JP2014109455A - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic analyzer capable of precisely detecting liquid remaining in a container.SOLUTION: The automatic analyzer includes: a diluted solution discharge nozzle 62 made of a conductor, which is disposed so that one end having a discharge port 621 for discharging a diluted solution is positioned within the container 61; a calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 made of a conductor, which is disposed being separated away from the diluted solution discharge nozzle 62 so that one end having a discharge port 631 for discharging a calibration liquid is positioned within the container 61; and a detector 64 which detects the respective liquids of the diluted solution and the calibration liquid discharged in the container 61 by means of contact between the liquid and the one ends of the diluted solution discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. In the diluted solution discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, a first range W1 of the outer faces including the one ends in the outer faces are coated and insulated.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an automatic analyzer that analyzes components contained in a sample collected from a subject.

  The automatic analyzer is intended for biochemical test items, immunological test items, and the like, and optically measures changes in color tone and turbidity caused by the reaction of a mixture of a sample collected from a specimen and a reagent for each test item. And the density | concentration of each test item component contained in a test sample, the activity of an enzyme, etc. are calculated | required. Moreover, it measures with the ion selective electrode which detects each electrolyte contained in a biochemical test item, such as sodium ion, potassium ion, and chlorine ion. And the density | concentration of each electrolyte is calculated | required.

  In the measurement using an ion-selective electrode, a sample containing a mixture of a sample and a diluted solution, a container containing a calibration solution for calibrating test data obtained by measuring the mixed solution, and a measurement measured by sucking from this container An electrolyte measurement unit having a section is known. This electrolyte measurement unit detects the presence or absence of each liquid of a diluent, a mixed liquid, and a calibration liquid in a container using a pair of electrodes made of a conductor for detecting the liquid. And since it is necessary to raise each liquid of the detected liquid mixture and calibration liquid to predetermined temperature for a short time, it is necessary to make a container small.

JP 2012-137436 A

  However, since the distance between the pair of electrodes is shortened when the container is downsized, a slight amount of liquid such as bubbles adheres between the pair of electrodes even though a measurable amount of each liquid is sucked from the container. Thus, there is a problem that it is detected that there is liquid in the container, and the measurement unit is erroneously determined to be abnormal because the liquid is not sucked from the container.

  The embodiment has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an automatic analyzer that can accurately detect the absence of liquid in a container.

  In order to achieve the above object, an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment includes a first nozzle including a conductor arranged so that one end having a discharge port for discharging a first liquid is located in a container, A second nozzle made of a conductor disposed at a distance from the first nozzle so that one end having a discharge port for discharging two liquids is located in the container; and the first nozzle discharged into the container Or a detector that detects the second liquid by contact between the liquid and one end of the first and second nozzles, and at least one of the first and second nozzles includes A first range including the one end of the outer surface other than the one end surface is covered with insulation.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The perspective view which shows the structure of the analysis part which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the electrolyte measurement unit which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle and calibration liquid discharge nozzle which concern on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows the detail of a structure of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle and calibration liquid discharge nozzle which concern on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows the other example of a structure of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating an example which detects the presence or absence of the dilution liquid and the liquid mixture in the container which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is for demonstrating an example which detects the presence or absence of the liquid mixture which the bubble in the container which concerns on 1st Embodiment generate | occur | produced. The figure which shows the example which detects the presence or absence of the calibration liquid in the container which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows the structure of the dilution liquid supply part which concerns on 1st Embodiment, and a calibration liquid supply part. The figure which shows the structure of the suction part which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows the structure of the electrolyte measurement unit which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating an example which detects the presence or absence of the liquid mixture with which the bubble in the container which concerns on 2nd Embodiment generate | occur | produced.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. The automatic analyzer 100 includes an analysis unit 24 that measures a test sample collected from a standard sample and a subject, and standard data and test data that are generated by the measurement of the standard sample and the test sample by the analysis unit 24. Based on the data processing unit 30 that generates calibration data and analysis data of each inspection item based on the above, an output unit 40 that outputs the calibration data and analysis data generated by the data processing unit 30, and the analysis parameters of each inspection item An operation unit 50 that inputs inputs and various command signals, and a system control unit 51 that controls the analysis unit 24, the data processing unit 30, and the output unit 40 in an integrated manner are provided.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis unit 24. The analysis unit 24 includes a sample container 17 that stores each sample such as a standard sample and a test sample, and a sample disk 5 that holds the sample container 17 so as to be movable. In addition, a reagent container 6 that accommodates a first reagent and a second reagent system that are reagents that react with the components of the test item included in each sample, a reagent rack 1a that holds the reagent container 6 movably, And a reagent storage 1 for keeping the reagent container 6 held in the reagent rack 1a cold.

