KR102635367B1 - Sample processing device and sample processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention includes a sample storage device (SR) in which a sample is stored; A reagent storage unit (RR) where nucleic acid extraction reagents are stored; Material storage unit (IR) where PCR materials are stored; A well plate (WP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for nucleic acid extraction; A PCR plate (PP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) preparation or PCR; And one or more syringes, wherein the sample is sucked from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and the nucleic acid extraction reagent is drawn from the reagent reservoir (RR). Suction and discharge into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), nucleic acid extracted from the sample is suction and discharge into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP), and the PCR material or mixed PCR material is A sample processing device (1) is provided, including an injection module (30) that suctions and discharges the sample into a well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

Description

Sample processing device and sample processing method {SAMPLE PROCESSING DEVICE AND SAMPLE PROCESSING METHOD}

The present invention relates to a specimen processing device, and more specifically, to a specimen processing device and method for performing nucleic acid extraction and/or PCR setup quickly, easily, and at low cost.

For PCR diagnosis, nucleic acid must be extracted from the specimen and the extracted nucleic acid must be amplified using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction).

For nucleic acid extraction, a method using magnetic beads is widely used. Specifically, magnetic beads can be used to extract nucleic acids from specimens collected from organisms, viruses, etc.

Nucleic acid extraction methods using magnetic beads require several steps, including lysis and binding, washing, and elution. Therefore, the extraction process is complicated and time consuming. Accordingly, nucleic acid extraction devices that automatically perform the above various steps have been developed and used. Prior art related to this includes Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0013116.

However, the conventional nucleic acid extraction device only performs the nucleic acid extraction step and does not perform the nucleic acid extraction preparation (setup) step and the PCR preparation (setup) step after nucleic acid extraction. Accordingly, the user must manually transfer multiple samples to multiple wells of a well plate (extraction kit, cartridge) for nucleic acid extraction (nucleic acid extraction preparation step), and then transfer the nucleic acids extracted from the samples to multiple wells of a well plate for PCR. Each must be moved manually (PCR preparation step). Accordingly, nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation are not easy, and furthermore, PCR diagnosis is not easy.

Therefore, there is a need for a specimen processing device that automatically performs not only the nucleic acid extraction step but also the nucleic acid extraction preparation step and/or the PCR preparation step.

KR 10-2019-0013116

The present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a specimen processing device that performs nucleic acid extraction quickly, easily, and at low cost.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that improves ease of use and efficiency.

In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a sample processing device that can easily manage and track information about samples or nucleic acids contained in each well of a sample storage device, well plate, or PCR plate with a simple configuration and at low cost. It has a purpose.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which the identifiers of all sample storage devices in all sample storage racks can be recognized regardless of the insertion and installation order of the sample storage racks.

In addition, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which the fixed installation and removal of the sample storage rack is simple, easy, and implemented at low cost.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a sample processing device that is compact and lightweight.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a specimen processing device that allows nucleic acid extraction and PCR setup to be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

In addition, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a specimen processing device that allows work using PCR, such as PCR diagnosis, to be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which a cooling module has a simple configuration and can be easily implemented at low cost.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that has a simple configuration and is easy to control.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that has a simple structure, improves stability, and reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that has a simple configuration and is easy to control.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device with a simple structure, improved stability, and reduced manufacturing and maintenance costs.

In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a sample processing device that can simply and easily transfer substances between a plurality of reservoirs and a plurality of wells even if the spacing between neighboring reservoirs and the spacing between neighboring wells are different. It has a purpose.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that improves the accuracy of the suction and discharge capacity of the injection module.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a sample processing device that prevents malfunctions and performs sample processing quickly and successfully.

In addition, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that can perform sample processing correctly and effectively at low cost and with a simple configuration.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device that can reduce or prevent space waste caused by a drop catcher and protect the drop catcher.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which the tip is easily separated from the syringe at low cost with a simple configuration.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a specimen processing device in which a plate is safely lifted and transported.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which there is no need to provide a separate coupling portion for the plate and the gripper, and the coupling portion (bottom surface) between the plate and the gripper is not deformed/damaged.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which the gripper 1300 is easily implemented with a simple configuration and at low cost.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which a gripper is easily and stably coupled to and separated from the bottom surface of a plate mounted on a processing module or magnetic module.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which sample processing is performed stably because the plate cannot separate from the first plate seating portion of the processing module.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which a plate can be easily fixed and unfastened to a processing module.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which the material contained in the wells of the plate is effectively heated, thereby improving energy efficiency and effectively processing the sample.

In addition, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which a plurality of syringes inhale and discharge substances uniformly and stably with a simple structure, low cost, and ease of use.

Additionally, the purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sample processing device in which a plurality of tips are stably removed from a plurality of syringes.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention includes a sample storage device (SR) in which a sample is stored; A reagent storage unit (RR) where nucleic acid extraction reagents are stored; A well plate (WP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for nucleic acid extraction; And one or more syringes, wherein the sample is sucked from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and the nucleic acid extraction reagent is drawn from the reagent reservoir (RR). A sample processing device (1) is provided, including an injection module (30) that suctions and discharges the sample into a well (W) of the well plate (WP).

In one embodiment, the scanning module 30 may include a first scanning module 500 and a second scanning module 600, each including one or more syringes.

The first injection module 500 can suck the sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharge it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP).

The second injection module 600 can suck the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR) and discharge it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP).

The sample processing device 1 is capable of being coupled to at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP) and includes a device that elevates and lowers at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP). 1 cancer (700); a second arm (800) for lifting and lowering the second scanning module (600); A first transfer unit 900 that transfers the first arm 700 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction; And it may further include a second transfer unit 1000 that transfers the second arm 800 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

In one embodiment, it may further include a processing module 200 that heats or shakes the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

The well plates WP may be provided with a first well plate WP1 and a second well plate WP2, respectively.

While the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken by the processing module 200, the scanning module 30 suctions the sample from the sample reservoir (SR) It may be discharged into the well W of the second well plate WP2.

In one embodiment, the sample storage device (SR) may be provided with an identifier (ID) attached to the other side of the sample storage device (SR) in a first direction that intersects the vertical direction.

It may include a specimen reservoir seating portion 100 on which a plurality of the specimen reservoirs (SR) are mounted.

The sample reservoir seating portion 100 is arranged side by side in the vertical direction and in the second direction crossing the first direction and has a plurality of seating spaces (E) in which the plurality of sample reservoirs (SR) are each seated. and a sample storage rack 110 in which the identifier (ID) of the sample storage device (SR) is exposed to the other side in the first direction when the sample storage device (SR) is seated in the seating space (E); A rack installation unit 120 into which the sample storage rack 110 is inserted and installed in one direction in the second direction; and is disposed on the other side of the rack installation unit 120 in the first direction, and when the sample storage rack 110 is inserted into the rack installation unit 120 in one direction in the second direction, the sample storage rack 110 It may include a first sensor 130 that sequentially recognizes the identifiers (IDs) of the plurality of sample storage units (SR) seated in the plurality of seating spaces (E).

In one embodiment, a plurality of the specimen storage racks 110 may be inserted and installed in the rack installation unit 120 in the second direction.

When the plurality of sample storage racks 110 are inserted and installed in the rack installation unit 120, the plurality of sample storage racks 110 may be arranged side by side in the first direction.

The first sensor 130 recognizes the identifier (ID) located in a space on the other side of the second direction than the plurality of specimen storage racks 110 installed in the rack installation unit 120, or detects the rack installation unit ( It is possible to recognize the identifier (ID) passing through the other space in the second direction than the plurality of specimen storage racks 110 installed in 120).

In one embodiment, the rack installation unit 120 extends in the second direction, guides the sample storage rack 110 to be inserted in the second direction, and is installed in a direction intersecting the sample storage rack 110 and the second direction. A fixing part that is coupled with the installation guide 122 that interferes with the installation guide 122 and one end of the second direction of the sample storage rack 110 inserted along the installation guide 122 to fix the sample storage rack 110 in the second direction. It may include (124).

At least one of one end of the specimen storage rack 110 in the second direction and the fixing part 124 may be provided with a magnet (M).

One end of the specimen storage rack 110 in the second direction and the fixing part 124 may be coupled by the magnetic force of the magnet M.

In one embodiment, the rack installation unit 120 extends in the second direction, guides the sample storage rack 110 to be inserted in the second direction, and is installed in a direction intersecting the sample storage rack 110 and the second direction. A fixing part that is coupled with the installation guide 122 that interferes with the installation guide 122 and one end of the second direction of the sample storage rack 110 inserted along the installation guide 122 to fix the sample storage rack 110 in the second direction. It may include (124).

A protruding member (PM) in which one end of the specimen storage rack 110 in the second direction protrudes in the second direction and has a first groove (G1) formed on the protruding surface that is recessed inward in a direction intersecting the second direction. It has a second groove (G2) into which the protruding member (PM) is inserted in the second direction, and the fixing part (124) protrudes inside the second groove (G2) and the first groove (G1). ), or the fixing part 124 is provided with the protruding member (PM), and one end of the specimen storage rack 110 in the second direction is provided with the It may be provided with a second groove (G2) and a ball plunger (BP).

In one embodiment, a plurality of the specimen storage racks 110 may be inserted and installed in the rack installation unit 120 in the second direction.

When the plurality of sample storage racks 110 are inserted and installed in the rack installation unit 120, the plurality of sample storage racks 110 may be arranged side by side in the first direction.

The rack installation portion 120 extends in the second direction, is arranged side by side in the first direction, guides the plurality of sample storage racks 110 to be inserted in the second direction, and guides the sample storage rack 110 and the second storage rack 110 to be inserted in the second direction. It may include a plurality of installation guides 122 that interfere in a direction intersecting the direction.

At least part of the installation guide 122 includes a pair of sample storage racks 110 that have a 'T'-shaped or '+'-shaped cross-section and are respectively inserted into one side of the first direction and the other side of the second direction. There may be interference in the first direction and the vertical direction.

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes a reagent storage (RR) storing a nucleic acid extraction reagent; Material storage unit (IR) where PCR materials are stored; A well plate (WP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for nucleic acid extraction; A PCR plate (PP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) preparation or PCR; And one or more syringes, wherein the nucleic acid extraction reagent is sucked from the reagent reservoir (RR) and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP) containing or to contain the sample, and the nucleic acid extracted from the sample. An injection module (30) that sucks and discharges the PCR material or mixed PCR material into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP) and discharges it into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). A sample processing device (1) is provided, including:

In one embodiment, the injection module 30 may mix PCR materials by inhaling and discharging a plurality of the PCR materials.

In one embodiment, the scanning module 30 may include a first scanning module 500 and a second scanning module 600, each including one or more syringes.

The first injection module 500 can inhale the PCR material or mixed PCR material and discharge it into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

The second injection module 600 sucks the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and sucks the nucleic acid into the PCR plate (PP). It can be discharged into the well (W).

The sample processing device 1 is capable of being coupled to at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP) and includes a device that elevates and lowers at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP). 1 cancer (700); a second arm 800 that elevates the second scanning module 600; a first transfer unit 900 that transfers the first arm 700 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction; And it may include a second transfer unit 1000 that transfers the second arm 800 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

In one embodiment, it may further include a processing module 200 that heats or shakes the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

While the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken by the processing module 200, the injection module 30 inhales the PCR material or mixed PCR material and injects the PCR plate ( It may be possible to discharge into the well (W) of PP).

In one embodiment, it may further include a processing module 200 that heats or shakes the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

While the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken by the processing module 200, the injection module 30 can inhale and discharge a plurality of the PCR materials to mix the PCR materials. You can.

In one embodiment, a cooling module 400 that cools the material reservoir (IR) may be further included.

The cooling module 400 includes a receptor 410 that accommodates the material reservoir (IR), a thermoelectric element 420 disposed in contact with or adjacent to the receptor 410 and cooling the receptor 410, and the thermoelectric element 420. It may include a heat dissipation fan 440 that discharges heat generated from the device 420 and a heat dissipation flow path 450 that is in communication with the heat dissipation fan 440 and through which heat discharged from the heat dissipation fan 440 flows.

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 includes a first space S1 where the material storage device IR is disposed; And it may include a second space (S2) partitioned from the first space (S1) and in which wiring or a second sensor (SN) is disposed.

The heat dissipation passage 450 may be defined by at least a portion of the second space S2.

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes: a sample storage device (SR) in which a sample is stored; A reagent storage unit (RR) where nucleic acid extraction reagents are stored; Material storage unit (IR) where PCR materials are stored; A well plate (WP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for nucleic acid extraction; A PCR plate (PP) equipped with one or more wells (W) and used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) preparation or PCR; And one or more syringes, wherein the sample is sucked from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and the nucleic acid extraction reagent is drawn from the reagent reservoir (RR). Suction and discharge into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), nucleic acid extracted from the sample is suction and discharge into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP), and the PCR material or mixed PCR material is A sample processing device (1) is provided, including an injection module (30) that suctions and discharges the sample into a well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

In one embodiment, the scanning module 30 may include a first scanning module 500 and a second scanning module 600, each including one or more syringes.

The first injection module 500 sucks the sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and sucks the PCR material or mixed PCR material to the sample. It can be discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

The second injection module 600 sucks the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and sucks the nucleic acid extracted from the sample to the It can be discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

The sample processing device 1 is capable of being coupled to at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP) and includes a device that elevates and lowers at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP). 1 cancer (700); a second arm 800 that elevates the second scanning module 600; a first transfer unit 900 that transfers the first arm 700 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction; And it may further include a second transfer unit 1000 that transfers the second arm 800 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

In one embodiment, the number of syringes in the first injection module 500 and the second injection module 600 may be different.

In one embodiment, the number and spacing of syringes of the second injection module 600 may correspond to the number and spacing of wells W of the well plate WP.

In one embodiment, the first transfer unit 900 includes a first transfer motor 912, a first transfer ball screw that extends in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction and rotates by the first transfer motor 912. It may include a bolt 914 and a first transfer ball screw nut 916 that moves in a first direction as the first transfer ball screw bolt 914 rotates and is coupled to the first arm 700.

The second transfer unit 1000 includes a third transfer motor 1012, a third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 extending in a first direction and rotating by the third transfer motor 1012, and the third transfer ball. It may include a third transfer ball screw nut 1016 that moves in the first direction according to the rotation of the screw bolt 1014 and is coupled to the second arm 800.

The first transfer ball screw bolt 914 and the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 may be arranged next to each other.

In one embodiment, the first transfer motor 912 and the third transfer motor 1012 are at least partially connected to the first transfer ball screw bolt 914 and the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 in the first direction. May be placed overlappingly.

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 is installed on one side and the other of the first transfer ball screw bolt 914 and the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014, respectively, in a second direction crossing the first direction. It may further include a first transfer guide (TG1) and a second transfer guide (TG2) arranged and extending in the first direction, respectively.

The first arm 700 and the second arm 800 are both coupled to the first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2), and the first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2) It may be coupled to be movable in a first direction along.

In one embodiment, the specimen processing device 1 includes a plurality of first sliders coupled to the first transfer guide TG1 and capable of sliding in a first direction along the first transfer guide TG1. SL1); And it may further include a plurality of second sliders (SL2) coupled to the second transfer guide (TG2) so as to be slidably movable in the first direction along the second transfer guide (TG2).

The first arm 700 and the second arm 800 are both coupled to the first slider (SL1) and the second slider (SL2), and at least one of the first arm 700 and the second arm 800 is The arm may be combined with two or more first sliders (SL1) or with two or more second sliders (SL2).

In one embodiment, the first transfer unit 900 includes a first transfer coupler 920 that moves in a first direction crossing the vertical direction, and a second transfer motor 932 installed in the first transfer coupler 920. ), a second transfer ball screw bolt 934 installed on the first transfer coupler 920, extending in a vertical direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and rotating by the second transfer motor 932, A second transfer ball screw nut 936 that moves in a second direction according to the rotation of the second transfer ball screw bolt 934 and is coupled to the first arm 700, and the second transfer ball screw bolt in the first direction. A third transfer guide 938 and a fourth transfer guide 939 are disposed on one side and the other side of 934, respectively, extend in the second direction, and are coupled to the first arm 700 to be movable in the second direction. Alternatively, the second transfer unit 1000 may include a third transfer coupler 1020 moving in a first direction crossing the vertical direction, a fourth transfer motor 1032 installed on the third transfer coupler 1020, A fourth transfer ball screw bolt (1034) installed on the third transfer coupler (1020), extending in a vertical direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and rotating by the fourth transfer motor (1032), the fourth transfer ball screw bolt (1034) The fourth transfer ball screw nut 1036 moves in the second direction according to the rotation of the transfer ball screw bolt 1034 and is coupled to the second arm 800, and the fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034 moves in the first direction. ), respectively disposed on one side and the other side, each extending in a second direction, and including a fifth transfer guide 1038 and a sixth transfer guide 1039 to which the second arm 800 is movably coupled in the second direction. You can.

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 includes a second plate seating portion 310 on which the well plate (WP) is mounted, and a well plate (WP) mounted on the second plate seating portion 310. One or more wells W may further include a magnetic module 300 including one or more ring-shaped magnetic materials 322 inserted into or penetrating each well.

In one embodiment, it further includes a processing module 200 that heats or shakes the specimen or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP), or a magnetic module 300 that applies magnetic force to the material contained in the well plate (WP). ) may further be included.

The well plates WP may be provided with a first well plate WP1 and a second well plate WP2, respectively.

The processing module 200 is provided with a first processing module 200A and a second processing module 200B, or the magnetic module 300 is provided with a first magnetic module 300A and a second magnetic module 300B. Each can be provided.

While the specimen or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken by the first processing module (200A), the specimen or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the second well plate (WP2) is transferred to the second well plate (WP2). When heated or shaken by the processing module 200B, or while the first magnetic module 300A applies magnetic force to the material contained in the first well plate WP1, the second magnetic module 300B moves the second well plate WP1. Magnetic force can be applied to the material contained in the plate (WP2).

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides a sample transfer process ( S2100); The nucleic acid extraction reagent is sucked from the reagent reservoir (RR) using the scanning module 30, discharged into the well W of the well plate WP, and a predetermined process is performed to extract nucleic acid from the sample. Extraction process (S2200); And a PCR material transfer process (S2310) in which the PCR material or mixed PCR material is sucked into the injection module 30 and discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP), and the sample is transferred to the injection module 30. It provides a specimen processing method including a PCR preparation process (S2300), which includes a nucleic acid transfer process (S2320) of sucking the extracted nucleic acid and discharging it into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

In one embodiment, the predetermined process may include heating or shaking the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

The well plates WP may be provided with a first well plate WP1 and a second well plate WP2, respectively.

The sample transfer process (S2100) and nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) may be performed separately on the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2).

While the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the first well plate (WP1) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken, the second well plate (WP2) The sample transfer process (S2100) may be performed.

In one embodiment, the predetermined process may include heating or shaking the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

While the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the well plate (WP) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken, the PCR material transfer process (S2310) can be performed. there is.

In one embodiment, the predetermined process may include heating or shaking the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

The PCR preparation process (S2300) may further include a PCR material mixing process (S2400) in which the PCR materials are mixed by inhaling and discharging a plurality of the PCR materials through the injection module 30.

While the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the well plate (WP) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) can be performed. there is.

In one embodiment, the predetermined process includes heating or shaking the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP), or applying magnetic force to the material contained in the well plate (WP). can do.

The well plates WP may be provided with a first well plate WP1 and a second well plate WP2, respectively.

The nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) may be performed separately on the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2).

While the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the first well plate (WP1) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken, the second well plate (WP2) The nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed, and accordingly, the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the second well plate (WP2) is heated or shaken, or the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed in the first well plate (WP1). While this is being performed and magnetic force is applied to the material contained in the first well plate (WP1), the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the second well plate (WP2), and thus the second well plate (WP2) Magnetic force can be applied to the material contained in it.

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes a plurality of storage units (R) arranged side by side; One or more plates (P) each having a plurality of wells (W) arranged side by side; and sucking the material contained in the plurality of reservoirs (R) and discharging it into the plurality of wells (W), or sucking the material contained in the plurality of wells (W) of one of the plates (P) and discharging it into the plurality of wells (W) A sample processing method is provided including a first injection module (500) discharging into a plurality of wells (W) or a plurality of reservoirs (R) of (P).

The storage interval (IN1 or IN2) between the centers of the neighboring reservoirs (R) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4) between the centers of the neighboring wells (W) may be different from each other.

The first injection module 500 includes a plurality of first syringes 510 arranged side by side, a first injection mechanism 520 that causes the plurality of first syringes 510 to inhale or discharge the substance, and the plurality of first syringes 510. It may include an interval adjusting unit 530 that adjusts the interval between the first syringes 510.

The spacing adjusting unit 530 can adjust the spacing between the centers of the adjacent first syringes 510 to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4).

In one embodiment, each of the first syringes 510 includes a first body portion 512 having a first internal space (IS1) penetrating the front and rear ends, and a second internal space (IS2) penetrating the front and rear ends. ) is coupled to the first head portion 514, the front end of the first body portion 512, and the rear end of the first head portion 514, and the first internal space (IS1) and the second internal space ( It may include a flexible connector 516 that communicates IS2) and a first piston 518 that is inserted into the first internal space (IS1) from the rear end of the first body portion 512 and is capable of sliding. .

The distance between the centers of the adjacent first body portions 512 may be fixed.

The first injection mechanism 520 may slide the plurality of first pistons 518 relative to the plurality of first body parts 512.

The spacing adjusting unit 530 can adjust the spacing between the centers of the adjacent first head parts 514 to correspond to the storage interval interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4).

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 includes a first arm 700 that is coupled to the first scanning module 500 and lifts the first scanning module 500; And it may further include a first transfer unit 900 that transfers the first arm 700 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

The first head portion 514, first body portion 512, connector 516, and One piston (518) can all be raised and lowered together and transported in an intersecting direction up and down.

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 is detachably coupled to the first head portion 514 of the plurality of first syringes 510 and the first head portion 514 of the plurality of first syringes 510. It communicates with the first internal space (IS1) and the second internal space (IS2), respectively, and is inserted into the plurality of reservoirs (R) or the plurality of wells (W) of the plate (P) to form a plurality of reservoirs (R). Alternatively, it may further include a tip plate (TL) having a plurality of tips (TP) for suctioning substances contained in a plurality of wells (W).

