JP2009085916A - Automatic analysis apparatus and sample container - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique which avoids the confusion of a measurer, or the like, at removal of reagent bottles from a reagent cabinet and makes clear the correspondence relation between the reagent bottles and their lids, by securing appropriate placing spots for the lids of the reagent bottles in an automatic analysis apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: Even after the reagent bottles are moved inside the reagent cabinet by a moving means, the correspondence relation between the reagent bottles and the lids before starting the movement is held by the automatic analysis apparatus having a placing table where the lids are placed on the spots having a one-to-one correspondence with the reagent bottles, also in tandem arrangement with the arrangement of the reagent bottles housed in the reagent cabinet, and which has recessed parts or projected parts capable of holding the corresponding lids of the reagent bottles. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer for analyzing components contained in a specimen, particularly chemical components contained in blood, urine and the like, and a sample container used therefor.

  Conventionally, an automatic analyzer is used in a laboratory of a medical institution. This automatic analyzer dispenses a sample such as blood or urine (hereinafter referred to as “specimen”) and a reagent in a reaction tube and reacts them, and then changes the color tone caused by the reaction. By measuring, the concentration and activity of the analyte or enzyme in the sample are measured.

  In general, an automatic analyzer is provided with a reagent storage, and a large number of reagent bottles can be installed in the reagent storage. Each of these reagent bottles contains various reagents used in the automatic analyzer, and this reagent is injected from an injection port for injecting the reagent in the reagent bottle. In addition, a lid can be attached to the inlet of the reagent bottle, and this lid closes the inlet.

  There are various types of automatic analyzers such as the following. In an automatic analyzer having a probe for aspirating (sorting) a target reagent from a reagent bottle (sample container) and a reagent bottle rotating in the reagent container, the probe trajectory and the injection of the reagent container to the reagent container. Aspiration positions of a plurality of reagent containers are provided at positions where the movement trajectory of the inlet (aspiration port) intersects. Further, there is a reagent container configured to move by selecting a suction position where the moving distance becomes short (Patent Document 1). In this automatic analyzer, the movement distance of the reagent container is configured to be short, so that the reagent liquid surface can be prevented from shaking and the reagent dispensing failure or the like can be prevented.

JP 2002-48801 A

  When analyzing / measuring a sample in such an automatic analyzer, the lid removed from the reagent bottle inlet after the reagent bottle is installed is processed as shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a reagent container and a lid of a reagent bottle placed on the reagent container in a conventional automatic analyzer.

  In performing analysis / measurement of a sample using an automatic analyzer, a measurer or the like removes the lid of the injection port and installs the reagent bottle in the reagent storage. At this time, when using the conventional automatic analyzer, the measurer or the like places the lid of the reagent bottle on the empty space of the automatic analyzer, for example, on the reagent storage door 311 covering the upper surface of the reagent storage 310 as shown in FIG. I was putting it.

  Further, after performing analysis / measurement of the sample by the automatic analyzer, the measurer or the like removes the reagent bottle from the reagent storage and closes the lid of the reagent bottle inlet.

  However, once a reagent bottle is installed in a reagent store, it is often impossible to visually recognize information such as the name of a built-in reagent written on the side or bottom surface of the reagent bottle. Some reagent bottles themselves do not have a reagent name. In such a case, if the lid is scattered in an empty space or the like of the apparatus as shown in FIG. 10, it is not possible to know which reagent bottle corresponds to the placed lid, resulting in confusion. If the lid is accidentally attached to the inlet of a reagent bottle that is different from the original reagent bottle, the reagent applied to the original reagent bottle attached to the inside of the lid and the reagent contained in the wrongly attached reagent bottle May react. That is, when the reagent is used next time, there is a risk that the analysis / measurement by the automatic analyzer may be hindered.

  In addition, the lid of the reagent bottle placed in an empty space or the like of the automatic analyzer may be caught in a gap of a mechanism part of the automatic analyzer, for example, a transport device that transports a sample rack containing a sample. As a result, noise may be generated from the mechanism unit or malfunction of the mechanism unit may occur. Furthermore, there is a possibility that the mechanism portion may be damaged or broken.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to secure an appropriate placement place for a lid of a reagent bottle in an automatic analyzer having a reagent storage where a reagent bottle is installed. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a technique for avoiding confusion of a measurer or the like when removing a reagent bottle from a reagent store and clarifying the correspondence between the reagent bottle and the lid. It is another object of the present invention to provide a technique that can prevent noise, malfunction, and mechanical part damage due to a lid being caught in the mechanical part of an automatic analyzer.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is a holding unit for arranging and holding a plurality of sample containers adjacent to each other, each having an inlet capable of injecting a sample and a lid for closing the inlet. An automatic analyzer having a reagent storage for storing the sample container together with the holding section, and a moving means for moving the held sample container by moving the holding section at least. And a mounting table that can hold the corresponding lid at a position corresponding to the sample container in a one-to-one correspondence with the arrangement of the sample containers accommodated in the interior of the reagent container. The automatic analyzer is characterized in that the correspondence between the sample container and the lid before the start of movement is maintained even after the sample container has moved.
In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention according to claim 8, for an automatic analyzer having an inlet that is installed in a reagent storage in the automatic analyzer and that allows injection of a sample and a lid that closes the inlet. The sample container is provided with a recess having a size capable of holding the lid on a surface of the sample container where the injection port is formed.
In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention according to claim 12 is a sample that can be installed in a reagent container of an automatic analyzer and has an inlet that allows injection of the sample and a lid that closes the inlet. A sample container comprising a convex portion having a size capable of holding the lid on a surface of the sample container where the injection port is formed.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the reagent bottle and the lid are in a one-to-one relationship by securing the installation location of the lid of the reagent bottle at a position where the automatic analyzer is associated with the reagent bottle. It is possible to keep the correspondence relationship. Therefore, the situation in which the lid of the reagent bottle is scattered can be prevented, so that the confusion of the measurer or the like can be avoided. In addition, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the analysis / measurement of the automatic analyzer is hindered by losing the lid. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the mechanism of the automatic analyzer is hindered by the scattering of the lid.

  According to the invention described in claims 8 and 12, since the sample container itself is provided with a lid installation place, the corresponding relationship can be maintained so that the reagent bottle and the lid are in a one-to-one relationship. Is possible. Therefore, the situation in which the lid of the reagent bottle is scattered can be prevented, so that the confusion of the measurer or the like can be avoided. In addition, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the analysis / measurement of the automatic analyzer is hindered by losing the lid. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the mechanism of the automatic analyzer is hindered by the scattering of the lid.

  Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[First Embodiment]
(overall structure)
An outline of the overall configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 100 according to this embodiment includes an analysis unit 210. The analysis unit 210 includes a first reagent storage 110 that stores the reagent rack 111 and a second reagent storage 120 that is provided in parallel with the first reagent storage 110 and stores the reagent rack 121, and is used for analyzing the sample. Reagent can be supplied. In addition, the analysis unit 210 is arranged around the first reagent storage 110 and can have a plurality of reaction tubes 131, and a sampler 140 that is disposed in the vicinity of the first reagent storage 110 and that transports a plurality of sample containers 141. The sample can be transported to each part of the apparatus. The analysis unit 210 also includes dispensing arms 112 and 122 that transport the reagent to the reaction tube 131 and a sampling arm 142 that transports the sample to the reaction tube 131, and dispenses and dispenses the sample and reagent between different containers. Discharge is possible. The analysis unit 210 includes a stirring unit 150, a photometry unit 160, and a washing unit 170 installed around the reaction disk 130, and executes measurement of a sample and the like.

<Reagent rack and first reagent storage>
As shown in FIG. 1, a reagent rack 111 in which a plurality of reagent bottles 180 can be arranged in a ring shape is provided inside the first reagent storage 110. The reagent bottle 180 installed in the reagent rack 111 contains a first reagent that selectively reacts with components of each item included in the standard sample and the test sample. The reagent rack 111 is rotatable in a state in which the reagent bottle 180 is accommodated by a reagent rack driving unit 211 controlled by the control unit 200 described later. In addition, a mounting table 113 that can hold the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 is provided in the circumferential portion of the upper edge of the opening portion of the first reagent storage 110. The mounting table 113 will be described later. The reagent bottle 180 corresponds to an example of the “sample container” in the present invention. The reagent racks 111 and 121 correspond to an example of the “holding unit” in the present invention.

<Second reagent storage>
Moreover, the 2nd reagent storage 120 is arrange | positioned in the vicinity of the 1st reagent storage 110, as shown in FIG. That is, the reagent bottle 180 is accommodated in the second reagent storage 120, and the reagent rack 121 is configured to be rotatable. The lid of the reagent bottle 180 can be held on the circumferential portion of the upper edge of the opening. A mounting table 123 is provided. The reagent rack 121 is provided with a reagent bottle 180 containing a second reagent that selectively reacts with the components of each item included in the standard sample and the test sample. In addition, the automatic analyzer according to the present invention is not limited to one having a plurality of reagent containers, and may be configured not to include the second reagent container 120, for example.

<Reaction disk>
Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the reaction disk 130 is formed in an annular shape so as to surround the first reagent storage 110. On this reaction disk 130, reaction tubes 131 that contain specimens and reagents for analysis / measurement by the automatic analyzer 100 are arranged in an annular shape according to the shape of the reaction disk 130. The reaction tube 131 has an open upper end, and is installed in the reaction disk 130 so that the first and second reagents and the sample can be dispensed from the opening portion so that the opening portion faces upward. Further, the reaction disk 130 rotates while accommodating the reaction tube 131.

<Dispensing arm>
A dispensing arm 112 is provided around the reaction disk 130. The dispensing arm 112 includes a rotating shaft 112a standing substantially vertically in the vicinity of the reaction disk 130, and an arm connected to the upper end of the rotating shaft 112a so as to be rotatable substantially orthogonal to the rotating shaft 112a. A portion 112b and a probe 112c connected to the other end of the arm portion 112b with respect to the rotating shaft 112a are configured. The dispensing arm 112 is configured such that the arm 112b and the probe 112c connected to the tip of the arm 112b rotate about the rotation shaft 112a. The rotation range of the probe 112c is a range in which the probe tube 180 can reciprocate at least between the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle 180 accommodated in the first reagent storage 110 and the reaction tube 131. The probe 112c is connected to the arm portion 112b so as to be movable up and down (up and down). The probe 112c is provided with a pump, which sucks the reagent from the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle accommodated in the first reagent storage 110, and discharges and dispenses the reagent into the reaction tube 131 in which the specimen is accommodated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a dispensing arm 122 is provided between the reaction disk 130 and the second reagent storage 120. The dispensing arm 122 has the same configuration as the dispensing arm 112, and includes a rotating shaft 122a, an arm portion 122b, and a probe 122c. The probe 122c rotates about the rotation shaft 122a via the arm portion 122b. The rotation range of the probe 122 c is at least between the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle 180 accommodated in the second reagent storage 120 and the reaction tube 131. The probe 122c is connected to the arm portion 122b so as to be movable up and down, and includes a pump. The probe 122c sucks the reagent from the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle 180 accommodated in the second reagent storage 120, and accommodates the specimen. Discharge and dispense into the reaction tube 131. When the automatic analyzer is configured to have only a single reagent storage, the dispensing arm 122 corresponding to the second reagent storage 120 is not provided.

<Sampler>
As shown in FIG. 1, the sampler 140 has a disk-like outer shape and is disposed in the vicinity of the first reagent storage 110, the reaction disk 130, and the second reagent storage 120. The sampler 140 includes a plurality of sample racks (not shown) that can accommodate a predetermined number of sample containers 141 on the upper surface, and rotates to move the sample containers 141 together with the sample racks. The specimen container 141 accommodates specimens such as standard samples and specimens for each item.

<Sampling arm>
In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, a sampling arm 142 is installed between the reaction disk 130 and the sampler 140. The sampling arm 142 has the same configuration as the dispensing arms 112 and 122, and includes a rotating shaft 142a, an arm portion 142b, and a probe 142c. Further, the probe 142c rotates about the rotation shaft 142a via the arm portion 142b. The rotation range of the probe 142 c is between the sample container 141 accommodated in the sampler 140 and the reaction tube 131. The probe 142c sucks the sample from the sample container 141 accommodated in the sampler 140, and discharges and dispenses the sample into the reaction tube 131.

<Agitator unit>
Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the stirring unit 150 is disposed in the vicinity of the reaction disk 130 and downstream from the position of the sampling arm 142 in the rotation direction of the reaction disk 130. Each reaction tube 131 into which the sample in the sampler 140 has been dispensed and the reagent in the first reagent storage 110 and the second reagent storage 120 has been dispensed is rotated by the rotational movement of the reaction disk 130 and the stirring unit 150. Move to the position. The agitation unit 150 agitates the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent built in the reaction tube 131 that has been conveyed. As described above, the specimen and the reagent are stirred in the reaction tube 131, whereby a reaction between a specific component in the specimen and the reagent occurs, and the absorbance of the specimen changes.

<Metering unit>
Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the photometric unit 160 is arranged in the vicinity of the reaction disk 130 and downstream from the position of the stirring unit 150 in the rotation direction of the reaction disk 130 (traveling direction side). The reaction tube 131 having the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent that has been stirred is moved by the reaction disk 130 from the stirring position of the stirring unit 150 to the position of the photometric unit 160 disposed downstream (see FIG. 1). The photometric unit 160 is built in the transported reaction tube 131 and measures the absorbance of the stirred sample / reagent mixture. By measuring the absorbance of the specimen with the photometric unit 160 in this way, the concentration of a specific component in the specimen can be obtained.

<Washing unit>
In addition, the liquid mixture of the sample and the reagent whose absorbance has been measured by the measurement unit 160 and whose analysis has been completed is discarded from the reaction tube 131 by the cleaning unit 170. Further, the reaction tube 131 in a state where the mixed solution is discarded is washed by the washing unit 170.

