Laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly, measuring dummy product and laboratory centrifuge

Description

TECHNICAL AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] Laboratory centrifuges are used, for example, in biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, medical technology, and environmental analysis. Using such a laboratory centrifuge, a product, which consists of a sample container with a sample inside, is centrifuged at speeds exceeding 3,000 rpm, for example, more than 15,000 rpm. The samples can be placed directly in the sample container, which might be a vial held in a sample container holder of the centrifuge's rotor unit, or multiple sample containers can be held by a collection container, particularly a swing-out container of a swing-out laboratory centrifuge, which is then attached to the base of the rotor unit. The centrifugation process is intended to generate accelerations acting on the product, exceeding, for example, 15,000 xg (especially more than 16,000 xg).The centrifugation force can range from 000 xg to more than 20,000 xg and even more than 60,000 xg. The purpose of centrifugation is to separate a mixture of substances formed by the sample into components of different densities. Depending on the chemical and / or physical properties of the mixture and the desired result, the pressure and / or temperature can be precisely controlled during centrifugation. A laboratory centrifuge can have a fixed-angle rotor unit or a swing-out rotor unit. To name just a few examples, a laboratory centrifuge can be used in conjunction with polymerase chain reaction (PCR), hematocrit determination, cytological examinations, or the centrifugation of microtiters, blood bags, petroleum containers, or blood vessels, among other things.

[0002] As a result of the high rotational speeds of the rotor unit of the laboratory centrifuge, on which the products are held (possibly pivotable due to the centrifugal force), and the air movement generated by this, heat is introduced into a centrifuge chamber of the laboratory centrifuge.

[0003] Furthermore, the varying ambient temperature of the laboratory centrifuge and the heat emitted by its drive train can lead to heat input into the centrifuge chamber. If it is necessary for the products to maintain a constant temperature or follow a predefined temperature profile during centrifugation, the centrifuge chamber, in which the rotor unit and products are located, must be temperature-controlled by a temperature control circuit. To regulate the output of the temperature control circuit and ensure a constant temperature or a predefined temperature profile, temperature measurement using a temperature sensor is required. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] For example, it is known from publications EP 3 479 903 B1 and EP 3 056 280 B1 to measure the temperature in a centrifuge chamber using a temperature sensor attached to the bottom of a centrifuge vessel that forms the boundary of the chamber. Calibration tests are then used to determine a characteristic curve that illustrates the relationship between the product temperature and the temperature measured by the sensor in the area of ​​the centrifuge vessel's bottom. Determining such a characteristic curve may be necessary for different types of laboratory centrifuges, rotor units, or sample containers and the samples arranged therein.

[0005] Determining and using specific characteristic curves is complex. Therefore, there is a desire to measure the temperature directly in the sample container and in the sample itself during centrifugation. The following aspects have proven problematic: The temperature sensor's electrical power supply must be routed to the rapidly rotating rotor unit, necessitating the use of sliding contacts. Reading and transmitting the measurement results from the rotating sample container is not straightforward. When the temperature sensor rotates with the rotor unit, it is subjected to the accelerations resulting from centrifugation.

[0006] DE 10 2011 100 044 B4 discloses a laboratory centrifuge with automated rotor type detection by means of a sensor arrangement that includes several permanent magnets distributed around the circumference of the rotor unit for coding the rotor unit. Magnetic sensors are also arranged around the circumference of a sensor carrier opposite the rotor unit in the centrifuge vessel. These sensors detect the position of the permanent magnets on the rotor unit and, based on the position and number of permanent magnets, can then identify the rotor type. According to DE 10 2011 100 044, an evaluation unit located next to the motor of the laboratory centrifuge and below the centrifuge vessel can include a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature in the centrifuge vessel.

[0007] DE 10 2013 220 469 A1 discloses a conversion of the mechanical rotational energy of the rotor unit during the centrifugation process by means of induction, whereby a magnet is fixedly arranged in the housing while a coil rotates with the rotor unit (or vice versa). The electrical power generated by induction can then be used to supply power to loads, such as a thermocouple (in particular an SMD resistor) or temperature sensors (in particular an NTC temperature sensor).

[0008] EP 3 056 280 B1 discloses the arrangement of a temperature sensor in the space between a boiler bottom and the underside of the rotor unit. Alternatively, it is proposed that the temperature sensor can be arranged in a housing that defines the interior space. The temperature sensor can be embedded in a wall defining the interior space of the laboratory centrifuge, or the temperature sensor can project from the wall into the interior space, in which case the temperature sensor can be freely exposed to the flowing fluid or shielded from the flow of fluid by cover plates or ribs. Finally, it is also possible that the temperature sensor is arranged in a flow-stabilized recess of a housing or a wall defining the interior space, or in a flow-stabilized undercut of the housing.The temperature sensor can also be arranged in or on a rotating component of the laboratory centrifuge, in particular on or within the rotor unit or a drive shaft for the rotor unit. Alternatively, it is also proposed that the temperature sensor be located in or on a sample container of the laboratory centrifuge. It is possible that a power supply and / or a transmission of the temperature sensor's measurement signal from the rotating component to a stationary component, in particular with a connection to a control unit, is provided, which is to be ensured via slip ring contacts. A wireless power supply and / or a wireless transmission of the temperature sensor's measurement signal, in particular by means of an RFID sensor, is also proposed. Wireless power supply to the temperature sensor can be provided via electromagnetic waves.The transmission of the measurement signal from the temperature sensor to a receiver on the housing can also be wireless, using electromagnetic waves. The temperature sensor's measurement signal is fed to a control unit, which may be the control unit of the laboratory centrifuge. This control unit may be responsible for controlling the centrifuge's drive, ensuring the lid is properly closed before operation, and / or setting operating conditions for the centrifuge. The control unit may include control logic that processes the measurement signal, in particular by filtering it and / or applying a calibration factor.If the measurement signal or a temperature signal calculated from it exceeds a threshold value, an entry can be made in an error memory, an optical or acoustic signal can be generated, a display can be generated on a screen of the laboratory centrifuge, the temperature control circuit can be influenced, the drive of the rotor unit can be changed, or the centrifugation process can be terminated.

