Basis for switching a device between a movable and a non-movable state

Abstract

Base (100) designed to accommodate a laboratory analyzer (10), wherein the base (100) is designed to be placed on a smooth surface (20), and comprising: a lower section (102) designed to touch the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20), a movable section (104) designed to assume a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the movable section (104) does not touch the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20), and in the extended position the movable section (104) touches the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the handling of heavy objects. While the invention is primarily described in relation to laboratory analysis equipment, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention may also be applicable to other heavy equipment or objects that are placed on a worktable or counter, such as heavy tools (e.g., pillar drills), heavy household appliances (e.g., fully automatic coffee machines), and to instruments and objects that stand on the floor, such as household appliances (e.g., washing machines) and furniture (e.g., wardrobes).

[0002] The JP 2014-117 423 A discloses an adjustment device for height adjustment that can switch between the on and off states of a non-slip function.

[0003] An example of handling heavy objects is the handling of heavy laboratory analytical equipment. Such equipment is typically placed on a workbench. Various situations can arise when using this laboratory analytical equipment. When performing an analysis with such equipment, it is desirable that it be firmly positioned on the workbench. An example of such laboratory analytical equipment is a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. Another example is a centrifuge. When using such a centrifuge, it is desirable that it remain stable during the centrifugation process.Otherwise, the centrifuge may move on the workbench, potentially affecting results, breaking other equipment on the workbench, potentially falling off the workbench, and / or injuring the user. It is therefore understood that there are situations where it is desirable for laboratory analytical instruments to be firmly and securely positioned on the workbench. However, it may also be desirable to change the location of a laboratory analytical instrument on the workbench. For example, if the centrifuge has been used, it may be desirable to change its location (e.g., to move it further away from the front edge of the workbench) to create space for other equipment or to clean the section of the workbench where the centrifuge was located during operation.Therefore, there may be situations in which it is desirable for the laboratory analysis device to be easily moved on the worktable.

[0004] There are various solutions for the goal of keeping an object firmly in place on the workbench while allowing it to be moved when needed. Typically, the feet of the device's housing are important when considering this. A general distinction is made between housing feet that adhere to the lab bench and those that can slide on it. In this case, the material of the housing foot and its coefficient of friction are significant. Selecting materials with high coefficients of friction, typically elastomers, makes it more difficult for the laboratory analyzer to move unintentionally on the bench (thus providing greater stability). Conversely, if manual movement on the lab bench is desired, materials with low coefficients of friction are typically chosen.

[0005] In the described application, current technological trends necessitate both properties of the base: the laboratory analyzer should be stable on the lab bench, but it should also be user-friendly and easily movable by hand. In addition to the scenario described above, moving the analyzer on the lab bench may be desirable for various reasons, such as when the analyzer needs to be moved to its final location after setup; when other equipment needs to be set up alongside the analyzer, requiring relocation; when an unwanted liquid has spilled under the analyzer and needs to be mopped up for safety reasons; or when components and connections on the back of the analyzer need to be replaced. This means there are several scenarios in which moving or repositioning the laboratory instrument is desirable.

[0006] One problem with some existing devices is that, even with a suitable material selection for the housing base, they may not combine both properties (adherence and adjustability).

[0007] There are several known solutions to this problem.

[0008] One initial solution involves finding a compromise regarding the coefficient of friction. This means selecting the coefficient of friction of the base so that the laboratory analyzer is adequately slip-resistant while still requiring more force to move. However, this approach can have the following drawbacks: Complete slip resistance cannot be achieved because the coefficient of friction must be reduced. Furthermore, significant ease of use is not possible, as the considerable force required for movement can be compounded by a stick-slip effect.

[0009] Another solution involves replacing the feet with lockable fixed and swivel casters. This means the laboratory analyzer rests on appropriately sized fixed and swivel casters equipped with a lockable brake. However, this can have the following disadvantages: The fixed and swivel casters require vertical clearance and are therefore often difficult to reconcile with design standards. Furthermore, the lockable brake is not easily accessible to the user, as it is located directly on the caster and thus on the back of the laboratory analyzer. In this case, it is nearly impossible to easily check the brake's status (locked or unlocked) and thus assess the risk of the laboratory analyzer being in an unintended, movable position.Even the laboratory analyzer with the brake locked is not completely non-slip; it can still make minor movements because the swiveling casters allow slight pivoting movements.

[0010] Another solution utilizes vertically adjustable feet. These feet can be, for example, sliding and manually extendable downwards via a threaded mechanism, or they can be retracted into the underside of the laboratory analyzer, while the underside of the analyzer adheres to the work surface. This means that when the feet are retracted, the underside of the analyzer is in contact with the work surface (thus preventing movement), and when the feet are extended, the analyzer can be moved or repositioned. However, such a solution can have the following disadvantages: The feet must be extended and retracted against the weight of the analyzer. Consequently, ease of use decreases with a significant weight. Furthermore, the vertical adjustment mechanism must be sufficiently robust; therefore, it is often difficult to reconcile with design standards.Furthermore, the overall height of the laboratory analyzer changes when the housing feet are extended or retracted, which can lead to disadvantages in mechanical connection to adjacent devices or in terms of design standards.

