EGG TESTING FACILITY

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an egg testing device, in particular an egg sex determination device. A genus-defining egg testing device with the features of claim 1 is known, for example, from EP 2 786 656 A1.

[0002] In the device described in EP 2 786 656 A1, liquid samples are taken from an arrangement of eggs using cannulas in order to characterize the eggs more precisely based on characteristic properties of the respective liquid sample.

[0003] For example, a predetermined amount of allantoic fluid is extracted from the eggs to determine the sex of the embryonic chicks.

[0004] A large number of eggs are placed in a grid-like arrangement within a tray. The eggs lie horizontally within the tray, meaning the egg's axis of rotation is perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Since the eggs are not arranged in a rotationally fixed manner within the tray, the device described in EP 2 786 656 A1 secures and positions them horizontally within the tray by means of a forming die that is pressed laterally onto the egg.

[0005] The shell is then punctured using a thin cannula attached to a sampling device that pierces the egg from the side, i.e. perpendicular to the horizontal direction of the egg, in order to extract a quantity of liquid.

[0006] The method described in this prior art is relatively imprecise because positioning the eggs and thus extracting liquid from a specific location within the egg is not always guaranteed.

[0007] Further relevant prior art is disclosed in the following documents: US 1 472 674 A, EP 2 505 217 A2, EP 2 786 656 A1 and DE 699 18 321 T2.

[0008] Based on this, the invention proposes an egg testing device according to claim 1 to solve the aforementioned problem.

[0009] Further advantageous configurations are defined in the dependent claims.

[0010] The feeding device is designed such that it feeds the tray at an oblique angle of between 20° and 80° to a plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity to the sampling device, and optionally a lifting device is provided by means of which the egg can be lifted out of the tray and by means of which the egg can be moved into a sampling position in which the quantity of liquid to be extracted from the egg can be taken by means of the sampling device, wherein the lifting device can be controlled by means of the control unit.

[0011] Particularly when extracting allantoic fluid, it has been shown that if the eggs are pierced not perpendicular to the horizontal but slightly obliquely to the axis of rotation, preferably obliquely from its rear side, a specific area within the egg is accessed, allowing for the reproducible extraction of predetermined amounts of fluid. When the egg is rotated by the aforementioned angle relative to its base, the allantoic fluid collects to a suitable extent at a well-defined location within the egg, enabling the desired quantity to be extracted using the cannula. Particularly advantageous angle ranges are between 30° and 60°, preferably 40° to 50°, and especially 45°. These respective angle ranges can each form upper and lower limits for the egg's orientation.Furthermore, it has been shown that a good piercing force is ensured within the previously described angular ranges without causing lasting damage to the shell that would lead to the egg breaking. Since the eggs lie either horizontally or vertically in the tray, particularly vertically (i.e., the longitudinal axis of the eggs is perpendicular to the tray plane), a corresponding oblique angle results at which the individual eggs are transferred from the lifting unit to the sampling device. From the lifting unit, the eggs are preferably brought out perpendicular to the tray or the surface formed by the tray, or perpendicular to the inclined feed plane, preferably through the mesh of the tray, and fixed in this position, for example, by a suitable device. After such an egg has been sampled, i.e.,Once a sufficient amount of liquid has been extracted, it can be returned to the tray using the lifting device, and the tray is preferably moved translationally at the same oblique angle to sample the next egg. In this way, essentially all eggs arranged obliquely one behind the other in the inclined tray can be sampled sequentially. For sampling, each egg is lifted from the tray using the sampling device and positioned in the sampling position. Since the trays are already fed in at an angle, the eggs can be pierced at an angle while being individually lifted.

[0012] According to a further development of the invention, the lifting device can be configured such that it can rotate an egg lifted by it into a predetermined insertion position. When the egg is lifted from the tray by means of the lifting device, it may happen that it is not in a position in which sampling ideally takes place. Often, the egg can be rotated, e.g., around its longitudinal and / or transverse axis, to be brought into a better sampling position. This can be achieved, for example, by shaking or by electrically driven rollers on the lifting device.

[0013] According to a further development of the invention, the lifting device can be a mechanical lifting device or an airflow-operated lifting device in which the egg is lifted by means of an airflow. If it is a mechanical lifting device, an embodiment as described below with an egg plunger and a stop element is advantageous. However, the egg can also be lifted by means of an airflow and, for example, pressed against a stop element to be brought into the correct position. In this case, a hose with an opening is positioned under the egg in the tray, and the egg is lifted in the airflow by means of compressed air.

[0014] To facilitate the positioning and alignment of the egg to be sampled, guided lifting of the egg is advantageous. This can be achieved using the egg plunger, preferably a rotatably mounted egg plunger, and / or an airflow. The egg is then held in position from the other side, for example, with a soft suction cup. This fixation can also be achieved mechanically and / or with an airflow. Additionally, a sliding guide can be used to guide the egg into position from the ventral side.

[0015] According to a further development of the invention, the sampling device can include a cannula connected to a vacuum generation device, wherein the amount of liquid to be extracted from the egg can be controlled by the control unit via the pressure generated in the vacuum generation device. The control unit can control a pneumatic system, which is formed, for example, by a vacuum hose connected to the cannula and then to a vacuum generator. By controlling the pressure, a well-defined amount of liquid can be extracted from the egg after the cannula has been inserted obliquely into the eggshell. Such a pneumatic system and sampling via vacuum control can reduce the number of mechanical elements, such as those found when using simple piston syringes as sampling devices.The sampling device with its protruding cannula can be moved vertically, i.e., in the direction of gravity, for sampling, whereby the cannula or its tip pierces the eggshell and extracts the corresponding predetermined amount of fluid, for example, from the allantois. Preferred cannula outer diameters are 0.55 mm, 0.60 mm, 0.65 mm, 0.70 mm, 0.75 mm, and 0.80 mm, and preferred cannula inner diameters are 0.10 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.20 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.30 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.40 mm, 0.45 mm, and 0.50 mm. The aforementioned values ​​can each, in themselves, form upper or lower limits of a cannula thickness range.