[0009] EP 3 505 258 B1 proposes to attach a circuit board to a spring-mounted and damping-mounted drive train for the rotor unit of a laboratory centrifuge, on which, in addition to tilt sensors and acceleration sensors, a temperature sensor can also be arranged.

[0010] From EP 3 560 592 A2, it is known to equip a rotating sample container, in particular a swing-out container, with an RFID device. The RFID device is intended to enable, on the one hand, a wireless power supply and, on the other hand, the exchange of information between the sample container and the base of the rotor unit of the laboratory centrifuge or the laboratory centrifuge itself.The exchanged information can include identification of the specific sample container or type, or operational data (production date of the sample or sample container, date the sample was placed in the container, sample specifications, maximum permissible sample temperature, centrifugation process data such as centrifugation duration, rotational speed profile, maximum rotational speed, maximum angular acceleration, and sensor readings such as accelerometers, rotational speed sensors, velocity sensors, tilt sensors, temperature sensors, etc.). To minimize the accelerations acting on the RFID device during the centrifugation process, the RFID device can be positioned on the side of the sample container adjacent to the axis of rotation. Conversely, the RFID device's antenna can be located on the side facing away from the axis of rotation.A transmitting and / or receiving device communicating with the antenna can then be arranged in the area of ​​the centrifuge chamber of the laboratory centrifuge. Alternatively, the antenna can be arranged on the side of the rotor unit facing the lid or the bottom of the laboratory centrifuge, preferably at a small distance from the axis of rotation. Wireless power supply to the RFID device can be provided by a transmitter that rotates with the rotor unit or is fixed to the housing, for example, on a wall of the centrifuge chamber. The RFID device can include a circuit board on which a sensor is mounted that detects an operating parameter. This operating parameter can be the number of operating cycles that the sample container has undergone. The circuit board of the RFID device can also include a memory unit that enables the storage of at least one operating parameter.A cycle counter for the number of operating cycles of the sample container allows for monitoring of the sample container's lifespan or maintenance intervals. A sensor on the RFID device's circuit board can also detect the rotor unit's angular velocity, acceleration, the swing angle of the vibrating container, the sample container's temperature, and / or any imbalance. The RFID device can be located anywhere inside or outside the sample container, or distributed across various locations, and can be connected to the sample container's housing or lid in any way, including by flange mounting, screwing, gluing, a snap-fit ​​or locking mechanism, or a positive-locking or snap-fit ​​connection.For signal transmission, the rotor unit can also serve as a kind of bridge between the RFID device and a housing-mounted control unit of the laboratory centrifuge. A transmitting and / or receiving device can also be designed as a ring antenna or ring segment antenna, which can be arranged in the area of ​​a lid or base of the laboratory centrifuge and then extends concentrically to the axis of rotation over a partial or the entire circumference.

[0011] According to DE 10 2020 119 438 A1, the problem of temperature differences between the interior of a laboratory centrifuge's boiler and the sample temperature is addressed by ensuring that the temperature control circuit is located as close as possible to the sample. For this purpose, the temperature control circuit can be routed through the rotor unit. DE 10 2020 119 438 A1 also proposes integrating a temperature sensor into the rotor unit immediately adjacent to the cavity of the rotor unit's base body in which the product is held.

[0012] WO 00 / 58013 A1 deals with the generation of a chemical reaction in a sample, whereby the reaction should occur as quickly and homogeneously as possible throughout the entire sample. The reaction can be accelerated by heating the sample. However, heating the sample in a container can lead to inhomogeneous heating with higher temperatures near the container walls than in the interior of the sample. Such temperature gradients are undesirable. WO 00 / 58013 proposes initiating the reaction of the sample in the rotor of a centrifuge.A temperature gradient is deliberately created within the sample by cooling the portion of the vessel containing the sample that is located in a receptacle of the rotor, while a section of the vessel protruding from the rotor is guided through a housing-mounted, encapsulated heating element. This heating element can extend over the entire circumference of the vessel's path or only a portion thereof. The vessels are inclined relative to the rotor axis such that the section protruding from the rotor is located further away from the rotor axis than the section located in the receptacle. The heating by the element causes the sample in the section located further away from the rotor axis to lose density compared to the portion of the sample located further radially inward and cooled by the rotor.This change in density, resulting from the generated temperature gradient, leads to an exchange of the sample material between the aforementioned sections due to centrifugation. This creates an automatic mixing motion and is intended to homogenize the chemical reaction. To control the temperature of the heating device, WO 00 / 58013 proposes placing a temperature sensor, preferably an IR sensor, in a sample within a vessel. The measured temperature is transmitted via a transmitter connected to the temperature sensor to a housing-mounted receiver, which then sends the temperature signal to an electronic control unit. This electronic control unit regulates the rotor speed and the heating and cooling system.

