Laboratory automation apparatus and method for processing a sample

Abstract

The invention relates to a laboratory automation for processing a sample 70, comprising a processing chamber 10 for processing the sample 70, a sample receiving element 7 arranged in the processing chamber 10 for receiving the sample 70, and an illumination unit 11. The sample receiving element 7 can be arranged at the illumination unit 11 for illuminating the sample 70 with primary radiation. An analysis unit 5 is arranged in the processing chamber 10 for analyzing the sample 70, wherein the analysis is carried out in the processing chamber 10 by absorption of secondary radiation originating from the sample 70 and induced by the primary radiation. Here, the laboratory automation 1 is distinguished in that the sample receiving element 7 is arranged at least partially above the illumination unit 11, such that the sample receiving element 12 can be illuminated in a first region A and in a further region B different from the first region A by means of the primary radiation producible by the illumination unit 11.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated laboratory apparatus for processing specimens and a method for processing specimens, according to the preamble of the independent claim. Background Technology

[0002] When processing multiple samples, multiple processing steps must be performed. For this reason, automated laboratory equipment is often used because it is essential to ensure the precise transfer of reagents into and out of containers such as microtiter plates.

[0003] Existing laboratory automation typically includes: a processing chamber into which a sample is introduced in a microtiter plate (or other container); a transfer device for performing the processing steps; a motion device for moving the transfer device within the processing chamber; and an electronic control device that controls and directs the transfer device and other components of the laboratory automation device for performing the processing steps.

[0004] Therefore, automated sample handling processes are ensured through laboratory automation devices to improve efficiency and throughput. Improved implementation schemes for laboratory automation devices are illustrated, for example, in EP 3894871 B1.

[0005] Laboratory automation systems also often have integrated optical detection devices for analyzing samples.

[0006] Laboratory automation devices are particularly preferred for use in biochemistry to process biological samples, such as biomolecules (e.g., DNS or RNS), for example, for molecular biology and biochemical analysis, sequencing preparation, cell culture analysis, or immunoassay (e.g., ELISA).

[0007] Therefore, laboratory automation devices have a wide range of applications, such as in clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical research (e.g., active substance screening), forensic analysis, food and environmental analysis, or materials and surface research.

[0008] For biomolecules in particular, luminescence spectroscopy is an important analytical method, which evaluates the radiation generated based on the absorption of photons by biomolecules.

[0009] Therefore, fluorescent labeling allows fluorescent chemical groups to be attached to large biomolecules, which are then used as identifiers for these biomolecules.

[0010] "Fluorescence" here refers to the brief, spontaneous emission of light that occurs when an electronically excited system transitions back to a lower energy state. Therefore, fluorescence is a form of luminescence in which excitation is achieved through the absorption of photons (photoluminescence). Thus, fluorescence is essentially a reversal of light absorption, where the excited electronic state is reactivated by re-emission as the excitation energy of radiation.

[0011] In many processes, the concentration of the fluid sample (i.e., the relevant molecules in the solution) plays a particularly important role in further processing, and this role can be easily determined, especially by fluorescence spectroscopy.

[0012] In the prior art, an illumination unit is used to illuminate or irradiate an area or part of a sample to be inspected.

[0013] This is especially often done in microscopes and binoculars, as illustrated in DE102007029894A1 and DE102009028149A1.

[0014] As mentioned earlier, an improved laboratory automation device for handling test samples has been disclosed in EP3894871.

[0015] A known disadvantage of laboratory automation systems is the illumination of the specimen to be examined. In the prior art, this is done from above, which makes specimen analysis difficult. If, for example, radiation is to be transmitted through the specimen, especially the entire specimen, for analysis, the analytical components of the laboratory automation system must be arranged on the underside of the specimen. However, this arrangement results in a complex structure, especially when multiple specimens should be processed in the laboratory automation system. As an alternative, the specimen must be introduced into the analytical apparatus, which involves an additional, costly processing step. However, such a structure is even more complex, less flexible, and inefficient in terms of processing. Summary of the Invention

[0016] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an illumination device for a sample that eliminates the disadvantages known in the prior art, and in particular to improve a laboratory automated device for handling samples, making it easier and more efficient to analyze the samples.

