Sample feeding device and sample feeding method

Abstract

The invention relates to a sample feeding device and to a sample feeding method for feeding, in particular, crucible-shaped sample containers to an analysis device. According to the invention, the sample containers are aligned in a defined manner with regard to a reproducibly correct output.

Description

[0001] Sample introduction device and sample introduction method

[0002] The invention relates to a sample supply device according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention further relates to a sample supply method according to the preamble of claim 10.

[0003] In modern materials analysis, samples are usually subjected to analysis for their composition using various analytical instruments. A wide variety of analytical instruments are available for this purpose, of which several different versions are often provided in a laboratory environment. In this way, analyses can be carried out quickly, cost-effectively, and reproducibly. With regard to economical operation, particularly in commercial laboratories, high throughput rates and the lowest possible expenditure in terms of time and money are desirable. For this reason, the highest possible degree of automation in connection with the performance of material analyses is becoming increasingly important. In addition to the actual analysis, this also applies in particular to the area of ​​sample handling, i.e.the preparation of samples, internal laboratory logistics and the delivery of individual samples to the appropriate analytical devices.

[0004] Various approaches are known from the state of the art for preparing samples for analysis as quickly and as easily as possible for operators. One of the goals is to avoid errors that can often occur when there is a high proportion of manual work in everyday laboratory work and in particular when there is a high workload to achieve high throughput rates. Known solutions include, for example, conveyor lines or carousel arrangements by means of which samples in sample containers, in particular in crucibles, are sequentially fed to an analytical device via a corresponding interface. However, these often require the labor-intensive step of loading the carrier system, i.e. the conveyor belt or the sample container carousel, by employees before the system can achieve a time advantage through the automatic conveying and preparation of sample containers.

[0005] Trays or similar devices containing multiple sample containers can be prepared independently of the actual analysis time, so that preparation does not have to be carried out in a time-critical manner immediately before or during the analysis. Corresponding conveyor systems can then be fed, for example, from such trays containing sample containers. Particularly when sample containers are provided without any samples contained therein—i.e., in cases where the sample is only poured into the sample container at or in the analyzer, shortly before the actual analysis—incorrectly oriented sample containers, for example, upside-down ones, can cause significant disruptions to the process.Therefore, sample containers are sometimes inspected before they are finally fed to the analyzer, for example, using optical methods such as cameras, light barriers, or similar. If a misalignment is detected, the process is stopped and the operator is notified with an error message. Since this can lead to relatively significant delays in the process and thus to correspondingly high downtime costs, a correspondingly high level of care is essential when loading the corresponding container trays or similar devices beforehand.

[0006] Another alternative is an arrangement in which a motor-driven gripper arm automatically moves back and forth between a sample container supply, for example a tray or a conveyor chain, and the analytical device in order to pick up individual sample containers and feed them to the analytical device. This method has the additional advantage that such a gripper arm also enables more complex handling of the samples or sample containers, for example if different types of sample containers require different handling or precise alignment is necessary depending on the interface of the analytical device. Provided that an appropriate detection device is available, such a robotic arm can also partially correct incorrect orientation of the sample containers, for example if they are inserted incorrectly or have fallen over on the tray.A significant disadvantage, however, is the vulnerability of the sometimes very complex mechanics, which may include a multitude of interlocking or functionally linked moving parts. The more complex the structural design of such a robotic solution, the higher the associated acquisition costs tend to be. Furthermore, malfunctions or defects are associated with correspondingly high repair or replacement part costs.

[0007] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a possibility of supplying sample containers to an analysis device in a rapid and reliable manner, whereby on the one hand the effort for the operating personnel in connection with the handling of the sample containers and the probability of errors occurring in this case are to be minimised.

[0008] The above object is achieved according to the invention by a sample feed device having the features of claim 1. In the sample feed device according to the invention, sample containers are dispensed by a corresponding dispensing device, from which individual sample containers are supplied for analysis in the analysis device either directly or indirectly, i.e. after appropriate further conveyance. The dispensing device can, for example, be formed by or comprise a dispensing opening or dispensing channel. According to the invention, an alignment device is arranged upstream of this dispensing device, by means of which the sample containers can be oriented in a defined manner. In this case, an alignment is usually defined as the target which is suitable for transferring the sample container to the analysis device and thus for trouble-free further processing of the sample container.It is understood that this may vary depending on the analyzer.

[0009] Particularly in the case of crucible-shaped sample containers, which have the basic shape of a hollow cylinder or cuboid open at one end, the correct orientation is often defined such that the opening is directed upwards so that a sample can be filled into the sample receiving space inside by gravity. In this case, sample containers are often dispensed downwards through an output channel with a free-fall path and are then picked up by a receiving element or a sample container catch of the analytical device or another sample feed device. The sample container can be transported further into, on, or from such a receiving element, for example by means of a conveyor belt or a simple gripper arm, whereby the correct orientation is already ensured by the sample feed device according to the invention.