[0013] EP 3 056 280 B1 discloses a laboratory centrifuge without temperature control, in which, during operation, heating occurs due to heat conduction from the drive housing to the rotor chamber housing with heat radiation into the rotor chamber, as well as due to the rotational movement of the rotor, the movement of the fluid in the rotor chamber, and the generation of friction in the rotor bearings. EP 3 056 280 B1 proposes to measure the temperature of the fluid inside the laboratory centrifuge using a temperature sensor.The temperature sensor is designed to detect unwanted temperature changes, particularly those that occur when an inlet and / or outlet of the laboratory centrifuge is exposed to a cooling airflow, or when a fluid flow entering the interior through the inlet or outlet is heated by a heater in the room housing the laboratory centrifuge, or when the laboratory centrifuge is temporarily exposed to sunlight. The laboratory centrifuge has a control unit that receives the electrical signal from the temperature sensor. The control unit can filter the temperature sensor signal to eliminate dynamic temperature fluctuations.The control unit can also calculate an estimated temperature at another location within the laboratory centrifuge from the signal by converting the relationship between this temperature at that location and the signal measured by the sensor. This relationship can be determined a priori from the physical conditions or through measurements. A temperature within the sample can also be inferred from this relationship. The relationship can be functional, mathematically formulated, or a characteristic curve, and can take into account different operating conditions such as the drive speed, the number or type of sample containers in the rotor, or varying environmental conditions. TASK OF INVENTION

[0014] The invention is based on the objective of providing a new and / or improved possibility to propose the acquisition of temperature in a laboratory centrifuge, the measurement of temperature without influencing the process conditions, the multifunctional use of a sensor and / or the assembly effort for carrying out a measurement with a sensor. SOLUTION

[0015] The object of the invention is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent claim. Further preferred embodiments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The problem underlying the invention is solved by a novel use of a measuring dummy product in which a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly comprises at least three components, namely the measuring dummy product, an electronic assembly (which is preferably designed as an electronic module), and a connecting cable, in particular a flexible one, via which the measuring dummy product is connected to the electronic assembly. The connecting cable can, for example, be designed as a flat ribbon cable or a twin cable.

[0017] The dummy device is specifically designed by incorporating a sensor, preferably a temperature sensor, which is located within a measuring substance arranged in the dummy device. The dummy device serves to acquire a measurement signal from the sensor, which is then transmitted via the connecting cable to the electronic assembly for further processing. At least one dummy device can be centrifuged in a laboratory centrifuge together with conventional products containing samples in sample containers. In this case, the products and at least one dummy device are arranged in sample container holders of the rotor unit.It is possible that the dummy product matches the corresponding properties of the product with regard to weight, geometry, mass distribution, and flow conditions, so that the dummy product does not change the process conditions in the laboratory centrifuge compared to an operation in which only products are centrifuged, in which case the dummy product is replaced by a product. If the dummy product differs from the products with regard to at least one of the aforementioned properties, a small, potentially acceptable change in the process conditions occurs during operation of the laboratory centrifuge, so that the measurement signals from the dummy product measured by the sensor are transferable to operation of the laboratory centrifuge without a dummy product.

[0018] According to the invention, the dummy measurement product is used unchanged for several centrifugation processes in order to record measurement signals with the sensor during the multiple centrifugation processes. For example, the previously described dependency can be determined for centrifugation processes with different process parameters. It is also possible for one dummy measurement product to be used for several centrifugation processes during a production operation.

[0019] It is possible that in a production setting, a laboratory centrifuge is used to centrifuge products on a rotor unit, which are then processed further. Simultaneously, a dummy product is used, the measurement signal of which provides information about an operating parameter, particularly the temperature of a sample in the simultaneously centrifuged products. However, it is also possible that the dummy product (possibly together with other dummy products or with actual products) is used solely in a calibration setting, where the aforementioned relationship is determined. If subsequent production runs are then conducted exclusively with actual products, the relationship determined using the dummy product can then be used to infer the state of the sample within the product, particularly its temperature.

[0020] Preferably, the measuring dummy product used according to the invention fulfills one, any number and combinations or all of the following conditions: It is possible that the dummy product differs from the actual product or sample container. For example, the dummy product may differ from the actual product or sample container in terms of color, markings, shape (cross-section, length, etc.), composition of the substance it contains, components, mass, and / or mass distribution. It is also possible that the dummy product, at least in the area designated for insertion into the sample container holder, has a geometry that corresponds to the geometry of a sample container intended for centrifugation. Therefore, no modifications or additional supports for the dummy product's insertion into the sample container holder are required.It is possible that the dummy product, at least in the area protruding from the sample container, has a geometry that corresponds to the geometry of a sample container of a product to be centrifuged in that area. This has the advantage that when the dummy product is replaced, for example for calibration, with a product positioned in the same location for production, there is no change in the flow conditions between rotation of the rotor unit with the dummy product and rotation of the rotor unit with a product that has been replaced by the dummy product. Therefore, the measurement results from calibration with the dummy product are readily transferable to production.While a product's sample container generally has a lid that can be easily removed from the container body to allow sample removal after centrifugation, a dummy product may have a lid that is not non-destructively removable without tools, is permanently attached (e.g., glued), sealed, and / or sealed to the sample container body. While a sample container lid generally has no opening, a dummy product lid may have an opening, particularly a through-hole, through which a connecting cable, a holder, and / or a lance can extend.