The front ends of the plurality of first head portions 514 may be pressed toward the front and detachably coupled to the rear ends of the plurality of tips TP provided on the tip plate TL.

The spacing adjusting unit 530 may include a plurality of support legs 531 that are respectively coupled to the plurality of first head parts 514 to support the first head parts 514 and whose spacing can be changed. there is.

The plurality of first head parts 514 are respectively installed on the plurality of support legs 531, and the first head part 514 is supported when the tip TP is coupled to the distal end of the first head part 514. It is installed so as to be retractable by a predetermined distance from the leg 531,

A first elastic member (SP1) may be installed on each of the support legs 531 to elastically deform and press the first head portion 514 toward the ship side when the first head portion 514 retreats.

In one embodiment, the spacing adjusting unit 530 includes a plurality of first syringes 510 each extending in a direction intersecting the second direction in which the plurality of first syringes 510 are arranged side by side, but extending so as to gradually spread apart or come together. 1 It may include a spacing adjustment plate 532 on which a gap adjustment guide (IG1) is formed, and a gap adjustment drive unit 534 that relatively moves the gap adjustment plate 532 in a direction intersecting the second direction.

At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is respectively coupled to the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1) so as to be relatively movable along the extension direction of the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1). It can be.

When the gap control plate 532 is relatively moved by the gap control drive unit 534, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is moved relative to the distance along the extension direction of the plurality of first gap control guides IG1. moves to spread or gather together, and accordingly, the distance between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 can be adjusted to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well interval (IN3 or IN4).

In one embodiment, the spacing adjusting unit 530 may further include a second spacing adjusting guide (IG2) extending in a second direction.

At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 coupled to the spacing control plate 532 is coupled to the second spacing control guide (IG2) and is movable in a second direction along the second spacing control guide (IG2). can be combined.

In one embodiment, the second gap adjustment guide (IG2) may include a plurality of sub-guides (SG) arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction.

At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is each coupled to one or more sub-guides (SG) among the plurality of sub-guides (SG) and moves in the second direction along the one or more sub-guides (SG). Possibly combined.

At least a portion of the first syringes 510 adjacent to each other may be combined with different subguides (SG).

In one embodiment, the spacing adjustment unit 530 is each coupled to at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 and is directly coupled to the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides IG1, respectively, and includes a plurality of first spacing adjustment guides IG1. It may include a plurality of first gap control guide coupling portions (IGC1) each relatively movably coupled along the gap control guide (IG1).

The second gap adjustment guide (IG2) is one side guide arranged on one side and the other side of the plurality of first gap adjustment guide coupling portions (IGC1) in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction ( It may include IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B).

At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 are all coupled to the one side guide (IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B) and are movable in a second direction along the one side guide (IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B). It can be.

In one embodiment, the one-side guide (IG2A) may include a plurality of one-side sub-guides (SGA) arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction.

The other side guide (IG2B) may include a plurality of other side sub-guides (SGB) arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction.

At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is formed of at least one side sub-guide (SGA) and at least one other side sub-guide (SGA) among the plurality of one side sub-guides (SGA) and the plurality of other sub-guides (SGB), respectively. It may be coupled to the guide (SGB) and movable in a second direction along the one or more side sub-guides (SGA) and the one or more other side sub-guides (SGB).

At least a portion of the first syringes 510 that are adjacent to each other may be combined with each other on one side of the sub-guide (SGA) and may be combined with each other on the other side of the sub-guide (SGB).

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes one or more storage units (R); One or more plates (P) each having one or more wells (W); It includes one or more syringes, and sucks the material contained in the reservoir (R) and discharges it into the well (W), or sucks the material contained in the well (W) of the plate (P) and injects the material into the well (W) of the reservoir (R). An injection module (30) discharging into the well (W) or reservoir (R) of the plate (P); An arm 40 coupled to the scanning module 30 and lifting the scanning module 30; a transfer unit 50 that relatively transfers the arm 40 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction; and a drop catching unit 60.

The drop catching portion 60 enters or retreats into the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the scanning module 30 and is a tip coupled to the scanning module 30 or the scanning module 30. A drop catcher (1110 or 1210) that receives material falling from (TP) and entering or escaping the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) into the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the injection module (30). It may include a drop catcher driving unit (1120 or 1220).

The drop catcher (1110 or 1210) and the drop catcher driving unit (1120 or 1220) may be coupled to the arm (40).

In one embodiment, the scanning module 30 may be disposed on one side or the other side of the arm 40 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

When the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) enters the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the scanning module 30, the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) is located on the lower side of the scanning module 30. can do.

When the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) is retracted from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the scanning module 30, the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) is located on the lower side of the arm 40. can do.

In one embodiment, each is detachably coupled to the tip of the one or more syringes, each communicates with the interior of the one or more syringes, and the one or more wells of the one or more reservoirs (R) or the plate (P) It may further include one or more tips (TP) that are inserted into (W) and suck the material contained in the reservoir (R) or well (W).

The arm 40 can lift the scanning module 30 to allow the tip TP to enter or retreat from the reservoir R or the well W.

The drop catcher (1110 or 1210) is between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the tip (TP) in a state in which the tip (TP) is retracted from the inside of the reservoir (R) or well (W). You can enter or escape from space.

The drop catcher driving unit 1120 or 1220 may cause the drop catcher 1110 or 1210 to enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the tip (TP).

In one embodiment, a first tip removal part 1130 may be provided on one side of the drop catcher 1110 to separate the tip TP from the syringe.

In one embodiment, the first tip removal part 1130 is a predetermined part that is in contact with or adjacent to the syringe or tip (TP) in a direction intersecting the vertical direction by the arm 40 and the drop catcher driving part 1120. It may be relatively movable by location.

When the scanning module 30 is raised by the arm 40 while the first tip removal unit 1130 is moved to the predetermined position, the tip TP interferes with the first tip removal unit 1130. Pressure is applied downward and the tip TP can thus be separated from the syringe.

In one embodiment, the first tip removal unit 1130 has an insertion groove 1132 that is relatively inserted in a direction intersecting the vertical direction of the syringe or tip (TP) and partially surrounds the syringe or tip (TP). may include.

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes a plate (P) having one or more wells (W); A gripper (1300) coupled to and separated from the plate (P); An arm 40 coupled to the gripper 1300 and lifting the gripper 1300; and a transfer unit 50 that relatively transfers the arm 40 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

The gripper 1300 may include a hook 1310 coupled to the plate P while contacting the bottom surface of the plate P in the vertical direction.

Accordingly, when the plate P is lifted or transferred by the gripper 1300, arm 40, and transfer unit 50, the bottom surface of the plate P may be lifted by the hook 1310.

In one embodiment, the gripper 1300 adjusts the distance between the pair of hooks 1310 and the pair of hooks 1310 spaced apart at a predetermined distance in a second direction crossing the vertical direction to control the gripper ( 1300) may include a gripper driving unit 1320 that couples or separates the plate (P).

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 may further include a first plate seating portion 210 or a second plate seating portion 310 on which the plate P is mounted.

The first plate seating portion 210 or the second plate seating portion 310 is formed at one end and the other end in the second direction, respectively, and is disposed on one side and upward in the second direction and on the other and upward in the second direction, respectively. It is open, and when the plate (P) is seated, a pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 or a pair of second hook insertion grooves 212 are located at the lower part of the plate (P) and face the bottom surface of the plate (P) in the vertical direction. A hook insertion groove 312 may be provided.

The pair of hooks 1310 may be inserted into or removed from the pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 or the pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 in a second direction by the gripper driving unit 1320. You can.

In one embodiment, the plate (P) is formed at the bottom and protrudes outward on the side, and when projected on a horizontal plane, the plate (P) has a skirt (ST) that entirely surrounds the one or more wells (W) and forms the bottom surface. It can be provided.

The hook 1310 may be provided with a skirt insertion groove 1311 through which the skirt ST is laterally inserted and whose inner surface contacts the skirt ST upward and downward.

In one embodiment, among the pair of hooks 1310, the hook 1310 disposed on one side in the second direction is disposed at a predetermined interval on one side and the other side of the first direction that intersects the vertical direction and the second direction. It may include a first hook 1312 and a second hook 1314.

Among the pair of hooks 1310, the hook 1310 disposed on the other side in the second direction includes the third hook 1316 and fourth hook 1318 disposed at a predetermined distance from one side and the other side in the first direction. may include.

The first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314 may be coupled to each other and displaced together by the gripper driving unit 1320.

The third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1318 may be coupled to each other and displaced together by the gripper driving unit 1320.

In one embodiment, the gripper driving unit 1320 includes a gripper motor 1322; It extends in the second direction and rotates by the gripper motor 1322, the directions of the threads formed on one side and the other side in the second direction are opposite to each other, and the first hook 1312 and the second hook ( 1314) and a gripper ball screw bolt 1324 disposed between the third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1318; It is coupled to one side of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324 in the second direction, moves in the second direction according to the rotation of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324, and includes the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314. The first gripper ball screw nut 1326 is coupled; It is coupled to the other side of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324 in the second direction and moves in the second direction according to the rotation of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324, but moves in the opposite direction to the first gripper ball screw nut 1326. and a second gripper ball screw nut (1327) coupled to the third hook (1316) and the fourth hook (1316); and are respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324 in the first direction and extend respectively in the second direction, and the first gripper ball screw nut 1326 and the second gripper ball screw nut 1327 are connected to the second gripper ball screw nut 1327. It may include a first gripper guide 1328 and a second gripper guide 1329 that are coupled to be movable in one direction.

In one embodiment, among the pair of hooks 1310, the hook 1310 disposed on one side in the second direction is disposed at a predetermined interval on one side and the other side of the first direction that intersects the vertical direction and the second direction. It may include a first hook 1312 and a second hook 1314.

Among the pair of hooks 1310, the hook 1310 disposed on the other side in the second direction includes the third hook 1316 and fourth hook 1318 disposed at a predetermined distance from one side and the other side in the first direction. may include.

The length of the plate P in the first direction may be greater than or equal to the length of the plate P in the second direction.

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes one or more wells (W), the one or more wells (W) are coupled to each other and extend to entirely surround the side of the one or more wells (W), and at least the lower end thereof is provided. It includes a frame (F) that is formed to be spaced laterally at a predetermined distance from at least some of the adjacent wells (W) and forms an empty space (ES) open downward between the at least some of the adjacent wells (W). plate (P); A gripper (1300) coupled to and separated from the plate (P); An arm 40 coupled to the gripper 1300 and lifting the gripper 1300; a transfer unit 50 that relatively transfers the arm 40 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction; and a first plate seating portion 210 on which the plate P, which is transported and lowered by the gripper 1300, arm 40, and transfer unit 50, is seated, and coupled to the first plate seating portion 210. and a vibrating unit 220 that shakes the first plate seating unit 210 in a direction crossing the vertical direction, and the plate coupled to the first plate seating unit 210 and seated on the first plate seating unit 210 ( A sample processing method including a processing module 200 configured to include a fixing means 230 for fixing P) is provided.

The fixing means 230 is coupled to the first plate seating portion 210 and protrudes upward, and the plate (P) is lowered by the gripper 1300 and the arm 40 to form the first plate seating portion. When seated in 210, it may include a fixing protrusion 232 inserted into the empty space (ES).

In one embodiment, the plate (P) may include a skirt (ST) that protrudes outward from the side of the frame (F).

The fixing means 230 is coupled to the first plate seating portion 210 and the plate P is lowered by the gripper 1300 and the arm 40 and is seated on the first plate seating portion 210. A latch ( 234) may be included.

The fixing protrusion 232 and the latch 234 may face each other with the frame F and the skirt ST interposed therebetween.

In one embodiment, the processing module 200 includes a heater 240 coupled to the vibration unit 220 and the first plate seating portion 210, and seated on an upper part of the heater 240 and the first plate seating portion 210. The plate P, which is coupled to the plate seating portion 210 and seated on the first plate seating portion 210, is in contact with or adjacent to the lower portion of the one or more wells W and provides heat from the heater 240. It may include a heat conduction adapter 250 that transmits heat to the plate (P).

The plate P may have a plurality of types with different bottom shapes due to different numbers, positions, spacing, or sizes of the wells W.

The heat conduction adapter 250 may have a plurality of types including shapes corresponding to the bottom shapes of the plurality of types of plates (P).

In one embodiment, the fixing protrusion 232 may be formed on the heat conduction adapter 250.

In addition, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention includes a storage (R); One or more plates (P) each having a plurality of wells (W) arranged side by side; And by sucking the material contained in the reservoir (R) and discharging it into the plurality of wells (W), or by sucking the material contained in the plurality of wells (W) of one of the plates (P) into the other plate (P) ) provides a sample processing method including a scanning module (30) discharging into a plurality of wells (W) or reservoirs (R).

The scanning module 30 includes a first internal space (IS1) penetrating the front and rear ends, and a piston ( 518, 618, respectively, and is coupled to a plurality of syringes 510, 610 arranged side by side in the second or first direction and a plurality of pistons 518, 618, and lifts and lowers the plurality of pistons 518, 618. The plurality of syringes 510, 610 may include injection mechanism parts 520, 620 that allow the substance to be sucked in or discharged.

The injection mechanism eastern part (520, 620) includes a syringe motor (521, 621), a syringe ball screw bolt (522, 622) extending in the vertical direction and rotating by the syringe motor (521, 621), and a syringe ball screw bolt ( Syringe ball screw nuts 523 and 623, which rise and fall according to the rotation of the syringe ball screw bolts 522 and 622, are respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the second or first direction of the syringe ball screw bolts 522 and 622, respectively, in the up and down directions. A pair of syringe rods (525, 526, 625, 626) that extend and are coupled to the syringe ball screw nuts (523, 623) and move up and down together with the syringe ball screw nuts (523, 623), and the syringe ball screw bolt (522) , 622), respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the second or first direction, extending in the up and down directions, respectively, and passing through each of the pair of syringe rods 525, 526, 625, 626, and a pair of syringe rods ( A pair of syringe guides (527, 528, 627, 628) that guide the elevation of the syringe rods (525, 526, 625, 626), respectively, and a pair of syringe rods (525) extending in the second or first direction. 526, 625, 626) and piston plates 529, 629 coupled to the plurality of pistons 518, 618.

In one embodiment, the scanning module 30 extends in the second direction or the first direction and is coupled to the syringe ball screw bolts 522, 622 or a support frame through which the syringe ball screw bolts 522, 622 penetrate. It may include (SF1, SF2).

The pair of syringe guides 527, 528, 627, and 628 may be combined with the support frames SF1 and SF2.

In one embodiment, the pair of syringe guides 527, 528, 627, and 628 may be installed penetrating the support frames SF1 and SF2.

In one embodiment, the piston plates (529, 629) may be disposed below the syringe ball screw bolts (522, 622) and syringe ball screw nuts (523, 623).

In one embodiment, the plurality of syringes 610 may be arranged side by side in a first direction.

The pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction, respectively.

The pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 may be respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction.

The piston plate 629 may extend in a first direction.

The scanning module 30 may include a body portion 612 in which a plurality of first internal spaces IS1 are formed side by side in a first direction.

The pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 may be combined with the body portion 612.

In one embodiment, the injection mechanism parts 520 and 620 are respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolts 522 and 622 in the second or first direction and extend in the vertical direction, respectively, and include the syringe ball. Screw nuts (523, 623) and the pair of syringe rods (525, 526, 625, 626) are movable in the vertical direction, one side syringe guide (524A, 624A) and the other side syringe guide (524B, 624B) It can be included.

In one embodiment, the plurality of syringes 610 may be arranged side by side in a first direction.

The pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction, respectively.

The pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 may be respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction.

The piston plate 629 may extend in a first direction.

The scanning module 30 may include a body portion 612 in which a plurality of first internal spaces IS1 are formed side by side in a first direction.

Each of the syringes 610 may include a head portion 614 having a second internal space (IS2) that passes through the front and rear ends and whose rear end communicates with the front end of the first internal space (IS1).

Each of the plurality of head portions 614 is detachably coupled to each other, each communicates with the first internal space (IS1) and the second internal space (IS2) of the plurality of syringes 610, and is connected to the reservoir (R) or the It may further include a plurality of tips (TP) that are inserted into the plurality of wells (W) of the plate (P) and suction the substances contained in the reservoir (R) or the plurality of wells (W).

The scanning module 30 is a syringe support frame 632 that extends in a first direction and is in contact with or adjacent to the body portion 612 in the vertical direction and has a plurality of head portions 614 installed parallel to each other in the first direction. ), a tip removal plate ( 634) and a tip removal unit 630, which is coupled to the tip removal plate 634 and includes restoration means for raising the tip removal plate 634 to its original position when the tip removal plate 634 is lowered. It can be included.

When the tip removal plate 634 is lowered, the plurality of head portions 614 pass through the plurality of interference holes, but the plurality of tips TP do not pass through the plurality of interference holes, and accordingly, the plurality of tips (TP) TP) can be removed from the plurality of head portions 614.

The tip removal plate 634 can be lowered by being pressed by the pair of syringe rods 625 and 626.

In one embodiment, the plurality of syringes 610 may be arranged side by side in a first direction and a second direction.

The pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction, respectively.

The pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 may be respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction.

The piston plate 629 may extend in a first direction and a second direction.

The pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 and the pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 are disposed in the center of the plurality of syringes 610 in the second direction with the syringe 610 disposed in the second direction. May overlap.

According to embodiments of the present invention, nucleic acid extraction can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the usability and efficiency of the sample processing device 1 can be improved.

According to embodiments of the present invention, information about the sample or nucleic acid contained in each well (W) of the sample storage device (SR), well plate (WP), or PCR plate (PP) can be easily stored at low cost with a simple configuration. Can be managed and tracked.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the identifiers (IDs) of all sample storage units (SRs) of all sample storage racks 110 can be recognized regardless of the insertion and installation order of the sample storage racks 110.

According to embodiments of the present invention, fixed installation and removal of the sample storage rack 110 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the sample processing device 1 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

According to embodiments of the present invention, nucleic acid extraction and PCR setup can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

According to embodiments of the present invention, work using PCR, such as PCR diagnosis, can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the cooling module 400 can be easily implemented at low cost with a simple configuration.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the sample processing device 1 can have a simple configuration and easy control.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the structure of the sample processing device 1 can be simplified, stability can be improved, and manufacturing and maintenance costs can be reduced.

According to embodiments of the present invention, even if the spacing between neighboring reservoirs (R) and the spacing between neighboring wells (W) are different from each other, a plurality of reservoirs (R) and a plurality of reservoirs (R) can be scanned using one first scanning module 500. Materials can be transferred simply and easily between the wells (W).

According to embodiments of the present invention, the accuracy of the suction and discharge capacity of the first injection module 500 can be improved.

According to embodiments of the present invention, malfunction of the sample processing device 1 can be prevented and sample processing can be performed quickly and successfully.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the spacing of at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 can be accurately and stably adjusted.

According to embodiments of the present invention, sample processing can be performed correctly and effectively at low cost and easily with a simple configuration.

According to embodiments of the present invention, space waste caused by the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) can be reduced or prevented, and the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) can be protected.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the tip (TP) can be easily separated from the syringe at low cost with a simple configuration.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the plate P can be safely lifted and transported.

According to embodiments of the present invention, there is no need to provide a separate coupling portion for the plate (P) with the gripper 1300, and the coupling portion (bottom surface) of the plate (P) and the gripper 1300 may not be deformed/damaged. there is.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the gripper 1300 can be easily implemented at low cost with a simple configuration.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the gripper 1300 can be easily and stably coupled to and separated from the bottom surface of the plate P mounted on the processing module 200 or the magnetic module 300.

According to embodiments of the present invention, since the plate P cannot leave the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200, sample processing can be performed stably.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the plate P can be easily fixed and unfastened to the processing module 200.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the material contained in the well W of the plate P is effectively heated, so the energy efficiency of the sample processing device 1 can be improved and sample processing can be performed effectively.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of syringes 510 and 610 can inhale and discharge substances easily, uniformly and stably at low cost with a simple configuration.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a pair of syringe guides (527, 528, 627, 628) on one side and the other in the second or first direction are stably supported by the support frames (SF1, SF2). You can. Therefore, the plurality of syringes 510 and 610 can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge substances.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a pair of syringe guides (527, 528, 627, 628) on one side and the other in the second or first direction are stably supported by the support frames (SF1, SF2). You can. Therefore, the plurality of syringes 510 and 610 can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge substances.

According to embodiments of the present invention, one side and the other side of the piston plates 529 and 629 in the second or first direction may be uniformly pressed. Accordingly, the plurality of syringes 510 and 610 can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge substances.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of pistons 618 arranged side by side in the first direction can stably enter or exit the plurality of first internal spaces IS1. Accordingly, the plurality of syringes 510 and 610 can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge substances.

According to embodiments of the present invention, one side and the other side of the piston plate (529, 629) in the second or first direction are uniformly distributed by one side syringe guide (524A, 624A) and the other side syringe guide (524B, 624B). It can be pressurized. Accordingly, even if the injection mechanism parts 520 and 620 are provided with one syringe ball screw bolt 522 and 622 and one syringe ball screw nut 523 and 623, a plurality of syringes arranged side by side in the second or first direction ( 510, 610) can inhale and discharge substances uniformly and stably.

According to embodiments of the present invention, since a separate configuration for lowering the tip removal plate 634 is not required, the tip removal unit 630 can be easily implemented with a simple configuration at low cost. In addition, since one side and the other side of the tip removal plate 634 in the first direction can be uniformly pressed by the pair of syringe guides 627 and 628, a plurality of tips (TP) arranged side by side in the first direction It can be stably removed from the plurality of head parts 614.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the piston plates (529, 629) are operated by a pair of syringe rods (525, 526, 625, 626) and a pair of syringe guides (527, 528, 627, 628). One side and the other side in one direction and one side and the other side in the second direction can all be pressed uniformly. Accordingly, even if the plurality of syringes 610 are arranged side by side in the first and second directions, the plurality of syringes 610 arranged side by side in the first and second directions can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge the substance. .

