JP2015069441A - Management system, management program, container, and kit comprising the container and identification tag - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a management system allowing proper recognition of information corresponding to an identifier of an identification tag stuck to a container by use of a microscope just before or just after work accompanied by observation of a substance inside the container using the microscope.SOLUTION: A management system includes: a container having a transmission observation part capable of performing transmission observation by a microscope, having a transparent part corresponding to at least the transmission observation part, and stuck with an identification tag printed with a prescribed identifier on the transparent part; and a computer device acquiring an image photographed by photographing means provided in the microscope. The computer device includes: recognition means recognizing information corresponding to the identifier on the basis of the image of the identifier printed on the identification tag stuck on the container, which is photographed by the photographing means just before or just after work accompanied by observation of a substance inside the container using the microscope; and management means managing the container on the basis of the information recognized by the recognition means.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technical field for managing containers used for culture and the like.

  Conventionally, in fields such as infertility treatment and assisted reproduction, there has been a problem of mix-up of specimens such as sperm and fertilized eggs. In particular, in this type of treatment, the number of times that the sample is transferred from one container to another is high, and accidents in which another person's sample is used by mistake are likely to occur. In fields such as regenerative medicine, it is important to prevent sample mix-up because tissues and cells collected from patients are cultured and transplanted again into the body of the person.

  In order to prevent such a mistake, a patient name, an ID, or the like is written on the container itself, or an identification tag describing the patient name or the like is affixed. In addition, a method using a bar code, an IC chip or the like has been proposed for automation of reading (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).

JP 2002-269180 A JP 2005-204547 A JP 2005-239385 A

  In the configuration using the bar code or the IC chip as described above (the same applies when visual confirmation is performed), the actual work is performed before or after the identifier attached to the container is read. It will be. At this time, if the timing of reading and the timing of work are separated, it is difficult to ensure that the read target object (such as a container) and the target object to be operated are the same, so there is a high risk of confusion. .

  However, in the configuration using the barcode and IC chip as described above, a dedicated reader that is not directly related to the actual work is required, so reading with the reader and the actual work are performed separately. Inevitably, there is a problem that the timing between reading and actual work is shifted. In addition, there were problems in terms of the introduction cost and installation space of a dedicated reader.

  Therefore, the present invention appropriately recognizes information corresponding to the identifier of the identification tag attached to the container using the microscope immediately before or immediately after the work involving observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. The main purpose is to provide a management system that can be used.

  In one aspect of the present invention, a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation with a microscope is provided, and at least a portion corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent, and an identification tag on which a predetermined identifier is printed is attached. A management system comprising: a container attached; and a computer device that acquires an image photographed by photographing means provided in the microscope, wherein the computer device uses a microscope to measure substances in the container. Recognition for recognizing information corresponding to the identifier based on the image of the identifier printed on the identification tag attached to the container and photographed by the photographing means immediately before or immediately after the work involving observation Means and management means for managing the container based on the information recognized by the recognition means.

  In the above management system, information corresponding to the identifier printed on the identification tag attached to the container is recognized using a microscope. Thereby, the information corresponding to the identifier of the identification tag affixed to the container can be appropriately recognized immediately before or immediately after the operation involving the observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. Corresponding to the recognized information by managing the container based on the information recognized in this way (for example, handling the container that is to be operated with the observation using a microscope in association with the recognized information) It is easy to ensure that the container to be operated and the container to be operated are the same. For this reason, it is possible to appropriately prevent the sample from being mistaken.

  In addition, the imaging means provided in the microscope is, for example, a camera. In this case, the image photographed by the photographing means is an image that is magnified by a lens (such as an objective lens or an eyepiece lens) in the microscope and photographed by the image sensor. Further, the information corresponding to the identifier is specific information directly corresponding to the identifier or information regarding the container associated with the identifier.

  In one aspect of the management system, the computer device stores an image of the target substance that has been imaged by the imaging unit and is stored in the container in association with the information recognized by the recognition unit. Control means is further provided.

  According to the above management system, it is possible to appropriately manage the captured image of the target substance placed in the container in association with the information corresponding to the identifier of the identification tag attached to the container. The target substance is a substance to be observed with a microscope, and is a concept including various substances such as specimens such as tissues and cells collected from a human body, and samples for food hygiene inspection.