[0021] A measurement signal generated by the sensor of the measuring dummy product can be transmitted (with or without prior processing) via the connecting cable (directly or via the interposition of further electrical components) to the electronic assembly.

[0022] The electronic assembly in which the measuring dummy product can be used according to the invention can, within the scope of the invention, comprise one, any number and combination, or all of the following components: The electronic assembly may include an electronic control unit that, for example, controls the sending and / or receiving of data, controls a storage unit, processes and evaluates the measurement data, generates an error signal, and / or controls other components of the electronic assembly. The electronic assembly may include an evaluation unit. The electronic assembly may include a storage unit. The storage unit may, for example, store the dependency described above. It is also possible that the storage unit contains a calibration factor, a calibration curve, or a characteristic map that is characteristic of the sensor of the dummy product and / or enables the conversion of the electrical measurement signal into a physical quantity, in particular a temperature.On the other hand, measurement signals can be stored in the storage device before or after processing, so that they can be read out, for example, during operation of the laboratory centrifuge, at a later time, or even only after the centrifugation has finished. The electronic assembly may include a readout device through which data stored in the storage device can be read out. The electronic assembly may include a battery and / or accumulator, which can supply power to the components of the electronic assembly and / or the sensor in the dummy product. The electronic assembly may also include a transmission device, which is a wired or wireless transmitter and / or receiver, through which measurement data before or after processing and / or calibration factors, calibration curves, sensor characteristic maps, or other information can be transmitted.Alternatively or cumulatively, the transmission device may enable the transfer of energy to recharge a battery, whereby the transmission device can receive the energy, for example, by means of an ultrasonic or IR source. It is also possible that the electronic assembly includes a power supply unit which preferably converts kinetic energy into electrical energy to power the electronic assembly and / or the sensor based on the rotation of the electronic assembly with the rotor unit.

[0023] In the laboratory centrifuge dummy unit, in which the dummy unit can be used according to the invention, the outer contour of the dummy unit is designed to be suitable for insertion into a sample container receptacle of a base body of a rotor unit of a laboratory centrifuge or of a swing-out chamber of a laboratory centrifuge. The electronics assembly has a mounting area with which the electronics assembly can be attached to a rotor part of the rotor unit. The rotor part to which the electronics assembly can be attached is, for example, a base body or cover of the rotor unit, a mounting screw or fastening element with which the base body and the cover of the rotor unit can be attached to a drive train, or a swing-out chamber.

[0024] In the laboratory centrifuge dummy product assembly according to the invention, the connecting cable serves to bridge the gap between the dummy product and the electronics assembly. If the connecting cable is flexible, this enables particularly easy assembly, namely the attachment of the electronics assembly to the rotor part of the rotor unit and the insertion of the dummy product into the sample container receptacle of the rotor unit's base body.

[0025] The connecting cable can have any configuration with any number of conductors and can be used to transmit analog or digital signals of any format and data packets. The connecting cable can also be configured as a bus line. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the connecting cable outside the measuring dummy product has a length of at least 2 cm (preferably at least 3 cm, at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm) that is free and flexible, especially when mounted. Such a length of connecting cable is advantageous for assembly.

[0026] According to the invention, the connecting cable has at least one plug, a terminal, a spring contact, or a sliding contact. For example, the connecting cable can have a connecting cable section, one end of which is connected to the electronic assembly and the other end of which has a first plug. In this case, a second connecting cable section can be connected to the sensor at one end, while the other end is connected to a second plug. For assembly, the first plug is then connected to the second plug. It is also possible that the connecting cable has a plug at at least one end that can then be inserted into a mating plug of the electronic assembly and / or the measuring dummy product.When using a spring contact or sliding contact, an electrical connection can be established with the assembly and a relative movement of mounted parts by closing the contact using the spring contact or sliding contact.

[0027] In principle, the sensor arranged in the measuring dummy product can generate any measurand. For example, the sensor can be used to measure acceleration. It is also possible for the sensor to detect the movement or flow velocity of the substance being measured. The sensor can also detect a physical property of the substance being measured. For example, the dielectric constant of the substance being measured can be measured in the sensor's vicinity, from which it can be deduced whether the substance has been separated into components of different densities as a result of centrifugation. Preferably, the sensor is designed as a temperature sensor, in which case, for example, the temperature sensor can be a resistance temperature sensor. Such resistance temperature sensors are also referred to as "Resistance Temperature Detectors" (abbreviated "RTDs").Such resistance temperature sensors have a resistance that changes depending on the temperature. This change in resistance can be measured based on an electric current passed through the electrical resistance. The current is preferably generated by the electronic assembly and conducted to the sensor via the connecting cable. For example, a temperature sensor marketed under the designation "Pt 100" or "Pt 1000" may be used within the scope of the invention. The invention also includes embodiments in which several of the aforementioned sensors can be used in a dummy product. In this case, sensors of different types can be used to measure different physical quantities in the dummy product. It is also possible for several temperature sensors to measure the temperature at different locations, particularly at different heights within the substance being measured.

