Device and method for observing biologocal samples

Abstract

Device for observing biological samples (1) comprising: - a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples; - at least a first camera (6) configured for framing, from a first point of observation, at least a portion of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), wherein the at least a portion of the support (3) comprises, in use, a biological sample; - at least a first optical radiation source (10) configured for lighting at least a portion of the support (3) from a first lighting direction; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving, optionally at least in lifting, at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and a predetermined observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); the movement device (14, 15, 5) comprising a translator configured for automatically adapting to a shape and / or size of the support (3) and for removably engaging and moving the support (3).

Description

[0001] Device and method for observing biological samples'

[0002] Field of the

[0003] The present disclosure refers to the field of devices for processing in an automated way biological or microbiological samples, and in detail refers to a device and a method for handling and observing biological samples contained in appropriate supports.

[0004] Prior art

[0005] The devices for observing biological samples are devices which comprise a camera destined to generate at least one image of a biological sample typically positioned on, or in, a support for biological samples. An example of these supports is constituted by the so-called Petri plates.

[0006] Although the devices for observing biological samples can be manually fed, in many cases these devices are at least partially automated for opportunely handling the supports for biological samples to be observed. They are, in this case, devices for observing biological samples that are typically configured for operating at high speed and in a substantially automatic way, by carrying out subsequent and quick acquisitions of images of different biological samples.

[0007] It is also known that the supports for biological samples do not have often a standardized shape. Although in the great majority of cases these supports are substantially discoidal-shaped, this discoidal shape can assume different diameters and have different structural and visual characteristics; the shape of supports for biological samples can also be substantially rectangular.

[0008] It is also observed that in order to allow a correct identification of colonies of microorganisms (such as for example bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, yeasts, etc.) that may be present on the biological sample, the support shall be precisely positioned in correspondence of an observation position in correspondence of which the camera frames the image. An imprecise positioning of the support for biological samples determines subsequent problems with the reliability of the identification, and may in particular cause distortions that do not allow to obtain an accurate identification of colonies of microorganisms.

[0009] The purpose of the present disclosure is to describe a device and a method capable of solving the abovedescribed drawbacks.

[0010] The object of the present disclosure will be now described in some of its salient aspects, which can be combined among them or with portions of the detailed description and / or with claims. According to the present disclosure it is herein described a device for observing biological samples (1) comprising:

[0011] - a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples;

[0012] - at least a first camera (6) configured for framing, from a first point of observation, at least a portion of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), wherein the at least a portion of the support (3) comprises, in use, a biological sample;

[0013] - at least a first optical radiation source (10) configured for lighting at least a portion of the support (3) from a first lighting direction; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving, optionally at least in lifting, at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1 ), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) predetermined on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0014] According to the present disclosure it is herein described a device for the movement of biological samples (1) comprising at least a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving, optionally at least in lifting, at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) predetermined on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0015] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement device (14, 15, 5) comprises a translator configured for automatically adapting to a shape and / or size of the support (3) and for removably engaging and moving the support (3).

[0016] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a first optical radiation source (10) is integral, optionally integrally movable, with said at least a first camera (6).

[0017] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translator is a grippers translator (15) comprising a first clamp and a second clamp reciprocally movable between a first configuration in which the first and the second clamp are positioned at a first distance and a second configuration in which the first and the second clamp are positioned at a second distance lower with respect to the first distance.

[0018] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first distance is higher with respect to a size of said support (3), optionally is higher with respect to a maximum size of said support (3).

[0019] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second distance corresponds to a size of said support (3).

[0020] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second distance corresponds, in particular, to a diameter of said support (3).

[0021] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first configuration is a releasing configuration of the at least a support (3), in which the first and the second clamp are configured for releasing the support (3). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second configuration is a grasping configuration of the at least a support (3), in which said at least a support (3) is retained between said first and said second clamp.

[0022] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device is configured for acquiring a dimensional electronic data, indicating said shape and / or size of the support (3).

[0023] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1 ) is configured for causing a movement of at least one between the first and the second clamp of the grippers translator (15) and for interrupting, optionally automatically, the movement of said first and second clamp of the grippers translator (15) in case it is found a contrasting force exerted on said first and second clamp from said support (3), in particular from a side surface of said support (3).

[0024] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said device (1) is configured for causing a movement of at least one between the first and the second clamp of the grippers translator (15), in particular between the first configuration and the second configuration, according to said electronic data.

[0025] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device comprises an optical reader configured for:

[0026] - optically detecting a size of the support (3), and / or

[0027] - optically acquiring an identification code of said support (3), in particular for optically acquiring said identification code from said support (3).

[0028] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said optical reader is configured for generating said dimensional electronic data according to said optically detected size and / or according to said identification code optically acquired, and for transmitting said dimensional electronic data towards a data processing unit.

[0029] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement device (14, 15) is configured for carrying out a composite movement of movement of the at least a support (3) between said pickup position (P1) and said observation position (P2).

[0030] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said composite movement comprises at least a translation along a first and a second axis not aligned to each other, in particular orthogonal to each other, and / or a rototranslation.

[0031] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) comprises a magazine (11) configured for containing a plurality of supports (3).

[0032] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said magazine (11 ) is a carousel magazine, having a center and a plurality of retaining stations of supports (3) radially arranged with respect to said center and / or in a substantially perimeter position and / or is a magazine configured for carrying out a movement of rotation around a predefined rotation axis (A), optionally substantially vertical, in order to allow the positioning, alternatively, of at least a first and a second station of said plurality of stations in said pickup position (P1). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1 ) comprises a mover (12), in particular comprising at least a lifter, configured for moving at least a support (3) from a rest position (P3) in said station to said pickup position (P1).

[0033] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said pickup position (P1) is optionally a position located at a different height, preferably higher, with respect to said rest position (P3).

[0034] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) comprises an actuator, in particular a motor, configured at least for determining a controlled movement of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), wherein said controlled movement comprises at least a rotation around a predefined rotation axis (Y), said predefined rotation axis (Y) being optionally substantially vertically aligned.

[0035] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the controlled movement, in particular the controlled rotation, of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) determines, in use, a corresponding controlled movement, in particular a corresponding controlled rotation, of said support (3).

[0036] According to a further non-limiting aspect, wherein the movement device (14, 15; 5) comprises a centering device, configured for determining a movement of the support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the observation position (P2) predetermined by the support (3) and / or for retaining said support (3) in the observation position (P2) predetermined on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0037] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first and a second position and comprising, preferably at least a first pair of pushers (5) movable along respectively a first and a second direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0038] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position, the at least one movable pusher (5) being configured for determining a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said observation position (P2) predetermined, said centering device comprising, preferably, at least a first pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first position and a respective second position, and wherein the pushers of the first pair of pushers (5) are preferably reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable along a first direction itself, respectively according to a first and a second way opposite to each other.

[0039] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises a plurality of pushers (5), at least part of the said plurality of pushers (5) is movable between a first backward position and a second forward position, said plurality of pushers being configured for determining a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0040] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the number of pushers of said plurality of pushers is odd. According to a further non-limiting aspect, the number of pushers of said plurality of pushers is even every three or five.

[0041] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of said plurality of pushers are configured for exerting a thrust force towards said support (3) along a respective direction angularly equidistant with respect to the direction of thrust force exercising of contiguous pushers.

[0042] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device is configured for synchronizing the relative movement between the first pair of pushers (5) or for synchronizing a movement of at least said part of said plurality of pushers (5).

[0043] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first position is a backward position, and the second position is a forward position.

[0044] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first pair of pushers (5) comprises two pushers that move on a same plane.

[0045] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first and said second direction counterposed to each other.

[0046] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the observation position (P2) lies at a predefined and fixed distance with respect to said at least a first camera (6).

[0047] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first position is a position in use spaced with respect to said support (3), said second position being a position in use substantially in contact with said support (3).

[0048] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translator, in particular the grippers translator (15), is configured for housing at least part of the pusher (5) or of said pushers.

[0049] According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between said first and second clamp comprises a recess configured for allowing to house at least part of the pusher (5) or of said pushers and for allowing a relative movement of translation, in particular of axial translation, between said pusher (5) and the respective clamp.

[0050] According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between said first and said second clamp is configured for reaching a height substantially equal to the height at which lies said pusher (5), and / or wherein at least one between said first and said second clamp, and said pusher (5), are configured for moving along a same plane and / or along a same direction, in particular substantially horizontal.

[0051] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) are configured for determining a controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) at least with respect to the first camera (6) for achieving said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or for determining the rotation of the support (3) during the framing of the support (3) at least by the first camera (6) and / or wherein said pushers are movable radially with respect to a center of the supporting element and wherein the centering device is configured for determining a radial centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises a second pair of movable pushers (5), each one, between a respective first backward position and a respective second forward position, and wherein the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are preferably reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable preferably along a same second direction, respectively according to a third and a fourth way opposite to each other; optionally wherein the second pair of pushers (5) is arranged substantially orthogonally with respect to the first pair of pushers (5).

[0052] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises a second pair of movable pushers (5) respectively along a third and a fourth direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0053] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said third and said fourth direction are counterposed to each other.

[0054] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first pair of pushers (5) comprises two pushers counterposed to each other, wherein the second pair of pushers (5) comprises two pushers counterposed to each other.

[0055] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second pair of pushers (5) is arranged substantially orthogonally with respect to the first pair of pushers (5).

[0056] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second pair of pushers (5) comprises two pushers that move on a same plane.

[0057] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises at least a first releasing configuration in which the at least one pusher (5), optionally each pusher of the first pair of pushers (5) and / or of the second pair of pushers (5), is spaced with respect to the support (3) and to the second retaining configuration in which the at least a pusher (5), optionally each pusher of the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or a second pair of pushers (5), touches the support (3) and retains the support (3) in said observation position (P2).

[0058] According to a further non-limiting aspect, in the second retaining configuration, the at least a first pair of pushers (5) retains the support (3) in correspondence of a first and a second portion, optionally counterposed to each other.

[0059] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) is configured for controlling, in use, a switching between the releasing configuration and the retaining configuration of the centering device.

[0060] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the retaining configuration being determined according to said dimensional electronic data.

[0061] According to a further non-limiting aspect, in said releasing configuration at least the first pair of pushers (5), and optionally the second pair of pushers (5), lies at a first distance, and in said retaining configuration at least the first pair of pushers (5), and optionally the second pair of pushers (5), lies at a second distance. According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least said second distance is determined according to said dimensional electronic data.

[0062] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device comprises a focusing device, configured for placing the at least a portion of the support (3) and / or the biological sample focused on said first camera (6).

[0063] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the focusing device comprises a servomechanism configured for causing a variation of a distance assumed between said at least a portion of the support (3) and / or between at least the biological sample and said first camera (6).

[0064] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the focusing device is configured and specifically destined to cause a movement of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) determining the variation of said distance.

[0065] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) comprises a translation, in particular a linear translation.

[0066] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device being configured for detecting optically, optionally through the at least a first camera (6), a height of said support (3) and / or of said biological sample with respect to the first camera (6) and / or with respect to the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), and is configured for causing an actuation of the focusing device according to said height so that said distance is varied according to said height.

