JP2018048820A - Autoanalyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an autoanalyzer with which it is possible to make the most of an existing device constitution and realize abnormality detection of a cleaning liquid amount simply at low cost.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, the autoanalyzer comprises a discharge nozzle, a dispensation probe, a photometric unit, a determination unit and an output unit. The discharge nozzle discharges a cleaning liquid into a reaction vessel. The dispensation probe dispenses a prescribed amount of a dye agent into the reaction vessel. The photometric unit optically measures a mixture of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle and the dye agent dispensed from the dispensation probe. The determination unit determines, on the basis of measurement by the photometric unit, whether the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle is greater than a prescribed amount and/or whether it is smaller than the prescribed amount. The output unit outputs the result of determination made by the determination unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an automatic analyzer.

  The automatic analyzer is a device for measuring components related to test items such as biochemical test items and immunological test items included in a sample.

  In general, an automatic analyzer measures a plurality of inspection items for one sample. The sample dispensing probe provided in the automatic analyzer sucks a sample for each sample container in which a sample is stored for each examiner such as a patient or a medical examiner, and uses the sucked sample for measurement of each inspection item of the sample. A predetermined amount is discharged into each assigned reaction tube. In addition, the reagent dispensing probe provided in the automatic analyzer sucks a reagent corresponding to each inspection item from a predetermined reagent container, and discharges the sucked reagent to a reaction tube corresponding to the inspection item. Then, the test item is measured using a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in each reaction tube. When the measurement in each reaction tube is completed, the mixed solution is drained from each reaction tube. Each reaction tube is cleaned with a cleaning liquid corresponding to the drained mixed liquid. Each cleaned reaction tube is used to measure the inspection item of the subsequent sample.

  By the way, after the liquid mixture accommodated in the reaction tube whose measurement has been completed is drained, the cleaning liquid used for cleaning the reaction tube is discharged from a cleaning nozzle provided in the automatic analyzer. The amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle (hereinafter referred to as cleaning liquid amount) is set in advance. If the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle is small, the reaction tube cannot be sufficiently cleaned, and the measurement accuracy may be reduced. In view of this, whether or not the amount of the cleaning liquid is abnormal is checked, for example, during regular maintenance of the apparatus.

  Confirm the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle into the reaction tube by, for example, transferring the cleaning liquid discharged to the reaction tube from the reaction tube to a measuring cylinder such as a graduated cylinder or / and meter glass with a pipette or / and a syringe. It is done by doing. Alternatively, the cleaning liquid is sucked from the reaction tube from which the cleaning liquid has been discharged, for example, by a suction drain nozzle, and the suctioned flow rate is measured. However, such measurement and measurement of the amount of the cleaning liquid is troublesome because the cleaning liquid must be moved from the reaction tube. Further, when the cleaning liquid is moved from the reaction tube, there is a possibility that the cleaning liquid may spill or leak in the middle, so that the accurate amount of the cleaning liquid cannot be measured or measured.

JP 2012-220340 A JP 2001-235422 A

  An object of the embodiment is to provide an automatic analyzer capable of easily and inexpensively detecting an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid and improving measurement reliability.

  According to the embodiment, the automatic analyzer includes a discharge nozzle, a dispensing probe, a photometric unit, a determination unit, and an output unit. The discharge nozzle discharges the cleaning liquid into the reaction container. The dispensing probe dispenses a predetermined amount of the coloring agent into the reaction container. The photometry unit optically measures a mixed liquid of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle and the coloring agent dispensed from the dispensing probe. The determination unit determines at least one of whether the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle is larger than a predetermined amount or smaller than a predetermined amount based on the measurement by the photometry unit. . The output unit outputs the determination result determined by the determination unit.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis mechanism in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the cleaning mechanism in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a setting screen for setting conditions for detecting an abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount, which is displayed on a display circuit included in the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a flow in which the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment measures absorbance. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a flow in which the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment determines abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an error notification screen when it is determined that some cleaning nozzles according to the embodiment are abnormal. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an error notification screen when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the flow rate adjustment valve according to the modification. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an error notification screen when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the cleaning liquid supply pump and / or the flow path between the cleaning liquid supply pump and the flow rate adjustment valve according to the modification. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a modification. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a flow in which the automatic analyzer according to the modification determines an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, an automatic analyzer according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment. The automatic analyzer 1 includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface circuit 5, an output interface circuit 6, a storage circuit 7, and a control circuit 8.

  The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample and a reagent used for each inspection item set for the sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures a mixed solution of a sample and a reagent, and generates standard data represented by, for example, absorbance and test data.

  The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes calibration data, analysis data, and the like based on the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis circuit 3 reads the operation program from the storage circuit 7 and generates calibration data, analysis data, and the like according to the operation program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data indicating the relationship between the standard data and a standard value preset in the standard sample. The analysis circuit 3 generates analysis data represented as a concentration value and an enzyme activity value based on the test data and the calibration data of the test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data and analysis data to the control circuit 8.

  The drive mechanism 4 is realized by a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like. The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 8.

  The input interface circuit 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch pad on which an instruction is input by touching the operation surface. The input interface circuit 5 receives, for example, settings of analysis parameters and the like of each inspection item related to the sample requested to be measured by the operator. The input interface circuit 5 is connected to the control circuit 8, converts an operation instruction input from the operator into an electrical signal, and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 8. In the present specification, the input interface circuit 5 is not limited to one having physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 8 is also an input interface. An example of circuit 5 is included.

  The output interface circuit 6 includes a display circuit 61 such as a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, and a plasma display, and a printing circuit 62 such as a printer. The output interface circuit 6 is connected to the control circuit 8 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 8.

  For example, the display circuit 61 displays calibration data and analysis data supplied from the control circuit 8. The display circuit 61 displays error information relating to the amount of cleaning liquid (hereinafter referred to as cleaning liquid amount) supplied from the control circuit 8. The display circuit 61 displays a setting screen for setting conditions for detecting an abnormality in the cleaning liquid amount. Further, the display circuit 61 displays a predetermined error notification screen regarding the cleaning liquid amount.

  The printing circuit 62 prints the calibration data and analysis data supplied from the control circuit 8 on printer paper or the like according to a preset format. The printing circuit 62 prints the jam error report supplied from the control circuit 8 on printer paper or the like according to a preset format.

