JP2012233923A - Auto-analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an auto-analyzer capable of easily taking out a reagent container deficient in a reagent.SOLUTION: A first reagent housing 1 comprises: a rack 21 for holding a reagent container 6 which houses a first reagent; a revolving shaft 22 for revolving the rack 21 in an R1 direction; a reagent housing case 23 for housing the rack 21; an up and down arm 24 for moving up and down the reagent container 6, which is stopped at upper and lower positions of the reagent housing case 23; and a reagent housing cover 25 for covering the reagent housing case 23. After measurement is finished, if the reagent container 6 deficient in the reagent housing a first or second residual amount or below of the reagent is present in the first reagent housing 1, the reagent container 6 deficient in the reagent is revolved to the upper and lower positions and subsequently upward moved to a first or second position where a part of the reagent container 6 issues from the first reagent housing 1.

Description

  The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer that analyzes components of a test sample collected from a subject, and more particularly to an automatic analyzer that analyzes components contained in body fluids such as human blood and urine.

  The automatic analyzer is intended for biochemical test items and immunological test items, such as an absorbance method that measures changes in color tone caused by the reaction, a mixture of the test sample and the reagent that corresponds to the measurement item, electrolytes, etc. The concentration of various components in the test sample and the activity of the enzyme are measured by an ion sensor method that responds to specific components. In a laboratory where analysis data of a large number of test samples and measurement items are required, daily tests are performed using a high-speed processing apparatus so that reports to a doctor can be made in a short time.

  In this automatic analyzer, after a reagent container containing a sufficient amount of a reagent corresponding to each measurement item is stored in the reagent container, measurement of the measurement item selected according to the inspection is started. Then, the test sample and the reagent were dispensed into the reaction container using the sample and the reagent dispensing probe, and the mixed solution of the test sample and the reagent dispensed into the reaction container was stirred using a stirrer and stirred. Measure the mixed solution with a photometric unit or the like.

  By the way, with the increase in the number of reagents of items that can be measured by the automatic analyzer, the reagent storage contains a large number of reagent containers. It is difficult to replace the reagent container filled with the reagent. In order to solve this problem, the reagent remaining amount in the reagent container stored in the reagent store is measured during measurement, and the reagent shortage reagent container in which the measured reagent remaining amount is smaller than a preset amount is obtained. An apparatus that can be rotated and moved to a predetermined position is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2000-321283 A

  However, every time a reagent-deficient reagent container is rotated to a predetermined position, a reagent-deficient reagent container is stored in a reagent container whose occupation volume is limited to avoid an increase in the size of the apparatus. The reagent container needs to be removed. This operation is complicated and difficult for the operator of the apparatus because the small opening of the reagent container must be held between fingers.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer capable of easily taking out a reagent container having a reagent shortage.

  In order to achieve the above object, the automatic analyzer of the present invention is an automatic analyzer for measuring a mixed solution of a test sample and a reagent, and a container body containing the reagent and the affixed to a side surface of the container body. Remaining amount setting means for setting the remaining amount of the reagent in the reagent container having a label capable of identifying the reagent in the container main body, a rotatable rack for holding the reagent container, and an opening for storing the rack A reagent storage case having a portion formed therein, a reagent storage cover having a container opening provided so as to be able to penetrate the reagent container, and arranged to cover the opening above the reagent storage case; A detector for detecting the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container held in the rack, and a reagent remaining amount calculated based on the detection signal of the liquid level detected by the detector is set by the remaining amount setting means Less than the remaining A horizontal moving means for horizontally moving the reagent container containing a medicine to a vertical position, and the reagent container in the vertical position, a portion of the label of the reagent container where the reagent can be identified penetrates the container opening. And a vertical movement means for moving up to a predetermined position outside the reagent storage cover.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the detail of a structure of the analysis part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the reagent condition setting screen displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the detail of a structure of the 1st reagent storage and the 1st reagent operation part which concern on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the other example of the 1st reagent store | warehouse | chamber which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the detail of a structure of the 2nd reagent storage and the 2nd reagent operation part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The flowchart which shows the operation | movement which measures the test sample which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the reagent information display screen displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The flowchart which shows operation | movement of the 1st and 2nd reagent store | warehouse | chamber which operate | moves according to operation of the 1st and 2nd reagent operation part which concerns on Example 3 of this invention. The figure which shows the position to which a reagent container moves according to operation of the 1st and 2nd reagent operation part which concerns on the Example of this invention.

  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. The automatic analyzer 100 includes an analysis unit 18 having an analysis unit that measures standard items and test samples of various items for each item, and an analysis control unit 40 that controls the measurement operation of each analysis unit in the analysis unit 18. And a data processing unit 50 for processing the standard sample data and test sample data output from the analysis unit 18 by measuring the standard sample and the test sample to create a calibration curve and generate analysis data. .

  The automatic analyzer 100 also includes an output unit 60 that outputs the calibration curve created by the data processing unit 50 and the generated analysis data, input of analysis conditions regarding the standard sample and calibration curve of each item, and various command signals. And a system control unit 80 having a storage circuit 81 that controls the analysis control unit 40, the data processing unit 50, and the output unit 60 in an integrated manner.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing details of the configuration of the analysis unit 18. The analysis unit 18 selectively reacts with a sample container 17 containing a sample of a standard sample or a test sample, a disk sampler 5 that holds the sample container 17, and components of each item included in the sample. It has the 1st reagent storage 1 which has the rack 21 etc. which hold | maintain the reagent container 6 in which the 1st reagent was accommodated, and the rack 31 etc. which hold | maintain the reagent container 7 in which the 2nd reagent which makes a pair with a 1st reagent was accommodated. The second reagent storage 2 is provided. Then, the disk sampler 5, the rack 21 of the first reagent storage 1 and the rack 31 of the second reagent storage 2 are respectively rotated and stopped at predetermined vertical positions of the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2. The containers 6 and 7 each move up and down and stop at a position controlled by the analysis control unit 40.