[0017] This objective is achieved according to the invention by a laboratory automated apparatus for processing specimens having the features of the independent claims and a method for processing specimens using the laboratory automated apparatus.

[0018] The dependent claims relate to particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0019] According to the present invention, a laboratory automated device for processing samples is proposed, the laboratory automated device having a processing chamber for processing samples, a sample receiving element arranged in the processing chamber for receiving samples, and an illumination unit.

[0020] The sample receiving element can be arranged at the illumination unit, which is used to irradiate the sample, especially a fluid sample, with primary radiation. Furthermore, the automated laboratory apparatus includes an analytical unit arranged in the processing chamber for analyzing the sample. Here, analysis is performed by absorbing secondary radiation originating from the sample and induced by the primary radiation. According to the invention, the sample receiving element can be at least partially arranged on the illumination unit, such that the sample receiving element (or one or more samples arranged therein) can be irradiated in a first region and in another region different from the first region by means of the primary radiation generated by the illumination unit. These regions can overlap or, however, be completely separated from each other, and can be irradiated simultaneously or sequentially. In particular, the sample receiving element can be arranged on the illumination unit. The illumination unit can radiate different wavelengths or wavelength ranges as primary radiation.

[0021] The arrangement according to the invention has the advantage of enabling targeted, personalized, and independent irradiation of specific areas of the sample receiving element and therefore the sample. That is, it is possible to selectively irradiate only a specific area of ​​a single sample, or only a specific number of samples or a single sample. In particular, irradiation from below via the device according to the invention allows for flexible sample analysis by means of the arrangement of the analysis unit at any accessible location.

[0022] Furthermore, it enhances the flexibility of automated laboratory apparatuses by allowing for the personalized processing of samples differing in, for example, mass, volume, or density, without altering the internal structure of the apparatus. Additionally, illuminating the sample from below serves the same purpose as transmitting radiation throughout the entire sample, enabling analysis of the sample via analytical units positioned and / or arranged on the sides and / or above the sample. This arrangement simplifies the structure, particularly when analyzing multiple samples in an automated laboratory apparatus, as movement of the analytical units between the individual samples to be analyzed becomes much easier. Nevertheless, in this automated laboratory apparatus according to the invention, adequate illumination of the sample is ensured so that all necessary details can be seen or detected by the analytical units.

[0023] This analysis is particularly useful in cellular analysis, for example, for tracking cells, markers, biomolecules, and / or macromolecules. Furthermore, the analysis allows for the observation and evaluation of the growth of cells, biomolecules, and / or macromolecules.

[0024] Irradiation of different areas of the sample receiving element can be achieved through illumination from different directions.

[0025] Within the scope of this invention, the concept of "sample" can particularly refer to a fluid sample, including liquids containing substances such as biomolecules (especially DNS, RNS, nucleic acids, proteins, cells and cellular components, monomers) or other chemical substances. The liquid can be a suitable solvent within the scope of this invention.

[0026] Furthermore, the laboratory automation apparatus according to the invention can have a sample handling device for receiving and discharging fluid, which is arranged in a processing chamber. The sample handling device can be particularly designed as a suction device for receiving and discharging fluid. The sample handling device can be configured to receive a suction tip, preferably for fluid-tightly receiving the suction tip. The sample can be transferred to a sample receiving element by suction performed by means of the suction device for receiving and discharging fluid. The sample receiving element, together with the sample contained therein, can then be arranged above an illumination unit in the laboratory automation apparatus so that the sample can be illuminated or irradiated from below. The sample receiving element can particularly be a suction tip. Similarly, the sample receiving element can be designed to receive a suction tip. Therefore, fluid can be transferred in different processing steps. However, within the scope of this application, analysis performed by means of an analytical unit is also a processing step.