  The storage circuit 7 includes a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory. The storage circuit 7 stores an operation program executed by the analysis circuit 3 and an operation program executed by the control circuit 8. The storage circuit 7 stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each inspection item. The storage circuit 7 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each test sample. The storage circuit 7 stores reference value data used in an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is used when cleaning the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 provided in the analysis mechanism 2. The abnormality detection process is a process for detecting whether or not the cleaning liquid amount is abnormal, and is executed at a predetermined timing, for example, when the apparatus is activated. Since it is difficult to detect that the amount of the cleaning liquid has decreased during the normal measurement operation, the abnormality detection process is executed at a timing different from the normal measurement operation. Further, the reference value data is a reference value used when detecting whether or not the amount of the cleaning liquid is abnormal, and is represented by, for example, absorbance or transmitted light amount.

  The control circuit 8 is a processor that functions as the center of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 8 executes an operation program stored in the storage circuit 7, thereby realizing a function corresponding to the operation program.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIG. The analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIG. 2 includes a reaction disk 201, a sample disk 202, a first reagent storage 203, a reagent rack 203a, a second reagent storage 204, and a reagent rack 204a.

  The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 2011 arranged in an annular shape. The reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals. The reaction tube 2011 is made of, for example, glass.

  The sample disk 202 is provided in the vicinity of the reaction disk 201. The sample disk 202 holds a plurality of sample containers 100 in which a sample such as blood is accommodated by rotating. The sample disk 202 moves the sample container 100 containing the sample to be dispensed to the sample suction position.

  The first reagent storage 203 keeps the reagent container 101 that contains the first reagent that reacts with the predetermined components included in each of the standard sample and the test sample. A reagent rack 203a is rotatably provided in the first reagent storage 203. The reagent rack 203a holds a plurality of reagent containers 101. The reagent rack 203a also holds a predetermined dedicated container in which a solution used for detecting an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid is stored. The solution used for detecting an abnormality in the amount of the cleaning liquid is, for example, a coloring agent that adds a predetermined color to the cleaning liquid. The coloring agent is, for example, an orange G solution. In the following description, it is assumed that the solution used for detecting an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid is an orange G solution. The dedicated container for storing the orange G solution may be held in the reagent rack 204a or the sample disk 202.

  For example, the second reagent storage 204 keeps the reagent container 102 containing the second reagent paired with the first reagent of the two reagent system cold. A reagent rack 204a is rotatably provided in the second reagent storage 204. The reagent rack 204a holds a plurality of reagent containers 102.

  2 includes a sample dispensing arm 205, a sample dispensing probe 206, a washing tank 206a, a first reagent dispensing arm 207, a first reagent dispensing probe 208, a washing tank 208a, and a second tank. Reagent dispensing arm 209, second reagent dispensing probe 210, cleaning tank 210a, first stirring arm 211, first stirring bar 212, cleaning tank 212a, second stirring arm 213, second stirring bar 214, and cleaning tank 214a Is provided.

  The sample dispensing arm 205 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the sample disk 202 so as to be vertically movable and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The sample dispensing arm 205 holds a sample dispensing probe 206 at one end. The sample dispensing arm 205 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. As the sample dispensing arm 205 rotates, the sample dispensing probe 206 rotates along an arcuate rotation trajectory. A sample suction position at which the sample dispensing probe 206 sucks the sample from the sample container 100 is set on the rotating track. A sample discharge position for discharging the sample sucked by the sample dispensing probe 206 to the reaction tube 2011 is set at a position different from the sample suction position on the rotation trajectory. Further, a cleaning position where the sample dispensing probe 206 is cleaned is set at a position different from the sample suction position and the sample discharge position on the rotation trajectory. A cleaning tank 206a for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 206 is provided at the cleaning position. The rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 206 intersects the movement trajectory of the sample container 100 held on the sample disc 202 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disc 201. The intersections with the respective movement trajectories are the sample suction position and the sample discharge position.

  The sample dispensing probe 206 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the sample suction position, the sample discharge position, and the cleaning position. Further, the sample dispensing probe 206 sucks the sample from the sample container 100 located at the sample suction position according to the control of the control circuit 8. The sample dispensing probe 206 discharges the sucked sample to the reaction tube 2011 located at the sample discharge position according to the control of the control circuit 8.

  The first reagent dispensing arm 207 is provided in the vicinity of the outer periphery of the reaction disc 201 so as to be vertically movable and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The first reagent dispensing arm 207 holds the first reagent dispensing probe 208 at one end. The first reagent dispensing arm 207 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. As the first reagent dispensing arm 207 is rotated, the first reagent dispensing probe 208 is rotated along an arcuate rotation trajectory. A first reagent dispensing position at which the first reagent dispensing probe 208 aspirates the first reagent corresponding to each inspection item from the reagent container 101 disposed in the first reagent storage 203 and the aspiration are on the rotation trajectory. A first reagent discharge position for discharging the first reagent to the reaction tube 2011 is set. The rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 208 is the movement trajectory of the reagent container 101 (reagent suction port) held in the reagent rack 203a in the first reagent storage 203, and the reaction held in the reaction disk 201. It intersects with each movement trajectory of the tube 2011. The intersections with the respective movement trajectories are the first reagent suction position and the first reagent discharge position.

  In addition, a cleaning position where the first reagent dispensing probe 208 is cleaned is set on the rotation trajectory. At this cleaning position, a cleaning tank 208a for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe 208 is provided. The cleaning tank 208a cleans the first reagent dispensing probe 208 every time the first reagent dispensing corresponding to each inspection item is completed.

  The first reagent dispensing probe 208 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the first reagent suction position and the first reagent discharge position on the rotation path. Further, the first reagent dispensing probe 208 aspirates the first reagent from the reagent container 101 located at the first reagent aspirating position according to the control of the control circuit 8. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 discharges the aspirated first reagent to the reaction tube 2011 located at the first reagent discharge position under the control of the control circuit 8. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 sucks the orange G solution from the dedicated container located at the first reagent suction position according to the control of the control circuit 8. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 discharges the aspirated orange G solution to the reaction tube 2011 located at the first reagent discharge position according to the control of the control circuit 8.