  In addition, a reagent container 7 that stores a second reagent that forms a pair with the first reagent of the two-reagent system, a reagent rack 2a that holds the reagent container 7 movably, and a reagent container 7 that is held in the reagent rack 2a is kept cold. The reagent storage 2 is provided. Moreover, the reaction container 3 which accommodates each sample and a reagent, and the reaction disk 4 which hold | maintains the several reaction container 3 arrange | positioned on the periphery rotatably are provided.

  In addition, the sample dispensing nozzle 16 for dispensing each sample in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 and sucking and discharging it to the reaction container 3 and the like, and the sample dispensing nozzle 16 can be rotated and moved up and down. And a sample dispensing arm 10 supported by the In addition, a first reagent dispensing nozzle 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 each sample has been discharged, and the first reagent A first reagent dispensing arm 8 that supports the dispensing nozzle 14 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided.

  In addition, a second reagent dispensing nozzle 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; A second reagent dispensing arm 9 that supports the reagent dispensing nozzle 15 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided. In addition, each of the photometric unit 13 for measuring the liquid mixture in the reaction vessel 3 and the components of the electrolyte items contained in each sample discharged by the sample dispensing nozzle 16, such as sodium ion, potassium ion, and chlorine ion An electrolyte measuring unit 22 for measuring the electrolyte and a cleaning nozzle 12 for cleaning the inside of the reaction vessel 3 after being measured by the photometric unit 13 are provided.

  And the photometry unit 13 irradiates light to the reaction container 3 which rotates, and detects the light which permeate | transmitted the mixed sample containing a standard sample and a test sample. Then, standard data and test data are generated based on the detected light and output to the data processing unit 30. The electrolyte measurement unit 22 measures standard samples and test samples to generate standard data and test data, and outputs the generated standard data and test data to the data processing unit 30.

  The data processing unit 30 shown in FIG. 1 includes a calculation unit 31 that generates calibration data and analysis data from standard data and test data generated by the photometric unit 13 and the electrolyte measurement unit 22 of the analysis unit 24, and a calculation unit. And a storage unit 32 for storing the calibration data and analysis data generated at 31.

  The calculation unit 31 generates calibration data based on the standard data of each inspection item generated by the analysis unit 24, and the activity value and the concentration value from the test data generated by the analysis unit 24 based on the generated calibration data. Generate analysis data represented by The generated calibration data and analysis data are stored in the storage unit 32 and output to the output unit 40.

  The output unit 40 includes a printing unit 41 that prints out calibration data, analysis data, and the like generated by the calculation unit 31 of the data processing unit 30 and a display unit 42 that performs display output. The printing unit 41 includes a printer and prints and outputs calibration data, analysis data, and the like output from the data processing unit 30 on printer paper according to a preset format. The display unit 42 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel, displays an analysis parameter setting screen for setting an analysis parameter of each inspection item, calibration data output from the data processing unit 30, analysis data, and the like. Is displayed.

  The operation unit 50 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, sets analysis parameters for each examination item, sets subject information such as a subject ID and a subject name of the subject, Various inputs such as selection of inspection items to be analyzed for each sample and measurement operations of standard samples and test samples are performed.

  The system control unit 51 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and stores input information such as analysis parameters of each test item, subject information, and test items selected for each test sample input from the operation unit 50. Based on the input information, control of the entire system is performed such as control for causing each unit of the analysis unit 24 to perform measurement operation in a predetermined sequence of a predetermined cycle, generation of calibration data, and control regarding generation and output of analysis data.

Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the electrolyte measurement unit 22 in the analysis unit 24 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the electrolyte measurement unit 22. The electrolyte measurement unit 22 includes a container 61 that accommodates a sample or the like discharged from the sample dispensing nozzle 16 and a dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 that discharges a diluted liquid having a liquid amount Vd for diluting the sample into the container 61. ing. Further, a calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is provided for discharging a calibration liquid having a liquid volume Vc for calibrating measurement data obtained by measuring a mixed liquid in which a sample is diluted with a dilution liquid into the container 61.

