AT501313A1 - HOLDING DEVICE FOR CYLINDRICAL OBJECTS, IN PARTICULAR TUBULAR SAMPLE CONTAINERS - Google Patents

Description

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The invention relates to a holding device for cylindrical objects, in particular tubular sample container, consisting of at least one receiving chamber with an opening into which an object in the direction of its longitudinal axis can be inserted up to a stop, with spring means are present, which protrude into the receiving chamber, that they yield resiliently when inserting an object and then rest against the object and hold this backlash.

Such holding devices generally have the task of temporarily receiving and holding cylindrical objects. Such devices are used inter alia in automated analysis devices, in which case the cylindrical objects are sample containers containing, for example, body fluids, in particular blood. In this case, a plurality of sample containers are held with such a holding device such that their longitudinal axes are aligned parallel to each other and can be fed to an analysis system. Each sample container is received in a Aufhahmestelle the device, the device usually has at least one row of receiving points.

Holding devices of this type are known in many designs. According to the nature of the known analysis systems, all of these known devices hold a number of sample containers at a mutual distance from each other in a vertical position. Most of the known holding devices have spring means with which the sample containers are clamped. Consequently, most of the known devices are able to accommodate sample containers with different diameters, of course, the Duchmesserbereich the male sample container certain limits are set. N2004 / 10600 -2- • · ··

With regard to the alignment of the sample containers in the holding device, the known devices can be divided into two groups. In a first group, each sample container is centered in the respective receiving location of the device, so that the longitudinal axes of the sample containers are arranged at equal intervals regardless of the diameter of each sample container and also in a common plane in the holding device. This group includes, for example, the holding devices described in the following publications: DE 297 072 42 Ul, US 5915583, EP 414644 and EP 916406.

In a second group of known holding devices, each sample container is pressed by spring means against an immovably arranged in the respective receiving station facility. If sample containers with different diameters are accommodated in this group of holding devices, either the longitudinal axes of the sample containers are arranged at equal intervals or in a common plane in the holding device, depending on the arrangement of the systems in the receiving locations. This group includes, for example, the holding devices described in EP 919281, EP 1326077 and EP 965385.

All these known holding devices have in common that they are assembled from several components, which makes their production relatively complicated and expensive. In addition, multi-part devices can generally be poorly cleaned, which is to be regarded as particularly disadvantageous when used in analytical devices, especially in medical technology. Since these known devices usually metal springs are installed, these devices, once they have served out, not simply perform the recycling, but must first be dismantled.

Based on this prior art, the present invention seeks to propose a device of the type mentioned, which is simple and inexpensive to produce, even with objects, especially sample containers with different diameters reliable and trouble-free, can be easily and easily clean and easy the recycling can be supplied.

This object is achieved according to the invention in that the device is formed in one piece. N2004 / 10600

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A resulting from the features of the characterizing part of claim 1 advantage lies in particular that this device can be produced inexpensively in large quantities in a simple manner by injection molding Furthermore, omitted in the inventive device, the necessary in the aforementioned known devices assembly work, making the Production costs further reduced and the reliability is further increased, because no assembly errors occur. Finally, the integral nature of the device according to the invention eliminates the joints which are inevitably present in the multi-part devices known from the prior art. Such joints form potential accumulation of dirt and bacteria. Finally, the holding device according to the invention can be recycled without disassembly.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the spring means bear on at least two axially spaced locations on the object, whereby a defined, preferably vertical alignment of the longitudinal axis of the object is achieved.

Another embodiment provides that the spring means comprise at least one spring tongue with a fixed end and a movable end. Thus, the spring means can be particularly easily produced by injection molding in one piece with the device. In this case, according to another embodiment, when the movable end is farther from the opening than the fixed end, a cylindrical object can be easily inserted, with the spring tongue evading sideways without providing excessive resistance to the object.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, when the spring tongue between the fixed end and the movable end is bent concavely from the receiving chamber, when a cylindrical object is introduced into the receiving chamber, the spring tongue is first contacted at its movable end, this being without overstressing the spring tongue pushed to the side and then lies on the subject.

Another embodiment provides that the movable end of the spring tongue on the side in contact with the object has a concave curvature. As a result, the movable end of the spring tongue bears well against the cylindrical object and holds it in a desired manner without play. N2004 / 10600 -4- -4- • ·

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Preferably, the edge coming into contact with the object at the free end of the spring tongue is rounded by a radius, whereby a cylindrical body located in the receiving chamber can easily be withdrawn from the receiving chamber and thus in particular prevents damage to a label possibly present on the lateral surface of the cylindrical object become.