  The second reagent dispensing arm 209 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the second reagent storage 204 so as to be vertically movable in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The second reagent dispensing arm 209 holds the second reagent dispensing probe 210 at one end. The second reagent dispensing arm 209 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. When the second reagent dispensing arm 209 is rotated, the second reagent dispensing probe 210 is rotated along an arcuate rotation trajectory. The second reagent dispensing probe 210 aspirates the second reagent corresponding to each inspection item from the reagent container 102 held in the reagent rack 204a arranged in the second reagent storage 204 on the rotation trajectory. A second reagent suction position and a second reagent discharge position for discharging the sucked second reagent to the reaction tube 2011 are set. The rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 210 is the movement trajectory of the reagent container 101 (reagent suction port) held in the reagent rack 204a in the second reagent storage 204, and the reaction held in the reaction disk 201. It intersects with each movement trajectory of the tube 2011. The intersections with the respective movement trajectories are the second reagent suction position and the second reagent discharge position.

  In addition, a cleaning position where the second reagent dispensing probe 210 is cleaned is set on the rotation trajectory. At this cleaning position, a cleaning tank 210a for cleaning the second reagent dispensing probe 210 is provided. The cleaning tank 210a cleans the second reagent dispensing probe 210 every time the second reagent dispensing corresponding to each inspection item is completed.

  The second reagent dispensing probe 210 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the second reagent suction position and the second reagent discharge position on the rotation path. Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 210 aspirates the second reagent from the reagent container 102 located at the second reagent aspirating position according to the control of the control circuit 8. Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 210 discharges the aspirated second reagent to the reaction tube 2011 located at the second reagent discharge position according to the control of the control circuit 8.

  The first stirring arm 211 and the second stirring arm 213 are provided in the vicinity of the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. A first stirring bar 212 is provided at the tip of the first stirring arm 211. The first stirring arm 211 holds the first stirring bar 212 and is movable up and down in the vertical direction. The first stirring arm 211 is rotatable in the horizontal direction, and the first stirring bar 212 can be moved along an arcuate rotation trajectory. The first stirrer 212 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201 and the cleaning position provided beside the reaction disk 201. The first stirrer 212 stirs the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011 disposed at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

  The cleaning position is on the rotation path of the first stirrer 212, and a cleaning tank 212a for cleaning the first stirrer 212 is provided there. In the cleaning tank 212a, the first stirrer 212 in which the mixed liquid of the sample and the first reagent is stirred is washed. In the cleaning tank 212a, the first stirrer 212 obtained by stirring the mixed liquid of the cleaning liquid and the orange G solution is cleaned.

  A second stirring bar 214 is provided at the tip of the second stirring arm 213. The second stirring arm 213 holds the second stirring bar 214 and is movable up and down in the vertical direction. The second stirring arm 213 is rotatable in the horizontal direction, and can move the second stirring element 214 along an arcuate rotation trajectory. The second stirrer 214 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the second stirring position on the reaction disk 201 and the cleaning position provided on the side of the reaction disk 201. The second stirrer 214 stirs the mixed solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction tube 2011 disposed at the second stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

  The cleaning position is on the rotation path of the second stirring bar 214, and a cleaning tank 214a for cleaning the second stirring bar 214 is provided there. In the cleaning tank 214a, the second stirrer 214 in which the mixed solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent is stirred is cleaned.

The analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIG. 2 includes a photometric unit 220 and a cleaning mechanism 230.
The photometric unit 220 irradiates the mixed liquid of the sample and reagent discharged into the reaction tube 2011 with light, and optically measures the light that has passed through the mixed liquid. The photometric unit 220 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometric unit 220 irradiates light from the light source to the reaction tube 2011 under the control of the control circuit 8. The photodetector detects light that has passed through the mixed solution of the standard sample and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011 or the mixed solution of the sample to be tested and the reagent. Then, the photodetector generates standard data or test data represented by, for example, absorbance based on the detected light intensity. The photometric unit 220 detects light that has passed through the mixture of the orange G solution and the cleaning liquid. Then, the photodetector generates maintenance data represented by, for example, absorbance based on the detected light intensity. The photometry unit 220 outputs the generated standard data, test data, and maintenance data to the analysis circuit 3.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the cleaning mechanism 230. The cleaning mechanism 230 includes a cleaning liquid supply unit 240, a cleaning nozzle group 250, a drainage unit 260, a flow rate adjustment unit 270, a three-way solenoid valve 281, a three-way solenoid valve 282, a three-way solenoid valve 291, and a three-way solenoid valve 292. The cleaning mechanism 230 includes a detergent container 103 that stores, for example, an alkaline detergent and a detergent container 104 that stores an acidic detergent, which are used for cleaning the reaction tube 2011.

  The cleaning nozzle group 250 is a group of nozzles provided with a predetermined pipe. The cleaning nozzle group 250 includes a first nozzle 251 to an eighth nozzle 258. The first nozzle 251, the second nozzle 252, the third nozzle 253, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, the sixth nozzle 256, the seventh nozzle 257, and the eighth nozzle 258 are: 3 provided above cleaning positions W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, B, W7, and W8 set for cleaning the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201, respectively. Yes. The first nozzle 251 to the eighth nozzle 258 move in the vertical direction under the control of the control circuit 8.

  The cleaning liquid supply unit 240 includes a first supply pump 241, a second supply pump 242, and a third supply pump 243.

  The first supply pump 241 sucks pure water purified by the pure water apparatus 300. The first supply pump 241 supplies the sucked pure water to the flow rate adjustment unit 270 as a cleaning liquid.

  The second supply pump 242 sucks pure water and alkaline detergent from the pure water device 300 and the detergent container 103 via the three-way electromagnetic valve 281, and generates a diluted solution obtained by diluting the sucked alkaline detergent with pure water. Note that the symbol “NO (normally open)” attached to the three-way solenoid valve 281 and the three-way solenoid valves 271, 282, 291 and 292 shown in FIG. 3 is in an open state when the solenoid valve is not energized. This indicates that the solenoid valve is closed when energized. “NC (normally closed)” indicates that the solenoid valve is in a closed state when not energized, and is in an open state when energized. “COM (common hole)” indicates that the solenoid valve is a common valve. The second supply pump 242 supplies the generated diluted solution as an alkaline cleaning solution to the third nozzle 253 via the three-way solenoid valve 281 and the three-way solenoid valve 282. Thereby, the alkaline cleaning liquid is discharged from the third nozzle 253 to the reaction tube 2011 located at the cleaning position W3.

