Container, mixing device, and method for using the mixing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a mixing device 1 having a container 10, the mixing device comprising a first pressing surface 30 and a second pressing surface 40, the container 10 being capable of being placed between the first pressing surface 30 and the second pressing surface 40 such that the container 10 can be deformed by the first pressing surface 30 and / or the second pressing surface 40, so that the contents in the internal space 11 can be mixed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for a mixing device, a mixing device and a method for using a mixing device according to the preambles of the independent claims. [Background technology]

[0002] Many techniques are known in the art for the purification and processing of cells, DNA, and other biomolecules. One type of purification is DNA extraction, in which DNA is precipitated in a non-polar environment. DNA can also be purified, for example, via centrifugation after cell lysis or via electrophoretic techniques.

[0003] Biomolecules can also be synthesized and purified by immobilization on insoluble supports. A common substrate for immobilizing biomolecules is glass, but other less common substrates include gold, platinum, oxides, semiconductors, and various polymer substrates.

[0004] Since manual purification and processing are very time-consuming in many operations, these steps are now performed fully automated. Therefore, so-called "magnetic beads" (magnetic particles / magnet particles) play a major role in the automation of laboratory techniques.

[0005] "Magnetic bead-based cleanup" and "magnetic bead-based normalization" are widely used methods for the immobilization, purification, and concentration adjustment of nucleic acids. A typical field of application of these methods is sample preparation in the context of DNA sequencing or DNA detection (e.g., by PCR, English: polymerase chain reaction, German: Polymerase-Kettenreaktion).

[0006] Magnetic particles were developed at the Whitehead Institute in 1995 for the purification of PCR products. Magnetic particles are typically paramagnetic and can be made from, for example, polystyrene coated with iron. A different molecule bearing a carboxyl group can then be applied to the iron. These carboxyl groups can reversibly bind to DNA molecules, thereby immobilizing them.

[0007] Methods using magnetic particles typically include the following steps: First, PCR products are bound to the magnetic particles. This step generally involves mixing a liquid and the magnetic particles contained in the liquid. Subsequently, the magnetic particles with attached PCR products are separated from contaminants (this step can be achieved, for example, by pipetting the solution away from the solid / container). Afterwards, the magnetic particles with attached PCR products are washed. After washing, the PCR products are eluted from the magnetic particles and transferred to a new plate.

[0008] In a fully automated process, the necessary reagents are automatically pipetted as samples and removed again during the isolation step after the introduction of the substrate. The magnetic particle-bound nucleic acids are collected at the bottom and edge of the container and routinely returned to the solution by optimized pipetting. Finally, the DNA or RNA is eluted into a separate vessel with a lid for immediate storage in further applications.

[0009] Therefore, one of the most important methods for biomolecule synthesis, normalization, and purification is the use of magnetic particles. Here, biomolecules are bound to the surface of magnetic particles. The magnetic particles are then immobilized by a magnet, and the solution containing by-products and contaminants can be easily separated. In this way, biomolecules can be easily purified and isolated. The advantage of magnetic beads is that they can move freely in trial batches, which is important for the binding step. For example, when removing liquid from a vessel during a washing process, the liquid can be separated simply by holding a magnet against the vessel.

[0010] Magnetic particles are small paramagnetic or ferromagnetic beads that are coated with different materials that give them the required properties. Often, nickel particles coated with plastic are used.

[0011] This procedure allows the isolation of highly pure biomolecules with excellent yields.The method underlying magnetic particle separation can be carried out fully automatically in the cavity of the extraction vessel used.

[0012] In the current state of the art, the steps mentioned above are generally carried out in bioreactors, where the mixing of the magnetic particles with the liquid containing the biomolecules is carried out to ensure that the binding of the biomolecules to the magnetic particles is as complete as possible. However, such bioreactors or mixing devices can also be used to process and mix other biological or chemical substances, such as cells.