(Composition of reagent storage)
Next, the configuration of the reagent storage in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2 using the first reagent storage 110 as an example. FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view showing the reagent rack 111 that houses the mounting table 113 and the plurality of reagent bottles 180 in the first reagent storage 110 in the first embodiment. FIG. 2B is a schematic perspective view showing the appearance of the reagent bottle 180. The second reagent storage 120 has the same configuration as the first reagent storage 110. However, the size of the whole and each part, and the allowable number of reagent bottles 180 in the reagent rack 111 and the reagent rack 121 may differ.

  As described above, the first reagent storage 110 shown in FIG. 2A is formed in a cylindrical shape having an opening whose upper surface is opened, and the depth of the inside is slightly deeper than the height of the reagent bottle 180. Formed as follows. In addition, the reagent rack 111 disposed in the first reagent storage 110 is formed in a substantially circular shape so that the reagent bottles 180 can be arranged in an annular shape.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the reagent bottle 180 is a hexahedron having a pair of opposing surfaces formed in a substantially trapezoidal shape, which are formed as an upper surface and a lower surface, and a rectangular surface orthogonal to the surface. Configured as That is, the upper surface and the lower surface are formed so that the width decreases from one end side to the other end side. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, an inlet 181 is provided on one end of the reagent bottle 180 on the wide end side. The injection port 181 has a cylindrical shape, is provided for injecting the first reagent from the opening at the upper end, and is provided for allowing the first reagent contained in the probe 112c to be aspirated. is there. The reagent bottle 180 includes a lid 182 that can be attached to and detached from the inlet 181. Further, a section 183 is provided on the other end side of the reagent bottle 180 with respect to the one end side.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the reagent rack 111 is configured such that each of the plurality of reagent bottles 180 having such a shape is installed adjacent to each other, and an inlet on the upper surface of each reagent bottle 180. 181 is configured to be adjacent to each other. That is, the reagent bottle 180 is installed so that the inlet 181 faces outward (outer peripheral side) from the center of the reagent rack 111. By installing the reagent bottles 180 in such a direction, the reagent bottles 180 are installed in the reagent rack 111 so as to be radiated (radiated) from the center of the reagent rack 111 and accommodated.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2A, the reagent bottle 180 arranged in the reagent rack 111 has a back surface on the inlet 181 side (see FIG. 2B) adjacent to the inner wall of the first reagent storage 110. Placed in. Further, as shown in FIG. 2A, the first reagent storage 110 surrounds the group of reagent bottles 180 adjacently installed at the edge of the opening of the first reagent storage 110. An annular mounting table 113 is provided.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2A, the mounting table 113 has a position on an extended line in the direction from the center side (inside) of the reagent rack 111 to the inlet 181 side (outside) of the reagent bottle 180 accommodated. In addition, a fitting portion 114 that can hold the lid 182 by fitting is provided corresponding to each reagent bottle 180.

  The fitting portion 114 is a concave groove extending on the top surface of the mounting table 113 in a direction from the center side (inside) of the first reagent storage 110 toward the inlet 181 side (outside) of the reagent bottle 180 accommodated. Is formed. Further, the groove bulges in the width direction toward the central portion of the groove, and the width gradually increases. The bulging shape of the central portion of the groove is formed in a shape (arc shape) that matches the outer shape of the lid 182.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the width of the central portion of the groove in the fitting portion 114 (the length between the inner walls of the groove in the circumferential direction of the mounting table 113) is the circular portion of the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180. Have a length approximately equal to the diameter of Moreover, the fitting part 114 is comprised with the raw material which has flexibility. Further, the depth of the groove of the fitting portion 114 is about 1/3 to 1/2 of the height of the lid 182. Therefore, the fitting portion 114 can be held so as to sandwich the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180.

  Since the reagent may adhere to the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180, there is a possibility that the reagent adheres to the mounting table 113 when the lid 182 is placed. Therefore, a material that does not easily react with the reagent or a material that has chemical resistance to the reagent is used for the mounting table 113 including the fitting portion 114. For example, it is formed using the same material as the reagent bottle.

  As described above, the mounting table 113 is provided around the reagent bottle 180 installed in the reagent rack 111 in a ring shape. Further, the mounting table 113 is provided with a fitting portion 114 on an extension line of the reagent bottle 180 that is radiated from the center of the first reagent storage 110. Therefore, when performing analysis / measurement using the automatic analyzer 100, the lid 182 of the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle 180 is removed, and then placed on the mounting table 113 and the fitting portion 114 around the reagent bottle 180. Is possible. That is, the placement place of the lid 182 can be ensured corresponding to each reagent bottle 180, and the lid 182 is not scattered in the automatic analyzer 100, and it is possible to avoid the confusion of the measurer or the like. In addition, when the lid is scattered, the lid enters the various mechanism units of the automatic analyzer 100, and it is possible to prevent the mechanism unit from being damaged and generating noise.

(control)
Next, the control configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the automatic analyzer 100 includes a data processing unit 220, an operation unit 230, a display unit 240, a printing unit 250, and a storage unit 260 in addition to the analysis unit 210 described above. These units are controlled by the control unit 200.

  The controller 200 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. A control program is stored in the storage unit 260 in advance, and the CPU functions as the control unit 200 when the control program is appropriately expanded on the RAM.

  The analysis unit 210 includes a reagent rack drive unit 211 that drives the reagent rack 111 of the first reagent store 110 and the reagent rack 121 of the second reagent store 120, and arms that drive the dispensing arms 112 and 122 and the sampling arm 142, respectively. A driving unit 212, a reaction disk driving unit 213 that drives the reaction disk 130, and a sampler driving unit 214 that drives the sampler 140 are provided. When an operator of the automatic analyzer 100 performs an operation for operating the automatic analyzer 100 via the operation unit 230, the control unit 200 performs each driving unit of the analysis unit 210 based on the above-described control program based on the operation. Is controlled so as to be driven by a predetermined amount. Each unit of the analysis unit 210 is controlled to operate in synchronization with each operation, and is driven to be interlocked.

<Reagent rack drive unit>
The reagent rack driving unit 211 causes the control unit 200 to rotate and drive the reagent rack 111 and the reagent rack 121, respectively. The reagent rack drive unit 211 of the first embodiment is driven so as to repeat the operation of rotating the reagent rack 111 and the reagent rack 121 by a predetermined angle by the control unit 200 and then stopping for a while after measurement by the automatic analyzer 100. . The reagent rack driving unit 211 corresponds to an example of the “moving unit” in the present invention.

  The predetermined angle is an angle at which the reagent racks 111 and 121 are rotated so that the reagent bottle 180 is moved by one with reference to the dispensing positions of the dispensing arms 112 and 122 in the reagent racks 111 and 121. is there. The reagent racks 111 and 121 are stopped for at least the time when the dispensing arms 112 and 122 cause the probes 112c and 122c to reach the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle 180 and then perform the suction operation of the first reagent and the second reagent. This is until the dispensing arms 112 and 122 start rotating.

