric member 152 (or 154) is a double eccentric member, having a cross-sectional or axial portion rotatably mounted in the stationary vehicle body 138, and two counteracting eccentric cross-sections or axial sections (one for deflecting the base assembly 104, and the other for deflecting the leveling mass 172). In this way, the frame-like leveling mass 172 can be connected to the first eccentric member 152 (advantageously configured as a double eccentric member) and / or the second eccentric member 154 (advantageously configured as a double eccentric member), and disposed between the vehicle body 138 and the base assembly 104 to perform a movement that runs in the opposite direction to the base assembly 104 during mixing.

[0325] Figure 76 It shows that according to Figure 75 Different views of the components of laboratory instrument 100. More accurately, Figure 76 A cross-sectional view along section line EE is shown, along with details of that cross-sectional view.

[0326] In particular, Figure 76 A frame-like leveling mass 172, which may also be referred to as a rocker frame, is shown again. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the leveling mass 172 is configured as a frame-like component that moves in opposite directions along the track to compensate for imbalances.

[0327] Figure 77A three-dimensional top view of a base assembly 104 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, having positioning fasteners 106, 108 and a fixing mechanism 114, is shown. Figure 78 It shows that according to Figure 77 A three-dimensional bottom view of the base assembly 104 having positioning fasteners 106, 108 and fixing mechanism 114. Figure 79 It shows that according to Figure 77 and Figure 78 A three-dimensional bottom view of the functional assembly 300 of the laboratory instrument 100. Figure 80 It shows that according to Figure 79 Cross-sectional view of functional assembly 300. Figure 81 It shows that according to Figures 77 to 80 A three-dimensional diagram of the integrated substrate assembly 104 of the laboratory instrument 100.

[0328] Figures 77 to 81 A laboratory instrument 100 is shown as an object mounting device configured with a locking mechanism 114, which may be automatic and has two movable positioning fasteners 106, 108. Figures 77 to 81 The exemplary embodiment shown is characterized by particularly low complexity, a particularly small number of components, and particularly simple assembly of the shown assembly and the laboratory instrument 100 to be manufactured. Specifically, but not exclusively, according to Figures 77 to 81 Laboratory instrument 100 can be used for temperature control, mixing and / or processing of biological samples in automated laboratory systems.

[0329] exist Figure 78 (but also in) Figure 87 The tensioning device 314 is shown in the figure, which is configured for tolerance-compensated tensioning of the annular closed force transmission mechanism 130. Figure 78 The force transmission mechanism 130 is a toothed belt, which can be locally tensioned or deflected by means of a tensioning device 314 in the area of ​​the actuator 116 to compensate for tolerances between the dimensions of the toothed belt and the dimensions and positions of the components of the actuator 116 and the fixing mechanism 114. This has the advantage that the components do not require particularly stringent requirements and do not impair the operational accuracy of the laboratory instrument 100. Even larger tolerances can be compensated for in a simple manner by means of the tensioning device 314.

[0330] Figure 79 A functional assembly 300 with a carrier plate 302 is shown, which is configured as a structured sheet on which components of an actuator 116 and a fixing mechanism 114 have been mounted. More precisely, Figure 79 A pre-assembled unit in the form of a functional assembly 300 is shown, without the base assembly 104 and the positioning assembly 304 (see [link]). Figure 82 The configuration results in particularly simple preparation and pre-assembly. The vertically compact and efficiently pre-assembled functional assembly 300 leads to a smaller construction height and a simpler method for manufacturing the laboratory instrument 100. Furthermore, as... Figure 81 As shown, the base assembly 104 is integrally made of a single material and configured to receive a pre-assembled functional assembly 300 and a positioning assembly 304 forming a first positioning fastener 106 or a second positioning fastener 108, and can be configured, for example, as... Figure 82 As shown. Figure 78 The configuration shown can be obtained by installing the assembly.

[0331] Figure 80 A cross-section is shown through the mounting members for the guide plate 122 (or cam plate) and the steering pulley 124 (where, when four positioning fasteners are provided, alternative cam plates or guide plates 122 can be mounted instead of the steering pulley 124). From Figure 80 As can be seen, a sliding mount 330 can be used to mount the entire guide disc 122 and the steering pulley 124 for rotation via the toothed belt drive. This provides simple and cost-effective manufacturing as well as robust operation. However, as an alternative to the sliding mount 330, other types of bearings, such as ball bearings, can be used. The carrier plate 302 is configured as a base plate here. Reference numeral 360 shows the toothed belt pulley with a continuation of the shaft. Furthermore, fastening elements 362 are provided, for example, in the form of screws. Therefore, Figure 80 The guide structure, configured as guide disk 122, is shown to be pivotally mounted on base assembly 104. From Figure 80 It can also be seen that the guide structure configured as guide disc 122 is located at different angles of the base assembly 104, serving as a guide pulley 124 mounted by means of other sliding mounts 330. The use of corresponding sliding mounts 130 constitutes a mechanically simple configuration, resulting in a compact and easy-to-manufacture laboratory instrument 100. Advantageously, for the pivotal mounting of all guide discs 122 (especially cam discs) and guide pulleys 124 of the gear belt mechanism, sliding mounts 330 are used, such as... Figure 80 This can be seen from the text.