[0013] A corresponding known mixing device is described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0135924 (Patent Document 1). The mixing device in Patent Document 1 provides optimal conditions for mixing of the reaction liquid. Mixing here is performed based on a change in the internal volume of the reaction vessel, thereby causing fluid movement. The change in internal volume is particularly dependent on a change in the shape of the reaction vessel, for which purpose the reaction vessel has at least one flexible region / one flexible area. The flexible region here is a flexible bottom, which is moved by a magnetic drive element connected to the bottom. This causes the mixing movement. However, such a mixing device does not guarantee efficient or complete mixing. In addition, the container of the mixing device must be attached to a base. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0135924 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a container, a mixing device and a method for using the mixing device which avoid the adverse effects known from the state of the art and in particular allow for fast, complete and efficient mixing, in particular allowing for cells, magnetic particles, molecules or other particles to always be present in a reproducible concentration / amount in the volume of fluid / liquid that is withdrawn. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] This object is achieved by a container having the features of the independent claims, by a mixing device and by a method for using the mixing device.

[0017] The present invention proposes a mixing device that can receive or includes a container having an interior space for receiving contents, and that includes first and second pressing surfaces. The container of the mixing device according to the invention can be arranged between the first and second pressing surfaces so that the container can be deformed by the first and / or second pressing surfaces, in particular so that it can be deformed by relative movement with respect to the first and / or second pressing surfaces, so that the contents in the interior space can be mixed (or moved and / or stirred) or can be mixed.

[0018] The present invention also proposes a container, in particular a storage container for a mixing device (i.e., in particular for introduction and / or use), which has an internal space for receiving contents such as a fluid, in particular a liquid, and which can be deformed so that the contents of the container (e.g., fluid / liquid and further components, etc.) (which can be introduced into the internal space) can be mixed / mixed in the internal space. In addition, the container is provided with a holding element by means of which the container can be suspended, in particular suspended so as to be free-floating, and / or suspended in the mixing device. By suspending the container, the container can be flexibly and efficiently deformed by a pressure surface.

[0019] It has been found that "pushing" (i.e., deforming) the container with a pressure surface allows for particularly rapid and efficient mixing of the contents. In particular, by using at least two pressure surfaces between which the container is placed, significantly more efficient mixing can be achieved than when only a single pressure surface is used. Furthermore, no headspace needs to be provided during mixing. The container is therefore particularly completely fillable.

[0020] The deformation of the container is preferably caused by a force applied by a pressing surface. The deformation of the container changes the shape of the container or the internal space, which affects the contents located in / that can be introduced into the internal space. In this process, the wall surrounding the internal space of the container applies pressure to the contents, particularly the fluid / liquid, which induces a mixing movement / flow in the liquid, thereby causing mixing. Therefore, the shape of the wall surrounding the internal space can be appropriately changed or deformed, preferably by the action of the pressing surface.

[0021] Here, the containers can be designed in particular as "consumables", i.e. as consumable items that can be introduced into the mixing device and discarded after the corresponding step or procedure, after which a new container can be introduced into the mixing device.

[0022] The fact that the container can be disposed between the first and second pressing surfaces particularly means that the container can be disposed with at least a portion thereof between at least two pressing surfaces. In practice, the mixing device can comprise multiple pressing surfaces, and the container can be disposed between at least two of the multiple pressing surfaces, but may also be disposed between some or all of the pressing surfaces. In this context, "deformable" or "deforming" particularly means that the shape of (at least a portion of) the container can be changed. For this purpose, the container can be elastic so that the shape of the container can be reversibly changed by the force applied by the pressing surfaces. For example, the container can be compressed by the force applied by the pressing surfaces, and the shape of the container will not be irreversibly changed.