According to yet a Ausfuhrungsart the spring tongue is formed by two spring arms connected to each other at their ends. Such a spring tongue has proven to be particularly resistant to fatigue fractures.

The investment of the spring tongue on the cylindrical object and the exact alignment of the object can be further improved if, according to one embodiment, an elongated contact part is formed on the movable end of the spring tongue extending from the movable end on two sides, namely towards the opening and from this extends away.

Another embodiment provides that the spring tongue is meandering between the fixed end and the movable end, wherein the inflection points lie in a surface which, starting from the fixed end of the spring tongue approaches the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. This surface can be flat or curved. By this measure, a considerable extension of the spring tongue is achieved without this thereby occupies more space in the Aufmeahmekammer. The extension results in a reduction of the bending stress occurring during the loading of the spring tongue.

The above-mentioned feature that the spring means abut against the object at at least two axially spaced locations can be realized by providing at least two spring tongues, the movable ends of which are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the receiving chamber. Alternatively, this feature can also be realized by the spring tongue between the fixed end and the movable end is bent alternately towards and away from Aufiahmekammer meandering.

Preferably, according to a further embodiment, the fixed end of the spring tongue is arranged in the region of the opening. This allows a favorable placement of the movable end of the spring tongue, for example, approximately in the longitudinal center of the Aufiiahmekammer. N2004 / 10600 -5-

The mentioned play-free retention of the cylindrical object in the device is achieved according to a group of embodiments in that the spring means have at least two spring tongues which hold the object between them. Thereby, each cylindrical object is centered in the respective receiving point of the device, so that the longitudinal axes of the objects are held at equal intervals regardless of the diameter of each article and also in a common plane in the holding device. Preferably, three spring tongues and more preferably four spring tongues are provided. Four spring tongues are particularly advantageous in Aufhahmekammem with square, in particular square cross-section.

According to one embodiment, in each case two spring tongues protrude from the lateral boundaries of the receiving chamber substantially directed against each other in the receiving chamber, wherein the movable ends overlap in the region of the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. In this way, the mentioned play-free retention of the cylindrical object in the device is also achieved. The one-piece production of this embodiment is particularly simple, because in a corresponding injection mold for the shaping of the spring means no slides are needed.

In another group of embodiments, the mentioned backlash-free retention of the cylindrical object in the device is achieved by providing a fixed abutment with respect to the receiving chamber, against which the object is urged by the spring means. If cylindrical objects with different diameters are accommodated in these embodiments, depending on the arrangement of the systems in the Aufhahmekammem either the longitudinal axes of the sample containers are arranged at equal intervals or in a common plane in the holding device. The system can be formed by two arranged in the receiving chamber bearing edges or by at least one arranged in the receiving chamber bearing surface.

According to a preferred embodiment, the receiving chamber has two side walls and two front wall parts arranged at an angle to one another, which form contact surfaces directed towards the receiving chamber. By the bisector of the support surface, a plane is defined, in which the axis of a cylindrical object inevitably comes to lie regardless of its diameter. N2004 / 10600 -6- -6- • · • ·

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The holding device according to the invention can in principle consist of a single receiving chamber. However, according to a particular embodiment of the invention, a plurality of receiving chambers are arranged in a row such that two adjacent receiving chambers each have a common side wall arranged between them. Preferably, the holding device consists of ten Aufnahmekammem.

According to another embodiment, the side walls of the receiving chamber are interconnected by a rear wall, in which a recess is recessed, which is bounded in the region of the opening by a web-shaped rear wall part. This design offers advantages in the construction of an injection molding tool for making the device. Preferably, in this embodiment, the spring tongue is integrally formed on the web-shaped rear wall part.

According to a further embodiment, a protruding into the receiving chamber rib is integrally formed on the rear wall. This rib limits the possible tilting movements of an existing in the receiving chamber cylindrical body, whereby overuse of the spring means is avoided.

According to a preferred embodiment, a viewing window is recessed between the front wall parts. This viewing window exposes the view of a cylindrical object received in the device and allows, for example, the identification of a designation present on the lateral surface of a cylindrical object. Preferably, the viewing window is open to the side of the opening and limited on the side facing away from the opening by a connecting wall which connects the front wall parts together. These measures simplify the manufacture of the device.

According to another advantageous embodiment, a surface is arranged flush with the opening, which carries an identification of the Aufhahmekammer. This is particularly advantageous when using a device according to the invention in an analysis laboratory. For the same reason, the device preferably has at least one flat, smooth field for the attachment of a label, for example by means of a label.