  In addition, the sample dispensing probe 16 that performs dispensing to suck the sample from the sample container 17 and discharge it to the reaction container 3, and the first and second reagent containers 6 and 7 of the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2. First and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 that perform dispensing for sucking and discharging the reagent into the reaction container 3 are provided. The sample dispensing arm 10 and the first and second reagent dispensing arms 8 and 9 that hold the sample dispensing probe 16 and the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable, respectively. The first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 detect the liquid level when they contact the first and second reagents in the reagent containers 6 and 7 of the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2, respectively. 1 and second reagent liquid level detectors 18a and 18b. The detection signals detected by the first and second reagent liquid level detectors 18 a and 18 b are output to the analysis control unit 40.

  Furthermore, a reaction disc 4 holding a plurality of reaction containers 3 arranged on the circumference containing the sample and the first and second reagents discharged from each dispensing probe, a sample discharged into the reaction container 3, and A stirring unit 11 that stirs the mixed solution of the first reagent, the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent, a photometric unit 13 that measures the reaction vessel 3 containing each mixed solution, and the reaction vessel 3 And a washing nozzle 12 that sucks each liquid mixture after the measurement and cleans the inside of the reaction vessel 3 and a drying unit 12 that holds the drying nozzle that dries the inside of the reaction vessel 3 so as to be movable up and down.

  Then, the reaction disk 4 rotates and stops at a position controlled by the analysis control unit 40. The photometric unit 13 irradiates the rotating reaction vessel 3 with light, converts the light transmitted through the liquid mixture containing the standard sample into absorbance, generates standard sample data, and outputs the standard sample data to the data processing unit 50. To do. In addition, light that has passed through the liquid mixture containing the test sample is converted into absorbance to generate test sample data, which is then output to the data processing unit 50. In addition, the analysis units such as the reaction vessel 3 after measurement, the sample dispensing probe 16, the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14, 15 and the stirring unit 11 are washed and then used again for measurement.

  The analysis control unit 40 includes a mechanism unit 41 that includes a mechanism that drives each analysis unit of the analysis unit 18, and a control unit 42 that controls each mechanism of the mechanism unit 41. The mechanism 41 includes a mechanism for rotating the racks 21 and 31 of the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 and the disk sampler 5, and the reagent container 6 stopped at the upper and lower positions of the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2. , 7 is moved up and down, the reaction disk 4 is rotated, the sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, the second reagent dispensing arm 9, and the stirring unit 11 are rotated and moved up and down, respectively. And a mechanism for moving the cleaning unit 12 up and down.

  The mechanism unit 41 is configured to drive a dispensing pump that sucks and discharges the sample from the sample dispensing probe 16, and sucks the first and second reagents from the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15. A mechanism for driving the first and second reagent pumps for discharging, a mechanism for driving the stirring bar of the stirring unit 11, and a cleaning pump for sucking the mixed liquid and discharging and sucking the cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle of the cleaning unit 12 A mechanism for driving, a mechanism for driving a drying pump that performs suction from the drying nozzle of the cleaning unit 12, and the like are provided.

  The control unit 42 includes control circuits that respectively control mechanisms that drive analysis units such as the first reagent dispensing arm 8 and the second reagent dispensing arm 9 of the mechanism unit 41.

  The control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 of the control unit 42 rotates the first reagent dispensing arm 8 up to the upper position of the reagent container 6 of the first reagent storage 1 at the height of the upper stop position. A downward movement drive pulse is supplied to the movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing arm 8 downward. Then, the detection signal output from the first reagent liquid level detector 18a at the position where the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 contacts the liquid level of the first reagent in the reagent container 6 (liquid level detection position) Upon receipt, the first reagent dispensing arm 8 is stopped. At this time, the information on the downward movement drive pulse of the first reagent supplied from the upper stop position to the liquid level detection position of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 is used as the system control unit 80.

  The control circuit of the second reagent dispensing arm 9 of the control unit 42 moves the second reagent dispensing arm 9 up to the upper position of the reagent container 7 of the second reagent storage 2 at the height of the upper stop position, and then moves up and down. A downward movement drive pulse is supplied to the movement mechanism to move the second reagent dispensing arm 9 downward. The detection signal output from the second reagent liquid level detector 18b is received at the liquid level detection position where the tip of the second reagent dispensing probe 15 contacts the liquid level of the second reagent in the reagent container 7. The second reagent dispensing arm 9 is stopped. At this time, the information on the downward movement drive pulse of the second reagent supplied from the upper stop position to the liquid level detection position of the second reagent dispensing arm 9 is used as the system control unit 80.

  The data processing unit 50 in FIG. 1 includes a calculation unit 51 that creates a calibration curve and generates analysis data from the standard sample data and test sample data output from the analysis unit 18, and a calibration curve created by the calculation unit 51. And a storage unit 52 for storing the generated analysis data and the like.

  The calculation unit 51 creates a calibration curve from the standard sample data of each item output from the photometry unit 13 of the analysis unit 18, saves it in the storage unit 52, and outputs it to the output unit 60. In addition, with respect to the test sample data of each item output from the photometry unit 13 of the analysis unit 18, the calibration curve of the item is read from the storage unit 52, and the concentration, activity value, etc. are read using the read calibration curve. Analysis data is generated and stored in the storage unit 52 and output to the output unit 60.

  The storage unit 52 includes a hard disk or the like, stores the calibration curve output from the calculation unit 51 for each item, and stores the analysis data output from the calculation unit 51 for each test sample.

  The output unit 60 includes a printing unit 61 that prints and outputs a calibration curve, analysis data, and the like output from the data processing unit 50 and a display unit 62 that outputs the display. The printing unit 61 includes a printer and prints out the calibration curve, analysis data, and the like output from the data processing unit 50 on printer paper based on a preset format.