[0011] Another solution involves the retrospective application of sliding or adhesive surfaces. This means that the friction between the lab bench and the laboratory analyzer is altered by manually inserting plates or sheets made of suitable materials (adhesive or sliding) underneath the instrument. However, this can have the following disadvantages: The laboratory analyzer must be manually lifted to allow the plate or sheet to be inserted. If the instrument is heavy, this often requires an additional tool, significantly reducing ease of use. Furthermore, manually lifting the analyzer places it in a noticeably inclined position, requiring the removal of any attached components, such as those mounted on top.

[0012] In light of the foregoing, this invention aims to overcome or at least mitigate the shortcomings and disadvantages of the prior art. In other words, the object of the present invention is to enable the user to conveniently switch from a non-movable state of a device to a movable state of the device. The switching mechanism should be robust and fail-safe.

[0013] According to a first embodiment, these objectives are achieved by a base for a device, wherein the base is designed to be placed on a smooth surface, the base comprising a lower section designed to touch the smooth surface when the base is placed on a smooth surface, and a movable section designed to assume a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the movable section is not in contact with the smooth surface when the base is placed on the smooth surface, and the movable section touches the smooth surface in the extended position when the base is on the smooth surface.

[0014] It is understood that a user can move the movable section into the retracted position and into the extended position. Typically, the movable section may have higher friction with the smooth surface than the lower section. Thus, the overall friction of the base is typically higher in the extended position of the movable section than in the retracted position. Therefore, a user can switch the base from a "movable state" (when the movable section is retracted) to a "non-movable state" (when the movable section is extended). This provides a convenient, user-friendly, robust, and fail-safe mechanism for switching the base between the two aforementioned states. The aforementioned objectives can thus be achieved by the present invention.

[0015] In other words, the lower section defines a plane, and the movable section is designed to assume different positions. In a position that can be described as the retracted position, the movable section is retracted further than the plane defined by the lower section. In such a configuration, if the base is placed on a smooth surface, the movable section would not touch the smooth surface. In another position, which can be described as the extended position, the movable section, and in particular the end section, is at the same level as the plane defined by the lower section. Thus, if the base is placed on a smooth surface, the movable section would touch the smooth surface in such a position.

[0016] In other words, the invention provides a sliding underside or lower section of a base (e.g., of a laboratory analyzer). Furthermore, an attached movable section (which may be designed as housing feet) is included, which may be equipped with a spring mechanism. In this case, the spring mechanism pushes the attached housing foot away from the underside of the laboratory analyzer and against the laboratory table. Thus, the laboratory analyzer rests on the sliding underside but is slip-resistant due to the extended housing feet (= articulated state). The attached housing feet can be retracted into the underside against the spring mechanism by means of an actuating element, so that the laboratory analyzer only contacts the laboratory table with its sliding underside (= articulated state). In this case, the actuating elements clearly indicate the articulated state.

[0017] The movable section may have an end section designed to touch the smooth surface when extended.

[0018] The end section may have a static coefficient of friction with respect to a worktable with a melamine resin coating that is higher than the static coefficient of friction of the lower section with respect to the melamine resin coated worktable.

[0019] It follows, therefore, that the extended position represents the non-movable state, since the overall friction is higher when the movable section is in the extended state.

[0020] When the term "static coefficient of friction" is used in this document in reference to the melamine-coated worktable, it should be understood to mean the corresponding static coefficient of friction between the material of the device section and the described melamine-coated worktable. Furthermore, the static coefficient of friction should be understood to mean the static coefficient of friction under standard conditions with respect to ambient temperature and pressure (i.e., 298.15 K = 25 °C and an absolute pressure of 1 bar).

[0021] The static coefficient of friction of the lower section with respect to a worktable with melamine resin coating can be less than 0.5, preferably less than 0.3, even more preferably less than 0.15.

[0022] This coefficient can be, for example, 0.1. This means that the coefficient is typically greater than 0.05.

[0023] The static coefficient of friction of the end section in relation to a worktable with melamine resin coating can be more than 0.3, preferably more than 0.5, even more preferably more than 0.7.

[0024] The end section can comprise an elastomer, and in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0025] The end section can have an area in the range of 100 to 10,000 mm². 2 , preferably 500 to 1,000 (mm) 2 have a design that is intended to touch the smooth surface in the extended position.

[0026] The area can be, for example, 800 (mm). 2 This is understood to be the area of ​​the end section of a movable section. If there are more movable sections (e.g., two movable sections), each of these movable sections can have the aforementioned area.

[0027] The base may also include a force-exerting element that pushes the movable section into the extended position.

[0028] Thus, the extended position (which typically corresponds to the non-movable configuration) can be the default state, representing a particularly fail-safe configuration. Furthermore, by selecting the force-exerting element and the force it exerts, the "stop effect" of the movable section can be defined. It is understood that the "stop effect," i.e., the friction due to the movable section, depends on the force exerted by the force-exerting element and the static coefficient of friction, since the static friction of this component is the product of the force exerted by the force-exerting element and the static coefficient of friction.

[0029] The force-applying element can be designed to push the movable section into the extended position with a force in the range of 1 to 100 N, preferably 5 to 50 N, more preferably 7 to 12 N.

[0030] For example, the force-applying element can be designed to push the movable section towards the extended section with a force of 9 N.

