Collecting device for a reaction vessel unit, and reaction vessel unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a collecting device (30) for a reaction vessel unit (21) that has multiple reaction vessels (37), each of which has a respective opening, said openings lying on a common opening plane. The collecting device (30) has a collecting plate (31) which is designed such that the collecting plate is arranged or can be arranged in a centrifuge (1) so as to lie opposite the openings of the reaction vessels (37) and which is designed such that the collecting plate rotates together with the reaction vessel unit (21) during the centrifuge process and liquid exiting the reaction vessels (37) is collected by the collecting plate (31) on the basis of the centrifugal acceleration.

Description

[0001] Collecting device for a reaction vessel unit and reaction vessel unit

[0002] The present invention encompasses a collecting device for a reaction vessel unit and a reaction vessel unit.

[0003] It is known that reaction vessel units containing multiple reaction vessels, such as microtiter plates (MTPs) with their wells, are cleaned by centrifugation. The MTPs are placed on a rotor in a centrifuge's rotor chamber with the openings of the reaction vessels facing away from the rotor's rotational axis, and are centrifuged at a speed of up to several thousand rpm.

[0004] During centrifugation, the ejected contents of the reaction vessels are collected by a wall of the rotor chamber. Substances remaining on the walls and surfaces of the rotor chamber partially flow off and collect in the lower area, but can also drip from the top and enter an MTP located in the rotor chamber. If several MTPs are cleaned consecutively in the centrifuge, there is also a risk of cross-contamination, as centrifuge fluid from one MTP drips into another.

[0005] The rotation of the rotor creates air vortexes in every centrifuge. If liquid contents are ejected from the reaction vessels during rotation, these air vortexes cause the formation of aerosols. These also cause cross-contamination. In genomic applications (typically amplification-based, such as PCR), aerosols are therefore a driving force for contamination.

[0006] It has also been shown that centrifugally cleaned MTPs can still have wet surfaces even when the wells are completely emptied. This can complicate further use, for example, if the MTPs are subsequently sealed with a film. The film is typically glued on to cover the openings of the wells. This can be for sterile interim storage of the MTPs before further use or after filling with a test fluid to isolate the test regime. However, the wetted surface makes it difficult to seal the MTPs with a film.

[0007] DE 10 2017 113 583 A1 discloses a centrifuge in which the housing has a drainage channel below the rotor, and the inner surfaces of the housing adjacent to the channel form a funnel that opens into the channel. This allows the centrifugate accumulating in the rotor chamber to be collected and more effectively removed.

[0008] From DE 10 2021 124 023.9, which was still unpublished at the time of this application, it is known to supply a cleaning solution to the rotor chamber in such a way that the cleaning solution is distributed throughout the rotor chamber by rotating the rotor. Residues of the centrifugate can thus be removed from the walls and surfaces of the rotor chamber by regular, frequent rinsing with cleaning agents.

[0009] DE 20 2014 010 544 U1 discloses a centrifuge for cleaning a reaction vessel unit, in which a gap is provided between the inner surface and a rotor, so that a wind is generated by the rotation of the rotor, which propels the fluid ejected from the inner surface to a drain. The drain is connected to a suction pump for withdrawing the fluid.

[0010] For hygiene reasons, comparatively frequent cleaning cycles are required, resulting in downtime and high operating costs. This approach will be unavoidable, especially for diagnostic applications.

[0011] An object of the invention is to reduce or reliably prevent the risk of contamination of a reaction vessel unit in a centrifuge.

[0012] A further object of the invention is to minimize or reliably prevent the wetting of a reaction vessel unit in a centrifuge.

[0013] A further object of the invention is to minimize the residence time of aerosols in the centrifuge or to prevent the occurrence of aerosols.

[0014] A further object of the invention is to minimize the internal surfaces in the housing that can come into contact with the ejected liquid.

[0015] A further object of the invention is to minimize the volume of space into which liquid particles can penetrate.

[0016] A further object of the invention is to reduce or eliminate the effort required for cleaning the rotor chamber of a centrifuge for MTP.

[0017] A further object of the invention is to keep ejected fluid away from all elements of the device, such as the housing, the rotor, and the rotor shaft, so that these parts do not corrode or are exposed to other chemical interactions with the ejected fluid. This minimizes, among other things, the costs associated with surface treatments of the elements of the device for chemical protection and accelerates and simplifies the manufacturing process. One or more of these objects is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous developments are specified in the respective subclaims.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention, a collecting device for a reaction vessel unit comprising a plurality of reaction vessels is proposed, wherein the reaction vessels each have an opening located in a common opening plane. The collecting device comprises a collecting plate configured such that it can be arranged or is arranged opposite the openings of the reaction vessels in a centrifuge, and configured such that it rotates with the reaction vessel unit during centrifugation, and liquid emerging from the reaction vessels is collected by the collecting plate due to centrifugal acceleration.

[0019] A collecting plate, in the sense of the invention, is a structure having a surface opposite the opening plane of the reaction vessels. Liquid ejected from the reaction vessels by centrifugal acceleration can be collected on the surface and flow along it under the effect of the centrifugal acceleration. In the simplest case, the collecting plate can be flat or substantially flat, arranged parallel to the opening plane, and open at the edge, particularly the flanks. The collecting surface is preferably connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the unit comprising the rotor and the reaction vessel unit and thus rotates at the same rotational speed as the rotor.Since the flank-side edges of the collecting plate are radially furthest away from the axis of rotation, the collected liquid is driven from the center to the flank-side edges of the collecting plate due to centrifugal acceleration and from there thrown into the rotor chamber.

[0020] Ends of the rotor, and thus also of the reaction vessel unit and the collecting device arranged thereon, that are opposite one another in the axial direction of the rotation axis are referred to in this application as end faces. Those ends of the rotor, the reaction vessel unit and the collecting device arranged thereon that are opposite one another transversely to the rotation axis are referred to in this application as flank faces or longitudinal faces. In use, the end faces are arranged transversely to the rotor axis, and the flank faces or longitudinal faces are arranged parallel to the rotor axis.

[0021] In modifications, the collecting plate can also be curved, kinked, or inclined, as long as the collected liquid is directed away from an area opposite the opening plane of the reaction vessels. The liquid discharged from the collecting device can be collected on the walls of the rotor chamber. Since the collecting plate is arranged opposite the openings of the reaction vessels, the collecting plate can also collect liquid dripping from a wall, particularly the upper wall, of the rotor chamber and prevent the reaction vessel unit from being contaminated by the liquid. Even if several reaction vessel units are cleaned one after the other, cross-contamination can be effectively and easily prevented. The collecting device can be reused after cleaning. The collecting device can be made of plastic or metal, for example.For cleaning, chemicals that decompose or inactivate organic molecules can be used, provided the material of the collection device is resistant to the chemical. An autoclave can also be used for cleaning, provided the material of the collection device is resistant to the temperatures used.

