Reaction vessel and reaction arrangement

Abstract

The present invention relates to a reaction vessel, in particular PCR plate or microtiter plate with at least one cavity for holding sample liquid and a support section radially surrounding the cavity for supporting a covering device which seals the cavity in a fluid-tight manner. The reaction vessel comprises a lifting mechanism which is configured to bring the covering device from a sealing position, in which the covering device rests against the support section, into a removal position, in which the covering device is spaced apart from the support section.

Description

[0001] Reaction vessel and reaction arrangement

[0002] The present invention relates to a reaction vessel, in particular PCR plate or microtiter plate or the like, and a reaction arrangement with a reaction vessel and a covering device for fluid-tight covering and / or closing of the at least one cavity of the reaction vessel.

[0003] Reaction vessels are used to carry out reactions and / or analyses of samples, in particular sample fluids. For example, reaction vessels can be used for polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to detect viruses and / or bacteria or in similar procedures, particularly in the field of bio analytics, research, diagnostics and forensics. The reactions and / or analyses can, in particular, be carried out automatically in corresponding laboratory machines, in particular laboratory automats. Reaction vessels usually have several cavities, for example 96, 384 or 1.536 cavities, for holding different samples. These cavities are also referred to as wells.

[0004] Once the cavities are filled, a covering device can be placed on the reaction vessel. Both the reaction vessel and the cover device can be gripped individually or together automatically. In particular, the covering device can be automatically placed on the reaction vessel.

[0005] The cavities can be sealed fluid-tight by applying pressure between the reaction vessel and the covering device. The pressure can be generated automatically in the laboratory machine. For example, a force of approx. 300 N can be exerted between the reaction vessel and the covering device.

[0006] When the cavities are sealed, the reaction and / or analysis can be carried out automatically. For example, particularly rapid temperature changes can be carried out to accelerate and / or initiate biochemical reactions such as PCR amplification.

[0007] Once the analysis and / or reaction is complete, the covering device must be separated from the reaction vessel. Due to negative pressure generated in the cavities or other process related conditions, such as long times during which the reaction vessel and the covering device are pressed together, the covering device can adhere and / or stick to the reaction vessel and only be partially detached from it. In addition, the adhesion of the covering device can lead to the reaction vessel being lifted when the covering device is detached from the reaction vessel, whereby the sample may spill or contamination may occur.

[0008] Said negative pressure typically arises during the PCR process, where the number and duration of cycles can vary significantly depending on the assay, ranging from approximately 10 to 40 cycles. In each cycle at least one step, the denaturation step, is usually at 95 to 98°C. Air above the PCR reaction (typically 10 to 50 pl liquid in a cavity of approx. 200 pl total volume) is expanded and can escape since the sealing is not completely airtight. It is moreover good laboratory practice to maintain the PCR results at 4°C upon completion of the PCR process.

[0009] Depending on the workflow sequence and following steps after PCR, interruptions before utilizing the PCR product can range from several minutes to overnight. During this time, the air above the PCR liquid undergoes temperature and time-dependent constrictions as well at the maintenance temperature of 4°C, which can cause the covering device to become stuck on the PCR plate. As stated above, the number of cavities is typically high, for example 96, 384 or 1 .536 cavities, such that the negative pressure exerted by the cavities can be significant.

[0010] The covering device being stuck erratically leads to experimental failures, particularly if an attempt is made to lift the device by applying symmetric force perpendicular to the negative pressure exerted by the cavities. In the worst case, the covering device remains stuck and is lifted up together with the reaction vessel but then detaches mid-air, resulting in the reaction vessel crashing down rendering the PCR reaction useless due to spillage and contamination. Such failures must be avoided as the PCR reaction is typically an intermediate product for molecular diagnostic analysis.

[0011] EP 4 331 723 A1 discloses a reaction vessel with a covering device. The covering device comprises snap hooks for connection to the reaction vessel. When the covering device is locked to the reaction vessel, the cavities of the reaction vessel are sealed fluid-tight. With the aid of an unlocking device, the snap hooks can be deformed in such a way that the lock is released. The covering device can interact with the unlocking device in such a way that the covering device is lifted by the unlocking device after the snap connection has been released. The known state of the art has the disadvantage that lifting the covering device from the reaction vessel is only possible with the aid of an unlocking device and is therefore particularly complex and expensive.

[0012] DE 10 2013 114 732 A1 discloses a covering device for covering a reaction vessel. The covering device comprises symmetrically arranged spring elements which, in a relaxed state, are supported on a surface of the reaction vessel in such a way that a space is formed between the covering device and the surface of the reaction vessel. The spring elements can apply a force perpendicular to negative pressure within cavities of the reaction vessel.

[0013] A disadvantage of this solution is that the covering device has to be sufficiently stiff to ensure a proper pre-tension of the spring elements. On the one hand, this leads to a more costly covering device with more material for stiffening needed. On the other hand, a stiff covering device has the consequence that in order to lift it, the combined negative pressure of all cavities needs to be overcome at the same time. Thus, when this combined negative pressure is particularly high, the covering device can still remain stuck to the reaction vessel if the force exerted by the spring elements is not high enough.

[0014] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a reaction vessel and a reaction arrangement which enable reliable analysis and / or reaction of the samples during automatic process control and / or ensure simple and reliable detachment of the covering device from the reaction vessel, wherein the reaction vessel has a simple structure and / or can be produced at low cost and / or can be used universally.

[0015] The present object is solved by a reaction vessel according to claim 1 and by a reaction arrangement according to claim 18.

[0016] The reaction vessel, in particular PCR plate or microtiter plate, comprises at least one cavity for holding a sample, in particular a sample fluid. The reaction vessel further comprises a support section radially surrounding the cavity. The support section is designed to abut against a covering device that closes the cavity in a liquid-tight manner.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention the reaction vessel comprises a lifting mechanism which is configured to lift the covering device off the reaction vessel in such a way that the covering device no longer contacts the support section. In particular, the lifting mechanism is configured to bring the covering device from a sealing position, in which the covering device abuts against the support section, into a removal position, in which the covering device is spaced apart from the support section.

[0018] Thus, the present invention integrates the lifting mechanism into the reaction vessel, in particular PCR plate, or microtiter plate, rather than attaching them to the covering device as in the state of the art.

[0019] The lifting mechanism can be used to automatically lift any covering device from the reaction vessel in a simple and reliable manner in such a way that the covering device can be prevented from sticking. The lifting mechanism can provide sufficient force to overcome any negative pressure that may have developed in the cavity and automatically release and lift the covering device from the reaction vessel. In this way, the at least one analysis and / or reaction step of the sample can be carried out automatically without any manual steps.

[0020] Lifting the covering device can be simplified by means of the lifting mechanism. In particular, no components other than the reaction vessel are required to lift the covering device.

