Microplate reader comprising an anidolic element and method for carrying out optical measurements

Abstract

The invention relates to a microplate reader (1) comprising: a receiving device (2) for receiving a microplate (3) which has a plurality of recesses (4), in which recesses (4) samples to be analysed can be arranged; and an optical detector (5) for detecting radiation at each individual recess (4) in the microplate (3) received in the receiving device (2), wherein the receiving device (2) and / or the optical detector (5) are movably arranged relative to one another, in particular in order to position the received microplate (3) relative to the optical detector (5) for successive measurements at different recesses (4). The invention is characterised in that at least one anidolic element (11) for light guidance and / or light collection is arranged between the microplate (3) and the detector (5). The invention further relates to a method for carrying out optical measurements, in particular luminescence measurements.

Description

[0001] title

[0002] Microplate reader with an anidolic element and method for performing optical measurements

[0003] Description

[0004] The invention relates to a microplate reader according to claim 1 and a method for performing optical measurements, in particular luminescence measurements, according to the preamble of claim 21.

[0005] Microplate readers for the analysis of chemical and / or biological samples are well-known in the art. A microplate is a sample carrier for performing photometric or other measurements, featuring a multitude of regularly spaced wells in which the individual samples are formed. A microplate reader serves to "read" microplates by performing photometric measurements at the individual wells. For this purpose, the microplate reader incorporates measurement and analysis modules, such as a photomultiplier as part of the detection unit, which determines the luminescence, fluorescence, and / or absorption of the samples in the wells.Furthermore, microplate readers can also include cameras that enable the capture of an image of the microplate and, in particular, the samples in the individual wells of the microplate within the housing of the microplate reader, especially during measurements. For reading, the microplate is inserted into a recording position of a mechanical recording device, which is movable via a positioning mechanism, particularly in the X and Y directions.

[0006] For sequential readout of the individual wells, they can, for example, be moved one after the other by the positioning mechanism into a detection area of ​​the optical element or the detector. The detection area can be above the opening of the well and / or below the well, with a transmitting microplate base allowing the radiation from the sample in the well to pass to the detector.

[0007] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026The optical examination of samples in a microplate with a microplate reader is used in a wide range of applications, including the detection of biological, chemical, biochemical or physical reactions of the samples, in particular by measuring absorption, luminescence and fluorescence.

[0008] When measuring the luminescence of individual samples in the microplate well, high optical efficiency is desirable. Essentially, this means that as much of the sample's emitted radiation as possible should be detected. The detector can be positioned directly above and / or below the sample and, in particular, should have a sensor area identical to the sample's surface so that all photons emitted towards the detector can be captured. This would achieve the highest optical efficiency. However, this is not feasible in practice due to geometric, arrangement-related, and / or detector-specific requirements, as well as other constraints.The detector's sensor is enclosed in a detector housing, which means the sensor area behind the detector aperture cannot be positioned directly adjacent to the well or a sample surface. Other mechanical components and requirements for microplate movement or sample temperature control also influence the distance between the well and the detector aperture. Furthermore, it must be ensured that only radiation from one sample is detected, thus preventing interference from neighboring samples. Radiation detection can be achieved either "from above" by a detector positioned above the microplate or "from below" by a detector positioned above the microplate.

[0009] German patent DE 202008016208 Ul discloses, for example, a radiation measuring device, particularly for luminescence, wherein the arrangement includes a mirror element positioned between the sample and the optical detector. This is intended, in particular, to prevent the influence of interfering scattered light and simultaneously enable the use of detectors with a reduced detector area. However, the document does not mention any improved detection of the photons generated by the sample.

[0010] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 US 2015 / 0035170 Al discloses a system for the analysis of biological samples which moves a sample carrier with multiple wells through various modules such as sample and reagent dispensing, incubation and detection, wherein the detection unit uses a multi-component optical measuring device with a highly reflective projection element and another mirror element to encapsulate a sample in a well and to detect the radiation emitted by the sample, with the aim of determining a quantity of an analyte in the biological sample.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a microplate reader and a method for performing optical measurements by which the optical efficiency can be increased, in particular by increasing the proportion of photons detected by the detector. Furthermore, it is another object of the invention to provide a microplate reader and a method for performing optical measurements by which samples with low luminescence can also be analyzed. Finally, it is a further object of the invention to provide a microplate reader and a method for performing optical measurements by which, in particular, luminescence measurements can be performed more quickly.

[0012] These and other tasks are solved by a microplate reader according to claim 1 and a method for performing optical measurements according to claim 21.

[0013] Advantageous embodiments of the microplate reader are set forth in claims 2 to 20. An advantageous embodiment of the method is set forth in claim 22.

[0014] The microplate reader according to the invention comprises a receiving device for receiving a microplate having a plurality of wells in which samples to be analyzed can be arranged, and an optical detector for detecting radiation at each of the wells of the microplate received in the receiving device, wherein the receiving device and / or the optical detector are arranged movably relative to each other, in particular to position the received microplate with respect to the optical detector for successive measurements at different wells.

[0015] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026The microplate reader according to the invention is characterized by the fact that at least one anidolic element for light guiding and / or light collection is arranged between the microplate and the detector.

