JP2016224003A - Automatic analysis device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic analysis device with which it is possible to dispense a minute amount of sample with high accuracy.SOLUTION: The automatic analysis device comprises: a sample dispensing probe 19 for dispensing a sample in a sample container 11 into a reaction vessel 17; a first reagent dispensing probe 21 for dispensing a first reagent in a reagent container 13 into the reaction vessel 17; and an analysis control unit for making the sample dispensing probe 19 dispense the sample, and making first reagent dispensing probe 21 dispense the first reagent. When the amount of a sample dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 exceeds an upper-limit amount, the analysis control unit makes the sample dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 and then makes the first reagent dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 that stores the sample. Meanwhile, when the amount of a sample dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 is less than or equal to the upper-limit amount, the analysis control unit makes the first reagent in the reagent container 13 dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 and then makes the sample in the sample container 11 dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 that stores the first reagent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

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

  Tests using automatic analyzers target biochemical test items, immunological test items, etc., and optically detect changes in color and turbidity caused by the reaction of the mixture of the sample collected from the specimen and the reagent used to analyze each test item. Measure automatically. By this measurement, analytical data represented by the concentrations of various test item components in the sample, enzyme activities, and the like are generated.

  In the automatic analyzer, the amount of sample used for analysis is set for each inspection item, and the inspection item is set for each sample according to the inspection. The sample dispensing probe dispenses the amount of sample set in the inspection item into the reaction container for each inspection item. Next, the reagent dispensing probe dispenses an amount of the reagent set in the inspection item into the reaction container into which the sample has been dispensed.

  In recent years, the amount of samples and reagents has been reduced in consideration of the burden on the subject and the reduction of running costs.

JP 2012-137347 A

  However, since the amount of the sample dispensed into the reaction container is extremely small compared to that of the reagent, there is a problem that the dispensing accuracy of a very small amount of the sample is lowered.

  The embodiment has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an automatic analyzer capable of accurately dispensing a small amount of a sample.

  In order to achieve the above object, an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention is an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction container and measures a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction container. A sample dispensing probe that dispenses the sample in the sample container that is aspirated and discharged into the reaction container, and a reagent dispensing probe that dispenses the reagent in the reagent container that is aspirated and discharged into the reaction container And when the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container exceeds the preset upper limit amount, after dispensing the sample in the reaction container, When the reagent is dispensed into the reaction container containing the sample, and the dispensing amount of the sample in the sample container is less than or equal to the upper limit amount, the reagent in the reagent container Was dispensed into the reaction vessel, and the sample was And a analysis control unit that dispensed to the reaction vessel for containing the reagents.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on embodiment. The perspective view which shows the structure of the analysis part which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows operation | movement of the sample dispensing probe which attracts | sucks the sample which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows operation | movement of the sample dispensing probe which dispenses the sample whose dispensing amount which concerns on embodiment exceeds the upper limit amount. The figure which shows operation | movement of the sample dispensing probe which dispenses the sample whose dispensing amount which concerns on embodiment is below an upper limit amount. The figure which shows an example of each stop position of each reaction container hold | maintained at the reaction table which concerns on embodiment, the position of a washing nozzle, and a measurement part. The cleaning position of the cleaning nozzle according to the embodiment, each dispensing position of the sample dispensing probe, the first reagent dispensing probe, and the second reagent dispensing probe, the 1a stirrer, the 1b stirrer, and the second stirrer The figure which shows each stirring position. The figure which shows the dispensing operation | movement of the sample and reagent with which the dispensing amount which concerns on embodiment exceeds an upper limit amount. The figure which shows the dispensing operation | movement of the sample and reagent with the dispensing amount which concerns on embodiment below an upper limit amount. The figure which shows the dispensing operation | movement of the sample and reagent in the reexamination which concerns on embodiment.

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

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. This automatic analyzer 100 dispenses a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample and a reagent for each inspection item, measures a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent, and generates standard data and test data. 10 is provided. Further, a drive unit 40 that drives various units of the analysis unit 10 and an analysis control unit 41 that controls the drive unit 40 are provided. In addition, a data processing unit 60 that generates calibration data and analysis data from the standard data and test data generated by the analysis unit 10 is provided.

  The automatic analyzer 100 further includes an output unit 70 that outputs calibration data and analysis data generated by the data processing unit 60. Also, to set the re-inspection parameters such as the analysis range for determining whether or not to cause each inspection item to be re-inspected. And an operation unit 80 for performing input for setting inspection items for each sample. In addition, a system control unit 90 that controls the analysis control unit 41, the data processing unit 60, and the output unit 70 is provided.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis unit 10. The analysis unit 10 includes a sample container 11 for storing a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample, and a sample table 12 for holding the sample container 11 so as to be movable. In addition, for example, a 1st reagent system and 2 reagent system 1st reagent for each test item, a 2nd reagent 2nd reagent and a 2nd reagent 1st reagent, and a test sample is diluted in the case of retesting. And a reagent container 13 for storing each liquid of the diluting liquid for preparing the liquid. In addition, two reagent racks 14 that hold the reagent containers 13 in a movable manner are provided.

