Lyophilization afferent system

Abstract

_A system for the freeze-drying of basic substances (Sb) contained in basic vials (Fb) comprises: a freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400); a plurality of basic vials (Fb) positioned in said freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400); FIRST detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1) positioned in said freeze- drying chamber; SECOND detection means (100.M2.Z 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2) positioned in said freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400).

Description

[0001] Title

[0002] Lyophilization Afferent System

[0003] * * * * *

[0004] Description

[0005] Field of Invention

[0006] _The present invention concerns systems relating to freeze-drying.

[0007] _More particularly, the present invention concerns a system for monitoring the freeze-drying process in relation to the freeze-drying of substances contained in one or more freeze-drying vials. Background to the Invention

[0008] _Freeze-drying is a process by which substances can be preserved in a dehydrated state.

[0009] _This process involves freezing the water contained in the substance being freeze-dried, and then removing the ice by sublimation under partial vacuum, using gentle heating (primary drying).

[0010] _The non-freezable water remaining from primary drying is then removed by heating at high temperatures (secondary drying).

[0011] _The end point (so-called set-point) of the freeze-drying process is defined by the achievement of a desired optimal degree of humidity in the substance being freeze- dried.

[0012] Jn relation to said optimal humidity level, if the substance to be freeze-dried, at the end of the freeze-drying process, has a higher humidity level or a lower humidity level than said optimal humidity level, said substance must be discarded.

[0013] Jn fact, in summary:

[0014] > if the substance, at the end of the freeze-drying process, has a higher humidity level than the said optimal humidity level, this excessive humidity may cause rapid deterioration of the product and, therefore, not fulfil the requirements relating to the shelf life that the freeze-dried product must have; if the substance, at the end of freeze-drying, has a lower humidity level than the said optimal humidity level, this excessive drying may cause, for example, changes in the molecular structure of the substance, or may cause problems for its future use, such as, for example, not having certain characteristics relating to solubility and, therefore, creating problems when the freeze-dried product must be dissolved in a liquid substance for the so- called "reconstruction" before the use. and, furthermore

[0015] >Jf the substance, during the freeze-drying process, undergoes a too rapid drying process, this too rapid drying may cause problems, such as, for example, changes in the molecular structure of the substance and / or the formation of clumps and / or other undesirable effects and, therefore, the resulting freeze-dried product must be discarded;

[0016] >_if the substance, during the freeze-drying process, undergoes a drying process that is too slow, this too slow drying can cause problems, such as, for example, changes in the molecular structure of the substance and / or unwanted chemical reactions and / or other unwanted effects due, mainly, to the presence of water in the same substance for a period of time too long.

[0017] _A first known system relating to the freeze-drying of a substance contained in a plurality of vials, consists in inserting, in each vial, a probe in contact with the substance, in order to detect the degree of humidity in the same substance, wherein said probe is equipped with wireless or other types of transmitting means, in order to be able to insert said complex comprising vial with substance with probe with transmission means, into a freeze-drying chamber and, therefore, once the freeze- drying process has been activated, monitor the degree of humidity of the substance which will gradually decrease, in order to determine the end of the freeze-drying when a certain degree of humidity is detected for said substance during the freeze- drying.

[0018] _This system has a number of drawbacks.

[0019] _A first drawback is due to the fact that the probe is in contact with the substance being freeze-dried and this contact can cause unwanted contamination of the substance itself.

[0020] _A second drawback is due to the fact that this system is very expensive, since, mainly, it involves the use of a plurality of probes that must be associated with each vial, as well as a huge amount of work for the preparation of the vials that must be equipped with a probe and transmission means. _A second known system, relating to freeze-drying, consists in theoretically predetermining, "at the table", what would be the optimal freeze-drying procedure, such as, for example, the process methods with relative temperatures and times, in order to obtain, at the end of the freeze-drying process, a substance presumably free from defects and having a desired specific degree of humidity, without inserting probes inside the substance.

[0021] _Also said second system has a series of drawbacks.

[0022] _A first drawback is due to the fact that the theoretical, “at the table", estimates regarding the freeze-drying procedure to be adopted and the relative freeze-drying times are not reliable and / or optimal and, therefore, sometimes, non-optimal freeze- drying procedures are carried out in which, for example, in order to avoid the extraction of the vials from the freeze-drying chamber with a substance that is still too wet, it is preferable to extend the freeze-drying time beyond that estimated “at the table” time, with the risk of drying the substance too much and with a reduction in the production capacity for the relative freeze-drying machine, since the working times for each freeze-drying session are unnecessarily extended.

[0023] Jn fact, for example, these estimates, "at the table", are very difficult and / or impossible to formulate with precision:

[0024] >_since they must be formulated in correlation with the initial humidity level of the substance, which sometimes is not available, and where said initial humidity level is not always the same for each freeze-drying session;

[0025] >_since they must be formulated in correlation with the type of vial containing the substance to be freeze-dried, more particularly, for example, in correlation with the shape and / or the thickness and / or the material of the vial body of the individual vials containing the substance, where said type of vial is not always the same for each freeze-dried session;

[0026] >_since they must be formulated in correlation with the molecular composition of the substance to be freeze-dried, where said molecular composition is not always the same for each freeze-drying session; and, consequently, sometimes incorrect and / or non-optimal freeze-drying procedures are adopted, which generate a defective freeze-dried product that must be discarded, or the necessity to extend the freeze-drying times beyond necessary, with the related consequences already mentioned above.

[0027] _These estimates “at the table” are impossible to formulate when is utilized a substance that has never been used before in terms of composition or water content, or when is utilized vials that have never been used before.

[0028] Exposition of the Invention

[0029] _The purpose of the present invention is therefore to resolve the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0030] _The invention, which is characterized by the claims, solves the problem of creating a system relating to the freeze-drying of basic substances contained in base vials, wherein said system comprises a freeze-drying chamber and a plurality of base vials positioned in said freeze-drying chamber, wherein each base vial extends axially along a vertical axis and transversely along a horizontal axis, wherein each base vial of said plurality of base vials comprises a respective base vial body; wherein said system is characterized in that it comprises: first detection means, positioned in said freeze-drying chamber, adapted to detect a first electrical characteristic in relation to at least one first vial positioned in said freeze-drying chamber, wherein said first vial has a first vial body identical to the base vial body of said base vials; second sensing means, positioned in said freeze-drying chamber, adapted to detect said first electrical characteristic in relation to a second vial positioned in said freeze-drying chamber, wherein said second vial has a second vial body equal to said base vial body and equal to said first vial body.

[0031] _The invention, with reference to the aforementioned system, also solves the problem of creating an instrument pertaining to the freeze-drying of one or more quantities of basic substances contained in one or more respective basic vials, wherein said instrument is characterized by the fact that it comprises a support bodyframe, first detection means, second detection means, first positioning means and second positioning means and, if desirable, switching means, as well as, again if desirable, an activation and control battery.

[0032] Brief Description of the attached illustrations

[0033] -Further features and advantages of the present invention will be more evident from the following description of some of its preferred practical embodiments, given here purely as example and without any restrictive limitation, made with reference to the figures of the attached drawings in which:

[0034] >_Figures 1 , 1A, 1 B, 1C and 1 D are, respectively, a schematic view, a top view, a front view with vials, a front view without vials and a perspective view, of a first embodiment;

[0035] >_Figure 1 E is a variant relating to the first embodiment;

[0036] >_Figures 2, 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D are, respectively, a schematic view, a top view, a sectional view with respect to the line 2B_2B of fig. 2A, a front view without vials and a perspective view, of a second embodiment;

[0037] >_Figure 2E is a variant relating to the second embodiment;

[0038] >_Figures 3, 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D are, respectively, a schematic view, a top view, a sectional view with respect to the line 3B 3B of fig. 3A, a front view without vials and a perspective view, of a third embodiment;

[0039] > Figure 3E is a variant relating to the third embodiment;

[0040] >_Figures 4, 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D are, respectively, a schematic view, a top view, a sectional view with respect to the trace 4B 4B of fig. 4A, a front view without vials and a perspective view, of a fourth embodiment;

[0041] >_Figure 4E is a variant relating to the fourth embodiment;

[0042] >_Figures 5, 5A and 5B are views relating to a basic vial;

[0043] >_Figures 6, 6A and 6B are views relating to a first vial;

[0044] >_Figures 7, 7A and 7B are views relating to a second vial;

[0045] >_Figures 8 and 8A are schematic views of a system and its operation.

[0046] Preferred Example Embodiment of Practical Realization

[0047] _With reference mainly to figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4, the present invention concerns a freeze-drying system, particularly but not exclusively, suitable for its application in existing freeze-drying machines, wherein, in summary, said machines comprise a freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400 suitable for receiving one or more removable trays, wherein in said chamber there are preferably collection trays 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 for the vials, wherein each tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 is suitable for containing a plurality of vials of base Fb, wherein each vial of base Fb contains a quantity of basic substance Sb to be freeze-dried, and wherein each tray 110 / 210 I 310 / 410, substantially, comprises a bottom panel 110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 and an edge or shoulder 110.2 / 210.2 / 310.2 / 410.2. _With reference to the freeze-drying procedure, at the beginning of said procedure, the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 is loaded with one or more (a plurality) of base vials Fb and, therefore, the set thus obtained, tray with base vials, is inserted inside the freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400, to then start the freeze- drying procedure.

[0048] Jn this context, with particular reference to figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4, the system which is the object of the present invention, relating to the freeze-drying of basic Sb substances contained in basic Fb vials, comprises:

[0049] >_a freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400;

[0050] >_a plurality of base vials Fb, positioned in said freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400, wherein each base vial Fb extends axially along a vertical axis Fb.y and transversely along a horizontal axis Fb.x, wherein each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb comprises a respective base vial body C.Fb;

[0051] ▻ FIRST detection means 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1 , better described below, positioned in said freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400, suitable for detecting a FIRST electrical characteristic (for example the value of the electrical capacity or the electrical permittivity) in relation to at least one FIRST vial F 1 positioned in said freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400, wherein said FIRST vial F1 has a first vial body C.F1 equal to the base vial body C.Fb of said base vials Fb;

[0052] ▻ SECOND detection means 100.M2. / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2, better described below, positioned in said freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400, suitable for detecting said first electrical characteristic (for example the value of the electrical capacity or of the electrical permittivity) in relation to at least one SECOND vial F2 positioned in said freeze-drying chamber 100 / 200 / 300 / 400, in which said SECOND vial F2 has a second vial body C.F2 equal to said basic vial body C.Fb and equal to said FIRST vial body C.F1.

[0053] _As reported above, normally, said freeze-drying chamber comprises a tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, already existing in the machines currently marketed and, preferably, said FIRST detection means 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 and / or said SECOND detection means 100.M2. / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2, are positioned within and / or above said tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410. _ Said system, as better understood, can be used to perform various operations, such as, for example, to monitor the progress of the freeze-drying process in relation to the substance Sb contained in the plurality of base vials Fb, or to detect other characteristics in relation to the same basic substance Sb to be freeze-dried contained in each basic vial Fb such as, for example, to estimate when the degree of humidity of the basic substance Sb contained in one or more base vial Fb has already reached the desired (predetermined) degree of humidity and, therefore, to estimate in real time, when said degree of humidity has been reached.