[0332] Laboratory instruments 100 Figure 81 The base component 104 shown is configured as a base. Figure 82 The positioning assembly 304 shown (also known as the positioning sliding assembly) and according to Figure 79 The pre-assembled functional assembly 300 is formed on a plate-shaped base. According to... Figure 81 The base assembly 104 is configured to connect two positioning fasteners 106, 108. The functional assembly 300 receives all components of the fixing mechanism 114 and the actuation device 116. According to... Figure 82 The positioning slider or positioning assembly 304 can be installed via a final installation method. According to... Figure 79 The functional assembly 300 can be fully pre-assembled and installed. This significantly simplifies the manufacturing process.

[0333] For the final assembly, it will be based on Figure 82 The pre-assembled positioning assembly 304 (or positioning slider) is placed according to Figure 81 In the guide of the base component 104 (or base), then according to Figure 79 The functional assembly 300 is screwed into the base assembly 104.

[0334] Figure 82 A cross-sectional view of a positioning assembly 304 having positioning fasteners 106, 108 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0335] In particular, Figure 82 The first positioning fastener 106 and the second positioning fastener 108 may include corresponding positioning sleeves 306 having through holes 308. Fastening elements 310 (which may be configured as screws, for example) may be inserted to secure the positioning sleeves 306 in the through holes 308. The fastening element 310 may include external threads that may screw into the optional internal threads 370 of the positioning sleeves 306.

[0336] Figure 82 The first positioning fastener 106 and the second positioning fastener 108 are also shown to include corresponding outer contours, which, in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, are external threads on the outer side of the positioning sleeve 306. Clearly, these contours are used to engage the object carrier 102 during operation of the laboratory instrument 100. For example, the external threads may further penetrate into the plastic material of the object carrier 102 (which may be configured, for example, as a microtiter plate), and thus securely hold the object carrier 102 between the positioning fasteners 106, 108. In particular, this means that undesirable vertical lifting of the object carrier 102 during operation can be avoided.

[0337] therefore, Figure 82The locating sleeve 306, showing the locating pin 134, may be equipped with external threads or other profiles 312. These locating sleeves 306 can be connected to fastening elements 310, which, in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, are configured as screws with sliding elements, allowing for easy replacement when adjustment is necessary. When the locating sleeve 306 tapers, the profile 312, shown here as external threads, can be formed as a cylindrical thread or a tapered thread. Due to the resulting roughness, a reliable frictional connection can be formed with the object carrier 102, typically made of plastic (particularly laboratory containers, such as microtiter plates), in this way. In this way, good and reliable retention can be obtained, for example, but not exclusively, when using the laboratory instrument 100 as a mixing device.

[0338] Figure 83 A three-dimensional bottom view is shown of a base assembly 104 with positioning fasteners 106, 108 and a fixing mechanism 114, and an interactive device 128 configured as a cooling body for a laboratory instrument 100. Advantageously, the laboratory instrument 100 is equipped with a portion of a normal force generating device 352, which will be described in more detail below. Figure 84 A three-dimensional top view of the carrier body 138 of the laboratory instrument 100 is shown, which has the characteristics of... Figure 83 Another part of the normal force generating device 352 that cooperates with the base component 104. Figure 85 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument 100 having a normal force generating device 352 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, and a cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 83 The base component 104 and according to Figure 84 The connection area between the main bodies 138 of the vehicle. For example, according to Figures 83 to 85 The laboratory instrument 100 can be configured as a mixing device for objects such as sample holders.

[0339] As already discussed, according to Figures 83 to 85 The laboratory instrument 100 includes a normal force generating device 352 for generating a normal force to prevent the movable base assembly 104 from being lifted by the carrier body 138, or more precisely by the pendulum support 174 between the carrier body 138 and the base assembly 104. Clearly, the normal force generating device 352 generates an attractive vertical force between the carrier body 138 and the base assembly 104. According to... Figure 83 and Figure 84 The normal force generating device 352 has two normal force generating magnets 356 on the base assembly 104 and two cooperating normal force generating magnets 358 on the carrier body 138. Figures 83 to 85The normal forces generated by the magnets 356 and 358 attract each other. The closely positioned magnets 356 and 358 have the advantage of having minimal impact on the electronic components of the laboratory instrument 100. By means of... Figures 83 to 85 The configuration of the normal force generating device 352 and the hybrid drive mechanism 140 is such that the normal force generated by the normal force generating device 352 is functionally separated from the horizontal force generated by the hybrid drive mechanism 140.

[0340] More precisely, the normal force generated by the normal force generating device 352 is transmitted to the pendulum support 174. This type of normal force generating device 352 can, for example, use a magnet (such as...). Figures 83 to 85 ) and / or with spring elements (see Figure 93 This is achieved by means of the normal force generating magnets 356, 358, which can be directly connected to the carrier body 138 (also called the frame) or the base assembly 104 (also called the rocker tray). This has the advantage that the generated normal force does not axially load the ball bearings 222 of the eccentric elements 152, 154 with more force than required. The normal force generated by means of the normal force generating device 352 is advantageous in order to ensure that the base assembly 104 is always positioned on the bearing element (the pendulum support 174 in the illustrated exemplary embodiment) when it moves.

[0341] Under high loads or tilting moments, it is not ideal to transmit axial force directly through a rotating bearing (especially the inner ring-rolling element-outer ring of the bearing), and it is also not ideal to use deep groove ball bearings (high radial force, low axial force). In such cases, it will be necessary to select bearings with larger geometries that must be adapted.

