JP2018059801A - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic analyzer capable of increasing the number of reagent containers that can be stored in a reagent storage without deteriorating accuracy of reading identification information which is attached to a reagent container stored in the reagent storage.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer includes: a first reagent container 13 housing a first reagent and having first reagent identification information to identify the first reagent attached thereto; a first reading unit 21 for reading the identification information attached to the first reagent container 13; a driving unit 40 for moving the first reading unit 21; and a first reagent storage 14 storing a plurality of first reagent containers 13 and refrigerating the first reagent in the stored first reagent containers 13. The driving unit 40 makes the first reading unit 21 go into the first reagent storage 14, and the first reading 21 reads the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent containers 13 in the first reagent storage 14 after going into the first reagent storage 14.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent and measures a mixed solution of the dispensed sample and reagent.

  The automatic analyzer is intended for biochemical test items, immunological test items, and the like, and optically measures changes in color tone and turbidity caused by the reaction of a mixture of a sample collected from a specimen and a reagent for each test item. By this measurement, analysis data represented by the concentration of each test item component contained in the sample, the activity of the enzyme, and the like are generated.

  In this automatic analyzer, analysis of each inspection item selected according to the inspection from among a large number of inspection items is performed. The reagent for each test item is stored in a reagent container, and the reagent container is stored in a reagent store. Identification information identifying each reagent item as a reagent of each inspection item is attached to each reagent container by, for example, a one-dimensional code.

  A first reagent rack that holds a plurality of reagent containers on the outer circumference of two concentric circles so that a large number of reagent containers are stored in the reagent store and the stored many reagent containers can be held; A second reagent rack that holds a plurality of reagent containers is arranged in the reagent storage on the inner circumference. The identification information of each reagent container held in the first and second reagent racks is read from the code by the reader, and information on the holding positions of the respective reagent containers stored in the reagent storage by the first and second reagent racks. To get. Then, the reagent container to be dispensed is moved to a position where the reagent dispensing probe can be sucked by the rotation of the first and second reagent racks, and the reagent dispensing probe dispenses each reagent container into the reaction container. Noted.

  By the way, since the inside of the reagent storage is cooled, dew condensation water is generated. If this condensed water stays in the code, the reader will make a mistake in reading the identification information. In order to avoid this problem, the cord is affixed to the outer peripheral side surface of the reagent container held in the first and second reagent racks, and the reader is disposed on the outer peripheral side of the first reagent rack. Further, two adjacent reagent containers in the first reagent rack are arranged so that the reader can read the identification information of each reagent container in the second reagent rack arranged with the reagent containers in the first reagent rack being separated from each other. It is held at a predetermined interval. For this reason, there is a problem that the number of reagent containers that can be stored in the reagent store is reduced by the amount of the reagent containers that can be held by the first reagent rack.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2014-178311

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to automatically increase the number of reagent containers that can be stored in the reagent store without lowering the reading accuracy of the identification information attached to the reagent containers stored in the reagent store. It is to provide an analysis device.

  In order to achieve the above object, an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention provides 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 plurality of reagent containers containing reagents are stored, a reagent storage for keeping the stored reagent containers cool, a reading unit for optically reading identification information attached to a side surface of the reagent containers, and the reading unit being moved A first drive mechanism that causes the reading unit to enter the reagent storage, and the reading unit reads the identification information in the reagent storage. .

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 the external appearance of the 1st reagent container which concerns on embodiment. Configuration of first reagent storage, first reagent storage, first reagent rack, second reagent rack, first reading unit, first reading arm, first reagent dispensing probe, and first reagent distribution according to the embodiment The top view which shows arrangement | positioning of a note arm. The block diagram which shows the structure of the 1st reading part which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows the structure of the 1st reading arm which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows each stop position of the 1st reading part which concerns on embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the other example of the 1st reagent container which concerns on embodiment, a 1st reading part, and a 1st reading arm. The figure for demonstrating the other example of the 1st reagent container and 1st reading part which concern 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 measures the standard data and test samples by measuring a mixture of each sample such as a standard sample of each test item to be tested and a test sample collected from the test sample and a reagent of each test item. An analysis unit 10 that generates data is provided. The analysis unit 10 includes a plurality of units that perform dispensing of each sample, dispensing of each reagent, and the like, and includes a driving unit 40 that drives these units.