[0021] Since the reaction vessel provides the lifting mechanism, the weight of the covering device can be kept particularly low. The lifting mechanism can therefore be designed and / or dimensioned particularly small, which can reduce costs.

[0022] Providing a lifting mechanism on the reaction vessel instead of the covering device already reduces the weight of the covering device by the weight of the lifting mechanism. In addition, the covering device no longer requires the same level of stiffness. This means it can be made thinner, reducing its weight even further.

[0023] A lighter covering device can be lifted up more easily since it exerts a lower gravitational force. Therefore, a lifting mechanism provided on the reaction vessel can be designed and / or dimensioned smaller than a lifting mechanism provided on the covering device. Alternatively, for a similarly designed or dimensioned lifting mechanism, more lifting force can be distributed for overcoming the negative pressure. A further particular advantage is that a less stiff covering device is or can be made more bendable / flexible.

[0024] With a bendable / flexible covering device, when lifting the covering device, it is not required to overcome the combined negative pressure of all cavities. Instead, the covering device will detach first at the cavities, in particular at the row or column of cavities, where the negative pressure is weaker, i.e., where less force is required for lifting. It is also possible that the detachment starts at a corner of the covering device. Due to the flexibility, the covering device can or will flex away from the cavities where the negative pressure is weaker first and then detach or peel off successively, in particular row by row or column by column or diagonally, from the other cavities where the negative pressure is higher. Therefore, preferably, only a part of the total negative pressure needs to be overcome initially, e.g., the sum of the negative pressure values of one row or one column of cavities or of the cavities in a corner of the covering device. Detachment of the covering device is therefore greatly improved.

[0025] In summary, by integrating the lifting mechanism into the reaction vessel, the covering device no longer requires the same level of stiffness as in the prior art where the lifting mechanism is integrated into the covering device. Consequently, the covering device can be manufactured much thinner than in the prior art, significantly reducing the weight that needs to be lifted. Moreover, a thinner covering device can bend, allowing a shearing force to release it row by row or column by column or diagonally, in particular automatically starting at the row or column that has in sum the lowest negative pressure value or at the corner with the lowest negative pressure value.

[0026] However, while a bendable covering device is particularly advantageous, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto and the proposed reaction vessel with lifting mechanism can also be used and be advantageous with stiffer covering devices.

[0027] The reaction vessel can preferably be used with all known covering devices. In particular, the reaction vessel can be used with various covering devices, whereby the lifting mechanism ensures reliable lifting of the respective covering device used. It is not necessary to use a special and / or specified covering device. The reaction vessel is therefore particularly flexible in use. After lifting the covering device by the lifting mechanism, the covering device can be gripped automatically and removed from the reaction vessel, for example by means of a gripper robot and / or automat.

[0028] Preferably, the lifting mechanism comprises at least one spring element for lifting the covering device, whereby a simple and reliable design of the lifting mechanism is achieved. The spring element can be used to provide sufficient force to lift the covering device in a simple manner. The spring element allows the covering device to be lifted automatically.

[0029] Optionally, the lifting mechanism comprises at least two, preferably at least four, further preferably at least eight, spring elements. By using more than one spring elements, the covering device can be raised and lifted off the reaction vessel in a particularly uniform manner. Sticking to the reaction vessel can be prevented particularly reliably.

[0030] Preferably, the spring element is arranged at a distance from the at least one cavity. The spring element can also be arranged outside the receiving section. It is also possible that the spring element is arranged in an outer section of the reaction vessel. The outer section preferably surrounds the receiving section, in particular completely. This prevents contact between the spring element and the receiving section, ensuring reliable sealing of the cavities.

[0031] Optionally, the reaction vessel comprises two parallel longitudinal sides and two parallel transverse sides. The spring elements can be arranged along the longitudinal sides and / or along the transverse sides. The spring elements are then arranged around the receiving section, which enables the covering device to be lifted off the reaction vessel particularly evenly. In particular, adhesion of the covering device to the reaction vessel can be reliably prevented.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the same number of spring elements are arranged on the opposite longitudinal sides. However, it can be advantageous to have different numbers on the different sides, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0033] Optionally, the same number of spring elements are arranged on the opposite transverse sides. The number of spring elements on the longitudinal side and the number of spring elements on the transverse side can be the same or different. Preferably the number of spring elements on the transverse side is smaller than or equal to the number of spring elements on the longitudinal side.

[0034] The spring elements are preferably evenly distributed and / or are arranged equidistant from each other on the longitudinal side and / or the transverse side. In this way, the force for lifting the covering device can be transmitted evenly to the covering device.

[0035] The spring element can be an integral part of the reaction vessel. Alternatively, the spring element can be formed by a component separate from the reaction vessel.

[0036] The spring element can be configured as a leaf-spring-like strut. In this way, the spring element can be manufactured in a particularly simple and cost-effective manner.

[0037] Preferably, the spring element is attached to the reaction vessel by at least one end. The spring element can comprise a free end for abutment against the covering device. During the transition from the sealing position to the removal position, the free end can be moved or pivoted relative to the other end. In this way particularly good spring properties can be achieved.

[0038] Optionally, the spring element comprises two ends and is attached to the reaction vessel at both ends. A central area of the spring element between the two ends can then serve as a contact area for abutment against the covering device. In this way, a particularly stable connection can be provided between the spring element and the reaction vessel. The central area for abutment against the covering device can then be moved or pivoted relative to the two ends during the transition from the sealing position to the removal position.

[0039] The spring element preferably comprises a contact section for abutment against the covering device. The contact section can be convex in shape, which allows the covering device to be lifted evenly without any transverse movement. Alternatively, the contact section can be in at least substantially flat shape, which results in a particularly simple structure. The spring element is preferably configured to be transferred and / or moved from a tensioned position, in which the spring element is elastically deformed and / or pivoted and / or in which the cavities are covered and / or sealed in a fluid-tight manner, to a rest position, in which the spring element is at least essentially not elastically deformed and / or pivoted and / or in which the cavities are not covered and / or closed.

[0040] Preferably, the spring element is in its rest position when there is no covering device on the reaction vessel or when the covering device is in its removal position.

[0041] The spring element is preferably in its tensioned position when the covering device is in the sealing position.

[0042] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the lifting mechanism is, in particular the spring elements are, configured to exert a shearing force or asymmetric force on the covering device or to exert differently strong forces on opposing sides or (diagonally) opposing corners of the covering device. This further improves or supports the detachment of the covering device and / or mitigates the sticking caused by negative pressure. In particular, the covering device is caused to detach first on the side or corner where the stronger force is applied by the lifting mechanism.

[0043] The shearing force or asymmetric force exerted onto the covering device preferably causes the covering device to detach successively from the cavities, starting from the cavity / cavities at the side or corner where the stronger force is exerted. In particular, the covering device can detach from the cavities row by row, column by column or diagonally.

