A rocking shaker for processing at least one fluid sample.

Abstract

A rocking shaker (110) for processing at least one fluid sample is disclosed. The rocking shaker (110) comprises: i. at least one mechanical frame (112) having at least one tilt axis (114); ii. at least one mounting platform (128) tiltably mounted on the tilt axis (114) and configured to receive at least one sample holder; iii. at least one actuator (136) configured to periodically tilt the mounting platform (128) about the tilt axis (114) over an angular orientation range; and iv. at least one drive circuit (220) for electrically driving the actuator (136), the drive circuit (220) comprising at least one switch-off device (222) configured to automatically position the mounting platform (128) in a predetermined switch-off orientation when the rocking shaker (110) is switched off.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a rocking shaker for processing at least one fluid sample, a system comprising at least one rocking shaker, and a method for processing at least one fluid sample. The apparatus and the method can have a wide range of applications in the fields of chemical, biochemical, and biological analysis. Specifically, the present invention can be used in the field of cell-based assays (CBA). However, other applications are also feasible.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, various options are available for mixing liquids and suspensions in automated liquid handling. The various options can include mixing by pipetting, orbital shakers, magnetic stirrers, teeter shakers, totter shakers, overhead shakers, and / or the application of stirrer motors.

[0003] Generally, the options listed above may require customization of both hardware and control software.

[0004] In the case of mixing by pipetting, simultaneous addition of liquids is generally not possible because the pipetting unit used may be occupied by the mixing process. A second pipetting unit cannot in principle be used for this purpose, especially for space reasons. For example, devices with additional pumps are of individual special design. Also, the amount to be mixed is usually limited to 8 mL × 1 mL, and frequent aspiration and discharge of cell suspensions typically exert a significant shear stress on the cells.

[0005] Orbital shakers are particularly suitable for circular containers. Optimal mixing results can be achieved when the shaking trajectory, filling volume, and container shape are matched. However, if the solution or suspension is diluted during the mixing process due to the simultaneous addition of liquids, these parameters can change continuously, thereby affecting the mixing efficiency. Furthermore, in automated liquid processing, square containers are generally preferred as reservoirs.

[0006] Overhead shakers generally require a tightly sealed container and are therefore not suitable for adding diluent liquids during the mixing process.

[0007] Orbital shakers and magnetic stirrers are generally more suitable for round containers. Their mixing efficiency generally exhibits clear optimal conditions that can depend on the sample volume, container dimensions, rotation speed, and stirrer shape. In particular, their mixing efficiency may be poor for small volumes where efficient mixing is especially important. Furthermore, large shear forces may be generated in the gap between the stirrer's magnet and the bottom of the container. Additionally, positioning the stirrer above the container may obstruct access for adding liquid through the pipette unit.

[0008] Rocking shakers can be well-suited for the intended purpose of handling cell-based assays, as they are used to determine botulinum neurotoxin activity, for example, as described in International Publication No. 2014 / 207109(A1), International Publication No. 2013 / 049508(A1), or International Publication No. 2009 / 114748(A1). Rocking shakers can allow open access for pipette units to add liquids, can be particularly efficient for mixing small volumes, and are particularly well-suited for rectangular containers. However, commercially available rocking shakers generally have several drawbacks. Rocking shakers with formats that accommodate microplates conforming to the ANSI / SBS standard are generally not available. Commercially available rocking shakers are typically at least 15 cm × 25 cm in size and therefore generally occupy an excessive amount of space on the deck of a liquid handling platform. Furthermore, special mounts are generally required to securely hold the microplates in place. Furthermore, after being switched off, the rocking position remains largely at a random angle, which may result in unsafe handling by the robot due to the unknown tilt and / or position. Additionally, commercially available rocking shakers are generally not controllable by robot software.

[0009] Generally, handling cell-based assays places a significant demand on technicians, especially since the process is typically long and highly complex. At least partial automation of cell-based assays can lead to reduced errors such as mix-ups, reduced physical stress such as prolonged pipetting in cramped positions, and improved accuracy of results. In cell-based assays, the consistency and quality of the cell culture usually play a crucial role. Even slight deviations from the protocol during cell handling, i.e., thawing, seeding, and maintenance, can strongly affect the overall quality of the cell-based assay. Furthermore, the materials used, such as cells and culture media, are usually limited and expensive. Therefore, it is generally advantageous to use them as sparingly as possible.

[0010] In many chemical, biochemical, and biological processes, including analytical assays, it is desirable to simultaneously mix and add liquids to the sample. This may involve diluting stock solutions or stock suspensions. Mechanically sensitive suspension particles, in particular, may require gentle mixing conditions. In some cases, a combination of continuous and controlled addition of liquids under gentle but efficient mixing conditions may be essential to consistently achieve a high-quality final mixture. Since thawed cells are usually very sensitive to mechanical stress and changes in medium conditions due to cryoprotective chemicals in stock suspensions, one example may be the process of diluting cell suspensions from frozen stocks in the cell seeding process. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a rocking shaker for processing at least one fluid sample, a system comprising at least one rocking shaker, and a method for processing at least one fluid sample that at least partially addresses the above-mentioned technical problems. Specifically, it would facilitate the handling of liquid samples. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] This problem is addressed by a rocking shaker for processing at least one fluid sample, a system comprising at least one rocking shaker, and a method for processing at least one fluid sample, having the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments that can be realized individually or in any combination are described in the dependent claims and throughout the specification.

[0013] As used below, the terms “have,” “equip,” or “include,” or any grammatical variations thereof, are used non-exclusively. Therefore, these terms can refer to both situations in which the entity described in this context has no further features other than those introduced by these terms, and situations in which one or more further features exist. For example, the expressions “A has B,” “A equips B,” and “A includes B” can refer to both situations in which A has no other elements other than B (i.e., A consists exclusively of B alone), and situations in which entity A has one or more further elements other than B, such as element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

[0014] Furthermore, note that the terms “at least one” and “one or more,” or similar expressions indicating that a feature or element may exist one or more times, are typically used only once when introducing each feature or element. Hereafter, in most cases, the expressions “at least one” and “one or more” will not be repeated when referring to each feature or element, regardless of the fact that each feature or element may exist one or more times.

[0015] Furthermore, the terms “preferably,” “more preferably,” “particularly,” “more specifically,” “specifically,” “more concretely,” or similar terms, as used below, are used in conjunction with optional features without limiting the possibility of alternatives. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims. The present invention may be carried out by using alternative features, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Similarly, features introduced by “in embodiments of the present invention” or similar expressions are intended to be optional features without any limitation on alternative embodiments of the present invention, without any limitation on the scope of the present invention, and without any limitation on the possibility of combining such features with other optional or non-optional features of the present invention.

[0016] In a first aspect of the present invention, a rocking shaker for processing at least one fluid sample is disclosed. The rocking shaker is i. A machine frame comprising at least one machine frame, which includes at least one inclined axis, ii. A mounting platform comprising at least one mounting platform that is tiltably mounted on an inclined axis and configured to receive at least one sample holder, iii. At least one actuator configured to periodically tilt a mounting platform about a tilt axis over an angular orientation range, iv. A drive circuit for electrically driving an actuator, the drive circuit comprising at least one switch-off device, the switch-off device being configured to automatically position the mounting platform in a predetermined switch-off orientation when the locking shaker is switched off.