[0016] The anidolic element increases the optical efficiency of the measurement. In particular, photons emitted from the sample or well are directed towards the detector and its sensor area, allowing them to be detected. This prevents or eliminates potential loss of the generated photons, for example, through scattering or emission in certain directions on their way to the detector. This makes it possible, among other things, to reliably measure even single-photon emission from samples within a well. Essentially, the anidolic element directs all photons emitted from the sample to the detector. This also overcomes the limitation that, due to the design constraints of a microplate reader, the detector and its sensor area cannot be positioned directly on the well to achieve maximum optical efficiency.The photons entering the anidolic element, which consists primarily of solid material, are subject to essentially total internal reflection at an interface with the environment, whereby the photons can be guided to the detector in the anidolic element without loss or at least with almost no loss.

[0017] The anidolic element is a non-imaging optical element; in particular, it is a non-imaging optical element. Unlike an imaging optical element, a non-imaging optical element does not produce an image of a source, but merely aims to transfer radiation from a source to a target. In particular, the principle of conservation of entendue underlies non-imaging optics. A method for designing a non-imaging optical element is known, for example, from document EP 1266255 Bl. Preferably, the anidolic element can be composed of one or more components, such as mirror elements. Particularly preferably, the anidolic element is a solid body.

[0018] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 When measuring radiation at individual wells, this can involve measuring radiation above a sample or the microplate, also known as top measurement. Alternatively, and preferably additionally, radiation can also be measured below a sample or below the microplate, or measured through the bottom of the microplate, also known as bottom measurement.

[0019] Preferably, the anidolic element and / or the detector is arranged above the microplate. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the anidolic element and / or the detector can be arranged below the microplate.

[0020] In particular, an arrangement of the anidolic element between the microplate and the detector can also be understood to mean that the anidolic element is arranged in the light path from the recess in the microplate to the detector. In particular, an arrangement of the anidolic element between the microplate and the detector can also be understood to mean an embodiment in which the anidolic element is arranged below the microplate and, in particular, is designed to guide the light around the microplate to a detector laterally or above the microplate.

[0021] Preferably, total internal reflection of the radiation occurs at an interface between the anidolic element and the environment. The anidolic element thus conducts the radiation based on total internal reflection, which is lossless.

[0022] Preferably, the anidolic element is free of reflective areas and / or surfaces. The anidolic element is specifically not a reflective element and, in particular, not a mirror.

[0023] Preferably, the anidolic element is a single body.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment, the anidolic element has an inlet surface at one end, which faces the microplate, and an outlet surface at the opposite end, which faces the detector, wherein the inlet surface

[0025] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 preferably has a smaller cross-section compared to the exit surface. In the preferred embodiment, the cross-section of the inlet surface on the microplate is smaller than the cross-section of the exit surface facing the detector. The small inlet surface at the well helps to prevent radiation from neighboring samples from directly penetrating the anidolic element, which could distort the measurement at the well, especially when a small number of photons are measured. The larger exit surface towards the detector allows for the measurement of as many photons as possible and enables the use of a universal detector, independent of the size of the microplate or the individual wells of the microplate.

[0026] Preferably, the cross-section of the inlet surface corresponds essentially to an opening area of ​​a recess in the microplate, in particular to a geometric shape and / or diameter of a recess in the microplate. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the cross-section of the outlet surface corresponds essentially to an opening area of ​​a sensor of the detector, in particular to a geometric shape and / or diameter of a detector window of the sensor or a sensor surface, in particular a cathode surface of the sensor. Optimal light transmission of the radiation can be achieved by adapting the cross-sections to the opening areas of the recess in the microplate or the sensor, as well as by a geometric design of the anidolic element between the inlet and outlet surfaces.In particular, the anidolic element is designed such that the acceptance angle for successfully transmitted radiation is larger at the input than at the output, which is advantageous for the detection of the sample radiation. The influence of unwanted radiation, for example from neighboring wells or reflections within the microplate reader, is significantly reduced or even prevented by shielding the anidolic element on its side surfaces. Optical efficiency is maximized.

[0027] The inlet and outlet surfaces of the anidolic element can each be adapted to the shape of the opening surface of the well in the microplate or detector. In particular, the inlet and / or outlet surface can be round, elliptical, or polygonal. In many types of microplates, the well is shaped as a combination of a square and a circle, i.e., as a squircle.

[0028] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 The entry surface is preferably designed in such a way that it is essentially identical to the depression or an opening area of ​​a depression. It can also be advantageous to use congruent surfaces of other sizes as the entry surface, since crosstalk from radiation from neighboring depressions and a narrowing of the opening area of ​​the depression are competing optimizations.

[0029] In particular, the entry surface and the exit surface of the anidolic element can have different shapes.

[0030] Alternatively or preferably additionally, the inlet surface and / or the outlet surface can be flat or curved. In particular, the inlet surface and / or the outlet surface can be concave or convex.

[0031] The shape of the inlet and outlet surfaces can influence the form of the anidolic element. The distance between the inlet and outlet surfaces in the direction of extension of the anidolic element determines its length. The shape between these two surfaces is optimized for maximum optical efficiency using the theory of non-imaging optics. If necessary, the length can be increased by means of guide elements, ideally without any loss of efficiency.

[0032] Preferably, the anidolic element is designed as a solid material. Advantageously, the anidolic element is a light-conducting solid material with the aforementioned radiation entry and exit surfaces and, in particular, an optimized surface geometry between the two surfaces. A Compound Parabolic Concentrator (CPC), for example, represents such an anidolic element, and the generation of its geometric shape is known. This element is also called a parabolic light-collecting lens. The use of CPCs is known, for example, in concentrating solar radiation onto a receiver. Here, the CPC is inverted in the previously known light path and used to collect diffuse radiation onto a small receiver.

