Improved centrifugation tubes with labeled film

Abstract

The invention relates to a centrifugation tube having at least one printable film and to a method for producing the same.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Improved centrifugation tubes with marked foil

[0003] The invention relates to a centrifugation tube comprising at least one printable film and a method for manufacturing such a tube.

[0004] Centrifugation tubes are known to have a printable film, which were produced using an injection molding process.

[0005] In DE 41 01 952 Al, a centrifugation tube for centrifuging liquids containing solid particles, for example urine samples, is disclosed, with a cylindrical section open at its upper end and closed at its lower end, wherein the closed section has a smaller inner diameter in its lower region at a short distance from its closed lower end.

[0006] In WO 2017 / 112596 Al, an injection-molded container and a method for producing centrifugation tubes are disclosed, wherein the container has a tubular body comprising an open upper area, a closed lower area, a side wall having a wall thickness, the side wall extending between the upper and lower areas; and an in-mold film, wherein the container can be, among other things, a centrifugation tube.

[0007] In known processes for manufacturing a centrifugation tube with a printable film, also referred to as a label, a printable film made of polypropylene (hereinafter abbreviated as PP), which may be pre-printed or unprinted, is placed in a mold. The mold already has the shape of a tube chamber formed from the tube wall. Molten PP is then added to the mold. There, the PP fuses with the printable film and, during cooling and hardening, takes on the shape of the mold. As a result, the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one area of ​​the tube wall.

[0008] The printable film almost completely encloses the tube wall, with a first and a second edge of the printable film facing each other and forming a film edge gap filled with PP. This film edge gap must remain intact during the process and is filled with molten PP during the manufacturing process.

[0009] In the area where the two edges of the printable film meet, known centrifugation tubes exhibit a weak point. This mechanically weakens the centrifugation tube, reducing its resistance to stress in this area and potentially causing it to break or tear under load, particularly resulting in cracks. A further disadvantage is that the bond between the PP and the printable film at the film edge gaps also presents weak points, further weakening the entire centrifugation tube.

[0010] The invention is therefore based on the technical problem of providing a printable film comprising a centrifugation tube, in which the aforementioned disadvantages are at least reduced, and in particular do not occur. Specifically, the invention addresses the technical problem of providing a printable film comprising a centrifugation tube that exhibits high mechanical stability and is less susceptible to breakage and / or cracking, and in particular, exhibits higher mechanical stability and is less susceptible to breakage and / or cracking than known centrifugation tubes. Furthermore, the invention addresses the technical problem of providing a printable film comprising a centrifugation tube that is inexpensive and easy to manufacture.

[0011] The technical problem is solved by providing the present technical teaching, in particular the teaching of the independent claims and the embodiments disclosed in the dependent claims and the description.

[0012] The technical problem is solved in particular by providing a centrifugation tube comprising a tube chamber formed by at least one tube wall made of a first polymer material and at least one printable film made of a second polymer material, wherein the tube chamber has an opening at a first end and is closed at a second end opposite the first end, wherein the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the tube wall, wherein the printable film has a first edge and a second edge, the first edge and the second edge facing each other and forming a film edge space filled by the first polymer material, and wherein a reinforcement, in particular a material thickening and / or a stiffening structure, is arranged on the inside of the tube wall associated with the film edge space.

[0013] The centrifugation tube according to the invention comprises a tube chamber formed by at least one tube wall made of a first polymer material. According to the invention, the centrifugation tube further comprises at least one printable film made of a second polymer material. According to the invention, the tube chamber has an opening at a first end and is closed at a second end opposite the first end. According to the invention, the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the tube wall. According to the invention, the printable film further comprises a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge and the second edge face each other and form a film edge space filled with the first polymer material. According to the invention, a reinforcement is arranged on the inside of the tube wall and is associated with the film edge space.According to the invention, preferably the centrifugation tube comprising the tube chamber and the printable film is produced by an injection molding process, in particular an in-mold labeling injection molding process.Such an injection molding process provides in particular that a printable film having a first edge and a second edge, a molten material and a mold for the centrifugation tube are provided, which allows the formation of a tube chamber of the centrifugation tube, wherein the printable film is then placed in the mold, wherein the first edge and the second edge of the printable film are facing each other in the mold and form a film edge gap, and then the molten material is introduced into the mold having the printable film, forming the tube chamber, so that the tube wall is formed and the molten material also fills the film edge gap.

[0014] According to the invention, the printable film is arranged on at least one area of ​​the tube wall such that the first edge and the second edge face each other and form a film edge gap. The first edge and the second edge of the printable film face each other, preferably the printable film having a curvature along a central longitudinal axis and forming a three-dimensional shape, wherein the first and the second edges have the smallest distance between all edges, the distance between the first edge and the second edge forming the film edge gap.

[0015] According to the invention, the film edge gap is filled with the first polymer material, which also forms the tube wall. The material filling the film edge gap thus represents a continuation of the tube wall material into the space between the opposing first and second edges of the printable film. The height of this material continuation corresponds at most to the thickness of the printable film. Therefore, the material continuation preferably does not project beyond the thickness of the printable film. If the height of the material continuation corresponds to the thickness of the printable film, the length of the material continuation corresponds to the entire length of the film edge gap, and the width of the material continuation corresponds to the entire width of the film edge gap, each measured along the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber, the film edge gap is completely filled with material.The material extension does not correspond to the reinforcement of the centrifugation tube according to the invention.

