JP2011232249A - Automatic analyzing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic analyzing apparatus in which the complication and the increase in size can be prevented and the burden on an operator preparing cleaning liquid can be reduced.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzing apparatus includes a sample dispensing probe 16 for performing dispensing to suck a sample from a sample container 17 containing samples and discharge the sample into a reaction vessel 3 and a first reagent dispensing probe 14 for performing dispensing to suck a first sample from a reagent container 6 containing the first reagent and discharge the reagent in the reaction vessel 3. By using the first reagent dispensing probe 14, cleansing fluid is sucked from the reagent container 6 containing cleansing fluid and discharged in the reaction vessel 3. The cleansing is performed such that a part of cleansing fluid discharged in the reaction vessel 3 is sucked by the sample dispensing probe 16.

Description

  The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer that analyzes a component contained in a liquid, and more particularly, to an automatic analyzer that has a function of cleaning a dispensing probe that dispenses a liquid.

  The automatic analyzer is intended for biochemical test items, immunological test items, etc., and changes in color tone and turbidity caused by the reaction of the mixture of the test sample collected from the sample and the reagent of each test item, Optical data is measured by a photometric unit of a spectrophotometer or a turbidimetric meter to generate analysis data represented by the concentration of the test item component in the sample, the activity of the enzyme, and the like.

  In this automatic analyzer, an item to be inspected set from a plurality of inspection items is analyzed for each test sample. During the measurement, the sample dispensing probe sucks the test sample in the sample container and discharges it to the reaction container. After each sample is dispensed, the sample dispensing probe is washed with washing water in the washing tank. Is called. The reagent dispensing probe sucks the reagent in the reagent container and discharges it to the reaction container, and is washed with washing water in the washing tank every time the dispensing of each reagent is completed. In addition, the photometric unit measures a mixed solution of the test sample and the reagent discharged into the reaction container, and uses a cleaning liquid and a cleaning water each containing a stronger detergent than the cleaning water at the end of the measurement of the mixed liquid. And cleaning is performed. Further, when the measurement liquid is not being measured, such as after the measurement is completed, the container containing the cleaning liquid is placed in a predetermined position, and the cleaning liquid is sucked into the sample dispensing probe and the reagent dispensing probe from the container for cleaning. .

  In washing sample dispensing probes and reagent dispensing probes, there are two types of cleaning tanks, a pump that supplies cleaning water to one of the two types of cleaning tanks, and a cleaning liquid to the other cleaning tank. There is known an automatic analyzer that includes a pump for cleaning a sample dispensing probe and a reagent dispensing probe using washing water and a washing solution (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  By the way, the sample container has a blood collection tube for storing whole blood collected from the subject. Whole blood stored in the blood collection tube is separated into an upper layer sample made of serum or plasma and a lower layer sample containing blood cell components and the like, and the upper layer sample is dispensed to analyze each test item. Recently, whole blood and lower layer samples are dispensed and analysis of test items such as glycohemoglobin has been performed.

  When whole blood or a sample in the lower layer is dispensed into the reaction container with a sample dispensing probe, dirt that cannot be removed only by washing during measurement is removed from the sample dispensing probe or reaction container. Therefore, the frequency of using a cleaning solution to perform stronger cleaning than during measurement is increasing.

JP 2008-202945 A

  However, if the sample dispensing probe is to be cleaned with a cleaning solution, it is necessary to take care to place the cleaning solution in a container and place the container in the correct position. Is burdened. To solve this problem, it is conceivable to provide a cleaning unit such as a cleaning tank and a pump for cleaning as in Patent Document 1, but the number of cleaning units increases, the configuration becomes complicated and the size increases. There's a problem.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides an automatic analyzer that can reduce the burden on an operator who prepares a cleaning liquid while preventing the configuration from becoming complicated and large. With the goal.

  In order to achieve the above object, the automatic analyzer of the present invention dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction container, and in the automatic analyzer that measures the mixed solution, the automatic analyzer is aspirated from the sample container containing the sample. A sample dispensing probe for dispensing into the reaction container, and supplying a cleaning liquid into the reaction container at a time other than during measurement of the mixed liquid, and the cleaning liquid supplied into the reaction container. A cleaning means for cleaning by sucking a part of the sample into the sample dispensing probe is provided.