  In another aspect of the present invention, a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation with a microscope is provided, and at least a portion corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent, and an identification tag on which a predetermined identifier is printed is attached. A management program executed by the computer device of the management system comprising: the attached container; and a computer device that acquires an image photographed by a photographing means provided in the microscope. Information corresponding to the identifier based on the image of the identifier printed on the identification tag attached to the container, photographed by the photographing means immediately before or immediately after the work involving observation of the substance. Recognizing means for recognizing the computer as management means for managing the container based on the information recognized by the recognizing means The functioning of the location.

  In still another aspect of the present invention, a container having a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation with a microscope has an identification tag on which at least a portion corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent and a predetermined identifier is printed. It is attached.

  According to said container, the identifier printed on the identification tag affixed on the said container can be read appropriately at the time of observing the substance in the container with a microscope. In this case, the observation of the substance in the container by the microscope is hardly hindered by the identifier printed on the identification tag.

  In one aspect of the container, the identifier is printed at a location corresponding to the observation range of the microscope when performing an operation involving observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. .

  Thus, when observing the container with a microscope, without moving the XY axis (for example, without adjusting the position of the container in the horizontal direction), only by moving the Z axis (that is, adjusting the focal point). The identifier can be photographed by the photographing means of the microscope.

  In another aspect of the container, the identification tag is provided at a location corresponding to a range other than the observation range of the microscope when performing an operation involving observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. Is printed. Thereby, it can suppress more effectively that the observation by a microscope is inhibited by the identifier printed on the identification tag.

  In still another aspect of the present invention, a kit including a container and an identification tag includes a container having a transmission observation unit that can be transmitted through a microscope, and at least a portion corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent, and a predetermined identifier is provided at the portion. And an identification tag that is used by being affixed to the container. The container and the identification tag as described above may be separated and handled as a kit.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately recognize information corresponding to an identifier of an identification tag attached to a container immediately before or immediately after an operation involving observation of a substance in the container using a microscope. By managing the containers based on the information thus recognized, it is easy to ensure that the container corresponding to the recognized information and the container to be worked are the same.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a system according to an embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the structure of a culture container is shown. The figure for demonstrating the structure of an identification tag is shown. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the arrangement | positioning of the dot in a dot pattern, and the value converted. (A) schematically shows a dot pattern, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of information corresponding thereto. 1 shows a functional block diagram of a computer device. The processing flow concerning this embodiment is shown. The identification tag which concerns on the modification 1 is shown. The identification tag which concerns on the modification 2 is shown. The identification tag which concerns on the modification 4 is shown.

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

[System configuration]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the system mainly includes a microscope 1, a culture vessel 2, an identification tag 3, and a computer device 4. The culture vessel 2, the identification tag 3, and the computer device 4 constitute a “management system” according to the present invention.

  The microscope 1 is configured as an optical microscope and includes an objective lens, an eyepiece lens, a stage, and the like. Further, the microscope 1 has a camera (not shown in FIG. 1; hereinafter, appropriately referred to as “camera 1a”) that captures an image formed by an eyepiece and an objective lens. The camera 1a supplies an image signal Si corresponding to the photographed image to the computer device 4.

  The culture container 2 is used for culturing a specimen, in which a specimen such as a tissue or cell collected from a human body or a reagent is placed. The culture vessel 2 is made by injection molding using a material such as polystyrene, and is substantially transparent. Further, on the bottom surface of the culture vessel 2, a transparent identification tag 3 on which an Anoto dot pattern indicating the position coordinates is printed on almost the entire surface is attached. The culture container 2 to which such an identification tag 3 is affixed is placed on the stage of the microscope 1 by an operator, and observation using the microscope 1 is performed.

  The computer apparatus 4 acquires the image signal Si from the camera 1a of the microscope 1 and performs various processes. For example, the computer device 4 performs a process of recognizing information corresponding to the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3 attached to the culture vessel 2 by analyzing the image signal Si acquired from the camera 1a. For example, the computer apparatus 4 displays an image corresponding to the image signal Si acquired from the camera 1a on the display.

  In FIG. 1, a laptop personal computer (notebook personal computer) is shown as the computer device 4, but a desktop personal computer may be used as the computer device 4. Further, the computer device 4 is not limited to using a personal computer (personal computer), and a tablet PC, a PDA (Personal Data Assistance), or the like may be used.