  The third supply pump 243 sucks pure water and acidic detergent from the pure water device 300 and the detergent container 104 via the three-way electromagnetic valve 291 and generates a diluted solution obtained by diluting the sucked acidic detergent with pure water. The third supply pump 243 supplies the generated diluted solution as an acidic cleaning solution to the second nozzle 252 via the three-way solenoid valve 291 and the three-way solenoid valve 292. Accordingly, the acidic cleaning liquid is discharged from the second nozzle 252 to the reaction tube 2011 located at the cleaning position W2.

  The flow rate adjusting unit 270 supplies a predetermined amount of the cleaning liquid supplied from the first supply pump 241 to the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256. The flow rate adjustment unit 270 includes a three-way electromagnetic valve 271 and a flow rate adjustment valve 272. In the three-way solenoid valve 271, the solenoid valve to which “NC” is attached is opened for a predetermined time in accordance with the control of the control circuit 8. Further, the degree of opening and closing of the flow rate adjustment valve 272 is manually adjusted by an operator or the like. As a result, a predetermined amount of cleaning liquid is supplied to the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256. The supplied cleaning liquid is discharged from the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256 to the reaction tubes 2011 located at the cleaning positions W1, W4, W5, and B, respectively. Is done.

  The drainage unit 260 includes a first drainage pump 261 and a second drainage pump 262. For example, the first drainage pump 261 supplies a predetermined liquid stored in the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the washing positions W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, B, and W7 to the first nozzle 251 and the second The nozzle 252, the third nozzle 253, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, the sixth nozzle 256, and the seventh nozzle 257 are respectively sucked. The first drain pump 261 drains the sucked liquid to the drain tank. The second drainage pump 262 sucks the predetermined liquid stored in the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the cleaning position W8 by the eighth nozzle 258. The second drainage pump 262 drains the sucked liquid to the drainage tank.

  The control circuit 8 according to the present embodiment implements various functions shown in FIG. 1 by executing the operation program read from the storage circuit 7. That is, the control circuit 8 includes a system control function 81, a determination function 82, and an output control function 83. In the present embodiment, a case where the system control function 81, the determination function 82, and the output control function 83 are realized by a single processor will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and the system control function 81, the determination function 82, and the output control function 83 may be realized by each processor executing an operation program.

  The system control function 81 is a function that controls each part in the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface circuit 5.

  The determination function 82 is a function for determining whether or not the amount of the cleaning liquid used in the cleaning mechanism 230 is abnormal based on the maintenance data and the reference value data. When the determination function 82 is executed, the control circuit 8 determines whether or not the cleaning liquid amount is abnormal based on the maintenance data and the reference value data.

  The output control function 83 is a function for controlling the output interface circuit 6 based on the determination result regarding the state of the cleaning mechanism 230 determined by the determination function 82 and outputting information regarding the cleaning mechanism 230. When the output control function 83 is executed, the control circuit 8 causes the display circuit 61 to display error information regarding the amount of cleaning liquid, for example. Further, the control circuit 8 causes the printing circuit 62 to print error information related to the amount of cleaning liquid, for example.

  Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In the automatic analyzer 1, various conditions are set in advance before executing the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process. Items of various conditions include “schedule”, “solution”, “reference value (Abs)”, “absorbance change rate allowable range”, and the like. “Schedule” is an item for setting the timing for starting the abnormality detection process. “Solution” is an item for setting the location of the solution used for detecting an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid and the dedicated container in which the solution is stored. “Reference value (Abs)” is an item for setting the absorbance used as reference value data for the abnormality detection process. The “absorbance change rate allowable range” is an item for setting an allowable range of the absorbance change rate used for determining whether or not the amount of the cleaning liquid is abnormal. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a setting screen for setting an abnormality detection condition displayed on the display circuit 61 provided in the automatic analyzer 1. In FIG. 4, “Startup” is set in “Schedule”. In addition, “A5”, which is a position on the reagent rack 203a, and “Orange G 300 ppm”, which is the name of a solution used for detecting an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid, are set in “Solution”. In addition, “2.308” is set in “reference value (Abs)”. This set value is the absorbance obtained when the absorbance of a mixed solution of, for example, 200 μl of pure water and 60 μl of orange G solution having a concentration of 300 ppm is measured. In addition, “4” is set in the “absorbance change rate allowable range”. When “4” is set, the allowable range of the absorbance change rate is ± 4% from the reference value. This set value is determined with reference to the actual measurement value. For example, when the amount of the cleaning liquid is increased by 5% from 200 μl, the absorbance obtained by measuring the absorbance of 210 μl of pure water and the orange G solution having a concentration of 60 μl of 300 ppm is “2.222”. The absorbance change rate with respect to the reference value “2.308” is “−3.73%”. When the amount of the cleaning solution is reduced by 5% from 200 μl, the absorbance obtained by measuring the absorbance of 190 μl of pure water and 60 μl of the orange G solution having a concentration of 300 ppm is “2.400”. The absorbance change rate with respect to the reference value “2.308” is “+ 3.99%”. Therefore, when it is desired to set the allowable error range of the cleaning liquid amount from 200 μl to ± 5%, the “absorbance change rate allowable range” is, for example, the absorbance change rates “−3.73%” and “+3” obtained when actually measured. .99% "is determined to be" 4 ". Hereinafter, description will be made on the assumption of various conditions specified on the setting screen shown in FIG.

  First, an operation when the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment measures absorbance in the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow in which the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment measures absorbance. Hereinafter, a case where the cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256 is pure water will be described as an example. Further, it is assumed that the orange G solution is accommodated in a dedicated container held in the reagent rack 203a.

  When the apparatus is activated, the control circuit 8 executes the system control function 81 based on various preset conditions. By executing the system control function 81, the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to rotate the reaction disk 201 so that the empty reaction tube 2011 stops at the cleaning positions W1, W4, W5, and B (step SA1). ).

  The control circuit 8 controls the first supply pump 241 and the flow rate adjustment unit 270, and the first nozzle 251, the first flow rate for each empty reaction tube 2011 stopped at the cleaning positions W 1, W 4, W 5, and B A predetermined amount, for example, 200 μl of cleaning liquid is discharged from each of the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256 (step SA2).

  The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move, for example, the reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the first nozzle 251 to the first reagent discharge position (step SA3).