  In addition, a reagent store 15 that keeps the first reagent and the diluent in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 cool, and a reagent store 16 that keeps the second reagent in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 cool. It has. Further, for example, 165 reaction vessels 17 arranged in a line at equal intervals on the circumference, and a reaction table 18 that holds the reaction vessels 17 so as to be rotatable are provided.

  Further, a sample dispensing probe 19 that dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 held on the sample table 12 and sucks the sample from the opening provided at the lower end and discharges the sample into the reaction container 17, and the sample dispensing probe 19. And a sample dispensing arm 20 that holds the sample movably. In addition, the first reagent dispensing probe 21 for dispensing the first reagent and diluent in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 and discharging them into the reaction container 17, and the first reagent amount A first reagent dispensing arm 22 that holds the dispensing probe 21 movably is provided.

  The first and first b stirrers 23a and 23b that stir the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent dispensed in the reaction vessel 17 and the first and first b stirrers 23a and 23b are movably held. 1a and 1b stirring arms 24a and 24b. A second reagent dispensing probe 25 for aspirating the second reagent in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 and dispensing it into the reaction container 17 into which the first reagent has been dispensed; A second reagent dispensing arm 26 that holds the second reagent dispensing probe 25 in a movable manner is provided.

  In addition, a second stirrer 27 that stirs the sample dispensed in the reaction vessel 17, a mixed solution of the first reagent and the second reagent, and a second stirrer arm 28 that holds the second stirrer 27 movably. And. Further, a measuring unit 29 that optically measures the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 17 and a cleaning nozzle 30 that cleans the inside of the reaction vessel 17 that has been measured by the measuring unit 29 are provided. Then, the measurement unit 29 irradiates the reaction container 17 with light, and, for example, changes in absorbance and absorbance are detected based on a detection signal that detects light transmitted through the mixed solution containing the standard sample and the test sample in the reaction container 17. Generate standard data and test data expressed in quantities.

  Although not shown, when the sample in the sample container 11 is dispensed, the liquid level for detecting the liquid level of the sample by contact between the lower end of the sample dispensing probe 19 and the sample in the sample container 11. It has a detector. The sample dispensing probe 19, the first reagent dispensing probe 21, the 1a stirring bar 23a, the 1b stirring bar 23b, the second reagent dispensing probe 25, and the second stirring bar 27 are provided. Yes. Then, the sample dispensing probe 19 is cleaned every time the dispensing of the same sample is completed. Further, the first reagent dispensing probe 21 is washed every time the dispensing of each first reagent is completed. Moreover, the 1a stirring bar 23a is wash | cleaned whenever stirring of each liquid mixture is complete | finished. In addition, the first b stirrer 23b is cleaned at the end of stirring of each liquid mixture. In addition, the second reagent dispensing probe 25 is washed every time the dispensing of each second reagent is completed. The second stirrer 27 is washed every time the mixed solution is stirred.

  The drive unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 1 drives the sample table 12 of the analysis unit 10 to move the sample container 11. Further, the two reagent racks 14 are driven to move the reagent container 13. Further, the reaction table 18 is driven to rotate and move each reaction vessel 17. Further, the sample dispensing arm 20, the first reagent dispensing arm 22, the second reagent dispensing arm 26, the 1a stirring arm 24a, the 1b stirring arm 24b, and the second stirring arm 28 are respectively driven to dispense the sample. The probe 19, the first reagent dispensing probe 21, the second reagent dispensing probe 25, the 1a stirring bar 23a, the 1b stirring bar 23b, and the second stirring bar 27 are moved. Further, the cleaning nozzle 30 is moved up and down.

  The analysis control unit 41 operates various units of the analysis unit 10 under the control of the drive unit 40 based on the analysis parameters set for each test item and the test items set for each sample, and thereby the sample, the first reagent, The second reagent is dispensed and the mixed solution is measured. When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container 11 into the reaction container 17 exceeds, for example, 1.0 μL as an upper limit amount set in advance as a minute amount, the sample is dispensed into the reaction container 17. After pouring, the first reagent is dispensed into the reaction container 17 that houses the sample. Further, when the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container 11 into the reaction container 17 is equal to or less than the upper limit amount, the first reagent is dispensed into the reaction container 17 and then the first reagent is accommodated. A sample is dispensed into the reaction vessel 17.

