Title of Invention	TEST TUBE AGITATION DEVICE COMPRISING MEANS FOR THE OPTICAL DETECTION OF A TEST TUBE IN A PREDETERMINED ZONE
Abstract	A powered test-tube agitation device (10) includes a small plate (12) having a rest (13) for a test tube (14) to be agitated and operated in agitation by a powered mechanism (15). The powered mechanism (15) is started by means (17,117) of optical detection of the entry of an object into a predetermined zone above the small plate. Advantageously the detection means are photoelectric infrared reflection detection means (17).

Title of Invention

TEST TUBE AGITATION DEVICE COMPRISING MEANS FOR THE OPTICAL DETECTION OF A TEST TUBE IN A PREDETERMINED ZONE

Abstract

A powered test-tube agitation device (10) includes a small plate (12) having a rest (13) for a test tube (14) to be agitated and operated in agitation by a powered mechanism (15). The powered mechanism (15) is started by means (17,117) of optical detection of the entry of an object into a predetermined zone above the small plate. Advantageously the detection means are photoelectric infrared reflection detection means (17).

Full Text	FIELD OF THE INVENTION: This invention relates to a test tube agitation device innovatively operated without contact between the test tube and the device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION: Test tube agitation devices are known in the prior art and include a powered support on which the test tube to be agitated is set. To activate the agitation movement, either a manually activated switch or a microswitch arranged beneath the support and to be started by pressure of the test tube on the support is used. In the first case there is the disadvantage of having to use two hands, one to hold the test tube and the other to operate the switch, and the disadvantage of forgetting the started agitator after use. In the second case, one is required to manually exert a certain pressure on the test tube to start it with the possible risk of breaking test tube to start it with the possible risk of breaking test tubes of thinner glass and in any case with the need of a small physical effort that might in time bring a not negligible fatigue of the hand, especially in large analysis-laboratories where the same analyst performs a large number of agitations each day. JP-A-58-191955 discloses a colorimetric analysis device comprising a rotational mixing device activated by optical sensors detecting the correct position of the test tube inside a housing where the colorimetric analysis is carried out. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION: The general purpose of this invention is to remedy the above mentioned shortcomings by making available an innovative test-tube agitator that does not require manual activation not even as forced contact between test tube and device. In view of this purpose it was sought to provide in accordance with this invention a powered test-tube agitation including a small agitation plate having a rest wherein the bottom of a test tube to be agitated is designed to rest and a powered mechanism operatively connected to the plate to put the plate in agitation, characterized in that the device comprises an optical detection means for optical detection in a predetermined zone above the plate, the optical detection means being operatively connected to the powered mechanism to activate operation thereof when an object is detected entering said predetermined zone above the plate. To clarify the explanation of the innovative principles of this invention and its advantages compared with the prior art there is described below with the aid of the annexed drawings a possible embodiment thereof by way of examples applying said principles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS: FIG 1 shows a side elevation view of an agitator in accordance with this invention, and FIG 2 shows a diagrammatic perspective view of the agitator of FIG 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION: With reference to the figures, FIG 1 shows diagrammatically an agitator device designated as a whole by reference number 10 and realized in accordance with this invention. The device includes a housing (11) on the top of which there is a plate (12) having a seat or recess (13) for receiving the bottom of a test tube (14) to be agitated. The plate (12) can be the replaceable type to be adaptable to different requirements and forms of the container to be agitated. Naturally, with the generic term 'test tube' is intended here any container usually employed or employable with agitators of the generic type to which belongs the device described here such as for example micro-test tubes, cuvettes, baking utensils, mattresses, flasks, Erlenmeyer flasks et cetera. The plate (12) is put in agitation by a purposeful mechanism (15) within the device with suitable frequency and amplitude of the vibrations and possibly in a manner adjustable by means of an appropriate control (16). The agitator mechanism (generally the electromechanical type) is known and not further described or shown since it is readily imaginable to those skilled in the art. In accordance with this invention the device (10) includes optical detection means of the presence of the test tube above the plate to start the agitation mechanism (15) automatically with no need for action on external manual controls. Advantageously in the preferred embodiment there is a photoelectric reflection