[0067] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) is configured for depositing, in use, the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) with a predefined azimuthal orientation in relation to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0068] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement device (14, 15, 5) is configured for depositing, in use, the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) with a predefined azimuthal orientation in relation to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0069] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first pair of pushers (5) is configured for simultaneously moving with the second pair of pushers (5).

[0070] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement of pushers (5) comprises a simultaneous movement of the first pair of pushers together with the second pair of pushers.

[0071] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a pusher (5), optionally the first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5) is slidingly movable on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0072] According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between the first and the second clamp is configured for geometrically coupling with at least part of the support (3); optionally, the first and the second clamp are configured for geometrically coupling with at least part of the support (3).

[0073] According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between the first and the second clamp comprises a contact portion the shape thereof recalls the one of part of the support (3). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) comprises at least a first control station (30, 40) configured for carrying out a pre-positioning of the support (3) in a predefined reference spatial position and / or orientation, optionally in view of the subsequent deposit of said support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0074] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first control station (30, 40) is configured and specifically destined to allow at least one between:

[0075] - a storage of first electronic data related to the biological sample, optionally through a reading of an identification code (50), in particular an identification tag (50); said identification code (50) being positioned on said support (3), optionally on a side wall of said support (3); and

[0076] - a first electronic identification of at least a size of said support (3), optionally through said at least a first camera (6).

[0077] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least one size of said support (3) comprises at least one among: an area of said support (3), a diameter or radius of said support (3), a maximum extension of said support (3), a height of said support (3), a diagonal of said support (3).

[0078] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said pre-positioning comprises a rotation of the support (3) with respect to a substantially vertical axis and / or comprises an azimuthal rotation of the support with respect to a reference direction.

[0079] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first control station (30) comprises a movable plate (31), in particular a rotating plate, preferably configured for rotating around a substantially vertical axis.

[0080] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translator, in particular the grippers translator (15), is configured for depositing temporarily the support (3) on said movable plate (31) of the first control station (30).

[0081] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1 ) is configured for detecting a positional reference on said support (3) and for causing a movement, in particular a rotation, of the support (3) on said movable plate (31) of the first control station (30) according to a position initially assumed by said positional reference.

[0082] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translator, in particular the grippers translator (15) is configured for picking up the support (3) from said movable plate (31) of the first control station (30) after the movement, in particular after the rotation, and for depositing the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), in particular in said observation position (P2).

[0083] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) is operatively associated to an incubator, optionally the device (1) comprising said incubator.

[0084] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) comprises at least a second control station (40) configured for carrying out a pre-positioning of the support (3) in a predefined reference spatial position and / or orientation, optionally in view of the subsequent deposit of said support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second control station (40) is configured and specifically destined to allow at least one between:

[0085] - a storage of second electronic data related to the biological sample, optionally through a reading of an identification code (50), in particular an identification tag (50); said identification code (50) being positioned on said support (3), optionally on a side wall of said support (3); and

[0086] - a second electronic identification of at least a size of said support (3), optionally through said at least a first camera (6).

[0087] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) is configured for carrying out an electronic comparison between said first electronic data and said second electronic data and / or for carrying out an electronic comparison between said first identification and said second identification.

[0088] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) is configured for transmitting or generating an alarm signal if after said electronic comparison results a difference between said first electronic data and said second electronic data and / or results a difference between said first identification and said second identification.

[0089] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said pre-positioning comprises a rotation of the support (3) with respect to a substantially vertical axis and / or comprises an azimuthal rotation of the support with respect to a reference direction.

[0090] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second control station (40) comprises a movable plate (41), in particular a rotating plate, preferably configured for rotating around a substantially vertical axis.

[0091] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1 ) comprises an auxiliary translator, in particular an auxiliary grippers translator, configured for moving at least a support (3) between said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and said incubator.

[0092] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translator, in particular the grippers translator (15), and / or said auxiliary translator, is configured for depositing temporarily the support (3) on said movable plate (41) of the second control station (40).

[0093] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1 ) is configured for detecting a positional reference on said support (3) and for causing a movement, in particular a rotation, of the support (3) on said movable plate (41) of the second control station according to a position initially assumed by said positional reference.

[0094] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translator, in particular the grippers translator (15), and / or said auxiliary translator, is configured for picking up the support (3) from said movable plate (41) of the second control station after the movement, in particular after the rotation, and for depositing the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), in particular in said observation position (P2). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) comprises a first portion (2a) and a second portion (2b), the first portion (2a) being a substantially inner and / or substantially transparent portion, the second portion (2b) being a substantially outer and / or opaque portion.

[0095] According to a further non-limiting aspect, when in said second position, the at least a pusher (5), optionally the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), pushes and / or retains the support (3) in correspondence of the first portion (2a), and / or said observation position (P2) is in substantial correspondence of the first portion (2a) of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0096] According to the present disclosure is also described a device for observing biological samples (1) comprising:

[0097] - a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples;

[0098] - at least a first camera (6) configured for framing, from a first point of observation, at least a portion of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) wherein the at least a portion of the support (3) comprises, in use, a biological sample;

[0099] - at least a first optical radiation source (10) configured for lighting at least a portion of the support (3) from a first lighting direction; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and a predetermined observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the movement device (14, 15; 5) comprises a centering device, configured for determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the predetermined observation position (P2) by the support (3) and / or for retaining said support (3) in the observation position (P2) predetermined on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); the centering device comprising at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position and configured for determining a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0100] According to the present disclosure is also described a device for the movement of biological samples (1) comprising at least a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and a predetermined observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the movement device (14, 15; 5) comprises a centering device, configured for determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the predetermined observation position (P2) by the support (3) and / or for retaining said support (3) in the observation position (P2) predetermined on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); the centering device comprising at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position and configured for determining a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0101] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) are configured for determining a controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) at least with respect to the first camera (6) for the achievement of said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or for determining the rotation of the support (3) during the framing of the support (3) at least by the first camera (6).

[0102] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said pushers are radially movable with respect to a center of the supporting element and wherein the centering device is configured for determining a radial centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0103] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises at least a first pair of movable pushers (5), each one, between a respective first position and a respective second position.

[0104] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the first pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable along a same first direction, respectively according to a first and a second way opposite to each other.

[0105] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the first pair of pushers (5) are movable respectively along a first and a second direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0106] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement device is configured for automatically adapting to a shape and / or size of the support (3).

[0107] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement device (14, 15, 5) is configured for moving, optionally at least in lifting, at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1 ), in particular in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0108] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises a second pair of movable pushers (5), each one, between a respective first position and a respective second position.

[0109] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable preferably along a same second direction, respectively according to a third and a fourth way opposite to each other, optionally wherein the second pair of pushers (5) is substantially orthogonally arranged with respect to the first pair of pushers (5). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are movable respectively along a third and a fourth direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0110] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first pair of pushers (5) moves on a same plane.

[0111] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second pair of pushers (5) moves on a same plane.

[0112] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the plane on which the second pair of pushers moves is the plane on which the first pair of pushers moves.

[0113] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a first pusher (5), optionally the first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5) is configured for carrying out a movement of translation between the first and the second position.

[0114] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translation is substantially axial.

[0115] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the translation is substantially radial with respect to the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and / or the support (3).

[0116] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the device (1) is configured for arranging, optionally automatically, the centering device in said second configuration before the start of said actuator, preferably of said motor, and / or before an activation of said at least a first camera (6), and / or for arranging, optionally automatically, the centering device in said first configuration after a stop of said actuator, preferably a motor.

[0117] According to the present disclosure is also described a method for observing biological samples, comprising:

[0118] - a step of movement of at least a support (3) for biological samples through a movement device (14, 15, 5), the step of movement comprising a movement of the at least a support (3), optionally at least in lifting, between a pickup position (P1 ), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11 ) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b);

[0119] - a step of lighting of at least a portion of the support (3), carried out through a first optical radiation source (10) and occurring from a first lighting direction;

[0120] - a step of activation of at least a first camera (6) to frame at least a portion of the support (3) comprising in use a biological sample, from a first point of observation, wherein the step of movement comprises the actuation of a translator and the automatic adapting of the translator to a shape and / or size of the support (3) for removably engaging and moving the support (3).

[0121] According to the present disclosure is also described a method for the movement of biological samples (1), comprising: a step of movement of at least a support (3) for biological samples through a movement device (14, 15, 5), the step of movement comprising a movement of the at least a support (3), optionally at least in lifting, between a pickup position (P1 ), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11 ) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the step of movement comprises the actuation of a translator and the automatic adapting of the translator to a shape and / or size of the support (3) for removably engaging and moving the support (3).

[0122] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises:

[0123] - a step of lighting of at least a portion of the support (3), carried out through a first optical radiation source (10) and occurring from a first lighting direction;

[0124] - a step of actuation of at least a first camera (6) to frame at least a portion of the support (3) comprising in use a biological sample, from a first observation point.

[0125] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises an actuation of at least a translator, in particular a grippers translator (15) of the movement device (14, 15, 5) and comprises a removable engaging of the at least a support (3) through the at least a translator, in particular through a grippers translator (15).

[0126] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a reciprocal movement between a first clamp and a second clamp of the grippers translator (15) between a first configuration wherein the first and the second clamp are positioned at a first distance and a second configuration wherein the first and the second clamp are positioned at a second distance lower with respect to the first distance.

[0127] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second distance corresponds to a size of said support (3).

[0128] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a grasping of the at least a support (3), when the first and the second clamp lie in said second configuration.

[0129] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a release of the support (3), when the first and the second clamp lie in said first configuration.

[0130] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of acquisition of a dimensional electronic data, indicating said shape and / or size of the support (3).

[0131] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a movement of at least one between the first and the second clamp between said first configuration and said second configuration according to said electronic data.

[0132] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of actuation of an optical reader and:

[0133] - a step of optical detection of a size of the support (3), and / or - a step of optical acquisition of an identification code of said support (3), in particular comprising an optical acquisition of the identification code from said support (3).

[0134] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a movement of at least one between the first and the second clamp between said first configuration and said second configuration; the step of movement being terminated, optionally automatically, when it is detected a contrasting force exerted on said first and second clamp from said support (3), in particular from a side surface of said support (3).

[0135] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of generation of the dimensional electronic data according to said optically size detected and / or according to said optically acquired identification code, and a step of transmission of the dimensional electronic data towards the data processing unit.

[0136] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a composite movement of at least a support (3) between the pickup position (P1) and the observation position (P2).

[0137] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said composite movement comprises at least a translation along a first and a second axis not aligned to each other, in particular orthogonal to each other, and / or a rototranslation.

[0138] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of pickup of at least a support (3) from a magazine (1 1) configured for containing a plurality of supports (3), wherein said magazine (11) is a carousel magazine, having a center and a plurality of retaining stations of supports (3) arranged radially with respect to said center and / or in a substantially perimeter position, and / or comprises a step of rotation of the magazine (11) around a predefined rotation axis (A), optionally substantially vertical, for carrying out a positioning, alternatively, of at least a first and a second station of said plurality of stations in said pickup position (P1 ).

[0139] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of activation of a mover (12), in particular comprising at least a lifter, for carrying out a movement of the at least a support (3) from a rest position (P3) in said station towards said pickup position (P1).

[0140] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said pickup position (P1 ) is a position located at a different height, preferably higher, with respect to said rest position (P3).

