Liquid sampling device

Abstract

Liquid sampling device (1) for traceable sampling of multiple liquid samples, comprising: a sample holding device (2) comprising a plurality of sample holders (2a) arranged adjacent to each other in a plane extending perpendicular to a height axis (H); a filling device (3) which is designed and configured to transport a liquid sample to at least one of the sample holders of the plurality of sample holders (2a), wherein the filling device (3) comprises a fastening element (4) arranged along the vertical axis (H) above the sample holder device (2) and a filling arm element (5) connected to the fastening element (4) by a first axis of rotation (A1) running parallel to the vertical axis (H); characterized by the fact that a circuit board element (6) along the height axis (H) between the filling arm element (5) and the fastening element (4) and is rigidly connected to the fastening element (4), wherein at least one first sensor (7a) and one second sensor (7b) are arranged offset on at least one first circular arc (K1) extending at a first radial distance (D1) around the first axis of rotation (A1) on a first surface (6a) of the circuit board element (6) facing the filling arm element (5), and wherein at least one first detection element (8a) is arranged on a first surface (5a) of the filling arm element (5) facing the circuit board element (6) at the first radial distance (D1) to the first axis of rotation (A1), such that the at least one first detection element (8a) can be detected by the first sensor (7a) or the second sensor (7b) if the at least one first detection element (8a) is arranged at least partially congruent with the first (7a) or the second sensor (7b) along the vertical axis (H).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a liquid sampling device for the traceable taking of multiple liquid samples, and to a method using the liquid sampling device.

[0002] Taking liquid samples is an essential method in various fields of state-of-the-art technology, particularly for conducting analyses. For example, blood and urine samples are taken in medicine, and samples of liquid products are collected as part of quality control in the food and chemical industries. These samples are then analyzed in appropriately equipped laboratories or analytical centers. Often, a large number of liquid samples are taken, either manually or automatically, depending on the field. These numerous samples must be precisely and traceably labeled so that the analyses performed and their results can be subsequently assigned to the correct sample.Labeling individual samples presents a significant challenge when dealing with a large number of samples, especially when samples are taken on-site and then typically have to be labeled manually, which can easily lead to errors and mix-ups. This can unnoticed result in incorrect analysis outcomes; for example, with blood and urine samples, this can have serious consequences, or in quality control, it can lead to the recall or destruction of an incorrect product batch. If the sample mix-up is discovered, however, the sample collection may have to be repeated, resulting in increased costs and time.

[0003] The problem described above—collecting numerous liquid samples on the go and transporting them to an analytical laboratory—is particularly relevant during milk performance testing on dairy farms using milking robots. In this process, the collected milk samples are analyzed to obtain information about individual cows or the herd as a whole. It is crucial that each liquid sample is placed in a separate container, typically a glass or plastic vial, and that the vial is clearly labeled to ensure it can be traced back to a specific animal during analysis.

[0004] Sample collection is carried out using a mobile shuttle, which is connected to the milking robot and enables automated sampling, taking a liquid sample (milk) with each milking. The shuttle includes multiple sample holders in which the sample vials can be arranged and transported. However, these shuttles have the disadvantage that the collected samples must be labeled manually. This process is both error-prone and very time-consuming.

[0005] US 4 344 768 A shows a pipetting device for the automatic and rapid transfer of multiple quantities of samples.

[0006] US 5 229 074 A shows an automatic chemical multi-sample multi-reagent analyzer comprising a rotary table 20 with sample containers 22 and reagent containers 24, a rotary arm 32 and an optical analyzer.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device and a corresponding method by which the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art can be eliminated.

[0008] This problem is solved by a liquid sampling device having the features of claim 1 and a method according to claim 9.

[0009] The core idea of ​​the invention is a liquid sampling device for the traceable extraction of multiple liquid samples, comprising: A sample holder device comprising a plurality of sample holders arranged adjacent to one another in a plane extending perpendicular to a vertical axis of the sample holder device, and a filling device designed and configured to transport a liquid sample to at least one of the sample holders of the plurality of sample holders, wherein the filling device has a fastening element arranged along the vertical axis above the sample holder device and The filling arm element comprises a filling arm element connected to the fastening element by a first axis of rotation running parallel to the vertical axis, wherein a circuit board element is arranged along the vertical axis between the filling arm element and the fastening element and is rigidly connected to the fastening element, wherein at least one first sensor and a second sensor are arranged offset on at least one first circular arc extending at a first radial distance about the first axis of rotation on a first surface of the circuit board element facing the filling arm element, and wherein at least one first detection element is arranged on a first surface of the filling arm element facing the circuit board element at the first radial distance to the first axis of rotation, such that the at least one first detection element can be detected by the first sensor or the second sensor.if the at least one first detection element is arranged at least partially congruently with the first or the second sensor along the vertical axis.

[0010] Preferably, the circuit board element is at least partially, and more preferably completely, arranged within a circuit board housing, wherein the circuit board housing is filled with a non-conductive material such that the housing is liquid-tight and thus no liquid can reach the circuit board element. The circuit board housing preferably consists of a plastic, more preferably polyoxymethylene (POM), wherein the non-conductive material is a plastic. The preferred manufacturing process involves milling the circuit board housing from a block of plastic, taking into account the elements arranged on the circuit board element and milling corresponding recesses. The circuit board element is inserted into the milled circuit board housing, and the remaining spaces are filled with the still-liquid non-conductive material.The non-conductive material hardens and the circuit board housing is designed to be liquid-tight.

[0011] The liquid sampling device extends along the vertical axis, a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the vertical axis, and a lateral axis perpendicular to the vertical and longitudinal axes.

[0012] The sample holders of the sample holder device according to the invention are designed and configured to receive and fix sample containers for liquid samples, such as glass or plastic vials, wherein the sample containers are preferably insertable into the sample holders from top to bottom along the vertical axis and removable from bottom to top, wherein, further preferably, there is no movement of the sample containers in the sample holders along the longitudinal and horizontal axes.

