JP5373561B2 - Conveying device and sample analyzer using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a transport device capable of enhancing inspection efficiency, and a specimen analyzer using the same. <P>SOLUTION: The transport device is constituted so as to transport a plurality of specimen racks holding specimen containers each of which houses a specimen to supply them to a specimen measuring instrument and equipped with the first and second locking units arranged under a transport passage to be respectively fixedly locked with the mutually different specimen racks and first and second moving mechanisms for respectively independently moving the first and second locking units. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a transport device for transporting a sample rack that holds a sample container containing a sample such as blood, and a sample analyzer using the transport device.

  Some sample analyzers that analyze the components of a sample such as a blood analyzer and a coagulation analyzer supply samples using a sample rack. The sample rack is set in the transport device of the sample analyzer while holding a plurality of sample containers containing the samples in a row, and is transported by the transport device so that each sample container is sequentially positioned at a predetermined sample suction position. Is done. The sample analyzer aspirates the sample from each sample container positioned at the sample aspirating position, measures the component of the sample, and performs a predetermined analysis based on the measurement result.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a sample analyzer including such a sample rack transport device. The transport apparatus includes a lateral feed unit that transports the sample rack in the horizontal direction, and a sample suction position is set on the transport path of the sample rack by the lateral feed unit. The lateral feed section includes a rack transport section having an engaging member that can be engaged with the sample rack, and a drive section that moves the rack transport section in the lateral direction (transport direction), and is provided below the transport path of the sample rack. Has been placed.

JP 2006-275567 A

  In the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, on the transport path of the sample rack, a transport start position where a sample rack in which a sample is not sucked by the analyzer is arranged, and a post-analysis sample rack in which the sample has been sucked by the analyzer are arranged. Are set. In the transport apparatus, the lateral feeding unit positions one specimen rack arranged at the lateral feeding start position at the specimen aspirating position, and the specimen is aspirated from all specimen containers held in the one specimen rack by the analyzer. Thereafter, the one sample rack is transported to the transport end position.

  Therefore, in the case where a plurality of sample racks are successively and sequentially transported by the transport device, even if the analyzer becomes ready to process the next sample rack, first, the one sample rack is moved by the lateral feed unit. It has been necessary to transport from the sample suction position to the transport end position, and then transport the next sample rack from the transport start position to the sample suction position by the lateral feed unit.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a transport apparatus capable of sequentially transporting a plurality of sample racks and further improving examination efficiency, and a sample analyzer using the transport apparatus.

A transport apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention is for supplying a sample to a measuring apparatus for measuring a sample by sequentially transporting a plurality of sample racks holding a sample container containing a sample on a transport path. A first and second engagement unit, which is a conveyance device and is provided below the conveyance path and has a pair of engagement members for engaging with a sample rack, respectively, and a first and second engagement unit, independent and a first and second moving mechanism for moving in a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the conveying direction and the sample rack of the sample rack by the first and second engagement unit, each said pair of engagement The first engaging unit is configured to raise and lower the pair of engaging members and engage the sample rack from below the sample rack to fix and hold the sample rack. One moving mechanism is The first engagement unit that holds and holds the rack is moved in the transport direction or the reverse direction, and the second engagement unit raises the pair of engagement members to engage the sample rack from below the sample rack. Thus, the sample rack is fixedly held, and the second moving mechanism moves the second engagement unit holding the sample rack fixedly in the transport direction or the reverse direction.

  In the above configuration, the first and second engagement units each operate a pair of engagement members for engaging with the sample rack and the pair of engagement members for fixed engagement with the sample rack. And a drive unit.

  In the above configuration, the transport path includes a first groove that allows the first engagement unit engaged with the sample rack to move by the first moving mechanism, and a second engagement unit engaged with the sample rack. A second groove that allows movement by the second movement mechanism may be formed.

  In the above configuration, the pair of engaging members are provided so as to be separated from each other with respect to the transport direction of the sample rack, and the driving unit is a recess provided at the bottom of the sample rack by separating the pair of engaging members from each other. May be engaged with no gap.

  In the above configuration, the drive unit may cause the pair of engaging members to enter the recesses via the first groove or the second groove by raising the pair of engaging members.

  In the above configuration, the first movement mechanism moves the first engagement unit engaged with the first sample rack via the first groove, thereby conveying the first sample rack in the conveyance path, and second The moving mechanism may transport the second sample rack in the transport path following the first sample rack by moving the second engagement unit engaged with the second sample rack via the second groove.

  In the above configuration, the first and second moving mechanisms may move the first and second engagement units in the direction opposite to the sample rack transport direction and the sample rack transport direction. Good.

  In the above configuration, the sample rack supply unit that supplies the sample rack to the transfer start position of the transfer path, and the sample rack supply unit supplies the first sample rack to the transfer start position of the transfer path, The first sample rack is transported to be supplied to the measuring device by the first moving mechanism, the second sample rack is supplied to the transport start position by the sample rack supply unit, and the second sample is transported by the second engagement unit and the second moving mechanism. A control unit that controls the first and second engagement units, the first and second moving mechanisms, and the sample rack supply unit may be further provided so as to transport the rack to be supplied to the measurement apparatus.

  In the above configuration, the apparatus further includes a sample rack recovery unit that recovers the sample rack from the transfer end position of the transfer path, and the control unit moves the first sample rack to the transfer end position by the first engagement unit and the first moving mechanism. The sample rack collecting unit collects the first sample rack from the transfer end position, the sample rack supply unit supplies the third sample rack to the transfer start position, and the first engagement unit and the first moving mechanism make the third sample rack. The sample rack recovery unit may be further controlled so as to transport the sample rack so as to be supplied to the measuring apparatus.

  A sample analyzer according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a transport device according to the first aspect, a control unit that controls the operation of the transport device, and a sample from a sample container of a sample rack transported by the transport device. A measuring device that dispenses and measures the dispensed sample and an analysis unit that analyzes a measurement result by the measuring device are provided.

  In the above configuration, the reading device further includes a reading unit that reads the identification information from the sample container at the conveyance reading position of the conveyance path, the measuring device dispenses the sample from the sample container at the sample dispensing position of the conveyance path, and the control unit The operation of transporting the sample container of the first sample rack to the sample dispensing position by one engagement unit and the first movement mechanism, and the information reading position of the sample container of the second sample rack by the second engagement unit and the second movement mechanism The conveying device may be controlled so that the conveying operation is performed in parallel.

  According to the transport apparatus of the present invention and the sample analyzer using the transport apparatus, it is possible to sequentially transport a plurality of sample racks, and the examination efficiency can be further improved.

1 is an overall view of a sample analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a top view which shows schematic structure of the whole measuring apparatus in the sample analyzer shown by FIG. It is a block diagram of the measuring apparatus shown by FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the control unit shown in FIG. 3. It is a perspective view of a sample rack in a state where a sample container is held. It is a front view of the sample rack. It is a perspective view which shows the other example of a sample rack. It is a perspective view which shows the other example of a sample container. It is a top view which shows a rack transverse feed mechanism roughly. It is side surface explanatory drawing which shows the principal part of an engagement unit roughly. It is a front view of the engagement unit showing a state before the engagement unit is engaged with the sample rack. It is a front view of the engagement unit showing a state after the engagement unit is engaged with the sample rack. It is a front view of the engagement unit showing a state after the engagement unit is engaged with a sample rack according to another example. It is a perspective view which shows the base | substrate of an engagement unit. It is a perspective view which shows the action member of an engagement unit. It is front explanatory drawing which shows a pair of engaging member. It is a block diagram of an information processor. It is a schematic plan view showing a process of transporting a sample rack by a transport unit. It is a schematic plan view showing a process of transporting a sample rack by a transport unit. It is a schematic plan view showing a process of transporting a sample rack by a transport unit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the conveyance processing operation by a conveyance unit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the conveyance processing operation by a conveyance unit.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of a transport apparatus of the present invention and a sample analyzer using the same will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment.