[Composition of culture vessel]
Next, an example of the configuration of the culture vessel 2 will be described with reference to FIG. Fig.2 (a) has shown the perspective view which observed the culture container 2 from diagonally upward, FIG.2 (b) is the cross section of the culture container 2 along the cutting line A1-A2 in Fig.2 (a). The figure is shown. In addition, in FIG. 2, the culture container 2 in the state where the identification tag 3 is not affixed is shown for convenience of explanation.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b), a cylindrical portion 2b having a cylindrical shape protruding upward from an inner wall 2a1 constituting the bottom surface portion 2a is formed in the central portion of the culture vessel 2. ing. A plurality of wells 2c as holes are formed in the portion of the inner wall 2a1 surrounded by the cylindrical portion 2b. For example, the inner diameter of the entire culture vessel 2 is about 35 mm, the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 2b is about 7 mm, the diameter of one well 2c is about 0.3 mm, and the depth of one well 2c is 0. It is about 15 mm. A specimen is placed in each well 2c, and a culture solution is placed in a portion surrounded by the cylindrical portion 2b. Thus, a drop of the culture solution is created. And the circumference | surroundings of the drop of the culture solution produced in that way are covered with mineral oil etc.

  2 shows an example of the configuration of the culture vessel 2, and the present invention is not limited to application to the configuration of the culture vessel 2 shown in FIG. The present invention can be applied to various configurations of the culture vessel 2 other than the configuration shown in FIG.

[Configuration of identification tag]
Next, an example of the configuration of the identification tag 4 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3A shows the identification tag 3 in a state of being attached to the culture vessel 2. This figure corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the culture vessel 2 and the identification tag 3 along the cutting line A1-A2 in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3A, the identification tag 3 has substantially the same size and shape as the bottom surface 2a2 of the culture vessel 2 (specifically, the outer wall 2a2 constituting the bottom surface portion 2a). Affixed to the bottom surface 2a2.

  FIG. 3B shows an enlarged view of the cross section of the identification tag 3. The identification tag 3 includes a transparent support layer 3a such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), a print layer 3b having a dot pattern printed on substantially the entire surface, and a transparent adhesive layer 3c to be attached to the bottom surface 2a2 of the culture vessel 2. Have. The identification tag 3 is configured to be transparent as a whole. In one example, such an identification tag 3 uses a transparent sheet as the support layer 3a, prints a pattern on one surface of the transparent sheet (ink on the surface constitutes the print layer 3b), and is transparent. This is realized by forming the adhesive layer 3c on the other surface of the sheet.

  FIG. 3C shows a plan view of the identification tag 3. Specifically, the surface of the identification tag 3 on which the print layer 3b is formed is shown. As described above, the Anoto dot pattern indicating the position coordinates is printed on substantially the entire surface of the print layer 3b of the identification tag 3. The right side of FIG. 3C shows an enlarged view of a part of the dot pattern printed on the print layer 3b (specifically, a dot pattern indicating one position coordinate). Such a collection of 6 × 6 dots representing one position coordinate is a magnification usually used when observing the culture vessel 2 with the microscope 1 (for example, a magnification of 40 times using a 4 × objective lens). The dot pattern is printed on the printing layer 3b of the identification tag 3 so that it is at least within the observation range of the microscope 1 in FIG. For example, a dot pattern is printed on the printing layer 3b of the identification tag 3 so that a group of 6 × 6 dots is included in a range of about 2 mm in length and width (the size of such a dot pattern is an Anoto method). Usually used size). In addition, since the size of the dot which comprises a dot pattern is quite small, transparency of the identification tag 3 whole is fully ensured, ie, a dot pattern hardly inhibits observation with the microscope 1. FIG.