[0010] To align the sample containers, the alignment device has, in particular, a reversing device by means of which the orientation of a sample container can be selectively changed. The orientation of the sample container in this context is to be understood in particular with respect to its longitudinal axis. It is thus possible, for example, to reverse sample containers that have an incorrect orientation before dispensing and thus bring them into the orientation defined as correct. This can, in particular, mean rotating a sample container by 180°, so that after reversal the sample container has an opposite orientation with respect to its longitudinal axis. Alternatively or additionally, further influence on the position of the sample container can also be provided, for example a rotational movement around the longitudinal axis, so that the sample container also receives a well-defined orientation in this regard.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the reversing device comprises a pin that initially inhibits movement of a sample container through the alignment device. In particular, when the sample container moves at least substantially in the direction of its longitudinal axis, such a pin-shaped element can, depending on the orientation of the incoming sample container, either enable it to pass through unchanged or cause the sample container to be reversed before or during further movement. In particular, the preferred crucible shape of sample containers can be used here, which has a one-sided opening that, when dispensed or passed on to the analysis device, usually points upwards in the correct orientation.If such a sample container in the form of a hollow cylinder, cuboid or the like moves along its longitudinal axis, for example through a supply channel to the alignment device, this can lead in particular to frontal contact of the sample container with the pin of the reversing device.

[0012] In particular, two cases must be distinguished here. Firstly, the sample container may arrive with the closed bottom first, so that it would already have the normally correct orientation if it continued to move unhindered or unaffected. Secondly, the sample container may have an inverted orientation with respect to its longitudinal direction upon arrival at or in the alignment device. In this case, reversing the sample container results in its orientation being changed so that the closed bottom takes the place of the opening, and vice versa. If the sample container is inverted before or when it is released for further movement, it will accordingly also have the correct orientation with the opening facing upwards upon dispensing.

[0013] The action of the reversing device's pin is such that a sample container, ideally crucible- or cup-shaped, that arrives at the pin in the wrong orientation initially moves far enough that the pin engages the sample receiving chamber inside. The movement of the sample container ends at the latest when its bottom touches the pin on its inside.

[0014] The pin is preferably pivotally mounted so that upon contact with the incoming sample container it is deflected from a rest position into a release position, in particular due to the latter's own weight. If this occurs upon contact with the sample container with its closed end first, the pin moved into the release position preferably allows the sample container to continue moving unchanged, for example along a movement channel towards a dispensing opening. However, if the sample container initially moves with the opening first so far that the pin of the reversing device engages with the interior of the sample container, the sample container is forced to first follow a lateral pivoting movement of the pin before continuing to move. In this case, the longitudinal orientation of the sample container is preferably changed at least enough to ensure that it has the correct orientation during dispensing.

[0015] Preferably, the movement of the sample container through the sample feed device in the region of the alignment device occurs at least substantially due to gravity, i.e., based on the sample container's own weight. In this case, the sample container slides, for example, along a feed channel toward the alignment device or the reversing device. According to the invention, it is not necessary for the sample container to move strictly vertically, i.e., in the perpendicular direction. Likewise, a movement at an acute angle to the horizontal plane or even parallel to it can also be provided.

[0016] With regard to the direction in which the sample containers are fed to the alignment device, the reversing device is preferably designed such that a pivotably mounted pin is oriented in its rest position at least substantially in the direction of the incoming sample containers, wherein the longitudinal axis of the pin preferably runs at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sample container upon arrival at the reversing device or an acute angle, preferably of at most 45°, exists between the longitudinal axes of the pin and the sample container. As a result, the pin can be easily moved into the release position by the dead weight of the incoming sample container. The release position is in particular directed at least substantially downwards, i.e. in the direction of gravity.Already correctly aligned sample containers ideally move through the alignment device with the closed end first, with the reversing device or its pin-shaped element simply being pivoted out of the path of movement by the weight of the sample container. A sample container arriving in the opposite direction, i.e. with the open end first, initially slides onto the pin, so that the pivoting movement of the pin is not triggered by the frontal contact with the outside of the base of the sample container, but by the inner wall of the sample container resting on the pin. After the joint downward pivoting movement, the sample container preferably slides off the pin due to gravity and continues its movement in the direction of the output device, for example along a free-fall path through an output channel.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the alignment device can also have a structure in which the sample container is first brought into a horizontal position with its longitudinal axis at least substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction. From this position, the sample container can then move along a free-fall path perpendicular to its longitudinal orientation. By means of an impact device preferably arranged centrally to the longitudinal extent of the sample container, for example a crossbar or a plate-shaped and / or wedge-shaped element, the sample container receives an angular momentum transverse to its longitudinal direction upon impact there, so that its longitudinal axis is tilted on the horizontal towards an orientation with a component in the vertical direction. Due to the one-sided closed shape of a crucible-shaped sample container, it has an asymmetric mass distribution with respect to its longitudinal axis.As a result, the angular momentum upon impact with the impact element always causes the heavier base section of the sample container to be oriented downwards, at least substantially in the vertical direction, so that the sample container, as it continues to move in the direction of fall, has the usually preferred orientation with its opening facing upwards. If the sample container, oriented in this way, then reaches the output device of the sample feeder, for example, by entering an output channel with an output opening at its end, correct orientation during output is ensured.

[0018] In the case of a pin of the reversing device that is movable between a rest position and a release position, the pin is preferably subjected to a restoring force acting in the direction of the rest position. This can be achieved by a spring-loaded mounting, a magnetically acting element such as a permanent magnet and / or an electromagnet, an at least partially elastic design of the reversing device or pin, and / or by a motor-applied torque. Such a restoring force ensures that after a sample container is released, the starting position for stopping the forward movement of the next sample container and reversing it, if necessary, is always resumed.