[0342] On the contrary, from the basis Figures 83 to 85 As can be seen from the exemplary implementation, it is ideal to generate normal forces directly between the components involved without involving rotating bearings. According to Figures 83 to 85 This is possible because magnets 356 and 358, configured as permanent magnets, are generated using normal forces in the vehicle body 138 and base assembly 104, and these magnets can attract (or repel, see below) Figure 92 They are connected together.

[0343] Figure 83 The base assembly 104, configured as a rocker tray, is shown below. Two normal force generating magnets 356, configured as permanent magnets, can be seen, which can be bonded to the tray near the bearing (however, optionally or additionally, in other locations), and together with a corresponding other attracting normal force generating magnet 358 in the carrier body 138 configured as a frame, provide normal force in the direction of the frame (and thus on the pendulum support 174).

[0344] Therefore, advantageously, this generates normal or axial forces directly between the components (i.e., the carrier body 138 and the base component 104) via magnets 356, 358 (attractive or repulsive) through normal forces.

[0345] Figure 84 The vehicle body 138, configured as a frame, is shown from above. Here, two normal force generating magnets 358, configured as permanent magnets, can be seen, which provide normal force in the direction of the base assembly 104, configured as a rocker tray.

[0346] Advantageously, utilize according to Figure 83 and Figure 84 With this configuration, the normal force is not oriented via the corresponding eccentric shaft. The bearings (especially ball bearing 222) of the eccentric elements 152 and 154 are therefore only slightly axially loaded at most, which results in high reliability and long service life.

[0347] Figure 85 It shows that by according to Figure 83 and Figure 84 The cross-section of the eccentric shaft is an example of an instance of an attractive permanent magnet pair. Other geometries are also feasible. An advantageous geometry is one in which the axial force is not transmitted via the shaft, but directly from the rocker tray to the frame.

[0348] The following description is based on Figures 86 to 90 An exemplary embodiment shows a laboratory instrument 100 as a mixing device having two eccentric elements 152, 154 with eccentric shafts, one of which is directly driven by a drive 150 configured as an electric motor, and the other eccentric element is indirectly driven by only a single toothed belt drive.

[0349] Figure 86 A three-dimensional view of the carrier body 138 of a laboratory instrument 100 having a normal force generating device 352 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 87 It shows the method of using with respect to Figure 86 A three-dimensional bottom view of the base assembly 104 of the laboratory instrument 100, which has a normal force generating device 352 and a vehicle body 138, cooperating with the laboratory instrument 100, which has positioning and fixing parts 106, 108, a fixing mechanism 114, and a cooling body.

[0350] therefore, Figure 86 A top view of an alternative embodiment of a frame or carrier body 138 having two eccentric elements 152, 154 is shown. In this exemplary embodiment, the normal force can be generated via a single attractive permanent magnet 358, which acts as a normal force generating magnet. Correspondingly, Figure 87A bottom view of another embodiment of the shaker tray or base assembly 104 is shown, wherein the normal force can be generated via a single attractive permanent magnet 356, which acts as a normal force generating magnet. According to Figure 86 and Figure 87 In this configuration, the vehicle body 138 has only a single normal force-generating magnet 358, and the base assembly 104 has only a single normal force-generating magnet 356. Alternatively, another central magnetic or spring device can be used, wherein the axial force is not oriented via an eccentric shaft and bearing, but acts directly between the base assembly 104 and the vehicle body 138. For example, the spring or other force-generating element can also be centrally positioned, which can help generate force between the base assembly 104 and the vehicle body 138.

[0351] according to Figure 86 The leveling mass 172 is directly connected to the corresponding eccentric components 152 and 154. Advantageously, in this way, any imbalance that occurs during the operation of the eccentric components 152 and 154 can be compensated directly at the location where it arises. This reduces the forces acting on the various components of the laboratory instrument 100, and thus reduces wear and leads to increased service life.

[0352] Figure 88 A three-dimensional view of the carrier body 138 of a laboratory instrument 100 having a portion of a normal force generating device 352 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 89 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument 100 with a normal force generating device 352 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the instrument can be used according to... Figure 88 The main body of the vehicle is 138.

[0353] Figure 88 An alternative embodiment of the carrier body 138 is shown above, which is configured with a frame having two leveling masses 172 directly located on the respective eccentric members 152, 154. Normal forces can here also be generated, for example, via an attractive permanent magnet or by means of other central magnets or spring devices, wherein axial forces are not oriented via eccentric shafts and bearings, but are generated directly between the frame and the rocker tray assembly. Springs or other elements that can generate forces between the assemblies can also be centrally located.

[0354] Figure 89 A cross-section is shown through a leveling mass 172 with an eccentrically mounted bearing. In this exemplary embodiment, only two solid pins are located in the inner ring of the base assembly 104, thus it is deflected.

[0355] The exemplary implementation described has the advantage that it is possible to adjust the eccentricity or amplitude of the laboratory instrument 100 by simply changing the leveling mass 172. In the standard configuration (the separate leveling mass 72 and the shafts of the corresponding eccentric elements 152, 154), both components (eccentric shaft amplitude / eccentricity and leveling mass imbalance) can be adjusted. The mixing amplitude can be changed when mixing is performed by means of circular track motion.

[0356] Figure 90 A three-dimensional view of the carrier body 138 of a laboratory instrument 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 91 It shows that according to Figure 90 A cross-sectional view of laboratory instrument 100.