  The electrolyte measurement unit 22 also detects each liquid of the diluent, mixed liquid, and calibration liquid in the container 61 by contact of this liquid with the lower ends of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. It has. In addition, a dilution liquid supply unit 65 that supplies the dilution liquid to the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62, a calibration liquid supply part 66 that supplies the calibration liquid to the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, and a mixed liquid or calibration liquid detected by the detector 64. And a measuring unit 67 that measures the amount by sucking the water from the container 61.

  The container 61 has an opening at the center of the upper end portion and the lower end portion, and accommodates the diluent discharged from the diluent discharge nozzle 62. A sample discharged from above by the sample dispensing nozzle 16 is accommodated. Moreover, the discharged diluted solution and sample mixed solution are accommodated. The calibration liquid discharged from the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is stored. In addition, although not shown in figure, the heating part which heats up the liquid mixture and calibration liquid in the container 61 to predetermined | prescribed temperature via the container 61 is provided.

Next, an example of the configuration of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 and the operation of the detector 64 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63.
The dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 has a tubular shape made of a conductor such as stainless steel, for example, and is arranged so that the first range W1 including the lower end is located in the container 61 and is spaced apart from the container 61 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. Yes. Further, as shown in FIG. 5A, the first range W1 of the outer surface other than the lower end surface 622 having the discharge port 621 for discharging the diluent is covered with an insulating material 623 such as a fluororesin. The lower end surface 622 is disposed at a height at which it comes into contact with the diluted liquid discharged from the liquid volume Vd and the calibration liquid discharged from the liquid volume Vc in the empty container 61.

  The calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 has the same material, the same size, and the same shape as the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62, and is arranged so that the first range W1 including the lower end is located in the container 61 apart from the container 61. Yes. Further, as shown in FIG. 5B, the first range W <b> 1 of the outer surface other than the lower end surface 632 having the discharge port 631 for discharging the calibration liquid is covered with the insulating material 633. And the lower end surface 632 is arrange | positioned in the height which contacts the calibration liquid which discharged | emitted liquid amount Vc in the empty container 61, and the dilution liquid discharged by liquid amount Vd.

  The detector 64 includes a first cable 641 having one end joined to a portion of the conductor surface disposed outside the container 61 of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and a conductor surface disposed outside the container 61 of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. Is connected to the other end of the second cable 642 whose one end is joined to this portion, and the resistance between the diluent discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration solution discharge nozzle 63 is measured.

  When each liquid of the dilution liquid and the calibration liquid is discharged into the container 61, the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle are brought into contact with the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 which are the conductor surfaces. It is detected that each liquid is present in the container 61 by decreasing the resistance between the three. Further, when each liquid of the mixed liquid and the calibration liquid is sucked from the container 61, the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 are blocked by air, and the resistance between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is increased. Thus, the absence of each liquid in the container 61 is detected.

  As described above, since the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 are also used as a pair of electrodes for detecting the liquid in the container 61, it is not necessary to provide a pair of dedicated electrodes. Miniaturization can be achieved.

  Note that the lower end surface of at least one of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 may be replaced with a discharge nozzle having an insulation coating. In this case, since the inner surface of the discharge nozzle whose lower end surface is covered with insulation is a conductor surface and holds the liquid in a state where it can be discharged into contact with the conductor surface, It is possible to detect the presence of liquid in the container 61 by contact with the liquid interposed between the discharge nozzle and the other discharge nozzle and decreasing the resistance. When one of the discharge nozzles is, for example, the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, the lower end surface 632 is replaced with a calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63a covered with an insulating material 633 as shown in FIG. Thereby, since the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63a can be used as a pair of electrodes for detecting the liquid in the container 61, the container 61 can be downsized.

  Further, the second range W2 shorter than the first range W1 including the lower end of the lower end surface and the inner surface of at least one of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is covered with insulation. You may carry out like this. In this case, the surface other than the second range W2 of the inner surface of the discharge nozzle that covers and insulates the second range W2 of the lower end surface and the inner surface is the conductor surface, and is in a state where the conductor surface can be contacted and discharged inside Since the liquid is held in the container 61 by contact with the liquid interposed between the one discharge nozzle and the other discharge nozzle through the held liquid, the resistance decreases. Can be detected. When one of the discharge nozzles is the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, as shown in FIG. 6B, the one end surface 632 and the second range W2 of the inner surface of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 are covered with the insulating material 633. It replaces with the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63b. Thereby, since the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63b can be used as a pair of electrodes for detecting the liquid in the container 61, the container 61 can be reduced in size.