[0016] According to a further development of the invention, the sampling device can include a needle holder with multiple needles. A needle holder can be designed as a rotatable device in which, preferably by means of the control unit, the needle is rotated after each puncture. This allows a new or different needle to be used for each puncture, ensuring a faster procedure. Preferably, while the other needle is being used for pricking, the needle that was previously used to puncture the egg can be cleaned simultaneously. Combining pricking and cleaning the needle in one step can save time during sampling and cleaning. The needle holder can include multiple needles, in particular six needles.

[0017] According to a further development of the invention, the cannula can have at least two openings through which the desired amount of liquid can be extracted from the egg. It has been found that, because the position of membranes within the egg is not always the same, even when the egg is oriented in the same way, problems can sometimes arise when extracting liquid if only a single opening is provided at the tip of the cannula, as such a membrane may obscure the opening. However, if at least two openings, and in particular exactly two openings, are provided, it is unlikely that both openings will be obscured simultaneously.

[0018] According to a further development of the invention, the length of the cannula extending beyond the stop surface on the sampling device, which comes into contact with the egg during sampling, can be adjusted. Since the eggs arranged in a batch can vary in size, for example depending on the hen's laying age or genetics, a different cannula insertion depth may be necessary to extract the required amount of fluid from the egg, depending on the egg size. The optimal insertion depth can be determined automatically using imaging techniques. The cannula's extension length is preferably adjusted automatically for each egg.

[0019] Once a suitable sampling location has been established, the sampling device is pressed vertically onto the egg until the cannula is completely submerged. A control device confirms that the needle has entered the liquid / allantois and initiates the defined aspiration process.

[0020] It can also be detected, for example, as soon as the egg strikes a stop surface of the sampling device. As soon as this stop surface is touched by the egg, which can be measured, for example, using optical methods such as a camera or a pressure sensor on the stop surface, the control unit instructs the sampling device to stop its movement. The length of the cannula protruding from the sampling device thus determines the depth to which the liquid is extracted from the egg. According to a further development of the invention, the protruding length of the cannula can be adjusted by the control unit. For example, the control unit can adjust and vary the length of the cannula depending on information about the respective egg, and thus selectively for each corresponding egg depending on its properties, such as...whose thickness specifies a depth from which the amount of liquid is taken.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, or even if the protruding cannula length cannot be changed, the control unit can advance the sampling device until the cannula is immersed in the fluid within the egg (allantoic). The control unit can, for example, detect the cannula's immersion in the fluid (allantoic) and stop the forward movement of the sampling device when the desired depth is reached. The aspiration process then begins.

[0022] According to a further development of the invention, the sampling device can include a light barrier by which the control unit can determine whether the amount of liquid extracted from the egg corresponds to the amount of liquid to be extracted and is not altered by air bubbles. The light barrier can be positioned so that, for example, the vacuum tube or another transparent element through which the liquid is drawn is illuminated. As soon as enough liquid has been drawn through the cannula to reach the predetermined amount, the meniscus can be detected by the light barrier, thus determining the amount of liquid extracted from the egg. Preferred extraction volumes of liquid can be from 1 µl to 50 µl, preferably 5 to 30 µl, and particularly 10 to 20 µl. The aforementioned values ​​can each represent upper and lower limits.Especially when taking such small quantities of liquid, determining the amount of liquid taken using light barriers has proven to be a good solution for accurately determining the amount of liquid taken and, if necessary, detecting air bubbles.

[0023] Multiple light barriers can also be used, for example, light barriers based on different colored light. This can minimize problems that may arise when measuring the sample volume, such as when red blood cells are present in the sampled fluid.

[0024] According to a further development of the invention, at least two sampling devices can be provided, which are combined in a sampling unit, such that the liquid sample to be taken can be taken from one egg of the tray simultaneously by each of the at least two sampling devices, and at least two lifting devices can be provided, wherein the egg of the tray assigned to the respective sampling unit can be lifted from the tray and placed in the sampling position by means of the respective lifting device of the at least two lifting devices. In particular, more than two sampling devices are provided.

[0025] Following this advanced training, at least two sampling devices can be provided, each with an associated lifting device. Each lifting device removes an egg from the egg tray and transfers it to the respective sampling device. This allows for the simultaneous sampling of at least two eggs. This advanced training also allows for more than two sampling devices and, consequently, more than two lifting devices, enabling the simultaneous sampling of, for example, three, four, five, or even ten eggs. The eggs in the egg tray that can be sampled simultaneously are preferably arranged directly next to each other in a row across the tray, perpendicular to its inclination.

[0026] This makes it possible, for example, to sample at least two or more eggs side by side using a variety of appropriate sampling devices, and after the corresponding row of eggs has been sampled, the tray is moved one unit to sample the row of eggs below it at an angle.

[0027] If the tray contains more eggs side by side (perpendicular to the tilt) than there are sampling devices available, the sampling unit with the sampling devices can also be moved horizontally in this direction, i.e., in the direction of the eggs lying side by side in a row, using the control unit. In this way, for example, two, three, four, or five eggs lying side by side in a row can be sampled simultaneously. After sampling an entire row of eggs in a tray horizontally, the next row, which lies diagonally below, is sampled.

[0028] By designing the system with at least two sampling devices, each equipped with a lifting device, a fast procedure can be provided, allowing several eggs to be sampled simultaneously.

[0029] According to further training, the control unit can be trained in such a way that it individually adjusts the amount of liquid to be extracted from the egg for each of the at least two sampling devices, depending on the egg parameters of the respective egg assigned to the sampling device.

[0030] Depending on factors such as egg size or incubation date, the amount of allantoic fluid contained in the egg can vary. Therefore, it is advantageous to individually adjust the amount of fluid to be extracted for each of the at least two or more sampling devices, based on previously determined egg parameters. For this purpose, the pressure in the corresponding vacuum tubes assigned to each sampling device can be individually adjusted to extract the appropriate amount of fluid. Similarly, the positioning of the preferably provided light barriers for determining the extracted fluid volume can be controlled by the control unit, depending on the amount of fluid to be extracted.

