Patent Publication Number: US-2022226822-A1

Title: Cartridge for testing a biological sample

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/338,539 filed Apr. 1, 2019, which is a 371 of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2017/025277 filed Oct. 5, 2017, which claims the benefit of priority to European Patent Application No. 16020369.1 filed Oct. 7, 2016, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a cartridge for analyzing and/or testing a biological sample, wherein the sample includes a fluid system, having a plurality of channels and at least one valve for controlling the flow of the sample through the fluid system, and an elastically deformable cover which covers a wall of the valve, where in the valve is configured to be actuated by deforming the wall. 
     Preferably, the present invention deals with analyzing and testing a sample, in particular, from a human or animal, particularly preferably for analytics and diagnostics, for example with regard to the presence of diseases and/or pathogens and/or for determining blood counts, antibodies, hormones, steroids or the like. Therefore, the present invention is in particular, within the field of bioanalytics. A food sample, environmental sample or another sample may optionally also be tested, in particular, for environmental analytics or food safety and/or for detecting other substances. 
     Preferably, at least one analyte (target analyte) of a sample can be determined, identified or detected by means of the cartridge. In particular, the sample can be tested for qualitatively or quantitatively determining at least one analyte, for example in order for it to be possible to detect or identify a disease and/or pathogen. 
     Within the meaning of the present invention, analytes are in particular nucleic-acid sequences, in particular DNA sequences and/or RNA sequences, or proteins, in particular antigens and/or antibodies. In particular, by means of the present invention, nucleic-acid sequences can be determined, identified or detected as analytes of a sample, or proteins can be determined, identified or detected as analytes of the sample. More particularly preferably, the present invention deals with systems, devices and other apparatuses for carrying out a nucleic-acid assay for detecting or identifying a nucleic-acid sequence or a protein assay for detecting or identifying a protein. 
     The present invention deals with what are known as point-of-care systems, i.e., those with the option of carrying out tests on site and/or independently from a central laboratory or the like. Preferably, point-of-care systems can be operated autonomously and/or independently of a mains network for supplying electrical power. 
     DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,096,669 discloses a point-of-care system for testing a biological sample, in particular a blood sample. The system comprises a single-use cartridge and an analysis device. The cartridge comprises a receptacle for the sample, it being possible for the receptacle to be closed by a cap once the sample has been received. The cartridge is then inserted into the analysis device in order to carry out the test. The cartridge comprises a microfluidic system and a sensor apparatus comprising electrodes, which apparatus is calibrated by means of a calibration liquid and is then used to test the sample. A waste cavity for receiving liquids is fluidically connected to the sensor apparatus. 
     Furthermore, International Publication No. WO 2006/125767 A1, and corresponding U.S. Pat. No. 9,110,044 B2, disclose a point-of-care system for integrated and automated DNA or protein analysis, comprising a single-use cartridge, an analysis device comprising a control device and comprising means for receiving and processing signals, the control device being designed to fully automatically process and evaluate molecular-diagnostic analyses using the single-use cartridge. 
     U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0120580 A1 discloses a device in the form of a flat plate which is employed in the detection and analysis of blood antigens. Channels of the device can be blocked by actuation of a flexible cover plate made of four layers which are shown to have similar thicknesses. 
     U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0266582 A1 discloses a microfluidic chip for performing assays. The device comprises a valve which can be closed by pressing to the bottom of a channel a gas-permeable membrane and an optional bonding layer covering said channel. 
     U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0031494 A1 discloses a device for thermal processing of multiple samples at the same time. The device may comprise seal structures for occlusion of conduits which are formed by an adhesive on one side of the conduit that can be adhered to the opposite site of the conduit, thereby closing the conduit. Subsequent opening of the conduit is not mentioned. These seal structures do not constitute valves, in particular, in the sense of the present invention. 
     Valves arranged on or in the cartridge are used to control the flow rate or fluid flow of the sample and/or another fluid in point-of-care systems of this type. These valves may for example be arranged upstream and/or downstream of a measuring or metering cavity, mixing cavity, treatment or reaction cavity and/or sensor apparatus of the cartridge, in particular in order to control and/or influence the reactions and/or measurements as desired. 
     For example, International Publication No. WO 2010/136298 A1, and corresponding US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/067433 A1, disclose a method for controlling an instrument comprising an array of valves that each control a fluid flow in an associated flow channel. The valves are each actuated by applying a compressive force, exerted in particular by at least one actuator, a valve being open and it being possible for a fluid to flow in an associated flow channel when no compressive force is applied, and the valve being closed and the fluid flow being stopped in the associated flow channel when compressive force is applied to the valve. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The problem addressed by the present invention is to provide an improved cartridge for testing and/or analyzing a biological sample, a compact and/or cost-effective construction or design, reliable, gentle, hygienic and/or simple testing of the sample and/or improved, in particular, reliable, simple and/or rapid, control of the fluid flow preferably being made possible, facilitated or supported. 
     The above problem is solved by methods and a cartridge as described herein. 
     The cartridge preferably comprises at least one valve comprising a preferably cylindrical valve seat, the valve seat projecting into a valve chamber of the valve, preferably centrally. Preferably, a wall of the valve that is flexible at least in part can be pressed against the valve seat, in particular, in order to close the valve. The preferably centrally arranged valve seat makes it possible to rapidly control the fluid flow through the valve chamber. In particular, the required deflection of the wall is reduced by the valve seat in order to close the valve. In this way, the load on the wall or the material fatigue of the wall is reduced or slowed. 
     One aspect of the present invention is that the cartridge comprises a preferably elastically deformable and/or planar cover or layer, the cover or layer covering and/or reinforcing the valve or the wall of the valve on a side remote from the valve chamber and/or towards the outside. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer is designed to distribute a force acting on the valve when the valve is actuated and/or to transmit said force over the wall in a distributed manner, preferably evenly and/or such that the valve seat is sealed evenly and/or completely by means of the wall. In this way, the risk of damage to the wall is reduced and/or reliable sealing is made possible or facilitated. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer is designed to reduce the force required to (completely) actuate the valve and/or to compensate for any asperities or surface roughness on the cartridge, in particular the wall, in particular, such that the force required is reduced. 
     Particularly preferably, the cover or layer is designed to increase the restoring force of the wall and/or to move the wall away from the valve seat once actuation of the valve is complete, in particular, such that the valve automatically reopens once actuation is complete. 
     Preferably, the valve seat comprises, preferably on an end face and/or on a side facing the wall, a first opening or inlet opening, through which a fluid can flow into the valve chamber. Advantageously, when the valve and/or the wall is actuated, the opening is thus directly and/or immediately closed, and therefore no fluid can flow into the valve chamber. 
     Particularly preferably, the valve seat comprises a preferably circular contact surface or bearing surface for the wall on an end face and/or on a side facing the wall, the contact surface or bearing surface preferably delimiting or defining the first opening or the inlet of the valve at the sides. 
     In particular, the valve seat comprises a preferably peripheral projection on an end face and/or on a side facing the wall. In this way, the distance between the valve seat and the wall is reduced when the valve is unactuated, and therefore the valve is closed even when the wall is slightly deflected. 
     The term “cartridge” is preferably understood to mean a structural apparatus or unit designed to receive, to store, to physically, chemically and/or biologically treat and/or to measure a preferably biological sample. A cartridge within the meaning of the present invention preferably comprises a fluidic system or fluid system having a plurality of channels, cavities and/or valves for controlling the flow through the channels and/or cavities. In particular, within the meaning of the present invention, a cartridge is designed to be at least substantially planar, flat and/or card-like, in particular is designed as a fluidic card and/or is designed as a support and/or container for the sample that can be inserted and/or plugged into the proposed analysis device. 
     The term “analysis device” is preferably understood to mean a structural apparatus designed to chemically, biologically and/or physically test and/or analyse a sample or analysis sample or a component thereof, in particular in order for it to be possible to directly and/or indirectly detect or identify a disease and/or pathogen. An analysis device within the meaning of the present invention is in particular a portable or mobile device designed in particular to directly test and/or analyse the sample, in particular on site and/or in the vicinity of the sampling site and/or away from a central laboratory. 
     The mentioned aspects and features of the present invention and the aspects and features of the present invention that will become apparent from the claims and the following description can in principle be implemented independently from one another, but also in any combination. 
     Other aspects, advantages, features and properties of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic plan view of a proposed cartridge; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic section through the cartridge in the region of a receptacle or receiving cavity for a sample in the open state, with a transfer apparatus connected; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic view of a proposed analysis system comprising the cartridge according to  FIG. 1  and a proposed analysis device; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view of a detail of the back of the cartridge according to  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic section through the cartridge along the sectional line V-V in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic section through the cartridge according to  FIG. 5  when actuated; 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic section through the cartridge along the sectional line VII-VII in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a schematic section through the cartridge according to  FIG. 7  when actuated; and 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic section through a proposed valve of the cartridge according to  FIG. 4 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the following description, the same reference signs are used for the same and similar parts and components, resulting in corresponding properties and features even if these are not repeatedly described. 
       FIG. 1  is a highly schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a proposed cartridge  100  for testing a biological sample P. 
     The term “sample” is preferably understood to mean the sample material to be tested, which is taken from a human or animal. In particular, within the meaning of the present invention, a sample is a fluid, such as saliva, blood, urine or another liquid, preferably from a human or animal, or a component thereof. Within the meaning of the present invention, a sample may be pretreated or prepared if necessary, or may come directly from a human or animal or the like, for example. A food sample, environmental sample or another sample may optionally also be tested, in particular for environmental analytics, food safety and/or for detecting other substances, preferably natural substances, but also biological or chemical warfare agents, poisons or the like. 
     A sample within the meaning of the present invention preferably contains one or more analytes, it preferably being possible for the analytes to be identified or detected, in particular, qualitatively and/or quantitatively determined. Particularly preferably, within the meaning of the present invention, a sample has target nucleic-acid sequences as the analytes, in particular target DNA sequences and/or target RNA sequences, and/or target proteins as the analytes, in particular target antigens and/or target antibodies. Particularly preferably, at least one disease and/or pathogen can be detected or identified in the sample P by qualitatively and/or quantitatively determining the analytes. 
     The cartridge  100  comprises a receptacle or receiving cavity  104  for the sample P. Further details will be given later on a preferred construction of this receptacle or receiving cavity  104 . 
     The cartridge  100  comprises a fluidic, preferably microfluidic, system  103 , referred to in the following as the fluid system  103 , which is fluidically connected to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 . 
     The cartridge  100  and/or the fluid system  103  preferably comprises at least one pump apparatus  112 , at least one storage cavity  108  for a reagent, in the example shown, a plurality of storage cavities  108  for different liquid reagents F, at least one measuring or metering cavity  105 , at least one mixing cavity  107 , at least one treatment or reaction cavity  109 , a collection or equalisation cavity  111  and/or at least one sensor apparatus  113 . 