  FIG. 1 is an overall view of a sample analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sample analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment is a blood coagulation measurement device that performs optical measurement and analysis of a sample using a coagulation time method, a synthetic substrate method, an immunoturbidimetric method, and a platelet aggregation method. The sample analyzer 1 includes a measuring device 2 that optically measures a component contained in a sample (blood), and an information processing device 3 that analyzes measurement data obtained by the measuring device 2.

[Configuration of measuring device]
FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an overall schematic configuration of the measuring apparatus 2 shown in FIG. The measuring device 2 includes a transport unit (transport device) 201, a barcode reader unit (reading unit) 202, a sensor unit 203, a first dispensing unit (dispensing unit) 204, and a second dispensing unit (dispensing unit). Note) 205, a first table unit 206 including a reagent table 206d and a cuvette table 206c, a second table unit 207, a cuvette supply unit 208, a first catcher unit 209, a heating table unit 210, Two catcher units 211, a first reagent dispensing unit 212, a third catcher unit 213, a second reagent dispensing unit 214, a third reagent dispensing unit 215, a detection unit 216, and a control unit 200 (FIG. 3).

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the measuring apparatus 2 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 200 includes a transport unit 201, a barcode reader unit 202, a sensor unit 203, a first dispensing unit 204, a second dispensing unit 205, a first table unit 206, and a second table unit. 207, cuvette supply unit 208, first catcher unit 209, heating table unit 210, second catcher unit 211, first reagent dispensing unit 212, third catcher unit 213, second reagent dispensing unit 214, third reagent The dispensing unit 215 and the detection unit 216 are connected to each other so that the operation of each unit can be controlled. The control unit 200 is connected so as to be able to communicate with the information processing apparatus 3.

(Configuration of control unit)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the control unit 200 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 200 includes a CPU 200a, an input / output interface 200b, a RAM 200c, a communication interface 200d, and a ROM 200e. The CPU 200a, the input / output interface 200b, the RAM 200c, the communication interface 200d, and the ROM 200e are connected by a bus 200f.

The CPU 200a is provided to execute a computer program stored in the ROM 200e and a computer program loaded in the RAM 200c.
The ROM 200e is configured by a mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or the like, and stores a computer program executed by the CPU 200a, data used for the same, and the like.

  The RAM 200c is configured by SRAM, DRAM, or the like. It is used for reading out computer programs recorded in the RAM 200c and ROM 200e. Further, when these computer programs are executed, they are used as a work area of the CPU 200a.

  The input / output interface 200b outputs a command from the CPU 200a to each unit of the measuring device 2. Moreover, the information transmitted from each part is received and it transmits to CPU200a.

  The communication interface 200d is an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface, and the measurement apparatus 2 is connected to the information processing apparatus 3 connected by a LAN cable using a predetermined communication protocol (TCP / IP) by the communication interface 200d. Can send and receive data.

Here, a sample container for storing a sample to be analyzed by the sample analyzer 1 and a sample rack for holding the sample container will be described. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the sample rack in a state where the sample container is held, and FIG. 6 is a front view.
The sample container 401 contains a sample (blood) collected in a hospital or the like. Further, a barcode 402 including identification information for identifying the sample container 401 is affixed to the sample container 401. In addition, a lid 403 may be attached to the sample container 401.

  The sample rack 404 is provided with ten holders 404a arranged in a line. One specimen container 401 is accommodated in each of the ten holders 404a. When the size of the sample container 401 is smaller than the size of the holding part 404a, the adapter container (not shown) prevents the sample container 401 from being inclined and toppled.

  The sample rack 404 is provided with an opening 402b for enabling the barcode 402 of the sample container 401 to be read by the barcode reader unit 202 (see FIG. 2). Further, a barcode 405 including identification information for identifying the sample rack 404 is affixed to the sample rack 404.

As shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of open downward recessed portions 404 b are formed on the bottom surface of the sample rack 404 along the longitudinal direction of the sample rack 404 (ten as many as the holding portions 404 a).
Each concave portion 404b is partitioned by a wall portion 404c constituting a lower outer peripheral wall of the sample rack 404 and a wall portion 404d disposed between the concave portions 404b.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing another example of the sample container. In the present embodiment, the specimen container 406 shown in FIG. 8 can also be used. The sample container 406 is formed shorter in the vertical direction than the sample container 401 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and has a small capacity. The sample container 406 has the lower side 406a inserted into the holding unit 404a of the sample rack 404 and the upper side 406b engaged (placed) with the upper end edge of the holding unit 404a. Retained.
This sample container 406 is used, for example, when only a very small amount of sample can be collected from a patient or when only one measurement is performed. In particular, the sample container 406 can be used when performing a minute measurement described later.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing another example of the sample rack. In the sample rack 407, five holding portions 407a for storing the sample containers 401 are formed in a line, and one sample container 401 is stored in each holding portion 407a. Further, only one recess 407b is formed at the bottom of the sample rack 407.

(Conveyor unit configuration)
As shown in FIG. 2, the transport unit 201 is configured to be able to transport the sample rack 404 holding the sample container 401. The transport unit 201 is provided with a rack set area A in which a sample rack 404 holding a sample container 401 can be placed, a transport area B, and a rack storage area C. In each of the areas A to C, the sample rack 404 is arranged with its longitudinal direction directed in the left-right direction.

  The transport unit 201 transports the sample rack 404 set in the rack set area A in the direction of arrow Y1 (backward), and transports the sample rack 404 in the transport area B in the directions of arrows X1 and X2 (left and right direction). Further, the sample rack 404 that has entered the rack storage area C is transported in the direction of arrow Y2 (forward).

  The rack set area A is configured so that a plurality of sample racks 404 can be placed in a state where they are arranged in the front-rear direction. In the rack set area A, a rack feeding mechanism (first rack transport mechanism) A1 for transporting the placed sample rack 404 in the direction of arrow Y1 is provided. The rack feeding mechanism A1 includes a feeding member A11 provided to be engageable with the sample rack 404 arranged in the rack set area A, and a moving mechanism that moves the feeding member A11 in the Y1 direction and the opposite direction (Y2 direction). (Not shown). The feeding member A11 is disposed so as to engage with the back side of both end portions in the longitudinal direction of the sample rack 404 disposed on the most upstream side in the Y1 direction among the sample racks 404 on the rack set region A. The rack feeding mechanism A1 is configured to transport the sample rack 404 in the arrow Y1 direction and feed it into the transport region B by moving the feeding member A11 in the Y1 direction by the moving mechanism. Therefore, the rack feeding mechanism A1 constitutes a sample rack supply unit that supplies the sample rack 404 to the transfer start position in the transfer region B.

  The rack set area A is provided with a detection sensor A2 for detecting the presence or absence of the sample rack 404 in the area A. The detection sensor A2 includes a transmission type photo sensor provided at the upstream end and the downstream end in the Y1 direction of the rack set area A. When the sample rack 404 exists in the rack set area A, the detection sensor A2 is in a light-shielded state. It is configured to be in a transparent state when there is no.

  The transport region B has a placement space having a front-rear width in which one sample rack 404 can be moved in the left-right direction and a width in the left-right direction that is three times or more the length of the sample rack 404. . In addition, a rack lateral feed mechanism (second rack transport mechanism) B1 that transports the sample rack 404 in the X1 direction and the X2 direction between the rack set area A and the rack storage area C is provided in the transport area B. Yes.

The detailed configuration of the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 will be described below with reference to FIG. 2 and FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 2, a placement plate B2 that supports the sample rack 404 from below is provided in the transport region B of the transport unit 201, and a transport path for the sample rack 404 is formed by the placement plate B2. . The rack lateral feed mechanism B1 is disposed below the placement plate B2.

  FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically showing the rack lateral feed mechanism B1. Two rack lateral feed mechanisms B1 of the present embodiment are arranged in parallel at the front and rear. Each rack lateral feed mechanism B1 includes an engagement unit B3 that can be engaged with the sample rack 404, and a moving mechanism B4 that moves the engagement unit B3 in the X1 direction and the X2 direction.

  The moving mechanism B4 includes a pair of pulleys B41 arranged at both ends of the transport region B, a transport belt B42 stretched over the pulley B41, an electric motor B43 that rotates one pulley B41, and the electric motor B43. And an encoder (position detector) B44 for detecting the number of rotations. Further, the transport belt B42 of the moving mechanism B4 of the two rack lateral feed mechanisms B1 is arranged to be parallel to each other along the X1 and X2 directions.

  The engagement unit B3 is connected to the conveyance belt B42 of the movement mechanism B4, and is configured to move in the X1 direction and the X2 direction by operating the electric motor B43. The amount of movement of the engagement unit B3 is detected by the encoder B44 as the rotation speed of the electric motor B43. The operation of the electric motor B43 is controlled by the control unit 200 based on the detection result of the encoder B44. In addition, the movement start point position (standby position) and the movement end point position of the engagement unit B3 are set on the upstream side and the downstream side in the X1 direction, respectively, and the engagement units arranged at the start point position and the end point position, respectively. Detection sensors B85 and B86 made up of a transmissive photosensor or the like for detecting B3 are arranged corresponding to the engagement unit B3.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory side view schematically showing a main part of the engagement unit, and FIG. 11 is a front view of the engagement unit showing a state before the engagement unit is engaged with the sample rack. 12 is a front view of the engagement unit showing a state in which the engagement unit is engaged with the sample rack.
The engagement unit B3 includes a base B31, a pair of engagement members B32, a drive unit B33, a lift guide B34, a resistance applying member B35, and a lift detection sensor B36.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the base B31 of the engagement unit B3 and the components attached thereto.
As shown in FIGS. 11 and 14, the base B31 is made of a plate material such as stainless steel. The upper part of the base B31 is arranged so that the plate surface is along the transport directions X1 and X2.
A guide shoe B31a is attached to the upper portion of the base B31, and this guide shoe B31a is slidably fitted to a guide rail B5 disposed along the X1 and X2 directions below the transport path B2. The base B31 is supported by the guide rail B5 so as to be movable in the X1 and X2 directions.

  In addition, a pair of engagement members B32 are attached to the upper portion of the base B31 so as to be rotatable around the longitudinal axial center orthogonal to the X1 and X2 directions. FIG. 16 is a front view showing a pair of engaging members B32. The pair of engaging members B32 are disposed so as to face each other in the X1 and X2 directions (left and right directions). Further, the pair of engaging members B32 are formed of a plate material such as stainless steel, and the plate surfaces are arranged along the X1 and X2 directions.

  An engaging claw B32a is provided at the upper part of the pair of engaging members B32, an operated part B32b is provided at the lower part, and an arm part that protrudes left and right between the engaging claw B32a and the operated part B32b. B32c is provided.

  The distal end of the arm portion B32c is rotatably attached to the base B31 by a fixture B31b made of a bolt and a nut. An engagement roller B32d is provided at the lower end of the operated portion B32b, and the engagement roller B32d is movably fitted in a regulation hole B31c formed in the base B31. The restriction hole B31c is formed in an arc shape (or a similar long hole shape) with the fixture B31b as the center, and the rotation range of the pair of engagement members B32 (movement range of the engagement roller B32d) is predetermined. It is regulated.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 14, an air cylinder (drive source) B33a that constitutes a drive source of the drive unit B33 is attached to the lower portion of the base B31 via a bracket B33b. The air cylinder B33a is supplied with compressed air from a compressor (not shown).
The air cylinder B33a includes a rod B33c that moves up and down in the vertical direction by supplying compressed air.

  At the upper end of the rod B33c of the air cylinder B33a, an action member B33d that constitutes the drive unit B33 together with the air cylinder B33a is fixed. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the action member B33d. The action member B33d is formed of a plate material such as a stainless steel plate, and a rectangular engagement hole B33e that is long in the left-right direction with which the engagement roller B32d of the pair of engagement members B32 is engaged is formed in the upper part. . The lower part of the action member B33d is connected to the rod B33c of the air cylinder B33a by a mounting screw B33f.

  When the rod B33c of the air cylinder B33a moves up and down, both the action members B33d move up and down, and the pair of engagement members B32 rotate up and down via the engagement rollers B32d engaged with the engagement holes B33e. . Then, the engaging claws B32a of the pair of engaging members B32 perform an operation of separating from each other while rising (see FIG. 16B) and an operation of approaching each other while descending (see FIG. 16A). .

  As shown in FIG. 11, in a state where the pair of engaging members B <b> 32 rotate downward, the engaging claws B <b> 32 a are positioned below the conveyance path (mounting plate) B <b> 2 and Does not engage. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, when the pair of engaging members B32 are rotated upward, the engaging claws B32a protrude from the transport path B2 and enter into the recess 404b formed at the bottom of the sample rack 404. When the pair of engaging claws B32a are separated from each other, they come into contact with the wall portions 404c and 404d on both sides in the X1 and X2 directions in the recess 404b. As a result, the pair of engaging members B32 engage with the sample rack 404, and the sample rack 404 can be transported. At this time, the pair of engaging members B32 are fixedly engaged with the sample rack 404, that is, engaged with no gap in the X1 and X2 directions.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 10, two grooves B21 are formed in the front and rear along the X1 and X2 directions in the conveyance path B2, and the engagement claws B32a of the pair of engagement members B32 are It penetrates the groove B21 and protrudes onto the conveyance path B2, and is movable along the groove B21 in the X1 and X2 directions.

  The raising / lowering guide B34 of the engagement unit B3 includes a guide rail B34a having a U-shaped section extending in the vertical direction provided on the left and right sides (left side) of the lower part of the action member B33d, and the left and right sides of the lower part of the base B31 ( And a guide block B34b that is slidably fitted to the guide rail B34a. The lifting guide B34 guides the vertical movement of the action member B33d with respect to the base B31.

  The resistance applying member B35 is for applying resistance to the rotation operation of the pair of engaging members B32 by the driving unit B33, that is, the engaging / disengaging operation with respect to the sample rack 404. The resistance applying member B35 is an oil-type shock absorber fixed to a mounting piece B31d formed on the base B31 with a nut, and includes an outer cylinder B35a arranged in the vertical direction and a lower end portion of the outer cylinder. Rod part B35b which protrudes below. The rod portion B35b is given a downward biasing force by the oil filled in the outer cylinder B35a, and abuts against a contact piece B33g provided on the left and right other side (right side) of the action member B33d. .

  When the action member B33d is raised by the operation of the air cylinder B33a, both the rod portions B35b of the resistance applying member B35 are raised, but the ascending speed of the action member B33d is decelerated by the downward biasing force. Therefore, the momentum when the pair of engaging members B32 rotate in the direction of engagement with the sample rack 404 is reduced, and the pair of engaging members B32 can be prevented from strongly colliding with the sample rack 404.

  The lift detection sensor B36 is composed of a transmission sensor or the like fixed to the left and right other side (right side) of the base B31. When the action member B33d is lowered by the operation of the air cylinder B33a, the detection piece formed on the action member B33d It is configured to be shielded from light by B33h. Therefore, when the elevation detection sensor B36 is in the transmissive state, it can be determined that the pair of engaging members B32 are raised and engaged with the sample rack 404, and the elevation detection sensor B36 is shielded from light by the detection piece B33h. It can be determined that the pair of engaging members B32 are detached from the sample rack.