[0017] As used herein, the term “fluid sample” is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any sample, such as a biological sample or a synthetic sample, without limitation. A sample may specifically be a liquid sample, in particular a liquid sample containing at least one biological substance. A sample may be used directly as obtained from its respective source, or it may be subjected to a pretreatment and / or sample preparation workflow. Furthermore, a sample may undergo one or more processing steps. Thus, at least one property of the sample may change. Specifically, a sample may be or contain a cell suspension. A cell suspension may contain single cells or small aggregates of cells and a growth medium. Cells may be able to function and grow in the growth medium. Furthermore, a fluid sample may contain beads and / or particles. Specifically, a suspension containing beads and / or particles may be added to a biological sample, such as a cell suspension, during one or more processing steps of the biological sample.

[0018] As used herein, the term “processing at least one fluid sample” is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to any process step in which at least one property of the fluid sample may be altered. Specifically, processing at least one fluid sample may refer to a process step in a cell culture method in which living cells are grown in vitro and used as a model system for evaluating the biochemistry and physiology of healthy and / or diseased cells. Specifically, processing at least one fluid sample may refer to mixing the components of the fluid sample. Furthermore, processing at least one fluid sample may refer to dilution of the fluid sample. Other types of processing may also be possible.

[0019] As used herein, the term “rocking shaker” is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any device configured to shake at least one fluid sample, specifically at least one fluid sample in a container, by performing a rocking motion, specifically a periodic rocking motion. Specifically, as outlined in more detail below, a rocking shaker may comprise a support platform for a liquid sample, specifically for a container containing a liquid sample, and the rocking shaker may be configured to perform a rocking motion, specifically a periodic rocking motion, of the support platform. Further details regarding the components of a rocking shaker are provided in more detail below.

[0020] As outlined above, a rocking shaker comprises at least one mechanical frame. The term “mechanical frame” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any frame configured to hold any element, such as an axis, in a desired position, without limitation. Specifically, the mechanical frame may constitute or form part of the housing of a rocking shaker. The housing may be configured to at least partially receive one or more components of the rocking shaker, such as an actuator or drive circuit. For this purpose, the mechanical frame may comprise at least one hollow space. Specifically, the mechanical frame may comprise two recesses, specifically two opposing recesses, for supporting an axis. Each of the two recesses may be configured to receive the end of the axis. Specifically, the recesses may be located on two opposing side walls of the mechanical frame.

[0021] As outlined above, the machine frame comprises at least one inclined shaft. The term “inclined shaft” as used herein is a broad term and should be given the usual customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any element configured to support one or more rotating components, without limitation. An inclined shaft can be a stationary element. An inclined shaft can be stationary with respect to linear motion. An inclined shaft can have the ability to rotate around its axis. Thus, one or more rotating components can be mounted on an inclined shaft. An inclined shaft can have load-bearing and / or storage functions. An inclined shaft may be subjected to bending stress but does not transmit torque. Specifically, an inclined shaft can be an elongated element, specifically, an essentially cylindrical element.

[0022] As outlined above, the rocking shaker comprises at least one mounting platform. The term “mounting platform” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any element having at least one support area, specifically at least one essentially flat support area. At least one fluid sample, specifically at least one sample holder containing a fluid sample, may be configured to be mounted on the mounting platform. Specifically, at least one fluid sample, specifically at least one sample holder containing a fluid sample, may be configured to be fixedly mounted on the mounting platform. The overall footprint of the mounting platform may correspond to the dimensions of the sample holder. Thus, repositioning of the at least one sample holder containing a fluid sample can be prevented, at least significantly, during movement of the mounting platform. The at least one sample holder containing a fluid sample may be mounted on the mounting platform in a releasable manner. As will be further used herein, the term “releasable” in the context of mechanical connections generally refers to the fact that a mechanical connection can be brought from a disconnected state, also called a disengaged state, to a connected state, also called a mated state, and back to a disconnected state. Thus, mechanical connections can be joined and released arbitrarily. Specifically, mechanical connections may be releasable simply by manual action without the use of any tools. Further details regarding the design of the mounting platform are given below in more detail.

[0023] As outlined above, the mounting platform is tiltably mounted on the tilting axis. Specifically, the mounting platform may be mounted on the tilting axis so as to allow rotation of the mounting platform around the rotation axis. The rotation axis may correspond to the longitudinal axis of the tilting axis. The term "tiltably mounted on the tilting axis" may refer to embodiments in which the mounting platform is fixed to a rotatable axis, for example, by being attached to a machine frame via bearings. Furthermore, the term "tiltably mounted on the tilting axis" may refer to embodiments in which the mounting platform is tiltably mounted to a fixed, specifically a rigid, axis via bearings.

[0024] Specifically, a locking shaker may comprise at least one rotating component. The rotating component may have at least one through hole, and an inclined shaft may be received within the through hole of the rotating component. Specifically, a locking shaker may comprise two rotating components, each located at either end of an inclined shaft. A mounting platform may be fixedly connected to at least one rotating component. Exemplarily, a mounting platform may be fixedly connected to at least one rotating component by at least one screw connection.

[0025] As outlined above, the mounting platform is configured to receive at least one sample holder. The term “sample holder” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual, customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any object that can be configured to hold at least one sample, specifically reversibly or releasably. Specifically, the sample may be a liquid sample, and the sample holder may be, or include, at least one container for receiving a liquid sample. Specifically, the sample holder may include at least one microplate having multiple wells for receiving a liquid sample, either directly or housed in at least one additional sample container. The term “microplate” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual, customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to a substantially flat plate containing multiple wells, e.g., cavities, that are isolated from each other. The wells may be arranged in rows and columns. Microplates may also be called microwell plates or multiwall plates. Wells can be used as small test tubes. Microplates can be applied to the analysis of the biological properties of liquid samples. Microplates may have a rectangular shape. Microplates can be made from at least one plastic material such as polystyrene or glass. The precise dimensions of microplates may conform to ANSI standards as recommended by the Society for Biomolecular Screening (SBS). Specifically, a microplate may conform to standard ANSI / SBS 2004, more specifically, at least one of standards ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004. However, other embodiments may also be feasible.Specifically, the microplate may have an attachment platform and, more specifically, at least one outer flange for mating with the positioning contour of the attachment platform.

[0026] The mounting platform may comprise at least one essentially flat mounting surface and at least one positioning contour for positioning a sample holder on the mounting platform. As commonly used, the term “flat” refers to a characteristic of the body including a two-dimensional extent typically indicated as the “surface” of a flat body, which is twice, at least five times, at least ten times, or even at least twenty times greater than the three-dimensional extent typically indicated as the “thickness” of a planar body. The mounting platform may have an essentially rectangular mounting area having a length L and a width W, specifically a length L of 80 mm to 200 mm, more specifically a length of 100 mm to 150 mm, more specifically a length of 128 mm, and a width W of 40 mm to 120 mm, specifically a width of 50 mm to 110 mm, more specifically a width of 86 mm. However, other dimensions may also be feasible. The term “positioning contour” may generally refer to any part of an element configured to interact with a corresponding contour of another element to form a connection between the two elements. Therefore, the contour and the corresponding contour may be complementary contours configured to form a connection. In this case, one of the contours and the corresponding contour may have at least one projection, and complementaryly, the other of the contours and the corresponding contour may have at least one groove or slot on which the projection can be guided. The positioning contour may be configured to mate with at least one microplate conforming to the standard ANSI / SBS 2004, more specifically, to at least one of the standards ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004. Specifically, the positioning contour may have a circumferential groove for mate with at least one flange of at least one microplate, and specifically, with the bottom outer flange of at least one microplate conforming to the standard ANSI / SBS 3-2004. The circumferential groove may specifically define a closed groove along an essentially flat mounting surface of the mounting platform. Furthermore, the positioning contour may specifically include one or more circumferentially raised rim sections at the corners of the mounting platform.Specifically, the corners of the attachment platform may have raised portions.