[0028] There are various ways to hold the sensor in the measuring dummy product. In one embodiment of the invention, the measuring dummy product has a lance. The lance is held by a lid of the measuring dummy product and extends at least partially through a base body (in particular, a vessel) of the measuring dummy product. It is possible that the lance projects freely from the lid into the interior of the base body, so that the lance is attached solely to the lid. In this case, the lance has sufficient (flexural) stiffness to maintain a predetermined position even under the centrifugal forces resulting from centrifugation.It is also possible that the lance is supported on the base of the dummy product body in the area facing away from the dummy product cover, and / or additionally supported along its length, for example by radial supports or a support disc. The lance then carries the sensor, for example in the end region facing away from the dummy product cover. It is also possible that the section of the connecting cable extending along the lance is attached to the lance itself, or that this section of the connecting cable extends through a longitudinal recess in the lance.

[0029] It is possible that the measurand in the dummy sample is the same substance as the substance of the sample or a component of the sample. Alternatively, the dummy sample could contain a specific measurand with different physical properties than the sample in the product centrifuged in the laboratory centrifuge. In this case, the physical properties of the measurand can be chosen to achieve the best possible measurement results, to enable the dummy sample to be used for a variety of centrifugation processes, and so on. It is also possible to choose the physical properties of the measurand to provide a good approximation or average for the relevant physical properties of different sample types that are to be centrifuged in a laboratory centrifuge.

[0030] In one aspect of the invention, a measuring substance is arranged in the dummy product used according to the invention. In this case, a dependency is stored in the electronic assembly that enables the conversion of a measured quantity detected by the sensor in the measuring substance during operation of the laboratory centrifuge into a corresponding state variable in a sample of the product centrifuged together with the dummy product. Preferably, the dependency is configured such that a measured temperature change of the measuring substance in the dummy product as a result of centrifugation can be converted into a different temperature change of the product sample as a result of centrifugation. This different temperature change can be due, on the one hand, to the fact that the sample and the measuring substance have different compositions and / or physical properties.However, it is also possible that the dependency takes into account that the quantity, geometry, or fill levels of the measuring substance on the one hand and the sample on the other hand are different.

[0031] As previously explained, a direct connection between the sensor and the electronics assembly can be established via the connecting cable. In this case, the sensor may simply generate an electrical signal, which the electronics assembly can then convert into a corresponding physical quantity using a dependency or calibration factor. In this scenario, the "processing intelligence" is located entirely within the electronics assembly. Alternatively, the dummy sensor product could incorporate an electronics dummy assembly, positioned between the sensor and the electronics assembly. This electronics dummy assembly could preprocess the sensor's measurement signal, thus transmitting a pre-processed signal to the electronics assembly.For example, a specific calibration factor or other specific dependency can be stored for several dummy measurement products in the electronic dummy measurement assembly, specific to the sensor located in each dummy measurement product. In this case, preprocessing the measurement signal can result in tolerance-corrected signals being transmitted to the electronic assembly, regardless of tolerance-related differences in the measurement behavior of the respective sensors, taking into account the specific calibration factor or specific dependency.

[0032] According to the invention, the measuring dummy product is used for a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly, as previously described. The measuring dummy product can have any of the aforementioned features that further specify the measuring dummy product. In this case, the measuring dummy product has a plug, a spring contact, a terminal, or a sliding contact that enables an electrical connection between the measuring dummy product and the electronics assembly of the laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly, which can be achieved via the connecting cable or a connecting cable section. It is possible that several measuring dummy products are present, which may contain different measuring substances to simulate the behavior of different samples, or which may have different geometries for insertion into different sample holders of the rotor unit.It is then possible, depending on requirements, to connect another of these specific measuring dummy products in conjunction with a multifunctional electronic assembly attached to the rotor unit, whereby the connection is made possible via the plug, spring contact, terminal or sliding contact.

[0033] For one aspect of the invention, the measuring dummy product is used in a laboratory centrifuge equipped with a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly as previously explained.

[0034] In one embodiment of the invention, when used in a laboratory centrifuge, the measuring dummy product is inserted into a sample container receptacle of a rotor unit or a vibrating chamber, while the electronic assembly is attached in or to a rotor part of the rotor unit or the vibrating chamber. The connecting cable preferably extends freely and flexibly between these components, facilitating assembly and bridging any necessary gaps.

[0035] For use of the dummy device in a laboratory centrifuge, the electronics assembly is attached to the top side of a rotor unit's base. Alternatively, the electronics assembly can be attached to the underside of a rotor unit's base. In this case, the shape of the electronics assembly must be designed to minimize the generation of additional vortices or flow disturbances in the centrifuge chamber during its rotation with the base. This can be achieved, for example, by encapsulating or potting the electronics assembly to minimize its impact on the flow.It is also possible that the base body has a recess on the top or bottom surface, or for example a groove circumferentially around the rotor axis, into which the electronic assembly is partially or completely integrated, ideally with the outer surface of the electronic assembly being flush with the top or bottom surface of the base body of the rotor unit.