  Here, in the suction in the dispensing of the sample, the sample dispensing probe 19 is moved to above the sample container 11 as shown in FIG. Next, the sample dispensing probe 19 is lowered, and as shown in FIG. 3B, the lower end portion of the sample dispensing probe 19 comes into contact with the sample in the sample container 11 and is detected by the liquid level detector. Stop. At the stop position, the sample dispensing probe 19 sucks an amount of sample corresponding to the dispensing amount.

  Then, for example, in the dispensing in the dispensing of the sample whose dispensing amount set in the inspection item A exceeds the upper limit amount, the sample dispensing probe 19 that sucks the sample in the sample container 11 is as shown in FIG. Then, it is moved to above the empty reaction vessel 17 that has been cleaned. Next, the sample dispensing probe 19 is lowered and stopped at a position where the lower end of the sample dispensing probe 19 contacts the bottom surface in the reaction container 17 as shown in FIG. At the stop position, the sample dispensing probe 19 discharges a sample with a dispensing amount exceeding the upper limit. After the sample is dispensed, the first reagent for the test item A in the reagent container 13 is dispensed to the first reagent dispensing probe 21 from above the reaction container 17 containing the sample into the reaction container 17. Let me note.

  As described above, in dispensing a sample whose dispensing amount exceeds the upper limit amount, after dispensing the sample in the sample container 11 into the reaction container 17, the first reagent in the reagent container 13 is accommodated in the sample container. Can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 17. When the sample is dispensed, the sample is dispensed from the sample dispensing probe 19 by causing the sample to be dispensed at a stop position where the lower end of the sample dispensing probe 19 is in contact with the bottom surface in the reaction vessel 17. Can be prevented from scattering. Thereby, the sample whose dispensing amount exceeds the upper limit amount can be accurately dispensed.

  In addition, when discharging a sample whose dispensing amount set in the inspection item B is less than or equal to the upper limit amount, the first reagent for the inspection item B in the reagent container 13 is placed in the empty reaction container 17 that has been cleaned. Let them dispense. Then, the sample dispensing probe 19 that sucks the sample in the sample container 11 is moved to above the reaction container 17 that houses the first reagent for the test item B, as shown in FIG. Next, the sample dispensing probe 19 is lowered, and the lower end portion of the sample dispensing probe 19 comes into contact with the liquid level of the first reagent in the reaction vessel 17 as shown in FIG. Stop at the detected position. At the stop position, the sample dispensing probe 19 discharges a sample with a dispensing amount equal to or less than the upper limit amount.

  Thus, in dispensing a sample whose dispensing amount is equal to or less than the upper limit amount, the first reagent in the reagent container 13 is dispensed into the reaction container 17, and then the sample in the sample container 11 is removed from the first reagent. Can be dispensed into a reaction vessel 17 containing Then, when dispensing the sample, by dispensing the sample at a stop position where the lower end portion of the sample dispensing probe 19 is in contact with the liquid level of the first reagent in the reaction vessel 17, Scattering of the sample discharged from the injection probe 19 and adhesion of the sample discharged from the sample dispensing probe 19 to the outer wall of the lower end can be prevented. Thereby, a very small amount of sample whose dispensing amount is equal to or less than the upper limit amount can be accurately dispensed.

  In addition, when the lower end of the sample dispensing probe 19 is in contact with the first reagent in the reaction vessel 17 and the sample is discharged, the sample dispensing probe is used in the washing tank before dispensing the next sample. 19 cleanings are performed. Thereby, contamination of the sample in the sample container 11 by the first reagent can be prevented.

  In addition, when the analysis data of the inspection item A or the inspection item B is higher than the upper limit value of the analysis range set as the re-inspection parameter, the analysis control unit 41 operates the various units of the analysis unit 10 to perform the operation again. Let the inspection run. Then, the sample dispensing probe 19 causes a sample of a dispensing amount set for reexamination to be dispensed into the reaction container 17. Moreover, the reaction container 17 is prepared by dispensing a diluted amount of the diluent set for retesting by the first reagent dispensing probe 21 into the reaction container 17 into which the sample for retesting has been dispensed. In this, the sample is diluted with a diluent to become a diluted sample. Next, the sample dispensing probe 19 causes a dispensing amount of the diluted sample set for reexamination to be dispensed into a reaction vessel 17 different from the reaction vessel 17 in which the diluted sample is accommodated. Further, the first and second reagents are dispensed into the reaction container 17 into which the diluted sample has been dispensed.

  The data processing unit 60 processes the standard data and test data generated by the measurement unit 29 of the analysis unit 10 to generate calibration data and analysis data for each inspection item, and is generated by the calculation unit 61. And a data storage unit 62 for storing standard data and analysis data. And the calculating part 61 produces | generates calibration data based on the standard data of each test | inspection item. Moreover, based on the calibration data and test data of each test item, analysis data indicated by a concentration value and an activity value is generated.