[0027] Irradiation can be applied from directly below the sample, from the lower side of the sample, or from the side of the sample. This has the advantage of allowing adaptation of the relative arrangement of the analysis unit and the illumination unit, as well as their arrangement around the sample receiving element, to the corresponding characteristics of the sample to be analyzed, the arrangement of the sample receiving element, and / or the selected analytical method. In this way, the flexibility of the laboratory automation device according to the invention is improved, and faster operation is achieved.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the illumination unit includes an illumination element. This illumination element is movable within the illumination unit, allowing the sample receiving element to be irradiated in a first region and in a separate region by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit.

[0029] The advantages of this method are that it allows for targeted irradiation of the sample. Simultaneously, it enables irradiation from different directions, thereby improving the quality of the obtained data or enabling comparative measurements. Furthermore, this method allows for highly targeted irradiation of individual sections, consuming less energy compared to irradiation using existing lighting units. If multiple samples are arranged in the laboratory automation system, multiple samples can also be irradiated in this way. Moreover, only one lighting element is required in this embodiment, whereas in the prior art, multiple lighting elements are used to illuminate the entire area of ​​the sample receiving element. This multiple-providence approach is costly and maintenance-intensive. Because the current lighting element can move within the lighting unit, only one lighting element is needed. Therefore, material and maintenance costs are saved compared to the prior art. Furthermore, the arrangement of the lighting unit below the sample allows for a space-saving arrangement in the laboratory automation system, resulting in a more compact structure.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the illumination unit includes an illumination element comprising a plurality of light sources operable to irradiate a sample receiving element in a first region and in a separate region by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit.

[0031] The advantages of this are that it allows for targeted irradiation of one or more samples. Similarly, it allows for targeted, personalized, and partial irradiation of one or more samples. In addition to the increased flexibility of automated laboratory equipment, this reduces the error rate in measurement and observation. Furthermore, it allows for irradiation of samples from different directions, thereby improving the quality of the obtained data.

[0032] The processing chamber can, in particular, include storage containers for the specimens. This allows for faster specimen processing, as the specimens and the receiving containers provided for this purpose are already within the processing chamber; it also allows for more reliable preservation of potentially hazardous and / or valuable specimens. Furthermore, this improves the cleanliness of the processing chamber, as it requires less frequent opening to accommodate new specimens.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the illumination element includes a deuterium lamp, a tungsten lamp, a halogen lamp, and / or an LED. This has the advantage of allowing the illumination element to emit different types of radiation. Therefore, different wavelengths can be examined during sample analysis to detect information such as possible changes in the sample. Preferably, these wavelengths are within the visible light, UV radiation, or X-ray radiation spectrum. Particularly preferred is an illumination unit that is a light-emitting panel (or multiple light-emitting panels), especially an LED light-emitting panel and / or a light-emitting panel with operable pixels.

[0034] The radiation from the illumination element can reach the sample receiving element in different ways, such as as direct radiation by means of a lens assembly, or by means of a light conductor via fibers, such as glass fibers or combinations thereof.

[0035] The illumination element here can be oscillating and / or triggered or pulsating. This provides the advantage of improved optical analysis quality, thus enhancing image sharpness, for example, in HDR recording. Therefore, variations can be better revealed. This is particularly advantageous if the acquired images are to be combined to improve image quality.

[0036] To improve the quality of analysis, all methods and apparatus well known to those skilled in the art can be conceived, such as filters and diffusers for influencing radiation.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the analysis unit includes multiple detectors for absorbing secondary radiation. This has the advantage of enabling the data received by each detector to be evaluated collectively, compensating for potential errors or inaccuracies in the sensors. In particular, averaging the data from each sensor improves data robustness. Since more robust data equates to higher quality results, the efficiency of the laboratory automation device can thus be improved.

[0038] Because multiple samples can be illuminated by the illumination unit, multiple samples can be analyzed simultaneously using multiple detectors. This results in an efficiency advantage for automated laboratory equipment, as multiple samples can be processed within the same time period.