According to another embodiment, if the abutment is formed by a web located in the opposite side of the receiving chamber from the connecting wall and extending from the connecting wall to the rear wall, this side of the receiving chamber can be open next to the bridge, which reduces the tendency to foul the device. A longitudinal groove is preferably arranged in the web on the surface facing the opening, so that a protruding injection point which may be present centrally at the end of a cylindrical body, in particular a sample container made of plastic with a round bottom, does not impair the axial position of the body in the device. After another Ausftihrungsart the bottom of the longitudinal groove opens in an existing breakthrough in the back wall. It is thus achieved that a liquid which undesirably escapes from a sample container accommodated in the device can flow out of the device unhindered.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the edge bounding the connecting wall towards the viewing window is closer to the opening than the opening-facing surface of the web, this edge forms a second, alternative stop representing the axial position of a flat-end cylindrical body defined in the receiving chamber.

According to another embodiment of the holding device, the stop is formed by at least two edges or surfaces arranged at an angle to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. Alternatively, the stop may also be formed by a funnel-like surface. By this conical design of the stop the object is centered simultaneously in the receiving chamber.

According to a further embodiment, the holding device has closed outer walls and means for attaching a lid for forming a sealed, at least one cylindrical object, in particular a tubular sample container aufhehmenden space, so that the holding device as a transport container for sample container, for example between a doctor and an analysis laboratory , is usable.

The holding device is preferably made of plastic and is produced by injection molding. This makes it easy to achieve the one-piece design. It consists for example of polycarbonate. Glass fibers may be admixed with the plastic in a proportion of 15% to 35%, preferably 20%, which makes it possible, in particular, for the spring products to be used. N2004 / 10600 -8- • · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ♦ ·· required properties such as high elasticity and low susceptibility to fatigue fracture.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

Show it:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the device;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1, rotated 180 ° about its longitudinal axis from that shown in FIG. 1; FIG.

Fig. 3 is a view in the direction of the arrow III in Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 is a view in the direction of the arrow IV in Fig. 3;

Fig. 5 is a view in the direction of the arrow V in Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 is a view in the direction of the arrow VI in Fig. 5;

7 shows a cross section in the direction of the arrows VII-VII in FIG. 3 in relation to FIG. 3 on an enlarged scale;

Fig. 8 is a section along the line VIII - VIII in Fig. 7;

Fig. 9 is a cross section similar to Figure 7 of another embodiment of the holding device.

10 shows a cross section similar to FIG. 8 of a further embodiment of the holding device;

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment, taken along the line XI - XI in Fig. 12;

Fig. 12 is a section along the line XII - XII in Fig. 11; N2004 / I0600 -9- • · t · · · »· · · · · ····· ·

Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment;

Fig. 14 is a section along the line XIV - XIV in Fig. 13;

Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment;

16 shows a cross section of a further embodiment;

17 shows a cross section of a holding device designed as a tightly closed transport container;

Fig. 18 is a partially cutaway perspective view of another embodiment;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment;

Fig. 20 is a plan view of the embodiment of Fig. 19 with a relatively large diameter sample container inserted;

Fig. 21 is a plan view of the embodiment of Figure 19 with an inserted Pro benbehälter relatively small diameter.

Fig. 22 is a plan view of the embodiment of Fig. 19 without a sample container;

Fig. 23 is a plan view of another embodiment with a relatively large diameter sample container inserted;

FIG. 24 is a plan view corresponding to FIG. 23 with a relatively small diameter sample container inserted; FIG.

Fig. 25 is a plan view corresponding to Fig. 23 and 24 without sample container.

By way of introduction, it should be noted that the location information chosen in the description, such as the top, bottom, side, etc. related to the immediately described and illustrated figure and to be transferred to a new position analogously to the new situation.

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention

Device 1 equipped with ten receiving chambers 2 each for receiving a sample container each of which may have a diameter of between 11 and 17 mm N2004 / 10600 -10- · · · · · · · · · · ·. Each receiving chamber 2 has an upper opening 27 and is defined by two V v

Side walls 8, a rear wall 2 and two at an angle arranged V /

Front walls 4 limited. The latter form contact surfaces 3 for the male sample container. Between the front walls 4, a viewing window 6 is recessed, which releases the view of the held in the Aufhahmekammer 2 sample container, for example, to check its level or read existing terms thereon. The designations may for example be present as a barcode on a label and be read by the viewing window 6 by machine. In the lower area, the side walls 8 are connected by a connecting wall 5, the upper boundary forms a support edge 7 for sample container with a flat bottom or a peripheral bottom edge.