  The output unit 70 includes a printing unit 71 that prints out calibration data and analysis data generated by the calculation unit 61 of the data processing unit 60 and a display unit 72 that displays and outputs the calibration data. Then, the display unit 72 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 into the reaction container 17 for each inspection item, and dispenses the first reagent and the second reagent in the reagent container 13 into the reaction container 17. An analysis parameter setting screen for setting the amount to be dispensed is displayed. Also displays a retest parameter setting screen for setting the analysis range for determining whether or not to retest each test item, and the reinspection sample, the amount of each of the diluted solution and diluted sample, etc. To do. In addition, for each sample, an identification information such as a name and ID for identifying the sample, and an inspection item setting screen for setting an inspection item to be inspected are displayed.

  The operation unit 80 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, and is used to set input for setting analysis parameters and retest parameters for each test item, identification information for each sample, and test items. Input.

  The system control unit 90 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and stores input information such as analysis parameters and re-inspection parameters of each inspection item, sample identification information, and inspection item information input from the operation unit 80 in the storage circuit. . And based on those input information, the analysis control part 41, the data processing part 60, and the output part 70 are integrated, and the whole system is controlled.

  Next, an example of the operation of the various units of the analysis unit 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of each stop position of each reaction container 17 held in the reaction table 18, and the positions of the cleaning nozzle 30 and the measurement unit 29.
Each reaction vessel 17 rotates and moves in the direction of arrow R1 every cycle time, and stops at each stop position different from that before the movement. Here, each reaction container 17 is rotationally moved in the R1 direction every cycle time by the rotational drive of the reaction table 18 at an angle θ, and is a reaction located at an angle of 90 ° in the R1 direction from the position before the movement, for example. It stops at the position of the reaction vessel 17 adjacent to the vessel 17 in the direction of the arrow R2 opposite to the R1 direction. And it stops at the same stop position every round time which is longer than one cycle time.

  Among the stop positions, there is a cleaning position W where the measurement by the measurement unit 29 ends and the reaction vessel 17 where cleaning is performed by the cleaning nozzle 30 stops. In addition, there is a first sample dispensing position Pa where the sample in the sample container 11 by the sample dispensing probe 19 and the reaction container 17 where the diluted sample for retesting is dispensed are stopped. In addition, there is a first reagent dispensing position Pb at which the reaction container 17 where the first reagent and diluent in the reagent container 13 are dispensed by the first reagent dispensing probe 21 stops. Further, there is a 1a stirring position Pc at which the reaction vessel 17 in which the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent dispensed after the sample is dispensed is stopped by the 1a stirring bar 23a. In addition, there is a second sample dispensing position Pd at which the reaction container 17 where the sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 and sucks the diluted sample for retest is stopped. The second sample dispensing position Pd is a position adjacent to the first sample dispensing position Pa in the R2 direction, and the reaction container 17 at the second sample dispensing position Pd and the first sample dispensing position. The reaction vessels 17 at the position Pa are adjacent to each other.

  Thus, by providing the second sample dispensing position Pd next to the first sample dispensing position Pa, the sample dispensing probe 19 is stopped at the first or second sample dispensing position Pa, Pd. It can move to the reaction vessel 17. Then, the sample in the sample container 11 can be dispensed into the reaction container 17 at the first or second sample dispensing position Pa, Pd by the sample dispensing probe 19. Further, the diluted sample in the reaction container 17 at the second sample dispensing position Pd can be dispensed into the reaction container 17 at the first sample dispensing position Pa.

  Further, in the stop position, the reaction vessel 17 in which the mixed solution of the first reagent and the sample dispensed after the first reagent is dispensed is stopped by the 1b stirring bar 23b. There is a 1b stirring position Pe. In addition, there is a second reagent dispensing position Pf where the reaction container 17 where the second reagent in the reagent container 13 is dispensed by the second reagent dispensing probe 25 stops. In addition, there is a second stirring position Pg where the reaction vessel 17 where the sample, the mixed solution of the first reagent and the second reagent is stirred by the second stirring bar 27 is stopped.

  Note that, for example, a position adjacent to the second sample dispensing position Pd in the vicinity of the first sample dispensing position Pa in the R2 direction is set as a third sample dispensing position. Then, the sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 to the reaction container 17 stopped at the first sample dispensing position Pa or the third sample dispensing position, or the third sample dispensing. You may make it implement by changing the position of the sample dispensing arm 20 so that the diluted sample for reexamination can be attracted | sucked with respect to the reaction container 17 stopped in a position. In this case, a position adjacent to the 1b stirring position Pe that stops after stopping at the third sample dispensing position in the R2 direction is set as the third stirring position, and the third stirring position Pe is stopped after stopping at the third sample dispensing position. The position of the first c stirring arm 24b is also changed so that the inside of the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the stirring position can be stirred by the first stirring bar 23b.