[0044] Due to the differently strong forces, a successive detachment of the covering device from the cavities, in particular row by row, column by column or diagonally, is preferably made possible also in the case of a stiff or rigid covering device. However, this embodiment of the reaction vessel can also be advantageous with a flexible or bendable covering device, in particular for supporting the bending of the covering device.

[0045] In the context of the present invention, a “shearing force” is preferably a force that acts parallel to the main plane of extension of the covering device or reaction vessel or perpendicular to the main lifting movement. Preferably, the number of spring elements arranged on a first side of the reaction vessel is different from the number of spring elements arranged on a second side opposite the first side. In other words, the number of spring elements on opposing sides of the reaction vessel is preferably unequal. In this way, the total spring force exerted on the first side is stronger than the total spring force exerted on the second side. In particular, the covering device is caused to detach row by row or column by column, starting from the row or column at or next to the first side.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the number of spring elements arranged on a first corner of the reaction vessel is different from the number of spring elements arranged on a second corner (diagonally) opposite the first corner. In other words, the number of spring elements on opposing corners of the reaction vessel is preferably unequal. In this way, the total spring force exerted on the first corner is stronger than the total spring force exerted on the second corner. In particular, the covering device is caused to detach diagonally, starting from the cavity or cavities in or next to the first corner.

[0047] Also in the cases of different numbers of spring elements on opposing sides / corners, there is preferably at least one spring element on the side / corner with the smaller number of spring elements. In other words, preferably both opposing sides / corners comprise each one or more spring elements.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, different spring elements can be provided on opposing sides and / or (diagonally) opposing corners of the covering device which differ in spring tension. A different spring tension can be achieved, for example, by differently designed and / or differently sized spring elements. In this way, an asymmetrical or shearing force can be made possible or exerted also for the case of an equal number of spring elements on opposing sides / corners.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, the spring elements on at least one side of the reaction vessel can be distributed unevenly or with different spacing between each other. In this way, the (spring) force exerted is stronger in regions where the spring elements are closer together. This can also create a shearing force or cause the covering device to detach first in the region where the spring elements are closer together, in particular even in the case where spring elements with the same spring tension are used. Furthermore, a reaction arrangement with a reaction vessel according to the proposal is proposed. The reaction arrangement further comprises a covering device for fluid-tight covering and / or closing of the at least one cavity of the reaction vessel. In this respect, reference may be made to all explanations regarding the proposed reaction vessel. In particular, corresponding advantages are achieved.

[0050] The covering device preferably comprises a seal for fluid-tight sealing the at least one cavity of the reaction vessel. In this way, a particularly reliable fluid-tight seal of the reaction vessel can be achieved.

[0051] Particularly preferably, the covering device is bendable or flexible. In this way, the detachment of the covering device from the reaction vessel can be improved, in particular by a successive detachment from the cavities, especially cavity row by cavity row or cavity column by cavity column or diagonally. In this respect, reference is made to the above explanations regarding the proposed reaction vessel. In particular, corresponding advantages are achieved.

[0052] The aspects of the present invention mentioned above and described in the following specific description may also be implemented and advantageous individually and in various combinations.

[0053] Further details, advantages and properties of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0054] Fig. 1 is a top view of a proposed reaction vessel with several cavities and a lifting mechanism;

[0055] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the reaction vessel from Fig. 1 ;

[0056] Fig. 3 is a top view of the proposed reaction vessel, which is covered with a covering device;

[0057] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the reaction vessel covered with the covering device from Fig. 3, wherein the covering device is in a removal position in which the cavities are not sealed; and Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the reaction vessel covered with the covering device from Fig. 3, wherein the covering device is in a sealing position in which the covering device seals the cavities in a fluid-tight manner;

[0058] Fig. 6A is a detailed view of the lifting mechanism according to another embodiment;

[0059] Fig. 6B is a detailed view of the lifting mechanism according to another embodiment;

[0060] Fig. 6C is a detailed view of the lifting mechanism according to another embodiment;

[0061] Fig. 6D is a detailed view of the lifting mechanism according to another embodiment; and

[0062] Fig. 6E is a detailed view of the lifting mechanism according to another embodiment;

[0063] Fig. 6F is a detailed view of the lifting mechanism according to another embodiment;

[0064] Fig. 7 is a top view of a proposed reaction vessel with several cavities and a lifting mechanism according to a further embodiment; and

[0065] Fig. 8 is a top view of a proposed reaction vessel with several cavities and a lifting mechanism according to another further embodiment.

[0066] In the following description of preferred embodiments by reference to the drawings, the same or corresponding reference signs have been used for the same or similar components or parts, where similar or identical advantages and properties may be achieved even if the associated description has not been repeated.

[0067] Fig. 1 shows a reaction vessel 1 from above, in particular a PCR plate, microtiter plate or the like, for analyzing and / or testing at least one sample, in particular a sample liquid. Fig. 2 shows a cross-section of the reaction vessel 1 shown in Fig. 1. The reaction vessel 1 comprises, in particular, a main section 2 and a holding section 3 directly adjacent to the outside of the main section 2. The reaction vessel 1 can preferably be placed on a support and / or ground via the holding section 3. The holding section 3 preferably surrounds the main section 2 completely, as can be seen in Fig. 1 in combination with Fig. 2.

[0068] In the state of use, the main section 2 is preferably aligned at least essentially horizontally.

[0069] In the context of the present invention, the term "state of use" is to be understood as the state of the reaction vessel 1 in which the reaction vessel 1 is set down and / or placed on a support and / or ground, in particular a horizontal support, via the holding section 3 and / or is aligned for receiving a sample liquid and / or for carrying out at least one reaction and / or analysis step of a sample.

[0070] All spatial designations in relation to the reaction vessel 1 , such as "vertical" and "horizontal" or the like, always refer to the state of use in the context of the present invention unless otherwise stated.

[0071] The reaction vessel 1 preferably comprises an upper side U and a lower side L in relation to the state of use. The terms “upper side” and “lower side” refer to the direction of gravity in the state of use.

[0072] In particular, the main section 2 comprises an inner receiving section 4 with at least one cavity 5 for receiving a sample. Preferably, two or more than two cavities 5 are provided, for example 96, 384 or 1.536 cavities 5. The cavities 5 are preferably arranged symmetrically in the receiving section 4, in particular in rows and columns, as shown in Fig. 1. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 , the reaction vessel 1 comprises 96 cavities 5 arranged in twelve rows and eight columns.

[0073] The cavities 5 can be an integral part of the reaction vessel 1. Alternatively, the cavities 5 can also be designed as components or parts separate from the reaction vessel 1.

[0074] It is also possible that the receiving section 4 with the cavities 5 together form a component that is separate from the reaction vessel 1 and can be connected to the main section 2 and / or the holding section 3. The cavities 5 are preferably separated and / or isolated from each other. In this way, different samples can be analyzed and / or tested with a single reaction vessel 1 .