  Note that the identification tag 3 is not limited to being configured as shown in FIG. That is, the identification tag 3 is not limited to be configured so that the adhesive layer 3c, the support layer 3a, and the printing layer 3b are arranged in this order when viewed from the side attached to the culture container 2. In another example, the identification tag 3 may be configured such that the printed layer 3b, the adhesive layer 3c, and the support layer 3a are arranged in this order when viewed from the side attached to the culture vessel 2. The identification tag 3 according to this example is realized, for example, by forming an adhesive layer 3c on one side of a transparent sheet as the support layer 3a and printing a dot pattern on the adhesive layer 3c (in this case, the adhesive layer The ink on 3c constitutes the print layer 3b). In still another example, the identification tag 3 may be configured so that the adhesive layer 3c, the printing layer 3b, and the support layer 3a are arranged in this order when viewed from the side attached to the culture vessel 2. The identification tag 3 according to this example prints a dot pattern on one side of a transparent sheet as the support layer 3a (in this case, ink on the support layer 3a constitutes the print layer 3b), and the surface on which the dot pattern is printed This is realized by further forming an adhesive layer 3c on the substrate.

  In addition, you may provide the entry column for entering a predetermined matter (for example, patient ID etc.) in the identification tag 3. FIG.

[Dot pattern]
Next, an Anoto dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the dots of the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3 (specifically, the print layer 3b of the identification tag 3) and the values to which the dots are converted. As shown in FIG. 4, each dot of the dot pattern is associated with a predetermined value depending on its position. In other words, each dot is associated with a value of 0 to 3 depending on which direction the top, bottom, left, or right is shifted from the reference position of the grid (intersection of the vertical line and horizontal line). The value of each dot can be further converted into a first bit value for the X coordinate and a second bit value for the Y coordinate. The position coordinates on the identification tag 3 are determined by the combination of the information thus associated.

  FIG. 5A shows an arrangement of a certain dot pattern. As shown in FIG. 5A, 6 × 6 dots are arranged within a range of about 2 mm in length and width so that a unique pattern can be obtained no matter where 6 × 6 dots are taken from any part of the identification card 3. Has been. The dot pattern formed by these 36 dots holds position coordinates (for example, on which position on the identification card 3 the dot pattern is located). FIG. 5B is a diagram in which each dot shown in FIG. 5A is converted into a corresponding value based on the regularity shown in FIG. 4 according to the shift direction from the reference position of the lattice. Such conversion is executed by the computer device 4 based on the dot pattern image taken by the camera 1 a of the microscope 1.

[Configuration of computer device]
Next, the configuration of the computer apparatus 4 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the computer apparatus 4. Functionally, the computer device 4 includes an input unit 41, a processing unit 44, a storage unit 45, a display unit 46, and an interface 47.

  The input means 41 is configured by a mouse, a keyboard, or the like. The display means 46 is constituted by a display or the like, and displays the contents instructed by the processing means 44. The interface 47 is an interface for connecting to the camera 1 a of the microscope 1. The interface 47 supplies the processing means 44 with an image signal Si corresponding to the image taken by the camera 1a.

  The storage means 45 is constituted by a memory such as a hard disk, ROM, or RAM. For example, the storage unit 45 converts a dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3 (specifically, a dot pattern included in an image photographed by the camera 1a of the microscope 1) into a position coordinate (hereinafter, “ It is called “coordinate conversion table”. According to such a coordinate conversion table, the position coordinates corresponding to the dot pattern are obtained from the image of the dot pattern photographed by the camera 1a of the microscope 1.

  The storage unit 45 stores a table (hereinafter referred to as “patient information conversion table”) in which the coordinate range of the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3 is associated with the patient information. According to such a patient information conversion table, patient information corresponding to the coordinate range of the dot pattern including the position coordinates is obtained from the position coordinates obtained based on the coordinate conversion table. Here, the patient information is information including a patient name, a patient identification number (such as a medical record number and a culture management number), a specimen name, a date, and a process name. For example, such patient information is created before observing the culture vessel 2 with the microscope 1 and is stored in the storage means 45 in association with the coordinate range of the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3. (In other words, it is stored in the storage means 45 as a patient information conversion table).

  In addition to the above, the storage unit 45 stores various types of information generated by the execution of the program according to instructions from the processing unit 44.

  The processing means 44 is constituted by a processor such as a CPU and controls the entire computer device 4. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the processing unit 44 performs the following processing.

  First, the processing means 44 uses an image signal Si corresponding to a dot pattern image (hereinafter referred to as “dot pattern image”) printed on the identification tag 3 and photographed by the camera 1a of the microscope 1 as an interface. Through 47. Then, the processing unit 44 converts the dot pattern included in the dot pattern image into position coordinates using the coordinate conversion table stored in the storage unit 45. In this case, the processing means 44 converts the image data of the dot pattern as shown in FIG. 5A into a data array as shown in FIG. 5B, and further converts it into an X coordinate bit value / Y coordinate bit value. Conversion is performed, and position coordinates made up of X and Y coordinate data are obtained from the data array by a predetermined calculation method.