[0022] The collecting plate can be arranged or positioned at an angle with respect to the opening plane, so that collected liquid is drained away along the angled collecting plate in the axial direction of a rotational axis of a centrifuge rotor due to centrifugal acceleration in the centrifuge. The axial direction refers to a rotational axis of a centrifuge rotor. In the context of the invention, "angled" means that a height or distance of the collecting plate relative to the opening plane of the reaction vessels varies. The angle can be continuous or discontinuous (bent), constant (straight), or variable over its length (curved). It can run from one end of the collecting device or reaction vessel unit to the other end (one-sided) or from the center to both ends (both sides).Since the opening plane of the reaction vessels usually runs parallel to the rotation axis when the reaction vessel unit is mounted in the centrifuge, the slope also runs at an angle to the rotation axis. Since the collecting plate is designed to be axially inclined relative to the opening plane or the rotation axis, the collected liquid is driven by centrifugal force along the slope to one end of the rotor or rotor chamber, where it can be collected or ejected. The wall of the rotor chamber surrounding the rotor is less wetted, thus further reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

[0023] The collecting device may comprise a suction means arranged and configured on the collecting plate in such a way that it can absorb the collected liquid.

[0024] Such an absorbent can be, for example, a porous material, such as a cellulose layer, and / or an open-cell foam. The liquid emptied from the reaction vessels during centrifugation can be absorbed by the absorbent, preventing backflow or dripping into the reaction vessels. Centrifugation forces the liquid into the absorbent, where it is held by capillary action.

[0025] Such a collecting device is particularly suitable for centrifuges that are not designed for cleaning reaction vessel units and whose rotor chamber, for example, is difficult to access and therefore correspondingly complex to clean.

[0026] The collecting device can have flanks which are preferably arranged circumferentially along the front sides and flank sides, so that the collecting device forms a type of trough in which the liquid emptied from the reaction vessels during centrifugation is collected.

[0027] If the space above the reaction vessel unit within the collecting device is completely enclosed, the rotor chamber will not come into contact with liquid, thus eliminating contamination. It should be noted that axial drainage does not preclude a superimposed movement of the liquid perpendicular to the rotation axis. In other words, the overall drainage movement of the liquid at the collecting plate represents a combination of axial drainage and drainage perpendicular to the axis. Therefore, it can be advantageous if flanks of the collecting device that run laterally along the rotation axis are drawn downward from the collecting plate to form an obstacle to liquid movement perpendicular to the rotation axis.This can facilitate the collection of collected fluid at one axial end by also axially diverting the fluid discharged perpendicular to the axis along the downwardly drawn flanks. This can further improve the concentration of fluids at one end face.

[0028] In particular, the flanks and end faces of the collecting device can be designed to be flush with an edge of the reaction vessel unit. In other words, if the reaction vessel unit with the collecting device is placed on the rotor of the centrifuge, the collecting device designed in this way can create a closed collecting space that is isolated from the rotor chamber. The rotor chamber is not or hardly wetted, therefore the effort required to clean the rotor chamber of a centrifuge for a reaction vessel unit can be reduced or minimized. Because the collecting device rotates with the centrifuge, the air in the rotor chamber is not or hardly swirled, therefore wetting of the surfaces of the reaction vessel units during centrifugation can be avoided. If swirling is low or prevented, aerosol formation in the collecting space is reduced or completely avoided.

[0029] At least one discharge opening can be formed on an end face towards which the collecting plate rises. The discharge opening is preferably flush or substantially flush with the inside of the collecting plate. Collected and discharged liquid is forced outwards and can be collected at the end face or further discharged. Since the outer (flank) ends are located radially further out than the center of the end face during centrifugation, the liquid will preferentially collect there so that it can be best discharged there. It is therefore advantageous if two discharge openings are provided, each at the outer (flank) ends of the end face. The discharge opening can be formed on the end face, i.e. axially, or on the flank, i.e. transversely to the axis.An opening at the top is also conceivable in principle, but then means would have to be provided to prevent dripping back from above and to avoid contamination.

[0030] The discharge opening can have a spout that protrudes beyond the front end. Such a spout moves in a circular path during centrifugation. Collected and discharged substance is expelled outward and can be discharged via the spout into an annular collecting channel in which the spout runs. Contamination of the rotor chamber can be even more effectively prevented, and cleaning effort can be further reduced. As previously stated, it is advantageous to provide two discharge openings, each with such a spout.

[0031] In some embodiments, the collecting device can be loosely, preferably positively, placed on the reaction vessel unit. The collecting device can be provided separately from the centrifuge. The reaction vessel unit can be prepared for centrifugation with the collecting device outside the centrifuge.

[0032] In further embodiments, the collecting device can be detachably connected to the reaction vessel unit. Here, too, the collecting device can be provided separately from the centrifuge. The reaction vessel unit can be captively prepared for centrifugation with the collecting device. The connection can be, for example, a clip connection, a plug connection, a snap connection, or a sliding connection.

[0033] In other embodiments, the collecting device can be detachably connected to a centrifuge rotor. This allows the rotor to be prepared to accommodate a reaction vessel unit. The collecting device can be removed for cleaning and is then ready for use again. The rotor can also be advantageously cleaned with the collecting device removed.

[0034] In further embodiments, the collecting device can be integrated with a centrifuge rotor. In this case, the rotor is ready to accommodate a reaction vessel unit without any further preparation, simplifying laboratory work steps. Cleaning of the collecting device and / or the rotor chamber can be performed jointly or separately by rinsing cycles within the centrifuge or externally.

[0035] The collecting device can also be designed in several parts for easy removal and cleaning.

[0036] In yet further embodiments, the collecting device can be connected or connectable to a rotor shaft of a centrifuge. The connection can be made, for example, by a cage or fork body or holding bracket that can be mounted or flanged into the centrifuge (on the rotor shaft) and which accommodates the collecting device, or the collecting device itself has an extension arm that can be mounted non-rotatably on the rotor shaft. Here, too, the rotor is ready to accommodate a reaction vessel unit without any further preparation; handling the cover on the reaction vessel unit or on the rotor is not necessary. The rotor and collecting device can be cleaned separately. Work steps in the laboratory can be simplified. Cleaning can be done by rinsing cycles in the centrifuge or (after disassembly from the rotor shaft) externally.