[0019] The reversing device particularly preferably has a weight or a counterweight for applying the restoring force. Such a counterweight can optionally be arranged on the side of a pivot bearing or a pivot axis opposite the pin. The weight in particular has a mass that is sufficient to cause a higher torque in the direction of the rest position than the mass of the pin alone applies in the direction of the release position. At the same time, the counterweight is preferably dimensioned such that the torque exerted in the direction of the rest position is lower than the weight that is typically exerted on the opposite side, i.e. in particular on the side of the pin, in the direction of the release position when an incoming sample container comes into contact with the pin, in particular slides onto the pin with its interior.

[0020] To adapt to different types of sample containers, the pin and / or a corresponding counterweight can be designed to be adjustable, removable, and / or replaceable. In particular, by adjusting the counterweight accordingly, the torque can be adjusted to the mass of the sample containers used for proper operation. In a preferred embodiment, the counterweight is adjustable, for example, using a screw thread, with respect to the length of the acting lever.

[0021] To interrupt the sample feed operation as needed, the alignment device can have a locking device for locking the reversing device and / or for blocking the movement of the sample container through the alignment device. It is understood that such a locking device can also be positioned upstream of the alignment device to stop or slow down the further movement of the sample containers toward the alignment device. In this way, the sample feed device according to the invention not only ensures the correct alignment of the sample containers, but can also time the feed of the sample containers to an analytical device or the feed rate according to the speed of individual analyses.

[0022] Preferably, the dispensing device is assigned a corresponding dispensing sensor, by means of which the successful or completed dispensing of a sample container can be detected. On the one hand, this makes it possible to detect whether and when a sample container feed process to the analysis device has been completed, so that the next sample container can be added. On the other hand, such an dispensing sensor can also detect if a malfunction has occurred during the transport path of the sample container, particularly in the area of ​​the dispensing device, for example, if a sample container has become jammed in an dispensing channel.

[0023] Since the sample feed device according to the invention always ensures that the sample containers are correctly aligned when being delivered to an analytical device, correspondingly lower requirements are placed on the provision of the sample containers in advance, i.e., in terms of replenishment. Accordingly, an operator no longer has to ensure that each individual sample container is correctly aligned before being inserted into the sample feed device according to the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the sample feed device according to the invention accordingly has a filling device for simplified filling of the sample feed device with a plurality of sample containers.This can, in particular, be a funnel-shaped arrangement of components or a funnel itself, or alternatively or additionally, a pouring ramp or a similar filling opening, which allows a plurality of sample containers to be loaded into the sample feed device by simply pouring them in. This allows, in particular, a procedure in which a storage bag containing a plurality of sample containers in random orientation is opened and the contents are poured into the sample feed device via the filling device. This eliminates not only the high effort of individually aligning and arranging sample containers on a tray or the like, but also the undesirable aspect of direct contact between the operator and the sample containers.On the one hand, this reduces the risk of contaminating the sample containers, which could compromise the analysis of the samples subsequently placed in the containers. On the other hand, graphite sample containers, particularly in the form of graphite crucibles, are used for a wide variety of applications. Individual handling of the sample containers often leads to undesirable contamination of the materials used to handle the sample containers or of the hands of operators when they come into contact with the containers. Simply emptying a collection container containing multiple sample containers largely eliminates this problem.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the sample feed device according to the invention comprises a separating device by means of which individual specimens can be extracted from a plurality of sample containers, which may be present in bulk, and fed individually to the alignment device. This further simplifies the handling of the system and further supports trouble-free operation of the alignment device and thus the sample feed device as a whole.

[0025] The singling device is preferably designed as a conveyor wheel or has a conveyor wheel. The conveyor wheel can have one or preferably several receptacles for sample containers, by means of which individual sample containers are picked from the supply and transported towards the alignment device. The receptacles are preferably dimensioned such that only one sample container at a time enters a receptacle, but there is sufficient play around the sample container so that it can easily enter and exit the receptacle without jamming and without the sample containers not being grasped by a receptacle if they are not in a specific orientation.

[0026] A corresponding receptacle of the singling device for sample containers can, for example, have a cross-section that increases towards its opening, so that sample containers can easily enter the receptacle regardless of their orientation, particularly in loose bulk. Alternatively or additionally, a slightly tilted orientation of the receptacle can be provided, wherein the opening of the receptacle, through which a sample container can enter the receptacle, is offset from the deeper area of ​​the receptacle, particularly in the direction of movement of the singling device. This supports a more reliable picking of individual sample containers from a disordered mass, for example in the form of a pile or loose bulk.

[0027] From the separating device, the separated sample containers preferably reach the alignment device via a feed channel. The feed channel is dimensioned in particular so that sample containers can only move through parallel to their longitudinal axis, so that they arrive at the alignment device either bottom first or opening first. This further supports the proper operation of the alignment device as described above.