[0013] The filling device according to the invention is designed and configured to transport a liquid sample to at least one of the sample holders of a plurality of sample holders. It is provided that the filling device introduces the liquid sample into the sample container arranged in the respective sample holder, the position of which in the plane perpendicular to the vertical axis of the sample holder corresponds to that of the sample container. For example, a milk sample from a milking process, starting from a milking robot, could be transported into a liquid container arranged in one of the sample holders.

[0014] The mounting element is arranged along the vertical axis above the sample holder and is preferably plate-shaped. The filling arm element is connected to the mounting element via the first axis of rotation, which is parallel to the vertical axis. The axis of rotation is preferably designed as a rotating cylinder. The filling arm element is rotatable about the first axis of rotation relative to the mounting element and the sample holder. Preferably, the filling arm element is elongated and extends substantially in the plane perpendicular to the vertical axis. More preferably, the filling arm element has a first end and a second end, with the first end of the filling arm element preferably being connected to the first axis of rotation.A hose element for transporting the liquid samples is particularly preferred, which extends from the first end to the second end of the filling arm element. Preferably, the liquid sample can be transferred into the sample container via or at the second end. Preferably, the second end of the filling arm element for transferring the liquid sample into the sample container can be positioned along the vertical axis directly above the sample holder or the sample container located therein.

[0015] “Conceptually identical” in the context of the present invention shall be understood to mean that the congruent elements overlap when viewed along the aforementioned axis.

[0016] According to the invention, a circuit board element is understood to be a printed circuit board designed and intended for mechanically mounting electronic components and for providing electrical connections between the electronic components on the circuit board element and / or to external electronic components. The circuit board element is preferably plate-like and extends substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis. The circuit board element has a first surface facing the filling arm element and a second surface opposite it, facing the mounting element, wherein electronic components, such as sensors or processing units, can be arranged on the first and / or second surface. The filling arm element is rotatable about the first axis of rotation relative to the circuit board element.

[0017] The sensors arranged on the first surface of the circuit board element are generally arranged on a circular arc or path that runs around the first axis of rotation, which is the center of the corresponding circle. Preferably, the distances of the circular arcs from the first axis of rotation, or the radii of the corresponding circles, can differ. The circular arcs or the corresponding circles are imaginary. The distances of the circular arcs from the first axis of rotation are referred to as radial distances, since the distances refer to the radial direction with respect to the first axis of rotation. The staggered arrangement of the sensors on the circular arc means that the sensors do not occupy the same position on the circular arc, but are spaced apart along the arc.

[0018] According to the invention, a detection element is understood to be an element that can generally be detected by the sensors arranged on the circuit board element. In other words, the detection element generates sensor data in the respective sensor. The detection element can be detected by the sensors if it is arranged in close proximity to them and, in particular, if it is at least partially congruent with them along the vertical axis. The at least one detection element is arranged on the first surface of the filling arm element facing the circuit board element to enable this close proximity. The at least one detection element is arranged on the filling arm element at the first radial distance to the first axis of rotation.In this way, the at least first and second sensors, as well as the at least one detection element, are arranged at the same distance from the axis of rotation. This ensures that, during a rotational movement about the first axis of rotation, the at least one detection element passes at least the first and second sensors. This means that, at a specific position of the filling arm element relative to the vertical axis, the at least one detection element is at least partially coincident with the first sensor, and at another specific position of the filling arm element relative to the vertical axis, it is at least partially coincident with the second sensor. Thus, when the filling arm element rotates about the first axis of rotation, the at least one detection element moves essentially along the first circular arc on which the sensors are also arranged.

