Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a computer implemented method of managing sample processing priorities in a diagnostic laboratory comprising at least one sample processing device connected to a host system. The method comprises generating a communication message between the host system and the at least one sample processing device related to a sample processing order received in association with a sample, the message comprising one of at least two priority identifiers (R, S) indicative of respective sample processing priorities from lower priority to higher priority according to the received sample processing order. The method further comprises identifying the sample by the at least one sample processing device and processing the sample by the at least one sample processing device according to the sample processing priority (S, R) in the message.

Abstract: A compact safety switch comprises a housing having an axially sliding ram mounted therein. The lower end of the ram is in contact with an actuating rod of a switch, which is aligned with the ram. The upper end of the ram lies against a cam formed in the outer surface of an indexing wheel. A pre-tensioned helical spring surrounds the lower end of the ram for holding the ram in place. The indexing wheel is provided on one end of the cam with a radial notch for locking a key inserted into the keyway and at an opposite end of the cam with a resting notch. The safety switch further includes an interlocking mechanism having a stator located concentric to the ram and an armature integral with the ram. With the key inserted in the keyway, the armature is pushed out of the stator and the upper end of the ram is held in engagement with the resting notch.

Abstract: A safety switch has a key (1) which, when inserted into and removed from a key channel (9), forcibly rotates a cam plate (7) and so switches over the switch. The safety switch further has an interlocking device for the cam plate (7) which is disposed adjacent the latter, can be forcibly released by the key (1) when it is introduced into the key channel (9) and has at least one locking member (21) which can be displaced in translation and, in its locked position, engages in an interlocking manner with a housing disposed adjacent the cam plate (7). The locking member (21) can be displaced into the released position by the key (1) by means of an actuating member (15) which is moveable together with the locking member (21) and is integral therewith. The part of the actuating member (15) which projects into the key channel (9) in the locked position is connected to the locking member (21) by means of a material section which is laterally guided past the axis of rotation (6).

Abstract: A manually activated position indicator with electrical output signals includes a plurality of adjacent electrodes (S, Al-, Al+, Bl-, Bl+, Ax-, Ax+, Bx-, Bx+,Ay-, Ay+, By-, By+), which are electrically insulated from one another and are covered on one side by an electrically insulating layer (3) the side of which opposite said electrodes is provided as a support surface for a finger (4) of the user of said position indicator wherein said electrodes form at least three groups, and all of the electrodes (S) of a first group are connected to a voltage source (5) that delivers an alternating voltage (Us). The electrodes of the other groups are connected to a signal evaluating circuit, and at least one electrode of said other groups is arranged adjacent to an electrode (S) of the first group.

Abstract: A system for marking and identifying objects, particularly work implements such as tools and work piece holders required in manufacturing processes, which has modules (4) with electronically readable markings, which modules (4) are to be arranged on the objects (1) to be marked, as well as an evaluating device having at least one pick-up capable of reading the markings. Each module contains at least one oscillating circuit (5, 6, 7) to produce a characteristic resonant frequency or resonant frequency combination. The number of different resonant frequencies or resonant frequency combinations provided corresponds to the number of different elements in the selected characterizing code, and the resonant frequency or resonant frequency combination of each module (4) is selected according to one of these frequencies or frequency combinations.

Abstract: A detent mechanism for a manually activated transducer is disclosed in which the transducer element is movable along a predetermined path by means of a handle and includes a sensor for scanning markings on the transducer element and includes first and second components that determine the magnetic field in an air gap. These magnetic components have spaced, adjacent grooves directed in the direction of movement of the rotating transducer element. The magnetic forces created between these first and second components serve to hold the transducer element in one of a plurality of definite positions.

Abstract: A safety switch comprising a drive and locking device. A key is used to operate the drive. The drive comprises a ram longitudinally moved by the key. The locking device includes a blocking member for the ram which can only be released by the key.