  The cleaning nozzle 30 includes, for example, seven first to seventh cleaning nozzles 31 to 37, and is arranged to be movable in the vertical direction at the cleaning position W by the vertical drive of the drive unit 40. The first to seventh cleaning nozzles 31 to 37 stop above each reaction vessel 17 when the reaction table 18 is rotating, and descend when the reaction table 18 is stopped to move to the cleaning position W. The reaction vessel 17 stopped at the first to seventh cleaning positions W1 to W7 is cleaned.

  The measurement unit 29 includes a light source and a detector arranged across the inner and outer circumferences of each reaction container 17, and irradiates each reaction container 17 that passes through the measurement position Pm with each rotation of the reaction table 18. Then, the light transmitted through the liquid mixture containing the standard sample and the test sample in each reaction vessel 17 is detected, and standard data and test data expressed by absorbance are generated.

  Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10.

  First, the details of the dispensing and measuring operations of the sample and the reagent in which the dispensing amount set in the inspection item A exceeds the upper limit amount will be described.

  FIG. 7 shows the cleaning position of the cleaning nozzle 30, the dispensing positions of the sample dispensing probe 19, the first reagent dispensing probe 21, and the second reagent dispensing probe 25, the 1a stirring bar 23a, and the 1b stirring bar. It is the figure which showed each stirring position of 23b and the 2nd stirring element 27. FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a dispensing operation of a sample and a reagent whose dispensing amount exceeds the upper limit amount.

  The cleaning nozzle 30 cleans the reaction container 17 stopped at the cleaning position W. Then, the empty reaction vessel 17 stopped at the seventh washing position W7 and finished washing by the first to seventh washing nozzles 31 to 37 is assigned for the inspection item A by the analysis control unit 41, and one cycle time has elapsed. For example, in the second cycle, the operation stops at the first sample dispensing position Pa. The sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 held on the sample table 12 into the reaction container 17 at the first sample dispensing position Pa for the inspection item A.

  Thus, when a dispensing amount exceeding the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item A, the sample for the inspection item A is placed in the reaction container 17 for the inspection item A stopped at the first sample dispensing position Pa. Can be dispensed.

  In the third cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the second cycle, the reaction container 17 into which the sample has been dispensed at the first sample dispensing position Pa in the second cycle stops at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. The first reagent dispensing probe 21 dispenses the first reagent for the inspection item A in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 15 into the reaction container 17 at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. Note.

  Thus, when a dispensing amount exceeding the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item A, the inspection item A is contained in the reaction container 17 that accommodates the sample for the inspection item A stopped at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. The first reagent can be dispensed.

  In the fifth cycle, in which two cycle times have elapsed from the third cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the first reagent has been dispensed at the first reagent dispensing position Pb in the third cycle stops at the first a stirring position Pc. The 1a stirring bar 23a stirs the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction container 17 at the 1a stirring position Pc.

  Thus, when the dispensing amount exceeding the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item A, the sample A for the inspection item A in the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the 1a stirring position Pc and the mixed solution of the first reagent are stirred. Can be made.

  In the sixth cycle after one cycle time has elapsed from the fifth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the first a stirring position Pc in the fifth cycle stops at the second sample dispensing position Pd. The sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses a sample into the reaction container 17 at the first sample dispensing position Pa or stands by in a washing tank.

  As described above, when the dispensing amount exceeding the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item A, the dispensing of the sample into the reaction container 17 for the inspection item A stopped at the second sample dispensing position Pd is stopped. Can be made. When the reaction container 17 for the inspection item A stops at the second sample dispensing position Pd, a sample with a dispensing amount exceeding the upper limit amount is placed in the reaction container 17 stopped at the first sample dispensing position Pa. Can be dispensed.

  In the seventh cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the sixth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the second sample dispensing position Pd in the sixth cycle stops at the first b stirring position Pe. The 1b stirrer 23b does not stir the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction vessel 17 at the 1b stirring position Pe and stands by in the washing tank.

  In the d-th cycle after a predetermined cycle time has elapsed from the seventh cycle, the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the first b stirring position Pe in the seventh cycle stops at the second reagent dispensing position Pf. The second reagent dispensing probe 25 dispenses the second reagent for the inspection item A in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 16 into the reaction container 17 at the second reagent dispensing position Pf. To do.

  In the (d + 1) cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the d cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the second reagent has been dispensed at the second reagent dispensing position Pf in the d cycle stops at the second stirring position Pg. The second stirrer 27 stirs the mixed solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction container 17 at the second stirring position Pg.