[0357] according to Figure 90 and Figure 91 The first eccentric member 152 is directly mounted on the drive unit 150. Conversely, the second eccentric member 154 is force-coupled to the first eccentric member 152 and the drive unit 150 by means of a force transmission belt 350. In this way, the assembly for connecting the first eccentric member 152 to the drive unit 150 can be eliminated, thus the associated laboratory instrument 100 can become compact and simple in structure. Therefore, according to Figure 90 and Figure 91 One of the two eccentric shafts can be directly driven by an electric motor. A single force transmission belt 350 (e.g., configured as a toothed belt) is sufficient, and the structure has a very small number of components and bearings.

[0358] Because of the Figure 90 and Figure 91 In the exemplary implementation, all imbalances that occur are compensated directly at a single bearing point, thus achieving exceptionally good reliability and service life.

[0359] exist Figure 91 In the cross-sectional view, it should be noted that laboratory instrument 100 is controlled by a single, centrally located permanent magnet as a normal force generating device 352. More precisely, according to Figure 90 and Figure 91 The base component 104 has only one normal force generating magnet 356, and the carrier body 138 has only one normal force generating magnet 358.

[0360] Figure 92 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument 100 having a normal force generating device 352 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0361] according to Figure 92The normal force generating device 352 includes a rigid element 366 rigidly connected to a first normal force generating magnet 358 and passing through a second normal force generating magnet 356, such as a bolt. The rigid element 366 is connected to the base assembly 104, while the second normal force generating magnet 356 is connected to the vehicle body 138. If the base assembly 104, along with the rigid element 366 connected thereto, moves away from the vehicle body 138, the first normal force generating magnet 358 is carried away and thus moves in the direction of the second normal force generating magnet 356, which is stationary and connected to the vehicle body 138. If the normal force generating magnets 356 and 358 repel each other, the mechanism generates a repulsive magnetic force that pulls the base assembly 104 back to the vehicle body 138.

[0362] Therefore, according to Figure 92 In an exemplary implementation, the two normal force generating magnets 356 and 358 are mutually repulsive. The South Pole is represented by the letter "S", or the North Pole by the letter "N". Figure 92 A cross-section through a laboratory instrument 100 is shown, which includes a normal force generating device 352 described as generating a normal force by means of repulsive permanent magnets as normal force generating magnets 356, 358. A rigid element 366 (e.g., a bolt) on a base assembly 104 configured as a rocker tray passes through a second normal force generating magnet 356, configured here as a disc magnet or a ring magnet, and protrudes through a carrier body 138 configured as a frame. Furthermore, another normal force generating magnet, namely a first normal force generating magnet 358, is fastened to the end of the rigid element 366. A disc magnet is advantageous for facilitating eccentric movement between the frame and the rocker tray. In particular, the first normal force generating magnet 358 can be integrally formed with the rigid element 366. The second normal force generating magnet 356 can be securely anchored in the carrier body 138. Since the second normal force generating magnet 356 cannot move and the first normal force generating magnet 358 is subjected to a downward repulsive force, the base assembly 104 is pulled toward the vehicle body 138.

[0363] Figure 93 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument 100 having a normal force generating device 352 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0364] according to Figure 93 The normal force generating device 352 includes a normal force generating spring 354, which connects the base assembly 104 to the carrier body 138. Furthermore, according to... Figure 93The normal force generating device 352 includes a flexible element 368 operably connected to a normal force generating spring 354, wherein the flexible element 368 is connected to the base assembly 104, and the normal force generating spring 354 is connected to the carrier body 138. The flexible element 368 can be rigid in the tensile direction but flexible transversely to the tensile direction. Due to the elasticity of the flexible element 368, the flexible element 368 connected to the base assembly 104 (e.g., a rope or wire) can follow a hybrid motion in the horizontal plane. The pre-tensioned normal force generating spring 354 connected to the carrier body 138 can prevent the base assembly 104 from being lifted by the carrier body 138 and can pull the base assembly 104 downward by means of the flexible element 368.

[0365] same, Figure 93 A cross-section through the laboratory instrument 100 is shown, where the normal force is generated by a pre-tensioned spring element in the form of a normal force generating spring 354 and a flexible element 368 (e.g., rope, thread, etc.). The flexible element 368 is used to compensate for amplitude and / or eccentricity between the carrier body 138 and the base assembly 104. Clearly, the normal force generating spring 354 pulls the flexible element 368 downward, thus pulling the base assembly 104 toward the carrier body 138. The configuration with the normal force generating spring 354 creates a fluid-tight embodiment for the base assembly 104 or the carrier body 138, which is advantageous in situations such as when the laboratory instrument 100 is used for cooling applications, where condensation forms and therefore cannot penetrate the interior. The fluid-tight configuration explicitly means that the hole in the top of the base assembly 104 for the pre-tensioned spring is irrelevant.

[0366] according to Figure 93 One or more spring elements can be used to generate a normal force directly between the carrier body 138 (also called the frame) and the base assembly 104 (also called the rocker tray) without loading the rotating bearings of the eccentric elements 152, 154. This reduces mechanical load, thus reducing wear on the eccentric elements 152, 154, and therefore increasing their service life. As per [the relevant information] Figure 93 Alternatively, a tension spring can be inserted between the base assembly 104 and the vehicle body 138, for example.