     The cartridge  100  and/or the fluid system  103  comprises channels  114 , valves  115  and/or sensors  116 . 
     Particularly preferably, the fluid system  103  is formed by the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  and the channels  114 . 
     The channels  114  are preferably designed to fluidically interconnect the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , the pump apparatus  112 , the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  and/or the sensor apparatus  113  and/or to connect these as desired and/or selectively. 
     The valves  115  are preferably designed to control, in particular to allow, to prevent, to reduce and/or to increase, preferably temporarily or permanently as desired, the flow rate or fluid flows, in particular of the sample P and/or of the reagent F or reagents F and/or of gas or air, through the channels  114 , cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 , the pump apparatus  112 , the sensor apparatus  113  and/or the sensors  116 , as explained in greater detail in the following. 
     The cartridge  100  is preferably at least substantially planar, flat, plate-like and/or card-like. 
     Particularly preferably, the cartridge  100  comprises an in particular at least substantially planar, flat, plate-shaped and/or card-like support or main body  101 , the support or main body  101  preferably being made of and/or injection-molded from plastics material. 
     Preferably, the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 , the channels  114 , the valves  115  and/or the pump apparatus  112  are formed by corresponding depressions and/or raised portions in the support or main body  101 . 
     More particularly preferably, the cartridge  100  comprises a film or cover  102 , the support or main body  101  preferably being connected at least in part to the film and/or cover  102 , in particular in a bonded manner, and/or being covered at least in part by the film and/or cover  102 , preferably in a gas-tight manner. 
     In particular, the depressions in the support or main body  101  are covered and/or closed by the film and/or cover  102 , and/or the raised portions are formed by the film and/or cover  102  and/or a (local) bulge of the film and/or cover  102 . 
     Particularly preferably, the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 , the channels  114 , the valves  115  and/or the pump apparatus  112  and/or the walls thereof are formed by the depressions and/or raised portions in or on the support or main body  101  and by the film and/or cover  102 , as shown schematically in  FIG. 2  for the channels  104 B,  104 C and  104 D, and in  FIGS. 5 and 6  for the pump apparatus  112 . However, other structural solutions are also possible. 
       FIG. 2  is a highly schematic partial section through the cartridge  100  in the region of the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 . 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100 , in particular, the support or main body  101 , comprises a depression  104 H, in particular forming the receiving cavity  104 , which is covered by the film or cover  102  in this case. Additionally, or alternatively, the film or cover  102  forms the receiving cavity  104  and/or depression  104 H, preferably so as to be raised from the support or main body  101  or the surface thereof. 
     The receptacle or receiving cavity  104  preferably comprises a connection  104 A for receiving the sample P. In particular, a transfer apparatus  320 , in this case preferably comprising a connection  323 , in particular a connecting tip, can be connected to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or the connection  104 A thereof, as shown schematically in  FIG. 2 , in order to fill the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  with the sample P. 
     The transfer apparatus  320  may, for example, be a syringe, a pipette, a tube or the like. 
       FIG. 2  shows the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  when still empty, i.e., before receiving the sample P. 
     Once the sample P has been received, the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  can preferably be closed fluidically, and in particular, also in a gas-tight manner. In the example shown, the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  preferably comprises a closure element  130  for this purpose, which in this case is designed as a latched, screwed or hinged lid. 
     Once the sample P has been received, the transfer apparatus  320  is removed from the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or the connection  104 A and the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or the connection  104 A thereof is closed by the closure element  130 . 
     The fluid system  103  is preferably connected to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or the depression  104 H by means of a connection channel or outlet  104 C for receiving and/or discharging the sample P, as shown schematically in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the fluid system  103  being shown only in part in  FIG. 2 . 
     Furthermore, the fluid system  103  is preferably connected to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or the depression  104 H thereof via a ventilation channel or inlet  104 B and/or flushing channel or intermediate connection  104 D, such that the sample P or at least a component thereof can be conveyed out of the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or depression  104 H, in particular via the channel or outlet  104 C, in particular without a (relevant) vacuum developing in the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 . 
     If required, a gas or air can be fed to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  via the ventilation channel or inlet  104 B and/or a liquid, for example a reagent F, can be fed to said receptacle or receiving cavity  104  via the flushing channel or intermediate connection  104 D, in order to convey the sample P or a component thereof into the fluid system  103 , the connection channel or outlet  104 C and/or a downstream cavity  105 ,  107 ,  109  and/or into the sensor apparatus  113 . 
     The sample P or a component thereof is conveyed out of the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  into the fluid system  103  preferably by suction and/or by overpressure (feeding gas and/or liquid into the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 ). This is in particular facilitated or made possible by locking, sealing and/or closing the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or the fluid system  103 , preferably in a gas-tight manner. 
     The sample P or a component thereof is particularly preferably conveyed by means of the pump apparatus  112  and/or by accordingly controlling the valves  115 . 
     Preferably, the pump apparatus  112  comprises at least one pump chamber  112 C and/or the pump apparatus  112  is formed by at least one pump chamber  112 C, as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The pump chamber  112 C is preferably designed as a raised portion and/or depression on or in the cartridge  100 , in particular the support or main body  101 , as shown in particular in  FIGS. 3, 5 and 6 . 
     Preferably, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump chamber  112 C comprises a wall  112 D that is flexible and/or elastically deformable at least in part, the wall  112 D in particular being formed by a film, for example the film or cover  102 . 
     Preferably, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump chamber  112 C is elastically deformable, in particular compressible, at least in part and/or in portions. In particular, the wall  112 D can be pressed onto the support or main body  101  or the surface thereof, the wall  112 D and/or the pump chamber  112 C then preferably being automatically reset and/or enlarged again, for example by a compressive force and/or by a restoring or deflecting apparatus (not shown). 
     The pump chamber  112 C preferably has and/or defines a volume, in particular a pump volume, for a fluid, in particular the sample P and/or the reagent F, it preferably being possible for the volume to be changed, in particular, to be reduced at least temporarily. 
     Particularly preferably, a fluid, in particular the sample P and/or the reagent F and/or a gas, can be conveyed through the pump chamber  112 C, in particular, by temporarily changing the pump volume of the pump chamber  112 C and/or by deforming, in particular compressing, the pump chamber  112 C, the wall  112 D and/or the film or cover  102  in portions and/or temporarily. 
     In the embodiment shown, the cartridge  100  comprises just one pump apparatus  112 , the pump apparatus  112  preferably making it possible, depending on the valves  115 , to convey the fluid, in particular the sample P and/or the reagent F, through all the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109  and  111 , channels  114  and valves  115 . However, other structural solutions are also possible in which the cartridge  100  comprises a plurality of pump apparatuses  112  and/or pump chambers  112 C. 
     Once the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  has been closed, the fluid system  103  forms, in particular, together with the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or the connected cavities  105 ,  107  to  109  and  111 , channels  114 , the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C and/or the sensor apparatus  113 , a closed circuit for fluids, in particular gas, air and/or liquids. This is facilitated or made possible by the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or the fluid system  103  being locked, sealed and/or closed, preferably in a gas-tight manner. 
     The sensor apparatus  113  is designed for electrochemically measuring the prepared sample P. In particular, the sensor apparatus  113  comprises a corresponding biochip or functionalized chip or the like. 
     The sensor apparatus  113  comprises electrodes  113 C that particularly preferably engage in one another in a finger-like manner and/or form a plurality of electrode pairs and/or measurement points. Particularly preferably, the sensor apparatus  113  and/or the chip is constructed as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,123,029 B2 or U.S. Pat. No. 7,914,655 B2. 
     The sensor apparatus  113  preferably operates electrically and/or electrochemically. In particular, the cartridge  100  and/or the support or main body  101  comprises electrical contacts  113 E for electrically connecting the sensor apparatus  113 , as shown schematically in  FIG. 1 . 
     As already explained, the cartridge  100  and/or the fluid system  103  preferably comprises one or more sensors  116  for detecting a flow front and/or for detecting the presence of a liquid, for measuring the pH or another value, measuring the temperature or the like. 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  and/or the support or main body  101  comprises corresponding electrical contacts  116 A for electrically connecting the sensors  116 , just one electrical contact  116 A for electrically contacting or connecting an assigned sensor  116  being schematically shown in the view according to  FIG. 1  for reasons of simplicity. 
     As an alternative or in addition to the sensors  116 , one or more sensors  206  may also be provided that are in particular used for detecting a flow front and/or for detecting the presence of a liquid, or for measuring the temperature or other values or the like, the sensors  206  preferably not forming part of the cartridge  100 , but instead being arranged on or in an assigned analysis device  200 , as explained in greater detail in the following. 
       FIG. 3  shows a proposed analysis system or kit  1  comprising the proposed analysis device  200  and the proposed cartridge  100 . 
     Preferably, the analysis device  200  and the assigned cartridge  100  form the proposed analysis system or kit  1  for testing a biological sample P. 
     The cartridge  100  can preferably be connected to the analysis device  200  and/or can be received by the analysis device  200  at least in part. Particularly preferably, the cartridge  100  can be plugged into the analysis device  200 . However, other structural solutions are also possible. 
       FIG. 3  shows the analysis system  1  in the ready-to-use state for carrying out a test on the sample P received in the cartridge  100 . In this state, the cartridge  100  is therefore linked to, received by or plugged into the analysis device  200 . 
     The view in  FIG. 3  is merely schematic, in order to illustrate essential functions and/or aspects. 
     The cartridge  100  is preferably at least substantially vertically oriented in the operating position and/or during the test, in particular, in the analysis device  200 . In particular, the main plane of extension and/or the surface extension of the cartridge  100  extends at least substantially vertically in the operating position. 
     In the example shown, the analysis device  200  preferably comprises a mount or receptacle  201 , such as a slot or the like, for receiving and/or mounting the cartridge  100 . However, other structural solutions are also possible. 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  is fluidically, in particular hydraulically, separated or isolated from the analysis device  200 . In particular, the cartridge  100  forms, together with the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , a preferably independent, and in particular, closed fluidic and/or hydraulic system and/or fluid system  103  for the sample P. 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  is merely electrically connected to the analysis device  200 . However, in principle or in addition, an optical, mechanical, thermal and/or pneumatic coupling is also possible or provided, in particular, for measurement purposes. 
     The test and/or the test sequence in the cartridge  100  is preferably controlled electrically, thermally and/or mechanically and/or the effect of the analysis device  200  on the cartridge  100  is preferably electrical, thermal and/or mechanical. 