  According to the present invention, the cleaning liquid can be cleaned by supplying the cleaning liquid to the reaction vessel and sucking a part of the supplied cleaning liquid into the sample dispensing probe. Thereby, complication and enlargement of a structure can be prevented and the burden of the operator who prepares a washing | cleaning liquid can be reduced.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on the Example of this invention. The perspective view which shows the structure of the analysis part which concerns on the Example of this invention. Sectional drawing which shows the sample dispensing probe stopped in the suction position of the sample accommodated in the sample container which concerns on the Example of this invention. Sectional drawing which shows the sample dispensing probe stopped in the washing position during the measurement of the probe washing part which concerns on the Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the automatic analyzer which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the cleaning condition setting screen outside a measurement displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the non-measurement washing position of the sample dispensing probe which concerns on the Example of this invention.

  Examples of the present invention will be described below.

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

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention. This automatic analyzer 100 dispenses a sample such as a standard sample or test sample for each test item and a reagent used for analysis of each test item, and measures the mixture to generate standard data or test data. And an analysis control unit 25 that drives each unit of the analysis unit 24 to control a measurement operation and a cleaning (non-measurement cleaning) operation performed at a time other than during measurement.

  The automatic analyzer 100 also processes the standard data and test data generated by the analysis unit 24 to generate calibration data and analysis data, and the calibration data generated by the data processing unit 30. An output unit 40 that prints out and displays analysis data, an operation unit 50 that inputs various command signals, and the like, a system control unit that controls the analysis control unit 25, the data processing unit 30, and the output unit 40 in an integrated manner 60.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis unit 24. The analysis unit 24 includes a sample container 17 for storing a standard sample, urine, whole blood, and each test sample such as serum or plasma separated from the whole blood, and a sample disk 5 for holding the sample container 17. A reagent container 6 containing a first reagent of a reagent system and a reagent system 2 that reacts with a component of a test item contained in each sample of a standard sample and a test sample, and a reagent container 1 for storing the reagent container 6; The reagent rack 1a that rotatably holds the reagent container 6 stored in the reagent storage 1, the reagent container 7 that accommodates the second reagent that makes a pair with the first reagent of the two reagent system, and the reagent container 7 , A reagent rack 2a for rotatably holding a reagent container 7 stored in the reagent container 2, and a plurality (n) of reaction containers 3 arranged on the circumference are rotated. And a reaction disk 4 that can be held.

  Further, the sample dispensing probe 16 that performs dispensing to suck the sample in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 and discharge it into the reaction container 3, and the sample is sucked and discharged to the sample dispensing probe 16. A sample dispensing pump 16a to be moved, and a sample dispensing arm 10 that holds the sample dispensing probe 16 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. Further, the sample cleaning probe 70 for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 using the pure water of the pure water device 110 as cleaning water, and the sample level in the sample container 17 held by the sample disk 5 is, for example, 1 to 2 mm. A sample detector 16 b that detects a liquid level layer of a degree by contact between the liquid level layer and one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 is provided.

  In addition, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 for aspirating the first reagent in the reagent container 6 held in the reagent rack 1a and dispensing it into the reaction container 3 from which the sample has been discharged, and the first reagent A first reagent dispensing arm 8 that holds the dispensing probe 14 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable, a probe cleaning unit 80 that cleans the first reagent dispensing probe 14 using the cleaning water of the pure water device 110, and a reagent A first reagent detector 14a that detects a liquid level layer of the first reagent in the reagent container 6 held in the rack 1a by contacting the liquid level layer with one end of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is provided. Yes.

  Also, a first stirrer 18 that stirs the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent discharged into the reaction vessel 3, a first stirrer arm 20 that holds the first stirrer 18 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable, A cleaning tank 18a for cleaning the first stirrer 18 with the cleaning water of the pure water device 110 every time the mixed solution is stirred.