  The display unit 62 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel, and is used to display a calibration curve and analysis data output from the data processing unit 50 and to set analysis conditions such as reagent conditions, wavelengths, and sample amounts for each item. Analysis condition setting screen including a reagent condition setting screen, input screen for input of subject information such as subject ID and subject name of the subject, measurement item selection screen for selecting a measurement item for each test sample, and analysis In the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 of the unit 18, a reagent information display screen for displaying the remaining amount of reagent in each of the reagent containers 6 and 7 is displayed.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a reagent condition setting screen for setting a reagent condition which is one of analysis conditions displayed on the display unit 62. This reagent condition setting screen 63 is a reagent condition setting for setting the conditions of the first and second reagents of the item name displayed in the “item name” column displaying the item name and the “item name” column. And an area 63a.

  Then, the analysis condition setting screen display operation from the operation unit 70 causes the display unit 62 to display the analysis condition setting screen and sets, for example, GOT as the item name, and then displays the GOT reagent condition setting screen. “GOT” is displayed in the “item name” field of the setting screen 63.

  The reagent condition setting area 63a includes columns of “first reagent” and “second reagent”, and columns of “reagent name”, “reagent position”, and “reagent amount” corresponding to this column.

  In the “reagent name” column, a reagent abbreviation setting area 63b for setting abbreviations of reagent names corresponding to the “first reagent” and “second reagent” columns is provided. In the reagent abbreviation setting area 63b, dialog boxes 63ba and 63bb capable of setting characters, numbers and the like with a predetermined number of digits are displayed. When, for example, GOT-1 and GOT-2 are input as the reagent abbreviations of the first and second reagents of “GOT” from the operation unit 70, “GOT-1” and “GOT-2” are displayed in the dialog boxes 45a and 45b. Is displayed.

  The “reagent position” column corresponds to the “first reagent” and “second reagent” columns, and the positions of the reagent containers 6 and 7 stored in the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 of the analysis unit 18. A reagent position setting area 63c is provided for setting. In the reagent position setting area 63c, dialog boxes 63ca and 63cb capable of setting the positions of the reagent containers 6 and 7 are displayed. When, for example, A07 and A05 are input as the positions of the reagent containers 6 and 7 containing the first and second reagents “GOT” from the operation unit 70, “A07” and “A05” are displayed in the dialog boxes 63ca and 63cb. Is displayed.

  The “reagent amount” column is provided with a reagent amount setting area 63d for setting the amounts of the first and second reagents per sample corresponding to the “first reagent” and “second reagent” columns. It has been. In the reagent amount setting area 63d, dialog boxes 63da and 63db capable of setting the amounts of the first and second reagents in units of μL, for example, are displayed. Then, for example, when “150” and “75” are input as the amounts of the first and second reagents of “GOT” from the operation unit 70, “150” and “75” are displayed in the dialog boxes 63da and 63db.

  Information on the reagent conditions set on the reagent condition setting screen 63 is stored in the storage circuit 81 of the system control unit 80.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the operation unit 70 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, and sets the reagent conditions such as the reagent name, reagent position, and reagent amount of the first and second reagents of each item. Including analysis condition setting, input of subject information such as subject ID and subject name, selection of measurement items for each test sample, calibration operation of each measurement item, measurement operation of test sample, etc. The operation is performed.

  Further, the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72 are provided, and the first reagent that is not more than a preset remaining amount in the reagent container 6 stored in the first reagent storage 1 from the first reagent operation unit 71 is stored. An operation of moving a part of the reagent container 6 in which the reagent is short to the outside of the first reagent storage 1 is performed. Further, a part of the reagent shortage reagent container 7 containing the second reagent below the preset remaining amount in the reagent container 7 stored in the second reagent storage 2 from the second reagent operation unit 72 is removed. An operation of moving the second reagent storage 2 out is performed.

  The system control unit 80 includes a CPU (not shown) and a storage circuit 81, and includes command signals supplied from the operation unit 70, analysis conditions such as standard samples and calibration curves for each item, subject information, and measurement items for each test sample. After storing information such as, on the basis of such information, control for causing each analysis unit constituting the analysis unit 18 to perform measurement operation in a predetermined sequence of a predetermined cycle, or creation of a calibration curve, generation and output of analysis data Control the entire system such as control.

  The analysis is performed based on the information on the downward movement drive pulses of the first and second reagents output from the control unit 42 of the analysis control unit 40, the information on the preset horizontal cross sections of the reagent containers 6 and 7, and the like. The reagent remaining amount in each reagent container 6, 7 stored in the first and second reagent storages 1, 2 of the unit 18 is calculated, and the calculated reagent remaining amount is stored in the storage circuit 81.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5, details of the configuration of the first reagent storage 1 in the analysis unit 18 and the first reagent operation unit 71 of the operation unit 70 capable of operating the first reagent storage 1 will be described. To do. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing details of the configuration of the first reagent storage 1 and the first reagent operation unit 71. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of another first reagent storage.

  4A is a view of the first reagent storage 1 and the first reagent operation unit 71 as viewed from above, and FIG. 4B is a line X of the first reagent storage 1 shown in FIG. 4A. It is the figure which expanded the cross section in -X and was seen from the side surface.

  First, the structure of the 1st reagent storage 1 is demonstrated. The first reagent container 1 includes a reagent container 6 that contains a first reagent, a rack 21 that holds the reagent container 6, a pivot shaft 22 that rotatably supports the rack 21, and a reagent container that houses the rack 21. A case 23, an upper and lower arm 24 that moves in the directions of arrows L1 and L2, which are vertical directions, a reagent storage cover 25 that covers the reagent storage case 23, and a cooling unit 26 that cools the inside of the reagent storage case 23 are provided.

  The rack 21 has a donut-shaped opening formed on the upper side, and holds the plurality of reagent containers 6 accommodated from the opening radially around the rotation shaft 22. In addition, arm openings 21 a having a smaller area than the bottom surface of the reagent container 6 are provided at each position on the bottom surface of the rack 21 corresponding to the bottom surface of each reagent container 6 held by the rack 21.