In addition to the above-described effects, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

1 to 3 are perspective views showing a sample processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 4 and 5 are front and rear views of the sample processing device of Figures 1 to 3.
Figure 6 is a partial perspective view enlarged from the dotted line portion of Figure 1.
Figure 7 is a partial perspective view showing the state of Figure 6 with the well plate and PCR plate removed.
Figure 8 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the specimen reservoir seating portion of Figures 1 to 7.
Figure 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the sample storage device of Figures 1 to 8.
Figures 10 and 11 are a perspective view and a side view showing the specimen storage rack of the specimen reservoir seating portion of Figure 8.
Figure 12 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the rack installation part of the specimen reservoir seating part of Figure 8.
Figures 13 to 15 are side and front views showing a state in which a plurality of sample reservoirs are seated on the specimen reservoir seating portion of Figure 8.
Figures 16 and 17 are perspective views showing the well plates of Figures 1 to 6.
Figures 18 to 22 are perspective views, exploded perspective views, and side views showing the main components of the processing modules of Figures 3 and 5 to 7.
Figures 23 and 24 are plan views and perspective views showing a partial configuration of the vibration unit of the processing module of Figures 18 to 22.
Figure 25 is a perspective view showing the first plate seating portion of the processing module of Figures 18 to 22.
Figure 26 is a perspective view showing the heat conduction adapter of the processing module of Figures 18 to 22.
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a partial configuration of the processing module and the well plate in a state in which the well plate is seated on the first plate seating portion of the processing module of FIGS. 18 to 22.
Figures 28 and 29 are exploded perspective views showing the magnetic modules of Figures 6 and 7.
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the well plate is seated on the second plate seating portion of the magnetic module of FIGS. 28 and 29.
Figures 31 and 32 are perspective views showing the PCR plates of Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6.
Figures 33 and 34 are perspective and exploded perspective views showing the tip plate and tip of Figures 1 to 7.
Figures 35 to 37 are perspective and exploded perspective views of the cooling module on which the material storage device is mounted.
Figure 38 is an enlarged partial front view of the area where the cooling module is installed with the barrier removed in Figures 1, 2, and 4.
Figures 39 to 44 are perspective and exploded perspective views showing the first scanning module 500, first arm 700, first drop catching unit 1100, and gripper 1300 of Figures 1 to 5.
Figures 45 to 48 are an exploded perspective view, left side view, and front view showing the first scanning module of Figures 39 to 44.
Figure 49 is a partial left side view enlarged from the dotted line portion of Figure 47.
Figures 50 and 51 are diagrams schematically showing the connection pipe of the first syringe to the first injection module of Figures 48 and 49.
Figures 52 to 54 are right side views and front views showing partial configurations of the first syringe and the spacing adjustment portion of the first injection module of Figures 45 to 51.
Figure 55 is an exploded perspective view showing a partial configuration of the first syringe and the spacing adjustment part of the first injection module of Figures 45 to 54.
Figure 56 is an exploded perspective view of the first drop catching portion of Figures 39 to 44.
Figure 57 is a state diagram showing a state in which the first drop catcher of the first drop catching part of Figures 39 to 44 and Figure 56 enters the reservoir or the space between the well and the tip.
Figure 58 is a state diagram showing a state in which the first tip removal part of the first drop catching part of Figures 39 to 44, 56 and 57 has been moved to a predetermined position in contact with the first head part of the first syringe of the first injection module .
Figure 59 is a state diagram showing a state in which the first injection module is raised in the state 58 and the tip is removed from the first head of the first syringe of the first injection module.
Figures 60 to 62 are perspective, side and bottom views of the gripper of Figures 39 to 44.
Figure 63 is a state diagram showing a state in which the gripper is coupled to the well plate.
Figures 64 to 67 are perspective and exploded perspective views showing the second scanning module 600, the second arm 800, and the second drop catching unit 1200 of Figures 1 to 5.
Figure 68 is a perspective view of the second scanning module of Figures 64 to 67 with some components omitted.
Figure 69 is a cross-sectional view showing the second scanning module of Figures 64 to 68.
Figure 70 is a state diagram showing a state in which the second piston of the second syringe of the second injection module of Figure 69 is lowered.
Figure 71 is a state diagram showing a state in which the second piston of the second syringe of the second injection module of Figure 70 is further lowered and the tip is removed from the second syringe.
Figure 72 is an exploded perspective view of the second drop catching portion of Figures 64 to 67.
Figure 73 is a state diagram showing a state in which the second drop catcher of the second drop catching unit of Figures 64 to 67 and Figure 72 enters the reservoir or the space between the well and the tip.
Figure 74 is an exploded perspective view of the first transfer unit and the second transfer unit of Figs. 1 to 5.
Figure 75 is a perspective view showing the first sub-transfer unit of the first transfer unit and the third sub-transfer unit of the second transfer unit of Figure 74.
FIG. 76 is a perspective view showing the second sub-transfer unit of the first transfer unit of FIG. 74.
FIG. 77 is a perspective view showing the fourth sub-transfer unit of the second transfer unit of FIG. 74.
Figures 78 to 80 are flowcharts showing examples of a sample processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be subject to various changes and may be implemented in various different forms. This example is provided solely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but substitutes or adds to the configuration of one embodiment and the configuration of another embodiment, as well as all changes and equivalents included in the technical spirit and scope of the present invention. It should be understood to include substitutes.

The attached drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings, and all changes, equivalents, and changes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention are not limited. It should be understood to include water or substitutes. In the drawings, components may be expressed exaggeratedly large or small in size or thickness for convenience of understanding, etc., but the scope of protection of the present invention should not be construed as limited due to this.

The terms used in this specification are only used to describe specific implementations or examples, and are not intended to limit the invention. And singular expressions include plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the specification, terms such as ~include, ~consist of, etc. are intended to indicate the existence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof described in the specification. In other words, terms such as ~include, ~consist, etc. in the specification. It should be understood that this does not exclude in advance the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When a component is said to be "connected" or "connected" to another component, it is understood that it may be directly connected to or connected to the other component, but that other components may exist in between. It should be. On the other hand, when it is mentioned that a component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

When a component is referred to as being "on top" or "below" another component, it should be understood that not only is it placed directly on top of the other component, but there may also be other components in between. .

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the related technology, and unless explicitly defined in the present application, should not be interpreted in an ideal or excessively formal sense. No.

The sample processing device and sample processing method disclosed in the following examples will be examined in more detail with reference to each drawing.

[Sample processing device]

1 to 3 are perspective views showing a sample processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 4 and 5 are front and rear views of the sample processing device of Figures 1 to 3. Figure 6 is a partial perspective view enlarging the dotted line portion of Figure 1, and Figure 7 is a partial perspective view showing the state of Figure 6 with the well plate and PCR plate removed.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7 , the sample processing device 1 according to one embodiment may include a base 10 and a support frame 12. The sample processing device 1 may include at least one of a main frame 20, a barrier 14, and a waste unit 16. The sample processing device 1 may include a reservoir (R), a plate (P), and a scanning module (30). The sample processing device 1 may include an arm 40 and a transfer unit 50. The sample processing device (1) includes a tip plate (TL), a sample reservoir seating portion (100), a processing module (200), a magnetic module (300), a cooling module (400), a drop catching portion (60), and a gripper (1300). ) may include at least one of the following.

The base 10 may have a plate shape extending in a first direction (eg, left-right direction) and a second direction (eg, front-to-back direction). All of the above-described components can be placed on top of the base 10.

The support frame 12 may be coupled to the base 10. The support frame 12 may form the overall framework of the sample processing device 1. The support frame 12 may be combined with the transfer unit 50. The support frame 12 may support the transfer unit 50 and the scanning module 30 coupled to the transfer unit 50. The support frame 12 may support at least one of the drop catching unit 60 and the gripper 1300 coupled to the transfer unit 50.

The main frame 20 may be arranged upward from the base 10 at a predetermined distance apart. A tip plate seating portion 22, a reagent reservoir seating portion 24, and a PCR plate seating portion 26 may be provided on the top of the main frame 20. At least a portion of the specimen reservoir seating portion 100, a processing module 200, a magnetic module 300, and a cooling module 400 may be provided on the upper part of the main frame 20.

The main frame 20 may be formed with one or more main frame sensing holes (MH) that penetrate upward and downward, are recessed inward, and are open upward and downward (FIG. 7). The main frame sensing hole (MH) may be formed in the tip plate seating portion 22, the reagent reservoir seating portion 24, the PCR plate seating portion 26, or the lower portion of the magnetic module 300 (FIG. 7).

The tip plate seating portion 22, the reagent reservoir seating portion 24, the PCR plate seating portion 26, or the magnetic module 300 has a seating portion sensing hole (SH) that penetrates up and down or is recessed inward and opens up and down. may be formed (Figure 7, Figure 28 to Figure 30). The seat sensing hole (SH) may communicate vertically with the main frame sensing hole (MH).

A pair of hook insertion grooves (HH) may be formed in the PCR plate seating portion 26. A pair of hook insertion grooves (HH) may be formed on one end and the other end of the PCR plate seating portion 26 in the second direction, respectively. The pair of hook insertion grooves (HH) may be open on one side and upward in the second direction and on the other side and upward in the second direction, respectively. A pair of hook insertion grooves (HH) may be located at the bottom of the PCR plate (PP) when the PCR plate (PP) is seated. A pair of hook insertion grooves (HH) may face the bottom surface of the PCR plate (PP) in the vertical direction. A pair of hooks 1310 of the gripper 1300, which will be described later, may be inserted into the pair of hook insertion grooves HH.

Barrier 14 may be combined with base 10 and mainframe 20. The barrier 14 can, together with the main frame 20, divide a first space (S1) above the main frame 20 and a second space (S2) between the base 10 and the main frame 20 ( Figure 4, Figure 5).

A wiring (not shown) and/or a second sensor SN may be placed in the second space S2.

The second sensor SN may be an optical sensor. The second sensor SN may be disposed at the tip plate seating portion 22, the reagent reservoir seating portion 24, the PCR plate seating portion 26, or the lower portion of the magnetic module 300 (FIG. 5). The second sensor (SN) determines whether the tip plate (TL) is seated on the tip plate seat 22 through the main frame sensing hole (MH) and the seat sensing hole (SH), and determines whether the reagent reservoir (RR) is connected to the reagent. It is possible to detect whether the reservoir is seated on the reservoir 24, whether the PCR plate (PP) is seated on the PCR plate seat 26, or whether the well plate (WP) is seated on the magnetic module 300. .

The waste portion 16 may be disposed on the side of the mainframe 20. The waste unit 16 may have a waste space open upward. When the base 10 is located at the lower part of the waste part 16 and has a through hole penetrating the base 10 upward and downward, the waste space of the waste part 16 is opened downward and the waste space of the base 10 is opened downward. It may be in communication with the through hole. The tip (TP), etc. may be disposed of and accommodated in the waste space of the waste part 16, or the tip (TP), etc. may be disposed of to the lower side of the base 10 through the waste space of the waste part 16.

The reservoir (R) may be a sample reservoir (SR), a reagent reservoir (RR), or a material reservoir (IR).

The reagent reservoir (RR) may be seated on the reagent reservoir seating portion 24 (FIG. 5). The reagent reservoir (RR) may have a receiving space that is open upward. Nucleic acid extraction reagents may be stored in the accommodation space of the reagent reservoir (RR). Nucleic acid extraction reagents may include lysis (dissolution) buffer, washing (washing) buffer, elution (elution) buffer, etc. Nucleic acid extraction reagents may include magnetic beads.

The sample storage device (SR) and material storage device (IR) will be described later.

The plate (P) may be a well plate (WP) or a PCR plate (PP). The PCR plate (PP) can be seated on the PCR plate seating portion 26 (FIG. 4). The well plate (WP) and PCR plate (PP) will be described later.

The tip plate TL may be seated on the tip plate seating portion 22 (FIG. 4). The tip plate (TL) will be described later.

Hereinafter, sample storage unit (SR), material storage unit (IR), well plate (WP), PCR plate (PP), tip plate (TL), sample storage unit seating unit (100), processing module (200), magnetic Let's look at the module 300, cooling module 400, scanning module 30, arm 40, transfer unit 50, drop catching unit 60, and gripper 1300.

[Specimen storage device, sample storage device attachment part]

Figure 8 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the specimen reservoir seating portion of Figures 1 to 7. Figure 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the sample storage device of Figures 1 to 8. Figures 10 and 11 are a perspective view and a side view showing the specimen storage rack of the specimen reservoir seating portion of Figure 8. Figure 12 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the rack installation part of the specimen reservoir seating part of Figure 8. Figures 13 to 15 are side and front views showing a state in which a plurality of sample reservoirs are seated on the specimen reservoir seating portion of Figure 8.

Referring further to FIGS. 8 to 15, a plurality of sample reservoirs (SR) may be mounted on the specimen reservoir seating unit 100 according to one embodiment.

The sample reservoir (SR) may be tube-shaped. The sample storage device (SR) may have an internal space that is open upward. Samples may be stored in the internal space of the sample storage device (SR).

The sample storage device (SR) may be provided with an identifier (ID). The identifier (ID) may be attached to the other side (eg, right side) of the first direction (eg, left and right direction) that intersects the up and down direction (FIG. 9). An identifier (ID) can be used to identify the sample stored in the sample repository (SR). The identifier (ID) may be a barcode.

The sample storage unit seating unit 100 may include a sample storage rack 110, a rack installation unit 120, and a first sensor 130.

The sample storage rack 110 may be provided with a plurality of seating spaces (E). The plurality of seating spaces E may be arranged side by side in a vertical direction and a second direction (eg, front-to-back direction) that intersects the first direction. A plurality of sample storage units (SR) may be respectively seated in a plurality of seating spaces (E).

When the sample storage device (SR) is seated in the seating space (E) of the sample storage rack (110), the identifier (ID) of the sample storage device (SR) may be exposed to the other side of the first direction (for example, to the right). there is. For example, as shown in the drawing, the seating space (E) is opened to the other side in the first direction, so that the identifier (ID) of the sample storage device (SR) can be exposed to the other side in the first direction.

The sample storage rack 110 may be installed in the rack installation unit 120 by being inserted into one side of the second direction (eg, toward the rear). A plurality of sample storage racks 110 may be inserted and installed in the rack installation unit 120 in the second direction. When a plurality of sample storage racks 110 are inserted and installed into the rack installation unit 120, the plurality of sample storage racks 110 may be arranged side by side in the first direction (FIG. 8).

The rack installation unit 120 may include an installation guide 122 and a fixing unit 124 (FIG. 12).

The installation guide 122 may extend in the second direction. The installation guide 122 may guide the sample storage rack 110 to be inserted in the second direction. The installation guide 122 may interfere with the sample storage rack 110 in a direction that intersects the second direction (for example, the vertical direction and/or the first direction).

A plurality of installation guides 122 may be provided. Each of the plurality of installation guides 122 may extend in the second direction. A plurality of installation guides 122 may be arranged side by side in the first direction (FIGS. 8, 12, and 15). The plurality of installation guides 122 may guide the plurality of sample storage racks 110 to be inserted in the second direction.

The plurality of installation guides 122 may interfere with the specimen storage rack 110 in a direction intersecting the second direction (for example, the vertical direction and/or the first direction). At least some of the installation guides 122 include a pair of cross-sections that have a 'T' shape or a '+' shape and are respectively inserted into one side (e.g., left) and the other side (e.g., right) of the first direction in the second direction. It may interfere with the sample storage rack 110 in the first direction and the vertical direction (FIG. 15).

Paragraph 1-8 // Accordingly, the number of installation guides 122 can be reduced, making it possible to miniaturize and lighten the sample reservoir mounting portion 100 and the sample processing device 1.

The fixing part 124 may be disposed on one side (eg, rear side) of the installation guide 122 in the second direction. The fixing part 124 is coupled to one end (e.g., the rear) of the sample storage rack 110 inserted along the installation guide 122 in the second direction to fix the sample storage rack 110 in the second direction. (Figure 13, Figure 14).

At least one of one end and the fixing part 124 in the second direction of the specimen storage rack 110 may be provided with a magnet (M). For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the fixing part 124 may be provided with a magnet (M). One end of the sample storage rack 110 in the second direction and the fixing portion 124 may be coupled by the magnetic force of the magnet M.

Paragraph 1-6 // Accordingly, the fixed installation and removal of the specimen storage rack 110 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost.

11 and 12, one end of the specimen storage rack 110 in the second direction is provided with a protruding member (PM), and the fixing part 124 is provided with a second groove (G2) and a ball plunger (BP). , Unlike the drawing, the fixing part 124 may be provided with a protruding member (PM), and one end of the specimen storage rack 110 in the second direction may be provided with a second groove (G2) and a ball plunger (BP).

Here, the protruding member PM may protrude in the second direction. A first groove G1 that is recessed inward in a direction intersecting the second direction (eg, vertical direction) may be formed on the protruding surface of the protruding member PM (FIG. 11). The protruding member PM may be inserted into the second groove G2 in a second direction. The ball plunger BP may include a ball that protrudes inside the second groove G2 and is inserted into the first groove G1 ( FIGS. 12 to 14 ).

Paragraph 1-7 // Accordingly, fixed installation and removal of the sample storage rack 110 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost.

The first sensor 130 may be disposed on the other side (eg, right side) in the first direction than the rack installation unit 120 (FIG. 8). The first sensor 130 detects a plurality of specimens seated in the plurality of seating spaces (E) of the specimen storage rack 110 when the specimen storage rack 110 is inserted into the rack installation unit 120 in one direction in the second direction. The identifier (ID) of the storage device (SR) can be recognized in order.

Paragraph 1-4 // Accordingly, by simply installing the sample storage rack 110 on which the sample storage device (SR) is mounted on the rack installation unit 120, information about the sample stored in each sample storage device (SR) can be recognized automatically. Accordingly, information about the sample stored in each sample storage device (SR), information about the sample or nucleic acid contained in each well (W) of the well plate (WP) after the sample is transferred to the well plate (WP), Furthermore, after the nucleic acid is transferred to the PCR plate (PP), information about the nucleic acid contained in each well (W) of the PCR plate (PP) can be easily managed and tracked with a simple configuration at low cost.

The first sensor 130 recognizes an identifier (ID) located in a space on the other side of the second direction than the plurality of specimen storage racks 110 installed in the rack installation unit 120, or recognizes the plurality of specimen storage racks 110 installed in the rack installation unit 120. It is possible to recognize an identifier (ID) passing through a space on the other side of the sample storage rack 110 in the second direction.

Paragraph 1-5 // Accordingly, the sample storage rack 110 that is first inserted and installed in the rack installation section 120 and the sample storage rack 110 that is newly inserted and installed in the rack installation section 120 by covering the sample storage unit (SR). ) can prevent the problem of the identifier (ID) of the specimen storage device (SR) being not recognized. That is, regardless of the order in which the plurality of sample storage racks 110 are inserted and installed, the identifiers (IDs) of all sample storage devices (SRs) mounted on all sample storage racks 110 can be recognized.

[Well plate]

Figures 16 and 17 are perspective views showing the well plates of Figures 1 to 6.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17 , a plate (P) according to an embodiment, for example, a well plate (WP), may be provided with one or more wells (W). A plate (P), such as a well plate (WP), may include a frame (F). The plate (P), for example, the well plate (WP), may include a skirt (ST). Well plates (WP) can be used for nucleic acid extraction.

Each well (W) may have a receiving space that is open upward. The receiving space of the well (W) may contain magnetic beads, nucleic acid extraction reagent, specimen, or nucleic acid extracted from the specimen.

The frame (F) may be combined with one or more wells (W). The frame (F) may be extended to entirely surround the side of one or more wells (W). The frame (F) may be formed so that at least a lower end thereof is spaced laterally at a predetermined distance from at least some of the adjacent wells (W). Accordingly, the frame F may form an empty space ES open downward between the frame F and at least some of the adjacent wells W (FIG. 17).

The skirt (ST) may be formed to protrude outward from the side of the frame (F). The skirt (ST) is formed at the bottom of the plate (P) and may protrude outward to the side. The skirt (ST) can entirely surround one or more wells (W) when projected on a horizontal plane. The skirt (ST) may form the bottom surface of the plate (P).

The well plate WP may be seated on the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200 or the second plate seating portion 310 of the magnetic module 300.

Meanwhile, a plurality of well plates (WP) may be provided. For example, a first well plate (WP1) and a second well plate (WP2), which are well plates (WP), may be provided (FIGS. 4 to 6).

[Processing module]

Figures 18 to 22 are perspective views, exploded perspective views, and side views showing the main components of the processing modules of Figures 3 and 5 to 7. Figures 23 and 24 are plan views and perspective views showing a partial configuration of the vibration unit of the processing module of Figures 18 to 22. Figure 25 is a perspective view showing the first plate seating portion of the processing module of Figures 18 to 22. Figure 26 is a perspective view showing the heat conduction adapter of the processing module of Figures 18 to 22. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a partial configuration of the processing module and the well plate in a state in which the well plate is seated on the first plate seating portion of the processing module of FIGS. 18 to 22.

Referring further to FIGS. 18 to 27 , the processing module 200 according to one embodiment may include a first plate seating portion 210, a vibration portion 220, and a fixing means 230. The processing module 200 may include a heater 240 and a heat conduction adapter 250. The processing module 200 can heat or shake the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP).

A plate (P), for example, a well plate (WP), may be seated on the first plate seating portion 210. For example, the plate P transported and lowered by the gripper 1300, arm 40, and transfer unit 50 may be seated on the first plate seating unit 210. A seating portion sensing hole (SH) that penetrates upward and downward or is recessed inward and opens upward and downward may be formed in the first plate seating portion 210 (FIGS. 18, 19, and 25).

The first plate seating portion 210 may be provided with a pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 (FIG. 25).

A pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 may be formed on one end and the other end of the first plate seating portion 210 in the second direction, respectively. The pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 may be open on one side and upward in the second direction and on the other side and upward in the second direction, respectively. The pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 may be located at the lower part of the plate (P) when the plate (P) is seated. The pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 may face the bottom surface of the plate P in the vertical direction. A pair of hooks 1310 of the gripper 1300, which will be described later, may be inserted into the pair of first hook insertion grooves 212.