[0033] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 Particularly advantageously, the radiation in the anidolic element is kept without loss inside the anidolic element by total reflection at the boundary layer to the immediate surroundings of the anidolic element, as long as a critical angle is not exceeded.

[0034] Reflection at the interface is affected by defects on the surface of the anidolic element, and the radiation can be lost for detection if, for example, the radiation exits the anidolic element at a defect. The quality of the anidolic element is largely determined by its flawless surface, which can be achieved in the manufacturing process, for example, by polishing.

[0035] Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the anidolic element is made of acrylic glass, mineral glass, or quartz glass. These materials allow for good light transmission while simultaneously minimizing losses due to total internal reflection within the anidolic element due to high critical angles. Preferably, the anidolic element is made of at least one polymer, for example, cycloolefin copolymers.

[0036] Preferably, the anidolic element exhibits resistance to biochemical substances, in particular to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).

[0037] A preferred embodiment of the microplate reader is characterized by the fact that the anidolic element has at least a partial encapsulation on at least one of its side surfaces. The encapsulation protects and shields the anidolic element from the environment, thus reducing or even completely preventing external influences such as optical radiation or photons outside the actual well or scattered radiation within the microplate reader. The encapsulation is preferably made of a metal or a plastic, for example, as a hollow turned part made of anodized aluminum, the internal shape of which largely conforms to the anidolic element without contact.

[0038] Preferably, the casing is designed to be spaced apart from a wall of the anidolic element. In particular, the casing does not have contact with the anidolic element. The casing does not touch the anidolic element or the wall of the

[0039] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 anidolic element not. The spacing prevents defects that could affect total reflection inside the anidolic element. Preferably, the casing has a shape substantially analogous to the anidolic element or the enclosed area of ​​the anidolic element.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the casing is structured. Preferably, the casing has at least one structural element, and preferably several structural elements. A structural element can, for example, be a notch in the casing.

[0041] In particular, the structural elements can be regularly or irregularly formed and / or arranged. Specifically, the structural elements can be located in a region of the casing facing the microplate. The structural elements can influence optical radiation from adjacent wells, for example, by capturing it or reflecting it away from the actual well. This improves the optical measurement for the well itself.

[0042] Preferably, the anidolic element and / or its encapsulation covers an adjacent depression, at least partially. In particular, an adjacent depression is free from being covered by the anidolic element and / or its encapsulation. This minimizes multiple reflections.

[0043] In many applications, radiation from the microplate's recesses is to be expected, making encapsulation absolutely necessary. In particular, the anidolic element can already implicitly encompass the encapsulation.

[0044] Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the anidolic element is arranged in the main axis of the detector. This allows the photons emerging from the sample in the well to be directed precisely to the detector surface, thus maximizing optical efficiency. This applies to photons emerging from the microplate both upwards and downwards.

[0045] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 Alternatively or preferably additionally, the detector is a PMT or a PMT module.

[0046] A preferred embodiment is characterized by the fact that the anidolic element has at least one material projection on its outer surface. In particular, the at least one material projection serves as a holder for the anidolic element in a receptacle. Preferably, the anidolic element has several material projections. The material projection allows the anidolic element to be securely held or fixed in the receptacle. Furthermore, contact with the anidolic element occurs only via the material projection, thus minimizing any influence of contact with the anidolic element, such as radiation scattering. The receptacle also allows the anidolic element to be easily positioned above a recess in a microplate. Preferably, the anidolic element is arranged in the receptacle in a replaceable manner.

[0047] As an alternative to a single mount, the anidolic element can also be held with several needle-shaped rods, particularly with three needle-shaped rods. The minimal contact of the anidolic element with the tips of the needle-shaped rods minimizes defects that could lead to a loss of optical efficiency.

[0048] Preferably, the material protrusion cannot be a "negative" protrusion in the sense of a depression in the anidolic element. A "positive" protrusion, extending beyond the actual shape of the anidolic element, is preferred.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one material projection is formed from the same material as the anidolic element. Alternatively, or more preferably, the anidolic element and the at least one material projection are formed in one piece. This material unity prevents defects in the anidolic element, which, for example, could lead to scattering of the light guided within it, thereby further improving the optical efficiency. In particular, such defects can significantly affect the reflection within the anidolic element.

[0050] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026In an advantageous embodiment, the anidolic element has several material projections which are spaced apart from each other on a circumference of the anidolic element.

[0051] Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the at least one material projection has a projection distance to one end of the anidolic element. The material projection is thus not located directly at one end of the anidolic element, thereby further reducing its influence on reflections within the anidolic element.

[0052] A preferred embodiment is characterized by the fact that the anidolic element is at least partially rotationally symmetrical. This further improves the effective collection and guidance of light towards the detector.

[0053] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the anidolic element has at least one curved section, preferably a rotationally symmetric section, in particular a rotationally symmetric parabolic section, and preferably a cylindrical section adjoining it. Preferably, the curved section faces the microplate or the receiving device for the microplate. The cylindrical section serves to guide the radiation to the detector, whereas the curved section is adapted to the recess so that substantially all radiation from a recess in the anidolic element can be received and transmitted. In particular, the distance between the recess and the detector surface can be adjusted and varied by selecting the length of the cylindrical section.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment, the anidolic element has at least one bore, in particular for introducing optical radiation or liquids and / or for routing lines, especially for liquids and / or optical radiation. Lines, for example for an additional liquid and / or for an optical radiation source, in particular for a

[0055] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 Excitation is directed into the interior of the anidolic element. Preferably, the bore is located in the middle of the height of the anidolic element.