[0023] In the context of the present invention, the container being deformable by a relative movement of the first and / or second pressure surface may in particular mean the following: The container may be deformed after placement between the pressure surfaces by moving only one of the two pressure surfaces (e.g., the first pressure surface) while the other pressure surface (e.g., the second pressure surface) and the container remain stationary. Here, the moving pressure surface may move towards the container and / or towards the other pressure surface. Alternatively or additionally, the moving pressure surface may move along the (wall of) the container or along the container axis of the container to bring about further mixing. And / or The container may be deformed after placement between the pressure surfaces by moving both (or all / some) of the pressure surfaces and keeping the container stationary. In this case, the pressure surfaces may move towards the container and / or towards the other pressure surfaces. Alternatively or additionally, the moving pressure surfaces may move along the (walls of) the container or along the container axis of the container to bring about further mixing. And / or After placement between the pressure surfaces, the container may be deformed by moving the container between the pressure surfaces, with both (or all) pressure surfaces remaining stationary, or by moving one or both pressure surfaces (or multiple pressure surfaces).

[0024] In practicing the present invention, the foregoing points for relative movement may be used alone or in any combination (ie, both the pressure surface and the container may move).

[0025] The stationary pressing surface may be realized, for example, by a wall in the mixing device acting as a pressing surface. Additionally, the container may also be arranged so that it can be moved relative to the first and second pressing surfaces and deformed by movement between the first and second pressing surfaces (as previously described).

[0026] Particularly preferably, the distance between the first and second pressing surfaces can be adjusted and / or changed so that the distance between the pressing surfaces is smaller than the first dimension of the container, so that the container can be / is deformed (by this relative movement with respect to / by at least one of the pressing surfaces). A force can then be exerted on the container from the pressing surfaces. In this process, in particular pressing or squeezing of the container takes place.

[0027] It is particularly preferred that the container according to the invention is chemically, pH and heat resistant. The container may additionally be designed to hold at least 10 ml of liquid / content, preferably 10 ml to 500 ml, or 20 ml to 100 ml, especially 20 ml to 50 ml of liquid / content.

[0028] In the implementation of the present invention, the container may further include a covering (particularly as the aforementioned wall) surrounding the interior space. Here, the covering may be deformed so that at least one dimension of the interior space can be changed. For this purpose, the covering may be elastic, and the container may be formed by a bag. To ensure particularly favorable deformability of the container, the container may be designed as a bag containing a polymer, in particular a bag made of a polymer. Examples of suitable polymers are polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and / or polyether ether ketone.

[0029] In particular, the cladding / wall can be a separate element attached to the holding element, in which case the holding element can be designed as or comprise an eyelet, for example, or the holding element can be designed as a plate from which the cladding / wall is suspended.

[0030] In the implementation of the present invention, the container may have multiple walls enclosing separate internal spaces. Here, the holding element may be designed as a plate with multiple openings or mounting elements. The covering / walls are attached to each of these openings / mounting elements so that separate cavities are formed. In particular, the plate may be supported in a mixing device so that the individual cavities are suspended in the mixing device. In this case, the container may be designed as a kind of deep well plate.

[0031] Furthermore, a liquid and a plurality of magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles can be placed in the interior space of the container. Here, the liquid and the plurality of magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles can be mixed by deformation of the container. Containers prefilled in this manner can be provided and sold, in particular, as "consumables." This mixability particularly ensures that the concentration of magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles is equal for each volume of liquid removed, a feature that can also be used in subsequent procedures, for example, for processing biomolecules. The mixing device / container can particularly be a mixing device / container for providing a liquid with magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles.

[0032] The mixing device may comprise a first pressing element and / or a second pressing element, the first pressing element comprising a first pressing surface and / or the second pressing element comprising a second pressing surface.

[0033] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first pressure element may be a first pressure element that is arranged to be rotatable about a first axis, in which case the first pressure element comprises a first pressure surface such that the first pressure surface can be moved by rotation of the pressure element about the first axis.

[0034] Additionally, the second pressing element can be a second pressing element arranged to be rotatable about a second axis, the second pressing element comprising a second pressing surface such that the second pressing surface can be moved by rotation of the pressing element about the second axis. Furthermore, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the pressing surface can be moved not only by rotation about the corresponding axis but also by movement with the corresponding pressing element.