  Further, the automatic analyzer 100 includes an analysis control unit 44 that controls the drive unit 40 to operate each unit of the analysis unit 10. In addition, a reagent information storage unit 45 that stores identification information for identifying a reagent used for measurement in the analysis unit 10 is provided. Moreover, the data processing part 50 which processes the standard data and test data produced | generated by the analysis part 10, and produces | generates the calibration data and analysis data of each test | inspection item is provided.

  The automatic analyzer 100 further includes an output unit 60 that prints out and displays the calibration data and analysis data generated by the data processing unit 50. An operation unit for performing input for setting analysis parameters such as the amount of sample and reagent to be dispensed for each inspection item, input for executing calibration for generating calibration data, input for executing inspection for generating analysis data, etc. 70. Further, a system control unit 71 that controls the analysis control unit 44, the data processing unit 50, and the output unit 60 is provided.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis unit 10. The analysis unit 10 includes a sample disk 12 that holds a plurality of sample containers 11. The sample container 11 accommodates each sample such as a standard sample or a test sample for each inspection item. In addition, a plurality of first reagent containers 13 are stored, and a first reagent storage 14 that keeps the reagents stored in the stored first reagent containers 13 cool is provided. The first reagent container 13 accommodates a reagent containing a component that reacts with a component of each inspection item included in the sample, for example, a first reagent system and a two reagent system first reagent.

  FIG. 3 is a view showing the appearance of the first reagent container 13. The first reagent container 13 is a quadrangular prism and has an opening near one end in the longitudinal direction of the upper surface. The first reagent container 13 includes, on one side face of which the short side near the quadrangular opening forming the upper surface is one side among the four side faces, the first reagent in the first reagent container 13 and The first reagent identification information for identifying the first reagent container 13 is attached by, for example, a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code 131 encoded.

  The first reagent identification information includes information such as an inspection item number for identifying each inspection item, a container number for identifying the first reagent container 13, and an expiration date indicating the usable time limit of the first reagent, for example, a date. Contains. The surface of the cord 131 is covered with a laminate film having water repellency in order to prevent deterioration due to dirt or water.

  In this way, by attaching the first reagent identification information to the side surface of the first reagent container 13 with the code 131, it is possible to prevent the dew condensation water from staying in the code 131 of the first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent container 14. be able to.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the analysis unit 10 includes a second reagent container 18 that stores a plurality of second reagent containers 17 and keeps the reagents stored in the stored second reagent containers 17 cold. The second reagent container 17 accommodates a second reagent that forms a pair with the first reagent of the two-reagent system for each inspection item. The second reagent container 17 is configured in the same manner as the first reagent container 13, and the second reagent container 17 is arranged on one side face of which the short side near the rectangular opening forming the upper surface is one side among the four side faces. The second reagent in the reagent container 17 and the second reagent identification information for identifying the second reagent container 17 are attached with a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

  The analysis unit 10 is arranged in the first reagent storage 14 and holds a plurality of first reagent containers 13 stored in a circular shape outside two concentric circles in the first reagent storage 14 so as to be movable in the circumferential direction. An annular first reagent rack 15 is provided. In addition, a plurality of first reagent containers 13 which are arranged on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack 15 in the first reagent storage 14 and are stored in a circular shape inside two concentric circles in the first reagent storage 14 are surrounded. An annular second reagent rack 16 is provided that is held movably in the direction. An annular first container 17 is disposed in the second reagent container 18 and holds the second reagent containers 17 stored in the second reagent container 18 in a circular shape outside two concentric circles so as to be movable in the circumferential direction. One reagent rack 19 is provided. In addition, a plurality of second reagent containers 17 that are arranged on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack 19 in the second reagent storage 18 and are stored in the second reagent storage 18 in a circular shape inside two concentric circles are surrounded. An annular second reagent rack 20 is provided which is held movably in the direction.