  In addition, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 for aspirating the second reagent in the reagent container 7 held in the reagent rack 2a and dispensing it into the reaction container 3 from which the first reagent has been discharged, and the first reagent A second reagent dispensing arm 9 that holds the two reagent dispensing probes 15 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable; and a probe washing unit 90 that washes the second reagent dispensing probes 15 using the washing water of the pure water device 110; A second reagent detector 15a for detecting the liquid surface layer of the second reagent in the reagent container 7 held in the reagent rack 2a by contacting the liquid surface layer with one end of the second reagent dispensing probe 15. I have.

  In addition, a second stirrer 19 that stirs the mixed solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 3, and a second stirrer arm 21 that holds the second stirrer 19 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. And a cleaning tank 19a for cleaning the second stirrer 19 using the cleaning water of the pure water device 110 every time the stirring of the mixed solution is completed, and optically measuring the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 3 by irradiating light. A reaction in which the photometry unit 13 and the reaction vessel 3 that has been measured by the photometry unit 13 are cleaned using a cleaning liquid containing a detergent having a cleaning power rather than the cleaning water and then cleaned using the cleaning water of the pure water device 110 And a container cleaning unit 12.

  Then, the photometric unit 13 irradiates light to the reaction container 3 that rotates and crosses the optical path, and detects light that has passed through the mixed liquid in the reaction container 3 for each wavelength of the inspection item. Based on the detected detection signal, for example, standard data or test data represented by absorbance data is generated, and the generated standard data or test data is output to the data processing unit 30.

  The analysis control unit 25 includes a mechanism unit 26 having a mechanism for driving each unit of the analysis unit 24 and a control unit 27 for controlling each mechanism of the mechanism unit 26 to operate each unit of the analysis unit 24. . The mechanism unit 26 includes a mechanism for rotating the sample disk 5, the reagent rack 1 a, and the reagent rack 2 a, and a mechanism for rotating the reaction disk 4. The sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, the second reagent dispensing arm 9, the first stirring arm 20, and the second stirring arm 21 are each provided with a mechanism for rotating and vertically moving. Moreover, the mechanism which moves the reaction container washing | cleaning unit 12 up and down is provided. In addition, a mechanism for driving the sample dispensing pump 16a to suck and discharge and a mechanism for driving each cleaning unit of the probe cleaning units 70, 80, 90 are provided.

  The control unit 27 includes a control circuit that controls each mechanism of the mechanism unit 26, and the sample disk 5, the reagent rack 1a, the reagent rack 2a, the reaction disk 4, the sample dispensing arm 10, and the first reagent dispensing of the analysis unit 24. Each unit such as the arm 8, the second reagent dispensing arm 9, the first stirring arm 20, the second stirring arm 21, the reaction vessel washing unit 12, the sample dispensing pump 16a, and the probe washing units 70, 80, 90 Each unit is activated for each analysis cycle.

  Then, the control unit 27 moves the sample dispensing probe 16 at the height of the top dead center to a rotation mechanism that rotates the sample dispensing arm 10, and the sample disk 5, the reaction disk 4, and the probe cleaning unit 70. It stops at each upper stop position located above. Further, a downward movement drive pulse is supplied to the vertical mechanism that drives the sample dispensing arm 10 up and down to move the sample dispensing probe 16 downward from each upper stop position. Then, the sample is held at a suction position where the sample in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 can be sucked. Further, the sample is stopped in the reaction container 3 at a discharge position where discharge of the sample is possible. Further, the probe cleaning unit 70 is stopped at a cleaning position where cleaning is possible.

  The data processing unit 30 shown in FIG. 1 includes a calculation unit 31 that processes standard data and test data output from the photometry unit 13 of the analysis unit 24 to generate calibration data and analysis data for each inspection item, A data storage unit 32 for storing the standard data and analysis data generated by the unit 31.

  The calculation unit 31 generates calibration data representing the relationship between the standard value and the standard data for each inspection item from the standard data output from the photometry unit 13 and the standard value preset for the standard sample of the standard data. The generated calibration data is output to the output unit 40 and stored in the data storage unit 32.

  Further, the calibration data of the inspection item corresponding to the test data output from the photometry unit 13 is read from the data storage unit 32. Then, analysis data represented by a concentration value or an activity value is generated from the test data output from the photometry unit 13 using the read calibration data. The generated analysis data is output to the output unit 40 and stored in the data storage unit 32.