[0035] The pressing elements may have different shapes, such as a cubic shape. However, the first and / or second pressing elements are particularly preferably designed as rollers (i.e. cylinders), with the shell surfaces corresponding to the pressing surfaces. In this case, the shell surfaces rotate around the corresponding axes or rollers in the circumferential direction. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the mixing device comprises at least a first roller as the first pressing element. In addition, a second roller can be used as the second pressing element. In practice, the first axis can be arranged parallel to the second axis. However, it is also possible, alternatively, to provide a further (second) pressing surface by means of a wall (as the second pressing element) in the mixing device, which wall can in particular have an inclination or can be inclined. If the container comprises a first and / or a second rotatably arranged pressing element, at least one of the container and / or the pressing surface can be moved by rotation and / or by movement of the first and / or second pressing element such that the container is moved relative to the first and / or second pressing surface, the container being deformed during movement relative to the pressing surface, which deformation results in mixing of the contents that can be introduced into the interior space.

[0036] The pressing element(s) can be moved in a rotational manner along the container or the pressing surface / s can be rolled along the surface of the container. Furthermore, the container can be moved between the first and second pressing surfaces by moving the container by rotation or by causing rotation by moving the container.

[0037] Furthermore, the mixing device can comprise a container movement device by means of which the container can be moved relative to or between the first and / or second pressing surface. For this purpose, the container preferably comprises a holding element by means of which the container can be attached / mounted to the container movement device. The container movement device can comprise a drive device such as an electric motor, in particular a servo motor, by means of which the container can be moved.

[0038] Additionally, the mixing device may comprise a movement device by means of which the first and / or second pressing surface (or pressing element, respectively) may be moved such that the container may be moved relative to the first and / or second pressing surface. Here, the movement device may, for example, move the pressing surface (or pressing element) along a predeterminable path and / or generate a rotation of the pressing surface about the first and / or second axis. The movement device may comprise a drive device such as an electric motor, in particular a servo motor, by means of which the pressing surfaces (or at least one pressing surface) may be moved.

[0039] In the practice of the present invention, the container may be provided with an opening for dispensing and / or discharging the contents.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the mixing device may further include a magnet, which may be positioned on the container so that magnetic particles that may be introduced into the interior space can be fixed to the container. This allows the liquid to be discharged and new liquid to be supplied without removing the magnetic particles from the interior space. The magnet may be a permanent magnet and / or an electromagnet. After the biomolecules have been immobilized on the surfaces of the magnetic particles, a liquid-removing device such as a pipette is used to remove (or supply) the liquid from the container. This may be achieved through an opening in the container. The liquid-removing device may be a valve or other suitable device.

[0041] Thus, the opening (or openings) may function as an outlet opening and / or an inlet opening. Advantageously, an opening may be configured to be used as an outlet opening and / or an inlet opening, or as a combination inlet / outlet opening by opening and closing. Preferably, the opening may be a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a control valve, a diaphragm valve, a gate valve, a needle valve, a pinch valve, or a combination thereof.

[0042] In practice, the container and mixing device according to the invention are preferably used for providing liquid with magnetic particles for other processes, such as processes for the processing of biomolecules (wherein a constant / reproducible concentration of magnetic particles can be provided for each volume of liquid removed). Alternatively, the container according to the invention can be a reaction vessel and the mixing device can be a bioreactor, in which biomolecules with magnetic particles are processed.

[0043] When used as a reaction vessel, the magnet may be movably arranged on the vessel / in the mixing device so that the magnetic particles are freely movable in the vessel during the reaction step and fixed in the vessel during the washing step by changing the position of the magnet. In particular, the magnet may be movable so that the magnetic particles can be fixed by placing the magnet at a first position in the vessel and the magnetic particles can be moved by moving the magnet to a second position on or around the vessel. Of course, the same effect can also be achieved by moving the vessel relative to the magnet, for example in an automated device.

