Laboratory device having a swing door

Abstract

The invention relates to a laboratory shaker for shaking laboratory samples stored in sample vessels in a chamber, the laboratory shaker having a drawer device which bears drive components and which can be moved out of a drawer space of the laboratory shaker for maintenance purposes.

Description

[0001] Laboratory device with swing door

[0002] The invention relates to laboratory shakers for shaking laboratory samples stored in sample containers, in particular microorganisms in suspension, preferably mammalian cells in suspension.

[0003] Temperature-controlled laboratory shakers are used in biological, medical, and pharmaceutical laboratories for cultivating cells, bacteria, yeast, and other organisms in suspension. They are essential, for example, for the production of recombinant DNA, protein expression, or the screening of cultures. Since a laboratory shaker is primarily a shared piece of equipment that runs continuously at high speeds and under variable loads, it must be durable and reliable.

[0004] The key parameters relevant to a user of a laboratory shaker, especially an incubation shaker, are primarily a specific target temperature in the sample storage chamber, a specific speed, and a corresponding load-bearing capacity of the shaker platform, as well as the ability to control the CO2 concentration and humidity of an incubation atmosphere. Most applications require the use of different vessel sizes and types: from plates for initial screening to conical vessels for precultures and large flasks for plasmid production or protein expression. The constant demand for higher product yields has led to the invention of new flask types that offer better aeration than standard shake flasks. This allows the typical filling volume to be increased by up to 40%, resulting in a higher weight on the platform. Higher speeds above 250 rpm are required for applications with, for example, BE (Biochemical Energy).It is common practice to shake laboratory shakers to achieve a significant increase in cell density. When shaking sample plates for screening, it is important to ensure complete mixing and prevent cell sedimentation. The requirements for laboratory shakers are therefore extensive, including not only continuous load capacity but also sufficient versatility to handle all types of platform configurations, loads, and high rotational speeds. Durability and robustness are essential for reliable operation over many years.

[0005] An orbital shaker is a laboratory shaker in which a platform is moved in an elliptical or circular path, with the movement controlled by an eccentric. Generally, beakers, flasks, and other vessels are attached to the top of the platform, causing the liquid inside to swirl around the inner walls of the vessel to increase mixing and improve the interaction or exchange between the liquid and the local gaseous environment.

[0006] Orbital shakers are also defined, in particular, as laboratory shakers that move a platform such that all points on the platform move integrally in a common, planar, orbital path, as a superposition of two translations and whose amplitude is defined by an eccentric. Motion in a common, planar, orbital path means, in particular, that all points on the platform of the orbital shaker move in an elliptical or circular path, the path lying in a plane. A "superposition of two translations" refers, in particular, to the fact that the motion of the shaker's platform can be considered a combination of two linear motions in different directions. This superposition leads to the elliptical or circular path. An eccentric is a device used to convert a translational motion into a rotational motion.In this case, the eccentric defines the amplitude of the movement, i.e., the maximum deflection of the platform. In mechanics, an eccentric is a control disc mounted on a shaft, with its center point located off-axis.

[0007] These laboratory shakers have a chamber for holding the laboratory samples to be temperature-controlled; this chamber is usually located inside a housing. Access to the chamber, through which the user places and removes the samples inside the housing, is generally via a housing opening that can be closed with a housing door. In some models, the chamber also has a gas supply. These types of devices allow the cultivation of cells in a CO2 atmosphere. They are called incubation shakers. A well-known laboratory shaker is the Innova® S44i, available from Eppendorf SE, Hamburg, Germany.

[0008] Contamination is one of the greatest safety risks when working with laboratory equipment used to process laboratory samples in a chamber. For such equipment, especially CO2 incubators with a shaking mechanism, cleanability is an extremely important customer requirement. The focus here is on the chamber itself, into which the samples are placed by the user and incubated for extended periods. The chamber must be accessible to the user and, at the same time, sealed off from the environment to create a specific climate independent of external conditions (temperature, CO2, humidity). A door is therefore essential for such a system.

[0009] Known laboratory instruments feature hinged doors mounted on the instrument via a pivoting mechanism or pivot arms for opening and closing the chamber opening. These known pivoting mechanisms have the disadvantage of being located inside the chamber. This necessitates regular cleaning of these parts. The pivoting mechanism is usually covered by an enclosure. According to the observations underlying the invention, the often complex shape and arrangement, as well as the difficult-to-access contours of these components, mean that impurities and contaminants in this area of ​​the chamber are difficult or impossible for the user to reach and therefore cannot be effectively removed. Furthermore, with this arrangement, a user or service technician must reach inside the chamber to clean or maintain the drive components, which increases the risk of additional contamination.Furthermore, this arrangement requires a user or service technician to enter the chamber to clean or maintain the drive components, increasing the risk of additional contamination. By performing maintenance work inside the chamber, the service technician also exposes themselves to a risk of contamination / infection, as the chamber itself may be contaminated. Cleaning moving parts is time-consuming and carries the risk of injury.

[0010] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a laboratory device with a chamber for the treatment of laboratory samples that is easy and safe to clean and maintain.

[0011] The invention solves this problem by means of the laboratory device according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and will become apparent from the present description of the invention and the figures.

[0012] Due to the external placement of the swing door mechanism, cleaning the laboratory instrument requires less effort than is currently the case with prior art instruments where door kinematics are located inside the chamber. This optimized cleanability leads to less contamination within the sample chamber, which in turn often eliminates the need to repeat experiments performed inside the chamber and, furthermore (in the case of undetected contamination), improves the reproducibility of results.

[0013] To fully open the door leaf element, the user pulls the handle further forward (Figures 2c to 2e). This moves the swing door upwards, guided by the swing door mechanism.

[0014] The swing door mechanism is preferably designed to mechanically assist the opening movement of the door leaf element. Preferably, the swing door mechanism incorporates a spring system. The energy stored in the spring system by tensioning a spring can be used to assist the upward swing of the door leaf element. This reduces the force required to open the door leaf element, which is particularly convenient for the user when the door leaf element is manually operated, and is also advantageous for the design of an optional motorized opening mechanism for the door leaf element. In optional preferred embodiments, the door has an increased dead weight if it is designed to incorporate the door's temperature control as a chambered front wall, or if it has a window for viewing, which can be heated separately.

[0015] It is generally preferred that the spring system includes at least one spring. This can be a helical spring, in particular a compression spring or a tension spring, or a gas spring, in particular a gas compression spring or a gas tension spring. The spring force of a spring can be, in particular, between 200 N and 800 N, preferably between 250 N and 400 N, more preferably between 280 N and 350 N, and more preferably 320 N. Two springs are also provided, in particular, so that their combined force doubles the aforementioned values.

[0016] Gas springs, like gas pressure springs, utilize a gas that stores energy in its compressed state. This energy is released when the gas expands, assisting manual operation (in this case, opening the swing door). Gas springs operate differently than gas pressure springs; in gas springs, the gas pressure in the cylinder pulls the piston rod inward into a pressure tube. A gas spring is a sealed, maintenance-free component consisting of a pressure tube, a piston rod with a piston, and a seal at the piston rod guide to prevent gas leakage. It is filled with compressed gas, typically nitrogen, to provide the spring force. In the unloaded state, the piston rod is always retracted. When the piston rod is extended, the volume in the cylinder decreases, compressing the gas and thus increasing the spring force.

[0017] Preferably, the chamber is bounded by the first side wall, the second side wall, a chamber floor wall, a chamber rear wall and a chamber ceiling wall, wherein the chamber floor wall, and in particular also the chamber ceiling wall, is arranged horizontally in the intended use of the laboratory device.

[0018] Preferably, the chamber opening is limited by a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge opposite it, as well as a lower edge and an upper edge opposite it, wherein the first and second lateral edges preferably run perpendicular to the upper edge and the lower edge, wherein preferably in the intended use of the laboratory device the lower edge, and in particular also the upper edge, is arranged horizontally.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one first pivot arm and the at least one second pivot arm are arranged opposite and parallel to each other, and in particular parallel to the first and second side walls. Preferably, the first and second pivot arms are rigidly connected to each other, in particular immovably, wherein the first and second pivot arms are preferably rigidly connected to each other by a coupling rod. The coupling rod is preferably located in position P1 of the door leaf element between a front wall of the laboratory device and an inner side of the door leaf element, in particular outside the chamber.

[0020] Preferably, the laboratory device has a base and, connected to it, a support structure, which is in particular a frame structure. The base and the connected support structure support the other components of the laboratory device.

[0021] Preferably, the support device comprises a first support part I with a first pivot bearing on which the at least one first pivot arm is pivotably mounted, and preferably, the support device comprises a second support part opposite the first support part with a second pivot bearing on which the at least one second pivot arm is pivotably mounted. This allows for the secure mounting of even a heavy door leaf element. For example, it is preferred that the door leaf element has a viewing window made of or containing glass, which in the first position (P1) allows a view into the interior of the chamber. In a thermally insulated arrangement of a glass window, in particular a double- or multi-walled glass window, the mass of the door leaf element is usually greater than in the case without a viewing window.Preferably, the maximum distance between the first and second side walls of the chamber is less than the maximum distance between the first and second pivot bearings. This facilitates the arrangement of the pivot arms outside the chamber.

[0022] The pivoting door assembly preferably includes, in particular arranged adjacent to the first side edge of the chamber opening, a first, lower pivot arm and a first, upper pivot arm. The pivoting door assembly preferably includes, in particular arranged adjacent to the second side edge of the chamber opening, a second, lower pivot arm and a second, upper pivot arm. The first pivot arms are preferably located opposite the second pivot arms and are preferably spaced apart from each other by a distance that is preferably greater than the maximum width of the chamber interior or the chamber and preferably less than the overall width of the laboratory device.

[0023] The laboratory device preferably has a first, slot-shaped recess into which the at least one first swivel arm engages. The laboratory device preferably has a second slot-shaped recess into which the at least one second swivel arm engages. The recess preferably opens into an opening in a front wall of the laboratory device.