     Preferably, the pump apparatus  112 , pump chamber  112 C and/or valves  115  are actuated mechanically by the analysis device  200 . 
     Particularly preferably, the analysis device  200  only has a mechanical effect on the cartridge  100 , in particular, the pump apparatus  112 , pump chamber  112 C and/or valves  115 , in particular in order to make possible or bring about the desired preparation and/or treatment and testing of the sample P in the cartridge  100  and/or the analysis device  200 . 
     In addition, if required, the analysis device  200  may also have a thermal effect on the cartridge  100  and/or the test sequence and/or the sample P, i.e. for example may temperature-control a treatment or reaction cavity  109  in a desired manner, it also being possible in particular for thermal cycles to be run in order for it to be possible to, for example, carry out a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) in the cartridge  100 . 
     Additionally, or alternatively, if required, the cartridge  100  may also comprise a temperature-control or heat-generation apparatus, such as a heating element, thermal element, thermocouple or the like, which can in particular be electrically supplied and/or controlled by the analysis device  200 . 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a pump drive  202 , the pump drive  202  in particular being designed for mechanically actuating the pump apparatus  112  and/or pump chamber  112 C on or in the cartridge  100 . 
     Preferably, the pump apparatus  112  can be driven by means of the pump drive  202 , in particular from the outside. In particular, the pump drive  202  is designed to interact with the pump apparatus  112  and/or pump chamber  112 C such that the sample P, the reagent F and/or another fluid or gas can be conveyed and/or pumped within the cartridge  100  and/or the analysis device  200 . 
     Preferably, the pump drive  202  is fluidically, in particular, hydraulically, separated from the pump apparatus  112  and/or pump chamber  112 C, in particular by means of the wall  112 D of the pump apparatus  112 . 
     Preferably, the pump drive  202  of the analysis device  200  and the pump apparatus  112  and/or pump chamber  112 C of the cartridge  100  together form a pump, in particular a hose pump or peristaltic pump, it preferably being possible for the sample P, the reagent F and/or another fluid to be conveyed, pumped and/or pressurized within the pump apparatus  112  and/or pump chamber  112 C by externally mechanically deforming the pump chamber  112 C and/or the wall  112 D. 
     For example, the pump may be constructed as described in German Patent No. DE102011015184 B4, and corresponding US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0087226 A1. However, other structural solutions are also possible. 
     The pump drive  202  preferably comprises an electrical drive and/or motor  202 A and a pump head  202 B, it preferably being possible for the pump head  202 B to be driven by means of the motor  202 A, preferably in a rotary or linear manner. 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  can be moved, displaced or pressed, relative to the pump drive  202 , in particular the pump head  202 B, and/or towards the pump drive  202 , in particular the pump head  202 B, or vice versa, in particular in order to drive and/or actuate the pump apparatus  112 . 
     The pump drive  202  and the pump apparatus  112  can be interconnected and disconnected from one another as desired, preferably by displacing or moving the cartridge  100  relative to the pump drive  202  and/or pump head  202 B, or vice versa. 
     The cartridge  100  preferably comprises a plurality of valves  115 , as shown in  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 3 . Preferably, the cartridge  100  comprises more than two or ten, particularly more than 15 or 20, in particular, more than 30 or 40, and/or fewer than 100 or 90, particularly preferably fewer than 80 or 70, in particular fewer than 60, valves  115 . 
     According to the invention, the valves  115  of the cartridge  100  can be actuated, in particular, opened and/or closed, from different sides and/or flat sides  100 A,  100 B of the cartridge  100 , as shown in particular in  FIG. 3 . 
     Preferably, at least one valve  115  of the valves  115  can be actuated, in particular opened and/or closed, from the front  100 A of the cartridge  100  and at least one other valve  115  of the valves  115  can be actuated, in particular opened and/or closed, from the back  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     The front  100 A and the back  100 B of the cartridge  100  are preferably each a flat side of the in particular, planar and/or card-like cartridge  100 . 
     Preferably, the front  100 A of the cartridge  100  is at least substantially flat or planar and/or is an at least substantially flat or planar side of the cartridge  100 . In particular, the front  100 A comprises the film or cover  102  or is formed thereby. 
     Preferably, the back  100 B of the cartridge  100  is opposite the front  100 A. 
     The back  100 B of the cartridge  100  is preferably uneven and/or is an uneven side of the cartridge  100 . In particular, the back  100 B is formed by the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , the pump and/or pump chamber  112 C and/or cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  and/or the walls thereof. However, other solutions are also possible in which the back  100 B is flat or planar. 
     Preferably, the valves  115  are or can be divided into two groups. In particular, the valves  115  can be assigned to two different groups of valves  115 . 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  comprises a first group  153  having one or more valves  115  and a second group  154  having one or more valves  115 . 
     Preferably, the first group  153  and the second group  154  can be actuated from the different sides  100 A,  100 B of the cartridge  100 , as shown in particular in  FIG. 3 . 
     Particularly preferably, the first group  153  can be actuated from the front  100 A of the cartridge  100  and the second group  154  can be actuated from the back  100 B, or vice versa. 
     Preferably, at least one valve  115  of the valves  115  or the first group  153  can be actuated in a first actuation direction B 2  and at least one other valve  115  of the valves  115  or the second group  154  can be actuated in a second actuation direction B 5 , the first actuation direction B 2  preferably being at least substantially opposite the second actuation direction B 5 . 
     Preferably, the first actuation direction B 2  and/or the second actuation direction B 5  is/are at least substantially orthogonal to the front  100 A, the back  100 B and/or a main plane of extension of the cartridge  100 . However, other solutions are also possible here. 
     Preferably, the valves  115  can be opened by actuation in the first actuation direction B 2  and/or can be closed by actuation in the second actuation direction B 5 , or vice versa. 
     Preferably, more than two, particularly preferably more than five or ten, valves  115  are or can be assigned to the first group  153  and/or more than two or ten, particularly preferably more than 15 or 20, in particular, more than 25 or 30, valves  115  are or can be assigned to the second group  154 . 
     Preferably, a plurality or all of the valves  115  in the first group  153  and/or in the second group  154  are arranged (immediately) next to one another and/or in series and/or can be actuated simultaneously, as explained in greater detail in the following. 
     In particular, the second group  154  comprises more valves  115  than the first group  153 . However, other solutions are also possible here, in particular those in which the groups  153 ,  154  each comprise the same quantity of valves  115  or the first group  153  comprises more valves  115  than the second group  154 . 
     In the embodiment shown, the first group  153  and the second group  154  and/or all the valves  115  are arranged on the same side, in particular on the front  100 A or the back  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     Optionally, irrespective of the side  100 A,  100 B on which they are arranged, at least one valve  115  or the first group  153  and/or second group  154  can be actuated from different sides  100 A,  100 B, in particular, can be opened from one of the sides  100 A,  100 B and closed from the other of the sides  100 A,  100 B. This is made possible in particular by the construction of the valves  115 , as explained in greater detail in the following. 
     Preferably, some or all of the valves  115  and/or an actuatable film or wall  115 D thereof is/are arranged on the back  100 B, and/or the film and/or cover  102  is/are arranged on the front  100 A of the cartridge  100 . In particular, the valves  115  and/or the walls  115 D thereof on the one hand and the film and/or cover  102  on the other hand are arranged on different sides  100 A,  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     In an alternative embodiment (not shown), at least one valve  115  of the valves  115  and/or the wall  115 D thereof and/or the first group  153  is arranged on the front  100 A of the cartridge  100  and at least one other valve  115  and/or the wall  115 D thereof and/or the second group  154  is arranged on the back  100 B. 
     The valves  115  are preferably each designed as a raised portion and/or depression on or in the cartridge  100 , in particular, the support or main body  101 . 
     Preferably, the valves  115  are elastically deformable, in particular compressible and/or expandable, at least in part and/or on one side, preferably in order to actuate said valves  115 . 
     Preferably, the valves  115  each comprise a wall  115 D that is flexible and/or elastically deformable at least in part, the wall  115 D in particular being formed by a film, as shown in  FIG. 3  to  FIG. 9 . 
     Preferably, the wall  115 D is arranged on the outside and/or is designed as an in particular continuous layer or film, in particular for some or all of the valves  115 , and/or is bonded to the support or main body  101 . In particular, the wall  115 D is connected, in particular, adhered or welded, to the support or main body  101  in a region around the valve  115 . 
     Preferably, the valves  115  can be actuated, in particular opened and/or closed, by elastically deforming the respective walls  115 D. 
     In particular, the wall  115 D can be pressed onto or against the support or main body  101  or the surface thereof, or can be pressed into the support or main body  101 , preferably in order to close the associated valve  115 . This applies to some or all of the valves  115  in the second group  154  and/or the second valve type  152 . 
     Additionally. or alternatively, the wall  115 D can be pushed away and/or lifted from the support or main body  101  or the surface thereof, in particular in order to open the valve  115 . This applies to some or all of the valves in the first group  153  and/or the first valve type  151 . 
     Preferably, the wall  115 D is elastic, resilient and/or flexible such that, once deflected from the unactuated position, and/or once the valve  115  has been actuated and/or once the wall  115 D has been deformed, said wall  115 D is automatically reset and/or returns to its unactuated position again. 
     Preferably, the valves  115  each comprise a valve chamber  115 C or form such a chamber, the valve chamber  115 C preferably being arranged or formed in and/or on the cartridge  100 , in particular, the support or main body  101 . 
     Preferably, the valve chamber  115 C is formed or delimited by the support or main body  101  and the wall  115 D. 
     In particular, the wall  115 D covers the valve chamber  115 C and/or the wall  115 D closes the valve chamber  115 C to the outside. This applies in particular to some or all of the valves  115  in the second group  154  and/or the second valve type  152 . 
     Preferably, the wall  115 D is connected, preferably bonded, to the support or main body  101 , in particular. in a non-detachable and/or sealed manner, around the valve chamber  115 C. 
     Preferably, the valve chamber  115 C is designed as a raised portion and/or depression on or in the cartridge  100 , in particular the support or main body  101 , and/or is raised relative to the support or main body  101  or the surface thereof and/or is integrated in said support or main body  101  or surface. 
     Preferably, when in the operating position, a plurality or all of the valves  115  and/or the valve chambers  115 C thereof, in particular in the first group  153 , are oriented, and/or fluid can flow therethrough, vertically and/or from top to bottom, or vice versa. 
     Preferably, some or all of the valves  115  can be mechanically actuated, in particular opened and/or closed. 
     Within the meaning of the present invention, the term “actuate” is preferably understood to mean opening and/or closing the valves  115 , in particular actively and/or in a controlled or regulated manner, by mechanical action, in particular from the outside and/or by means of (external) actuators and/or actuating apparatuses. 