  The rotation shaft 22 supports the rack 21 and rotates the rack 21 in the arrow R1 direction by the drive mechanism of the mechanism unit 41 of the analysis control unit 40. By this rotation, each reagent container 6 rotates in the R1 direction while being held horizontally by the rack 21.

  The reagent storage case 23 is spaced apart from the rack 21 and has a circular opening larger than the rack 21 on the upper side. In addition, an arm opening 23 a having the same dimensions as the arm opening 21 a of the rack 21 is provided on the bottom surface of the reagent storage case 23 at a portion corresponding to the vertical position that is one of the stop positions of the reagent container 6. Furthermore, it has the ventilation port 23b into which the cold air from the cooling part 26 is sent in a part of side surface, and the exhaust port 23c from which the sent cold air is exhausted.

  The upper and lower arms 24 are arranged so that the upper ends thereof close the arm openings 23 a of the reagent storage case 23, and can be penetrated into the rack 21 from below the rack 21 via the arm openings 21 a. And it moves to L1 direction by the drive mechanism of the mechanism part 41, and moves the reagent container 6 with insufficient reagent stopped to the up-and-down position of the reagent storage case 23 upwards. Further, the reagent container 6 is moved down to a position where the rack 21 holds.

  The reagent storage cover 25 is detachably disposed above the reagent storage case 23 to cover the circular opening of the reagent storage case 23, and the container opening so that the reagent container 6 moving up by the upper and lower arms 24 can pass therethrough. Part 25a. In addition, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 has a suction opening 25b so that the first reagent in the reagent container 6 can be sucked. Furthermore, it has the lid | cover 25c arrange | positioned on the container opening part 25a so that opening and closing is possible via the hinge 25d. The lid 25c is pushed up and opened by the reagent container 6 moving upward by the upper and lower arms 24.

  The cooling unit 26 includes a cooler, a fan for blowing cool air cooled by the cooler, and a temperature sensor disposed in the reagent storage case 23, and the first reagent in each reagent container 6 in the reagent storage case 23. Is maintained at a predetermined temperature. When the temperature in the reagent storage case 23 detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a predetermined temperature, the cooled cool air is blown into the reagent storage case 23 from the blower port 23b, and is discharged from the exhaust port 23c by this blowing. The exhaust is cooled with a cooler.

  The reagent container 6 has a container main body 6a for storing the first reagent, a suction port 6b into which the first reagent dispensing probe 14 provided on the upper surface of the container main body 6a is inserted, and extends upward from the suction port 6b. And the projection 6c. Moreover, it has the label 6d which can identify the 1st reagent of the measurement item affixed on the side surface of the container main body 6a. Then, in accordance with the upward movement by the upper and lower arms 24, the protrusion 6c pushes open the lid 25c of the reagent storage cover 25, and moves to a height at which, for example, the label 6d on the outside of the reagent storage cover 25 can be seen. In this way, by opening the lid 25c of the reagent storage cover 25 with the protrusion 6c, the first reagent attached to the suction port 6b adheres to the inside of the lid 25c, and the attached first reagent moves up next. It is possible to prevent the container 6 from being contaminated.

  A first rack that holds the reagent container 6 so as to be rotatable in the R1 direction, and the reagent container 6 that is arranged on the outer periphery of the first rack and is rotatable in the R1 direction independently of the first rack. The first and second racks stopped at the first and second upper and lower positions, which are one of the stop positions, in the first reagent storage shown in FIG. Each of the reagent containers 6 may be provided with first and second upper and lower arms that can move up and down.

  In addition, a drive mechanism for driving a lid that covers the container opening 25a of the reagent storage cover 25 is provided, and by this drive mechanism, the lid is slid upward or horizontally in accordance with the movement of the reagent container 6 on the reagent shortage. You may make it open.

  As described above, the reagent-deficient reagent container 6 stored in the first reagent storage 1 is rotated to the vertical position, and a part of the rotated vertical reagent container 6 is positioned outside the first reagent storage 1. You can move up to the height you want.

  Next, the configuration of the first reagent operation unit 71 will be described. The first reagent operation unit 71 is disposed in the vicinity of the first reagent storage 1 and can be operated to move a part of the reagent container 6 in the first reagent storage 1 out of the first reagent storage 1 after the measurement is completed. Switch 71a and a light emitting unit 71b for informing whether or not there is a reagent container 6 with insufficient reagent in the first reagent chamber 1 after the measurement is completed. The light emitting unit 71b has a light emitting element and the like, for example, lights when there is a reagent insufficient reagent container 6 in the first reagent storage 1, and when there is no reagent insufficient reagent container 6 in the first reagent storage 1, When the operation with the switch 71a is completed when there is a reagent container 6 with insufficient reagent, for example, the light is turned off.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 2 thru | or FIG. 6, the detail of the structure of the 2nd reagent storage part 2 of the 2nd reagent storage 2 in the analysis part 18 and the operation part 70 which can operate this 2nd reagent storage 2 is demonstrated. To do.

  FIG. 6A is a view of the second reagent storage 2 and the second reagent operation unit 72 as viewed from above. Moreover, FIG.6 (b) is the figure which expanded the cross section in the line YY of the 2nd reagent storage 2 shown to Fig.6 (a), and was seen from the side surface.

  The second reagent storage 2 shown in FIG. 6 is different from the first reagent storage 1 in FIG. 4 in that the reagent container 7 storing the second reagent is stored and the second reagent dispensing probe 15 of the analysis unit 18. It is the point arrange | positioned in the position attracted | sucked by. In addition, in the structure of the 2nd reagent storage 2, the same name is given to the unit which has the function, structure, and dimension similar to FIG. 4, a different code | symbol is provided, and it demonstrates easily.