[0028] It goes without saying that the supply channel is not limited to a specific length or a specific path. In particular, if the movement of the sample containers through the supply channel due to their own weight is to be utilized, the orientation of the supply channel can have a vertical component, at least in sections. In addition to a vertical path or a specific angle to the horizontal plane, a sequence of different path sections can also be provided. Curved sections are also possible.If, for example, in the case of an alternative embodiment of the alignment device, in particular using an impact element in the manner described above, a horizontal alignment of the sample containers is to be achieved before the free fall in the direction of the impact element, the supply channel can have a shape in which the sample container is first accelerated by an at least substantially vertical fall path, then passes through a curved section until it has reached a horizontal orientation and moves further in this shape to a supply opening through which it exits the supply channel downwards in the direction of the impact element.

[0029] A sensor can be assigned to the supply channel, which can be used to detect the entry, exit and / or presence of a sample container in the supply channel or its movement through the supply channel. This makes it easy to monitor operation with regard to the trouble-free transport of the sample containers through the sample feed device. A critical point in this case is, for example, the transfer of an isolated sample container from the singulation device into the supply channel at a corresponding discharge opening or the inlet opening into the supply channel. If a sample container becomes jammed at this point between the wall of the supply channel and the lateral limit of the singulation device's holder, the process can come to a standstill or even cause mechanical damage. A corresponding sensor can help to detect such errors at an early stage.The pinching of a sample container upon entry into the supply channel can further be avoided by a widened discharge opening and / or a separate, widened discharge section of the supply channel. A section of the supply channel associated with the discharge opening, i.e., in particular, facing the singling device, is preferably funnel-shaped and tapers from the inlet opening of the supply channel, i.e., in particular, toward a downstream alignment device. Particularly preferably, the widened, in particular funnel-shaped, section of the supply channel has an asymmetrical shape, with the side of the greater widening relative to the center ideally being located in the direction of movement of the sample containers moved by the singling device.

[0030] The sample feed device preferably has a control device for regulating the movement speed of the separating device. In the case of a conveyor wheel, this particularly concerns its rotation speed. Depending on the data from any sensors, the movement of the separating device can thus be slowed down or completely stopped if a malfunction such as a sample container becoming jammed is imminent. It is understood that corresponding sensors, in particular position, speed, and / or acceleration sensors, can also be provided to detect the movement speed of the separating device.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, the alignment device, in particular its reversing device, can also be actively controlled and operated by means of a corresponding control device and / or control unit. In this regard, too, corresponding data from various sensors of the aforementioned type can be used.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, a fill level sensor is also provided, which monitors the fill level in the area of ​​the filling device or in a reservoir associated with the filling device. In particular, a plurality of sensors can be associated with the filling device, with one sensor, for example, monitoring the fill level of the sample container supply with comparatively rough accuracy, so that a corresponding control device can issue a signal or notification when the fill level drops below a certain level and refilling of the sample containers is necessary.A further sensor can in particular determine whether sample containers have been filled at all and, for example, issue a message after the last sample container in the supply has been used up, so that the operation of the sample supply device or the movement of parts thereof, in particular the separating device, is stopped by a corresponding control device.

[0033] A sample supply method according to claim 10 also has its own inventive significance.

[0034] According to the method, the sample or sample container is fed to an analytical device by first providing a plurality of sample containers. These are preferably crucible-shaped sample containers, which in particular have the basic shape of a hollow cylinder and / or cuboid closed at one end.

[0035] According to the method, the sample containers are then separated, whereby this can be done in particular automatically by means of a corresponding separating device.

[0036] According to the method, a defined alignment of an individual sample container follows in an orientation defined depending on the application situation. The orientation depends in particular on how the sample container is subsequently used with or by an analytical device. Particularly preferred in this case is the provision of the sample container in an upright orientation, with the opening facing upwards, so that the sample container can be filled with sample material from above, in particular by utilizing gravity. The alignment of the sample container is carried out in particular by a selective reversal of its orientation relative to its longitudinal axis. In this case, a distinction is preferably made between whether the sample container is already in a fundamentally correct orientation and whether it is in an initial position suitable for the correct orientation. In particular, a reversal only takes place if this is not the case.Otherwise, the further movement of the sample container can be enabled or released without hindrance. The alignment or reversal of the sample container is carried out in particular by means of a corresponding alignment device, preferably using a corresponding reversing mechanism. Finally, the sample container is dispensed in the reversed orientation, if necessary, according to the method. Ultimately, the method according to the invention thus ensures that all dispensed sample containers, regardless of their initial position, have an orientation suitable for further use with an analytical device.

[0037] It is understood that all embodiments and application aspects described above with respect to the sample supply device can also be used in a corresponding manner in the sample supply method according to the invention.

[0038] The present invention will be explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments. All described and / or illustrated features constitute independent aspects of the present invention, regardless of their combination in the illustrated embodiments or the references to the claims.

[0039] It shows

[0040] Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the sample supply device according to the invention,

[0041] Fig. 2 is a representation of the sample supply device of Fig. 1 corresponding to Fig. 1 in a further operating state,

[0042] Fig. 3 is a perspective schematic representation of the sample supply device of Fig. 1,

[0043] Fig. 4 is an alternative view of the sample supply device of Fig. 1 in a perspective schematic representation,

[0044] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of the sample supply device of Fig. 1 in a side view,

[0045] Fig. 6 is a perspective schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of the sample introduction device according to the invention and Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of the sample introduction device of Fig. 6 in a side view.