[0024] A first lower pivot arm and a first upper pivot arm are preferably pivotably arranged on the support structure such that they remain coplanar during their respective pivoting movements, i.e., they lie in the same first plane. This results in a compact arrangement of the first pivot arms. A second lower pivot arm and a second upper pivot arm are preferably pivotably arranged on the support structure such that they remain coplanar during their respective pivoting movements, i.e., they lie in the same second plane. This results in a compact arrangement of the second pivot arms. The first and second planes are parallel and spaced apart from each other.

[0025] Preferably the chamber has a first side wall and, opposite this, a second side wall, wherein the at least one first pivot arm and the at least one second pivot arm are arranged opposite each other and parallel to each other, and in particular parallel to the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0026] Preferably, the laboratory device has a base, and associated with it, a support structure, in particular a frame structure, which supports components of the laboratory device, wherein the support structure has a first support part I with a first pivot bearing on which the at least one first pivot arm is pivotably mounted, and the support structure has a second support part opposite the first support part with a second pivot bearing on which the at least one second pivot arm is pivotably mounted.

[0027] Preferably, the support device has a first frame side wall, wherein the at least one first pivot arm is arranged on an outer surface of the side wall facing away from the chamber, and wherein the support device has a second frame side wall, and wherein the at least one second pivot arm is arranged on an outer surface of the frame side wall facing away from the chamber, wherein in particular the first frame side wall is the first support part and in particular the second frame side wall is the second support part. The space between a first chamber side wall and the first frame side wall of the support device is preferably filled with a thermal insulation material, and the space between a second chamber side wall and the second frame side wall of the support device is preferably filled with a thermal insulation material.

[0028] Preferably, the laboratory device, in particular its swing door mechanism, has a spring system that assists in opening the door leaf element, wherein the spring system can be tensioned, in particular, by closing the door leaf element. Preferably, the laboratory device has at least one first spring element, in particular a gas spring, which is connected at its first end to a first pivot arm and at its second end to the support structure, and which has at least one second spring element, in particular a gas spring, which is connected at its first end to a second pivot arm and at its second end to the support structure.

[0029] Preferably, a first pivot arm is pivotably mounted on the support device about a first pivot axis by means of a first bearing element, pivotally mounted on the door leaf element about a second pivot axis by means of a second bearing element, and pivotally mounted on a spring element about a third pivot axis by means of a third bearing element, wherein the first, second, and third pivot axes run parallel to each other, and wherein, in particular, a second pivot arm is pivotally mounted on the support device about a first pivot axis by means of a first bearing element, pivotally mounted on the door leaf element about a second pivot axis by means of a second bearing element, and pivotally mounted on a spring element about a third pivot axis by means of a third bearing element, wherein the first, second, and third pivot axes run parallel to each other.

[0030] A bearing element can be a plain bearing or a rolling bearing. It can be a swivel bearing or a ball joint.

[0031] Preferably, the distance between the first bearing element and the second bearing element is larger, in particular 2 to 4 times larger, than the distance between the first bearing element and the third bearing element.

[0032] Preferably, the first pivoting arm has a first sliding element which is arranged such that, during the pivoting movement of the door leaf element between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), it slides along the outer side of the first side wall facing away from the chamber, and

[0033] In particular, the second pivot arm has a second sliding element arranged such that, during the pivoting movement of the door leaf element between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), it slides along the outer side of the second side wall facing away from the chamber. Preferably, the first pivot arm has a first plate-shaped component that is rigidly connected to the first pivot arm and that carries this first sliding element (101b), and wherein, in particular, the second pivot arm has a second plate-shaped component that is rigidly connected to the second pivot arm and that carries this second sliding element, wherein the first plate-shaped component extends, in particular, along the length of the first pivot arm, and wherein the second plate-shaped component extends, in particular, along the length of the second pivot arm.

[0034] Preferably, a slot-shaped recess is provided in a planar front wall of the laboratory device at a distance from the chamber, which extends perpendicularly to the front wall into the interior of the laboratory device, and in which the at least one first pivot arm is arranged in the first position (P1) of the door leaf element, and wherein, in particular, a further slot-shaped recess is provided in the planar front wall of the laboratory device at a distance from the chamber, which extends perpendicularly to the front wall into the interior of the laboratory device, and in which the at least one second pivot arm is arranged in the first position (P1) of the door leaf element.

[0035] In particular, in no position of the door leaf element is a pivot arm of the swing door device arranged partially or completely within the chamber.

[0036] Preferably, the door leaf element has a heating device by which the door leaf element, in particular a viewing window of the door leaf element and / or a wall part of the door, in particular a wall part facing the chamber opening, can be heated.

[0037] Preferably, the door leaf element has one or more stiffening profiles.

[0038] Preferably, an elastomeric seal, in particular a silicone seal, is arranged around the chamber opening, which in position P1 of the door leaf element is contacted by a thermal, in particular polymeric, insulating material of the door leaf element or a wall part of the door leaf element facing the chamber opening, which is in particular a stainless steel sheet part and is in particular heated.

[0039] Preferably, the laboratory device is an incubation shaker, in particular a CO2 incubation shaker. Preferably, the laboratory shaker has a drawer assembly with at least one drawer element that is movably mounted in the fixture space and to which the at least one drive component is connected. Preferably, the at least one drawer element is movable between a first position, in which the at least one drawer element is arranged in the fixture space, and a second position, in which the at least one drawer element is at least partially extended from the fixture space.

[0040] An optional arrangement of drive components on a drawer ensures optimal accessibility of all drive parts for maintenance purposes. This easy access also allows for changing the mixing orbit. Thus, the user or technical service can modify the drive's application range in the field – different orbits facilitate optimal mixing of various sample containers.

[0041] The platform assembly is removable, in particular from the interior of the chamber. The platform assembly is mountable to and detachable from at least one drive component, in particular a transmission device, especially a transmission plate. For this purpose, at least one connecting element is provided, which detachably connects the platform assembly, in particular a sub-platform of the platform assembly, to the drive component, in particular the transmission device, especially a transmission plate. The at least one connecting element may be designed for tool-free assembly or disassembly of this connection. For this purpose, the at least one connecting element may include a screw with a hand-operated rotating head, a locking device, or a quick-release clamping device.The platform assembly may include a sub-platform which is connected and / or connectable to the drive component, in particular the transmission plate, by means of at least one connecting means.

[0042] The platform setup may include a carrying platform, which serves to carry the sample containers to be shaken in the chamber.

[0043] The platform device is located in the chamber during operation of the laboratory shaker, i.e., during the shaking movement.

[0044] The platform assembly can include a rail system that allows the support platform to be extended from the chamber when the chamber door is open. This facilitates the loading and unloading of the laboratory shaker. Furthermore, it simplifies the disassembly of the platform assembly, particularly the sub-platform, from the transmission system. The rail system comprises, in particular, first rail elements mounted on the sub-platform and second rail elements mounted on the support platform. The second rail elements can be mounted on the first rail elements by means of sliding bearings and / or rolling bearings.

[0045] The fixture space is located below the platform. This allows the fixture space to be easily separated from the sample space within the chamber, in which the platform and the sample containers are arranged on the platform. The fixture space can be located within the chamber. Preferably, the fixture space is located outside the chamber, particularly below the chamber. "Below" means "in the direction of gravity," since the laboratory shaker is arranged in its intended operation such that a support platform has a horizontal support area.

[0046] The device compartment is also referred to as the drive compartment, since at least one drive component is located there. However, it is also possible that components not belonging to the drive device are located there, such as electronic components, for example, an electronic control unit for the laboratory shaker. These electronic components can include at least one circuit board.

[0047] The laboratory shaker has a drawer assembly with at least one drawer element that is movably mounted in the assembly space and to which the at least one drive component is connected, and which, in particular, carries this at least one drive component. During operation of the laboratory shaker, the drawer element is preferably connected to a base of the laboratory shaker by means of fasteners, in particular screws, a locking device, or a quick-release device. Before the drawer element is pulled out of the assembly space, this fixed connection created by the fastener must be released.

[0048] The at least one drawer element is movable between a first position, in which the at least one drawer element is arranged in the fixture space, and a second position, in which the at least one drawer element is extended out of the fixture space. Preferably, the drawer assembly is configured such that the drawer element can be pulled out of the fixture space at least 50% in the second position, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, or preferably at least 95%, or preferably completely. In the latter two cases, the extension is referred to as "full extension".

[0049] Preferably, the laboratory shaker has a base that supports the remaining components of the shaker. The base is particularly suitable for supporting at least one additional laboratory shaker if the shakers are stackable. The drawer element is rigidly connected to the base and, in particular, movably mounted on the base by means of a rail system. Preferably, the drive device includes a drive unit, especially a motor, which is rigidly connected to the base. In this case, the drive unit is not mounted on the drawer element and is therefore not moved out of the laboratory shaker when the drawer element is moved from the first to the second position.

[0050] The drive device can also include a drive unit, in particular a motor, which is rigidly connected to the at least one drawer element. In this case, the drive unit is mounted on the drawer element and is therefore also moved out of the laboratory shaker when the drawer element is moved from the first to the second position.

[0051] Preferably, the drive device comprises a drive unit configured to provide a drive movement and a gear unit configured to convert the drive movement into the shaking movement, the gear unit comprising at least one gear element. The drive unit and the at least one gear element are drive components, at least one of which is connected to the at least one drawer element.

[0052] Preferably, the chamber is bounded by a chamber floor wall, which separates the interior of the chamber from the device space preferably provided below the chamber floor wall and which is designed to couple the drive device with the platform device, in particular by having at least one bottom opening.

[0053] Preferably, the chamber is bounded by a chamber floor wall, and the laboratory shaker has at least one connecting element, in particular a coupling rod, by which the platform assembly is detachably connected to the at least one drive component. Preferably, the at least one connecting element extends through at least one opening in the bottom of the chamber floor wall when the platform assembly is connected to the at least one drive component. Preferably, the shaking motion is parallel to the chamber floor wall, i.e., particularly horizontal, with at least one opening in the bottom of the chamber floor wall preferably being dimensioned to allow the relative movement of the connecting element and the chamber floor wall corresponding to the shaking motion.