[0027] As outlined above, the rocking shaker comprises at least one actuator. As used herein, the term "actuator" is a broad term and should be given its ordinary customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. Specifically, this term may refer, without limitation, to any combination of devices configured to convert an electrical signal into mechanical motion. The actuator may be operated by an electrical energy source and convert energy into motion. The actuator may have an adjustable agitation speed. Specifically, the actuator may comprise at least one electric motor. The motor may specifically be selected from the group consisting of an electric DC motor, a geared motor, specifically a DC geared motor, a stepper motor, a servo motor, specifically a computer or microcontroller controlled servo motor. Also, other types of electric motors are feasible. The rocking shaker, specifically the actuator, may comprise at least one of an external power source and an internal power storage device, specifically at least one of a rechargeable battery and a battery. The external power source and the internal power storage device may be configured to operate the actuator.

[0028] An electric motor may be mechanically coupled to a mounting platform. Exemplarily, the actuator may include an eccentric drive unit. As used herein, the term “eccentric drive unit” is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to any element configured to convert rotational motion to translational motion and vice versa. Specifically, an eccentric drive unit may include at least one disk, specifically at least one circular disk. At least one eccentric rod may be mounted on the circular disk. One end of the eccentric rod may be mounted on the circular disk such that the other end of the eccentric rod can convert a desired rotational motion into translational motion, which may specifically be reciprocating motion.

[0029] If the motor is a stepping motor or a servo motor, the eccentric drive unit may be mounted directly to the tilting shaft, or it may be mounted to the mounting platform off-center from its center of rotation or the center of the rotation axis via wires, gears, or connecting rod assemblies. The rod assemblies may be connected to the mounting platform directly, or via springs that provide some degree of protection for the mechanical system against damage in the event of an external failure.

[0030] As outlined above, the actuator is configured to periodically tilt the mounting platform around the tilt axis over an angular orientation range, specifically over an angular orientation range of 5° to 40°.

[0031] As outlined above, a rocking shaker comprises at least one drive circuit for electrically driving an actuator. The term “drive circuit” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term can refer to any electrical network having a closed loop that provides a return path for current. The electrical network may be, or include, an interconnection of electrical components. Specifically, a drive circuit may be configured to control another circuit or component, such as a motor. Specifically, a drive circuit may be configured to regulate the current flowing through the circuit, or to control other components, such as devices within the circuit. Various components of a drive circuit are described in more detail below.

[0032] As outlined above, the drive circuit comprises at least one switch-off device. The term “switch-off device” as used herein is a broad term and should be given in the usual, conventional sense to those skilled in the art, and not limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer, without limitation, to any electrical component configured to connect or disconnect a conductive path in an electrical circuit, interrupt current, and / or divert current from one conductor to another. Various components of a switch-off device are described in more detail below.

[0033] As outlined above, the switch-off device is configured to automatically position the mounting platform in a predetermined switch-off orientation when the locking shaker is switched off. The term “automatically” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual, conventional meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to a process that is entirely performed by at least one computer and / or computer network and / or machine, without any manual action and / or user interaction. Specifically, the switch-off device may be primarily computer-controlled. The term “switch-off orientation” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual, conventional meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to the orientation of the mounting platform of the locking shaker that the mounting platform takes when the locking shaker is switched off. The term “predetermined switch-off orientation” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual, conventional meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. This term can specifically, without limitation, refer to a particular orientation of the mounting platform of a rocking shaker, which is desired and defined before actually taking that orientation. Specifically, the mounting platform, and more specifically the support surface of the mounting platform, may be essentially horizontally oriented when the mounting platform is in the switch-off orientation. As used herein and hereafter, the term “essentially” may specifically include tolerances of 10% or less, and more specifically 5% or less. Specifically, the switch-off device may be configured to automatically place the mounting platform in a predetermined switch-off orientation, regardless of when the rocking shaker is switched off. Thus, the mounting platform may be in a predetermined switch-off orientation, regardless of the previous operating period of the rocking shaker.Furthermore, the mounting platform can be oriented to a predetermined switch-off orientation, regardless of the orientation of the mounting platform at the moment the actuator is switched off.

[0034] Specifically, the switch-off device may comprise at least one main switch. The main switch may be configured to be actuated externally. Specifically, the main switch may be configured to be actuated by a user of the locking shaker. The main switch may be configured to switch the locking shaker, specifically the actuator, on, and to switch the locking shaker, specifically the actuator, off. Specifically, the main switch may comprise a user-switchable switching element. Exemplarily, the user-switchable switching element may be or include at least one toggle switch. The toggle switch may be actuated manually by a mechanical lever or handle. The switching element may have at least two switching positions. The switching positions may include an on position in which the actuator is switched on. The switching positions may further include an off position in which the actuator is switched off. Furthermore, optionally, the switching positions may include a computer-controlled position in which the switching on and switching off of the actuator is controlled by an external computer. Specifically, the main switch may be switchable by at least one of manual switching and external computer control. Specifically, the main switch may be switchable only by external computer control. The main switch may comprise a main switching circuit. The main switching circuit may comprise at least two branches connected in parallel. The flow of current may be switchable between the branches. At least one of the branches may contain a computer-controllable switch.

[0035] More specifically, the main switch may comprise at least one relay. The term “relay” as used herein is a broad term and should be given its usual, conventional meaning to those skilled in the art, and not limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer, without limitation, to any remotely operated, electrically driven switch that typically has two switching positions. The relay may be actuated by a control circuit and configured to switch other circuits. Specifically, the relay may be a mechanical relay. Specifically, the relay may comprise at least one excitation coil. Current in the excitation coil can pass through the ferromagnetic core of the excitation coil and a movable armature, which may also be ferromagnetic, generating a magnetic flux. A force can be applied to the armature in an air gap, causing the armature to switch one or more contacts. The armature may be returned to its initial position by a spring force or the like as soon as the excitation coil is no longer energized.

[0036] Furthermore, the switch-off device may comprise at least one orientation-sensitive switch. The orientation-sensitive switch may be configured to switch depending on the orientation of the mounting platform. In particular, the orientation-sensitive switch may be configured to switch when the mounting platform reaches a predetermined switch-off orientation. Specifically, the orientation-sensitive switch may include at least one switch selected from the group consisting of mechanical switches, specifically push buttons, more specifically micropush buttons, electro-optic switches, specifically optical barriers, and slide contacts. Other embodiments may also be feasible. The orientation-sensitive switch may comprise at least one fixed switching element assigned to the mechanical frame and at least one movable switching element assigned to the mounting platform. At least one fixed switching element and the movable switching element may comprise at least one opening, specifically at least one of notches, recesses, grooves, and holes, and the other of the fixed switching element and the movable switching element may comprise at least one device that interacts with the opening, specifically mechanically and / or optically.

[0037] Specifically, the actuator may comprise a stepping motor or a servo motor, and may further comprise a microcontroller or a computer. Thus, the actuator may be a controllable actuator that can be configured to achieve an essentially horizontal orientation when the mounting platform is in a switch-off orientation. One or more of the parameters of oscillation speed, tilt angle, final position, and velocity profile may be definable or adaptable at any time. Additional orientation-sensitive switches, such as photoelectric relays, may be used for calibration.