[0039] Furthermore, selective analysis is possible due to the flexible adjustability of the area to be illuminated, as the sample can be selectively irradiated and analyzed without relying on the arrangement in the sample receiving element.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the analysis unit includes multiple types of sensors for detecting signals or secondary radiation. This means that secondary radiation, in particular, can be absorbed by the sensors, but other information, such as temperature changes, can also be recorded by the sensors. The advantage of this is that multiple different parameters can be acquired separately by different sensors.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the analysis unit includes a photometer, particularly a spectrometer, and especially a fluorometer. It goes without saying that the analysis unit can also include multiple detectors or a combination of all of these detectors.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of a laboratory automation device for processing samples, the device includes a motion device movably arranged along at least one first spatial direction of the processing chamber, wherein the analytical unit is movable toward the sample via the motion device. The advantage of a movable analytical unit is that the sample does not need to be moved for analysis. This is particularly advantageous if the process is being monitored in aqueous solutions. Because transport of the sample in aqueous solutions can cause the examined target, such as cells or macromolecules, to move due to external influences, such transport could distort the analytical results. This risk is minimized by the movement of the analytical unit toward the sample.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the motion device is capable of moving along a second spatial direction orthogonal to the first spatial direction of the processing chamber and along a third spatial direction orthogonal to the first and second spatial directions of the processing chamber.

[0044] As a result, the analysis unit can be more precisely and individually adapted to the specific requirements of the specimen, such as the illumination direction or the physical shape of the specimen receiving element. The easier adjustment of parameters, such as spacing and illumination direction, leads to more robust data and more efficient and therefore faster processing of individual specimens.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the laboratory automation device includes an electronic control unit for controlling the illumination element. The control unit is signal-connected to the motion device and the analytical unit, such that primary radiation emitted by the illumination element is incident on the analytical unit as secondary radiation. This has the advantage that the emitted primary radiation can be precisely and individually aligned with the sample or sample receiving element without generating excessive scattered light. Thus, for example, it can be ensured that the radiation follows a path of minimal scattering, such as irradiating the container so that the radiation enters directly into the container only through the bottom and does not travel through the vertically mounted walls of the container at the bottom and be violently scattered there.

[0046] Signal connections can be made via cables, but they can also be made wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth or radio.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the analysis unit includes an infrared photometer for optical temperature measurement and / or a camera for analyzing the sample. The camera is particularly capable of sensing and recording wavelengths of visible light, UV light, and X-ray radiation, but can also sense and record other types of radiation. In this way, different wavelengths can be identified regarding information about the sample and its internal chemical and / or biological processes. Furthermore, these processes can be recorded for re-evaluation if necessary. Particularly advantageous for continuously improving evaluation procedures is the ability to repeatedly analyze the process without requiring a complete re-construction and re-examination of the entire process in the laboratory.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the automated laboratory apparatus, the illumination unit can be detachably mounted on the inside and / or outside of the processing chamber. The processing chamber is constructed of a transparent, i.e., light-transmitting material. Preferably, the illumination unit extends over the entire outside and / or inside of the processing chamber. This has the advantage that the illumination direction of the sample or sample receiving element can be individually adapted to the sample to be examined. This increases flexibility and improves the quality of the data obtained. In particular, the arrangement of the illumination unit over the entire outside and / or inside increases flexibility, as this allows not only individual illumination of the sample from all directions, but also simultaneous illumination using multiple light sources from the illumination unit. Additionally, interfering light from outside the processing chamber can be blocked, thereby enabling better control of the light inside the processing chamber and, therefore, the illumination of the sample. Another advantage here is that, because fewer external influences need to be overcome, only less intense light needs to be used for illumination.

[0049] Similarly, it is conceivable that the lighting units can be freely arranged within the processing chamber. This is particularly advantageous if only small sample receiving elements are used. The following lighting units are sufficient here, as they do not obscure large surfaces and thus save material. Furthermore, free arrangement within the processing chamber can be advantageous if the processing chamber is very small or narrow, for example due to external influences, and thus only a limited amount of space is available for the arrangement of the lighting units. Arrangement in the space outside the processing chamber is also conceivable.