[0016] According to the invention, a reinforcement is arranged on the inside of the tube wall, which is associated with the film edge gap. The reinforcement is arranged on the inside of the tube wall, namely, if the printable film and thus the filled film edge gap, in particular the material extension, is irreversibly connected on at least one area of ​​the outside of the tube wall, it is arranged directly on the inside of the tube wall, associated with the film edge gap, or, if the printable film and thus the filled film edge gap, in particular the material extension, is irreversibly connected on at least one area of ​​the inside of the tube wall, it is arranged on the filled film edge gap, in particular the material extension.

[0017] The reinforcement is assigned to the foil edge gap, wherein if the foil edge gap is arranged on an outer side of the tube wall, the reinforcement is arranged on the inner side of the tube wall, at least partially at the position where the tube wall separates the foil edge gap arranged on the outer side of the tube wall from the inner side of the tube wall, or if the foil edge gap is arranged on an inner side of the tube wall, the reinforcement is arranged at least partially on the filled foil edge gap, in particular the material continuation.

[0018] Preferably, the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one area of ​​the outer wall of the tube, whereby the filled film edge space, in particular the material extension, is located on the outer wall of the tube and is filled with the first polymer material towards the outside, particularly away from the outer wall of the tube. In this embodiment, the material extension is therefore located on the outer wall of the tube. Preferably, the reinforcement is arranged on the inner wall of the tube and is associated with the film edge space located on the outer wall of the tube, in particular the material extension, at least partially at the position where the tube wall separates the film edge space located on the outer wall of the tube from the inner wall of the tube.In particular, the reinforcement on the inside of the tube wall is arranged at least partially along the foil edge gap on the outside of the tube wall, especially the material continuation, on the inside of the tube wall.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the inner wall of a tube, whereby the filled film edge space, in particular the material extension, is located on the inner wall of the tube and is filled inwards, particularly from the inner wall of the tube towards the center of the tube chamber, with the first polymer material. In this embodiment, the material extension is therefore located on the inner wall of the tube. Preferably, the reinforcement is arranged on the inner wall of the tube on the filled film edge space, i.e., on the material extension.

[0020] Preferably, the reinforcement is arranged on the inside of the tube wall and, in the case of a filled foil edge gap arranged on the outside of the tube wall, is spatially and functionally assigned to the foil edge gap, in particular to the material continuation, or, in the case of a filled foil edge gap arranged on the inside of the tube wall, is arranged on the filled foil edge gap, in particular on the material continuation.

[0021] The reinforcement according to the present invention is arranged on the inner side of the tube wall and is specifically and solely assigned to the space between the film edges. It is thus spatially and functionally designed to selectively and specifically increase the mechanical stability in the area of ​​the two opposing edges of the printable film. A reinforcement according to the present invention is therefore not a thickening of the tube wall over its entire circumference, particularly since such a thickening would render the centrifugation tube, with its resulting outer geometry and desired filling volume, unusable in conventional racks and centrifuges.

[0022] Preferably, the reinforcement is a material thickening and / or a stiffening structure. The reinforcement is preferably made of the first polymer material and is a material thickening that projects beyond the gap between the film edges. The material thickening is not a continuation of the material. Preferably, the material thickening adjoins the material continuation or is arranged on the material continuation. Preferably, the material thickening extends beyond the thickness of the printable film. Preferably, the material thickening is an integral part of the tube wall formed from the first polymer material. Preferably, the reinforcement is a stiffening structure. Preferably, the stiffening structure is made of a third polymer material. Preferably, the stiffening structure is not an integral part of the tube wall.

[0023] The reinforcement applied to the space between the film edges ensures that the centrifuge tube is strengthened in the area of ​​greatest stress, i.e., in the area between the two facing edges. In this area, the centrifuge tube thus exhibits reinforcement, specifically a material thickening, also referred to as increased material strength, or a stiffening structure, which reduces the stress concentration and increases the strength, particularly the stiffness, of the centrifuge tube. This enhances the mechanical stability of the centrifuge tube, especially compared to known centrifuge tubes, particularly those without reinforcement.This advantageously results in a low susceptibility to breakage and / or cracking in the tube wall of the centrifugation tube according to the invention, in particular a lower susceptibility to breakage and / or cracking compared to known centrifugation tubes, especially those without reinforcement. Advantageously, the external geometry of the centrifugation tube according to the invention remains unchanged, particularly due to the arrangement of the reinforcement on the inside of the tube wall. This ensures that the centrifugation tube according to the invention can continue to be used in conventional racks and centrifuges.Preferably, the reinforcement of a centrifugation tube according to the invention, applied orthogonally to the first or second mutually facing edge, advantageously prevents failure of the centrifugation tube, which typically breaks and / or tears under such force, compared to known centrifugation tubes. Preferably, a centrifugation tube according to the invention withstands at least 30% more force before breaking and / or tearing than known centrifugation tubes, particularly those without the reinforcement according to the invention.

[0024] Without being bound by theory, the reinforcement arranged on the inner wall of the tube, corresponding to the space between the film edges, reduces the stress concentration in the area of ​​the first and / or second edge of the printable film. In this way, a centrifugation tube according to the invention exhibits high mechanical stability, in particular higher mechanical stability than known centrifugation tubes.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reinforcement is assigned solely, and in particular specifically and exclusively, to the film edge space. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reinforcement is assigned solely, and in particular specifically and exclusively, to the film edge space and overlaps at least partially, and in particular completely, with this space. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reinforcement is arranged at least partially, and preferably completely, along the film edges and is assigned solely, and in particular specifically and exclusively, to the film edge space and overlaps at least partially, and in particular completely, with this space.

[0026] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube has a single reinforcement.