  In addition, the reagent rack drive unit 211 of the first embodiment is controlled by the control unit 200 and rotates to return the reagent racks 111 and 121 to the initial positions before the measurement starts when the automatic analyzer 100 finishes the measurement. That is, the reagent rack driving unit 211 performs a position return operation for returning the reagent racks 111 and 121 to the positions of the reagent racks 111 and 121 before starting the measurement, that is, before the rotation operation (hereinafter simply referred to as “initial position”) (this book). This corresponds to an example of the “first position return means” of the invention).

  For example, the control unit 200 stores the amount (or the number of times) the reagent racks 111 and 121 are rotationally moved by the reagent rack driving unit 211 in the storage unit 260 and the like, and the control unit 200 stores the amount. The reagent rack driving unit 211 is driven so that the reagent racks 111 and 121 are returned to their original amounts by the amount by which the reagent racks 111 and 121 are rotated from the start to the end of measurement. Since the rotation angles of the reagent racks 111 and 121 are predetermined as described above, the control unit 200 rotates the reagent rack driving unit 211 a predetermined number of times to perform the position return operation.

  Note that the control unit 200 may determine that the measurement has ended by receiving an instruction to end the measurement through the operation of the operation unit 230 by the measurer, or by completing all of the predetermined measurement steps. It may be determined that the measurement has ended.

  When the rotation amount of the reagent racks 111 and 121 stored in the storage unit 260 and the like is 360 ° or more (for example, 540 °), the rotation amount of the reagent racks 111 and 121 in the position return operation is set to 360 °. Subtraction (for example, 540 ° -360 °) may be performed so as to be as follows, and the return operation may be performed by an amount corresponding to the subtraction (for example, 180 °).

<Sampler drive unit>
The sampler driving unit 214 is driven by the control unit 200 so as to rotationally drive the sampler 140. The rotation operation of the sampler 140 is performed in synchronization with the suction and dispensing operation of the probe 142c of the sampling arm 142. That is, the sampler driving unit 214 is driven by the control unit 200 so as to repeat the operation of rotating the sampler 140 by a predetermined angle and then stopping for a while. The sampler driving unit 214 is stopped until the suction operation by the probe 142c of the sampling arm 142 is completed. When the suction is completed, the sampler driving unit 214 starts the rotation operation again. In this way, the sampler driving unit 214 is controlled to repeat a series of operations in which the sampler 140 is rotated by a predetermined angle, stopped, and rotated again in synchronization with the operation of the sampling arm 142. The predetermined angle is an angle at which the sampler 140 rotates so that the sample container 141 next to the sample container 141 that has been aspirated is positioned at the stop position of the probe 142c of the sampling arm 142.

  Note that the sampler driving unit 214 is not necessarily driven in synchronization with the sampling arm 142. For example, based on the time from when the probe 142c of the sampling arm 142 completes the aspiration of the sample stored in one sample container 141 until the completion of the aspiration of the sample in the next sample container 141, the control unit 200 Control for driving the sampler driving unit 214 may be performed.

<Arm drive unit>
The arm drive unit 212 drives the pivot arms 112a, 122a, and 142a of the dispensing arms 112 and 122 and the sampling arm 142, and drives the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c to move up and down. It is comprised by the drive part and each drive part which performs the suction | inhalation and dispensing operation | movement of probe 112c * 122c * 142c, respectively.

  Each drive unit that drives the rotation shafts 112a, 122a, 142a in the arm drive unit 212 moves each probe in each arm from the suction location to the position of the reaction tube 131 of the reaction disk 130 (the dispensing position described later). In order to rotate, it is driven by the control unit 200 to rotate each rotation shaft.

  In the arm driving unit 212, each driving unit that drives the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c to move up and down respectively moves the probes 112c and 122c to the suction positions of the first reagent and the second reagent as each arm rotates. When the probe 142c reaches the aspirating position of the specimen, the lower end of each probe is lowered toward the aspirating target so that the target can be aspirated. Further, after the object is sucked, the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c are driven to be raised so that the arms can be rotated.

  Further, when the probes 112c, 122c, 142c reach the position of the reaction tube 131, the respective driving units can lower the lower ends of the probes toward the reaction tube 131 to dispense the sucked objects. To be driven. In addition, after dispensing the object, the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c are driven to be raised so that the arms can be rotated again.

  Each drive unit that performs the suction and dispensing operations of the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c in the arm driving unit 212 performs a suction operation at the suction position and a dispensing operation at the dispensing position by a pump provided in each arm. Driven to perform an action. The dispensing arm 112 dispenses at the first dispensing position, the dispensing arm 122 dispenses at the second dispensing position, and the sampling arm 142 dispenses at the sample dispensing position.

<Reaction disk drive>
The reaction disk drive unit 213 is driven by the control unit 200 to drive the reaction disk 130 to rotate. The rotation operation of the reaction disk 130 is synchronized with the dispensing operation of the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c of the dispensing arm 112 and 122 and the sampling arm 142, and the operations of the stirring unit 150, the photometric unit 160, and the cleaning unit 170. Done.

  That is, the reaction disk drive unit 213 is driven by the control unit 200 so as to stop for a while every time the reaction disk 130 rotates by a predetermined angle. Further, the reaction disk drive unit 213 stops rotating until the dispensing operation by the probes 112c, 122c, and 142c is completed. Further, the rotational movement is stopped until the respective operations of the stirring unit 150, the photometry unit 160, and the cleaning unit 170 with respect to each of the reaction tubes 131 are completed. After that, when each part around the reaction disk 130 completes various operations on the reaction tube 131, the rotation operation is started again.

  As described above, the reaction disk drive unit 213 rotates the reaction disk 130 by a predetermined angle in synchronization with the operations of the probes 112c, 122c, 142c, the stirring unit 150, the photometry unit 160, and the cleaning unit 170, and then rotates the reaction disk 130 again. It is controlled to repeat a series of operations. The predetermined angle is an angle at which the reaction disk 130 is rotated so that the reaction tube 131 is moved by one with reference to the operation position of each part (for example, the dispensing position of the sampling arm 142).

<Data processing section>
The data processing unit 220 processes the standard sample data and the test sample data output from the analysis unit 210 by measuring the standard sample and the test sample, and creates a calibration curve and generates analysis data. The data of the test sample and the analysis data are transmitted to the storage unit 260 and stored. Further, these data are displayed on the display unit 240 and printed by the printing unit 250 in accordance with the measurer's instruction.

<Operation section and display section>
The operation unit 230 includes a keyboard, a mouse, and an electronic pen. When an electronic pen is provided, the display unit 240 uses a touch panel type LCD (Liquid Crystal Display / for example, a tablet) as a display. The operation unit 230 allows input of analysis conditions such as standard samples and calibration curves for each item and various command signals.

<Printing section>
The printing unit 250 receives various data from the data processing unit 220 and the storage unit 260 and prints analysis results and the like.

(Operation)
Next, an outline of an operation of the automatic analyzer 100 corresponding to an operation instruction of the measurer when the measurer performs measurement using the automatic analyzer 100 of the present embodiment will be described.