[0019] Due to the inventive arc-shaped arrangement of the sensors around the first axis of rotation on the circuit board element and the detection element on the filling arm element at the same distance from the first axis of rotation, wherein the filling arm element is rotatable relative to the circuit board element around the first axis of rotation, the position of the filling arm element can be detected. Thus, it can be reliably determined into which sample holder or sample vessel, arranged in the corresponding sample holder, the liquid sample was transferred by means of the filling arm element.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the first sensor is arranged on the first circular arc, and the second sensor is arranged on a second circular arc extending at a second radial distance around the first axis of rotation, offset from the first sensor. Preferably, a second detection element is arranged on the surface of the filling arm element facing the circuit board element at the second radial distance from the first axis of rotation, such that the second detection element can be detected by the second sensor. The first radial distance and the second radial distance are different. It would also be conceivable that at least one further third sensor is arranged on the first surface of the circuit board element facing the filling arm element, and that this third sensor is arranged on the first circular arc, the second circular arc, or a third circular arc extending at a third radial distance around the first axis of rotation, offset from both the first and second sensors.The staggered arrangement of the sensors on different circular arcs means that the sensors are not located on a straight line extending from the first axis of rotation, as otherwise these sensors would detect the same position of the filling arm element. Furthermore, it is conceivable that additional sensors are arranged on the first surface of the circuit board element facing the filling arm element, with these sensors being arranged on further circular arcs around the first axis of rotation at different radial distances from the first axis of rotation, or also offset on the first, second, or third circular arc. Multiple sensors can be arranged offset on a single circular arc, with a corresponding additional detection element being arranged on the surface of the filling arm element facing the circuit board element at the corresponding distance from the first axis of rotation for each circular arc at a different distance from the first axis of rotation.Thus, the number of sensing elements arranged on the surface of the filling arm element facing the circuit board element is equal to the number of circular arcs with different radial distances from the first axis of rotation on which the sensors are arranged in arcs around the first axis of rotation. Furthermore, the number of sensors arranged on the first surface of the circuit board element facing the filling arm element corresponds to the number of positions of the filling arm element that can be detected. By arranging multiple sensors on multiple circular arcs, the detection of the filling arm element's position can be made more precise, since more sensors can be arranged compared to an arrangement on a single circular arc.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the filling arm element is rotatable relative to the circuit board element about the first axis of rotation, wherein the filling arm element is movable from at least a first predetermined position to a second predetermined position and vice versa. Preferably, in each predetermined position of the filling arm element, one of the detection elements is arranged at least partially congruent with one of the sensors along the height axis, so that in each predetermined position of the filling arm element, one of the detection elements can be detected by one of the sensors. Preferably, each sensor is assigned a predetermined position of the filling arm element.Particularly preferably, the filling arm element is freely rotatable about the first axis of rotation, but for transferring a liquid sample into a liquid vessel arranged on a sample holder, it can only be positioned at predetermined positions about the first axis of rotation, wherein at each of these predetermined positions one of the detection elements arranged on the surface of the filling arm element facing the circuit board element is at least partially congruent along the height axis with a sensor arranged on the first surface of the circuit board element facing the filling arm element, so that the filling arm element can be detected and thus determined in each of the predetermined positions.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, a processing unit is arranged on the circuit board element. Preferably, the processing unit is connected to at least the first and second sensors via signal transmission. Preferably, the sensors transmit sensor data to the processing unit when one of the detection elements is detectable by one of the sensors, i.e., when they are at least partially congruent with respect to the height axis. Preferably, the predetermined positions of the filling arm element can be determined by the processing unit based on the sensor data. Particularly preferably, the processing unit is designed and configured to determine, based on the sensor data, in which of the predetermined positions the filling arm element is located. For this purpose, for example, each sensor could be assigned a predetermined position, and the assignment could be stored in a retrievable manner for the processing unit, whereby the processing unit can recognize or...It is possible to determine which sensor transmitted the sensor data. Preferably, the processing unit is connected, at least via signal transmission, to a higher-level processing unit of the liquid sampling device.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, a switching element is arranged on the first surface or on an opposing parallel second surface of the circuit board element. Preferably, the switching element is reversibly switchable between a first state and a second state. Preferably, a circuit is closed and the processing unit and sensors are active when the switching element is in the first state. More preferably, the circuit is open when the switching element is in the second state and the processing unit and sensors are deactivated. Preferably, the switching element is designed as a reed switch. Thus, the processing unit and the arranged sensors can be easily switched on and off via the switching element.It would be conceivable that in the first state of the switching element, the circuit between the computing unit, the sensors and the energy storage unit is closed; the computing unit and the sensors are thus supplied with energy and active.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, an activation element is provided on the surface of the circuit board element opposite the switch element. Preferably, the activation element and the switch element can also be arranged on the same surface of the circuit board element. Preferably, the activation element is attached to the circuit board element such that it can be moved translationally parallel to the first and second surfaces reversibly from a first position to a second position. Preferably, the activation element in the first position is at least partially congruent with the switch element along the vertical axis. Preferably, the switch element is in the first state when the activation element is in the first position, and preferably, the switch element is in the second state when the activation element is in the second position.Thus, the state of the switch element can be adjusted by changing the position of the activation element.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the switching element is designed as a reed switch, and the activation element comprises a magnet which, in the first position of the activation element, is at least partially aligned with the reed switch along its vertical axis. Preferably, the activation element is designed as a pneumatic piston. This arrangement represents a simple, cost-effective, and reliable on / off switching mechanism. Reed switches are known from the prior art and will not be discussed further here.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least first and second sensors are designed as Hall sensors. More preferably, the at least first and second detection elements are designed as magnets. Particularly preferably, the magnets are permanent magnets. Hall sensors are known from the prior art and will not be discussed further here. Hall sensors are particularly advantageous for determining the position of magnetic objects and utilize the Hall effect to measure magnetic fields. In this way, the Hall sensors (sensors arranged on the circuit board element) can detect the magnetic field of the magnets (detection elements arranged on the filling arm element) when these are in close proximity, and in particular when they are at least partially congruent.

[0027] Furthermore, the problem is solved by a method for determining the position of a filling arm element of a liquid sampling device according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the steps: a. Moving the activation element from the second position to the first position, thereby moving the switching element from the second state to the first state, thus closing the circuit and activating the computing unit and the sensors; b. Switching on the computing unit and the sensors connected to it in terms of signal technology; c. Detection of the detection element arranged on the filling arm element, which is arranged at least partially congruent with one of the sensors along the vertical axis, by the corresponding sensor and sending the detected sensor data to the processing unit; d. Receiving the sensor data by the computing unit and determining the position of the filling arm element based on the sensor data by the computing unit; e. Saving the position of the filling arm element determined in step d. by the computing unit; f. Sending the position of the filling arm element determined in step d. to a higher-level computing unit of the liquid sampling device by the computing unit; g. Switching off the processing unit and the sensors connected to it in terms of signal technology.

[0028] Preferably, the higher-level processing unit is also arranged in or on the liquid sampling device, which centrally collects and stores all data or information acquired by the liquid sampling device. Particularly preferably, the higher-level processing unit includes a transmission device that ensures communication, preferably wireless, with an external data processing system. This communication can preferably be carried out using a transmission technology selected from the group that includes GPRS, WLAN, cellular, 2G (GSM), 3G (UMTS), 4G (LTE, WiMAX), 5G, or the like. In this way, the data or information collected by the liquid sampling device can be transmitted directly to the external data processing system for further processing and use.This transmission can be automated, e.g., after a predetermined time interval or after a predetermined number of samples, and / or manual, i.e., "at the push of a button," with the liquid sampling device having a corresponding operating device for a user. Furthermore, it would be conceivable for the communication between the liquid sampling device and the data processing system to be indirect, preferably via a mobile communication device such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or the like. In this case, only short-range communication, preferably via a wireless technology selected from the group that includes NFC (near field communication), RFID (radio-frequency identification), WLAN (wireless local area network), Bluetooth®, or optical transmission technology, would be considered.Thus, the data from the liquid sampling device would first be sent to the mobile communication device and from there transmitted to the external data processing system. Short-range communication would be advantageously less energy-intensive.

[0029] Preferably, the computing unit also includes a transmission unit that is connected to the higher-level computing unit via a signal connection.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, steps b. to g. are repeated after a predetermined time interval. Preferably, in a repeated execution, an additional step d2. is performed after step d. and before step e.: d. Comparing the repeatedly determined position of the filling arm element in step d. with the previously determined position of the filling arm element stored in step e.