[0141] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of actuation of an actuator, preferably a motor, operatively connected to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine a controlled movement of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), in particular at least a controlled rotation of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) around a predefined rotation axis (Y).

[0142] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said predefined rotation axis (Y) is substantially vertically aligned.

[0143] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the controlled movement, in particular the controlled rotation, of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) determines, in use, a corresponding controlled movement, in particular a corresponding controlled rotation, of said support (3). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of actuation of a centering device of the movement device (14, 15, 5), said step of actuation of the centering device determining a retaining of said support (3) in said observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and / or determining a movement of the support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determining the achievement of the observation position (P2) by the support (3).

[0144] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises the actuation of at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first and a second position.

[0145] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises a plurality of pushers (5), and the step of actuation of the centering device comprises a movement of at least part of said plurality of pushers (5) between a first backward position and a second forward position, in such a way to determine a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0146] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the number of pushers of said plurality of pushers is odd.

[0147] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of synchronization of the relative movement between the first pair of pushers (5) or of the movement of at least said part of said plurality of pushers (5).

[0148] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first position is a backward position, and the second position is a forward position.

[0149] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises the actuation of a first pair of pushers (5) reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable preferably along a first direction itself, respectively according to a first and a second way opposite to each other.

[0150] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises, the actuation of a first pair of pushers (5) movable respectively between a first and a second direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0151] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said observation position (P2) lies at a predefined and fixed distance with respect to said at least a first camera (6).

[0152] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first position is a position in use spaced with respect to said support (3).

[0153] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second position is a position in use substantially in contact with said support (3).

[0154] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of movement of the translator, in particular of the grippers translator (15), in substantial correspondence of the pusher (5) such that said pusher (5) is at least partially housed in said translator, in particular in said grippers translator (15), in particular at least partially housed in a recess of at least one between said first and second clamp.

[0155] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said method comprises a step of relative movement of translation, in particular of axial translation, between said pusher (5) and the respective clamp within said recess.

[0156] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a movement of the translator, in particular of said grippers translator (15), up to a height substantially equal to the height at which said pusher (5) lies.

[0157] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of movement of at least one between said first and said second clamp, and said pusher (5), along a same plane and / or along a same direction, in particular considerably horizontal.

[0158] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of said centering device comprises an actuation of a second pair of pushers (5) respectively along a third and a fourth direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0159] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first pair of pushers (5) comprises two pushers counterposed to each other.

[0160] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second pair of pushers (5) comprises two pushers counterposed to each other.

[0161] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second pair of pushers (5) is substantially orthogonally arranged with respect to the first pair of pushers (5).

[0162] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of said centering device comprises a step of movement of the at least a pusher (5) between a first releasing configuration in which said at least a pusher (5), optionally the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), is spaced with respect to the support (3) and a second retaining configuration in which the at least a pusher (5), optionally the first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers, touches the support (3) and retains the support (3) in said observation position (P2).

[0163] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation comprises a step of movement of the first pair of pushers (5) such that, in the second retaining configuration, the first pair of pushers (5) retains the support (3) in correspondence of a first and a second portion, optionally counterposed to each other.

[0164] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of control of a switching between the releasing configuration and the retaining configuration of the centering device; the retaining configuration is determined according to said dimensional electronic data.

[0165] According to a further non-limiting aspect, in the releasing step at least the first pair of pushers (5), and optionally the second pair of pushers (5), lies at a first distance. According to a further non-limiting aspect, in said retaining configuration at least the first pair of pushers (5), and optionally the second pair of pushers (5), lies at a second distance.

[0166] According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least said second distance is determined according to said dimensional electronic data.

[0167] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of focusing of the at least a portion of the support (3) and / or of the biological sample on said first camera (6).

[0168] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of focusing temporally precedes the acquisition of at least an image of the support (3) and / or of the biological sample by means of said at least a first camera (6).

[0169] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises the actuation of a servomechanism causing a variation of a distance assumed between said at least a portion of the support (3) and / or between at least the biological sample and said first camera (6), the actuation of said servomechanism causing a movement of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) determining said variation of said distance.

[0170] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of optical detection of a height of the support (3) and / or of the biological sample, optionally through the at least a first camera (6), in relation to said first camera (6) and / or with respect to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0171] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of focusing occurs according to said height in order to cause a variation of said distance as a function of said height.

[0172] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method includes a step of deposit of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) with a predefined azimuthal orientation in relation to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0173] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises the actuation of the movement device (14, 15, 5) causes the deposit of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) with a predefined azimuthal orientation in relation to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0174] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a movement of the first pair of pushers (5) simultaneously to the second pair of pushers (5).

[0175] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement of pushers (5) comprises a simultaneous movement of the first pair of pushers together with the second pair of pushers.

[0176] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement of the at least a pusher (5), optionally of the first pair of pushers (5) and / or of the second pair of pushers (5) occurs through a sliding on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b). According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of pre-positioning of the support (3) in a predefined reference spatial position and / or orientation, optionally in view of the subsequent deposit of said support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), by means of at least a first control station (30, 40).

[0177] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said step of pre-positioning comprises a rotation of the support (3) with respect to a substantially vertical axis and / or comprises an azimuthal rotation of the support with respect to a reference direction.

[0178] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of pre-positioning comprises an actuation of a movable plate (31) of the first control station (30), in particular comprising an actuation of a rotating plate of said first control station (30), said rotating plate being preferably configured for rotating around a substantially vertical axis.

[0179] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of temporary deposit of the support (3) on said movable plate (31) of the first control station (30) by means of said translator, in particular of said grippers translator (15).

[0180] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of detection of a positional reference on said support (3) and the step of pre-positioning comprises a subsequent movement, in particular a rotation, of the support (3) on said movable plate (31 ) of the first control station (30) according to a position initially assumed by said positional reference.

[0181] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of pickup of the support (3) from said movable plate (31) of the first control station (30) after the movement, in particular after the rotation, and a step of deposit of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), in particular in said observation position (P2).

[0182] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of actuation of an incubator.

[0183] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of pre-positioning of the support (3) in a predefined reference spatial position and / or orientation, optionally in view of the subsequent deposit of said support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), by means of a second control station (40).

[0184] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said step of pre-positioning comprises a rotation of the support (3) with respect to a substantially vertical axis and / or comprises an azimuthal rotation of the support with respect to a reference direction.

[0185] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of pre-positioning comprises an actuation of a movable plate (41) of the second control station (40), in particular comprising an actuation of a rotating plate of said second control station (40), said rotating plate being preferably configured for rotating around a substantially vertical axis.

[0186] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of actuation of an auxiliary translator, in particular of an auxiliary grippers translator, for carrying out a movement of at least a support (3) between said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and said incubator. According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of actuation of the translator, in particular of the grippers translator (15), for carrying out a movement of the at least a support (3) between said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and said incubator.

[0187] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of maintenance of said support (3) in said incubator for a predetermined period of time.

[0188] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the actuation of the auxiliary translator, in particular of the auxiliary grippers translator, for carrying out the movement of the at least a support (3) between said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and said incubator occurs after said predetermined time period.

[0189] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the actuation of the translator, in particular of the grippers translator (15), for carrying out the movement of the at least a support (3) between said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and said incubator occurs after said predetermined time period.

[0190] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the actuation of the translator, in particular of the grippers translator (15) or the actuation of the auxiliary translator determines a temporary deposit of the support (3) on said movable plate (41) of the second control station (40).

[0191] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of detection of a positional reference on said support (3) and the step of pre-positioning comprises a subsequent movement, in particular a rotation, of the support (3) on said movable plate (41 ) of the second control station (40) according to a position initially assumed by said positional reference.

[0192] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said step of pre-positioning determines at least one between:

[0193] - a storing of first electronic data relative to the biological sample, optionally through a reading of an identification code (50), in particular an identification tag (50); said identification code (50) being positioned on said support (3), optionally on a side wall of said support (3);

[0194] - a first electronic identification of at least a size of said support (3), optionally through said at least a first camera (6).

[0195] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of extraction of said support (3) from said incubator, optionally occurring through said translator.

[0196] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises another step of pre-positioning, occurring after said extraction of said support (3) from said incubator.

[0197] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the other step of pre-positioning determines at least one between: - a storage of second electronic data related to the biological sample, optionally through a reading of an identification code (50), in particular an identification tag (50); said identification code (50) being positioned on said support (3), optionally on a side wall of said support (3);

[0198] - a second electronic identification of at least a size of said support (3), optionally through said at least a first camera (6).

[0199] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of electronic comparison between said first electronic data and said second electronic data, and / or comprises a step of electronic comparison between said first and said second electronic identification of said at least a size.

[0200] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of transmission of an alarm signal in case said step of electronic comparison determines a discordance between said first electronic data and said second electronic data and / or between said first and said second electronic identification.

[0201] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the actuation of the translator, in particular of the grippers translator (15), and / or of the auxiliary translator, determines a pickup of the support (3) from said movable plate (41) of the second control station after the movement, in particular after the rotation, and a deposit of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), in particular in said observation position (P2).

[0202] According to a further non-limiting aspect, when moved toward said second position or when in said second position, the at least a pusher (5), optionally the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), pushes, or retains, the support (3) in correspondence of the first portion (2a), and / or said observation position (P2) is in substantial correspondence of the first portion (2a) of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0203] According to the present disclosure is also described a method for observing biological samples (1) comprising a step of movement of at least a support (3) for biological samples through a movement device (14, 15, 5), the step of movement comprising a movement of the at least a support (3), between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11 ) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b);

[0204] - a step of lighting of at least a portion of the support (3), carried out through a first optical radiation source (10) and occurring from a first lighting direction;

[0205] - a step of actuation of at least a first camera (6) to frame at least a portion of the support (3) comprising in use a biological sample, from a first point of observation; wherein the step of movement of the at least a support (3) through the movement device (14, 15, 5) comprises a step of actuation of a centering device of the movement device (14, 15, 5), said step of actuation of the centering device determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the observation position (P2) from the support (3) and / or determining a retaining of the support (3) in said observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), and wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position for determining a centering of the support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0206] According to the present disclosure it is also described a method for observing biological samples (1) comprising a step of movement of at least a support (3) for biological samples through a movement device (14, 15, 5), the step of movement comprising a movement of the at least a support (3), between a pickup position (P1 ), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11 ) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the step of movement of the at least a support (3) by means of the movement device (14, 15, 5) comprises a step of actuation of a centering device of the movement device (14, 15, 5), said step of actuation of the centering device determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the observation position (P2) by the support (3) and / or determining a retaining of the support (3) in said observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), and wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position for determining a centering of the support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0207] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises:

[0208] - a step of lighting of at least a portion of the support (3), carried out through a first optical radiation source (10) and occurring from a first lighting direction;

[0209] - a step of actuation of at least a first camera (6) to frame at least a portion of the support (3) comprising in use a biological sample, from a first observation point.

[0210] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method further comprises a step of controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), through the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), at least with respect to the first camera (6) for the achievement of said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or during the framing of the support (3) at least by the first camera (6) and / or the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of said pushers radially with respect to a center of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and a radial centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0211] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises the actuation of a first pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first position and a respective second position. According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the first pair of pushers are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable preferably along a same first direction, respectively according to a first and a second way opposite to each other.