[0367] Figure 94 A cross-sectional view of a laboratory instrument 100 having a normal force generating device 352 and a magnetic field shielding device 380 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0368] according to Figure 94 The normal force generating device 352 includes a magnetic field shielding device 380 formed by two opposing ferromagnetic retainers. The magnetic field shielding device 380 is used to shield the magnetic field generated by the normal force generating magnets 356 and 358. More precisely, according to Figure 94The normal force generating magnets 356 of the base assembly 104 and the normal force generating magnets 358 of the carrier body 138 are configured to attract each other in pairs. The base assembly 104 includes two mutually antiparallel normal force generating magnets 358. Correspondingly, the carrier body 138 includes two mutually antiparallel normal force generating magnets 356. Each normal force generating magnet 358 is disposed opposite to the corresponding normal force generating magnet 356, such that an attractive force is generated between the corresponding pair of normal force generating magnets 358, 356. On the side of the normal force generating magnet 356 facing away from the normal force generating magnet 358 is a first ferromagnetic retainer 382 of the magnetic field shielding device 380. Correspondingly, a second ferromagnetic retainer 384 of the magnetic field shielding device 380 is disposed on the side of the normal force generating magnet 358 facing away from the normal force generating magnet 356.

[0369] Therefore, according to Figure 94 In an exemplary embodiment, the normal force generating magnets 356 and 358 are formed as attracting permanent magnets, and are provided with circuit closed plates in the form of retainers 382 and 384. Therefore, according to Figure 94 In laboratory instrument 100, the attracting permanent magnet is additionally connected by a ferromagnetic circuit closed plate. According to... Figure 94 The cross-sectional view shows a laboratory instrument 100 configured as a hybrid device, in which four permanent magnets (two above the movable base assembly 104 and two below the stationary frame or carrier body 138) are attracted and connected together by a circuit closure plate. By using the circuit closure plate, at least part (particularly most or all) of the magnetic energy is concentrated on the attraction surface, and the spatial effect of the magnetic field is confined. In this way, undesirable magnetization of the environment or its influence on the electronic components located in the laboratory instrument 100 is prevented. Clearly, by means of retainers 382, ​​384, the magnetic field lines are concentrated or focused onto the area of ​​the magnetic field shielding device 380.

[0370] Furthermore, the following aspects of the present invention are disclosed:

[0371] Aspect 1. A laboratory instrument (100) for fixing an object carrier (102), wherein the laboratory instrument (100) comprises:

[0372] Base assembly (104) for receiving object carrier (102);

[0373] A movable first positioning fastener (106) is used to fix to a first edge region of the object carrier (102);

[0374] The second positioning fastener (108) is used to fix to the second edge region of the object carrier (102);

[0375] A fixing mechanism (114) for securing the object carrier (102) to the base assembly (104) between the first positioning fixing member (106) and the second positioning fixing member (108) by moving at least the first positioning fixing member (106); and

[0376] An actuating device (116) is used to actuate the fixing mechanism (114) to switch at least the first positioning fixture (106) between an operating state of fixing the object carrier (102) and an operating state of releasing the object carrier (102);

[0377] The fixing mechanism (114) includes at least one guide (120) which can be guided in at least one guide groove (118) such that the actuating force of the actuating device (116) for switching the fixing mechanism (114) to the operating state of releasing the object carrier (102) is less than the release force applied by the object carrier (102) for releasing the fixed object carrier (102).

[0378] Aspect 2. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 1, wherein the guide (120) is a guide rod.

[0379] Aspect 3. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the guide groove (118) is curved in the form of a track.

[0380] Aspect 4. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the guide groove (118) is formed in the guide structure, in particular the guide disc (122).

[0381] Aspect 5. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 4, wherein the guiding structure is rotatably mounted on the base assembly (104).

[0382] Aspect 6. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 4 or 5, wherein the guide structure is disposed at an angle of the base assembly (104), wherein, in particular, a steering pulley (124) is disposed at at least one other angle.

[0383] Aspect 7. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein the guide (120) is rigidly connected to the first positioning fastener (106).

[0384] Aspect 8. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) comprises two guide grooves (118), wherein a corresponding guide (120) may be guided in each of the guide grooves (118).

[0385] Aspect 9. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 8, wherein each of the guide grooves (118) is disposed in a corresponding guide structure, in particular in a corresponding guide disc (122), and wherein, in particular, the guide structure is disposed at mutually opposite angles of the base assembly (104).

[0386] Aspect 10. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) is configured such that when a release force is applied by the object carrier (102) to release the fixed object carrier (102), the displacement force acts on the guide (120) at an angle relative to the guide groove (118), especially at a transverse angle.

[0387] Aspect 11. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) is configured such that when the actuation device (116) is actuated to switch the fixing mechanism (114) to an operating state for releasing the object carrier (102), a displacement force acts on the guide body (120) along the guide groove (118).

[0388] Aspect 12. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) is disposed along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the base assembly (104) such that the central region (126) of the base assembly (104) surrounded by the outer periphery is vacant.

[0389] Aspect 13. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 12, including the features according to any one of aspects 14 to 24.

[0390] Aspect 14. Laboratory apparatus (100) for fixing an object carrier (102), wherein the laboratory apparatus (100) comprises:

[0391] A base assembly (104) for receiving the object carrier (102);

[0392] A movable first positioning fastener (106) is used to fix to a first edge region of the object carrier (102);

[0393] The second positioning fastener (108) is used to fix to the second edge region of the object carrier (102);

[0394] A fixing mechanism (114) for securing the object carrier (102) to the base assembly (104) between the first positioning fixing member (106) and the second positioning fixing member (108) by moving at least the first positioning fixing member (106); and

[0395] An actuating device (116) is used to actuate the fixing mechanism (114) to switch at least the first positioning fixture (106) between an operating state of fixing the object carrier (102) and an operating state of releasing the object carrier (102);

[0396] The fixing mechanism (114) is disposed along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the base assembly (104), such that the central region (126) of the base assembly (104) surrounded by the outer periphery is left vacant.