  When the diluent supply operation is performed by the diluent supply unit 65 when the inside of the container 61 is empty, the detector 64 has a liquid amount in the container 61 as shown in FIG. When the diluted liquid discharged from Vd is interposed between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance between the diluted liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is lowered, the presence of the diluted liquid in the container 61 is detected. . Further, when air is interposed between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 does not decrease, it is detected that there is no dilution liquid in the container 61.

  In the system control unit 51, when the detector 64 detects the presence or absence of the diluent in the container 61, the system controller 51 determines whether or not the diluent supply unit 65 is normal. When it is detected that the diluent is present in the container 61, it is determined that the diluent is discharged into the container 61 and the dilution supply unit 65 is normal. If it is detected that there is no diluent in the container 61, the diluent is not discharged into the container 61, and it is determined that the diluent supply unit 65 is abnormal and the abnormality information is printed on the output unit 40. Output or display.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7B, the detector 64 performs the suction operation by the measuring unit 67 after the sample and the diluted solution discharged into the container 61 are discharged, as shown in FIG. 7C. As shown in FIG. 4, the space between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 is blocked by air, and the resistance between the diluent discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration solution discharge nozzle 63 is increased, thereby detecting that there is no liquid mixture in the container 61. . Further, when the mixed liquid is interposed between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance between the diluent discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is not increased, the presence of the mixed liquid in the container 61 is detected.

  The system control unit 51 determines whether or not the suction of the measurement unit 67 is normal when the detector 64 detects the presence or absence of the liquid mixture in the container 61. And when it is detected that there is no liquid mixture in the container 61, the liquid mixture in the container 61 is sucked and it determines with the suction | inhalation of the measurement part 67 being normal. Further, when it is detected that the mixed liquid is present in the container 61, the mixed liquid in the container 61 is not sucked, and it is determined that the suction of the measuring unit 67 is abnormal, and the abnormal information is printed on the output unit 40. Output or display.

  Here, in the case of a mixed liquid containing a calibration liquid containing a surfactant or a sample such as serum, as shown in FIG. 8A, the liquid level of each liquid of the calibration liquid or the mixed liquid in the container 61. Bubbles are generated. After the measuring unit 67 sucks a predetermined amount of liquid from the container 61, as shown in FIG. 8B, the liquid remains in a state where bubbles are interposed between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. There are things to do. Therefore, if the conductor surface is exposed without insulating coating the first range W1 of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, the resistance between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is predetermined. There is a problem in that it is erroneously determined that the suction of the measuring unit 67 is abnormal without exceeding the above level.

  With respect to this problem, the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, which are coated with insulation in the first range W1 where bubbles are likely to adhere, are used as a pair of electrodes. Since 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 can be electrically disconnected, it is possible to accurately detect the absence of liquid in the container 61 after the suction is performed, thereby preventing erroneous determination.

  Note that either one of the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is replaced with a discharge nozzle in which the outer surface of the first range W1 is a conductor surface except for the insulating coating. You may make it implement. Thus, when bubbles remain between one discharge nozzle and the other discharge nozzle, it is possible to electrically cut off between the other discharge nozzle and the one discharge nozzle coated with insulation, It is possible to accurately detect that there is no liquid in the container 61 after the suction is performed, thereby preventing erroneous determination.

  Furthermore, when the calibration liquid supply operation is performed by the calibration liquid supply unit 66 when the interior of the container 61 is empty, the detector 64 has an amount of liquid in the container 61 as shown in FIG. When the calibration liquid discharged from Vc is interposed between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is lowered, the presence of the calibration liquid in the container 61 is detected. . Further, when the space between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 is blocked by air and the resistance between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 does not decrease, it is detected that there is no calibration liquid in the container 61.

  When the detector 64 detects the presence or absence of the calibration liquid in the container 61, the system control unit 51 determines whether or not the calibration liquid supply unit 66 is normal. When it is detected that the calibration liquid is present in the container 61, the calibration liquid is discharged into the container 61, and it is determined that the calibration liquid supply unit 66 is normal. If it is detected that there is no calibration liquid in the container 61, the calibration liquid is not discharged into the container 61, and it is determined that the calibration liquid supply unit 66 is abnormal and the abnormality information is printed on the output unit 40. Output or display.