[0054] Preferably, the at least one bottom opening is sealed by a sealing element arranged between the chamber bottom wall and the connecting element. Preferably, each bottom opening is sealed by a sealing element arranged between the chamber bottom wall and the connecting element.

[0055] Preferably, the sealing element is connected to the connecting element, but preferably not connected to the chamber bottom wall, or preferably also connected to the chamber bottom wall.

[0056] Preferably, the connecting element and / or a drive component, in particular the transmission device, has at least one connecting means, in particular a screw or long screw, which is guided in particular through a central bore in the connecting element, or a locking or quick-release device. The connecting element is preferably detachably connected to the drive component, in particular the transmission device, by means of the at least one connecting means, particularly while the bottom opening is sealed by the sealing element.

[0057] Preferably, the connecting element has a thread which is designed to create a screw connection between the connecting element and the transmission device and which is arranged in particular concentrically to a central longitudinal axis of the connecting element.

[0058] Preferably, the at least one drive component, in particular a gear element, comprises a transmission device, in particular a transmission plate, for supporting the platform device. The at least one connecting element can be connected to the transmission device.

[0059] In particular, the transmission device is connected to the at least one drawer element when it is moved between the first and second positions.

[0060] Preferably, the at least one drive component includes a pulley which is coupled to the drive unit via a belt, which is arranged in particular next to the drawer device.

[0061] Preferably, the drive unit is a direct drive. The output shaft of the direct drive is preferably coaxially connected to a drive disc, in particular an eccentric disc, in order to drive it—especially without the use of a gearbox. In this case, the drive unit is preferably arranged on the drawer element. The drive unit can be a flat electric motor whose height is less than its width and / or depth. In particular, the drive unit can be a disc-shaped motor, especially a disc rotor motor.

[0062] The drive disc preferably has a transmission element that is arranged eccentrically to the axis of rotation of the drive disc and that, in particular, causes the shaking motion. The transmission element preferably connects the drive disc to the transmission device.

[0063] Preferably, the at least one drive component has one or more movable base parts, also referred to as bearing elements or idlers, which are connected in particular to the at least one drawer element and especially to the transmission device or the transmission plate, which supports the platform device by means of the transmission plate. An idler is specifically designed to support the platform device, which is driven by the eccentric disc and performs an orbital motion. The idler does not have an active drive function, but rather serves to stabilize and support the transmission device while it is driven by the eccentric.

[0064] The idler is typically located at a point along the path of the transmission device and helps to stabilize and guide the lateral movement while the platform device performs the shaking motion. It helps to reduce the stress on the transmission element and drive components, thus extending the system's service life.

[0065] Preferably, the at least one idler supports the transmission device and thus the platform device by ensuring stable guidance along the path of the orbital motion and stabilizing the eccentric motion of the eccentric.

[0066] Preferably, the drawer assembly comprises a rail system by means of which the at least one drawer element is movably mounted in the fixture space on the device base by means of a sliding or rolling bearing. The rail system particularly comprises first rail elements mounted on the device base and second rail elements mounted on the drawer element. The second rail elements can be mounted on the first rail elements by means of sliding and / or rolling bearings.

[0067] Preferably, the drive device comprises a drive unit configured to provide a drive motion and a gear unit configured to convert the drive motion into the shaking motion, the gear unit comprising at least one gear element. The drive unit and the at least one gear element are drive components, at least one of which is connected to the at least one drawer element. The drive motion is, in particular, a rotational motion of the output shaft of an electric motor. The shaking motion of the platform device is such that all points on the platform device move integrally in a common, planar, orbital path, defined as the superposition of two translations and with an eccentricity.

[0068] The transmission unit includes, in particular, those moving components that are located in the kinematic chain between the drive unit and the connecting elements that connect the platform unit to the drive device.

[0069] Preferably, the chamber is bounded by a chamber floor wall, which separates the interior of the chamber from the device space preferably provided below the chamber floor wall and which is designed to couple the drive device with the platform device, in particular by having at least one floor opening, in particular several floor openings, preferably two, three or preferably four floor openings.

[0070] Preferably, the chamber is bounded by a chamber floor wall. Preferably, the laboratory shaker has at least one connecting element, in particular a coupling rod, by which the platform assembly is detachably connected to the at least one drive component. The connection by this connecting element is preferably positive-locking and / or friction-locking. Preferably, the at least one connecting element extends through at least one opening in the chamber floor wall when the platform assembly is connected to the at least one drive component. Preferably, several openings are provided in the floor, each through which exactly one connecting element extends.

[0071] Preferably, the shaking motion is parallel to the chamber bottom wall, i.e., particularly horizontal, wherein at least one bottom opening in the chamber bottom wall is preferably dimensioned to allow the relative movement of the connecting element and the chamber bottom wall corresponding to the shaking motion. Preferably, the at least one bottom opening is sealed by a sealing element arranged between the chamber bottom wall and the connecting element. Preferably, each bottom opening is sealed by a sealing element, which is arranged, in particular, between the chamber bottom wall and the connecting element.

[0072] Preferably, the sealing element is connected to the connecting element, but preferably not to the chamber bottom wall, or preferably also to the chamber bottom wall. The connection is preferably force-fit and / or form-fit and / or material-fit.

[0073] Preferably, the connecting element and / or a drive component, in particular the transmission device, has at least one connecting means, in particular a screw or long screw, which is guided in particular through a central bore in the connecting element, or a locking or quick-release device. The connecting element is preferably detachably connected to the drive component, in particular the transmission device, by means of the at least one connecting means, particularly while the bottom opening is sealed by the sealing element.

[0074] Preferably, the connecting element has a thread which is designed to create a screw connection between the connecting element and the transmission device and which is arranged in particular concentrically to a central longitudinal axis of the connecting element.

[0075] Preferably, the at least one drive component, in particular a gear element, comprises the transmission device, in particular a transmission plate, for supporting the platform device. The at least one connecting element can be connected to the transmission device.

[0076] In particular, the transmission device is connected to the at least one drawer element when the latter is moved between the first and second positions. Preferably, the chamber bottom wall has at least one bottom opening which is closed by a sealing element. Preferably, the laboratory shaker has at least one connecting element which connects the at least one drive component to the platform device and which extends through the at least one bottom opening and the sealing element.

[0077] The sealing elements create a chamber interior free of drive components, making it easy to clean. Despite the thermal weak points created by the chamber bottom openings, the sealing elements prevent excessively cool surface temperatures on the chamber bottom wall, which would lead to condensation. The sealing elements also contribute to the low overall height of the laboratory shaker, as the chamber interior can be optimally utilized even with large sample vessels. This low height is particularly advantageous for stacked shakers, as the upper units must also remain ergonomically accessible. Furthermore, optimal height utilization is crucial for devices designed for higher throughput or optimal protein yield during expression in suspension cells.

[0078] The two preferred technical concepts for sealing elements with sliding bearings do without an elastomer part firmly connected between the chamber bottom wall and the connecting element in order to counteract the wear of the elastomer under its high load caused by continuous shaking motion.

[0079] Preferably, the sealing element comprises or consists of an elastomeric material, in particular a silicone material, preferably platinum-crosslinked silicone, or a fluororubber.

[0080] Preferably, the sealing element is a flat component whose maximum extent in directions parallel to the chamber bottom wall is greater than its maximum extent measured perpendicular to the chamber bottom wall. Preferably, the sealing element has a through-channel, particularly a central one, with a through-opening, through which the connecting element passes and against which the connecting element fits tightly, and / or wherein the sealing element is supported and / or fastened to the connecting element. Preferably, the through-channel is axial, and its wall thickness is greater than the thickness of a radially extending wall of the sealing element.

[0081] Preferably, the connecting element has at least one fastening section along its longitudinal axis A, the latter having a radial extension that varies. Preferably, the sealing element, in particular its passage channel, contacts this fastening section and encloses it, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

[0082] Preferably, the sealing element is movably mounted on the chamber bottom wall by means of a sliding bearing device, wherein i) preferably the sliding bearing device has a sliding surface extending parallel to the chamber bottom wall; (“axial sliding bearing”) or alternatively, ii) preferably the sliding bearing device has a sliding surface not extending parallel or perpendicular to the chamber bottom wall; (“radial sliding bearing”)

[0083] Preferably, the sealing element is a cap element, particularly a disc-shaped one, that covers the chamber bottom opening, especially during the operation of the drive device. This is particularly useful for the sliding bearing of the sealing element.

[0084] Preferably, the longer part of the connecting element, measured along its longitudinal axis A, is arranged outside the chamber and below the chamber floor wall. This allows for a short distance between the platform and the chamber floor wall, thus optimizing the use of the chamber interior. Preferably, the sealing element is attached to the connecting element and configured to slide along a sliding surface parallel to the chamber floor wall during the shaking motion. This sliding surface is provided at the chamber wall opening, particularly in the form of a circular ring around it. This concept is referred to as axial sliding bearing. Preferably, the sealing element has a sealing ring section extending parallel to the planar sliding surface and around the chamber wall opening, which is in contact with the sliding surface during sliding.

[0085] Preferably, the sealing element is flat and in particular has a sliding plane which runs substantially parallel to the chamber bottom wall, wherein preferably the sealing element anchored to the connecting element is arranged to compensate for inclination deviations between the sliding plane and the flat chamber bottom wall by means of a mobility of the sealing element, in particular by the sealing element having at least one elastically deformable, in particular annular, section or being completely elastically deformable.

[0086] Preferably, the connecting element and / or the drive component has at least one connecting element, in particular a screw, especially a long screw, which is guided through a central cavity or through-channel in the connecting element. Preferably, the connecting element is detachably connectable to the drive component, particularly when the bottom opening is sealed by the sealing element. Preferably, the connecting element includes a thread designed to create a screw connection between the connecting element and the drive component, and which is arranged, in particular, concentrically to a central longitudinal axis of the connecting element.