[0054] _These monitoring and / or verification and / or comparison operations can be performed manually (by an operator) or automatically (by a program and controller), at one or more desired moments in time during the freeze-drying process and, furthermore, they will be set on the basis of the investigations and comparisons that which are to be carried out.

[0055] _With reference to the system described above, preferably, said comparison occurs between FIRST values and SECOND values relating to measurements carried out at moments in time that are close in time to each other, or carried out at the same moment in time, the sequence and the temporal distance between said measurements being determined by the type of substance to be freeze-dried and / or by the precision of the degree of humidity that is desired to be obtained for the freeze-dried product, or by other types of investigations and / or comparisons that are desired to be carried out, such as, for example, to estimate, during the freeze-dried process, the time necessary to obtain a certain final result.

[0056] _With reference to said FIRST detection means 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1 and to said SECOND detection means 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2, they are preferably identical to each other, as well as identically positioned above the tray, 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, in such a way that the methods and / or parameters for the detection of one or more electrical characteristics pertaining to the respective vials F1 and F2, more particularly of at least a first determined electrical characteristic (for example the value of the electrical capacity or the electrical permittivity), will be identical to each other, assuming that the effects of parasitic electrical elements associated with the chain of the detection means are also identical, i.e. assuming and providing for an identical electrical permittivity for the pair of detection means used, 100.M1_100.M2 / 200.M1_200.M2 / 300.M1_300.M2 / 4OO.M1_4OO ), as well as a permittivity that changes identically in relation to the variations in temperature and / or to the variation in environmental conditions to which the aforementioned detection means will always be subjected during freeze-drying operations.

[0057] _Again with reference to the attached figures, preferably, the system which is the object of the present invention also further comprises FIRST positioning means, 100.P1 / 200. P1 / 300. P1 / 400.P1 , suitable for positioning the FIRST vial F1 in a FIRST determined position with respect to said FIRST detection means, 100. M1 / 200.M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1 and, more particularly, in a FIRST precise position with respect to respective FIRST probe means 100.S1 / 200. S1 / 300. S1 / 400. S1 , as will be better understood below, as well as, SECOND positioning means, 100.P2 / 200. P2 / 300. P2 / 400. P2, suitable for positioning the SECOND vial F2 in a determined SECOND position with respect to the SECOND sensing means, 100.M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2 and, more particularly, in a precise SECOND position with respect to respective SECOND probe means, 100.S2 ! 200. S2 / 300. S2 / 400. S2, as better understood below, wherein, always preferably, said FIRST position is analogous and / or identical with respect to said SECOND position in relation to the positioning for the detection of said first electrical characteristic.

[0058] _With reference to said FIRST detection means 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 they include respective FIRST probe means, 100.S1 / 200. S1 / 300. S1 / 400. S1 , suitable for detecting one or more electrical characteristics, more particularly at least one first determined electrical characteristic, pertaining to said FIRST vial F1 and, with reference to said SECOND detection means, 100. M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2, they include SECOND probe means 100.S2 / 200.S2 / 300. S2 / 400. S2, suitable for detecting one or more electrical characteristics, more particularly at least one first determined electrical characteristic, pertaining to said SECOND vial F2.

[0059] _Again with reference to said FIRST detection means 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 , they comprise FIRST probe means 100.S1 / 200. S1 / 300. S1 / 400. S1 , which are suitable for forming a first capacitive coupling whose field lines affect one or more first vials F1 and its contents, as will be better understood below and, similarly, said SECOND detection means, 100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2, comprise SECOND probe means, 100.S2 / 200. S2 / 300. S2 / 400. S2, suitable for forming a second capacitive coupling, whose field lines affect one or more second vials F2 and its contents, again as will be better understood below.

[0060] _With reference to the said FIRST and SECOND means probe 100.S1 / 200. S1 / 300.S1 / 400.S1 ; 100.S2 / 200.S2 / 300.S2 / 400.S2, preferably, each of them comprises at least two electrodes, 100.S1.a_100.S1.b / 200.S1.a_200.S1.b / 300.S1 .a_300.S1 .b / 400.S1 ,a_400.S1 .b / 100.S2.a_100.S2.b / 200.S2.a_200.S2.b / 300.S2.a_300.S2.b / 400.S2.a_400.S2.b, which are spaced apart from each other by a certain measure 100.D1 / 200.D1 / 300.D1 / 400.D1 , in order to be able to form, as better described below, a capacitive coupling between them.

[0061] _These two electrodes, 100.S1.a_100.S1.b / 200.S1.a_200.S1.b I

[0062] 300.51 ,a_300.S1 .b / 400.S1 ,a_400.S1 .b / 100.S2.a_1 OO.S2.b / 200.S2.a_200.S2.b I 300.S2.a_300.S2.b / 400.S2.a_400.S2.b, are positioned near the respective vial F1 / F2 positioned in the respective detection means 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 / 100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2, such that at least a first portion of the field lines of the capacitive coupling obtained by means of said two electrodes

[0063] 100.51.a_100.S1.b / etc. / affects the respective vial F1 / F2, when the latter is correctly positioned in the respective detection means 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 / 100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2, for example by means of the positioning means mentioned above.

[0064] -Furthermore, said probe means 100. S1 / 200. S1 / 300. S1 / 400. S1 / 100. S2 /

[0065] 200.52 / 300. S2 / 400. S2 and, therefore, the respective two electrodes

[0066] 100.51. a 100.S1.b / 200.S1.a 2OO.S1.b / 3OO.S1.a 300.S1.b / 400.S1.a 400.S1.b

[0067] / 100. S2. a 1OO.S2.b I 200. S2. a 2OO.S2.b / 300. S2. a 3OO.S2.b I

[0068] 400.S2.a_400.S2.b, are appropriately spaced from the walls of the tray, 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, in order to limit and / or obviate a capacitive coupling between said two electrodes 100.S1.a 100.S1.b / 200. S1. a 2OO.S1.b / 3OO.S1.a 3OO.S1.b /

[0069] 400. S1. a 400.S1.b / 100.S2.a 1OO.S2.b / 2OO.S2.a 2OO.S2.b / 3OO.S2.a 3OO.S2.b

[0070] I 400.S2.a_400.S2.b, and the tray, 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 and, more particularly, spaced from the bottom panel 110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 of the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 of a size D2 and spaced from the shoulder 110.2 / 110.2 / 110.3 / 110.4 of the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 of a size D3.

[0071] _Said spacing D2 and / or D3 of the two electrodes 100.S1.a_100.S1.b / 200.S1 ,a_200.S1 .b / 300.S1 ,a_300.S1 .b / 400.S1 ,a_400.S1 .b / 100.S2.a_1 OO.S2.b / 200.S2.a_200.S2.b / 300.S2.a_300.S2.b / 400.S2.a_400.S2.b with respect to the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 is such as to avoid a capacitive coupling that could influence and / or invalidate the detection of the electrical characteristics of the respective vial F1 or F2 positioned in the respective detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1 / 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2.

[0072] -Always said spacing D2 and / or D3 of the two electrodes 100.S1.a_100.S1.b / 200.S1 ,a_200.S1 .b / 300.S1 ,a_300.S1 .b / 400.S1 ,a_400.S1 .b / 100.S2.a_1 OO.S2.b I 200.S2.a_200.S2.b / 300.S2.a_300.S2.b / 400.S2.a_400.S2.b with respect to the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410 could also be such as to create a capacitive coupling between said electrodes and the tray, but this coupling has a negligible entity with respect to the capacity that is created between the two electrodes and, therefore, a coupling such as not to influence and / or not to affect the detection of the electrical characteristics of the respective vial F1 or F2 positioned in the respective detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1 / 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2.

[0073] FIRST Embodiment - Figs. 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D and related variant 1E

[0074] _With reference to Figs. 1 , 1A, 1 B, 1C, 1 D, according to a first preferred embodiment, said probe means, 100.S1 / 100.S2, comprise, respectively, two electrodes, 100.S1.a_100.S1.b / 100.S2.a_100.S2.b, spaced 100. D1 apart from each other, having a flat configuration and extension, for example having a parallelepiped shape, which extend linearly and horizontally, wherein said two electrodes are positioned under the bottom wall of the respective vial F1 or F2.

[0075] _By way of example, said two electrodes can be partially embedded and / or positioned and / or supported by means of a layer 120 of insulating material bound to a box-shaped body or frame 100.T, or obtained by means of a RGB sheet equipped with an upper copper plating suitable for forming said two electrodes, or supported by means of a frame that supports the ends thereof, without departing from the inventive concepts protected by the present invention.

[0076] Variant - Plurality of Electrodes in Relation to the First Embodiment

[0077] _With reference to Fig. 1 E it illustrates a variant embodiment in relation to the detection means 100.M1 and 100. M2 described above with reference to the first embodiment of Fig. 1 , 1A, 1 B, 1C and 1 D and, more particularly, a variant embodiment relating to the probe means 100.S1 and 100.S2.

[0078] _With reference to figure 1 E, this variant provides for first detection means V.100.S1 and second detection means V.100. M2, which provide for respective first probe means V.100.S1 and second probe means V.100.S2 which are equal to each other.

[0079] _The first probe means V.100.S1 comprise a first plurality of single electrodes V.100.S1.a1_V.100.S1.a2_V.100.S1.a3, connected to each other, and a second plurality of single electrodes V.100.S1.b1_V.100.S1.b2_V.100.S1.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.100.S1.a3 of the first plurality of electrodes V.100.S1.a1_V.100.S1.a2_V.100.S1.a3 is spaced V.100.D1 with respect to a respective single electrode V.100.S2.b3 of the second plurality of electrodes V.100.S1 ,b1_V.100.S1 b2_V.100.S1 ,b3, and wherein said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned under the bottom wall of a plurality of first vials F1_F1_F1.

[0080] _The second probe means V.100.S2 comprise a third plurality of single electrodes V.100.S2.a1_V.100.S2.a2_V.100.S2.a3, connected to each other, and a fourth plurality of single electrodes V.100.S2.b1_V.100.S2.b2_V.100.S2.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.100.S2.a3 of the third plurality of electrodes V.100.S2.a1_V.100.S2.a2_V.100.S2.a3 is spaced V.100.D1 with respect to a respective single electrode V.100.S2.b3 of the fourth plurality of electrodes V.100.S2.b1_V.100.S2.b2_V.100.S2.b3, and wherein said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned under the bottom wall of a plurality of second vials F2_F2_F2.

[0081] Jn this context, substantially, in this variant of Fig. 1 E, a plurality of pairs of electrodes are envisaged, in which each pair, see for example the pair V.100.S1.a1_V.100.S1.b1 , creates a capacitive coupling whose field lines affect a vial and its contents, as substantially described and illustrated in relation to figures 1 , 1A, 1 B, 1C and 1 D, see for example the pair of electrodes 100. S1.a_100. S1.b of the latter figures.

[0082] SECOND Embodiment - Figs. 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and variant fig. 2E With reference to figs. 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, according to a second preferred embodiment, said probe means, 200. S1 / 200. S2 comprise two electrodes, 200.S1.a_200.S1.b / 200.S2.a_200.S2.b, spaced apart from each other, wherein said two electrodes extend vertically, wherein said two electrodes are positioned to the side and along a lateral wall of the respective vial F1 / F2.

[0083] JBy way of example, said two electrodes can be positioned and / or supported by means of a box-shaped body or frame 200. T or in another manner without departing from the inventive concepts protected by the present invention.