[0050] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the illumination unit, similar to the sample container, is movably arranged within the processing chamber. This movable illumination unit is signal-connected to the movable sample container and / or control device, allowing the illumination unit to follow the sample container and thus optimally illuminate it. This approach saves on illumination elements and therefore materials without compromising the quality of the obtained data.

[0051] The movement of the lighting unit can be accomplished using a gripper, preferably an automated gripper.

[0052] The lighting unit can be designed with an energy storage device, such as a battery, so that the lighting unit can be arranged in different locations in the processing room. In order to charge the energy storage device, it is conceivable that the processing room has at least one docking point at which the lighting unit and / or energy storage device can be docked and / or charged and / or replaced.

[0053] Also disclosed is that the lighting unit can be arranged outside the processing room using a gripper. The docking point can also be arranged outside the processing room for this purpose. Furthermore, it is feasible to provide a docking point that enables signal connection between the lighting element and the laboratory automation system. This signal connection can exist as an additional solution for the charging function of the docking point, or it can exist without the charging function.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device, the lighting unit forms a wall surrounding the processing chamber.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the laboratory automation device according to the invention, the laboratory automation device has a bottom element on which a sample receiving element can be disposed. The bottom element is here entirely formed by an illumination unit, wherein the illumination unit includes a plurality of light sources that can be manipulated such that the sample receiving element can be irradiated in a first region and in a separate region by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit.

[0056] The advantage of this is that it allows for targeted irradiation of the sample or sample receiving element, and that laboratory automation devices can operate more efficiently.

[0057] Additionally, it is advantageous to irradiate the sample or sample receiving element from below, because the primary radiation then moves through the sample and the emitted secondary radiation, especially for sample receiving elements that are open at the upper end, i.e., the end away from the bottom element, falls directly onto the analytical cell without having to cross another wall of the sample receiving element.

[0058] The bottom element can be a light-emitting plate. The bottom plate can have the following dimensions (length × width × height): 120-130mm, 80-90mm, 10-12mm; preferably 125-130mm, 83-88mm, 12-17mm; particularly preferably 127.076mm, 85.48mm, 14.35mm.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the illumination unit is adapted to the shape of the sample receiving element, especially its external shape, so as to achieve the most accurate possible illumination of the sample receiving element.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the laboratory automation device has a heat source, particularly a heat source that can be arranged at and / or within the lighting element, thereby enabling the formation of a combination of light and heat sources. This is hereinafter referred to as a light and heating element. The light and heating element can have a separate light source and a separate heat source and / or a combined light-heat source.

[0061] It is conceivable that the heat source could also be manipulated to allow the sample receiving element to be heated in the first region and in another region different from the first region.

[0062] Targeted heating can be carried out here using measures similar to targeted irradiation, that is, for example by multiple individually operable heat sources and / or by movable heat sources and / or individually operable heating elements and / or movable heating elements, which together form a heat source.

[0063] The advantage of targeted heating here is that it enables heat-dependent analyses and methods, such as PCR or other isothermal amplifications.

[0064] To improve the accuracy of such analyses and methods, it is conceivable that heating elements and / or heat sources possess temperature measuring elements, such as thermometers. These temperature measuring elements can be signal-connected to and controlled, particularly motion-controlled, laboratory automation systems.

[0065] Furthermore, a method according to the invention for processing samples using automated laboratory equipment is proposed, the method comprising the following steps.

[0066] The laboratory provides an automated system that introduces the sample into the processing chamber. The sample is illuminated by an illumination unit and analyzed by an analytical unit. The analytical unit is received by a motion device. The analytical unit is moved through the processing chamber toward the sample by the motion device, and the sample is analyzed by the analytical unit.