[0027] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube has a reinforcement only at the film edge gap.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, a reinforcement according to the present invention is not part of a structure distributed throughout the entire inner wall area of ​​the tube.

[0029] Preferably, the reinforcement can also be advantageously used as an arrangement reference point for inserting an additional element. In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube is a 1 mL, 2 mL, 4 mL, 5 mL, 10 mL, 12 mL, 15 mL, 20 mL, 25 mL, 50 mL or 100 mL centrifugation tube.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube has a length, in particular from the first end to the second end, of 10 to 500 mm, in particular 20 to 450 mm, in particular 30 to 400 mm, in particular 50 to 300 mm, in particular 100 to 200 mm, in particular 120 mm, based on the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube has a diameter, particularly at the first end, of 5 to 100 mm, in particular 7 to 50 mm, in particular 9 to 30 mm, in particular 11 to 20 mm, in particular 15 to 19 mm, in particular 17 mm.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube has a capacity of 1 mL to 110 mL, in particular 1 mL to 60 mL, in particular more than 1 mL up to a maximum of 60 mL, in particular more than 2 mL, in particular more than 4 mL, in particular more than 12 mL, in particular more than 15 mL, in particular more than 25 mL, in particular more than 50 mL, in particular 1 mL, in particular 2 mL, in particular 4 mL, in particular 12 mL, in particular 15 mL, in particular 16 mL, in particular 25 mL, in particular 50 mL.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the tube wall has a thickness of 0.10 to 20 mm, in particular 0.30 to 1.50 mm, in particular 0.50 to 1.00 mm, in particular 0.70 to 0.90 mm, in particular 0.76 mm.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the outer surface of the tube wall, and the reinforcement is arranged at least partially along the film edge gap, particularly on the outer surface of the tube wall, on the inner surface of the tube wall. In this embodiment, the filled film edge gap is thus filled outwards, particularly away from the outer surface of the tube wall, with the first polymer material. Preferably, the material continuation of the tube wall is located on the outer surface of the tube wall, especially when the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the outer surface of the tube wall. Preferably, the reinforcement is an integral part of the tube wall.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the inner wall of the tube, and the reinforcement is arranged at least partially along the film edge gap. In this embodiment, the filled film edge gap is thus filled inwards, particularly from the inner wall of the tube towards the center of the tube chamber, with the first polymer material. Preferably, the material extension of the tube wall is located on the inner wall of the tube, especially when the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the inner wall of the tube. Preferably, the reinforcement is arranged at least partially on the filled film edge gap, particularly on the material extension of the tube wall that fills the film edge gap. Preferably, the reinforcement is an integral part of the tube wall.In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is arranged at least partially on the filled foil edge space and at least partially beyond the first and / or second edge onto the printable foil, thus partially overlapping it.

[0036] Preferably, the first and second edges of the printable film do not overlap. Preferably, the first and second edges are arranged parallel to each other.

[0037] Preferably, the reinforcement is arranged parallel to the first, second or both edges, in particular to the space between the foil edges.

[0038] Preferably, the gap between the foil edges extends over the entire length of the first edge and the second edge.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film has a third edge and a fourth edge. In a preferred embodiment, the printable film has four edges. In a preferred embodiment, the first edge is opposite the second edge. In a preferred embodiment, the third edge is opposite the fourth edge. In a preferred embodiment, the third edge and the fourth edge are adjacent to the first and second edges, respectively. Preferably, the third edge faces the second end and the fourth edge faces the first end of the centrifugation tube.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is square, in particular trapezoidal or rectangular. Preferably, the shape of the printable film is designed such that, when the printable film is irreversibly attached to at least one region of the tube wall, the gap between the film edges has a constant width along its entire length, measured along the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber. In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is printed either before it is irreversibly attached to at least one region of the tube wall or after it is irreversibly attached to at least one region of the tube wall.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is printed on its outer surface facing away from the tube wall. In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is printed on its outer surface facing the tube wall. In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface facing away from the tube wall and the outer surface facing the tube wall enclose the print on the printable film. In a preferred embodiment, neither outer surface of the printable film is printed.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is composed of at least one layer, in particular at least two layers, and in particular at least three layers. In a preferred embodiment, the printable film is composed of at least three layers, wherein the printable film has two outer layers and at least one inner layer enclosed by the outer layers. Preferably, the printable film is printable on at least one outer layer, and in particular, printed on the inner layer.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the printable film corresponds to 1 to 99%, in particular 20 to 95%, in particular 40 to 90%, in particular 50 to 90%, in particular 60 to 80%, in particular at least 10%, in particular at least 30%, in particular at least 50%, in particular at least 70%, in particular at least 90% of the total length of the centrifugation tube, based on the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the width of the printable film corresponds to 50.0 to 99.9%, in particular 70.0 to 99.9%, in particular 90.0 to 99.9%, in particular 92.0 to 99.5%, in particular 95.0 to 99.0%, in particular 96.0 to 98.0% of the total width of the centrifugation tube, based on the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the printable film has a thickness, also referred to as thickness or height, of 0.01 mm to 1 mm, in particular 0.01 to 0.5 mm, in particular 0.02 to 0.1 mm, in particular 0.04 mm to 0.08 mm, in particular 0.06 mm, in particular at least 0.01 mm, in particular at least 0.04 mm, in particular at most 1 mm, in particular at most 0.5 mm, in particular at most 0.01 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the gap between the foil edges has a height of 0.01 mm to 1 mm, in particular 0.01 to 0.5 mm, in particular 0.02 to 0.1 mm, in particular 0.04 mm to 0.08 mm, in particular 0.06 mm, in particular at least 0.01 mm, in particular at least 0.04 mm, in particular at most 1 mm, in particular at most 0.5 mm, in particular at most 0.01 mm.