[0046] Figs. 1 and 2 show a preferred embodiment of a sample feed device 1 according to the invention. The sample feed device 1 serves to feed sample containers 2 to an analytical device, which is not shown in detail for the sake of clarity. In general, the sample feed device 1 according to the invention can preferably be coupled not only to a specific analytical device, but is also suitable for use with different analytical devices. Another possibility is to use the sample feed device 1 according to the invention merely as one element of a chain of individual sample feed sections in a laboratory environment.

[0047] The sample supply device 1 according to the invention is characterized in that it dispenses sample containers 2 by means of a dispensing device 3 in a well-defined alignment or orientation, so that the sample containers 2 can be readily and correctly reused by the downstream analytical device. According to the invention, the alignment of the sample containers 2 is achieved by an alignment device 4, which is functionally and structurally arranged upstream of the dispensing device 3. In the present case, the upstream arrangement refers in particular to the direction of movement of the sample containers through the various sections or components of the sample supply device 1.

[0048] In the embodiment shown, the alignment device 4 comprises a reversing device 5, by means of which the orientation of the sample container 2 with respect to its longitudinal axis can be selectively changed or reversed. In this context, "selective" means that the change in orientation of the sample container 2 only occurs when this is necessary due to its initial position in order to correctly align it for further use with the analytical device using the dispensing device 3.

[0049] In the preferred embodiment according to Figs. 1 and 2, the reversing device 5 has a pivotally mounted pin 6 which is movable between a rest position as shown in Fig. 1 and a release position as shown in Fig. 2.

[0050] The pin 6 does not necessarily have to be cylindrical or have a constant thickness or a consistent cross-sectional shape. The term "pin" ultimately encompasses elongated components of various types. These can, for example, be differently shaped material projections or tongues. A mandrel, cone, or taper also functionally falls under the term "pin" within the meaning of the present invention.

[0051] If a sample container 2 arrives at the alignment device 4 as shown in Fig. 1, the pin 6 of the reversing device 5, in the rest position, initially prevents the further movement of the sample container 2 in the direction of the dispensing device 3. In the present case, the sample container 2 has the preferred shape of a crucible with an interior 7 and a base 8, which closes the sample container 2 at one of its end faces, so that access to the interior 7 is only possible from one side. If the sample container 2 hits the pin 6 of the reversing device 5 with the base 8 first, the sample container 2 exerts a torque on the reversing device 5 in the direction of its release position due to its own weight. This is particularly possible if a certain angle exists between the longitudinal axis or the direction of movement of the sample container 2 upon arrival at the alignment device 4 and the longitudinal axis of the pin 6 of the reversing device 5, i.e.the two longitudinal axes of the sample container 2 and the pin 6 or the reversing device 5 are not exactly parallel. Due to the applied torque, the reversing device 5 moves toward its release position shown in Fig. 2, with the pin 6 pivoting downward about a pivot axis 9 and clearing the way for the further movement of the sample container 2.

[0052] However, if a sample container 2 arrives at the alignment device 4 with its open side first, as shown in the illustration according to Fig. 1, the pin 6 engages with the interior 7 of the sample container 2. The movement of the sample container 2 ends at the latest when the distal end of the pin 6 comes into contact with the inner bottom 10 of the sample container 2. In this state, the sample container 2 is located in particular above an output channel 11 of the output device 3. The sample container 2 has thus preferably left a feed channel 12 through which it was fed to the alignment device 4. In this state, the sample container 2 is preferably held exclusively by the reversing device 5 or the pin 6 of the reversing device 5. If the reversing device 5 now moves towards its release position, the pin 6 moves into a position pointing downwards in the direction of the output device 3.The sample container 2 follows this movement of the reversing device 5 or even causes it through its own weight. As a result, its orientation with respect to its longitudinal axis is effectively rotated by 180° relative to its original position, whereby this is to be understood relative to its direction of movement. The actual angle between the orientation upon arrival of the sample container 2 and its dispensing ultimately depends on the specific structural design. However, the specific shape and dimensions of the various components of the sample feed device 1 according to the invention can vary in individual cases depending on the respective application situation, for example, on the downstream analytical device.

[0053] As can be seen in the sectional view according to Figs. 1 and 2, the dispensing device 3 or a corresponding dispensing channel 11 is particularly shaped such that there is sufficient space in the area of ​​the alignment device 4 or the reversing device 5 to smoothly enable the movement of the reversing device 5 together with the sample container 2. For this purpose, the dispensing channel 11 can, for example, have a conical cross-sectional profile or be widened accordingly in another way.

[0054] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the reversing device 5 has a counterweight 13 on the side of the pivot axis 9 facing away from the pin 6, which counterweight exerts a torque on the reversing device 5 in the direction of the rest position. The counterweight 13 is adjustable, for example, by changing the distance from the pivot axis 9, i.e., by varying the length of the lever arm.