[0038] The main switch may be configured to switch the power supply of the actuator from at least one normal power supply circuit to at least one switch-off power supply circuit. As outlined above, the main switch may include at least one relay. Further details regarding the relay are provided in more detail above. The relay may be configured to selectively select the flow of current through the normal power supply circuit or the switch-off power supply circuit. Specifically, the relay may be configured to selectively select the flow of current through the normal power supply circuit or the switch-off power supply circuit by switching the position of the armature. The switch-off power supply circuit and the normal power supply circuit may be electrical circuits connected at least partially in parallel. Parallel connection may refer to a connection of two-pole components such that all identical poles of the two-pole components are generally connected.

[0039] As used herein, the term “normal power supply circuit” is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to any electrical circuit or part of an electrical circuit configured to control an electrical component, such as an electric motor, specifically during the normal operation of the apparatus. Specifically, a normal power supply circuit may be configured to control an actuator, more specifically the electric motor of the actuator, during the normal operation of a rocking shaker. Specifically, during the process of processing at least one fluid sample mounted on a mounting platform, power to the actuator may be supplied by a normal power supply circuit. Specifically, a normal power supply circuit may include at least one potentiometer for adjusting the power to the actuator.

[0040] As used herein, the term “switch-off power supply circuit” is a broad term and should be given the usual customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to any electrical circuit or part of an electrical circuit configured to control an electrical component, such as an electric motor, after the device has been switched off. Specifically, the switch-off power supply circuit may be configured to control an actuator, more specifically the electric motor of an actuator, after a locking shaker has been switched off, for example, by manual switching by a user or by external computer control. An orientation-sensitive switch may be located in the switch-off power supply circuit and may be configured to interrupt the power supply via the switch-off power supply circuit. The switch-off power supply circuit may include at least one damping resistor, which may be connected in series with the orientation-sensitive switch.

[0041] In a further aspect of the present invention, a system is disclosed comprising at least one rocking shaker as described above or as described in more detail below. The system further comprises at least one sample holder mounted on a mounting platform for the rocking shaker.

[0042] As used herein, the term “system” is a broad term and should be given its usual and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to a group of at least two elements that can interact with each other to perform at least one common function. The at least two elements may be treated independently, or they may be combined, connectable, or integrable to form a common element.

[0043] For details regarding the sample holder, please refer to the description above. Specifically, the sample holder may comprise at least one microplate having multiple wells for receiving a liquid sample, more specifically, a mounting platform, more specifically, at least one microplate having at least one outer flange for mating with a positioning contour of the mounting platform, more specifically, a microplate conforming to standard ANSI / SBS 2004, more specifically, at least one of standards ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004.

[0044] Furthermore, the system may comprise at least one liquid supply device. The term “liquid supply device” as used herein is a broad term and should be given in the usual, customary sense to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer, without limitation, to any device configured to apply a liquid, specifically a specified or desired amount of liquid, to another object. The amount of liquid may be adjustable. Specifically, the liquid supply device may comprise one or more pipette units. A pipette unit may comprise at least one chamber configured to hold or receive at least one liquid. A pipette unit may be configured to create a partial vacuum above the chamber and to selectively release the partial vacuum to pump up and dispense the liquid. However, other embodiments of the liquid supply device may also be feasible. Furthermore, the system may comprise one or more gripper arms. Gripper arms may be configured to position a sample holder on a mounting platform and to remove the sample holder from the mounting platform.

[0045] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for processing at least one fluid sample is disclosed.

[0046] This method is provided in an independent claim and includes the method steps listed below. The method steps may be performed in a given order. However, other orders of the method steps are also possible. Furthermore, one or more of the method steps may be performed in parallel and / or overlapping in time. Furthermore, one or more of the method steps may be performed repeatedly. Furthermore, there may be additional method steps that are not listed.

[0047] This delicious, a) A step of providing at least one locking shaker as described above or as described in more detail below, b) The step of mounting at least one sample holder for holding a fluid sample onto the mounting platform of the locking shaker, c) The step of switching on the rocking shaker and shaking the fluid sample, d) The process of switching off the locking shaker, e) The process includes the step of using a locking shaker to bring the mounting platform into a predetermined switch-off orientation.

[0048] This method may be a computer implementation method. The term “computer implementation method” as used herein is a broad term and should be given the usual, customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer, without limitation, to a method involving at least one computer and / or at least one computer network. The computer and / or computer network may include at least one processor configured to perform at least one of the method steps of the method according to the present invention. Specifically, method steps c) to e) may be performed by the computer and / or computer network. This method may be performed entirely automatically, specifically without user interaction.

[0049] As used herein, the term “provide” is a broad term and should be given its usual, customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to, without limitation, the process of making one or more required objects available.

[0050] As used herein, the term “mount” is a broad term and should be given its usual, conventional meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. Specifically, the term may refer to the process of positioning at least one element on the surface of another object, without limitation. In the mounted state, movement of the sample holder relative to the mounting platform can be prevented or reduced at least significantly. The sample holder may be releasably mounted on the mounting platform of the locking shaker.

[0051] As used herein, the terms “switch on” and “switch off” are broad terms and should be given their usual, customary meanings to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meanings. Specifically, these terms may refer to the process of starting or stopping the operation of a machine, but are not limited to these. Switching on and switching off may be performed by manual switching and / or external computer control.

[0052] Further aspects of the present invention disclose the use of a locking shaker as described above or in more detail below, for the purpose of use, - Continuously mixing the cell suspension on a rocking shaker while adding liquid to the cell suspension, and - Selected from the group consisting of continuously mixing the suspension on a rocking shaker while adding liquid to the suspension of beads or particles.

[0053] The addition of liquid to a cell suspension and / or to a suspension of beads or particles may be carried out at a specific point in time within a process that is at least partially automated.

[0054] Specifically, a rocking shaker can be used for one or more of the following purposes: - Diluting the newly thawed cell stock suspension with culture medium, - Add freezing medium to the cell suspension before cryopreservation. - Adding a solvent, reactant, or another liquid component to a chemical reaction mixture. - At any stage of the bead-based assay, add at least one liquid component to the bead suspension, and - Adding a cell suspension to a bead suspension in a bead-based cell assay or bead-based cell isolation.

[0055] Furthermore, when executed on a computer or computer network, a computer program including computer executable instructions for performing a method according to the present invention in one or more embodiments contained herein, Further disclosures and proposals herein exist. Specifically, computer programs may be stored in computer-readable data carriers and / or computer-readable storage media.

[0056] As used herein, the terms “computer-readable data carrier” and “computer-readable storage medium” may specifically refer to non-temporary data storage means such as hardware storage media storing computer executable instructions. Specifically, the computer-readable data carrier or storage medium may be, or include, storage media such as random-access memory (RAM) and / or read-only memory (ROM).

[0057] Therefore, specifically, one, two or more, or even all of the method steps c) to e) described above can be carried out by using a computer or computer network, preferably by using a computer program.

[0058] When the program is executed on a computer or computer network, computer program products having program code means for executing one or more of the methods according to the present invention in one or more embodiments contained herein, specifically, one or more of the steps c) to e) of the method, are further disclosed and proposed herein. Specifically, the program code means may be stored in a computer-readable data carrier and / or computer-readable storage medium.

[0059] A data carrier storing the data structure is further disclosed and proposed herein, and after the data structure is loaded into a computer or computer network, such as the working memory or main memory of the computer or computer network, one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically one or more of steps c) to e), can be performed.

[0060] Further disclosed and proposed herein are non-temporary computer-readable media containing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause one or more processors to perform one or more of the methods according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein, specifically one or more of the steps c) to e) of the method.

[0061] When a program is executed on a computer or computer network, computer program products having program code means stored on a machine-readable carrier are further disclosed and proposed herein for executing one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically one or more of steps c) to e). As used herein, computer program products refer to a program as a tradable product. The product may generally exist in any form, such as paper, or on a computer-readable data carrier and / or on a computer-readable storage medium. Specifically, computer program products may be distributed over a data network.