[0075] In particular, the individual cavities 5 of the reaction vessel 1 are configured identically, so that the same and / or identical conditions prevail in each cavity 5.

[0076] Each cavity 5 is preferably surrounded, in particular completely, by a support section 6. In particular, each cavity 5 is preferably radially surrounded by one support section 6. The support section 6 preferably comprises a flat, in particular horizontal, upper surface. The support section 6 is preferably configured to seal the cavities 5 in a fluid- tight manner as will be described in the following.

[0077] The support section 6, in particular its flat, upper surface, can project upwards and / or vertically beyond the main section 2, as shown in Fig. 2. Due to the greater extension in the vertical direction of the support section 6 compared to the main section 2, a particularly good fluid-tight seal of the cavities 5 can be achieved, as will be explained in detail below.

[0078] An outer section 7 preferably adjoins the receiving section 4 on the outside. In particular, the outer section 7 completely surrounds the receiving section 4, as shown in Fig. 1. The outer section 7 preferably surrounds the receiving section radially. In particular, the outer section 7 forms a transition between the receiving section 4 and the holding section 3.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 2, the support section 6 preferably projects upwards and / or vertically beyond the outer section 7.

[0080] The reaction vessel 1 is preferably made of plastic. In particular, the reaction vessel 1 can be made of a thermoplastic, such as polycarbonate, polyamide, polybutylene terephthalate, polymer blends, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene-polycar- bonate copolymer, or the like, and / or a thermoplastic elastomer and / or a biopolymer.

[0081] For example, the cavities 5 can be made of a different material than the rest of the reaction vessel 1. Preferably, the cavities 5 are made of polypropylene and / or a biopolymer. It is also possible that the receiving section 4 is made of polypropylene and / or a biopolymer. The rest of the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the main section 2 and the holding section 3 without the cavities 5 or the main section 2 and the holding section 3 without the receiving section 4, can be made of another plastic, in particular a thermoplastic such as polycarbonate, polyamide, polybutylene terephthalate, polymer blends, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene-polycarbonate copolymer, or the like, and / or a thermoplastic elastomer and / or biopolymer. The rest of the reaction vessel 1 can also be made of polypropylene reinforced with bamboo fibers. The fiber content can be more than 30 %, preferably more than 35 %, further preferably more than 40 %, and / or less than 70 %, preferably less than 65 %, further preferably less than 60 %.

[0082] The reaction vessel 1 can in particular be configured in accordance with the ANSI / SLAS 1-2004 to ANSI / SLAS 4-2004 standard. The reaction vessel 1 can then be used universally.

[0083] Preferably, the reaction vessel 1 is designed in such a way that the reaction vessel 1 can be stacked on an identically designed reaction vessel 1. In this way, reaction vessels 1 can be provided in a particularly simple way, especially stacked.

[0084] In particular, the bottom of the reaction vessel 1 , preferably the lower side L, can be placed on the top, preferably the upper side U, of another reaction vessel 1 to form a stack. The reaction vessel 1 , in particular the holding section 3, can comprise a collar C or can be designed as a collar C on the lower side L. When stacked, the collar C of an upper reaction vessel 1 can rest on the top of the holding section 3 of a lower reaction vessel 3.

[0085] The reaction vessel 1 can be placed in an automatic reaction apparatus, in particular a thermal cycler and / or respective automat, preferably on a thermal block of the automatic reaction apparatus.

[0086] The thermal block can be designed in such a way that the thermal block surrounds the cavities 5 and / or that the cavities 5 rest and / or abut against the thermal block at least in sections. In this way, a particularly good temperature transition can be achieved between the thermal block and the sample when the thermal block is temperature controlled. Furthermore, the thermal block can be designed in such a way that the main section 2, in particular the underside of the main section 2, rests against and / or on the thermal block. It is also possible that the receiving section 4 rests against and / or on the thermal block.

[0087] As Fig. 3 to Fig. 5 show, the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the upper side U, can preferably be covered and / or closed from above by means of a covering device 8. The covering device 8 is preferably configured to cover and / or close the at least one cavity 5 in a fluid-tight manner, as shown in Fig. 5.

[0088] The covering device 8 is designed to cover the reaction vessel 1 and / or the upper side U and to seal the cavities 5 in a fluid-tight manner for a desired time during at least one reaction and / or analysis step.

[0089] The covering device 8 is preferably configured in the shape of a lid. In particular, the covering device 8 projects beyond the reaction vessel 1 in a horizontal and / or vertical direction when placed on the reaction vessel 1 , as shown in Fig. 3 to Fig. 5. The covering device 8 is then preferably placed on the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the upper side U, from above.

[0090] In particular, the covering device 8 is configured to abut against the support section 6 in order to seal the cavities 5. Vice versa, the support section 6 is preferably configured to abut against the covering device 8 to seal the cavities 5 in a fluid-tight manner.

[0091] Preferably, the covering device 8 is designed in such a way that the covering device 8 can be stacked on an identically designed covering device 8. In this way, the covering devices 8 can be provided in a particularly simple way, especially stacked.

[0092] The covering device 8 preferably comprises a main body 9 and a seal 10 connected to the main body 9 for fluid-tight sealing of the reaction vessel 1 and / or the cavity 5.

[0093] The seal 10 can have a smaller extension, in particular in the horizontal direction in the state of use, than the main body 9, as shown in Fig. 4. It is also possible that the seal 10 completely covers the main body 9. The seal 10 can cover the entire side of the covering device 8, in particular the main body 9, facing the reaction vessel 1 when the covering device 8 is in the state of use. The term "state of use" in relation to the covering device 8 is preferably to be understood as the state in which the covering device 8 is placed on the reaction vessel 1, which is in the state of use.

[0094] Preferably, the seal 10 is in particular completely surrounded by a counter support section 11.

[0095] The seal 10 is preferably connected to the main body, in particular adhesively bonded.

[0096] Preferably, the seal 10 is made of a plastic, in particular a rubber or silicone. The seal 10 can be made of a different material than the main body 9.

[0097] The seal 10 can be configured in a flat, in particular foil, sheet and / or cuboid shape, as can be seen in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5.

[0098] It is also possible that the covering device 8 comprises more than one seal 10. For example, each cavity 5 can be assigned exactly one seal 10. Such a seal 10 can be in the shape of a spherical shell.

[0099] It is also possible that the covering device 8 comprises more than one seal 10, wherein each seal 10 is assigned to more than one cavity 5.

[0100] Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 show the reaction vessel 1 on which a covering device 8 is placed. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the cavities 5 are not closed and / or sealed. Fig. 5 shows the reaction vessel 1 and the covering device 8, wherein the cavities 5 are sealed in a fluid-tight manner by the covering device 8.