[0067] The advantage of this is that automated laboratory systems can operate faster and more efficiently. This is not only because they can quickly and efficiently position one or more samples and analytical units accurately relative to each other, but also because it eliminates the need for manual sample movement by personnel. This reduces the risk of spills and prevents the quality of samples and consequently, the data obtained, from being compromised due to potential contamination by personnel. All of this results in a more reliable, faster, and more efficient workflow.

[0068] In one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the area of ​​the sample receiving element irradiated by primary radiation is determined by the position of the analysis unit. This is done by signal-connecting the control device to the analysis unit and the sample receiving element, thus enabling the determination of their relative positions. Furthermore, the control device is also signal-connected to the illumination unit, thereby enabling the control device to control the illumination unit.

[0069] It goes without saying that the embodiments mentioned herein are not limiting features, and that the different features of the embodiments and the embodiments themselves can be combined with each other. Attached Figure Description

[0070] The present invention will now be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Wherein: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a microscope with an illumination unit, as known in the prior art, is shown; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automation device known from the prior art is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automation device with an illumination element according to the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a movable lighting unit is shown; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a lighting unit with multiple light sources is shown; Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the spatial directions X, Y, and Z is provided. Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automation device is shown, featuring a lighting unit that covers the exterior of the processing chamber. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automation device with a bottom element is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0071] exist Figure 1 The microscope for examining a sample or object 20' is schematically shown in a cross-sectional view and is generally indicated by 700'. The microscope has a microscope body 4', on which a microscope stage 30' is arranged. The sample 20' is positioned on the microscope stage 30'. A lens 10' is provided at a lens holder 6'. In particular, a reflected light-illumination device 5' (not explained in detail below) is provided for illuminating the sample 20'. Furthermore, the microscope 700' is equipped with an illumination device design 400'.

[0072] The illumination light reflected by the sample 20' reaches the eyepiece 9' through the lens tube 8' in the observation optical path.

[0073] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automation device 1, known from the prior art, is shown.

[0074] The automated laboratory apparatus 1 for processing fluid sample 70' includes a processing chamber 10' for receiving fluid sample 70' and a sample processing device 6' arranged in the processing chamber 10' for performing at least one processing step at sample 70'. Furthermore, a storage container 2' for sample 70' is arranged in the processing chamber 10'.

[0075] also, Figure 2 A sample receiving element 7' and an illumination unit 11' for receiving a sample 70' are shown arranged in a processing chamber 10', wherein the sample receiving element 7' is capable of arranging the illumination unit 11' for irradiating the sample 70' with primary radiation.

[0076] Furthermore, a motion device 4' is arranged in the processing chamber 10'. The motion device 4' is capable of moving at least along the first spatial direction x' of the processing chamber 10'. Here, the motion device 4' is connected to the sample processing device 6' (i.e., the sample processing device 6' is included in the motion device 4'), so that the sample processing device 6 can move through the processing chamber 10' along the first spatial direction x' by means of the motion device 4'.

[0077] Furthermore, the laboratory automation device 1' includes an electronic control unit 3', which is signal-connected to the sample processing device 6', the motion device 4', and the analysis unit 5'. The signal connections are indicated here by dashed lines.

[0078] Therefore, the control device 3' is able to send control signals for performing different processing steps to the sample processing device 6', the motion device 4', and the analysis unit 5' during operation. Of course, the control device 3' can also receive signals from the sample processing device 6', the motion device 4', and the analysis unit 5'.

[0079] Signal connections in the sample handling device 6' and / or motion device 4' are made via cables connected to the control unit 3'. For the analysis unit 5', the signal connection is wireless. Data transmission / signal transmission is therefore carried out through free space (air or vacuum) as the transmission medium. Electromagnetic radiation, such as Bluetooth or WLAN, is used for transmission.

[0080] The analysis unit 5' is controlled by the control device 3' so that analysis can be performed at the sample 70', which is performed in the sample receiving element 7' arranged in the processing chamber 10'. Figure 2The laboratory automation device shown is consistent with the laboratory automation device according to the invention in terms of the features and sample handling described above, therefore, the basic functions of the laboratory automation device mentioned above will not be re-explained below.