  The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 and, for example, sucks the orange G solution from the predetermined dedicated container held on the reagent rack 203a by the first reagent dispensing probe 208. The control circuit 8 discharges the aspirated orange G solution by the first reagent dispensing probe 208 into the reaction tube 2011 moved to the first reagent discharge position (step SA4).

  The control circuit 8 performs a reaction in which the orange G solution is not discharged among the reaction tubes 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the first nozzle 231, the fourth nozzle 234, the fifth nozzle 235, and the sixth nozzle 236. It is determined whether or not the tube 2011 is present (step SA5). When the control circuit 8 determines that there is a reaction tube 2011 from which the orange G solution has not been discharged (Yes in step SA5), the process from step SA3 to SA5 is performed for each reaction tube 2011 from which the orange G solution has not been discharged. Execute.

  When the control circuit 8 determines that there is no reaction tube 2011 from which the orange G solution has not been discharged, that is, from the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256. When the orange G solution is discharged to all the reaction tubes 2011 from which the cleaning liquid has been discharged (No in step SA5), the drive mechanism 4 is controlled, for example, the reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid has been discharged from the first nozzle 251. And move to the first stirring position (step SA6).

  The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 and stirs the mixed liquid of the cleaning liquid and the orange G solution accommodated in the reaction tube 2011 moved to the first stirring position by the first stirrer 212 (step SA7). . The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 and cleans the first stirrer 212 used for stirring the mixed solution by the cleaning tank 212a (step SA8).

  The control circuit 8 determines whether or not there is a reaction tube 2011 containing a mixed liquid that has not been stirred among the reaction tubes 2011 from which the orange G solution has been discharged (step SA9). When the control circuit 8 determines that there is a reaction tube 2011 in which a non-stirred mixed solution is accommodated (No in step SA9), the control circuit 8 performs step for each reaction tube 2011 in which a non-stirred mixed solution is accommodated. The processes from SA6 to SA9 are executed.

  When the control circuit 8 determines that there is no reaction tube 2011 in which the unmixed liquid mixture is accommodated, that is, the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle When the mixed liquid of the stored cleaning liquid and the orange G solution is stirred for all the reaction tubes 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the nozzle 256 (Yes in step SA9), the drive mechanism 4 is controlled to store the stirred mixed liquid. The four reaction tubes 2011 to be measured are each measured to generate maintenance data (step SA10).

  Specifically, the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 and rotates the reaction disk 201 to thereby rotate the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle. The reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from 256 is sequentially moved to a position where photometry can be performed by the photometry unit 220. The control circuit 8 controls the photometry unit 220 and makes light incident on the mixed solution contained in the reaction tube 2011 moved to a position where photometry can be performed. Of the incident light, light having a predetermined wavelength component is specifically absorbed by the liquid mixture of the coloring agent and the cleaning liquid. The light that has passed through the liquid mixture is detected by a photodetector provided in the photometric unit 220. The detected light is converted into absorbance by a photodetector. Thereby, maintenance data is generated. In addition, the wavelength of the light to measure may be the same as the wavelength of the light at the time of measuring the liquid mixture of a sample and a reagent, for example. The wavelength of light to be measured is, for example, between 340 nm and 804 nm. Hereinafter, the maintenance data generated by measuring the reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the first nozzle 251 will be referred to as maintenance data D1. Further, maintenance data generated by measuring the reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the fourth nozzle 254 is referred to as maintenance data D2. The maintenance data generated by measuring the reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the fifth nozzle 255 is referred to as maintenance data D3. The maintenance data generated by measuring the reaction tube 2011 from which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the sixth nozzle 256 is referred to as maintenance data D4.

  Next, the flow in which the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment detects an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid using maintenance data represented by the absorbance generated in the analysis mechanism 2 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow in which the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment detects an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid.

  In step SA10 of FIG. 5, the control circuit 8 generates maintenance data D1, D2, D3, and D4 expressed in absorbance for all the mixed liquids of the cleaning liquid and the orange G solution stored in the four reaction tubes 2011. Then, the determination function 82 is executed. By executing the determination function 82, the control circuit 8 reads the reference value data from the storage circuit 7 (step SB1).

  The control circuit 8 calculates the absorbance change rates R1, R2, R3, and R4 using the generated maintenance data D1, D2, D3, and D4 and the read reference value data “2.308”, respectively. (Step SB2).

  After calculating the absorbance change rates R1, R2, R3, and R4, the control circuit 8 has, for example, the calculated absorbance change rate R1 within a predetermined range, that is, within ± 4% from the reference value data “2.308”. Is determined (step SB3).

  When the absorbance change rate R1 is within ± 4% from the reference value data “2.308” (Yes in Step SB3), the control circuit 8 determines that the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle 251 is not abnormal. . Then, the control circuit 8 determines whether or not all the determinations of the abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount have been made for the absorbance change rates R1, R2, R3, and R4 (step SB5).

  When the absorbance change rate R1 is not within ± 4% from the reference value data “2.308” (Yes in Step SB3), the control circuit 8 determines that the amount of the cleaning liquid ejected from the first nozzle 251 is abnormal. . Then, the control circuit 8 sets an error flag related to the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle 251, for example.

  When the control circuit 8 determines that all the determinations of the abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount have not been performed for the absorbance change rates R1, R2, R3, and R4 (No in Step SB5), for example, all the determinations of the abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount are all performed. For the absorbance change rate that has not been performed, the processing from step SB3 to step SB5 is executed.

  When the control circuit 8 determines that all the determinations of the abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount have been made for the absorbance change rates R1, R2, R3, and R4 (Yes in step SB5), the first nozzle 251, the fourth The state of the cleaning mechanism 230 is determined according to the number of error flags set out of the four error flags related to the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle (step SB6). . Specifically, when one, two, or three of the four error flags are set, the control circuit 8 determines that there is an abnormality for each cleaning nozzle for which the error flag is set. To do. In addition, when all of the four error flags are set, the control circuit 8 sets the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256. It is determined that there is an abnormality in the flow rate adjustment valve 272 located upstream.