[0084] Variant - Plurality of Electrodes in Relation to the Second Embodiment

[0085] _With reference to Fig. 2E it illustrates a variant embodiment in relation to the detection means 200. M1 and 200. M2 described above with reference to the second embodiment of Fig. 2, 2A, 2B, 20 and 2D and, more particularly, a variant embodiment relating to the probe means 200. S1 and 200. S2.

[0086] _With reference to figure 2E, this variant provides for first detection means V.200.S1 and second detection means V.200.M2, which provide for respective first probe means V.200.S1 and second probe means V.200.S2 which are equal to each other.

[0087] _The first probe means V.200.S1 comprise a first plurality of single electrodes V.200.S1.a1_V.200.S1.a2_V.200.S1.a3, connected to each other, and a second plurality of single electrodes V.200.S1.b1_V.200.S1.b2_V.200.S1.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.200.S1.a3 of the first plurality of electrodes V.200.S1.a1_V.200.S1.a2_V.200.S1.a3 is spaced V.200.D1 with respect to a respective single electrode V.200.S1.b3 of the second plurality of electrodes V.200.S1 .b1_V.200.S1 b2_V.200.S1 ,b3, and wherein said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials F1_F1_F1.

[0088] _The second probe means V.200.S2 comprise a third plurality of single electrodes V.200.S2.a1_V.200.S2.a2_V.200.S2.a3, connected to each other, and a fourth plurality of single electrodes V.200.S2.b1_V.200.S2.b2_V.200.S2.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.200.S2.a3 of the third plurality of electrodes V.200.S2.a1_V.200.S2.a2_V.200.S2.a3 is spaced V.200.D2 with respect to a respective single electrode V.200.S2.b3 of the fourth plurality of electrodes V.200.S2.b1_V.200.S2.b2_V.200.S2.b3, and wherein said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of second vials F2_F2_F2.

[0089] Jn this context, substantially, in this variant of Fig. 2E, a plurality of pairs of electrodes are envisaged, in which each pair, see for example the pair V.200.S1.a1_V.200.S1.b1 , creates a capacitive coupling whose field lines affect a vial and its contents, as substantially described and illustrated in relation to figures 2, 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D, see for example the pair of electrodes 200.S1.a_200.S1 ,b of this latter figure.

[0090] * * * * *

[0091] THIRD Embodiment - Figs. 3, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D and related variant 3E

[0092] _With reference to figs. 3, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, according to a third preferred embodiment, said probe means, 300. S1 / 300. S2, comprise two electrodes, 300.S1.a_300.S1.b / 300,S2.a_300.S2.b, spaced apart from each other, which extend horizontally, wherein said two electrodes are each shaped like a segment of a circular crown, wherein said two electrodes are positioned around the vertical wall of the vial F1 or F2 and, preferably, horizontally opposed to each other at 180°.

[0093] _By way of example, said two electrodes can be positioned and / or supported by means of a box-shaped body or frame 300. T or in another manner without departing from the inventive concepts protected by the present invention.

[0094] Variant - Plurality of electrodes in relation to the THIRD embodiment

[0095] _With reference to Fig. 3E it illustrates a variant embodiment regarding the detection means 300. M1 and 300. M2 described above with reference to the third embodiment of Fig. 3, 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D and, more particularly, a variant embodiment relating to the probe means 300. S1 and 300. S2.

[0096] _With reference to figure 3E, this variant provides for first detection means V.300.S1 and second detection means V.300.S2, which provide for respective first probe means V.300.S1 and second probe means V.300.S2 which are equal to each other.

[0097] _The first probe means V.300.S1 comprise a first plurality of single electrodes V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.a2_V.300.S1.a3, connected to each other, and a second plurality of single electrodes V.300.S1.b1_V.300.S1.b2_V.300.S1.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.300.S1.a3 of the first plurality of electrodes V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.a2_V.300.S1.a3 is spaced V.300.D1 with respect to a respective single electrode V.300.S1.b3 of the second plurality of electrodes V.300.S1.b1_V.300.S1.b2_V.300.S1 ,b3, and wherein said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials F1 F1 F1.

[0098] _The second probe means V.300.S2 comprise a third plurality of single electrodes V.300.S2.a1_V.300.S2.a2_V.300.S2.a3, connected to each other, and a fourth plurality of single electrodes V.300.S2.b1_V.300.S2.b2_V.300.S2.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.300.S2.a3 of the third plurality of electrodes V.300.S2.a1_V.300.S2.a2_V.300.S2.a3 is spaced V.300.D2 with respect to a respective single electrode V.300.S2.b3 of the fourth plurality of electrodes V.300.S2.b1_V.300.S2.b2_V.300.S2.b3, and wherein said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of second vials F2_F2_F2.

[0099] Jn this context, substantially, in this variant of Fig. 3E, a plurality of pairs of electrodes are envisaged, in which each pair, see for example the pair V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.b1 , creates a capacitive coupling whose field lines affect a vial and its contents, as substantially described and illustrated in relation to figures 3, 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, see for example the pair of electrodes 300.S1.a_300.S1.b of this latter figures.

[0100] FOURTH Embodiment - Figs. 4, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and variant Fig. 4E

[0101] _With reference to figs. 4, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, according to a fourth preferred embodiment, said probe means, 400. S1 / 400. S2, comprise two electrodes, 400.S1.a_400.S1.b / 400.S2.a_400.S2.b, spaced vertically from each other, which extend horizontally, wherein said two electrodes are shaped like a segment of a circular crown, wherein said two electrodes are arranged in vertical alignment with each other, wherein said two electrodes are placed along a vertical side of the respective vial F1 / F2.

[0102] _By way of example, said two electrodes can be positioned and / or supported by means of a box-shaped or frame 400.T or in another manner without departing from the inventive concepts protected by the present invention. Variant - Plurality of electrodes in relation to the FOURTH embodiment

[0103] _With reference to Fig. 4E it illustrates a variant embodiment in relation to the detection means 400. M1 and 400. M2 described above with reference to the first embodiment of Fig. 4, 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D and, more particularly, a variant embodiment relating to the probe means 400. S1 and 400. S2.

[0104] _With reference to figure 4E, this variant provides for first detection means V.400.S1 and second detection means V.400.M2, which provide for respective first probe means V.400.S1 and second probe means V.400.S2 which are equal to each other.

[0105] _The first probe means V.400.S1 comprise a first plurality of single electrodes V.400.S1.a1_V.400.S1.a2_V.400.S1.a3, connected to each other, and a second plurality of single electrodes V.400.S1.b1_V.400.S1.b2_V.400.S1.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.400.S1.a3 of the first plurality of electrodes V.400.S1.a1_V.400.S1.a2_V.400.S1.a3 is spaced V.400.D1 with respect to a respective single electrode V.400.S1.b3 of the second plurality of electrodes V.400.S1 .b1_V.400.S1 .b2_V.400.S1 ,b3, and wherein said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials F1_F1_F1.

[0106] _The second probe means V.400.S2 comprise a third plurality of single electrodes V.400.S2.a1_V.400.S2.a2_V.400.S2.a3, connected to each other, and a fourth plurality of single electrodes V.400.S2.b1_V.400.S2.b2_V.400.S2.b3, connected to each other, wherein each electrode V.400.S2.a3 of the third plurality of electrodes V.400.S2.a1_V.400.S2.a2_V.400.S2.a3 is spaced V.400.D1 with respect to a respective single electrode V.400.S2.b3 of the fourth plurality of electrodes V.400.S2.b1_V.400.S2.b2_V.400.S2.b3, and wherein said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of second vials F2_F2_F2.

[0107] Jn this context, substantially, in this variant of Fig. 4E, a plurality of pairs of electrodes are envisaged, in which each pair, see for example the pair V.400.S1.a1_V.400.S1.b1 , creates a capacitive coupling whose field lines affect a vial and its contents, as substantially described and illustrated in relation to figures 4, 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D, see for example the pair of electrodes 400.S1.a_400.S1.b of the latter figures.

[0108] General Considerations

[0109] _With reference to the above description, as an example, the base vials Fb can be positioned in a vertical arrangement above the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, with the bottom of each vial Fb in contact with the bottom panel 110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 of said tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, while the first detection means 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1 / V.100.M1 / V.200.M1 / V.300.M1 / V.400.M1 also provide for positioning one or more first vials F1 with the bottom of each first vial F1 in contact with the bottom panel 110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 of the same tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, in such a way as to obtain the same heat transmission by thermal conduction between the tray and said vials Fb and F1 and, therefore, obtain the same thermal effects for the two vials Fb and F1 , as well as the same thermal effects in relation to the relative substances Sb and S1 contained in the same vials Fb and F1 , during the freeze-drying process.

[0110] _With reference to this configuration, preferably, also the second detection means 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2 / V.100.M2 / V.200.M2 / V.300.M2 / V.400.M2 provide for positioning one or more second vials F2 with the bottom of each second vial F2 in contact with the bottom panel 110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 of the same tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410.

[0111] _With reference to the attached figures, the system which is the subject of the present invention may further comprise switching means, 100.0 / 200. C / 300. C / 400. C, wherein said switching means 100.0 / 200.0 / 300. C / 400.0 are adapted to switch the activation between the FIRST detection means 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1

[0112] 1400.M1 and the SECOND detection means 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2.

[0113] -Preferably, said switching means, 100.0 / 200. C / 300. C / 400. C, are positioned above said tray, 110, 210, 310, 410, and, always preferably, incorporated and / or positioned by means of a frame body 100.T / 200.T / 300.T / 400.T, in which said frame body also supports and joins the other members that form the system which is the object of the present invention, in order to form an autonomous and preferably self-supporting instrument or group, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, as will be better understood below.

[0114] _With reference to said FIRST detection means, 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1 , to said SECOND detection means 100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2, and to said switching means, 100. C / 200. C / 300. C / 400. C, they are preferably activated and controlled by means of a control battery, 100.B / 200. B / 300. B / 400. B, better described below, which can control (execute / command / record / etc.) various operations on the basis of a predetermined program.

[0115] _This activation and control battery, 100.B / 200. B / 300. B / 400. B, by way of example, includes

[0116] >_a microprocessor, 100. CPU / 200. CPU / 300. CPU / 400. CPU, capable of controlling a oscillator 100.OSC / 200. OSC / 300. OSC / 400. OSC, capable of controlling a switch 100. C / 200. C / 300. C / 400. C and capable of processing the received signals;

[0117] >_an oscillator, 100. OSC / 200. USC / 300. OS / 400. OSC, capable of generating a sinusoidal signal with variable frequency and, preferably, with large frequency variation steps to speed up the search;

[0118] >_an inductor 100.L / 200.L Z 300.L / 400.L;

[0119] >_a switch 100.C / 200.C / 300.C / 400.C;

[0120] >_a shunt resistor, 100. Rs / 200. Rs / 300. Rs / 400. Rs;

[0121] >_a phase comparator (or phase difference detector), 100.PDD / 200. PDD / 300.PDD / 400.PDD.

[0122] Jn figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4 a resistor / resistor, 100.R / 200. R / 300. R / 400. R, is also illustrated, which in reality is not physically present, but it is present in the illustrated physical model to take into account all the parasitic resistances and in particular that relating to the inductor 100.L / 200. L / 300. L / 400. L.