[0031] The force-exercising element can be a hydraulic force-exercising element.

[0032] The force can be controlled by the hydraulic force-exercising element.

[0033] The force-exerting element can be a prestressing element.

[0034] The force-exerting element can be a spring.

[0035] For example, the spring could have a spring constant of 5 N / mm and could be displaced from its equilibrium position by 1.8 mm, resulting in a force of 9 N provided by the spring. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this is only an example.

[0036] The spring could be an injection-molded spring.

[0037] This can greatly simplify the manufacturing of the spring.

[0038] The movable section can be moved between the retracted and extended positions by means of a linear motion. Such a linear motion can be a particularly simple and reliable embodiment of the movable section. Furthermore, if the movable section is designed for such a linear motion, the total space required for the movable section and its movement can be relatively small.

[0039] The base can include a base part of an actuating mechanism, and the movable section can be designed to switch from the extended position to the retracted position when actuated by the actuating mechanism.

[0040] In this case, the movable section can be designed to switch from the retracted position to the extended position when actuated by the actuating mechanism.

[0041] The actuating mechanism can be designed to assume a first position when the movable section is in the retracted position, and a second position when the movable section is in the extended position, the first position of the actuating mechanism being different from the second and both being visible to a user.

[0042] This allows the actuation mechanism to visualize the position of the moving section. This can increase the reliability of the base, as it makes it less likely that the moving section will be unintentionally moved into or left in the retracted position.

[0043] The actuation mechanism may also include a separable section that can be connected to and separated from the base.

[0044] The separable section may be separable from the base when the movable section is in the extended position, but may not be separable from the base when the movable section is in the retracted position.

[0045] This can also increase the reliability of the mechanism, as it makes it clearly visible to the user when the moving section is in the retracted position (and thus the base is in a movable state), since this position and state are indicated by the detachable section of the actuating mechanism connected to the base.

[0046] The basic part of the actuating mechanism can be a locking mechanism.

[0047] The base can include a variety of movable sections.

[0048] It is understood that the features described above with reference to a moving section can also be implemented in more than one moving section. This means that each of the moving sections is designed to assume a retracted position and an extended position, wherein, in the retracted position, the moving section does not touch the smooth surface when the base is placed on the smooth surface, and in the extended position, the moving section touches the smooth surface when the base is placed on the smooth surface. Furthermore, each moving section can also have any of the features described above as optional features for the moving section.

[0049] The actuation mechanism can be designed to actuate all of the numerous moving sections simultaneously.

[0050] The base can comprise a variety of basic parts of actuating mechanisms, and each actuating mechanism can be designed to switch a movable section from the extended position to the retracted position when actuated by the actuating mechanism.

[0051] The movable section may be designed not to assume a position in which the movable section extends beyond a plane defined by the lower section.

[0052] The end section can be connected to the rest of the movable section by injection molding.

[0053] The lower section can cover an area in the range of 300 to 30,000 mm². 2 have a surface designed to touch the flat surface, preferably 1,000 to 5,000 mm 2 , preferably 2,000 to 4,000 (mm) 2 .

[0054] The lower section can be made of polyamide.

[0055] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a device comprising the aforementioned base.

[0056] The device could be a laboratory analysis instrument.

[0057] The device can be a tool.

[0058] The device could be a household appliance.

[0059] The device can be a piece of furniture.

[0060] The device can have a weight in the range of 10 to 1000 kg, preferably 30 to 150 kg, more preferably 80 to 120 kg.

[0061] The force can be less than the weight of the device. In particular, it is understood that the total force exerted by the moving section(s) is less than the weight of the device. For example, if two moving sections are used and the device weighs 100 kg, which corresponds approximately to a weight of 1,000 N, the total force exerted by the force-exerting elements is typically less than 1,000 N. Thus, for example, the total force exerted by the force-exerting elements may be 400 N, and each of the two force-exerting elements may be designed to exert a force of 200 N.

[0062] The invention also relates to a separable section of an actuating mechanism, wherein the actuating mechanism is designed to switch the movable section of the aforementioned base from the extended to the retracted position with the actuating mechanism, wherein the separable section can be connected to and separated from the base.

[0063] The actuation mechanism may have any of the features mentioned above in relation to the actuation mechanism.

[0064] The separable section can be a key.

[0065] The detachable section can be color-coded. This makes the status of the base clearly visible to the user.

[0066] This invention also relates to a system comprising the aforementioned base and comprising the aforementioned section of the actuating mechanism and the separable section of the actuating mechanism.

[0067] Furthermore, this invention also relates to a system comprising the aforementioned device and comprising the aforementioned section of the actuating mechanism and the separable section of the actuating mechanism.

[0068] The separable section can be a different color than the base. This, in turn, can help to clearly indicate the state of the base.

[0069] Furthermore, this invention relates to a use of the aforementioned base, device or system, wherein the use includes placing the base on a smooth surface, moving the base on the smooth surface while the movable section is in the retracted position and not touching the smooth surface, and moving the movable section from the retracted to the extended position so that it touches the smooth surface.

[0070] The device could be a laboratory analysis instrument, and the smooth surface could be a work table.

[0071] The device can also be a tool, and the smooth surface can be a worktable.

[0072] The device could be a household appliance and the smooth surface could be a kitchen worktop.