[0212] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the first pair of pushers (5) are respectively movable along a first and a second direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0213] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises the actuation of a second pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first position and a respective second position.

[0214] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable preferably along a same second direction, respectively according to a third and a fourth way opposite to each other.

[0215] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are respectively movable along a third and a fourth direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0216] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a substantially automated adaptation of said movement device (14, 15, 5) to a shape and / or size of the support (3).

[0217] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of a second pair of pushers (5).

[0218] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the second pair of pushers are respectively movable along a third and a fourth direction skewed and / or opposite to each other.

[0219] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the pushers of the second pair of pushers are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and movable along a same second direction, respectively according to a third and to a fourth way opposite to each other.

[0220] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of movement comprises a movement of the at least a support (3), optionally at least in lifting, between a pickup position (P1), in particular in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

[0221] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the actuation of the at least a first pair of pushers (5) determines a movement thereof on a same plane.

[0222] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the actuation of the at least a second pair of pushers (5) determines a movement thereof on a same plane.

[0223] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the plane on which moves the second pair of pushers is the plane on which moves the first pair of pushers. According to a further non-limiting aspect, the movement of the at least a pusher (5), optionally of the first pair of pushers (5) and / or of the second pair of pushers (5) comprises a translation between said first and said second position.

[0224] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said translation is substantially axial.

[0225] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said translation is substantially radial with respect to the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and / or to the support (3).

[0226] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a step of arrangement, optionally automated, of the centering device in said second position before the start of said actuator, preferably of said motor, and / or before an activation of said at least a first camera (6), and / or comprises a step of arrangement, optionally automated, of the centering device in said first configuration after a stop of said actuator, preferably of said motor.

[0227] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the method comprises a geometrical coupling between at least one between the first and the second clamp and at least part of the support (3); optionally, the method comprising a geometrical coupling between the first clamp and at least part of the support (3) and between the second clamp and at least part of the support (3).

[0228] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said geometrical coupling takes place in substantial correspondence of a portion of contact of at least one between the first and the second clamp, said portion of contact having a shape recalling the one of part of the support (3).

[0229] According to the present disclosure it is also described a program for computer, stored on a non-transitory storage support; said program for computer comprising software code portions which, when executed by at least a data processing unit, cause the execution of the method according to one or more of the aspects herein described.

[0230] According to the present disclosure it is also described a data processing unit, configured for carrying out a method according to one or more of the aspects herein described.

[0231] According to the present disclosure it is also described a device for observing biological samples (1) comprising:

[0232] - a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples;

[0233] - at least a first camera (6) configured for framing, from a first point of observation, at least a portion of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) wherein the at least a portion of the support (3) comprises, in use, a biological sample;

[0234] - at least a first optical radiation source (10) configured for lighting at least a portion of the support (3) from a first lighting direction; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and a predetermined observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the movement device (14, 15; 5) comprises a centering device, configured for determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine that the support (3) achieves the predetermined observation position (P2) and / or for retaining said support (3) in the predetermined observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) are configured for determining a controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) at least with respect to the first camera (6) for the achievement of said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or for determining the rotation of the support (3) during the framing of the support (3) at least by of the first camera (6).

[0235] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the centering device comprises at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position and configured for determining a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0236] According to the present disclosure it is eventually described a method for observing biological samples, comprising:

[0237] - a step of motion of at least a support (3) for biological samples by means of a movement device (14, 15, 5), the step of movement comprising a movement of the at least a support (3), between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (1 1) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b);

[0238] - a step of lighting of at least a portion of the support (3), carried out by means of a first optical radiation source (10) and occurring from a first lighting direction;

[0239] - a step of activation of at least a first camera (6) to frame at least a portion of the support (3) comprising in use a biological sample, from a first point of observation, wherein the step of movement of the at least a support (3) through the movement device (14, 15, 5) comprises a step of actuation of a centering device of the movement device (14, 15, 5), said step of actuation of the centering device determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the observation position (P2) by the support (3) and / or determining a retaining of the support (3) in said observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), said method further comprising a step of controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), through the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), at least with respect to the first camera (6) for the achievement of said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or during the framing of the support (3) at least by the first camera (6).

[0240] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forwarded position for determining a centering of the support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

[0241] Figures

[0242] The object of the present disclosure will be now described with reference to the attached figures, used as support of the following detailed description. A short description of the figures is hereinafter provided.

[0243] Figure 1 shows a device for observing biological samples in a first configuration, wherein a support for biological samples is positioned in a rotating magazine, together with other supports for biological samples.

[0244] Figure 2 shows the device of figure 1 in a second configuration, wherein said support for biological samples has been lifted.

[0245] Figure 3 shows the device of figure 1 in a third configuration wherein a translator, in particular a grippers translator is next to engage the support for biological samples.

[0246] Figure 4 shows the device of figure 1 in a fourth configuration wherein the translator, in particular the grippers translator temporarily arranges the support for biological samples in correspondence of a station of identification.

[0247] Figure 5 shows part of the device of figure 1 , and in detail shows a supporting element for the support for biological samples. The support for biological samples is lifted by the supporting element.

[0248] Figure 6 shows part of the device of figure 1 , and in detail shows the supporting element on which the translator, in particular the grippers translator has leaned the support for biological samples on said supporting element.

[0249] Figure 7 shows a section of a clamp of a translator, in particular a grippers translator.

[0250] Figure 8 shows a block diagram subsuming an operating process carried out by the device object of the present disclosure.

[0251] Detailed description

[0252] With reference number 1, it is overall indicated a device for observing biological samples. According to the present disclosure, for biological samples are intended samples containing any element of biological nature, non-limiting thereto, secretions, organic fluids, viruses and / or bacteria and / or molds and / or fungi.

[0253] The device 1 comprises a supporting element 2, 2a, 2b configured for supporting a support 3 for biological samples.

[0254] The support 3 for biological samples, in an embodiment, comprises a Petri dish.

[0255] As schematically shown in figure 1, in a non-limiting embodiment, the support 3 comprises a bottom portion, upon which in use is deposited a culture medium 4, at least a side wall 3b, which extends in substantially oblique direction with respect to the bottom portion, and a head portion 3a, which extends in substantially oblique direction with respect to the side wall 3b.

[0256] In an embodiment, the support 3 has a substantially circular section, and therefore the side wall 3b is single and extends seamlessly; in figure 1 , the side wall 3b is orthogonal with respect to the bottom portion of the support 3 and the head portion 3a lies on a plane substantially parallel to the plane upon which lies the bottom portion. The support 3 can for example and non-limiting thereto have a diameter substantially comprised between 30mm and 170mm, or between 40mm and 160mm, or between 50mm and 150mm.

[0257] In a non-limiting embodiment, the head portion 3a is removably connectible to the at least a side wall 3b, and therefore realizes a cover which if needed can be removed for gaining access to the culture medium 4. In an embodiment the head portion 3a, when connected to the side wall 3b, substantially seals a cavity of the support 3.

[0258] The culture medium 4 comprises one or more solid or liquid solutions containing nutritional substances on which it is possible to grow eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. A specific and non-limiting embodiment of culture medium is the Agar.

[0259] In an alternative embodiment, the support 3 can be substantially planar and open.

[0260] The support 3 can be realized in different materials among which plastic materials and / or in glass.

[0261] The support 3, especially when shaped so as to define an inner cavity, is realized in an optically substantially transparent material. An optically substantially transparent material is a material which allows the passage of an optical radiation, in particular in the visible domain, without appreciable scattering. A substantially transparent material is different from a substantially translucid material, wherein, instead, an optical radiation herein incident is capable of passing, but not necessarily following the Snell Law; the optical radiation, in a translucid material, can be scattered in correspondence of the two interfaces (of input and output of the radiation) or inside the material itself. A particular expression of translucid materials are opaque materials. These materials cannot substantially be traversed by an optical radiation, which is substantially integrally attenuated by the material itself. In particular are substantially transparent at least the head portion 3a and / or the side wall of the support.

[0262] The supporting element 2, 2a, 2b is substantially planar and in use is substantially horizontal. The supporting element 2, 2a, 2b comprises a first portion 2a and a second portion 2b. The first portion 2a is an inner portion with respect to the second portion 2b, which is therefore an outer portion.

[0263] In a non-limiting embodiment, the supporting element 2 assumes a substantially circular configuration, and therefore the first portion 2a is a radially inner portion whereas the second portion 2b is a radially outer portion. In particular, a specific and non-limiting shape of the supporting element 2, which is shown in the attached figures, is substantially a discoidal, supporting plate. It is then intended that if hereinafter in the present description it is made reference to the supporting element 2, it shall be specifically intended that what is described will apply explicitly for the embodiment wherein the supporting element is realized as supporting plate.

[0264] In a non-limiting embodiment, the first portion 2a is optically transparent and is substantially hollow or provided with an appropriate transparent supporting element, for example a glass or a plastic material.

[0265] An Y axis departs from the supporting element 2 in direction substantially orthogonal with respect to this latter.

[0266] The supporting element 2 is preferably conceived for rotating around a predetermined axis, and this axis is actually the Y axis.

[0267] The device 1 also comprises an actuator, preferably a motor, configured at least for determining a controlled movement of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. In particular, the controlled movement comprises at least a rotation around a predefined rotation axis, which in the embodiments of the attached figures is substantially vertically aligned. The rotation can occur clockwise and / or counterclockwise. The motor can be an electric motor.

[0268] In use, the controlled movement, in particular the controlled rotation, of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b determines a corresponding controlled movement, in particular a corresponding controlled rotation, of the support 3. In fact this support 3, in at least a use configuration, is maintained in substantially rigid way on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0269] The device 1 object of the present disclosure comprises a first camera 6, configured for framing at least a portion of the support 3 from a first point of observation. In detail, the first camera 6 is arranged so as to frame an image of at least a portion of the support 3 from a substantially vertical direction framing the support 3 substantially in the plan view. In an embodiment, the first camera 6 is centered on the Y axis. This shall not be considered as limiting, since in a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the axis of framing of the first camera 6 forms a predefined angle with respect to a substantially horizontal axis. Preferably, but non-limiting thereto, the angle is comprised between 10° and 80°, more preferably between 20° and 70° with respect to the Y axis. In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the first camera 6 is a dot-matrix camera, for example and non-limiting thereto a CCD-type camera, configured for framing an image of an area of predefined shape, for example substantially rectangular or squared.

[0270] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, at least the first camera 6 can be a camera with an active cooling system or device; the active cooling system or device is configured for reducing said dark current, and can concur to optimize the quality of acquired images, in particular by reducing the noise of themselves.

[0271] Further cameras can be provided on the device 1 object of the present disclosure. These further cameras can be of a matrix type or linear.