  The measurement unit 29 measures the liquid mixture in the reaction vessel 17 that passes through the measurement position Pm during the period from the stop at the second stirring position Pg to the stop at the cleaning position W in the (d + 1) cycle. Generate data. Then, the calculation unit 61 of the data processing unit 60 generates analysis data of the inspection item A based on the test data generated by the measurement unit 29.

  The reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the second stirring position Pg in the (d + 1) cycle has the first to seventh cleaning positions in the g cycle, the (g + 4) cycle,..., The (g + 24) cycle. Stop at W1 to W7. The first to seventh cleaning nozzles 31 to 37 clean the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the second stirring position Pg in the (d + 1) cycle.

  The system control unit 90 determines whether to perform reinspection based on the analysis data generated by the arithmetic unit 61 and the reinspection parameter. If it is determined that re-inspection is unnecessary, the analysis control unit 41 is instructed to end analysis of the inspection item A. If it is determined that reinspection is necessary, the analysis control unit 41 is instructed to reinspect the inspection item A.

  Next, details of the dispensing and measuring operations of the sample and the reagent in which the dispensing amount set in the inspection item B is equal to or less than the upper limit amount will be described.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a dispensing operation of a sample and a reagent whose dispensing amount is equal to or less than the upper limit amount.
The empty reaction vessel 17 stopped at the seventh washing position W7 and finished washing by the first to seventh washing nozzles 31 to 37 is assigned for the inspection item B by the analysis control unit 41, and one cycle time has elapsed 2 In the cycle, it stops at the first sample dispensing position Pa. The sample dispensing probe 19 does not perform a dispensing operation because the dispensing amount of the sample of the inspection item B is equal to or less than the upper limit amount, and waits in a cleaning tank, for example.

  When the reaction container 17 for the inspection item B stops at the first sample dispensing position Pa, a sample with a dispensing amount equal to or less than the upper limit amount is placed in the reaction container 17 stopped at the second sample dispensing position Pd. Can be dispensed.

  Thus, when a dispensing amount equal to or less than the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item B, the dispensing of the sample into the reaction container 17 for the inspection item B stopped at the first sample dispensing position Pa is stopped. Can be made.

  In the third cycle after one cycle time has elapsed from the second cycle, the empty reaction vessel 17 stopped at the first sample dispensing position Pa in the second cycle is stopped at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. The first reagent dispensing probe 21 dispenses the first reagent for the inspection item B in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 15 into the reaction container 17 at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. Note.

  As described above, when a dispensing amount equal to or less than the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item B, the first reagent is dispensed into the empty reaction container 17 for the inspection item B stopped at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. Can be made.

  In the fifth cycle, in which two cycle times have elapsed from the third cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the first reagent has been dispensed at the first reagent dispensing position Pb in the third cycle stops at the first a stirring position Pc. The 1a stirring bar 23a does not stir the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction container 17 at the 1a stirring position Pc, and stands by in the washing tank.

  In the sixth cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the fifth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the first a stirring position Pc in the fifth cycle stops at the second sample dispensing position Pd. The sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 held on the sample table 12 into the reaction container 17 at the second sample dispensing position Pd for the inspection item B.

  As described above, when a dispensing amount equal to or less than the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item B, the sample is stored in the reaction container 17 that houses the first reagent for the inspection item B stopped at the second sample dispensing position Pd. Can be dispensed.

  In the seventh cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the sixth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the sample has been dispensed at the second sample dispensing position Pd in the sixth cycle stops at the first b stirring position Pe. The 1b stirrer 23b stirs the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction container 17 at the 1b stirring position Pe.

  As described above, when a dispensing amount equal to or less than the upper limit amount is set in the inspection item B, the mixture of the sample for the inspection item B and the first reagent in the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the 1b stirring position Pe is stirred. Can be made.

  In the d-th cycle after a predetermined cycle time has elapsed from the seventh cycle, the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the first-b stirring position Pe in the seventh cycle stops at the second reagent dispensing position Pf. The second reagent dispensing probe 25 dispenses the second reagent for the inspection item B in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 16 into the reaction container 17 at the second reagent dispensing position Pf. Note.

  In the (d + 1) cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the d cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the second reagent has been dispensed at the second reagent dispensing position Pf in the d cycle stops at the second stirring position Pg. The second stirrer 27 stirs the mixed solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction container 17 at the second stirring position Pg.

  The measurement unit 29 measures the liquid mixture in the reaction vessel 17 that passes through the measurement position Pm during the period from the stop at the second stirring position Pg to the stop at the cleaning position W in the (d + 1) cycle. Generate data. Then, the calculation unit 61 of the data processing unit 60 generates analysis data of the inspection item A based on the test data generated by the measurement unit 29.