  First, the measurer accommodates the sample in the sample container 141 as preparation for measurement by the automatic analyzer 100. Further, the measurer replenishes the reagent bottle 180 with the first reagent as necessary. In addition, the measurer stores the reagent bottle 180 supplemented with the first reagent in the reagent rack 111 of the first reagent storage 110. At that time, the measurer places the lid 182 that has blocked the inlet 181 of the reagent bottle 180 on the fitting portion 114 of the placement table 113 of the first reagent storage 110 corresponding to the accommodation position of the reagent bottle 180. . The preparation for the second reagent storage 120 is the same.

  When the measurement person completes preparation for measurement and instructs the start of measurement by the operation unit 230, in the automatic analyzer 100, the analysis unit 210 mixes the sample and the reagent, and stirs and measures. The measured result is displayed on the display unit 240 and stored in the storage unit 260. Further, the printing unit 250 prints and outputs the measurement result in response to an instruction from the measurer.

  The automatic analyzer 100 terminates the measurement by receiving an instruction to end the measurement by the operator via the operation unit 230 or by ending all the predetermined measurement steps. When the measurement is completed, the control unit 200 reads the rotation amount of the reagent racks 111 and 121 stored in the storage unit 260 and the like. Based on the rotation amount, the control unit 200 controls the reagent rack driving unit 211 to perform a position return operation for returning the reagent racks 111 and 121 to the initial positions before the measurement is started.

  The reagent racks 111 and 121 are rotated to the initial position by the reagent rack driving unit 211.

(Action / Effect)
The operation and effect of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment described above will be described.

  In the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment, a reagent storage (first reagent storage 110 and second reagent storage 120) that stores reagent bottles 180 is mounted on the mounting table 113 of the lid 182 and the mounting table (second reagent storage 120). These mounting bases are provided with fitting portions (114) for fitting and holding the lid 182. Further, these fitting portions are provided at positions corresponding to the respective reagent bottles 180 accommodated in the reagent racks 111 and 121. Further, at the end of the measurement, the control unit 200 causes the reagent rack driving unit 211 to perform a position return operation for returning the reagent racks 111 and 121 to the initial positions.

  Therefore, it is possible to maintain the correspondence so that the reagent bottle 180 and the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 are in a one-to-one relationship even after the sample is analyzed and measured by the automatic analyzer. In addition, since the situation where the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 is scattered can be prevented, the confusion of the measurer or the like can be avoided. Further, if the lid 182 is mistaken, the lid 182 is attached to a reagent bottle different from the original reagent bottle 180, and the reagent attached to the lid 182 reacts with the reagent in the reagent bottle. It is possible to prevent a situation that hinders analysis and measurement. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the mechanical unit of the automatic analyzer 100 is hindered by the scattering of the lid 182.

(Modification)
The control unit 200 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment described above stores the amount by which the reagent racks 111 and 121 are rotationally moved by the reagent rack driving unit 211 when performing the position return operation of the reagent racks 111 and 121. In this case, the reagent racks 111 and 121 are returned to the original amount by that amount. However, the control of the position returning operation of the automatic analyzer according to the present invention may be another configuration.

  For example, a reference position in the first reagent storage 110 and the second reagent storage 120 is determined and set as an initial position, and position detection means (such as a rotary encoder) is provided in the vicinity (downward, surrounding, etc.) of the reagent racks 111 and 121. ). The control unit 200 receives position information from the position detection means, obtains displacement amounts of the reagent racks 111 and 121 from the reference positions in the first reagent storage 110 and the second reagent storage 120, and ends the measurement based on the displacement amounts. The reagent rack drive unit 211 may be driven so as to return from the position of the reagent racks 111 and 121 to the initial position at the time.

  Further, as other means for the position returning operation in the automatic analyzer of the present invention, for example, there are the following. Any position in the annular first reagent storage 110 and second reagent storage 120 is set as a reference position, and a reference position is also provided in the reagent racks 111 and 121. Match the reference position. In addition, the control unit 200 may drive the reagent rack driving unit 211 so that the reference positions of the reagent racks 111 and 121 are aligned with the reference positions of the reagent storages 110 and 120 when the measurement is finished (the present invention). Corresponds to an example of “second position return means”).

  Even in such a configuration, it is possible to maintain a correspondence relationship so that the reagent bottle 180 and the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 are in a one-to-one relationship even after the sample is analyzed and measured by the automatic analyzer. .

  Further, the width of the central portion of the groove in the fitting portion 114 of the mounting table 113 of the first reagent storage 110 in the present embodiment is configured to have substantially the same length as the diameter of the lid 182. However, the fitting unit 114 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the present invention may have another configuration. For example, the fitting part 114 as shown in FIG. 4 may be sufficient. FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a modified example of the fitting portion 114 in the mounting table of the reagent storage according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4B is a schematic partial enlarged view showing a modified example of the fitting portion 114 in the mounting table 113 of the reagent storage according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the width of the central portion of the groove of the fitting portion 114 in the first embodiment can be formed longer than the diameter of the lid 182. Also with this configuration, the lid can be placed while maintaining the correspondence between the lid and the reagent bottle. Further, according to this configuration, the lid can be placed even if the lid diameter varies, so that the versatility of the automatic analyzer can be ensured regardless of the reagent bottle to be used. .

[Second Embodiment]
Next, an automatic analyzer 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

(overall structure)
In the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment, the operation of the reagent rack driving unit 211 and the reagent racks 111 and 121 and the fitting of the mounting table 113 are compared with the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment described above. The configuration of the unit 114 is different. Other parts are the same as those of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, these differences will be described with reference to FIGS.

  Since the configurations of the data processing unit 220, the operation unit 230, the display unit 240, the printing unit 250, and the storage unit 260 in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted. Further, since both the reagent storage and the reagent rack in the second embodiment rotate, the control unit 200 does not perform control for causing the reagent rack driving unit 211 to perform the position return operation. However, other control configurations of the control unit 200 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  Further, in the analysis unit 210 according to the second embodiment, the dispensing arms 112 and 122, the reaction disk 130, the reaction tube 131, the sampler 140, the sample container 141, the sampling arm 142, the stirring unit 150, the photometric unit 160, and the washing unit. Since the configurations of 170 and the reagent bottle 180 are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted. In addition, the configuration and operation of the arm drive unit 212, reaction disk drive unit 213, and sampler drive unit 214 of the analysis unit 210 and the control configuration of the control unit 200 that controls them are the same as those in the first embodiment, so the description will be given. Omit.

(Composition of reagent storage)
The first reagent storage 110 and the second reagent storage 120 according to the second embodiment will be described using the first reagent storage 110 as an example. Also in the second embodiment, the second reagent storage 120 has the same configuration as the first reagent storage 110.

  Unlike the first embodiment, the first reagent storage 110 according to the second embodiment is rotated together with the reagent bottles 180 on the reagent rack 111. That is, the first reagent storage 110 according to the second embodiment is placed on the reagent rack driving unit 211, and when the reagent rack driving unit 211 is driven by the control unit 200, the reagent bottle 180 accommodated in the reagent rack 111. Around with the reagent bottle 180.