[0087] Preferably, a transmission device, which may be one-piece or multi-piece, in particular a transmission plate, is arranged on at least one drive component, in particular a gear element, for supporting the platform device, to which the at least one connecting element is connected. This gear element, in particular the transmission device, is preferably arranged outside the chamber. Preferably, an insulating layer made of a thermally insulating material is arranged below the chamber, adjacent to or adjoining the chamber floor wall or the heating coil preferably arranged there, and this insulating layer in particular has an opening through which the connecting element passes. The opening in the insulating material is in particular concentric with the chamber floor opening.Preferably, an insulating element connected to the connecting element is provided, which is movable together with the connecting element relative to the insulating material layer and which covers or closes the insulating material opening in the axial direction, particularly also during the shaking movement.

[0088] Preferably, the laboratory shaker has a heating device, which in particular includes heating coils - preferably on the outside of the chamber - and an electrical control device programmed to execute a high-temperature program by which the control device is programmed to heat the chamber interior, sealed by the at least one sealing element, to a predetermined temperature by means of the heating device for a predetermined period of time, wherein the period can be between 1 minute and 12 hours, in particular 20 minutes to 5 hours, and wherein the temperature can be between 90 °C and 140 °C.

[0089] The invention also relates to a laboratory device for incubating liquid laboratory samples contained in sample containers (130), in particular an incubation shaker, comprising

[0090] • a chamber (2) having at least one chamber wall and a chamber opening (2a) for placing and removing the sample containers (130) into an interior (3) of the chamber,

[0091] • a heating device (190) for heating the chamber, which has at least one heating coil arranged on the outside of the at least one chamber wall, characterized in that • the at least one chamber wall has at least a first surface area in which the heating power emitted by the at least one heating coil is greater than in a second surface area, in particular by laying the at least one heating coil in the first area with a higher surface density.

[0092] The heating power is specified in watts. It can be measured electrically for a section of heating wire. In practice, the area used as the basis for these specifications is typically between 10 and 50 square decimeters. In the incubation chamber, the vertical spacing of parallel wires in the central areas (secondary areas) of the floor, side, back, and ceiling walls is between 3 and 15 cm, particularly between 4 and 10 cm. In the peripheral areas and near openings of the chamber (primary areas), the spacing is preferably smaller than in the central areas.

[0093] Preferably, the heat flux density, specified in watts per square meter, is greater in the first area than in the second area.

[0094] The heating wire or heating coil is glued to the chamber wall, in particular by means of an adhesive tape, in particular metallic adhesive tape, in particular aluminium adhesive tape.

[0095] Preferably, the area coverage ratio of the at least one heating coil, i.e., the area A_H covered by the heating coil on the surface divided by the unit area A, i.e., A_H / A, is greater in the first area than in the second area. The quantity A is also referred to as the reference area and is further explained in connection with the figures.

[0096] Preferably, the length of the at least one heating coil laid on the surface per unit area, measured in meters per square meter, is greater in the first area than in the second area. Preferably, the proportion of the heating wire length per planar area (for example, centrally in the ceiling wall area of ​​the chamber) – as the second area – is compared with the proportion of the heating wire length in the chamber wall edge area and / or a chamber wall opening and / or a chamber wall curvature area – as the first area.

[0097] Preferably, the first surface area is located closer to an edge of the chamber wall, an opening in the chamber wall, and / or a curved area, particularly a corner, of the chamber than the second surface area. In these areas, more heat is dissipated to the surroundings compared to the planar surface of the chamber wall, which can be compensated for by the higher heating coil density or higher heating power. As a result, a more homogeneous chamber temperature is achieved, and the risk of condensation on the first surface area is avoided.

[0098] Preferably, the laboratory device includes an electrical control unit, in particular a data processing unit, and is preferably programmed to detect the temperature of a chamber, in particular the chamber wall, and in particular to adjust the power of the heating device as a function of this temperature. Preferably, the control unit is programmed to regulate the temperature of the heating device to a desired, in particular constant, target temperature. Preferably, the control unit is programmed to form a heating control loop configured to regulate the temperature of a heating element of the evaporator, measured by a temperature sensor, to a constant target temperature at which a volume of water coming into contact with the heating element is evaporated, thereby extracting heat from the heating element.

[0099] The electronic control device is preferably programmed to control at least one function of the lighting device for illuminating the interior of the chamber, in particular the duration and / or intensity and / or color and / or depending on sensor signals, in particular the signal of a door sensor of the incubator.

[0100] The functions of the control unit are implemented primarily through program code and / or electronic circuits. The control unit may include a microcontroller, a processing unit (CPU) for data processing, or a microprocessor, each of which may be assigned to the data processing unit.

[0101] The control unit can also be a control device that controls at least one, several, or all functions of the laboratory device. One of the functions of the laboratory device is, in particular, the regulation of the temperature in the incubation chamber of the laboratory device, or the regulation of the gas composition in the incubation chamber, especially the CO2 concentration. Another function of the laboratory device is, in particular, the control of a user interface module of the laboratory device that displays information to the user, especially about sensor values ​​relating to physical or chemical quantities measured in / on the incubation chamber.

[0102] The invention also relates to a method for treating the interior of a laboratory shaker according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a heating device and an electrical control device programmed to execute a high-temperature program, by which the control device is programmed to heat the interior of the chamber, sealed by the at least one sealing element, to a predetermined temperature by means of the heating device for a predetermined period, wherein the period can be between 1 minute and 12 hours, in particular 20 minutes to 5 hours, and wherein the temperature can be between 90 °C and 140 °C, in particular up to 180 °C or up to 200 °C, wherein the method comprises the step:

[0103] • Heating the interior of the chamber by means of the heating device to a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period, wherein the period may be between 1 minute and 12 hours, in particular 20 minutes to 5 hours, and wherein the temperature may be between 90 °C and 140 °C, in particular up to 180 °C or up to 200 °C.

[0104] Preferably, the sealing element has at least one eccentric disc and, in particular, a sliding surface with a radial orientation. Preferably, the sealing element has at least one eccentric disc which has at least one sliding surface with a radial orientation, in particular with an orientation radially outwards.

[0105] Preferably, the sealing element has at least one first eccentric disc, which has at least one sliding surface with a radial orientation, in particular with an orientation radially outwards, and preferably the sealing element has at least one second eccentric disc, which has at least one sliding surface with a radial orientation, in particular with an orientation radially outwards. This arrangement is also referred to as a double eccentric disc. The connecting element is preferably rotatably mounted eccentrically about its longitudinal axis in the second eccentric disc, preferably by means of a spherical bearing.

[0106] Preferably, the sealing element has a sealing ring section that runs parallel to the sliding surface, which is perpendicular to or at least inclined relative to the chamber bottom wall and runs concentrically to the chamber wall opening, and which is in contact with the sliding surface when sliding.

[0107] Preferably, the sealing element is flat and has a main plane that runs substantially parallel to the chamber bottom wall, wherein the sealing element anchored to the connecting element has at least one elastically deformable, in particular annular, section or is completely elastically deformable.

[0108] Preferably, the sealing element has magnetic sections whose magnetic attraction pulls the sealing element towards the chamber bottom wall.

[0109] Preferably, a radial sliding surface is provided on an annular insert element, in particular a bearing sleeve, which is attached to the chamber wall opening and, in particular, projects into it. Preferably, the sealing element has a curved wall section, which is designed, in particular, as an annular trough, in the center of which a through-channel or opening for the passage of the connecting element is provided.

[0110] Preferably, a retaining ring element is provided with which the sealing element is attached to the chamber bottom opening, and which extends in particular with a hollow cylindrical section towards the device space.

[0111] The laboratory shaker for shaking laboratory samples is specifically designed for temperature control. Such devices are electrically operated and have a power connection. The laboratory shaker maintains the temperature of the laboratory samples; that is, it keeps the interior of the housing, and thus the laboratory samples stored there, at a set temperature, within tolerances, by means of temperature control. This temperature can be above room temperature (ambient temperature), as is the case with a heating cabinet or incubator, or below room temperature, as is the case with a refrigerator or freezer. In a laboratory shaker designed as a climate-controlled shaker, a climate parameter prevailing inside the housing is preferably also regulated within tolerances. This climate parameter can be the humidity and / or a gas concentration, e.g., a CO2, O2, and / or N2 concentration.Such a climate laboratory shaker is, for example, a laboratory shaker for shaking laboratory samples, especially with living cell cultures, with incubator function, also referred to as an incubation shaker.

[0112] Typical features of such laboratory shakers may include one or more of the following:

[0113] Temperature controllability of the chamber: Heating to a maximum of 60 or 80 °C for cell culture.

[0114] Shaking motion speed range: (25-500, -1000 rpm).

[0115] Housing format such that it can be set up in the laboratory (on the laboratory table, under the laboratory table, stackable floor-standing models).

[0116] Stackability of the housing (2, 3, or more stacked on top of each other). Capacity and throughput: vessel type, size, and capacity. Loading method (front or top).

[0117] CO2 regulation.

[0118] Photosynthetic light.

[0119] The laboratory shaker is particularly preferably configured to perform a high-temperature sterilization process inside the chamber using a temperature control device and / or a heating device. In this process, the chamber is exposed to a temperature between 150°C and 200°C, preferably at least 180°C, for a period ranging from several seconds (e.g., 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 seconds) to several minutes (e.g., up to 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 30, 60, 120, 240, 480, or 600 minutes), without the need to remove the extraction mechanism, preferably including the attached sample platform. The laboratory shaker, and in particular an electronic control device that controls the temperature control device and / or the heating device, is particularly preferably configured to maintain the temperature of the chamber for a period exceeding one hour, especially for several hours.The chamber is to be exposed to a target temperature between 150°C and 200°C, preferably at least 180°C, for a period of time within an interval of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 hours. The chamber typically requires a heating period to reach the target temperature and a cooling period to cool back down to a normal operating temperature. In particular, the extraction mechanism is located within the sealed chamber during the high-temperature cycle. The extraction mechanism and the sample platform are made of a suitably high-temperature-resistant material, in particular stainless steel or aluminum, especially anodized aluminum.