[0073] The device could be a household appliance and the smooth surface could be a floor.

[0074] The static coefficient of friction of the device when the movable section is extended can exceed the static coefficient of friction of the device when the movable section is retracted.

[0075] In particular, the static coefficient of friction of the device when the movable section is extended can be at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, more preferably at least 4 times the static coefficient of friction of the device when the movable section is retracted.

[0076] The smooth surface can be made of melamine resin.

[0077] This generally means that the invention enables a changeover between a fixed and a movable state of the base and / or the device (which may be a laboratory analyzer). This changeover is achieved by means of a movable section (e.g., housing feet) that typically does not counteract the weight of the laboratory analyzer. A fixed surface is pressed onto the laboratory bench, so that the laboratory analyzer can no longer be moved by manual pulling or pushing, or by vibration, etc. The force with which the surface is pressed onto the laboratory bench can be adapted to the coefficient of friction of the surface and the maximum displacement force.

[0078] Generally speaking, the present invention enables the device (i.e., the laboratory analyzer) not only to stand securely on the laboratory bench, but also to be moved manually in a user-friendly manner when necessary. Furthermore, the following objectives can also be achieved by the present invention.

[0079] The movable section(s) (which in some embodiments may be housing feet) should be unobtrusive and not negatively affect the design (aesthetics) of the base and / or the device (e.g., the laboratory analyzer). This can be achieved by preventing the movable section(s) from extending beyond the plane defined by the lower section. Thus, the overall height of the base and the device remains unchanged.

[0080] The movable or shiftable state of the base and the device should be clearly visible to the user; for example, the laboratory analyzer should not be able to be moved unintentionally on the laboratory bench, and its shiftable state should be clearly recognizable. This can be achieved, for example, by enclosing the aforementioned actuation mechanism.

[0081] Ideally, manual actuation elements (e.g., of the actuation mechanism) should be user-friendly and easily accessible. This allows the present invention and the aforementioned actuation mechanisms to differ, for example, from roller mechanisms of the prior art, where the actuation elements may be difficult to reach.

[0082] The mechanism can be robust and fail-safe to prevent unwanted shifting or slipping.

[0083] The overall height of the laboratory analyzer can remain unchanged during all user actions. This, in turn, can be achieved by preventing the movable section from extending beyond the plane defined by the lower section. This can be accomplished, for example, by selecting the force of the force-exerting element(s) so that it does not exceed the weight of the device.

[0084] These production processes and the materials used can be adapted for cost-effective mass production.

[0085] In summary, the invention and its mentioned embodiments can have the following advantages over known approaches: Conventional enclosure feet can be used to meet aesthetic design standards. This eliminates the need for fixed and swivel casters.

[0086] It is clearly recognizable whether the base and thus the device (e.g. the laboratory analyzer) is in the affixed or movable state, as the actuating elements indicate the state unambiguously.

[0087] The overall height of the device (e.g., the laboratory analyzer) remains unchanged when switching between its fixed and movable positions. This ensures that mechanical connections to adjacent devices are not affected, and allows two mechanically connected devices to be moved simultaneously on the laboratory bench, for example.

[0088] No actions are required to counteract the weight of the device (e.g., the laboratory analyzer). Actuating the actuators only requires working against the spring force and is therefore very easy, resulting in a high degree of user-friendliness.

[0089] Ease of use is further significantly increased, as the base and the device (e.g. the laboratory analyzer) can be moved into the movable state at any time without inconvenient intermediate steps.

[0090] Production costs can be comparatively low, as no mechanically robust parts such as ball bearings, etc., are required. The invention can be implemented entirely with cost-effective injection-molded parts.

[0091] This means that the present invention fulfills its objectives with regard to user-friendliness (flexibility) as well as design standards (aesthetics).

[0092] The present invention is also defined by the following numbered embodiments.

[0093] The following sections describe embodiments of the base. These “basic embodiments” are identified by a “B” followed by a number. Whenever this document refers to embodiments of the base, these embodiments are meant.

[0094] B1. Base (100) for a device (10), wherein the base (100) is designed to be placed on a smooth surface (20), the base (100) comprising: a lower section (102) designed to touch the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20), a movable section (104) designed to assume a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the movable section (104) does not touch the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20), and in the extended position the movable section (104) touches the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20).

[0095] B2. Base (100) according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the movable section (104) comprises an end section (106) designed to contact the smooth surface (20) in the extended position.

[0096] B3. Base (100) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the end section (106) has a static coefficient of friction with respect to a worktable with a melamine resin coating which is higher than the static coefficient of friction of the lower section (104) with respect to the melamine resin coated worktable.

[0097] B4. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the static coefficient of friction of the lower section (104) with respect to a worktable with melamine resin coating is less than 0.5, preferably less than 0.3, more preferably less than 0.15.

[0098] This coefficient can be, for example, 0.1. This means that the coefficient is typically greater than 0.05.

[0099] B5. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment B2, wherein the static coefficient of friction of the end section (106) with respect to a worktable with melamine resin coating is more than 0.3, preferably more than 0.5, more preferably more than 0.7.

[0100] B6. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments having the features of embodiment B2, wherein the end section (106) comprises an elastomer.