[0037] The collecting device can be designed with a circumferential contour that is adapted to the shape of a corresponding reaction vessel unit, so that the collecting device can be placed on the reaction vessel unit, preferably in a form-fitting manner, and in particular in a circumferentially form-fitting manner. This creates a substantially closed collecting chamber, which may be opened only by means of the discharge opening, so that the atmosphere contained therein is completely entrained during rotation in the centrifuge, preventing turbulence that could cause aerosol formation.

[0038] The collecting device can have a contact contour in order to contact a reaction vessel unit which has a corresponding complementary contour, wherein the contact contour and the complementary contour are designed such that the collecting device can only be arranged in a single or unique position on the reaction vessel unit, so that the combination of reaction vessel unit and collecting device can be arranged in a centrifuge.

[0039] The contact contour and the complementary contour can thus be assembled according to the key / lock principle. This ensures that the collecting device can only be arranged in a specific position relative to the reaction vessel unit to prevent incorrect placement. The contact contour and the complementary contour can be designed in such a way that if the collecting device is incorrectly arranged on the reaction vessel unit, the collecting device protrudes further upwards on the reaction vessel unit, so that the combination of reaction vessel unit and collecting device cannot, for example, fit through an opening in the centrifuge or into a collecting area of ​​the centrifuge's rotor. This ensures that the collecting device cannot be inserted into a centrifuge and rotated with an incorrect arrangement on the reaction vessel unit.

[0040] According to a further aspect of the invention, a corresponding reaction vessel unit is provided which has such a complementary contour which is designed to match the contact contour.

[0041] The complementary contour and the contact contour can, for example, be wave-shaped, zigzag-shaped, or comprise pins and corresponding receiving holes. However, any other contours that ensure a clear assignment are possible.

[0042] The reaction vessel unit can also have an asymmetric insertion contour which is adapted to a corresponding receiving contour of a rotor of a centrifuge in such a way that the reaction vessel unit can only be arranged in a single position in the rotor.

[0043] Such an asymmetrical insertion contour includes, for example, ribs that protrude laterally along the flanks of the reaction vessel unit without engaging with the corresponding grooves in the rotor. This ensures that the reaction vessel unit is only inserted into a specific position in the rotor. This, in turn, corresponds to the key / lock principle.

[0044] Such a design of the reaction vessel unit is particularly advantageous in combination with the contact contour of the collecting device explained above and the corresponding complementary contour of the reaction vessel unit as well as the discharge opening of the collecting device, because this ensures that the discharge opening is always arranged on the correct side of the rotor on which the centrifuge is designed accordingly to discharge the liquid.

[0045] Furthermore, the collecting device can have projections in the area of ​​a contact contour for contacting a reaction vessel unit. These projections protrude laterally in such a way that they can be engaged behind by the guides of a rotor, thus rotationally fixing the collecting device and the reaction vessel unit in the rotor. These projections can, for example, be webs projecting laterally along the flank side and resting flat against the reaction vessel unit.

[0046] However, it is also possible that instead of the webs, only a few individual projections or small feet are formed that can be gripped behind to guide the rotor.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, a corresponding reaction vessel unit has one or more recesses for receiving the corresponding projections of the collecting device, such that the side of the projections facing away from the reaction vessel unit is flush with the remaining surface of the reaction vessel unit. With such a design of the reaction vessel units, it is possible to arrange the reaction vessel units with and without a collecting device in the rotor, wherein the reaction vessel unit without a collecting device and the reaction vessel unit with a collecting device are engaged behind by the rotor guide with approximately the same slight play and are thus fixed in the rotor in a rotationally fixed manner. Such a combination of collecting device and reaction vessel unit can also be used in corresponding centrifuges which are not inherently designed to accommodate collecting devices.This combination is particularly advantageous in conjunction with a collecting device having a suction means, which in particular has no discharge opening and hermetically seals the collecting space within the collecting device from the remaining area of ​​the rotor chamber.

[0048] The collecting device and / or the reaction vessel unit are preferably made of a polymer material. They are, in particular, manufactured as injection-molded parts.

[0049] A discharge device may be provided, which is arranged in a rotor chamber of the centrifuge in which the rotor rotates and which is designed to collect liquid discharged by the collecting device. The collecting device can be designed depending on the type of liquid discharged from the collecting device. In particular, the collecting device can be designed to collect liquid that escapes from a discharge opening or spout of the collecting device during centrifugation.

[0050] For example, the drainage device can have an annular groove that is open to the rotor chamber and concentric with the rotation axis, which groove is located opposite a discharge opening of the collecting device. The groove can receive the collected and drained substances from the collecting device without contaminating the rotor chamber. In particular, the groove can have an annular opening in which a spout of the collecting device, from which liquid emerges during centrifugation, can be accommodated. Even without a spout, the drained substances can possibly reach the groove solely due to the velocity of the liquid and with suitable positioning.

[0051] The channel of the discharge device can be located axially opposite the discharge opening of the collecting device. This allows the channel to accommodate a spout that extends axially from the collecting device and rotates in a circular motion as the rotor rotates. The fluid can be collected even more cleanly and reliably. Because the channel accommodates the spout axially outside the end wall of the collecting device, fluid can flow from the channel to the spout, but not to any external surface of the collecting device.

[0052] The trough can have an annular opening formed axially toward the rotor chamber, with the annular opening having an undercut radially inward and / or radially outward. This allows liquids to be collected even more securely and flow freely and unhindered downwards in the trough, where they can be collected and, if necessary, drained or removed.

[0053] With an outlet device formed at a lower end of the drainage device, liquid from the collecting device can be drained directly to the outside.