[0120] The laboratory shaker preferably comprises a housing. The housing is preferably an outer housing whose walls are in contact with the environment. The housing door can accordingly be an outer housing door that, in the closed position, borders the environment. The housing door particularly features a hinge mechanism that pivotally connects the housing door to the housing. Such a hinged door is moved between an open and a closed position by rotation. The hinge mechanism can, in particular, be located on the vertically oriented outer edge of a cuboid housing—as is typical in the intended use of the laboratory shaker—which borders the housing opening.In the intended use of the laboratory shaker, the base plate of a cuboid housing is arranged horizontally, the side walls of the housing are arranged vertically, and the top plate of the housing is arranged horizontally opposite the base plate.

[0121] A data processing unit is preferably part of the electrical control unit that controls the functions of the laboratory shaker and which the laboratory shaker preferably includes. The functions of the control unit are implemented, in particular, by electronic circuits. The control unit can include a microcontroller, a processing unit (CPU) for processing data, and / or a microprocessor, each of which can incorporate the data processing unit. The control unit and / or the data processing unit is preferably configured to carry out a control method, also referred to as control software or a control program. Such a control method can define the timing of a shaking motion that can be performed by means of the shaking device.This shaking motion is defined in particular by the direction(s) of translational movements and / or the amplitude(s) of successive movement segments performed in an xy-plane. This xy-plane is generally parallel to the sample platform and / or a chamber floor. Preferred diameters of a shaking motion performed in an xy-plane are between 0 and 5.08 cm (2 inches) or up to 7.62 cm (3 inches). The shaking device, in particular an orbital drive, is preferably configured for a shaking motion with a maximum diameter between 0 and 5.08 cm (2 inches) or up to 7.62 cm (3 inches). The functions of the laboratory shaker and / or the control device can be described in process steps. They can be implemented as components of the control program, in particular as subprograms of the control program.

[0122] Preferably, the laboratory shaker is an incubation shaker. The incubation shaker can then also be operated as a laboratory incubator and is thus a device with which controlled climatic conditions can be created and maintained for various biological development and growth processes. It serves in particular to create and maintain a microclimate with regulated gas, humidity, and / or temperature conditions in the chamber, whereby this treatment can be time-dependent.The incubation shaker may in particular include a timer, especially a time switch, a temperature control device designed as a heating and / or cooling device and preferably a setting for regulating an exchange gas supplied to the chamber, an adjustment device for the composition of the gas in the chamber of the incubation shaker, in particular for adjusting the CO2 and / or the O2 and / or the N2 content of the gas and / or an adjustment device for adjusting the humidity in the chamber of the incubation shaker.

[0123] The incubation shaker comprises, in particular, the incubator chamber (=chamber), and preferably a control device with at least one control loop, to which at least one temperature control device is assigned as the actuator and at least one temperature sensor as the measuring element. Depending on the embodiment, the humidity can also be controlled via this device, with the humidity preferably being measured by a humidity sensor (rH sensor) in the chamber, and the humidity being, in particular, the input variable of the control loop. For humidifying the chamber, a water-filled tray can be provided in the incubator chamber, which can be heated or cooled to adjust the humidity via evaporation. However, it is more preferred to provide an evaporator device on the outside of the chamber, which generates steam as needed and supplies it to the chamber through a steam inlet opening in the chamber wall.This steam supply is preferably regulated by the control unit. CO2 incubation shakers are used in particular for the cultivation of animal or human cells. The control unit can be configured so that a program parameter or a control parameter of the laboratory shaker, especially the incubation shaker, is automatically selected depending on other data. In an incubator, treatment of at least one cell culture in at least one cell culture container, controlled by a control parameter, corresponds in particular to climate treatment to which the at least one cell culture is subjected.Possible parameters, in particular program parameters, in particular user parameters, which are used to influence a climate treatment, define in particular the temperature of the chamber in which the at least one sample is incubated, the relative gas concentration of O2 and / or CO2 and / or N2 in the chamber, the humidity in the chamber and / or at least one process parameter that influences or defines the process, in particular the sequence, of an incubation treatment program and / or shaking program consisting of several steps.

[0124] The temperature control device can be a combined heating / cooling device. Preferably, it is solely a heating device. This can, in particular, generate heat via an electrical resistance wire. Preferably, the resistance wire is attached to the outside of at least one, several, or all of the chamber walls that form the chamber.

[0125] Laboratory shakers, or incubation shakers, can have a single chamber or multiple chambers, the atmosphere of which (temperature, relative gas concentration, humidity) can be individually or collectively adjusted. A typical chamber volume ranges from 50 to 400 liters, although smaller chamber sizes, particularly 10 to 49 liters, are available for specific applications (IVF).

[0126] Further preferred embodiments of a laboratory shaker according to the invention can be found in the description of the exemplary embodiments according to the figures. The same reference numerals denote essentially identical components: The figures show:

[0127] Fig. 1a shows a perspective side-frontal view of a laboratory shaker according to the invention as an exemplary embodiment.

[0128] Fig. 1b shows the laboratory shaker of Fig. 1a, with a removed side wall and the components arranged laterally to the side of the chamber in an electronics chamber.

[0129] Fig. 1c shows the laboratory shaker of Fig. 1a, with the swing door open, with the sealing elements, connecting elements, sub-platform and platform as well as sample vessels removed from the chamber and therefore not shown.

[0130] Fig. 1d shows the laboratory shaker of Fig. 1c, with the front panel removed, behind which the drive chamber located below the chamber is situated.

[0131] Figs. 2a to 2f show, each in a perspective oblique view, different positions of the swing door device or the swing door of the laboratory shaker of figure 1a, between, and including, positions P1 and P2, with the housing side wall not shown.

[0132] Figures 3a to 3c show, in a side view, different positions of the pivot door and the pivot arms of the laboratory shaker of Figure 1a, with the housing side wall not shown.

[0133] Fig. 4a shows, in a side view, a stack of three laboratory shakers according to Figure 1a.

[0134] Fig. 4b shows a perspective view of a side frame part as part of the support structure of the laboratory device of Fig. 1a. Figs. 5a and 5b each show, in two different oblique views and from the rear, the pivot door with pivot arms and gas springs of the laboratory shaker of Fig. 1a, with the housing side wall not shown.

[0135] Fig. 5c shows a detail of a top view of the swing door with coupling rod of the laboratory shaker of figure 1a.

[0136] Fig. 5d shows a detail of a sectional view perpendicular through the door leaf element of Fig. 5a, 5b.

[0137] Figs. 6a and 6b show a sectional view through the laboratory shaker of figure 1a along the line AA shown in Fig. 1a, with the housing side wall not shown.

[0138] Fig. 7a shows a perspective oblique view of the first swivel arms of the

[0139] Swing door of the laboratory shaker of Figure 1a, on a first side of the

[0140] Swing door.

[0141] Fig. 7b shows a perspective oblique view of the second swivel arms of the

[0142] Swing door of the laboratory shaker of Figure 1a, on a second side of the

[0143] A swing door, which is opposite the first side.

[0144] Fig. 8a shows, in a side view, a position of the pivot door and the pivot arms of the laboratory shaker of figure 1a, showing the path of the lower first pivot arm.

[0145] Fig. 8b shows the lower first swivel arm of Fig. 8a.

[0146] Fig. 8c shows the first upper swivel arm and the second upper swivel arm of the laboratory shaker of Figure 1a, the swivel arms being rigidly connected by a coupling rod. Fig. 9a shows a perspective rear view of the laboratory shaker of Figure 1a, with the back panels and insulation layer removed.

[0147] Fig. 9b shows the rear view of Fig. 9a, with the insulating layer inserted and the splash guard on the back.

[0148] Figure 9c shows a vertical section through the laboratory shaker of Figure 1a, perpendicular to the pivot door.

[0149] Fig. 1a shows a perspective side-frontal view of a laboratory device 1 according to the invention, here a laboratory shaker 1. It is a CO2 incubation shaker 1, which is stackable (see Fig. 4). The chamber interior 3 of the laboratory shaker has a capacity of 220 l (measured as usable volume), with an overall low height and narrow width. The chamber interior 3 contains no components of the swing door assembly 100 and is therefore available in its full width for loading. The swing door assembly 100 can be optimized for arrangement outside the chamber interior. In particular, components of the swing door assembly, especially the swing arms, do not need to be separately encapsulated, as is the case with devices known in the prior art for cleaning purposes. This allows the swing door assembly to be designed in a particularly space-saving manner, especially by using plate-shaped components for the swing arms.This results in a relatively narrow overall width for the laboratory device.

[0150] A low overall height is made possible in particular by the fact that the sealing elements 50 between drive chamber 4 (also: device chamber 4) and the chamber interior 3 are designed in a flat construction, and the drive chamber itself is also kept flat. Fig. 9c shows the embodiment of the sealing element 50 with an axial sliding bearing.

[0151] The chamber is bounded by the first side wall 32, the second side wall 34, a chamber floor wall 31, a chamber rear wall 33 and a chamber ceiling wall 38, wherein the chamber floor wall 31, and also the chamber ceiling wall 38, are arranged horizontally in the intended use of the laboratory device.

[0152] The laboratory shaker 1 has a housing 19 in which the chamber 2 is arranged. The chamber opening 2a of the chamber 2 is sealed by means of a door seal 10a and sealing elements 50, 50' etc. when the swing door 120, also referred to as the door leaf element 120, is closed, such that during operation of the laboratory shaker 1 only a negligible exchange of gases or water vapor takes place between the interior of the chamber 3 and the environment of the laboratory shaker.