[0397] Aspect 15. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 14, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) is disposed along the underside of the base assembly (104) facing away from the object carrier (102).

[0398] Aspect 16. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 14 or 15, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) extends along the entire outer periphery of the base assembly (104).

[0399] Aspect 17. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 14 to 16 includes at least one interactive device (128) which is at least partially disposed in and / or operably configured on the object carrier (102) through the vacant central region (126) of the base assembly (104).

[0400] Aspect 18. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 17, wherein the interaction device (128) is selected from: a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of a medium in the object carrier (102), an optical device for optical interaction with the medium in the object carrier (102), and a magnetic mechanism for magnetic interaction with the medium in the object carrier (102).

[0401] Aspect 19. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 14 to 18, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) comprises an annular closed force transmission mechanism (130) along the outer periphery of the base assembly (104), in particular a toothed belt.

[0402] Aspect 20. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 14 to 19, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) in at least one corner of the base assembly (104) includes a guide structure, in particular a guide disc (122), the guide structure having a guide groove (118) and a guide body (120) therein which can be guided.

[0403] Aspect 21. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 14 to 20, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) in at least one corner of the base assembly (104) includes a steering pulley (124).

[0404] Aspect 22. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspects 19 to 21, wherein the at least one guiding structure and the at least one steering pulley (124) are force-coupled by means of the annular closed force transmission mechanism (130).

[0405] Aspect 23. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 14 to 22, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) includes at least one guide (120) that can be guided in at least one guide groove (118) such that the actuating force of the actuating device (116) for switching the fixing mechanism (114) to an operating state of releasing the object carrier (102) is less than the release force exerted by the object carrier (102) for releasing the fixed object carrier (102).

[0406] Aspect 24. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 23, including the features according to aspects 1 to 13.

[0407] Aspect 25. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 24, wherein when switching between an operating state of fixing the object carrier (102) and an operating state of releasing the object carrier (102), the first positioning fixture (106) can be linearly displaced by means of a linear guide (132).

[0408] Aspect 26. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 25, wherein the first positioning fastener (106) comprises at least one first positioning pin and / or the second positioning fastener (108) comprises at least one second positioning pin, the object carrier (102) being engageable between the positioning pins.

[0409] Aspect 27. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 26, wherein at least one of the at least first positioning pin and the at least second positioning pin includes a retention profile (136) configured to prevent the object carrier (102) from being released from the base assembly (104) in the vertical direction, and in particular, to prevent the object carrier (102) from being released from the base assembly (104).

[0410] Aspect 28. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 27, comprising the object carrier (102) received on the substrate assembly (104), and more specifically, a sample carrier plate.

[0411] Aspect 29. The laboratory apparatus (100) according to any one of Aspects 1 to 28,

[0412] The vehicle body (138) includes a hybrid drive mechanism (140) specifically configured to generate a hybrid orbital motion;

[0413] In an installed state in which the base assembly (104) is movable on the vehicle body (138) by means of the hybrid drive mechanism (140), particularly along the track path, the base assembly (104) is configured to mix the medium contained in the object carrier (102).

[0414] Aspect 30. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 29, wherein the hybrid drive mechanism (140) is disposed along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the vehicle body (138), such that the central region (158) of the vehicle body (138) surrounded by the outer periphery is vacant.

[0415] Aspect 31. The laboratory instrument (100) according to aspect 29 or 30, wherein the hybrid drive mechanism (140) and the fixing mechanism (114) are separate from each other, and in particular, the hybrid drive mechanism (140) is specifically disposed in the carrier body (138) and the fixing mechanism (114) is specifically disposed in the base assembly (104).

[0416] Aspect 32. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 31, wherein the fixing mechanism (114) is configured to circumferentially clamp the object carrier (102) between the first positioning fixing member (106) and the second positioning fixing member (108).

[0417] Aspect 33. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 32 includes a pretensioning element (198) configured to pretension the fixing mechanism (114) to an operating state for fixing the object carrier (102).

[0418] Aspect 34. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 33, wherein the base assembly (104) is an annular body having a central through hole.

[0419] Aspect 35. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 34, wherein a removably mounted and thermally conductive temperature control adapter (202) for controlling the temperature of the object carrier (102) or container is provided on the base assembly (104), wherein, in particular, the temperature control adapter (202) includes a receiving opening (208) for receiving the object carrier (102) or container in a form-fitting manner.

[0420] Aspect 36. The laboratory instrument (100) according to any one of aspects 1 to 35, comprising at least one of the following features:

[0421] The second positioning fastener (108) is movably or rigidly connected to the base assembly (104);

[0422] It includes a third positioning fastener (142) for fixing to a third edge region of the object carrier (102) and a fourth positioning fastener (144) for fixing to a fourth edge region of the object carrier (102), wherein, in particular, at least one of the third positioning fastener (144) and the fourth positioning fastener (146) is movably or rigidly connected to the base assembly (104).