[0123] -Preferably, said switching means, 100. C / 200. C / 300. C / 400. C and / or said drive and control battery 100.B Z 200.B Z 300.B Z 400.B are positioned above said tray 110, 210, 310, 410 as, for example, see Figs. 1 D, 2D, 3D and 4D, incorporated in a box body or frame, 100.T / 200.T / 300. T / 400.T, of an instrument 100. ST / 200. ST Z300.ST / 400. ST, better described below, wherein said box body or frame 100.T / 200. T / 300. T / 400. T is also able to form and / or to support said positioning means, 100.P1 100.P2 / 200.P1 200.P2 ! 300.P1_300.P2 / 400.P1_400.P2 and / or said sensing means 100.S1 100.S2 I 200.S1 200.S2 I / 300.S1 300.S2 /

[0124] 400.S1_400.S2, or the related probe means 100.S1_200.S2 / 200.S1_200.S2 / 300.S1_300.S2 / 400.S1_400.S2, which form the system which is the object of the present invention, in order to form a self-supporting instrument and, preferably, also autonomous in terms of operation, as will be better understood below.

[0125] _With reference to the above description, the system which is the object of the present invention, in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4, provides a configuration comprising:

[0126] >_said microprocessor, 100.CPU / 200.CPU / 300.CPU / 400.CPU;

[0127] >_said oscillator, 100.OSC / 200.OSC / 300.OSC / 400.OSC;

[0128] >_said inductor 100.L / 200. L / 300. L / 400. L;

[0129] >_said switch 100.C Z 200.C Z 300.C Z 400.C;

[0130] >_said FIRST detection means 100.M1 Z 200.M1 Z 300.M1 / 400.M1 ;

[0131] >_said SECOND detection means 200. M2 Z 200. M2 Z 300. M2 / 400. M2;

[0132] >_said shunt resistance, 100. Rs Z 200. Rs / 300. Rs / 400. Rs;

[0133] >_said phase difference detector, 100.PPD Z 200.PPD Z 300.PPD / 400.PPD.

[0134] _ln figures 1 , 2, 3 and 4 a resistor is also illustrated, 100.R Z 200.R Z 300.R Z400.R, which in reality it is not physically present, but it is present in the illustrated physical model to take into account all the parasitic resistances and in particular that relating to the inductor 100.L Z 200.L Z 300.L / 400.L.

[0135] _With reference to figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, in order to measure the value of the electrical characteristics relating to the FIRST vial F1 and the SECOND vial F2, which are positioned in the respective FIRST detection means 100.M1 Z etc. and in the SECOND detection means 100. M2 Z etc., a single measurement channel is used, in which, preferably, said single measurement channel comprises:

[0136] >_a single and common inductor of inductance, 100.L ! 200.L Z 300.L / 400.L;

[0137] >_a single and common connection, 100.CV Z 200. CV Z 300. CV Z 400. CV, preferably comprising a shielded cable for the connection between the circuit and the two aforementioned detection means 100.M1 and 100. M2;

[0138] >_a single and common opto-isolated switch 100.C Z 200. C Z 300. C Z 400. C, suitable for switching the signal between the two detection means 100.M1_100.M2 Z 200.M1_200.M2 Z 300.M1_300.M2 / 400.M1_400.M2.

[0139] -Through said single channel, the effects of the parasitic electrical elements are the same in relation to the first detection means 100.M1 Z etc. and to the second detection means 100. M2 / etc..

[0140] _More particularly, always by means of said single channel, the effects of the parasitic electrical elements are the same in relation to the elements that make up said first and second detection means, 100.M1 / etc., 100. M2 / etc., and, furthermore, they will change in the same manner as the environmental conditions change, such as, for example, as the temperature that occurs in the freeze-drying chamber during the freeze-drying process changes.

[0141] Tool 100.ST / 200.ST / 300.ST 1400.ST

[0142] _With reference to the system described above, the present invention also concerns an instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, preferably self- supporting, see in particular figs. 1 D, 2D, 3D and 4D, which can be supported and / or positioned above the tray, 110 / 210 / 310 / 410, in order to be able to operate as an after-sales accessory device in relation to a freeze-drying machine, in which said self-supporting instrument can assume various configurations in order, for example, to also be able to operate autonomously.

[0143] -According to a FIRST configuration, said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, can include the following components:

[0144] >_a support body-frame 100.T / 200.T / 300.T / 400.T;

[0145] >_said FIRST detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1 ;

[0146] >_said SECOND detection means 100.M2. / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2;

[0147] >_said FIRST positioning means 100.P1 / 200.P1 / 300.P1 / 400.P1 ;

[0148] >_said SECOND positioning means 100.P2 / 200.P2 / 300.P2 / 400.P2; in order to be able to carry out the measurements relating to the two vials F1 and F2 as reported above and, if desirable, also includes other components.

[0149] -According to a SECOND configuration, said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, in addition to the components of the aforementioned FIRST configuration, may further comprise the aforementioned switching means 100.C / 200.C / 300.C / 400.C.

[0150] -According to a THIRD configuration, said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, in addition to the components of the FIRST configuration mentioned above and / or in addition to the components of the SECOND configuration mentioned above, may further comprise an activation and control battery 100.B / 200. B / 300. B / 400.B.

[0151] -According to a FOURTH configuration, said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, can include:

[0152] >_said supporting body-frame 100.T / 200. T / 300. T / 400.T;

[0153] >_said FIRST detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1;

[0154] >_said SECOND detection means 100.M2.Z 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2;

[0155] >_said FIRST positioning means 100. P1 Z 200.P1 Z 300.P1 / 400.P1;

[0156] >_said SECOND positioning means 100.P2 / 200. P2 / 300. P2 / 400. P2;

[0157] >_said switching means 100.C / 200. C / 300.C Z 400.C;

[0158] >_a microprocessor, 100.CP / 200.CPU / 300.CPU / 400.CPU;

[0159] >_an oscillator, 100.OSC / 200.OSC / 300.OSC / 400.0SC;

[0160] >_an inductor 100.L / 200.L / 300.L / 400.L;

[0161] >_a switch 100.C Z 200.C / 300.C / 400.C;

[0162] >_a shunt resistor, 100. Rs / 200. Rs / 300. Rs / 400. Rs;

[0163] >_a phase difference detector, 100.PDD Z 200.PDD / 300. PDD / 400.PDD.

[0164] _ln figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 a resistor 100.R / 200.R Z 300.R / 400.R is also illustrated, which in reality it is not physically present, but it is present in the illustrated physical model to take into account all the parasitic resistances and in particular that relating to the inductor 100. L / 200.L / 300.L / 400.L.

[0165] _Said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, furthermore, can be equipped with a display, in order to be able to read the detection data and / or the comparison data carried out from the outside, for example, through a glass, or be equipped with a transmission system, preferably of the wireless type, in order to be able to transmit the data outside the freeze-drying chamber to a receiving device equipped with a display.

[0166] -Furthermore, said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, may comprise a FIRST housing, 100.A1 / 200.A1 / 300.A1 / 400.A1 , suitable for containing and positioning said FIRST vial F1 with respect to the respective FIRST detection means, 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 and, for example, with respect to respective FIRST probe means, 100.S1 / 200. S1 / 300. S1 / 400. S1 ; as well as a SECOND housing, 100.A2 / 200.A2 / 300.A2 / 400.A2, suitable for containing and positioning said SECOND vial F2 with respect to the respective SECOND detection means, 100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2 and, for example, with respect to respective SECOND probe means, 100.S2 / 200. S2 / 300. S2 / 400. S2, wherein each of said housings 100.A1 / 200. A1 / 300.A1 / 400.A1 / 100.A2 / 200.A2 / 300. A2 / 400.A2 has a shape suitable for receiving and / or housing, at least partially, a portion of the external profile of the respective vial F1 and / or F2.

[0167] _By way of example, with reference to the attached figures, in the case of vials having a cylindrical shape, each of said housings, 100.A1 / 200.A1 / 300.A1 / 400.A1 1 100.A2 / 200.A2 / 300.A2 / 400.A2, extends vertically with a cross-section having a curved profile, in the illustrated case having a semi-tube shape with a vertical axis, in which said curved profile is able to couple, by means of a fixed and / or removable and / or automatic and / or other type of joint, at least partially, in a precise manner, with the curved profile defined from the outside of the respective vial F1 or F2, in order to obtain a precise and desired positioning of the respective vial, F1 or F2, with respect to the respective probe means, 100.S1 , 100.S2, 200.S1 , 200.S2, 300.S1 , 300.S2, 400.S1. 400.S2.

[0168] _ln this context, again preferably, said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, may for example comprise two side walls, 100.PL1_100.PL2 / 200.PL1_200.PL2 / 300.PL1_300.PL2 / 400.PL1_400.PL2, and a crosspiece, 100.TR / 200.TR / 300.TR / 400. TR, wherein said crosspiece 100.TR / 200.TR / 300.TR / 400.TR comprises a FIRST housing, 100.A1 / 200.A1 / 300.A1 / 400.1 , suitable for positioning said FIRST vial F1 with respect to the respective FIRST detection means, 100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1 , and a SECOND housing, 100.A2 / 200, A2 / 300.A2 / 400.A2, suitable for positioning said SECOND vial F2 with respect to the respective SECOND detection means, 100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2.

[0169] -Furthermore, preferably, said crosspiece, 100.TR / 200.TR / 300.TR / 400. TR has a vertical extension having a vertical measurement D4 which is lower than the vertical measurement D5 of said two side walls, in order to define a bridge structure capable of allowing the surrounding air to flow and freely contact the vials F1 and F2 in the area below and above said crosspiece 100.TR / 200. TR / 300.TR / 400.TR.

[0170] _Again said instrument, 100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST, can also comprise two or more lower spacer bases, 100.Z1_100.Z2 / 200.Z1-200.Z2 / 300.Z1_300.Z2 / 400.Z1_400.Z2, preferably obtained by means of the two aforementioned side walls, 100.PL1_100.PL2 / 200.PL1_200.PL2 / 300.PL1_300.PL2 /

[0171] 400.PL1_400.PL2, which are suitable for vertically distancing the respective probe means, 100.S1 , 100.S2, 200.S1 , 200.S2, 300.S1 , 300.S2, 400.S1 , 400.S2, compared to the back wall 110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 , of the tray 110 / 210 / 310 / 410.

[0172] _These two or more lower spacer bases, 100.Z1_100.Z2 / 200.Z1_200.Z2 / 300.Z1_300.Z2 / 400.Z1_400.Z2, can be of the vertically extendable / shortenable type, in order to be able to vertically increase / decrease the space lying under the crosspiece 100. T / 200.T / 300.T / 400.T and, therefore, the lower portion of the vials F1 and F2 which will be subjected to the air present in said area.

[0173] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a first operational configuration:

[0174] >_wherein each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb is an OPEN vial and contains a BASE substance Sb to be freeze-dried;

[0175] >_wherein said FIRST vial F1 is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance S1 to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of vials Fb;

[0176] >_wherein said SECOND vial F2 is an OPEN vial containing a SECOND already freeze-dried substance S2;

[0177] >_wherein said SECOND substance S2 already freeze-dried corresponds to a freeze-dried state of the basic substance Sb contained in each basic vial Fb of said plurality of vials Fb.

[0178] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a second operational configuration:

[0179] >_wherein each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb is an OPEN vial and contains a BASE substance Sb to be freeze-dried;

[0180] > wherein said FIRST vial F1 is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance S1 to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb;

[0181] >_wherein in said SECOND vial F2 is a CLOSED vial containing a SECOND already freeze-dried substance S2;

[0182] >_wherein said SECOND substance S2 already freeze-dried corresponds to a freeze-dried state of the basic substance Sb contained in each basic vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb.