[0036] It is possible for the connecting cable to extend through a through-hole in the base body of the rotor unit. This through-hole can be oriented arbitrarily and located in any area of ​​the base body. Preferably, the through-hole extends from a top surface of the base body of the rotor unit, in the area where the connecting cable exits the dummy device, to a bottom surface of the base body of the rotor unit, where the electronic assembly can then be mounted. Routing the connecting cable through the through-hole can guide and protect the cable and allows for a compact design.

[0037] The aforementioned components of the electronic assembly can be partially or completely arranged on a circuit board.

[0038] The electronic assembly can extend at least partially circumferentially around a rotor axis of the laboratory centrifuge. If the electronic assembly includes a circuit board, this can be designed as a circular segment or ring that extends circumferentially around a rotor axis of the laboratory centrifuge and can be arranged concentrically to the rotor axis. With a ring-shaped circuit board, any imbalance resulting from changes in mass distribution caused by the electronic assembly can be at least reduced.

[0039] Within the scope of the invention, it is possible that only one dummy measurement product connected to an electronic assembly is used in the laboratory centrifuge. However, according to one aspect of the invention, it is also possible that at least two dummy measurement products are used simultaneously in the laboratory centrifuge. These at least two dummy measurement products can then each be inserted into product container holders spaced apart around the rotor axis in the circumferential direction, preferably being arranged so uniformly in the circumferential direction that no imbalance results. In this case, it is possible that each dummy measurement product is connected to its own associated electronic assembly. It is also possible that the dummy measurement products are connected to a common, multifunctional electronic assembly.

[0040] The connecting cable can be designed, for example, as a flat ribbon cable or a twin cable.

[0041] To give only examples that do not limit the invention, a conductor part can be led out of an opening of the measuring dummy product, in particular through a sealed through-hole of a measuring dummy product cover, or a plug for a mating plug, which is provided in an end area of ​​the connecting cable or a conductor part, is attached directly to the measuring dummy product cover.

[0042] Advantageous further developments of the invention result from the patent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0043] The advantages of features and combinations of features mentioned in the description are merely exemplary and can have an effect alternatively or cumulatively, without the advantages necessarily having to be achieved by embodiments according to the invention.

[0044] Regarding the disclosure content—not the scope of protection—of the original application documents and the patent, the following applies: Further features can be derived from the drawings—in particular, the geometries depicted and the relative dimensions of several components to one another, as well as their relative arrangement and functional connection. The combination of features from different embodiments of the invention or from features of different claims is also possible, deviating from the chosen cross-references of the claims, and is hereby encouraged. This also applies to features that are illustrated in separate drawings or mentioned in their description. These features can also be combined with features from different claims.Likewise, features listed in the patent claims may be omitted for further embodiments of the invention, but this does not apply to the independent patent claims of the granted patent.

[0045] The features mentioned in the claims and the description are to be understood, with regard to their number, as meaning that exactly that number or a greater number than the stated number is present, without the need for the explicit use of the adverb "at least". Thus, for example, if an element is mentioned, this is to be understood as meaning that exactly one element, two elements, or more elements are present. The features listed in the claims may be supplemented by further features or may be the only features that the subject matter of the respective claim possesses.

[0046] The reference numerals contained in the patent claims do not constitute a limitation of the scope of the subject matter protected by the patent claims. They merely serve the purpose of making the patent claims easier to understand. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0047] The invention will now be further explained and described with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the figures. Fig. 1 The figure shows a longitudinal section along a rotor axis of a rotor unit with a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly. Fig. 2 The figure shows a longitudinal section along a rotor axis of a rotor unit with two laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assemblies. Fig. 3 The figure shows a longitudinal section along a rotor axis of a rotor unit with a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly. Fig. 4 The longitudinal section shows a rotor unit with two laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assemblies along a rotor axis. Fig. 5 schematically shows a top view of an electronics assembly designed as a ring-shaped circuit board of a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly. FIGURE DESCRIPTION

[0048] In the figure description and drawings, components, parts, or features that are identical or similar are sometimes marked with the same reference symbols, distinguished from one another by the supplementary letter a, b, etc. In this case, reference can be made to the components, parts, or features with or without the supplementary letter, meaning one, several, or all of them.

[0049] Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a rotor unit 1, which is designed here as a fixed-angle rotor. The rotor unit 1 has a base body 2 and a cover 3. The cover is attached to the rotor by means of a fastening element 4. The base body 2 can have a hub 5 via which the rotor unit 1 can be attached to a drive train (not shown) of the laboratory centrifuge. For this purpose, the base body 2 can be screwed to the drive train by means of a fastening screw, whereby the fastening screw can be inserted from above through the fastening element 4, which is designed as a hollow body, and screwed to the drive train.