The vibrating unit 220 is coupled to the first plate seating unit 210 and can shake the first plate seating unit 210 in a direction crossing the vertical direction (for example, the horizontal direction).

The vibrating unit 220 may include a motor 221, a rotating unit, an eccentric rotating unit 225, an eccentric rotating unit coupler 226, a buffer unit 227, and a fixing unit 228. The vibration unit 220 may include a driving pulley 222, a driven pulley 223, and a belt 224.

The motor 221 may be installed on the top of the base 10. The motor 221 may be installed at least partially lower than the main frame 20 (FIG. 5).

The rotating part can be rotated by the motor 221. When the vibrating part 220 includes a driving pulley 222, a driven pulley 223, and a belt 224, the rotating part may be the driven pulley 223.

The driving pulley 222 may be combined with the motor 221. The driven pulley 223 may be connected to the driving pulley 222 through a belt 224. When the driving pulley 222 rotates by the motor 221, the driven pulley 223 can also rotate by the belt 224.

The eccentric rotating part 225 may be coupled with a rotating part (eg, driven pulley 223) and rotate together with the rotating part. The central axis of the eccentric rotating part 225 may be formed at a position eccentric from the rotating axis C of the rotating part (FIG. 23). For example, the eccentric rotating part 225 may be formed to protrude upward from the driven pulley 223 (FIGS. 20, 22, and 23).

The eccentric rotating part coupler 226 may be combined with the eccentric rotating part 225 and the first plate seating part 210 (FIG. 22).

The buffer unit 227 may be disposed between the eccentric rotating coupler 226 and the fixed unit 228. The buffer unit 227 may be connected to the eccentric rotating coupler 226 and the fixing unit 228 through a flexible bridge (BR) (FIGS. 23 and 24).

For example, the buffer unit 227 may be arranged to at least partially surround at least a portion of the eccentric rotating coupler 226. The buffer unit 227 may be connected to the eccentric rotating coupler 226. For example, as long as it is disposed on one side and the other side of the first predetermined direction (eg, first direction) of the eccentric rotating coupler 226 and extends in a second predetermined direction (eg, second direction) that intersects the first predetermined direction. The buffer unit 227 and the eccentric rotating coupler 226 may be connected in a second predetermined direction through a pair of flexible bridges (BR). Additionally, the buffer unit 227 may be connected to the fixing unit 228. For example, the buffer unit 227 and the fixing unit 228 are connected to each other through a pair of flexible bridges (BR) disposed on one side and the other of the second predetermined direction of the buffer unit 227 and extending in the first predetermined direction, respectively. It may be connected in this first predetermined direction.

The fixing unit 228 can be fixed.

Accordingly, the rotational movement of the eccentric rotating part 225 can be stably converted into the vibration movement of the eccentric rotating part coupler 226 and the first plate seating part 210. Additionally, the first plate seating portion 210 may vibrate at an appropriate intensity.

The fixing means 230 may be coupled to the first plate seating portion 210. The fixing means 230 may fix the plate P mounted on the first plate seating portion 210. The fixing means 230 may include a fixing protrusion 232. The fixing means 230 may include a latch 234.

The fixing protrusion 232 may be coupled to the first plate seating portion 210. The fixing protrusion 232 may be formed to protrude upward. The fixing protrusion 232 is attached to the plate P, such as the well plate, when the plate P, such as the well plate WP, is lowered by the gripper 1300 and the arm 40 and is seated on the first plate seating portion 210. It can be inserted into the empty space (ES) of the plate (WP) (FIG. 27).

Paragraph 2-23 // Accordingly, the fixing protrusion 232 is inserted upward into the inside of the plate (P), so that the vibration unit 220 of the processing module 200 is connected to the first plate seating portion 210 and the plate (P). ) Even if the plate (P) is strongly shaken in a direction crossing the vertical direction, the plate (P) does not leave the first plate seating portion 210. Accordingly, sample processing can be performed stably.

In addition, when the plate (P) descends to be seated on the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200, the fixing protrusion 232 is automatically inserted into the inside of the plate (P), so that the plate (P) Can be easily fixed. In addition, when the plate (P) rises to separate from the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200, the fixing protrusion 232 is automatically separated from the inside of the plate (P), so that the plate (P) It can be easily unfastened.

The latch 234 may be coupled to the first plate seating portion 210. The latch 234 is connected to the plate P, such as the well plate, when the plate P, such as the well plate WP, is lowered by the gripper 1300 and the arm 40 and is seated on the first plate seating portion 210. It can be fastened to the skirt (ST) of (WP) (FIG. 27). The latch 234 may be released from the skirt ST when the plate P is lifted by the gripper 1300 and the arm 40 and separated from the first plate seating portion 210.

The fixing protrusion 232 and the latch 234 may face each other with the plate P, for example, the frame F and the skirt ST of the well plate WP interposed therebetween (FIG. 27).

Paragraph 2-24 // Accordingly, even if the vibration unit 220 of the processing module 200 strongly shakes the first plate seating portion 210 and the plate P in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, the plate P The frame (F) and skirt (ST) are fixed between the fixing protrusion 232 and the latch 234. Accordingly, since the skirt ST is maintained fastened to the latch 234, the plate P cannot leave the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200. Therefore, sample processing can be performed stably.

In addition, when the plate (P) descends to be seated on the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200, the latch 234 is engaged with the skirt (ST) of the plate (P). Can be easily fixed. In addition, when the plate (P) rises to separate from the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200, the latch 234 is automatically released from the skirt (ST) of the plate (P), so that the plate ( P) can be easily unfastened.

The heater 240 may be combined with the vibrating unit 220 and the first plate seating unit 210. The heater 240 may be provided with a temperature sensor (TS).

The heat conduction adapter 250 may be seated on the upper part of the heater 240. The heat conduction adapter 250 may be coupled to the first plate seating portion 210. The heat conduction adapter 250 may be in contact with or adjacent to the bottom of one or more wells W of the plate P mounted on the first plate seating portion 210, for example, the well plate WP. The heat conduction adapter 250 can transfer heat from the heater 240 to the plate (P).

The heat conduction adapter 250 may include a shape corresponding to the bottom shape of the plate P, for example, the well plate WP. For example, the heat conduction adapter 250 may include one or more grooves (G) into which one or more wells (W) of the well plate (WP) are respectively inserted (FIGS. 26 and 27).

When the plate P, for example, the well plate WP, has a plurality of types with different bottom shapes due to different numbers, positions, spacing, or sizes of the wells W, the heat conduction adapter 250 is provided with the plurality of types of plates. (P), for example, may have a plurality of types including a shape corresponding to the lower shape of the well plate (WP). The heat conduction adapter 250 can be replaced with a type corresponding to the type of plate (P).

Paragraph 2-25 // Accordingly, between the heater 240 of the processing module 200 and the plate P seated on the processing module 200, a heat conduction adapter ( 250) can be installed. Accordingly, the energy efficiency of the sample processing device 1 is improved and sample processing can be performed effectively.

Additionally, depending on the type (bottom shape) of the plate P, it can be replaced with a heat conduction adapter 250 having a corresponding shape. Accordingly, the same heater 240 can effectively heat two or more types of plates P with different bottom shapes.

The above-described fixing protrusion 232 may be formed on the heat conduction adapter 250 (FIG. 26).

Paragraph 2-26 // Accordingly, the heat conduction adapter 250 and the plate (P) can be strongly coupled and in close contact, and heat is transferred to the inside of the plate (P) through the fixing protrusion 232, so that the well of the plate (P) The material contained in (W) can be heated effectively. Accordingly, the energy efficiency of the sample processing device 1 is improved and sample processing can be performed effectively.

The processing module 200 may include a second sensor (SN). As described above, the second sensor SN may be an optical sensor. Unlike what was described above, the second sensor SN may be placed, for example, in the eccentric rotating coupler 226 (FIGS. 18 and 19). The second sensor SN can detect whether the plate P is seated on the first plate seat 110 through the seat sensing hole SH formed in the first plate seat 110 (Figure 18, Fig. 19).

Meanwhile, a plurality of processing modules 200 may be provided. For example, the processing module 200 may be provided with a first processing module 200A and a second processing module 200B (FIGS. 5 to 7).

While the specimen or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken by the first processing module (200A), the specimen or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the second well plate (WP2) is transferred to the second processing module (200B). It can be heated or shaken by .

Paragraph 1-26 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) that requires heating or shaking (e.g., lysis & binding step, washing step, drying step, and/or illusion step, etc.) is carried out in the first well plate (WP1) and It can be performed simultaneously and in parallel on the second well plate (WP2). Accordingly, the total nucleic acid extraction time for extracting nucleic acids from specimens contained in the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2) can be shortened.

[Magnetic module]

Figures 28 and 29 are exploded perspective views showing the magnetic modules of Figures 6 and 7. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the well plate is seated on the second plate seating portion of the magnetic module of FIGS. 28 and 29.

Referring to FIGS. 28 to 30 , the magnetic module 300 according to one embodiment may include a second plate seating portion 310 and one or more ring-shaped magnetic materials 322. The magnetic module 300 may include a magnetic adapter 320.

A plate (P), for example, a well plate (WP), may be seated on the second plate seating portion 310. The second plate seating portion 310 may be formed with a seating portion sensing hole (SH) that penetrates upward and downward or is recessed inward to open upward and downward (FIGS. 7, 28 to 30). As described above, the seating portion sensing hole (SH) may communicate vertically with the main frame sensing hole (MH).

The second plate seating portion 310 may be provided with a pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 (FIG. 28).

A pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 may be formed at one end and the other end of the second plate seating portion 310 in the second direction, respectively. The pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 may be open on one side and upward in the second direction and on the other side and upward in the second direction, respectively. The pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 may be located at the lower part of the plate (P) when the plate (P) is seated. The pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 may face the bottom surface of the plate (P) in the vertical direction. A pair of hooks 1310 of the gripper 1300, which will be described later, may be inserted into the pair of second hook insertion grooves 312.

One or more ring-shaped magnetic bodies 322 may be provided. Each ring-shaped magnetic body 322 may be provided with a first through hole TH1 penetrating upward and downward. When the plate (P), for example, a well plate (WP), is seated on the second plate seating portion 310, the plate (P), for example, a well, is placed in the first through hole (TH1) of one or more ring-shaped magnetic bodies 322. One or more wells W of the plate WP may be inserted or penetrated upward and downward, respectively (FIG. 30).

Paragraph 1-25 // Accordingly, the magnetic beads contained in the wells (W) of the plate (P), such as the well plate (WP), can be quickly and easily collected on the inner surface of the well (W), so that the scanning module 30 As a result, nucleic acid extraction reagents (such as lysis buffer and washing buffer) or nucleic acids (nucleic acids extracted from the specimen) can be easily extracted from the well (W). Accordingly, nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation can be performed quickly and easily.

The magnetic adapter 320 may be seated on the second plate seating portion 310. The magnetic adapter 320 may be disposed between the second plate seating portion 310 and the plate P mounted on the second plate seating portion 310, for example, the well plate WP. The magnetic adapter 320 may include one or more ring-shaped magnetic materials 322 described above. The location, size, or number of the one or more ring-shaped magnetic bodies 322 may correspond to the location, size, or number of one or more wells W of the plate P, for example, the well plate WP.

When the plate P, for example, the well plate WP, has a plurality of types with different numbers, positions, spacing, or sizes of the wells W, the magnetic adapter 320 includes one or more ring-shaped magnetic bodies 322 in response. ) may have multiple types with different numbers, positions, spacing, or sizes. The magnetic adapter 320 can be replaced with a type corresponding to the type of the plate (P).

The magnetic adapter 320 may be provided with one or more second through holes TH2 that penetrate upward and downward or are recessed inward to open upward and downward. The second through hole (TH2) may communicate vertically with the seating portion sensing hole (SH). The second through hole (TH2) may communicate vertically with the first through hole (TH1).

The above-described second sensor (SN) is connected to the plate (P) through the above-described main frame sensing hole (MH), the seat sensing hole (SH), the second through hole (TH2), and/or the first through hole (TH1). It is possible to detect whether or not is seated on the second plate seating portion 310 (FIGS. 5 and 30).

Meanwhile, a plurality of magnetic modules 300 may be provided. For example, the magnetic module 300 may be provided with a first magnetic module 300A and a second magnetic module 300B (FIGS. 5 to 7).

While the first magnetic module 300A applies magnetic force to the material contained in the first well plate WP1, the second magnetic module 300B may apply magnetic force to the material contained in the second well plate WP2.

Paragraph 1-26 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) that requires applying magnetic force (e.g., lysis & binding step, washing step, drying step, and/or illusion step, etc.) is performed on the first well plate (WP1) and It can be performed simultaneously and in parallel on the second well plate (WP2). Accordingly, the total nucleic acid extraction time for extracting nucleic acids from specimens contained in the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2) can be shortened.

[PCR plate, tip plate, tip]

Figures 31 and 32 are perspective views showing the PCR plates of Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6. Figures 33 and 34 are perspective and exploded perspective views showing the tip plate and tip of Figures 1 to 7.

Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, a plate (P), for example, a PCR plate (PP) according to an embodiment, may be provided with one or more wells (W). A plate (P), such as a PCR plate (PP), may include a frame (F). The plate (P), for example, the PCR plate (PP), may include a skirt (ST). The PCR plate (PP) can be used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) preparation or PCR.

Each well (W) may have a receiving space that is open upward. The receiving space of the well (W) may contain nucleic acids, PCR materials, and/or mixed PCR materials.

A plurality of PCR plates (PP) may be provided.

The remaining details related to the PCR plate (PP) can be inferred from the above-described well plate (WP).

33 and 34, the tip plate TL according to one embodiment may include one or more tips TP. The tip plate TL may be seated on the tip plate seating portion 22 (FIGS. 4 to 7). A plurality of tip plates TL may be provided.

One or more tips TP may be detachably coupled to one or more syringes 510 or 610 of the injection module 30, respectively. For example, one or more tips TP may be detachably coupled to the tip of one or more syringes and communicate with the interior of one or more syringes, respectively.

One or more tips (TP) can be inserted into one or more reservoirs (R) or one or more wells (W) of the plate (P) to aspirate substances contained in the reservoirs (R) or wells (W). there is.

Specifically, for example, the plurality of tips TP may be detachably coupled to the head portions 514 and 614 of the plurality of syringes 510 and 610 of the injection module 30, respectively. The plurality of tips TP may communicate with the first internal space IS1 and the second internal space IS2 of the plurality of syringes 510 and 610, respectively. The plurality of tips (TP) may be inserted into the reservoir (R) or the plurality of wells (W) of the plate (P) to suction the material contained in the reservoir (R) or the plurality of wells (W). In this regard, it will be described later.

[Material storage, cooling module]

Figures 35 to 37 are perspective and exploded perspective views of the cooling module on which the material storage device is mounted. Figure 38 is an enlarged partial front view of the area where the cooling module is installed with the barrier removed in Figures 1, 2, and 4.

With further reference to FIGS. 35 to 38, the cooling module 400 according to one embodiment may accommodate one or more material reservoirs (IR).

The material reservoir (IR) may be tube-shaped. The material reservoir (IR) may have an internal space open upward. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) materials can be stored in the internal space of the material storage device (IR). PCR materials may include PCR enzymes or PCR reagents.

The cooling module 400 may include a receptor 410, a thermoelectric element 420, a heat dissipation fan 440, and a heat dissipation passage 450. The cooling module 400 may include a heat sink 430. The cooling module 400 can cool the material reservoir (IR).

Receptor 410 can accommodate one or more material reservoirs (IR). The receptor 410 may be equipped with a temperature sensor (TS).

The thermoelectric element 420 may be placed in contact with or adjacent to the receptor 410. The thermoelectric element 420 may cool the receptor 410.

The heat sink 430 may be placed in contact with or adjacent to the thermoelectric element 420. The heat dissipation plate 430 may include a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding outward to dissipate heat. The heat sink 430 may be omitted.

The heat dissipation fan 440 may be disposed in contact with or adjacent to the heat dissipation plate 430. For example, the heat dissipation fan 440 may be installed in a through hole formed by penetrating the main frame 20 vertically (FIG. 38). The heat dissipation fan 440 may discharge heat generated from the thermoelectric element 420. For example, the heat dissipation fan 440 may discharge heat generated from the thermoelectric element 420 into the second space S2 below the main frame 20.

The heat dissipation passage 450 may be in communication with the heat dissipation fan 440. Heat discharged from the heat dissipation fan 440 may flow through the heat dissipation passage 450.

Paragraph 1-14 // Accordingly, the cooling module 400 for cooling the PCR material can be easily implemented at low cost with a simple configuration. In addition, since cooling is performed using the thermoelectric element 420, the cooling module 400 and the sample processing device 1 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

Meanwhile, the first space (S1) where the material storage device (IR) is placed and the second space (S2) where the wiring or the second sensor (SN) are placed may be divided. For example, as described above, the first space (S1) on the upper part of the main frame (20) where the material reservoir (IR) is placed, the base (10) where the wiring or second sensor (SN) is placed, and the main frame ( 20), the second space S2 may be partitioned by the barrier 14 and the main frame 20 (FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 38).

At this time, the heat dissipation passage 450 may be defined by at least a portion of the second space S2. For example, the second space (S2) divided from the first space (S1) by the barrier 14 and the main frame 20 may be used as the heat dissipation passage 450. Accordingly, the heat flowing in the heat dissipation passage 450 is blocked by the barrier 14 and the main frame 20 and cannot flow to the material reservoir (IR), thereby preventing the material reservoir (IR) from being heated.

Paragraph 1-15 // Accordingly, the second space (S2) separately provided for arranging wiring or the second sensor (SN) can also be used as a heat dissipation passage 450. Accordingly, the cooling module 400 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost.

[Scan module]

The injection module 30 may include one or more syringes. The injection module 30 sucks the substance contained in the reservoir (R) and discharges it into the well (W) of the plate (P), or sucks the substance contained in the well (W) of the plate (P) and discharges it into the well (W) of the plate (P). It can be discharged into the well (W) or reservoir (R). Looking at it specifically, it is as follows.

In one embodiment, the scanning module 30 sucks the sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and sucks the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR) to the well. It can be discharged into the well (W) of the plate (WP).

Paragraph 1-1 // Accordingly, since the sample processing device (1) can automatically transfer the sample and nucleic acid extraction reagent to the well plate (WP), nucleic acid extraction can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

As described above, when a first well plate (WP1) and a second well plate (WP2) are provided, respectively, the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is stored in the processing module (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2). While heated or shaken by 200), the scanning module 30 can suck the sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharge it into the well (W) of the second well plate (WP2).

Paragraph 1-3 // Accordingly, while the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., lysis & binding step) is performed in the first well plate (WP1) containing the sample and/or nucleic acid extraction reagent, the second well plate (WP2) ), the sample transfer process (S2100) can be performed to contain the sample, so the total nucleic acid extraction time for extracting nucleic acid from the sample contained in the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2) can be shortened. .

In particular, the number of syringes of the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) used in the specimen transfer process (S2100) is limited due to the spacing or arrangement structure of the plurality of specimen reservoirs (SR) containing the plurality of specimens. It may be configured to be much smaller than the number of wells (W) of the plate (WP). Accordingly, the sample must be sucked in and discharged multiple times with the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) and the tip (TP) replaced multiple times to ensure that the sample is provided in multiple wells (W) of the well plate (WP). Therefore, the sample transfer process (S2100) may take a long time. In the present invention, the sample transfer process (S2100) for the second well plate (WP2) is performed in parallel with the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) for the first well plate (WP1), so that the total nucleic acid extraction time can be shortened. .

In another embodiment, the injection module 30 sucks the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR), discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP) that contains or will contain the sample, and extracts the nucleic acid extracted from the sample. (from the well (W) of the well plate (WP)) and discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP), and the PCR material or mixed PCR material is sucked into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). can be discharged.

Paragraph 1-9 // Accordingly, since the specimen processing device (1) can automatically transfer nucleic acid extraction reagents, nucleic acids, and PCR materials, nucleic acid extraction and PCR setup can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost. . Additionally, work using PCR, such as PCR diagnosis, can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

The injection module 30 can mix PCR materials by inhaling and discharging a plurality of PCR materials.

Paragraphs 1-10 // Accordingly, PCR setup can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost. Accordingly, work using PCR, such as PCR diagnosis, can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

While the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken by the processing module 200, the injection module 30 inhales the PCR material or mixed PCR material and flows into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). ) can be discharged.

Paragraph 1-12 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., washing step, drying step, or illusion step) and the PCR material transfer process (S2310) can be performed in parallel at the same time, so nucleic acid extraction and PCR The total time required for setup can be shortened.

In particular, due to the number, size, arrangement, or structure of the material reservoir (IR) containing the PCR material, the number of syringes of the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) used in the PCR material transfer process (S2310) is limited. It may be configured to be much smaller than the number of wells (W) of the PCR plate (PP). Accordingly, the PCR material or mixed PCR material must be inhaled and discharged multiple times with the injection module 30 (first injection module 500), and if necessary, the tip (TP) must be replaced at least once to maintain the integrity of the PCR plate (PP). Since PCR materials or mixed PCR materials are provided in multiple wells (W), the PCR material transfer process (S2310) takes a long time. In the present invention, the PCR material transfer process (S2310) is performed in parallel with the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200), so that the total time required to extract nucleic acids and prepare for PCR (setup) can be greatly shortened.

While the specimen or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken by the processing module 200, the scanning module 30 can mix the PCR materials by inhaling and discharging a plurality of PCR materials.

Paragraph 1-13 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., washing step, drying step, or illusion step) and the PCR material mixing process (S2400) can be performed in parallel at the same time, so nucleic acid extraction and PCR The total time required for setup can be shortened.