     Preferably, an actuated and/or opened valve  115 , in particular from the first group  153 , allows fluid to flow through the valve  115 , an assigned channel  114  and/or an assigned cavity  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 . 
     Preferably, an actuated and/or closed valve  115 , in particular from the second group  154 , prevents fluid from flowing through the valve  115 , an assigned channel  114  and/or an assigned cavity  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 . 
     Preferably, the first group  153  and/or the valves  115  in the first group  153  is/are preferably tightly or sealingly closed initially or in the storage state and/or can be opened by preferably mechanical actuation. 
     Preferably, the second group  154  and/or the valves  115  in the second group  154  is/are preferably opened initially or in the storage state and/or can be closed by preferably mechanical actuation. 
     Preferably, at least one valve  115  of the valves  115  or the first and/or second group  153 ,  154  is/are designed to close self-actingly or automatically and/or open self-actingly or automatically, for example when a specified pressure is reached or exceeded and/or following mechanical actuation. 
     Particularly preferably, some or all of the valves  115  in the first group  153  and/or the second group  154  is/are designed to self-actingly or automatically close again after mechanical actuation and/or opening. 
     Preferably, some or all of the valves  115  in the first group  153  and/or the second group  154  is/are designed to self-actingly or automatically open again after mechanical actuation or closing. 
     Particularly preferably, some, a plurality or all of the valves  115  or the group  153  and/or  154  is/are designed to open and/or close (exclusively) upon or by means of mechanical actuation. 
     Preferably, at least one valve  115  is assigned to the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C, the storage cavity  108 , the measuring or metering cavity  105 , the mixing cavity  107 , the treatment or reaction cavity  109 , the collection cavity  111  and/or the sensor apparatus  113  (respectively), and/or is arranged upstream of, downstream of and/or in the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C, storage cavity  108 , measuring or metering cavity  105 , mixing cavity  107 , treatment or reaction cavity  109 , collection cavity  111  and/or sensor apparatus  113  (respectively), as shown in particular in  FIG. 1 . 
     Preferably, a valve  115  is provided at the inlet and/or outlet of the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C, the storage cavity  108 , the measuring or metering cavity  105 , the mixing cavity  107 , the treatment or reaction cavity  109 , the collection cavity  111  and/or sensor apparatus  113 , respectively, in particular in order to control, in particular to allow, to prevent, to reduce and/or to increase, the flow of fluid therethrough, permanently or temporarily as desired. 
     Preferably, a valve  115  of the first group  153  is arranged before or upstream of one of the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  (respectively), in particular the storage cavity/cavities  108 , and a one valve  115  of the first group  153  is arranged after or downstream of said (respective) cavities, it being possible in particular for the cavity/cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  to be released and/or for fluid to flow therethrough for the first time by actuating the valves  115  and/or the first group  153 , preferably in order to release the reagent or reagents, in particular liquid reagent(s) F, as explained in greater detail in the following. 
     Preferably, the cavity/cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 , in particular the storage cavity/cavities  108 , is/are (respectively) arranged between two valves  115  of the first group  153  and/or is/are fluidically isolated, in particular closed in a gas-tight and/or storage-stable manner, by two valves  115  of the first group  153 , at least when the valves  115  and/or the first group  153  is/are unactuated. 
     Preferably, in each case a valve  115  of the second group  154  is arranged, in particular immediately or directly, in front of or behind the valves  115  of the first group  153  in the flow direction. 
     In particular, at least one valve  115  of the first group  153  and at least one valve  115  of the second group  154  are connected in series and/or are arranged in succession in the flow direction. 
     Particularly preferably, the flow can be controlled by means of the second group  154  after and/or despite the first group  153  having been opened, preferably irreversibly. In particular, the cavity/cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  can be fluidically isolated (again) by closing the second group  154  after and/or despite the first group  153  having been opened. 
     Preferably, one or more valves  115  of the first group  153  and the second group  154  are actuated simultaneously, in particular such that the reagents, in particular liquid reagents F, in the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  assigned to the actuated valves  115  can only be released once the valves  115  of the second group  154  have been opened (again). 
     In particular, the valves  115  of the first group  153  that are arranged immediately or directly upstream and downstream of one of the cavities  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111  are actuated simultaneously and/or together with those valves  115  of the second group  154  that are arranged immediately upstream and downstream of the same cavity  105 ,  107  to  109 ,  111 . 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises at least one actuator or actuation apparatus  205 , in particular, a plurality of actuators or actuation apparatuses  205 , and/or at least one actuation element  205 D, in particular, a plurality of actuation elements  205 D, as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     Preferably, the actuators, actuation apparatuses  205  and/or actuation elements  205 D are designed to actuate the valves  115  or the first group  153  and/or second group  154 . 
     Preferably, one actuator  205  and/or actuation element  205 D is or can be assigned to each valve  115 , respectively. In particular, an actuator  205  and/or actuation element  205 D is designed to actuate, in particular to open and/or close, at least one assigned valve  115 , respectively. 
     Alternatively, or additionally, an actuator  205  or an actuation apparatus comprising a plurality of actuation elements  205 D can be assigned to a plurality of valves  115  and/or can be designed to (simultaneously) actuate, in particular open and/or close, a plurality of valves  115 . 
     Particularly preferably, a plurality of valves  115 , in particular from the first group  153 , can be actuated, in particular opened and/or closed, preferably simultaneously, by actuation by means of one assigned actuator  205 . 
     The actuators or actuation apparatuses  205  each comprise an optional drive  205 C and/or at least one actuation element  205 D. 
     Preferably, the actuators or actuation apparatuses  205  assigned to the first group  153  and/or to the valves  115  of the first group  153  each comprise a plurality of, preferably two, actuation elements  205 D. In particular, the valves  115  of the first group  153  can each be actuated, in particular opened, by means of two actuation elements  205 D of an assigned actuator  205 , as explained in greater detail in the following. 
     Preferably, the actuators  205  assigned to the second group  154  and/or to the valves  115  of the second group  154  each comprise one actuation element  205 D. In particular, the valves  115  of the second group  154  can each be actuated, in particular closed, by means of one actuation element  205 D of an assigned actuator  205 . 
     The actuators  205  and/or drives  205 C are preferably designed as pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical actuators  205  and/or drives  205 C. 
     Preferably, the assigned valves  115  can be actuated by means of the actuation elements  205 D. 
     Preferably, some or all of the actuation elements  205 D can be driven or moved by means of the assigned drives  205 C, preferably in the first actuation direction B 2  and/or the second actuation direction B 5 . 
     Particularly preferably, the actuation elements  205 D can be moved, in particular, displaced, at least substantially orthogonally to the front  100 A, back  100 B and/or main plane of extension of the cartridge  100 . 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the cartridge  100  can be moved towards one or more actuation elements  205 D, preferably in order to actuate one or more valves  115  or some or all of the valves  115  in the first group  153  and/or the second group  154 . 
     As already explained, other structural solutions are in particular also possible in which a plurality of valves  115  can be actuated by means of one actuator  205 . Preferably, an actuator  205  of this type comprises a plurality of actuation elements  205 D, which are in particular arranged next to one another or in series, one actuation element  205 D of the actuator  205  preferably being assigned to one valve  115 , respectively. 
     Preferably, at least one actuator  205  comprises a connection element  205 E, such as a rail or the like, the connection element  205 E preferably connecting a plurality of actuation elements  205 D to the drive  205 C and/or the connection element  205 E supporting or mounting a plurality of actuation elements  205 D, preferably in the manner of a comb. 
     In particular, a plurality of actuation elements  205 D are arranged on or at the connection element  205 E, as shown in particular in  FIG. 3 . 
     In the embodiment shown, one actuator  205 , in the example shown the right-hand actuator  205 , comprises a plurality of, in this case three, actuation elements  205 D, preferably such that a plurality of, in this case three, valves  115  can be simultaneously actuated, in this case preferably opened, by means of the actuator  205 . However, other structural solutions are also possible in which more than three, preferably more than five or ten, valves  115  can be (simultaneously) actuated by means of one actuator  205 . 
     According to the invention, the actuators  205  and/or actuation elements  205 D are arranged or distributed on different sides  100 A,  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     In particular, at least one actuator  205  of the actuators  205 , or a first actuator  205 , and/or at least one actuation element  205 D is arranged on or faces the front  100 A and at least one other actuator  205  of the actuators  205 , or a second actuator  205 , and/or at least one actuation element  205 D is arranged on or faces the back  100 B. 
     Preferably, the first actuator  205  points to or in the direction of the front  100 A and the second actuator  205  points to or in the direction of the back  100 B. 
     In particular, at least in the operating state, the cartridge  100  is arranged between at least two of the actuators  205 , in particular, between the first actuator  205  and the second actuator  205 , and/or between at least two actuation elements  205 D, preferably in order to actuate the valves  115  from different sides of the cartridge  100 . 
     Preferably, at least one actuator  205  of the actuators  205  or the first actuator  205  is designed to actuate at least one valve  115 , the first group  153  and/or one or more valves  115  thereof from a first side and/or from the front  100 A of the cartridge  100  and/or in the first actuation direction B 2 , and at least one other actuator  205  of the actuators  205  or the second actuator  205  is designed to actuate at least one other valve  115 , the second group  154  and/or one or more valves  115  thereof from a second side and/or from the back  100 B of the cartridge  100  and/or in the second actuation direction B 5 . 
     Preferably, some or all of the actuators  205  and/or the actuation elements  205 D thereof are moved away from the cartridge  100  in a first position and are pressed onto or against the cartridge  100  or the respective or assigned valves  115  at least in part in a second position. 
     In particular, the actuators  205  and/or the drives  205 C are designed to move the actuation elements  205 D and/or the cartridge  100 , for example once the cartridge  100  has been received by the analysis device  200 , from the first position into the second position, and/or, for example once the test on the sample P is finished or complete, from the second position into the first position. 
     In particular, at least in the second position, the actuation elements  205 D are operatively connected to the assigned valves  115  on an end face and/or on a side remote from the drive  205 C, preferably such that said valves  115  are or remain opened and/or closed. 
     The analysis device  200  is preferably designed to have a mechanical effect on the cartridge  100  by means of the actuators  205  once the cartridge  100  has been received. 
     In particular, the analysis device  200  is designed to open the cavity/cavities  108 ,  105  to  111 , in particular, the storage cavity/cavities  108 , and/or to fluidically connect said cavity/cavities to adjacent channels  114  once the cartridge  100  has been received, preferably by actuating or opening the first group  153  and/or one or more valves  115  thereof. 