[0054] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for cleaning a reaction vessel unit having a plurality of reaction vessels, wherein the reaction vessels each have an opening lying in a common opening plane, wherein the reaction vessel unit is received on a rotor of the centrifuge with its openings pointing outwards from a rotation axis of the rotor, and the rotor with the reaction vessel unit arranged thereon is rotated in the centrifuge such that a liquid contained in the reaction vessels is spun out. Using a collecting device having a collecting plate which is arranged radially outwards opposite the opening plane of the reaction vessels and rotates together with the reaction vessel unit, the spun out liquid is collected and drained along the collecting plate.The collecting device and / or the centrifuge is preferably designed according to the description of the above aspects of the invention. The method has essentially the same advantages and effects as the collecting device or centrifuge described above. The reaction vessel unit can be held on the rotor in a conventional manner using form-fitting elements, such as rail-like clamps, into which the reaction vessel unit is pushed. For this purpose, an end wall of the rotor chamber can have a loading window through which the reaction vessel unit can be pushed into and pulled out of the rotor chamber.The use of the collecting device and the execution of the method depend on the type of design and arrangement of the collecting device and can include a loose or fixed attachment of the collecting device to the reaction vessel unit before or after arranging the reaction vessel unit on the rotor, a detachable or non-detachable attachment of the collecting device to the rotor before or (only in the case of a detachable attachment) after arranging the reaction vessel unit on the rotor, and an attachment of the collecting device to a rotor shaft of the drive separately or together with the rotor. For example, a collecting device can be provided permanently on the rotor of the centrifuge. In this case, the reaction vessel unit is simply placed in the centrifuge on the rotor under the collecting plate of the collecting device.In other cases, the collecting device can form a single assembly with the reaction vessel unit, which is assembled outside the centrifuge and loaded into and unloaded from the centrifuge together. The collecting device can be cleaned after one or more centrifugation processes. Cleaning can be achieved by autoclaving and / or chemical agents and / or irradiation. Cleaning the collecting device is simpler and more cost-effective than cleaning the entire centrifuge or the entire rotor chamber with rotor. Because the collecting device is provided, cleaning intervals for the centrifuge itself or the rotor chamber can be extended, particularly if the collecting device forms a closed collecting space from which little or no liquid enters the rotor chamber itself.A collecting device provided within the rotor chamber of the centrifuge for collecting liquid discharged from the collecting device can be cleaned together with the collecting device or separately using the same or a different method. A particularly simple method for cleaning the collecting device is centrifuging a reaction vessel unit filled with a cleaning solution. The collecting device can also be cleaned using the cleaning solution emerging from the collecting device.

[0055] A centrifuge rotor chamber can be cleaned after a predetermined number of centrifugation cycles. Cleaning can be performed by rinsing with a rinsing solution or by separately cleaning disassembled parts of the centrifuge that border the rotor chamber. Examples of suitable cleaning methods include autoclaving, chemical agents (biocides), or irradiation. Because the collecting device is provided, the predetermined number of centrifugation cycles after which cleaning can be carried out can be greater, thus extending the cleaning intervals of the centrifuge or rotor chamber. A collecting device provided within the rotor chamber for collecting liquid drained from the collecting device can be cleaned in the same operation or separately using a different method. Here, too, it is possible to clean the rotor chamber by centrifuging a reaction vessel unit filled with a cleaning solution.This process is particularly easy to carry out if the collecting device is open at the sides, as this allows the cleaning solution to easily enter the rotor chamber. If the collecting device is closed, the collecting device can be removed from the rotor before the cleaning cycle with cleaning solution, allowing the cleaning solution to reach the inner walls of the rotor chamber. If the rotor has two locations for reaction vessel units, but only one of the locations is equipped with a collecting device that forms a closed collecting space, the reaction vessel units can be placed on the location with the drainage device to clean the reaction vessel units, while the reaction vessel unit with the cleaning solution is placed on the location without the collecting device to clean the rotor chamber.For cleaning the collecting device in the rotor chamber, a cleaning solution can be dispensed with if the rotor or the discharge device is aerodynamically designed in such a way that the collecting device (for example a channel as described above) is cleaned (blown out) by an air flow generated during rotation.

[0056] Selected embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1A shows a centrifuge in a side view from the outside;

[0057] Figure 1B shows the centrifuge of Figure 1A in a frontal view in the direction of a

[0058] arrow “B” in Figure 1A;

[0059] Figure 2 shows an interior of a rotor box of the centrifuge of Figures 1A, 1B with a

[0060] Reaction vessel unit without collecting device in a front view with the end wall removed;

[0061] Figure 3 shows the interior of the rotor box of Figure 2 with a reaction vessel unit and with a collecting device according to the invention in a frontal sectional view corresponding to a sectional plane indicated in Figure 1A by a line "III";

[0062] Figure 4A shows the centrifuge in a side view corresponding to Figure 1A with the hood removed;

[0063] Figure 4B shows the centrifuge of Figure 4A in a frontal view in the direction of a

[0064] Arrow “B” in Figure 4A;

[0065] Figure 4C shows the centrifuge of Figure 4A with the hood removed, with a rotor box and elements therein sectioned along a plane "C" in Figure 4B;

[0066] Figure 4D shows the rotor box of the centrifuge from Figure 4A in an enlarged view corresponding to a section “D” in Figure 4C;

[0067] Figure 4E shows the rotor box of Figure 4A in a side view cut along a

[0068] Level “E” in Figure 4B;

[0069] Figures 4F, 4G, 4H show the centrifuge of Figure 4A in a front view in the direction of an arrow "F", "G" and "H" in Figure 4A;

[0070] Figure 5A shows the rotor box of the centrifuge from Figure 4A in a perspective view;

[0071] Figure 5B shows the rotor box of Figure 5A in a perspective view cut along the plane "E" in Figure 4B;

[0072] Figure 6A shows an assembly with rotor shaft, rotor, collecting device and

[0073] Collecting device in the centrifuge with reaction vessel unit accommodated therein in a perspective view;

[0074] Figure 6B shows the assembly of Figure 6A in another perspective view; Figure 6C shows the assembly of Figure 6A sectioned along plane "C" in Figure 4B;

[0075] Figure 7A shows an assembly with rotor shaft, rotor and collecting device in the centrifuge with reaction vessel unit accommodated therein in a perspective view;

[0076] Figure 7B shows the assembly of Figure 7A sectioned along plane "C" in Figure 4B;

[0077] Figure 8 Variants (a) to (g) of a contour of the collecting plate with reaction vessel unit on a rotor in cross-section transverse or perpendicular to the rotation axis;

[0078] Figure 9 Variants (a) to (h) of a contour of the collecting plate with reaction vessel unit on a rotor in an axial section along the rotation axis;

[0079] Figures 10A, 10B show a collecting device and a reaction vessel unit in a top view and a side view.

[0080] All drawings are schematic. Proportions may be distorted for clarity. Directional and positional designations refer, unless otherwise stated, to the usual use of the subject matter of the invention.