  The second reagent storage 2 includes a reagent container 7 that stores the second reagent, a rack 31 that holds the reagent container 7, a rotation shaft 32 that rotatably supports the rack 31, and a reagent storage in which the rack 31 is stored. A case 33, an upper and lower arm 34 that moves in the directions of arrows L 1 and L 2, a reagent storage cover 35 that covers the reagent storage case 33, and a cooling unit 36 that blows cool air into the reagent storage case 33 are provided.

  An arm opening 31 a is provided at each position for holding the reagent container 7 on the bottom surface of the rack 31. The reagent storage case 33 has an arm opening 33a on the bottom surface in the vertical position, which is one of the stop positions of the reagent container 7, and a blower port 33b into which the cool air from the cooling unit 36 is sent and a part of the side surface. There is an exhaust port 33c through which cool air is exhausted.

  The reagent storage cover 35 has a container opening 35 a so that the reagent container 7 that moves upward by the upper and lower arms 34 can pass therethrough. In addition, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 has a suction opening 35b so that the second reagent in the reagent container 7 can be sucked. Furthermore, it has the lid | cover 35c arrange | positioned on the container opening part 35a so that opening and closing is possible via hinge 35d.

  The reagent container 7 includes a container main body 7a for storing the second reagent, a suction port 7b into which the second reagent dispensing probe 15 provided on the upper surface of the container main body 7a is inserted, and extends above the suction port 7b. And the projection 7c. Moreover, it has the label 7d which can identify the 2nd reagent of the measurement item affixed on the side surface of the container main body 7a.

  The second reagent operation unit 72 is disposed in the vicinity of the second reagent storage 2 and moves a part of the reagent-deficient reagent container 7 stored in the second reagent storage 2 to the outside of the second reagent storage 2 after the measurement is completed. The switch 72a that can be operated, and lights up when there is a reagent-deficient reagent container 7 in the second reagent container 2 after the measurement is completed, and when there is no reagent-deficient reagent container 7 in the second reagent container 2, and A light emitting section 72b that is turned off when the operation by the switch 72a when there is an insufficient reagent container 7 is completed.

  Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation for measuring a test sample. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a reagent information display screen displayed on the display unit 62. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2 that operate in accordance with the operation of the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72 of the operation unit 70 after the measurement is completed. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating positions where the reagent containers 6 and 7 move in accordance with the operation of the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72 of the operation unit 70.

  From the analysis condition setting screen on the display unit 62 of the output unit 60 and the reagent condition setting screen 63 of FIG. 3 included in the analysis condition setting screen, for example, many item names such as GOT, reagent conditions and wavelengths of each item such as GOT By setting the analysis conditions such as the sample amount, the storage circuit 81 of the system control unit 80 can measure the reagent condition of “GOT” which is the item name displayed on the reagent condition setting screen 63. Analysis conditions for many items are stored. Further, the calibration curve of each item is stored in the storage unit 52 of the data processing unit 50 by the calibration operation of each item.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation for measuring a test sample. Reagent containers 6 and 8 filled with the first and second reagents are stored in the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2 of the analysis unit 18. When a measurement item including, for example, “GOT” is selected in a plurality of test samples from the measurement item selection screen and then an operation for measuring the test sample is performed from the operation unit 70, the system control unit 80. Instructs the analysis control unit 40, the data processing unit 50, and the output unit 60 to measure the test sample. The sample dispensing probe 16 of the analysis unit 18 sucks the test sample of the sample amount corresponding to each measurement item selected on the measurement item selection screen for each test sample from each sample container 17 and puts it into the reaction container 3. Dispense to dispense.

  The first reagent dispensing probe 14 of the analysis unit 18 is the first reagent of “GOT” from the reagent container 6 in “A07” which is the reagent position of the first reagent container 1 set on the reagent condition setting screen 63. “GOT-1” is aspirated and dispensed into the reaction vessel 3 into which the “GOT” test sample has been dispensed. Further, the first reagent corresponding to each measurement item is dispensed into each reaction container 3 into which the test sample corresponding to the measurement item is dispensed. The first reagent liquid level detector 18a detects the liquid level of the first reagent of each measurement item such as “GOT-1” in the reagent container 6 of “A07” and outputs the detection signal of the analysis control unit 40. It outputs to the control part 42 (step S2).

  Based on the detection signal output from the first reagent liquid level detector 18a, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 of the control unit 42 starts from the upper stop position of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 with “GOT-1”. The information of the downward movement drive pulse of each first reagent supplied up to the liquid level detection position of each measurement item such as " Based on the information of each downward movement drive pulse such as “GOT-1” output from the control unit 42, the system control unit 80 selects the first reagent of each measurement item such as “GOT-1” in the reagent container 6. And the calculated remaining amount of each first reagent is stored in the storage circuit 81 (step S3).

  After the first reagent is dispensed, the agitating unit 11 agitates the test sample in the reaction container 3 and the mixed solution of the first reagent. After each liquid mixture is stirred, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 moves from the reagent container 7 of “A05”, which is the reagent position of the second reagent storage 2 set on the reagent condition setting screen 63, to “GOT”. The second reagent “GOT-2” is aspirated and dispensed into the reaction container 3 into which the test sample “GOT” has been dispensed. Further, the second reagent corresponding to each measurement item is dispensed into each reaction container 3 into which the test sample corresponding to the measurement item is dispensed. The second reagent liquid level detector 18b detects the liquid level of the second reagent of each measurement item such as “GOT-2” in the reagent container 7 of “A05”, and outputs the detection signal to the control unit 42. (Step S4).

  Based on the detection signal output from the second reagent liquid level detector 18b, the control circuit for the second reagent dispensing arm 9 of the control unit 42 starts from the upper stop position of the second reagent dispensing arm 9 with “GOT-2”. The information of the downward movement driving pulse of each second reagent supplied up to the liquid level detection position of each measurement item is set to the system control unit 80. Based on the information of each downward movement drive pulse such as “GOT-2” output from the control unit 42, the system control unit 80 performs the second reagent of each measurement item such as “GOT-2” in the reagent container 7. And the calculated remaining amount of each second reagent is stored in the storage circuit 81 (step S5).