Fig. 2 shows the same device in a relation to FIG. 1 rotated by 180 ° position. It can be seen here that the rear wall 9 extends only over part of the height of the device 1 and leaves a recess 11 free, which is bounded on the side of the opening 27 by a web-shaped wall part 12. At this web-shaped wall portion 12, a spring 13 is formed, which projects into the Aufhahmekammer 2, as best seen in is sectional view of FIG. 7. The spring 13 is bent starting from its integrally formed on the web-shaped wall part 12 fixed end 28 to the viewing window 6 out and formed of two spring arms 14 which are connected to each other at the spring end 15.

As best seen in Fig. 8, the spring end 15 has a concave toward the interior of the Aufhahmekammer 15 bulge 16 so that it rests well on the surface of the male cylindrical body. In addition, the edge of the spring end 15 is rounded with a radius 17 so that labels present on the sample container are not damaged when the sample container is rotated in the device about its longitudinal axis or pulled along its longitudinal axis out of the device. The radius 17 is best seen in Fig. 7. The rotatability of the sample container in the Aufhahmekammem is otherwise intended so that certain names on the sample container can be aligned with the Sichtfenstem 6. N2004 / 10600 - 11 - - 11 - ·············································································

The design of the spring 13 with two spring arms 14 united together at their ends has proved to be particularly favorable with respect to the force exerted on the sample containers, but also with regard to the slight fatigue of the spring 13. In addition, the described and illustrated design of the spring end 15 is optimized to prevent hanging of Probenbehältem and to ensure optimal imports of the sample container in the device.

On the rear wall 9, a rib 10 is formed, at which a received in the device 1 sample container is present with its lower portion, if it is tilted with its upper portion in the direction of the viewing window 6 out. As a result, an overuse and damage of the spring 13 is prevented.

Between the connecting wall 5 and the rear wall 9 extends a bottom web 18, which serves as a stop for the vertical support of Probenbehältem with a curved bottom. Many of these curved-bottom sample containers have an injection point in the center of the bottom of the well where the sample container material has not been properly separated in some cases and forms a protrusion which may be present at bottom land 18 and thus interfere with the vertical position of the sample container in the device , In order to prevent this, a longitudinal groove 19 is incorporated in the bottom web 18, which receives all Ü Überstände of Probenbehältem. Thus, the apparatus has two independent stops for the vertical positioning of sample containers in different height positions, namely the upper surface of the bottomed bottomed bottomed sample tray bottom plate 18 and the bottomed or bottomed bottomed sample container's bottom edge 7. The latter raises specific sample containers to a higher level for automatic further processing. In addition to the bottom web 18 each receiving chamber 2 is open at the bottom to prevent contamination in the device as possible. At the junction of the bottom web 18 with the rear wall 9, an opening 20 is provided so that optionally leaking from a sample container leaking liquid can flow to the back of the device. So that no liquid remains in the longitudinal groove 19, the bottom web 18 or at least the bottom of the longitudinal groove 19 to the rear wall 9 is slightly inclined. N2004 / 10600

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At the upper end of each front wall part 4 results between this and the adjacent front wall part 4 and the end wall of the device, a triangular surface 21 which carries a label 22 of the respective receiving chamber 2. The Aufnahmekammem are incidentally also referred to as nests in practice. With the illustrated and described Ausfuhrungsart the device, the standard NCCLS (nest spacing 22mm) can be met.

As can be seen particularly clearly in FIGS. 2 and 5, the back wall 9 of the device 1 offers sufficient space for designations such as a recycling mark 23, a date stamp 24 indicating the date of manufacture of the device, at least one labeling field 26, one for sticking a label suitable, smooth field 25 and optionally a company logo (not shown).

FIGS. 9 to 17 show further embodiments of the holding device according to the invention. For the same parts, the same reference numerals are used as in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 8. In all of Figures 9 to 17, a sample container is shown schematically and provided with the reference number 31. Fig. 9 shows a special Ausfuhrungsart the spring 13, which carries at its movable end 15 a system part 29 which abuts a length of the sample container 31. The spring 13 is biased so that in the state in which no sample container 31 is received in the device, the lower end of the abutment member 29 is closer to the front wall 32 than the upper end. The sample container 31 thus touched when inserted into the device first the lower portion of the contact part 29 and the contact part 29 is aligned in parallel to the container shell, both the spring 13 elastically yields as well as the connection between the movable end 15 of the spring and the plant part 29, which acts like a joint. The contact part 29 may have a curvature which allows it to abut against a part of the circumference of the sample container 31, similar to that shown by the bulge 16 in the embodiment of FIG. 8.

The system to which the sample container 31 is pressed by the spring 13, in this example, as in the example of FIG. 10, a flat front wall 32. Fig. 10 illustrates that serving as a plant-level front wall 32 also with a Spring 13 can be combined according to the embodiment of FIGS 1 to 8. Conversely, N2004 / 10600 ·· ·· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Of course, a spring according to FIG. 9 can also be combined with two contact surfaces 3 according to FIGS. 1 to 8. FIG.