[0081] A centrifuge 1 comprises a drive box 2 and a rotor box 3, which rest on feet 4 (Figures 1A, 1B). The drive box 2 houses a drive unit, such as an electric motor (not shown in detail). The drive box 2 has a hood 5, which is fastened to a support structure of the rotor box 3 by means of screws 6. The support structure can be formed by an end wall 7 as well as a base 27 and a rear wall 28 of the rotor box 3 (see, for example, Figure 5A with screw holes 53 for mounting the hood 5). The hood 5 can have two side walls 13 and an upper wall 14, which are designed as individual elements or as a continuous angled sheet metal structure (see Figure 2). The side walls 13 and the upper wall 14 of the hood 5 as well as the end wall 7, a base 27 and a rear wall 28 of the rotor box 3 define or encompass an interior of the rotor box 3, which is also referred to as a rotor chamber 29.The end wall 7 has a loading window 8 (see Figure 1B), through which an interior of the rotor box 3 is accessible for loading the centrifuge with a reaction vessel unit 21 (Figure 2), as is known per se. The end wall 7 can also have an axle opening 9 (Figure 1B), which accommodates a rotor shaft 10 of the centrifuge 1 for rotation about a rotation axis 11. The axle opening 9 can also be designed as a bearing seat for a bearing 12 for supporting the rotor shaft, but the rotor shaft can also run freely in the axle opening 9.

[0082] The rotor shaft 10 carries a rotor 20, which is connected to the rotor shaft 10 in a rotationally fixed manner in order to rotate in an interior of the rotor box 3 (Figure 2). For this purpose, the rotor shaft 10 is connected to an output shaft of the drive unit of the centrifuge 1. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the rotor shaft 10 to be an integral part of the output shaft of the drive unit. The rotor 20 is designed to accommodate at least one reaction vessel unit 21; in the present exemplary embodiment, the rotor 20 can accommodate two reaction vessel units 21, of which only one is shown in the figure. The rotor 20 has a frame 22, which is approximately cuboid-shaped and is or can be connected to the rotor shaft 10 in a rotationally fixed manner. On two axially opposite sides of the frame 22, a receiving space 23 for a reaction vessel unit 21 is formed.In variant embodiments, only a single receiving location 23 or more than two receiving locations 23 may be provided. The receiving location 23 is delimited by two rail-like clamps 24 that protrude from the frame 22. A support surface 25 for the reaction vessel unit 21 is formed on the frame 22 itself, while respective counter surfaces 26 are formed on the clamps 24, which are formed parallel to the support surface 25 and spaced from it according to a height of the reaction vessel unit 21. The reaction vessel unit 21 can be placed on the rotor 20 in a manner known per se via the loading window 8 in the end wall 7 or removed from it when the rotor 20 is in a position in which the receiving location 23 is exactly opposite the loading window 8. The loading process can be carried out automatically using a loading device as known from WO 2017 / 125598 A1.For this purpose, the loading device has an automatically actuated shift rod (not shown) for positioning a reaction vessel unit.

[0083] The reaction vessel unit 21 is a body with a plurality of individual reaction vessels 37, which are arranged next to one another in the reaction vessel unit 21 and each have an opening 38 on one side (Figure 3). The openings 38 lie in a common opening plane 39 and point radially outward for cleaning purposes. The clamps 24 of the receiving locations 23 are designed such that they only grip the reaction vessel unit 21 at the edge, so that the openings 38 of the individual reaction vessels 37 of the reaction vessel unit 21 are exposed. When the rotor 20 rotates at a suitable rotational speed about the rotation axis 11, liquids contained in the reaction vessels 37 of the reaction vessel unit 21 can be ejected radially outward.The liquid ejected from the reaction vessel unit 21 can be collected by the walls of the rotor chamber 29, in particular the inner sides of the side walls 13 and the upper wall 14 of the hood 5, as well as an upper width of the base 27, from where it can flow downwards and, if necessary, be collected and removed, as is known per se. The rotational speed for this purpose is several hundred to several thousand rpm.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a collecting device 30 is provided, which is arranged radially outside the reaction vessel unit 21 (Figure 3). The collecting device 30 has a collecting plate 31, which is arranged opposite the openings 38 of the reaction vessels 37. The collecting plate 31 extends both in the width direction w and in the axial direction (direction of the rotation axis 11) beyond the dimensions of the rotor 20. In modifications, it may be sufficient if the collecting plate 31 covers at least the reaction vessel unit 21 or at least all openings 38 of the reaction vessels 37 of the reaction vessel unit 21. When the rotor 20 rotates at a rotational speed suitable for centrifugation, liquid from the reaction vessels 37 is propelled through the openings 38 by the action of centrifugal force and intercepted by the collecting plate 31.In the region of a center plane 36, which runs perpendicularly through the opening plane 39 of the reaction vessel unit 21 and along the rotation axis 11, a radial distance ro of the collecting plate 31 from the rotation axis 11 is smallest, while the radial distance r in the width direction r increases toward the edge 32 of the collecting device. Accordingly, a centrifugal acceleration also increases toward the edge 32 of the collecting device 30, so that the collected liquid is driven along a surface of the collecting plate 31 in the width direction w toward the edge 32. A flank 33 of the collecting device 30 adjacent to the edge 32 of the collecting plate 31 can be open, so that the outwardly driven liquid is driven further beyond the edge 32 by the centrifugal acceleration and ejected into the rotor chamber 29.When the rotor 20 remains in the position in which the reaction vessel unit 21 can be removed via the loading window 8 of the front wall 7, the collecting device 32 prevents liquid dripping from the upper wall 14 from flowing back into the reaction vessels 37, so that the reaction vessel unit 21 can be removed cleanly. This effectively prevents cross-contamination when centrifuging multiple reaction vessel units 21 with different contents.

[0085] If the edge 32 of the collecting plate 31 is arranged offset laterally from the reaction vessel unit 21 on the one hand and is drawn downwards, ie towards the rotor, on the other hand, a drip edge can also be formed from which liquid can drip down next to the rotor 20 when the rotor 20 is at a standstill.

[0086] The edge 32 of the collecting plate 31 can also be pulled down so far that it retains the liquid ejected from the reaction vessel unit 21 during rotation, and this liquid only drips down the side of the rotor 20 when the rotor is at a standstill. This can also significantly reduce wetting of the inner walls of the rotor chamber 29.

[0087] The collecting device 30 can be formed integrally with the rotor 20 or can be attached or attachable to it. The collecting device 30 can, in particular, be removable from the rotor 20 so that it can be cleaned separately. The collecting device 30 can also be attachable to the rotor shaft 10 independently of the rotor 20 (not shown in detail).