[0056] However, holes represent defects in the anidolic element where radiation is lost. It is preferred that an inner surface of the hole is polished and / or mirrored, and / or that the hole has a path, particularly a straight or at least partially curved path, through the anidolic element, resulting in total or high-grade reflection of the radiation. A high-quality hole, or its polishing or mirroring, is particularly crucial for this. This reduces the overall radiation loss and thus increases the optical efficiency.

[0057] Preferably, a supply line can terminate at the bore itself or be designed to pass through it into the interior of the element. For example, in the case of introducing radiation, the bore is preferably designed as a blind hole in the direction of the entry surface.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the detector distance between the anidolic element and the detector and / or the microplate distance between the anidolic element and the microplate or the microplate receiving device is adjustable. In particular, the microplate or the microplate receiving device and / or the detector is movable relative to the anidolic element in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the microplate or the microplate receiving device, especially along the main axis of the detector. The distance can thus be adjusted accordingly, particularly depending on the size of the anidolic element and the height of the microplate. In particular, changing the distance facilitates the replacement of the anidolic element.Preferably, the anidolic element is arranged so close to the microplate that radiation outside the respective depression cannot essentially penetrate or couple into the anidolic element via the entry surface.

[0059] In another advantageous embodiment of the microplate reader, the anidolic element is arranged on an element carrier which is at least perpendicular to

[0060] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026. The element carrier is designed to be movable in a plane of the microplate and optionally also to be movable in at least one direction in a plane parallel to the microplate. The element carrier can be identical to the receptacle for the anidolic element, in particular together with its casing, or it can have further functions. The element carrier allows the anidolic element to be positioned at the respective well or removed from the beam path between the well and the detector. Furthermore, the anidolic element can be positioned along the optical axis by means of its mobility in a plane perpendicular to a plane of the microplate or the microplate's receptacle. This can be particularly advantageous when microplates have different heights. For example, the anidolic element can be positioned such that part of it is located within a well.It is particularly desirable to position the anidolic element with its entry surface as close as possible to the opening surface of the recess in the microplate.

[0061] Preferably, the anidolic element is arranged in the element carrier in an interchangeable manner. This allows the anidolic element to be exchanged and adapted to the respective requirements. In particular, the anidolic element and its casing can be arranged interchangeably in the element carrier.

[0062] Preferably, the anidolic element is removable from the casing, particularly for cleaning and / or replacement of the anidolic element and / or the casing. Replacement allows the anidolic element and / or the casing to be adapted to a specific measurement. Cleaning the anidolic element and / or the casing can prevent or at least reduce contamination and / or corrosion.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the casing is made up of multiple parts.

[0064] In particular, the casing can comprise several parts; preferably, the casing comprises several parts which are arranged sequentially and / or overlapping along the direction of extension of the anidolic element. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the casing can also have several segments as parts.

[0065] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 and be constructed in multiple parts in the circumferential direction. The parts of the casing are particularly preferably connected to one another, for example by screws and / or adhesive.

[0066] Preferably, the element carrier, together with the anidolic element and optionally the casing, is arranged in a removable manner within the microplate reader and is interchangeable with another element carrier, in particular with an anidolic element different from the removed element carrier. In particular, the element carrier can be removable with a movement unit for the element carrier.

[0067] Preferably, a seal is arranged on the side facing the microplate between the casing and the entry surface of the anidolic element. This seal prevents particles and / or moisture from penetrating and accumulating in the space between the casing and the anidolic element.

[0068] Advantageously, the element support incorporates at least one bracket for receiving the at least one material projection. In this way, the element support can simultaneously serve as the receptacle for the anidolic element.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the anidolic element has a length of at least 4 mm, preferably at least 20 mm.

[0070] Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the anidolic element directs at least 85%, preferably at least 90%, of the radiation emitted from the well to the detector. The anidolic element is configured to direct at least 85%, preferably at least 90%, of the radiation emitted from the well to the detector. The loss of generated radiation from the well or from a sample in the well is minimal.

[0071] In an advantageous embodiment, a further optical element is arranged between the anidolic element and the detector. In particular, this can be a

[0072] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 concerns a filter. The filter is preferably a neutral density filter or a color filter.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, a cooling device is arranged on the detector and / or the anidolic element, particularly in a region of the anidolic element facing the detector. In particular, the cooling device may be a Peltier element.

[0074] In another preferred embodiment, the microplate reader includes a heating device to heat the samples in the wells of the microplate.

[0075] Preferably, the heating device is arranged above and / or below the microplate receptacle, particularly above the microplate. In particular, the heating device has a recess that the anidolic element can penetrate.

[0076] In particular, the anidolic element can bridge a gap between the microplate well and the detector, allowing, for example, the heating element for temperature control of the microplate to be positioned across its entire surface above the microplate. An anidolic element can be positioned essentially directly above the opening surface of the well through a recess in the heating plate. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, an anidolic element can be positioned directly below the bottom of the microplate well through a recess in a heating plate located beneath the microplate. Without the use of an anidolic element, the entire detector would require a significantly larger opening within the (upper or lower) heating plate if it were to be positioned directly above the opening surface of a well or directly below the bottom.This would lead to inhomogeneities in the heat distribution across the microplate, which is undesirable because it significantly affects the samples in the individual wells, thus making it impossible to compare measurements of the individual samples in those wells. Furthermore, the detector would also be heated by its immediate proximity to the heating device, which is likewise undesirable as it negatively impacts the sensor's performance.