  Next, the processing unit 44 converts the position coordinates obtained as described above into patient information using the patient information conversion table stored in the storage unit 45. Specifically, the processing unit 44 obtains patient information associated with the coordinate range of the dot pattern including the position coordinates by referring to the patient information conversion table. That is, the processing unit 44 recognizes patient information associated with the identification tag 3. The processing means 44 manages the culture container 2 to which the identification tag 3 is attached based on the patient information recognized in this way. Specifically, the processing means 44 associates the recognized patient information with the target culture container 2 for performing an operation involving observation using the microscope 1 (for example, an operation of adding a reagent to the specimen in the culture container 2). Manage. That is, the processing means 44 handles the container 2 to be worked in association with the recognized patient information.

  Thereafter, when the specimen placed in the culture vessel 2 is photographed by the camera 1a of the microscope 1, the processing means 44 is an image of the specimen photographed by the camera 1a (hereinafter referred to as “specimen image” as appropriate). The image signal Si corresponding to is acquired via the interface 47. Then, the processing unit 44 associates the acquired sample image with the patient information recognized as described above, and stores it in the storage unit 45.

  In addition, the processing unit 44 performs various processes. For example, the processing unit 44 performs a process of displaying an image corresponding to the image signal Si acquired from the camera 1a of the microscope 1 on the display unit 46 as a display.

  As described above, the processing means 44 corresponds to an example of “recognition means”, “management means”, and “storage control means” in the present invention.

[Processing flow]
Next, a processing flow performed by the processing unit 44 of the computer apparatus 4 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This processing flow is executed, for example, immediately before or immediately after an actual operation involving observation using the microscope 1 (for example, an operation of adding a reagent to the specimen in the culture vessel 2).

  First, in step S <b> 11, the processing unit 44 receives an image signal Si corresponding to a dot pattern image (dot pattern image) printed on the identification tag 3 captured by the camera 1 a of the microscope 1 via the interface 47. get. In this case, the operator operates the microscope 1 so that the focus of the microscope 1 is aligned with the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3, and then causes the camera 1 a of the microscope 1 to photograph the dot pattern.

  Subsequently, in step S12, the processing unit 44 uses the coordinate conversion table stored in the storage unit 45 to convert the dot pattern included in the dot pattern image acquired in step S11 into position coordinates. Specifically, the processing unit 44 converts the image data of the dot pattern as shown in FIG. 5A into a data array as shown in FIG. 5B, and further, the X coordinate bit value / Y coordinate bit. The data is converted into a value, and the position coordinates composed of the X and Y coordinate data are obtained from the data array by a predetermined calculation method.

  Subsequently, in step S13, the processing unit 44 converts the position coordinates obtained in step S12 into patient information using the patient information conversion table stored in the storage unit 45. That is, the processing unit 44 refers to the patient information conversion table to obtain patient information associated with the coordinate range of the dot pattern including the position coordinates obtained in step S12.

  Subsequently, in step S <b> 14, the processing unit 44 acquires an image signal Si corresponding to the sample image (sample image) captured by the camera 1 a via the interface 47. In this case, the operator operates the microscope 1 so that the focus of the microscope 1 is focused on the sample in the culture vessel 2, and then causes the sample to be photographed by the camera 1a of the microscope 1.

  Subsequently, in step S15, the processing unit 44 stores the patient information obtained in step S13 and the specimen image acquired in step S14 in association with each other in the storage unit 45. Then, the process ends.

  In another example, after the sample image is captured, a dot pattern image may be captured to obtain position coordinates and patient information. That is, the process of step S14 may be executed before the processes of steps S11 to S13. In still another example, after taking a dot pattern image and obtaining the position coordinates and patient information, taking the specimen image as a rule, and taking the specimen image before obtaining the position coordinates and patient information A warning or the like may be issued.