[0031] Preferably, steps e. and f. are only repeated if the determined positions of the filling arm element differ based on the comparison in step d2. As long as the filling arm element is in the same position, the liquid sample is transferred to the same sample holder or sample container. Only when the position of the filling arm element changes does the sample holder or sample container also change, which can be determined by the comparison in step d2. and is saved if a change occurs. However, if it is determined in step d2. that the position of the filling arm element has not changed, this does not need to be saved. The processing unit is then switched off again after step d2. according to step g.

[0032] Preferably, the predetermined time interval after which steps b. to g. are repeated can be arbitrarily set. This repeated switching on and off ensures reduced power consumption. Preferably, the predetermined time interval can be 30 seconds, more preferably 20 seconds, and most preferably 10 seconds.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, steps b. to g. are executed within a predetermined time interval. That is, a time interval between switching on and switching off the computing unit is predetermined or fixed. Preferably, this time interval is 1 second, more preferably 50 milliseconds, more preferably 25 milliseconds, and most preferably 10 milliseconds.

[0034] Preferably, step b, of switching on the processing unit and the sensors connected to it via signals, can only occur when the circuit is closed, i.e., after step a. Step a. is preferably performed when the liquid sampling device is switched on or activated. Preferably, a further step a2. is performed: moving the activation element from the first position to the second position, thereby moving the switch element from the first state to the second state, thus opening the circuit. Step a2. preferably occurs independently of steps b. to g. when the liquid sampling device is switched off or deactivated.

[0035] The above statements and features relating to the device according to the invention shall also apply mutatis mutandis to the method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0036] The invention is not limited to one embodiment, but rather encompasses every feature and every combination of features.

[0037] Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0038] Further objectives, advantages and expediencies of the present invention can be found in the following description in conjunction with the drawings. These show: Fig. 1a a perspective top view of a liquid sampling device according to an embodiment in an open state; Fig. 1b a perspective side view of the liquid sampling device made of Fig. 1a in a closed state; Fig. 2a a side detail view of a fastening element and a filling arm element according to an embodiment; Fig. 2b a detailed top view of a fastening element and a filling arm element according to an embodiment; Fig. 3a, b a detailed view of a filling arm element according to an embodiment; Fig. 4 a detailed view from below of a circuit board element according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5 a view from below of the circuit board element Fig. 4 with filling arm element in different positions; Fig. 6a, b a side view of a section of the circuit board element according to Fig. 4; Fig. 6c, d a top view of a section of the circuit board element according to Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b; Fig. 7 a flowchart of a process according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0039] In the figures, identical components are to be understood by their corresponding reference symbols. For clarity, some components may not be labeled with a reference symbol in certain figures, but are identified elsewhere.

[0040] In Fig. Figure 1a shows a liquid sampling device 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention in an open state.

[0041] The liquid sampling device 1 extends along the vertical axis H, a longitudinal axis L perpendicular to the vertical axis H and a lateral axis B perpendicular to the vertical axis H and the longitudinal axis L.

[0042] The liquid sampling device 1 has a cuboid housing 14 with four wall elements 14a, a substantially square or rectangular base element 14b and a (not shown here; shown in Fig. 1b) Lid element 14c on.

[0043] Within the housing 14, a sample holder 2 with a plurality of sample holders 2a is arranged, wherein the sample holder 2 is rotatably connected to the base element 14b by a second axis of rotation A2 and is rotatable relative to the housing 14. The second axis of rotation A2 is perpendicular to the vertical axis H. The sample holders 2a are arranged adjacent to each other in a plane extending perpendicular to the vertical axis H, the plane extending along the longitudinal axis L and the horizontal axis B. A sample vessel 2b can be inserted into or arranged in each of the sample holders 2a, the sample vessels 2b being insertable into and removable from the sample holders 2a along the vertical axis H. The sample vessels 2b are designed and intended to hold a liquid sample. Each sample holder 2a can be independently equipped with a sample vessel 2b, and a sample vessel 2b can be independently removed from each sample holder 2a.The sample containers 2b are preferably glass or plastic sample vials which can be sealed liquid-tight by means of a lid.

[0044] The sample holder 2 is circular in design (so-called "rotary") and has stepped elements 13 around its outer circumference, which are arranged at regular intervals. Adjacent to a wall element 14a is a drive device 9, which is designed and intended to rotate the sample holder 2 in the direction of R2.to rotate (shown here: counterclockwise), wherein a drive element 9a of the drive device 9 is in operative contact with each of the step elements 13, wherein the drive element 9a is movable along the lateral direction B (to the right) by means of a cylinder element 9b mechanically connected to it, preferably a pneumatic cylinder; a spring element 9c, which is also mechanically connected to the drive element 9a, is designed and provided to move the drive element 9a along the lateral axis B (to the left) and thereby rotate the sample holder 2 about the second axis of rotation A2. The drive element 9a is movable along the direction M1.

[0045] Furthermore, the sample holder 2 has five guide elements 10a-e, which extend upwards from the sample holder 2 along the vertical axis (H). The guide elements 10a-e are designed and intended to come into contact with a filling arm element 5 of a filling device 3 (more on this below) after each full rotation of the sample holder 2 about the second axis of rotation A2 and to rotate about a first axis of rotation A1 (more on this below) and thus to rotate one position further, whereby, according to the embodiment shown, six possible positions of the filling arm element 5 are possible (one position per guide element 11).

[0046] Furthermore, a drain element 11 is provided, which corresponds to the sixth / outermost position into which the filling arm element 5 can be moved. The drain element 11 is designed to collect excess liquid samples and transport them from the liquid sampling device 1.

[0047] The liquid sampling device 1 further comprises a filling device 3, which is attached to a support element 16, which in turn is preferably attached to the base element 14b and the second axis of rotation A2, wherein the sample holder 2 is rotatable about the second axis of rotation A2 relative to the filling device 3. The filling device 3 is arranged at least partially along the vertical axis above the sample holder 2. The filling device 3 is designed and configured to transport a defined volume of a liquid sample introduced into the liquid sampling device 1 to at least one of the sample holders of the plurality of sample holders 2a, or to transfer the liquid sample into a sample container 2b arranged in the sample holder 2a.Preferably the filling device 3 has a pneumatic cylinder 17 which can be actuated by means of compressed air, wherein a liquid transport can be controlled (interruptible / releaseable) by the pneumatic cylinder 17.