     As already explained previously, some or all of the valves  115  or the first group  153  and second group  154  are preferably arranged on the same side of the cartridge  100 , in particular either on the front  100 A or the back  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     The valves  115  are preferably arranged on the side  100 A,  100 B of the cartridge  100  on which the walls  115 D of the valves  115  are also arranged. In particular, the walls  115 D of the valves  115  or of the first group  153  and second group  154  are arranged on the same side  100 A,  100 B, preferably on the back  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     In the following, two preferably different valve types  151 ,  152  of the valves  115  will be explained in greater detail with reference to  FIG. 4  to  FIG. 9 . 
     The following aspects and/or those explained in conjunction with  FIG. 4  to  FIG. 9  may be implemented independently from the preceding aspects and/or those explained in conjunction with  FIG. 1  to  FIG. 3 . In particular, the preceding aspects and/or those explained in conjunction with  FIG. 1  to  FIG. 3  are not required for implementing the following aspects and/or those explained in conjunction with  FIG. 4  to  FIG. 9 , or vice versa. The aspects relating to the valve types  151 ,  152  should therefore be considered to be structurally and functionally independent aspects which can be implemented in different, in particular microfluidic, instruments. 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic view of the back  100 B of the cartridge  100 . 
     The cartridge  100  preferably comprises at least two valve types, in particular, a first valve type  151  and a second valve type  152 . 
     In particular, at least one valve  115  or a plurality or all of the valves  115  is/are either designed as a first valve type  151  or as a second valve type  152 . However, it is also possible for other valve types to be provided. 
     Preferably, the valve types  151 ,  152  have different constructions. However, it is also possible for the valve types  151 ,  152  to be equivalent or structurally identical. 
     Preferably, the first valve type  151  and/or the second valve type  152  is/are designed as a membrane valve. 
     Preferably, some or all of the valves  115  in the first group  153  are designed as the first valve type  151  and/or some or all of the valves  115  in the second group  154  are designed as the second valve type  152 , or vice versa. However, it is also possible for the first group  153  to (also) comprise at least one or more valves  115  of the second valve type  152  and/or for the second group  154  to comprise at least one or more valves  115  of the first valve type  151 . 
     The first valve type  151  preferably comprises a wall  151 D that is flexible and/or elastically deformable at least in part, the wall  151 D in particular being formed by an in particular additional or outer, preferably flexible, resilient or elastic layer or film. 
     Preferably, the wall  151 D is made of and/or injection-molded from plastics material, in particular polypropylene. 
     The first valve type  151  can preferably be actuated, in particular opened and/or closed, by elastically deforming the wall  151 D. 
     The wall  151 D is preferably arranged on the back  100 B of the cartridge  100  or wall  115 D, particularly preferably is rigidly and/or tightly and/or sealingly connected thereto, for example welded or adhered. 
     In the embodiment shown, the first valve type  151  is preferably designed as a raised portion on the cartridge  100 , in particular, the support or main body  101 . However, other solutions are also possible here, in particular, those in which the first valve type  151  is designed as a depression in the cartridge  100 , in particular the support or main body  101 . In particular, structural solutions are possible in which the first valve type  151  is integrated in the surface and/or the support or main body  101  of the cartridge  100  such that the first valve type  151 , in particular the surface or wall  151 D thereof, at least when it is unactuated, and together with the region of the cartridge  100  and/or support or main body  101  directly adjacent to the first valve type  151 , is at least substantially flat or planar or is in the same plane. 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic section through the detail of the cartridge  100  along the sectional line V-V (cf.  FIG. 4 ) when unactuated, and  FIG. 6  shows said cartridge  100  when actuated. 
       FIG. 7  is a schematic section through the detail of the cartridge  100  along the sectional line VII-VII (cf.  FIG. 4 ) when unactuated, and  FIG. 8  shows said cartridge  100  when actuated. 
     The first valve type  151  preferably comprises a valve chamber  151 C, an inlet opening  151 A and/or an outlet opening  151 B, the inlet opening  151 A preferably being fluidically connected to the outlet opening  151 B via the valve chamber  151 C and/or both the inlet opening  151 A and the outlet opening  151 B being arranged within the valve chamber  151 C and/or both the inlet channel  114 B and the outlet channel  114 C discharging into the valve chamber  151 C. 
     Preferably, the first valve type  151  comprises at least one through hole  151 E and/or a deflection element  151 F, the deflection element  151 F preferably being arranged below the wall  151 D and/or between the support or main body  101  and the wall  151 D. 
     The deflection element  151 F is preferably formed by a flexible or raisable portion in particular of the film and/or wall  115 D and/or is designed to deflect and/or elastically deform, in particular expand, the wall  151 D by or upon actuation of the first valve type  151 . 
     Particularly preferably, the valve chamber  151 C can be opened or enlarged between the walls  115 D and  151 D by means of the deflection element  151 F and/or the inlet opening  151 A or inlet channel  114 B on the one hand, and the outlet opening  151 B or outlet channel  114 C on the other hand can be fluidically interconnected, in particular by means of the valve chamber  151 C. 
     The deflection element  151 F is preferably formed by the, in particular, inner, layer, film or wall  115 D and/or is connected to the support or main body  101  and/or the wall  151 D, preferably in a bonded manner, particularly preferably by welding, in particular laser welding. 
     Particularly preferably, the deflection element  151 F and/or the wall  115 D is connected or welded to the support or main body  101  by means of a weld seam, which preferably extends around the through hole(s)  151 E, surrounds or encloses the through hole(s)  151 E and/or is an inner weld seam, in particular, is connected or welded such that fluid cannot flow out of the valve chamber  151 C into the through hole  151 E. 
     Preferably, the wall  151 D is connected or welded to the support or main body  101  and/or to the deflection element  151 F or the wall  115 D by means of a weld seam, which preferably extends around the inlet opening  151 A and the outlet opening  151 B, surrounds or encloses the inlet opening  151 A and the outlet opening  151 B and/or is an outer weld seam, in particular is connected or welded such that the valve chamber  151 C is sealed to the outside and/or such that a fluid can only flow from the inlet opening  151 A to the outlet opening  151 B, or vice versa. 
     More particularly preferably, the deflection element  151 F and/or the wall  115 D is connected to both the wall  151 D and the support or main body  101  by means of the (outer) weld seam, and/or the outer weld seam surrounds or encloses the inner weld seam, as shown in particular in  FIG. 4 . 
     Preferably, the deflection element  151 F covers the through hole  151 E, in particular such that the through hole  151 E is fluidically separated from the valve chamber  151 C, the inlet opening  151 A and/or the outlet opening  151 B. 
     Preferably, an actuation element  205 D of an (assigned) actuator  205  can be inserted into the through hole  151 E or can be guided through the through hole  151 E, preferably from the front  100 A to the back  100 B of the cartridge  100 , or vice versa. 
     In particular, the deflection element  151 F can be raised and/or expanded by inserting an actuation element  205 D, preferably such that the first valve type  151  is actuated, in particular opened. 
     Preferably, the first valve type  151  can be actuated from the front  100 A or back  100 B as desired. 
     In particular, the first valve type  151  can be opened from the front  100 A, in particular by deflecting and/or raising the deflection element  151 F, and/or can be closed from the back  100 B, in particular by compressing the wall  151 D or by pressing said wall  151 D onto or against the deflection element  151 F and/or the support or main body  101 . 
     Optionally, the first valve type  151  is designed to be self-closing. Therefore, the first valve type  151  can for example be designed to automatically close again following mechanical actuation, after opening and/or after deflection of the wall  151 D, preferably such that the inlet opening  151 A is fluidically separated from the outlet opening  151 B. 
     Particularly preferably, when unactuated, as shown in  FIG. 5  and  FIG. 7 , the wall  151 D rests on the deflection element  151 F and/or the support or main body  101  such that the first valve type  151  is closed. 
     Preferably, the valve chamber  151 C is closed, and/or fluid cannot flow therethrough, when the first valve type  151  is unactuated. Particularly preferably, a fluidic connection between the inlet opening  151 A and the outlet opening  151 B can (only) be produced by actuating the first valve type  151 . 
     In the embodiment shown, the first valve type  151  is preferably designed as a single-use valve or sealing valve. 
     In particular, the first valve type  151  is closed before being actuated for the first time, and/or can be irreversibly opened by being actuated for the first time, and/or is irreversibly opened or can no longer be closed after being actuated for the first time. However, other structural solutions are also possible in which the first valve type  151  can be actuated, in particular closed and/or opened, multiple times and/or is designed as a multiple-use valve. 
     Preferably, the first valve type  151  comprises a seal or separation element  151 G, the seal or separation element  151 G preferably fluidically separating the inlet opening  151 A from the outlet opening  151 B and/or dividing the valve chamber  151 C into two fluidically separated regions, in particular, a first region comprising the inlet opening  151 A and a second region comprising the outlet opening  151 B. 
     Particularly preferably, the seal or separation element  151 G is designed as an in particular bonded connection and/or weld seam between the wall  151 D on the one hand and the support or main body  101  and/or the deflection element  151 F on the other hand, and/or is formed by (local) welding/adhesion of the wall  151 D to the support or main body  101  and/or the deflection element  151 F or wall  115 D, the separation element  151 G or weld seam preferably extending over the entire width of the first valve type  151  and/or the valve chamber  151 C, and/or preferably transversely between the inlet  151 A and outlet  151 B, as shown in particular in  FIG. 4 . 
     In particular, the wall  151 D is welded to the support or main body  101  and/or the deflection element  151 F between the inlet opening  151 A and the outlet opening  151 B, in particular such that fluid cannot flow from the inlet opening  151 A to the outlet opening  151 B, or vice versa, at least when the valve type  151  is unactuated and/or before said valve type  151  is actuated or opened for the first time. 
     Preferably, the separation element  151 G can be (irreversibly) destroyed at least in part by the valve type  151  being actuated (for the first time), and/or the wall  151 D on the one hand and the support or main body  101  and/or deflection element  151 F on the other hand can be separated from one another at least within the valve chamber  151 C by the first valve type  151  being actuated for the first time. 
     In particular, an uninterrupted fluidic connection and/or valve chamber  151 C between the inlet opening  151 A and the outlet opening  151 B can be produced by actuating the first valve type  151  (for the first time). 
     Preferably, the first valve type  151  comprises a plurality of, in this case two, through holes  151 E, the separation element  151 G preferably being arranged between the through holes  151 E in a plan view of the valve type  151  (as shown in  FIG. 4 ) or forming a line of symmetry of the first valve type  151 . This ensures that the seal or separation element  151 G is reliably actuated, opened and/or destroyed and/or that the deflection element  151 F is evenly and/or symmetrically raised. 
     Preferably, two actuation elements  205 D of an actuator  205  assigned to the first valve type  151  or to a valve  115  in the first group  153  can be inserted through two corresponding through holes  151 E. 