  After the second reagent is dispensed, the agitation unit 11 agitates the mixed solution of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction container 3. After each mixed solution is stirred, the photometric unit 13 measures each mixed solution in the reaction container 3 to generate test sample data, and then outputs the sample data to the data processing unit 50.

  The calculation unit 51 of the data processing unit 50 reads the calibration curve for each measurement item output from the photometry unit 13 from the storage unit 52, and uses the read calibration curve for each measurement item data. Analysis data is generated and stored in the storage unit 52 and output to the output unit 60. When all the analysis data is output to the output unit 60, the system control unit 80 instructs the analysis control unit 40, the data processing unit 50, and the output unit 60 to stop the measurement operation. Then, the measurement of the test sample is finished.

  Next, the operator of the automatic analyzer 100 prepares for the next measurement of the sample to be tested, and the reagent is insufficient due to the above measurement in the reagent containers 6 and 7 stored in the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2. The first and second reagents are replenished to the reagent containers 6 and 7, or the reagent containers 6 and 7 filled with the first and second reagents are replaced.

  Here, when an operation for displaying the reagent information display screen from the operation unit 70 is performed, the information on the reagent containers 6 and 7 that lack the reagent due to the measurement is displayed on the reagent information display screen of the display unit 62.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a reagent information display screen displayed on the display unit 62. The reagent information display screen 64 includes columns of “reagent name”, “first remaining amount”, “second remaining amount”, and “reagent remaining amount”, and a reagent name display area 65 corresponding to each column, The first remaining amount setting area 66, the second remaining amount setting area 67, and the reagent remaining amount display area 68 are configured.

  In the reagent name display area 65, when the total of the first and second reagents of the measurement items measured in steps S1 to S5 in FIG. 7 is n types, the reagent abbreviation setting area in the reagent condition setting screen 63 in FIG. Abbreviations of n types of reagent names such as “GOT-1” and “GOT-2” set in 63b are displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 to 65n.

  The first remaining amount setting area 66 is arranged below the reagent name display area 65, and is in the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 corresponding to the reagent names displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 to 65n. Dialog boxes 661 to 66n in which the first remaining amount for determining that the first and second reagents in each of the reagent containers 6 and 7 are insufficient in reagent are displayed.

  Then, for example, “3”, which is the number of times that can be measured as the first remaining amount corresponding to “GOT-1” and “GOT-2” displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 and 652, is started from the operation unit 70. If set and input before, the set “3” is stored in the storage circuit 81 of the system control unit 80, and the stored “3” is displayed in the dialog boxes 661 and 662.

  The second remaining amount setting area 67 is arranged below the first remaining amount display area 66, and the first and second reagent storages 1 corresponding to the reagent names displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 to 65n. , 2 can set a second remaining amount larger than the first remaining amount for determining that the first and second reagents in the reagent containers 6 and 7 in each reagent container are insufficient. 67n is displayed.

  Then, the second remaining amount is larger than each “3” set in the dialog boxes 661 and 662 corresponding to “GOT-1” and “GOT-2” displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 and 652. For example, if “10”, which is the number of times that can be measured, is set and input from the operation unit 70 before the start of measurement, the set “10” is stored in the storage circuit 81, and the stored “10” It is displayed in dialog boxes 671, 672.

  The reagent remaining amount display area 68 is arranged below the second remaining amount display area 67, and the remaining amounts of the first and second reagents corresponding to the reagent names displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 to 65n are displayed. The remaining amounts of the first and second reagents read out from the storage circuit 81 are displayed, for example, in a measurable number of times. Then, after the measurement of the automatic analyzer 100 in FIG. 7 is completed, the reagent remaining amount display areas 681 and 682 corresponding to “GOT-1” and “GOT-2” displayed in the reagent name display areas 651 and 652 are displayed in, for example, “2” and “6” are displayed.

  In this case, “GOT-1” in an amount capable of measuring “GOT” twice remains in the reagent container 6 at the reagent position “A07” in the first reagent storage 1. Further, “GOT-2” in an amount capable of measuring “GOT” six times remains in the reagent container 7 at the reagent position “A05” in the second reagent storage 2.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 that operate in accordance with the operation of the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72. After the measurement after step S5 in FIG. 7, the first or second remaining set in the reagent information display screen 64 in FIG. 8 is stored in the plurality of reagent containers 6 used for the measurement in the first reagent storage 1. When there is a reagent container 6 in which the first reagent equal to or less than the amount is stored (Yes in step S6), the light emitting unit 71b of the first reagent operation unit 71 is lit (step S7).

  In addition, when there is no reagent container 6 in which the first reagent less than the first and second remaining amount is stored in the plurality of reagent containers 6 used for the measurement in the first reagent storage 1 (No in step S6). The light emitting unit 71b is extinguished (step S8).

  Here, the reagent container 6 at the reagent position “A07” of the first reagent storage 1 stores “GOT-1” with a remaining amount “2” smaller than the first remaining amount “3”. Therefore, the light emitting unit 71b is lit.

  When the operation of turning on the switch 71a of the first reagent operation unit 71 is performed after step S7, the rotation shaft 22 of the first reagent storage 1 rotates the rack 21 in the R1 direction, and the second remaining amount or less. The reagent container 6 containing the first reagent is stopped at the vertical position of the reagent storage case 23 (step S9).

  When the amount of the first reagent in the reagent container 6 stopped at the vertical position is equal to or less than the first remaining amount (Yes in Step S10), the upper and lower arms 24 remove the reagent container 6 stopped at the vertical position. For example, the upper half of the height of the reagent container 6 goes out from the container opening 25a of the reagent storage cover 25 and moves upward to the first position shown in FIG. 10A where the label 6d can be read (step). S11).