  The data storage unit 32 includes a memory device such as a hard disk, and stores the calibration data output from the calculation unit 31 for each inspection item. Moreover, the analysis data of each inspection item output from the calculation unit 31 is stored for each test sample.

  The output unit 40 includes a printing unit 41 that prints out calibration data and analysis data output from the calculation unit 31 of the data processing unit 30 and a display unit 42 that displays and outputs the calibration data. The printing unit 41 includes a printer or the like, and prints the calibration data and analysis data output from the calculation unit 31 on printer paper or the like according to a preset format.

  The display unit 42 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel, and displays calibration data and analysis data output from the calculation unit 31. Also, analysis parameter settings for setting the analysis parameters of the test items that can be analyzed by the automatic analyzer 100, such as the sample amount and reagent amount to be discharged into the reaction container 3, the suction position for sucking the sample in the sample container 17, and the like. The screen and a reagent information setting screen for setting information of the reagent used for analysis of the inspection item set in the analysis parameter setting screen are displayed. In addition, a non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen for setting an analysis unit in contact with the sample or reagent of the analysis unit 24, which is a cleaning condition for performing non-measurement cleaning, is displayed.

  The operation unit 50 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, and performs an input operation for setting analysis parameters, reagent information, cleaning conditions, and the like for each test item.

  The system control unit 60 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and stores input information such as analysis parameters, reagent information, and cleaning conditions of each test item input by the setting operation from the operation unit 50 in the storage circuit. Based on the input information, the analysis control unit 25, the data processing unit 30, and the output unit 40 are integrated to control the entire system.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, the configuration of the sample dispensing probe 16 of the analyzer 24 and the suction position and the cleaning position of the sample dispensing probe 16 during measurement will be described. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the suction position of the sample accommodated in the sample container 17. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning position of the probe cleaning unit 70.

  In FIG. 3, the sample dispensing probe 16 has a tubular shape having an opening at one end and the other end, sucks and discharges the sample at one end, and the other end and the sample dispensing pump 16a communicate with each other through a tube 161. Yes. The sample dispensing probe 16 and the tube 161 are filled with a pressure transmission medium such as pure water. Thereby, the pressure by the suction and discharge operation from the sample dispensing pump 16a is transmitted to one end of the sample dispensing probe 16, and the sample can be sucked and discharged from one end. Further, the other end of the sample dispensing probe 16 is held by the sample dispensing arm 10 and moved by the sample dispensing arm 10.

  The control unit 27 of the analysis control unit 25 controls the mechanism of the mechanism unit 26 that drives the sample dispensing arm 10 of the analysis unit 24 based on the suction position information included in the analysis parameter supplied from the system control unit 60. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3A, the liquid in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 comes into contact with one end D of the sample dispensing probe 16 and is detected by the sample detector 16b. Stop at the surface layer suction position A1. Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at a lower layer suction position A2 that has moved down a predetermined distance from the upper stop position of the sample disk 5 below the liquid surface layer suction position A1. .

  The sample container 17 for stopping the sample dispensing probe 16 at the liquid surface layer suction position A1 is an upper layer sample composed of serum or plasma located in the upper layer where whole blood is separated into upper and lower layers, and a lower layer containing blood cell components located in the lower layer A blood collection tube of a predetermined size containing a sample. A sample cup or a test tube having a predetermined size that accommodates uniform samples such as serum, plasma, and urine may be used as the sample container 17.

  Then, after the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the liquid surface layer suction position A1, the control unit 27 performs the sample dispensing pump 16a based on the sample amount information included in the analysis parameter supplied from the system control unit 60. By controlling the mechanism of the mechanism unit 26 that drives the sample, the amount of serum or plasma corresponding to the sample amount set in the sample dispensing probe 16 is aspirated.

  Thus, in the analysis of the inspection item that does not require the analysis of the component contained in the lower layer sample, only the one end D can be brought into contact with the sample and the sample can be sucked into the sample dispensing probe 16. This prevents the sample dispensing probe 16 from being in contact with the sample other than the one end D on the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 16, which is unnecessary for sample suction, thereby reducing contamination of the sample dispensing probe 16 with the sample.