[0272] In a non-limiting embodiment, the first camera 6, (and possibly, if present, the other cameras) is configured for framing directly images of at least part of the portion of the biological sample and / or of the support 3. According to the present disclosure, for "directly” it is intended that between the first camera 6 (and possibly, if present, the other cameras) and the biological sample and / or the support 3, there are no interposed elements, in particular mirrors, focusers, lenses, or other means, specifically destined to diverge, concentrate or deviate optical radiation. Thanks to this technical characteristic the following technical effects are obtained:

[0273] - the area immediately above the biological sample and / or the support 3 is substantially clear until reaching the height at which is present the above mentioned one or more cameras, or at which is present the optical radiation source;

[0274] - the device 1 is maintained simple, and therefore cost-effective to realize, and easier to clean or maintain;

[0275] - is guaranteed a high flexibility of positioning and / or relative movement between the first camera 6 (and possibly, if present, the other cameras) and the support 3;

[0276] - the quality of the images is improved, since the interposed elements could lead to image distortions or could be subject to micro-vibrations capable of adversely affecting the quality of the acquired images.

[0277] A metal supporting frame, in particular but not limiting thereto, made of aluminum, is provided for the purpose of supporting the first camera 6 in a predefined and stable position. The supporting frame for the camera is rigidly attached to a frame on which is installed the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. Also the latter frame is realized in metallic material, preferably aluminum.

[0278] The device 1 object of the present disclosure comprises also a first optical radiation source 10 configured for lighting a portion of the support 3 from a first irradiation direction, in particular of lighting. In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment the first optical radiation source 10 is used for the acquisition of the at least a first image through the first camera 6. Preferably the first optical radiation source 10 is integral with the first camera 6.

[0279] Preferably, but non-limiting thereto, the device 1 object of the present disclosure comprises a second optical radiation source and, still optionally, a third optical radiation source, configured for lighting a portion of the support 3 from a second irradiation direction, in particular of lighting. These optical radiation sources can be simultaneously or alternatively activated. The intensity of optical radiation of at least one among the first, the second and the third optical radiation source, can be manually adjusted and / or substantially automated, for example for facing different translucency levels of the culture medium and / or according to an optical sensitivity of at least one of the cameras the device 1 can be provided therewith.

[0280] In a non-limiting embodiment, the first optical radiation source 10 (and possibly, if present, the at least a further optical radiation source) is configured for irradiating at least part of the biological sample and / or of the support 3 directly. According to the present disclosure, for "directly” it is intended that between the first optical radiation source 10 (and possibly, if present, the at least a further optical radiation source) and the biological sample and / or the support 3, there are no interposed elements, in particular, mirrors, focusers, lenses, or other means, specifically destined to diverge, concentrate or deviate optical radiation. Thanks to this technical characteristic the following technical effects are obtained:

[0281] - the area immediately above the biological sample and / or the support 3, and / or the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, is substantially clear until reaching the height at which is present the above mentioned one or more cameras, or at which are present one or more optical radiation sources;

[0282] - the device 1 is maintained simple, and therefore cost-effective to realize, and easier to clean or maintain;

[0283] - is guaranteed a high flexibility of positioning and / or relative movement between the optical radiation sources and the support 3;

[0284] - the quality of the images is improved, since the interposed elements could lead to image distortions or could be subject to micro-vibrations capable of adversely affecting the irradiation accuracy.

[0285] The device can be also configured for simultaneously activating two or more cameras when present. In a non-limiting embodiment, the activation of cameras can occur with one or more optical radiation sources simultaneously activated. There is then a synchronization of at least one among the cameras and the at least an optical radiation source.

[0286] In some embodiments, at least an optical radiation source selected among the first, the second and the third, can be a radiating source in the infrared spectrum and / or in the ultraviolet spectrum.

[0287] According to the present disclosure, the infrared spectrum comprises radiations whose wavelengths are substantially comprised in the range 700nm-1000pm, and that in particular are comprised in the range of the infrared said "near” (700nm - 1 ,4pm).

[0288] According to the present disclosure, the ultraviolet spectrum comprises radiations whose wavelengths are substantially comprised in the range 10nm-400nm.

[0289] Optionally, at least one among the first, the second and the third optical radiation source is an optical radiation source configured for being tunable in wavelength and in particular capable of emitting through the single or combined action of one or more emitters, optical radiations in the range of the infrared and / or the visible and / or of the ultraviolet as above described. It is intended that the number of optical radiation sources could also be greater than three.

[0290] In particular, at least one among the first, the second and the third optical radiation source can be a LASER-type source.

[0291] At least one among the first, the second or the third optical radiation source is arranged so as to irradiate at least part of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and then, in use, the support 3, from above. Optionally at least one among the first, the second or the third optical radiation source is arranged so as to irradiate a part of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and then, in use, the support 3, from below. Conveniently in this latter case at least part of the irradiation flow produced in use from the optical radiation source will be directed in correspondence of the first portion 2a of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0292] It is observed that in a specific embodiment, the device 1 , and then the method carried out by it, can be devoid of said camera and of said at least an optical radiation source; it is then clear that a specific embodiment of the device 1 here described will comprise a movement device for biological samples destined in particular to move a support 3 for biological samples or will comprise a centering device for allowing the centering of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. Details of the movement device for biological samples and of the centering device will be provided in the following portions of description.

[0293] In an embodiment the device 1 comprises a magazine 11 for supports 3, configured for containing at least temporarily a plurality of supports 3 arranged in at least a predefined configuration. In an alternative embodiment, this magazine 11 can be not properly part of the device 1 herein described.

[0294] In order to allow the reader to correctly interpret the operation of the device 1 herein are described, in relation to at least a support 3, a pickup position P1 , that is in substantial correspondence of the magazine 1 , and an observation position P2.

[0295] The device 1 herein described comprises a movement device 14, 15, 5 configured for moving, optionally at least in lifting, at least a support 3 between the pickup position P1, in particular in correspondence of the magazine 11, and an observation position P2 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0296] In the observation position P2 the support 3 lies in a position that allows the first camera 6 to frame at least an image of the support itself, allowing the identification of the biological sample herein contained. The observation position P2 lies at a predefined and fixed distance with respect to the at least a first camera 6 thanks to this aspect it is possible to pre-adjust the focus of the at least a first camera 6 so that there is a high quality of acquisition of the images of the biological sample.

[0297] The movement device 14, 15, 5 optionally can be configured for adapting to a shape and / or size of the support 3 in a substantially automated way. Thanks to this aspect the operating flexibility of the device 1 is improved, since supports 3 of different shape and / or size can be moved in a substantially automatic way and without the need of critic intervention by an operator. The device 1 can then quickly carry out images, in a substantially automated way, of supports 3 of different shape and / or size.

[0298] During the reading of the present description will be clear that the device 1 and / or the movement device 14, 15, 5 are configured for carrying out a predefined sequence of movements, in its turn predefined. It will be alternatively made reference to specific configurations or to steps of a method, that will not be described always in a separate way in order not to cause an undue lengthening of the description. It is intended that steps of the method here described imply equivalent configurations of the device 1 and vice versa.

[0299] The movement device 14, 15, 5 comprises at least a translator, in particular a grippers translator 15, configured for removably engaging at least a support 3. In a specific embodiment the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 is configured and specifically destined to allow to pickup a single support 3 each time. A lifter 14 is also part of the movement device, and is operatively associated to the grippers translator. The lifter 14 is configured for moving the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 between a first and a second height, along an axial direction of translation which is substantially vertical.

[0300] In an alternative embodiment, the translator is of substantially of a pneumatic type, in particular a translator configured for exerting at least temporarily a vacuum in correspondence of a surface of the support 3.

[0301] The grippers translator 15 comprises a first and a second clamp reciprocally movable between a first configuration in which the first and the second clamp are positioned at a first distance and a second configuration in which the first and the second clamp are positioned at a second distance lower with respect to the first distance.

[0302] The first distance is preferably greater with respect to the maximum extension of the support 3, and more generally it can then be asserted that this first distance is greater with respect to at least a size of the support 3, in particular being greater with respect to a maximum size of the support 3. The second distance is instead corresponding to a size of the support 3. In a non-limiting embodiment, the second distance corresponds to the diameter of the support 3.

[0303] With "first and second clamp” and "reciprocally movable”, it is intended included a specific embodiment wherein one of the two clamps is movable, whereas the second is fixed. In an embodiment, the first and the second clamp are substantially counterposed.

[0304] In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the movement of the grippers translator can occur through an actuator, preferably a motor, electrical, and in this case, always preferably, the grippers translator 15 can comprise a suitable encoder for determining the position of the first and of the second clamp. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 can comprise an actuator, or a group of multiactuator actuation, of pneumatic type.

[0305] The first and the second clamp are configured for geometrically coupling with at least part of the support 3; in particular the first and the second clamp show a contact portion (or distal portion) whose shape follows the one of part of the support 3. In the specific embodiment shown in the attached figures, the support 3 shows a substantially discoidal body and then the first and the second clamp show a contact portion arcuated and defining , in its entirety, a circumference arch profile. In an embodiment, the contact portion of at least one between the first and the second clamp is specifically configured for adapting to the outer shape of at least part of the support 3. For example this particular configuration can allow the clamps to adapt to different side profiles of the support 3, which according to the specific type can assume different diameters (for example 60mm or 90mm). The presence of a contact portion whose shape follows (or is configured for automatically adapting so as to follow) the one of part of the support 3, allows to develop the contact between the clamp and the support 3 along a surface sufficiently great so as to allow a good retaining, also in case of quick movement, and with low thrust force per area unit against the support 3. This reduces also the risk of deformation of the support 3.

[0306] In particular, in a preferred embodiment, the second distance corresponds to a size of the support 3. In the attached figures the supports 3, even if of different sizes, are substantially discoidal and for this reason they have a circular transversal section. Therefore, in a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, said second distance corresponds to the diameter of the support 3. The first configuration is a releasing configuration of the at least a support 3, in which the first and the second clamp are configured for releasing the support 3. The second configuration is a grasping configuration of the at least a support 3, in which the at least a support 3 is retained between the first and the second clamp.

[0307] In an embodiment, the device 1 herein described can be configured for acquiring a dimensional electronic data, indicative of the shape and / or size of the support 3 and is configured for causing a movement of at least one between the first and the second clamp of the grippers translator 15, in particular between the first configuration and the second configuration, according to said electronic data. Alternatively, the first and the second clamp of the grippers translator 15 move closing towards the support 3 until reaching an obstacle shown by the support 3 itself, in particular by the side surface of the support 3 itself. The grippers translator 15 in this case is configured for detecting the contrasting force exerted by the support 3, in particular by its side surface, when it is determined a contact of the support 3 with the first clamp and the second clamp, and preferably for interrupting another thrusting action closing of the first and of the second clamp.

[0308] In order to allow said step of acquisition, in an embodiment the device 1 comprises an optical reader (in particular the optical reader positioned in correspondence of the first control station 30) configured for optically detecting a size of the support 3, and / or optically acquiring an identification code of said support 3, in particular for optically acquiring the identification code from said support 3. The optical reader is configured for generating the dimensional electronic data according to the optically detected size. The optical reader is configured for generating the dimensional electronic data according to the optically detected size and / or according to the optically acquired identification code, and for transmitting the dimensional electronic data towards the data processing unit.

[0309] In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the optical reader comprises a laser and a photo-receiver.