[0153] The pivoting door mechanism and the drive 20 of the laboratory shaker, which will be explained below, are arranged outside chamber 2. This allows for efficient use of the chamber interior 3; in particular, the drive components are not heated during a high-temperature sterilization process applied to the chamber interior.

[0154] In particular, a large part of the drive is located in the device compartment 4, also referred to as drive compartment 4, which is arranged below the chamber floor 31. Part of the drive 20 and other components are located in the electronics compartment 5, which is arranged to the side of the chamber. The housing 19 has a side wall 7, another side wall 7a, a rear wall, a front panel 6, a top wall, a rear panel, and side panels 8. The hinged door 120 can be pivoted upwards from the front wall plane 10 by means of a pivoting mechanism with a gas spring; the open position of the hinged door is shown in Figures 1c and 1d.

[0155] Figure 1a shows the first position P1 of the pivot door 120, in which the pivot door 120 closes the chamber opening 2a. The closure is complete and tight, achieved by the circumferential silicone seal 10a and a magnetic device 180. Magnets (181, 182, 183, 184; see below) attached to the inside of the pivot door 120 adhere in position P1 to the ferromagnetic front wall of the laboratory device or to optionally additional magnets attached there, thereby compressing the silicone seal 10a. Magnets 181 and 182 can also be omitted if the magnetic closure effect is sufficient.

[0156] Fig. 1b shows the laboratory shaker 1 with a removed side wall 7 and the components arranged laterally of the chamber in an electronics compartment 5. These components include the drive 20, here a BLDC motor, the belt 21 driven by it, the power supply components 22 of the drive and the heating device for heating the chamber, with fan 23, and an electronic circuit board 24, which in particular contains the control unit of the laboratory shaker. This is programmed in particular to carry out a high-temperature sterilization process applied to the chamber interior 3, according to one aspect of the invention. Also visible is the water evaporator 25, with which water can be evaporated and introduced into the chamber interior.

[0157] Fig. 1c shows the laboratory shaker 1 with the swing door 120 open. The sealing elements, connecting elements, sub-platform, platform, and sample containers have been removed from the chamber and are therefore not shown. Visible is the chamber 2, which is formed from integrally connected stainless steel walls 31, 32, 33, 34, 38 (a stainless steel chamber is preferred, but aluminum is also preferred as a chamber material). These walls are integrally connected by curved wall sections. These chamber walls include the chamber bottom wall 31, the side wall 32, another side wall 34, a top wall 38, and a rear wall 33. The chamber bottom wall 31 has four bottom openings 35. Concentrically to each bottom opening, an annular sliding surface element 36 made of aluminum is mounted concentrically around the bottom opening and on the chamber bottom wall 31 in the interior of the chamber 3.The sliding surface element 36 has a sliding surface 37 on its upper side, arranged (with tolerances) parallel to the chamber bottom wall. This surface serves for the sliding support of a sealing element 50 (Fig. 9c, not shown in Fig. 1c, d, see Fig. 2a, 2b), which is arranged on the sliding surface for axial sliding support. If the drawer element 40 is to be pulled out for maintenance purposes or for the purpose of changing the orbit, the removable front panel 6 of the laboratory shaker in Fig. 1c must be removed. This leads to the state of the laboratory shaker shown in Fig. 1d.

[0158] Fig. 1d shows the laboratory shaker of Fig. 1c, with the front panel 6 removed, behind which the drive compartment 4, located below the chamber, is situated. A drawer element 40, here a drawer plate 40, is arranged in the drive compartment 4. This drawer element is fixedly connected to a base 9 of the laboratory shaker 1 during operation and can be pulled forward (in the y-direction) out of the drive compartment 4 by means of a rail system 43, which can be pulled out of the drive compartment 4 for maintenance purposes. The drive pulley 41, driven by the belt 21 and equipped with an eccentric coupling 41a, is rotatably mounted on the drawer plate 40. This drive pulley sets the drive component, designed as a transmission plate 44 (not visible here) and arranged above (i.e., in the positive z-direction) the drive pulley (eccentric disc) 41, into a horizontal pivoting motion.Four movable base parts (bearing elements, idler 42, in particular with double ball-bearing eccentric shaft, wherein an upper ball bearing is elastically mounted) are mounted on the drawer plate 40, which on the one hand support the transmission plate 44 and whose horizontally movable bearing mechanisms on the other hand follow the horizontal shaking movement generated by the eccentric disc 41.

[0159] The drawer assembly comprises the drawer element 40 and the rails 43 on which the drawer element 40 is movably mounted, here for a sliding translational movement between a first and a second position. In the exemplary embodiment of the laboratory shaker 1, the drawer element 40 can be pulled forward out of the drive compartment 4 after loosening some screws that firmly connect the drawer plate 40 to the device base 9 in the operating state. In doing so, the drawer element 40 is moved from a first position, shown in Fig. 1d, in which the drawer element 40 is arranged in the drive compartment, to a second position in which the at least one drawer element 40 is extended out of the drive compartment 4.Accordingly, the drawer element 40 can be moved from the second position back to the first position, especially after the maintenance personnel have carried out the desired action on the drive device 41 , 42 , 21.

[0160] “Forward” refers to the direction pointing outwards perpendicularly from the door 10 of the laboratory shaker (y-direction, as shown in Fig. 1a).

[0161] In Fig. 1d, the second position P2 of the pivot door 120 is shown, in which it is completely removed from the chamber opening, allowing unobstructed access from the front. The chamber opening 2a is bounded by a first side edge 2a_1 and a second side edge 2a_2 opposite it, as well as a lower edge 2a_3 and an upper edge 2a_4 opposite it, with the first and second side edges running perpendicular to the upper and lower edges. In the intended use of the laboratory device, the lower edge 2a_3 and the upper edge 2a_4 are arranged horizontally.

[0162] Figures 2a to 2f show different positions of the pivot door assembly 100 and the pivot door 120, respectively. Figure 1a shows the pivot door 120 in the first position P1, in which it completely closes the chamber opening 2a. Figure 2f shows the second position P2 of the pivot door 120, in which it is pivoted completely away from the chamber opening and at its maximum distance, allowing unobstructed access to the chamber from the front. Figures 2b to 2e show positions of the pivot door between the first position P1 and the second position P2 when the pivot door 120 is opened and, guided by the pivot door assembly 100, slides upwards. The pivot door 120 is therefore also referred to as a slide-up door.

[0163] Figs. 2b to 2e show open positions of the pivot door in which the chamber opening is open, but the chamber door has not yet fully pivoted away from the chamber opening 2a, so that the chamber is not yet fully accessible for loading or unloading.

[0164] Fig. 2a shows in particular the support structure 80. This structure comprises two opposing lateral frame side walls 89 and 88 (see also Fig. 4b) as first and second support parts, which are made of stainless steel sheet and are rigidly connected to the device base 9. The first support part 89 and the second support part 88 (see Fig. 1c) have vertically arranged support struts 81, 82, 83, 85, 87, made of profiled sheet steel, which are integral components of the frame side walls 89 and 88. Together with other vertically arranged support struts, in particular the support strut 83, and horizontally arranged support struts, the frame side parts 89 and 88 form a support frame 80, which is part of or constitutes part of the support structure.

[0165] Fig. 2b shows a position of the pivot door 120 shortly after the chamber opening 2a has been opened, when the user has pulled the handle 11, which is rigidly connected to the pivot door 120, forward to open it. The force required essentially comprises the holding force to release the four permanent magnets attached to the inside of the pivot door, which in position P1 adhere to the ferromagnetic front wall 10 of the laboratory device, or can be held without contact between permanent magnets 10b attached there, which are shown in Fig. 1c and not shown in Figures 2b to 2e.

[0166] To fully open the swing door, the user pulls the handle 11 further forward (Figures 2c to 2e). This moves the swing door upwards, guided by the swing door mechanism 100. This movement occurs essentially without any effort from the user, as the energy stored in a spring system 150 of the swing door mechanism is used to pivot the swing door 120 upwards. The spring system 150 comprises two gas springs, here gas tension springs S151 and S152. It is generally preferred that the spring system comprises at least one spring. This can be a helical spring, in particular a compression spring or a tension spring, or a gas spring, in particular a gas compression spring or a gas tension spring.

[0167] As can be seen in Figures 1c, 2b to 2e and 5a, 5b, the laboratory shaker 1 has a swing door device 100 for closing the chamber opening 2a. The pivoting door assembly 100 includes the pivoting door leaf element 120. The pivoting door assembly 100 also comprises, arranged adjacent to the first side edge 2a_1 of the chamber opening 2a, a first, lower pivot arm 101 and a first, upper pivot arm 103. The pivoting door assembly 100 also comprises, arranged adjacent to the second side edge 2a_2 of the chamber opening 2a, a second, lower pivot arm 102 and a second, upper pivot arm 104. The first pivot arms 101 and 103 are each opposite the second pivot arms 102 and 104 and are spaced apart from each other by a distance that is greater than the maximum width of the chamber 2 and less than the overall width of the laboratory device 1.

[0168] As shown in Fig. 2c or Fig. 1c, the laboratory device has a first, slot-shaped recess 10c into which the at least one first swivel arm 101, 103 engages. The laboratory device also has a second slot-shaped recess 10d into which the at least one second swivel arm 102, 104 engages. Each recess opens into an opening in the front wall 10 of the laboratory device. The first lower swivel arm

[0169] The first upper pivot arm 101 and the first upper pivot arm 103 are pivotably arranged on the support structure 80 such that they are always coplanar during their respective pivoting movements, i.e., they lie in the same first plane. The second lower pivot arm

[0170] The first and second upper pivot arms 102 and 104 are pivotably arranged on the support structure such that they remain coplanar during their respective pivoting movements, i.e., they lie in the same second plane. The first and second planes are parallel and spaced apart from each other. This arrangement allows the aforementioned recesses to have a plate-like shape, resulting in a compact design for the pivoting door mechanism and the laboratory equipment.