  The sample container 17 that stops the sample dispensing probe 16 at the lower layer suction position A2 is, for example, a blood collection tube of a predetermined size that accommodates an upper layer sample and a lower layer sample in which whole blood is separated into upper and lower layers. One end of the sample dispensing probe 16 is located at a predetermined distance upward from the bottom surface in the blood collection tube. The inspection item for stopping the sample dispensing probe 16 at the lower layer suction position A2 includes, for example, glycohemoglobin, and may be a blood collection tube of a predetermined size that contains whole blood.

  After the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the lower layer suction position A2, the control unit 27 is set in the sample dispensing probe 16 based on the sample amount included in the analysis parameter supplied from the system control unit 60. The lower layer sample containing a blood cell component in an amount corresponding to the sample amount is aspirated.

  Thus, in the analysis of the inspection item that requires the component contained in the lower layer sample, the sample dispensing probe 16 can be moved to the lower layer suction position A2 necessary for the suction of the sample.

Next, the cleaning position of the sample dispensing probe 16 during measurement will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning position of the probe cleaning unit 70. The probe cleaning unit 70 has a cleaning tank 71 having a discharge port 711 for discharging cleaning water for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16, and an outer surface in contact with the sample of the sample dispensing probe 16 at the discharge port 711 of the cleaning tank 71. A cleaning pump 72 for supplying cleaning water for cleaning is provided.

  The control unit 27 of the analysis control unit 25 controls the mechanism of the mechanism unit 26 that drives the sample dispensing arm 10 of the analysis unit 24 based on the information on the suction position supplied from the system control unit 60, thereby As shown in FIG. 4A, the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at the liquid surface layer cleaning position W1, which is the upper stop position of the probe cleaning unit 70. Moreover, as shown in FIG.4 (b), it stops at the lower layer cleaning position W2 below the liquid level layer cleaning position W1.

  The sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the liquid surface layer cleaning position W1 after the dispensing of the sample sucked at the liquid surface layer suction position A1 is completed. The liquid surface layer cleaning position W1 is a position where the outer surface of the one end portion D of the sample dispensing probe 16 in contact with the liquid surface layer sample can be cleaned.

  After the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the liquid surface layer cleaning position W1, the control unit 27 controls the cleaning pump 72. The cleaning pump 72 sucks the cleaning water from the pure water device 110 and supplies it to the discharge port 711 of the cleaning tank 71. The supplied cleaning water is discharged from the discharge port 711 and the sample adhering to the outer surface of the one end D of the sample dispensing probe 16 is washed away. Further, the sample dispensing pump 16 a supplies cleaning water into the sample dispensing probe 16 through the tube 161. With this supply, the cleaning liquid that has passed through the sample dispensing probe 16 is discharged from one end into the cleaning tank 71, and the sample adhering to the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 is washed away.

  As described above, the sample dispensing probe 16 is moved to the liquid surface layer cleaning position W1 every time when the dispensing of the sample sucked at the liquid surface layer suction position A1 is completed. The outer surface can be cleaned using cleaning water.

  The sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the lower layer cleaning position W2 after the dispensing of the sample sucked at the lower layer suction position A2 is completed. This lower layer cleaning position W2 is a position where the outer surface in contact with the upper layer and the lower layer sample of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be cleaned.

  After the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the lower layer cleaning position W2, the control unit 27 controls the cleaning pump 72. The cleaning pump 72 sucks the cleaning water from the pure water device 110 and supplies it to the discharge port 711 of the cleaning tank 71. The supplied cleaning water is discharged from the discharge port 711, and the sample adhering to the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 is washed away. Further, the sample dispensing pump 16 a supplies cleaning water into the sample dispensing probe 16 through the tube 161. With this supply, the cleaning liquid that has passed through the sample dispensing probe 16 is discharged from one end into the cleaning tank 71, and the sample adhering to the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 is washed away.