     As can be seen in particular in  FIG. 5  to  FIG. 8 , the film or cover  102  comprises at least one gap  102 B in the region of the first valve type  151  and/or the through hole  151 E. 
     Alternatively, the film or cover  102  is continuous, in particular, in the region of the first valve type  151 , it preferably being possible to break through or pierce the film or cover  102  by means of the actuation elements  205 D, at least in the region of the first valve type  151  and/or the through holes  151 E. 
     Preferably, at least one valve  115  of the first valve type  151  and/or one valve  115  of the second valve type  152  is assigned to the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C, the storage cavity  108 , the measuring or metering cavity  105 , the mixing cavity  107 , the treatment or reaction cavity  109 , the collection cavity  111  and/or the sensor apparatus  113  (respectively), and/or is arranged upstream of, downstream of and/or in the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C, storage cavity  108 , measuring or metering cavity  105 , mixing cavity  107 , treatment or reaction cavity  109 , collection cavity  111  and/or sensor apparatus  113  (respectively). 
     Preferably, one valve  115  of the first valve type  151  and/or one valve  115  of the second valve type  152  is provided at the inlet and/or outlet of the pump apparatus  112  or pump chamber  112 C, the storage cavity  108 , the measuring or metering cavity  105 , the mixing cavity  107 , the treatment or reaction cavity  109 , the collection cavity  111  and/or the sensor apparatus  113 , respectively, in particular in order to control, in particular to allow, to prevent, to reduce and/or to increase, the flow of fluid therethrough, permanently or temporarily as desired. 
     More particularly preferably, a valve  115  of the first valve type  151  is arranged at the inlet and/or at the outlet of the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or storage cavities  108 , respectively, in particular to release and/or fluidically connect said receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or storage cavities  108  after said valves  115  have been actuated for the first time. Advantageously, fluids, in particular reagents F, can thus be released immediately before or for testing of the sample P. 
     The second valve type  152  preferably comprises one, a plurality of or all of the features of the first valve type  151 , which have only been described in conjunction with the first valve type  151  for the sake of simplicity. In particular, the second valve type  152  is basically constructed in the same way as the first valve type  151 . 
     The second valve type  152  preferably comprises a wall  152 D, a valve chamber  152 C, a first opening  152 A and/or a second opening  152 B. 
     The first opening  152 A, referred to in the following as the inlet opening  152 A, is preferably designed as an inlet of the valve chamber  152 C. 
     The second opening  152 B, referred to in the following as the outlet opening  152 B, is preferably designed as an outlet of the valve chamber  152 C. 
     Preferably, fluid can flow through the valve chamber  152 C by means of the inlet opening  152 A and the outlet opening  152 B, preferably at least substantially vertically. In particular, a fluid can flow into the valve chamber  152 C via the inlet opening  152 A and can flow out of the valve chamber  152 C via the outlet opening  152 B. 
     However, other solutions are also possible here. In particular, the first opening or inlet opening  152 A can, at least temporarily, be the outlet, and the second opening or outlet opening  152 B can, at least temporarily, be the inlet. 
     Particularly preferably, the flow direction can be reversed, in particular by means of the pump apparatus  112  such that the first opening or inlet opening  152 A and the second opening or outlet opening  152 B can be used as the inlet or as the outlet of the valve chamber  152 C as desired. 
     Particularly preferably, the inlet opening  152 A can be closed, in particular such that no pressure is applied to the valve chamber  152 C when the second valve type  152  is closed. This provides for reliable sealing by means of the second valve type  152 . However, other solutions are also possible in which, additionally or alternatively, the outlet opening  152 B can be closed. 
     Preferably, some or all of the valves  115  of the second valve type  152  are arranged or oriented in the fluid system  103  such that the inlet opening  152 A is arranged upstream of the outlet opening  152 A. 
     Particularly preferably, the valves  115  of the second valve type  152  assigned to the mixing cavity  107  and/or treatment or reaction cavity  109  are each oriented with the inlet opening  152 A towards the mixing cavity  107  or treatment or reaction cavity  109  and/or are oriented such that the respective inlet openings  152 A are arranged between the mixing cavity  107  or treatment or reaction cavity  109  and the respective outlet openings  152 A, in particular in order to reliably seal the mixing cavity  107  or treatment or reaction cavity  109  during the reaction or treatment and/or to prevent pressure from being applied to the valve chamber  152 C. 
     Preferably, the second valve type  152  and/or the valve chamber  152 C is designed as an oval depression in the cartridge  100  and/or the support or main body  101 , the inlet opening  152 A preferably being arranged centrally and the outlet opening  152 B preferably being arranged so as to be off-centre and/or in an edge region of the valve chamber  152 C, as explained in greater detail in the following. 
     The valve chamber  152 C preferably has, in particular when the second valve type  152  is unactuated and/or is open, a volume of greater than 0.1 μl or 0.2 μl, particularly preferably greater than 0.5 μl or 1 μl, in particular greater than 2 μl, and/or less than 10 μl or 8 μl, particularly preferably less than 6 μl or 3 μl. 
     Particularly preferably, the second valve type  152  or the wall  152 D thereof is planar or flat, at least when unactuated. 
     In particular, the second valve type  152  or the wall thereof  152 D is integrated in the surface and/or the support or main body  101  of the cartridge  100  such that the second valve type  152 , in particular the surface or wall  152 D thereof, at least when it is unactuated, and together with the region of the cartridge  100  and/or support or main body  101  directly adjacent to the second valve type  152 , is at least substantially flat or planar or is in the same plane. 
     Preferably, the wall  152 D is formed by a film. In particular, the wall  152 D of the second valve type  152  is formed by the layer, film or wall that preferably also forms the deflection element  151 F or alternatively the wall  151 D of the first valve type  151 . 
     Particularly preferably, the wall  152 D is made of and/or injection-molded from plastics material, in particular polypropylene. 
     The thickness of the wall  152 D is preferably less than 0.1 mm, in particular less than 0.05 mm, particularly preferably less than 0.01 mm. 
     Preferably, the second valve type  152  can be actuated and/or closed and/or the volume of the valve chamber  152 C can be reduced by actuation by means of an (assigned) actuator  205  and/or actuation element  205 D. 
     Preferably, the second valve type  152  or the wall  152 D thereof can be pressed into the support or main body  101  for actuation. 
     Particularly preferably, the wall  152 D can be pressed into the valve chamber  152 C by actuating the second valve type  152 , preferably such that the wall  152 D closes the inlet opening  152 A and/or the outlet opening  152 B. 
     Preferably, the second valve type  152  is designed as a normally open valve and/or the second valve type  152  is open when unactuated, as shown in  FIG. 5 ,  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 9 , preferably such that the sample P, the reagent F and/or another fluid can flow through the second valve type  152 . 
     Preferably, either the inlet opening  152 A or the outlet opening  152 B is arranged at least substantially centrally in the valve chamber  152 C. In particular, either the inlet channel  114 B or the outlet channel  114 C of the second valve type  152  discharges centrally into the valve chamber  152 C. 
     In the embodiment shown, the inlet channel  114 B and/or the inlet opening  152 A is preferably arranged centrally and the outlet channel  114 C and/or the outlet opening  152 B is preferably arranged so as to be off-centre and/or in an edge region of the valve chamber  152 C. However, other solutions or arrangements are also possible here. 
     The second valve type  152  preferably comprises a valve seat  152 E, the valve seat  152 E preferably being designed as an in particular cylindrical raised portion and/or as an in particular cylindrical projection, as shown in  FIGS. 5 to 9 . 
     The valve seat  152 E is preferably formed in one piece with the support or main body  101  and/or is integrally formed on the support or main body  101 . 
     Preferably, the valve seat  152 E projects into the valve chamber  152 C, in particular centrally and/or from a side opposite the wall  152 D. 
     In particular, the valve seat  152 E is arranged centrally and/or in a freestanding manner in the valve chamber  152 C and/or fluid can flaw around said valve seat  152 E. However, other solutions are also possible here, in particular those in which the valve seat  152 E is designed as a separation element or separation wall between the inlet opening  152 A and the outlet opening  152 B and/or divides the valve chamber  152 C. 
     Preferably, the valve seat  152 E comprises or forms the inlet channel  114 B and/or inlet opening  152 A or the outlet channel  114 C and/or outlet opening  152 B, in particular on an end face and/or on a side of the valve seat  152  that faces the wall  152 D. 
     The inlet opening  152 A and/or the inlet channel  114 B preferably point in the direction of the wall  152 D or/and open preferably towards the wall  152 D. In particular, the inner channel  114 B runs at least in part and/or at least essentially transversely, in particular, perpendicularly, to the wall  152 D and/or its main plane of extension. 
     In particular, the inlet channel  114 B discharges into the valve chamber  152 C via the inlet opening  152 A on the valve seat  152 E, preferably on a side and/or end face of the valve seat  152 E that faces the wall  152 D, in particular, such that a fluid flowing into the valve chamber  152 C flows against the wall  152 D and/or is deflected thereby. 
     Preferably, when the second valve type  152  is unactuated, the valve seat  152 E and/or the inlet opening  152 A is spaced apart from the wall  152 D, preferably by more than 1 μm or 5 μm, in particular, more than 10 μm or 20 μm, and/or by less than 1 mm or 0.5 mm, in particular less than 100 μm or 80 μm. 
     Preferably, in particular, by mechanically actuating the second valve type  152  and/or the wall  152 D, the wall  152 D can be pressed towards or against the valve seat  152 E and/or the inlet opening  152 A, in particular such that the second valve type  152 , in particular the inlet opening  152 A, is closed and/or a fluidic connection between the inlet opening  152 A or inlet channel  114 B and the outlet opening  152 B or outlet channel  114 C is interrupted. 
     Preferably, the distance between the wall  152 D and the valve seat  152 E or inlet opening  152 A is less than the distance between the wall  152 D and the outlet opening  152 B, at least when the second valve type  152  is unactuated. Advantageously, the distance required for closing or opening the second valve type  152  is thus reduced. 
     As shown, in particular, in  FIG. 9 , the valve seat  152 E is preferably step-like or beveled, in particular on an end face and/or on a side facing the wall  152 D, and/or the valve seat  152 E comprises a preferably peripheral bevel or a preferably peripheral projection  152 F, in particular on an end face and/or on a side facing the wall  152 D. 
     In particular, the valve seat  152 E and/or projection  152 F has a wall thickness that decreases, preferably continuously or in a step-like manner, in the direction of the wall  152 D. 
     Particularly preferably, the valve seat  152 E or the projection  152 F thereof forms a preferably circular or circumferential contact surface, bearing surface or bearing line for the wall  152 D, preferably on an end face and/or on a side facing the wall  152 D, the contact surface or bearing surface preferably delimiting or defining the inlet opening  152 A at the sides. 