[0031] According to a further development of the invention, the sampling device can be movable in the direction of gravity. Furthermore, the sampling device can be movable parallel to the area within which the tray is translationally movable by the feeding device, and in a direction transverse to the translational direction of the tray prescribed by the feeding device.

[0032] In particular, the sampling direction moves in the direction of gravity and in the direction of the individual eggs arranged in rows side by side, perpendicular to the translational direction of the egg collection, that is, parallel to the area within which the egg collection can be moved translationally by the feeding device, and in a direction perpendicular to the translational direction of the egg collection prescribed by the feeding device. For example, the control unit can actuate an actuator that interacts with the sampling device. Thus, the sampling device is movable in at least two directions within a plane. Such translational mobility can be provided both for a single sampling device and for the case where several sampling devices are combined in a single sampling unit.This allows all sampling devices to move simultaneously and uniformly when they are combined in a single sampling unit. The movement in the direction of gravity is intended to move the sampling device towards the individual egg, for example, to push the cannula into the eggshell. The translational movement is intended, for example, to sample eggs lying side by side in rows across the tray, perpendicular to the feeder. If all eggs lying side by side in the tray are sampled simultaneously using the sampling devices combined in one sampling unit, this translational movement can be omitted entirely.

[0033] According to a further development of the invention, a sample receiving device can be provided which receives the amount of liquid extracted from the egg by the sampling device. Such a sample receiving device can be any container or even a fleece associated with the egg examination device, into which the extracted liquid from the egg can be dispensed by the sampling device. It is understood that preferably the liquid extracted from each egg is placed into a corresponding empty sample receiving device, e.g., the empty container or an unused fleece, and therefore as many sample receiving devices can be provided as there are eggs in the tray.

[0034] According to a further development of the invention, at least two sampling devices combined in one unit can be provided, from which the respective quantity of liquid taken from the respective egg by the at least two sampling devices can be dispensed. For example, when two or more sampling devices are provided side by side, it is also advantageous to arrange two or more (e.g., a corresponding number) sampling devices side by side, into which the liquid can be dispensed simultaneously from the respective sampling devices. In particular, the sampling devices can be provided in such a number that they correspond at least to the number of eggs in the tray, and preferably the sampling devices can also be arranged in the same way as the eggs in the tray, e.g., in the form of a grid.

[0035] The more sample collection devices are grouped together as a unit, the easier it is for this unit to be moved in relation to the sample collection device in order to collect the samples taken.

[0036] According to further training, the at least two sampling devices combined in the unit can be designed using a fleece or a titrant. The method for determining a property of a liquid sample is used in particular to determine, for example, whether an embryonic structure in an egg will later develop into a male or female chick, based on the estrone sulfate concentration of the allantoic fluid. Such a method is a biochemical procedure carried out using a double-antibody technique. For example, estrone sulfate-specific antibodies are bound to the fleece or titrant. The reaction to determine the estrone sulfate concentration is carried out, for example, directly on the sampling device; that is, the concentration can be determined indirectly at the corresponding location on the fleece where the sample is applied, or at the corresponding location on the titrant.The so-called well plate is used. For further details, reference is made to German patent application No. 10 2015 226 490.4, the disclosure of which for the determination of the estrone sulfate concentration in allantoic fluid using the double antibody technique is incorporated into the disclosure of the present application. A titrant coated by direct coating or a nonwoven fabric can be used as the sample receiving device. For the determination of the estrone sulfate concentration, reference is made to the aforementioned application.

[0037] According to a further development of the invention, the sampling device can be positioned in a dispensing position after the sample has been taken and extracted from the respective egg, and the sample receiving device, when the sampling device is positioned in the dispensing position, can be moved from a sample receiving device rest position to a receiving position in which the sample can be dispensed from the sampling device into the sample receiving device.

[0038] The sample dispensing device is assigned, for example, an actuator that is controlled by the control unit in such a way that, after the sample has been taken using the sampling device and withdrawn from the respective egg (when the sampling device is in a dispensing position), the sample receiving device is moved from a resting position to a receiving position, in which the sample is dispensed from the sampling device into the sample receiving device. Thus, the control unit can use an actuator to move the sample receiving device to the sampling device in such a way that, with the exception of a vertical movement, the sampling device does not need to be moved translationally to dispense the sample.

[0039] Thus, it is possible to design the sampling device so that it is movable in only two directions, namely vertically and laterally, i.e., in the direction in which the eggs are arranged side by side in the tray, transverse to the tray's inclined orientation. However, there are also variants in which it is preferred to design the sampling device so that it is movable translationally and / or rotationally in all directions. The sample receiving device is therefore preferably always moved to a position below the sampling device, in particular below the end of the cannula from which the extracted fluid is to be dispensed.

[0040] In addition to its mobility in the vertical direction, the sample collection device can also move not only in a horizontal direction but also in another horizontal direction in which the eggs lie next to each other.

[0041] According to a further development of the invention, a rinsing device can be provided which, after sample dispensing into the sample receiving device, can be moved from a rinsing device rest position to a rinsing position in which the sample receiving device is rinsed by means of a pressure profile of the pressure generated in the vacuum generation device. After the liquid sample has been dispensed from the sample receiving device, it is rinsed by means of the rinsing device. For this purpose, the sample receiving device can first be moved back to its rest position and the rinsing device moved from its rest position to the rinsing position. Both situations can occur simultaneously, e.g., using the cannula turret described above.

[0042] The rinsing device is therefore preferably always moved to a position below the sampling device, in particular below the end of the cannula, and the sampling device or the cannula is immersed in the rinsing device filled with rinsing fluid. The pressure profile in the vacuum hose is controlled by the control device such that rinsing solution is drawn in and subsequently discharged. This rinsing device preferably contains alcohol, which denatures the biological material from the egg that remains in the sampling device. Rinsing after rinsing with alcohol can be carried out, for example, via the pneumatic system by pumping demineralized water through the vacuum hoses.