[0044] The present invention further provides a method for using the mixing device, the method comprising the following steps: first, optionally, introducing contents into an interior space of a container; then, the container with the contents in the interior space is placed between first and second pressing surfaces, and the first and / or second pressing surfaces are moved relative to the container, so that the container is deformed by the relative movement of the first and second pressing surfaces, and the contents in the interior space are mixed.

[0045] Moving the first pressing surface and / or the second pressing surface relative to the container may include the container and / or the first pressing surface and / or the second pressing surface being moved.

[0046] The method may in particular be a method for providing a liquid with magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles, in which magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles and a liquid (as contents) are introduced into the internal space of a mixing device, and the liquid and the magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles are mixed in the internal space. In this process, a predeterminable volume of liquid may be removed from the container, particularly preferably while mixing is occurring.

[0047] Alternatively, the method may be a method for processing biomolecules in a mixing device according to the present invention, in which a liquid carrying magnetic particles and biomolecules (as contents) is introduced into the internal space of the mixing device, and the liquid and magnetic particles are mixed in the internal space.

[0048] Further, the method may include immobilizing the magnetic particles in the container by placing a magnet in the container, and / or removing the liquid with the magnetic particles from the interior space using an instrument for removing liquid.

[0049] In the method according to the present invention, in particular, the interaction between the container and the pressing surface of the mixing device causes mixing of the magnetic particles (also called magnet particles) / cells / molecules or other particles with the liquid, resulting in a liquid having magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles, the liquid having a certain concentration of magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, the relative movement of the container with respect to the pressing surface is designed to keep particles, cells, or molecules contained in the interior space in a suspended state so that settling at the bottom of the container can be prevented. Furthermore, the mixing or stirring process is improved by keeping particles suspended in the container and / or by preventing or reducing bead coagulation. Advantageously, by allowing magnetic particles to suspend and / or avoiding settling of magnetic particles, biochemical reactions in the mixing device, i.e., immobilization of biomolecules, are improved.

[0051] In the context of the present invention, the term biomolecule may be understood to mean DNA, RNA, nucleic acids, proteins, starting sequences, monomers, or other biologically active molecules. Such biomolecules may be processed in the mixing device according to the present invention and introduced (preferably in a liquid) into the container according to the present invention. The processing may include, inter alia, a washing step and / or a reaction step, which may be carried out using magnetic particles. In the context of the present invention, a washing step is a procedural step in which the liquid is removed from the container after mixing, thereby separating contaminants from the magnetic particles to which the biomolecules are attached. A washing step may also be accompanied by rinsing with a rinsing fluid. In the context of the present invention, a reaction step is a procedural step in which biomolecules bound to magnetic particles are transformed, bound to the particles, or extended (chain extension, e.g., PCR: polymerase chain reaction). In particular, contaminants are understood to be substances that do not completely react with or bind to magnetic particles, solvents, by-products, and contaminants, as well as mixtures of two or more of the above-mentioned.

[0052] In the context of the present invention, a liquid may be a solution or a suspension, in particular a mixture of liquid and magnetic particles, or a reaction mixture made up of biomolecules and / or reagents and / or contaminants.

[0053] In the context of the present invention, "magnetic particles" (or "magnetic beads") may be understood to mean particles in the micrometer or millimeter range. Furthermore, magnetic particles may be porous. Biomolecules may be bound to the surface of the magnetic particles, in particular via thiol, and / or amino, and / or hydroxyl, and / or carboxyl, and / or carbonyl, and / or ester, and / or nitrile, and / or amine groups, and / or any other functional groups or other interactions. Magnetic particles may also be coated nickel particles or any other ferromagnetic or paramagnetic particles. Magnetic particles typically have a diameter of approximately 1 micrometer. In the context of the present invention, approximately 1 micrometer is understood to mean 0.5 to 1.5 micrometers, in particular 0.7 to 1.3 micrometers, and especially 0.9 to 1.1 micrometers.