  Furthermore, when the detector 64 performs a suction operation after the calibration liquid is discharged into the container 61, as shown in FIG. 9B, the detector 64 is positioned between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632. Is blocked by air and the resistance between the diluting liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibrating liquid discharge nozzle 63 is increased to detect that there is no calibrating liquid in the container 61. Further, when the calibration liquid is interposed between the lower end surface 622 and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance between the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 does not rise above a predetermined level, the calibration liquid is present in the container 61. Is detected.

  In the system control unit 51, when the detector 64 detects the presence or absence of the calibration liquid in the container 61, the system control unit 51 determines whether or not the measurement unit 67 is normal. When it is detected that there is no calibration liquid in the container 61, the calibration liquid in the container 61 is aspirated and it is determined that the suction of the measurement unit 67 is normal. Further, when it is detected that the calibration liquid is present in the container 61, the calibration liquid in the container 61 is not sucked, and it is determined that the suction of the measurement unit 67 is abnormal, and the abnormality information is printed on the output unit 40. Output or display.

Next, the configuration and operation of the diluent supply unit 65 and the calibration solution supply unit 66 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the diluent supply unit 65 and the calibration solution supply unit 66. The diluent supply unit 65 includes a tube 651 having one end connected to the diluent discharge nozzle 62, a three-way solenoid valve 652 having a first terminal connected to the other end of the tube 651, and a third one of the three-way solenoid valve 652. A tube 653 having one end connected to two terminals, a diluent container 654 containing a diluent in which the other end of the tube 653 is disposed, and a tube having one end connected to the third terminal of the three-way solenoid valve 652 655.

  The diluent supply unit 65 includes a pump 656 including a syringe having one end connected to the other end of the tube 655 and a plunger fitted into an opening provided in the other end of the syringe, and a plunger of the pump 656 Is provided with a drive mechanism 657 for driving suction and discharge in the directions of arrows L1 and L2.

  The drive mechanism 657 is a three-way valve solenoid valve 652 in a state where the tubes 651, 653, 655, the flow paths communicating with the respective first to third terminals in the three-way solenoid valve 652, and the pump 656 are filled with the diluent. Opens the space between the second terminal and the third terminal and closes the first terminal, the pump 657 is driven to suck in the L1 direction. Next, when the three-way valve electromagnetic valve 652 opens between the first terminal and the third terminal and closes the second terminal, the pump 657 is driven to discharge in the L2 direction. By this suction and discharge drive, the diluent discharge nozzle 62 discharges the diluted liquid of the liquid amount Vd into the empty container 61 after being sucked by the measuring unit 67. At this time, each sample is discharged into the container 61 by the sample dispensing nozzle 16.

  The causes of the abnormality in the diluent supply unit 65 include a lack of diluent in the diluent container 654, a poor connection between the tube 651 and the diluent discharge nozzle 62 or the three-way solenoid valve 652, and a tube 653 and the three-way solenoid valve 652. Connection failure between the tubes, the other end of the tube 653 in the diluent container 654, a connection failure between the tube 655 and the three-way solenoid valve 652 or the pump 656, and the like.

  The calibration liquid supply unit 66 includes a tube 661 having one end connected to the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, a three-way solenoid valve 662 having a first terminal connected to the other end of the tube 661, and a second of the three-way solenoid valve 662. A tube 663 having one end connected to the terminal, a calibration liquid container 664 containing a calibration liquid in which the other end of the tube 663 is disposed, and a tube 665 having one end connected to the third terminal of the three-way solenoid valve 662 And.

  The calibration liquid supply unit 66 includes a pump 666 including a syringe having one end connected to the other end of the tube 665 and a plunger fitted into an opening provided in the other end of the syringe, and a plunger of the pump 666. And a drive mechanism 667 for driving suction and discharge in the L1 direction and the L2 direction.