[0055] The change in the position of the counterweight 13 relative to the pivot axis 9 can be realized, for example, by fastening the counterweight 13 by means of a screw thread, on which it is axially displaced by further screwing in or unscrewing. According to the invention, both an internal and an external thread can be provided on the counterweight 13, which interacts with a corresponding counter thread. It is understood that, as an alternative to a thread, a pure displacement of the counterweight 13 on a support arm of the reversing device 5 is also possible. The counterweight 13 is preferably secured against a change in position with respect to the pivot axis 9, wherein this takes place in particular according to a force-fitting or friction-fitting and / or a form-fitting principle.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, the counterweight 13 can also be designed to be removable or replaceable. By changing or replacing the counterweight 13, the torque acting in the direction of the rest position of the reversing device 5, i.e. the restoring force, can be adjusted. The reversing device 5 can therefore be adjusted for operation with sample containers 2 of different masses. As a result, it is ideal that when the reversing device 5 is not in contact with a sample container 2, the torque acting in the direction of the rest position predominates, so that an independent return of the reversing device 5 to the rest position is guaranteed. If the reversing device 5 is now pivoted at its end opposite the counterweight 13 with respect to the pivot axis 9, i.e. in particular on a pin 6 orWhen the pin-shaped element is loaded with the weight of a sample container 2, the torque acting in the direction of the release position predominates, so that a movement of the reversing device 5 is triggered.

[0057] Alternatively or in addition to a counterweight 13, a restoring force can also be achieved by a spring device, a magnetically or electromagnetically acting component, and / or a general design of the reversing device 5, in particular the pin 6, made of a flexible or elastic material. A combination of different means is also possible in this context.

[0058] A further alternative, which can also be implemented in addition to the other described embodiments of the reversing device 5, is an active, particularly motor-driven, movement of the reversing device 5 into the release position and / or into the rest position. This allows the sequence or operation of the alignment device 4 and thus ultimately of the sample feed device 1 as a whole to be controlled and influenced to a particularly high degree.

[0059] A locking device (not shown in detail) can serve to prevent the movement of the reversing device 5 and / or to fix the reversing device 5 in a specific position, in particular the rest position and / or the release position. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding locking device can also be provided to block the movement of a sample container 2 through the supply channel 12, the alignment device 4, and / or the dispensing device 3.

[0060] Within the scope of the present invention, a corresponding locking device can act in a particularly positive manner by introducing a locking member into the movement path of the sample container 2 or the reversing device 5. Alternatively or additionally, the locking effect can also be achieved according to a force-locking principle, for example by increasing the friction on the pivot axis 9 and / or clamping the sample container 2, for example by reducing the cross-section of the supply channel 12 by means of clamping jaws or comparable components.

[0061] The sample supply device 1 according to the invention can further comprise one or more sensors. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figs. 1 and 2, for example, an output sensor 14 is provided, which is assigned to the output device 3 and is arranged at the end of the output channel 11, i.e., near an output opening 15. The successful output of a sample container 2 can be verified by means of the output sensor 14. It can then be assumed that a new sample container 2 can pass through the alignment device 4 and the output device 3 without interference.

[0062] The data acquired by means of a corresponding sensor can be used by a monitoring, control, and / or regulating device to output messages, in particular warning messages, to an operator via a corresponding user interface if a malfunction in the process is detected. Furthermore, it is possible to conduct statistical surveys on the operation, for example, with regard to the absolute number and / or number of sample containers 2 dispensed per unit of time. Alternatively or additionally, the operation of the sample supply device 1 as such, in particular of the alignment device 4, can preferably be controlled depending on the acquired sensor data, for example by activating or deactivating corresponding blocking devices.

[0063] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the pivotably movable reversing device 5 has a pivoting range of approximately 90°. In the rest position, the counterweight 13 rests against a rest stop 16. In the direction of the release position, the movement of the reversing device 5 is limited by a release stop 17. If the sample container 2 detaches from the reversing device 5 before reaching the release stop 17 (in the case of the reversing of the sample container 2) or has moved past the reversing device 5 in the direction of the output device 3 (in the case of an incoming sample container 2 with the correct orientation), the reversing device 5 will move back towards the rest position from this point onwards. The release position is therefore to be understood functionally and is not strictly defined by reaching the maximum deflection of the reversing device 5 or reaching the release stop 17.The same applies to the rest position if a new sample container 2 reaches the reversing device 5 before it rests against the rest stop 16.

[0064] 3 and 4 as well as in the side view according to Fig. 5, it can be seen that the sample supply device 1 according to the invention, in the exemplary embodiment shown, has a filling device 18, in particular in the form of a funnel or a pouring ramp or a combination of the above. The filling device 18 is preferably designed such that a receiving volume for a sample container reservoir is created in the interior area delimited by it. Alternatively or additionally, a separate reservoir can also be provided which is filled via the filling device 18. Thus, a plurality of sample containers 2 can already be stored in the sample supply device 1, so that a continuous supply to a downstream analytical device can be maintained by sequentially dispensing the sample containers 2 over a comparatively long period of time.The filling device 18 is in particular sufficiently dimensioned to keep at least ten, preferably at least 25, particularly preferably at least 50, sample containers 2 in stock.

[0065] The quantity of sample containers 2 located in the reservoir can be detected, for example, by means of a fill level sensor 19. Preferably, a plurality of fill level sensors 19 can also be used.