[0054] The magnetic particles mentioned above can therefore be functionalized magnetic particles that bind to biomolecules such as DNA in the sample material. They can then be immobilized by magnetic force and thus separated from the reagent solution. The latter can be removed, and the biomolecules can then be released from the particles. The magnetic particles should preferably be added in precise amounts. This mixing device can be used in preparation for or in any enzymatic procedure involving nucleic acids (e.g., polymerase chain reaction (PCR), isothermal DNA amplification, reverse transcription). Biomolecules bound to the magnetic particles can be released from the surface of the magnetic particles and then used for further processing.

[0055] The invention will be explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0056] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a container according to the invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a mixing device according to the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention having two pressing elements; [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention with a pressing surface and a pressing element; [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention, having an inclined pressing surface; [Figure 7] 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention, having an inclined pressing surface; FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention, comprising a device for withdrawing liquid and a magnet; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] A mixing device is in particular a device having a container in which a liquid with magnetic particles can be adjusted and thus provided under the most optimal possible conditions, the operation of which therefore enables chemical and biological processes or results in extracts for them, in particular chemical, biochemical or biotechnological applications.

[0058] Factors that can be controlled or monitored in a mixing device are the composition of the contents, gas supply, temperature, pH value, sterility, etc. The mixing device can be useful for providing a liquid with a predeterminable concentration of magnetic particles / cells / molecules or other particles, or for obtaining and processing biomolecules. Processing and decomposition of compounds can also occur in the mixing device.

[0059] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a container 10 according to the invention for a mixing device. The container 10 comprises an interior space 11 suitable for receiving contents, such as fluids. The container 10 is deformable so that the contents of the interior space can be mixed. For such deformation, pressure elements 3, 4 having pressure surfaces 30, 40 are provided.

[0060] Here, the deformation of the container 10 is caused by the forces exerted by the pressing surfaces 30, 40 of the pressing elements 3, 4. During the deformation, the shape of the container 10 or the shape of the interior space 11 is changed as the container 10 is pressed together by the pressing elements 3, 4.

[0061] This pressing occurs when the distance a2 between the first pressing surface 30 and the second pressing surface 40 becomes smaller than the first dimension a1 of the container 10, resulting in the container 10 being changed so that it is deformed by movement of at least one of the pressing surfaces 30, 40.

[0062] This squeezing can cause pressure to be exerted on the contents by the wall 100 of the container 10 surrounding the interior space 11, resulting in mixing of the contents.

[0063] The container 10 may be deformed by moving one or both pressure elements 3, 4 towards each other after placement between the pressure surfaces 30, 40. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure surfaces 30, 40 may be movable along the wall 100 of the container 10 to displace pressure points on the container 10 and thus provide further mixing. A similar effect is achieved if the container 10 is moved (up or down) between the pressure surfaces 30, 40.

[0064] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a mixing device 1 according to the invention.

[0065] The mixing device 1 comprises a container 10 having a retaining element 12, and a first pressing surface 30 and a second pressing surface 40. Here, the container 10 is arranged between the first pressing surface 30 and the second pressing surface 40 such that the container 10 can be deformed by relative movement with respect to the first pressing surface 30 and / or the second pressing surface 40, resulting in mixing of the contents.

[0066] The first pressure surface 30 is designed in the form of a wall, whereas the second pressure surface 40 is part of the first pressure element 4, which part is rotatable around an axis 41 and is therefore movable.

[0067] After placement between the pressure surfaces 30, 40, the container 10 can be deformed by the moving pressure surface 40 moving towards the container 10 and towards the other pressure surface 30. When the pressure element 4 is moved along the wall 100, it can rotate about the axis 41, i.e. the pressure element 4 can roll along the wall 100.

[0068] A liquid 21 and a plurality of magnetic particles 22 are disposed as contents in the interior space 11 and can be mixed by deformation of the container 10 .

[0069] It should be noted here that it is particularly efficient that mixing is achieved by squeezing the container, so that an adjustable and reproducible concentration / amount of magnetic particles can be removed from the container.

