Abstract: A thermal cycling instrument for PCR and other reactions performed on multiple samples with temperature changes between sequential stages in the reaction procedure is supplied with a thermal block to provide rapid changes and close control over the temperature in each sample vessel and a pressure plate incorporated into a motorized lid that detects anomalies in the reaction vessels or in their positioning over the thermal block, and automatically adjusts the plate position to achieve an even force distribution over the sample vessels.

Abstract: A thermal cycling instrument for PCR and other reactions performed on multiple samples with temperature changes between sequential stages in the reaction procedure is supplied with a thermal block to provide rapid changes and close control over the temperature in each sample vessel and a pressure plate incorporated into a motorized lid that detects anomalies in the reaction vessels or in their positioning over the thermal block, and automatically adjusts the plate position to achieve an even force distribution over the sample vessels.

Abstract: A thermal cycling instrument for PCR and other reactions performed on multiple samples with temperature changes between sequential stages in the reaction procedure is supplied with a thermal block to provide rapid changes and close control over the temperature in each sample vessel and a pressure plate incorporated into a motorized lid that detects anomalies in the reaction vessels or in their positioning over the thermal block, and automatically adjusts the plate position to achieve an even force distribution over the sample vessels.

Abstract: A thermal cycling instrument for PCR and other reactions performed on multiple samples with temperature changes between sequential stages in the reaction procedure is supplied with a thermal block to provide rapid changes and close control over the temperature in each sample vessel and a pressure plate incorporated into a motorized lid that detects anomalies in the reaction vessels or in their positioning over the thermal block, and automatically adjusts the plate position to achieve an even force distribution over the sample vessels.

Abstract: Temperature control in a rectangular array of reaction vessels such as a thermal cycler such as is used for PCR procedures is achieved by use of a temperature block that is in contact with a combination of Peltier effect thermoelectric modules and wire heating elements embedded along the edges of the block. The elements can be energized in such a manner as to achieve a constant temperature throughout the array or a temperature gradient. Further control over the temperature and prevention of condensation in the individual reaction vessels is achieved by the use of a glass (or other transparent material) plate positioned above the vessels, with an electrically conductive coating on the upper surface of the glass plate to provide resistance heating.

Abstract: A playing record cover which when in the open position assumes a pyramid shape for combined use as a turntable dust cover and storage rack for records.