[0310] This optical reader is installed preferably in a first control station 30 which will be hereinafter described with greater detail. In principle the optical reader could also be, or in alternative, installed in substantial correspondence of the grippers translator 15. The Applicant has then conceived a particular embodiment wherein it is present at least a first optical reader (positioned in correspondence of the first control station 30) and a second optical reader installed in substantial correspondence of the grippers translator 15. A particular non-limiting embodiment of the device 1 provides the above-mentioned optical reader installed in an integrally movable way with said grippers translator 15. Preferably the above-mentioned optical reader is positioned, when installed on said grippers translator 15, at a height substantially equal to the height at which are located the first and the second clamp. The optical reader positioned installed in substantial correspondence of the grippers translator 15 is configured for managing the unload of the support 3 in correspondence of the transport station 20.

[0311] This advantageously allows an easy reading of tags even during the step of transportation of the at least a support 3.

[0312] The dimensional electronic data can for example be acquired by an optical reading of a visual code contained on a tag 50 provided on the support 3 and / or by an optical reading of a visual pattern directly realized on the support 3.

[0313] The movement device is configured for carrying out a composite movement of movement of the at least a support s between the pickup position (P1) and the observation position (P2); the composite movement comprises at least a translation along a first and a second axis not aligned to each other, in particular orthogonal to each other, and / or a rototranslation. In particular the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 carries out an at least substantially biaxial movement.

[0314] Returning back again to the magazine, in a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, this magazine is a carousel magazine, having a center and a plurality of retaining stations of supports 3 radially arranged with respect to the center and / or in a substantially perimeter position. In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the magazine 11 is a magazine configured for carrying out a movement of rotation around a predefined rotation axis A, that in the specific embodiment shown in the attached figures is substantially vertical, in order to allow the positioning, alternatively, of at least a first and a second station of said plurality of stations in the pickup position (P1 ).

[0315] The magazine 11 comprises a plurality of dividing columns that allow to detect and separate the various retaining stations of supports 3. For each retaining station of supports 3, a plurality of supports 3 is arranged as a stack, with a support above the other. The loading of the magazine 1 1 can occur according to a manual or automatic proceeding. In an embodiment, the dividing columns extend all of them along a same direction, that in use is substantially vertical.

[0316] Preferably, each station is destined to contain a plurality of supports 3, all having a same shape or a same size.

[0317] The device 1 object of the present disclosure also comprises a mover 12, that in a specific embodiment comprises in particular at least a lifter, configured for moving at least a support 3 from a rest position P3 in a respective station to the pickup position P1. In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, said pickup position P1 is a position located at a different height, in particular higher, with respect to the rest position P3. In particular this can be observed in a comparison between figure 1 and figure 2.

[0318] The movement device 14, 15, 5 comprises a centering device, configured for retaining the support 3 in an observation position P2 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and / or for determining a movement of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b in order to determine the achievement of the observation position P2 by the support 3. In particular, it is observed that said movement of the support 3 on the supporting element is substantially minimal, destined to optimize an already partially centering carried out through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15.

[0319] It is observed that a particular embodiment of the device 1 object of the present disclosure does not comprise the grippers mover 15 but comprises the above described centering device.

[0320] In the specific embodiment of the attached figures, the centering device comprises four pushers 5, arranged on two counterposed pairs. Pushers are made movable through at least a motor, that causes the movement thereof by direct or indirect actuation. Furthermore, there can be a linear actuator, for example pneumatic, that determines the movement of the pushers 5 in the here described modes.

[0321] It is observed that the presence of four pushers shall not be intended as limiting, since generally the centering device can comprise at least one pusher 5 movable between at least a first and a second position.

[0322] A particular embodiment of the centering device comprises an odd number of pushers, for example three or five pushers. An odd number of pushers can be used when the support 3 has particular perimeter having odd sides and / or when the support 3 has a circular plan section. In this latter case a pair of pushers 5 or two pairs (four) of pushers 5 can be also used .

[0323] When the centering device comprises three pushers, these pushers, on the horizontal plane, are preferably arranged such that they are angularly spaced the one with respect to the other from a same angle; they are then arranged at 120° the one from the other. This means that in an embodiment, the pushers of said plurality of pushers are configured for exerting a thrust force towards the support 3 along a respective direction angularly equally spaced with respect to the directions of exercise of thrust force of contiguous pushers.

[0324] In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the first position is a backward position; the second position is a forward position. The backward position can be a position substantially in contact with the support 3.

[0325] In particular, in an embodiment:

[0326] - the first position is a position in use spaced with respect to the support 3,

[0327] - the second position is a position in use substantially in contact with the support 3.

[0328] The at least one pusher 5, or as it will be better clarified hereinafter, the plurality of pushers, slides substantially leaning on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. The centering device in particular comprises at least a first pair of pushers 5 movable along respectively a first and a second direction skew to each other; in particular the pushers of the mentioned first pair of pushers 5 can be aligned on a single straight line or direction but are movable in a first and a second way opposite to each other, oriented i.e. substantially at 180° the one with respect to the other. The pushers of the first pair of pushers move on a same plane. In particular, this plane is a horizontal plane. When there is a second pair of pushers 5, also these pushers will move on a same plane. In particular, all the four pushers can move on a same plane.

[0329] The pushers are positioned in particular as follows:

[0330] - the first pair of pushers 5 comprises a first and a second pusher being counterposed, i.e. that move along two ways opposite the one with respect to the other in approaching and in moving away;

[0331] - the second pair of pushers 5 comprises a first and a second pusher being counterposed, i.e. that move along two ways opposite the one with respect to the other in approaching and in moving away.

[0332] A preferred embodiment of the device 1 object of the present disclosure presents the centering device provided with two pairs of pushers 5 configured in such a way that the second pair of pushers is oriented at 90° with respect to the first pair of pushers. This means that one (in particular, each) pusher of the first pair of pushers 5 is between two pushers of the second pair of pushers 5. This particular configuration allows to retain the support 3 along two diameters substantially orthogonal one with respect to the other and allows an efficient retaining of the support 3 on the supporting element even when this supporting element is moved at high speed.

[0333] It is observed that even if the pushers 5, preferably, are all movable with respect to the supporting element, the Applicant has conceived some embodiments wherein one of the two pushers 5, or part of four pushers, or at least one among the three or five pushers, can be fixed.

[0334] When at least two pushers 5 are movable, a synchronization device is preferably present. This synchronization device can be mechanical (for example on pinion and rack) and / or pneumatic and / or electric or electronic, and is conceived with the purpose of synchronizing the movement of pushers at the beginning of the movement, stop of the movement and movement speed, in particular translation speed. The control unit of the device 1 controls the functioning of the synchronization device. The pushers can then move simultaneously.

[0335] If in use the support 3 is deposited in a position not centered on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, and in particular not centered on the first portion 2a of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, at least one of the pushers 5 will enter into contact before the others with a side wall of the support 3 and will determine a sliding thereof on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, causing a translation thereof that can be, for example, substantially linear.

[0336] In order to optimize the accuracy of centering of the element 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, in a non-limiting embodiment the at least one pusher 5, and where present the plurality of pushers 5, is substantially rigid. In an embodiment, in fact, the pushers 5 are realized in metallic material, for example in aluminium. However the Applicant has conceived a particular non-limiting embodiment wherein the accuracy of centering of the element 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b is satisfied, even having the distal portion of the at least one pusher 5, and where present of the plurality of pushers 5, in a substantially elastic material.

[0337] In the first position the distal portions of the four pushers 5 touch a first ideal circumference, having a first diameter; in the second position, the distal portion of the four pushers 5 touch a second ideal circumference, having a second diameter lower with respect to the first diameter. This means that in an embodiment, when in the first position, the four pushers 5 present a same distance from the center of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b detected by the axis Y. In the second position the four pushers 5 present a same distance (lower with respect to the distance assumed when in the first position) from the center of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. The maintaining of an equal first and second distance with respect to the center of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b when in the first and second position, is a technical characteristic valid also for the embodiments wherein it is present a single pair of pushers 5.

[0338] It is observed that in a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 is configured for housing at least part of the pusher 5.

[0339] As shown in detail in figure 7, at least one between said first and second clamp comprises a recess 15c configured for allowing to house at least part of the pusher 5 and for allowing a relative movement of translation, in particular of axial translation, between the pusher 5 and the respective clamp. In the specific embodiment shown in the attached figures, the first and the second clamp comprise said recess 15c.

[0340] In use, at least one between said first and said second clamp are subject to a step of movement for reaching a height substantially equal to the height at which lies the at least one pusher 5 (and, where present, the four pushers 5). In particular, in the embodiment shown in the attached figures, both the clamps reach a height substantially equal to the height at which lie the pushers 5.

[0341] Also, in use, the recess 15c of the left clamp sinistra is aligned to the recess 15c of the right clamp; this is due to the fact that these recesses must house a pair of counterposed pushers 5, that move along directions opposite but aligned at 180°.

[0342] The movement between the pickup position P1 and the observation position P2 is composed in particular of a translation, optionally axial, along a substantially horizontal direction and, subsequently, of a translation, optionally axial, along a substantially vertical direction, in particular ending when the support 3 is deposited on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. At this point at least one between said first and said second clamp, and said pusher 5 move along a same plane and / or along a same direction, in particular considerably horizontal; in this step, as it is also possible to understand by comparing figure 5 and figure 6:

[0343] - the first clamp and the second clamp release the support 3; and

[0344] - (optionally substantially simultaneously) the at least one pusher 5 engages the support 3 for carrying out the centering on the observation position. It is observed in particular that in figure 5 is shown a particular configuration of use in which the support 3 is still retained by the grippers retainer 15 at a predetermined height with respect to the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and wherein the four pushers 5 are in said first position. Figure 6 shows a particular configuration of use in which the support 3 has been deposited on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, in particular in substantial correspondence of the first portion 2a. In figure 6 the first and the second clamp are moved away with respect to the support 3 and the pushers 5, even if still in contact with the support 3, are not anymore in said first position.

[0345] In an embodiment, when actuated, the four pushers 5 two by two counterposed and arranged in orthogonal pairs move in a substantially simultaneous way. The simultaneous movement occurs with concordance of position and / or configuration; this means that all the pushers 5 are alternatively in the first position (first configuration) or in the second position (second configuration).

[0346] The stroke of the at least one pusher 5, or when present of the plurality of pushers, is determined according to the sizes and / or to the shape of the support 3. This, in an embodiment is carried out as follows: according to the dimensional data acquired through the optical reader, the device 1 actuates in an automatic way the movement of the pushers 5 such as to determine a stroke between the first and the second position that is function of the shape and / or size of the support 3. Alternatively, at least one among the pushers 5 can be provided with or operatively associated to a contact sensor configured for causing the stop when arrived in substantial contact with the support 3.

[0347] A particular embodiment of the device 1 object of the present disclosure comprises a focusing device, configured for focusing at least a portion of the support 3 and / or the biological sample on the first camera 6, and where present, on the second or on the third camera. The focusing device comprises a servo-mechanism that is automatically actuated for causing a variation of the distance assumed between said at least a portion of the support 3 and / or between said biological sample and the first camera 6. In an embodiment the servo-mechanism acts by moving the first camera 6 by approaching or moving away with respect to the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. In this embodiment the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, and then the support 3, is maintained in a fixed position. It is observed that a particular embodiment of the device 1 is configured for moving, through said servomechanism, also the optical radiation source (or if present, the optical radiation sources) integrally with the first camera 6 or more generally with the camera (then second camera and, if present third camera) to which are operatively associated during the step of acquisition of images.