system advantageously of the infrared type and designated as a whole by reference number 17. As may be seen well in FIG 2, the detection device (17) includes an infrared emitter (17a) (for example, infrared LED) and an infrared receiver (17b) (for example, a phototransistor) arranged on the same side of the plate and sloped appropriately to 'illuminate' the zone over the plate (12) so that an object inserted in that zone would reflect towards the receiver the light emitted by the emitter. When the receiver receives the reflected signal it emits a corresponding signal for activation of the powered agitation mechanism (15). When the object that caused the reflection is removed, the agitation mechanism is stopped. As may be seen in the figures, front positioning of the sensors was found particularly advantageous so that the beam is turned backward as this minimizes false detections due to the passage of the hand or a person in front of the apparatus. Even though a reflecting optical system was found particularly advantageous, a photoelectric barrier system can be used in accordance with the principles of this invention. This is shown diagrammatically in broken lines in FIG 1 with a transmitter (117a) and a receiver (117b) aligned on two opposite sides of the plate so that a detection beam passes from one to the other through the zone above the plate. It is now clear that the preset purposes have been achieved by making available a device that does not require any physical contact for its operation as it is sufficient to bring the test tube closer to the agitation plate without any effort by the user. This makes laboratory use easier. Furthermore, contact of the hand with the controls causing undesired transfer of substances harmful for users or for analyses is avoided. In accordance with the principles of this invention it was also found advantageous that the detection device (17) activate the mechanism (15) with a small delay (advantageously between 10 ms and 1 sec and preferably 100 ms) to allow the test tube to reach the seat (13) and rest there before the vibrations begin. This avoids jolts and slipping of the test tube. As another particularly advantageous characteristic the agitation system can be started gently with a programmed rising ramp of amplitude and/or frequency of the oscillations. Thanks to the fact that no physical contact or pressure of the test tube on the plate is necessary to start agitation, the designer can change the delay time and starting ramp at will to obtain predetermined and preferred first contact conditions between the test tube and the plate; for example a light starting movement of the plate before contact to bring the bottom of the test tube to the center of the seat (13) before contact. Naturally, the form and proportions of the various parts can change depending on specific requirements and preferences. The device can also include additional known systems and accessories such as connections to other equipment and laboratory data networks. Advantageously, the device can also include a main turning-off switch (not shown) to avoid inappropriate starting when not required. I CLAIM: 1. Powered test-tube agitation device including a small agitation plate (12)- having a rest (13) wherein the bottom of a test tube to be agitated is designed to rest and a powered mechanism (15) operatively connected to the plate to put the plate (12) in agitation, characterized in that the device comprises an optical detection means (17, 117) for optical detection in a predetermined zone above the plate (12), the optical detection means (17, 117) being operatively connected to the powered mechanism (15) to activate operation thereof when an object is detected entering said predetermined zone above the plate. 2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical detection means includes a photoelectric reflection detection device (17). 3. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the photoelectric reflection detection device includes an infrared emitter (17a) and an infrared receiver (17b) arranged close to the side of said plate (12). 4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical detection means includes a barrier photoelectric detection device (117a, 117b). 5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical detection means (17, 117) activates the powered mechanism (15) with a predetermined delay. 6. The device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the delay is between 10 ms and 1 s and preferably 100 ms. 7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the powered mechanism (15) is started with a predetermined ramp of increase in the frequency and/or amplitude of the plate agitation movement. 8. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the photoelectric reflection detection device (17) is arranged in front of the rest (13) and turned towards the rear of the device. ABSTRACT TITLE: TEST TUBE AGITATION DEVICE COMPRISING MEANS FOR OPTICAL DETECTION OF A TEST TUBE IN A PREDETERMINED ZONE A powered test-tube agitation device (10) includes a small plate (12) having a rest (13) for a test tube (14) to be agitated and operated in agitation by a powered mechanism (15). The powered mechanism (15) is started by means (17,117) of optical detection of the entry of an object into a predetermined zone above the small plate. Advantageously the detection means are photoelectric infrared reflection detection means (17).