[0077] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026In a further preferred embodiment, the recording device and the detector and / or the anidolic element are continuously movable relative to each other, in particular during luminescence measurements and / or during the performance of luminescence measurements.

[0078] Furthermore, the aforementioned tasks are also solved by a method for carrying out optical measurements, in particular luminescence measurements, on wells of a microplate with a microplate reader as described above or an advantageous embodiment thereof, wherein an optical detector is used to detect optical radiation from the respective wells of the microplate held in a recording device.

[0079] The method according to the invention is characterized by the fact that the recording device and the optical detector and / or the anidolic element for detecting the radiation from the respective recesses are moved relative to each other.

[0080] Preferably, the recording device and the optical detector and / or anidolic element are moved continuously relative to each other. In particular, this movement is continuous until at least one row or area of ​​wells has been measured, preferably until all wells of the microplate have been measured. The use of an anidolic element for light guidance and / or light collection makes it possible to perform luminescence measurements continuously, especially for an entire microplate. Continuous measurement is significantly faster than conventional measurements of individual wells. The measurement results are therefore available more quickly and / or a greater number of microplates can be measured in the same amount of time.

[0081] Continuous movement can be, in particular, uniform movement, but also includes, in particular, approach and departure ramps. Furthermore, continuous movement can also include changes of direction, for example, the change from one series of depressions to another series of depressions, especially an adjacent series.

[0082] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of an exemplary embodiment with reference to the figures. These show:

[0083] Figure 1 shows a sectional view of a microplate reader according to the invention;

[0084] Figure 2 is a detailed section of Figure 1 in the area of ​​the anidolic element; Figure 3 is an embodiment of an anidolic element; and

[0085] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of an anidolic element.

[0086] In the following, identical or equivalent parts are designated with the same reference numerals.

[0087] Figure 1 shows a schematic sectional view of a microplate reader 1. The microplate reader 1 comprises a receiving device 1 by means of which a microplate 3 can be inserted into and removed from the housing 10 of the microplate reader 1. The receiving device 2 can be designed to mechanically receive different microplates 3 or adapted accordingly. The microplates 3 are mechanically received in the receiving device 2 in a receiving position in which the receiving device 2 is extended from the housing 10 of the microplate reader 1.

[0088] The microplate 3 itself has a multitude of wells 4, in each of which individual samples are arranged or formed. For example, the microplate 3 has a total of 96 wells 4. The individual samples in the wells 4 are, for example, chemical or biological samples, which are analyzed and examined using the microplate reader 1.

[0089] To perform the corresponding measurements on the biological or chemical samples, the microplate 3 is moved from the receiving position into the housing 10 by means of the receiving device 2 and placed into an analysis position. For the measurements on the individual wells 4 of the microplate 3, the microplate reader 1 comprises at least

[0090] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026. A detector 5 for detecting the radiation absorbed, reflected, and / or scattered by the sample in the well 4 and / or the radiation emitted by the sample, for example, by excitation of the sample. A filter can be arranged in front of the detector 5, which only allows certain wavelengths or certain wavelength ranges to pass through. In addition, the microplate reader 1 has an image generation unit 8 for generating images of the samples in the individual wells 4 of the microplate 3 in the analysis position. This image generation unit 8 is arranged within the housing 10 below the receiving device 2 or the microplate 3. The image generation unit 8 includes, in particular, a camera for generating corresponding images of the samples in the individual wells 4 of the microplate 3 in the analysis position.

[0091] Furthermore, the microplate reader 1 includes an illumination system 9, which illuminates the samples in the individual wells 4 of the microplate 3 in the analysis position to capture and generate corresponding images. The illumination system 9, as well as the image generation unit 8 and the detector 5, can be moved relative to the microplate 3 or the receiving device 2, so that individual wells 4 can be selectively positioned and measured. For this purpose, the microplate reader 1 includes, among other things, a control device 7, by means of which the individual components of the microplate reader 1 are moved and controlled. Alternatively, the radiation within the microplate reader 1 can also be deflected to the individual wells 4 by means of suitable devices, for example, mirrors, in particular controlled by the control device 7.

[0092] Finally, the microplate reader 1 also includes an evaluation unit 6, by means of which the individual measurement results for the individual wells 4 in the microplate 3 are evaluated and analyzed. The evaluation unit 6 is part of the control unit 7 and integrated within it. In particular, however, the evaluation unit 6 can also form an independent module separate from the control unit 7, even outside the microplate reader 1.

[0093] To guide the radiation generated in the samples in the wells 4, an anidolic element 11 is arranged between the microplate 3 and the optical detector 5. In the

[0094] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026. In the present embodiment, both the detector 5 and the anidolic element 11 are arranged above the microplate 3 or the receptacle 2, so that this is a so-called top measurement. Alternatively, the detector 5 and the anidolic element 11 could also be arranged below the receptacle 2, so that radiation is detected through the bottom of the microplate 3. This measurement is referred to as a bottom measurement.