  Further, in the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment, the reagent storage (the first reagent storage 110 and the second reagent storage 120) is rotated by the reagent rack driving unit 211. Therefore, the fitting portion 114 in the mounting table 113 needs to be configured so that the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 does not scatter even when the reagent storage is rotated. That is, it is necessary to provide a configuration that ensures the fitting between the fitting portion 114 and the lid 182 and stabilizes the holding state of the lid 182.

  In this regard, the fitting portion 114 according to the second embodiment also has a groove, and the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 can be fitted and held in the groove as in the first embodiment (FIG. 2A). reference). That is, the width of the central portion of the groove of the fitting portion 114 in the second embodiment (the length between the inner walls of the groove in the circumferential direction of the mounting table 113) is the same as the fitting portion shown in FIG. Like the fitting portion 114 in the first embodiment, the lid 182 has substantially the same length as the diameter. Moreover, the fitting part 114 is comprised with the raw material which has flexibility. Therefore, the fitting portion 114 in the second embodiment can also be held so as to sandwich the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180, and the holding state of the lid 182 can be stabilized.

(Action / Effect)
The operation and effect of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment described above will be described.

  In the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment, a mounting table for a lid is provided in the reagent storage (see FIG. 2A), and a fitting unit (fitting part) that holds the lid 182 fitted to the mounting table ( 114). Further, these fitting portions are provided at positions corresponding to the respective reagent bottles 180 accommodated in the reagent rack. In addition, the reagent store in the second embodiment is placed on the reagent rack drive unit 211. When the reagent rack drive unit 211 rotates the reagent racks 111 and 121, the reagent store also rotates.

  Therefore, it is possible to maintain the correspondence so that the reagent bottle 180 and the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 are in a one-to-one relationship even after the sample is analyzed and measured by the automatic analyzer. Therefore, since the situation where the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 is scattered can be prevented, the confusion of the measurer or the like can be avoided. Further, if the lid 182 is mistaken, the lid 182 is attached to a reagent bottle different from the original reagent bottle 180, and the reagent attached to the lid 182 reacts with the reagent in the reagent bottle. It is possible to prevent a situation that hinders analysis and measurement. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the mechanical unit of the automatic analyzer 100 is hindered by the scattering of the lid 182.

(First modification)
The fitting portion 114 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment described above is configured to include a groove whose width at the center portion is substantially the same as the diameter of the lid 182 in order to hold the lid 182. . In other words, the lid 182 is fitted into the groove of the fitting portion 114, and the lid is held between the inner walls of the groove. However, the fitting unit 114 of the automatic analyzer according to the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and may be configured as shown in FIG. 5, for example. FIG. 5A is a partially enlarged view showing a modification of the fitting portion 114 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective view showing a holding member that holds the lid 182 placed on the fitting portion 114 according to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the width of the central portion of the groove of the fitting portion 114 in the second embodiment can be formed longer than the diameter of the lid 182. In this case, it is necessary to configure so that the lid 182 placed on the fitting portion 114 does not scatter when the reagent storage is rotated. In this regard, the fitting portion 114 shown in FIG. 5A is provided with a protruding portion 115 that stands from the bottom surface of the groove and on which the lid 182 is placed. As shown in FIG. 5A, the protrusion 115 is formed to have a size slightly smaller than the height and diameter of the lid 182 and a shape that matches the inner shape of the lid 182. That is, the protrusion 115 can be placed so as to cover the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180.

  5A and 5B, in the fitting portion 114 according to this modification, the circular portion of the lid 182 is sandwiched after the lid 182 is placed on the projection 115, and the projection 115 A clamping member 116 for fixing the lid 182 is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 5B, the clamping member 116 includes a U-shaped base portion 116a, a curved arm 116b that curves and extends from one end of the base portion 116a, and a U-shape. The curved arm 116c extends from the other end of the base portion 116a so as to draw an arc and is formed so as to face the inside of the arc of the bending arm 116b. Further, the bending arms 116b and 116c are made of plastic having flexibility or stainless steel for springs (stainless steel / stainless steel).

  By sandwiching the outer peripheral portion of the lid 182 that covers the protrusion 115 between the curved arms 116b and the arcs of the curved arms 116c that are arranged to face each other in such a clamping member 116, The lid 182 is held.

  Also with this configuration, the lid can be placed while maintaining the correspondence between the lid and the reagent bottle. Moreover, even if there is a variation in the diameter of the lid, the lid can be placed, so that the versatility of the automatic analyzer can be ensured regardless of the reagent bottle to be used. Further, even when the reagent storage is rotated, the lid 182 is held by the projection 115 and the clamping member 116, so that the lid 182 is scattered and the lid 182 is sandwiched between the mechanical parts of the automatic analyzer 100 and damaged. It is possible to prevent a situation in which noise is emitted from the mechanism unit.

(Second modification)
6A to 6C with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6C for a second modified example of the other configuration of the fitting portion 114 of the automatic analyzer 100 in which the reagent storage provided with the mounting table 113 and the reagent rack rotate together. I will explain. FIG. 6A is a schematic partial enlarged view showing the fitting portion 114 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective view showing the holding base 117 in the fitting portion 114 shown in FIG. FIG. 6C is a schematic perspective view showing each part of the holding table 117 shown in FIG.

  In the first modified example described above, the lid 182 is held by the projection 115 slightly smaller than the lid 182 and the holding member 116, but the fitting according to the second modified example as shown in FIG. The joint portion 114 is formed in a step shape instead of the projection portion 115 and the holding member 116 and holds the lid 182 by a holding base 117 erected from the bottom surface of the groove in the fitting portion 114.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the holding table 117 includes three columnar (or disk-shaped) holding tables (117a to 117c) having different diameters. The lower holding stand 117 a having the largest diameter shown in FIG. 6C is provided on the bottom surface side of the groove of the fitting portion 114. Similarly, an intermediate holding stand 117b having a diameter next to the lower holding stand 117a shown in FIG. 6C is arranged on the lower holding stand (FIG. 6B). The upper holding table 117c having the smallest diameter is disposed on the middle holding table 117b. As described above, the holding base 117 is configured such that the one having a large diameter is disposed below (the bottom surface side of the groove) and sequentially disposed upward as the diameter decreases.

  As described above, the lid 182 is pushed into and fitted into any of the plurality of holding stands (117a to 117c) matching the diameter of the lid 182 in FIG. Is retained.

  Also with this configuration, the lid 182 can be placed while maintaining the correspondence between the lid 182 and the reagent bottle 180. In addition, since a plurality of holding portions (117a to 117c) that can hold the lid 182 are provided, the lid 182 can be placed even if the diameter of the lid 182 varies. The versatility of the automatic analyzer 100 can be ensured without being influenced. In addition, even when the reagent storage (110/120) rotates, the lid 182 is held by the holding stand 117, so that the lid 182 is scattered, and the lid 182 is caught between the mechanical parts of the automatic analyzer 100 and damaged. It is possible to prevent a situation in which noise is emitted from the mechanism unit.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, an automatic analyzer 100 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

(overall structure)
In the automatic analyzer 100 according to the third embodiment, compared with the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment described above, the operation of the reagent rack driving unit 211, the reagent racks 111 and 121, and the first reagent storage 110 and The operation of the second reagent storage 120 is different. Further, the control of the reagent rack driving unit 211 of the control unit 200 is different from that of the second embodiment. Other parts are the same as those of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment. Hereinafter, these differences will be described.