[0101] B7. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments with the feature of embodiment B2, wherein the end section (106) has an area in the range of 100 to 10,000 (mm) 2 , preferably 500 to 1,000 (mm) 2 has a feature designed to touch the smooth surface (20) when extended.

[0102] The area can be, for example, 800 (mm). 2This is understood to be the area of ​​the end section of a movable section. If there are more movable sections (e.g., two movable sections), each of these movable sections can have the aforementioned area.

[0103] B8. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base (100) further comprises a force-exerting element (108) that pushes the movable section (104) into the extended position.

[0104] B9. Base (100) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the force-exerting element (108) is designed to push the movable section (104) into the extended position with a force in the (F1) range of 1 to 100 N, preferably 5 to 50 N, more preferably 7 to 12 N.

[0105] For example, the force-applying element can be designed to push the movable section towards the extended section with a force of 9 N.

[0106] B10. Base (100) according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the force-exerting element (108) is a hydraulic force-exerting element.

[0107] B11. Base according to the above embodiment and with the features of embodiment B9, wherein the force (F1) can be controlled by the hydraulic force exerting element.

[0108] B12. Base (100) according to one of the embodiments B8 or B9, wherein the force-exerting element (108) is a preload element (108).

[0109] B13. Base (100) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the preload element (108) is a spring.

[0110] B14. Base (100) according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the spring is an injection-molded spring.

[0111] B15. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the movable section (104) is movable between the retracted and the extended position by a linear movement.

[0112] B16. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base (100) comprises a base part of an actuating mechanism and wherein the movable section (104) is designed to switch from the extended position to the retracted position when actuated by the actuating mechanism.

[0113] B17. Base (100) according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the movable section (104) is designed to switch from the retracted position to the extended position when actuated by the actuating mechanism.

[0114] B18. Base (100) according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the actuating mechanism is designed to assume a first position when the movable section (104) is in the retracted position and a second position when the movable section (104) is in the extended position, wherein the first position of the actuating mechanism is different from the second and both are visible to a user.

[0115] B19. Base (100) according to one of the 3 preceding embodiments, wherein the actuating mechanism further comprises a separable section (202) which can be connected to and separated from the base (100).

[0116] B20. Base (100) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the separable section (202) is separable from the base (100) when the movable section (104) is in the extended position, but is not separable from the base (100) when the movable section (104) is in the retracted position.

[0117] B21. Base (100) according to one of the preceding 5 embodiments, wherein the base part of the actuating mechanism constitutes a locking mechanism.

[0118] B22. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the base (100) comprises a plurality of movable sections (104).

[0119] B23. Base (100) according to the present embodiment and with the features of embodiment B16, wherein the actuating mechanism is designed to actuate all of the plurality of movable sections (104) simultaneously.

[0120] B24. Base (100) according to the penultimate embodiment and with the features of embodiment B16, wherein the base (100) comprises a plurality of base parts of actuating mechanisms and wherein each actuating mechanism is designed to switch a movable section (104) from the extended position to the retracted position when actuated by the actuating mechanism.

[0121] B25. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the movable section (104) is designed not to assume a position in which the movable section (104) extends beyond a plane defined by the lower section (102).

[0122] B26. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment B2, wherein the end section (106) is connected to the remaining section of the movable section (104) by injection molding.

[0123] B27. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the lower section (102) has an area in the range of 300 to 30,000 (mm) 2 having a surface designed to touch the smooth surface (20), preferably 1,000 to 5,000 (mm) 2 , preferably 2,000 to 4,000 (mm) 2 .

[0124] B28. Base (100) according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the lower section (102) is made of polyamide.

[0125] The following sections describe embodiments of the device. These "device embodiments" are identified by an "A" followed by a number. Whenever this document refers to embodiments of the device, these embodiments are meant.

[0126] A1. Device (10) comprising the base of one of the foregoing embodiments.

[0127] A2. Device (10) according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the device is a laboratory analyzer.

[0128] A3. Device (10) according to embodiment A1, wherein the device is a tool.

[0129] A4. Device (10) according to embodiment A1, wherein the device is a household appliance.

[0130] A5. Device according to embodiment A1, wherein the device is a piece of furniture.

[0131] A6. Device (10) according to one of the preceding embodiments of devices, wherein the device has a weight in the range of 10 to 1000 kg, preferably 30 to 150 kg, more preferably 80 to 120 kg.

[0132] A7. Device (10) according to one of the preceding embodiments of devices having the features of embodiment B9, wherein the force (F1) is less than the weight force of the device (10).

[0133] T1. Detachable section (202) of an actuating mechanism, wherein the actuating mechanism is designed to switch the movable section (104) of the base (100) of one of the preceding embodiments having the features of embodiment 19 from the extended to the retracted position, wherein the detachable section (202) can be connected to and detached from the base (100).

[0134] T2. Separable section (202) of an actuating mechanism according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the actuating mechanism has one of the features mentioned in embodiments B18 and B20.

[0135] T3. Separable section (202) of an actuating mechanism according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the separable section (202) is a key.

[0136] T4. Separable section (202) of an actuating mechanism according to one of the 3 preceding embodiments, wherein the separable section (202) has a signal color.

[0137] The system implementations are described below. These "system implementations" are identified by an "S" followed by a number. Whenever this document refers to system implementations, these configurations are meant.