[0043] After rinsing, air can also be blown through the sampling device via the pneumatic system to dry it.

[0044] After rinsing and drying, the sampling device can be used again to take another liquid sample from the egg.

[0045] In particular, the procedure carried out in the egg testing facility is controlled by the control unit such that, if only one sampling device is provided, it takes a liquid sample from each egg using a grid-based method and transfers it to a corresponding sample receiving device. A rinsing process is performed after each sampling and transfer. If several sampling devices are provided side by side, a corresponding liquid sample can always be taken simultaneously from, for example, two, three, four, five, or ten eggs. This liquid sample is then transferred to a corresponding number of sample receiving devices. Afterwards, all sampling devices are rinsed. The rinsing device can be a simple container of liquid into which all sampling devices are immersed simultaneously.

[0046] According to a further development of the invention, the sample receiving device and the rinsing device for rinsing the sample collection device can be designed in one unit. If the sample receiving device and the rinsing device are designed as one unit, it can be easily replaced.

[0047] According to a further development of the invention, the lifting device can include an egg plunger that is movable through a mesh of the tray to lift the egg stored in that mesh. Furthermore, a stop element, preferably with a cranial egg-head limit, can be provided against which the egg plunger can press the egg and which determines the sampling position. The egg plunger can have or be formed from a buffering and / or balancing material that allows the egg to be adjusted in the correct direction. An egg plunger preferably moves perpendicular to the inclined orientation of the tray through each mesh of the tray to lift the respective egg out of the tray. While the egg is being pushed out of the tray by the egg plunger, it is lifted and the base of the egg is pressed against a stop element to secure the egg.The stop element can be shaped to have a curve corresponding to the curvature of the egg's base, in order to hold the egg between the plunger and the stop element, so that the egg's axis of rotation passes through the egg plunger and the stop element. Preferably, the control unit controls the egg plunger and the stop element.

[0048] According to a further development of the invention, at least one actuator can be assigned to the egg stamp and the stop element, which can be controlled via the control unit. The respective actuator of the egg stamp or the stop element, upon instruction from the control unit, causes a translational movement of the egg stamp and the stop element, such that these elements are moved translationally perpendicular to the inclined tray. This makes it easy to push the egg through the tray. Because both parts, namely the stamp and the stop element, are equipped with an actuator, these two elements can interact in such a way that they grip the egg between them and hold it in place. Thus, the egg, held in the sampling position, can be reliably sampled.

[0049] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a positioning device can be provided by which the position of the egg is determined, wherein the control unit controls the positioning of the egg based on the data from the positioning device. Such a positioning device can be a lighting unit as described below, which is preferably provided in the egg stamp. Alternatively or additionally, any other method or system, such as a camera system or an infrared system, can also be provided to determine the relative position of the egg and / or, in particular, the position of internal compartments of the egg, especially the allantois.

[0050] Based on the data from the positioning device, the control unit can issue instructions to position the egg accordingly. Positioning is achieved, for example, using the lifting device (mechanically and / or by airflow).

[0051] According to a further development of the invention, a lighting unit can be provided to illuminate the egg in order to determine its position. This lighting unit can preferably consist of one or more LED lamps. This lighting unit illuminates the egg, a process known as candling. This allows for a more precise determination of the position of the embryonic chick or the allantois. In addition to a single unit, multiple lighting units can also be provided.

[0052] In conjunction with this advanced training, it can be advantageous for the egg stamp to work in conjunction with an additional rotating element that rotates the egg in such a way that a predetermined position of the egg can be more easily achieved. This allows for a buffering of the system.

[0053] According to a further development of the invention, the egg stamp can be provided with the light unit. Advantageously, the light unit can be arranged inside the egg stamp.

[0054] According to a further development of the invention, a UV lamp unit can also be provided, by means of which at least one of the following devices is illuminated in order to kill bacteria and / or germs: eggs, sampling device, rinsing device, sample receiving device, lifting device. In particular, it is advantageous to arrange the UV lamp unit as a type of UV tube above the inclined tray and between the sampling device and the sample receiving device. The UV tube is preferably arranged transversely to the inclination of the tray.

[0055] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control unit is designed such that the sampling of the eggs in the tray is automated after the tray containing the eggs is placed in the egg testing device, and after all eggs in the tray have been sampled, a corresponding message is output. That is, a program is stored in the control device in which an automated procedure for sampling the eggs is executed.

[0056] Insofar as the invention refers to the lifting device, this can also be omitted entirely, and any combination or configuration of sampling device, rinsing device, sample receiving device, tray, control device, position determination device, or even a single one of these elements constitutes an invention in itself. The aforementioned devices or elements can each also constitute a separate invention independently of the other components of the overall device.

[0057] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention result from the exemplary embodiment discussed below in conjunction with the drawing.

[0058] This shows Fig. 1 a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an egg inspection device; Fig. 2 a top view of an egg inspection device, similar to the one shown in Fig. 1 is, with the horde positioned in a starting position; and Fig. 2 Legs Overhead of the egg inspection device of Fig. 2A , wherein the tray is positioned in a final position after sampling all eggs; Fig. 3 a schematic diagram of the procedure for sampling an egg, as used in egg testing equipment from the Fig. 1 or 2 is carried out; Fig. 4A a section of the egg inspection device from the Fig. 2 , in which a sampling unit with sampling devices can be seen. Fig. 4B and Fig. 4C show a single sampling device of the sampling unit. Fig. 4 ; Fig. 5A a unit consisting of dispensing device and rinsing device; Fig. 5B the unit consisting of Fig. 5A , with a protective cover removed; Fig. 6 a detailed view of the egg stamp of the exemplary embodiment from Fig. 2 ; and Fig. 7 shows an example of a user interface of the software by means of which the device is controlled.

[0059] In Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an egg inspection device.

[0060] The egg inspection device comprises a feeder 1, a lifting device 2, a sampling device 3, a sample receiving device 4, a rinsing device 5, and a control unit 6. The lifting device 2 includes an egg stamp 7 and a stop element 8. The control unit 6 controls, according to actuators A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, and A7, to position or move the aforementioned elements or units.