Figures 11 to 16 show embodiments in which the cylindrical object, in particular sample container is not pressed as in the previously described embodiments by a single spring against a fixed contact, but is held by a plurality of springs 13 in the desired position. Figures 11 and 12 show an embodiment in which the sample container 31 is supported and centered at a plurality of locations on its circumference, which locations have a distance from one another in the longitudinal direction of the sample container. As shown in FIG. 12, in the example, two groups of four springs 13 each are provided, which are arranged in the corners of the receiving chamber 2, wherein between the groups a distance in the longitudinal direction of the chamber or the sample container 31 is present. But the springs 13 could also be arranged instead of in the corners on the walls of the receiving chamber 2.

As Figures 13 and 14 show, an embodiment of the device is conceivable in which the sample container 31 is supported only in two places and centered in the Aufnahmekam-mer 2. As can clearly be seen in FIG. 14, here too the ends of the springs 13 contacting the sample container 31 have a curvature, as has already been described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

15 shows an exemplary embodiment in which meander-shaped curved springs 13 are provided, each of which contacts the sample container 31 at a plurality of contact points 33 having a spacing in the longitudinal direction of the sample container 31. If no sample container 31 is in the receiving chamber, these meandering springs 13 are shortened and their bends protrude further into the receiving chamber. By inserting a sample container 31, the springs deform in such a way that the bends yield to the outside under contact with the sample container, whereby the springs 13 become longer. There may be two, three or more such springs 13 distributed over the circumference of the receiving chamber or the sample container 31.

16 shows an embodiment in which the stop determining the longitudinal position of the sample container in the receiving chamber is conical, thereby simultaneously centering the sample container 31. This conical impact 34 may be formed by a funnel-like, circumferential surface. Alternatively, distributed over the circumference of the sample container arranged individual areas or edges can take over this task.

The entire device is manufactured in one piece by injection molding of plastic.

With careful planning and execution of appropriate injection molds can be produced in this way devices that can be used without post-processing such as deburring. In addition, devices with a low weight and in different colors can be produced in this way. The latter can significantly reduce the likelihood of confusion, especially in the analysis laboratory.

As requirements that are placed on the material for producing the device 1, in addition to the required by the one-piece spring 13 elasticity and low tendency to fatigue fractures in particular the chemical resistance to conventional disinfectants such as alcohol, propanol or isopropanol mentioned. In addition, the material must also withstand thermal stresses, because the holding device should be autoclavable at 121 ° C, cleanable in a dishwasher and be storable in the refrigerator. An example of a material that meets all of these requirements is fiber reinforced polycarbonate, such as a 20% glass fiber polycarbonate known as PC20GF. Of course, the glass fiber content may also be more or less than 20%.

As shown in Fig. 17, the holding device may also be formed as part of a sealable transport container, which can be used for storage and transportation of sample Benbehältem. This transport container can, for example, already equipped at the doctor with Probenbehältem containing samples, sealed transported to the laboratory, opened there again and fed directly to an automatic analysis system without the sample container must be touched by a person. The respective holding device 1 has for this purpose closed outer walls and means for attaching a lid 30. These means comprise a sealing surface 35 and, for example, one or more locking cams 38, with which the attached lid N2004 / 10600 -15- • · · · · · · · · · · · ···

30 cooperates with a seal 36 and a locking clip 39. The lid 30 may have a peripheral lid edge 37.

Fig. 18 shows another embodiment of the spring 13 in which the spring is meandered between the fixed end 28 and the movable end 15. The turning points 40 lie in a surface which, starting from the fixed end 28 of the spring approaches the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber 2. This surface may be just or preferably bent concave as seen from the receiving chamber. Due to the meander-like bending of the spring whose resilient area is extended and the stresses occurring at a bending of the spring are reduced.

Figs. 19 to 25 show further embodiments of the invention. The perspective view of FIG. 19 shows an embodiment in which four spring tongues 13 protrude from the lateral boundaries of the receiving chamber into the receiving chamber 2. Figures 20 to 22 show in plan the embodiment of FIG. 19 with four spring tongues 13, wherein in the illustration of FIG. 20, a sample container 31 is received with a relatively large diameter in the device, whereas in the illustration of FIG. 21 a Sample container 31 is accommodated with a relatively small diameter in the device. FIG. 22 shows this embodiment without a sample container, so that it can be clearly seen that the movable ends 15 of each two mutually directed spring tongues 13 overlap in the region of the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber 2. By this overlap, the movable ends 15 of the spring tongues 13 form therebetween an initial opening 41, which facilitates the insertion of a cylindrical object, for example a sample container. In order to facilitate the insertion of an object further, the spring tongues 13 are provided at the top in the region of the opening 27 of the receiving chamber 2 with a rounding 41.