  The reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the second stirring position Pg in the (d + 1) cycle has the first to seventh cleaning positions in the g cycle, the (g + 4) cycle,..., The (g + 24) cycle. Stop at W1 to W7. The first to seventh cleaning nozzles 31 to 37 clean the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the second stirring position Pg in the (d + 1) cycle.

  The system control unit 90 determines whether to perform reinspection based on the analysis data of the inspection item B generated by the arithmetic unit 61 and the reinspection parameters. If it is determined that retesting is unnecessary, the analysis control unit 41 is instructed to end the analysis of the test item B of the subject P. When it is determined that reexamination is necessary, the analysis control unit 41 is instructed to reexamine the inspection item B of the subject P.

  Next, details of sample and reagent dispensing and measurement operations in the re-inspection of the inspection item A will be described.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the dispensing operation of the sample and the reagent in the reexamination.
The cleaning nozzle 30 cleans the reaction container 17 stopped at the cleaning position W. Then, the reaction vessel 17 that has stopped at the seventh cleaning position W7 and finished cleaning by the first to seventh cleaning nozzles 31 to 37, at the first sample dispensing position Pa in the second cycle after one cycle time has passed. Stop. The sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 held on the sample table 12 into the reaction container 17 at the first sample dispensing position Pa for reinspection of the inspection item A.

  In the third cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the second cycle, the reaction container 17 into which the sample has been dispensed at the first sample dispensing position Pa in the second cycle stops at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. The first reagent dispensing probe 21 dispenses the diluted solution in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 15 into the reaction container 17 at the first reagent dispensing position Pb.

  In the fifth cycle after two cycle times have elapsed from the third cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the diluent has been dispensed at the first reagent dispensing position Pb in the third cycle stops at the first a stirring position Pc. The 1a stirring bar 23a stirs a diluted sample obtained by diluting the sample in the reaction vessel 17 at the 1a stirring position Pc with a diluent.

  In the sixth cycle after one cycle time has elapsed from the fifth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the first a stirring position Pc in the fifth cycle stops at the second sample dispensing position Pd. The sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses the diluted sample in the reaction container 17 at the second sample dispensing position Pd into the reaction container 17 at the first sample dispensing position Pa for re-inspection of the inspection item A. .

  In the seventh cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the sixth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the diluted sample has been dispensed at the first sample dispensing position Pa in the sixth cycle stops at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. The first reagent dispensing probe 21 dispenses the first reagent for the inspection item A in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 15 into the reaction container 17 at the first reagent dispensing position Pb. Note.

  In the ninth cycle, in which two cycle times have elapsed from the seventh cycle, the reaction container 17 into which the first reagent has been dispensed at the first reagent dispensing position Pb in the seventh cycle stops at the first a stirring position Pc. The 1a stirring bar 23a stirs the mixed solution of the diluted sample and the first reagent in the reaction container 17 at the 1a stirring position Pc.

  In the 10th cycle after one cycle time has elapsed from the 9th cycle, the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the 1a stirring position Pc in the 9th cycle stops at the second sample dispensing position Pd. The sample dispensing probe 19 dispenses a sample into the reaction container 17 at the first sample dispensing position Pa or stands by in a washing tank.

  In the eleventh cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the tenth cycle, the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the second sample dispensing position Pd in the tenth cycle stops at the first b stirring position Pe. The 1b stirrer 23b does not stir the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction vessel 17 at the 1b stirring position Pe and stands by in the washing tank.

  In the (d + 4) cycle when a predetermined cycle time has elapsed from the 11th cycle, the reaction vessel 17 stopped at the 1b stirring position Pe in the 11th cycle stops at the second reagent dispensing position Pf. The second reagent dispensing probe 25 dispenses the second reagent for the inspection item A in the reagent container 13 held in the reagent rack 14 in the reagent storage 16 into the reaction container 17 at the second reagent dispensing position Pf. To do.

  In the (d + 5) cycle when one cycle time has elapsed from the (d + 4) cycle, the reaction vessel 17 into which the second reagent has been dispensed at the second reagent dispensing position Pf in the (d + 4) cycle is the second stirring position Pg. Stop at. The second stirrer 27 stirs the mixed solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction container 17 at the second stirring position Pg.

  The measuring unit 29 measures the liquid mixture in the reaction vessel 17 that passes through the measurement position Pm from the stop at the second stirring position Pg to the stop at the washing position W in the (d + 5) cycle. Generate data. Then, the calculation unit 61 of the data processing unit 60 generates analysis data in the reexamination of the inspection item A based on the test data generated by the measurement unit 29.

  The reaction vessel 17 stirred at the second stirring position Pg in the (d + 5) cycle has the first to seventh in the (g + 4) cycle, the (g + 8) cycle,..., The (g + 28) cycle. Stop at cleaning positions W1 to W7. The first to seventh cleaning nozzles 31 to 37 clean the reaction vessel 17 that has been stirred at the second stirring position Pg in the (d + 5) cycle.