[0062] Finally, modulated data signals containing instructions readable by a computer system or computer network for performing one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically one or all of steps c) to e), are disclosed and proposed herein.

[0063] Referring to the computer implementation aspects of the present invention, one or more of the method steps of one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically one or more of method steps c) to e), may be performed using a computer or computer network. Thus, generally, any of the method steps, including data provision and / or manipulation, may be performed using a computer or computer network. Generally, these method steps may include any of the method steps, except for method steps that require manual work, such as in certain embodiments of providing samples and / or performing actual measurements.

[0064] in particular, - A computer or computer network comprising at least one processor, wherein the processor is adapted to perform one or more of the methods according to one of the embodiments described herein, specifically one or more of the steps c) to e), - A computer-loadable data structure adapted to perform one or more of the methods according to one of the embodiments described herein, specifically one or all of steps c) to e), while the data structure is being executed on a computer, - A computer program, which is adapted to perform one or more of the methods according to one of the embodiments described herein, specifically one or all of steps c) to e), while the program is running on a computer. - A computer program that includes programming means for performing a method according to one of the embodiments described herein, specifically one or more of steps c) to e), while the computer program is running on a computer or computer network, -A computer program including a programming means according to the above-described embodiment, wherein the programming means is stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and the computer program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium. - A storage medium on which a data structure is stored, and which is adapted to perform one or more of the methods according to one of the embodiments described herein, specifically steps c) to e), after the data structure has been loaded into the main storage and / or working storage of a computer or computer network. Further disclosed herein is a computer program product having program code means, wherein when the program code means is executed on a computer or on a computer network, the program code means can be stored in or is stored in a storage medium to perform a method according to one of the embodiments described herein, specifically one or more of steps c) to e).

[0065] The method and apparatus according to the present invention offer numerous advantages over well-known methods and apparatus.

[0066] Specifically, a rocking shaker can enable simultaneous mixing and dilution of cell suspensions using a commercially available liquid supply device. The cell suspension can be mixed gently. Various microplates conforming to the ANSI / SBS 2004 standard can be used as sample holders. Therefore, it may be possible to prepare a wide range of final cell suspension volumes without changing the instruments and materials used. For example, the preparation of 2 mL or 100 mL can be done with a single set of instruments without affecting the efficiency and quality of the final sample. This allows for the economical use of valuable reagents as needed. Automation can provide very high reproducibility of cell processing at the critical stage between thawing and seeding. Furthermore, flexible programming options can enable optimization of cell suspension preparation for seeding to a degree that cannot be achieved manually. For example, shaking and addition rates can be varied during dilution so that stress on the cells is always minimized. Therefore, invalid assays caused by variations in cell culture quality can be avoided. A particular technical advantage of the rocking shaker is that it can be integrated into robotic systems without requiring significant effort.

[0067] The rocking shaker may have a footprint conforming to the ANSI / SBS 2004 standard so that it can be mounted on any deck of a liquid handling robot. The rocking shaker may also simultaneously provide a footprint and fixation ("nesting") for microplates conforming to the ANSI / SBS 2004 standard, resulting in the microplates not slipping during shaking. The rocking shaker may be controlled manually or via a computer interface. The tilt frequency may be variable. After switching off, the footprint is automatically oriented horizontally, so that the laboratory instrument can either be handled by a gripper arm or the pipette unit is given a defined position in the x, y, and z directions. The rocking shaker may be effortlessly integrated into simple automated systems, such as the "Felix" pipetting system provided by "Analytik Jena," which does not have a gripper arm or a separate pipetting channel.

[0068] Electric motors such as gear motors, computer- or microcontroller-controlled servo motors, or stepper motors may be used. In the case of gear motors, the zero position can be defined and set via an optical barrier or microswitch. In the case of servo motors and stepper motors, this may be done electronically via a servo position or step counter. Servo motors and stepper motors may allow the setting of incline frequency and incline amplitude via software without mechanical intervention. Even complex profiles, such as a "soft start" profile or a profile with a specific incline of the mounting platform, such as for time-variable incline amplitude and liquid residue collection, may be easily programmable. In addition to the pushrod mechanism, the mechanical coupling of the stepper motor to the mounting platform can also be achieved by rope pull, toothed rack, or belt, specifically a toothed belt. By using springs in the connection between the mounting platform and the actuator, mechanical loads can be reduced, for example, in the event of malfunction or collision of the actuator.

[0069] In summary, without excluding further possible embodiments, the following embodiments can be envisioned.

[0070] Embodiment 1: A rocking shaker for processing at least one fluid sample, i. A machine frame comprising at least one machine frame, which includes at least one inclined axis, ii. A mounting platform comprising at least one mounting platform that is tiltably mounted on an inclined axis and configured to receive at least one sample holder, iii. At least one actuator configured to periodically tilt a mounting platform about a tilt axis over an angular orientation range, iv. A locking shaker comprising: at least one drive circuit for electrically driving an actuator, the drive circuit comprising at least one switch-off device, the switch-off device being configured to automatically position the mounting platform in a predetermined switch-off orientation when the locking shaker is switched off.

[0071] Embodiment 2: The rocking shaker according to Embodiment 1, wherein the switch-off device is configured to automatically position the mounting platform in a predetermined switch-off orientation, regardless of when the rocking shaker is switched off.

[0072] Embodiment 3: The rocking shaker according to either Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the mounting platform is essentially horizontally oriented when the mounting platform is in the switch-off orientation.

[0073] Embodiment 4: The rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the mounting platform comprises at least one essentially flat mounting surface and at least one positioning contour for positioning a sample holder on the mounting platform.

[0074] Embodiment 5: The locking shaker according to Embodiment 4, wherein the positioning contour comprises at least one of a groove and a frame.

[0075] Embodiment 6: A locking shaker according to either Embodiment 4 or 5, wherein the positioning contour is configured to mate with at least one microplate conforming to the ANSI / SBS 2004 standard, more specifically, to at least one of the ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004 standard.

[0076] Embodiment 7: A locking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 4 to 6, wherein the positioning profile comprises a circumferential groove for mating with at least one flange of at least one microplate and, specifically, with the bottom outer flange of at least one microplate in accordance with the standard ANSI / SBS 3-2004.

[0077] Embodiment 8: A rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the mounting platform has an essentially rectangular footprint having a length L and a width W, specifically a length L of 80 mm to 200 mm, more specifically a length of 100 mm to 150 mm, more specifically a length of 128 mm, and a width W of 40 mm to 120 mm, specifically a width of 50 mm to 110 mm, more specifically a width of 86 mm.

[0078] Embodiment 9: A rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the actuator comprises at least one electric motor, specifically at least one of an electric DC motor or a stepping motor.

[0079] Embodiment 10: A rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the actuator has an adjustable stirring speed.

[0080] Embodiment 11: A rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, comprising at least one of an external power supply and an internal energy storage device, specifically at least one of a storage battery and a battery.

[0081] Embodiment 12: The actuator is a rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 11, comprising an eccentric drive unit.

[0082] Embodiment 13: A locking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the switch-off device comprises at least one main switch and at least one orientation-sensitive switch, the main switch being configured to be actuated externally and the orientation-sensitive switch being configured to be switched depending on the orientation of the mounting platform.

[0083] Embodiment 14: The locking shaker according to Embodiment 13, wherein the orientation-sensitive switch is configured to switch when the mounting platform reaches a predetermined switch-off orientation.