  In yet another example, this flow is started after the operator designates a patient by operating the input means 41 or the like, and the patient corresponding to the patient information obtained in step S13 is designated. Whether or not the specimen image is stored in association with the patient information may be determined according to whether or not it matches the patient. In this example, if the patient corresponding to the patient information does not match the designated patient, a warning to that effect is made and the sample image is not stored in association with the patient information.

  In the above flow, the patient image corresponding to the position coordinates of the dot pattern is obtained and stored after the sample image is captured, but in another example, the sample image is not captured and stored. Only patient information corresponding to the position coordinates of the dot pattern may be obtained. In this case, patient information corresponding to the position coordinates of the dot pattern is obtained immediately before or after the actual work involving observation using the microscope 1.

[Operation and effect of this embodiment]
As described above, in this embodiment, the microscope 1 is used to recognize patient information corresponding to the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 3 attached to the culture vessel 2. Thereby, the patient information associated with the culture container 2 can be appropriately recognized immediately before or immediately after the operation involving the observation of the culture container 2 using the microscope 1. Therefore, it becomes easy to ensure that the culture vessel 2 that has recognized the patient information is the same as the culture vessel 2 to be worked. For this reason, it is possible to appropriately prevent the sample from being mistaken.

  Further, in this embodiment, by using the identification tag 3 having the configuration as shown in FIG. 3, the function such as transparency at the time of observation by the microscope 1 is not impaired, that is, the sample in the culture vessel 2 or the like. It is possible to appropriately read a dot pattern that can be individually identified without obstructing the observation. Moreover, since the identification tag 3 can be manufactured separately from the culture vessel 2 and can be affixed to the culture vessel 2 after printing a dot pattern, it can be manufactured at low cost. Furthermore, according to the identification tag 3 according to the present embodiment, the dot pattern printed on the printing layer 3b can be easily read by focusing the microscope 1 on the printing layer 3b of the identification tag 3. In this case, since the dot pattern is printed on substantially the entire surface of the printing layer 3b, the dot pattern can be read only by changing the focus regardless of the observation position on the microscope 1.

[Modification]
Below, the modification of above-described embodiment is demonstrated. Note that the following modifications can be applied to the embodiment in any combination.

(Modification 1)
In the above-described embodiment, the dot pattern is printed on substantially the entire surface of the identification tag 3 (specifically, substantially the entire surface of the printing layer 3b). However, in the first modification, the operation involving the observation of the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1 is performed. The dot pattern is printed only on the part of the identification tag corresponding to the range other than the observation range in the case of performing.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of the identification tag 31 according to the first modification. FIG. 8 is a plan view of the identification tag 31 according to the first modification. Specifically, the surface on which the printing layer is formed in the identification tag 31 is shown. In the identification tag 31 according to the modified example 1, the dot pattern is printed only in the hatched area Ar11, and the dot pattern is not printed in the area Ar12 inside the area Ar11 (for convenience of explanation in FIG. 8). The hatching is attached for the reason, and the hatching is not actually printed on the identification tag 31). The region Ar12 is a region corresponding to an observation range when performing an operation involving observation of the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1, and the region Ar11 is a region corresponding to a range other than such an observation range.

  According to the identification tag 31 according to the modified example 1 described above, it is possible to more effectively suppress the observation by the microscope 1 from being hindered by the dot pattern printed on the identification tag 31.

(Modification 2)
In the above-described modification 1, the dot pattern is printed only at the location of the identification tag 31 corresponding to the range other than the observation range when performing the operation involving the observation of the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1. In Example 2, a dot pattern is printed only on the location of the identification tag corresponding to the observation range when the operation involving the observation of the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1 is performed.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of an identification tag 32 according to the second modification. FIG. 9 is a plan view of an identification tag 32 according to the second modification. Specifically, the surface of the identification tag 32 on which the printing layer is formed is shown. In the identification tag 32 according to the modified example 2, the dot pattern is printed only in the hatched area Ar21, and the dot pattern is not printed in the area Ar22 outside the area Ar21 (for convenience of explanation in FIG. 9). The hatching is given for the reason, and the hatching is not actually printed on the identification tag 32). The region Ar21 is a region corresponding to an observation range when performing an operation involving observation of the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1, and the region Ar22 is a region corresponding to a range other than such an observation range.

  According to the identification tag 32 according to the modified example 2 described above, when observing a specimen or the like with the microscope 1, adjustment is performed without moving the XY axes (for example, the position of the culture vessel 2 in the horizontal direction is moved). In other words, the dot pattern can be photographed only by moving the Z axis (that is, adjusting the focal point).