  In addition, the analysis unit 10 has the one side surface at a position facing an arc-shaped trajectory in which one side surface of the first reagent container 13 is moved by the movement of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 stored in the first reagent container 14. The first reading unit 21 that reads the first reagent identification information attached to the first reading unit 21 and the first reading arm 22 that movably supports the first reading unit 21 are provided. The one side surface of the second reagent container 17 is attached to the one side surface at a position opposite to the arcuate trajectory in which one side surface of the second reagent container 17 is moved by the movement of the plurality of second reagent containers 17 stored in the second reagent storage 18. A second reading unit 23 that reads the second reagent identification information and a second reading arm 24 that movably supports the second reading unit 23 are provided.

  The analysis unit 10 includes a plurality of reaction vessels 25 arranged on the circumference, and a reaction disk 26 that holds the reaction vessels 25 so as to be rotatable.

  The analysis unit 10 also includes a sample dispensing probe 27 that sucks the sample in the sample container 11 held on the sample disk 12 and discharges the sample into the reaction container 25 for each inspection item. In addition, a sample dispensing arm 28 that supports the sample dispensing probe 27 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided.

  In addition, the analysis unit 10 includes the first reagent container 13 in the first reagent container 13 of each test item held in the first or second reagent rack 15 or 16 whose first reagent identification information has been read by the first reading unit 21. A first reagent dispensing probe 29 is provided for aspirating one reagent and dispensing it into the reaction container 25 into which the sample has been dispensed. In addition, a first reagent dispensing arm 30 that supports the first reagent dispensing probe 29 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided.

  The analysis unit 10 supports the first stirrer 31 that stirs the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent dispensed in each reaction vessel 25, and the first stirrer 31 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. And a first stirring arm 32.

  In addition, the analysis unit 10 includes the second reagent container 17 in the second reagent container 17 of each test item held in the first or second reagent rack 19 or 20 whose second reagent identification information has been read by the second reading unit 23. A second reagent dispensing probe 33 is provided for aspirating the reagent and dispensing it into the reaction container 25 into which the first reagent has been dispensed. In addition, a second reagent dispensing arm 34 that supports the second reagent dispensing probe 33 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided.

  The analysis unit 10 also includes a second stirrer 35 that stirs the sample dispensed in each reaction vessel 25, a mixed solution of the first reagent and the second reagent, and rotates and moves the second stirrer 35 up and down. And a second stirring arm 36 that is movably supported. Further, each reaction container 25 containing the mixed liquid stirred by the first stirrer 31 and each reaction container 25 containing the mixed liquid stirred by the second stirrer 35 are irradiated with light and optically measured. The measuring unit 37 is provided. In addition, a cleaning nozzle 38 for cleaning each reaction vessel 25 that has been measured by the measuring unit 37 is provided.

  And the measurement part 37 irradiates light to each reaction container 25 which is rotating, and the light which permeate | transmitted the liquid mixture containing the standard sample in the said reaction container 25, or the liquid mixture containing a test sample by the irradiation Is detected. Based on the detected signal, standard data represented by absorbance and test data are generated and output to the data processing unit 50.

  The drive unit 40 shown in FIG. 1 includes each drive mechanism that moves each unit of the analysis unit 10 and each of the first and second reagent containers 13 and 17. Then, each sample container 11 is moved by driving the sample disk 12 of the analysis unit 10. Further, the first reagent rack 15 is driven to move the first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 in the circumferential direction. Further, the second reagent rack 16 is driven to move the first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 in the circumferential direction. Further, the first reagent rack 19 is driven to move each second reagent container 17 held in the first reagent rack 19 in the circumferential direction. Further, the second reagent rack 20 is driven to move each second reagent container 17 held in the second reagent rack 20 in the circumferential direction. Further, the first reading arm 22 is driven to move the first reading unit 21. Further, the second reading arm 24 is driven to move the second reading unit 23. Further, the reaction disk 26 is driven to rotate and move each reaction vessel 25. The sample dispensing arm 28 is driven to move the sample dispensing probe 27 between the sample container 11 and the reaction container 25. Further, the first reagent dispensing arm 30 is driven to move the first reagent dispensing probe 29 between the first reagent container 13 and the reaction container 25 held in the first or second reagent racks 15 and 16. Let Further, the first stirring arm 32 is driven to move the first stirring bar 31 into the reaction vessel 25. Further, the second reagent dispensing arm 34 is driven to move the second reagent dispensing probe 33 between the second reagent container 17 and the reaction container 25 held in the first or second reagent racks 19 and 20. Let In addition, the second stirring arm 36 is driven to move the second stirring bar 35 into the reaction vessel 25.