[0138] S1 system, comprehensive the base (100) according to one of the above base embodiments with the features of embodiment B19 and the separable section (202) of an actuating mechanism according to one of the embodiments T1 to T4.

[0139] S2 system, comprehensive the device according to one of the above basic embodiments with the features of embodiment B19, the separable section (202) of an actuating mechanism according to one of the embodiments T1 to T4.

[0140] S3. System according to one of the above system embodiments, wherein the separable section (202) has a different color than the color of the base (100).

[0141] The following section describes the different versions of the product. These versions are identified by a "U" followed by a number. Whenever this document refers to versions of the product, these versions are meant.

[0142] U1. Use of the base (100) according to one of the preceding base embodiments, the device (10) according to one of the preceding device embodiments or the system according to one of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the use includes Setting up the base (100) on a smooth surface (20), Moving the base (100) on the smooth surface (20) while the movable section (104) is retracted and not touching the smooth surface (20), and Moving the movable section (104) from the retracted to the extended position so that it touches the smooth surface (20).

[0143] U2. Use according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the device (10) is a laboratory analyzer and wherein the smooth surface (20) is a worktable.

[0144] U3. Use according to the penultimate embodiment, wherein the device (10) is a tool and the smooth surface (20) is a worktable.

[0145] U4. Use according to embodiment U1, wherein the device (10) is a household appliance and the smooth surface (20) is a kitchen worktop.

[0146] U5. Use according to embodiment U1, wherein the device (10) is a household appliance and the smooth surface (20) is a floor.

[0147] U6. Use according to one of the foregoing embodiments of use, wherein a device (10) is used in which the static coefficient of friction of the device (10) with the movable section (104) extended exceeds the static coefficient of friction of the device (10) with the movable section retracted.

[0148] U7. Use according to the above embodiment, wherein the static coefficient of friction of the device (10) with the movable section (104) extended is at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, more preferably at least 4 times the static coefficient of friction of the device (10) with the movable section retracted.

[0149] U8. Use according to one of the foregoing modes of use, wherein the smooth surface (20) consists of melamine resin.

[0150] This invention will now be described with reference to specific embodiments which represent examples of the scope of this invention, but should not limit it. Fig. Figure 1 shows a device according to an embodiment of this invention, Fig. 2 shows a base according to an embodiment of this invention, Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the base. Fig. 2 in a first state; Fig. Figure 4 shows an actuating mechanism used in embodiments of this invention; and Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the base. Fig. 2 in a second state.

[0151] Fig. Figure 1 shows a device 10 placed on a surface 20. In the present embodiment, the device 10 can be a laboratory analysis device or laboratory analysis instrument 10, and the surface 20 can be a worktable 20. However, this is only an example and should not be understood as limiting. Fig. Figure 1 also shows a base 100 of the device 10. While the base 100 is an integral part of the device 10 in the present embodiment, this is not a requirement. It is also possible for the base 100 to be a standalone device for retrofitting existing devices and / or for placing other devices into it.

[0152] Fig. Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the base 100. The base 100 comprises a lower section or lower surface 102, and in the present embodiment, two lower surface parts 102 are shown. The lower surface 102 can also be referred to as the underside 102 of the base 100. It is understood that the lower surface 102 is designed to contact the surface 20 when the base 10 is placed on the surface 20. The base 100 also comprises a section 104 that can be moved from a retracted to an extended position. Section 104 can also be referred to as the foot 104 or simply as the foot 104.

[0153] Further details of the movable section 104 are in Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. The movable section comprises an end section 106, wherein this end section 106 comprises a material with a high coefficient of friction. It is understood that the end section 106 is designed to contact the surface 20 when the base 100 is in use. In particular, when the movable section 104 is in the extended position (as shown in Figure 3). Fig. 3 shown), the end section 106 touches the surface 20 (which is a smooth surface), and, when the movable section 104 is in the retracted position (as shown in 3), Fig. (as shown in Figure 5), the end section 106 does not touch the surface 20. It will be understood that the total friction of the base 100 on the surface 20 is higher when the movable section 104 is in the extended position. Thus, by extending or retracting the movable section 104, the friction can be adjusted, and the configuration can be switched from a movable configuration (i.e., a configuration with lower total friction) to a fixed configuration (i.e., a configuration with higher total friction).

[0154] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the base 100 also includes a force-exerting element, which in the illustrated embodiment is designed as a spring element 108, which can be designed as a compression spring 108. The spring element 108 drives the end section 106 towards the surface 20, i.e., to the extended position, with a force that is shown in Figure 3. Fig. 3 is labelled F1. As is further understood, the base 100 (and every element placed on the base 100) also exerts a weight force F2. In the Fig. In the illustrated embodiment 3, the base 100 also includes a snap hook 110 designed to engage in a corresponding attachment element.

[0155] In particular, the movable section 104, which may be a high-friction housing base 104 or an adhesive housing base, can be guided linearly in the base 100 of the laboratory analyzer 100 and move upwards and downwards in the direction of the drive or spring force F1. It is provided on its underside with an end section 106, which may be made of an elastomer that can be permanently bonded by a two-component injection molding process and has a high coefficient of friction. As mentioned, it is further secured against falling out by means of snap hooks 110. The compression spring 108 presses the housing base 104 downwards against the laboratory table surface 20 with the defined spring force, so that the laboratory analyzer is slip-resistant (= adhesive state). It is understood that the weight of the laboratory analyzer F2 acts on the movable underside 102 and preferably not on the movable section 104 (e.g., the housing base).Typically, the spring force F1 may be less than the spring force F2 due to the weight of the laboratory analyzer 10, so that the device 10 is not unintentionally pushed upwards by the spring element or spring device 108.