[0081] Unlike this invention, prior art laboratory automation devices do not provide targeted, personalized illumination of one or more samples 70' from below or from the lower side. The flexible arrangement of the analysis unit 5 behind the laboratory automation device according to this invention, and the advantages arising therefrom, are also not described here.

[0082] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a laboratory automation device according to the invention is shown, wherein the lighting unit 11 is detachably disposed inside the processing chamber 10.

[0083] Figure 3 The laboratory automation device shown is basically the same as Figure 2 The laboratory automation shown is consistent. Therefore, the reference numerals there are replaced only by reference numerals without a leading comma.

[0084] In addition, according to Figure 3 The laboratory automation device additionally includes an analysis unit 5 arranged in the processing chamber 10, which is used to analyze the sample 70 by absorbing secondary radiation originating from the sample 70 and induced by primary radiation, wherein the sample receiving element 7 is at least partially arranged on the illumination unit 11, such that the sample receiving element 7 can be irradiated in a first region A and in a separate region B, different from the first region A, by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit 11.

[0085] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a movable lighting unit 11 in a laboratory automation device is shown.

[0086] The illumination unit 11 of the laboratory automation device includes an illumination element 12. The illumination element 12 is movable within the illumination unit 11, such that the sample receiving element 7 can be irradiated in a first region and in a separate region by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit 11. The movement of the illumination unit 11 is schematically shown here by dashed lines.

[0087] Figure 5A schematic diagram of an illumination unit 11 having multiple light sources 13 is shown, wherein the illumination unit 11 includes an illumination element 12 and the illumination element 12 includes multiple light sources 13, which are operable to illuminate the sample receiving element 12 in a first region and in a separate region by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit 12.

[0088] exist Figure 5 In the laboratory automation device shown, the lighting element 12 can be a deuterium lamp, a tungsten lamp, a halogen lamp, and / or an LED.

[0089] In addition, the analysis unit 5 has multiple detectors (not shown) for absorbing secondary radiation.

[0090] The analysis unit 5 of the laboratory automation device shown here has multiple types of sensors / detectors for detecting signals or for detecting secondary radiation.

[0091] Figure 6 A schematic cut-off portion of the laboratory automation device according to the invention is shown, wherein the motion device 4 is capable of moving along a second spatial direction y orthogonal to a first spatial direction of the processing chamber 10 and along a third spatial direction z orthogonal to the first spatial direction x and the second spatial direction y of the processing chamber 10.

[0092] Figure 7 A laboratory automation device 1 is shown, having a wall surrounding the outer side of a processing chamber 10, wherein an illumination unit 11 forms the wall surrounding the processing chamber 10. Furthermore, the illustrated laboratory automation device 1 includes an electronic control unit 3 for controlling the illumination element 12, wherein the control unit 3 is signal-connected to a motion device 4 and an analysis unit 5, such that primary radiation emitted by the illumination element 12 is incident on the analysis unit 5 as secondary radiation.

[0093] Figure 7 A laboratory automation device 1 is shown, wherein the laboratory automation device has a bottom element 14 on which a sample receiving element 7 is arranged. The bottom element 14 is formed entirely by an illumination unit 11, wherein the illumination unit 11 includes a plurality of light sources (not shown) that are operable to illuminate the sample receiving element 7 in a first region and in a separate region by means of primary radiation generated by the illumination unit 11.

[0094] With regard to the features explained above, the present invention thus allows for the provision and use of a laboratory automation device having an illumination unit that can be selectively manipulated to precisely and partially illuminate a sample receiving element or a sample contained therein.

[0095] This can improve the quality of sample inspection because illumination is provided where necessary and can be controlled simultaneously, resulting in less scattered light or even overexposure.

[0096] By using a control device to jointly control the analysis unit, lighting unit, and motion unit, it is ensured that the relative arrangement of each component with respect to each other is optimal, thereby achieving the best possible lighting results.

[0097] Therefore, it enables faster, better, and thus higher quality work processes.