[0101] The reaction vessel 1 preferably comprises a lifting mechanism 12 for lifting and / or moving the covering device 8 relative to the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the support section 6.

[0102] The lifting mechanism 12 is preferably configured to move the covering device 8 from a sealing position shown in Fig. 5, in which the covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 abuts against the support section 6 and / or wherein the cavities 5 are closed and / or sealed in a fluid-tight manner, to a removal position shown in Fig. 4, in which the covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 is spaced apart from the support section 6 and / or in which the at least one cavity 5 is not closed and / or sealed.

[0103] Lifting the covering device 8 can be simplified by means of the lifting mechanism 12. In particular, no components other than the reaction vessel 1 are required to lift the covering device 8. When the pressure on the covering device 8 is released, the covering device 8 is automatically lifted.

[0104] Since the reaction vessel 1 provides the lifting mechanism 12, the weight of the covering device 8 can be kept particularly low. The lifting mechanism 12 can therefore be designed and / or dimensioned particularly small, which can reduce costs.

[0105] The covering device 8 can be placed on the reaction vessel 1 as shown in Fig 4. Preferably, the lifting mechanism 12 or a part of the lifting mechanism 12 rests and / or abuts against the covering device 8, in particular the counter support section 11 , as shown in Fig. 4. In particular, the covering device 8 can be placed on the reaction vessel 1 automatically by means of a gripper, robot arm or the like. The covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 is then held at a distance from the support section 6 by the lifting mechanism 12. The covering device 8 is then in its removal position.

[0106] Starting from the removal position, pressure can be exerted on the covering device 8 and / or the reaction vessel 1 in such a way that the covering device 8 and the reaction vessel 1 are pressed against each other. The pressure preferably presses the seal 10 onto the support section 6, whereby the cavity 5 is sealed in a fluid-tight manner. Preferably, for fluid-tight sealing of the cavities 5, the covering device 8 must be pressed onto the reaction vessel 1 against the force exerted by the lifting mechanism 12. The pressure can be generated automatically by the automatic reaction apparatus.

[0107] In Fig. 5, the covering device 8 is shown in its sealing position, in which the covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 closes the cavities 5 in a fluid-tight manner. In the sealing position, the covering device 8 is pressed against the reaction vessel 1 in such a way that the seal 10 is pressed against the support section 6 and the cavities 5 are sealed in a fluid-tight manner by the seal 10.

[0108] It is then possible to carry out and / or conduct at least one reaction and / or analysis step, such as a defined increase and / or decrease in temperature, in particular automatically, for example by means of the automatic reaction apparatus. Temperature changes can be carried out automatically. For example, the temperature can be increased from around 4° to around 100° and then reduced again to around 4°. The process can be repeated several times. Other temperature changes are also possible.

[0109] After at least one reaction and / or analysis step and removal of the pressure, the covering device 8 can be removed from the reaction vessel 1.

[0110] When the pressure between the reaction vessel 1 and the covering device 8 is released, the covering device 8 is automatically transferred to the removal position by means of the lifting mechanism 12. Adhesion of the covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 to the support section 6 can thus be prevented.

[0111] The lifting mechanism 12 is preferably configured to reliably lift the covering device 8 from the reaction vessel 1 after the pressure has been released, preferably after the reaction and / or analysis has been carried out. In this way, the in particular automated performance / conduct of analyses and / or reactions can be carried out particularly error-free and with as few manual steps as possible. Manual removal of the covering device 8 is preferably not necessary. Sticking of the covering device 8 to the reaction vessel 1 by means of the seal 10 can thus be effectively prevented.

[0112] The force or preload exerted on the covering device 8 by the lifting mechanism 12 makes it possible to overcome any negative pressure that may have developed in the cavities 5 during the reaction or analysis, which can cause the covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 to adhere to the support section 6.

[0113] The lifting mechanism 12 is preferably configured to reliably lift any covering device 8 from the reaction vessel 1. The reaction vessel 1 and / or the lifting mechanism 12 is / are in particular compatible with any known covering devices 8, whereby any covering device 8 can be used and lifted off the reaction vessel 1 in a safe manner without the covering device 8 and / or the seal 10 remaining adhered to the support section 6. The cavity 5 can then be released independently of the covering device 8 used, whereby particularly easy access to the cavity 5 and the sample therein is made possible. As Fig. 2 shows, the lifting mechanism 12 comprises at least one spring element 13 for lifting the covering device 8. By means of the spring element 13, a force for lifting the covering device 8 can be generated and / or provided in a particularly simple manner in terms of construction.

[0114] In particular, the lifting mechanism 12 comprises at least two, preferably at least four, further preferably at least six, further preferably at least eight, spring elements 13, whereby a particularly uniform lifting of the covering device 8 can be realized.

[0115] The spring elements 13 are preferably arranged and / or configured at a distance from the cavity 5. In particular, the spring elements 13 are arranged outside of the support section 6. As Fig. 1 shows in detail, the spring elements 13 are preferably arranged in the region of the outer section 7 of the reaction vessel 1. In particular, the spring elements 13 are configured as a component of the outer section 7.

[0116] The reaction vessel 1 is preferably configured rectangularly. In particular, the reaction vessel 1 comprises two parallel longitudinal sides and two parallel transverse sides. The spring elements 13 are preferably arranged along the longitudinal sides and / or along the transverse sides, as Fig. 1 shows.

[0117] Preferably, the spring elements 13 are arranged, in particular evenly, distributed along the longitudinal sides and / or the transverse sides, whereby a particularly uniform lifting of the covering device 8 can be realized.

[0118] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 5, the spring element 13 is an integral part of the reaction vessel 1. However, it is also possible that the spring element 13 is configured as a component separate from the reaction vessel 1 , as will be explained in detail below.

[0119] The spring elements 13 is preferably configured to be transferred and / or moved from a tensioned position shown in Fig. 5, in which the spring elements 13 are elastically deformed and / or pivoted, to a rest position shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4, in which the spring elements 13 are at least essentially not elastically deformed and / or pivoted.

[0120] In the tensioned position, the cavities 5 are preferably closed and / or sealed in a fluid- tight manner, in particular by the covering device 8. In the rest position, the cavities 5 are preferably not closed or sealed by the covering device 8.

[0121] If there is no covering device 8 on the reaction vessel 1or if the covering device 8 is in the removal position, the spring element 13 is in its rest position.

[0122] If the covering device 8 is in the sealing position, the spring element 13 is in the tensioned position.

[0123] Each spring element 13 preferably comprises a first end 13A and a second end 13B. The first end 13A is preferably configured as a free end as shown in Fig. 2. The spring element 13 is preferably integrally connected with its second end 13B to the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the outer section 7. It is then possible to manufacture the reaction vessel 13 with the spring elements 13 in one piece in a single process step, for example by injection molding. The production can thus be carried out in a particularly short time and with high quantities, wherein a particularly cost-effective production can be achieved.