Figures 23 to 25 show a similar embodiment, which is equipped with two spring tongues 13, however. In the illustration according to FIG. 23, a sample container 31 having a relatively large diameter is accommodated in the apparatus, while in the illustration according to FIG. 24 a sample container 31 with a relatively small diameter is accommodated in the apparatus. Fig. 25 shows this embodiment without sample container. In this embodiment, with only two spring tongues 13, it is possible to form a N2004 / 10600 -16- ···················································································· For defined positioning of cylindrical objects, the overlapping movable ends 15 of the spring tongues 13 are each bent in a radius 43 against each other.

For the sake of order, it should be pointed out that in order to better understand the construction of the device, these or their components have been shown partly out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size. The task underlying the independent inventive solutions can be taken from the description. N2004 / I0600 « ··

Reference numeral 1 Device 36 Seal 2 Aufnahmekammem 37 lid edge 3 contact surfaces 38 locking cam 4 front wall 39 locking clip 5 V binding wall 40 turning points 6 viewing window 41 rounding 7 support edge 42 initial opening 8 side wall 43 radius 9 rear wall 10 rib 11 recess 12 web-shaped wall part 13 spring 14 spring arm 15 spring end (moveable) 16 Curvature 17 Radius 18 Ground bar 19 Longitudinal groove 20 Breakthrough 21 Area 22 Marking of 2 23 Recycling marks 24 Date stamp 25 Marking field 26 Marking field 27 Opening 28 Spring end (fixed) 29 Plant part 30 Lid 31 Sample container 32 Front wall level 33 Contact point 34 Stop 35 Sealing surface N2004 / 10600

Claims (39)