  The reagent rack driving unit 211 in the third embodiment drives the reagent rack 111 and the reagent storage (110/120) individually. That is, the reagent rack driving unit 211 according to the third embodiment rotates the reagent racks 111 and 121 in accordance with the analysis / measurement of the automatic analyzer 100 as in the first embodiment. At this time, the reagent storage (110/120) is not rotated. When the analysis / measurement is completed, the reagent rack driving unit 211 rotates the first reagent storage 110 by the rotation amount of the reagent rack 111 and similarly rotates the second reagent storage 120 by the rotation amount of the reagent rack 121. Here, the amount of rotation means not the distance rotated but the angle rotated.

  The control unit 200 stores the rotation amounts of the reagent racks 111 and 121, reads the stored rotation amount when the analysis / measurement is completed, and rotates the reagent storage by the rotation amount. That is, the reagent storage (110/120) rotates by the amount of rotation of the reagent racks 111/121. Accordingly, the reagent bottles 180 accommodated in the reagent racks 111 and 121 and the lid 182 placed on the placement table 113 of the reagent storage (110 and 120) are rotated before and after the reagent racks 111 and 121 are rotated. The position of the same reagent bottle 180 is reached.

(Action / Effect)
The operation and effect of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the third embodiment described above will be described.

  The automatic analyzer 100 according to the third embodiment rotates the reagent storage (110/120) by the amount of rotation of the reagent racks 111 and 121 after the measurement is completed. That is, in the automatic analyzer 100, when the reagent bottle 180 accommodated in the reagent racks 111 and 121 moves, the reagent bottle 180 before the rotation starts and the lid 182 placed on the fitting portion 114 and the like are separated. However, the reagent storage (110/120) including the mounting table 113 and the like is rotated after the measurement is completed, and the mounted lid 182 reaches the position of the reagent bottle 180 corresponding to the lid 182. ing.

  Therefore, it is possible to maintain the correspondence so that the reagent bottle 180 and the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 are in a one-to-one relationship even after the sample is analyzed and measured by the automatic analyzer. In addition, since the situation where the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 is scattered can be prevented, the confusion of the measurer or the like can be avoided. Further, if the lid 182 is mistaken, the lid 182 is attached to a reagent bottle different from the original reagent bottle 180, and the reagent attached to the lid 182 reacts with the reagent in the reagent bottle. It is possible to prevent a situation that hinders analysis and measurement. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the mechanical unit of the automatic analyzer 100 is hindered by the scattering of the lid 182.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, an automatic analyzer 100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

(overall structure)
In the automatic analyzer 100 according to the fourth embodiment, the configuration of the reagent rack driving unit 211, the first reagent container 110, and the second reagent container 120 is different from that of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment described above. Different. Further, the configuration of the reagent bottle 180 is different from that of the first embodiment. Other parts are the same as those of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, these differences will be described.

(Composition of reagent storage)
The first reagent store 110 and the second reagent store 120 according to the fourth embodiment do not include the mounting table 113 for the lid 182 in the reagent bottle 180.

(Composition of reagent bottle)
Next, a reagent bottle 180 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing the reagent bottle 180 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the fourth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the reagent bottle 180 according to the fourth embodiment is formed in a substantially trapezoidal shape with a pair of opposed surfaces arranged in the same manner as the reagent bottle according to the first embodiment (see FIG. 2B). These are formed as a hexahedron having an upper surface and a lower surface and a rectangular surface orthogonal to the surface. That is, the upper surface and the lower surface are formed so that the width decreases from one end side to the other end side. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, an inlet 181 is provided at one end of the upper side of the reagent bottle 180 on the wider side. The reagent bottle 180 includes a lid 182 that can be attached to and detached from the inlet 181. Furthermore, the reagent bottle 180 includes a section 183 at the other end opposite to one end where the injection port 181 is formed on the upper surface.

  As shown in FIG. 7, unlike the first embodiment, the reagent bottle 180 according to the fourth embodiment includes a recess formed by being recessed from the upper surface on the upper surface and in the vicinity of the inlet 181. A pair of surfaces formed perpendicular to the direction from the inlet 181 to the section 183 in the recess are curved in an arc shape so as to draw a circle and bulge outward. . The distance between the center portions of the pair of surfaces is almost the same as the diameter of the lid 182. That is, the arc-shaped surface of the recess is formed in accordance with the outer shape (circular shape) of the lid 182. The depth of the recess (the length from the bottom surface to the top surface of the reagent bottle 180) is approximately 1/3 to 1/2 the height of the lid 182. That is, the concave portion is formed so that the lid 182 can be fitted.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7, in the recessed part in the reagent bottle 180 concerning 4th Embodiment, the surface orthogonal to the curved surface demonstrated above is open | released. This facilitates gripping the lid 182 from the open portion. However, this open portion is formed to be at least shorter than the diameter of the lid 182. This is because the reagent bottle 180 receives a centrifugal force when the reagent racks 111 and 121 rotate, thereby preventing the lid 182 from scattering.

(Action / Effect)
The operation and effect of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the fourth embodiment described above will be described.

  The automatic analyzer 100 according to the fourth embodiment can attach the lid of the reagent bottle 180 to the removed reagent bottle 180.

  Therefore, it is possible to maintain the correspondence so that the reagent bottle 180 and the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 are in a one-to-one relationship even after the sample is analyzed and measured by the automatic analyzer. In addition, since the situation where the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 is scattered can be prevented, the confusion of the measurer or the like can be avoided. Further, if the lid 182 is mistaken, the lid 182 is attached to a reagent bottle different from the original reagent bottle 180, and the reagent attached to the lid 182 reacts with the reagent in the reagent bottle. It is possible to prevent a situation that hinders analysis and measurement. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the mechanical unit of the automatic analyzer 100 is hindered by the scattering of the lid 182.

  Further, when removing the reagent bottles 180 from the reagent racks 111 and 121, the correspondence relationship with the lid 182 can be maintained, and the lid 182 and the reagent bottle 180 can be removed at the same time, so the operation is simplified.

(First modification)
Next, modifications of the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment will be described below.

  Further, the width of the central portion of the concave portion of the reagent bottle 180 in the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the diameter of the lid 182 and is configured to fit the lid 182 into the concave portion. However, the concave portion of the reagent bottle 180 in the fourth embodiment may have another configuration. For example, a recess as shown in FIG. 8 may be used. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view showing a modification of the reagent bottle 180 according to the fourth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the first modified example, a protrusion 184 is provided on the bottom surface of the recess of the reagent bottle 180. The protrusion 184 is formed in a shape that is substantially the same as the height and diameter of the lid 182 and that matches the inner shape of the lid 182. That is, it is possible to push the projection 184 so as to cover the lid 182 of the reagent bottle 180 so that the projection 184 and the lid 182 are fitted and held.