  As described above, when the sample is sucked at the lower layer suction position A2, the sample dispensing probe 16 is moved to the lower layer cleaning position W2, thereby cleaning the inner and outer surfaces of the sample dispensing probe 16 that are in contact with the sample. Can be used to wash.

  Hereinafter, an example of the non-measurement cleaning operation of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen displayed on the display unit 42. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the automatic analyzer 100. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a cleaning position when the sample dispensing probe 16 is cleaned outside the measurement.

  After the measurement in the analysis unit 24 is completed, when an operation for displaying a non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen is performed from the operation unit 50 in order to set an analysis unit of the analysis unit 24 that performs non-measurement cleaning, the display unit 42 The non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen is displayed.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen displayed on the display unit 42. This non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen 43 includes a dialog box 431 to 43m for setting each analysis unit displayed in the “unit” column where each analysis unit of the analysis unit 24 is displayed, and the “unit” column. Consists of. The information of the analysis unit in the “unit” column set by the operation from the operation unit 50 is stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 60, and in each dialog box 431 to 43m corresponding to the analysis unit. “Re” is displayed.

  In the “unit” column, “reaction vessel”, “S probe”, “R probe” and the like are displayed. When the reaction container 3 of the analysis unit 24 is washed, “Re” is displayed in the dialog box 431 by setting “Reaction container”. In this case, for example, the reagent container 6 containing the cleaning liquid is stored in the reagent container 1, the cleaning liquid in the reagent container 6 is dispensed, for example, by the first reagent dispensing probe 14, and the cleaning liquid is supplied to the reaction container 3. The reaction vessel 3 is washed by keeping the supplied washing solution in the T reaction vessel 3 for a longer time than the analysis cycle.

  In addition, when the sample dispensing probe 16 is cleaned, “S probe” is set to display “Le” in the dialog box 432. In this case, in the same manner as in the case of washing the reaction vessel 3, a part of the washing solution supplied into the reaction vessel 3 is sucked and retained in the sample dispensing probe 16, and the sample is separated into the washing solution remaining in the reaction vessel 3. By immersing the injection probe 16 and maintaining the time T, the inner and outer surfaces of the sample dispensing probe 16 are cleaned.

  In addition, when the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 are washed, “R probe” is set to display “Le” in the dialog box 433. In this case, for example, the reagent containers 6 and 7 containing the cleaning liquid are stored in the reagent containers 1 and 2, and the cleaning liquid in the reagent containers 6 and 7 is sucked into the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15. By stopping the time T, the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 are washed.

  Here, the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing probe that are more likely to accumulate dirt than serum or plasma due to contact with the lower blood sample containing whole blood or blood cell components by daily measurement of the lower blood sample containing whole blood or blood cell components. 16 is set. Then, “Re” is displayed in each of the dialog boxes 431 and 432 by setting “reaction vessel” and “S probe” in the “unit” column. Further, the dialog boxes 433 to 43m corresponding to the non-set analysis units are blank.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the automatic analyzer 100. After setting the cleaning conditions on the non-measurement cleaning condition setting screen 43 shown in FIG. 5, for example, an alkaline detergent or surfactant having a strong cleaning power for the reaction container 3 to be cleaned and the sample dispensing probe 16 is contained. The reagent container 6 containing the cleaning liquid to be stored is stored in the reagent store 1. And if operation which starts cleaning outside a measurement from operation part 50 is performed, automatic analyzer 100 will start washing outside measurement (Step S1).

  The system control unit 60 instructs the control unit 27 of the analysis control unit 25 to perform non-measurement cleaning. The control unit 27 cleans the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing probe 16 using the cleaning liquid in the reagent container 6 stored in the reagent storage 1 based on the information on the cleaning conditions supplied from the system control unit 60. Therefore, each mechanism of the mechanism unit 26 is controlled to operate each unit such as the reaction disk 4, the sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, and the sample dispensing pump 16a.

  The first reagent dispensing probe 14 comes into contact with the cleaning liquid in the reagent container 6 stored in the reagent container 1 at one end, stops at the suction position detected by the first reagent detector 14b, and then sucks the cleaning liquid. And discharged into the reaction vessel 3. Then, for (n−p) (n> p ≧ 1) reaction containers 3, as shown in FIG. 7 (a), the inner surface of the reaction container 3 in contact with the mixed solution containing the maximum amount is washed. So that the cleaning liquid with the cleaning amount V1 larger than the maximum amount for cleaning the reaction vessel 3 is discharged (step S2).