  The pair of engaging members B32 are arranged so that the plate surfaces extend along the X1 and X2 directions, and are formed thin in the front-rear direction. Further, the air cylinder B33a, the elevation guide B34, the elevation detection sensor B36, and the resistance applying member B35 constituting the engagement unit B3 are arranged side by side in the X1 and X2 directions. With such an arrangement, the entire engagement unit B3 is thinned back and forth, and two engagement units B3 can be arranged side by side in a narrow accommodation space in the front-rear direction below the conveyance path B2. ing.

As shown in FIG. 2, a first sample suction position B91 and a second sample suction position B92 are set in the transport region B. The sample in the sample container 401 positioned at these positions is sucked by the first dispensing unit 204 and the second dispensing unit 205 by the rack lateral feed mechanism B1.
In the transport area B, a barcode reading position B93 for reading the barcode 402 and the barcode 405 attached to the sample container 401 and the sample rack 404 is set.

  The rack storage area C is configured such that a plurality of sample racks 404 can be placed in the front-rear direction. In the rack storage area C, a rack delivery mechanism (third rack transport mechanism) C1 for transporting the placed sample rack 404 in the arrow Y2 direction is provided. The rack delivery mechanism C1 is a delivery member C11 that comes into contact with the sample rack 404 disposed at the transportation end (left end) of the transportation region B, and a moving mechanism that moves the delivery member C11 in the Y2 direction and in the opposite direction (Y1 direction). (Not shown). Then, the rack delivery mechanism C1 moves the sample rack 404 by one pitch in the Y2 direction (the width in the short direction of the sample rack 404) by moving the delivery member C11 in the Y2 direction by the moving mechanism. 404 is sent out from the conveyance area B to the rack storage area C. Therefore, the rack delivery mechanism C1 constitutes a sample rack collection unit that sends out the sample rack 404 from the conveyance end position in the conveyance area B and collects it in the rack storage area C.

  In the rack storage area C, a detection sensor C2 for detecting the presence or absence of the sample rack 404 is provided. The detection sensor C2 includes a transmission type or reflection type photosensor or the like, and is configured to detect the sample rack 404 sent to the most downstream side (conveyance end) of the rack storage area C.

(Configuration of barcode reader unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the barcode reader unit 202 is configured to be able to read the barcodes 402 and 405 arranged at the barcode reading position B93. The barcode reader unit 202 can transmit the identification information included in the barcodes 402 and 405 to the control unit 200.
In addition, detection sensors B81, B82, and B83 corresponding to the first sample suction position B91, the second sample suction position B92, and the barcode reading position B93 are provided, respectively. Each of the detection sensors B81, B82, and B83 includes a transmissive or reflective photosensor or the like, and is configured to detect the sample rack 404 and the sample container 401 conveyed to the positions B91, B92, and B93. Further, a detection sensor B84 including a transmission type or reflection type photosensor for detecting the sample rack 404 disposed at the upstream end (right end) in the X1 direction in the transport region B is provided.

(Configuration of sensor unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor unit 203 is configured to be able to acquire information for the control unit 200 to determine the presence or absence of the lid 403 of the sample container 401. The sensor unit 203 is configured to detect the presence / absence of the lid 403 based on whether or not the light emitted from above the sample container 401 by the light emitter is received by the light receiver disposed below the sample container 401. .

(Configuration of dispensing unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the first dispensing unit 204 sucks the sample from the sample container 401 transported to the first sample suction position B91 by the transport unit 201, and the cuvette at the container position 206a on the cuvette table 206c. It is configured so that the specimen can be discharged to 217. The first dispensing unit 204 rotates the arm 204a provided with the pipette to the first specimen aspirating position B91, sucks the specimen from the specimen container 401 at the position B91 via the pipette, and further moves the arm 204a. The sample is rotated to the container position 206a, and the aspirated sample is discharged into the cuvette 217 at the container position 206a. When the lid 403 is attached to the specimen container 401, the first dispensing unit 204 can suck the specimen by penetrating the lid 403 with a pipette.

  The second dispensing unit 205 can suck the sample from the sample container 401 transported to the second sample suction position B92 by the transport unit 201 and discharge the sample to the cuvette 217 held by the second table unit 207. It is configured as possible. The second dispensing unit 205 aspirates the sample by a predetermined amount determined in advance by the measurement item from the cuvette 217 that is dispensed by the first dispensing unit 204 and disposed at the container position 206b. The cuvette 217 on the two table unit 207 can be discharged.

  The second dispensing unit 205 rotates the arm 205a provided with the pipette to the second specimen aspirating position B92 or the container position 206b, and from the specimen container 401 or cuvette 217 at the position B92 or 206b via the pipette. The sample is aspirated, and the arm 205 a is further rotated to discharge the sample to the cuvette 217 on the second table unit 207.

  Note that the sample analyzer 1 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to perform two types of measurements: standard measurement and trace measurement. The standard measurement is a measurement process including a process of dispensing from the sample container 401 an amount of sample that can be measured multiple times (normal measurement and reflex test, etc.) for one measurement item. The micro measurement is a measurement process including a process of dispensing an amount of sample that can be measured once for one measurement item from the sample container 401.

The first dispensing unit 204 is used to aspirate the sample from the sample container 401 at the first sample aspirating position B91 on the transport unit 201 when performing standard measurement.
The second dispensing unit 205 is used for aspirating the specimen from the cuvette 217 at the container position 206b on the cuvette table 206c when performing standard measurement, and further on the transport unit 201 when performing minute measurement. The second specimen aspirating position B92 is used for aspirating the specimen from the specimen container 401.

(Configuration of table unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the reagent table 206d of the first table unit 206 contains a first reagent container 212b containing a first reagent, a second reagent container 214b containing a second reagent, and a third reagent. 3 is a circular table configured to hold the third reagent container 215b. The reagent table 206d can rotate both in the clockwise direction and in the counterclockwise direction.

  The cuvette table 206c of the first table unit 206 is an annular table arranged outside the reagent table 206d and configured to hold the cuvette 217 by a plurality of insertion holes (not shown). The cuvette table 206c can transfer the cuvette 217 by rotating the cuvette 217 to the container position 206a and the container position 206b in both the clockwise direction and the counterclockwise direction.

  The second table unit 207 is configured to be able to hold the cuvette 217 by an provided insertion hole (not shown) and to be slidable on the slide rail 207a in the left-right direction. The second table unit 207 waits while holding the empty cuvette 217 at the left end of the slide rail 207a, and moves to the right end of the slide rail 207a while holding the cuvette 217 to which the sample has been dispensed by the second dispensing unit 205. Is possible.

(Configuration of cuvette supply unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the cuvette supply unit 208 is configured to be able to sequentially supply a plurality of cuvettes 217 randomly input by the user to the cuvette storage unit 208a. The cuvette 217 supplied to the cuvette reservoir 208a is transferred to the cuvette table 206c by the second catcher unit 211 and to the second table unit 207 by the first catcher unit 209.

(Configuration of catcher unit and heating table unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the first catcher unit 209 can transfer the cuvette 217 held by the second table unit 207 moved to the right end of the slide rail 207a to the container position 210a of the heating unit 210. It is configured. Further, the first catcher unit 209 moves the cuvette 217 stored in the cuvette storage unit 208a to the second table unit 207 when the cuvette 217 is not held by the second table unit 207 moved to the right end of the slide rail 207a. Transport.

  The heating table unit 210 is configured to hold the cuvette 217 and to heat the specimen stored in the cuvette 217 to a predetermined temperature. The heating table unit 210 is an annular table provided with a plurality of insertion holes (not shown) for holding the cuvette 217, and is rotatable in both the clockwise direction and the counterclockwise direction. The heating table unit 210 can transfer the cuvette 217 at the container position 210a to a container position (not shown) for heating and a container position 210b. In addition, the heating table unit 210 is provided with a heater (not shown), whereby the specimen stored in the cuvette 217 held by the heating table unit 210 can be heated.