In particular, the number of syringes of the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) used in the PCR material mixing process (S2400) is limited due to the number, size, arrangement, or structure of the material reservoir (IR) containing the PCR material. It may be configured to be much smaller than the number of wells (W) of the PCR plate (PP). Accordingly, the PCR material or mixed PCR material must be inhaled and discharged multiple times with the injection module 30 (first injection module 500), and if necessary, the tip (TP) must be replaced at least once to mix the PCR material. Therefore, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) takes a long time. In the present invention, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) is performed in parallel with the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200), so that the total time required to extract nucleic acids and prepare for PCR (setup) can be greatly shortened.

In another embodiment, the injection module 30 sucks the sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and sucks the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR) Discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), the nucleic acid extracted from the sample is sucked (from the well (W) of the well plate (WP)) and discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP), and PCR The material or mixed PCR material can be sucked in and discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

Paragraph 1-16 // Accordingly, since the specimen processing device (1) can automatically transfer specimens, nucleic acid extraction reagents, nucleic acids, and PCR materials, nucleic acid extraction and PCR setup can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost. You can. Additionally, work using PCR, such as PCR diagnosis, can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

Meanwhile, a plurality of scanning modules 30 may be provided. That is, a first scanning module 500 and a second scanning module 600, each of which is the scanning module 30, may be provided. The first injection module 500 and the second injection module 600 may each include one or more syringes.

In one embodiment, the first injection module 500 can suck a sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharge it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and the second injection module 600 extracts nucleic acid. Reagents can be sucked from the reagent reservoir (RR) and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP). At this time, the number of syringes in the first scanning module 500 and the second scanning module 600 may be different.

Paragraph 1-18 // Accordingly, the time required for nucleic acid extraction and/or PCR preparation can be shortened. For example, regardless of the number of syringes in the first injection module 500, the number of syringes in the second injection module 600 is equal to the number and spacing of wells (W) of the well plate (WP) and/or PCR plate (PP). It can be configured to correspond. Accordingly, if the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid is inhaled and discharged once with the second injection module 600, the entire wells (W) of the well plate (WP) or PCR plate (PP) can be equipped with the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid. The time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation can be shortened.

At this time, the number and spacing of syringes of the second scanning module 600 may correspond to the number and spacing of wells W of the well plate WP.

Paragraph 1-19 // Accordingly, the configuration of the specimen processing device (1) can be simplified, control can be facilitated, and the time required for nucleic acid extraction can be shortened.

[cancer]

The arm 40 may be combined with the injection module 30. The arm 40 can lift the scanning module 30. The arm 40 can lift the scanning module 30 to allow the tip TP to enter or retreat from the reservoir R or the well W.

Arm 40 may be combined with gripper 1300. The arm 40 can lift the gripper 1300.

A plurality of arms 40 may be provided. That is, a first arm 700 and a second arm 800, each of which is an arm 40, may be provided.

The first arm 700 may be coupled to at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the first arm 700 can not only be coupled with the first scanning module 500, but also can be coupled with the gripper 1300, which will be described later, so that the well plate ( WP) can also be combined.

The first arm 700 may elevate or lower at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP). For example, the first arm 700 can lift and lower the first scanning module 500 and the well plate WP through the gripper 1300.

The second arm 800 may be combined with the second scanning module 600. The second arm 800 can lift the second scanning module 600.

[Transfer Department]

The transfer unit 50 may be coupled to the arm 40. The transfer unit 50 may (relatively) transfer the arm 40 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (eg, the first direction and the second direction).

A plurality of transfer units 50 may be provided. That is, a first transfer unit 900 and a second transfer unit 1000, each of which is the transfer unit 50, may be provided.

The first transfer unit 900 may (relatively) transfer the first arm 700 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. The second transfer unit 1000 may (relatively) transfer the second arm 800 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

In one embodiment, the sample processing device 1 includes a first injection module 500 that sucks a sample from the sample reservoir (SR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and uses a nucleic acid extraction reagent as a reagent. A second injection module (600), a first arm (700), a second arm (800), a first transfer unit (900) that suctions from the reservoir (RR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and It may include a second transfer unit 1000.

Paragraph 1-2 // Accordingly, the time required for nucleic acid extraction can be shortened because the first injection module (500), which inhales and discharges the sample, and the second injection module (600), which inhales and discharges the nucleic acid extraction reagent, are provided separately. there is. For example, regardless of the number and/or spacing of syringes in the first scanning module 500, the number and spacing of syringes in the second scanning module 600 correspond to the number and spacing of wells W of the well plate WP. It can be configured. Accordingly, by inhaling and discharging the nucleic acid extraction reagent once with the second injection module 600, all wells (W) of the well plate (WP) can be equipped with the nucleic acid extraction reagent, so the time required for nucleic acid extraction can be shortened. .

On the other hand, if both the sample and nucleic acid extraction reagent are inhaled and discharged through the first injection module 500, the time required for nucleic acid extraction may increase. For example, the number of syringes in the first injection module 500 is smaller than the number of wells (W) in the well plate (WP) due to the spacing or arrangement structure of a plurality of sample reservoirs (SR) containing a plurality of specimens. It can be configured. Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction reagent must be inhaled and discharged multiple times by the first injection module 500 so that all wells (W) of the well plate (WP) can be equipped with the nucleic acid extraction reagent, so the time required for nucleic acid extraction may increase.

In addition, at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP) and the second scanning module 600 can be transported by different arms and transfer units, respectively, so that the first scanning module 500 and/or the well plate The plate WP and the second scanning module 600 can be easily controlled and multiple processes/tasks can be processed simultaneously. Accordingly, the ease of use and efficiency of the sample processing device 1 can be improved, and the time required for nucleic acid extraction can be shortened.

In another embodiment, the sample processing device 1 includes a first injection module 500 that inhales PCR material or mixed PCR material and discharges it into the well W of the PCR plate PP, and a nucleic acid extraction reagent. Suction is taken from the reagent reservoir (RR) and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and nucleic acid is sucked (from the well (W) of the well plate (WP)) into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). It may include a second scanning module 600 that discharges, a first arm 700, a second arm 800, a first transfer unit 900, and a second transfer unit 1000.

Paragraph 1-11 // Accordingly, the first injection module (500) for inhaling and discharging PCR materials and the second injection module (600) for inhaling and discharging nucleic acid extraction reagents and nucleic acids are separately provided to prepare for nucleic acid extraction and PCR. The time required may be shortened. For example, regardless of the number and/or spacing of syringes in the first scanning module 500, the number and spacing of syringes in the second scanning module 600 are determined by the wells (W) of the well plate (WP) and/or PCR plate (PP). ) can be configured to correspond to the number and spacing. Accordingly, when the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid is inhaled and discharged once with the second injection module 600, the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid is provided in all wells (W) of the well plate (WP) or PCR plate (PP), so nucleic acid extraction And the time required for PCR preparation can be shortened.

On the other hand, if PCR materials, nucleic acid extraction reagents, and nucleic acids are all inhaled and discharged through the first injection module 500, the time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation may increase. For example, due to the number, size, arrangement or structure of the material reservoir (IR) containing the PCR material, the number of syringes of the first injection module 500 is adjusted to the number of wells (W) of the well plate (WP) and the PCR plate (PP). ) can be configured to be much smaller than the number. Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid must be inhaled and discharged multiple times with the first injection module 500, and the tip (TP) must be replaced multiple times if necessary to ensure that all wells (W) of the well plate (WP) or PCR plate (PP) are ) may be equipped with nucleic acid extraction reagents or nucleic acids, so the time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation may increase.

In addition, at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP) and the second scanning module 600 can be transported by different arms and transfer units, respectively, so that the first scanning module 500 and/or the well plate The plate WP and the second scanning module 600 can be easily controlled and multiple processes/tasks can be processed simultaneously. Accordingly, the ease of use and efficiency of the specimen processing device 1 can be improved, and the time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation can be shortened.

In another embodiment, the sample processing device 1 sucks the sample from the sample storage device (SR) and discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and sucks in the PCR material or mixed PCR material to perform PCR. The first injection module 500 discharges the nucleic acid extraction reagent into the well (W) of the plate (PP), sucks the nucleic acid extraction reagent from the reagent reservoir (RR), discharges it into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and extracts the extracted reagent from the sample. A second injection module (600), a first arm (700), and a second arm (800) that inhale nucleic acid (from the well (W) of the well plate (WP)) and discharge it into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). ), and may include a first transfer unit 900 and a second transfer unit 1000.

Paragraph 1-17 // Accordingly, the first injection module 500, which inhales and discharges specimens and PCR materials, and the second injection module 600, which inhales and discharges nucleic acid extraction reagents and nucleic acids, are separately provided, so that nucleic acid extraction and The time required for PCR preparation can be shortened. For example, regardless of the number and/or spacing of syringes in the first scanning module 500, the number and spacing of syringes in the second scanning module 600 are determined by the wells (W) of the well plate (WP) and/or PCR plate (PP). ) can be configured to correspond to the number and spacing. Accordingly, when the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid is inhaled and discharged once with the second injection module 600, the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid is provided in all wells (W) of the well plate (WP) or PCR plate (PP), so nucleic acid extraction And the time required for PCR preparation can be shortened.

On the other hand, if the sample, nucleic acid extraction reagent, PCR material, and nucleic acid are all inhaled and discharged through the first injection module 500, the time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation may increase. For example, the number of syringes in the first injection module 500 may vary due to the spacing, number, size, arrangement, or structure of a plurality of sample reservoirs (SR) containing a plurality of specimens or a material reservoir (IR) containing a PCR material. may be configured to be much smaller than the number of wells (W) of the well plate (WP) and the PCR plate (PP). Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid must be inhaled and discharged multiple times with the first injection module 500, and the tip (TP) must be replaced multiple times if necessary to ensure that all wells (W) of the well plate (WP) or PCR plate (PP) are ) may be equipped with nucleic acid extraction reagents or nucleic acids, so the time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation may increase.

In addition, at least one of the first scanning module 500 and the well plate (WP) and the second scanning module 600 can be transported by different arms and transfer units, respectively, so that the first scanning module 500 and/or the well plate The plate WP and the second scanning module 600 can be easily controlled and multiple processes/tasks can be processed simultaneously. Accordingly, the ease of use and efficiency of the specimen processing device 1 can be improved, and the time required for nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation can be shortened.

[Drop catching part]

The drop catching unit 60 may receive material falling from the scanning module 30 or a tip (TP) coupled to the scanning module 30.

A plurality of drop catching units 60 may be provided. That is, a first drop catching unit 1100 and a second drop catching unit 1200, each of which is the drop catching unit 60, may be provided. The first drop catching unit 1100 may receive material falling from the first scanning module 500 or a tip (TP) coupled to the first scanning module 500. It is possible to receive material falling from the second scanning module 600 or the tip (TP) coupled to the second scanning module 600.

The specific configuration of the drop catching unit 60 will be looked at in the first drop catching unit 1100 and the second drop catching unit 1200.

[1st injection module, 1st arm, 1st drop catching unit, gripper]

Figures 39 to 44 are perspective and exploded perspective views showing the first scanning module 500, first arm 700, first drop catching unit 1100, and gripper 1300 of Figures 1 to 5.

Referring to FIGS. 39 to 44 , the first arm 700 according to one embodiment may be combined with the first scanning module 500, the first drop catching unit 1100, and/or the gripper 1300.

[First cancer]

The first arm 700 may include a first scanning module lifting part 710 and a gripper lifting part 720. The first scanning module lifting unit 710 can lift and lower the first scanning module 500, and the gripper lifting unit 720 can lift and lower the gripper 1300. The first arm 700 may be coupled to the first drop catching unit 1100.

The first scanning module lifting unit 710 may include a first lifting motor 712, a first lifting ball screw bolt 714, a first lifting ball screw nut 716, and a first lifting guide 718. .

The first lifting ball screw bolt 714 may extend in the vertical direction. The first lifting ball screw bolt 714 can be rotated by the first lifting motor 712. For example, the first lifting motor 712, the driving pulley coupled with the first lifting motor 712, the driven pulley coupled with the first lifting ball screw bolt 714, and the belt connecting the driving pulley and the driven pulley. This allows the first lifting ball screw bolt 714 to rotate.

The first lifting ball screw nut 716 can move in the vertical direction according to the rotation of the first lifting ball screw bolt 714. The first lifting ball screw nut 716 may be combined with the first scanning module 500.

The first lifting guide 718 may extend in the vertical direction. The first lifting ball screw nut 716 may be coupled to the first lifting guide 718 to be movable in the vertical direction, for example, through a slider SL (FIG. 40).

The gripper lifting part 720 includes a second lifting motor (721), a second lifting ball screw bolt (722), a second lifting ball screw nut (723), a first lifting rod (725), and a second lifting rod (726). , may include a first lifting rod guide 727, a second lifting rod guide 728, and a lifting plate 729. The gripper lifting unit 720 may include a second side lifting guide 724A and a second other side lifting guide 724B.

The second lifting ball screw bolt 722 may extend in the vertical direction. The second lifting ball screw bolt 722 can be rotated by the second lifting motor 721. For example, the second lifting motor 721, the driving pulley coupled with the second lifting motor 721, the driven pulley coupled with the second lifting ball screw bolt 722, and the belt connecting the driving pulley and the driven pulley. This allows the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 to rotate (FIGS. 40 and 42).

The second lifting ball screw nut 723 may be combined with the second lifting ball screw bolt 722. The second lifting ball screw nut 723 can be moved up and down according to the rotation of the second lifting ball screw bolt 722.

The first lifting rod 725 and the second lifting rod 726 may be disposed on one side (eg, left) and the other side (eg, right) of the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 in the first direction, respectively. The first lifting rod 725 and the second lifting rod 726 may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The first lifting rod 725 and the second lifting rod 726 are combined with the second lifting ball screw nut 723 and can be lifted together with the second lifting ball screw nut 723.

The first lifting rod guide 727 and the second lifting rod guide 728 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 in the first direction, respectively. The first lifting rod guide 727 and the second lifting rod guide 728 may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The first lifting rod 725 and the second lifting rod 726 may penetrate the first lifting rod guide 727 and the second lifting rod guide 728, respectively. The first lifting rod guide 727 and the second lifting rod guide 728 can guide the raising and lowering of the first lifting rod 725 and the second lifting rod 726, respectively.

Accordingly, even if the gripper lifting unit 720 is provided with one second lifting ball screw bolt 722 and one first lifting ball screw nut 716, a pair of lifting rods 725 and 726 and a pair of lifting rods 725 and 726 are provided. The gripper 1300 can be lifted and lowered while being balanced in the first direction by the rod guides 727 and 729.

The lifting plate 729 may extend in the first direction. The lifting plate 729 may be combined with the first lifting rod 725, the second lifting rod 726, and the gripper 1300.

The lifting plate 729 may be disposed below the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 and the second lifting ball screw nut 723.

The second one-side lifting guide 724A and the second other-side lifting guide 724B may be respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 in the first direction. The second one-side lifting guide 724A and the second other-side lifting guide 724B may each extend in the vertical direction. The second side lifting guide (724A) and the second side lifting guide (724B) include a second lifting ball screw nut 723, a first lifting rod 725, and a second lifting rod 726 that move in the vertical direction through a slider, for example. Can be movably combined.

The gripper support frame GF may extend in the first direction. The gripper support frame GF may be coupled to the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 or penetrated by the second lifting ball screw bolt 722 (FIG. 42).

The first lifting rod guide 727 and the second lifting rod guide 728 may be combined with the gripper support frame (GF). The first lifting rod guide 727 and the second lifting rod guide 728 may be installed penetrating the gripper support frame GF (FIGS. 40 and 42).

[1st scanning module]

Figures 45 to 48 are an exploded perspective view, left side view, and front view showing the first scanning module of Figures 39 to 44. Figure 49 is a partial left side view enlarged from the dotted line portion of Figure 47. Figures 50 and 51 are diagrams schematically showing the connection pipe of the first syringe to the first injection module of Figures 48 and 49. Figures 52 to 54 are right side views and front views showing partial configurations of the first syringe and the spacing adjustment portion of the first injection module of Figures 45 to 51. Figure 55 is an exploded perspective view showing a partial configuration of the first syringe and the spacing adjustment part of the first injection module of Figures 45 to 54.

Referring further to FIGS. 45 to 51 , the first injection module 500 according to an embodiment may include a plurality of first syringes 510 and a first injection mechanism 520. The first scanning module 500 may include an interval adjusting unit 530. The first scanning module 500 may include a first support frame (SF1).

A plurality of first syringes 510 may be arranged side by side (eg, in a second direction). Accordingly, the first injection module 500 inhales the material (e.g., sample or PCR material) contained in one or more reservoirs (R) (e.g., sample reservoir or material reservoir) to create a plurality of wells (W) (e.g., well plate or multiple wells of a PCR plate). The first injection module 500 inhales the material contained in a plurality of wells (W) of one plate (P) to a plurality of wells (W) or one or more reservoirs (R) of another plate (P). ) can also be discharged.

At this time, the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) between the centers of neighboring reservoirs (R) and the well interval (IN3 or IN4) between the centers of neighboring wells (W) may be different from each other (Figure 13, Figure 17, Figure 27, Figure 31, Figure 35). In this regard, let's look at the spacing adjustment unit 530.

Each first syringe 510 may include a first internal space IS1 and a first piston 518. Each first syringe 510 may include a first body portion 512. Each first syringe 510 may include a first head portion 514. Each first syringe 510 may include a connector 516 (FIGS. 45, 47, 49-51).

The first body portion 512 may have a first internal space IS1 penetrating the front and rear ends (FIG. 47). The distance between the centers of adjacent first body portions 512 may be fixed.

The first head portion 514 may have a second internal space IS2 penetrating the front and rear ends (FIG. 47). The rear end of the second internal space (IS2) may be in communication with the front end of the first internal space (IS1). A tip TP may be coupled to the distal end of the first head portion 514.

Here, the tip TP may be provided on the tip plate TL as described above and may be provided in plural pieces. The plurality of tips TP may be detachably coupled to the first head portion 514 of the plurality of first syringes 510, respectively. The plurality of tips TP may communicate with the first internal space IS1 and the second internal space IS2 of the plurality of first syringes 510, respectively. The plurality of tips (TP) can be inserted into the plurality of reservoirs (R) or plates (P) to suction the substances contained in the plurality of reservoirs (R) or plates (P).

The front ends of the plurality of first head portions 514 may be pressed toward the front and detachably coupled to the rear ends of the plurality of tips TP provided on the tip plate TL.

The connector 516 may be coupled to the front end of the first body portion 512 and the rear end of the first head portion 514. The connection pipe 516 may communicate with the first internal space (IS1) and the second internal space (IS2). Connector 516 may be flexible. The connector 516 may be a flexible tube.

The first piston 518 may be inserted into the first internal space IS1 of the first body 512 from the rear end of the first body 512. That is, the first piston 518 may be inserted into the first internal space IS1 from the rear end of the first internal space IS1. The first piston 518 may be capable of sliding movement. The first piston 518 can slide up and down.

A plurality of first syringes 510 may be arranged side by side in the second direction. Accordingly, the first internal space IS1 and the first piston 518 may also be arranged side by side in the second direction.

The first head portion 514, the first body portion 512, the connector 516, and the first plurality of first syringes 510 are formed by the above-described first arm 700 and first transfer portion 900. The pistons 518 can all be raised and lowered together and transported in directions that intersect the up and down directions.

Paragraph 2-3 // Accordingly, the plurality of first syringes 510 of the first injection module 500 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost. Accordingly, the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the sample processing device 1 can be reduced, and the sample processing device 1 can be miniaturized and lightweight. In addition, the distance between the first head portion 514 and the first body portion 512 and the length of the connector 516 may be reduced, so the accuracy of the suction and discharge capacity of the first injection module 500 may be improved. You can.

The first injection device 520 may allow the plurality of first syringes 510 to inhale or discharge the substance. For example, the first injection mechanism 520 may slide the plurality of first pistons 518 relative to the plurality of first body parts 512.

For example, the first injection mechanism 520 may be coupled to a plurality of first pistons 518. The first syringe unit 520 can lift and lower the plurality of first pistons 518 to allow the plurality of first syringes 510 to inhale or discharge substances (eg, specimens or PCR materials).

The first syringe mechanism 520 includes a first syringe motor 521, a first syringe ball screw bolt 522, a first syringe ball screw nut 523, a first syringe rod 525, and a second syringe rod 526. ), it may include a first syringe guide 527, a second syringe guide 528, and a first piston plate 529. The first injection mechanism eastern part 520 may include a first injection guide 524A and a first injection guide 524B.

The first syringe ball screw bolt 522 may extend in the vertical direction. The first syringe ball screw bolt 522 can be rotated by the first syringe motor 521.

For example, the first syringe motor 521, the drive pulley coupled with the first syringe motor 521, the driven pulley coupled with the first syringe ball screw bolt 522, and the belt connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The first syringe ball screw bolt 522 can rotate by this (FIG. 47).

The first syringe ball screw nut 523 may be combined with the first syringe ball screw bolt 522. The first syringe ball screw nut 523 can be raised and lowered according to the rotation of the first syringe ball screw bolt 522.

The first syringe rod 525 and the second syringe rod 526 may be disposed on one side (e.g., rear side) and the other side (e.g., front side) of the first syringe ball screw bolt 522 in the second direction, respectively. The first syringe rod 525 and the second syringe rod 526 may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The first syringe rod 525 and the second syringe rod 526 are coupled to the first syringe ball screw nut 523 and can be moved up and down together with the first syringe ball screw nut 523.

The first syringe guide 527 and the second syringe guide 528 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the first syringe ball screw bolt 522 in the second direction, respectively. The first syringe guide 527 and the second syringe guide 528 may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The first syringe rod 525 and the second syringe rod 526 may penetrate the first syringe guide 527 and the second syringe guide 528, respectively. The first syringe guide 527 and the second syringe guide 528 can guide the raising and lowering of the first syringe rod 525 and the second syringe rod 526, respectively.

The first piston plate 529 may extend in the second direction. The first piston plate 529 may be combined with the first syringe rod 525, the second syringe rod 526, and a plurality of first pistons 518.

The first piston plate 529 may be disposed below the first syringe ball screw bolt 522 and the first syringe ball screw nut 523.