[0061] Alternatively, instead of a mechanical lifting device with the egg plunger 7 and the stop element 8, an air-operated lifting device can also be provided, in which the egg is lifted by means of an airflow. In this way, the egg can be lifted out by means of an airflow and, for example, pressed against a stop element to be brought into the correct position. In this case, a hose with an opening is positioned under the egg in the tray, and the egg is lifted in the airflow using compressed air.

[0062] To facilitate the positioning and alignment of the egg to be sampled, guided lifting of the egg is advantageous. This can be achieved using the egg plunger, preferably a rotatably mounted egg plunger, and / or an airflow. The egg is then held in position from the other side, for example, with a soft suction cup. This fixation can also be achieved mechanically and / or with an airflow. Additionally, a sliding guide can be used to position the egg ventrally.

[0063] The feeding device 1 has a first actuator A1, the lifting device 2, consisting of the egg stamp 7 and the stop element 8, has a second actuator A2, which positions the stop element 8, and a third actuator A3, which positions the egg stamp 7. Via a Fig. 1 The syringe 9 shown in this figure is drawn onto the fourth actuator A4. A base plate 10 with the syringe 9 attached to it forms a sampling unit, with the syringe 9 serving as the sample collection device. The sampling unit as a whole is positioned over a fifth actuator A5. A sixth actuator A6 is assigned to the sample collection unit 4, and a seventh actuator is assigned to the rinsing device 5.

[0064] In Fig. 2A a supervision of the in Fig. 1 The egg inspection device shown, with a tray 13 positioned in a starting position. A difference of the egg inspection device from Figur 2 to the first embodiment from Figur 1 The difference is that the sampling unit does not use a simple syringe as a sampling device 9, but rather sampling takes place via cannulas 12 connected to vacuum hoses 11, with each cannula and vacuum hose 11 forming a sampling unit 9, and thus five sampling units are provided in the sampling unit. Any number of sampling units, from one to a plurality, can be combined into a single unit; in particular, 5, 10, or 15 sampling units 9.

[0065] In Fig. 2A Figure 1 shows a starting position after the tray 13, as in the present case, for example half-filled with eggs 19, has been inserted into the feeding device 1. In this case, the feeding device 1 is designed as a kind of frame 14 in which the tray 13 can be inserted such that its side walls are essentially flush with the frame 14.

[0066] This frame has a slide 15 on two sides opposite each other in the transverse direction of the device, which is slidably mounted on corresponding rails 16 and thus by means of the in Fig. 2A the first actuator A1 (not shown) via the control unit 6 from the in Fig. 2A shown starting position in a Fig. 2B The shown end position can be moved.

[0067] To make it easier to identify the individual directions below, the direction of gravity, i.e., the direction in Fig. 1 , 2A and 2B The vertical axis from top to bottom is called the y-axis, the axis perpendicular to this vertical axis (i.e., the y-axis) and perpendicular to Horde 13 is called the z-axis, and the axis along which the tilt of Horde 13 extends is called the x-axis. A corresponding coordinate system is shown in Fig. 2A depicted. A corresponding coordinate system is also shown in Fig. 1 The first actuator, A1, ensures translational movement of the feeder 1 in the yx-plane. The second actuator, A2, and the third actuator, A3, ensure translational movement of the individual elements of the lifting device within the yx-plane and perpendicular to the movement of the first actuator, A1. The fourth and fifth actuators, A4 and A5, respectively, ensure translational movement of the corresponding elements (sample removal device and sample removal unit) in the y-direction. The seventh and eighth actuators, A7 and A8, respectively, ensure translational movement of the corresponding elements in the x-direction.

[0068] The horde 13 is designed as a kind of grid 17 with equally sized meshes, in each of which a single egg 18 can be held. Since the meshes are only bounded by strip-like, vertically oriented walls, each egg 18 lies with its pointed end downwards in the respective mesh. That is to say, in Fig. 2A Figure 1 shows a base side of the eggs 18. The eggs 18 are arranged in a matrix, with five eggs 18 lying side by side in the transverse direction (z-axis) and 17 eggs lying one behind the other in the longitudinal direction, or oblique direction (x-axis). In the following, "side by side" for the eggs always refers to the direction of the z-axis and "one behind the other" always refers to the translational direction (x-axis) of the feeding device 1.

[0069] In the present embodiment, five sampling devices 3 are provided on the base plate 10, thereby forming the sampling unit. Each of the sampling devices 3 is modular in design and is described below with regard to the Fig. 4A - 4C described in more detail. As in Fig. 4B und C As shown, each sampling device 3 is designed as a module which can be attached to the base plate 10, for example, by means of screw connections. A stop surface 19 is provided on one side of the module facing the egg when mounted on the base plate 10 (hereinafter referred to as the underside of the module), from which the cannula 12 protrudes. The cannula 12 is held between the plate elements 21, 22 of the module by means of a type of clamping connection, whereby the plate element 22 is held by means of the Fig. 4B The two fastening elements 20 shown, which in this case are Allen screws, are pressed together. As shown in Fig. 4A As shown, a vacuum hose 11 is connected to the rear of each cannula 12, which is preferably a thin metal cannula with a sharp tip. The vacuum hoses 11 are connected to a pneumatic system, which is not shown in detail in the figures. Using the negative pressure generated in the pneumatic system, a predetermined quantity of liquid can be extracted from the egg 18 after the egg is pierced with the cannula 12.

[0070] The sampling procedure is described below in conjunction with Fig. 3 described in more detail.

[0071] After an operator has placed the tray 13, which is loaded with 18 eggs, into the feeding device 1 (step a) in Fig. 3 ), egg 18 is positioned. For this purpose, the feeder 1 is moved via the control unit 6 such that the first row of eggs, viewed in the translational direction of the horde (x-axis), is at the level of the sampling device 3 (compare Fig. 2A ) comes to a stop (step b) in Fig. 3 In this example, five eggs are arranged in this position under the respective five sampling devices of the sampling unit. With the in Fig. 6 According to the egg stamps 7 shown, the five eggs are simultaneously pushed out through the mesh of the tray 13, essentially perpendicular to the tray 13, that is, perpendicular to the surface formed by the frame 14 of the tray 13, or perpendicular to the inclined feed plane, in order to be lifted out of the tray 13 and against the in Fig. 1 Schematically depicted stop element 8 pressed.