[0088] In a further exemplary embodiment, the collecting plate 31 of the collecting device 30 is designed to rise from a front end face 41 to an opposite rear end face 42 of the collecting device 30 (Figures 4A to 7B). This exemplary embodiment is a preferred modification of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3 and makes use of its features unless otherwise described below. The front end face 41 is located on the side of the end wall 7 of the rotor box 3, viewed in the axial direction, and the rear end face 42 of the collecting device 30 is located on the side of the rear wall 28 of the rotor box 3, viewed in the axial direction. In other words, the collecting plate 31 has a slope which, with respect to the rotation axis 11 of the rotor 20, rises towards the rear end face 42 of the collecting device 30 and thus towards the rear wall 28 of the rotor box 3.In this case, an inner side of the collecting plate 31 forms a deflection angle a with the rotational axis 11 of the rotor 20 or with the opening plane 39 of a reaction vessel unit 21 mounted on the rotor 20 (Figures 4A, 4C). During centrifugation at a rotational speed, liquid collected on the collecting plate 31 is consequently driven along the slope (arrow direction a in Figure 4C) to the rear end face 42 of the collecting device 30. Formed in the rear end face 42 are two drainage openings 43, each of which is connected to a spout 44 projecting axially from the rear end face 42.

[0089] A collecting device 40 is provided on the rear wall 28 of the rotor box 3, which adjoins the drive box 2. The collecting device 40 can be formed integrally with the rear wall 28 or manufactured separately and connected to the rear wall 28. (It should be noted that the collecting device is also shown schematically in Figures 2 and 3, but is not functionally required there.) In the present embodiment, the collecting device 40 is an annular or disc-shaped structure arranged on an inner side of the rear wall 28. However, the invention is not limited to this shape, and the collecting device 40 can, in principle, have any shape suitable for collecting and draining the liquid.

[0090] On the side facing the rotor 20, i.e., the inside, an annular groove 45 is formed in the collecting device 40. The groove 45 has an annular opening 46 pointing in the axial direction toward the rotor chamber 29. Behind the annular opening 46, the groove 45 widens radially inward and radially outward to form an inner undercut 47 and an outer undercut 48 with the annular opening 46. At the lowest point, the collecting device 40 has a drainage device 49 which is connected to the groove 45. The two nozzles 44 of the collecting device 30 protrude through the annular opening 46 into the groove 45. The liquid collected by the collecting device 30 on the collecting plate 31 collects under the effect of centrifugal acceleration at the outer (flank-side) ends of the rear end face 42 of the collecting device 31 in the width direction.From there, it flows through the drain openings 43 into the spouts 44 and is discharged from there into the channel 45. In the channel 45, the liquid can flow downwards and be removed from the rotor chamber 29 through the drain pipe 49.

[0091] Since all of the liquid ejected from the reaction vessel unit 21 is collected in the channel 45, the interior of the rotor box 3 (the rotor chamber 29) remains largely unwetted by the liquid. Only mist resulting from turbulence can pass from the channel 45 into the rotor chamber 29 and wet its walls.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the collecting device 31 is designed such that it is flush with the lateral edges of the reaction vessel unit 21 and / or the rotor with flanks 33 or lateral walls, thus forming a substantially enclosed space. As a result, the atmosphere within the collecting device 31 is entrained as the rotor rotates and is not, or only slightly, disturbed. This prevents the formation of aerosols that spread throughout the rotor chamber 29.

[0093] Only if the formation of such a contaminated mist cannot be prevented is periodic cleaning of the interior of the rotor box 3 necessary. The cleaning intervals can generally be extended considerably compared to a centrifugation process without the collecting device 30 and collecting device 40. The collecting plate 31 reliably protects the reaction vessel unit 21 from any contamination by liquid that may drip from the upper wall 14 of the hood 5.Since the collecting device 30 is also closed at the flanks 33, the collecting device 30 forms a sealed space with the reaction vessel unit 21, so that any liquid mist that may be present in the rotor chamber 29 cannot settle on a surface of the reaction vessel unit 21, and turbulence due to rotation in the space between the reaction vessel unit 21 and the collecting plate 31 can be effectively prevented. The reaction vessel unit 21 can therefore be reliably and completely cleaned by centrifugation with the collecting device 30 of this embodiment and protected from any wetting by the centrifugation process or contamination by falling drops.

[0094] The invention has been described above using preferred exemplary embodiments. It is understood that numerous modifications are possible within the scope of the invention. The shape of the collecting plate 31 depends on the desired effects. Figure 8 schematically shows several variants 8(a) to 8(g) of a contour of the collecting plate 31 with reaction vessel unit 21 in a cross-section (radial section) perpendicular or radial to the axis of rotation 11. Figure 9 schematically shows several variants 9(a) to 9(h) of a contour of the collecting plate 31 with reaction vessel unit 21 in an axial section along the axis of rotation 11. It is understood that further variants are conceivable. The cross-sectional shapes of Figures 8 and 9 can be combined as desired. They can be designed with open or closed flanks.