[0046] Preferably, the first and second edges of the printable film are spaced apart by 0.1 mm to 90.0 mm, in particular 0.1 mm to 48.0 mm, in particular 0.1 mm to 10.0 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 8.0 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 5.0 mm, in particular 0.7 mm to 3.0 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 40.0 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 30.0 mm, in particular 0.8 mm to 20.0 mm, in particular 1.0 mm to 10.0 mm, in particular 1.0 mm. Preferably, the gap between the foil edges has a width of 0.1 mm to 90.0 mm, in particular 0.1 mm to 48.0 mm, in particular 0.1 mm to 10.0 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 8.0 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 5.0 mm, in particular 0.7 mm to 3.0 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 40.0 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 30.0 mm, in particular 0.8 mm to 20.0 mm, in particular 1.0 mm to 10.0 mm, in particular 1 mm.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube according to the invention was manufactured using injection molding, in particular in-mold labeling injection molding. This preferably allows the centrifugation tube according to the invention to be made of different materials and to have different shapes and sizes. This makes the centrifugation tube according to the invention more cost-effective and easy to manufacture.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is formed on the inner side of the tube wall by injection molding or fixed to the inner side of the tube wall by melting, gluing, or ultrasonic welding. Preferably, the reinforcement is a material thickening. This preferably results not only in higher mechanical stability but also in an improved connection between the centrifugation tube and the printable film, particularly compared to known connections between centrifugation tubes and printable films, especially without reinforcement, by enabling better injection molding. In a preferred embodiment, the tube chamber has a cylindrical shape.

[0049] The section has the first end and the second end has a bottom part.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the bottom part is designed as a cone or a flat bottom part.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation tube according to the invention has a skirt running around the bottom part from the outside, also referred to as a standing rim.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the tube chamber has an external thread, an internal thread or both in the region of the first end.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one region of the tube wall on which the printable film is irreversibly bonded is a region between the open first end and the bottom part.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one region of the tube wall on which the printable film is irreversibly bonded is a region of the cylindrical section or the bottom part.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one region of the tube wall on which the printable film is irreversibly connected is a region between a bottom part designed as a cone and an external thread formed at an open end opposite the bottom part.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second polymer materials are the same or different.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the first polymer material, the second polymer material, or both polymer materials are polypropylene, polystyrene, or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the third polymer material, from which the reinforcement structure is made, is the same as or different from the first and / or second polymer material.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the third polymer material, which forms the reinforcing structure, is polypropylene, polystyrene, or polyethylene terephthalate. In a preferred embodiment, the first polymer material is harder than the second and / or third polymer material. In a preferred embodiment, the first polymer material is softer than the second and / or third polymer material. In a preferred embodiment, the first polymer material, in particular polypropylene, has a tensile modulus of 500 to 1500 N / mm². 2 , especially 700 to 1200 N / mm 2 , especially 900 to 1100 N / mm 2 , in particular 1050 N / mm 2 In a preferred embodiment, the second polymer material, in particular polypropylene, polystyrene or polyethylene terephthalate, has a tensile modulus of 30 to 200 N / mm², particularly at a film thickness of 0.01 to 0.1 mm, in particular 0.03 to 0.07 mm, in particular 0.05 to 0.06 mm, in particular 0.057 mm.2 , especially 40 to 150 N / mm 2 , especially 50 to 130 N / mm 2 , in particular 55 N / mm 2 , in particular 80 N / mm 2 , in particular 120 N / mm 2 In a preferred embodiment, the third polymer material has a tensile modulus of 30 to 1500 N / mm². 2 , especially 40 to 1200 N / mm 2 , especially 50 to 1100 N / mm 2 , on.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is formed along 1 to 100%, in particular 20 to 95%, in particular 40 to 90%, in particular 50 to 90%, in particular 60 to 80%, in particular at least 10%, in particular at least 30%, in particular at least 50%, in particular at least 70%, in particular at least 90% of a length of the first and / or second edge of the printable film, relative to the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber. In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is formed along 1 to 100% of a length of the first and / or second edge of the printable film, relative to the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement overlaps over the first and / or second edges of the printable film when the printable film is arranged on the inside of the tube wall.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is wider than the film edge gap and extends beyond the first and / or second edge of the printable film on the inner wall side when the printable film is arranged on the outside of the tube wall.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement overlaps by 1 to 90%, in particular 3 to 80%, in particular 5 to 50%, in particular 10 to 40%, in particular at least 1%, in particular at least 3%, in particular at least 5%, in particular at least 10%, in particular at least 20% of its total width, starting from the center point of the width of the film edge gap, over or projects beyond the first and / or second edge of the printable film, wherein the total width refers to the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the total width of the reinforcement is at least 1%, in particular at least 5%, in particular at least 10%, in particular at least 50%, in particular 1 to 200%, in particular 20 to 150%, in particular 50 to 100% greater than the greatest width of the foil edge gap, wherein the width refers to the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement consists of at least two, in particular at least five, in particular at least ten, in particular one to twenty, in particular three to fifteen, in particular five to ten, the ribs being arranged spaced apart from one another along the length of the film edge gap. Preferably, the ribs are arranged with their longitudinal axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the film edge gap. In a preferred embodiment, the ends of each rib overlap at least 1%, in particular at least five%, in particular at least ten%, in particular at least five percent, of their total length, extending from the center point of the width of the film edge gap over or projecting beyond the first and / or second edge of the printable film, wherein the total length and width refer to the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement has a linear, wave-like or zigzag shape.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the wave-like shape is sinusoidal or has a non-uniform wave shape.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement has a height that is constant or variable along its length, or a width that is constant or variable along its width, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the stiffness of the reinforcement can be increased or decreased depending on the requirements profile by adjusting its design.