[0095] The anidolic element 11, configured here as a compound parabolic concentrator, also known as a parabolic light-collecting lens, for collecting light radiation, directs the radiation from the sample arranged in well 4, above which the anidolic element 11 is positioned, to the detector 5. The analysis of the individual samples in wells 4 is improved and allows for more precise determination, particularly through the targeted guidance of the radiation or photons from the sample. The anidolic element 11 also prevents radiation from well 4 from being scattered in the microplate reader 1 and thus failing to reach the detector 5, since the anidolic element 11 essentially directs the radiation directly from well 4 to the detector 5. Overall, the anidolic element 11 increases the optical efficiency of the measurement.This also makes it possible to determine very low optical activities, down to single-photon emission of the samples in the wells 4. By using an anidolic element 11 between the microplate 3 and the detector 5, the optical measurements on the microplate, in this case luminescence measurements, can also be carried out continuously.

[0096] The anidolic element 11 is arranged in the main axis of the detector 5 and serves not only to collect the optical radiation but also to guide the optical radiation from the recess 4 of the microplate 3 to the detector 5. The anidolic element 11 has a length of at least 4 mm; in this case, the length of the anidolic element 11 is at least 20 mm.

[0097] Figure 2 shows a detailed view of an area around the anidolic element 11 from Figure 1. The anidolic element 11 has an entrance surface 13 with a cross-section facing the recesses 4 in the microplate 3, through which the photons from the

[0098] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 Recess 4 into the interior of the anidolic element 11. The cross-section of the inlet surface l3 corresponds essentially to the cross-section of the opening surface of recess 4. Opposite the inlet surface l3 is an outlet surface l4, which opens the anidolic element 11 towards the detector 5 and the sensor located therein for measuring the radiation guided in the anidolic element 11. The cross-section of the outlet surface l4 is larger than the cross-section of the inlet surface l3. Essentially, the cross-section of the outlet surface l4 corresponds to the detector area of ​​the cathode 5a of the detector 5.

[0099] The anidolic element 11 has a casing 21 on its side surfaces for shielding against the environment. This casing 21 ensures that no optical radiation outside the entrance surface 13 can penetrate the anidolic element 11, which could distort the measurement results. The casing 21 is spaced apart from an outer surface 15 of the anidolic element 11 and essentially does not touch the anidolic element 11. Any contact would lead to a change at the interface 16 with the environment or the outer surface 15 of the anidolic element 11, thereby forming defects, especially scattering centers, on the anidolic element 11, which reduce the optical efficiency of the anidolic element 11.

[0100] The inlet surface 13 and the outlet surface 14 are free of the casing 21, or the casing 21 is directly adjacent to them. In the area of ​​the inlet surface 13, the casing 21 therefore has an opening which is slightly larger than the inlet surface 13 of the anidolic element 11, particularly to avoid direct contact with the anidolic element 11. To prevent the ingress of particles or moisture into the space between the casing 21 and the anidolic element 11, a seal 23 is arranged around the inlet surface 13.

[0101] Furthermore, the anidolic element 11 is arranged in an element carrier 20. The element carrier 20 has supports 22 into which material projections 12 of the anidolic element 11 engage. The material projections 12 are designed here as a circumferential collar which engages in a corresponding circumferential support 22. Thus

[0102] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026: The anidolic element 11 is held in the element carrier 20. Alternatively, the holder 22 of the element carrier 20 can also be designed only in sections and, in particular, hold the anidolic element 11 only at specific points. The anidolic element 11 is held only by the material projections and is not in direct or indirect contact with the element carrier 20 at other points. This prevents a reduction in the optical efficiency of the anidolic element 11.

[0103] In particular, points of contact between the anidolic element 11 and other bodies form a defect, which can reduce the reflection of radiation inside the anidolic element 11.

[0104] A distance 24 between microplate 3 and the anidolic element 11 can be adjusted by moving the element carrier 20 in a direction perpendicular to a plane through the microplate 3. In this case, the anidolic element 11 can be moved towards or away from the microplate 3. This allows the distance 24 to the microplate 3 to be minimized, thereby reducing the influence of extraneous radiation from adjacent wells 4. This improves the quality of the analysis of a sample in the well 4. In particular, the optimized casing 21 of the anidolic element 11, as shown, for example, in Figures 3 and 4, does not cover adjacent wells 4 at least partially, and in particular not at all, in order to minimize multiple reflections.Accordingly, the distance between the anidolic element 11 and the detector 5 can also be set, especially since the detector 5 and the microplate 3 can also be designed to be displaceable in the same direction via the receiving device 2.

[0105] Secondly, by independently moving the element carrier 20 and the anidolic element 11 arranged therein, a space can be created which allows for the replacement of the anidolic element 11. Replacing the anidolic element 11 may be useful, for example, when changing the microplate type, such as from 96 wells 4 to 384 wells 4, or with regard to the detector 5 used, or with regard to different types of anidolic element 11.

[0106] Additionally, movement of the anidolic element 11 in at least one direction in a plane parallel to the microplate 3 may be permitted. Preferably, the anidolic element 11 is in

[0107] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 The plane parallel to the microplate 3 is designed to be movable. The anidolic element 11 can thus be placed in the corresponding recesses 4 of the microplate. For example, the anidolic element 11 can be removed from the optical path of the radiation to the detector 5 for measurements where it is not required. This makes the microplate reader 1 even more flexible in its application possibilities.

[0108] Furthermore, another optical element (not shown) can be arranged between the anidolic element 11 and the detector 5. This could, for example, be a filter. A filter can, for instance, select a specific wavelength before it reaches the detector 5.