[0156] As explained, the described movable or extendable section 104 makes it possible to change the friction exerted by the base 100 on the surface 20. In particular, it is possible to switch from a "locked" state or a "high friction" state, in which the section 104 touches the surface 20, to an "unlocked" state or a "low friction" state, in which the section 104 does not touch the surface 20. This means that by switching between the extended and retracted states of the section 104, it is possible to change from a "movable state" to a "locked state," and vice versa. The base 100 can include an actuating mechanism for switching from one state to another, as shown in Fig. Figure 4 illustrates this. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating mechanism comprises a key 202, which may include a key blade 204. It is understood that the base 100 may include a locking mechanism and that the key may be connected to the locking mechanism. By turning the key 202, it is possible to switch between the various states described above while the key 202 is inserted into the locking mechanism.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the key can be separated from the base 100 when the base 100 is in the "locked" state, the "high friction" state, or the "non-movable" state, but cannot be separated from the base 100 when the base 100 is in the "unlocked" state, the "low friction" state, or the "movable" state. This can serve as a safety measure to clearly indicate to the user when the base 100 is in the latter state, so that it is not unintentionally left in the "unlocked" state.

[0158] This is also shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 5: In the locked state of Fig. 3. The key 202 is not connected to the base 100, and in the unlocked state of Fig. 5 is the key 202 with the key blade 204 connected to the base 100.

[0159] Again with reference to Fig. 4. The actuating mechanism or actuating element, in the form of a key 202, can be connected to the laboratory analyzer 10 and, in particular, to the base 100. The key 202 can be inserted into the base 100 from the side and, in some embodiments, into the housing base 104. The key 202 can then be rotated 90° so that the housing base 104 is moved upwards by the key blade 204 against the compression spring 108. The spring force F1 now acts on the key 202 (see also Fig.5) and the housing base 104 (or more generally, the movable section 104) no longer touches the laboratory table 20, so that the laboratory analyzer 10 can now be moved by hand (= movable state). Due to the rotation, the key 202 can simultaneously be secured against removal. In this way, the key 202 remains attached to the laboratory analyzer 10 as long as the device 20 is in the movable state. The key 202 can also be colored with a signal color to make the movable state clearly recognizable to the user. The laboratory analyzer 10 can be returned to the locked state at any time by turning the key 202 back and removing it again.

[0160] While the foregoing describes a specific embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that this embodiment is only exemplary and should not be interpreted as limiting the invention. On the contrary, some of the mentioned features can be modified without altering the scope of the invention.

[0161] While, for example, this invention has been described above with reference to a laboratory analysis device, it is understood that this invention can also be applied to other devices that stand on a worktable or counter and cannot be lifted by one person alone in a user-friendly manner, e.g., heavy tools such as pillar drills, etc., and also heavy household appliances such as fully automatic coffee machines, etc. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to instruments and objects that stand on a worktable or counter, but can also be applied to objects that stand on the floor and for which the design standards do not provide fixed and swiveling casters, e.g., devices such as washing machines, etc., and furniture such as wardrobes, etc.

[0162] Furthermore, it is understood that the configuration of the spring element or spring device 108 may differ from that described above. The movable section 104 (also referred to as the attached foot 104) can also be pivoted outwards and inwards about an axis of rotation by means of a torsion spring, for example. In this way, no linear guidance of the housing foot 104 is required. Actuation can likewise be achieved by means of a rotary traversing movement (screwing movement). In addition to the compression spring described in the practical application, other spring elements, such as leaf springs, bending springs, or torsion springs, can also be used.

[0163] The actuating or operating elements (e.g., the key 202) may have a configuration different from that described above. They may be permanently integrated into the device and take the form of a mechanical lever, switch, or rotary knob. Actuation of these elements moves the housing foot 104 into or out of the device 10 according to the principle described, and in particular into or out of the base 100. In this case, the lever, switch, or rotary knob may protrude visibly from the device 10 and, in particular, from the base 100 after being moved into the movable position. The actuating elements may actuate the mechanism either individually at each housing foot or centrally.

[0164] Furthermore, the movement of the movable section 104 (e.g., the housing base) can also be achieved by a means other than a lever, etc. For example, a compressed air or hydraulic system can be used. Additionally, the contact force F1 (referred to above as spring force F1) could be generated hydraulically instead of by a spring device and precisely regulated.

[0165] Furthermore, the mechanism can also be operated exclusively by means of a tool (e.g. an Allen key) to make unintentional access more difficult.

[0166] The production process can be further simplified (and costs reduced) if the spring device 108 is designed not as a bent wire part, but also as an injection-molded part.