·· ·· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ··· 1. Holding device (1) for cylindrical objects (31), in particular tube-shaped sample container, consisting of at least one Aufiiahmekammer (2) with an opening (27), into which an article (31) in the direction of its longitudinal axis as far as a stop (18; 34) einfuhrbar, with spring means (13) are present, which protrude into the Aufiiahmekammer (2) that they import a Give the object resilient and then rest on the object and hold this backlash, characterized in that the device is integrally formed. 2. Holding device according to claim 1, characterized in that the spring means (13) bear against at least two axially spaced locations on the object. 3. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring means (13) have at least one spring tongue with a fixed end (28) and a movable end (15) 4. Holding device according to claim 3, characterized in that the movable end (15) further from the opening (27) is removed than the fixed end (28). 5. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that the spring tongue between the fixed end (28) and the movable end (15) of the Aufiiahmekammer (2) is bent from concave view. 6. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the movable end (15) of the spring tongue on the object (31) coming into contact with a concave curvature (16). N2004 / 10600 -2 ··································································· ·· · · · · · · · ··· · « 7. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the coming into contact with the object edge at the movable end (15) of the spring tongue (13) by a radius (17) is rounded 8. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the spring tongue is formed by two spring arms (14) connected together at their ends. 9. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that at the movable end (15) of the spring tongue an elongated contact part (29) is formed, extending from the movable end (15) on two sides, namely to the opening (27) towards and away from it. 10. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the spring tongue between the fixed end (28) and the movable end (15) is meandering bent, wherein the inflection points (40) lie in a surface extending from the fixed End (28) of the spring tongue of the longitudinal axis of the Aufhahmekammer (2) approaches. 11. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that at least two spring tongues are provided, whose movable ends are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the Aufhahmekammer. 12. Holding device according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that the spring tongue between the fixed end (28) and the movable end (15) alternately bent to Aufhahmekammer (2) and away from this, in order to a in the Aufhahmekammer (2) object to be contacted at at least two spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the article points (33). 13. Haltevomchtung according to one of claims 3 to 12, characterized in that the fixed end (28) of the spring tongue in the region of the opening (27) is arranged N2004 / 10600 9 · ·· -3- • · · · · · · · • · · · · · · · ·················································· 14. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring means (13) have at least two spring tongues, which hold the object (31) between them. 15. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring means (13) have three spring tongues which hold the object between them. 16. Holding device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the spring means (13) have four spring tongues which hold the object between them. 17. Holding device according to claim 14 or 16, characterized in that each two spring tongues of the lateral boundaries of the Aufhahmekammer substantially against each other in the receiving chamber (2) protrude, wherein the movable ends (15) overlap in the region of the longitudinal axis of the Aufhahmekammer. 18. Holding device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a fixed in relation to the Aufhahmekammer plant is present, against which the object by the spring means (13) is urged. 19. Holding device according to claim 18, characterized in that the system is formed by two in the Aufhahmekammer (2) arranged abutment edges. 20. Holding device according to claim 18, characterized in that the system is formed by at least one in the Aufhahmekammer (2) arranged contact surface (32). N2004 / 10600 -4- -4- ·· ·········· • · · ····· 21. Holding device according to claim 20, characterized in that the receiving chamber (2) has two side walls (8) and two front wall parts (4) arranged at an angle to one another, which form contact surfaces (3) directed towards the receiving chamber (2). 22. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of Aufhahmekammem (2) are arranged in a row, that in each case two adjacent Aufhahmekammem (2) have a common, arranged between them side wall (8). 23. Holding device according to claim 22, characterized in that it consists of ten Aufhahmekammem (2). 24. Holding device according to one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the side walls (8) of the Aufhahmekammer (2) by a rear wall (9) are interconnected, in which a recess (11) is recessed in the region of the opening (27) is bounded by a web-shaped rear wall part (12). 25. Holding device according to claim 24, characterized in that the spring tongue on the web-shaped rear wall part (12) are integrally formed. 26. Holding device according to one of claims 24 to 25, characterized in that on the rear wall (9) in the Aufhahmekammer (2) projecting rib (10) is integrally formed. 27. Holding device according to one of claims 21 to 26, characterized in that between the front wall parts (4) a viewing window (6) is recessed. N2004 / 10600 ·· ········· · · · · · ··········· 28. Holding device according to claim 27, characterized in that the viewing window (6) to the side of the opening (27) is open towards and on the side facing away from the opening (27) by a connecting wall (5) is limited, which the front wall parts (4 ) connects to each other. 29. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that flush with the opening, a surface (21) is arranged, which carries a marking (22) of the Aufhahmekammer (2). 30. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has at least one flat, smooth field (25) for attaching a label, for example by means of a label. 31. Holding device according to one of claims 28 to 30, characterized in that the stop by a web (18) is formed, which in the opening (27) opposite side of the Aufhahmekammer (2) is arranged and from the connecting wall ( 5) to the rear wall (9). 32. Holding device according to one of claims 24 to 31, characterized in that in the web (18) on the opening (27) directed surface, a longitudinal groove (19) is arranged. 33. Holding device according to claim 32, characterized in that the bottom of the longitudinal groove (19) opens into an opening (20) present in the rear wall (9). 34. Holding device according to one of claims 28 to 33, characterized in that the connecting wall (5) against the viewing window (6) towards limiting edge (7) is closer to the opening, as directed to the opening (27) surface of the web (18). N2004 / 10600 6- ·· ··· 35. Holding device according to one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed by at least two at an angle to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the Aufiiahmekammer arranged edges or surfaces. 6. Holding device according to one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed by a funnel-like surface. 37. Holding device according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that it has closed outer walls and means (35,38) for attaching a lid (30) for forming a sealed, at least one cylindrical article, in particular a tubular sample container receiving space , 38. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it consists of plastic and is manufactured in one piece by injection molding. 39. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it consists of polycarbonate 40. Holding device according to one of claims 37 to 38, characterized in that the plastic glass fibers in a proportion of 15% to 35%, preferably 20%. STIWA-Fertigungstechnik Sticht Gesellschaft m.b.H. by (Dr. Secldehner) N2004 / 10600 -1 - (New) Claims 1. Holding device (1) for cylindrical objects (31), in particular rohrför-shaped sample container consisting of at least one Aufhahmekammer (2) with an opening (27) into which an object (31) in the direction of its longitudinal axis to to a stop (18; 34) is insertable, wherein the Aufhahmekammer (2) has two side walls (8) and a rear wall connecting them together (9), wherein at least one spring tongue (13) is provided, which in such a way in the Aufhahmekammer (2 ) protrudes that upon insertion of an object resiliently yields and then rests against the object and holds this backlash, and wherein the device is integrally formed, characterized in that in the rear wall (9) a recess (11) is recessed in the area the opening (27) by a web-shaped rear wall part (12) is limited and that the spring tongue (13) on the web-shaped rear wall part (12) is integrally formed. 2. Holding device according to claim 1, characterized in that the spring tongue (13) between a fixed end (28), with which it is integrally formed on the web-shaped rear wall part (12) and a free, movable end (15) of the Aufhahmekammer (2) is curved concave. 3. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edge coming into contact with the object at the movable end (15) of the spring tongue (13) by a radius (17) is rounded. 4. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring tongue (13) is formed by two spring arms (14) connected together at their ends. 5. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring tongue (13) between the fixed end (28) and the moving k a m ^ Ϊ * ...... IV / »w» w-. - ^ 2005) 0015¾ -2- ·· t ························································································ Is bent in a meandering manner, wherein the points of inflection (40) lie in a surface which, starting from the fixed end (28) of the spring tongue (13) of the longitudinal axis of the Aufhahmekammer (2) approaches. 6. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the movable end (15) of the spring tongue (13) an elongated contact part (29) is formed, extending from the movable end (15) on two sides, namely to the opening ( 27) towards and away from this. 7. Holding device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the spring tongue (13) between the fixed end (28) and the movable end (15) alternately to the receiving chamber (2) and bent away from this meandering to to contact an object received in the receiving chamber (2) at at least two locations (33) spaced from one another in the longitudinal direction of the article. 8. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the Aufhahmekammer has a two front wall parts (4) existing front wall, between which a viewing window (6) is recessed. 9. Holding device according to claim 8, characterized in that the viewing window (6) to the side of the opening (27) is open and on the side facing away from the opening (27) by a connecting wall (5) is limited, which the front wall parts ( 4) connects to each other. 10. Holding device according to claim 9, characterized in that the stop is formed by a web (18) which is arranged in the opening (27) opposite side of the Aufhahmekammer (2) and from the connecting wall (5) to the rear wall ( 9) is enough. 11. Lifting device according to claim 10, characterized in that in the web (18) on the opening (27) facing surface, a longitudinal groove (19) is arranged. I refer to the following: 12. Holding device according to claim 11, characterized in that the base of the longitudinal groove (19) 13. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the rear wall (9) in the receiving chamber (2) protruding rib (10) is integrally formed in an existing in the rear wall (9) opening (20). 14. Holding device according to one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the connecting wall (5) against the viewing window (6) towards limiting edge (7) closer to the opening (27) than the opening (27) directed surface of the bridge (18). 15. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that flush with the opening (27) a surface (21) is arranged which carries a marking (22) of the receiving chamber (2). 16. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one flat, smooth field (25) for attaching a label, for example by means of a label having. 17. Holding device (1) for cylindrical objects (31), in particular rohrför shaped sample container, consisting of at least one receiving chamber (2) having an opening (27) into which an object (31) in the direction of its longitudinal axis up to a stop (18 34) is insertable, wherein the receiving chamber (2) has two side walls (8) and a rear wall connecting them (9), wherein at least two spring tongues (13) are present, which protrude into the receiving chamber (2) that they yield resiliently when inserting an object and then rest against the object and hold it backlash between them, and wherein the device is integrally formed, characterized in that each two spring tongues of the lateral boundaries of the receiving chamber substantially directed against each other in the receiving chamber (2 ) and that their movable ends (15) overlap in the region of the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. _ | POSSIBLE [---------- A2005 / 00153 -4- ·· • · • • • • ·················································· • 18. A holding device according to claim 17, characterized in that there are four spring tongues (13). 19. Holding device according to one of claims 17 to 18, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed by at least two at an angle to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the Aufhahmekammer arranged edges or surfaces. 20. Holding device according to one of claims 17 to 18, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed by a funnel-like surface. 21. Holding device (1) for cylindrical objects (31), in particular tubular sample container, consisting of at least one Aufhahmekammer (2) with an opening (27) into which an object (31) in the direction of its longitudinal axis up to a stop (18; 34) is insertable, wherein the Aufhahmekammer (2) has two side walls (8) and a rear wall connecting them together (9), wherein at least one spring tongue (13) having a fixed end (28) and a movable end (15) is present projecting into the receiving chamber (2) in such a way that it yields resiliently upon insertion of an article and then bears against the article and holds it free of play, and wherein the device is formed in one piece, characterized in that the device has closed outer walls and means (35, 38) for mounting a lid (30) for the purpose of forming a sealed, at least one cylindrical object, in particular a tubular sample container end room has. 22. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of Aufhahmekammem (2) are arranged in a row, that in each case two adjacent Aufhahmekammem (2) have a common, arranged between them side wall (8). 23. Holding device according to claim 22, characterized in that it consists of ten Aufhahmekammem (2). A2005 / 00153 -5- • 999 9999 ································································································································································································································ according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it consists of plastic and is manufactured in one piece by injection molding. 25. Holding device according to claim 24, characterized in that it consists of polycarbonate. 26. Holding device according to one of claims 24 to 25, characterized in that the plastic glass fibers in a proportion of 15% to 35%, preferably 20%. STIWA-Fertigungstechnik Sticht Gesellschaft m.b.H. , by (Dir. Secklehner) NACHQEnSlwHt A2005 / 00153