[0183] _With reference to the first and second operational configurations indicated above, if desirable, preferably, said SECOND substance S2 already freeze-dried is a substance having a degree of humidity corresponding to the degree of humidity that said basic substance Sb must have at the end of the freeze-drying process, in order to be able to determine the status of the freeze-drying pertaining to the substance Sb in the basic vials Fb as better understood below.

[0184] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration in which said FIRST vial F1 contains a FIRST quantity q.S1 of substance S1 , in which said FIRST quantity q.S1 is equal in quantity to the quantity q.Sb of basic substance Sb contained in each of the basic vials Fb.

[0185] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration in which said SECOND vial F2 contains a SECOND quantity q.S2 of substance S2, in which said SECOND quantity q.S2 is equal in quantity with respect to the quantity of substance obtained by the freeze-drying of a quantity q.Sb of basic substance contained in each of the basic vials Fb.

[0186] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration in which said SECOND vial F2 is a CLOSED vial containing a gaseous substance, wherein, preferably, said gaseous substance is a substance which, together with the relative SECOND vial F2, has a value relating to at least a first determined electrical characteristic which is equal to the value relating to said first determined electrical characteristic which the basic vial Fb and its contents must have at the end of the freeze-drying process. _ With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration in which said SECOND vial F2 is a CLOSED vial containing a liquid substance, wherein, preferably, said liquid substance is a substance which with the relative SECOND vial F2 has a value relating to at least a first determined electrical characteristic equal to the value relating to said first determined electrical characteristic which the basic vial Fb and its contents must have at the end of the freeze-drying process.

[0187] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration in which said SECOND vial F2 contains a solid substance, where, preferably, said solid substance is a substance which with the relative SECOND vial F2 has a value relating to at least a first determined electrical characteristic equal to the value relating to said first determined electrical characteristic which the basic vial Fb and its contents must have at the end of the freeze-drying process.

[0188] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration:

[0189] > where each base vial Fb is an OPEN vial and contains a BASE substance

[0190] Sb to be freeze-dried;

[0191] > wherein said FIRST vial F1 is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance S1 to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb;

[0192] > wherein said SECOND vial F23 is an OPEN and EMPTY vial.

[0193] _With reference to the above description, at the beginning of the freeze-drying procedure, the system which is the object of the present invention can assume a configuration:

[0194] >_wherein each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb is an OPEN vial and contains a Sb BASE substance Sb to be freeze-dried;

[0195] > wherein said FIRST vial F1 is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance S1 to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb;

[0196] >_wherein in said SECOND vial F2 is a CLOSED and EMPTY vial.

[0197] _With reference to the above description, by means of the system which is the object of the present invention, preferably, the end of the freeze-drying is determined in relation to the basic substance Sb contained in each vial of basic Fb when one or more electrical values detected by means of the first detection means 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 have a predetermined ratio with respect to one or more corresponding electrical values detected by means of said second detection means 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2.

[0198] _With reference to the above description, by means of the system which is the object of the present invention, preferably, the end of the freeze-drying is determined in relation to the BASE substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb, when one or more electrical values detected by means of the first detection means 100.M1 / 100. M2 / 100. M3 / 100.M4 are equal to one or more corresponding electrical values detected by said second detection means 200. M2 / 200.M2 / 200.M3 / 200.M4.

[0199] _Again with reference to the above description, by means of the system which is the object of the present invention, preferably, the end of the freeze-drying is determined in relation to the BASE substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb by means of a comparison between one or more electrical values detected by means of the FIRST detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 I 300. M1 / 400.M1 with corresponding electrical values detected by means of said SECOND detection means 100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2.

[0200] _Still with reference to the above description, by means of the system which is the object of the present invention, preferably, the progress of the freeze-drying process is estimated in relation to the BASE substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb by means of the detection of one or more FIRST electrical values detected by means of the FIRST detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1.

[0201] _Still with reference to the above description, by means of the system which is the object of the present invention, preferably, the progress of the freeze-drying process is estimated in relation to the BASE substance Sb contained in each base vial Fb of said plurality of base vials Fb by means of a comparison between one or more FIRST electrical values detected by means of the FIRST detection means 100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1 with one or more SECOND electrical values detected by means of the SECOND detection means 100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1.

[0202] Specification in Relation to Vials Fb, F1, F2

[0203] _With reference to figures 5_5A_5B, 6_6A_6B, 7_7A_7B, the system which is the object of the present invention, preferably, provides for the use of three types of vials and, more particularly, one or more base vial Fb, one or more first vials F1 and one or more second vials F2, in which each vial extends along a respective vertical axis, Fb.y, F1.y, F2.y and along a respective transverse axis, Fb.x, F1.x, F2.x.

[0204] _With reference to figures 5_5A_5B, each basic vial Fb can be a vial without a cap, therefore open, see fig. 5, or a vial Fb equipped with a cap T.Fb, see fig. 5A and 5B, in which said cap T.Fb includes transfer ports for the escape of gases and / or vapours and / or other substances, in which said cap T.Fb can assume a raised position, see fig. 5A, in order to configure an open basic vial Fb, or a lowered position, see fig. 5B, in order to configure a closed basic vial Fb.

[0205] _With reference to figures 6_6A_6B, each first vial F1 can be a vial without a cap, therefore open, see fig. 6, or a first vial F1 equipped with a cap T.F1 , see fig. 6Aand 6B, in which said cap T.F1 includes transfer ports for the escape of gases and / or vapours and / or other substances, in which said cap T.F1 can assume a raised position, see fig. 6A, in order to configure an open first vial F1 , or a lowered position, see fig. 6B, in order to configure a closed first vial F1 .

[0206] _With reference to figures 7_7A_7B, each second vial F2 can be a vial without a cap, therefore open, see fig. 7, or a vial F2 equipped with a cap T.F2, see fig. 7A and 7B, in which said cap T.F2 includes transfer ports for the escape of gases and / or vapours and / or other substances, in which said cap T.F2 can assume a raised position, see fig. 7A, in order to configure a second open vial F2, or a lowered position, see fig. 7B, in order to configure a second closed vial F2.

[0207] _Preferably, said three vial bodies C.Fb C.F1 C.F2, or at least said basic vial body C.Fb and said first vial body C.F1 , are vial bodies that are equal to each other as regards technical characteristics relating to heat transmission, i.e. equal in relation to the transmission of calories and refrigeration with respect to a substance contained in them, when said vial bodies are subjected to the same environmental conditions and / or to the same changes in said environmental conditions.

[0208] _Always preferably, said three vial bodies C.Fb C.F1 C.F2, or at least said basic vial body C.Fb and said first vial body C.F1 , are vial bodies that are identical to each other as regards the functional characteristic relating to the release of water in the various states during the freeze-drying process, such as, for example, the same characteristics in relation to the size and / or shape and / or position of the openings for the release of water in the various states.

[0209] _Again preferably without any restrictive intent, said three vial bodies C.Fb C.F1 C.F2, or at least said basic vial body C.Fb and said first vial body C.F1 , may be vial bodies identical to each other and having, optionally, identical closing caps.

[0210] _More particularly, still preferably, said three vial bodies C.Fb C.F1 C.F2, or at least said basic vial body C.Fb and said first vial body C.F1, are vial bodies equal to each other, where said equality is such as to obtain, in relation to the respective substances contained therein, the same treatment during a freeze-drying cycle, when said vial bodies are subjected to the same environmental conditions and / or to the same changes in said environmental conditions.

[0211] _With reference to the system which is the object of the present invention, said FIRST vial F1 comprises a first vial body C.F1 and said SECOND vial F2 comprises a second vial body C.F2 and, preferably, said first vial body C.F1 has a first electrical characteristic equal to that of the second vial body C.F2 when said two vial bodies C.F1 and C.F2b are subjected to the same environmental conditions (e.g. same temperature), such as, for example, the same electrical permittivity value if these two vial bodies C.F1 and C.F2 are subjected to the same environmental conditions (e.g. same temperature) and, furthermore, always preferably, said first electrical characteristic, for example the value of the electrical permittivity, changes in the same manner when the same temperature values vary and / or when the same environmental conditions vary for these two vial bodies C.F1 and C.F2.

[0212] Jn this context, preferably, said first vial body C.F1 and said second vial body C.F2 are two vial bodies C.F1 C.F2 identical to each other, or, always preferably, said first vial body C.F1 , said second vial body C.F2 and said basic vial body C.Fb are three vial bodies C.F1 C.F2 C.Fb identical to each other.

[0213] _With reference to the three vial bodies, C.Fb C.F1 C.F2, regarding respectively the base vial Fb, the FIRST vial F1 and the SECOND vial F2, preferably, at least the two vial bodies, C.F1 and C.F2, regarding the FIRST vial F1 and the SECOND vial F2, have values about at least said first determined electrical characteristic that are equal to each other, and, furthermore, preferably, said values regarding said first determined electrical characteristic change in the same manner when the same temperature values and / or the same environmental conditions vary, in order, substantially, to "identify", by means of the aforementioned comparison between the electrical values regarding the vials F1 and F2, the differences about said first determined electrical characteristic in relation to the sole substance contained in the respective two vials F1 and F2, and in order to determine, by analogy and / or equality and / or by known relationship, the electrical characteristics of the substance contained in the base vials Fb, since the electrical characteristics relating to the substance contained in the basic vial Fb will be identical to the electrical characteristics detected in relation to the FIRST vial F1.

[0214] _With reference to the above description, for example, if the second substance S2 corresponds to a freeze-dried state of the basic substance Sb contained in each basic vial Fb, preferably with a degree of humidity equal to the degree of humidity that is desired to be obtained at the end of the freeze-drying in relation to the basic substance Sb, the end of the freeze-drying process can be estimated, in relation to the basic substance Sb contained in each basic vial Fb, when the first electrical values of a first electrical characteristic, relating to the first vial F1 or relating to the plurality of first vials F1_F1_F1 , are equal, with respect to second electrical values relating to the same electrical characteristic, relating to the second vial F2 or relating to the plurality of second vials F2_F2_F2, since, substantially, said basic substance Sb and said first substance S1 were identical in terms of degree of humidity at the beginning of the freeze-drying process and, furthermore, since said two substances Sb and S1 have undergone, during freeze-drying, the same treatment and, therefore, the freeze-drying process can be interrupted when said first electrical values relating to the first vial F1 or plurality of first vials F1_F1_F1 and said second electrical values relating to the second vial F2 or plurality of second vials F2_F2-F2 have the same value.

[0215] Jn this context, preferably, the vial body C.Fb of said BASE vial Fb, the vial body C.F1 of said FIRST vial F1 and the vial body C.F2 of said SECOND vial F2 are three vial bodies C.Fb, C.F1 , C.F2 identical to each other.

