Abstract: An apparatus for processing a laboratory sample contained in a laboratory sample container is presented. The apparatus comprises an optical sensing unit for sensing a transmittance at different vertical positions through the laboratory sample container and a tip sensing unit having a tip. The tip sensing unit is adapted to provide a tip sensing signal (tLDS) depending on a position of the tip relative to the sample. The apparatus also comprises a process control unit adapted to control the secure and reliable pipetting of the laboratory sample in response to both the transmittance and the tip sensing signal (tLDS) provided by the tip sensing unit.

Abstract: An apparatus for processing a laboratory sample contained in a laboratory sample container is presented. The apparatus comprises an optical sensing unit for sensing a transmittance at different vertical positions through the laboratory sample container and a tip sensing unit having a tip. The tip sensing unit is adapted to provide a tip sensing signal (tLDS) depending on a position of the tip relative to the sample. The apparatus also comprises a process control unit adapted to control the processing of the laboratory sample in response to the transmittance and the tip sensing signal (tLDS) provided by the tip sensing unit.

Abstract: A pitted roll for an offset litho press inking unit, more especially as part of a short inking unit, has a dual coating layer of which the inner layer is formed of a material such as copper comprising the application of a high affinity for ink and the outer layer is formed of ceramic material to give lands wiped by a doctor, preferably set at a negative angle, around the pits. A high wear resistance and a high accuracy may be achieved if the plain base member of the roll is coated with copper or the like and then with ceramic material, after which engraving takes place to penetrate the ceramic layer right into the copper or the material with an affinity for ink.

Abstract: A method of producing a pitted roll for an offset litho press inking unit, more especially as part of a short inking unit, comprising the application of a dual coating layer of which the inner layer is formed of a material such as copper with a high affinity for ink and the outer layer is formed of ceramic material to give lands wiped by a doctor, preferably set at a negative angle, around the pits. A high wear resistance and a high accuracy may be achieved if the plain base member of the roll is coated with copper or the like and then with ceramic material, after which engraving takes place to penetrate the ceramic layer right into the copper or the like material with an affinity for ink.