[0069] The technical problem is also solved according to the invention by a method for producing a centrifugation tube, in particular a centrifugation tube according to the invention, in particular by an injection molding process, in particular in-mold molding.

[0070] A labeling injection molding process is provided. The process comprises the steps: a) providing a printable film having a first edge and a second edge, a molten material, and a mold for the centrifuge tube, which allows the formation of a tube chamber of the centrifuge tube with an inner reinforcement of the tube chamber wall; b) placing the printable film into the mold, wherein the first edge and the second edge of the printable film face each other in the mold and form a film edge gap; c) feeding the molten material into the mold having the printable film, forming the tube chamber, wherein an inner reinforcement is associated with the film edge gap; and d) obtaining the centrifuge tube.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, in step b) the printable film is held against an inside of an outer wall or an outside of an inner wall of the mold by applying a vacuum and / or static charge.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, in step b) the printable film is held against an inside of an outer wall of the mold by applying a vacuum and / or static charge, thereby obtaining in step d) a centrifugation tube in which the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one area of ​​the outside of the tube wall.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, in step b), the printable film is held against an outer surface of an inner wall of the mold by applying a vacuum and / or static charge, thereby resulting in a centrifugation tube in step d), in which the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the inner wall of the tube. According to the invention, the mold for the centrifugation tube is designed such that it allows the formation of a tube chamber of the centrifugation tube with an inner wall reinforcement of the tube chamber.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the mold has a shape that allows the printable film to be irreversibly bonded to the outer or inner wall of the tube, and the reinforcement to be located on the inner side of the tube wall, particularly on the inner side of the tube wall or on the filled film edge space, especially the material extension. In a preferred embodiment, the mold has a recess at the position where the reinforcement is to be located on the inner side of the centrifugation tube, the recess corresponding to a negative of the reinforcement and, in particular, having the dimensions of the reinforcement.In a preferred embodiment, where the printable film is to be irreversibly bonded to the inside of the tube wall, the mold has a recess at the position where the film edge gap is to be located and which is to be filled with the molten material. This recess corresponds to a negative of the reinforcement and, in particular, has the dimensions of the reinforcement, so that after obtaining the centrifugation tube in step d), the reinforcement is at least partially arranged on the filled film edge gap, in particular on the material extension.In a preferred embodiment, if the printable film is to be irreversibly bonded to the outside of the tube wall, the mold has a recess on the inside of the tube wall at the position where the film edge gap is to be located, which corresponds to a negative of the reinforcement and in particular has the dimensions of the reinforcement, so that after obtaining the centrifugation tube in step d), the reinforcement associated with the film edge gap filled with material on the outside of the tube wall is arranged on the inside of the tube wall.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the molten material is obtained in step al) before step a) by heating a material to its melting temperature.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is designed as a stiffening structure, wherein the stiffening structure is provided in step a) and positioned in step c) at least along a portion of the film edge space of the printable film. According to a further aspect, the problem is also solved by providing a method for manufacturing a centrifugation tube comprising an additional element, in particular a filter insert or a screw insert, wherein the centrifugation tube is manufactured according to a method according to the invention and, in step x), the additional element is arranged in the tube chamber, the reinforcement being used as an arrangement reference point for inserting the additional element.

[0077] In connection with the present invention, the term "tube chamber" is understood to mean an inner volume enclosed laterally peripherally by a tube wall of a tube, in particular a centrifugation tube, wherein the tube chamber has a closed end and preferably an open end opposite the closed end, wherein the tube wall is arranged between the two ends.

[0078] In the context of the present invention, the term "printable film" is understood to mean at least one thin, in particular flexible, layer of at least one material, in which at least one layer is designed to receive and retain ink, toner, or other printing media. Preferably, the printable film can be used in the inventive method for producing a centrifugation tube in its printed form, or it can be used unprinted in the inventive method for producing a centrifugation tube and subsequently printed according to the inventive method for producing a centrifugation tube.

[0079] In the context of the present invention, the term "irreversibly joined" refers to a connection or fastening between two or more components, in particular the tube wall and the printable film, which cannot be permanently separated without destroying or significantly damaging the components. Preferably, this type of connection is designed to remain stable and permanent during normal use and within the intended application range. Irreversible connections are preferably used in connection with the present invention to ensure structural integrity, safety, and / or resistance to tampering, especially by force or chemicals.Such connections are preferably produced by various methods, for example, injection molding, welding, soldering, gluing, riveting, press fitting, or other permanent fastening techniques, particularly injection molding. In the context of the present invention, the term "film edge gap" is understood to mean the space, in the thickness of the printable film arranged on a tube wall, that exists between two, in particular non-overlapping, edges of the printable film when these two edges face each other. The film edge gap is thus bounded by the two facing edges of the film and the tube wall on which the film is arranged, and has a height corresponding to the thickness of the printable film. In a centrifugation tube according to the invention, the film edge gap is filled with polymer material, in particular the polymer material of the tube chamber.