  After discharging the cleaning liquid into the (n−p) reaction containers 3, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 sucks the cleaning liquid from the reagent container 6. Then, for the remaining p reaction containers 3 to which no cleaning liquid is supplied, as shown in FIG. 7 (b), the reaction is performed so that the sample dispensing probe 16 can be cleaned in addition to the reaction container 3. A cleaning liquid having a cleaning amount V2 larger than the cleaning amount V1 for cleaning the container 3 and the sample dispensing probe 16 is discharged (step S3).

  In this way, by supplying the cleaning liquid to the reaction container 3 with the first reagent dispensing probe 14, the inner surface of the reaction container 3 in contact with the mixed liquid can be cleaned using the cleaning liquid.

  In addition, the 1st reagent dispensing probe 14 can be wash | cleaned using a washing | cleaning liquid by supplying to the reaction container 3 with the 1st reagent dispensing probe 14. FIG. In addition, by dispensing into a plurality of reaction containers 3, the inner and outer surfaces of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 that have been in contact with the first reagent can be cleaned by contacting with the cleaning liquid for a longer time than during measurement. .

  The reagent containers 6 and 7 containing the cleaning liquid are stored in the reagent containers 1 and 2, and the cleaning liquid in the reagent containers 6 and 7 is supplied to the reaction container 3 by the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15. You may carry out like. Thereby, even when the “R probe” is not set as the cleaning condition for the non-measurement cleaning, the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 can be cleaned using the cleaning liquid.

  After step S3, the sample dispensing probe 16 removes from the reaction containers 3 up to (p−1) of the p pieces of washing liquid supplied with the washing amount V2 when p is an integer of 2 or more. , A cleaning amount (V2-V1) of the cleaning amount obtained by subtracting the cleaning amount V1 from the cleaning amount V2 which is larger than the maximum amount of the sample to be sucked at the time of dispensing is sucked, and the sucked cleaning solution is put into the cleaning tank 71. Discharge. Then, as shown in FIG. 7 (c), the cleaning liquid in the p-th reaction vessel 3 includes a range including one end portion D of the outer surface in contact with the sample at both the liquid surface layer suction position A1 and the lower layer suction position A2. For example, the cleaning is stopped at an unmeasured cleaning position W3 where one end is in contact with the bottom surface in the reaction vessel 3. And the washing | cleaning liquid (V2-V1) of the washing | cleaning amount is attracted | sucked from the reaction container 3. FIG.

  In this way, by sucking a part of the cleaning liquid supplied into the reaction vessel 3 into the sample dispensing probe 16, the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 in contact with the sample can be cleaned using the cleaning liquid. . In addition, by stopping the sample dispensing probe 16 at the non-measurement cleaning position W3, the sample dispensing probe 16 covers a range including one end portion in contact with the sample at both the liquid surface layer suction position A1 and the lower layer suction position A2. The outer surface can be cleaned using a cleaning liquid. Thereby, the inner and outer surfaces of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be washed more strongly than during measurement.

  With the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the non-measurement washing position W3 after the washing liquid is sucked from the p-th reaction container 3, the control unit 27 performs the reaction disc 4, the sample dispensing arm 10, and the sample dispensing pump. 16a is stopped for a time T (step 4).

  In this way, the cleaning liquid is retained in the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing probe 16 for the time T, and the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at the non-measurement washing position W3, whereby the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing are stopped. Since the inner and outer surfaces of the probe 16 can be cleaned for a longer time than during measurement, the probe 16 can be cleaned more strongly than during measurement.

  Thereby, when washing | cleaning the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing probe 16 using a washing | cleaning liquid, since it is not necessary to prepare the washing | cleaning liquid for sample dispensing probe 16 washing | cleaning, an operator's burden can be eased. In addition, since it is not necessary to provide a cleaning unit such as a cleaning tank for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 with a cleaning liquid or a pump for supplying the cleaning liquid to the cleaning tank, it is possible to prevent the configuration from becoming complicated and large.