  In addition, since the size of the dots constituting the dot pattern (which becomes an opaque portion) is quite small, even if there are dots on the same vertical axis, the observation is not hindered. Is done.

(Modification 3)
In the above-described embodiment, the size of the dot pattern normally used in the Anoto method is applied to the identification tag 3. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In another example, when observing the culture vessel 2 with the microscope 1 when a high magnification such as 10 × objective is normally used, the size normally used in the Anoto method is reduced to “1 / 2.5” times. Apply a dot pattern. In short, the size of the dot pattern corresponding to the magnification normally used for observing the culture vessel 2 with the microscope 1 may be applied.

  Here, when the magnification of the microscope 1 is changed, there may be a case where only a part of a collection of 6 × 6 dots indicating one position coordinate can be captured by the camera 1a. In that case, it is only necessary to obtain a position coordinate by photographing a group of 6 × 6 dots by photographing a plurality of times with the camera 1a and connecting a plurality of obtained photographed images.

  In yet another example, dot patterns having a plurality of sizes may be applied to one identification tag 3 so as to correspond to various magnifications of the microscope 1. In other words, a dot pattern of the size normally used in the Anoto method, a dot pattern of a size that is usually reduced in the size of the Anoto method, or a dot pattern of a size that is enlarged in the size normally used in the Anoto method A plurality of prints may be printed on 3.

(Modification 4)
In the above-described embodiment, the identification tag 3 on which the dot pattern is printed is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to printing the dot pattern on the identification tag 3. In the fourth modification, a two-dimensional code is printed on the identification tag instead of the dot pattern.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the identification tag 33 according to the fourth modification. FIG. 10 is a plan view of an identification tag 33 according to the fourth modification. Specifically, the surface of the identification tag 33 on which the printing layer is formed is shown. A two-dimensional code (specifically, a QR code (registered trademark)) is printed on the printing layer of the identification tag 33. Such a two-dimensional code is also associated with patient information in the same manner as the dot pattern.

  The right side of FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of a part of the two-dimensional code printed on the printing layer of the identification tag 33. As shown in the figure, the same two-dimensional code is printed as a repeated pattern on substantially the entire printing layer of the identification tag 33. For one two-dimensional code, a size that fits within an observation range at a magnification usually used when the culture vessel 2 is observed with the microscope 1 is applied. In a preferred example, a size less than half of the observation range of the microscope 1 (for example, a size of about 3 mm or less in length and width) is applied to one two-dimensional code.

  Note that, in the case where a two-dimensional code is printed on the identification tag 33 instead of the dot pattern, the above-described modified examples 1 to 3 can be similarly applied. In other words, a two-dimensional code is printed only on a portion of the identification tag corresponding to a range other than the observation range when an operation involving observation of the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1 is performed, or the culture vessel 2 using the microscope 1 is used. It is possible to print a two-dimensional code only on a portion of an identification tag corresponding to the observation range when performing an operation involving observation, and to apply various sizes to the two-dimensional code.

  The present invention is not limited to application to the dot pattern and the two-dimensional code as described above, but can be applied to various coding patterns. For example, the present invention can be applied to a one-dimensional code. The present invention can be applied not only to a coding pattern but also to numbers and symbols. Accordingly, the “identifier” in the present invention includes not only a coding pattern such as a dot pattern, a two-dimensional code, and a one-dimensional code, but also a number and a symbol.

(Modification 5)
In the above-described embodiment, the culture container 2 configured to be transparent as a whole is shown, but the present invention is not limited to configuring the entire culture container 2 to be transparent. As long as the location where transmission observation with the microscope 1 should be secured (specifically, the location corresponding to the portion into which the specimen is placed) is configured to be at least transparent, the other locations may not be transparent. That is, various shapes can be applied to the transmission observation part of the culture container 2 as long as the shape includes at least a portion where transmission observation with the microscope 1 should be ensured.

  Moreover, it is not limited to constructing the identification tag 3 in the same shape as the bottom surface 2a2 of the culture vessel 2. Various shapes can be applied to the identification tag 3 as long as the identification tag 3 has a shape that can be attached to a location where at least the transmission observation portion of the culture vessel 2 is included.