[0048] The filling device 3 comprises a plate-like mounting element 4, which is rigidly connected to the support element 16. A filling element 5 is arranged on the mounting element 4, the filling arm element 5 being rotatably connected to the mounting element 4 by a first axis of rotation A1 (not shown here). The filling arm element 5 is rotatably arranged relative to the filling device 3, the mounting element 4, and the sample holder 2 about the first axis of rotation A1. Further details of the filling arm element 5 are described below. The filling arm element is rotatable about the first axis of rotation A1 in the direction of R1 in both directions.

[0049] The liquid sampling device 1 further comprises a power supply unit 12, which is arranged adjacent to a wall element 14a and attached to the base element 14b. The power supply unit 12 is connected, at least electronically, to a higher-level processing unit of the liquid sampling device 1, which is also arranged within the housing 14.

[0050] In Fig. 1b is the liquid sampling device 1 according to Fig. Figure 1a shows the wall elements in a closed, perspective side view. Accordingly, the cover element 14c is attached, with the cover element 14c contacting the wall elements 14a and detachably connected to them by means of locking elements 18.

[0051] Furthermore, in Fig. 1b Two recesses 19 can be seen, which are provided on one of the wall elements 14b of the housing 14 and allow access from the outside into the interior of the housing 14. A hose element, for example from a milking machine, can preferably be inserted through the recesses 19 into the liquid sampling device 1 and connected to the filling device 3, whereby a liquid sample can be introduced into the liquid sampling device 1 and transferred in a traceable manner into a sample container 2b by means of the filling device 3.

[0052] The base element 14b has a connection element 15 on its side. The connection element 15 can be connected to an external unit, at least fluidically. Preferably, compressed air can be introduced into the liquid sampling device 1 via the connection element to actuate the drive unit 9 (cylindrical element 9b, preferably a pneumatic cylinder), the filling device 3 (pneumatic cylinder 17), and an on / off mechanism (cylindrical element 30, preferably a pneumatic cylinder; described below). For example, the connection element 15 of the liquid sampling device 1 could be connected to a compressed air supply of a milking robot when taking milk samples during milking processes.

[0053] In the Fig. 2a and Fig. Figure 2b shows a detailed view of a fastening element 4 and an associated filling arm element 5 according to a preferred embodiment.

[0054] In Fig. Figure 2a shows a side view detail. The fastening element 4 is plate-like and extends essentially perpendicular to the vertical axis H. The filling arm element 5 has a first end 21a, a second end 21b, and a central section 22 connecting the ends 21a and 21b. The first end 21a is rotatably connected to the fastening element 4 by a first axis of rotation A1, with the filling arm element arranged along the vertical axis H below the fastening element 4. The first axis of rotation A1 runs parallel to the vertical axis H.

[0055] According to the illustrated embodiment, the first end 21a is designed as a hollow rotary cylinder. The second end 21b extends downwards along the vertical axis H, and the second end 21b of the filling arm element is designed and intended to come into operative contact with the guide elements 10a-e of the sample holder 2 during a rotation R2, thereby rotating the filling arm element 5 about the first axis of rotation A1. The central section 22 has a first sensing element 8a, a second sensing element 8b, and a third sensing element 8c on a first surface 5a. The first sensing element 8a is arranged at a first (radial) distance D1 from the first axis of rotation A1. The second sensing element 8b is arranged at a second (radial) distance D2 from the first axis of rotation A1. The third sensing element 8c is arranged at a third (radial) distance D3 from the first axis of rotation A1.The distances D1, D2, D3 remain constant when the filling arm element 5 rotates about the first axis of rotation A1. The filling arm element 5 also has a second surface 5b facing the sample holder 2. The second surface 5b is opposite the first surface 5a, and surfaces 5a and 5b are parallel. According to the illustrated embodiment, the detection elements 8a-c are arranged on a straight line.

[0056] Furthermore, a hose element 20 is shown, which extends through the first end 21a (hollow rotary cylinder), past the central section 22, held by a retaining element 23 of the central section 22, to the second end 21b. The hose element 20 is designed and intended to transport a liquid sample (from the first end 21a via the hose element 20 through the recesses 19, for example, connected to a milking robot) to the second end 21b, whereby the liquid sample is transferred at or via the second end 21b into a sample container 2b arranged below it along the vertical axis H in a sample holder 2a.

[0057] The Fig. Figure 2b shows a detailed top view of a fastening element 4 and a filling arm element 5 according to an embodiment as shown in Fig. Figure 2a shows that the elements depicted with dashed lines are arranged along the vertical axis H below the fastening element 4. The direction of rotation R1 of the filling arm element 5 about the first axis of rotation A1 is also shown. The shape of the fastening element 4 is not limited to the shape shown.

[0058] In the Fig. 3a and Fig. Figure 3b shows detailed views of the filling arm element 5, where in Fig. 3a a side view and in Fig. 3b shows a top view.

[0059] In the Fig. 3a and Fig. In 3b, no hose element 20 is shown. At the first end 21a and at the second end 21b, an opening 24 is formed, which is provided for the passage of the hose element 24. The openings 24 each run along the vertical axis H.

[0060] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a circuit board element 6 of the liquid sampling device 1 in detail along the vertical axis H from below (from the direction of the sample holder 2). The circuit board element 6 is arranged along the vertical axis H between the mounting element 4 and the filling arm element 5, and is rigidly connected to the mounting element 4. The filling arm element 5 is rotatable relative to the circuit board element 6 about the first axis of rotation A1. The circuit board element 6 has a first surface 6a facing the filling arm element 5 and a second surface 6b opposite and parallel to the first surface, which faces the mounting element 4.

[0061] On the first surface 6a, a computing unit 25, an energy storage unit 26 (preferably designed as a battery), and a switching element 27 are arranged. The switching element 27 is connected to the computing unit 25, at least via signal transmission. The energy storage unit 26 is connected to the computing unit 25, at least via power electronics. The computing unit 25 is preferably a processor, microcontroller, or the like.