[0050] An interior space 6 of the rotor unit 1 is formed between the base body 2 and the cover 3. The base body 2 has sample container receptacles 8a, 8b, ... evenly distributed around its circumference around a rotor axis 7. In contrast to the illustrated embodiment, it is also possible for sample container receptacles to be arranged in two circumferential rows with different diameters. The sample container receptacles 8 are blind-hole shaped with a longitudinal axis inclined relative to the rotor axis 7. In this respect, the rotor unit 1 can, in principle, be designed according to rotor units known from the prior art.

[0051] A product 9 is inserted into a sample container receptacle 8a. The product 9 has a sample container 10 and a sample 11 arranged therein. The sample container 10 comprises a sample container base 12, which forms a receiving vessel for the sample 11, and a sample container lid 13. The sample container lid 13 is detachably connected to the sample container base 12, preferably with a seal, to allow insertion and removal of the sample 11.

[0052] A measuring dummy product 14 is arranged in another sample container receptacle 8b. The measuring dummy product 14 has a measuring dummy product base body 15 and a measuring dummy product lid 16. The measuring dummy product base body 15 is designed as a vessel in which a measuring substance 17 is arranged. Preferably, the fill level of the measuring substance 17 in the measuring dummy product base body 15 is the same as the fill level of the sample 11 in the sample container base body 12.

[0053] A lance 18 is attached to the measuring dummy product lid 16, extending freely from the measuring dummy product lid 16 into a measuring dummy product interior 19. Preferably, the lance 18 extends to immediately adjacent to a floor of the measuring dummy product interior 19. In the end region facing the floor of the measuring dummy product interior 19, the lance 18 carries a sensor 20, which is preferably a temperature sensor 21, for example a resistance temperature sensor 22.

[0054] The sensor 20 is connected via a connecting cable 23 to an electronic assembly 24 (which is preferably designed as an electronic component). The connecting cable 23 extends along the lance 18 and through an opening 42 of the measuring dummy product cover 16, exiting the measuring dummy product cover 16. The connecting cable 23 is flexible and preferably free in the area between the measuring dummy product cover 16 and the electronic assembly 24 without further support. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic assembly 24 is designed as a circuit board 25.

[0055] The base body 2 has a mounting area 27 (in particular a mounting surface) on its upper surface 26, which here is designed as an annular surface that surrounds the rotor axis 7 and extends in a plane vertically to the rotor axis. The circuit board 25 is designed as an annular circuit board 28. The annular circuit board 28 has a mounting area 41 in the area of ​​which the annular circuit board 28 is attached to the mounting area 27 of the base body 2.

[0056] Fig. 2 shows a rotor unit 1, which corresponds to rotor unit 1 according to Fig. 1 This corresponds to the following. In this case, a measuring dummy product 14a, 14b is arranged in each sample container receptacle 8a, 8b, wherein products 9 or measuring dummy products 14 can be arranged in further sample container receptacles arranged in other circumferential areas. For the embodiment according to Fig. 2The measuring dummy products 14a, 14b are each connected via an associated connecting cable 23a, 23b to a common electronic assembly 24, here also in the form of a ring circuit board 28.

[0057] Here, the mounting area 27 and the ring plate 28 are arranged radially between the sample container receptacles 8 and the rotor axis 7, so that the at least one product 9 and the at least one measuring dummy product 14 are arranged outside of the electronic assembly 24 and the ring plate 28.

[0058] At least one measuring dummy product 14, the associated connecting cable 23 and the electronics assembly 24 together form a laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly 29.

[0059] For the in Fig. 3In the illustrated embodiment, the base body 2 of the rotor unit 1 has a through-hole 30 extending from the top 26 to a bottom 31 of the base body 2. The electronics assembly 24, which is also designed as a ring circuit board 28, is arranged on a mounting area 27 in the region of the bottom 31 of the base body 2, specifically at the opening of the through-hole 30. In this illustrated embodiment, the bottom 31 of the base body 2 has a circumferential annular groove 32 into which the ring circuit board 28 is inserted. In this embodiment, the connecting cable 23 extends from the measuring dummy product 14, bent through the interior 6, and then through the through-hole 30 to the electronics assembly 24.

[0060] Fig. 4Figure 1 shows a corresponding embodiment in which, however, two measuring dummy products 14a, 14b with associated connecting cables 23a, 23b are connected to the common electronic assembly 24, here the ring circuit board 28, through through-holes 30a, 30b.

[0061] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows, in a highly schematic and exemplary manner, a ring circuit board 28 forming the electronic assembly 24. The ring circuit board 28 can have at least one connection 33a, 33b or a connector for an associated connecting cable 23a, 23b. Furthermore, the ring circuit board 28 can have an electronic control unit 34, an evaluation unit 35, a storage unit 36, a readout unit 37, a battery or accumulator 38, a transmission unit 39, and a power supply unit 40. Preferably, the components are distributed on the ring circuit board 28 such that the center of gravity of the ring circuit board 28 coincides with the components on the rotor axis 7.