  The control circuit 8 causes the display circuit 61 to display error information regarding the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250 according to the determination result determined by the execution of the determination function 82 (step SB7). For example, the control circuit 8 executes the output control function 83 based on the determination result that there is an abnormality for each cleaning nozzle, and displays the error notification screen shown in FIG. 7 on the display circuit 61. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an error notification screen when it is determined that some cleaning nozzles according to the present embodiment are abnormal. In FIG. 7, the control circuit 8 executes the output control function 83 based on the determination result that there is an abnormality in the fourth nozzle 254 and the fifth nozzle 255, and displays the error shown in FIG. Display the notification screen. In FIG. 7, for each error that occurs, information that can be identified by the operator, for example, an “error number” that indicates the type of error, an “occurrence date and time” that indicates the date and time that the error occurred, and the location and content of the error “Content” is displayed. Specifically, for the fourth nozzle 254, the “error number” is “54”, the “occurrence date / time” is “2016/4/11 10:51:09”, and the error content is “detection of a decrease in the amount of cleaning liquid”. “Nozzle 254” ”is displayed. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, for the fifth nozzle 255, the “error number” is “55”, the “occurrence date / time” is “2016/4/11 10:51:10”, and the “content” is “ “A decrease in the amount of cleaning liquid has been detected (nozzle 255)” is displayed. This prompts the operator to check the cleaning mechanism 230. The control circuit 8 may cause the printing circuit 62 to print the “error number”, “occurrence date / time”, and “content”.

  Further, the control circuit 8 is based on the determination result that the flow rate adjustment valve 272 located upstream of the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle is abnormal. The output control function 83 is executed, and the error notification screen shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an error notification screen when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the flow rate adjustment valve 272 according to the modification. In FIG. 8, the control circuit 8 executes the output control function 83 based on the determination result that the flow rate adjustment valve 272 is abnormal, and displays the error notification screen shown in FIG. 8 on the display circuit 61. In FIG. 8, an “error number” indicating the type of error, an “occurrence date” indicating the date and time when the error occurred, and an “content” indicating the error occurrence location, the error content, and the resolution corresponding to the error that occurred. Is displayed. In the error notification screen shown in FIG. 8, “error number” is “61”, “occurrence date” is “2016/4/12 8:12:32”, and “content” is “cleaning liquid” for the flow rate adjusting valve 272. The amount is low. Please adjust the flow control valve (flow control valve 272). At this time, the error occurrence place in “content” is “(flow rate adjusting valve 272)”. In addition, the content of the error is “The amount of the cleaning solution has decreased.” Also, the content of the solution to eliminate the error that occurred is “Adjust the flow control valve”. This prompts the operator to adjust the flow rate adjustment valve 272.

  For example, after the operator adjusts the flow rate adjustment valve 272, when an instruction to perform the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process is given again, the control circuit 8 performs the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process again. In response to the execution instruction, the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process is executed again. When the control circuit 8 determines that the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256 is abnormal, FIG. Display the displayed error notification screen. FIG. 9 shows an error notification screen when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the flow path between the first supply pump 241 and / or the first supply pump 241 and the flow rate adjustment unit 270 according to the modification. FIG. In FIG. 9, an “error number” indicating the type of error, an “occurrence date” indicating the date and time when the error occurred, and “content” indicating the error occurrence location, the content of the error, and the resolution corresponding to the error that occurred. Is displayed. In the error notification screen shown in FIG. 9, “error number” is “95”, “occurrence date / time” is “2016/4/13 15:27:45”, and “content” is the first supply pump 241. “An abnormality has occurred in the cleaning liquid flow path. Check the flow path and the supply pump (supply pump 241)” is displayed. At this time, the error occurrence location in “content” is “(supply pump 241)”. The error content is “A problem has occurred in the cleaning liquid flow path”. Also, the content of the solution to eliminate the error that occurred is "Check the flow path and supply pump". This prompts the operator to check the flow path and the supply pump.

  According to the above embodiment, the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to discharge the cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle group 250 to the reaction tubes 2011 located at the cleaning positions W1, W4, W5, and B. The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 and applies the orange G solution to each of the reaction tubes 2011 moved from the cleaning positions W1, W4, W5, and B to the first reagent discharge position by the first reagent dispensing probe 208. Is discharged. The control circuit 8 measures the absorbance of the mixed liquid of the cleaning liquid and orange G solution discharged to the reaction tube 2011. The control circuit 8 determines at least one of whether the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged to the reaction tube 2011 is greater than or less than a preset amount based on the measured absorbance. The control circuit 8 controls the display circuit 61 and displays the determined determination result. This allows the operator to recognize that there is an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid ejected from the cleaning nozzle group 250 without adding a new configuration to the configuration included in the conventional automatic analyzer, and to prompt the inspection of the automatic analyzer. be able to.

  Therefore, according to the automatic analyzer according to the present embodiment, it is possible to detect the abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount easily and inexpensively and improve the reliability of measurement.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the control circuit 8 causes the display circuit 61 to display information that can be identified by the operator or the like based on the determination result determined by the execution of the determination function 82. Thus, the operator or the like can take an appropriate action according to the display content displayed on the display circuit 61.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the control circuit 8 causes the display circuit 61 to display the content of the cancellation corresponding to the error that has occurred in addition to the content of the error that has occurred. As a result, the operator or the like can efficiently resolve the generated error.

[Modification]
In the embodiment described above, an example has been described in which the control circuit 8 notifies the user with an error notification screen displayed on the display circuit 61 when there is an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250. In the modified example, a case will be described in which the control circuit 8 performs processing such that the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250 is normal when the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250 is abnormal.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an automatic analyzer 1A according to a modification. The automatic analyzer 1A includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface circuit 5, an output interface circuit 6, a storage circuit 7, and a control circuit 8A.

  The configurations and functions of the analysis mechanism 2, the analysis circuit 3, the drive mechanism 4, the input interface circuit 5, the output interface circuit 6, and the storage circuit 7 are the same as the analysis mechanism 2 and the analysis circuit 3 provided in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the above embodiment. The drive mechanism 4, the input interface circuit 5, the output interface circuit 6, and the storage circuit 7 are the same.

  The control circuit 8A according to the modification realizes various functions shown in FIG. 10 by executing the operation program read from the storage circuit 7. That is, the control circuit 8A includes a system control function 81, a determination function 82, an output control function 83, and a valve adjustment function 84. In the present embodiment, a case where the system control function 81, the determination function 82, the output control function 83, and the valve adjustment function 84 are realized by a single processor will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the system control function 81, the determination function 82, the output control function 83, and the valve adjustment function 84 can be realized by configuring a control circuit by combining a plurality of independent processors and executing the operation program by each processor. I do not care.