[0072] The eggs are lifted from the heap with their thicker backs aligned at an oblique angle between 20 and 80°. The angle φ (compare Fig. 1 ) between the axis of rotation (longitudinal direction) of the egg 18 and the vertical direction (y-axis), i.e., the direction in which the cannula 12 is inserted into the egg 18 (in this case, the direction in which the sampling unit can be moved in its vertical direction), corresponds, according to trigonometry, to the angle χ at which the feeding device 1 obliquely feeds the tray 13 (compare Fig. 1 The angle φ between the axis of rotation (longitudinal direction) of the egg 18 and the cannula 12 corresponds to the angle χ between the x-axis (in this case, the base surface) and the translational direction of the feeding device 1, since its arms are perpendicular to each other in pairs. The lifting direction of the eggs is perpendicular to the tray plane, which corresponds to the translational plane.

[0073] After the egg 18 has been lifted out, it is now held between the egg stamp 7 and the stop element 8.

[0074] In the present example, the entire base plate 10 with the attached sampling devices 3, i.e. the sampling unit, is then lowered on the y-axis so that the five cannulae 12 simultaneously pierce the five adjacent lifted eggs 18.

[0075] As soon as the contact surface 19 of the respective sampling unit 3 contacts the shell of the respective egg 18, this is detected by the control unit 6 and the sampling is started.

[0076] For this purpose, after the hole in the egg 18 has been created by piercing the respective cannula 12, a vacuum is created in the vacuum tubes 11 so that a corresponding amount of liquid is sucked out of the egg.

[0077] The preset target amount of liquid extracted from the egg is determined via a schematically represented Fig. 4B The illustrated light barrier 25 detects the pressure. This means that as soon as the liquid meniscus in the vacuum tube 11 reaches the light barrier 25, the pressure is kept constant.

[0078] The sampling unit is then withdrawn (vertically; y-axis) and the cannulae 12 are pulled out of the eggs. The tips of the cannulae 12 should preferably come to rest at such a height that the sample collection device 4 or the rinsing device 5 can be accessed by means of the Fig. 1 sixth and seventh actuators A6 and A7, as shown by the arrows in Fig. 1 specify that the sample can be moved translationally from the sample delivery and cleaning group marked with reference numeral 26 under the cannula tip.

[0079] In the present example, we are dealing with a so-called titer plate in which individual sample receiving devices 4, i.e., for example cavities, are arranged next to and behind each other, such that a matrix of sample receiving devices 4 results.

[0080] By means of control by the control unit 6, after translational movement of the titer plate (in the x-axis) under the cannula ends (step e) in Fig. 3 )., now corresponding pressure is applied to the vacuum hoses 11, so that the amount of liquid taken from the eggs 18 is dispensed from the sampling unit devices 3 into the corresponding sample receiving device 27 provided below. This occurs essentially simultaneously, so that, after five quantities of liquid have been taken from five eggs 18 simultaneously in this example, one sample each from five liquid samples is dispensed into the corresponding sample receiving device. The corresponding titer plate (step d) in Fig. 3 ) is placed in the egg inspection device by the operator beforehand, as is the tray of eggs.

[0081] In each of the sampling devices 3, an analysis is then carried out, and in this case, for example, the estrone sulfate concentration in the allantoic fluid taken from the eggs 18 is determined in order to infer the sex of the embryonic chicks. Such a method for the biological determination of the estrone sulfate concentration for identifying female and male chicken embryos is described in German patent application no. 10 2015 226 490.4, the disclosure of which is incorporated by this reference. The estrone sulfate concentration can be determined indirectly by means of a colorimetric measurement.

[0082] After the individual quantities of liquid extracted from the eggs have been transferred to the sampling devices 4, the five eggs 18 held by the lifting device are placed back into the position of the tray (step c) in Fig. 3 Alternatively, this can also be done immediately after fluid collection and before sample submission.

[0083] The titration plate, i.e., the matrix of sample recording devices 4, is returned to its original position. Fig. 2B or 1 basic position shown in the sample delivery and cleaning assembly moved.

[0084] To clean the cannulas 12, the rinsing device 5, which in the present example consists of a tub 28 filled with alcohol and a collection vessel 29, is now used by means of the seventh actuator A7 (see Fig. 1 ), as in Fig. 7 The device is moved from its initial position within the sample delivery and cleaning assembly to a rinsing position (not shown in the figure), in which the rinsing device 7 comes to rest essentially below the cannulas 12, i.e., below the respective sample collection device 3. The cleaning of the cannulas can take place after each pricking procedure (step f) in Fig. 3 ).

[0085] In a first step, the sampling unit is moved vertically downwards, i.e. on the y-axis, to immerse the tips of the cannulas 12 into the tub 28 containing alcohol.

[0086] A small amount of alcohol is drawn from the tray 28 into the cannula via the control unit 6 to denature the biological residues. The sampling unit is then retracted vertically (along the y-axis) via the fifth actuator A5, and the collection vessel 29 is moved from the rinsing position to a rinsing fluid dispensing position, so that the collection vessel 29 is positioned below the sampling device 3. Demineralized water, stored in a container of the device (not shown in the figures), is then introduced into the cannulas 12 via the vacuum hoses, and the cannulas 12 are rinsed with this water, which is collected in the collection vessel 29.

[0087] After rinsing, the cannulas and / or vacuum hoses are preferably dried. This can be done, for example, by separate air nozzles provided in the examination device, which blow air onto the cannulas 12 from the outside. In the present embodiment, air is blown through the vacuum hoses 11 and thus onto the cannulas 12 by means of pneumatics.