  The analysis control unit 44 uses the first reagent identification information read by the first reading unit 21 of the analysis unit 10 as the first and second reagent containers 13 in which the first reagent container 13 from which the first reagent identification information has been read is held. The information is stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 in association with the information on the holding positions of the second reagent racks 15 and 16. Further, the second reagent identification information read by the second reading unit 23 is used as the first and second reagent racks 19 and 20 in which the second reagent container 17 in which the second reagent identification information is read is held. And stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 in association with the information on the holding position.

  In addition, when an input for executing calibration is performed from the operation unit 70, the analysis control unit 44 cleans each reaction container 25, dispenses a standard sample for each test item, and sets the first reagent for each test item. Dispensing, stirring of the mixture of the standard sample and the first reagent for each test item, dispensing of the second reagent for each test item, and the mixture of the standard sample, the first reagent and the second reagent for each test item And the measurement of the mixed liquid of each inspection item are performed once every cycle time, and standard data is generated.

  After the calibration is completed, when an input for executing the inspection is performed from the operation unit 70, the cleaning of each reaction container 25, the dispensing of each test sample, the dispensing of the first reagent of each testing item, Stirring the mixed solution of the test reagent and the first reagent of each test item, dispensing the second reagent of each test item, and stirring the mixed solution of the test sample and the first reagent and second reagent of each test item And the measurement of the stirred liquid mixture is performed once for each cycle time, and test data is generated for each inspection item.

  The data processing unit 50 includes a calculation unit 51 and a data storage unit 52. And the calculating part 51 produces | generates the calibration data which show the relationship between a standard value and standard data from the standard value produced | generated by the measurement part 37 of the analysis part 10, and the standard value set to the standard sample of this standard data. Further, analysis data expressed as a concentration value or an activity value is generated from the test data generated by the measurement unit 37 using the calibration data of the test item corresponding to the test data. The data storage unit 52 includes a memory device such as a hard disk, and stores the calibration data generated by the calculation unit 51 for each inspection item. Moreover, the analysis data of each test item generated by the calculation unit 51 is stored for each test sample.

  The output unit 60 includes a printing unit 61 that prints out the standard data and analysis data generated by the data processing unit 50, and a display unit 62 that displays the data. The printing unit 61 includes a printer and prints out calibration data and analysis data on a printer sheet or the like according to a preset format.

  The display unit 62 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel, and displays a screen for setting analysis parameters for each inspection item. Further, a screen for setting identification information such as a name and ID for identifying the test sample and each test item is displayed for the test sample to be tested. Also, calibration data and analysis data are displayed.

  The operation unit 70 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, and performs input for setting analysis parameters for each inspection item. In addition, input for setting identification information and each inspection item is performed on the test sample. Also, input for executing calibration, inspection, and the like is performed.

  The system control unit 71 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and stores the analysis parameter information of each inspection item, the identification information of the test sample, and the input information such as the inspection item input from the operation unit 70 in the storage circuit. Based on the input information, the analysis control unit 44, the data processing unit 50, and the output unit 60 are integrated to control the entire system.

  Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, the configuration of the first reagent storage 14, the first reading unit 21, and the first reading arm 22 of the analysis unit 10 and the reading of the first reagent identification information in the automatic analyzer 100 will be described. An example of the operation will be described.

