Sample Holder Kit for Mounting on a Goniometer Head

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention is a specially designed sample holder for use in X-ray crystallography, which mounts onto a goniometer head. It features concentric inner and outer rings connected by at least one strut, a cover film on the outer ring, and a sample film on the inner ring—their spacing enables delicate crystals, such as protein crystals, to grow directly on the sample film. The design further allows the holder to serve as a seal (lid) for microtiter plate cavities (wells), simplifying the transfer of samples from crystallization to diffraction analysis without handling or damaging the crystals.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Growing protein crystals for structural biology studies in a laboratory setting.
• Performing X-ray crystallography or other diffraction experiments, especially for proteins or sensitive samples.
• Screening conditions for crystal growth in multi-well microtiter plates and directly transferring grown crystals to data collection instruments without extra handling.
• Enabling in situ (in-place) X-ray analysis of crystals without dismounting them from their original growth substrate.
• Automated high-throughput crystallization and screening setups requiring minimal manual intervention.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduces the risk of damaging sensitive protein crystals by eliminating the need for manual handling during sample transfer.
• Enables direct in situ X-ray analysis, saving time and preserving sample integrity.
• The transparent and permeable films allow for easy observation and controlled crystal environment.
• Fits ANSI-standard microtiter plate wells and can act as both a sealing lid and a sample carrier, supporting workflow compatibility and automation.
• Improves completeness and quality of diffraction data by facilitating wider angular access during measurements.
• Facilitates easy integration into existing automated crystal growth and analysis systems.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a sample holder (1) for mounting on a goniometer head, which sample holder comprises an outer peripheral edge element (1) and an inner peripheral edge element (3) spaced apart from the outer edge element (2). Furthermore, at least one strut (4), which connects the two edge elements (2, 3) to each other, a cover film (6) spanning the outer edge element (2), and a sample film (4) spanning the inner edge element (3) are comprised. The two films (6, 7) are spaced apart from each other. The sample holder is in particular configured to also serve as a lid for a cavity of a microtiter plate.