Abstract: The invention relates to a method for decomposing a biological sample (9), the method having the following steps: the sample (9) is put into a container (6) which is composed of plastic, in particular, the container (6) is inserted into an adapter (2, 2a), the adapter with the closed container therein is connected to an apparatus which moves the adapter back and forth, in particular upwards, in automated fashion. This method makes it possible to decompose biological samples in automated fashion, to be precise both samples at room temperature and frozen samples. The invention also relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method, the apparatus having an adapter (2, 2a) which is predominantly composed of plastic and has sleeves (4) which are composed of metal and are intended to accommodate containers (6) which are composed of plastic, in particular.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for decomposing a biological sample (9), said method having the following steps: the sample (9) is put into a container (6) which is composed of plastic, in particular, the container (6) is inserted into an adapter (2, 2a), the adapter with the closed container therein is connected to an apparatus which moves the adapter back and forth, in particular upwards, in automated fashion. This method makes it possible to decompose biological samples in automated fashion, to be precise both samples at room temperature and frozen samples. The invention also relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method, said apparatus comprising an adapter (2, 2a) which is predominantly composed of plastic and has sleeves (4) which are composed of metal and are intended to accommodate containers (6) which are composed of plastic, in particular.

Abstract: A brush holder mechanism for electric motors, especially the fractional horsepower commutator-equipped motors of workshop power tools. In order to prevent failure of the tool due to jamming of the carbon brushes in their holders, the brush holder according to the invention provides that the brush holder casing in which the carbon brush moves has smooth, flat and uninterrupted interior surfaces and the casing is constructed of a single piece of metal or a single piece of metal on which a continuous cover plate is attached. The integral construction of the casing insures that the casing is not deformed during manufacture or assembly, in particular by the bending of parts of the casing into fastening tabs and the like. In the brush holder according to the invention, the fastening means are integral with the cover plate or the casing. In other embodiments, the casing is held in a receiver by clamps and screws.