  In addition, since the 2nd reagent storage 18 is comprised similarly to the 1st reagent storage 14, the description is abbreviate | omitted. Further, the second reading unit 23 is configured in the same manner as the first reading unit 21, and thus the description thereof is omitted. Further, the second reading arm 24 is configured in the same manner as the first reading arm 22, and therefore the description thereof is omitted. In addition, the reading operation of the second reagent identification information is performed in the same manner as the reading operation of the first reagent identification information, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  First, the configuration of the first reagent storage 14 will be described.

  FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the first reagent storage 14, the first reagent storage 14, the first reagent rack 15, the second reagent rack 16, the first reading unit 21, the first reading arm 22, and the first reagent dispensing. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the arrangement of a probe 29 and a first reagent dispensing arm 30.

  The first reagent storage 14 includes a reagent case 141 having an opening in which each first reagent container 13 is stored at the top, and a circular reagent cover 142 that covers the opening of the reagent case 141 so as to be freely opened and closed. Then, the reagent cover 142 has a first penetration so that the first reagent dispensing probe 29 can enter the first reagent container 13 at the first suction position P1 held in the first reagent rack 15. A hole 143 is provided. Further, a second through hole 144 is provided so that the first reagent dispensing probe 29 can enter the first reagent container 13 at the second suction position P2 held by the second reagent rack 16. Yes.

  In addition, the reagent cover 142 includes first and second reading ports 145 and 146, and a first door 147 and a second reading port 146 that open and close the first reading port 145 by opening and closing driving of the driving unit 40. A second door 148 that opens and closes is provided. Then, the first reading unit 21 enters from the first reading port 145 and moves in the circumferential direction of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15, so that the first reagent container It stops at a position opposite to the circular orbit on which one side surface to which the 13th first reagent identification information is attached moves. Then, the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15 is read. In addition, the first reading unit 21 enters from the second reading port 146 and moves in the circumferential direction of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16, so that the first reagent container It stops at a position facing the circular orbit along which the side surface to which the 13th first reagent identification information is attached moves. Then, the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent container 13 at the second reading position P4 held in the second reagent rack 16 is read.

  Next, the configuration of the first reading unit 21 will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the first reading unit 21. The first reading unit 21 includes an irradiation unit 80 that emits light, an imaging unit 81 that generates image data, and an image processing unit 82 that processes the image data generated by the imaging unit 81.

  The irradiation unit 80 includes a light source such as a light emitting diode that emits light. Then, light is irradiated toward the code 131 of the first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15. Further, light is emitted toward the code 131 of the first reagent container 13 at the second reading position P4 held in the second reagent rack 16.

  The imaging unit 81 includes a lens 811, an imaging element 812, and an image generation unit 813. The lens 811 forms an image of light emitted from the irradiation unit 80 and reflected from the code 131 of the first reagent container 13. The image sensor 812 includes, for example, a CMOS and converts the imaged light into an electrical signal. The image generation unit 813 generates image data based on the electrical signal converted by the image sensor 812.

  The image processing unit 82 corrects the image data generated by the image generation unit 813 of the imaging unit 81, and then generates binarized data that has been binarized into white and black based on a predetermined threshold, for example. Next, the binarized data is converted into first reagent identification information represented by characters or the like using a preset conversion table. Then, the converted first reagent identification information is output to the analysis control unit 44.

  The first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 and a plurality of first reagent containers 13 of the first reagent container 13 held next to the first reagent container 13 are irradiated with light, and the light is irradiated. A wide-angle lens that forms an image of light reflected from the plurality of first reagent containers 13 may be provided, and the first reagent information of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 may be read simultaneously.

  In addition, when the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 is attached with the one-dimensional code 131, the first light is scanned with light such as laser light irradiated on the code 131, and the reflected light is detected to detect the first reagent. You may implement so that reagent identification information may be read.