  After the time T has elapsed since stopping, the sample dispensing probe 16 moves and stops at the lower layer cleaning position W2 of the cleaning tank 71. In the cleaning tank 71, the sample dispensing probe 16 is cleaned using cleaning water. After washing, the sample dispensing probe 16 moves and stops at the home position. Further, the reaction container cleaning unit 12 cleans all the reaction containers 3. When the reaction container cleaning unit 12 finishes cleaning all the reaction containers 3 and each unit of the analysis unit 24 moves and stops at the home position, the automatic analyzer 100 ends the cleaning operation (step) S5).

  According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, by supplying the cleaning liquid to the reaction vessel 3, it is possible to clean the inner surface that is in contact with the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 3 using the cleaning liquid. In addition, by sucking a part of the cleaning liquid supplied into the reaction container 3 into the sample dispensing probe 16, the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 in contact with the sample using the cleaning liquid is stronger than during measurement. Can be washed. In addition, by stopping the sample dispensing probe 16 at the non-measurement cleaning position W3, the sample dispensing probe 16 covers a range including one end portion in contact with the sample at both the liquid surface layer suction position A1 and the lower layer suction position A2. The outer surface can be cleaned more strongly than during measurement.

  Further, the cleaning liquid is kept in all the reaction containers 3 and in the sample dispensing probe 16 at time T, and the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at the non-measurement washing position W3, whereby the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing probe 16 are stopped. Since the inner and outer surfaces can be cleaned for a longer time than during measurement, it can be cleaned more strongly than during measurement.

  Thereby, when washing | cleaning the reaction container 3 and the sample dispensing probe 16 using a washing | cleaning liquid, since it is not necessary to prepare the washing | cleaning liquid for the sample dispensing probe 16 washing | cleaning, an operator's burden can be eased. In addition, since it is not necessary to provide a cleaning unit such as a cleaning tank for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 with a cleaning liquid or a pump for supplying the cleaning liquid to the cleaning tank, it is possible to prevent the configuration from becoming complicated and large.

3 Reaction vessel 14 First reagent dispensing probe 16 Sample dispensing probe

Claims (6)

In an automatic analyzer that dispenses samples and reagents into a reaction vessel and measures the mixture,
A sample dispensing probe that performs dispensing by aspirating from a sample container containing the sample and discharging into the reaction container;
Cleaning means for supplying a cleaning liquid into the reaction container at a time other than during measurement of the mixed liquid, and performing cleaning by sucking a part of the cleaning liquid supplied in the reaction container into the sample dispensing probe And an automatic analyzer. The sample dispensing probe dispenses the sample every analysis cycle,
2. The cleaning means holds the supplied cleaning solution in the reaction vessel and keeps the sucked cleaning solution in the sample dispensing probe for a longer time than the analysis cycle. Automatic analyzer described in 1. Detection means for detecting the sample contained in the sample container by contact between a liquid surface layer of the sample and one end of the sample dispensing probe, and suction in the dispensing of the sample, the sample dispensing probe is A moving means for stopping at a liquid surface layer suction position where the sample contained in the sample container is detected by the detection means and a lower layer suction position below the liquid surface layer suction position;
The position at which the sample dispensing probe aspirates a part of the cleaning liquid is a cleaning position where the cleaning liquid supplied into the reaction container and a range including the one end are in contact with each other. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2.   The automatic cleaning according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cleaning position is a position where one end of the sample dispensing probe contacts a bottom surface in the reaction container to which the cleaning liquid is supplied. Analysis equipment.   5. The sample according to claim 3, wherein the sample sucked by the sample dispensing probe stopped at the lower layer suction position is a sample containing whole blood or a blood cell component separated from the whole blood. Automatic analyzer. Having a reagent dispensing probe for aspirating the reagent from the reagent container and dispensing it into the reaction container;
The non-measurement cleaning means is configured to dispense the cleaning liquid into the reaction container by dispensing the reagent into the reaction container from the reagent container that stores the cleaning liquid disposed at a predetermined position. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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