  Even with the configuration of the first modified example, the lid 182 can be held in the corresponding reagent bottle 180.

(Second modification)
In addition, a second modification example of another configuration of the reagent bottle 180 provided with means for holding the lid 182 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view showing a modification of the reagent bottle according to the fourth embodiment.
It is.

  In the first modified example described above, the projection 184 formed in the shape similar to the height and diameter of the lid 182 and in accordance with the inner shape of the lid 182 is pushed so as to cover the lid 182. Although the projection 184 and the lid 182 are fitted and held, the projection 184 according to the second modification as shown in FIG. 9 is formed with a size slightly reduced from the height and diameter of the lid 182. In addition, a thread 186 similar to the injection port 181 is formed on the protrusion 184. A screw thread formed inside the lid 182 is screwed to the screw thread 186 to hold the lid 182.

  Even with the configuration of the first modified example, the lid 182 can be held in the corresponding reagent bottle 180.

(Third Modification)
In addition, a third modification as another configuration of the reagent bottle 180 provided with means for holding the lid 182 will be described.

  In the first modified example and the second modified example described above, the projection 184 formed in a shape corresponding to the inner shape of the lid 182 is configured to hold the lid 182. However, the projection according to the third modified example. The part is formed in a cross shape extending at an equal distance from the center of the bottom surface of the recess. The equidistance here is approximately the same length as the diameter of the lid 182. Further, the height of the protrusion is formed to be approximately the same as that of the lid 182.

  Even with the configuration of the first modified example, the lid 182 can be held in the corresponding reagent bottle 180.

It is a whole perspective view which shows schematic structure of the automatic analyzer concerning 1st Embodiment. (A) It is a schematic perspective view which shows the mounting rack in the 1st reagent store | warehouse | chamber in 1st Embodiment, and the reagent rack which accommodates a some reagent bottle. (B) It is a schematic perspective view which shows the external appearance of a reagent bottle. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer concerning embodiment of this invention. (A) It is a schematic perspective view which shows the modification of the fitting part in the mounting base of the reagent storage concerning 1st Embodiment. (B) It is a general | schematic fragmentary enlarged view which shows the modification of the fitting part in the mounting base of the reagent storage concerning 1st Embodiment. (A) It is the elements on larger scale which show the modification of the fitting part of the automatic analyzer concerning 2nd Embodiment. (B) It is a schematic perspective view which shows the holding member holding the lid | cover mounted in the fitting part concerning FIG. 5 (A). (A) It is a general | schematic fragmentary enlarged view which shows the fitting part of the automatic analyzer concerning 2nd Embodiment. (B) It is a schematic perspective view which shows the holding stand in the fitting part shown to FIG. 6 (A). (C) It is a schematic perspective view which shows each part of the holding stand shown to FIG. 6 (B). It is a schematic perspective view which shows the reagent bottle of the automatic analyzer concerning 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the modification of the reagent bottle concerning 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the modification of the reagent bottle concerning 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the lid | cover of the reagent container mounted in the reagent storage and the said reagent storage in an automatic analyzer.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Automatic analyzer 110 1st reagent storage 111 Reagent rack 112 Dispensing arm 113 Mounting base 114 Fitting part 115 Protrusion part 116 Holding member 116a Base part 116b and 116c Curved arm 117 Holding stand 120 2nd reagent storage 130 Reaction disk 131 Reaction tube 140 Sampler 141 Sample container 142 Sampling arm 150 Stirrer 160 Photometric unit 170 Washing unit 180 Reagent bottle 190 Display unit 200 Control unit 210 Analysis unit 211 Reagent rack drive unit 212 Arm drive unit 213 Reaction disk drive unit 214 Sampler drive unit 220 Data processing 260 storage unit

Claims (15)

A holding part for arranging and holding a plurality of sample containers adjacent to each other, each of which has an inlet capable of injecting a sample and a lid for closing the inlet, a reagent container for storing the sample container together with the holding part, and at least the An automatic analyzer having moving means for moving the held sample container by moving a holding part,
An arrangement parallel to the arrangement of the sample containers accommodated in the reagent container, and at a position corresponding to the sample containers on a one-to-one basis, comprising a mounting table capable of holding the corresponding lid;
Even after the sample container is moved inside the reagent storage by the moving means, the correspondence relationship between the sample container and the lid before starting the movement is maintained,
Automatic analyzer characterized by In the holding part in the reagent store, the sample containers are arranged in an annular shape,
The mounting table is formed in an annular shape and is disposed inside or outside the array of sample containers held by the holding unit;
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. After the movement of the sample container by the moving means, the position of the sample container is returned by a predetermined amount of movement from the position before the movement of the sample container in the reagent storage to the position after the movement. Comprising a first position return means for controlling the moving means;
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. After the sample container is moved by the moving means, the moving means is detected so as to detect the position of a specific sample container among the plurality of sample containers in the reagent storage and to return the sample container to the position before starting the movement. Comprising a second position return means for controlling;
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. The moving means moves the mounting table together with the holding unit while maintaining the positional relationship between the corresponding sample container and the lid;
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. The mounting table has a concave portion or a convex portion capable of holding the corresponding lid, and is formed in the reagent container at a position near the periphery of the sample container arranged in an annular shape in the holding portion,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 2. The mounting table has a concave portion that has flexibility and has substantially the same width as the diameter of the lid, and is capable of holding each lid by fitting.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. A sample container for an automatic analyzer, which is installed in a reagent store in an automatic analyzer and has an inlet capable of injecting a sample and a lid for closing the inlet,
A recess having a size capable of holding the lid on the surface of the sample container where the inlet is formed;
A sample container characterized by. The sample container is formed so as to have a length direction in a direction from the injection port toward the recess,
The recess is formed so as to be recessed from the surface of the sample container to the inside of the sample container, and a surface parallel to the length direction of the sample container is opened,
The sample container according to claim 8. The length of the open portion of the recess in the length direction is formed to be at least shorter than the diameter of the lid;
The sample container according to claim 9. The depth of the depression in the recess is formed to be about 1/3 of the height of the lid,
The sample container according to claim 8. A sample container that can be installed in a reagent storage of an automatic analyzer and has an inlet capable of injecting a sample and a lid that closes the inlet,
A convex portion having a size capable of holding the lid on the surface of the sample container where the inlet is formed;
A sample container characterized by. The sample container is formed to have a length direction in a direction from the injection port toward the convex portion,
The width of the convex portion in the direction perpendicular to the length direction is formed to be substantially the same as the width of the lid;
The sample container according to claim 12. The convex portion of the sample container is formed to have a shape that matches the inner shape of the lid;
The sample container according to claim 13. The convex portion of the sample container is formed in a substantially cross shape extending at an equal distance from the center of the convex portion,
The sample container according to claim 12.

Images