[0171] The first upper pivot arm 103 and the second upper pivot arm 104 are rigidly connected to each other via the coupling rod 98. This connection by the coupling rod 98 is shown in Fig. 8c. The arrangement of the first upper pivot arm 103, the coupling rod 98, and the second upper pivot arm 104 is a rigid structure, with the aforementioned components being made of stainless steel. Therefore, the first pivot arm moves when the second pivot arm moves, and vice versa. The movements of these pivot arms are synchronized. The coupling rod 98 is located outside the chamber. The coupling rod 98 is rotatably mounted on the support structure 80. For this purpose, a sleeve 105 is provided, which is rigidly connected to the support structure 80 above the chamber 2.

[0172] Figures 3a to 3c show in particular that the pivot arms are mounted on pivot bearings, which are designed here as sliding bearings. Each pivot arm 101, 102, 103, 104 is mounted either directly (pivot arms 101, 102) or indirectly (pivot arms 103, 104, via the coupling rod 98) on the support structure 80. The first lower pivot arm 101 is pivotably mounted on the first support section 81 by means of the pivot bearing 91. The first pivot bearing 91 includes a pin that engages in a bore of the first lower pivot arm 101 and a bore of the first support section 81.

[0173] The first lower pivot arm 101 is also pivotally mounted on the door leaf element 120 by means of a pivot bearing 93. The corresponding pivot bearing 93 is located on a profiled sheet 107 (see Figure 5a), which is fixedly connected to the inside of the door leaf element 120 and which runs perpendicular to the plane of the door leaf element 120 and from top to bottom.

[0174] The first lower pivot arm 101 also has a third pivot bearing 95, on which one end of the gas spring 151, in particular its piston end, is pivotally mounted. The other end of the gas spring 151 is pivotally mounted in a lower area of ​​the first support part 81.

[0175] The pivot axis of the pivot bearing 95 is closer to the pivot axis 91 than to the pivot axis 93. This creates a leverage effect, which, in conjunction with the gas spring 151, provides the necessary force to open the swing door mechanism 100. For example, a user opens the swing door 120 by pivoting the handle 11 upwards. In particular, the force required to compress the gas spring is reduced by the leverage effect when, for example, a user closes the swing door 120 again by pivoting the handle 11 downwards.

[0176] The pivot axes of all three pivot bearings 91, 93 and 95 are parallel to each other. The second lower pivot arm 102 is designed here as a mirror image of the first pivot arm 101 (see Fig. 8b):

[0177] The second lower pivot arm 102 is pivotally mounted on the second support part 82 by means of the pivot bearing 92 (see Fig. 5b). The second pivot bearing 92 also includes a pin that engages in a bore 92 of the second lower pivot arm 102 and a bore of the second support part 82.

[0178] The second lower pivot arm 102 is pivotally mounted on the door leaf element 120 by means of a further pivot bearing 94. The corresponding pivot bearing 94 is located on a profiled sheet 108 (see Figure 5b) opposite the profiled sheet 107. This profiled sheet 108 is fixedly connected to the inside of the door leaf element 120 and runs perpendicular to the plane of the door leaf element 120, from top to bottom. The planar and parallel profiled sheets 107 and 108 thus have essentially the same distance between them as the facing sides of the pivot arms 101 and 102.

[0179] The second lower pivot arm 102 also has a third pivot bearing 96, on which one end of the gas spring 152, in particular its piston end, is pivotally mounted. The other end of the gas spring 152 is pivotally mounted in a lower area of ​​the second support part 82.

[0180] The pivot axes of all three pivot bearings 92, 94 and 96 are parallel to each other.

[0181] The pivot axis of the pivot bearing 96 is closer to the pivot axis 92 than to the pivot axis 94. This also creates the leverage effect necessary to generate, in conjunction with the second gas spring 152, the appropriate force for opening the swing door mechanism 100. For example, a user opens the swing door 120 by pivoting the handle 11 upwards. In particular, the force required to compress the gas spring is reduced by the leverage effect when, for example, a user closes the swing door 120 by pivoting the handle 11 downwards. The desired force for opening and closing the swing door is thus generated primarily by the leverage effect of both lower pivot arms 101 and 102, as well as by the combined action of the two gas springs 151 and 152.

[0182] The pivot arms 101, 102, 103, and 104 are planar components. The lower first pivot arm 101 and the lower second pivot arm 102 are strip-shaped components whose length and width are several times greater than their thickness. The relatively small thickness does not impair the mechanical stability of the pivoting door assembly, as the pivoting movement is localized in the main plane defined by the length and width of the strip. This prevents a load or bending moment perpendicular to the main plane. The upper first pivot arm 103 and the upper second pivot arm 104 are also strip-shaped planar components whose length and width are several times greater than their thickness. They have a kink (see Fig. 8c) which serves to prevent contact between the two lower pivot arms and the pivot door 120 during opening or closing. This can be seen in Figures 3a to 3c.

[0183] The support structure 80 has two opposing frame side walls 88, 89, between which the chamber 2 is arranged and on which it is supported, in addition to being supported on the device base 9. The space between the frame side wall 89 and the first chamber side wall 32 is filled with a thermal insulating material, in particular PU foam, as is the space between the frame side wall 88 and the second chamber side wall 34.

[0184] A further function of the lower pivot arms 101, 102 is explained with reference to Figures 5a and 5b. The first lower pivot arm 101 is provided on its side facing away from the chamber with a plate-shaped component 101a. This component can be made of aluminum, another metal, or plastic. It extends along the longitudinal direction of the lower first pivot arm 101 and is rigidly connected to it. The plate-shaped component 101a has larger sections 101a_1 and 101a_2, with which the plate-shaped component 101a projects beyond the surface of the pivot arm 101. In section 101a_1, the plate-shaped component 101a has a sliding block 101b on its side facing the chamber. This block is designed and arranged to slide along the surface of the frame side wall 89 facing away from the chamber when the pivot door is opened and closed. The latter therefore also fulfills the function of a sliding surface.The sliding block 101 b can, for example, be made of PTFE or PEEK.

[0185] Similarly, the second lower pivot arm 102 is provided on its side facing away from the chamber with a plate-shaped component 102a. This component can be made of aluminum, another metal, or plastic. It extends along the longitudinal direction of the lower second pivot arm 102 and is rigidly connected to it. The plate-shaped component 102a has larger sections 102a_1 and 102a_2, which project beyond the surface of the pivot arm 102. In section 102a_1, the plate-shaped component 102a has a sliding block 102b on its side facing the chamber. This sliding block is designed and arranged to slide along the surface of the frame side wall 88 facing away from the chamber when the pivot door is opened and closed. The latter thus also functions as a sliding surface. The sliding block 102b can be made of, for example, PTFE or PEEK.

[0186] A curved sliding track 102d, shown in Figures 5a and 5b, is screwed to the frame side wall 88. When the swing door 120 is opened and closed, an end face 102c of the lower second swing arm 102 slides along the curved inner surface of the sliding track 102d. This stabilizes the swinging motion.

[0187] The pivoting movement is further stabilized by attaching the sliding block 101 b to the frame side wall 89 and the sliding block 102b to the frame side wall 88.

[0188] Parallel to the plate-shaped component 102a, the swivel arm 102 has another plate-shaped component 102e, which is shaped analogously to the plate-shaped component 102a and is arranged parallel to it at a distance. The plate-shaped component 102e is fastened to the plate-shaped component 102a by connecting pins 102f, which are arranged between these components. The compression spring is attached to the side of the plate-shaped component 102e facing away from the chamber at the position of the swivel axis 96. Electrical cables can run between the plate-shaped components 102a and 102e, connecting the user interface 160, which is attached to the front of the swivel door 120, to an electronic control unit of the laboratory device for the purpose of supplying power to the user interface 160 and a heating element of the swivel door, and for data exchange, in particular via Ethernet, especially during the swivel movement of the swivel door.

[0189] Figure 5b shows that the door leaf element 120 has a multi-walled and thermally insulating viewing window 170. The planar and parallel profiled sheets 107, 108 also serve as stiffening elements of the door leaf element 120 and are firmly connected to the inner side 113 of a front wall of the door leaf element 120. The planar and parallel profiled sheets 107, 108 support or terminate in planar plate sections 111, 112, respectively, which run parallel to the front wall 113. The planar plate sections 111, 112 form an open inner wall of the door leaf element 120. The opening of the inner wall of the door leaf element 120 is, in particular, larger than the chamber opening. Not shown in Figures 5a and 5b is the thermal insulation made of glass or rock wool, which makes the pivot door a thermal insulation element 125 that effectively thermally insulates the chamber opening 2a in position P1 of the pivot door 120 from the environment. This is shown in Figure 9c.Four magnets 181, 182, 183, 184 of a magnetic device 180 are attached to the inner wall 111, 112 of the swing door 120, with magnets 181, 182 being optional. These connect the swing door in position P1 to a front wall made of magnetic sheet metal or to pairs 10b of permanent magnets attached thereto, which are fixed to the front wall 10 and between which the magnets 181, 182, 183, 184 are inserted without contact and establish the magnetic closing force.

[0190] Fig. 5d shows a detail of a cross-section perpendicular to the door leaf element 120, through one of the 12 retaining bolts 113c, which are fixedly mounted on the inside of the outer wall 113 of the door leaf element 120. These retaining bolts 113c each have a ball head 113d, which is fastened in locking devices 113b provided on the inner wall 113a of the door leaf element 120. The inner wall 113a has a heating coil located inside the door.

[0191] The magnets 181, 182, 183, 184 are preferably position-fixed permanent magnets, but can also be position-variable, for example rotatable permanent magnets, or can be electromagnets. A magnet 181, 182, 183, 184 can comprise several magnetic elements, which can be movable relative to each other in order to form a strong common magnetic field in a first position, which connects the pivot door in position P1 to the front wall 10, and in a second position to form a weak common magnetic field, which allows the pivot door connected to the front wall 10 in position P1 to be easily released.