[0348] In an alternative, and preferred, embodiment the servo-mechanism acts by moving the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b with respect to the first camera 6, which is maintained in a fixed position. In this case the servomechanism acts in particular for carrying out a translation of height of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b with respect to the first camera 6, in particular determining a linear translation which preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, takes place along the axis Y.

[0349] Preferably, the device 1 is configured for detecting a height of the support 3 and / or of the biological sample with respect to the camera 6 and / or with respect to the height at which lies the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. This detection can be carried out directly through the first camera 6 or through an auxiliary optical device or even through said acquisition of said dimensional data. After the detection, it takes place a correction of the difference of height existing between the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and the first camera 6 through an actuation of said servo-mechanism.

[0350] In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the device 1 is configured for depositing, in use, the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b with a predefined azimuthal orientation in relation to said supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. In particular, the movement device 14, 15, 5 (through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15) is configured for carrying out a step of deposit of the support 3 on said supporting element 2, 2a, 2b with a predefined azimuthal orientation in relation to said supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0351] In fact, in an embodiment the support 3 presents an identification code, which preferably assumes the shape of an identification tag 50 arranged in substantial correspondence of a predefined portion of the lateral surface thereof. This tag 50 allows to identify an azimuthal reference area and allows to understand which is the rotation along the azimuthal plane of the support 3 with respect to the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. The azimuthal plane is an orthogonal plane with respect to the axis Y. This identification code can also be printed or etched on a portion of the support 3.

[0352] Furthermore, a specific and non-limiting embodiment of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b provides for the presence of a reference 2c which protrudes above the supporting element; this reference, in an embodiment, assumes a substantially circumferential sector profile, and presents a wall, in use directed substantially toward the support 3, of substantially reflecting type. In an embodiment it extends for a circumference arch lower than 90°, preferably comprised between 20° and 60° and more preferably comprised between 30° and 50°. In use, the support 3 is deposited on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b so as to have the identification tag 50 substantially aligned to said reference 2c. In an embodiment this allows the reading of the identification tag 50 or the check of the azimuthal alignment on the reference, also from above (arrow F in figure 6).

[0353] A correct identification of the azimuthal alignment allows to keep the reference of the position of possible areas of growth of bacteria and / or viruses and / or fungi and / or molds on the culture medium, even where the support 3 shall undergo photographic acquisitions in subsequent moments.

[0354] The device object of the present disclosure also comprises a transport station 20 provided with a conveyor belt 21 or equivalent pushers or draggers; preferably, but non-limiting thereto, the transport station 20 is located between the magazine 11 and the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the movement device is configured for depositing the at least a support 3 in correspondence of said transport station 20 and in particular on the conveyor belt 21 , in a releasing position P4.

[0355] In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the transport station 20 comprises at least a presence sensor, for example and non-limiting thereto a photoelectric cell that is part of a presence detection portal of supports 3. In said portal there is also a photoemitter. With this portal the transport station 20, alternatively or in combination, can: - count a number of supports 3 moving on the conveyor belt 21 or pushed by the pushers or dragged by the draggers;

[0356] - interrupt the movement of the conveyor belt 21 or of the pushers or draggers, when - for example - is detected the presence of a support 3 or is counted a predetermined number of supports 3.

[0357] In particular, after the acquisition of the at least an image of the support 3 and of the biological sample 4 through the first camera 6, in a preferred but non-limiting embodiment the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15, engages again the support 3 from the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b by moving the first and the second clamp between the first and the second position. Shortly before, or in substantial time correspondence the centering device passes from the second configuration to the first configuration for releasing the support 3.

[0358] It is observed in particular that the second configuration of the centering device occurs substantially before starting the rotation of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b (actuator powering). Furthermore, the passage from the second configuration to the first configuration of the centering device will occur after the stop of the rotation of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b (actuator deactivation).

[0359] The translator, in particular the grippers translator 15, carries out a biaxial lifting movement of the support 3, of translation of the support 3 along a substantially horizontal direction and a deposit of the support 3 on the conveyor belt 21 by means of a translation, preferably axial, along a substantially vertical direction. The translator can also carry out a rotation of the support 3, which determines anyway a translation of itself between a first and a second point.

[0360] Preferably, the actuation of the movement device 14, 15, 5, the movement of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b in rotation and / or in translation for focusing, the acquisition of said dimensional data and the acquisition of one or more images through the at least a first camera 6, and if present the actuation in rotation of the magazine 11 and of the mover 12 occur under control of a data processing unit, which is destined to supervise a substantially automated functioning of the device 1 .

[0361] In an embodiment, lastly, the device 1 is configured for optically analyzing a surface of the support 3, in particular if closed, and is configured for interrupting the transport of the support s toward the observation position P2 and / or on the supporting plane when the presence of condensation occurs. The check of the presence of condensation can be carried out for example and non-limiting thereto through a check of an optical radiation reflection or diffusion level, in particular a light reflection or diffusion level, along at least a direction not coinciding with the propagation direction of the optical radiation, and optionally along a plurality of directions not coinciding with the propagation direction of the optical radiation. Thanks to this aspect, the acquisition of poor quality images, capable of producing false positive or false negative counts in presence of bacteria and / or viruses and / or fungi and / or molds colonies is avoided. In an embodiment, if it is detected the presence of condensation, the device 1 is configured for actuating the movement device 14, 15, 5 in a substantially automated way for conveying the at least a support 3 toward the transport station without acquisition of images, then without putting in rotation the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and / or without activating the camera (or cameras, if present in a number higher than one). In an embodiment, the control of the presence of condensation can be carried out before the deposit of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and / or before the focusing. In an alternative embodiment, the control of the presence of condensation can be carried out after the deposit of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0362] The Applicant has conceived a particular version of the device 1 which is provided with a temperature sensor and, optionally, with a conditioner configured for heating and / or cooling a portion of the device 1 substantially next to the observation position, so that it is possible to acquire images of the support 3 and of the biological sample here contained if possible without causing a formation of condensation.

[0363] The acquisition of images in temperature conditions substantially equal to the incubation ones limits the alteration of microorganisms present in the support 3.

[0364] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the device 1 object of the present disclosure comprises at least a first control station 30, which is configured for carrying out, if necessary, a pre-positioning of the support 3 in view of the subsequent deposit of the same on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. More precisely, the prepositioning comprises a pre-rotation of the support along a vertical axis, such that the support 3 has a predefined azimuthal rotation with respect to a reference direction.

[0365] In particular, at least the first control station 30 is configured and specifically destined to allow at least one between:

[0366] - a storing of first electronic data related to the biological sample, optionally through a reading of the identification tag 50; and

[0367] - an electronic identification of at least a size of the support 3, optionally through the at least a first camera.

[0368] The storing of said electronic data occurs through the previously described optical reader.

[0369] The translator, in particular the grippers translator 15, in use, temporarily deposits the support 3 on a movable plate 31 of the first control station 30, and through a reference, in use given by means of the identification tag 50 placed on the support 3, the support 3 is moved, in particular rotated. In particular, it is carried out a preferably automated and electronic detection of a positional reference on the support 3, and on the basis of the position assumed by said positional reference, the support 3 is moved, and in particular rotated, until reaching a desired spatial position or orientation. The previously mentioned detection occurs then in the optical domain.

[0370] The optical reader is configured and specifically destined to allow the reading of the identification code, in particular of the tag, independently from the spatial orientation of the support 3. This is made possible by the possibility of rotation of the movable plate 31.

[0371] The translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 then picks up again the support 3 from the movable plate 31 and conveys it in the observation position P2 in the above described modes. The device 1 object of the present disclosure can comprise, or anyway be associated to, an incubator; in the embodiment shown in the attached figures, there is a second control station 40, which is configured for carrying out, if necessary, a pre-positioning of the support 3 in view of the subsequent deposit of itself on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. More precisely, the pre-positioning comprises a pre-rotation of the support along a vertical axis, such that the support 3 is arranged with a predefined azimuthal rotation with respect to a reference direction.

[0372] In particular, through the second control station 40 is possible to carry out:

[0373] - a storing of second electronic data related to the biological sample, optionally through a reading of the identification tag 50;

[0374] - a second electronic identification of at least a size of the support 3, optionally through the at least a first camera.

[0375] The device 1 can be configured for carrying out an electronic comparison between the first electronic data and the second electronic data and / or for carrying out an electronic comparison between the first identification and the first identification. This allows to check if effectively the comparison is being made on the same support 3 and not between two different supports 3.

[0376] If from said comparison there is a difference between the first electronic data and the second electronic data and / or results a difference between the first identification and the second identification, it is generated an alarm signal which allows the user to check if effectively the support 3 managed by the first control station 30 is different from the support 3 managed by the second control station 40 and extracted from the incubator.

[0377] The device 1 object of the present disclosure can be configured for transferring in a substantially automated way at least a support 3 from the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b towards the incubator and for retaining for a predetermined time period (for example, 12 hours or 24 hours) the support 3 within said incubator.

[0378] In an embodiment, that is the one shown in the attached figures, the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b is positioned between the first control station 30 and the second control station 40.

[0379] The second control station 40 is destined to move the support 30 when extracted from the incubator by means of the grippers translator 15 or by a translator, in particular an auxiliary grippers translator.

[0380] In use, the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 or an auxiliary translator, moves the at least a support 3 between the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b and the incubator, optionally through a temporary deposit in the second control station 40.

[0381] The auxiliary translator is not here described in detail, but in an embodiment it comprises a first and a second clamp as the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15. In an embodiment, in particular, the auxiliary translator is substantially identical to the grippers translator 15. The auxiliary translator or the translator, in particular the grippers translator 15 temporarily deposits the support 3 on a movable plate 41 of the second control station 40, and through a reference, in use given by means of the tag placed on the support 3, the support 3 is moved, in particular rotated.

[0382] The translator, in particular the grippers translator 15, or the auxiliary translator, picks up then again the support 3 from the movable plate 41 and carries it in the observation position P2 in the above described modes.

[0383] The data processing unit comprises at least a data processor, of general purpose or "application specific” type, also in the form of integrated circuit (ASIC) and / or comprises PLC or FPGA operatively connected to the servomechanisms of the device 1 which are obviously made necessary in order to allow the actuation and the movement of the various parts of the device 1 . The data processing unit also comprises a memory, or equivalently is operatively connected to a memory, which contains a software or firmware destined to allow the functioning of the device 1 as above described. The software or firmware can comprise portions of code written in any programming language. The operating connection between the data processing unit and the memory can be optical, wired and / or wireless. Said software program is to be intended also as object of the present disclosure.

[0384] Figure 8 shows in a summarized way, and through a block diagram, the various operating procedures carried out by the device 1 during a machine cycle.

[0385] The various steps described in the blocks in figure 8 are carried out temporally one after the other, according to the order of the arrows.

[0386] Block 1001 identifies a step of controlled rotation of the magazine 11 for supports in such a way to position a station thereof in correspondence of the mover 12.

[0387] Block 1002 identifies a step of movement, in particular of lifting, of a support 3 until the pickup position P1 .

[0388] Block 1003 identifies a step of pickup of a support 3 through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15.

[0389] Block 1004 identifies a step of temporary deposit of the support 3 on the control station 30; this deposit occurs through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15.