[0095] The collecting plate 31 can be flat in cross-section perpendicular to the axis of rotation (Figure 8) (Figure 8(a)), with a central bend 80 along the axis of rotation (Figures 8(b), (e)), with two lateral bends along the axis of rotation (Figures 8(d, g)) or curved (c, f), concave when viewed from the outside (Figures 8(b), (c), (d)) or convex (Figures 8(e), (f), (g)). As described in connection with Figure 2, the centrifugal acceleration in the cross-sectional plane transverse to the axis of rotation 11 always acts in the direction of the larger radius r, therefore liquid collected on the inside of the collecting plate 31 will be driven to the flank-side edges 32 even with a flat collecting plate (Figure 8(a)).This effect can be enhanced by a concave design in which the edges 32 are drawn away from the axis of rotation (upwards) (Figures 8(b), (c), (d)), but can be reduced by a convex design in which the edges 32 are drawn towards the axis of rotation (downwards) (Figures 8(b), (c), (d)). In a convex shape with a central kink 80 (Figure 8(e)), the collecting plate initially drops more steeply than a circumference 82 around the axis of rotation. Therefore, liquid can collect in the area around the central kink 80 up to a reversal point 83, from which the collecting plate 31 drops more gently than the circumference 82. To avoid this, the shape with two lateral kinks 81 located beyond the reversal point 83 is preferable, since then the liquid is reliably drained outwards from the central area (Figure 8(g)).For the same reason, it is advantageous if, in the case of the curvature of a collecting plate 31 which is convexly curved in cross-section (Figure 8(f)), the radius of curvature of the collecting plate 31 is greater than the radial distance of the collecting plate 31 at the point closest to the axis, i.e. in the region of the center plane 36.In an axial section along the rotation axis (Figure 9), the collecting plate 31 can be flat, i.e. at the same distance from the rotation axis 11 (Figure 9(a)), slanted on one side, i.e. rising from a first end face 41 to a second end face 42 (Figures 9(b)-(d)), slanted on both sides, i.e. rising towards both end faces 41, 42 (Figures 9(e)-(g)) or descending (Figure 9(h)), wherein the slant can be straight (Figures 9(b), (e), (h)) or curved (Figures 9(c), (d), (f), (g)), concave when viewed from the outside (Figures 9(d), (e), (f)) or convex (Figures 9(c), (g)), and wherein the slanted shapes on both sides form a kink 91 between the end faces 41, 42.Due to the axial slope, which rises towards one or both end faces 41, 42, liquid is diverted due to centrifugal acceleration along the inside or underside of the collecting plate 31 to the respective end face 41, 42 towards which the slope rises. The flow velocity can be slowed down towards the respective end face by a convex shape or accelerated by a concave shape. With axially inclined shapes, it is advisable for the flanks to be closed or at least drawn down far enough to create an obstacle to the flow perpendicular to the axis of rotation, so that the liquid is only diverted to the end face(s) towards which the slope rises, where the liquid can be collected without wetting the rotor chamber. With a one-sided slope, the structural effort for collecting the liquid is lower, since a collecting device for the diverted liquid only needs to be provided on one side.This is preferably provided on a rear wall of the rotor chamber, as this allows the liquid to be reliably drained away from the front side from which the reaction vessel unit is loaded. If very large quantities of liquid are to be drained away, a slope on both sides can be advantageous, as the liquid can then be collected more quickly. A contour of the collecting plate 31 on both sides, rising from the front sides 41, 42 to a cross section 90, can concentrate the liquid in a bend 91 on the two flank edges. There, the liquid can be spun out laterally through respective discharge openings. If necessary, a channel-like annular collecting device can be provided in the rotor chamber in the region of the cross section 90, which collects the liquid spun out there and drains it downwards.

[0096] Further variants are conceivable. For example, the collecting device 30 can have a trough shape without further discharge openings. In this variant, it is advantageous if the collecting device 30 is mounted outside the centrifuge 1 on the reaction vessel unit 21 and the reaction vessel unit 21 is loaded into the centrifuge in this way. In this case, the method is to be modified such that the rotor remains in the lower position at the end of the centrifugation process, so that the collecting device 30 comes to rest below the reaction vessel unit 21, and the reaction vessel unit 21 with the collecting device 30 and the liquid collected therein is unloaded through a unloading window (not shown in detail) in the end wall 7 and separated from the collecting device 30. The collecting device 30 is then freed of the liquid, cleaned, and prepared for another centrifugation process.With such a variant, the rotor chamber remains free of the ejected liquid even without a collecting device installed therein. No collecting device is required on the rotor, and cleaning the rotor chamber and the collecting device can be made even easier. It should be noted that the embodiment shown in Figure 2 corresponds to a combination of the cross-sectional shape 8(a) with the axial section shape 9(a) with open flanks, and the embodiment shown in Figures 3A to 7B corresponds to a combination of the cross-sectional shape 8(a) with the axial section shape 9(b) with closed flanks.

[0097] Another embodiment of a collecting device 30 (Figures 10A, 10B) has a collecting plate 31 provided with circumferential flanks 33, so that the collecting device 30 is approximately trough-shaped. Laterally projecting projections 92 are formed on the free edges of the flanks 33 on the collecting device 30. The projections 92 can also be referred to as feet.

[0098] The reaction vessel unit 21, which has a plurality of reaction vessels 37, has a circumferential edge region 93 in which corresponding recesses 94 are provided for receiving the projections 92 (Figure 10B). The recess 94, which can also be referred to as positioning recesses 94, are designed such that the projections 92 are received therein in such a way that the projections 92 are arranged with their upper side facing away from the reaction vessel unit 21 in alignment with the upper side of the remaining region of the edge region 93 of the reaction vessel unit 21. Such a configuration has the advantage that the reaction vessel unit 21 can be arranged in a rotor 20 with or without a collecting device 30, and the edge region 93 of the reaction vessel unit 21 and optionally the projections orFeet 92 of the collecting device 30 are engaged behind by a guide 95, so that the reaction vessel unit 21 with or without the collecting device 30 is securely fixed in the rotor 20 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0099] The projections 92 are arranged unevenly on the two opposite flanks 33. As a result, the projections 92 engage the recess 94 according to the key / lock principle only when the collecting device 30 is arranged in a precisely predetermined position or arrangement on the reaction vessel unit 21. Such a configuration of the projections 92 and the recess 94 is particularly advantageous when the collecting device has a discharge opening, which, in particular with an inclined collecting plate 31, serves to drain the liquid emptied from the reaction vessels 37.

[0100] The projections 92 and the recess 94 thus form a contact contour of the collecting device 30 or a complementary contour of the reaction vessel unit 21, which ensures a clear assignment of the collecting device 30 to the reaction vessel unit 21, wherein the combination of reaction vessel unit 21 and collecting device 30 can only be arranged in the rotor 20 of the centrifuge if the contact contour and the complementary contour are correctly joined to one another.

[0101] It may also be expedient to provide a clear arrangement using corresponding contours between the reaction vessel unit and the rotor or centrifuge. This ensures that the rotor, the reaction vessel unit, and the collecting device are clearly associated with each other. Providing the contact contour of the collecting device or the complementary contour of the reaction vessel unit ensures that the reaction vessels are correctly covered.

[0102] In the embodiment shown in Figures 10A and 10B, however, no discharge opening is provided; instead, the collecting device 30 is trough-shaped. A suction means 96 is arranged on the side of the collecting plate 31 facing the reaction vessels 37. In the present embodiment, the suction means is a cellulose pad. Such cellulose pads can be detachably arranged in the collecting device 30 and removed and disposed of after use. The cellulose pads can be provided with an adhesive layer for this purpose. Locking elements for securing the suction means 96 can also be provided in the collecting device 30.

[0103] In this embodiment, during use, the collecting device 30 and the reaction vessel unit 21 are held together in the rotor 20 by means of the guide 95, which is designed as an elongated guide rail, on the one hand, and fixed in the rotor 20 on the other hand.