[0088] After the sampling devices have been cleaned, the rinsing device 5 is returned to its basic position as shown in Fig. 1 As depicted, withdrawn.

[0089] Subsequently, the control unit 6 and the feeder 1 are positioned such that the horde 13 is shifted diagonally forward by one row in the translational direction in order to sample the next row of five eggs 18 simultaneously.

[0090] This prescribed procedure is repeated until all eggs in the litter, lying one behind the other in a longitudinal direction, have been sampled.

[0091] The position in the matrix at sample collection devices 4, where the extracted fluid volume is placed on the titrant, corresponds to the position of the eggs in the trays. Thus, each egg in the testis can be uniquely assigned to a single sample collection device.

[0092] The entire egg inspection system can be operated via a touch-sensitive computer screen connected to control unit 6. The computer screen is located in the Fig. 2A and B marked with reference number 30.

[0093] An example of a user interface of the software by means of which the device displayed on computer screen 30 is controlled is shown in Fig. 7 depicted. In Fig. 7 This shows a state of the user interface in which the sampling procedure has been completed once. Therefore, in the schematic arrangement of the eggs in the trays shown on the right, the squares are drawn filled in.

[0094] If a particular egg has not yet been sampled, these squares are not filled in but merely drawn with a surrounding line.

[0095] Furthermore, in Fig. 7 It is important to ensure that each tray and the corresponding titer plate into which the samples are placed can be uniquely identified. In this example, this is achieved via an RFID tag, which is attached to each tray and the titer plate. A corresponding titer plate number can be assigned to each tray number stored in the RFID tag.

[0096] Once all eggs in the tray have been sampled as desired, the characterization is usually not carried out within the device according to the invention, but in a separate device. That is, the titer plates filled with samples are removed from the device and transferred to a suitable device for determining the estrone sulfate concentration. Because the arrangement of the eggs in the trays and the position of the sample receiving device into which the corresponding liquid from each egg in the tray is released are known, it is possible to determine later which egg in the tray corresponds to which result on the titer plate.

[0097] Since egg size can vary depending on the laying hen's age, it is often difficult to sample all eggs with the same cannula length (cannula protruding from the base 19). This is because the protruding cannula length determines the depth from which the corresponding amount of fluid is extracted from the egg 18. For example, to extract allantoic fluid, a predetermined depth must always be reached at a previously defined angle.

[0098] The protruding length of the cannula can be adjusted via the control unit. For example, the control unit can adjust and vary the cannula length based on information about the respective egg, thus selectively specifying a depth from which the fluid is extracted for each egg, depending on its properties such as its thickness.

[0099] Alternatively or additionally, or even if the protruding cannula length cannot be changed, the control unit can advance the sampling device until the cannula is immersed in the fluid within the egg (allantoic). The control unit can, for example, detect the cannula's immersion in the fluid (allantoic) and stop the forward movement of the sampling device when the desired depth is reached. The aspiration process then begins.

[0100] The length adjustment of the cannulas can also constitute an invention in itself, independent of the egg examination device.

[0101] In Fig. 5A und 5B A detailed view of the sample delivery and cleaning assembly 26 is shown. This assembly has a cover 35 for protection against environmental influences such as dust, a first support surface 36 on which the rinsing device 5 rests, and a second support surface 37 on which the sample receiving devices 4, grouped in the titration plate, are placed. As shown in Fig. 5B As shown, two titer plates are provided. Instead of the titer plate, a fleece can also be provided, in which the extracted sample is deposited at various points.

[0102] Each of the two storage surfaces is independently attached to a translationally movable arm. The two arms can move independently of each other from their home position to the corresponding dispensing position for the sample acquisition unit or for the rinsing or blow-out position for the rinsing unit via the seventh actuator A7, the rinsing device 5, or the titer plate / fleece.

[0103] The cleaning assembly 26 can also constitute an invention in itself, independent of the egg inspection device.

[0104] As in Fig. 6 As shown, the egg stamps 24 are designed as slightly conical plastic sleeves 39, which have an element 38 made of regulating and compensating material, e.g., compressible material, in their center. The egg stamps 24 are moved by the pistons attached to their undersides by the in Fig. 1 The third actuator A3 shown is moved translationally. In this process, the tip of the eggs is brought into contact with the element 38 made of regulating and compensating material, and the eggs are held in their circumferential direction by the conical plastic sleeves 39, which are designed as suction cups encompassing the egg head.

[0105] To better determine the positioning of the eggs, instead of element 38 made of regulating and compensating material, light elements, such as an LED unit, can be incorporated, enabling candling. This lighting of the eggs allows for a more precise determination of the positions of different groups within the egg. For example, the egg can be readjusted to better target the allantois when pricking. Furthermore, it is conceivable that instead of the mechanically height-adjustable cannulas 12 on the sampling units 3, additional actuators could be provided, allowing automatic adjustment of the cannula length via the control unit 6.

[0106] It is advantageous, for example, to determine the size and shape of each egg 18 using an observation device, such as a camera, in order to obtain information about the properties or position of each egg using image processing methods. This information can be transmitted to the control device 6, which then adjusts the length of the respective cannula 12 of the respective sampling unit 3 accordingly via the actuators of the sampling devices. A connection with a camera and light source for aligning the egg is conceivable.

[0107] In the present embodiment, samples are taken from five eggs simultaneously. Sampling is not limited to five eggs. For the purposes of this invention, a single sampling unit is sufficient. Preferably, however, at least two, and in particular up to ten, eggs can be sampled simultaneously.

[0108] Even though the second embodiment uses vacuum control for sampling, alternatively, as in the first embodiment, a simple syringe can be provided which can be operated via a mechanical piston.

[0109] In the present embodiment of the egg examination device, it is particularly effective to pierce the eggs in an automated manner at an oblique angle, wherein preferably the sampling device, i.e. the cannula arranged on it, is pierced in a vertical direction, i.e. in the direction of gravity, with each egg being aligned slightly obliquely at an angle of 20° to 80°.

[0110] For this purpose, the eggs stored in the trays are fed in at an angle to the direction of gravity via the feeding device and then lifted out of the respective mesh of the tray perpendicular to this inclined surface using the lifting device.