[0216] Example About Operation

[0217] _With reference to the above description, for example, as a modus operand!, the system and / or instrument which is the object of the present invention can be configured to perform the measurement of the dielectric constant pertaining to a first vial F1 and a second vial F2, during the freeze-drying process, in which two of the said two vials, F1 and F2, and, more particularly, the relative vial body, C.F1 and C.F2, and relative contents, during the freeze-drying process, undergo variations in relation to the measurement of the said dielectric constant, due to changes in temperature and / or other environmental conditions, in order to detect, in real time, when the degree of humidity pertaining to the FIRST substance S1 , contained in the FIRST vial F1, during the freeze-drying process, reaches a degree of humidity, for example equal, with respect to the degree of humidity pertaining to the SECOND substance S2 contained in the SECOND vial F2 and, therefore, determine that also the substance Sb contained in the vials of basic Sb has reached the same degree of freeze-drying and / or humidity as the substance S1 contained in the first vial F1 , since, at the beginning of the freeze-drying cycle, the first substance S1 was identical to the basic substance Sb and since these two substances have undergone the same treatment inside identical vials.

[0218] _With reference to this exemplificative embodiment, preferably, as better understood below, the measurement of the value of the capacitance of the medium subjected to freeze-drying, i.e. pertaining to the vial F1 and the vial F2, consists in the measurement of the resonance frequency in a resonant RLC circuit, in which the capacitance formed by the medium determines, together with the value of an inductor of inductance “ L” used and of fixed value, the value of the resonance frequency.

[0219] _With reference to Figure 8, it illustrates, as an example without limited intent, an operating scheme that could be used in relation to the various embodiments indicated above in which, in summary, the system illustrated in said fig. 8 comprises: ,.>_an 800. CPU microprocessor, capable of generating a sinusoidal signal with variable frequency and, preferably, with large frequency variation steps to speed up the search;

[0220] > an 800. OSC oscillator

[0221] > an 800. L inductor

[0222] > an 800. C switch

[0223] .>_ first means of detection 800. M1

[0224] .> second means of detection 800. M2

[0225] .> a shunt resistor 800. Rs

[0226] ,.>_a phase comparator (or phase difference detector) 800. FDD

[0227] _With reference to Figure 8 it also shows a resistor 800. R which is not actually physically present, but is present in the illustrated physical model to take into account all the parasitic resistances and in particular that relating to the inductor 800. L.

[0228] _With particular reference to said first detection means 800. M1 and said second detection means 800. M2, they respectively configure;

[0229] >_a first capacitor 800. C1 comprising the two plates 800. S1 .a and 800. S1 .b and a first dielectric formed by said first vial body C.F1 and the relative substance S1 contained therein of the first vial F1 ;

[0230] >_a second capacitor 800. C2 comprising the two plates 8OO.S2.a and 8OO.S2.b and a dielectric formed by said second vial body C.F2 and the relative substance S2 contained therein of the secondo vial F2; by which it is possible to detect the values of the relative capacity and / or the values of the electrical permittivity of the dielectric medium (the vials F1 or F2) interposed between the plates but, in this context, also other embodiments relating to said detection means, capable of detecting one or more electrical characteristics (more particularly at least said first determined electrical characteristic) in relation to the respective vials F1 and F2 positioned therein, such as those described in relation to the first, second, third and fourth embodiments specified above with relative variants, can be adopted, without departing from the inventive concepts protected by the present invention.

[0231] Jn this context, therefore, the description of the operation and / or method specified in relation to figure 8 is equally applicable to all the embodiments indicated above as well as to analogous and / or similar embodiments.

[0232] _As already specified above, the system which is the object of the present invention is able to measure the electrical permittivity (so-called dielectric constant) in relation to at least a first vial F1 and in relation to at least a second vial F2.

[0233] JJsing this system, for example, it is possible to carry out a measurement by comparison between the dielectric constant of at least a first vial F1 containing a first substance S1 , such as for example a substance to be freeze-dried, compared to the dielectric constant of at least a second vial F2, containing a second substance S2, such as, for example, an already freeze-dried form (previously freeze-dried) of the same first substance S1 .

[0234] In this context, since measurements of very small capacitance values are involved, the system for performing the double measurement uses a single measurement channel, in order to avoid that the unpredictable effects of the parasitic capacitances present in the circuits and in the connections between the circuits and the capacitive sensors placed in the detection means could disturb the measurement.

[0235] _Furthermore, the switching means 800. C are preferably formed by an optoisolated switch placed in proximity of the detection means 800. M1 and 800. M2 and, more particularly, in proximity of the two respective probes 800.S1.a_800.S1.b and 800.S2.a_800.s2.b of the detection means 800. M1 and 800. M2, in order to connect, at two different times, the processing circuit with the two detection means 800. M1 and 800.M2

[0236] _With reference to the embodiment of figure 8 and to the previous embodiments indicated above, said two probes 800. S1 and 800. S2 are two capacitive sensors in the form of two capacitors 800. C1 and 800. C2, which can assume different configurations and different geometries, for example,

[0237] >_as illustrated in the first embodiment in relation to the two probes 100.S1 and 100.S2 and related variant V.100.S1 and V.100.S2;

[0238] >_as illustrated in the second embodiment in relation to the two probes 200. S1 and 200. S2 and related variant V.200.S1 and V.200.S2;

[0239] >_as illustrated in the third embodiment in relation to the two probes 300. S1 and 300. S2 and related variant V.300.S1 and V.300.S2;

[0240] >_as illustrated in the fourth embodiment in relation to the two probes 400. S1 and 400. S2 and related variant V.400.S1 and V.400.S2.

[0241] _With particular reference to the system of fig. 8, by selecting the first detection means 800. M1 by means of the switching means 800. C, the method for measuring the value of the capacitance of the first capacitor 800. C1 pertaining to the first vial F1 , consists in finding the measurement of the resonance frequency in a resonant RLC circuit, in which the capacitance formed by the means, here consisting of the vial F1 with substance S1 , determines, together with the value of an inductor of inductance “ L” used having a fixed value, the value of the resonant frequency.

[0242] -Similarly, with reference to said system, by selecting the second detection means 800. M2 by means of the switching means 800. C, the method for measuring the value of the capacitance of the second capacitor 800. C2 pertaining to the second vial F2, consists in finding the measurement of the resonance frequency in a resonant RLC circuit, in which the capacitance formed by the means, here consisting of the second vial F2 with second substance S2, determines, together with the value of an inductor of inductance “ L” used and of fixed value, the value of the resonance frequency.

[0243] In this context, it is specified that the resonance frequency “ fr"of a resonant

[0244] RLC circuit is given by the equation: where “ L” represents the value of the inductor used in the circuit of pre-established value and “ C” represents the value of the capacity created by interposing a medium between two plates to form a capacitor in which, for the specific case, the medium is composed of a vial (F1 or F2) containing or NOT containing a specific substance.

[0245] Jn relation to the operation of this system, the 800. OSC oscillator generates a sinusoidal signal with variable frequency with large frequency variation steps to speed up the search and this signal is applied to the resonant “RLC” circuit, see the schematic example in Fig. 8A.

[0246] Once the value of the resonance frequency "fr” is know, the value of the capacitance “C” relating to the first capacitor 800. C1 or the second capacitor 800. C2 is determined using the relationship:

[0247] Jn order to determine the resonant frequency with high accuracy, we proceed by comparing the phase of the sinusoidal voltage signal generated by the oscillator “v” in Figure 8 and the phase of the current flowing in the resonant RLC circuit.

[0248] _The current value is obtained by measuring the value of the voltage drop “ V, “ (Fig. 8) of the current “ i ” flowing in the branch on a shunt resistance 800. Rs.

[0249] _At the resonance frequency “ f " it is known that current and voltage are in phase and therefore the system will terminate the search for the resonance frequency when the system measures a phase difference lower than a pre- established minimum value.

[0250] -Preferably, after determining the resonant frequency of the RLC resonant circuit, the system proceeds to continue increasing the value of the frequency of the sinusoidal signal generated by the oscillator in order to determine whether or not other resonant frequencies exist.

[0251] _As a further method to accurately determine the resonant frequency, after the system has detected a phase difference between the voltage and current signals less than a predetermined value, the resonant frequency value is continued to be increased in smaller steps until a second predetermined level is reached.

[0252] _This operation can eventually be repeated by further reducing the oscillator frequency advance steps.

[0253] _At each step, the signals are also amplified and noise is filtered out.

[0254] _This allows on the one hand to speed up the search for the resonance frequency and on the other to measure it with high accuracy.

[0255] Jn this context, therefore, preferably, without limiting intent, the system which is the object of the present invention uses as a method for determining the resonance frequency the comparison between the phases of the voltage generated by the oscillator and the current circulating in the resonant RLC circuit, since this method for determining the resonance frequency allows for obtaining greater sensitivity than other methods, such as for example that of determining the maximum value of the circulating current that is reached.

[0256] _After having detected the value of the capacities in relation to the probes 800. S1 and 800. S1 , corresponding to the capacitors 800. C1 and 800. C2, the value of the electrical permittivity is calculated in relation to the first vial F1 and the second vial F2 (or plurality of first vials F1_F1_F1 and plurality of second vials F2_F2_F2) by means of a mathematical calculation or algorithm or other procedure selected in accordance with the configuration and geometry of the probes / capacitors 800.S1 / 800.C1 and 800.S2 / 800.C2, in order to be able to then carry out comparisons between the values of the dielectric permittivity as specified above.

[0257] Technical problems resolved

[0258] _The method which is the object of the present invention solves the problems reported above and more particularly:

[0259] >_probes must not be inserted into contact with the substance to be freeze-dried;

[0260] >Jt is not necessary to theoretically estimate, “on the table”, freeze-drying procedures to presume that a freeze-dried product with a certain degree of humidity will be obtained;

[0261] > it is possible to estimate the developments of the freeze-drying process in relation to the substance to be freeze-dried;

[0262] > it is possible to estimate, in real time, during the freeze-drying process, when the substance to be freeze-dried has reached a certain degree of humidity, such as for example the degree of humidity it must have at the end of freeze- drying;

[0263] >_during the freeze-drying process, it is avoided to carry out non-optimal procedures that could damage the substance to be freeze-dried;

[0264] >_it is possible to perform correct freeze-drying in relation to a substance to be freeze-dried without knowing the characteristics of the vial body and / or the characteristics of the substance to be freeze-dried;

[0265] >_it is possible to optimize the freeze-drying process in relation to a substance to be freeze-dried without having to know the characteristics of the vial body and / or the characteristics of the substance to be freeze-dried;

[0266] >_it is possible to estimate the developments of the freeze-drying process of the basic substance to be freeze-dried contained in the basic vials; >_it avoids performing, during the freeze-drying process, non-optimal procedures that could damage the basic substance to be freeze-dried; solving the problems highlighted above.