Full Text

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
This invention relates to a test tube agitation device innovatively operated
without contact between the test tube and the device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
Test tube agitation devices are known in the prior art and include a powered
support on which the test tube to be agitated is set. To activate the agitation
movement, either a manually activated switch or a microswitch arranged
beneath the support and to be started by pressure of the test tube on the
support is used. In the first case there is the disadvantage of having to use two
hands, one to hold the test tube and the other to operate the switch, and the
disadvantage of forgetting the started agitator after use. In the second case, one
is required to manually exert a certain pressure on the test tube to start it with
the possible risk of breaking test tube to start it with the possible risk of breaking
test tubes of thinner glass and in any case with the need of a small physical
effort that might in time bring a not negligible fatigue of the hand, especially in
large analysis-laboratories where the same analyst performs a large number of
agitations each day.
JP-A-58-191955 discloses a colorimetric analysis device comprising a rotational
mixing device activated by optical sensors detecting the correct position of the
test tube inside a housing where the colorimetric analysis is carried out.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The general purpose of this invention is to remedy the above mentioned
shortcomings by making available an innovative test-tube agitator that does not
require manual activation not even as forced contact between test tube and
device.
In view of this purpose it was sought to provide in accordance with this invention
a powered test-tube agitation including a small agitation plate having a rest
wherein the bottom of a test tube to be agitated is designed to rest and a
powered mechanism operatively connected to the plate to put the plate in
agitation, characterized in that the device comprises an optical detection means
for optical detection in a predetermined zone above the plate, the optical
detection means being operatively connected to the powered mechanism to
activate operation thereof when an object is detected entering said
predetermined zone above the plate.
To clarify the explanation of the innovative principles of this invention and its
advantages compared with the prior art there is described below with the aid of
the annexed drawings a possible embodiment thereof by way of examples
applying said principles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS:
FIG 1 shows a side elevation view of an agitator in accordance with this
invention, and
FIG 2 shows a diagrammatic perspective view of the agitator of FIG 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
OF THE INVENTION:
With reference to the figures, FIG 1 shows diagrammatically an agitator device
designated as a whole by reference number 10 and realized in accordance with
this invention.
The device includes a housing (11) on the top of which there is a plate (12)
having a seat or recess (13) for receiving the bottom of a test tube (14) to be
agitated. The plate (12) can be the replaceable type to be adaptable to different
requirements and forms of the container to be agitated.
Naturally, with the generic term 'test tube' is intended here any container usually
employed or employable with agitators of the generic type to which belongs the
device described here such as for example micro-test tubes, cuvettes, baking
utensils, mattresses, flasks, Erlenmeyer flasks et cetera.
The plate (12) is put in agitation by a purposeful mechanism (15) within the
device with suitable frequency and amplitude of the vibrations and possibly in a
manner adjustable by means of an appropriate control (16). The agitator
mechanism (generally the electromechanical type) is known and not further
described or shown since it is readily imaginable to those skilled in the art.
In accordance with this invention the device (10) includes optical detection
means of the presence of the test tube above the plate to start the agitation
mechanism (15) automatically with no need for action on external manual
controls.
Advantageously in the preferred embodiment there is a photoelectric reflection
system advantageously of the infrared type and designated as a whole by
reference number 17. As may be seen well in FIG 2, the detection device (17)
includes an infrared emitter (17a) (for example, infrared LED) and an infrared
receiver (17b) (for example, a phototransistor) arranged on the same side of the

plate and sloped appropriately to 'illuminate' the zone over the plate (12) so that
an object inserted in that zone would reflect towards the receiver the light
emitted by the emitter. When the receiver receives the reflected signal it emits a
corresponding signal for activation of the powered agitation mechanism (15).
When the object that caused the reflection is removed, the agitation mechanism
is stopped.
As may be seen in the figures, front positioning of the sensors was found
particularly advantageous so that the beam is turned backward as this minimizes
false detections due to the passage of the hand or a person in front of the
apparatus.
Even though a reflecting optical system was found particularly advantageous, a
photoelectric barrier system can be used in accordance with the principles of this
invention. This is shown diagrammatically in broken lines in FIG 1 with a
transmitter (117a) and a receiver (117b) aligned on two opposite sides of the
plate so that a detection beam passes from one to the other through the zone
above the plate.
It is now clear that the preset purposes have been achieved by making available
a device that does not require any physical contact for its operation as it is
sufficient to bring the test tube closer to the agitation plate without any effort by
the user. This makes laboratory use easier. Furthermore, contact of the hand
with the controls causing undesired transfer of substances harmful for users or
for analyses is avoided.
In accordance with the principles of this invention it was also found
advantageous that the detection device (17) activate the mechanism (15) with a
small delay (advantageously between 10 ms and 1 sec and preferably 100 ms) to
allow the test tube to reach the seat (13) and rest there before the vibrations
begin. This avoids jolts and slipping of the test tube. As another particularly