  Next, the configuration of the first reading arm 22 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the first reading arm 22. The first reading arm 22 includes a shaft 221, a first arm 222, and a second arm 223. The shaft 221 is rotated and driven up and down by the drive unit 40. The first arm 222 is disposed horizontally, and one end thereof is fixed to the upper end of the shaft 221. The second arm 223 has an upper end fixed to the other end of the first arm 222 and a lower end fixed to the first reading unit 21.

  Next, an example of the reading operation of the first reagent identification information of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described.

  In the standby state before the operation of each unit of the analysis unit 10 is started, the first reading unit 21 is above the first reagent storage 14 and is on the circular arc trajectory T1 indicated by the one-dot chain line in FIG. At the basic position R0.

  Each first reagent container 13 stored in two concentric circles in the first reagent storage 14 is arranged so that one side surface to which the first reagent identification information is attached is substantially perpendicular to the radial direction of the circle. It is held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16. Moreover, each 1st reagent container 13 is located so that the 1st side surface to which 1st reagent identification information is attached | subjected is located in an outer peripheral side, and the other side surface which opposes one side surface among four side surfaces is located in an inner peripheral side. Are held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16, respectively.

  A person in charge of the automatic analyzer 100 checks whether or not the first reagent container 13 for each inspection item is stored in the first reagent storage 14. Further, the amount of the first reagent in the first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14 is confirmed. Then, the first reagent container 13 in which the amount of the first reagent is insufficient is taken out from the first reagent container 14, and the first reagent container 13 filled with the first reagent is stored in the first reagent container 14. . In addition, the first reagent container 13 of a new inspection item may be stored in the first reagent container 14. The first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14 is placed at any vacant holding position of the first or second reagent rack 15 or 16.

  After that, when an input for executing any one of reading, calibration, inspection, and the like of reagent identification information is performed from the operation unit 70, the analysis control unit 44 prepares for the first reagent dispensing by the first and second. In order to check each inspection item in which the first reagent container 13 is held in the reagent racks 15 and 16 and the holding position of the first reagent container 13, the first reagent container 13 in the first reagent container 14 has a first number. 1 Reagent identification information is read.

  The first reading unit 21 horizontally moves from the basic position R0 along the trajectory T1 by the rotation driving of the first reading arm 22 by the driving unit 40. And it stops at the 1st reading upper stop position R1 shown in Drawing 7 (a) above the 1st door 147 which closes the 1st reading mouth 145 provided in reagent cover 142 of the 1st reagent storage 14 To do. The first door 147 opens the first reading port 145 when the driving unit 40 is opened.

  The first reading unit 21 is moved downward from above the first reagent storage 14 by the lower drive of the first reading arm 22 by the driving unit 40, and enters the first reagent storage 14 from the first reading port 145. enter in. Then, as shown in FIG. 7 (a), the first reading out of the one side surface to which the first reagent identification information on the outer peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 is attached. Stop at a first reading stop position R2 facing one side of the first reagent container 13 at position P3.

  When the first reading unit 21 stops at the first lower reading stop position R2, the first reagent rack 15 rotates once and moves each first reagent container 13 in the circumferential direction. The first reading unit 21 reads the first reagent identification information from the code 131 of each first reagent container 13 passing through the first reading position P3 by the rotation of the first reagent rack 15, and outputs the first reagent identification information to the analysis control unit 44. To do.

  The analysis controller 44 outputs the first reagent identification information output from the first reading unit 21 and the rotational position of the first reagent rack 15 obtained from the driving unit 40 when the first reagent identification information is read. Based on the information, the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 and the information on the holding positions of the first reagent containers 13 are stored in the reagent information storage unit 45. To do.

  When the first reagent rack 15 is stopped after one rotation, the first reading unit 21 is moved upward by the upward driving of the first reading arm 22 by the driving unit 40, and the first reading upper stop position R1. Stop at. The first door 147 closes the first reading port 145. The first reading unit 21 moves horizontally above the first reagent storage 14 along the trajectory T1 and is above the second door 148 that closes the second reading port 146, as shown in FIG. It stops at the second reading upper stop position R3 shown. The second door 148 opens the second reading port 146 when the driving unit 40 is opened.