  When the amount of the first reagent in the reagent container 6 stopped at the vertical position is larger than the first amount (No in step S10), the upper and lower arms 24 remove the reagent container 6 stopped at the vertical position. For example, a quarter of the height of the container 6 goes out from the container opening 25a of the reagent storage cover 25 and moves up to the second position shown in FIG. 10B where the label 6d can be read (see FIG. 10B). Step S12).

  Here, the reagent container 6 at the position “A07” in the first reagent storage 1 contains “GOT-1” having a remaining amount smaller than the first remaining amount, and the upper and lower arms 24 are The reagent container 6 is moved up to the first position.

  After step S11 or S12, the light emitting unit 71b blinks, for example (step S14).

  The operator looks at the label 6d of the reagent container 6 with the upper half or quarter of the first reagent storage 1 coming out of the first reagent storage 1, and the measurement may be performed by the next measurement operation of the test sample. If it is determined that the item is an item, the reagent container 6 is taken out from the first reagent container 1. Then, it is determined whether to replace with a new reagent container 6 filled with the first reagent or to replenish the extracted reagent container 6 with the first reagent. In addition, when it is determined that the measurement item is not likely to be measured by the measurement operation of the next test sample, the reagent container 6 that has come out of the first reagent storage 1 is left without being taken out, for example. .

  Of the measurement items that may be measured by the measurement operation of the next test sample, if the replenishment of the first reagent to the same reagent container 6 is repeated, it will be adversely affected by, for example, the growth of bacteria. The reagent container 6 of the measurement item that is easily contaminated by other first reagents via the first reagent dispensing probe 14 and is susceptible to adverse effects is replaced with a new reagent container 6.

  In this way, by taking the upper half or quarter of the reagent container 6 out of the first reagent storage 1, it is easy for the reagent remaining amount in the reagent container 6 to be equal to or less than the first or second remaining amount. Can be judged. Moreover, the reagent name of the reagent container 6 put out outside can be easily known by taking out the reagent container 6 from the first reagent container 1 to the height where the label 6d can be seen. Furthermore, it is possible to easily make a decision such as replacement with a new reagent container 6, refilling of the reagent container 6, and removal of the reagent container 6 from the first reagent container 1. Then, the reagent container 6 to be replaced with a new reagent container 6 or to be replenished with the first reagent can be easily taken out from the first reagent container 1 with the container main body 6a of the reagent container 6 sandwiched between fingers.

  After placing the new reagent container 6 or the replenished reagent container 6 in the first or second position of the first reagent storage 1 or leaving the reagent container 6 without taking it out, the switch 71a is turned off. When the operation is performed, the upper and lower arms 24 move the reagent container 6 placed on the arms down to a position where the reagent container 6 is held by the rack 21 (step S14). Then, it returns to step S6.

  Here, a new reagent container 6 or a replenished reagent container 6 is placed in the first or second position of the first reagent storage 1 from the container opening 25a of the reagent storage cover 25, thereby placing the reagent container 6 in the first position. The reagent can be stored in the correct reagent position set on the reagent condition setting screen 63 of the reagent storage 1.

  On the other hand, after completion of the measurement after step S5 in FIG. 7, the reagent container in which the second reagent less than the first or second remaining amount is stored in the reagent container 7 used for the measurement in the second reagent storage 2. If there is 7 (Yes in step S15), the light emitting unit 72b of the second reagent operation unit 72 is lit (step S16).

  Further, if there is no reagent container 7 containing the second reagent that is less than or equal to the first and second remaining amounts in the reagent container 7 used for the measurement in the second reagent storage 2 (No in step S15), light emission is performed. The part 72b is turned off (step S17).

  Here, the reagent container 7 at the reagent position “A05” in the second reagent storage 2 stores “GOT-2” having a remaining amount of “6” that is smaller than the second remaining amount “10”. Therefore, the light emitting unit 72b is lit.

  When the operation of turning on the switch 72a of the second reagent operation unit 72 is performed after step S16, the rotation shaft 32 of the second reagent storage 2 rotates the rack 31 in the R1 direction, and the second remaining amount or less. The reagent container 7 containing the second reagent is stopped at the vertical position of the reagent storage case 33 (step S18).

  When the amount of the second reagent in the reagent container 7 stopped at the vertical position is equal to or less than the first remaining amount (Yes in step S19), the vertical arm 34 moves the reagent container 7 stopped at the vertical position to the first level. Move up to position 1 (step S20). When the amount of the second reagent in the reagent container 7 stopped at the vertical position is larger than the first remaining amount (No in step S19), the vertical arm 24 moves the second reagent container 7 stopped at the vertical position to the second level. Move up to the position (step S21).

  Here, the reagent container 7 at the position “A05” in the second reagent storage 2 has “6” which is larger than the first remaining amount “3” and smaller than the second remaining amount “10”. "GOT-2" is stored, and the upper and lower arms 34 move the reagent container 7 of "GOT-2" up to the second position.

  After step S20 or S21, the light emitting unit 72b blinks (step S22).

  The operator looks at the label 7 d of the reagent container 7 that has come out of the second reagent storage 2 and determines the handling of the reagent container 7 in the same manner as in the case of the reagent container 6.

  In this way, by putting the upper half or quarter of the reagent container 7 out of the second reagent container 2, it is easy for the remaining amount of reagent in the reagent container 7 to be equal to or less than the first or second remaining amount. Can be judged. Further, by taking the reagent container 7 out of the second reagent container 2 to a height at which the label 7d can be seen, the reagent name of the reagent container 7 put out can be easily known. Furthermore, it is possible to easily make a determination such as replacement with a new reagent container 7, refilling of the reagent container 7, and removal of the reagent container 7 from the second reagent container 2. Then, the reagent container 7 to be replaced with a new reagent container 7 or replenished with the second reagent can be easily taken out from the first reagent container 1 with the container main body 7a of the reagent container 7 sandwiched between fingers.