[0098] This invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art from a study of the drawings, disclosure, and dependent claims when practically applying the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that specific measures are repeated in different dependent claims does not mean that combinations of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Each reference numeral in the claims should not be construed as a limitation of scope.

Claims

1. A laboratory automated apparatus for processing a sample (70), the laboratory automated apparatus comprising: • Processing chamber (10) for processing the sample (70); • A sample receiving element (7) arranged in the processing chamber (10) for receiving the sample (70). as well as • Illumination unit (11), wherein the sample receiving element (7) can be arranged at the illumination unit (11) for irradiating the sample (70) with primary radiation. • An analysis unit (5) arranged in the processing chamber (10) is used to analyze the sample (70) by absorbing secondary radiation originating from the sample (70) and induced by the primary radiation. • Characterized by, The sample receiving element (7) is arranged at least partially on the lighting unit (11) such that the sample receiving element (7) can be irradiated in a first region (A) and in another region (B) different from the first region (A) by means of primary radiation generated by the lighting unit (11).

2. The laboratory automation device according to claim 1, wherein, The illumination unit (11) includes an illumination element (12), and the illumination element (12) is movable within the illumination unit (11) such that the sample receiving element (12) can be irradiated in the first region (A) and in a separate region (B) different from the first region (A) by means of the primary radiation generated by the illumination unit (11).

3. The laboratory automation device according to claim 1, wherein, The illumination unit (11) includes an illumination element (12), and the illumination element (12) includes a plurality of light sources (13) that can be manipulated to irradiate the sample receiving element (7) in the first region (A) and in a separate region (B) different from the first region (A) by means of the primary radiation generated by the illumination unit (11).

4. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The lighting element (12) is a deuterium lamp, a tungsten lamp, a halogen lamp, and / or an LED.

5. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The analysis unit (5) includes multiple detectors for absorbing the secondary radiation.

6. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The analytical unit (5) is a photometer, especially a spectrometer, especially a fluorometer.

7. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, the laboratory automation device comprising a motion device (4) movably arranged along at least one first spatial direction (x) of the processing chamber (10), wherein, The analysis unit (5) can be received by the motion device (4) and can move toward the sample (70) by means of the motion device (4).

8. The laboratory automation device according to claim 8, wherein, The motion device (4) is capable of moving along a second spatial direction (y) orthogonal to the first spatial direction of the processing chamber (10) and along a third spatial direction (z) orthogonal to the first spatial direction (x) and the second spatial direction (y) of the processing chamber (10).

9. The laboratory automation device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the laboratory automation device includes an electronic control device (3) for controlling the lighting element (12), wherein, The control device (3) is signal-connected to the motion device (4) and the analysis unit (5) such that the primary radiation emitted by the lighting element (12) is incident on the analysis unit (5) as secondary radiation.

10. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The analysis unit (5) includes an infrared photometer for optical temperature measurement and / or a camera for analyzing the sample (70).

11. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The lighting unit (11) can be detachably installed on the inside and / or outside of the processing chamber (10).

12. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The lighting unit (11) extends over the entire outer and / or inner side of the processing chamber (10).

13. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The lighting unit (11) forms a wall surrounding the processing chamber (10).

14. The laboratory automation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The automated laboratory device has a bottom element (14) on which the sample receiving element (7) can be arranged, wherein the bottom element (14) is formed entirely by the illumination unit (11), and the illumination unit (11) includes a plurality of light sources (13) that can be manipulated such that the sample receiving element (7) can be irradiated in the first region (A) and in another region (B) different from the first region (A) by means of the primary radiation generated by the illumination unit (11).

15. A method for processing a sample (70) using a laboratory automated device (1), the method comprising: a) Provide a laboratory automation device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; b) Introduce the sample (70) into the processing chamber (10); c) Irradiating the sample (70) by means of the illumination unit (11); d) The sample (70) is analyzed by means of the analysis unit (5).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The position of the analysis unit (5) determines the area of ​​the sample receiving element (7) irradiated by the primary radiation.

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