[0080] In the context of the present invention, "inner tube wall" refers to the side of the tube wall facing the inner volume of the tube chamber. A component can be arranged on the inner tube wall either directly against the inner tube wall or indirectly, for example, by being located between the inner tube wall and the component to be arranged.According to the invention, the reinforcement is arranged on the inside of the tube wall, namely when the printable film and thereby the filled film edge space, in particular the material continuation, is irreversibly connected on at least one area of ​​an outside of the tube wall, the reinforcement is arranged directly on the inside of the tube wall corresponding to the film edge space, or, when the printable film and thereby the filled film edge space, in particular the material continuation, is irreversibly connected on at least one area of ​​an inside of the tube wall, the reinforcement is arranged on the filled film edge space, in particular the material continuation, on the inside of the tube wall.

[0081] In connection with the present invention, the term "material extension" refers to the material of the centrifugation tube, in particular the tube wall, and especially the polymer material of the tube wall, which is present in a defined geometric shape and extends beyond the thickness of the tube wall and fills the space between the film edges. The "material extension" does not extend beyond the thickness, also referred to as height or thickness, of the printable film, which is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the tube wall. The material extension is not the material thickening.In the context of the present invention, the term "reinforcement" is understood to mean an element or structure that is added or integrated to increase the strength, stiffness, and / or stability of at least one material, in particular the printable film irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the tube wall, or of a component. Reinforcements preferably take various forms and are made of different materials, for example, material thickenings or ribs, and are particularly designed to improve mechanical properties and increase the load-bearing capacity of a centrifugation tube. Preferably, the reinforcement connects to or is arranged on the film edge space filled with the first polymer material, especially the material extension, if the printable film is arranged on the inner side of the tube wall.Preferably, the reinforcement is arranged on the inside of the tube wall if the printable film is arranged on the outside of the tube wall.

[0082] In the context of the present invention, the term "material thickening" refers to a reinforcement according to the invention. The material thickening can be an integral part of the tube wall. Preferably, the material thickening adjoins the filled film edge space, in particular the material continuation, or is arranged on the filled film edge space, in particular the material continuation, and extends beyond the thickness of the printable film if the printable film is arranged on the inside of the tube wall. The material thickening is arranged on the inside of the tube wall if the printable film is arranged on the outside of the tube wall. The material thickening according to the present invention is not the material continuation of the present invention.

[0083] In the context of the present invention, the term "associated" means that a specific component, in particular directly or indirectly, relates to another component and describes its position or function within the overall device. Preferably, the term "associated" refers to a connection between two or more components that are coordinated with each other in a specific way.Preferably, the reinforcement is located at the film edge gap and can be arranged directly, at least partially, on the material continuation within the film edge gap, particularly if the film edge gap is located on the inside of the tube wall, or indirectly, at least partially, at the film edge gap, particularly if the film edge gap is located on the outside of the tube wall, i.e., at a certain distance from the film edge gap or at least partially at the level of the film edge gap with the tube wall in between, wherein the tube wall spatially separates the film edge gap and the reinforcement. Preferably, the reinforcement is spatially and functionally located on the inside wall of the film edge gap in such a way as to ensure the function of the reinforcement.

[0084] In the context of the present invention, the term "in-mold labeling injection molding process" refers to an injection molding process in which a film, also referred to as a label, is placed in the mold used for the injection molding process before molten material is introduced into the mold. Preferably, after the material has cooled and assumed the predetermined shape of the mold, the film is irreversibly bonded to the material. Preferably, in the in-mold labeling injection molding process, the film is an integral part of the material having the shape determined by the mold.

[0085] In the context of the present invention, the term "at least partially" is understood to mean either "partially" or "completely".

[0086] In connection with the present invention, the terms "inside, inner, inner, inside, inside" are understood to mean a component located further inside, i.e. closer to a center of the tube chamber, in relation to an outer component of a centrifugation tube according to the invention.

[0087] In connection with the present invention, the terms "outer, outer, outer side, outside" are understood to mean a component that is located further outwards, i.e. further away from the center of a centrifugation tube according to the invention, in relation to an inner component.

[0088] In the context of the present invention, the terms "upper" and "top" are understood to mean a component located further up in a centrifugation tube according to the invention, i.e., closer to the first end, relative to a lower component. In the context of the present invention, the terms "lower" and "bottom" are understood to mean a component located further down in a centrifugation tube according to the invention, i.e., closer to the second end, relative to an upper component.

[0089] In connection with the present invention, the term "length" means the longest dimension of a structure, the term "width" means the dimension in the lateral direction transverse to the length and in the plane of a top view, and the term "height" or "thickness" means the dimension in the vertical direction perpendicular to the plane of length and width, unless otherwise apparent to a person skilled in the art from the context.

[0090] In the context of the present invention, the term "at least one" is understood to mean a quantity that expresses a number of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and so on. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the term "at least one" can represent exactly the number 1. In another preferred embodiment, the term "at least one" can also mean 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7.

[0091] Insofar as the “presence”, “containing”, or “possessing” of a component is expressly mentioned or implied in connection with the present invention, this means that the respective component is present, in particular in a measurable quantity.

[0092] In the context of the present invention, the terms "comprising" and "comprising" are understood to mean that, in addition to the elements explicitly covered by these terms, further, unmentioned elements may be present. In the context of the present technical teaching, these terms are also understood to mean that only the explicitly mentioned elements are covered and no further elements are present. In this particular embodiment, the meaning of the terms "comprising" and "comprising" is synonymous with the term "consisting of." Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "comprising" also encompass compositions that, in addition to the explicitly mentioned elements, contain further unmentioned elements that are, however, of a functionally and qualitatively subordinate nature. In this embodiment, the terms "comprising" and "comprising" are synonymous with the term "essentially consisting of."In the context of the present invention, the term "and / or" means that all members of a group connected by the term "and / or" are disclosed both alternatively to one another and cumulatively to one another in any combination. For the expression "A, B and / or C", this means that the following disclosure content is to be understood: a) A or B or C, or b) (A and B), or c) (A and C), or d) (B and C), or e) (A and B and C).