[0070] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a mixing device 1 according to the invention.

[0071] The mixing device according to Figure 3 substantially corresponds to the embodiment according to Figure 2, except that here instead of the wall a pressing element 3 is used which can be rotated about an axis 31.

[0072] Both pressure surfaces 30, 40 can be moved towards the container 10 and turned along the wall 100 of the container 10.

[0073] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a mixing device 1 according to the invention, which has two pressing elements 3, 4.

[0074] Basically, the construction according to Fig. 4 corresponds to the embodiment according to Fig. 3. The two pressure elements 3, 4 are designed as rotatable rollers 3, 4. The pressure surfaces 30, 40 correspond to the shell surfaces 30, 40 of the rollers 3, 4.

[0075] The mixing device 1 further includes a moving device 5, which allows the rollers 3 and 4 to move up and down within the mixing device 1 so that they can be moved relative to a container (not shown). The moving device 5 moves on rails 51.

[0076] In addition, the mixing device 1 is provided with an opening 6 through which a container (not shown) can be introduced into the mixing device 1 and between the rollers 3 and 4 from above.

[0077] Once the container is in place, mixing is achieved by deforming the container by moving the rollers 3, 4 towards each other in opposite directions (i.e., one roller up, the other down) until they move past each other, after which the direction of movement can be reversed.

[0078] FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a mixing device 1 according to the invention, with a pressing surface 30 and a pressing element 4 .

[0079] Basically, the construction according to Fig. 5 corresponds to the embodiment according to Fig. 2, except that one pressing element 4 is designed as a rotatable roller 4 with a displacement device 5. The other pressing element 3 is the wall 3 of the mixing device 1.

[0080] FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a mixing device 1 according to the invention, with an inclined pressure surface 30 .

[0081] Here, the pressing surface 30 is the surface of the wall 3. The inclination of the wall 3 is adjustable by the spacer element 7 so that after a container (not shown) is introduced, the inclination of the wall 3 is reduced, i.e., the wall 3 is moved toward the roller 4, so that a force can be applied to the container by the wall 3 and the roller 4.

[0082] The roller 4 can be moved up and down along a guide rod 51 in the mixing device 1 .

[0083] FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a second embodiment of a mixing device 1 according to the invention, with an inclined pressure surface 30 .

[0084] However, the inclination of the pressure surface 30 of the wall 3 cannot be changed. The wall 3 is instead inclined so that the distance between the roller 4 and the wall 3 is greatest in the area of ​​the opening 6 for feeding the container. The roller 4 can therefore be arranged on the side of the guide rod 52 facing the opening 6 to introduce the container. When the roller 4 is subsequently moved away from the opening 6, the distance between the roller 4 and the wall 3 decreases, exerting a force on the container and resulting in a corresponding deformation.

[0085] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a mixing device according to the invention, comprising an apparatus 8 for withdrawing liquid and an optional magnet 7 .

[0086] The mixing device 1 comprises a magnet 7, which is arranged in the container 10 so that the magnetic particles 22 in the container 10 are fixed to the container 10. This allows the liquid 21 to be expelled by the pipette 8 through the opening 101 without the magnetic particles 22. If the magnet 7 is not used, the liquid can be withdrawn through the opening 101 with a predeterminable concentration of the magnetic particles 22.

[0087] While the invention has been shown and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such showing and description is illustrative or exemplary only and is not to be considered restrictive.

[0088] The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon studying the drawings, the present description, and the dependent claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude any other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" in no way exclude a plurality. The mere repetition of certain measurements in different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measurements cannot be advantageously used. Any reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope. Furthermore, the measures described above, in particular for the first and second pressing surfaces (or pressing elements), may also be applied to any multiple pressing surfaces.

Claims

1. A mixing device for receiving a container (10) having an interior space (11) for receiving contents, comprising: First pressing surface (30) and second pressing surface (40) Equipped with the container (10) can be placed between the first pressing surface (30) and the second pressing surface (40) such that the container (10) can be deformed by the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40), so that the contents in the internal space (11) can be mixed; Mixing equipment.