  The second catcher unit 211 is provided at a position surrounded by the annular heating table unit 210 and is configured to be able to transfer the cuvette 217. The second catcher unit 211 can transfer the cuvette 217 from the heating table unit 210 to the upper side of the first reagent position 212a and hold the cuvette 217 at the position. Further, the second catcher unit 211 can transfer the cuvette 217 into which the first reagent has been dispensed to the heating table unit 210 from above the first reagent position 212a. Further, the second catcher unit 211 can transfer the cuvette 217 stored in the cuvette storage unit 208a to the cuvette table 206c.

  The third catcher unit 213 is configured to be slidable left and right on a slide rail 213 a provided in parallel with the slide rail 207 a of the second table unit 207. The third catcher unit 213 can transfer the cuvette 217 at the container position 210b on the warming table unit 210 to the second reagent dispensing position 214a or the third reagent dispensing position 215a and hold it at that position. is there. Furthermore, the third catcher unit 213 can also transfer the cuvette 217 above the second reagent dispensing position 214a or the third reagent dispensing position 215a to the detection unit 216.

(Configuration of reagent dispensing unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the first reagent dispensing unit 212 is transferred to the first reagent dispensing position 212a by the second catcher unit 211 and accommodated in the first reagent container 212b in the held cuvette 217. The first reagent can be dispensed.

  The second reagent dispensing unit 214 is transferred to the second reagent dispensing position 214a by the third catcher unit 213, and the second reagent contained in the second reagent container 214b is transferred to the cuvette 217 held at that position. It is possible to dispense.

  The third reagent dispensing unit 215 is transferred to a position above the third reagent dispensing position 215a by the third catcher unit 213, and is stored in the third reagent container 215b in the cuvette 217 held at that position. The reagent can be dispensed.

(Configuration of inspection unit)
As shown in FIG. 2, the detection unit 216 is accommodated in the cuvette 217 transferred by the third catcher unit 213, and performs optical measurement on the sample to which the reagent is added, so that optical information of the sample is obtained. Can be detected. The detection unit 216 is provided with a plurality of insertion holes (not shown) for inserting the cuvette 217. The detection unit 216 is capable of detecting transmitted light and scattered light and outputting an electrical signal corresponding to the detected transmitted light when the sample of the cuvette 217 inserted into the insertion hole is irradiated with light.

[Configuration of information processing device]
As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing apparatus 3 includes a computer. The information processing apparatus 3 includes a control unit 301, a display unit 302, and an input device 303.
The information processing device 3 includes information such as a measurement item and determination of necessity of re-measurement to the host computer based on the identification information transmitted from the measurement device 2 or received from the measurement device 2. Inquires about the measurement order, transmits the received measurement item and determination information on whether re-measurement is necessary, or analyzes the measurement result received from the measurement apparatus 2.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the information processing apparatus 3. The control unit 301 includes a CPU 301a, a ROM 301b, a RAM 301c, a hard disk 301d, a reading device 301e, an input / output interface 301f, an image output interface 301g, and a communication interface 301i. The CPU 301a, ROM 301b, RAM 301c, hard disk 301d, reading device 301e, input / output interface 301f, image output interface 301g, and communication interface 301i are connected by a bus 301h.

The CPU 301a is provided to execute computer programs stored in the ROM 301b and computer programs loaded in the RAM 301c.
The ROM 301b is configured by a mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or the like, and stores a computer program executed by the CPU 301a, data used for the same, and the like.

  The RAM 301c is configured by SRAM, DRAM, or the like. The RAM 301c is used to read out computer programs recorded in the ROM 301b and the hard disk 301d. Further, when these computer programs are executed, they are used as a work area of the CPU 301a.

  The hard disk 301d is installed with various computer programs to be executed by the CPU 301a, such as an operating system and application programs, and data used for executing the computer programs.

  The reading device 301e is configured by a flexible disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, a DVD-ROM drive, or the like, and can read a computer program or data recorded on a portable recording medium 304 or the like.

  In addition, an operating system that provides a graphical user interface environment such as Windows (registered trademark) manufactured and sold by Microsoft Corporation is installed in the hard disk 301d.

  The input / output interface 301f includes, for example, a serial interface such as USB, IEEE1394, RS-232C, a parallel interface such as SCSI, IDE, IEEE1284, an analog interface including a D / A converter, an A / D converter, and the like. Has been. An input device 303 including a keyboard and a mouse is connected to the input / output interface 301f, and the user can input data to the information processing apparatus 3 by using the input device 303. An output device 306 such as a printer is connected to the input / output interface 301f.

  The communication interface 301i is an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface, and the information processing apparatus 3 is connected to the measurement apparatus 2 connected by a LAN cable using a predetermined communication protocol (TCP / IP) by the communication interface 301i. Can send and receive data.

  The image output interface 301g is connected to a display unit 302 configured by an LCD, a CRT, or the like, and outputs a video signal given from the CPU 301a to the display unit 302. The display unit 302 displays an image (screen) according to the input video signal.

(Operation of measuring device and information processing device)
Next, an operation of aspirating a sample from the sample container 401 by the measuring device 2 and performing a predetermined measurement, and analyzing the measurement result by the information processing device 3 will be briefly described. The following operations are performed by the control of the CPU 200a of the measuring device 2 and the CPU 301a of the information processing device 3. Here, the operation of the transport unit 201 is omitted, and will be described in detail later.

  As shown in FIG. 2, after the measurement apparatus 2 is started, first, the cuvette 217 is supplied to the cuvette storage unit 208a by the cuvette supply unit 208, and the cuvette 217 stored in the cuvette storage unit 208a is the first catcher unit. It is transferred to the second table unit 207 by 209 and transferred to the cuvette table 206c by the second catcher unit 211.

  When performing standard measurement, the cuvette 217 of the cuvette table 206c is transferred to the container position 206a. Then, the first dispensing unit 204 sucks the sample from the sample container 401 arranged at the first sample aspirating position B91, and the aspirated sample is put into the cuvette 217 arranged at the container position 206a of the cuvette table 206c. Discharged.

  Thereafter, the cuvette 217 in which the sample is dispensed at the container position 206a is transferred to the container position 206b by the cuvette table 206c. Next, 30% to 40% of the sample in the cuvette 207b transferred to the container position 206b is aspirated by the second dispensing unit 205 and discharged to the cuvette 217 held by the second table unit 207. The

  On the other hand, when performing micro measurement, the second dispensing unit 205 sucks the sample from the sample container 401 arranged at the second sample suction position B92, and the sucked sample is held in the second table unit 207. The cuvette 217 is discharged.

  The second table unit 207 moves to the right end of the slide rail 207a, and the cuvette 217 held by the second table unit 207 is transferred to the warming table unit 210 by the first catcher unit 209. Next, the cuvette 217 transferred to the heating unit is transferred above the first reagent dispensing position 212a by the second catcher unit 211. Then, the first reagent is dispensed into the cuvette 217 held by the second catcher unit 211 by the first reagent dispensing unit 212.

  When the first reagent is dispensed, the cuvette 217 held above the first reagent dispensing position 212a is transferred again to the heating table unit 210 by the second catcher unit 211. The heating table unit 210 heats the sample in the cuvette 217 for a certain time.

When the sample of the cuvette 217 heated in the heating table unit 210 reaches a predetermined temperature, the second reagent or the third reagent is dispensed into the cuvette 217.
When dispensing the second reagent, the cuvette 217 is transferred by the third catcher unit 213 from the container position 210b of the heating table unit 210 to above the second reagent dispensing position 214a, and then by the second reagent dispensing unit 214. A second reagent is dispensed into the cuvette 217.

  When dispensing the third reagent, the cuvette 217 is transferred by the third catcher unit 213 from the container position 210b of the warming table unit 210 to above the third reagent dispensing position 215a, and then by the third reagent dispensing unit 215. A third reagent is dispensed into the cuvette 217.