     In particular, when the second valve type  152  is actuated, the wall  152 D rests in a circular or circumferential manner on the valve seat  152 E or projection  152 F and/or, when the second valve type  152  is actuated, the wall  152 D is connected to the valve seat  152 E or projection  152 F by means of the contact surface, bearing surface or bearing line, in particular such that the inlet channel  114 B or the inlet opening  152 A is closed and/or sealed and/or such that fluid cannot flow into and/or out of the valve chamber  152 C. 
     In particular, the valve seat  152 E or the projection  152 F thereof forms a seal together with the wall  152 D, at least when actuated. 
     The second valve type  152  is preferably designed as an automatically opening or self-opening valve. In particular, the second valve type  152  is designed to open automatically, in particular, due to restoring forces, following (mechanical) actuation and/or once the actuation is finished or complete. 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  comprises a planar cover or layer  155 , the cover or layer  155  preferably covering the second valve type  152  and/or the wall  152 D, in particular, on a side of the wall  152 D that is remote from the valve chamber  152 C. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  is connected, particularly preferably adhered, to the wall  152 D and/or the support or main body  101  over the entire surface thereof, in particular, in a bonded manner. The cover or layer  155  is preferably made of foamed plastics material and/or of, in particular, foamed, polyethylene or polyurethane. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  is elastically deformable and/or is more elastic or resilient than the wall  152 D, and/or the cover or layer  155  has a lower (tensile) elastic modulus, preferably in accordance with the English translations of DIN EN ISO 527-1:2012-06, DIN EN ISO 527-2:2012-06 and/or DIN EN ISO 527-3:2003-07, than the wall  152 D. 
     The elastic modulus as defined in chapter 3.9 of the English translation of DIN EN ISO 527-1:2012-06 is the slope of the stress/strain curve of the material in a specified strain interval and is preferably expressed in megapascals (MPa). It may be calculated either as the chord modulus or as the slope of a linear least-squares regression line in the specified strain interval, as described in further detail in chapter 10.3 of the English translation of DIN EN ISO 527-1:2012-06. 
     The elastic modulus of cover or layer  155  and/or the wall  152 D are alternatively or additionally measured or determined as specified in the English translation of DIN EN ISO 527-3:2003-07, in particular, when the thickness of the cover or layer  155  and/or the wall  152 D is 1 mm or less. 
     The methods, apparatus and test specimens involved in a measurement or determination of the elastic modulus are detailed in chapters 4 to 9 as well as Annex C of the English translation of DIN EN ISO 527-1:2012-06 and are further detailed in the English translation of DIN EN ISO 527-2:2012-06, in particular, in chapter 6. 
     The elastic modulus of the cover or layer  155  is preferably at least 500 Pa, more preferably at least 1 kPa, more preferably at least 3 kPa, most preferably at least 5 kPa, and/or at most 10 MPa, more preferably at most 1 MPa, more preferably at most 100 kPa, most preferably at most 10 kPa. 
     The elastic modulus of the wall  152 D is preferably more than five times, in particular more than ten times, particularly preferably more than a hundred times, and/or less than a thousand times, in particular less than five hundred times, the elastic modulus of the cover or layer  155 . 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  comprises a lower indentation hardness, preferably determined in accordance with Method A of DIN EN ISO 2439:2009-05, and/or a lower compression hardness, preferably determined in accordance with DIN EN ISO 3386-1:2015-10, than the wall  152 D. 
     The indentation hardness is preferably the total force required to produce, under specified conditions, a specified indentation of a standard test piece. Preferably, the indentation hardness is expressed in newtons (N). Particularly preferably, the indentation hardness corresponds to the 40%/30 s indentation hardness index determined by Method A described in the English version of DIN EN ISO 2439:2009-05. 
     A measurement of the indentation hardness is preferably performed with an apparatus as specified in chapter 5, with a test piece as specified in chapter 6, and according to the procedure specified in chapters 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 of the English version of DIN EN ISO 2439:2009-05. 
     The compression hardness mentioned above is preferably the compression stress/strain value CV 40  as defined in chapter 3 of the English translation of DIN EN ISO 3386-1:2015-10. This means, the compression hardness is the compression stress/strain characteristic for a compression of 40%, wherein the compression stress/strain characteristic is defined as the stress required to produce a compression, at a constant rate of deformation, during the fourth loading cycle of the test specified in chapters 4 to 6 of the English translation of DIN EN ISO 3386-1:2015-10. The test is performed with an apparatus specified in chapter 4, a test piece specified in chapter 5 and following the procedure specified in chapter 6 of the English translation of DIN EN ISO 3386-1:2015-10. 
     The compression hardness of the cover or layer  155  is preferably at least 0.5 kPa, more preferably at least 1 kPa, more preferably at least 1.5 kPa, most preferably at least 2 kPa, and/or at most 5.5 kPa, more preferably at most 4.5 kPa, more preferably at most 4 kPa, most preferably at most 3.5 kPa. 
     The indentation hardness of the cover or layer  155  is preferably at least 20 N, more preferably at least 50 N, more preferably at least 90 N, most preferably at least 120 N, and/or at most 300 N, more preferably at most 250 N, more preferably at most 200 N, most preferably at most 150 N. 
     The indentation hardness and/or the compression hardness and/or the module of compression of the wall  152 D is preferably more than twice, in particular more than five times, particularly preferably more than ten times, the indentation hardness, compression hardness or module of compression, respectively, of the cover or layer  155 . 
     Tests have shown that in particular in this way—that is, through the properties relating to the compressibility, compression hardness and/or indentation hardness—and/or by the cover or layer  155 , an even and/or complete sealing of the valve seat  152 E is enabled by low force needed for closing the valves  115 , which is described further below in more detail. 
     In particular, the cover or layer  155  causes an even distribution of the force when the valve  115  is actuated, so that an evenly and save closing is achieved also with low closing force and/or actuation force. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  is thicker than the wall  152 D, in particular more than twice or three times as thick. Particularly preferably, the thickness of the cover or layer  155  is more than five times in particular more than eight times, particularly preferably more than ten times, the thickness of the wall  152 D. 
     The thickness of the cover or layer  155  is preferably more than 0.3 mm, in particular, more than 0.5 mm, particularly preferably more than 0.7 mm, and/or less than 2.0 mm, in particular less than 1.5 mm, particularly preferably less than 1.2 mm, most preferably approximately 1.0 mm. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  is designed to reset the wall  152 D after said wall  152 D has been actuated or deformed, and/or is designed to raise or move said wall  152 D away from the valve seat  152 E and/or the inlet opening  152 A, in particular such that the second valve type  152  and/or the valve chamber  152 C is opened again and/or fluid can flow therethrough again. 
     Particularly preferably, the cover or layer  155  is designed as a reinforcement of the wall  152 D and/or is designed to increase the restoring forces of the wall  152 D. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  is designed to compensate for asperities or surface roughness on the cartridge  100 , in particular the wall  152 D, and/or is designed to reduce the force required for actuating the second valve type  152 , in particular by compensating for asperities or surface roughness. 
     Preferably, the cover or layer  155  is designed to distribute the force acting on the valve when the second valve type  152  is actuated, and/or is designed to deflect the wall  152 D evenly and/or in a planar manner, in particular, such that even and/or complete sealing of the valve seat  152 E and/or the inlet opening  152 A is made possible or facilitated. 
     In particular, when the second valve type  152  is actuated, the cover or layer  155  makes possible or facilitates even and/or complete sealing of the valve seat  152 E and/or the inlet opening  152 A on the one hand, and makes possible or facilitates resetting of the wall  152 D and/or complete opening of the second valve type  152  and/or the inlet opening  152 A, on the other hand, once the actuation of the second valve type  152  is finished or complete. 
     In particular, the cover or layer  155  makes possible or facilitates even or complete sealing of the valve seat  152 E and/or the inlet opening  152 A with only low actuation force and/or closing force when the valve  115  and/or the second valve type  152  is actuated or closed, respectively. 
     The wall  115 D and the wall  152 D preferably comprise the same properties. In particular, the wall  152 D and the wall  115 D can be formed in one piece and/or identically. 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a connection apparatus  203  comprising connections or contact elements  203 A for electrically connecting the cartridge  100  and/or electrical contacts  113 E and/or  116 A. In this case, an electrical plug-in connection or another electrical connection or the like, which is preferably automatically established or made when the cartridge  100  is received in the analysis device  200 , may also be formed in principle. 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a control apparatus  207  for controlling the sequence of a test and/or for evaluating and/or outputting and/or providing test results. 
     The analysis device  200  optionally comprises an input apparatus  208 , such as a keyboard, a touch screen or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, this may be an interface for example for enabling control by means of a smartphone, a laptop, an external keyboard or the like. 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a display apparatus  209 , such as a screen. Alternatively, or additionally, this may also be an interface for example for outputting test results to external devices, to a smartphone, a laptop, an external screen or the like. 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises an interface  210 , for example for outputting test results and/or for connecting to other devices or the like. This may in particular be a wired or wireless interface  210 . 
     For example, a printer may also be connected to the interface  210  in order to output results. Alternatively, or additionally, a printer (not shown) may also be integrated in the analysis device  200  or may be formed by the display apparatus  209 . 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a power supply apparatus  211 , which is integrated or externally connected. This may be a battery or an accumulator and/or power pack. 
     For mobile use, the analysis device  200  and/or the power supply apparatus  211  may in particular be designed such that it can be directly connected to the on-board power supply of a motor vehicle, i.e. can be operated at 12 or 14 V DC for example. 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a housing  212 . Particularly preferably, the cartridge  100  can be inserted or slid into the housing  212  through an opening (not shown), such as a slot or the like. 
     The different apparatuses  207  to  209  and/or  211 , the motor  202 A and/or the actuator  205  is/are preferably arranged in the housing  212 . 
     The analysis device  200  is preferably portable or mobile. 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises a retaining element  246 , which is assigned to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , connection  104 A and/or closure element  130  in order to keep the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , the connection  104 A thereof and/or the closure element  130  closed and/or to secure them in the closed position when the cartridge  100  is received, as shown merely schematically in  FIG. 3 . 
     The analysis device  200  preferably comprises one or more sensors  206 , in particular, for monitoring or controlling the test sequence, as shown schematically in  FIG. 3 . For example, a liquid front or the presence of liquid in a channel or cavity can be detected, for example optically or capacitively, by means of a sensor  206 . 
     The sensors  206  may be provided in addition to or as an alternative to the sensors  116  arranged on the cartridge  100 . 
     In the following, a preferred sequence of a test using the proposed cartridge  100  and/or the proposed analysis device  200  and/or analysis system  1  and/or in accordance with the proposed method is explained in greater detail. 