[0062] The switching element 27 is designed and configured to activate or deactivate the position detection of the filling arm element 5. The switching element 27 can be transferred from a first state O1 to a second state O2 and vice versa, with a circuit being closed in the first state O1 and the position detection thus being active. In the second state O2 of the switching element 27, the circuit is open and the position detection of the filling arm element 5 is thus deactivated. Preferably, the processing unit 25 and the sensors 7a-f are only functional when the switching element is in the first state O1.

[0063] Furthermore, on the first surface 6a, a first sensor 7a, a second sensor 7b, a third sensor 7c, a fourth sensor 7d, a fifth sensor 7e, and a sixth sensor 7f are arranged. The first 7a, second 7b, third 7c, and fourth sensor 7d are arranged on a first circular arc K1. The first circular arc K1 extends around the first axis of rotation A1 at a first radial distance D1 from the first axis of rotation A1; in other words, the first circular arc K1, or the first circular path K1, has a radius D1 from the center point A1. Furthermore, the fifth sensor 7e is arranged on a second circular arc K2. The second circular arc K2 extends around the first axis of rotation A1 at a second radial distance D2 from the first axis of rotation A1; in other words, the second circular arc K1, or the second circular path K1, has a radius D2 from the center point A1. Finally, the sixth sensor 7f is arranged on a third circular arc K3.The third circular arc K3 travels around the first axis of rotation A1 at the third radial distance D3 from the first axis of rotation A1; in other words, the third circular arc K1, or the third circular path K1, has a radius D3 from the center A1. A1 < A2 < A3. The circular arcs or paths K1, K2, K3 are imaginary.

[0064] Furthermore, the circuit board element 6 has a recess 28 that extends along the height axis H through the circuit board element 6 and is preferably circular. The recess 28 is designed and intended to accommodate the first axis of rotation A1 or the first end 21a of the filling arm element 6. The sensors 7a-f are at least signal-wise connected to the processing unit and are designed and intended to send or transmit sensor data to the processing unit, the processing unit being designed and intended to receive the sensor data from the sensors 7a-f. The sensors 7a-f are preferably designed as Hall sensors.

[0065] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a view from below of the circuit board element 6. Fig. 4 with the arranged filling arm element 5, wherein the filling arm element 5 is shown in various possible positions P1-P6. The positions P1-P6 are preferably predetermined, i.e., the filling arm element can only be moved into positions P1-P6 by the guide elements 10a-e. In other words, only the transport of liquid samples takes place, or only a liquid sample is transferred into the sample containers 2b, when the filling arm element 5 is in one of the positions P1-P6.

[0066] In position P1 of the filling arm element 5, the third detection element 8c and the sixth sensor 7f are at least partially congruent. In position P1, the third detection element 8c can be detected by the sixth sensor 7f, and corresponding sensor data can be transmitted to the processing unit 25 by the sixth sensor 7f.

[0067] In position P2 of the filling arm element 5, the second detection element 8b and the fifth sensor 7e are at least partially congruent. In position P2, the second detection element 8b can be detected by the fifth sensor 7e, and corresponding sensor data can be transmitted to the processing unit 25 by the fifth sensor 7e.

[0068] In position P3 of the filling arm element 5, the first detection element 8a and the first sensor 7a are at least partially congruent. In position P3, the first detection element 8a can be detected by the first sensor 7a, and corresponding sensor data can be transmitted by the first sensor 7a to the processing unit 25.

[0069] In position P4 of the filling arm element 5, the first detection element 8a and the second sensor 7b are at least partially congruent. In position P4, the first detection element 8a can be detected by the second sensor 7b, and corresponding sensor data can be transmitted by the second sensor 7b to the processing unit 25.

[0070] In position P5 of the filling arm element 5, the first detection element 8a and the third sensor 7c are at least partially congruent. In position P5, the first detection element 8a can be detected by the third sensor 7c, and corresponding sensor data can be transmitted by the third sensor 7c to the processing unit 25.

[0071] In position P6 of the filling arm element 5, the first detection element 8a and the fourth sensor 7d are at least partially congruent. In position P6, the first detection element 8a can be detected by the fourth sensor 7d, and corresponding sensor data can be transmitted by the fourth sensor 7d to the processing unit 25.

[0072] In each position P1-P6 of the filling arm element 5, exactly one sensor 7a-7f and one detection element 8a-c are arranged at least partially congruently, i.e., exactly one detection element 8a-c can be detected by one sensor 7a-f. In this way, the position P1-P6 of the filling arm element 5 can be uniquely determined. Preferably, each sensor 7a-7f is assigned a position P1-P6, and this assignment can be retrieved, for example, by the processing unit 25. By arranging the sensors 7a-7f on several circular arcs K1-K3 and arranging several corresponding detection elements 8a-8c, multiple positions can be determined very precisely. On a single circular arc, the space for the sensors might be too small to avoid mutual interference and resulting in incorrect position determinations.

[0073] In the Fig. Figures 6a-d show an on / off mechanism for determining the position of the filling arm element 5.

[0074] In the Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b is a section of circuit board element 6 from the Fig. 4 shown in a side view. In the Fig. 6c is the section of circuit board element 6 from the Fig. 6a is shown in a top view along the height axis H from above. In the Fig. 6d is the section of circuit board element 6 from the Fig. 6b is shown in a top view along the height axis H from above.

[0075] On the second surface 6b of the circuit board element 6, which faces the fastening element 4, an attachment element 33 is arranged. A cylinder element 30, preferably designed as a pneumatic cylinder, is attached to the attachment element 33. The cylinder element 30 is fluidically connected to a hose element 29, which preferably carries compressed air. The cylinder element 30 has an activation element 31, which is translationally movable forwards and backwards perpendicular to the vertical axis H along direction M2. The activation element 31 can be reversibly moved from a first position E1 to a second position E2. The activation element 31 is preferably moved into the first position E1 by applying compressed air via the hose element 29, and is in the second position E2 when no compressed air is supplied.If, for example, the liquid sampling device 1 is fluidically connected to an external compressed air source via the connection element 15, the activation element 31 moves from the second position E2 to the first position E1.