  The functions realized by the system control function 81, the determination function 82, and the output control function 83 are the same as the system control function 81, the determination function 82, and the output control function 83 included in the control circuit 8 according to the above embodiment.

  The valve adjustment function 84 uses the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256 according to the determination result regarding the state of the cleaning mechanism 230 determined by the determination function 82. This is a function for adjusting the amount of cleaning liquid discharged. When the valve adjustment function 84 is executed, the control circuit 8A calculates, for example, an increase or decrease in the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle based on the absorbance change rate calculated by the execution of the determination function 82. To do. The control circuit 8A controls the drive mechanism 4 based on the calculated increase or decrease in the amount of cleaning liquid, for example, a three-way solenoid valve so that the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle 251 becomes an appropriate amount. The opening / closing time of 271 is adjusted.

  Next, the operation of the modification will be described. The flow in which the automatic analyzer 1 according to the modification measures the absorbance in the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process is the same as in the above embodiment.

  Next, a flow in which the automatic analyzer 1 according to the modified example detects an abnormality in the amount of the cleaning liquid using the abnormality detection data represented by the absorbance generated in the analysis mechanism 2 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow in which the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment detects an abnormality in the amount of cleaning liquid.

  The operation from step SC1 to step SC5 is the same as the operation from step SB1 to step SB5 shown in FIG.

  The control circuit 8 determines that the first change in the cleaning liquid amount R1, R2, R3, and R4 is all abnormal (Yes in step SC5), the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the second The state of the cleaning mechanism 230 is determined according to the number of error flags raised among the four error flags related to the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the five nozzles 255 and the sixth nozzle (step SC6). Specifically, when one, two, or three of the four error flags are set, the control circuit 8 determines that there is an abnormality for each cleaning nozzle for which the error flag is set. To do. In addition, when all of the four error flags are set, that is, when all the error flags are set, the control circuit 8 sets the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle. It is determined that there is an abnormality in the flow rate adjustment valve 272 located upstream.

  The control circuit 8 performs a process such that the amount of cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250 becomes normal according to the determination result determined by the execution of the determination function 82 (step SC7). Specifically, the control circuit 8 calculates the increase / decrease amount of the cleaning liquid by converting from the absorbance change rate. The control circuit 8 corrects the opening / closing time of the three-way solenoid valve 271 according to the calculated increase / decrease amount of the cleaning liquid so that the cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250 becomes an appropriate amount. Then, the control circuit 8 executes the cleaning liquid amount abnormality detection process again in order to confirm the validity of the corrected result.

  According to the modification, the control circuit 8 controls the driving mechanism 4 to discharge the cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle group 250 to the reaction tubes 2011 located at the cleaning positions W1, W4, W5, and B. The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 and applies the orange G solution to each of the reaction tubes 2011 moved from the cleaning positions W1, W4, W5, and B to the first reagent discharge position by the first reagent dispensing probe 208. Is discharged. The control circuit 8 measures the absorbance of the mixed liquid of the cleaning liquid and orange G solution discharged to the reaction tube 2011. The control circuit 8 determines at least one of whether the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged to the reaction tube 2011 is greater than or less than a preset amount based on the measured absorbance. The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to correct the opening / closing time of the three-way solenoid valve 271 so that the cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle group 250 becomes an appropriate amount. Thereby, it is possible to eliminate the abnormality in the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the first nozzle 251, the fourth nozzle 254, the fifth nozzle 255, and the sixth nozzle 256 without involving the operator's hand. It becomes.

[Other Embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, by executing the determination function 82, the control circuit 8 changes the absorbance measured in the four reaction tubes 2011 from which the cleaning liquid was discharged during one cycle of the cleaning operation, that is, the reaction disk 201 was rotated once. Although the abnormality detection of the amount of the cleaning liquid is performed based on this, the present invention is not limited to this. The control circuit 8 calculates an average value of absorbance measured in, for example, a cleaning operation of n cycles (n is an integer of 2 or more). The control circuit 8 detects an abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount based on the calculated average value of absorbance. At this time, it is obtained by measuring the liquid mixture stored in the reaction tube 2011 in which the cleaning liquid is discharged from the first nozzle 231, the fourth nozzle 234, the fifth nozzle 235, and the sixth nozzle 236. Absorbance average values Abs _{W1_AVE} , Abs _{W4_AVE} , Abs _{W5_AVE} , and Abs _{B_AVE} are represented by the following equations, respectively.
Abs _{W1_AVE} = (Abs _{W1_1} + Abs _{W1_2} +... + Abs _{W1_n} ) / n (1)
Abs _{W4_AVE} = (Abs _{W4_1} + Abs _{W4_2} +... + Abs _{W4__n} ) / n (2)
Abs _{W5_AVE} = (Abs _{W5_1} + Abs _{W5_2} +... + Abs _{W5_n} ) / n (3)
Abs _{B_AVE} = (Abs _{B_1} + Abs _{B_2} +... + Abs _{B_n} ) / n (4)

  In the above embodiment, the reference value data is an example in which the designated value is preset by the operator from the setting screen for setting the condition for detecting the abnormality of the cleaning liquid amount, but is not limited thereto. For example, the specification of the “measurement at the start of inspection” check column shown in FIG. 4 is accepted, and the absorbance measured for example after the apparatus is started and immediately before the process of step SA1 shown in FIG. You may make it use as a value of the light absorbency used as value data. Specifically, when the orange G solution is stored in the reagent rack 203a, the control circuit 8 controls the driving mechanism 4 and, for example, 200 μl by the second reagent dispensing probe 210 different from the first reagent dispensing probe. Is dispensed into an empty reaction tube 2011. The 200 μl of pure water used for measurement may be a pressure transmission medium used for the second reagent dispensing probe 210. Then, the control circuit 8 dispenses an orange G solution having a concentration of 60 μl and a concentration of 300 ppm with the first reagent dispensing probe. The control circuit 8 measures the reaction tube 2011 from which 200 μl of pure water and 60 μl of orange G solution having a concentration of 300 ppm are discharged, and acquires the absorbance. The control circuit 8 stores this absorbance in the storage circuit 7 as reference value data.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although orange G solution was used as a pigment | dye agent, it is not limited to this. The coloring agent may be, for example, a sample measurement reagent having a predetermined color that is mixed with a test sample and used to generate test data. As the sample measurement reagent, a reagent whose concentration constant and absorbance proportionality constant are known is used. Examples of the sample measuring reagent include a Ca reagent containing the color former Arsenazo 3. At this time, the absorbance and calibration curve acquired in advance for the sample measurement reagent are determined according to the degree to which a component that specifically reacts with the reagent is included in the test sample. Since it is determined, it cannot be used as it is as an absorbance and calibration curve that is determined simply according to the degree of dilution. For this reason, for example, after the apparatus is started and immediately before the process of step SA1 shown in FIG. 5 is executed, the absorbance and the like of the sample measurement reagent are actually measured, and the absorbance and the calibration curve as reference value data are obtained. It is preferable to do.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the exclusive container which accommodates orange G solution was hold | maintained at the reagent rack 203a, it is not limited to this. For example, the dedicated container may be held on the sample disk 202. At this time, the sample dispensing probe 206 sucks the orange G solution from the dedicated container located at the sample suction position according to the control of the control circuit 8. The sample dispensing probe 206 discharges the sucked orange G solution to the reaction tube 2011 located at the sample discharge position according to the control of the control circuit 8. The dedicated container may be held in the reagent rack 204a. At this time, the second reagent dispensing probe 210 sucks the orange G solution from the dedicated container located at the second reagent suction position according to the control of the control circuit 8. The second reagent dispensing probe 210 discharges the aspirated orange G solution to the reaction tube 2011 located at the second reagent discharge position according to the control of the control circuit 8.