[0124] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 the spring element 13 is configured as a leaf spring-like strut.

[0125] The spring element 13 is preferably curved at least in sections along its direction of extension, in particular starting from the second end 13B connected to the reaction vessel 1 to the first, free end 13A. In particular, the spring element 13 can be curved in an S-shape, whereby a particularly good elastic behavior can be achieved. The spring element 13 preferably comprises a curved, in particular S-shaped, shape in longitudinal section shown in Fig. 2.

[0126] The spring element 13 can also comprise an at least essentially straight extension along its direction of extension.

[0127] The spring element 13 preferably comprises an at least substantially polygonshaped, in particular rectangular, base surface, wherein other, in particular rounded, base surfaces are also possible. For example, the spring element 13 may comprise an at least substantially rectangular base surface with rounded edges. The spring element 13 preferably comprises a contact section 14 for contact with the covering device 8, in particular the counter support section 11. The covering device 8 placed on the reaction vessel 1 can be supported and / or held via the contact section 14. Both in the sealing position and / or tensioned position (Fig. 5) and in the removal position and / or rest position (Fig. 4), the spring element 13 is in engagement with the covering device 8 via the contact section 14.

[0128] The contact section 14 is preferably configured to be convex, whereby sliding of the spring element 13 on the covering device 8 during the transition from the sealing position to the removal position and vice versa is enabled and / or simplified. In this way, the covering device 8 is only moved in a vertical direction, but not in a horizontal direction during the transition from the sealing position to the removal position or vice versa. Alternatively, the contact section 14 can be configured to be at least essentially flat.

[0129] Each spring element 13 is preferably assigned a spring element recess 15 for receiving the spring element 13 in the tensioned position and / or the rest position. The spring element recess 15 is preferably configured in the reaction vessel 1 , in particular in the outer section 7.

[0130] If the spring element 13 is elastically deformed and / or pivoted, the extension of the spring element 13 can change in the horizontal direction. The spring element recess 15 is preferably configured in such a way that contact of the spring element 13 and / or the free first end 13A with the outer section 7 is excluded and / or prevented apart from the second end 13B connected to the reaction vessel 1 . Neither in the tensioned position, the rest position nor between the tensioned position and the rest position the spring element 13, in particular the free first end 13A, contacts the outer section 7. Thus, the spring element 13 can be elastically deformed and / or pivoted in a particularly reliable and simple manner without the free first end 13A otherwise coming into engagement with the reaction vessel 1.

[0131] Fig. 6A to Fig. 6F show further embodiments of the spring element 13 in detail. In the embodiments shown in Fig. 6A to Fig. 6C, the spring element 13 is configured as a separate component from the reaction vessel 1. In the embodiments shown in Fig. 6D and Fig. 6E, the spring element 13 is an integral part of the reaction vessel 1 . As Fig. 6A shows, the spring element 13 can be designed as a torsion spring 16. The torsion spring 16 preferably comprises a first leg 16A, a second leg 16B and a coil section 16C with at least one coil.

[0132] The torsion spring 16 can be formed from a spring wire.

[0133] The first leg 16A can be connected to the reaction vessel 1 , in particular in the region of the outer section 7, and / or can rest against and / or be pretensioned against a support section of the reaction vessel 1 .

[0134] The second leg 16B of the torsion spring 16 preferably projects upwards beyond the outer section 7. In particular, the second leg 16B or a part of the second leg 16B forms the contact section 14 for abutment against the covering device 8.

[0135] In particular, the second leg 16B can be curved at least in a section.

[0136] The coil section 16C is preferably connected to the reaction vessel 1 , in particular in the area of the outer section 7, and / or attached to the reaction vessel 1.

[0137] During the transition from the removal position to the sealing position of the covering device 8 and / or from the rest position to the tensioned position, the second leg 16B is elastically pivoted relative to the first leg 16B and / or to the coil section 16C and is tensioned in this way. If the pressure or force is removed, the pre-tensioned spring element 13, in particular the coil spring 16, causes the covering device 8 to lift automatically.

[0138] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6B, the spring element 13 is configured as a spiral spring and / or axial spring 17. The axial spring 17 can be made of spring wire.

[0139] The axial spring 17 preferably comprises a first end 17A and a second end 17B.

[0140] As Fig. 6B shows, the first end 17A is preferably connected to the reaction vessel 1 , in particular in the area of the outer section 7 and / or the spring element recess 15.

[0141] The second end 17B preferably forms the contact section 14 for abutment against the covering device 8. During the transition from the rest position to the tensioned position, the axial spring

[0142] 17 is preferably compressed and / or tensioned axially, in particular elastically. During the transition from the tensioned position to the rest position, the axial spring 17 is preferably relieved, whereby the distance between the first end 17A and the second end 17B is increased. The covering device 8 is reliably lifted off the reaction vessel 1 by the spring element 13, in particular the axial spring 17.

[0143] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6C, a contact element 18 is preferably arranged at and / or attached to the second end 17B of the axial spring 17. The contact element

[0144] 18 preferably forms the contact section 14 at its upper side for abutment against the covering device 8.

[0145] As Fig. 6C further shows, more than one, in Fig. 6C exactly two, axial springs 17 can be assigned to the contact element 18. The first ends 17A are preferably connected to the reaction vessel 1 and the second ends 17B to the contact element 18.

[0146] When the covering device 8 is placed on the reaction vessel 1 , the covering device 8 thus rests on and / or abuts against the contact element 18.

[0147] During the transition from the rest position to the tensioned position, the distance between the contact element 18 and the remainder of the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the outer section 7, is preferably reduced. During the reverse transition from the tensioned position to the rest position, the distance between the contact element 18 and the remainder of the reaction vessel 1 and / or the outer section 7 is preferably increased.

[0148] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6D, the spring element 13 is configured as an arcshaped and / or wave-shaped strut.

[0149] The two ends 13A, 13B of the spring element 13 are preferably each connected to the reaction vessel 1 , in particular to the outer section 7. The spring element 13 according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 6D thus comprises no free end.

[0150] The spring element 13 preferably has a middle section in relation to the two endsl 3A, 13B, which forms the contact section 14 for abutment against the covering device 8, in particular the counter support section 11 . Due to the arc and / or wave-like shape of the spring element 13, the spring element 13 can also deform elastically during the transition from the rest position to the tensioned position and be pretensioned in this way. The spring element 13 can move at least in sections in the corresponding spring element recess 15.

[0151] Fig. 6E shows a further embodiment of the spring element 13. Compared to the embodiment shown in Fig. 6D, the spring element 13 differs in that the spring element 13 shown in Fig. 6E is configured as a double-shaft-shaped and / or double-waved- shaped strut.