(Modification 6)
In the embodiment described above, the position coordinates corresponding to the dot pattern are obtained and the patient information corresponding to the position coordinates is obtained. However, when the position coordinates corresponding to the dot pattern are obtained, the patient information is the coordinates of the dot pattern. If not associated with a range, only position coordinates corresponding to the dot pattern may be obtained without obtaining patient information. In that case, when the position coordinates are obtained, the patient information is input to the computer device 4 so that the patient information is associated with the coordinate range of the dot pattern including the obtained position coordinates.

  In the above-described embodiment, patient information is associated with a dot pattern, but information associated with a dot pattern is not limited to patient information. Various information other than the patient information may be associated with the dot pattern.

  Note that the configuration described in the modification 6 can be similarly applied to identifiers other than the dot pattern.

(Modification 7)
In the above-described embodiment, the culture container 2 to which the identification tag 3 is affixed is shown, but of course, the identification tag 3 is not necessarily affixed to the culture container 2 from the beginning, and the culture container is at some stage. The identification tag 3 is affixed to 2. Prior to shipment of the culture vessel 2, the identification tag 3 may be attached to the culture vessel 2 at a factory or the like, and the culture vessel 2 with the identification tag 3 attached may be distributed to the market, or the identification tag 3 may be attached. An uncultivated culture vessel 2 is distributed in the market, specifically a kit comprising the culture vessel 2 and the identification tag 3 is distributed in the market, and an operator attaches the identification tag 3 to the culture container 2 May be.

(Modification 8)
In the above-described embodiment, the dot pattern is read before and after the specimen observation with the microscope 1. However, the dot pattern may be read at the time of work such as transfer that does not perform the observation with the microscope 1. In that case, a dot pattern may be read by separately using a reading means such as an electronic pen.

  Note that the configuration described in Modification 8 can be similarly applied to identifiers other than the dot pattern.

(Modification 9)
The present invention can also be applied to sample management for blood and the like for in-vitro diagnosis and sample management for food hygiene inspection. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the application to the culture container 2 for culturing, and can be applied to various containers used for specimen management such as blood and sample management for food hygiene inspection. is there. The present invention is not limited to application to specimens such as tissues and cells collected from the human body, and can be applied to various target substances.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Microscope 1a Camera 2 Culture container 3 Identification tag 4 Computer apparatus 44 Processing means 45 Storage means

Claims (7)

A container having a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation by a microscope, a container on which an identification tag on which a predetermined identifier is printed at a position corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent, and the microscope; A management system comprising: a computer device that acquires an image photographed by photographing means provided in
The computer device includes:
Based on the image of the identifier printed on the identification tag attached to the container, photographed by the photographing means, immediately before or immediately after the operation involving observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. Recognizing means for recognizing information corresponding to the identifier;
Management means for managing the container based on the information recognized by the recognition means;
A management system comprising:   The computer apparatus further includes storage control means for storing an image of the target substance in the container, which is photographed by the photographing means, and the information recognized by the recognition means in association with each other. The management system according to claim 1. A container having a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation by a microscope, a container on which an identification tag on which a predetermined identifier is printed at a position corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent, and the microscope; A management program executed by the computer device of a management system comprising: a computer device for acquiring an image photographed by a photographing means provided in
Based on the image of the identifier printed on the identification tag attached to the container, photographed by the photographing means, immediately before or immediately after the operation involving observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. A recognition means for recognizing information corresponding to the identifier,
Management means for managing the container based on the information recognized by the recognition means;
A management program for causing the computer apparatus to function as: A container having a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation by a microscope,
The container is characterized in that at least a part corresponding to the transmission observation unit is transparent and an identification tag on which a predetermined identifier is printed is attached.   5. The identifier is printed at a location corresponding to an observation range of the microscope when an operation involving observation of a substance in the container using the microscope is performed. Container as described in.   The identification tag is characterized in that the identifier is printed at a location corresponding to a range other than the observation range of the microscope when performing an operation involving observation of the substance in the container using the microscope. The container according to claim 4. A container having a transmission observation unit capable of transmission observation by a microscope;
At least a part corresponding to the transmission observation part is transparent and a predetermined identifier is printed on the part, and an identification tag used by being attached to the container,
A kit comprising a container and an identification tag.

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