The first one-side syringe guide 524A and the first other side syringe guide 524B may be disposed on one side and the other side of the first syringe ball screw bolt 522, respectively, in the second direction. The first one-side injection guide 524A and the first other side injection guide 524B may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The first syringe guide 524A and the first other syringe guide 524B include a first syringe ball screw nut 523, a first syringe rod 525, and a second syringe rod 526, for example, a slider (SL). It can be coupled to be movable in the up and down directions.

The first support frame SF1 may extend in the second direction. The first support frame SF1 may be coupled to the first syringe ball screw bolt 522 or may be penetrated by the first syringe ball screw bolt 522.

The first syringe guide 527 and the second syringe guide 528 may be combined with the first support frame (SF2).

The first syringe guide 527 and the second syringe guide 528 may be installed penetrating the first support frame (SF1).

The spacing adjusting unit 530 can adjust the spacing between the plurality of first syringes 510. The spacing adjustment unit 530 can adjust the spacing between the centers of adjacent first syringes 510 to correspond to the storage interval interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4) described above.

Paragraph 2-1 // Accordingly, even if the spacing between neighboring reservoirs (R) and the spacing between neighboring wells (W) are different, a plurality of reservoirs (R) and a plurality of reservoirs (R) can be connected with one first scanning module (500). Materials can be transferred simply and easily between the wells (W).

The spacing adjusting unit 530 can adjust the spacing between the centers of adjacent first head parts 514 to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4).

Paragraph 2-2 // Accordingly, since the spacing of only the plurality of first head portions 514 among the plurality of first syringes 510 changes, the first syringe 510 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost. Accordingly, the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the sample processing device 1 can be reduced, and the sample processing device 1 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

Specifically, the distance between the first body portions 512 of the plurality of first syringes 510 and the distance between the first pistons 518 of the plurality of first syringes 510 may be fixed. Accordingly, the first injection mechanism 520 can easily relatively move the plurality of first pistons 518. On the other hand, when the gap between the first body parts 512 of the plurality of first syringes 510 changes, the gap between the first pistons 518 of the plurality of first syringes 510 must change, so that the first injection mechanism 520 The plurality of first pistons 518 may have to be individually (relatively) moved.

Referring further to FIGS. 49 to 55, the spacing adjusting unit 530 according to one embodiment may include a plurality of support legs 531. The gap adjustment unit 530 may include a gap control plate 532 and a gap control drive unit 534. The spacing adjusting unit 530 may include a second spacing adjusting guide (IG2).

The plurality of support legs 531 may be respectively coupled to the plurality of first head parts 514 to support the first head parts 514, respectively. The spacing of the plurality of support legs 531 may vary.

A plurality of first head parts 514 are respectively installed on a plurality of support legs 531, and when the tip (TP) is coupled to the distal end of the first head part 514, the first head part 514 is a support leg ( 531), it can be installed to be able to retreat by a predetermined distance. A first elastic member (SP1) may be installed on each support leg 531 to elastically deform and press the first head portion 514 toward the ship side when the first head portion 514 retreats (FIG. 54 , Figure 55).

Paragraph 2-4 // Accordingly, the plurality of first head parts 514 are separated so that the spacing can be changed, and there is a tolerance in the height, position, etc. of each separately configured first head part 514 or tip (TP). Even if present, the plurality of first head portions 514 can be reliably coupled to the plurality of tips TP at once. Accordingly, malfunction of the sample processing device 1 can be prevented and sample processing can be performed quickly and successfully.

For example, as shown in Figure 55, the first head portion 514 may be provided with a first locking portion (P1) protruding laterally, and the support leg 531 may be provided on the side of the first head portion 514. It may be provided with a second locking part (P2) that surrounds the rear portion than the first locking part (P1). The first elastic member (SP1) may be installed between the first engaging portion (P1) and the second engaging portion (P2). Accordingly, when the first head portion 514 retreats with respect to the second locking portion P2 of the support leg 531, the first elastic member SP1 is elastically deformed to press the first head portion 514 toward the ship side. You can.

Specifically, the support leg 531 includes a first part 531A including a first gap adjustment guide coupling part IGC1, which will be described later, and a second part 531B including the second locking part P2. It may be included (Figure 55). The support leg 531 surrounds the side of the first head portion 514 and may further include a third portion 531A surrounding the side of the first locking portion P1 (FIG. 55).

Each of the plurality of support legs 531 may include a first gap adjustment guide coupling portion (IGC1). That is, a plurality of first spacing adjustment guide coupling portions (IGC1) may be provided. The first gap adjustment guide coupling portion (IGC1) may be a protrusion. The plurality of first spacing adjustment guide coupling portions (IGC1) may each be coupled to at least a portion (eg, first head portion) of the plurality of first syringes 510. The plurality of first gap control guide coupling portions (IGC1) are each directly coupled to a plurality of first gap control guides (IG1), which will be described later, and are respectively coupled to be relatively movable along the plurality of first gap control guides (IG1). (Figure 46, Figure 52 to Figure 54).

The spacing adjustment plate 532 may extend, for example, in a vertical direction and a second direction. A plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1) may be formed on the spacing adjustment plate 532. The plurality of first gap adjustment guides IG1 may be through holes or grooves formed in the gap adjustment plate 532 (FIGS. 45, 46, and 53).

The plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1) each extend in a direction (e.g., diagonal direction) intersecting the second direction in which the plurality of first syringes 510 are arranged side by side, and may be extended so as to gradually spread apart or come together. (Figure 45, Figure 46, Figure 53).

At least a portion (e.g., first head portion) of the plurality of first syringes 510 is coupled to the plurality of first interval adjustment guides (IG1), respectively, and is relative to each other along the extension direction of the plurality of first interval adjustment guides (IG1). It can be combined to allow movement (Figures 53 and 54).

The gap adjustment drive unit 534 may (relatively) move the gap control plate 532 in a direction intersecting the second direction (eg, up and down direction).

When the gap control plate 532 is relatively moved by the gap control drive unit 534, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 (for example, the first head part) moves in the extending direction of the plurality of first gap control guides IG1. They can move relative to each other and spread apart or come together. Accordingly, the distance between the centers of neighboring first syringes 510 can be adjusted to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well interval (IN3 or IN4).

Paragraph 2-5 // Accordingly, the spacing of at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 can be adjusted simply, easily, and at low cost. Accordingly, the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the sample processing device 1 can be reduced.

The second gap adjustment guide (IG2) may extend in the second direction. At least a portion (e.g., first head portion) of the plurality of first syringes 510 coupled to the gap adjustment plate 532 is coupled to the second gap adjustment guide (IG2) and has a second gap along the second gap adjustment guide (IG2). It can be coupled to be movable in one direction (Figures 52 and 53).

Paragraph 2-6 // Accordingly, the spacing of at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 can be accurately and stably adjusted.

The second gap adjustment guide (IG2) may include a plurality of sub-guides (SG).

A plurality of sub-guides (SG) may be arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction (eg, vertical direction). The plurality of sub-guides (SG) may each extend in the second direction.

At least a portion (e.g., first head portion) of the plurality of first syringes 510 is each coupled to one or more (e.g., two) sub-guides (SG) among the plurality of sub-guides (SG), but one or more (e.g., It can be coupled to be movable in a second direction along two sub-guides (SG). At this time, at least a portion of the first syringes 510 adjacent to each other may be combined with different subguides (SG). That is, a pair of neighboring first syringes 510 may be combined with different subguides (SG) (FIGS. 52 and 53).

Paragraph 2-7 // Accordingly, each of the sub-guides (SG) is directly coupled to the sub-guide (SG), but is movably coupled in the second direction along the sub-guide (SG) and coupled to at least a portion of each first syringe (510). The width of the second spacing guide coupling portion (IGC2) in the second direction may be greater than the minimum spacing (in the second direction) between the centers of at least a portion of the adjacent first syringes 510. Accordingly, since at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 can stably move in the second direction while being guided by the sub-guide (SG), the spacing of at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is accurate and stable. It can be adjusted.

In addition, even if the minimum distance between the centers of at least a portion of the adjacent first syringes 510 is small, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 are all guided by the second gap adjustment guide IG2 and move in the second direction. You can move stably. Accordingly, the spacing of at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 can be accurately and stably adjusted.

The second gap adjustment guide (IG2) may include one side guide (IG2A) and the other side guide (IG2B). One side guide (IG2A) and the other side guide (IG2B) are located on one side (e.g., upper side) and the other side (e.g., lower side) of the plurality of first gap adjustment guide coupling portions (IGC1) in a direction crossing the second direction (e.g., up and down direction). Each may be arranged and each may extend in a second direction (FIGS. 52 and 53).

At least a portion (e.g., first head portion) of the plurality of first syringes 510 is coupled to one side guide (IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B) and moves in a second direction along one side guide (IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B). It can be movably combined (Figures 52 and 53).

Paragraph 2-8 // Accordingly, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 can stably move in the second direction, so that the spacing of at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is accurately and stably adjusted. It can be.

One side guide (IG2A) may include a plurality of one side subguides (SGA). A plurality of one-side sub-guides (SGA) may be arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction (eg, vertical direction) and may each extend in the second direction.

The other side guide (IG2B) may include a plurality of other side sub-guides (SGB). The plurality of other sub-guides SGB may be arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction (eg, vertical direction) and may each extend in the second direction.

At least a portion (e.g., first head portion) of the plurality of first syringes 510 includes one or more one side subguides (SGA) and one of the plurality of one side subguides (SGA) and the plurality of other side subguides (SGB), respectively. It may be coupled with one or more other side sub-guides (SGB) and movable in a second direction along one or more one side sub-guides (SGA) and one or more other side sub-guides (SGB). At this time, at least a portion (eg, first head portion) of the first syringes 510 adjacent to each other may be combined with a different one side sub-guide (SGA) and a different other side sub-guide (SGB). That is, a pair of neighboring first syringes 510 may be combined with different one-side sub-guides (SGA) and different other-side sub-guides (SGB) ( FIGS. 52 and 53 ).

Paragraph 2-9 // Accordingly, since the plurality of first syringes 510 can stably move in the second direction, the spacing between the plurality of first syringes 510 can be accurately and stably adjusted.

[1st drop catching section]

Figure 56 is an exploded perspective view of the first drop catching portion of Figures 39 to 44. Figure 57 is a state diagram showing a state in which the first drop catcher of the first drop catching part of Figures 39 to 44 and Figure 56 enters the reservoir or the space between the well and the tip. Figure 58 is a state diagram showing a state in which the first tip removal part of the first drop catching part of Figures 39 to 44, 56 and 57 is moved to a predetermined position in contact with the first head part of the first syringe of the first injection module . Figure 59 is a state diagram showing a state in which the first injection module is raised in the state 58 and the tip is removed from the first head of the first syringe of the first injection module.

Referring further to FIGS. 56 to 59, the first drop catching unit 1100 according to one embodiment may include a first drop catcher 1110 and a first drop catcher driving unit 1120. The first drop catching unit 1100 may include a first tip removal unit 1130. The first drop catching unit 1100 may be coupled to the first arm 700.

The first drop catcher 1110 may enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the first injection module 500. The first drop catcher 1110 enters the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the tip (TP) with the tip (TP) retreated from the inside of the reservoir (R) or well (W). It can be avoided or it can be avoided. The first drop catcher 1110 may receive material falling from the first scanning module 500 or a tip (TP) coupled to the first scanning module 500.

The first drop catcher 1110 may include a first drop catcher groove DH1. The first drop catcher 1110 may include a first drop catcher auxiliary guide 1112.

The first drop catcher groove DH1 may be formed on the upper surface of the first drop catcher 1110. The first drop catcher groove (DH1) can accommodate material falling from the first scanning module 500 or the tip (TP) coupled to the first scanning module 500.

The first drop catcher auxiliary guide 1112 may extend in the first direction. The first drop catcher auxiliary guide 1112 may be arranged in parallel with the first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124, which will be described later. The first drop catcher auxiliary guide 1112 is coupled to the first drop catcher auxiliary guide support portion DF1 fixed to the first scanning module 1100, and the first drop catcher auxiliary guide support portion DF1 is connected to the first drop catcher auxiliary guide support DF1. It may be coupled to be relatively movable in the first direction along the auxiliary guide 1112. The first drop catcher auxiliary guide support portion DF1 may be, for example, a slider fixedly installed on the first scanning module 1100.

When the first scanning module 500 is disposed on one side or the other side of the direction intersecting the vertical direction of the first arm 700 (e.g., the first direction), the first drop catcher 1110 is connected to the reservoir (R). Alternatively, when entering the space between the well (W) and the first scanning module 500, the first drop catcher 1110 is located below the first scanning module 500 (FIG. 57), and the first drop catcher 1110 When the first drop catcher 1110 is retracted from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the first injection module 500, the first drop catcher 1110 may be located on the lower side of the first arm 700 (FIG. 40, Figure 44).

Paragraph 2-11 // Accordingly, since the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) is located below the scanning module 30 and the arm 40, space waste caused by the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) can be reduced or prevented. and the drop catcher (1110 or 1210) can be protected.

The first tip removal part 1130 may be provided on one side of the first drop catcher 1110. The first tip removal unit 1130 may separate the tip TP from the first syringe 510 of the first injection module 500. For example, the first tip removal unit 1130 may separate the tip TP from the first head portion 514 of the first syringe 510 of the first injection module 500.

Paragraph 2-13 // Accordingly, the tip (TP) can be easily separated from the syringe at low cost with a simple configuration.

The first tip removal unit 1130 is operated by the first arm 700 and the first drop catcher driving unit 50 in a direction that intersects the up and down direction with the first syringe 510 or the tip (TP) (for example, in the first direction). It can be relatively moved to a predetermined position that is in contact or adjacent to each other (FIG. 58).

When the first scanning module 500 is raised by the first arm 700 while the first tip removal unit 1130 is moved to the above predetermined position, the tip TP interferes with the first tip removal unit 1130 and moves to the lower side. and the tip TP can be separated from the first syringe 510 (FIG. 59).

Paragraph 2-14 // Accordingly, the tip (TP) can be easily separated from the syringe at low cost with a simple configuration.

The first tip removal portion 1130 may include an insertion groove 1132.

The first syringe 510 or the tip TP may be relatively inserted into the insertion groove 1132 in a direction crossing the vertical direction (eg, the first direction). The insertion groove 1132 may partially surround the syringe or tip (TP).

Paragraph 2-15 // Accordingly, the tip (TP) is partially surrounded by the first tip removal portion 1130 and can interfere in the vertical direction, so the tip (TP) can be easily and stably separated from the syringe.

The first drop catcher driving unit 1120 may cause the first drop catcher 1110 to enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the first scanning module 500. The first drop catcher driving unit 1120 may cause the first drop catcher 1110 to enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the tip (TP).

Paragraph 2-12 // Accordingly, when the scanning module 30 is relatively transported in a direction intersecting the up and down direction along with the tip (TP), the material falls from the scanning module 30 or the tip (TP) and causes damage to the scanning module. Contamination of the reservoir (R) or well (W) located at the lower part of the (relative) transfer path of (30) can be prevented.

The first drop catcher driving unit 1120 may include a first drop catcher motor 1122, a first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124, and a first drop catcher ball screw nut 1126. The first drop catcher driving unit 1120 may include a first drop catcher guide 1128.

The first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124 may extend in the first direction. The first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124 can be rotated by the first drop catcher motor 1122. For example, the first drop catcher motor 1122, the driving pulley coupled with the first drop catcher motor 1122, the driven pulley coupled with the first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124, and connecting the driving pulley and the driven pulley. The first drop catcher ball screw bolt (1124) can rotate by the belt.

The first drop catcher ball screw nut 1126 may be combined with the first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124. The first drop catcher ball screw nut 1126 may move in the first direction according to the rotation of the first drop catcher ball screw bolt 1124. The first drop catcher ball screw nut 1126 may be combined with the first drop catcher 1110.

The first drop catcher guide 1128 may extend in a first direction. The first drop catcher ball screw nut 1126 may be coupled to the first drop catcher guide 1128 to be movable in the first direction through, for example, a slider SL.

The first drop catcher 1110 and the first drop catcher driving unit 1120 may be coupled to the first arm 700.

Paragraph 2-10 // Accordingly, when the scanning module 30 is relatively transported in a direction intersecting the up and down direction, material falls from the scanning module 30 or the tip (TP) and causes the (relative) of the scanning module 30 ) It is possible to prevent contamination of the reservoir (R) or well (W) located at the bottom of the transfer path. In particular, even if the relative transfer distance is long or vibration/shock occurs during relative transfer, foreign matter can be prevented from entering the reservoir (R) or well (W) located at the bottom of the transfer path. Accordingly, sample processing can be performed correctly and effectively with a simple configuration and easily at low cost.

[Gripper]

Figures 60 to 62 are perspective, side and bottom views of the gripper of Figures 39 to 44. Figure 63 is a state diagram showing a state in which the gripper is coupled to the well plate.

With further reference to FIGS. 60 to 62 , the gripper 1300 according to one embodiment may include a hook 1310. The gripper 1300 may include a pair of hooks 1310 and a gripper driving unit 1320. The gripper 1300 may be coupled to and separated from the plate P, for example, the well plate WP.

The hook 1310 may be coupled to the plate (P) while contacting the bottom surface of the plate (P) in the vertical direction. Accordingly, when the plate P is lifted or transferred by the gripper 1300, the first arm 700, and the first transfer unit 900, the bottom surface of the plate P may be lifted by the hook 1310 ( Figure 63).

Paragraph 2-16 // Accordingly, the gripper 1300 can stably maintain its coupled state with the plate (P) during lifting or transportation and does not lose sight of the plate (P). Accordingly, the plate P can be safely lifted and transported.

In addition, since the gripper 1300 lifts the bottom surface of the plate (P), there is no need to provide a separate coupling part with the gripper 1300 on the plate (P), and the coupling part (bottom) between the plate (P) and the gripper 1300 surface) may not be deformed/damaged.

On the other hand, when the coupling portion of the plate P and the gripper 1300 (e.g., a portion protruding laterally from the center of the side of the plate P) is provided separately, the coupling portion may be relatively easily deformed/damaged and the gripper ( 1300) may be weakly coupled to the plate (P). Accordingly, when the plate P is lifted and transported, the plate P may be separated from the gripper 1300 and fall down.

The hook 1310 may be provided with a skirt insertion groove 1311. When the hook 1310 is coupled to the plate P, the skirt ST of the plate P may be inserted laterally (eg, in the second direction) into the skirt insertion groove 1311 of the hook 1310. The inner surface of the skirt insertion groove 1311 can contact the skirt ST of the plate P upward and downward (FIGS. 60, 61, and 63).

Paragraph 2-19 // Accordingly, the gripper 1300 can be stably coupled and maintained with the plate P, so the plate P can be safely lifted and transported. In addition, since the gripper 1300 can press the skirt (ST) of the plate (P) downward, the gripper 1300 can press the plate (P) (e.g., the skirt (ST) of the plate (P)) to the plate seating portion 210. ) (for example, it can be coupled to the latch 234 provided on the plate seating portion 210).

The pair of hooks 1310 may be arranged at a predetermined interval in a second direction (eg, front-to-back direction) that intersects the up-down direction.

Among the pair of hooks 1310, the hook 1310 disposed on one side (eg, rear side) in the second direction may include a first hook 1312 and a second hook 1314. The first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314 may be disposed at predetermined intervals on one side and the other side of a first direction (eg, left and right direction) that intersects the vertical direction and the second direction.

Among the pair of hooks 1310, the hook 1310 disposed on the other side (eg, front side) in the second direction may include a third hook 1316 and a fourth hook 1318. The third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1318 may be disposed at a predetermined interval on one side and the other side in the first direction.

At this time, the length of the plate P in the first direction may be greater than or equal to the length of the plate P in the second direction.

Paragraph 2-22 // Accordingly, since two hooks 1310 are spaced apart and coupled to the bottom surface of both long sides of the plate P, the gripper 1300 can be stably coupled and maintained with the plate P. there is. Accordingly, the plate P can be safely lifted and transported.

The first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314 are coupled to each other and can be displaced together by the gripper driving part 1320, and the third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1318 are coupled to each other and the gripper driving part ( 1320) can be displaced together (Figure 60).

Paragraph 2-20 // Accordingly, the gripper 1300 can come into contact with four parts of the bottom surface of the plate (P), so the gripper 1300 can be stably coupled to and remain coupled to the plate (P). Accordingly, the plate P can be safely lifted and transported. In addition, since the hooks 1310 are coupled two at a time and are displaced together, the gripper driving unit 1320 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost.

The gripper driving unit 1320 can couple or separate the gripper 1300 from the plate (P) by adjusting the distance between the pair of hooks 1310.

Paragraph 2-17 // Accordingly, the gripper 1300 can be easily implemented at low cost with a simple configuration.

The pair of hooks 1310 is connected to the pair of first hook insertion grooves 212 of the first plate seating portion 210 of the processing module 200 or the second pair of hook insertion grooves 212 of the magnetic module 300 by the gripper driving unit 1320. It can be inserted into or removed from the pair of second hook insertion grooves 312 of the plate seating portion 310 in the second direction (FIGS. 25 and 28).

Paragraph 2-18 // Accordingly, the gripper 1300 can be easily and stably coupled to and separated from the bottom surface of the plate P mounted on the processing module 200 or the magnetic module 300.

The gripper driving unit 1320 includes a gripper motor 1322, a gripper ball screw bolt 1324, a first gripper ball screw nut 1326, a second gripper ball screw nut 1327, a first gripper guide 1328, and a second gripper guide 1328. It may include a gripper guide (1329).

The gripper ball screw bolt 1324 may extend in the second direction. The gripper ball screw bolt 1324 can be rotated by the gripper motor 1322. The gripper ball screw bolt 1324 may have threads formed on one side and the other side in the second direction in opposite directions. The gripper ball screw bolt 1324 may be disposed between the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314 and between the third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1318 in the first direction.

The first gripper ball screw nut 1326 may be coupled to one side of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324 in the second direction. The first gripper ball screw nut 1326 may move in the second direction as the gripper ball screw bolt 1324 rotates. The first gripper ball screw nut 1326 may be combined with the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314.

The second gripper ball screw nut 1327 may be coupled to the other side of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324 in the second direction. The second gripper ball screw nut 1327 moves in the second direction according to the rotation of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324, but can move in the opposite direction to the first gripper ball screw nut 1326. The second gripper ball screw nut 1327 may be combined with the third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1316.