[0084] Embodiment 15: The orientation-sensitive switch comprises at least one switch selected from the group consisting of a mechanical switch, specifically a push button, more specifically a micropush button, an electro-optic switch, specifically a light barrier, according to the locking shaker according to either Embodiment 13 or 14.

[0085] Embodiment 16: The orientation-sensitive switch is a rocking shaker according to Embodiment 15, comprising at least one fixed switching element assigned to a mechanical frame and at least one movable switching element assigned to a mounting platform.

[0086] Embodiment 17: The rocking shaker according to Embodiment 16, wherein at least one fixed switching element and a movable switching element comprises at least one opening, specifically at least one of a notch, a recess, a groove, and a hole, and the other of the fixed switching element and the movable switching element comprises at least one device that specifically interacts mechanically and / or optically with the opening.

[0087] Embodiment 18: A rocking shaker according to any one of embodiments 13 to 17, wherein the main switch is configured to switch the power supply of the actuator from at least one normal power supply circuit to at least one switch-off power supply circuit, and the orientation-sensitive switch is located in the switch-off power supply circuit and is configured to cut off the power supply via the switch-off power supply circuit.

[0088] Embodiment 19: The rocking shaker according to Embodiment 18, wherein the switch-off power supply circuit and the normal power supply circuit are electrical circuits connected at least partially in parallel.

[0089] Embodiment 20: A rocking shaker according to either Embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the normal power supply circuit comprises at least one potentiometer for adjusting the power supply to the actuator.

[0090] Embodiment 21: A locking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the switch-off power supply circuit comprises at least one damping resistor, the damping resistor connected in series with the orientation-sensitive switch.

[0091] Embodiment 22: A locking shaker according to any one of embodiments 18 to 21, wherein the main switch comprises at least one relay, the relay configured to selectively select the flow of current through either the normal power supply circuit or the switch-off power supply circuit.

[0092] Embodiment 23: A rocking shaker according to any one of embodiments 13 to 22, wherein the main switch is switchable by at least one of manual switching and external computer control.

[0093] Embodiment 24: The rocking shaker according to Embodiment 23, wherein the main switch comprises a user-switchable switching element, the switching element having at least two switching positions, the switching positions including an ON position in which the actuator is switched ON, the switching positions further including an OFF position in which the actuator is switched OFF, and optionally further including a computer-controlled position in which the switching ON and switching OFF of the actuator can be controlled by an external computer.

[0094] Embodiment 25: A locking shaker according to either Embodiment 23 or 24, wherein the main switch comprises a main switching circuit, the main switching circuit comprises at least two branches connected in parallel, the flow of current is switchable between the branches, and at least one of the branches is located on a computer-controllable switch.

[0095] Embodiment 26: A system comprising at least one rocking shaker according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the system further comprises at least one sample holder mounted on a mounting platform for the rocking shaker.

[0096] Embodiment 27: The system according to Embodiment 26, wherein the sample holder comprises at least one microplate having a plurality of wells for receiving a liquid sample, specifically a mounting platform, more specifically at least one microplate having at least one outer flange for mating with a positioning contour of the mounting platform, more specifically a microplate conforming to standard ANSI / SBS 2004, more specifically at least one of standards ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004.

[0097] Embodiment 28: A method for processing at least one fluid sample, a) To provide at least one rocking shaker described in any one of embodiments 1 to 25 relating to a rocking shaker, b) Mounting at least one sample holder for holding a fluid sample onto the mounting platform of the locking shaker, c) Switch on the rocking shaker and shake the fluid sample, d) Switch off the locking shaker, e) A method comprising using a locking shaker to bring a mounting platform into a predetermined switch-off orientation.

[0098] Embodiment 29: Use of a rocking shaker as described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 25 relating to a rocking shaker, with respect to the purpose of use, - Continuously mixing the cell suspension on a rocking shaker while adding liquid to the cell suspension, and - Use of a rocking shaker, selected from the group consisting of continuously mixing the suspension on the rocking shaker while adding liquid to a suspension of beads or particles. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0099] Further optional features and embodiments are disclosed in more detail in subsequent descriptions of embodiments, preferably in conjunction with dependent claims. Each optional feature can be realized individually and in any viable combination, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The scope of the invention is not limited by preferred embodiments. Embodiments are schematically shown in the figures, where the same reference numerals in these figures refer to the same or functionally equivalent elements.

[0100] The drawing is as follows: [Figure 1A] Different components of the rocking shaker according to the present invention are shown in various perspective and side views. [Figure 1B]Different components of the rocking shaker according to the present invention are shown in various perspective and side views. [Figure 1C] Different components of the rocking shaker according to the present invention are shown in various perspective and side views. [Figure 2A] A locking shaker according to the present invention is shown in a perspective view (Figure 2A) and an exploded view (Figure 2B). [Figure 2B] A locking shaker according to the present invention is shown in a perspective view (Figure 2A) and an exploded view (Figure 2B). [Figure 3A] The components of two further embodiments of the rocking shaker according to the present invention are shown in various side views. [Figure 3B] The components of two further embodiments of the rocking shaker according to the present invention are shown in various side views. [Figure 4A] Two exemplary drive circuits for electrically driving the actuator of a locking shaker according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 4B] Two exemplary drive circuits for electrically driving the actuator of a locking shaker according to the present invention are shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0101] Figures 1A to 1C show different components of the rocking shaker 110 according to the present invention in various perspective and side views.

[0102] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of the mechanical frame 112 of the rocking shaker 110. The mechanical frame 112 comprises at least one tilting shaft 114. The tilting shaft 114 may be, specifically, an elongated element, specifically, an essentially cylindrical element. The tilting shaft 114 may be configured to support one or more rotating components. The tilting shaft 114 may be, specifically, a stationary element. Thus, one or more rotating components may be rotatably mounted on the tilting shaft 114.

[0103] Specifically, the mechanical frame 112 may constitute the housing 116 of the rocking shaker 110, or form part of the housing 116 of the rocking shaker 110. The housing 116 may be configured to receive one or more components of the rocking shaker 110, as will be described in more detail below. For this purpose, the mechanical frame 112 may have at least one hollow space 118. Specifically, the mechanical frame 112 may have two recesses 122 for supporting the inclined shaft 114, the recesses 122 may be configured to receive the ends 124 of the inclined shaft 114, respectively. Specifically, the recesses 122 may be located on two opposing side walls 126 of the mechanical frame 112.

[0104] Figure 1B shows a perspective view of the mounting platform 128 of the rocking shaker 110. The mounting platform 128 is tiltably mounted on the tilt axis 114. The mounting platform 128 is configured to receive at least one sample holder (not shown in Figure 1B).

[0105] The mounting platform 128 may include at least one support area 130. At least one fluid sample, specifically at least one sample holder containing a fluid sample, may be configured to be mounted on the mounting platform 128. Specifically, the mounting platform 128 may include at least one essentially flat mounting surface 132 and at least one positioning contour (not shown in Figure 1B) for positioning the sample holder on the mounting platform 128.

[0106] Figure 1C shows a side view of the mounting platform 128 for the rocking shaker 110, as well as further components of the rocking shaker 110.

[0107] Specifically, the locking shaker 110 may comprise at least one rotating component 134. The rotating component 134 may have at least one through hole, and the inclined shaft 114 may be received within the through hole of the rotating component 134 (not shown in Figure 1C). The mounting platform 128 may be fixedly connected to at least one rotating component 134 (not shown in Figure 1C).

[0108] The rocking shaker 110 comprises at least one actuator 136. Specifically, the actuator 136 may comprise at least one electric motor (not shown in Figure 1C). The motor may be mechanically coupled to the mounting platform 128. Exemplarily, as shown in Figure 1C, the actuator 136 may comprise an eccentric drive unit 138.