Claims

CLAIMS01)_SYSTEM relating to the freeze-drying of basic substances (Sb) contained in basic vials (Fb) comprising:>_a freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400);>_a plurality of base vials (Fb) positioned in said freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400), wherein each base vial (Fb) extends axially along a vertical axis (Fb.y) and transversely along a horizontal axis (Fb.x), wherein each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb) comprises a respective base vial body (C.Fb); characterized by the fact that it comprises:>_FIRST detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1), positioned in said freeze-drying chamber, capable of detecting a FIRST electrical characteristic in relation to at least one FIRST vial (F1) positioned in said freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400), wherein said FIRST vial (F1) has a first vial body (C.F1) equal to the base vial body (C.Fb) of said base vials (Fb);>_SECOND detection means (100.M2. / 200.M2 / 300. M2 / 400.M2), positioned in said freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400), capable of detecting said FIRST electrical characteristic in relation to at least a SECOND vial (F2) positioned in said freeze-drying chamber (100 / 200 / 300 / 400), wherein said SECOND vial (F2) has a second vial body (C.F2) equal to said base vial body (C.Fb) and equal to said FIRST vial body (C.F1).02)_SYSTEM according to claim 1 , characterized by the fact that said freeze- drying chamber comprises a tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410); by the fact that said FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1) are positioned in and / or above said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410), by the fact that said SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2) are positioned in and / or above said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410).03)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 02, characterized by the fact that said FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1) and said SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2) are identical to each other.04)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 03, characterized by the fact that it further comprises:>_FIRST positioning means (100. P1 / 200. P1 / 300. P1 / 400. P1) suitable for positioning the FIRST vial (F1) in a specific position with respect to the FIRST detection means (100.M1 Z 200.M1 Z 300.M1 / 400.M1);>_SECOND positioning means (100.P2 / 200. P2 / 300. P2 / 400. P2) suitable for positioning the SECOND vial (F2) in a specific position with respect to the SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2).05)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 04, characterized by the fact that said FIRST detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1) comprise FIRST probe means (100.S1 / 200. S1 / 300. S1 / 400. S1) suitable for forming a first capacitive coupling whose field lines affect one or more first vials (F1); by the fact that said SECOND detection means (100. M2 / 200.M2 / 300. M2 / 400.M2) comprise SECOND probe means (1 OO.S2 / 200.S2 / 300.S2 / 400.S2) suitable for forming a second capacitive coupling whose field lines affect one or more second vials (F2).06)_SYSTEM according to claim 05, characterized by the fact that each of said probe means (100.S1 Z 200.S1 Z 300.S1 / 400.S1 ; 100.S2 Z 200.S2 Z 300.S2 Z 400. S2) comprises at least two electrodes (100. S1. a, 100.S1.b Z etc.); by the fact that said two electrodes (100.S1 .a, 100.s1 .b Z etc.) are spaced apart from each other (100.D1 Z etc.) by a certain amount; by the fact that said two electrodes (100.S1.a, 100.S1.b Z etc.) form a capacitive coupling between them; by the fact that the two electrodes (100. S1. a, 100.S1.b Z etc.) are positioned near the respective vial (F1 Z F2) positioned in the respective detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 Z 300.M1 Z 400.M1; 100.M2 I 200.M2 Z 300. M2 / 400. M2); by the fact that at least a first portion of the field lines of the capacitive coupling obtained by means of said two electrodes (100.S1.a, 100.s1 .b Z etc.) affects the respective vial (F1 / F2) positioned in the respective detection means (100.M1 Z 200.M1 Z 300.M1 Z 400.M1 ; 100.M2 Z 200.M2 Z 300.M2 / 400.M2).07)_SYSTEM according to claim 06, characterized by the fact that said two electrodes (100.S1 .a, 100.s1 .b Z etc.) are spaced (D2) with respect to the tray (110 Z etc.) by a measure (D2) such as to limit andZor obviate a capacitive coupling between said two electrodes (100.S1.a, 100.s1.b Z etc.) and the tray (110 Z etc.).08) SYSTEM according to one of claims 05 to 07, characterized by the fact that said probe means (100.S1 / 100.S2) comprise two electrodes (100.S1.a, 100.S1.b / 1OO.S2.a, 1OO.S2.b), by the fact that said two electrodes are spaced (100.D1) from each other, by the fact that said two electrodes extend linearly and horizontally, by the fact that said two electrodes are positioned under the bottom wall of the respective vial (F1 / F2).09)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact of comprising first detection means (V.300.M1) and second detection means (V.300.M2) which provide respective first probe means (V.300.S1) and second probe means (V.300.S2); by the fact that said first probe means (V.300.S1) comprise a first plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.a2_V.300.S1.a3) connected to each other and a second plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S1.b1_V.300.S1.b2_V.300.S1.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.300.S1 ,a3) of the first plurality of electrodes (V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.a2_V.300.S1.a3) is spaced (V.300.D1) with respect to a respective single electrode (V.300.S2.b3) of the second plurality of electrodes (V.300.S1.b1_V.300.S1.b2_V.300.S1.b3); by the fact that said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials (F1_F1_F1); by the fact that said second probe means (V.300.S2) comprise a third plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S2.a1_V.300.S2.a2_V.300.S2.a3) connected to each other and a fourth plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S2.b1_V.300.S2.b2_V.300.S2.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.300.S2.a3) of the third plurality of electrodes (V.300.S2.a1_V.300.S2.a2_V.300.S2.a3) is spaced (V.300.D2) from a respective single electrode (V.300.S2.b3) of the fourth plurality of electrodes (V.300.S2.b1_V.300.S2.b2_V.300.S2.b3); by the fact that said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned to the side of a plurality of second vials (F2_F2_F2).10)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 05 to 07, characterized by the fact that said probe means (200. S1 / 200. S2) comprise: two electrodes (200.S1.a_200.S1.b / 200.S2.a_200.S2.b); by the fact that said two electrodes are spaced (200. D1) from each other; by the fact that said twoelectrodes extend vertically; by the fact that said two electrodes are positioned at the side of a lateral wall of the vial.11)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact of comprising first detection means (V.200.M1) and second detection means (V.200.M2) which provide respective first probe means (V.200.S1) and second probe means (V.200.S2); by the fact that said first probe means (V.200.S1) comprise a first plurality of single electrodes (V.200.S1.a1_V.200.S1.a2_V.200.S1.a3) connected to each other and a second plurality of single electrodes (V.200.S1.b1_V.200.S1.b2_V.200.S1.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.200.S1 ,a3) of the first plurality of electrodes (V.200.S1.a1 V.200.S1.a2_V.200.S1.a3) is spaced (V.200.D1) with respect to a respective single electrode (V.200.S1.b3) of the second plurality of electrodes (V.200.S1.b1_V.200.S1.b2_V.200.S1.b3); by the fact that said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials (F1_F1_F1); by the fact that said second probe means (V.200.S2) comprise a third plurality of single electrodes (V.200.S2.a1_V.200.S2.a2_V.200.S2.a3) connected to each other and a fourth plurality of single electrodes (V.200.S2.b1_V.200.S2.b2_V.200.S2.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.200.S2.a3) of the third plurality of electrodes (V.200.S2.a1_V.200.S2.a2_V.200.S2.a3) is spaced (V.200.D2) from a respective single electrode (V.200.S2.b3) of the fourth plurality of electrodes (V.200.S2.bi_V.200.S2.b2_V.200.S2.b3); by the fact that said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned to the side of a plurality of second vials (F2_F2_F2).12)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 05 to 07, characterized by the fact that said probe means (300. S1 / 300. S2) comprise two electrodes (300.S1.a_300.S1.b / 300.S2.a_300.S2.b); by the fact that said two electrodes are spaced apart (300. D1) from each other; by the fact that said two electrodes extend horizontally; by the fact that said two electrodes are shaped like a segment of a circular crown; by the fact that said two electrodes are positioned around the vertical wall of the vial; and by the fact that said two electrodes are horizontally opposed.13)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact to comprise first detection means (V.300.M1) and second detection means (V.300.M2) which provide respective first probe means (V.300.S1) and second probe means (V.300.S2) which are equal to each other; by the fact that said first probe means (V.300.S1) comprise a first plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.a2_V.300.S1.a3) connected to each other and a second plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S1.b1_V.300.S1.b2_V.300.S1.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.300.S1.a3) of the first plurality of electrodes (V.300.S1.a1_V.300.S1.a2_V.300.S1.a3) is spaced (V.300.D1) with respect to a respective single electrode (V.300.S1.b3) of the second plurality of electrodes (V.300.S1.b1_V.300.S1.b2_V.300.S1.b3); by the fact that said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials (F1_F1_F1 ); by the fact that said second probe means (V.300.S2) comprise a third plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S2.a1_V.300.S2.a2_V.300.S2.a3) connected to each other and a fourth plurality of single electrodes (V.300.S2.b1_V.300.S2.b2_V.300.S2.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.300.S2.a3) of the third plurality of electrodes (V.300.S2.a1_V.300.S2.a2_V.300.S2.a3) is spaced (V.300.D2) with respect to a respective single electrode (V.300.S2.b3) of the fourth plurality of electrodes (V.300.S2.b1_V.300.S2.b2_V.300.S2.b3), and by the fact that said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of second vials (F2_F2_F2).14)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 05 to 07, characterized by the fact that said probe means (400. S1 / 400. S2) comprise two electrodes (4OO.S1.a_4OO.S1.b ! 400.S2.a 400.S2.b); by the fact that said two electrodes are spaced apart (400. D1) from each other; by the fact that said two electrodes extend horizontally; by the fact that said two electrodes are shaped like a segment of a circular crown; by the fact that said two electrodes are arranged in vertical alignment with each other; by the fact that said two electrodes are placed along a vertical side of the vial.15)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact to comprise first detection means (V.400.M1) and second detection means(V.400.M2) which comprise first probe means (V.400.S1) and second probe means (V.400.S2); by the fact that said first probe means (V.400.S1) comprise a first plurality of single electrodes (V.400.S1.a1__V.400.S1.a2__V.400.S1.a3) connected to each other and a second plurality of single electrodes (V.400.S1 ,b1__V.400.S1.b2-V.400.S1.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.400.S1 ,a3) of the first plurality of electrodes (V.400.S1.a1__V.400.S1.a2_V.400.S1.a3) is spaced (V.400.D1) from a respective single electrode (V.400.S1.b3) of the second plurality of electrodes (V.400.S1.b1__V.400.S1.b2__V.400.S1.b3); by th© fact that said first plurality of electrodes and said second plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of first vials (F1_F1_F1 ); by the fact that said second probe means (V.400.S2) comprise a third plurality of single electrodes (V.400.S2.a1__V.400.S2.a2__V,400.S2.a3) connected to each other and a fourth plurality of single electrodes (V.400.S2.b1__V.400.S2.b2__V.400.S2.b3) connected to each other; by the fact that each electrode (V.400.S2.a3) of the third plurality of electrodes (V.400.S2.a1__V.400.S2.a2_V.400.S2.a3) is spaced (V.400.D1) with respect to a respective single electrode (V.400.S2.b3) of the fourth plurality of electrodes (V.400.S2.b1__V.400.S2.b2__V.400.S2.b3), and by the fact that said third plurality of electrodes and said fourth plurality of electrodes are positioned at the side of a plurality of second vials (F2 .F2„F2).16)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 15, characterized in that it further comprises switching means (100.C / 200. C / 300.0 / 400. C) for switching the activation between the FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1) and the SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2).17LSYSTEM according to claim 16, characterized in that said switching means (100. C / 200.0 / 300. C / 400. C) are positioned above said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410).18)__SYSTEM according to one of claims 16 to 17, characterized by the fact that it further comprises an activation and control battery (100.8 / 200, B / 300.B, 400. B) suitable for activating and controlling said FIRST detection means (100.M1 Z200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1), said SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300. M2 / 400.M2) and said switching means (100.C / 200.C / 300.C / 400.C).19)_SYSTEM according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that said activation and control battery (100. B / 200. B / 300. B, 400. B) comprises: a microprocessor (100.CPU / 200.CPU / 300.CPU / 400.CPU); an oscillator, (100.OSC / 200.0SC / 300.0SC / 400.0SC); an inductor (100.L / 200.L / 300.L / 400.L); a shunt resistor (1 OO.Rs / 200. Rs / 300. Rs / 400. Rs); a phase difference detector (100.PDD / 200.PDD / 300.PDD / 400.PDD).20)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims characterized by providing a configuration comprising: a microprocessor (100. CPU / 200. CPU I 300.CPU / 400.CPU); an oscillator (100.OSC / 200.OSC / 300.OSC / 400.OSC); an inductor (100.L / 200.L / 300.L / 400.L); a switch (100.C / 200.C / 300.C / 400.C); FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1); SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2); a shunt resistor (100. Rs / 200. Rs / 300. Rs / 400. Rs); a phase difference detector (100.PDD / 200.PDD / 300.PDD / 400.PDD).21)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that in order to measure the value of the electrical characteristics relating to the FIRST vial (F1) and the SECOND vial (F2), which are positioned in the respective FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1) and in the SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2), a single measurement channel is used, wherein said single measurement channel comprises: a single and common inductance inductor (100. L / 200. L / 300. L / 400. L); a single and common connection (100.CV / 200. CV / 300. CV / 400. CV) comprising a single shielded cable for the connection between the activation circuit of the aforementioned detection means (100.M1_100.M2 / 200.M1_200.M2 / 300.M1_300.M2 / 400.M1_400.M2); a single and common switch (100.C / 200. C / 300. C / 400.C), suitable for switching the signal between the two detection means (100.M1_100.M2 / 200.M1_200.M2 / 300.M1_300.M2 / 400.M1_400.M2).22)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that it provides an instrument (100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) comprising:a support frame body (100.T / 200.T / 300. T / 400.T); FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1); SECOND detection means (100.M2. / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2); FIRST positioning means (100.P1 / 200.P1 / 300.P1 / 400.P1); SECOND positioning means (100.P2 / 200.P2 / 300.P2 / 400.P2).23)_SYSTEM according to claim 22, characterized by the fact that said instrument(100.ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) further comprises switching means (100. C / 200.C / 300.C / 400.C).24)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 22 to 23, characterized by the fact that said instrument (100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) further comprises an activation and control battery (100.B / 200.B / 300.B, 400. B).25)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 22 to 24, characterized by the fact that said instrument (100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) comprises: a supporting frame body (100.T / 200.T / 300.T / 400.T);FIRST sensing means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1); SECOND sensing means (100.M2. / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2); FIRST positioning means (100.P1 / 200.P1 / 300.P1 / 400.P1); SECOND positioning means (100.P2 / 200.P2 / 300.P2 / 400.P2); switching means (100.C / 200.C / 300.C / 400.C); a microprocessor (100. CPU / 200. CPU / 300. CPU / 400. CPU); an oscillator (100.0SC / 200.OSC / 300.OSC / 400.OSC); an inductor (100.L / 200. L / 300. L / 400. L); a shunt resistor (100. Rs / 200. Rs / 300. Rs / 400. Rs); a phase difference detector (100. PDD / 200. PDD / 300. PDD / 400.PDD).26)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 22 to 25, characterized by the fact that said instrument (100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) comprises: a FIRST housing (100.A1 / 200.A1 / 300.A1 / 400.1) suitable for positioning said FIRST vial (F1) with respect to the respective FIRST detection means (100. M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1); a SECOND housing (100.A2 / 200.A2 / 300.A2 / 400.A2) suitable for positioning said SECOND vial (F2) with respect to the respective SECOND detection means (100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300. M2 / 400. M2).27)_SYSTEM according to claim 26, characterized by the fact that said FIRST housing (100.A1 / 200.A1 / 300.A1 / 400.A1) and / or said SECOND housing (100.A2 / 200.A2 / 300.A2 / 400.A2) has a shape suitable for receiving and / orhousing, at least partially, a portion of the external profile of the respective vial (F1 , F2).28)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 22 to 27, characterized by the fact that said instrument (100. ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) includes two side walls (100.PL1_100.PL2 / 200.PL1_200.PL2 / 300.PL1_300.PL2 / 400.PL1_400.PL2) and a crosspiece (100.TR / 200.TR / 300.TR / 400.TR); by the fact that said crosspiece comprises a FIRST housing (100.A1 / 200.A1 ! 300.A1 ! 400.A1) suitable for positioning said FIRST vial (F1) with respect to the respective FIRST detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1) and a SECOND housing (100.A2 / 200, A2 ! 300.A2 / 400.A2) suitable for positioning said SECOND vial (F2) with respect to the respective SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2).29)_SYSTEM according to claim 28, characterized by the fact that said crosspiece (100.TR / 200.TR / 300. TR / 400.TR) has a vertical extension (D4) having a smaller size than the vertical extension (D5) of said two side walls, in order to define a "bridge" structure capable of allowing the air to flow freely under said crosspiece (100.TR / 200.TR / 300.TR / 400.TR).30)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 22 to 29, characterized by the fact that the said instrument (100.ST / 200. ST / 300. ST / 400. ST) includes spacer bases designed to vertically distance the respective probe means (100. S1 , 100. S2, 200.S1 , 200.S2, 300.S1 , 300.S2, 400.S1 , 400.S2) from the back wall (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of the tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410).31)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration wherein each base vial (Fb) is an OPEN vial and contains a base substance (Sb) to be freeze-dried; wherein said FIRST vial (F1) is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance (S1) to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb); wherein said SECOND vial (F2) is an OPEN vial containing a SECOND substance (S2) already freeze-dried; wherein said SECOND substance (S2) already freeze-dried corresponds to a freeze-dried state of the base substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb).32)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration wherein each base vial (Fb) is an OPEN vial andcontains a BASE substance (Sb) to be freeze-dried; wherein said FIRST vial (F1) is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance (S1) still to be freeze- dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb); wherein said SECOND vial (F2) is a CLOSED vial containing a SECOND substance (S2) already freeze-dried; wherein said SECOND substance (S2) already freeze-dried corresponds to a freeze-dried state of the base substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb).33)_SYSTEM according to claim 31 or 32, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which said SECOND substance (S2) already freeze-dried is a substance having a degree of humidity corresponding to the degree of humidity that said basic substance (Sb) must have at the end of the freeze-drying process.34)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 33, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which said FIRST vial (F1) contains a FIRST quantity (q.S1) of basic substance (Sb); in which said FIRST quantity (q.S1) is equal in quantity to the quantity (q.Sb) of basic substance (Sb) contained in each of the basic vials (Fb).35)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 34, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which said SECOND vial (F2) contains a SECOND quantity (q.S2) of substance (S2); in which said SECOND quantity (q.S2) is equal in quantity to the quantity of substance obtained executing the freeze-drying of a quantity of basic substance (q.Sb ) contained in each of the basic vials (Fb).36)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration wherein said SECOND vial (F2) is a CLOSED vial containing a gaseous substance; wherein said gaseous substance is a substance which with the relative SECOND vial (F2) has a value relating to at least a first determined electrical characteristic equal to the value relating to said first determined electrical characteristic which the base vial (Fb) and its contents must have at the end of the freeze-drying process.37)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which said SECOND vial (F2) is a CLOSED vial and contains a liquid substance; in which said liquid substance is a substancewhich with the relative SECOND vial (F2) has a value relating to at least a first determined electrical characteristic equal to the value relating to said first determined electrical characteristic which the base vial (Fb) and its contents must have at the end of the freeze-drying process.38)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which said SECOND vial (F2) contains a solid substance; wherein said solid substance is a substance which with the relative SECOND vial (F2) has a value relating to at least a first determined electrical characteristic equal to the value relating to said first determined electrical characteristic which the base vial (Fb) and its contents must have at the end of the freeze-drying process.40)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb) is an OPEN vial and contains a BASE substance (Sb) to be freeze-dried; in which said FIRST vial is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance (S1) still to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of vials (Fb); in which said SECOND vial is an OPEN and EMPTY vial.40)_SYSTEM according to one of claims 01 to 30, characterized by the fact that it comprises a configuration in which each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb) is an OPEN vial and contains a BASE substance (Sb) to be freeze-dried; in which said FIRST vial is an OPEN vial and contains a FIRST substance (S1) still to be freeze-dried which is equal to the aforementioned base substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb); in which said SECOND vial is a CLOSED and EMPTY vial.41)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the end of freeze-drying is determined in relation to the basic substance (Sb) contained in each basic vial (Fb) when one or more electrical values detected by the first detection means (100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1) have a predetermined ratio with respect to one or more corresponding electrical values detected by said second detection means (100. M2 / 200. M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2).42)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the factthat the end of freeze-drying is determined in relation to the basic substance (Sb) contained in each basic vial (Fb) when one or more electrical values detected by the first detection means (100.M1 / 100. M2 / 100. M3 / 100.M4) are equal to one or more corresponding electrical values detected by said second detection means (200.M2 / 200.M2 / 200.M3 / 200.M4).43)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the end of freeze-drying is determined in relation to the BASE substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb) by means of a comparison between one or more electrical values detected by means of the FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1) with corresponding electrical values detected by means of said SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2).44)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the progress of the freeze-drying process is estimated in relation to the BASE substance Sb contained in each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb) by means of the detection of one or more FIRST electrical values detected by means of the FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1).45)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the progress of the freeze-drying process is estimated in relation to the BASE substance (Sb) contained in each base vial (Fb) of said plurality of base vials (Fb) by means of a comparison between one or more FIRST electrical values detected by means of the FIRST detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400.M1) with one or more SECOND electrical values detected by means of the SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2).46)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that one or more FIRST electrical values relating to said first electrical characteristics detected by said FIRST detection means (100.M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1) are compared with one or more SECOND electrical values relating to said first electrical characteristics detected by said SECOND detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300.M2 / 400.M2).47)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the vial body (C.Fb) of each BASE vial (Fb), the vial body (C.F1) of eachFIRST vial (F1) and the vial body (C.F2) of each SECOND vial (F2) are three vial bodies (C.Fb , C.F1 , C.F2) identical to each other.48)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said base vials (Fb) are positioned in a vertical arrangement above said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410) with the bottom of each vial (Fb) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1 ) of said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410); by the fact that first detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1) provide for positioning one or more first vials (F1) with the bottom of each first vial (F1) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of the same tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410).49)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said base vials (Fb) are positioned in a vertical arrangement above said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410) with the bottom of each vial (Fb) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410); by the fact that first detection means (100. M1 / 200. M1 / 300. M1 / 400. M1 / V.100.M1 / V.200.M1 / V.300.M1 / V.400.M1) provide for positioning one or more first vials (F1) with the bottom of each first vial (F1) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of the same tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410).50)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said base vials (Fb) are positioned in a vertical arrangement above said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410) with the bottom of each vial (Fb) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of said tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410); by the fact that said first detection means (100. M1 / 200.M1 / 300.M1 / 400.M1 / V.100.M1 / V.200.M1 / V.300.M1 / V.400.M1) provide for the positioning of one or more first vials (F1) with the bottom of each first vial (F1) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of the same tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410); by the fact that said second detection means (100.M2 / 200.M2 / 300. M2 / 400.M2 / V.100.M2 / V.200.M2 / V.300.M2 / V.400.M2) provide for the positioning of one or more second vials (F2) with the bottom of each second vial (F2) in contact with the bottom panel (110.1 / 210.1 / 310.1 / 410.1) of the same tray (110 / 210 / 310 / 410).51)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the factthat said FIRST electrical characteristic is the electrical permittivity .52)_SYSTEM according to one of the preceding claims and substantially as described and / or illustrated in the figures of the attached drawings and for the purposes specified above.

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