[0152] As Fig. 6E further shows, the spring element 13 preferably comprises two contact sections 14 for abutment against the covering device 8, whereby a particularly uniform support of the covering device 8 is realized.

[0153] Fig. 6F shows a further embodiment of the spring element 13. The spring element 13 is preferably designed as a compressible volume spring element 19. The volume spring element 19 / spring element 13 can be made of a compressible material, for example silicone and / or elastomer. The volume spring element 19 can be spherical, cuboid, rotational ellipsoid or toroidal. However, other shapes are also possible.

[0154] If the covering device 8 is pressed onto the reaction vessel 1 , the volume spring element 19 can be elastically deformed. In particular, the volume spring element 19 can be pressed into the spring element recess 15. When the pressure is removed, the volume spring element 19 can deform reversibly and return to its original shape, whereby the covering device 8 is transferred to the removal position.

[0155] The reaction vessel 1 with the attached covering device 8 forms a reaction arrangement 20. The reaction arrangement 20 is shown in Fig. 3 to Fig. 5.

[0156] The reaction arrangement 20 is preferably designed in such a way that the reaction arrangement 20 can be stacked on an identically designed reaction arrangement 20. Several reaction arrangements 20 can then be stacked on top of each other. The collar C of the upper reaction vessel 1 can surround or rest on the covering device 8 of the lower reaction arrangement 20.

[0157] In particular, the covering devices 8 can initially be in their removal position. If a reaction arrangement 20 is stacked on top of another reaction arrangement, the covering device 8 of the lower reaction arrangement 20 can be brought into the sealing position due to the load of the upper reaction arrangement 20. It is also possible that only the load from several reaction arrangements 20 will cause the transfer of the covering device 8 of the lower reaction arrangement 20 to the sealing position.

[0158] Figs. 7 and 8 show two further embodiments of the reaction vessel 1 in a top view, similar to Fig. 1 . In the following, only the main differences to the previously described embodiments will be explained in more detail. The features and explanations of the previously described embodiments preferably apply similarly or correspondingly unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0159] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment in which the number of spring elements 13 is unequal on opposing sides of the reaction vessel 1. In particular, the number of spring elements 13 on a first side 1A of the reaction vessel 1 is higher than on a second side 1 B of the reaction vessel 1 opposite the first side 1A.

[0160] In the example shown, the first and second sides 1 A, 1 B are the longitudinal sides of the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the longer sides. However, it is also possible that the first and second sides 1A, 1 B are the transverse sides of the reaction vessel 1 , in particular the shorter sides.

[0161] Preferably, the second side 1 B comprises at least one spring element 13. In other words, spring elements 13 are preferably arranged on both opposing sides 1A, 1 B.

[0162] The number of spring elements 13 on the first side 1A is preferably at least one spring element 13 more than the number of spring elements 13 on the second side 1 B.

[0163] Preferably, the number of spring elements 13 on the first side 1 A is at least 1 .5 times, in particular at least 1.75 times, particularly preferably at least twice, the number of spring elements 13 on the second side 1 B.

[0164] The spring elements 13 of the first side 1A are preferably equidistantly distributed along the first side 1A. The spring elements 13 of the second side 1 B are preferably equidistantly distributed along the second side 1 B. However, a non-equidistant distribution is also possible for the first and / or second side 1 A, 1 B. It is also possible to have both a higher number of spring elements 13 on the first longitudinal side than on the opposite, second longitudinal side and a higher number of spring elements 13 on the first transverse side than on the opposite, second transverse side.

[0165] Fig. 8 shows an embodiment in which the number of spring elements 13 is unequal on (diagonally) opposing corners of the reaction vessel 1. In particular, the number of spring elements 13 in a first corner 1C of the reaction vessel 1 is higher than in a second corner 1 D of the reaction vessel 1 (diagonally) opposite the first corner 1C. Particularly preferably, the number of spring elements 13 in the first corner 1C is higher than in all other corners.

[0166] A corner of the reaction vessel 1 is preferably to be understood as the region where a longitudinal side and a transversal side meet.

[0167] Preferably, the second corner 1 D comprises at least one spring element 13. In other words, spring elements 13 are preferably arranged on both opposing corners.

[0168] The number of spring elements 13 at the first corner 1C is preferably at least one spring element 13 more than the number of spring elements 13 at the second corner 1 D.

[0169] The number of spring elements 13 at the first corner 1C is preferably at least 1.5 times, in particular at least 1 .75 times, particularly preferably at least twice, the number of spring elements 13 at the second corner 1 D.

[0170] In this embodiment, the spring elements 13 are preferably not equidistantly distributed along the sides of the reaction vessel 1. In particular, the spring elements 13 of one longitudinal side and one transverse side are denser or closer together in the region of the corner 1 C than in the region away from the corner 1 C.

[0171] Apart from the arrangement of the spring elements 13, the reaction vessel 1 and / or covering device 8 of the embodiments shown in Figs. 7 and 8 are / is preferably embodied as described above for the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 6. Preferably, the spring elements 13 of the embodiments shown in Fig. 7 and 8 are embodied as described and shown for Figs. 1 to 5. However, it is also possible to use spring elements 13 as described and shown for Figs. 6A to 6F.

[0172] More generally, the embodiments of Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 are preferably examples of a lifting mechanism 12 which exerts or can exert an asymmetric force or shearing force onto the covering device 8.

[0173] In the embodiment of Fig. 7, the force exerted by the spring elements 13 on the first side 1A is greater than the force exerted by the spring elements 13 on the second side 1 B. This preferably creates a shearing force in the direction from the first side 1A toward the second side 1 B.

[0174] In the embodiment of Fig. 8, the force exerted by the spring elements 13 in the first corner 1C is greater than the force exerted by the spring elements 13 in the second corner 1 D. This preferably creates a shearing force in the direction from the first corner 1C toward the second corner 1 D.

[0175] The total or combined spring tension of the spring elements 13 on the first side 1A or first corner 1 C is preferably higher than the total or combined spring tension of the spring elements 13 on the second side 1 B or second corner 1 D. In the embodiments shown in Fig. 7 and 8, this is preferably achieved by the respectively higher number of spring elements 13.

[0176] The total or combined spring tension is preferably the sum of the spring tensions of the individual spring elements 13.

[0177] Different total or combined spring tensions on opposing sides or corners can also be created by providing different spring elements 13 which differ in spring tension, for example by differently sized and / or differently designed spring elements 13.

[0178] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the reaction vessel 1 comprises spring elements 13 of different spring tension, in particular different design, type and / or size, arranged on opposing sides and / or corners. Preferably, the reaction vessel 1 comprises at least one or more spring elements 13 with a first spring tension on a first side and / or corner and at least one or more spring elements 13 with a second, different spring tension on a second, opposite side and / or corner. In this embodiment, the number of spring elements 13 on the opposing sides or corners can be the same, as shown in Fig. 1 , or can be different, as shown in Figs. 7 and 8. In particular, the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 5 and described above can comprise different spring elements 13 which differ in spring tension from each other.