  In the above embodiment, the timing for starting the abnormality detection process for the cleaning liquid amount is “when the apparatus is activated”, but is not limited thereto. For example, in the “schedule” item shown in FIG. 4, when a check column that can be executed every arbitrary time is specified, for example, the abnormality detection process is set to start every 3 hours. Also good.

  The term “processor” used in the above description is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)), a programmable logic device (for example, It means a circuit such as a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The processor implements a function by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit. Note that each processor of the present embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as a single processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize the function. Good. Further, a plurality of components in FIGS. 1 and 10 may be integrated into one processor to realize the function.

  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 embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Automatic analyzer, 1A ... Automatic analyzer, 2 ... Analysis mechanism, 3 ... Analysis circuit, 4 ... Drive mechanism, 5 ... Input interface circuit, 6 ... Output interface circuit, 7 ... Memory circuit, 8 ... Control circuit, 8A ... Control circuit 61 ... Display circuit 62 ... Print circuit 81 ... System control function 82 ... Determination function 83 ... Output control function 84 ... Valve adjustment function 100 ... Sample container 101 ... Reagent container 102 ... Reagent Container, 103 ... Detergent container, 104 ... Detergent container, 201 ... Reaction disk, 202 ... Sample disk, 203 ... First reagent storage, 203a ... Reagent rack, 204 ... Second reagent storage, 204a ... Reagent rack, 205 ... For sample Injection arm, 206 ... sample dispensing probe, 206a ... washing tank, 207 ... first reagent dispensing arm, 208 ... first reagent dispensing probe, 208a ... washing tank 209 ... second reagent dispensing arm, 210 ... second reagent dispensing probe, 210a ... washing tank, 211 ... first stirring arm, 212 ... first stirring bar, 212a ... washing tank, 213 ... second stirring arm, 214 ... second stirrer, 214a ... washing tank, 220 ... photometry unit, 221 ... first supply pump, 230 ... washing mechanism, 231 ... first nozzle, 234 ... fourth nozzle, 235 ... fifth nozzle, 236 ... sixth nozzle, 240 ... cleaning liquid supply unit, 241 ... first supply pump, 242 ... second supply pump, 243 ... third supply pump, 250 ... cleaning nozzle group, 251 ... first nozzle, 252 ... 2nd nozzle, 253 ... 3rd nozzle, 254 ... 4th nozzle, 255 ... 5th nozzle, 256 ... 6th nozzle, 257 ... 7th nozzle, 258 ... 8th nozzle, 260 Drainage unit, 260 ... Drainage unit, 261 ... First drainage pump, 262 ... Second drainage pump, 270 ... Flow rate adjustment unit, 271 ... Three-way solenoid valve, 272 ... Flow rate regulation valve, 281 ... Three-way solenoid Valve, 282 ... three-way solenoid valve, 291 ... three-way solenoid valve, 292 ... three-way solenoid valve, 300 ... pure water device, 2011 ... reaction tube.

Claims (11)

A discharge nozzle for discharging the cleaning liquid into the reaction vessel;
A dispensing probe for dispensing a predetermined amount of the coloring agent into the reaction vessel;
A photometric unit for optically measuring a mixed liquid of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle and the coloring agent dispensed from the dispensing probe;
A determination unit that determines whether the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle is larger than a predetermined amount based on the measurement by the photometry unit, or at least one of whether the amount is smaller than a predetermined amount;
An automatic analyzer comprising: an output unit that outputs a determination result determined by the determination unit. The dispensing probe dispenses a predetermined amount of a predetermined liquid having the same physical and chemical characteristics as the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle into the reaction container,
The photometric unit optically measures a reference mixed solution of the liquid and the coloring agent dispensed in the reaction container,
The determination unit determines whether or not the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle is greater than a predetermined amount based on the measurement result for the mixed liquid and the measurement result for the reference liquid mixture, or a predetermined amount The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein at least one of whether the number is less is determined.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein a dispensing probe that dispenses the coloring agent into the reaction container is different from a dispensing probe that dispenses the liquid into the reaction container.   The automatic analysis according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the photometric unit irradiates light toward the reaction container containing the mixed liquid and measures light having a predetermined wavelength transmitted through the reaction container. apparatus.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs the determination result so that a person can recognize the result. The photometric unit measures light of a predetermined wavelength,
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the coloring agent absorbs light of the predetermined wavelength measured by the photometry unit in a state of being mixed with the cleaning liquid. The photometric unit measures light of a predetermined wavelength,
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the light having the predetermined wavelength is absorbed by a mixed liquid of the coloring agent and the cleaning liquid.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the coloring agent is a specific reagent that reacts with a specific component contained in a specimen sample.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cleaning liquid is water.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the liquid dispensed by the dispensing probe is a pressure transmission medium of the dispensing probe.   11. The output unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when the determination result indicates that the amount of the cleaning liquid discharged from the discharge nozzle is greater than or less than a predetermined amount, the output unit further notifies a predetermined cancellation response content. Automatic analyzer described in 1.