Next, the cuvette 217 into which the second reagent or the third reagent has been dispensed is transferred to the detection unit 216 from above the second reagent dispensing position 214a or the third reagent dispensing position 215a by the third catcher unit 213. . Next, an optical measurement is performed on the specimen in the cuvette 217 by the detection unit 216. The detection unit 216 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to transmitted light and scattered light detected when the sample of the cuvette 217 is irradiated with light.
The measuring device 2 transmits the measurement result to the information processing device 3.

  The information processing device 3 performs an analysis process on the measurement result transmitted from the measurement device 2. For example, based on the measured optical information such as scattered light and transmitted light of each specimen, analysis results such as prothrombin time (PT) and fibrinogen (Fbg) of the specimen are calculated, and the analysis results are displayed on the display unit 302. To do.

(Operation of transport unit)
21 and 22 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure of the transport operation of the sample rack 404 by the transport unit 201. FIG. 18 to 20 are schematic plan views illustrating the operation of transporting the sample rack 404 by the transport unit 201 in order. The operation of the transport unit 201 will be described with reference to this flowchart and FIGS.

  In step S <b> 1 of FIG. 21, the user manually sets the sample rack 404 holding the sample container 401 in the transport unit 201. FIG. 18 shows a state in which two sample racks 404 are set in the rack set area A. Next, in S2, the user manually activates the measuring device 2 and the information processing device 3.

  In step S <b> 3, the CPU 200 a of the measurement apparatus 2 performs a process of determining the presence or absence of the sample rack 404 in the rack set area A of the transport unit 201. This process is performed based on whether or not the sample rack 404 is detected by the detection sensor A2. When the CPU 200a determines that there is no sample rack 404 in the rack set area A (No), the process proceeds to step S4, the rack feeding operation by the rack feeding mechanism A1 is stopped, and the feeding member A11 is moved in the direction opposite to Y1. A process of retreating in the (Y2 direction) is performed.

  When the CPU 200a determines that the sample rack 404 is present in the rack set area A (Yes), the CPU 200a advances the process to step S5, and moves the engagement unit B3 of the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 in the transport area B to the movement start point position ( Perform processing to move to the standby position. FIG. 18A shows a state where the engagement unit B3 is returned to the movement start point position.

  Next, in step S6, the CPU 200a performs processing for starting transport of the sample rack 404 set in the rack setting area A by the rack feeding mechanism A1. As shown in FIG. 18A, this transport is performed by engaging the feeding member A11 with the back surfaces of both end portions of the sample rack 404 on the most upstream side in the Y1 direction and moving the feeding member A11 in the Y1 direction. .

  In step S <b> 7, the CPU 200 a performs again the process of determining the presence / absence of the sample rack 404 in the rack set area A of the transport unit 201. This process is performed to cope with a case where the user has removed the sample rack 404 from the rack set area A during the transport of the sample rack 404 by the rack feeding mechanism A1. When the CPU 200a determines that there is no sample rack 404 in the rack set area A (No), the CPU 200a proceeds to step S4, stops the rack feeding operation by the rack feeding mechanism A1, and then moves the feeding member A11 to the opposite of Y1. Retreat in the direction (Y2 direction).

  If the CPU 200a determines in step S7 that there is a sample rack 404 in the rack set area A (Yes), the process proceeds to step S8. In step S8, the sample rack is detected by the detection sensor (rack arrival sensor) B84. Processing for determining whether 404 is detected is performed. If the CPU 200a determines that the sample rack 404 has not been detected by the detection sensor B84 (No), the CPU 200a proceeds to step S9, and if the CPU 200a determines that the sample rack 404 has been detected by the detection sensor B84 (Yes). Then, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S9, the CPU 200a performs a process of stopping the feeding operation of the sample rack 404 by the rack feeding mechanism A1 and sounding an alarm for notifying the error of the feeding operation several seconds later (for example, after 5 seconds).

In step S10, the CPU 200a performs a process of stopping the operation of feeding the sample rack 404 by the rack feeding mechanism A1.
In step S11, the CPU 200a performs an operation of additionally feeding the sample rack 404 by the rack feeding mechanism A1. This operation is performed by rotating the electric motor of the moving mechanism by several pulses, and the sample rack 404 is completely fed into the transport region B. FIG. 18B shows a state in which the sample rack 404 located on the most downstream side in the Y1 direction has been completely fed into the transport region B.

Next, in step S12, the CPU 200a starts the transport operation of the sample rack 404 by the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 after a lapse of a predetermined time after the sample rack 404 is completely fed into the transport region B, and reads the sample rack 404 by barcode reading. Move toward position B93.
In this operation, first, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the air cylinder B33a in one engagement unit B3 is operated to raise the engagement claws B32a of the pair of engagement members B32 of the engagement unit B3. The concave wall 404b provided at the bottom of the sample rack 404 is caused to enter the concave portion 404b disposed on the downstream side in the X1 direction, and the pair of engaging claws B32a are separated from each other, thereby opposing wall portions 404c of the concave portion 404b. 404d is brought into contact with the pair of engaging claws B32a. As a result, the pair of engaging members B32 are engaged with the sample rack 404 in the X1 and X2 directions without gaps, and securely hold the sample rack 404. Then, the sample rack 404 is transported by rotating the electric motor B43 (see FIG. 9) of the moving mechanism B4 by a predetermined pulse and moving the engagement unit B3 in the X1 direction.

In step S13, the CPU 200a performs processing to determine whether or not the sample rack 404 has been transported to the barcode reading position B93 by the barcode reader unit 202. This determination is made based on whether or not the sample rack 404 is detected by the detection sensor B83. FIG. 19A shows a state in which the top sample container 401 of the sample rack 404 is positioned at the barcode reading position B93.
When the CPU 200a determines that the sample rack 404 has been transported to the barcode reading position B93 by the barcode reader unit 202 (Yes), the CPU 200a advances the process to step S15 and determines that the sample rack 404 has not been transported to the barcode reading position B93. If so (No), the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S14, the CPU 200a performs a process of stopping the operation of the moving mechanism B4 of the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 and sounding an alarm for notifying an error.

  In step S <b> 15, the CPU 200 a performs a process of reading the barcodes 405 and 402 attached to the sample rack 404 and all the sample containers 401 by the barcode reader unit 202. In the present embodiment, the pair of engaging members B32 of the engaging unit B3 of the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 are engaged with the concave portion 404b of the sample rack 404 without any gap in the X1 and X2 directions. The bar code 405 and 402 can be accurately read by the bar code reader unit 202 during the transport process. In the present embodiment, the accuracy is further improved by reading each barcode 405, 402 four times by the barcode reader unit 202 while the sample rack 404 is being transported.

  In step S16, the CPU 200a transmits the information read by the barcode reader unit 202 to the host computer, and performs measurement order inquiry processing. In the host computer, a measurement order including information such as the measurement items of the sample stored in the sample container 401 held in the sample rack 404 and the presence / absence of a reflex test is registered. The host computer transmits a measurement order in response to an inquiry from the CPU 200a.

  In step S17, the CPU 200a performs a process of determining whether or not the measurement order has been transmitted from the host computer. If it is determined that the measurement order has been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S18.

  In step S18 of FIG. 22, the CPU 200a determines which of the first sample aspirating position B91 and the second sample aspirating position B92 each sample container 401 held in the rack 404 is based on the measurement order received in step S17. Processing to determine whether to move to. In step S <b> 19, the CPU 200 a performs a process for starting the lateral feed operation of the rack 404 by the rack lateral feed mechanism B <b> 1.

  In step S <b> 20, the CPU 200 a performs a process of confirming whether or not the sample container 401 passing under the sensor unit 203 has a lid 403 by the sensor unit 203. In step S21, the CPU 200a performs a process of determining whether or not the sample container 401 has a lid 403 based on the result of the process of step S20.

  If it is determined in step S21 that the sample container 401 has the lid 403 (Yes), in step S22, the CPU 200a determines the sample determined in step S18 for the sample container 401 with the lid 403. Processing for determining whether or not the suction position is the first specimen suction position (normal suction position) B91 is performed.