The first gripper guide 1328 and the second gripper guide 1329 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the gripper ball screw bolt 1324, respectively, in the first direction. The first gripper guide 1328 and the second gripper guide 1329 may each extend in the second direction. A first gripper ball screw nut 1326 and a second gripper ball screw nut 1327 may be movably coupled to the first gripper guide 1328 and the second gripper guide 1329 in the second direction.

Paragraph 2-21 // Accordingly, the gripper 1300 can be implemented simply, easily, and at low cost. Specifically, one gripper motor 1322 can simultaneously displace four hooks. In addition, both the first gripper ball screw nut 1326 and the second gripper ball screw nut 1327 move while being guided by the first gripper guide 1328 and the second gripper guide 1329, and the gripper ball screw bolt ( 1324 is between the first hook 1312 and the second hook 1314, between the third hook 1316 and the fourth hook 1318, and between the first gripper guide 1328 and the second gripper guide (1324) in the first direction. 1329), it is possible to stably displace four hooks simultaneously with one gripper motor 1322.

[2nd injection module, 2nd arm, 2nd drop catching unit]

Figures 64 to 67 are perspective and exploded perspective views showing the second scanning module 600, the second arm 800, and the second drop catching unit 1200 of Figures 1 to 5.

Referring to FIGS. 64 to 67 , the second arm 800 according to one embodiment may be combined with the second scanning module 600 and/or the second drop catching unit 1200.

[Second cancer]

The second arm 800 can lift the second scanning module 600. The second arm 800 may be coupled to the second drop catching unit 1200.

The second arm 800 may include a third lifting motor 812, a third lifting ball screw bolt 814, a third lifting ball screw nut 816, and a third lifting guide 818.

The third lifting ball screw bolt 814 may extend in the vertical direction. The third lifting ball screw bolt 814 can be rotated by the third lifting motor 812. For example, the third lifting motor 812, the driving pulley coupled with the third lifting motor 812, the driven pulley coupled with the third lifting ball screw bolt 814, and the belt connecting the driving pulley and the driven pulley. This allows the third lifting ball screw bolt 814 to rotate.

The third lifting ball screw nut 816 can move in the vertical direction according to the rotation of the third lifting ball screw bolt 814. The third lifting ball screw nut 816 may be combined with the second scanning module 600.

The third lifting guide 818 may extend in the vertical direction. The third lifting ball screw nut 816 may be coupled to the third lifting guide 818 to be movable in the vertical direction, for example, through a slider SL (FIG. 67).

[2nd scanning module]

Figure 68 is a perspective view of the second scanning module of Figures 64 to 67 with some components omitted. Figure 69 is a cross-sectional view showing the second scanning module of Figures 64 to 68. Figure 70 is a state diagram showing a state in which the second piston of the second syringe of the second injection module of Figure 69 is lowered. Figure 71 is a state diagram showing a state in which the second piston of the second syringe of the second injection module of Figure 70 is further lowered and the tip is removed from the second syringe.

Referring further to FIGS. 68 to 71 , the second injection module 600 according to an embodiment may include a plurality of second syringes 610 and a second injection mechanism unit 620. The second scanning module 600 may include a second body portion 612. The second scanning module 600 may include a tip removal unit 630. The second scanning module 600 may include a second support frame (SF2).

A plurality of second syringes 610 may be arranged side by side (eg, in a first direction and a second direction). Accordingly, the second injection module 600 inhales the material (e.g., nucleic acid extraction reagent) contained in one or more reservoirs (R) (e.g., reagent reservoirs) into a plurality of wells (W) (e.g., a plurality of wells of a well plate). ) or aspirate the material (e.g., nucleic acid) contained in a plurality of wells (W) of one plate (P) (e.g., well plate) to a plurality of wells (e.g., PCR plate) of another plate (P) (e.g., PCR plate). W) or can be discharged to one or more reservoirs (R).

Each second syringe 610 may include a first internal space IS1 and a second piston 618. Each second syringe 610 may include a second head portion 614.

The first internal space IS1 may penetrate the front and rear ends of the second body portion 612, which will be described later.

The second piston 618 may be inserted into the first internal space IS1 from the rear end of the first internal space IS1. The second piston 618 can slide up and down.

The second head portion 614 may have a second internal space (IS2). The second internal space IS2 may penetrate the front and rear ends of the second head portion 614. The rear end of the second internal space (IS2) may be in communication with the front end of the first internal space (IS1).

A plurality of second syringes 610 may be arranged side by side in the first direction. Accordingly, the first internal space IS1 and the second piston 618 may also be arranged side by side in the first direction. A plurality of second syringes 610 may be arranged side by side in the first and second directions. Accordingly, the first internal space IS1 and the second piston 618 may also be arranged side by side in the first and second directions.

The second body portion 612 may constitute a plurality of second syringes 610. Specifically, a plurality of first internal spaces IS1 may be formed side by side in the first direction in the second body portion 612. In the second body portion 612, a plurality of first internal spaces (IS1) may be formed side by side in the first and second directions.

The second injection mechanism 620 may be coupled to a plurality of second pistons 618. The second syringe unit 620 can lift and lower the plurality of second pistons 618 to allow the plurality of second syringes 610 to inhale or discharge substances (eg, nucleic acid extraction reagent or nucleic acid).

The second syringe mechanism eastern part 620 includes a second syringe motor 621, a second syringe ball screw bolt 622, a second syringe ball screw nut 623, a third syringe rod 625, and a fourth syringe rod 626. ), it may include a third syringe guide 627, a fourth syringe guide 628, and a second piston plate 629. The second injection mechanism eastern part 620 may include a second one-side injection guide 624A and a second other side injection guide 624B.

The second syringe ball screw bolt 622 may extend in the vertical direction. The second syringe ball screw bolt 622 can be rotated by the second syringe motor 621.

For example, the second syringe motor 621, the drive pulley coupled with the second syringe motor 621, the driven pulley coupled with the second syringe ball screw bolt 622, and the belt connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley. This allows the second syringe ball screw bolt 622 to rotate (FIGS. 64 to 67).

The second syringe ball screw nut 623 may be combined with the second syringe ball screw bolt 622. The second syringe ball screw nut 623 can be raised and lowered according to the rotation of the second syringe ball screw bolt 622.

The third syringe rod 625 and the fourth syringe rod 626 may be disposed on one side (eg, left) and the other side (eg, right) of the second syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction, respectively. The third syringe rod 625 and the fourth syringe rod 626 may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The third syringe rod 625 and the fourth syringe rod 626 are combined with the second syringe ball screw nut 623 and can be moved up and down together with the second syringe ball screw nut 623.

The third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628 may be respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the second syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction. The third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628 may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The third syringe rod 625 and the fourth syringe rod 626 may penetrate the third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628, respectively. The third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628 can guide the raising and lowering of the third syringe rod 625 and the fourth syringe rod 626, respectively.

The third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628 may be combined with the second body portion 612.

Paragraph 2-31 // Accordingly, the plurality of pistons 618 arranged side by side in the first direction can stably enter or exit the plurality of first internal spaces IS1. Accordingly, the plurality of syringes 510 and 610 can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge substances.

The second piston plate 629 may extend in the first direction. The second piston plate 629 may extend in the first and second directions. The second piston plate 629 may be combined with the third syringe rod 625, the fourth syringe rod 626, and a plurality of second pistons 618.

Paragraph 2-27 // Accordingly, the plurality of syringes 610 can inhale and discharge substances easily, uniformly, and stably at low cost with a simple configuration.

Specifically, one side and the other side of the piston plate 629 in the second or first direction can be uniformly pressed by a pair of syringe rods 625, 626 and a pair of syringe guides 627, 628. there is. Accordingly, even if the injection mechanism eastern part 620 is provided with one syringe ball screw bolt 622 and one syringe ball screw nut 623, the plurality of syringes 610 arranged side by side in the first direction uniformly and stably inhale the substance. and can be discharged.

The second piston plate 629 may be disposed below the second syringe ball screw bolt 622 and the second syringe ball screw nut 623.

Paragraph 2-30 // Accordingly, one side and the other side of the piston plate 629 in the second or first direction can be uniformly pressed. Therefore, the plurality of syringes 610 can inhale and discharge substances uniformly and stably.

The second one-side syringe guide 624A and the second other side syringe guide 624B may be respectively disposed on one side and the other side of the second syringe ball screw bolt 622 in the first direction. The second one-side injection guide 624A and the second other side injection guide 624B may extend in the vertical direction, respectively. The second syringe guide 624A and the second other syringe guide 624B include a second syringe ball screw nut 623, a third syringe rod 625, and a fourth syringe rod 626, for example, a slider (SL). It can be coupled to be movable in the up and down directions.

Paragraph 2-32 // Accordingly, one side and the other side of the piston plate 629 in the first direction can be uniformly pressed by the one side syringe guide 624A and the other syringe guide 624B. Accordingly, even if the injection mechanism eastern part 620 is provided with one syringe ball screw bolt 622 and one syringe ball screw nut 623, the plurality of syringes 610 arranged side by side in the first direction uniformly and stably inhale the substance. and can be discharged.

The second support frame SF2 may extend in the first direction. The second support frame SF2 may be coupled to the second syringe ball screw bolt 622 or penetrated by the second syringe ball screw bolt 622.

The third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628 may be combined with the second support frame (SF2).

Paragraph 2-28 // Accordingly, a pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 on one side and the other in the second or first direction can be stably supported by the support frame SF2. Therefore, the plurality of syringes 610 can inhale and discharge substances uniformly and stably.

The third syringe guide 627 and the fourth syringe guide 628 may be installed penetrating the second support frame (SF2).

Paragraph 2-29 // Accordingly, a pair of syringe guides 627 and 628 on one side and the other in the second or first direction can be stably supported by the support frame SF2. Therefore, the plurality of syringes 610 can inhale and discharge substances uniformly and stably.

When a plurality of syringes 610 are arranged side by side in the first and second directions and the piston plate 629 extends in the first and second directions, a pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 and a pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 The syringe guides 627 and 628 may overlap in the second direction with the syringe 610 disposed at the center of the plurality of syringes 610 in the second direction.

Paragraph 2-34 // Accordingly, one side, the other side, and the second direction of the piston plate 629 in the first direction are Both one side and the other side can be pressed evenly. Accordingly, even if the plurality of syringes 610 are arranged side by side in the first and second directions, the plurality of syringes 610 arranged side by side in the first and second directions can uniformly and stably inhale and discharge the substance. .

The tip removal unit 630 may include a syringe support frame 632, a tip removal plate 634, and restoration means.

The syringe support frame 632 may extend in a first direction. The syringe support frame 632 may contact or be adjacent to the second body portion 612 in the vertical direction. A plurality of second head portions 614 may be installed through the syringe support frame 632 side by side in the first direction.

The tip removal plate 634 may extend in the first direction. The tip removal plate 634 can be installed on the lower side of the syringe support frame 632 to be able to lift. The tip removal plate 634 may be formed with a plurality of interference holes. A plurality of second head portions 614 may be disposed to penetrate upward and downward into the plurality of interference holes, respectively.

When the tip removal plate 634 is lowered, the plurality of head portions 614 pass through the plurality of interference holes, but the plurality of tips TP do not pass through the plurality of interference holes. Accordingly, the plurality of tips TP do not pass through the plurality of interference holes. It can be removed from the head portion 614 (FIGS. 70 and 71).

The tip removal plate 634 can be lowered by being pressed by a pair of syringe rods 625 and 626 (FIGS. 70 and 71).

Paragraph 2-33 // Accordingly, since there is no need for a separate configuration to lower the tip removal plate 634, the tip removal unit 630 can be easily implemented at low cost with a simple configuration. In addition, since one side and the other side of the tip removal plate 634 in the first direction can be uniformly pressed by the pair of syringe guides 627 and 628, a plurality of tips (TP) arranged side by side in the first direction It can be stably removed from the plurality of head parts 614.

The restoration means may be combined with the tip removal plate 634. The restoration means may raise the tip removal plate 634 to its original position when the tip removal plate 634 is lowered. The restoration means may include, for example, a restoration pin 636 and a second elastic member 638.

The restoration pin 636 may be coupled to the tip removal plate 634 and protrude upward from the tip removal plate 634. The restoration pin 636 may be disposed to penetrate the syringe support frame 632. The upper end of the restoration pin 636 may be provided with a third locking portion (P3) that protrudes in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (FIGS. 68 and 69).

The second elastic member 638 may be installed between the syringe support frame 632 and the third locking portion (P3). When the tip removal plate 634 descends, the second elastic member 638 is elastically deformed and can press the tip removal plate 634 upward.

[2nd drop catching section]

Figure 72 is an exploded perspective view of the second drop catching portion of Figures 64 to 67. Figure 73 is a state diagram showing a state in which the second drop catcher of the second drop catching unit of Figures 64 to 67 and Figure 72 enters the reservoir or the space between the well and the tip.

Referring further to FIGS. 72 and 73 , the second drop catching unit 1200 according to one embodiment may include a second drop catcher 1210 and a second drop catcher driving unit 1220. The second drop catching unit 1200 may be coupled to the second arm 800.

The second drop catcher 1210 may enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the second injection module 600. The second drop catcher 1210 enters the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the tip (TP) with the tip (TP) retreated from the inside of the reservoir (R) or well (W). It can be avoided or it can be avoided. The second drop catcher 1210 may receive material falling from the second injection module 600 or a tip (TP) coupled to the second injection module 600.

The second drop catcher 1210 may include a second drop catcher groove DH2. The second drop catcher 1210 may include a second drop catcher auxiliary guide 1212.

The second drop catcher groove DH2 may be formed on the upper surface of the second drop catcher 1210. The second drop catcher groove (DH2) can accommodate material falling from the second injection module 600 or the tip (TP) coupled to the second injection module 600.

The second drop catcher auxiliary guide 1212 may extend in the second direction. The second drop catcher auxiliary guide 1212 may be arranged in parallel with the second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224, which will be described later. The second drop catcher auxiliary guide 1212 is coupled to a second drop catcher auxiliary guide support portion DF2 fixed to the second scanning module 1200, and the second drop catcher auxiliary guide support portion DF2 is connected to the second drop catcher auxiliary guide support DF2. It may be coupled to be relatively movable in the second direction along the auxiliary guide 1212. The second drop catcher auxiliary guide support portion DF2 may be, for example, a slider fixedly installed on the second scanning module 1200.

When the second scanning module 600 is disposed on one side or the other side of the direction intersecting the vertical direction of the second arm 800 (e.g., the second direction), the second drop catcher 1210 is connected to the reservoir (R). Alternatively, when entering the space between the well (W) and the second scanning module 600, the second drop catcher 1210 is located below the second scanning module 600 (FIG. 73), and the second drop catcher 1210 When the is retracted from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the second injection module 600, the second drop catcher 1210 may be located on the lower side of the second arm 800 (FIG. 64, Figure 66).

The second drop catcher driving unit 1220 may cause the second drop catcher 1210 to enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the second injection module 600. The second drop catcher driving unit 1220 may cause the second drop catcher 1210 to enter or retreat from the space between the reservoir (R) or well (W) and the tip (TP).

The second drop catcher driving unit 1220 may include a second drop catcher motor 1222, a second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224, and a second drop catcher ball screw nut 1226. The second drop catcher driving unit 1220 may include a second drop catcher guide 1228.

The second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224 may extend in the second direction. The second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224 can be rotated by the second drop catcher motor 1222. For example, the second drop catcher motor 1222, the driving pulley coupled with the second drop catcher motor 1222, the driven pulley coupled with the second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224, and connecting the driving pulley and the driven pulley. The second drop catcher ball screw bolt (1224) can rotate by the belt.

The second drop catcher ball screw nut 1226 may be combined with the second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224. The second drop catcher ball screw nut 1226 may move in the second direction according to the rotation of the second drop catcher ball screw bolt 1224. The second drop catcher ball screw nut 1226 may be combined with the second drop catcher 1210.

The second drop catcher guide 1228 may extend in the second direction. The second drop catcher ball screw nut 1226 may be coupled to the second drop catcher guide 1228 to be movable in the second direction through, for example, a slider SL.

The second drop catcher 1210 and the second drop catcher driving unit 1220 may be coupled to the second arm 800.

[1st transfer unit, 2nd transfer unit]

Figure 74 is an exploded perspective view of the first transfer unit and the second transfer unit of Figs. 1 to 5. Figure 75 is a perspective view showing the first sub-transfer unit of the first transfer unit and the third sub-transfer unit of the second transfer unit of Figure 74. FIG. 76 is a perspective view showing the second sub-transfer unit of the first transfer unit of FIG. 74. FIG. 77 is a perspective view showing the fourth sub-transfer unit of the second transfer unit of FIG. 74.

Referring further to FIGS. 74 to 76, the first transfer unit 900 according to one embodiment includes a first sub transfer unit 910, a first transfer coupler 920, a second sub transfer unit 930, and a second transfer coupler. It may include (940).

The first sub-transfer unit 910 may include a first transfer motor 912, a first transfer ball screw bolt 914, and a first transfer ball screw nut 916.

The first transfer ball screw bolt 914 may extend in a first direction (eg, left-right direction) that intersects the vertical direction. The first transfer ball screw bolt 914 can be rotated by the first transfer motor 912.

For example, the first transport motor 912, the drive pulley coupled with the first transport motor 912, the driven pulley coupled with the first transport ball screw bolt 914, and the belt connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The first transfer ball screw bolt 914 can rotate by this (FIG. 75).

The first transfer ball screw nut 916 may be combined with the first transfer ball screw bolt 914. The first transfer ball screw nut 916 may move in the first direction according to the rotation of the first transfer ball screw bolt 914. The first transfer ball screw nut 916 may be coupled to the first arm 700 (via the first transfer coupler 920, the second sub transfer unit 930, and the second transfer coupler 940).

The first transfer coupler 920 may be combined with the first transfer ball screw nut 916 and the second sub-transfer unit 930. The first transfer coupler 920 can move in a first direction that intersects the vertical direction.

The second sub-transfer unit 930 includes a second transfer motor 932, a second transfer ball screw bolt 934, a second transfer ball screw nut 936, a third transfer guide 938, and a fourth transfer guide 939. ) may include (Figure 76).

The second transfer motor 932 may be installed in the first transfer coupler 920 (FIG. 74).

The second transfer ball screw bolt 934 may be installed in the first transfer coupler 920 (FIGS. 74 and 76). The second transfer ball screw bolt 934 may extend in a vertical direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction (FIG. 76). The second transfer ball screw bolt 934 can be rotated by the second transfer motor 932.

For example, the second transport motor 932, the drive pulley coupled with the second transport motor 932, the driven pulley coupled with the second transport ball screw bolt 934, and the belt connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The second transfer ball screw bolt 934 can rotate by this (FIG. 76).

The second transfer ball screw nut 936 may move in the second direction according to the rotation of the second transfer ball screw bolt 934. The second transfer ball screw nut 936 may be coupled to the first arm 700 (via the second transfer coupler 940).

The third transfer guide 938 and the fourth transfer guide 939 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the second transfer ball screw bolt 934, respectively, in the first direction. The third transfer guide 938 and the fourth transfer guide 939 may each extend in the second direction. The first arm 700 may be coupled to the third transfer guide 938 and the fourth transfer guide 939 to be movable in the second direction through, for example, a slider SL.

The second transfer coupler 940 may be combined with the second transfer ball screw nut 936 and the above-described first arm 700.

Referring further to FIG. 77, the second transfer unit 1000 according to one embodiment includes a third sub transfer unit 1010, a third transfer coupler 1020, a fourth sub transfer unit 1030, and a fourth transfer coupler 1040. may include.

The third sub-transfer unit 1010 may include a third transfer motor 1012, a third transfer ball screw bolt 1014, and a third transfer ball screw nut 1016.

The third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 may extend in the first direction. The third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 can be rotated by the third transfer motor 1012.

For example, the third transport motor 1012, the drive pulley coupled with the third transport motor 1012, the driven pulley coupled with the third transport ball screw bolt 1014, and the belt connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 can rotate by this (FIG. 75).

The third transfer ball screw nut 1016 may be combined with the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014. The third transfer ball screw nut 1016 may move in the first direction according to the rotation of the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014. The third transfer ball screw nut 1016 may be coupled to the second arm 800 (via the third transfer coupler 1020, the fourth sub transfer unit 1030, and the fourth transfer coupler 1040).

The third transfer coupler 1020 may be combined with the third transfer ball screw nut 1016 and the fourth sub transfer unit 1030. The third transfer coupler 1020 can move in a first direction that intersects the vertical direction.

The fourth sub-transfer unit 1030 includes a fourth transfer motor 1032, a fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034, a fourth transfer ball screw nut 1036, a fifth transfer guide 1038, and a sixth transfer guide 1039. ) may include (Figure 77).

The fourth transfer motor 1032 may be installed in the third transfer coupler 1020 (FIG. 74).

The fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034 can be installed in the third transfer coupler 1020 (FIGS. 74 and 77). The fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034 may extend in a vertical direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction (FIG. 77). The fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034 can be rotated by the fourth transfer motor 1032.

The fourth transfer ball screw nut 1036 moves in the second direction according to the rotation of the fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034 and may be coupled to the second arm 800.

For example, the fourth transport motor 1032, the drive pulley coupled with the fourth transport motor 1032, the driven pulley coupled with the fourth transport ball screw bolt 1034, and the belt connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034 can rotate by this (FIG. 76).

The fifth transfer guide 1038 and the sixth transfer guide 1039 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the fourth transfer ball screw bolt 1034, respectively, in the first direction. The fifth transfer guide 1038 and the sixth transfer guide 1039 may each extend in the second direction. The second arm 800 may be coupled to the fifth transfer guide 1038 and the sixth transfer guide 1039 to be movable in the second direction through, for example, a slider SL.

The fourth transfer coupler 1040 may be combined with the fourth transfer ball screw nut 1036 and the above-described second arm 800.