  The drive mechanism 667 is configured such that the three-way valve solenoid valve 662 is filled with the calibration liquid in the tubes 661, 663, 665, the flow paths communicating with the first to third terminals of the three-way solenoid valve 662, and the pump 666. When the second terminal and the third terminal are opened and the first terminal is closed, the pump 666 is suction driven in the L1 direction. Next, when the three-way solenoid valve 662 opens between the first terminal and the third terminal and closes the second terminal, the pump 666 is driven to discharge in the L2 direction. With this suction and discharge driving, the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 discharges the calibration liquid having the liquid amount Vc into the empty container 61 after being sucked by the measurement unit 67.

  The causes of the abnormality in the calibration liquid supply unit 66 include a shortage of calibration liquid in the calibration liquid container 664, a poor connection between the tube 661 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 or the three-way solenoid valve 662, and the tube 663 and the three-way solenoid valve 662. Poor connection between the tubes 663, a poor position of the other end of the tube 663 in the calibration liquid container 664, a poor connection between the tube 665 and the three-way electromagnetic valve 662 or the pump 666, and the like.

Next, an example of the configuration and operation of the measurement unit 67 will be described.
The measurement unit 67 shown in FIG. 3 includes an ion sensor 68 that detects electrolytes such as sodium ions, potassium ions, and chlorine ions, and a suction unit that sucks the mixed solution and the calibration solution from the container 61 and guides them to the ion sensor 68. 69 and a signal processing unit 70 that generates standard data and test data based on detection signals of each electrolyte detected by the ion sensor 68.

  The ion sensor 68 is disposed between the container 61 and the suction part 69 and has a through hole into which each of the liquid mixture and the calibration liquid guided by the suction part 69 flows. And each ion-selective electrode that selectively detects each electrolyte contained in each liquid led to the through-hole and shows a potential corresponding to the concentration, and a reference that shows a reference potential for each ion-selective electrode It has an electrode.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the suction unit 69. The suction portion 69 has a tube 691 having one end connected to the opening at the center of the lower end of the container 61 and the other end connected to one end of the through hole of the ion sensor 68, and one end passing through the ion sensor 68. A tube 692 connected to the other end of the hole, a three-way solenoid valve 693 having a first terminal connected to the other end of the tube 692, and a tube 694 having one end connected to the second terminal of the three-way solenoid valve 693. And a drainage container 695 for storing each liquid for which the other end portion of the tube 694 has been disposed.

  The suction unit 69 is provided in a tube 696 having one end connected to the third terminal of the three-way solenoid valve 693, a syringe having one end connected to the other end of the tube 696, and the other end of the syringe. A pump 697 constituted by a plunger fitted into the opening and a drive mechanism 698 for sucking and discharging the plunger of the pump 697 in the directions of the arrows L1 and L2 are provided.

  The drive mechanism 698 sucks and drives the pump 697 in the L1 direction when the three-way valve electromagnetic valve 692 opens the first terminal and the third terminal and closes the second terminal. Then, the diluted solution detected by the detector 64 and the mixed solution of the standard sample and the calibration solution are sucked and guided into the ion sensor 68. Next, when the three-way valve electromagnetic valve 692 opens the second terminal and the third terminal and closes the first terminal, the pump 697 is driven to discharge in the L2 direction. Then, the liquid mixture and the calibration liquid are discharged from the ion sensor 68.

  The causes of abnormal suction in the measuring unit 67 include poor connection between the tube 691 of the suction unit 69 and the container 61 or the ion sensor 68, poor connection between the tube 692 and the ion sensor 68 or the three-way electromagnetic valve 693, and the tube 696. And poor connection between the three-way solenoid valve 693 or the pump 697.

  The signal processing unit 70 generates standard data based on the detection signal detected by the measurement of the mixed liquid containing the standard sample and the calibration liquid by the ion sensor 68. Further, the test data is generated based on the detection signal detected by the measurement of the mixed liquid and the calibration liquid containing the test sample by the ion sensor 68.

  According to the first embodiment described above, the pair of electrodes for detecting the presence or absence of each liquid in the container 61 includes the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 that discharges the dilution liquid and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 that discharges the calibration liquid. Since it is not necessary to provide a dedicated electrode, the container 61 can be downsized.

  Further, by using the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 in which the first range W1 of the outer surface to which bubbles generated in the container 61 are likely to adhere with insulating materials 623 and 633 are used as a pair of electrodes, Since the dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 can be electrically disconnected from each other, it can be accurately detected that there is no liquid in the container 61 after the suction.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an electrolyte measurement unit of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. In this electrolyte measurement unit 22a, units having the same configuration and the same function as each unit of the electrolyte measurement unit 22 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. .