[0423] Aspect 37. A method for fixing an object carrier (102), wherein the method includes:

[0424] The object carrier (102) is received on the base assembly (104);

[0425] The actuating device (116) is activated to act on the fixing mechanism (114) to fix the object carrier (102) to the base assembly (104) between the movable first positioning fixing member (106) and the second positioning fixing member (108) by moving at least the first positioning fixing member (106), such that the first positioning fixing member (106) is fixed to a first edge region of the object carrier (102), and the second positioning fixing member (108) is fixed to a second edge region of the object carrier (102); and

[0426] At least one guide (120) is guided in at least one guide groove (118) of the fixing mechanism (114) such that the actuating force for switching the fixing mechanism (114) to the operating state of releasing the object carrier (102) is less than the release force applied by the object carrier (102) for releasing the fixed object carrier (102).

[0427] Aspect 38. A method for fixing an object carrier (102), wherein the method includes:

[0428] The object carrier (102) is received on the base assembly (104);

[0429] The actuating device (116) is activated to act on the fixing mechanism (114) to fix the object carrier (102) to the base assembly (104) between the movable first positioning fixing member (106) and the second positioning fixing member (108) by moving at least the first positioning fixing member (106), such that the first positioning fixing member (106) is fixed to a first edge region of the object carrier (102), and the second positioning fixing member (108) is fixed to a second edge region of the object carrier (102); and

[0430] The fixing mechanism (114) is provided along at least a portion of the outer periphery of the base assembly (104), such that the central region (126) of the base assembly (104) surrounded by the outer periphery is left vacant.

[0431] Furthermore, it should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude any other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple. It should also be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the foregoing exemplary embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of the other foregoing exemplary embodiments. Reference numerals in the claims should not be considered limiting.

Claims

1. Laboratory instrument (100) for securing an object carrier (102), wherein the laboratory instrument (100) comprises: a base assembly (104) for receiving an object carrier (102); a first positioning fixture (106) movable for securing to a first edge region of the object carrier (102); a second positioning fixture (108) for securing to a second edge region of the object carrier (102); a securing mechanism (114) for securing the object carrier (102) to the base assembly (104) between the first positioning fixture (106) and the second positioning fixture (108) by moving at least the first positioning fixture (106); and an actuating device (116) for actuating the securing mechanism (114) for switching at least the first positioning fixture (106) between an operating state for securing the object carrier (102) and an operating state for releasing the object carrier (102); wherein the securing mechanism (114) comprises at least one guide body (120) which is guidable in at least one guide groove (118) such that an actuating force for actuating the actuating device (116) for switching the securing mechanism (114) into the operating state for releasing the object carrier (102) is smaller than a release force which is applied by the object carrier (102) in order to release a secured object carrier (102); wherein the guide groove (118) is curved in the form of a track.

2. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 1, wherein the guide body (120) is a guide rod.

3. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the guide groove (118) is curved in the form of an arc.

4. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 1, wherein the guide groove (118) is formed in a guide structure.

5. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 4, wherein the guide groove (118) is formed in a guide disc (122).

6. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 4, wherein the guide structure is rotatably mounted on the base assembly (104).

7. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 6, wherein the guide structure is rotatably mounted on the base assembly (104) by means of a sliding mount (330).

8. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 4, wherein the guide structure is arranged in a corner of the base assembly (104), wherein in at least one other corner a deflection pulley (124) is arranged which is further mounted by means of a sliding mount (330).

9. Laboratory instrument (100) according to claim 1, wherein the guide body (120) is rigidly connected to the first positioning fixture (106).

10. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the securing mechanism (114) comprises two guide grooves (118), wherein a respective guide body (120) is guidable in each of the guide grooves (118).

11. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 10, wherein each of the guide grooves (118) is arranged in a respective guide structure, and wherein the guide structures are arranged in mutually opposite corners of the base assembly (104).

12. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 11, wherein each of the guide grooves (118) is arranged in a respective guide disc (122).

13. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the securing mechanism (114) is configured such that, when a release force is exerted by the object carrier (102) to release a secured object carrier (102), a displacement force acts on the guide body (120) at an angle relative to the guide groove (118).

14. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 13, wherein the displacement force acts on the guide body (120) at an angle transverse relative to the guide groove (118).

15. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the securing mechanism (114) is configured such that, upon actuation of the actuation device (116) for transitioning the securing mechanism (114) into an operating state of releasing the object carrier (102), a displacement force acts on the guide body (120) along the guide groove (118).

16. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the securing mechanism (114) is arranged along at least a portion of a periphery of the base assembly (104) such that a central region (126) of the base assembly (104) enclosed by the periphery is vacant.

17. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the securing mechanism (114) is arranged along an underside of the base assembly (104) facing away from the object carrier (102).

18. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 16, wherein the securing mechanism (114) extends along an entire periphery of the base assembly (104).

19. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 16, comprising at least one interaction device (128) arranged at least partially in the vacant central region (126) of the base assembly (104) and / or operatively configured on the object carrier (102) through the vacant central region (126) of the base assembly (104).

20. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 19, wherein the interaction means (128) is selected from the group consisting of a temperature control means for controlling a temperature of a medium in the object carrier (102), an optical device for optical interaction with a medium in the object carrier (102), and a magnetic means for magnetic interaction with a medium in the object carrier (102).

21. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 16, wherein the fixation means (114) comprises a ring-closed force transmission means (130) along a periphery of the base assembly (104).

22. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 21, wherein the fixation means (114) comprises a ring-closed toothed belt along a periphery of the base assembly (104).

23. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the fixation means (114) in at least one corner of the base assembly (104) comprises a guide structure having a guide groove (118) and a guide body (120) guidable therein.

24. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 23, wherein the guide structure is a guide disc (122).

25. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the fixation means (114) in at least one corner of the base assembly (104) comprises a diverting pulley (124).

26. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 21, wherein the at least one guide structure and the at least one diverting pulley (124) are force-coupled by means of the ring-closed force transmission means (130).

27. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the first positioning fixture (106) is linearly displaceable by means of a linear guide (132) when transitioning between an operating state in which the object carrier (102) is fixed and an operating state in which the object carrier (102) is released.

28. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the first positioning fixture (106) comprises at least one first positioning pin and / or the second positioning fixture (108) comprises at least one second positioning pin, the object carrier (102) being engageable between the positioning pins.

29. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 23, wherein at least one of the at least one first positioning pin and the at least one second positioning pin comprises a retention profile (136) configured to prevent the object carrier (102) from being released from the base assembly (104) in a vertical direction.

30. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 29, wherein the retention profile (136) is configured such that the object carrier (102) cannot be released from the base assembly (104) in a vertical direction.

31. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, comprising the object carrier (102) received on the base assembly (104).

32. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 31, wherein the object carrier (102) is a sample carrier plate.

33. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 31, wherein the object carrier (102) is a microtiter plate.

34. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, comprising a carrier body (138) having a hybrid drive mechanism (140) configured to generate an orbital mixing motion; wherein in a mounted state movable on the carrier body (138) by means of the hybrid drive mechanism (140), the base assembly (104) is configured for mixing a medium contained in the object carrier (102).

35. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 34, wherein, in a mounted state movable on the carrier body (138) by means of the hybrid drive mechanism (140), the base assembly (104) is configured for mixing the medium contained in the object carrier (102).

36. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 34, wherein the hybrid drive mechanism (140) is disposed along at least a portion of an outer periphery of the carrier body (138) such that a central region (158) of the carrier body (138) enclosed by the outer periphery is vacant.

37. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 34, wherein the hybrid drive mechanism (140) and the fixation mechanism (114) are separate from each other.

38. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 37, wherein the hybrid drive mechanism (140) is exclusively configured in the carrier body (138) and the fixation mechanism (114) is exclusively configured in the base assembly (104).

39. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the fixation mechanism (114) is configured to clamp the object carrier (102) circumferentially between the first positioning fixture (106) and the second positioning fixture (108).

40. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, comprising a pre-tensioning element (198) configured to pre-tension the fixation mechanism (114) into an operating state fixing the object carrier (102).

41. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein the base assembly (104) is an annular body having a central through-hole.

42. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein a removably mounted and thermally conductive temperature control adapter (202) for controlling a temperature of the object carrier (102) or a container is disposed on the base assembly (104), wherein the temperature control adapter (202) comprises a receiving opening (208) for receiving the object carrier (102) or the container in a form-fitting manner.

43. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, comprising at least one of the following features: wherein the second positioning fixture (108) is movable or rigidly connected to the base assembly (104); comprising a third positioning fixture (142) for fixation to a third edge region of the object carrier (102) and a fourth positioning fixture (144) for fixation to a fourth edge region of the object carrier (102), wherein at least one of the third positioning fixture (142) and the fourth positioning fixture (144) is movable or rigidly connected to the base assembly (104).

44. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, comprising a functional assembly (300) having a carrier plate (302), the actuation device (116) and the fixation mechanism (114) being pre-assembled on the carrier plate (302).

45. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 44, wherein the base assembly (104) is configured to receive the pre-assembled functional assembly (300) and a positioning assembly (304) comprising the first positioning fixture (106) or the second positioning fixture (108).

46. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first positioning fixture (106) and the second positioning fixture (108) comprises a positioning sleeve (306) having a through-hole (308), a fastening element (310) for fastening the positioning sleeve (306) being introducible or already introduced into the through-hole (308).

47. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first positioning fixture (106) and the second positioning fixture (108) comprises an external contour (312) for engagement in the object carrier (102).

48. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 47, wherein at least one of the first positioning fixture (106) and the second positioning fixture (108) comprises an external thread for engagement in the object carrier (102).

49. The laboratory instrument (100) of claim 23, comprising a tensioning device (314) for tolerance-compensating tensioning of the force transmission mechanism (130) for ring closure.

50. Method for fixing an object carrier (102), wherein the method comprises: receiving the object carrier (102) on a base assembly (104); actuating the actuating device (116) to act on the securing mechanism (114) to secure the object carrier (102) on the base assembly (104) between the first (106) and second (108) positioning fixtures by moving at least the first positioning fixture (106) such that the first positioning fixture (106) is secured to a first edge region of the object carrier (102) and the second positioning fixture (108) is secured to a second edge region of the object carrier (102); and guiding at least one guide body (120) in at least one guide groove (118) of the securing mechanism (114) such that an actuating force for converting the securing mechanism (114) into an operating state in which the object carrier (102) is released is smaller than a release force exerted by the object carrier (102) in order to release a secured object carrier (102); wherein the guide groove (118) is curved in the form of a track.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the method comprises: arranging the securing mechanism (114) along at least a portion of a periphery of the base assembly (104) such that a central region (126) of the base assembly (104) enclosed by the periphery is left vacant.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the method comprises: arranging the securing mechanism (114) along at least a portion of a periphery of the base assembly (104) such that a central region (126) of the base assembly (104) enclosed by the periphery is left vacant.

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