[0167] All these modifications are possible without deviating from the scope of the invention. Illustrative examples

[0168] In the illustrative example, a base 100 as described above was used. The base 100 had a lower section 102 made of polyamide and two movable sections 104, each with an end section 106 made of thermoplastic elastomer. The end sections 104 were each driven into their respective extended positions by a spring. The base 100 had a total weight of approximately 4 kg, and an additional 5 kg element was placed on top of the base 100 (so that the complete assembly weighed approximately 9 kg). This assembly (with the base 100 and the additional element) was located on a worktable (which represented surface 20), the worktable having a melamine resin coating.

[0169] The structure was then pulled using a force meter, and the force at which it began to move was monitored. This force corresponds to the static friction of the structure. When the structure was in a "movable state," i.e., when the movable section 106 was in its retracted position, the structure began to move at a pulling force of 9 N, which corresponded to a total static coefficient of friction of approximately 0.1 for the entire structure, since the total weight of 9 kg is approximately 90 N.

[0170] When the structure was in the “non-movable state”, i.e. when the movable section 106 was in the extended position, the structure began to move at a tensile force of 50 N, which corresponded approximately to a total static coefficient of friction of the entire structure of 0.55 (i.e. 50 N / 90 N).

[0171] It is therefore understood that this illustrative example, as well as the invention as such, offers a user-friendly, robust and fail-safe way to switch a device from a movable state to a non-movable state.

[0172] Whenever a relative term such as "approximately," "essentially," or "approximately" is used in this specification, it should be interpreted to include the exact term. For example, "essentially just" should be interpreted to include "(exactly) just."

[0173] Whenever steps are mentioned in the foregoing and also in the appended claims, it should be noted that the order in which the steps are mentioned in this text may be incidental. This means that, unless otherwise specified or unless it is clear to a person skilled in the art, the order in which the steps are mentioned may be incidental. This means, for example, that if this document states that a method comprises steps (A) and (B), this does not necessarily mean that step (A) takes place before step (B), but it is also possible that step (A) takes place (at least partially) simultaneously with step (B) or that step (B) takes place before step (A). Furthermore, if it is stated that a step (X) takes place before another step (Z), this does not imply that no further step takes place between steps (X) and (Z).This means that the fact that step (X) precedes step (Z) includes the situation where step (X) occurs immediately before step (Z), but also the situation where (X) precedes one or more of the steps (Y1), ..., followed by step (Z). Similar considerations apply when terms like "after" or "before" are used.

[0174] While a preferred embodiment has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the person skilled in the art will understand that this embodiment has been presented for illustrative purposes only and should in no way be construed as limiting the scope of this invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

[1] Base (100) designed to accommodate a laboratory analyzer (10) in it, the base (100) being designed to be placed on a smooth surface (20), the base (100) comprising: a lower section (102) designed to touch the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20), a movable section (104) designed to assume a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the movable section (104) does not touch the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20), and in the extended position the movable section (104) touches the smooth surface (20) when the base (100) is placed on the smooth surface (20). [2] Base (100) according to claim 1, wherein the movable section (104) has an end section (106) designed to contact the smooth surface (20) in the extended position, wherein the end section (106) has a static coefficient of friction with respect to a worktable with a melamine resin coating which is higher than the static coefficient of friction of the lower section (102) with respect to the melamine resin coated worktable. [3] Base (100) according to claim 2, wherein the end section (106) has an area in the range of 100 to 10,000 (mm) 2 , preferably 500 to 1,000 (mm) 2 has a design that is designed to touch the smooth surface (20) in the extended position. [4] Base (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base (100) further comprises a force-exerting element (108) that pushes the movable section (104) into the extended position. [5] Base (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base (100) comprises a base section of an actuating mechanism and wherein the movable section (104) is designed to switch from the extended position to the retracted position when actuated by the actuating mechanism, wherein the actuating mechanism is designed to assume a first position when the movable section (104) is in the retracted position and a second position when the movable section (104) is in the extended position, wherein the first position of the actuating mechanism is different from the second and both are visible to a user. [6] Base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the actuating mechanism further comprises a separable section (202) which can be connected to and separated from the base (100), wherein the separable section (202) is separable from the base (100) when the movable section (104) is in the extended position, but is not separable from the base (100) when the movable section (104) is in the retracted position. [7] Base (100) according to one of the preceding claims having the features of claim 2, wherein the end section (106) is connected to the remaining section of the movable section (104) by injection molding. [8] Laboratory analyzer (10) comprising a base (100) wherein the base (100) is configured according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [9] Laboratory analyzer (10) according to claim 8 and having the features of claim 4, wherein the force-exerting element (108) is designed to drive the movable section (104) into the extended position by means of a force (F1), wherein the force (F1) is less than the weight of the device (10). [10] system, encompassing Base (100) according to one of claims 6 or 7, if dependent on claim 6, and the separable section (202) of the actuating mechanism. [11] Use of the base (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the laboratory analyzer (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 9 or the system according to claim 10, wherein the use comprises: Setting up the base (100) on a smooth surface (20), Moving the base (100) on the smooth surface (20) while the movable section (104) is retracted and not touching the smooth surface (20), and Moving the movable section (104) from the retracted to the extended position so that it touches the smooth surface (20). [12] Use according to claim 11, wherein a laboratory analysis device (10) is used, wherein the static coefficient of friction of the device (10) with the movable section (104) extended exceeds the static coefficient of friction of the device (10) with the movable section retracted.

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