[0076] According to the Fig. In the embodiment shown in 6a-d, the activation element 31 has a (permanent) magnet 32, which is designed and provided to activate the switch element 32, preferably designed as a reed switch, or to close the circuit when in close proximity.

[0077] In the second position E2, as in Fig. 6a and Fig. As shown in Figure 6c, the activation element 31 is arranged offset from the switching element 27 along the vertical axis H, i.e., they are not coincident with respect to the vertical axis H. When the activation element 31 is in the second position E2, the switching element 27 is in the second state O2, i.e., the circuit is open.

[0078] In the first position E1, as in Fig. 6b and Fig. As shown in Figure 6d, the activation element 31 is arranged at least partially congruently with the switching element 27 along the vertical axis H. When the activation element 31 is in the first position E1, the switching element 27 is in the first state O1, i.e., the circuit is closed.

[0079] The attachment element 33 makes it easy to transfer the switch element 27 from the second state O2 to the first state O1 (active) and thus activate the position determination of the filling arm element.

[0080] In the Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method for determining the position of a filling arm element 5 of a liquid sampling device 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0081] The procedure comprises the steps described below.

[0082] In a first step S1 (corresponding to step a.), the activation element 31 is moved from the second position E2 to the first position E1. This is done by the cylinder element 30, whereby compressed air is applied via the hose element 29. The switch element 27 then transitions from the second state O2 to the first state O1, thereby closing an electrical circuit, preferably between the processing unit 25, the sensors 7a-f, and the energy storage unit 26, and thus activating the position determination.

[0083] In a second step S2 (according to step b.), the computing unit 25 and the sensors 7a-f connected to it are switched on. Preferably, the computing unit 25 and the sensors 7a-f connected to it remain switched on for a predetermined time interval, wherein the time interval is preferably 1 s, more preferably 50 ms, particularly preferably 25 ms and especially preferably 10 ms.

[0084] In a further step S3 (corresponding to step c.), one of the detection elements 8a-c arranged on the filling arm element 5 is detected by one of the sensors 7a-f provided on the circuit board element 6, whereby a sensor 7a-f can detect a detection element 8a-c if the sensor 7a-c and the corresponding detection element 8a-c are at least partially congruent with respect to the height axis H. The sensor 7a-f that detects one of the detection elements 8a-c sends corresponding sensor data to the processing unit 25.

[0085] In a subsequent step S4 (according to step d.), the processing unit 25 receives the sensor data from the corresponding sensor 7a-f and uses this data to determine the position P1-P6 of the filling arm element 5. The positions P1-P6 of the filling arm element 5 are preferably predetermined positions, meaning that the processing unit 25 can assign one of the predetermined positions to the sensor data or the corresponding sensor 7a-f (for example, the assignment of positions P1-P6 to sensors 7a-f is stored as retrievable information on a memory unit of the processing unit 25 or a higher-level processing unit). Furthermore, the filling arm element 5 can only occupy one of the predetermined positions P1-P6, thus ensuring that the position P1-P6 of the filling arm element 5 can be determined in any position P1-P6.

[0086] In step S5 (corresponding to step e.) the position P1-P6 of the filling arm element 5 determined in step d. is stored, preferably on the storage unit of the computing unit 25.

[0087] Subsequently, in step S6 (corresponding to step f.), the position P1-P6 determined in step S5 is sent by the computing unit 25 to a higher-level computing unit of the liquid sampling device 1. The computing unit 25 preferably has a transmission unit for this purpose.

[0088] Finally, in step S7 (according to step g.) the computing unit 25 and the signal-connected sensors 7a-f are switched off.

[0089] Preferably, steps S2 to S7 are repeated after a predetermined time interval. Preferably, an additional step S4.2 is executed after step S4 and before step S5 during repeated executions. S4.2. Comparing the repeatedly determined position of the filling arm element 5 in step S4 with the previously determined position of the filling arm element 5 stored in step S5.

[0090] Preferably, steps S5 and S6 are only repeated if the determined positions of the filling arm element 5 differ based on the comparison in step S4.2. However, if step S4.2 determines that the position of the filling arm element 4 has not changed, steps S5 and S6 are not repeated. The processing unit 25 is then switched off again after step S4.2 according to step S7.

[0091] Preferably, the predetermined time interval after which steps S2 to S7 are repeated can be 30 seconds, more preferably 20 seconds and most preferably 10 seconds.

[0092] Preferably, a further step S1.2 can be performed: moving the activation element 31 from the first position E1 to the second position E2, thereby moving the switching element 27 from the first state O1 to the second state O2, thus opening the circuit. Step S1.2 preferably occurs independently of steps S2 to S7 when the liquid sampling device 1 is switched off or deactivated. Step S1.2 preferably occurs when the liquid sampling device 1 is disconnected from the external compressed air source supplied via the connection element 15.

[0093] The various embodiments with all their features can be combined and interchanged as desired.

[0094] All features disclosed in the application documents are claimed to be essential to the invention, provided that they are novel individually or in combination compared to the prior art. Reference symbol list 1 liquid sampling device 2 Sample holding device 2a Sample holder 2b Sample container 3 Filling device 4 Fastening element 5 Filling arm element 5a First surface of the filling arm element 5b second surface of the filling arm element 6 circuit board element 6a First surface of the circuit board element 6b second surface of the circuit board element 7a-f Sensor 8a-c Detection element 9. Drive mechanism 10a-e guide element 11 Flow element 12 Energy supply facility 13 step element 14 cases 14a Wall element 14b Floor element 14c lid element 15 Connection element 16 support element 17 pneumatic cylinders 18 locking element 19 Exclusion 20 hose elements 21a first end of the filling arm element 21b second end of the filling arm element 22 Middle section of the filling arm element 23 Holder element 24-hour opening 25 computing units 26 Energy storage unit 27 Switch element 28 recess 29 hose element 30 cylinder element 31 Activation element 32 Magnet 33 Add-on element A1 first axis of rotation A2 second axis of rotation D1-3 distance K1-3 circular arc R1, R2 Rotation direction M1, M2 Direction of movement O1, O2 states of the switch element E1, E1 Positions of the activation element P1-6 Positions of the filling arm element H vertical axis L Longitudinal axis B Latitude axis