  If it is determined in step S22 that the sample suction position of the sample container 401 is not the first sample suction position B91 (No), in step S23, the CPU 200a performs processing for stopping the transport by the rack lateral feed mechanism B1. . In this case, the movement of the engagement unit B3 is stopped by stopping the electric motor B43 of the movement mechanism B4, and the supply of compressed air to the air cylinder B33a of the engagement unit B3 is stopped.

  When it is determined in step S21 that the sample container 401 does not have the lid 403 (No), or in step S22, it is determined that the sample suction position of the sample container 401 is the first sample suction position B91. If yes (Yes), in step S24, the CPU 200a causes the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 to draw each sample container 401 held in the sample rack 404 in accordance with the measurement order for each sample container 401 by the first and second sample aspirations. A process of carrying to positions B91 and B92 is performed. FIG. 19B shows a state in which the top sample container 401 of the sample rack 404 is positioned at the first sample suction position B91.

  For example, the measurement order performs standard measurement on the first sample container 401 (the leftmost sample container 401) of the sample rack 404, performs micro measurement on the two sample containers 401, and performs the third sample container. When the standard measurement is performed on 401, the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 positions the first sample container 401 at the first sample aspirating position B91 and places the second sample container 401 on the second sample aspiration. The sample rack 404 is transported so that the third sample container 401 is positioned at the position B92 and positioned at the first sample suction position B91.

  In this case, the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 transports the sample rack 404 in the X1 direction from the barcode reading position B93 to the first sample suction position B91, and then from the first sample suction position B91 to the second sample suction position. The sample is transported in the X2 direction to B92, and then transported in the X1 direction from the second sample suction position B92 to the first sample suction position B91. That is, the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 reciprocates the sample rack 404 between the first sample suction position B91 and the second sample suction position B92.

  In the present embodiment, the pair of engaging members B32 of the engaging unit B3 of the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 are engaged with the sample rack 404 in the X1 and X2 directions without any gaps. Even if the sample rack 404 is reciprocally conveyed between the first and second sample aspirating positions B91 and B92, the conveyance pitch does not shift. Therefore, the sample container 401 held in the sample rack 404 can be directly and accurately positioned with respect to each sample suction position B91, B92.

  In step S25, the CPU 200a performs a process of determining whether or not each sample container 401 has arrived at the sample suction positions B91 and B92 without being displaced. This process is performed based on whether or not the sample container 401 is detected by the detection sensors B81 and B82 provided corresponding to the sample suction positions B91 and B92. Alternatively, it is performed based on whether or not the electric motor B43 of the moving mechanism B4 has operated by the number of pulses corresponding to the distance to be transported. When the CPU 200a determines that the sample container 401 has arrived at the predetermined sample aspiration positions B91 and B92 without being displaced (Yes), the CPU 200a proceeds to step S27 and determines that the sample container 401 has not arrived (No). ) Advances the process to step S26.

  In step S <b> 26, the CPU 200 a performs a process for stopping the conveyance by the rack lateral feed mechanism B <b> 1. In this case, the movement of the engagement unit B3 is stopped by stopping the electric motor B43 of the movement mechanism B4, and the supply of compressed air to the air cylinder B33a of the engagement unit B3 is stopped. As a result, the rod B33c of the air cylinder B33a is lowered, the pair of engaging members B32 are detached from the sample rack 404, and retracted below the transport path B2 in the transport region B. Therefore, the user can easily remove the sample rack 404 related to the occurrence of abnormality from the transport area B.

  In step S27, the CPU 200a performs a process of aspirating the specimen from the specimen container 401 positioned at the first and second specimen aspirating positions B91 and B92 by the first and second dispensing units 204 and 205. Further, before the process of aspirating the specimens from all the specimen containers 401 is completed (before the process of step S27 is completed), the CPU 200a displays the next specimen rack 404 waiting in the rack set area A. The process after step S3 of 21 is started.

  That is, in the present embodiment, since the two rack lateral feed mechanisms B1 are provided in the transport area B, the two sample racks 404 can be transported simultaneously, and the sample container 401 can be transported by one rack lateral feed mechanism B1. The bar code reader unit 202 reads the barcodes 405 and 402 affixed to the sample rack 404 and the sample container 401 by the other rack lateral feed mechanism B1. it can.

  For the next sample rack 404, the barcodes 405 and 402 of the sample rack 404 and the sample container 401 are specifically read until processing that does not interfere with the sample aspirating operation for the previous sample rack 404, and the host The process up to the inquiry of the measurement order to the computer is performed (S3 to S17). FIG. 20A shows a state in which both sample racks 404 are being transported.

In step S28, the CPU 200a transports the sample rack 404, which has been subjected to the sample aspiration processing, to the retracted position that is the end point position (left end) in the X1 direction.
Next, in step S29, the CPU 200a performs a process of determining whether or not all the measurements on the sample sucked by the first and second dispensing units 204 and 205 have been completed and the measurement result has been acquired. If it is determined that all measurement results have been acquired, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, the CPU 200a performs a process of determining whether or not the storage space for the sample rack 404 remains in the rack storage area C. This process is performed based on whether or not the sample rack 404 is detected at the downstream end in the Y2 direction of the rack storage area C by the detection sensor C2. In the rack storage area C, the sample racks 404 are transported one pitch at a time in the Y2 direction. Therefore, if the sample rack 404 exists at the downstream end in the Y2 direction, the rack storage area C is filled with the sample racks 404. Because it will be.

  If the CPU 200a determines that the storage space of the sample rack 404 remains in the rack storage area C (Yes), the process proceeds to step S32, and if the CPU 200a determines that no storage space remains (No), the step The process proceeds to S31. In step S31, the CPU 200a performs a process of sounding an alarm for notifying an error indicating that the rack storage area C is filled with the sample rack 404 (full). Further, the CPU 200a performs a process of stopping the next sample rack 404 at a position where it does not interfere with the previous sample rack 404 (for example, the first sample suction position B91) by the rack lateral feed mechanism B1.

  In step S32, the CPU 200a performs a process of sending the sample rack 404 in the Y2 direction by moving the sending member C11 of the rack sending mechanism C1 in the Y2 direction. In step S33, the delivery member C11 of the rack delivery mechanism C1 is returned to the standby position to complete the operation. FIG. 20B shows a state in which the previous sample rack 404 is sent out by one pitch in the Y2 direction, and the next sample rack 404 is positioned at the first sample suction position B91 for the sample suction operation. Indicates.

  As described above, in the sample analyzer 1 of the present embodiment, the rack lateral feed mechanism B1 of the transport unit 201 includes the pair of engaging members B32 that are engaged with the sample rack 404 by the mutually separating operation. Since the pair of engaging members B32 are engaged with the recesses 404b of the sample rack 404 without any gaps in the X1 and X2 directions, the sample rack 404 can be transported while accurately following the movement of the pair of engagement units B3. . Therefore, the transport pitch does not go wrong when the sample rack 404 is transported in any of the X1 and X2 directions. Therefore, even if the sample rack 404 is reciprocated between the first sample aspiration position B91 and the second sample aspiration position B92 in order to perform standard measurement and minute measurement, the sample rack 404 is moved to each of the aspiration positions B91 and B92. The specimen container 401 can be accurately positioned.

  In addition, since the pair of engaging members B32 are engaged with the recess 404b of the sample rack 404 without gaps in the X1 and X2 directions and substantially hold the sample rack 404, the sample rack is moved forward and backward during transport. It is less likely that the sample rack 404 is tilted. Therefore, each engagement member B32 can be constituted by a thin plate material in the front and rear, and the engagement unit B3 can be constituted compactly in the front and rear direction. As a result, the two rack lateral feed mechanisms B1 can be juxtaposed.