  The electrolyte measurement unit 22 a includes a container 61 a that stores a sample discharged from the sample dispensing nozzle 16, a dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62, and a calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. In addition, a detector 64 a that detects each of the diluted liquid, the mixed liquid, and the calibration liquid in the container 61 a by contact with the inner surface of the container 61 a and the lower end of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is provided. Further, a diluent supply unit 65, a calibration solution supply unit 66, and a measurement unit 67 are provided.

  The container 61a is configured by a conductor such as stainless steel having the same dimensions and the same shape as the container 61 shown in FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. The diluent discharged from the diluent discharge nozzle 62 is accommodated. A sample discharged from above by the sample dispensing nozzle 16 is accommodated. Moreover, the discharged diluted solution and sample mixed solution are accommodated. The calibration liquid discharged from the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is stored.

  The dilution liquid discharge nozzle 62 is disposed so as to be separated from the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 so that the first range W1 is located in the container 61a. Further, the lower end surface 622 is disposed at a height at which it comes into contact with the diluted liquid discharged from the liquid volume Vd and the calibration liquid discharged from the liquid volume Vc into the empty container 61a. Further, the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is arranged so as to be separated from the container 61a and the first range W1 is located in the container 61a. Further, the lower end surface 632 is disposed at a height in contact with the calibration liquid discharged from the liquid volume Vc and the diluted liquid discharged from the liquid volume Vd into the empty container 61a.

  The detector 64a includes a first cable 641a having one end joined to the container 61a and a second cable 642 having one end joined to a portion of a conductor surface disposed outside the container 61a of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63. Connected to the other end, the resistance between the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is measured.

  When each liquid of the dilution liquid and the calibration liquid is discharged into the container 61a, the liquid between the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is in contact with the inner surface and the lower end surface 632 of the container 61a made of a conductor surface. When the resistance decreases, the presence of each liquid in the container 61a is detected. Further, when each liquid mixture or calibration liquid is sucked from the container 61a, the space between the inner surface of the container 61a and the lower end surface 632 is blocked by air, and the resistance between the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is increased. It is detected that there is no liquid in 61a.

  Thus, since the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 are also used as a pair of electrodes for detecting the liquid in the container 61a, it is not necessary to provide a dedicated pair of electrodes. Can be planned.

  The calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 may be replaced with the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63a or the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63b shown in FIG. Thereby, since the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63a or 63b can be used as a pair of electrodes, the size of the container 61a can be reduced. Also, one end of the second cable 642 is joined to a portion of the conductor surface disposed outside the container 61a of the diluent discharge nozzle 62, and the other end is connected to the detector 64a. The container 61a and the diluent discharge nozzle You may implement so that the resistance between 62 may be measured. Thereby, since the container 61a and the diluent discharge nozzle 62 can be used as a pair of electrodes, the container 61a can be downsized. Further, the detector 64a is a capacitance-type detector that detects the liquid in the container 61a from the change in capacitance when the lower end surface 632 of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 comes into contact with each liquid in the container 61a. You may make it replace and implement. Thereby, size reduction of the container 61a can be achieved.

  When the diluent supply operation is performed by the diluent supply unit 65 when the inside of the container 61a is empty, the detector 64a causes the diluted liquid discharged from the container 61a to discharge the liquid Vd into the container 61a. When the resistance between the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 decreases between the lower end surface 632 and the lower end surface 632, it is detected that the diluent is present in the container 61a. Further, when air is interposed between the inner surface of the container 61a and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance does not decrease, it is detected that there is no diluent in the container 61a.

  In addition, when the measuring unit 67 performs the suction operation after the sample and the diluted liquid discharged into the container 61a are discharged, the detector 64a blocks the inner surface of the container 61a from the lower end surface 632 with air. By increasing the resistance, it is detected that there is no liquid mixture in the container 61a. Further, when the mixed liquid is interposed between the inner surface of the container 61a and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance does not increase, it is detected that the mixed liquid is present in the container 61a.