[0390] Block 1005 identifies a step of eventual rotation of the plate 31 of the control station 30, necessary for rotating the support 3 for allowing the latter to reach a desired spatial position or orientation.

[0391] Block 1006 identifies a step of pickup of the support 3, through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15, from the control station 30, in particular from the plate 31 .

[0392] Block 1007 identifies a step of deposit of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. This deposit occurs through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15.

[0393] Block 1008 identifies a step of releasing the clamps of the grippers translator 15, and this step allows to free the support 3 from the grip exerted by the clamps themselves. Block 1009 identifies a step of actuation of the at least one pusher 5, in particular of four pushers 5, in such a way to determine the centering of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0394] Block 1010 identifies a step of focusing of the support 3 and / or of the culture medium, for best identifying the presence of bacterial and / or viral colonies.

[0395] Block 1011 identifies a step of rotation of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0396] Block 1012 identifies a step of acquisition of one or images of the support 3 and / or of the culture medium, carried out in order to search for the presence of the mentioned bacterial and / or viral colonies.

[0397] Block 1013 identifies a step of stopping the rotation of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0398] Block 1014 identifies a step of movement of the support 3 in an incubator.

[0399] Block 1015 identifies a step of waiting for an incubation time of the support 3.

[0400] Block 1016 identifies a step of pickup of the support 3 from the incubator by means of the grippers translator 15 or of an auxiliary translator.

[0401] Block 1017 identifies a step of temporary deposit of the support 3 on the control station 40; this deposit occurs through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15 or through the auxiliary translator.

[0402] Block 1018 identifies a step of eventual rotation of the plate 41 of the control station 40, necessary for rotating the support 3 for allowing this latter to reach a desired spatial position or orientation.

[0403] Block 1019 identifies a step of pickup of the support 3, through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15 or the auxiliary translator, from the control station 40, in particular from the plate 41 .

[0404] Block 1020 identifies a step of deposit of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. This deposit occurs through the translator, in particular through the grippers translator 15 or through the auxiliary translator.

[0405] Block 1021 identifies a step of release of the clamps of the grippers translator 15 or of the auxiliary translator, and this step allows to free the support 3 from the grip exerted by the clamps themselves.

[0406] Block 1022 identifies a step of actuation of the at least a pusher 5, in particular of the four pushers 5, in such a way to determine the centering of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0407] Block 1023 identifies a step of focusing of the support 3 and / or of the culture medium, for best identifying the presence of bacterial and / or viral colonies.

[0408] Block 1024 identifies a step of rotation of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b.

[0409] Block 1025 identifies a step of acquisition of one or more images of the support 3 and / or of the culture medium, carried out in order to search for the presence of the mentioned bacterial and / or viral colonies.

[0410] Block 1026 identifies a step of stopping the rotation of the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b. Block 1027 identifies a step of transfer and deposit of the support 3 on the transport station.

[0411] The advantages of the device and of the method here described are then clear: supports 3 of various shapes and / or sizes can be conveyed in a safe way between a first and a second position without that an operator has to bring adapting and / or positioning controls in a manual way. The device and the method herein described allow to convey supports 3 between the first and the second position in a quick way.

[0412] The device and the method herein described allow to carry out a precise positioning of the support 3 on the supporting element 2, 2a, 2b, allowing a subsequent acquisition of an extremely precise and repeatable image; this allows to identify the eventual growth or development of bacterial and / or viral colonies with great accuracy.

[0413] The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the attached figures; for this reason, reference signs in the following claims are provided with the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility thereof and shall not be intended as limiting.

[0414] It is then clear that to the present invention can be applied additions, modifications or variants obvious for an expert in the art without exiting from the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

Claims1. Device for observing biological samples (1) comprising:- a supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) configured for housing a support (3) for biological samples;- at least a first camera (6) configured for framing, from a first point of observation, at least a portion of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), wherein the at least a portion of the support (3) comprises, in use, a biological sample;- at least a first optical radiation source (10) configured for lighting at least a portion of the support (3) from a first lighting direction; the device (1) comprising a movement device (14, 15, 5) configured for moving at least a support (3) between a pickup position (P1), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11) for supports (3), and a predetermined observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); wherein the movement device (14, 15; 5) comprises a centering device, configured for determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the predetermined observation position (P2) by the support (3) and / or to retain said support (3) in the predetermined observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); the centering device comprising at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position and configured for determining a centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position.

2. Device according to claim 1 , wherein the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) are configured for determining a controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) at least with respect to the first camera (6) for the achievement of said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or for determining the rotation of the support (3) during the framing of the support (3) at least by the first camera (6) and / or wherein said pushers are radially movable with respect to a center of the supporting element and wherein the centering device is configured for determining a radial centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

3. Device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the centering device comprises at least a first pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first backward position and a respective second forward position, and wherein the pushers of the first pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position (P2) and preferably movable along a first direction itself, respectively according to a first and a second way opposite to each other; the device (1) comprising optionally a second pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first backward position and a respective second forward position, and wherein the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position (P2) and preferably movablealong a same second direction, respectively according to a third and a fourth way opposite to each other, optionally wherein the second pair of pushers (5) is arranged substantially orthogonally with respect to the first pair of pushers (5).

4. Device according to claim 3, wherein the centering device comprises at least a first releasing configuration wherein the at least a pusher (5), optionally each pusher of the first pair of pushers (5) and / or of the second pair of pushers (5), is spaced with respect to the support (3) and a second retaining configuration wherein the at least a pusher (5), optionally each pusher of the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or a second pair of pushers (5), touches the support (3) and retains the support (3) in said observation position (P2).

5. Device according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the first pair of pushers (5) moves on a same plane and / or wherein the second pair of pushers (5) moves on a same plane; and preferably wherein the plan on which the second pair of pushers moves is the plane on which the first pair of pushers moves.

6. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the at least a pusher (5), optionally the first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5) is movable in sliding on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), the at least a first pusher (5), optionally the first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), being configured for carrying out a translation movement between the first and the second position, said translation being optionally substantially axial or radial with respect to the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and / or the support (3).

7. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) comprises a first portion (2a) and a second portion (2b), the first portion (2a) being a substantially internal and / or substantially transparent portion, the second portion (2b) being a substantially external and / or opaque portion; and wherein, when in said second position, at least one pusher (5), optionally at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), pushes and / or retains the support (3) in correspondence with the first portion (2a), and / or said observation position (P2) is in substantial correspondence with the first portion (2a) of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

8. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising an actuator, preferably a motor, configured at least for determining a controlled movement of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), wherein said controlled movement comprises at least a rotation around a predefined rotation axis (Y), said predefined rotation axis (Y) being optionally substantially vertically aligned; wherein the controlled movement, in particular the controlled rotation, of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) determines, in use, a corresponding controlled movement, in particular a corresponding controlled rotation, of said support (3).

9. Device according to claim 4 and claim 8, configured for arranging, optionally automatically, the centering device in said second configuration before the actuation of the actuator, and / or before an activation of said at least a first camera (6), and / or for arranging, optionally automatically, the centering device in said first configuration after a stop of the actuator, preferably of said motor.

10. Method for the observation of biological samples, comprising:- a step of motion of at least a support (3) for biological samples by means of a movement device (14, 15, 5), the step of movement comprising a movement of the at least a support (3), between a pickup position (P1 ), optionally in correspondence of a magazine (11 ) for supports (3), and an observation position (P2) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b);- a step of lighting of at least a portion of the support (3), carried out through a first optical radiation source (10) and taking place from a first lighting direction;- a step of actuation of at least a first camera (6) to frame at least a portion of the support (3) comprising in use a biological sample, from a first observation point, wherein the step of movement of the at least a support (3) by means of the movement device (14, 15, 5) comprises a step of actuation of a centering device of the movement device (14, 15, 5), said step of actuation of the centering device determining a movement of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine the achievement of the observation position (P2) by the support (3) and / or determining a retaining of the support (3) in said observation position (P2) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), and wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of at least a pusher (5) movable between at least a first backward position and a second forward position for determining a centering of the support (3) on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

11. Method according to claim 10, further comprising a step of controlled rotation of the support (3) housed on the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), through the centering device and / or the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) , at least with respect to the first camera (6) for the achievement of said predetermined observation position (P2) and / or during the framing of the support (3) at least by the first camera (6) and / or wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises an actuation of said pushers radially with respect to a center of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and a radial centering of the support (3) on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in correspondence of said predetermined observation position (P2).

12. Method according to any one of claims 10 or 11 , wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises the actuation of a first pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first backward position and a respective second forwarded position, and wherein the pushers of the first pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and preferably movable along a same first direction, respectively according to a first and a second way opposite to each other;and wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises the actuation of a second pair of pushers (5) movable, each one, between a respective first backward position and a respective second forward position, and wherein the pushers of the second pair of pushers (5) are reciprocally counterposed with respect to the observation position and preferably movable along a second direction itself, respectively according to a third and a fourth way opposite to each other.

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein the step of actuation of the centering device comprises a step of movement of at least a pusher (5) between a first releasing configuration wherein said at least a pusher (5), optionally the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), is spaced with respect to the support (3) and a second retaining configuration wherein the at least a pusher (5), optionally the first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), touches the support (3) and retains the support (3) in said observation position (P2).

14. Method according to claim 12 and claim 13, wherein the actuation of the at least a first pair of pushers (5) determines a movement thereof on a same plane and / or wherein the actuation of the at least a second pair of pushers (5) determines a movement thereof on a same plane, and preferably wherein the plane on which the second pair of pushers moves is the plane on which the first pair of pushers moves.

15. Method according to one or more of claims 10-14, wherein the movement of the at least a pusher (5), optionally of the first pair of pushers (5) and / or of the second pair of pushers (5) occurs through a sliding on said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b); the movement of the at least a pusher (5), optionally of the first pair of pushers (5) and / or of the second pair of pushers (5) comprising a translation between said first and said second position; said translation being substantially axial or radial with respect to the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) and / or to the support (3).

16. Method according to one or more of claims 10-15, wherein the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) comprises a first portion (2a) and a second portion (2b), the first portion (2a) being a substantially internal and / or substantially transparent portion, the second portion (2b) being a substantially external and / or opaque portion; and wherein, when moved toward said second position or when in said second position, the at least a pusher (5), optionally the at least a first pair of pushers (5) and / or the second pair of pushers (5), pushes, or retains, the support (3) in correspondence of the first portion (2a), and / or wherein said observation position (P2) is in substantial correspondence of the first portion (2a) of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b).

17. Method according to one or more of claims 10-16, comprising a step of actuation of an actuator, preferably a motor, operatively connected to said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) in order to determine a controlled movement of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b), in particular at least a controlled rotation of the supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) around a predefined rotation axis (Y), said predefined rotation axis (Y) being substantially vertically aligned;wherein the controlled movement, in particular the controlled rotation, of said supporting element (2, 2a, 2b) determines, in use, a corresponding controlled movement, in particular a corresponding controlled rotation, of said support (3).

18. Method according to claim 12 and claim 16, comprising a step of arrangement, optionally automated, of the centering device in said second position before the start of the actuator, preferably of said motor, and / or before an activation of said at least a first camera (6), and / or comprising a step of arrangement, optionally automated, of the centering device in said first configuration after a stop of said actuator, preferably of said motor.

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