[0179] Preferably, by means of the different spring elements 13, it is possible to create different total or combined spring tensions on opposing sides or corners also in the case of a symmetric arrangement of spring elements 13 with the same number of spring elements 13 on the opposing sides or corners, e.g., the arrangement shown in Fig. 1.

[0180] It should be noted that it is not necessary, although possible, to embody all spring elements 13 of one side or corner similar. For example, it is possible to use mainly the same spring elements 13 on both opposing sides or corners and only have a few spring elements 13 with higher spring tension on the first side to increase its total spring tension.

[0181] Generally, the total spring tension of the spring elements 13 at the first side or corner is preferably at least 1.1 times, in particular at least 1.5 times, more preferably at least 1.75 times, particularly preferably at least twice, the total spring tension of the spring elements 13 at the second side or corner. This preferably applies both to embodiments where the different total spring tensions are realized by differently embodied spring elements 13 as well as by different numbers of spring elements 13 on the opposing sides / corners.

[0182] In another embodiment, the spring elements 13 on the first side 1A have a different spacing between each other. In other words, the spring elements 13 are preferably unevenly distributed along the first side 1 A. In this embodiment, the number of spring elements 13 on the opposing side 1 B can be the same or can be different, in particular smaller, than the number of spring elements 13 on the first side 1A.

[0183] As already explained at the outset, the covering device 8 is preferably flexible and / or bendable and / or particularly thin, preferably in all described embodiments.

[0184] The (wall) thickness of the main body 9 of the covering device 8 is preferably less than 0.5 mm, in particular less than 0.3 mm. Since the seal 10 is preferably made of rubber-like material, an elastomer, or another more flexible material, it can usually bend also at greater thicknesses. Thus, the thickness of the seal 10 of the covering device 8 can be greater than the thickness of the main body 9, for example between 0.5 mm and 3 mm, as long as the main body 9 and the whole covering device 8 remain flexible.

[0185] The total thickness of the covering device 8, in particular of its main body 9 and seal 10, is preferably less than 2.0 mm or less than 1.5 mm, in particular less than 1 .0 mm or less than 0.8 mm.

[0186] However, it is also possible to use thicker main bodies 9 or covering devices 8 while maintaining flexibility / bendability, in particular when the main body 9 is made of a more flexible material, for example the same material as the seal 10.

[0187] Moreover, it is also possible to use thicker and / or rigid / stiff covering devices 8, in particular in embodiments with different total spring tensions on opposing sides or corners.

[0188] Individual aspects, features and / or method steps of the present invention can be implemented independently, but also in any combination and / or sequence.

[0189] Reference Symbol List:

[0190] Reaction vessel 13B Second end A First side 14 Contact sectionB Second side 15 Spring element recessC First corner 16 Torsion spring D Second corner 16A First leg

[0191] Main section 16B First leg

[0192] Holding section 16C Coil section

[0193] Receiving section 17 Axial Spring

[0194] Cavity 17A First end

[0195] Support section 17B Second end

[0196] Outer section 18 Contact element

[0197] Covering device 19 Volume element

[0198] Main body 20 Reaction arrangement0 Seal 1 Counter support section C Collar 2 Lifting mechanism L Lower side 3 Spring element U Upper side 3A First end

Claims

Claims:1 . Reaction vessel, in particular PCR plate or microtiter plate with at least one cavity (5) for holding sample liquid, and a support section (6) radially surrounding the cavity (5) for abutment against a covering device (8) in order to seal the cavity (5) in a fluid-tight manner, characterized in that the reaction vessel (1 ) comprises a lifting mechanism (12) which is configured to bring the covering device (8) from a sealing position, in which the covering device (8) abuts against the support section (6), into a removal position, in which the covering device (8) is spaced apart from the support section (6).

2. Reaction vessel according to claim 1 , characterized in that the lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least one spring element (13) for lifting the covering device (8).

3. Reaction vessel according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least two, preferably at least four, further preferably at least eight, spring elements (13).

4. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) is arranged at a distance from the at least one cavity (5) and / or outside the receiving section (4) and / or in an outer section (7) of the reaction vessel (1 ).

5. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reaction vessel (1 ) comprises two parallel longitudinal sides and two parallel transverse sides, wherein the spring elements (13) are arranged along the longitudinal sides and / or along the transverse sides.

6. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) is formed by a component separate from the reaction vessel (1 )-7. Reaction vessel according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the spring element (13) is an integral part of the reaction vessel (1 ).

8. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) is configured as a leaf-spring-like strut.

9. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) is attached to the reaction vessel (1 ) by at least one end (13B).

10. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) comprises two ends (13A, 13B) and is attached to the reaction vessel (1) at both ends (13A, 13B).

11. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) comprises a preferably at least substantially flat or convexly configured contact section (14) for abutment against the covering device (8).

12. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (13) can be transferred from a tensioned position, in which the spring element (13) is elastically deformed and / or pivoted and / or in which the cavity (5) is covered and / or sealed by the covering device (8), to a rest position, in which the spring element (13) is at least essentially not elastically deformed and / or pivoted and / or in which the cavity (5) is not covered and / or sealed.

13. Reaction vessel according to claim 12, characterized in that the spring element (13) is in its rest position, when there is no covering device (8) on the reaction vessel (1 ) or if the covering device (8) is in its removal position, and in that the spring element (13) is in the tensioned position, when the covering device (8) is in its sealing position.

14. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lifting mechanism (12) is configured to exert a shearing force on the covering device (8) or to exert differently strong forces on opposing sides or opposing corners of the covering device (8).

15. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the number of spring elements (13) arranged on a first side (1A) of the reactionvessel (1 ) is different from the number of spring elements (13) arranged on a second side (1 B) opposite the first side (1 A).

16. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the number of spring elements (13) arranged on a first corner (1C) of the reaction vessel (1 ) is different from the number of spring elements (13) arranged on a second corner (1 D) opposite the first corner (1 C).

17. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that different spring elements (13) are provided on opposing sides or opposing corners of the covering device (8) which differ in spring tension.

18. Reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that spring elements (13) are distributed along a side of the reaction vessel (1 ) with different spacing between each other.

19. Reaction arrangement with a reaction vessel according to one of the preceding claims and with a covering device (8) for fluid-tight covering and / or closing of the at least one cavity (5) of the reaction vessel (1).

20. Reaction arrangement according to claim 10, characterized in that the covering device (8) comprises a seal (10) for fluid-tight sealing the at least one cavity (5) of the reaction vessel (1).

21. Reaction arrangement according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the covering device (8) is flexible or bendable.

Images