Claims

[1] Liquid sampling device (1) for traceable sampling of multiple liquid samples, comprising: a sample holding device (2) comprising a plurality of sample holders (2a) arranged adjacent to each other in a plane extending perpendicular to a height axis (H); a filling device (3) which is designed and configured to transport a liquid sample to at least one of the sample holders of the plurality of sample holders (2a), wherein the filling device (3) comprises a fastening element (4) arranged along the vertical axis (H) above the sample holder device (2) and a filling arm element (5) connected to the fastening element (4) by a first axis of rotation (A1) running parallel to the vertical axis (H); characterized by , that a circuit board element (6) along the height axis (H) between the filling arm element (5) and the fastening element (4) and is rigidly connected to the fastening element (4), wherein at least one first sensor (7a) and one second sensor (7b) are arranged offset on at least one first circular arc (K1) extending at a first radial distance (D1) around the first axis of rotation (A1) on a first surface (6a) of the circuit board element (6) facing the filling arm element (5), and wherein at least one first detection element (8a) is arranged on a first surface (5a) of the filling arm element (5) facing the circuit board element (6) at the first radial distance (D1) to the first axis of rotation (A1), such that the at least one first detection element (8a) can be detected by the first sensor (7a) or the second sensor (7b) if the at least one first detection element (8a) is arranged at least partially congruently with the first (7a) or the second sensor (7b) along the vertical axis (H). [2] Liquid sampling device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the first sensor (7a) is arranged on the first circular arc (K1) and the second sensor (7b) is arranged on a second circular arc (K2) extending at a second radial distance (D2) around the first axis of rotation (A1) offset from the first sensor (7a), wherein a second detection element (8b) is arranged on the surface of the filling arm element (5) facing the circuit board element (6) at the second radial distance (D2) to the first axis of rotation (A1), so that the second detection element (8b) can be detected by the second sensor (7b). [3] Liquid sampling device (1) according to claim 2, characterized by, that the filling arm element (5) is rotatable relative to the circuit board element (6) about the first axis of rotation (A1), wherein the filling arm element (5) is movable at least from a first predetermined position (P1) to a second predetermined position (P2) and vice versa, wherein in each predetermined position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) one of the detection elements (8a-c) is arranged along the height axis (H) at least partially congruent with one of the sensors (7a-f), so that in each predetermined position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) one of the detection elements (8a-c) can be detected by one of the sensors (7a-f), wherein each sensor (7a-f) is assigned a predetermined position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5). [4] Liquid sampling device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by, that a computing unit (25) is arranged on the circuit board element (6), wherein the computing unit (25) is connected to at least the first sensor (7a) and the second sensor (7b) via signal technology, wherein the sensors (7a-f) transmit sensor data to the computing unit (25) when one of the detection elements (8a-c) can be detected by one of the sensors (7a-f), wherein the predetermined positions (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) can be determined by the computing unit (25) on the basis of the sensor data. [5] Liquid sampling device (1) according to claim 4, characterized by, that a switching element (27) is arranged on the first surface (6a) or an opposing parallel second surface (6b) of the circuit board element (6), wherein the switching element (27) is reversibly transferable to a first state (O1) and a second state (O2), wherein when the switching element (27) is in the first state (O1), a circuit is closed, the computing unit (25) and the sensors (7a-f) are active, wherein when the switching element (27) is in the second state (O2), the circuit is open and the computing unit (25) and the sensors (7a-f) are deactivated. [6] Liquid sampling device (1) according to claim 5, characterized by, that an activation element (31) is provided on the surface (6a, 6b) of the circuit board element (6) opposite the switch element (27), wherein the activation element (31) is attached to the circuit board element (6) in such a way that it is translationally movable parallel to the first (6a) and second surface (6b) from a first position (E1) to a second position (E2), wherein the activation element (31) in the first position (E1) is arranged at least partially congruent with the switch element (27) along the height axis (H), wherein the switch element (27) is in the first state (O1) when the activation element (31) is in the first position (E1) and wherein the switch element (27) is in the second state (O2) when the activation element (31) is in the second position (E2). [7] Liquid sampling device (1) according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterized by, that the switching element (27) is designed as a reed switch and wherein the activation element (31) has a magnet (32) which in the first position (E1) of the activation element (31) is arranged at least partially congruent with the reed switch along the height axis (H), wherein the activation element (31) is designed as a pneumatic piston. [8] Liquid sampling device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the at least first (7a) and second sensor (7b) are designed as Hall sensors, wherein the at least first (8a) and second detection element (8b) are designed as magnets. [9] Method (100) for determining the position of a filling arm element (5) of a liquid sampling device (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, comprising the steps: a. Moving the activation element (31) from the second position (E2) to the first position (E1) and thereby moving the switching element (27) from the second state (O2) to the first state (O1), thereby closing the circuit and activating the computing unit (25) and the sensors (7a-f); b. Switching on the computing unit (25) and the sensors (7a-f) connected to it in terms of signal technology; c. Detection of the detection element (8a-c) arranged on the filling arm element (5), which is arranged at least partially congruent with one of the sensors (7a-f) along the height axis (H), by the corresponding sensor (7a-f) and sending the detected sensor data to the computing unit (25); d. Receiving the sensor data by the computing unit (25) and determining the position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) based on the sensor data by the computing unit (25); e. Saving the position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) determined in step d. by the computing unit (25); f. Sending the position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) determined in step d. to a higher-level computing unit of the liquid sampling device (1) by the computing unit (25); g. Switching off the computing unit (25) and the sensors (7a-f) connected to it via signal technology. [10] Method according to claim 9, characterized by, that steps b. to g. are repeated after a predetermined time interval, with an additional step d2. being performed after step d. and before step e.: comparing the repeatedly determined position (p1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) in step d. with the previously stored determined position (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) in step e.; and wherein steps e. and f. are only repeated if the determined positions (P1-P6) of the filling arm element (5) differ based on the comparison in step d2.

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