  As described above, the first reading unit 21 enters the first reagent storage 14 and stops at the first reading stop position R2, and then each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 is retained. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the outer peripheral side surface of the first reagent rack 15, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 is accurate without being affected by the dew condensation water. Can be read well.

  The first reading unit 21 moves downward from above the first reagent storage 14 by the lower drive of the first reading arm 22 and enters the first reagent storage 14 from the second reading port 146. Then, as shown in FIG. 7B, the second reading out of the one side surface to which the first reagent identification information on the outer peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is attached. It stops at the second reading stop position R4 that faces one side surface of the first reagent container 13 at the position P4.

  When the first reading unit 21 stops at the second lower reading stop position R4, the second reagent rack 16 rotates once and rotates each first reagent container 13. The first reading unit 21 reads the first reagent identification information from the code 131 of each first reagent container 13 that passes through the second reading position P4 by the rotation of the second reagent rack 16, and outputs the first reagent identification information to the analysis control unit 44. To do.

  As described above, the first reading unit 21 enters the first reagent storage 14 and stops at the second reading stop position R4, and then each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is retained. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the outer peripheral side surface of the first reagent container, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is accurate without being affected by condensed water. Can be read well.

  In addition, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the interval between two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 can be reduced. Thereby, a large number of first reagent containers 13 can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

  In the first lower reading stop position R2 and the second lower reading stop position R4, a side surface to which the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 is attached, The angle of the first reading unit 21 with respect to the one side surface to which the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 is attached at the second reading position P4 is different. The image processing unit 82 corrects the image data generated by the imaging unit 81 of the first reading unit 21 due to the difference in angle.

  The analysis control unit 44 determines the first reagent identification information output from the first reading unit 21 and the rotational position of the second reagent rack 16 obtained from the driving unit 40 when the first reagent identification information is read. Based on the information, the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 and the information on the holding positions of the first reagent containers 13 are stored in the reagent information storage unit 45. .

  When the second reagent rack 16 rotates once and stops, the first reading unit 21 rises and stops at the second reading upper stop position R3. The second door 148 closes the second reading port 146. The first reading unit 21 moves horizontally along the trajectory T1 from the second reading upper stop position R3, and stops at the basic position T0.

  During the calibration or inspection after the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13 held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16 is read, the analysis control unit 44 Based on the first reagent identification information stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 and the information on the holding positions of the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16, dispensing of the first reagent for each inspection item is executed. For example, when the first reagent container 13 containing the first reagent to be dispensed is held in the first reagent rack 15, the first reagent rack 15 is driven to drive the first reagent to be dispensed. The container 13 is stopped at the first suction position P1. Then, the first reagent in the first reagent container 13 at the first suction position P <b> 1 is dispensed into the reaction container 25 by the first reagent dispensing probe 29.

  Here, the first reagent identification information may be read when dispensing the first reagent for each test item every cycle. In this case, if the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is held in the first reagent rack 15, the first reading unit 21 is stopped at the first lower reading stop position R2, and then the first reagent When the rack 15 is driven to move the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed to the first suction position P1, and when the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is moved to the first suction position P1, The first reading unit 21 is caused to read the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 passing through one reading position P3. If the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is held in the second reagent rack 16, the second reagent rack is stopped after the first reading unit 21 is stopped at the second reading stop position R4. 16 is driven to move the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed to the second suction position P2, and when the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is moved to the second suction position P2, the second The first reading unit 21 reads the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 that passes through the reading position P4. Then, the first reagent identification information stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 in association with the holding position of the first reagent container 13 identified by the latest first reagent identification information read by the first reading unit 21 is updated. The first reagent identification information is replaced and stored.