[0066] The sensors used within the scope of the present invention can fundamentally work in different ways or operate according to different principles. Designs based on the principle of a light barrier are particularly suitable for detecting the passage or presence of a sample container 2 at a specific location. An exemplary application for a light barrier sensor is the dispensing sensor 14. Other sensors that can detect, for example, the presence of one or more sample containers 2, work, for example, according to an induction principle and / or using LIDAR. One example of this is fill level sensors 19. It is understood, however, that ultimately each of the sensors mentioned can operate according to any of the principles mentioned as examples, and combinations, for example an inductive measurement supported by LIDAR using another sensor, are also possible.In the illustrated embodiment, a separating device 20 serves to individually feed sample containers 2 from the reservoir in the area of ​​the filling device 18 to the alignment device 4, so that, on the one hand, the alignment device can operate smoothly and, on the other hand, a sequential dispensing of individual sample containers 2 and their feeding to the analysis device can take place. In the present example, the separating device 20 is designed as or has a conveyor wheel 21. Alternatively, a design as a conveyor belt, conveyor chain, or the like is also possible.

[0067] The conveyor wheel 21 is designed in particular in the manner of a paddle wheel and preferably has a plurality of receptacles 22 for the sample containers 2, wherein the receptacles 22 are each separated from one another by paddle elements 23 and defined in their shape.

[0068] The conveyor wheel 21 is rotated by a motor and is arranged relative to the filling device 18 in particular such that the receptacles 22 are moved beneath the sample containers 2 in the filling device 18 or in the sample container reservoir. The outer region of the conveyor wheel 21 with the blade elements 23 and the receptacles 22 defined thereby extends in particular through a housing part 25, the width of which corresponds approximately to the height of the blade elements 23, with which they protrude from a base plate 26 of the conveyor wheel 21 and thus define the width of the receptacles. In the region of the housing part 25, the receptacles 22 are accordingly delimited by the blade elements 23, the base plate 26 of the conveyor wheel 21 and by the walls of the housing part 25 and are only accessible through an opening that points at least substantially radially inwards.

[0069] By appropriately arranging the filling device 18 on the housing part 25, the transition between the filling device 18 and the housing part 25 runs particularly in the region of the accessible opening of the receptacles 22 and / or just above it, i.e. offset radially inwards. By appropriately inclining and / or shaping the filling device 18, for example as a pouring ramp, which can also be provided only in sections, sample containers 2, particularly in the form of a loose fill, rest on the base plate 26 of the conveyor wheel 21 and, as a result of the effect of gravity, at least occasionally end up in the receptacles 22. This can be supported by a correspondingly asymmetrical shape and / or an alignment of the receptacles 22 that is inclined relative to the radial direction in conjunction with the rotation of the conveyor wheel 21.The inclination of the receptacles 22 is predetermined by the shape of the blade elements 23 and is preferably designed such that the opening of the receptacles 22 is offset from the radial direction in the direction of rotation of the conveyor wheel 21.

[0070] If a sample container 2, particularly from a loose material, is placed into a receptacle 22, its orientation in the illustrated embodiment of the sample supply device 1 can ultimately assume only two states. Either its base 8 points radially outward, as shown in the sample container 2a in Figs. 1 and 2, or the base 8 points radially inward, so that the opening of the interior 7 of the sample container 2 points radially outward, as in the case of the further sample container 2b also shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0071] The separating device 20 is connected to the alignment device 4 via the feed channel 12. The separated sample containers 2 can exit the receptacles 22 of the conveyor wheel 21 radially outward through a corresponding discharge opening 27 and from there enter the feed channel 12, initially retaining their orientation. Upon reaching the alignment device 4 with the reversing device 5 through the feed channel 12, their orientation is reversed, if necessary, in the manner described above, so that, ultimately, all sample containers 2 have the same orientation when they reach the output device 3.

[0072] The supply channel 12 can have a discharge section at its end facing the discharge opening 27, i.e., the separating device 20, which has a cross-section that widens in the direction of the discharge opening 27. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, an asymmetrical design with a greater widening in the direction of rotation of the conveyor wheel 21 is preferred. This reduces the risk of a sample container 2 becoming trapped when exiting the receptacle through the discharge opening 27 into the discharge section or the supply channel 12.

[0073] In principle, the speed of movement of the separating device 20, in particular the rotational speed of the conveyor wheel 21, should be appropriately determined based on the dimensions of the sample containers 2 and how quickly they can slide out of the receptacle 22 due to their surface properties in interaction with the surfaces bounding the receptacle 22. Alternatively or additionally, the position of the discharge opening 27 in the direction of rotation must also be taken into account, since this determines the influence of the vertically acting force of gravity on the acceleration of the sample containers 2.

[0074] The further in the lower region of the conveyor wheel 21 the discharge opening 27 is positioned, i.e. the steeper the sample container 2 is when leaving the holder 22, the more it is accelerated when leaving the holder. While the sample container 2 is still partly located both in the holder 22 and already in the feed channel 12 or its discharge section 28 while exiting the holder 22, care must therefore be taken to ensure that the separating device 20 does not move so far that the holder 22 is moved too far past the discharge opening 27, so that the sample container 2 is clamped and the movement of the separating device 22 and thus the operation of the entire sample feed device 1 is disrupted.

[0075] To avoid the aforementioned problem, the movement speed of the separating device 20 can be monitored and regulated by means of a control device. Appropriate sensors can be provided for this purpose. In particular, a discharge sensor 29 assigned to the separating device 20 can be arranged in the area of ​​the discharge opening 27 and can detect the presence of a sample container 2 in a receptacle 22 shortly before or directly at the discharge opening 27.