2. 2. The mixing device according to claim 1, wherein the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40) are movable so that the container (1) can be deformed by movement of the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40).

3. 3. The mixing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container (10) is movable such that the container (10) can be deformed by movement between the first pressing surface (30) and the second pressing surface (40).

4. 4. The mixing device according to claim 1, comprising a first pressing element (3) arranged to be rotatable about a first axis (31), the first pressing element (3) comprising a first pressing surface (30) such that the first pressing surface (30) can be moved by rotation of the first pressing element (3) about the first axis (31).

5. 5. The mixing device according to claim 1, further comprising a second pressing element (4) arranged to be rotatable about a second axis (41), the second pressing element (4) comprising a second pressing surface (40) such that the second pressing surface (40) can be moved by rotation of the second pressing element (4) about the second axis (41).

6. 6. A mixing device according to claims 4 and 5, wherein the first axis (31) is arranged parallel to the second axis (41).

7. 7. The mixing device according to claim 1, further comprising a container moving device by means of which the container (10) can be moved between the first pressing surface (30) and the second pressing surface (40).

8. 8. The mixing device according to claim 1, further comprising a moving device (5) by means of which the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40) can be moved.

9. 9. A mixing device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container (10) comprises an opening (101) for feeding and / or discharging the contents.

10. 10. The mixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the distance between the first pressing surface (30) and the second pressing surface (40) is adjustable and / or variable such that the distance between the pressing surfaces (30, 40) is smaller than the first dimension (a1) of the container, so that the container (10) can be deformed.

11. 11. The mixing device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the containers (10) can be arranged between the first pressing surface (30) and the second pressing surface (40) such that the plurality of the containers (10) can be deformed by the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40).

12. 12. The mixing device according to claim 1, further comprising a magnet (7) that can be positioned in the container (10) so that magnetic particles (22) that can be introduced into the internal space (11) can be fixed to the container (10).

13. 13. Mixing device according to claim 12, wherein the magnet (7) is a permanent magnet and / or an electromagnet.

14. 14. A mixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a device (8) for removing the contents.

15. Container for a mixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, said container (10) comprising an internal space (11) for receiving contents, said container (10) being deformable so that the contents in said internal space (11) can be mixed; The container (10) is provided with a holding element (12) by means of which the container (10) can be suspended. A container characterized by:

16. Container according to claim 15, wherein the container (10) can be attached to a lifting device or a container moving device by means of the holding element (12).

17. Container according to claim 15 or 16, comprising a wall (100) surrounding the interior space (11), the wall (100) being deformable so that at least one dimension (a1) of the interior space (11) can be changed.

18. 18. A container according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein a liquid (21) and a plurality of magnetic particles (22) or cells are arranged in the internal space (11), and the liquid (21) and the plurality of magnetic particles (22) or cells can be mixed by deformation of the container (10).

19. Container according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the container (10) is a bag, in particular comprising a polymer, in particular consisting of a polymer.

20. 20. The container according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the container (10) comprises a plurality of separate walls (100) enclosing an interior space (11).

21. a) placing a container (10) having contents in an interior space (11) between a first pressing surface (30) and a second pressing surface (40); b) moving the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40) relative to the container, so that the container (10) is deformed by the relative movement of the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40) and the contents in the internal space (11) are mixed; 15. A method for using a mixing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising:

22. 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the movement of the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40) relative to the container (10) comprises the container (10) and / or the first pressing surface (30) and / or the second pressing surface (40) being moved.

23. 23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the contents comprise magnetic particles (22) and a liquid (21), and the magnetic particles (22) and the liquid (21) are mixed in the internal space (11).

24. c) fixing the magnetic particles (22) to the container (10) by placing a magnet (7) in the container (10).

24. The method of claim 23, comprising:

25. d) Removing said liquid (21) using a device (8) for removing said liquid (21).

25. The method of claim 23 or 24, comprising:

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