  In the case of the re-inspection, the inspection item B is performed in the same manner as the inspection item A, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  According to the embodiment described above, in dispensing a sample whose dispensing amount exceeds the upper limit amount, after dispensing the sample in the sample container 11 into the reaction container 17, the first reagent in the reagent container 13 is dispensed. , Can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 17 containing the sample. When the sample is dispensed, the sample is dispensed from the sample dispensing probe 19 by causing the sample to be dispensed at a stop position where the lower end of the sample dispensing probe 19 is in contact with the bottom surface in the reaction vessel 17. Can be prevented from scattering. Thereby, the sample whose dispensing amount exceeds the upper limit amount can be accurately dispensed.

  Further, in dispensing a sample whose dispensing amount is less than or equal to the upper limit amount, the first reagent in the reagent container 13 is dispensed into the reaction container 17, and then the sample in the sample container 11 is accommodated with the first reagent. Can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 17. When dispensing the sample, the sample is dispensed by discharging the sample at a stationary position where the lower end portion of the sample dispensing probe 19 is in contact with the liquid level of the first reagent in the reaction container 17. Scattering of the sample discharged from the dispensing probe 19 and adhesion of the sample discharged from the sample dispensing probe 19 to the outer wall of the lower end can be prevented. Thereby, a very small amount of sample whose dispensing amount is equal to or less than the upper limit amount can be accurately dispensed.

  As described above, in dispensing a small amount of sample, it is possible to secure a time that causes a drop in dispensing accuracy, and it is possible to dispense accurately without reducing the processing speed.

  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.

11 Sample container 13 Reagent container 17 Reaction container 19 Sample dispensing probe 21 First reagent dispensing probe 41 Analysis control unit 100 Automatic analyzer

Claims (6)

In an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction vessel and measures a mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel,
A sample dispensing probe for performing dispensing to suck the sample in the sample container and discharge it into the reaction container;
A reagent dispensing probe for performing dispensing to suck and discharge the reagent in the reagent container into the reaction container;
When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container exceeds the preset upper limit amount, after dispensing the sample into the reaction container, the reagent in the reagent container is removed. And dispensing the sample in the reaction container containing the sample and dispensing the sample in the sample container into the reaction container, the reagent in the reagent container is An automatic analyzer comprising: an analysis control unit that dispenses the sample into the reaction container containing the reagent after being dispensed into the reaction container. The analysis control unit
When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container exceeds the upper limit amount, the sample dispensing probe is lowered from above the reaction container, and the lower end of the sample dispensing probe is After stopping at the position in contact with the bottom of the reaction vessel, the sample is dispensed into the reaction vessel,
When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container into the reaction container is less than or equal to the upper limit amount, the sample dispensing probe is lowered from above the reaction container containing the reagent, and the sample The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the sample is dispensed into the reaction container after stopping at a position where the lower end portion of the dispensing probe comes into contact with the liquid surface of the reagent. The analysis control unit
When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container exceeds the upper limit amount, the sample is dispensed into the reaction container stopped at the first sample dispensing position;
When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container into the reaction container is equal to or less than the upper limit amount, the sample is stopped at the second sample dispensing position after being stopped at the first sample position. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the automatic analyzer is dispensed into the reaction container. The analysis control unit
Reagent dispensing position after stopping the reagent in the reagent container at the first sample dispensing position when the dispensing volume for dispensing the sample in the sample container exceeds the upper limit amount Dispense into the reaction vessel stopped at
When the dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container into the reaction container is less than or equal to the upper limit amount, the reagent in the reagent container is dispensed into the reaction container that stops at the reagent dispensing position. The automatic analyzer according to claim 3, wherein the sample is dispensed into the reaction container stopped at the second sample dispensing position after being stopped at the reagent dispensing position.   When the analysis data obtained by measuring the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction container is higher than a preset upper limit value, the analysis control unit uses the sample dispensing probe to perform the sample container. The reaction in which the sample for retesting is dispensed into the reaction container at the first sample dispensing position, and the diluent for diluting the sample with the reagent dispensing probe is stopped at the reagent position. After dispensing into the container, the reaction at the first sample dispensing position is a diluted sample obtained by diluting the sample in the reaction container that is stopped at the second sample dispensing position with the diluent. 5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the automatic analyzer is dispensed into a container.   A position at which the reaction container to which the sample is dispensed when a dispensing amount for dispensing the sample in the sample container into the reaction container exceeds the upper limit, and the sample in the sample container When the dispensing amount to be dispensed into the reaction container is less than or equal to the upper limit amount, the position where the reaction container where the sample is dispensed is a position where the reaction containers are adjacent to each other The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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