[0062] The electronic assembly 24 has a mounting area 41 by which the electronic assembly 24 is attached to the mounting area 27 of the base body 2. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0063] 1 Rotor unit 2 Base body 3 Cover 4 Mounting element 5 Hub 6 Interior 7 Rotor shaft 8 Sample container holder 9 Product 10 Sample container 11 Sample 12 Sample container base body 13 Sample container cover 14 Measuring dummy product 15 Measuring dummy product base body 16 Measuring dummy product cover 17 Measuring substance 18 Lance 19 Measuring dummy product interior 20 Sensor 21 Temperature sensor 22 Resistance temperature sensor 23 Connecting cable 24 Electronic assembly 25 Circuit board 26 Top side 27 Mounting area 28 Ring circuit board 29 Laboratory centrifuge measuring dummy product assembly 30 Through-hole 31 Bottom side 32 Ring groove 33 Connection 34 Electronic control unit 35 Evaluation unit 36 ​​Storage unit 37 Readout unit 38 Battery or accumulator 39 transmission device 40 power supply device 41 mounting area 42 opening

Claims

1. Use of a measurement dummy product (14) having a sensor (20) arranged in the measurement dummy product (14) for a laboratory centrifuge measurement dummy product assembly (29) comprising a) the measurement dummy product (14) with the sensor (20) arranged therein, b) an electronics assembly (24) which comprises an electronic control unit (34), an evaluation device (35), a storage device (36), a read-out device (37), a battery or an accumulator (38), a transmission device (39) and / or a power supply device (40), wherein preferably components of the electronics assembly (24) are arranged on a circuit board (25), and c) a connecting cable (23) via which the measurement dummy product (14) and the electronics assembly (24) are connected to one another, d) wherein the outer contour of the measurement dummy product (14) is designed for accommodation in a sample container accommodation (8) of a base body (2) of a rotor unit (1) of a laboratory centrifuge or of a swing bucket of a laboratory centrifuge, and the electronics assembly (24) comprises a fastening region (41) for a fastening to a rotor part of the rotor unit (1), wherein the connecting cable (23) comprises a plug, a spring contact, a terminal or a sliding contact for an electrical connection of the measurement dummy product (14) with the electronics assembly (24) of the laboratory centrifuge measurement dummy product assembly (29), and the measurement dummy product (14) is used unchanged for several centrifugation processes.

2. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to claim 1, wherein the measurement dummy product (14) - is designed differently from a product (9) or sample container (10) and / or - is used unchanged for several centrifugation processes and / or - at least in the region intended for accommodation in the sample container accommodation (8) has a geometry corresponding to the geometry of a sample container (10) of a product (9) to be centrifuged in the corresponding region and / or - at least in the region protruding from the sample container accommodation (8) has a geometry corresponding to the geometry of a sample container (10) of a product (9) to be centrifuged in the corresponding region and / or - contains a measurement substance (17) having physical properties different from those of the samples (11) to be centrifuged in the sample containers (10) and / or - comprises a measurement dummy product lid (16) which is connected to a measurement dummy product base body (15) in a way not releasable without destruction or not releasable without tools, in a fixed way or in a sealed way and / or - comprises a measurement dummy product lid (16) having an opening (42) through which the connecting cable (23), a holder and / or a lance (18) extend(s).

3. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to claim 1, wherein the connecting cable (23) has a length of at least 2.0 cm outside the measurement dummy product (14).

4. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a temperature sensor (21) is used as the sensor (20), which is preferably embodied as a resistance temperature sensor (22).

5. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a lance (18) is used which is held on a or the measurement dummy product lid (16) of the measurement dummy product (14), which extends at least partially through a measurement dummy product base body (15) of the measurement dummy product (14), and which carries the sensor (20).

6. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a measurement substance (17) is used in the measurement dummy product (14) which has physical properties different from the sample (11) of the product (9) centrifuged with the laboratory centrifuge.

7. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a measurement substance (17) is used in the measurement dummy product (14) and a dependency is stored in the electronics assembly (24) which enables conversion of a measured variable sensed by the sensor (20) during operation of the laboratory centrifuge in the measurement substance (17) into a corresponding state variable in the sample (11) of the product (9) centrifuged together with the measurement dummy product (14), wherein preferably the dependency is such that a conversion of a measured temperature change of the measurement substance (17) in the measurement dummy product (14) resulting from centrifugation into a different temperature change of the sample (11) of the product (9) resulting from centrifugation is possible.

8. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an electronics measurement dummy unit is used in the measurement dummy product (14), which communicates both with the sensor (20) and with the electronics assembly (24).

9. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of claims 1 to 8 in a laboratory centrifuge.

10. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the measurement dummy product (14) is inserted into a sample container accommodation (8) of a rotor unit (1) or of a swing bucket and the electronics assembly (24) is fastened in or on a rotor part of the rotor unit (1) or of the swing bucket.

11. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to claim 10, wherein the electronics assembly (24) a) is fastened on an upper side (26) of a base body (2) of the rotor unit (1), or b) is fastened on a lower side (31) of a base body (2) of the rotor unit (1).

12. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to claim 11, wherein the connecting cable (23) extends through a through-opening (30) of the base body (2) of the rotor unit (1).

13. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the electronics assembly (24) extends at least partially in the circumferential direction around a rotor axis (7) of the laboratory centrifuge.

14. Use of the measurement dummy product (14) according to one of claims 9 to 13, wherein in at least two product container accommodations (8) spaced apart in the circumferential direction around the rotor axis (7) a measurement dummy product (14a, 14b) is respectively arranged, wherein the measurement dummy products (14a, 14b) are each connected to an electronics assembly (24a, 24b) or to a common electronics assembly (24).