[0109] The eccentric drive unit 138 may specifically comprise at least one disk 140. The disk 140 may be configured to rotate around an axis 142, as indicated by arrow 144. Furthermore, the eccentric drive unit 138 may comprise at least one eccentric rod 146, which can be attached to the disk 140. Specifically, a first end 148 of the eccentric rod 146 may be attached to the disk 140 such that a second end 150 on the opposite side of the eccentric rod 146 can impart translational motion, such as reciprocating motion, as indicated by arrow 152. The second end 150 may be attached to a rotating component 134. Thus, the reciprocating motion of the second end 150 of the eccentric rod 146 may cause the mounting platform 128 to tilt about the tilt axis 114, as indicated by arrow 154. The rotating component 134 may further comprise at least one opening 155, such as a notch 156, which can be configured to interact with at least one fixed switching element of the switch. Further details will be explained in more detail below.

[0110] Figures 2A and 2B show a perspective view (Figure 2A) and an exploded view (Figure 2B) of the locking shaker 110 according to the present invention. The components of the locking shaker 110 shown in Figures 2A and 2B correspond at least partially to the components of the locking shaker 110 shown in Figures 1A to 1C. Therefore, refer to the description of Figures 1A to 1C above.

[0111] Figure 2A shows a mounting platform 128. Specifically, the mounting platform 128 may comprise at least one essentially flat mounting surface 132 and at least one positioning contour 158 for positioning a sample holder (not shown) on the mounting platform 128. Specifically, the positioning contour 158 may be configured to mate with at least one microplate conforming to the ANSI / SBS 2004 standard, more specifically, to at least one of the ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004 standards. Specifically, the positioning contour 158 may comprise a circumferential groove 160 for mate with at least one flange of at least one microplate, and specifically, with the bottom outer flange of at least one microplate conforming to the ANSI / SBS 3-2004 standard. Furthermore, the positioning contour 158 may include at least one groove 162 extending perpendicularly to the extension axis 164 of the mounting platform 128. Specifically, the positioning contour 158 may include three grooves 162 spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the positioning contour 158 may have a chamfered portion 166, such as a 45° chamfer. The chamfered portion may be configured to guide the sample holder onto the mounting platform 128.

[0112] Figure 2A further shows the housing 116 of the locking shaker 110. A USB port 168 for computer control, a speed controller 170, a power supply 172, and a toggle switch 174 may be mounted on the housing 116.

[0113] In Figure 2B, the mounting platform 128 of the rocking shaker 110 is disassembled. Thus, it is possible to see the hollow space 118 of the mechanical frame 112. The actuator 136 can be seen in Figure 2B. The actuator 136 may comprise an electric motor 176. Specifically, the electric motor 176 may be a 12V gear motor. Furthermore, the actuator 136 may comprise an eccentric drive unit 138 having a disk 140 and an eccentric rod 146.

[0114] Furthermore, at least one rotating component 134 can be seen in Figure 2B. Specifically, the rocking shaker 110 may comprise at least one first rotating component 178 and at least one second rotating component 180. The first rotating component 178 and the second rotating component 180 may each have at least one through hole 182, and the tilting shaft 114 may be received within the through holes 182 of the first rotating component 178 and the second rotating component 180. The first rotating component 178 and the second rotating component 180 may be located at both ends of the tilting shaft 114, respectively. The first rotating component 178 may be attached to the eccentric drive unit 138 via an eccentric rod 146. The first rotating component 178 may have a notch 156. Furthermore, a microswitch 184 is shown in Figure 2B. The mounting platform 128 may be fixedly connected to the first rotating component 178 and the second rotating component 180 by at least one screw connection or the like. Figure 2B shows screw holes 186 located on the support surfaces 188 of the first rotating component 178 and the second rotating component 180.

[0115] Figures 3A and 3B show, in various side views, components of two further embodiments of the rocking shaker 110 according to the present invention. Specifically, the mounting platform 128 of the rocking shaker 110, and further components of the rocking shaker 110 such as the actuator 136 are shown in side views. The components of the rocking shaker 110 shown in Figures 3A and 3B correspond at least partially to the components of the rocking shaker 110 shown in Figures 1A to 1C. Therefore, refer to the description of Figures 1A to 1C above. There are differences in the design of the actuator 136.

[0116] The actuator 136 shown in Figure 3A includes an electric motor 176. Specifically, the electric motor 176 may be a servo motor 190. The servo motor 190 may include at least one motor shaft 200. Furthermore, the actuator 136 may include at least two push rods 202. The two push rods 202 may be connected to each other. Specifically, the actuator 136 may include at least one first push rod 202 and at least one second push rod 204. The first push rod 202 may be connected to the motor shaft 200 of the servo motor 190. The second push rod 204 may be connected to the mounting platform 128. The rotational motion of the first push rod 202, as indicated by arrow 208, may produce translational motion, such as the reciprocating motion of the second push rod 204, as indicated by arrow 210. Therefore, the reciprocating motion of the second push rod 204 allows the mounting platform 128 to tilt about the tilt axis 114, as indicated by arrow 154.

[0117] The actuator 136 shown in Figure 3B comprises an electric motor 176, which may be a servo motor 190. The servo motor 190 may comprise at least one motor shaft 200. Furthermore, the actuator 136 may comprise at least one plate 210. The plate 210 may be connected to the motor shaft 200 of the servo motor 190. Thus, the plate 210 and the mounting platform 128, specifically the essentially flat mounting surface 132, may be positioned at a distance from each other. The actuator 136 may further comprise at least two spring elements 212. The spring elements 212 may be positioned between the plate 210 and the mounting platform 128. Specifically, the spring elements 212 may each comprise at least two opposing ends that can be attached to two opposing surfaces of the plate 210 and the mounting platform 128, respectively.

[0118] The rotational motion of the plate 210, as indicated by arrow 216, can generate translational motion, such as the reciprocating motion of the spring element 212, as indicated by arrow 218. Therefore, the reciprocating motion of the spring element 212 can cause the mounting platform 128 to tilt about the tilt axis 114, as indicated by arrow 154.

[0119] Figures 4A and 4B show two exemplary drive circuits 220 for electrically driving the actuator 136 of the rocking shaker 110 according to the present invention. Specifically, the drive circuits 220 shown in Figures 4A and 4B may correspond to drive circuits 220 for electrically driving the actuator 136 of the rocking shaker 110 having components as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. Therefore, refer to the description of Figures 1A to 1C above.

[0120] The drive circuit 220 includes at least one switch-off device 222. The switch-off device 222 is configured to automatically position the mounting platform 128 in a predetermined switch-off orientation when the locking shaker 110 is switched off. The switch-off device 222 may include at least one main switch 224. The main switch 224 may be configured to be actuated externally. Specifically, the main switch 224 may include a user-switchable switching element 226. Exemplarily, the switching element 226 may be a toggle switch 174, or may include a toggle switch 174. The switching element 226 may have at least two switching positions. In the embodiments shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the switching element 226 may have three switching positions.

[0121] The switching positions may include an ON position in which the actuator 136 is switched ON. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4A, the switching element 226 is in the ON position in which the actuator 136 is switched ON. Furthermore, the switching positions may include a computer-controlled position in which the switching ON and switching OFF of the actuator 136 can be controlled by an external computer. The switching positions may further include an OFF position in which the actuator 136 is switched OFF. The main switch 224 may comprise a main switching circuit 228. The main switching circuit 228 may comprise at least two branches 230 connected in parallel. The flow of current may be switchable between the branches 230. At least one of the branches 230 may contain a computer-controllable switch 232.