  The pair of engaging members B32 of the engaging unit B3 are configured to engage with the concave portion 404b of the sample rack 404 by being separated from each other while being raised, and in a stage before entering the concave portion 404b. The left and right widths of the pair of engaging members B32 are smaller than the distance between the opposing wall portions 404c and 404d of the recess 404b, and the left and right widths of the pair of engaging members B32 are enlarged after entering the recess 404b. , 404d. For this reason, the pair of engaging members B32 can be securely engaged in the X1 and X2 directions after reliably entering the recess 404b. Also, the pair of engaging members B32 can be engaged with sample racks 407 having different concave shapes and sizes as shown in FIG. 7 (see FIG. 13).

Further, since the pair of engaging members B32 are rotatably provided on the base body B31, two types of operations, that is, an approaching / separating operation and an up / down moving operation can be simultaneously performed with a simple structure.
Moreover, since these operations can be performed by one air cylinder B33a, the structure of the engagement unit B3 can be further simplified.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made.
For example, in the above embodiment, the drive source of the engagement unit B3 is constituted by the air cylinder B33a, but it can also be constituted by a hydraulic cylinder B33a or an electromagnetic solenoid. In these cases, the pair of engaging members B32 can be detached from the sample rack 404 by releasing the power of the drive source when an error occurs during the transport of the sample rack 404, and the user can The sample rack can be easily removed from the transport area B.

  Further, the pair of engagement members B32 of the engagement unit B3 may be configured to engage the sample rack 404 by being brought close to each other. In this case, the pair of engaging members B32 are respectively inserted into two adjacent concave portions 404b of the sample rack 404, and the pair of engaging members B32 are engaged so as to sandwich the wall portion 404d at the boundary between the two concave portions 404b. You can combine them. However, when the pair of engaging members B32 are separated from each other and engaged with the sample rack 404 as in the above embodiment, the sample rack has only one recess (for example, the sample rack 407 in FIG. 7). ) Can also be engaged with the pair of engaging members B32.

  In the above-described embodiment, two rack lateral feed mechanisms B1 are arranged side by side, but if there is an arrangement space, three or more rack lateral feed mechanisms B1 may be provided, or only one rack lateral feed mechanism B1 may be provided. . In the above embodiment, the sample aspirating positions B91 and B92 are set at two places, but may be set at one place or three or more places.

  In the above embodiment, the measurement order is registered in the host computer by the operator. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the measurement order may be registered in the information processing apparatus 3 by the operator.

  In the above embodiment, the sample analyzer is configured as a blood coagulation measuring device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be configured as a blood cell counter, an immune analyzer, or a biochemical analyzer. Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the conveyance unit is provided in the sample analyzer, this invention is not limited to this, For example, the conveyance unit may be provided in the smear preparation apparatus.

  In the above embodiment, the operation of the transport mechanism of the transport unit is controlled by the control unit provided in the measurement apparatus, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the control unit provided in the measurement apparatus is Alternatively, a control unit may be provided in the transport unit itself, and the transport mechanism of the transport unit may be controlled by this control unit.

  In the above embodiment, the pair of engaging members B32 are entered into the recess 404b formed at the bottom of the sample rack 404, and the pair of engagement claws B32a are separated from each other, thereby causing X1 and X2 in the recess 404b to be X1 and X2. The engaging unit B3 is engaged with the sample rack 404 by contacting the wall portions 404c and 404d on both sides in the direction, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the short side of the sample rack 404 The engaging unit B3 may be engaged with the sample rack 404 by bringing the pair of engaging claws B32a into contact with the outer peripheral portion of the wall portion 404c constituting the lower outer peripheral wall in the direction or the longitudinal direction.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Sample analyzer 2 Measuring apparatus 201 Conveyance unit 202 Bar code reader unit 204 1st dispensing unit 205 2nd dispensing unit 401 Sample container 404 Sample rack B1 Rack lateral feed mechanism B3 Engagement unit B32 Engagement member B33 Drive part B33a Air cylinder (drive source)
B35 Resistance imparting member B4 Movement mechanism B91 First sample suction position B92 Second sample suction position B93 Bar code reading position

Claims (10)

A transport device for supplying a sample to a measuring device for measuring a sample by sequentially transporting a plurality of sample racks holding sample containers containing a sample on a transport path,
A first engagement unit and a second engagement unit disposed below the transport path and having a pair of engagement members for engaging with the sample rack ;
A first and a second moving mechanism for independently moving the first and second engagement units in the direction opposite to the sample rack transport direction and the sample rack transport direction ,
Each of the first and second engagement units includes the pair of engagement members so as to be able to rise and descend,
The first engagement unit raises the pair of engagement members and engages the sample rack from below the sample rack to fix and hold the sample rack, and the first moving mechanism fixes and holds the sample rack. Moving one engagement unit in the transport direction or the reverse direction;
The second engagement unit raises the pair of engagement members and engages the sample rack from below the sample rack to fix and hold the sample rack, and the second moving mechanism fixes and holds the sample rack. conveying apparatus a second engagement unit Before moving the in the conveying direction or the reverse direction. First and second engagement unit, conveying device according to claim 1, further comprising a driving unit for operating the front Symbol pair of engagement members. The transport path includes a first groove that allows movement of the first engagement unit engaged with the sample rack by the first movement mechanism, and movement by the second movement mechanism of the second engagement unit engaged with the sample rack. The conveyance apparatus of Claim 1 or 2 with which the 2nd groove | channel which accept | permits is formed. The pair of engaging members are provided so as to be separated from each other in the transport direction of the sample rack,
Drive unit, the transport device according to any one of claims 1 to gapless engagement 3 against recess provided in the bottom of the sample rack by causing separate from each other the pair of engagement members. The transport device according to claim 3, wherein the drive unit raises the pair of engagement members to cause the pair of engagement members to enter the recess through the first groove or the second groove. The first moving mechanism transports the first sample rack in the transport path by moving the first engagement unit engaged with the first sample rack via the first groove,
The second movement mechanism moves the second engagement unit engaged with the second sample rack through the second groove, thereby conveying the second sample rack following the first sample rack in the conveyance path. The transfer apparatus according to 3 or 5 . A sample rack supply unit for supplying a sample rack to the transfer start position of the transfer path;
The sample rack supply unit supplies the first sample rack to the transfer start position of the transfer path, the first engagement unit and the first moving mechanism transfer the first sample rack to the measurement apparatus, and the sample rack supply unit The first and second engagement units, the first engagement unit, the first engagement unit, and the second movement mechanism are configured to supply the second sample rack to the transport start position and to transport the second sample rack to the measurement device. and a second moving mechanism, and a transport device according to any one of a control unit for controlling the sample rack supplying unit, from claim 1, further comprising a 6. A sample rack recovery unit for recovering the sample rack from the transfer end position of the transfer path;
The control unit conveys the first sample rack to the conveyance end position by the first engagement unit and the first moving mechanism, collects the first sample rack from the conveyance end position by the sample rack collection unit, and collects the first sample rack by the sample rack supply unit. supplying a three sample rack transport start position, the first engagement unit and the first moving mechanism to transport to supply a third sample rack to the measuring apparatus, in claim 7 further controls the sample rack collecting unit The conveying apparatus as described. A transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 ;
A control unit for controlling the operation of the conveying device;
A measuring device that dispenses a sample from a sample container in a sample rack conveyed by the conveying device, and measures the dispensed sample;
A sample analyzer comprising: an analysis unit that analyzes a measurement result obtained by the measurement device. A reading unit that reads identification information from the sample container at the conveyance reading position of the conveyance path;
The measuring device dispenses the sample from the sample container at the sample dispensing position on the transport path,
The control unit moves the sample container of the first sample rack to the sample dispensing position by the first engagement unit and the first movement mechanism, and samples the second sample rack by the second engagement unit and the second movement mechanism. The sample analyzer according to claim 9 , wherein the transport device is controlled so that the operation of transporting the container to the information reading position is performed in parallel.