[0093] Further preferred embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0094] The invention is described below with reference to the figures, without limiting the general inventive concept.

[0095] Figures

[0096] The figures show

[0097] Figure 1 shows two schematic representations of a preferred embodiment of a centrifugation tube according to the invention, wherein a) the finished centrifugation tube and b) the centrifugation tube cut open along its width,

[0098] Figure 2 shows two schematic representations of the printable film of the preferred embodiment of the centrifugation tube according to the invention, from Figure 1 in planar form (Figure 2a) and rolled form (Figure 2b).

[0099] Figure 3 shows two schematic representations of a mold for a centrifugation tube according to the invention from two opposite sides, Figure 3a) and 3b), and

[0100] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of another preferred embodiment of a centrifugation tube.

[0101] Figure 1 shows two schematic representations of a preferred embodiment of a centrifugation tube 1 according to the invention, wherein 1a) the finished centrifugation tube 1 and 1b) the centrifugation tube 1 cut open along its width. The centrifugation tube 1 has a tube chamber 2 formed by at least one tube wall 3 made of a first polymer material, in particular polypropylene, and at least one printable film 4 made of a second polymer material, in particular polypropylene, wherein the tube chamber 2 has an opening at a first end 5 and is closed at a second end 6 opposite the first end, wherein the printable film 4 is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the tube wall 3, in particular the outer surface of the tube wall, and wherein the printable film has a first edge 7 and a second edge 8.wherein the first edge 7 and the second edge 8 face each other and form a film edge gap 9 filled with the first polymer material, and wherein a reinforcement 10, in particular a material thickening, is arranged on the inside of the tube wall associated with the film edge gap 9, in particular by means of an injection molding process. The film edge gap 9 is filled with the first polymer material, which also forms the tube wall 3. The material filling the film edge gap 9 thus represents a material extension 16 of the tube wall 3 into the space between the opposing first and second edges 6, 7 of the printable film 4. The height of the material extension 16 corresponds at most to the thickness of the printable film 4. The material extension 16 does not project beyond the thickness of the printable film 4. The height of the material extension 16 corresponds to the thickness of the printable film 4.The length of the material extension 16 corresponds to the total length of the foil edge gap 9, and the width of the material extension 16 corresponds to the total width of the foil edge gap 9, each relative to the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber 2. The foil edge gap 9 is completely filled with material.

[0102] The printable film 4 is printed with a scale for a 50 mL centrifugation tube. The printable film 4 has a third edge 17 and a fourth edge 18, wherein the third edge 17 and the fourth edge 18 adjoin the first edge 7 and the second edge 8, respectively. The printable film 4 is rectangular. The printable film 4 is arranged on the outer surface of a tube wall. The reinforcement 10 is arranged on the inner surface of a tube wall, in particular irreversibly connected to the first polymer material forming the tube wall 3, at least partially along the film edge gap 9 located on the outer surface of the tube wall. The tube chamber 2 has a cylindrical section 11 having the first end 5 and a bottom section 12 having the second end 6, wherein the bottom section 12 is conical.The at least one region of the tube wall 3, on which the printable film 4 is irreversibly bonded, is a region of the cylindrical section 11. The tube chamber 2 has an external thread 13 in the region of the first end 5. The reinforcement 10 is formed on the inner side of the tube wall as a linear reinforcement 10, having a constant height and width along its length, extending for 80% of the length of the first and second edges 7, 8 of the printable film 4, relative to the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the tube chamber. This is illustrated in Figure 1b), which shows the centrifugation tube 1 cut lengthwise along its width, revealing that the reinforcement 10 is also arranged in the lower third of the centrifugation tube 1 extending from the opening.

[0103] Figure 2 shows two schematic representations of the printable film 4 of the preferred embodiment of the centrifugation tube 1 according to the invention from Figure 1, in planar form (2a) and rolled form (2b). The printable film 4 is printed with a scale for a 50 mL centrifugation tube. In Figure 2a), the printable film 4 is shown in planar form. The printable film 4 has a first edge 7 and a second edge 8 opposite the first edge. The printable film 4 also has a third edge 17 and a fourth edge 18, wherein the third edge 17 and the fourth edge 18 adjoin the first edge 7 and the second edge 8, respectively. The printable film 4 is rectangular. In Figure 2b) the printable film 4 is shown rolled up as it is irreversibly connected to at least one area of ​​the tube wall 3 after an injection molding process for the production of the centrifugation tube 1, as seen in Figure 1.The first edge 7 and the second edge 8 face each other and form a film edge gap 9 which is not filled as shown in Figure 2b), and which is filled with the first polymer material after the injection molding process for the production of the centrifugation tube 1.

[0104] Figure 3 shows two schematic representations of a mold for a centrifugation tube according to the invention from two opposite sides, Figures 3a) and 3b). The mold is designed for an in-mold labeling injection molding process, with which the centrifugation tube 1 shown in Figures 1a) and 1b) is produced. The printable film 4 is irreversibly bonded to the outer wall of the centrifugation tube 1 shown in Figures 1a) and 1b). Accordingly, as shown in Figure 3b), the mold has a recess 19 on the inner wall of the tube at the position where the film edge gap 9 is located when the printable film 4 is placed in the mold. This recess corresponds to a negative of the reinforcement 10 and, in particular, has the dimensions of the reinforcement 10. The process for manufacturing a centrifugation tube 1 is carried out using the mold.In one step a) a printable film 4 having a first edge 7 and a second edge 8, a molten material and the mold for the centrifugation tube 1, which allows the formation of a tube chamber 2 of the centrifugation tube 1 with an inner wall reinforcement 10 of the tube chamber 1, is provided.