[0104] Within the scope of the invention, however, it is also possible to provide locking means on both the collecting device and the reaction vessel unit, so that the two are detachably connected to each other. However, the locking connection should be sufficiently strong to withstand the centrifugal force occurring in the centrifuge.

[0105] The collecting device and the reaction vessel unit are designed for use in a centrifuge. However, they can also be used for manual emptying of the reaction vessels of the reaction vessel unit. This applies particularly to the trough-shaped design of the collecting device.

[0106] With the collecting device of the present invention, cross-contamination between reaction vessel units can be prevented. Depending on the design of the collecting device, wetting of the reaction vessel units by aerosols in the rotor chamber can be reduced or completely avoided. Contamination of the rotor chamber by ejected liquid can also be significantly reduced or completely avoided. This can significantly simplify cleaning of the rotor chamber. If the liquids are completely collected in the channel 45 of the collecting device 40 and leakage into the rotor chamber is prevented, a closed rotor chamber may be dispensed with. In other words, the end wall 7 and the hood 5, and possibly also the base 27 (unless the latter is required for stability reasons), of the rotor box 3 can be omitted. This can significantly simplify the loading and unloading process of the rotor 20. List of Reference Symbols

[0107] 1 centrifuge 40 discharge device

[0108] 2 Drive box 41 front (first) end face

[0109] 3 Rotor box 42 rear (second) end face

[0110] 4 feet 43 discharge opening

[0111] 5 hood 44 spout

[0112] 6 screw 45 gutter

[0113] 7 Front wall 46 Ring opening

[0114] 8 loading window 47 inner undercut

[0115] 9 axle opening 48 outer undercut

[0116] 10 Rotor shaft 49 Drain pipe

[0117] 11 Rotation axis 50 plate

[0118] 12 bearings 51 frames

[0119] 13 Side wall 60 assembly

[0120] 14 upper wall 70 assembly

[0121] 20 Rotor 80 central bend

[0122] 21 Reaction vessel unit 81 lateral bend

[0123] 22 frames 82 perimeter

[0124] 23 Recording point 83 Turning point

[0125] 24 bracket 84 surface normal

[0126] 25 contact surface 90 central cross-section

[0127] 26 Counter surface 91 Bend I Base 92 Projection

[0128] 28 Rear wall 93 Edge area

[0129] 29 Rotor chamber 94 Recess

[0130] 30 Catch device 95 Guide

[0131] 31 Collecting plate 96 Absorbent

[0132] 32 Rand

[0133] 33 Flank a discharge direction

[0134] 35 Edge r Radius

[0135] 36 Middle plane ro smallest radius

[0136] 37 Reaction vessel w width direction

[0137] 38 Opening

[0138] 39 Opening plane a deflection angle

Claims

Patent claims 1. Collection device (30) for a reaction vessel unit (21) comprising several reaction vessels (37), wherein the reaction vessels (37) each have an opening (38) located in a common opening plane (39), wherein the collection device (30) comprises a collection plate (31) configured such that it can be arranged or is arranged opposite the openings (38) of the reaction vessels (37) in a centrifuge (1), and is configured such that it rotates with the reaction vessel unit (21) during centrifugation and liquid escaping from the reaction vessels (37) is collected by the collection plate (31) due to centrifugal acceleration.

2. Collection device (30) according to claim 1, wherein the collection plate (31) can be arranged or is arranged at an angle with respect to the opening plane (39) such that collected liquid is discharged along the angled collection plate (31) in the axial direction of a rotation axis (11) of a rotor (20) of the centrifuge (1) due to the centrifugal acceleration in the centrifuge (1).

3. Collection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein it has a suction means which is arranged and designed on the collection plate in such a way that it can absorb the collected liquid.

4. Collection device according to claim 3, wherein the absorbent is formed from a porous material, such as a cellulose layer, and / or an open-cell foam.

5. Collection device (30) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein flanks (33) of the collection device (30) which run approximately parallel to the axis of rotation (11) and extend from the collection plate (31) in the direction of the reaction vessel unit (21) to form an obstacle to movement of the liquid transverse to the axis of rotation (11).

6. Collection device (30) according to claim 5, wherein the flanks (33) and end faces (41, 42) of the collection device (30) are formed flush with an edge (35) of the reaction vessel unit (21).

7. Collection device (30) according to claim 2 or claim 2 and one of claims 3 to 6, wherein at least one discharge opening (43) is formed on an end face (42) towards which the collection plate (31) rises, which is preferably flush or substantially flush with the inside of the collection plate (31).

8. Collection device (30) according to claim 7, wherein the discharge opening (43) has a nozzle (44) which extends beyond the front face (42).

9. Collection device (30) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the collection device (30) is formed with a circumferential contour which is adapted to the shape of the reaction vessel unit (21) so that the collection device can preferably be fitted in a form-fitting manner and in particular in a form-fitting manner around the circumference.

10. Collection device (30) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the collection device (30) is designed to be detachably connectable to the reaction vessel unit (21).

11. Collection device (30) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the collection device (30) is designed to be detachably connectable to a rotor (20) of a centrifuge (1).

12. Collection device (30) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the collection device (30) is integrated with a rotor (20) of the centrifuge (1).

13. Collection device (30) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the collection device (30) has a contact contour for contacting a reaction vessel unit which has a corresponding complementary contour, wherein the contact contour and the complementary contour are designed such that the collection device can be arranged in only one position on the reaction vessel unit, so that the combination of reaction vessel unit and collection device can be arranged in a centrifuge.

14. Reaction vessel unit (21) comprising several reaction vessels (37), wherein the reaction vessels (37) each have an opening (38) lying in a common opening plane (39), and the reaction vessel unit has a complementary contour shaped such that the reaction vessel unit can be arranged in only one position on the collecting device, in particular according to claim 13, so that the combination of reaction vessel unit and collecting device can be arranged in a centrifuge.

15. Reaction vessel unit according to claim 14, wherein the reaction vessel unit has an asymmetric insertion contour which is adapted to a corresponding receiving contour of a rotor of a centrifuge in such a form-fitting manner that the reaction vessel unit can only be arranged in a single position in the rotor.

16. Collection device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the collection device has projections in the area of ​​a contact contour for contacting a reaction vessel unit, which protrude laterally in such a way that they can be gripped by guides of a rotor and thus fix the collecting device and the reaction vessel unit in the rotor in a rotationally fixed manner.

17. Collection device according to one of claims 1 to 13 or 16, wherein the collection device is made of a polymer material and is in particular an injection-molded part.

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