[0076] Such a release sensor 29 can also detect the complete departure of the sample container 2 from the receptacle 22. Should the sample container 2 not yet have left the receptacle 22 when the progressive movement of the separating device 20 has reached a certain point at which there is a risk of the sample container 2 becoming jammed in the manner described above, the movement speed of the separating device 20 can be reduced or completely stopped by means of a control device until the sample container 2 has completely left the receptacle 22.

[0077] It is understood that to monitor the rotational speed of the conveyor wheel 21 or the movement speed of the separating device 20, one or more corresponding sensors can generally be provided, which can measure the movement speed directly and / or the distance traveled or the rotation angle traveled. Figs. 6 and 7 also show an alternative embodiment of the sample supply device 1 according to the invention. Here, a filling device 18 and a separating device 20 are also provided in the manner described above.

[0078] However, the alignment device 4 is designed in such a way that it essentially does not require any moving parts.

[0079] The supply channel 12, which guides the sample containers 2 after separation from the separation device 20 to the alignment device 4, is shaped in the present example such that a sample container 2 initially travels an at least substantially vertical section, along which it is accelerated due to gravity. This is followed by a curved section 30, which deflects the sample container 2 and brings it into a horizontal orientation, which is preferably at least substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction. In this position, the sample container 2 continues to move a certain distance due to its mass inertia along a horizontal section 31 of the supply channel 12 until a release opening 32 is reached.

[0080] The sample container 2 now emerges downwards from the release opening 32 in a horizontal orientation and, by free fall, reaches the alignment device, which has a reversing device 5 in the form of an impact element 33. The impact element 33 is designed here as a rod running transversely to the longitudinal axis of the incoming sample container 2. The impact element 33 is arranged relative to the release opening 32 in particular such that the sample container 2 impacts the impact element 33 approximately at its center, based on its longitudinal extent. Due to the one-sided arrangement of the base 8, the sample container 2 preferably has an asymmetric mass distribution, so that upon impact with the impact element 33 it receives an angular momentum which always brings it into an upright orientation such that the base 8 points downwards.In this orientation, which is generally suitable for further use with an analytical device in most cases, the sample container 2 falls further into a collecting funnel 34, which, due to its tapered shape, corrects an excessive rotation of the sample container 2 and finally flows into the dispensing device 3, by means of which the sample containers 2 are ultimately dispensed.

[0081] Regardless of the design of the sample supply device 1, in particular the alignment device 4, a catching device 35 can be arranged downstream of the dispensing device 3, which receives the dispensed sample container 2 in the correct orientation. The final transport to the analysis device can then follow by means of the catching device 35 or starting from it.

[0082] List of reference symbols: Sample feed device 18 Filling device sample container 19 Level sensora sample container 20 Separation deviceb sample container 21 Conveyor wheel output device 22 Receptacle alignment device 23 Shovel element reversing device 24 Motor pin 25 Housing part interior 26 Base plate floor 27 Discharge opening pivot axis 28 Discharge section 0 floor interior 29 Discharge sensor 1 Discharge channel 30 Curved section 2 Supply channel 31 Horizontal section 3 Counterweight 32 Release opening 4 Discharge sensor 33 Impact element 5 Discharge opening 34 Collecting funnel 6 Rest stop 35 Catching device 7 Release stop

Claims

Patent claims:

1. Sample feeding device (1 ) for feeding sample containers (2), in particular crucible-shaped ones, to an analyzer, with a dispensing device (3) for dispensing a sample container (2), characterized in that an alignment device (4) for the defined alignment of a sample container (2) is positioned upstream of the dispensing device (3).

2. Sample feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that the alignment device (4) has a reversing device (5) for selectively changing the orientation of a sample container (2) with respect to its longitudinal axis.

3. Sample feeding device according to claim 2, characterized in that the reversing device (5) has a preferably pivotably mounted pin (6) and / or the reversing device (5), in particular the pin (6), is movable between a rest position and a release position.

4. Sample feeding device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the reversing device (5) is subjected to a restoring force acting in the direction of the rest position, preferably wherein the reversing device (5) has a counterweight (13) that is in particular adjustable, removable and / or replaceable for applying the restoring force.

5. Sample feeding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a locking device is provided for locking the reversing device (5) and / or for blocking the movement of the sample container (2).

6. Sample feed device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the output device (3) is associated with an output sensor (14) for detecting the output of a sample container (2).

7. Sample feeding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sample feeding device (1) has a filling device preferably comprising a funnel and / or a pouring ramp. (18) for filling the sample feed device (1) with a plurality of sample containers (2), preferably wherein at least one level sensor (19) is associated with the filling device (18).

8. Sample feeding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sample feeding device (1) has a singulation device (20) for singulating the sample containers (2), preferably wherein the singulation device (20) comprises a conveying wheel (21) preferably having one or more receptacles (22) for sample containers (2).

9. Sample feeding device according to claim 8, characterized in that a control device for controlling a movement speed of the singulation device (20), in particular the rotation speed of the conveying wheel (21), is provided.

10. Sample introduction method for introducing sample containers (2) to an analyzer, comprising the steps: Providing a plurality of sample containers, in particular crucible-shaped ones (2); singling out the sample containers (2); defined orientation of a single sample container (2), wherein the sample container (2) is selectively reversed depending on its orientation with respect to its longitudinal axis; Dispensing of the sample container (2).

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