Paragraph 1-24 // In this way, the second sub-transfer unit 930 or the fourth sub-transfer unit 1030 is connected to the second or fourth transfer motor (932 or 1032) and the second or fourth transfer ball screw bolt (934 or 1034), a second or fourth transfer ball screw nut (936 or 1036), a third or fifth transfer guide (938 or 1038), and a fourth or sixth transfer guide (939 or 1039). Accordingly, the first arm 700 or the second arm 800 can be stably transferred in the second direction while being guided by the transfer guide. Accordingly, the stability of the sample processing device 1 can be improved.

The first transfer ball screw bolt 914 and the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 may be arranged next to each other.

Paragraph 1-20 // Accordingly, the total installation space, occupied space, or use space of the first transfer unit 900 and the second transfer unit 1000 is reduced, so the sample processing device 1 can be miniaturized. Additionally, since the parts, structures, and/or installation positions of the first transfer unit 900 and the second transfer unit 1000 may be the same or similar, manufacturing and maintenance costs can be reduced.

The first transfer motor 912 and the third transfer motor 1012 may be arranged to at least partially overlap the first transfer ball screw bolt 914 and the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 in the first direction.

Paragraph 1-21 // Accordingly, the installation space or the length/width of the occupied space in the first direction of the first transfer unit 900 and the second transfer unit 1000 is reduced, so that the specimen processing device 1 can be miniaturized.

Meanwhile, a first transfer guide (TG1) and a second transfer guide (TG2) may be provided (FIGS. 74 and 75). The first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2) are connected to one side (e.g., the rear side) of the first transfer ball screw bolt 914 and the third transfer ball screw bolt 1014 in a second direction crossing the first direction. ) and the other side (for example, the front side) and may each extend in the first direction.

The first arm 700 and the second arm 800 are both coupled to the first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2), and follow the first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2). It can be coupled to be movable in a first direction (FIG. 74).

Paragraph 1-22 // Accordingly, both the first arm 700 and the second arm 800 are guided by the first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2) and are stably transferred in the first direction. It can be. Accordingly, the structure of the sample processing device 1 can be simplified, structural stability can be improved, and manufacturing and maintenance costs can be reduced. Additionally, the sample processing device 1 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

A plurality of first sliders (SL1) and a plurality of second sliders (SL2) may be provided. The plurality of first sliders (SL1) may be coupled to the first transfer guide (TG1) to enable sliding movement in a first direction along the first transfer guide (TG1). The plurality of second sliders (SL2) may be coupled to the second transfer guide (TG2) so as to be slidable in the first direction along the second transfer guide (TG2).

The first arm 700 and the second arm 800 are both combined with the first slider (SL1) and the second slider (SL2), and at least one arm among the first arm (700) and the second arm (800) is It may be combined with two or more first sliders (SL1) or with two or more second sliders (SL2).

Paragraph 1-23 // Accordingly, at least one of the first arm 700 and the second arm 800 is guided by the first transfer guide (TG1) and the second transfer guide (TG2) and moves further in the first direction. It can be transported stably. Accordingly, the stability of the sample processing device 1 can be improved.

[Sample processing method]

Figures 78 to 80 are flowcharts showing examples of a sample processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 78 to 80, the sample processing method (S2000) according to one embodiment may include a sample transfer process (S2100), a nucleic acid extraction process (S2200), and a PCR preparation process (S2300).

In the sample transfer process (S2100), the sample can be sucked from the sample reservoir (SR) using the scanning module 30 and discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP).

In the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200), the nucleic acid extraction reagent is sucked from the reagent reservoir (RR) using the scanning module 30, discharged into the well (W) of the well plate (WP), and a predetermined process is performed to extract nucleic acid from the sample. It can be extracted.

The predetermined process may include heating or shaking the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) (e.g., using the processing module 200 described above). The predetermined process may include applying magnetic force (e.g., using the magnetic module 300 described above) to a material contained in the well plate (WP).

For example, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) involves lysing and binding the sample (cell) and attaching the eluted nucleic acid to magnetic beads, and washing to remove impurities other than the magnetic beads and nucleic acids. It may include a washing step and an elution step to separate nucleic acids from the magnetic beads. Additionally, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) may further include a drying step of drying the cleaning solution between the washing step and the elution step. A processing module 200 and/or a magnetic module 300 may be used in each step.

The PCR preparation process (S2300) may include a PCR material transfer process (S2310) and a nucleic acid transfer process (S2320).

In the PCR material transfer process (S2310), the injection module 30 can inhale the PCR material or mixed PCR material (e.g., from the material reservoir (IR)) and discharge it into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). .

In the nucleic acid transfer process (S2320), the nucleic acid extracted from the sample can be inhaled (for example, from the well (W) of the well plate (WP)) using the injection module 30 and discharged into the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP). there is.

The PCR preparation process (S2300) can be completed by receiving PCR material or mixed PCR material and nucleic acid in the well (W) of the PCR plate (PP).

Paragraph 1-27 // Accordingly, since specimens, nucleic acid extraction reagents, nucleic acids, and PCR materials can be automatically transferred to a single specimen processing device (1), nucleic acid extraction and PCR preparation (setup) for specimens is quick and easy. and can be performed at low cost. In addition, work using PCR, such as PCR diagnosis of a specimen, can be performed quickly, easily, and at low cost.

The PCR preparation process (S2300) may further include a PCR material mixing process (S2400).

In the PCR material mixing process (S2400), the PCR materials can be mixed by inhaling and discharging a plurality of PCR materials with the injection module 30. For example, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) may include at least one of the first mixing process (S2410) and the second mixing process (S2420).

In the first mixing process (S2410), a plurality of different PCR materials or mixed PCR materials are sucked from a plurality of material reservoirs (IR) using the scanning module 30 and discharged into one same material reservoir (IR). PCR materials can be mixed. At this time, suction and discharge of the injection module 30 may be performed alternately multiple times. The first mixing process (S2410) may be performed before the PCR material transfer process (S2310) described above and/or the second mixing process (S2420) described later.

In the second mixing process (S2420), a plurality of different PCR materials or mixed PCR materials are sucked from a plurality of material reservoirs (IR) by the injection module 30 and wells (W) of one same PCR plate (PP). ) to mix PCR materials. At this time, suction and discharge of the injection module 30 may be performed alternately multiple times. That is, in the second mixing process (S2420), the above-described PCR material transfer process (S2310) can be performed multiple times (FIG. 79).

In the first mixing process (S2410) or the second mixing process (S2420), the mixture contained in the well (W) of the same material reservoir (IR) or the same PCR plate (PP) is mixed with the injection module (30). ) can be inhaled and discharged multiple times. Accordingly, the uniformity of the mixture can be improved because the mixture is mixed.

Meanwhile, the above-described process can be performed in parallel as follows.

4 to 7, when a first well plate (WP1) and a second well plate (WP2) are provided as well plates (WP), the sample transfer process (S2100) and the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) are performed as follows. It can be performed individually on the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2).

At this time, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed in the first well plate (WP1), and accordingly, while the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed in the second well plate (WP2). The sample transfer process (S2100) can be performed.

Paragraph 1-28 // Accordingly, while the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., lysis & binding step) is performed in the first well plate (WP1), the sample transfer process (S2100) is performed in the second well plate (WP2). Since this can be performed, the total nucleic acid extraction time for extracting nucleic acids from specimens contained in the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2) can be shortened.

In particular, the number of syringes of the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) used in the specimen transfer process (S2100) is limited due to the spacing or arrangement structure of the plurality of specimen reservoirs (SR) containing the plurality of specimens. It may be configured to be much smaller than the number of wells (W) of the plate (WP). Accordingly, the sample must be sucked in and discharged multiple times with the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) and the tip (TP) replaced multiple times to ensure that the sample is provided in multiple wells (W) of the well plate (WP). Therefore, the sample transfer process (S2100) may take a long time. In the present invention, the sample transfer process (S2100) for the second well plate (WP2) is performed in parallel with the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) for the first well plate (WP1), so that the total nucleic acid extraction time can be greatly shortened. there is.

4 to 7, when a first well plate (WP1) and a second well plate (WP2) are provided, respectively, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed using the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2). Each may be performed individually on the second well plate WP2.

At this time, while the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed in the first well plate (WP1) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the first well plate (WP1) is heated or shaken, the second well plate (WP2) The nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed, and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the second well plate (WP2) is heated or shaken, or the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed in the first well plate (WP1). Accordingly, while magnetic force is applied to the material contained in the first well plate (WP1), the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed in the second well plate (WP2), and accordingly, magnetic force is applied to the material contained in the second well plate (WP2). It can be inflicted.

Paragraph 1-31 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., lysis & binding step, washing step, drying step, and/or illusion step, etc.) from the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2) ) can be performed simultaneously, so the total nucleic acid extraction time for extracting nucleic acids from specimens contained in the first well plate (WP1) and the second well plate (WP2) can be shortened.

While the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the well plate (WP) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken, the PCR material transfer process (S2310) may be performed.

Paragraph 1-29 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., washing step, drying step, or illusion step) and the PCR material transfer process (S2310) can be performed in parallel at the same time, so that nucleic acids are extracted and PCR preparation is performed. The total time required for setup can be shortened.

In particular, due to the number, size, arrangement, or structure of the material reservoir (IR) containing the PCR material, the number of syringes of the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) used in the PCR material transfer process (S2310) is limited. It may be configured to be much smaller than the number of wells (W) of the PCR plate (PP). Accordingly, the PCR material or mixed PCR material must be inhaled and discharged multiple times with the injection module 30 (first injection module 500), and if necessary, the tip (TP) must be replaced at least once to maintain the integrity of the PCR plate (PP). Since multiple wells (W) may be equipped with PCR materials or mixed PCR materials, the PCR material transfer process (S2310) takes a long time. In the present invention, the PCR material transfer process (S2310) is performed in parallel with the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200), so that the total time required to extract nucleic acids and prepare for PCR (setup) can be greatly shortened.

While the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) is performed on the well plate (WP) and the sample or nucleic acid extraction reagent contained in the well plate (WP) is heated or shaken, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) may be performed.

Paragraph 1-30 // Accordingly, the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200) (e.g., washing step, drying step, or illusion step) and the PCR material mixing process (S2400) can be performed in parallel at the same time, so nucleic acid extraction and PCR The total time required for setup can be shortened.

In particular, the number of syringes of the scanning module 30 (first scanning module 500) used in the PCR material mixing process (S2400) is limited due to the number, size, arrangement, or structure of the material reservoir (IR) containing the PCR material. It can be configured to be very small. Accordingly, the PCR material or mixed PCR material must be inhaled and discharged multiple times with the injection module 30 (first injection module 500), and if necessary, the tip (TP) must be replaced at least once to mix the PCR material. Therefore, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) takes a long time. In the present invention, the PCR material mixing process (S2400) is performed in parallel with the nucleic acid extraction process (S2200), so that the total time required to extract nucleic acids and prepare for PCR (setup) can be greatly shortened.

As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the illustrative drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. It is obvious that transformation can occur. In addition, although the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention were not explicitly described and explained while explaining the embodiments of the present invention above, it is natural that the predictable effects due to the configuration should also be recognized.

1: Sample processing device
10: Base 12: Support frame
14: Barrier 16: Waste section
20: Main frame 22: Tip plate seating portion
24: Reagent reservoir seating portion 26: PCR plate seating portion
30: injection module 40: arm
50: transfer unit 60: drop catching unit
R: Reservoir SR: Sample storage device
RR: Reagent storage IR: PCR material storage
P: plate
WP: Well plate PP: PCR plate
TL: Tip plate TP: Tip
SN: 2nd sensor
100: Specimen reservoir seating part
110: Sample storage rack 120: Rack installation part
130: first sensor
200: Processing module
210: first plate seating part 220: vibration part
230: fixing means 240: heater
250: Heat conduction adapter
300: Magnetic module
310: Second plate seating portion 320: Magnetic adapter
400: Cooling module
410: Receptor 420: Thermoelectric element
430: heat sink 440: heat sink fan
450: Heat dissipation oil path
500: First scanning module
510: first syringe 520: first injection mechanism eastern part
530: Spacing adjustment unit
600: Second scanning module
610: second syringe 620: second injection mechanism eastern part
630: Refusal to remove the second tip
700: Cancer 1
710: First injection module lifting part 720: Gripper lifting part
800: 2nd cancer
900: First transfer unit
910: first sub-transfer unit 920: first transfer coupler
930: Second sub-transfer unit 940: Second transfer coupler
1000: 2nd transfer unit
1010: Third sub-transfer unit 1020: Third transfer coupler
1030: 4th sub-transfer unit 1040: 4th transfer coupler
1100: First drop catching unit
1110: first drop catcher 1120: first drop catcher driving part
1130: Refusal to remove the first tip
1200: Second drop catching unit
1210: 2nd drop catcher 1220: 2nd drop catcher driving part
1300: Gripper
1310: Hook 1320: Gripper driving part

Claims (34)

A plurality of storage units (R) arranged side by side;
One or more plates (P) each having a plurality of wells (W) arranged side by side; and
The material contained in the plurality of reservoirs (R) is sucked and discharged into the plurality of wells (W), or the material contained in the plurality of wells (W) of one of the plates (P) is sucked into the other plate ( It includes a first injection module 500 discharging into a plurality of wells (W) or a plurality of reservoirs (R) of P),
The storage interval (IN1 or IN2) between the centers of the neighboring wells (R) is different from the well spacing (IN3 or IN4) between the centers of the neighboring wells (W),
The first injection module 500 includes a plurality of first syringes 510 arranged side by side, a first injection mechanism 520 that causes the plurality of first syringes 510 to inhale or discharge the substance, and the plurality of first syringes 510. It includes a gap adjustment unit 530 that adjusts the gap between the first syringes 510,
The spacing adjustment unit 530 adjusts the spacing between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 to correspond to the storage interval interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4),
Each of the first syringes 510 includes a first body portion 512 having a first internal space (IS1) penetrating the front and rear ends, and a second internal space (IS2) penetrating the front and rear ends. 1 head portion 514, coupled with the front end of the first body portion 512 and the rear end of the first head portion 514 and communicating with the first internal space (IS1) and the second internal space (IS2) It includes a flexible connector 516 and a first piston 518 that is inserted from the rear end of the first body 512 into the first internal space IS1 and is capable of sliding,
The distance between the centers of the adjacent first body portions 512 is fixed,
The first injection mechanism 520 slides the plurality of first pistons 518 relative to the plurality of first body parts 512,
The spacing adjustment unit 530 adjusts the spacing between the centers of the neighboring first head parts 514 to correspond to the storage interval interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4),
Sample processing device.
delete In claim 1,
A first arm (700) coupled to the first scanning module (500) and lifting the first scanning module (500); and
It further includes a first transfer unit 900 that transfers the first arm 700 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction,
The first head portion 514, first body portion 512, connector 516, and A sample processing device in which all 1 pistons (518) are raised and lowered together and transported in an alternating upward and downward direction.
In claim 1,
Each is detachably coupled to the first head portion 514 of the plurality of first syringes 510, and the first internal space IS1 and the second internal space IS2 of the plurality of first syringes 510 and each in communication with the plurality of reservoirs (R) or the plurality of wells (W) of the plate (P) to suck the substance contained in the plurality of reservoirs (R) or the plurality of wells (W). It further includes a tip plate (TL) having two tips (TP),
The front ends of the plurality of first head portions 514 are pressed toward the front and are detachably coupled to the rear ends of the plurality of tips TP provided on the tip plate TL, respectively,
The spacing adjusting unit 530 includes a plurality of support legs 531 that are respectively coupled to the plurality of first head parts 514 to support the first head parts 514 and whose spacing can be changed,
The plurality of first head parts 514 are respectively installed on the plurality of support legs 531, and the first head part 514 is supported when the tip TP is coupled to the distal end of the first head part 514. It is installed so as to be retractable by a predetermined distance from the leg 531,
Each of the support legs 531 is provided with a first elastic member (SP1) that is elastically deformed when the first head portion 514 retreats and presses the first head portion 514 toward the ship side. Specimen processing Device.
In claim 1,
The spacing adjusting unit 530 includes a plurality of first spacing adjusting guides ( It includes a spacing adjustment plate 532 on which IG1) is formed and a gap adjustment drive unit 534 that relatively moves the gap adjustment plate 532 in a direction intersecting the second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is respectively coupled to the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1) so as to be relatively movable along the extension direction of the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1). become,
When the gap control plate 532 is relatively moved by the gap control drive unit 534, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is moved relative to the distance along the extension direction of the plurality of first gap control guides IG1. The sample processing moves to spread or gather together, and the distance between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 is adjusted accordingly to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well interval (IN3 or IN4). Device.
In claim 5,
The spacing adjusting unit 530 further includes a second spacing adjusting guide (IG2) extending in a second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 coupled to the spacing control plate 532 is coupled to the second spacing control guide (IG2) and is movable in a second direction along the second spacing control guide (IG2). A sample processing device that is combined.
A plurality of storage units (R) arranged side by side;
One or more plates (P) each having a plurality of wells (W) arranged side by side; and
The material contained in the plurality of reservoirs (R) is sucked and discharged into the plurality of wells (W), or the material contained in the plurality of wells (W) of one of the plates (P) is sucked into the other plate ( It includes a first injection module 500 discharging into a plurality of wells (W) or a plurality of reservoirs (R) of P),
The storage interval (IN1 or IN2) between the centers of the neighboring wells (R) is different from the well spacing (IN3 or IN4) between the centers of the neighboring wells (W),
The first injection module 500 includes a plurality of first syringes 510 arranged side by side, a first injection mechanism 520 that causes the plurality of first syringes 510 to inhale or discharge the substance, and the plurality of first syringes 510. It includes a gap adjustment unit 530 that adjusts the gap between the first syringes 510,
The spacing adjustment unit 530 adjusts the spacing between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 to correspond to the storage interval interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4),
The spacing adjusting unit 530 includes a plurality of first spacing adjusting guides ( It includes a spacing adjustment plate 532 on which IG1) is formed and a gap adjustment drive unit 534 that relatively moves the gap adjustment plate 532 in a direction intersecting the second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is respectively coupled to the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1) so as to be relatively movable along the extension direction of the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1). become,
When the gap control plate 532 is relatively moved by the gap control drive unit 534, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is moved relative to the distance along the extension direction of the plurality of first gap control guides IG1. moves to spread or gather together, and accordingly, the distance between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 is adjusted to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well interval (IN3 or IN4),
The spacing adjusting unit 530 further includes a second spacing adjusting guide (IG2) extending in a second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 coupled to the spacing control plate 532 is coupled to the second spacing control guide (IG2) and is movable in a second direction along the second spacing control guide (IG2). are combined,,
The second gap adjustment guide (IG2) includes a plurality of sub-guides (SG) arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is each coupled to one or more sub-guides (SG) among the plurality of sub-guides (SG) and moves in the second direction along the one or more sub-guides (SG). Possibly combined,
A sample processing device wherein at least a portion of the first syringes 510 adjacent to each other are coupled to different subguides (SG).
A plurality of storage units (R) arranged side by side;
One or more plates (P) each having a plurality of wells (W) arranged side by side; and
The material contained in the plurality of reservoirs (R) is sucked and discharged into the plurality of wells (W), or the material contained in the plurality of wells (W) of one of the plates (P) is sucked into the other plate ( It includes a first injection module 500 discharging into a plurality of wells (W) or a plurality of reservoirs (R) of P),
The storage interval (IN1 or IN2) between the centers of the neighboring wells (R) is different from the well spacing (IN3 or IN4) between the centers of the neighboring wells (W),
The first injection module 500 includes a plurality of first syringes 510 arranged side by side, a first injection mechanism 520 that causes the plurality of first syringes 510 to inhale or discharge the substance, and the plurality of first syringes 510. It includes a gap adjustment unit 530 that adjusts the gap between the first syringes 510,
The spacing adjustment unit 530 adjusts the spacing between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 to correspond to the storage interval interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well spacing (IN3 or IN4),
The spacing adjusting unit 530 includes a plurality of first spacing adjusting guides ( It includes a spacing adjustment plate 532 on which IG1) is formed and a gap adjustment drive unit 534 that relatively moves the gap adjustment plate 532 in a direction intersecting the second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is respectively coupled to the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1) so as to be relatively movable along the extension direction of the plurality of first spacing adjustment guides (IG1). become,
When the gap control plate 532 is relatively moved by the gap control drive unit 534, at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is moved relative to the distance along the extension direction of the plurality of first gap control guides IG1. moves to spread or gather together, and accordingly, the distance between the centers of the neighboring first syringes 510 is adjusted to correspond to the storage interval (IN1 or IN2) and the well interval (IN3 or IN4),
The spacing adjusting unit 530 further includes a second spacing adjusting guide (IG2) extending in a second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 coupled to the spacing control plate 532 is coupled to the second spacing control guide (IG2) and is movable in a second direction along the second spacing control guide (IG2). are combined,
The spacing adjusting unit 530 is each coupled to at least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 and is directly coupled to the plurality of first spacing adjusting guides (IG1), respectively. ) and a plurality of first gap adjustment guide coupling portions (IGC1) each relatively movably coupled along the line,
The second gap adjustment guide (IG2) is one side guide arranged on one side and the other side of the plurality of first gap adjustment guide coupling portions (IGC1) in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction ( Includes IG2A) and other guide (IG2B),
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 are all coupled to the one side guide (IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B) and are movable in a second direction along the one side guide (IG2A) and the other guide (IG2B). Sample processing device.
In claim 8,
The one-side guide (IG2A) includes a plurality of one-side sub-guides (SGA) arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction,
The other side guide (IG2B) includes a plurality of other side sub-guides (SGB) arranged side by side in a direction intersecting the second direction and each extending in the second direction,
At least a portion of the plurality of first syringes 510 is formed of at least one side sub-guide (SGA) and at least one other side sub-guide (SGA) among the plurality of one side sub-guides (SGA) and the plurality of other sub-guides (SGB), respectively. It is coupled to a guide (SGB) and is movable in a second direction along the one or more side sub-guides (SGA) and the one or more other side sub-guides (SGB),
At least a portion of the first syringes (510) adjacent to each other are combined with each other on one side of the sub-guide (SGA) and on the other side of the sub-guide (SGB).
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