[0122] More specifically, the main switch 224 may include at least one relay 234. Specifically, the relay 234 may include at least one excitation coil 236. Furthermore, the relay 234 may include at least one, specifically two, movable armatures 238. The movable armatures 238 may be ferromagnetic. The current in the excitation coil 238 can generate a magnetic flux through the ferromagnetic core of the excitation coil 238 and the movable armatures 238. In the air gap, a force can be applied to the armatures 238 as shown by the dashed line 240, causing the armatures to switch one or more contacts. The armatures 238 can be returned to their initial position by a spring force or the like as soon as the excitation coil 238 is no longer energized.

[0123] Furthermore, the switch-off device 222 may include at least one orientation-sensitive switch 242. The orientation-sensitive switch 242 may be configured to switch depending on the orientation of the mounting platform 128. Specifically, the orientation-sensitive switch 242 may be configured to switch when the mounting platform 128 reaches a predetermined switch-off orientation. In particular, the orientation-sensitive switch 128 may include a micropush button 184. The orientation-sensitive switch 242 may include at least one fixed switching element assigned to the mechanical frame and at least one movable switching element assigned to the mounting platform 128. Exemplarily, the movable switching element may correspond to a rotating component 134 having at least one notch 156 as shown in Figure 1C. Furthermore, the fixed switching element may include at least one device that interacts with the notch 156 in particular mechanically and / or optically.

[0124] The main switch 224 may be configured to switch the power supply 244 of the actuator 136 from at least one normal power supply circuit 246 to at least one switch-off power supply circuit 248. The switch-off power supply circuit 246 and the normal power supply circuit 248 may be electrical circuits connected at least partially in parallel. As outlined above, the main switch 224 may include at least one relay 234. Specifically, the relay 234 may be configured to selectively choose the flow of current through the normal power supply circuit 246 or the switch-off power supply circuit 248 by switching the position of the armature 238.

[0125] In Figure 4A, the switching element 226 can be in one of the ON positions. The power supply 244 of the actuator 136 can be switched to the normal power supply circuit 246 by the relay 234. The normal power supply circuit 246 is

[0126] Specifically, the electric motor 176 may be configured to control the rocking shaker 110 during normal operation. Specifically, during the process of processing at least one fluid sample mounted on the mounting platform 128, power to the actuator 136 may be provided by the normal power supply circuit 246. Specifically, the normal power supply circuit 246 may include at least one potentiometer 250 for adjusting the power supply to the actuator 136.

[0127] In Figure 4B, the switching element 226 may be in the off position. The power supply 244 for the actuator 136 may be switched to the switch-off power supply circuit 248 by the relay 234. Specifically, the switch-off power supply circuit 248 may be configured to control the electric motor 176 after the locking shaker 110 has been switched off, such as by manually switching the toggle switch 174. The orientation-sensitive switch 242 may be located within the switch-off power supply circuit 248 and may be configured to cut off the power supply via the switch-off power supply circuit 248. The switch-off power supply circuit may include at least one damping resistor 252. The damping resistor 252 may be connected in series with the orientation-sensitive switch 242.

[0128] [Table 1]

Claims

1. A rocking shaker (110) for processing at least one fluid sample, i. A machine frame (112) comprising at least one inclined shaft (114), ii. At least one mounting platform (128) that is tiltably mounted on the tilt axis (114) and configured to receive at least one sample holder, iii. At least one actuator (136) configured to periodically tilt the mounting platform (128) about the tilt axis (114) over an angular orientation range, iv. A rocking shaker (110) comprising: at least one drive circuit (220) for electrically driving the actuator (136), the drive circuit (220) comprising at least one switch-off device (222) the switch-off device (222) configured to automatically bring the mounting platform (128) into a predetermined switch-off orientation when the rocking shaker (110) is switched off.

2. The locking shaker (110) according to claim 1, wherein the switch-off device (222) is configured to automatically set the mounting platform (128) to the predetermined switch-off orientation, regardless of when the locking shaker (110) is switched off.

3. The rocking shaker (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the mounting platform (128) is in the switch-off orientation, the mounting platform (128) is essentially in a horizontal orientation.

4. The rocking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mounting platform (128) comprises at least one essentially flat mounting surface (132) and at least one positioning contour (158) for positioning the sample holder on the mounting platform (128).

5. The locking shaker (110) according to claim 4, wherein the positioning contour (158) is configured to mate with at least one microplate conforming to the ANSI / SBS 2004 standard, more specifically, to at least one of the ANSI / SBS 1-2004, ANSI / SBS 2-2004, ANSI / SBS 3-2004, and ANSI / SBS 4-2004.

6. The locking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the switch-off device (222) comprises at least one main switch (224) and at least one orientation-sensitive switch (242), the main switch (224) being configured to be operated externally, and the orientation-sensitive switch (242) being configured to be switched by the orientation of the mounting platform (128).

7. The orientation-sensitive switch (242) is configured to switch when the mounting platform (128) reaches a predetermined switch-off orientation, and the orientation-sensitive switch (242) comprises at least one fixed switching element assigned to the mechanical frame (112) and at least one movable switching element assigned to the mounting platform (128), as described in claim 6, the rocking shaker (110).

8. The rocking shaker (110) according to claim 7, wherein one of the fixed switching element and the movable switching element comprises at least one opening (155), and the other of the fixed switching element and the movable switching element comprises at least one device that specifically interacts mechanically and / or optically with the opening (155).

9. The rocking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the main switch (224) is configured to switch the power supply (244) of the actuator (136) from at least one normal power supply circuit (246) to at least one switch-off power supply circuit (248), and the orientation-sensitive switch (242) is located in the switch-off power supply circuit (248), and the orientation-sensitive switch (242) is configured to cut off the power supply (244) via the switch-off power supply circuit (248).

10. The rocking shaker (110) according to claim 9, wherein the switch-off power supply circuit (248) and the normal power supply circuit (246) are electrical circuits connected at least partially in parallel.

11. The rocking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the main switch (224) is switchable by at least one of manual switching and external computer control, the main switch (224) comprises a user-switchable switching element, the switching element having at least two switching positions, the switching positions including an ON position in which the actuator (136) is switched ON, the switching positions further including an OFF position in which the actuator (136) is switched OFF, and optionally further including a computer-controlled position in which the switching ON and switching OFF of the actuator (136) can be controlled by an external computer.

12. The rocking shaker (110) according to claim 11, wherein the main switch (224) comprises a main switching circuit (228), the main switching circuit (228) comprises at least two branches (230) connected in parallel, the flow of current is switchable between the branches (230), and a computer-controllable switch (232) is located in at least one of the branches (230).

13. A system comprising at least one rocking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising at least one sample holder attached to the mounting platform (128) of the rocking shaker (110).

14. A method for processing at least one fluid sample, a) To provide at least one rocking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 relating to a rocking shaker (110), b) Mounting at least one sample holder for holding the fluid sample on the mounting platform (128) of the rocking shaker (110), c) Switching on the rocking shaker (110) and shaking the fluid sample, and d) Switching off the rocking shaker (110), e) A method comprising using the locking shaker (110) to bring the mounting platform (128) into a predetermined switch-off orientation.

15. A use of the rocking shaker (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 relating to the rocking shaker (110), wherein the purpose of use is as follows: - Adding liquid to the cell suspension while continuously mixing the cell suspension on the rocking shaker (110), and - Use of a rocking shaker (110), selected from the group consisting of continuously mixing the suspension on the rocking shaker (110) while adding liquid to the suspension of beads or particles.

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