  Here, in the case of a mixed liquid containing a calibration liquid containing a surfactant or a sample such as serum, as shown in FIG. 13A, the liquid level of each liquid of the calibration liquid and the mixed liquid in the container 61a. Bubbles are generated. After the measurement unit 67 sucks the liquid in which bubbles are generated from the container 61a, the liquid may remain in a state where the bubbles are interposed between the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63, as shown in FIG. Accordingly, if the first surface W1 of the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 is not covered with insulation and the conductor surface is exposed, the resistance between the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 does not rise above a predetermined level, and the measurement unit There is a problem that 67 is erroneously determined to be abnormal.

  In order to solve this problem, the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 are used as a pair of electrodes, whereby the inner surface of the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 can be electrically blocked by the insulating material 633. It is possible to accurately detect that there is no liquid in the container 61a after the operation is performed and to prevent erroneous determination.

  Further, when the calibration liquid supply unit 66 performs the calibration liquid supply operation when the container 61a is empty, the detector 64a causes the calibration liquid discharged from the container 61a to discharge the liquid Vc into the container 61a. Between the lower end surface 632 and the resistance decreases, the presence of the calibration liquid in the container 61a is detected. Further, when the resistance between the inner surface of the container 61a and the lower end surface 632 is blocked by air and the resistance does not decrease, it is detected that there is no calibration liquid in the container 61a.

  Furthermore, when the detector 64a performs a suction operation by the measuring unit 67 after the calibration liquid is discharged into the container 61a, the resistance between the inner surface of the container 61a and the lower end surface 632 is blocked by air. Thus, it is detected that there is no calibration liquid in the container 61a. Further, when the calibration liquid is interposed between the container 61a and the lower end surface 632 and the resistance does not rise above a predetermined level, it is detected that the calibration liquid is present in the container 61a.

  The second embodiment is not limited to the above-described embodiment. The reagent container 7 that stores the diluent is held in the reagent rack 2a, and the second reagent dispensing nozzle is used instead of the diluent discharge nozzle 62. 15, the diluent in the reagent container 7 may be sucked and discharged into the container 61a.

  According to the second embodiment described above, it is necessary to provide a dedicated electrode by using the container 61a and the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 as a pair of electrodes for detecting the presence or absence of each liquid in the container 61a. Therefore, the size of the container 61a can be reduced.

  Further, by using the calibration liquid discharge nozzle 63 and the container 61a in which the first range W1 on the outer surface where bubbles generated in the container 61a are likely to adhere with the insulating material 633 are used as a pair of electrodes, the inner surface of the container 61a and the calibration liquid are used. Since the discharge nozzles 63 can be electrically disconnected, it can be accurately detected that there is no liquid in the container 61a after the suction is performed.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

22, 22a Electrolyte measurement unit 30 Data processing unit 51 System control unit 61, 61a Container 62 Diluent discharge nozzle 63, 63a, 63b Calibration solution discharge nozzle 64, 64a Detector 65 Diluent supply unit 66 Calibration solution supply unit 67 Measurement unit 68 Ion sensor 69 Suction unit 70 Signal processing unit 641, 641a First cable 642 Second cable

Claims (9)

A first nozzle made of a conductor arranged so that one end having a discharge port for discharging the first liquid is located in the container;
A second nozzle made of a conductor disposed at a distance from the first nozzle so that one end having a discharge port for discharging the second liquid is located in the container;
A detector for detecting the first or second liquid discharged into the container by contact between the liquid and one end of the first and second nozzles;
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second nozzles has an insulating coating covering a first range including the one end of an outer surface other than the one end surface.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the one end surface of the one nozzle is covered with an insulating coating.   2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the one nozzle has an insulating coating in a second range shorter than the first range including the one end of the one end surface and the inner surface. . A first nozzle made of a conductor arranged so that one end having an outlet for discharging the first liquid is located in the container;
A detector for detecting the first liquid in the container discharged from the first nozzle by contact between the liquid and one end of the first nozzle;
The automatic analysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first nozzle includes an insulating coating in a first range including the one end of the outer surface other than the one end surface.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the one end surface of the first nozzle is covered with an insulating coating.   5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein a range shorter than the first range including the one end of the one end surface and the inner surface of the first nozzle is covered with insulation.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the container is made of a conductor.   The said detector detects the 1st liquid in the said container discharged from the said 1st nozzle by measuring resistance between the said 1st nozzle and the said container. 7. The automatic analyzer according to 7.   The detector detects the first liquid in the container discharged from the first nozzle by measuring a change in capacitance when one end of the first nozzle comes into contact with the liquid. An automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein:

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