Abstract: A transport device for receiving a sample container and for transporting the sample container on a transport surface, the transport device being capable of being moved magnetically over the transport surface and, further, having a cooling device is presented. A sample distribution system comprising such a transport device and to a laboratory automation system is also presented.

Abstract: A sample distribution system having a transport surface and sample container carriers arranged thereupon is disclosed. A dirt detection device for limiting the effect of dirt is provided.

Abstract: A vertical conveying device for the transport of sample container carriers having sample tubes received therein between a bottom level and a top level of a sample distribution system is presented. The vertical conveying device comprises a plurality of conveying surfaces which are movable along a circulating path. A sample distribution system having such a vertical conveying device and to a laboratory automation system having such a sample distribution system are also presented.

Abstract: A sample distribution system having a transport surface on which sample container carriers can be moved is presented. The sample distribution system has ambient-condition influencing device in order to influence ambient conditions over a sub-region of the transport surface in such a way that samples can be kept there for a certain time without impairment.

Abstract: A transport device for a sample container is presented. The transport device has a chuck for holding the sample container. The chuck has at least one jaw, which is formed from electrically contractile material. A receiving area for receiving and holding a sample container can thus be enlarged or made smaller. A sample distribution system having such a transport device and a laboratory automation system is also presented.