advantageous characteristic the agitation system can be started gently with a
programmed rising ramp of amplitude and/or frequency of the oscillations.
Thanks to the fact that no physical contact or pressure of the test tube on the
plate is necessary to start agitation, the designer can change the delay time and
starting ramp at will to obtain predetermined and preferred first contact
conditions between the test tube and the plate; for example a light starting
movement of the plate before contact to bring the bottom of the test tube to the
center of the seat (13) before contact.
Naturally, the form and proportions of the various parts can change depending
on specific requirements and preferences. The device can also include additional
known systems and accessories such as connections to other equipment and
laboratory data networks. Advantageously, the device can also include a main
turning-off switch (not shown) to avoid inappropriate starting when not required.

I CLAIM:

1. Powered test-tube agitation device including a small agitation plate (12)-
having a rest (13) wherein the bottom of a test tube to be agitated is
designed to rest and a powered mechanism (15) operatively connected to
the plate to put the plate (12) in agitation, characterized in that the device
comprises an optical detection means (17, 117) for optical detection in a
predetermined zone above the plate (12), the optical detection means
(17, 117) being operatively connected to the powered mechanism (15) to
activate operation thereof when an object is detected entering said
predetermined zone above the plate.
2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical detection means
includes a photoelectric reflection detection device (17).
3. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the photoelectric reflection
detection device includes an infrared emitter (17a) and an infrared
receiver (17b) arranged close to the side of said plate (12).
4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical detection means
includes a barrier photoelectric detection device (117a, 117b).
5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optical detection means (17,

117) activates the powered mechanism (15) with a predetermined delay.
6. The device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the delay is between 10 ms and

1 s and preferably 100 ms.

7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the powered mechanism (15) is
started with a predetermined ramp of increase in the frequency and/or
amplitude of the plate agitation movement.
8. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the photoelectric reflection
detection device (17) is arranged in front of the rest (13) and turned
towards the rear of the device.

ABSTRACT

TITLE: TEST TUBE AGITATION DEVICE COMPRISING MEANS
FOR OPTICAL DETECTION OF A TEST TUBE IN A
PREDETERMINED ZONE
A powered test-tube agitation device (10) includes a small plate (12) having a
rest (13) for a test tube (14) to be agitated and operated in agitation by a
powered mechanism (15). The powered mechanism (15) is started by means
(17,117) of optical detection of the entry of an object into a predetermined zone
above the small plate. Advantageously the detection means are photoelectric
infrared reflection detection means (17).

Documents:

02708-kolnp-2006-abstract.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-claims.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-correspondence others-1.1.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-correspondence others.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-correspondence-1.2.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-description (complete).pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-drawings.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-form-1.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-form-2.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-form-26.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-form-3.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-form-5.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-international publication.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-international search authority report.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-other document.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-pct other.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-pct request.pdf

02708-kolnp-2006-priority document.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-ABSTRACT.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-ANNEXURE TO FORM 3.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-CLAIMS.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-FORM-1.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-FORM-2.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-FORM-3.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-FORM-5.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-(22-04-2013)-OTHERS.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-CORRESPONDENCE-1.1.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-EXAMINATION REPORT.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-FORM 18.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-FORM 26.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-ABSTRACT.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-CLAIMS.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-DRAWINGS.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-FORM 1.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-FORM 2.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-FORM 3.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-FORM 5.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-GRANTED-SPECIFICATION-COMPLETE.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT & OTHERS.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-OTHERS.pdf

2708-KOLNP-2006-REPLY TO EXAMINATION REPORT.pdf

abstract-02708-kolnp-2006.jpg

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Patent Number

257766

Indian Patent Application Number

2708/KOLNP/2006

PG Journal Number

44/2013

Publication Date

01-Nov-2013

Grant Date

31-Oct-2013

Date of Filing

18-Sep-2006

Name of Patentee

PASSONI GIOVANNI

Applicant Address

Via provinciale 34 22030 Eupilio CO

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	PASSONI GIOVANNI	Via provinciale 34 22030 Eupilio CO

PCT International Classification Number

B01F11/00; B01F15/00

PCT International Application Number

PCT/EP2005/003139

PCT International Filing date

2005-03-24

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	MI2004U000137	2004-03-31	Italy