[0192] The door leaf element has several stiffening profiles or stiffening struts 107, 108, 119.

[0193] Figure 6a shows, based on a section through the laboratory device perpendicular to the door leaf element 120 and along line AA shown in Fig. 2a, how the magnet 183 almost contacts the front wall 10. Figure 6b shows the same section, but also includes the silicone seal 10a, which runs around the chamber opening 2a and obscures the view of the magnet 183.

[0194] Figures 6a and 6b also show the space between the chamber ceiling wall 38 and the ceiling sheet wall 86 of the support frame 80, filled with thermal insulating foam 114. The thermal insulation of the chamber is further improved by the fact that the chamber flange 2b, which is integrally connected to the chamber 2 (made of stainless steel), does not directly contact the support structure 80 or its sheet walls 86, but is indirectly connected to the support structure 80 via a plastic spacer strip 115. This minimizes the unwanted heat transfer between the support structure 80 and chamber 2. Plastic spacers are also provided in other areas inside the laboratory device between the support structure 80 and chamber 2 to support the chamber.

[0195] Fig. 6b also shows the heating device 190, which is provided for heating the chamber and has a heating coil 190a arranged on the outside of the at least one chamber wall. The at least one chamber wall has at least a first surface area in which the heating power emitted by the at least one heating coil is greater than in a second surface area, in particular by the at least one heating coil being laid with a higher surface density in the first area. The first surface area is the one that runs along the edge 2a_4 as the boundary region of the chamber. There, three heating wires 190a are laid directly next to each other, in particular in contact with each other, while in the second surface area, here for example in the central area 2a_5 of the chamber ceiling wall, a lower heating power per area is emitted by the heating wire(s) 190b.

[0196] Due to the way the diagram is presented, sections of horizontal webs 190b are visible in area 2a_5. This is a mixed cross-sectional and side view, in which the underlying curves of the heating coil are also visible. The respective wire cross-section is represented by the square cross-section 190b_1, which is visible at the end of a horizontal web. The area of ​​the reference surface in the parameter "area density" (the surface area A_H covered by the wire divided by the reference surface area A) refers here to the average area enclosed by a heating coil 190b, multiplied by a factor f chosen from {1, 2, ..., 10}, preferably f=2, as the reference surface area. A heating coil is understood here as a wire 190c laid out as a loop, i.e., having two straight parallel sections connected by a 180° curved section, see Fig. 9c.Alternatively, the reference area can also be chosen as a proportion of the total outer surface area of ​​the chamber wall, defined by two side walls, the bottom wall, the top wall, and the back wall, as well as the respective curved connecting sections. This proportion can be selected from the preferred values ​​{1 / 30; 1 / 20; 1 / 10; 1 / 5}. The high surface density of the heating wire at the chamber opening 2a_4 compensates for heat losses caused by the wire's position at the opening. The temperature distribution along the chamber becomes more homogeneous overall due to the variation in surface density in areas 2a_4 and 2a_5, thus reducing the risk of condensation. The surface density is also higher in the curved transition areas between the chamber walls (e.g., between the back wall and top wall, the back wall and side walls, and the back wall and bottom wall) than in the central area 2a_5, further improving temperature homogeneity.

[0197] Fig. 9a shows the rear of the incubator with the outer housing wall removed and the insulating material layer 116, which is located in the space between the rear chamber wall and the outer housing wall, removed. The insulating material layer 116 (Pu foam) is shown in Fig. 9b.

[0198] Figure 9c shows a vertical section through the laboratory apparatus 1 perpendicular to the pivot door 120. The platform assembly 190 sits on coupling rods that project vertically upwards through the chamber floor wall 31 and connect the transfer plate 44 provided in the drive compartment 4 to the platform assembly 190, which carries sample vessels, such as the Erlenmeyer flasks shown. The transfer plate 44 is coupled to the drive and is shaken during operation of the incubation shaker 1.

[0199] With chamber opening 2a closed, the insulation material panels 114, 117, 116, 118, 125 form an insulating enclosure around an interior space containing chamber 2. The platform assembly 190 is necessarily located in chamber 2, but neither components of the swing door assembly 100 nor those of the drive assembly are present there. This ensures optimal use of the chamber volume.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Laboratory apparatus (1) for the treatment of liquid laboratory samples contained in sample vessels (130), in particular incubation shakers, comprising a chamber (2) having a chamber opening (2a) for placing and removing the sample vessels (130) into the chamber, as well as a first side wall (32) and a second side wall (34), comprising at least one pivot door device (100) for closing the chamber opening (2a), which has a pivotable door leaf element (120) that is movable between a first position (P1), in which the chamber opening (2a) is closed by the door leaf element (120), and a second position (P2), in which the door leaf element (120) is completely pivoted away from the chamber opening and the chamber opening is open, and comprising a support device (80) for supporting the pivot door device (100), characterized in that the pivot door device (100) has at least one first pivot arm (101; 103) and a second swivel arm (102;104) which are arranged in the first position of the door leaf element (120) outside the chamber (2) and which pivotably connect the door leaf element (120) to the support device (80).; 2. Laboratory apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the chamber (2) has a first side wall (32) and, opposite this, a second side wall (34), wherein the at least one first pivot arm (101) and the at least one second pivot arm (102) are arranged opposite each other and parallel to each other and in particular parallel to the first side wall (32) and the second side wall (34).

3. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a base (9), and connected thereto, the support device (80), in particular a frame device (80), which supports components of the laboratory device, wherein the support device comprises a first support part (89) with a first pivot bearing (91) on which the at least one first pivot arm (101) is pivotably mounted, and the support device comprises a second support part (88) opposite the first support part (89) with a second pivot bearing (92) on which the at least one second pivot arm (102) is pivotably mounted.

4. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (80) has a first frame side wall (89), and wherein the at least one first pivot arm (101; 103) is arranged on an outer side of the frame side wall (89) facing away from the chamber (2), and wherein the support device (80) has a second frame side wall (88), and wherein the at least one second pivot arm (102; 104) is arranged on an outer side of the frame side wall (88) facing away from the chamber (2), wherein in particular the first frame side wall (89) is a first support part (81) and in particular the second frame side wall (88) is a second support part (82).

5. Laboratory apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the space between a first chamber side wall (32) and the first frame side wall (89) of the support device is filled with a thermal insulation material (125), and wherein the space between a second chamber side wall (34) and the second frame side wall (88) of the support device is filled with a thermal insulation material (125).

6. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a spring system (150) which supports the opening of the door leaf element (120), wherein the spring system can be tensioned in particular by closing the door leaf element (120).

7. Laboratory apparatus according to claim 6, comprising at least one first spring element (151), in particular a gas spring (151), which is connected at its first end to a first pivot arm (101) and at its second end to the support device (80), and which comprises at least one second spring element (152), in particular a gas spring (152), which is connected at its first end to a second pivot arm (102) and at its second end to the support device (80).

8. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a first pivoting arm (101) is pivotably mounted on the support device (80) about a first pivoting axis by means of a first bearing element (91), is pivotably mounted on the door leaf element (120) about a second pivoting axis by means of a second bearing element (93), and is pivotally mounted on a spring element by means of a third bearing element (95). (151) is pivotably mounted about a third pivot axis, wherein the first, second and third pivot axes run parallel to each other, and wherein in particular a second pivot arm (102) is pivotably mounted about a first pivot axis on the support device (80) by means of a first bearing element (92), is pivotably mounted about a second pivot axis on the door leaf element (120) by means of a second bearing element (94), and is pivotably mounted about a third pivot axis on a spring element (152) by means of a third bearing element (96), wherein the first, second and third pivot axes run parallel to each other, wherein in particular the distance between the first bearing element (91; 92) and the second bearing element (93; 94) is greater, in particular 2 to 4 times greater, than the distance between the first bearing element (91; 92) and the third bearing element (95; 96).

9. Laboratory apparatus according to claim 4 and one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pivoting arm (101) has a first sliding element (101b) arranged such that, during the pivoting movement of the door leaf element (120) between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), it slides along the outer side of the frame facing away from the chamber (2) in contact with the first frame side wall (89), and wherein, in particular, the second pivoting arm (102) has a second sliding element (102b) arranged such that, during the pivoting movement of the door leaf element (120) between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), it slides along the outer side of the frame facing away from the chamber (2) in contact with the second frame side wall (88).

10. Laboratory apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the first swivel arm (101) has a first plate-shaped component (101a) which is rigidly connected to the first swivel arm (101) and which carries this first sliding element (101b), and wherein in particular the second swivel arm (102) has a second plate-shaped component (102a) which is rigidly connected to the second swivel arm (102) and which carries this second sliding element (102b), wherein the first plate-shaped component (101a) extends in particular along the length of the first swivel arm (101), and wherein the second plate-shaped component (102a) extends in particular along the length of the second swivel arm (102).

11. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a slot-shaped recess (10c) is provided in a planar front wall (10) of the laboratory device at a distance from the chamber (2), the recess extending perpendicularly to the front wall (10) into the interior of the laboratory device, and in which the at least one first pivot arm (101; 103) is arranged in the first position (P1) of the door leaf element (120), and wherein in particular a further slot-shaped recess (10d) is provided in the planar front wall (10) of the laboratory device at a distance from the chamber (2), which extends perpendicularly to the front wall (10) into the interior of the laboratory device, and in which the at least one second pivot arm (102; 104) is arranged in the first position (P1 ) of the door leaf element (120).

12. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in no position of the door leaf element (120) is a pivot arm (101 ; 102; 103; 104) of the pivot door device (100) arranged partially or completely within the chamber (2).

13. Laboratory apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the door leaf element (120) has a heating device by which the door leaf element (120), in particular the viewing window (170), can be heated.

14. Laboratory device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an elastomeric seal, in particular a silicone seal, is arranged around the chamber opening, which is contacted by the door leaf element (120) in position P1 of the door leaf element (120).

15. Laboratory apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, which is an incubation shaker.

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