     Preferably, a test is carried out on site, i.e. independently from a central laboratory or the like, for example, by a veterinarian or another doctor. Preferably, the present invention is thus used as a point-of-care system. 
     A sample P is preferably received by the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  of the cartridge  100 . For this purpose, the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or the closure element  130  thereof is preferably first opened. The sample P is then preferably manually introduced or inserted into the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or placed therein, in particular by means of the transfer apparatus  320 . 
     Once the sample P has been received, the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or the connection  104 A thereof, as well as the vent  104 E, if provided, are fluidically closed by the closure element  130 , in particular, in a liquid-tight and gas-tight manner. The cartridge  100  is (then) preferably connected to the analysis device  200 , in particular is inserted or slid into said analysis device  200 . 
     Preferably, the cartridge  100  is moved towards the pump head  202 B, or vice versa, in particular, such that said pump head  202 B rests on the cartridge  100 , in particular on the pump chamber  112 C and/or wall  112 D, at least in part. 
     In particular, the cartridge  100  and/or the pump head  202 B is moved far enough that the pump head  202 B is elastically deformed and/or is adapted at least in part to the surface of the cartridge  100  and/or to the pump chamber  112 C. 
     The pump is then activated and/or the pump head  202 B is driven or rotated, in particular in order to start the test or analysis of the sample P. 
     Preferably, some or all of the actuation elements  205 D of the actuators or actuation apparatuses  205  are simultaneously, previously or subsequently moved from the first position into the second position and/or are pressed against or into the cartridge  100  and/or the cartridge  100  is moved towards one or more actuation elements  205 D, in particular in order to open and/or close the assigned valves  115 . 
     Preferably, the first group  153  and the second group  154  are actuated from different sides  100 A,  100 B of the cartridge  100 , preferably by means of the actuators  205  and/or actuation elements  205 D. 
     Preferably, the first group  153  is actuated, in particular, opened, from the front  100 A and/or in the first actuation direction B 2 . 
     Particularly preferably, at least one valve  115  of the valves  115  and/or the first group  153  is irreversibly opened. 
     In particular, the storage cavity  108 , measuring or metering cavity  105 , mixing cavity  107 , treatment or reaction cavity  109  and/or collection cavity  111  is/are opened and/or fluidically connected to a preferably directly adjacent channel  114  and/or is/are interconnected, preferably in succession and/or simultaneously and/or in a predefined order, by actuating or opening the preferably upstream and/or downstream valves  115  in particular of the first group  153 . 
     In particular, the storage cavity/cavities  108  or the reagent or reagents, in particular liquid reagent(s) F, therein is/are released, preferably simultaneously, by opening the first group  153  or the assigned valves  115 , and/or is/are provided for reactions with the sample P or a component of the sample P. 
     Particularly preferably, a plurality of valves  115 , in particular, some or all of the valves  115  in the first group  153 , are simultaneously actuated, in particular opened, by means of an assigned actuator  205  of the actuators  205  and/or by means of assigned actuation elements  205 D. 
     Particularly preferably, the valves  115  of the first valve type  151  and/or in the first group  153  are actuated in such a way that the associated seal or separation elements  151 G are destroyed, and in particular, remain permanently open. 
     In particular, the actuation elements  205 D penetrate the assigned through holes  151 E from the front  100 A, preferably such that the valves  115  of the first valve type  151  and/or in the first group  153  are opened on the back  100 B. 
     Preferably, the valves  115  of the second valve type  152  and/or in the second group  154  are previously, simultaneously or subsequently actuated, in particular closed and/or opened in the desired or required manner or order. 
     In particular, the valves  115  of the second valve type  152  and/or in the second group  154  are actuated, in particular, closed, from the back  100 B, preferably by elastic deformation or compression of the flexible wall  115 D and/or  152 D. 
     Following or together with the actuation of a valve  115  or of the first or second group  153 ,  154  and/or together with the activation of the pump, the test on the sample P is carried out in the cartridge  100  in the analysis device  200 , preferably at least largely in an automated manner or automatically or self-actingly. 
     The sample P is removed from the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  or depression  104 H at least in part, in this case via the connecting channel or outlet  104 C. 
     In order to cause said sample P to be removed and/or to prevent negative pressure from building up in the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , a fluid, in particular air or another gas or a liquid, such as a flushing liquid or the like, is fed to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , in particular via the ventilation channel or inlet  104 B and/or flushing channel or intermediate connection  104 D, preferably by means of the pump, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump drive  202 . 
     In order to convey the sample P out of the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , the pump or pump apparatus  112  can generate negative pressure on the outlet side and/or overpressure in the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  on the inlet side, in particular via the ventilation channel or inlet  104 B and/or flushing channel or intermediate connection  104 D. Here, if required, the relatively large collection cavity  111  can be used as a pressure storage means for applying pressure to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  and/or for equalizing the pressure. 
     The sample P is treated, prepared and/or metered and/or added to or mixed with reagents, in particular liquid reagents F, in the desired or required manner in the cartridge  100 . 
     For example, the sample P is first fed to the measuring or metering cavity  105  for metering, preferably by means of the pump, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump drive  202 . 
     The sample P is then preferably fed to a mixing cavity  107  and mixed with a reagent or a plurality of reagents, in particular a liquid reagent F or a plurality of liquid reagents F, for example in order to dilute the sample P, to adjust the pH, to lyse cells and/or to carry out other reactions, preferably by means of the pump, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump drive  202 . 
     The reagents may also be provided or introduced as dry reagents if required. 
     The sample P is then preferably fed to at least one treatment or reaction cavity  109 , for example, for a PCR or other treatment to be carried out therein, preferably by means of the pump, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump drive  202 . Here too, corresponding reagents, in particular liquid reagents F, may again be added or mixed in if required. 
     The PCR or other treatment may take place or be carried out at specified temperatures. The cartridge  100 , the analysis device  200  and/or the proposed analysis system  1  is preferably designed such that the desired temperatures or temperature profiles for the sample P are achieved, maintained or passed through in the respective cavities and channels. In particular, corresponding temperature control or regulation is provided or implemented. 
     The method sequence, in particular the flow and conveying of the liquids, the mixing and the like, is/are controlled by the analysis device  200  and/or the control apparatus  207 , in particular, by accordingly activating or actuating the pump drive  202  or pump apparatus  112  and the valves  115 . 
     The analysis device  200  and/or the control apparatus  207  thereof can detect liquid states, for example a liquid front or the presence of liquid, in particular by means of the sensors  116  and/or  206 , and can accordingly take this into account for the control. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, also optical detection or measurement can be carried out, for example for the presence of liquid, the fill level of a cavity or the like. 
     The collection cavity  111  is used to receive excess or used liquids, such as the sample P, reagents F or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, the collection cavity  111  is optionally also used for pressure equalization, since, after the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  has been closed, a fluidically completely closed circuit is preferably formed on or in the cartridge  100 . 
     The collection cavity  111  preferably comprises a flexible or elastically deformable wall, which is formed by the film or cover  102  or the like, in particular, in order to make the above-mentioned pressure equalization possible. However, other structural solutions are also possible. 
     The prepared sample P or components thereof, for example amplified DNA sequences, is/are lastly fed to the sensor apparatus  113 , preferably by means of the pump, the pump apparatus  112  and/or the pump drive  202 . 
     Preferably, the sample P is then in particular electrochemically measured, for example for the presence of at least one desired target analyte. 
     The preferably electrical measurement is controlled by the analysis device  200  or the control apparatus  207  and/or the sensor apparatus  113 . The test results or measurement results are electrically transmitted to the analysis device  200  or the control apparatus  207  thereof, and are accordingly prepared, analyzed, stored and/or displayed, in particular by the display apparatus  209 . 
     After the test has been carried out, the cartridge  100  is removed from the analysis device  200  again and is preferably disposed of. 
     The fluid system  103  is preferably designed as a microfluidic system. The same preferably also applies to the cartridge  100 , which is designed as a microfluidic cartridge. 
     In the present invention, the term “microfluidic” is preferably understood to mean volumes of less than 1 ml, particularly preferably less than 0.5 ml, in individual cavities or channels or in a plurality of or all of said cavities or channels. 
     Preferably, no external liquids have to be fed in or provided while the test is being carried out. This minimizes the risk of inadvertent contamination of the surroundings or the analysis device  200 . At the same time, the sensitivity to external disturbances is reduced, since no additional substances need to be introduced in addition to the sample P. 
     Preferably, the storage cavities  108  are closed by mechanically actuated valves  115 , and not by what are known as capillary stops or the like. This also increases the robustness of the cartridge  100  and maintains its functionality. 
     The cartridge  100  and/or the support or main body  101  is preferably produced in an injection-molding process, particularly preferably from polypropylene, in particular with the depressions, which are preferably only made on one side and are intended to form the cavities and channels, preferably being covered by the film or cover  102  only on one side, or on both sides if required, and said cavities and channels being formed in a desired manner as a result. However, other structural solutions are also possible. 
     Particularly preferably, a plurality of or different closed (gas-tight) circuits are formed on or in the cartridge  100  for different fluids, liquids, reagents F and/or for the sample P, depending on the state of the valves  115  of the fluid system  103 , for example a circuit for conveying the sample (receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , connection channel or outlet  104 C, cavity  105 , channel  114 , cavity  107 , channel  114 , pump apparatus  112 , channel  114  and back to the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  via the ventilation channel or inlet  104 B) and a circuit for conveying the reagents (a cavity  108 , channel  114 , cavity  107 , channel  114 , pump apparatus  112  and channel  114  back to the cavity  108 ). 
     A plurality or all of the circuits can preferably be operated by the same pump apparatus  112 . 
     One or more circuits are formed by the fluid system  103  together with the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , in order to transfer the sample P from the receptacle or receiving cavity  104  into the fluid system  103 . 
     One or more circuits are preferably formed without the receptacle or receiving cavity  104 , i.e., only in the fluid system  103 . 
     The different circuits are used for example to convey the sample P, to treat the sample P with one or more reagents, in particular liquid reagents F, to feed the treated sample P to the sensor apparatus  113 , to flush one or more cavities, or the like. 
     In particular, the present invention relates also to any aspects described above and as follows: 
     Cartridge for testing a biological sample, the cartridge comprising a fluid system having a plurality of channels, and comprising at least one valve for controlling the flow of the sample and/or a fluid through the fluid system, the valve comprising a wall that is flexible at least in part, a valve chamber, a first opening and a second opening, it being possible for the valve to be actuated, closed, by deforming the wall, characterized in that the cartridge comprises an elastically deformable cover, the cover covering the wall on a side remote from the valve chamber. 
     Individual aspects and features of the present invention and individual method steps may be implemented independently from one another, but also in any desired combination and/or order.