[0111] The eggs are held individually in the lifting device, in this case by means of plastic sleeves 39, which are formed as egg-head-encompassing suction cups, and the stop element, laterally, frontally and rearally and independently of the tray, in order to ensure selective, precise piercing at a predefined angle and to sample eggs.

[0112] Because the cannula 12 is inserted in a vertical direction (in the direction of gravity), the angle at which the feeding device 1 feeds the eggs essentially corresponds to the oblique position of the eggs in relation to the cannula 12.

[0113] Particularly advantageous angle ranges are between 30° and 60°, preferably between 40° and 50°, and especially 45°. It is particularly advantageous to define the angle such that it is the angle between the cannula and the axis of rotation of the egg, as seen from the base of the egg and not from the tip.

[0114] When the egg is rotated by exactly the angle described above in relation to its base, it has been shown that the allantoic fluid collects to a suitable extent at a well-defined point in the egg, so that a well-defined amount of allantoic fluid can be extracted using the cannula.

[0115] To make this procedure even more reproducible, it is advantageous for the cannula tip to have at least two openings. Experience has shown that using only one opening does not guarantee ideal sample collection under all conditions. More than two openings in the cannula are also possible. In some circumstances, even a single opening in the cannula may be advantageous.

[0116] Advantageously, the examination device can be equipped with a UV lamp unit 41 (see below). Fig. 1 ) be provided so that UV light from this UV lamp unit 41 is emitted onto the region where the sampling of the eggs takes place.

[0117] In particular, a UV tube extending along the z-axis, i.e., along the direction of the adjacent eggs, can be used. Specifically, it has been found that placing the UV lamp unit 41 between the sampling unit 3 and the sample dispensing and cleaning assembly 26 is advantageous.

[0118] Furthermore, the angle at which the feeder 1 feeds the tray can also be selectively changed depending on egg characteristics. The settings of the entire device can be made via the control unit 6.

[0119] In particular, if the egg examination device is equipped with a system for determining the position of the eggs, for example an optical camera system, this image information can be processed to selectively determine the positioning of the individual eggs for extracting the amount of fluid, depending on the egg thickness and egg size, and / or to determine the cannula length.

[0120] For selective extraction of liquid quantities tailored to the egg's properties, the vacuum hoses can be designed in such a way that their pressure can be adjusted independently of each other.

[0121] Furthermore, instead of having the individual sampling devices attached to a base plate, it can also be advantageous for the individual sampling devices to be able to be moved relative to each other.

[0122] Insofar as the invention refers to the lifting device, this can also be omitted entirely, and any combination or configuration of sampling device, rinsing device, sample receiving device, tray, control device, position determination device, or even a single one of these elements constitutes an invention in itself. The aforementioned devices or elements can each also constitute a separate invention independently of the other components of the overall device.

[0123] The disclosure of German patent application No. 10 2015 226 490.4 concerning the method and details for determining the estrone sulfate concentration in allantoic fluid using the double antibody technique is made, by means of this reference, to the disclosure content of the present application. Bezugszeichenliste

[0124] Feeding device 1 Lifting device 2 Sampling device 3 Sample receiving device 4 Rinsing device 5 Control unit 6 Egg stamp 7 Stop element 8 Syringe 9 Base plate 10 Vacuum hose 11 Cannula 12 Tray 13 Frame 14 Rail 16 Grid 17 Egg 18 Stop surface 19 Cannula 12 Fastening element 20 Plate element 21, 22 Light barrier 25 Sample dispensing and cleaning assembly 26 Alcohol tray 28 Collection vessel 29 Computer screen 30 Gauge 31 Step 32 Counter surface 33 Cover 35 First support surface 36 Second support surface 37 Soft material element 38 Conical plastic ring 39 UV lamp unit 41 First actuator A1 Second actuator A2 Third actuator A3 Fourth actuator A4 Fifth actuator A5 Sixth actuator A6 Seventh actuator A7

Claims

1. Examination device for eggs comprising: a sampling device (3) by means of which a liquid sample to be taken can be taken from a respective egg (18) of a tray (13) filled with eggs, a feeding device (1) for feeding the tray (13) filled with eggs to the sampling device (3), and a control unit (6) by means of which the feeding device (1) and the sampling device (3) can be controlled, characterised in that the feeding device (1) is designed in such a way that it feeds the tray (13) to the sampling device (3) at an oblique angle of between 20° and 80° to a plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, so that the respective egg (18) is brought into a sampling position in which the egg (18) can be pierced by the sampling device at an angle to its rotation axis, and so that the amount of liquid to be taken can be taken from the egg (18) in the sampling position by means of the sampling device (3).

2. Examination device for eggs according to claim 1, characterised in that the sampling device (3) comprises a cannula (12) which is connected to a vacuum generating device, wherein the amount of liquid to be taken from the egg (18) can be controlled by means of the control unit (6) via the pressure generated in the vacuum generating device.

3. Examination device for eggs according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the sampling device (3) is movable in the direction of gravity; and is translationally movable parallel to the surface within the tray (13) by the feeding device, and is movable in the direction transverse to the translation direction of the tray (13) dictated by the feeding device.

4. Examination device for eggs according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the examination device for eggs further comprises a sample receiving device (4) which receives the amount of liquid taken from the egg (18) by the sampling device (3) and dispensed from the sampling device (3).

5. Examination device for eggs according to claim 4, characterised in that the examination device for eggs further comprises at least two sample receiving devices (4) combined in one unit, from which the respective amount of liquid taken from the respective egg (18) by the at least two sampling devices (3) can be dispensed.

6. Examination device for eggs according to claim 5, characterised in that the at least two sample receiving devices (4) combined in the unit are formed by a nonwoven or a titre plate.

7. Examination device for eggs according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the examination device for eggs further comprises a positioning determination device by means of which the position of the egg (18) can be determined, wherein the control unit (6) controls the positioning of the egg (18) on the basis of the data from the positioning determination device.