[0109] In particular, it is possible that the detector 5 or the anidolic element 11 may heat up during the measurement or analysis of samples in the wells. This can, however, affect the accuracy, and especially the accuracy of the detector, and thus the measurement result. To avoid such effects, a cooling device can be arranged on the detector 5 and / or the anidolic element 11, particularly in a region of the anidolic element 11 facing the detector 5 (not shown).

[0110] For example, the cooling device could be a Peltier element.

[0111] Figure 3 shows an embodiment of an anidolic element 11. The anidolic element 11, which is essentially rotationally symmetrical, is presented here as a solid body made of acrylic glass, with the material projections 12 being integrally formed with the anidolic element 11 and thus also made of acrylic glass. Alternatively, the anidolic element 11 can also be made of quartz glass. The material projections 12 are arranged at a distance 17 from the exit surface 14. Depending on the anidolic element 11, the material projections 12 can also be arranged directly around the exit surface 14, so that the distance 17 is zero.

[0112] Furthermore, the anidolic element 11 has two sections 11a and 11b, which differ in their shape. A curved section 11a is arranged towards the entrance surface l3, which is formed according to the theory of non-imaging optics. The shape and

[0113] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 The structure of the anidolic element 11 is essentially based on the theory of non-imaging optics, in which no image of a source is produced, but rather only a radiation transfer from a source to a target is sought. In particular, the principle of conservation of entendue underlies non-imaging optics.

[0114] The curvature of the curved section 11a is directed towards the microplate 3. Thus, the anidolic element 11 has a body opening from the inlet surface 13. A cylindrical section 11b is formed directly adjacent to the parabolic section 11a. Depending on the overall length of the anidolic element 11 as well as the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the inlet surface 13 and the outlet surface 14, the anidolic element 11 can also consist solely of a rotationally symmetric, parabolic section 11a.

[0115] The casing 21 can be straight, as shown in Figure 2. Alternatively, the casing 21 can also be curved, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, particularly in an area adjacent to the microplate 3. In this case, the curvature of the casing 21 can be parallel to the curvature of the anidolic element 11 or section 11a of the anidolic element 11. In particular, the optimized casing 21 of the anidolic element 11 does not cover, at least partially, or even at all, adjacent recesses 4 in order to minimize multiple reflections. However, even in a partially curved embodiment, the casing 21 should maintain a distance from the anidolic element 11 and not touch it.

[0116] Inside the anidolic element 11, optical radiation is reflected at the interface 16 with the surroundings or the outer surface 15. This reflection collects the radiation within the anidolic element 11 and directs it, particularly through the curved section 11a, towards the exit surface 14. Specifically, the curvature and structure of the curved section 11a, as well as the material of the anidolic element 11, are chosen such that total internal reflection occurs at the interface 16 with the surroundings of the anidolic element 11.

[0117] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026. Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the anidolic element 11, which is identical in its basic structure to the anidolic element 11 shown in Figure 3. Therefore, to avoid repetition, the differences between the two figures will be discussed below. In Figure 4, the anidolic element 11 also has a bore 18 in the form of a blind hole, which is located at the transition between the curved section 11a and the cylindrical section 11b. It is possible to couple optical radiation into the anidolic element 11 via the bore 18 or to direct it to the recess 4 in the microplate 3, for example, to excite luminescence. For this purpose, an optical fiber can also be connected to the connecting element 19 or passed through the bore 18.

[0118] If the bore 18 is not designed as a blind hole, as shown in Figure 4, but rather extends through to the inlet surface 13 (not shown in the figures), liquids can be supplied to the recess 4 via the anidolic element 11, for example, to trigger a specific reaction between a sample in the recess 4 and the supplied liquid. For this purpose, the anidolic element 11 has a connection element 19 to which, for example, a hose for supplying the liquid can be attached. Alternatively, a hose can also be at least partially inserted or even completely routed through the bore 18.Since a bore 18 also represents a defect in the anidolic element 11, which affects the optical efficiency, this bore 18 is designed to a high standard, thereby minimizing influences on the optical efficiency of the anidolic element 11 and thus on the overall measurement of a sample in a well 4. The bore 18 is dimensioned such that essentially no radiation can scatter from the anidolic element 11 through it.

[0119] For example, several bores 18 can be arranged on the anidolic element 11, for example for introducing optical radiation and a liquid or for several different liquids.

[0120] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 Reference list

[0121] 1 Microplate reader 2 Recording device 3 Microplate

[0122] 4. Further Study

[0123] 5 Detector

[0124] 5a Cathode

[0125] 6 Evaluation unit 7 Control device

[0126] 8 Image generation unit 9 Illumination system 10 Housing

[0127] 11 anidolic element 11a section

[0128] Section 11b

[0129] 12 Material protrusion 13 Entry surface

[0130] 14 Exit area

[0131] 15 Outside

[0132] 16 Interface

[0133] 17 lead

[0134] 18 bore

[0135] 19 Connection element 20 Element support

[0136] 21 Sheathing

[0137] 22 bracket

[0138] 23 Sealing

[0139] 24 microplate spacing 25 detector spacing

[0140] 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026

Claims

Claims 1. Microplate reader (1) with a receiving device (2) for receiving a microplate (3) which has a plurality of wells (4) in which wells (4) samples to be analyzed can be arranged, with an optical detector (5) for detecting radiation at each of the wells (4) of the microplate (3) received in the receiving device (2), wherein the receiving device (2) and / or the optical detector (5) are arranged movably relative to each other, in particular to position the received microplate (3) with respect to the optical detector (5) for successive measurements at different wells (4), characterized by the fact that between the microplate (3) and the detector (5) at least one anidolic element (11) is arranged for light guiding and / or light collection.