  Then, after placing the new reagent container 7 or the replenished reagent container 7 in the position of the second reagent storage 2 or leaving the reagent container 7 without taking it out, an operation to turn off the switch 72a is performed. When performed, the upper and lower arms 34 move the reagent container 7 placed on the arms down to a position where the reagent container 7 is held by the rack 31 (step S23). Thereafter, the process returns to step S15.

  Here, by placing a new reagent container 7 or a replenished reagent container 7 at the first or second position of the second reagent storage 2 from the container opening 35a of the reagent storage cover 35, the reagent container 7 is removed. It can be stored in the correct reagent position set on the reagent condition setting screen 63 of the second reagent storage 2.

  After step S8 and step S17, the operation of the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 corresponding to the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72 is terminated (step S24).

  When the operation for displaying the reagent information display screen 64 is performed from the operation unit 70 after the measurement is completed, the reagent below the first or second remaining amount on the reagent information display screen 64 displayed on the display unit 62 is accommodated. For example, “GOT-1” and “GOT-2” which are reagent names in the reagent name display area 65 corresponding to the reagent containers 6 and 7 are displayed blinking. When an operation of designating the blinking “GOT-1” using the mouse of the operation unit 70, for example, is performed, the first reagent storage 1 and the light emitting unit 71b operate in the same manner as in steps S9 to S13. When an operation for designating “GOT-2” blinking is performed using the mouse of the operation unit 70, the second reagent storage 2 and the light emitting unit 72b operate in the same manner as in steps S18 to S23.

  Here, reagent names whose reagent remaining amounts in the reagent containers 6 and 7 after the measurement are equal to or less than the first and second remaining amounts can be identified and displayed on the reagent information display screen 64 of the display unit 62. .

  In addition, the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 have a large number of reagent containers 6 and 7 that are less than or equal to the first or second remaining amount, and the number of measurement items that may be measured next after measurement is small is small. In this case, by operating only the reagent containers 6 and 7 below the first or second remaining amount of the measurement item from the reagent information display screen 64, the reagent containers 6 and 7 are replenished with the reagent or new reagent containers 6 and 7 are operated. Exchange to 7 can be performed in a short time.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, after the measurement, the first and second reagents less than the first or second remaining amount set in advance in the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2 are accommodated. It can be determined from the light emitting units 71b and 72b of the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72 and the reagent information display screen 64 whether or not there is a reagent container 6 or 7 with insufficient reagents.

  Then, when there are reagent containers 6 and 7 having insufficient reagents in the first and second reagent storages 1 and 2, from the operation of the switches 71 a and 72 a of the first and second reagent operation units 71 and 72 or the reagent information display screen 64. By designating the reagent names corresponding to the reagent containers 6 and 7 of the reagent shortage, the reagent containers 6 and 7 of the reagent shortage and the container bodies 6a and 7a of the reagent containers 6 and 7 are partly first and second. It is located outside the reagent storages 1 and 2 and can move to the first and second positions where the labels 6d and 7d of the reagent containers 6 and 7 can be read.

  Thereby, it can be easily determined that the remaining amount of the reagent in the reagent containers 6 and 7 is equal to or less than the first or second remaining amount. In addition, the reagent names of the reagent containers 6 and 7 placed outside the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2 can be easily read. Further, the reagent containers 6 and 7 having insufficient reagents can be easily removed from the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2, exchanged with new reagent containers 6 and 7, and first and The second reagent can be replenished quickly.

  Then, the new reagent containers 6, 7 or the reagent containers 6, 7 supplemented with the first and second reagents are placed at the first or second position from the container openings 25a, 35a of the reagent storage covers 25, 35. Thus, the reagent containers 6 and 7 can be stored in the reagent positions of the first and second reagent containers 1 and 2 set in advance.

  As a result, each of the reagent containers 6 and 7 can be stored in the correct reagent position, so that remeasurement due to storage in the wrong reagent position can be prevented in advance, and waste of the test sample, reagent, measurement time, etc. can be prevented. Can do.

1, 2 1st reagent container Reagent container 6a, 7a Container body 6b, 7b Suction port 6c, 7c Protrusion 6d, 7d Label 14 First reagent dispensing probe 21, 31 Rack 21a, 31 Arm opening 22, 32 Rotating shaft 23, 33 Reagent storage case 23a, 33a Arm opening 23b, 33b Air outlet 23c, 33c Exhaust port 24, 34 Upper and lower arms 25, 35 Reagent storage cover 25a, 35a Container opening 25b, 35b Suction opening 25c, 35c Lid 25d , 35d Hinge 26, 36 Cooling unit 40 Analysis control unit 41 Mechanism unit 42 Control unit 71 First reagent operation unit 71a, 72a Switch 71b, 72b Light emitting unit

Claims (4)

In an automatic analyzer that measures a mixture of a test sample and a reagent,
A remaining amount setting means for setting a remaining amount of the reagent in the reagent container having a container main body that contains the reagent and a label that can be identified on the side of the container main body, and the reagent in the container main body;
A rotatable rack for holding the reagent container;
A reagent storage case in which an opening for storing the rack is formed;
A reagent storage cover having a container opening disposed to cover the opening on the upper side of the reagent storage case and penetrating the reagent container;
A detector for detecting the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container held in the rack;
The horizontal movement of the reagent container containing the reagent whose reagent remaining amount calculated based on the liquid level detection signal detected by the detector is less than or equal to the remaining amount set by the remaining amount setting means to the horizontal position. Transportation means;
Up and down movement of the reagent container in the up and down position to move up to a predetermined position where a part of the reagent container label capable of identifying the reagent penetrates the container opening and goes out of the reagent storage cover And an automatic analyzer.   The up-and-down moving means moves the reagent container that contains a reagent not more than the first remaining amount set by the remaining amount setting means up to a first position, and the set by the remaining amount setting means 2. The reagent container containing a reagent that is less than a second remaining amount that is greater than a first remaining amount is moved up to a second position that is lower than the first position. Automatic analyzer.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the part capable of identifying the reagent is a reagent name of the reagent written on the label.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an openable / closable lid disposed in the container opening.

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