[0105] In step b), the printable film 4 is placed in the mold, with the first edge 7 and the second edge 8 of the printable film 4 facing each other in the mold, as shown in Figure 2b), forming a film edge gap 9. The printable film 4 is held against an inner surface of an outer wall of the mold by applying a vacuum and / or static charge. In step c), the molten material, in particular polypropylene, is fed into the mold, forming the tube chamber 2, with a reinforcement 10 on the inner wall of the tube corresponding to the film edge gap 9. In step d), the centrifugation tube 1 is obtained according to Figure 1a) and Figure 1b).The recess 19 of the mold is arranged such that, after obtaining the centrifugation tube 1 in step d), the reinforcement 10 associated with the material-filled film edge space 9 located on the outer side of the tube wall is arranged on the inner side of the tube wall. The molten material, in particular polypropylene, is obtained in step a) prior to step a) by heating the material, in particular polypropylene, to its melting temperature, in particular to a temperature in the range of 127 °C to 165 °C.

[0106] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of another preferred embodiment of a centrifugation tube 1. The features shown in Figure 1 also apply to this preferred embodiment. Furthermore, the centrifugation tube 1 has a lid 14 which is screwed onto the external thread 13 (not shown). The centrifugation tube 1 also has a skirt 15, also called a rim, which runs around the outside of the base 12 (not shown) and allows the centrifugation tube 1 to be stood upright. [REFERENCE SYMBOL LIST]

[0107] 1 centrifugation tube

[0108] 2 tube chambers

[0109] 3 tube wall

[0110] 4 printable sheets

[0111] 5 first end

[0112] 6 second end

[0113] 7 first edge

[0114] 8 second edge

[0115] 9 foil edge space

[0116] 10 Reinforcement

[0117] 11 cylindrical section

[0118] 12 Base section

[0119] 13 external threads

[0120] 14 lids

[0121] 15 apron

[0122] 16 Material continuation

[0123] 17 third edge

[0124] 18 fourth edge

[0125] 19 recess

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. Centrifugation tube comprising a tube chamber formed by at least one tube wall made of a first polymer material and at least one printable film made of a second polymer material, wherein the tube chamber has an opening at a first end and is closed at a second end opposite the first end, wherein the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one region of the tube wall, wherein the printable film has a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge and the second edge face each other and form a film edge space filled by the first polymer material, and wherein a reinforcement, in particular a material thickening and / or a stiffening structure, is arranged on the inside of the tube wall associated with the film edge space.

2. Centrifugation tube according to claim 1, wherein the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one area of ​​the outer side of the tube wall and the reinforcement is arranged at least partially along the film edge gap on the inner side of the tube wall.

3. Centrifugation tube according to claim 1, wherein the printable film is irreversibly bonded to at least one area of ​​the inner side of the tube wall and the reinforcement is arranged at least partially along the film edge gap.

4. Centrifugation tubes according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement is formed on the inside of the tube wall by injection molding or fixed on the inside of the tube wall by melting, gluing or ultrasonic welding.

5. Centrifugation tube according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube chamber has a cylindrical section at the first end and a bottom part at the second end.

6. Centrifugation tube according to claim 5, wherein the bottom part is designed as a cone or a flat bottom part.

7. Centrifugation tube according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the at least one region of the tube wall on which the printable film is irreversibly bonded is a region of the cylindrical section or the bottom part.

8. Centrifugation tube according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement is solely assigned to the foil edge space.

9. Centrifugation tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement has a linear, wavy or zigzag shape.

10. Centrifugation tube according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement has a height that is constant or variable over its length, or a width that is constant or variable over its width, or a combination thereof.

11. Method for manufacturing a centrifugation tube, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, in particular by an injection molding process, in particular an in-mold labeling injection molding process, comprising the steps of: a) providing a printable film having a first edge and a second edge, a molten material and a mold for the centrifugation tube, which allows the formation of a tube chamber of the centrifugation tube with an inner wall reinforcement of the tube chamber, b) placing the printable film into the mold, wherein the first edge and the second edge of the printable film are facing each other in the mold and form a film edge gap, c) feeding the molten material into the mold having the printable film forming the tube chamber,where a reinforcement is assigned to the inner wall of the tube, corresponding to the space between the film edges, and d) maintaining the centrifugation tube.

12. A method for producing a centrifugation tube according to claim 11, wherein in step b) the printable film is held against an inner surface of an outer wall or an outer surface of an inner wall of the mold by applying a vacuum and / or static charge.

13. A method for producing a centrifugation tube according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the molten material is obtained in step a) prior to step a) by heating a material to its melting temperature.

14. Method for producing a centrifugation tube according to one of claims 11 to 12. 13, wherein the reinforcement is designed as a stiffening structure, the stiffening structure being provided in step a) and being installed in step c) at least along part of the The foil edge space of the printable foil is positioned.

15. Method for producing a centrifugation tube comprising an additional element, in particular a filter insert or a screw insert, wherein the centrifugation tube is produced according to one of claims 11 to 13 and in a step x) the additional element is arranged in the tube chamber, wherein the reinforcement is used as an arrangement reference point for inserting the additional element.

Images