2. Microplate reader (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) has an inlet surface (13) at one end which faces the microplate (3) and an outlet surface (14) at an opposite end which faces the detector (5), wherein the inlet surface (13) preferably has a smaller cross-section than the outlet surface (14).

3. Microplate reader (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the cross-section of the entry surface (13) substantially corresponds to an opening surface of a recess (4) in the microplate (3), in particular a geometric shape and / or a diameter of the recess (4), and / or that the cross-section of the exit surface (14) essentially corresponds to an opening area of ​​a sensor of the detector (5), in particular a geometric shape and / or a diameter of a detector window of the sensor, and / or 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 that the inlet surface (13) and / or the outlet surface (14) is flat or curved, in particular concave or convex curved.

4. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) has at least a partial sheathing (21) on at least one of its side surfaces, in particular that the sheathing (21) is designed to be spaced apart from a wall (15) of the anidolic element (11).

5. Microplate reader (1) according to one of claims 2 or 3 and claim 4, characterized in that a seal (23) is arranged on the side facing the microplate (3) between the casing (21) and the entry surface (13).

6. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) and / or the casing (21) of the anidolic element (11) at least partially covers an adjacent recess (4), in particular that an adjacent recess (4) is free from being covered by the anidolic element (11) and / or the casing (21) of the anidolic element (11), and / or that the casing (21) is structured, preferably that the casing (21) has at least one structural element, in particular at least one indentation.

7. Microplate reader (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) is removable from the casing (21), in particular for cleaning and / or for replacing the anidolic element (11) and / or the casing (21).

8. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) is a compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) and / or that the anidolic element (11) is made of acrylic glass, mineral glass or quartz glass and / or 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 that the anidolic element (11) is formed from at least one plastic, for example cycloolefin copolymers, and / or that the anidolic element (11) exhibits resistance to biochemical substances, in particular to dimethyl sulfoxide, and / or that the anidolic element (11) is formed as a solid material and / or that the anidolic element (11) is arranged in the main axis of the detector (5) and / or that the detector (5) is a PMT or a PMT module.

9. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) has at least one material projection (12), preferably several material projections (12) on its outer surface (15), in particular that the at least one material projection (12) is designed as a holder of the anidolic element (11) in a receptacle.

10. Microplate reader (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the at least one material projection (12) is formed from the same material as the anidolic element (11) and / or that the anidolic element (11) and the at least one material projection (12) are formed in one piece and / or that the anidolic element (11) has several material projections (12) which are spaced apart from each other, and / or that at least one material projection (12) to one end of the anidolic element (11) has a projection distance (17).

11. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) is at least partially rotationally symmetric.

12. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) has at least one curved section (11a), preferably a rotationally symmetric section, in particular a 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 rotationally symmetrical, parabolic section, and preferably an adjoining substantially tubular, in particular cylindrical section (Hb).

13. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one bore (18) is formed in the anidolic element (11), in particular for introducing optical radiation or liquids and / or for passing through conduits, in particular for liquids and / or for optical radiation.

14. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a detector distance (25) between anidolic element (11) and detector (5) and / or a microplate distance (24) between anidolic element (11) and microplate (3) is adjustable, in particular that the microplate (3) and / or the detector (5) is designed to be movable relative to the anidolic element (11) in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the microplate (3), in particular along the principal axis of the detector (5).

15. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) is arranged on an element carrier (20) which is designed to be movable at least perpendicular to a plane of the microplate (3) and optionally is additionally designed to be movable in at least one direction in a plane parallel to the microplate (3).

16. Microplate reader (1) according to claim 15 and one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that at least one holder (22) for receiving the at least one material projection (12) is formed in the element carrier (20).

17. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anidolic element (11) has a length of at least 4 mm, preferably at least 20 mm and / or 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026 that at least 85%, preferably at least 90% of the radiation emitted from the well (4) is directed to the detector (5) by the anidolic element (11).

18. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a further optical element, in particular a filter, preferably a neutral density filter or color filter, is arranged between the anidolic element (11) and the detector (5).

19. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cooling device, in particular a Peltier element, is arranged on the detector (5) and / or the anidolic element (11), in particular in a region of the anidolic element (11) facing the detector (5).

20. Microplate reader (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (2) and the detector (5) and / or the anidolic element (11) are continuously movable relative to each other, in particular during luminescence measurements and / or during the performance of luminescence measurements.

21. Method for performing optical measurements, in particular luminescence measurements, on wells (4) of a microplate (3) with a microplate reader (1) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein an optical detector (5) detects optical radiation from the respective wells (4) of the microplate (3) received in a receiving device (2), characterized in that the receiving device (2) and the optical detector (5) and / or the anidolic element (11) are moved relative to each other for detecting the radiation from the respective wells (4). 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.202622. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that the recording device (2) and the optical detector (5) and / or the anidolic element (11) are continuously moved relative to each other, preferably until at least one row or area of ​​wells (4) has been measured, particularly preferably until all wells (4) of the microplate (3) have been measured. 34938-P-WO Ga / sü, 09.02.2026

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