  In addition, it is not limited to the said embodiment, The 1st reagent container 13, the 1st reading part 21, and the 1st reading arm 22 are used for the 1st reagent container, the 1st reading part, and the 1st reading arm which are demonstrated below. You may make it replace and implement. In the first reagent container 13, a first reagent identification information is attached with a code 131 on the other side of the four side faces of the first reagent container 13 that faces the one side where the first reagent identification information is attached. Replace with 1 reagent container 13a. Further, in the first reading unit 21, as shown in FIG. 8, the first reading unit 21 is rotated by 180 degrees with respect to the second arm 223 of the first reading arm 22 about the central axis of the second arm 223. The first reading unit 21a is fixed to the second arm 223. Further, in the first reading arm 22, the first reading unit 21 a is connected to the first reagent on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 as shown in FIG. Of the other side surfaces to which the identification information is attached, as shown in FIG. 8B, a second lower reading stop position R4 facing the other side surface of the first reagent container 13a at the first reading position P3. Of the other side surfaces to which the first reagent identification information on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is attached, the other side surface of the first reagent container 13a at the second reading position P4. Are replaced with a first arm whose axis is changed and the length of the first arm 222 is changed so that it can stop at a third reading stop position R5 opposite to the first position.

  In this way, after the first reading unit 21a has entered the first reagent storage 14 and stopped at the second reading stop position R4, each first reagent container 13a held in the first reagent rack 15 is retained. The first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13a held in the first reagent rack 15 is affected by the dew condensation water by reading the first reagent identification information attached to the other side surface of the inner periphery of the first reagent rack 15 Can be read accurately without receiving.

  Further, after the first reading unit 21a enters the first reagent storage 14 and stops at the third reading stop position R5, the inside of each first reagent container 13a held in the second reagent rack 16 is stopped. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the other side surface of the peripheral side, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13a held in the second reagent rack 16 is affected by the condensed water. Can be read accurately.

  Further, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13a held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13a held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the interval between two adjacent first reagent containers 13a held in the first reagent rack 15 can be reduced. As a result, a large number of first reagent containers 13 a can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

  Further, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and the first reagent container 13 and the first reading unit 21 may be replaced with a first reagent container and a first reading unit described below. In the first reagent container 13, as shown in FIG. 9, the first reagent container 13 b is replaced with a first reagent container 13 b in which the first reagent identification information is attached with a code 131 on one side surface and the other side surface of the first reagent container 13. In the first reading unit 21, as shown in FIG. 9, the first reagent container 13b at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15 is held at the second reading stop position R4. The first reading unit 21 that reads the first reagent identification information attached to the other side surface on the inner peripheral side, and the outer peripheral side of the first reagent container 13b at the second reading position P4 held by the second reagent rack 16 The first reading unit 21b integrated with the first reading unit 21a that reads the first reagent identification information attached to the one side is replaced.

  In this way, the first reading unit 21b is caused to enter the first reagent storage 14, and the other side surface of the first reagent container 13b at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15 and the second side. The second reading position P4 held by the reagent rack 16 is stopped at the second lower reading stop position R4 facing one side surface of the first reagent container 13b. Then, the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16 are rotated, and the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13b at the first and second reading positions P3 and P4 is read, whereby the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16 are rotated. The first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13b held in the second reagent racks 15 and 16 can be accurately read without being affected by the condensed water.

  Further, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13b held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13b held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the interval between two adjacent first reagent containers 13b held in the first reagent rack 15 can be reduced. As a result, a large number of first reagent containers 13 b can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

  Further, since it is not necessary to stop at the first and second lower reading stop positions R2 and R4 as in the first reading unit 21, the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16 hold the first reading unit 21. The reading time of the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13b can be shortened.

  According to the embodiment described above, the first reading unit 21 that is movably provided enters the first reagent storage 14, and the outer peripheral side of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to one side surface, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 can be accurately measured without being affected by condensed water. Can be read well.

  In addition, after the first reading unit 21 enters the first reagent storage 14 and stops at the second reading stop position R4, the outer periphery of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is used. The first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is affected by the dew condensation water by reading the first reagent identification information attached to one side of the side. Can be read accurately.

  In addition, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the interval between two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 can be reduced. Thereby, a large number of first reagent containers 13 can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

  As described above, the first reagent container 13 that can be stored in the first reagent container 14 without lowering the reading accuracy of the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent container 14. You can increase the number.

  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.

13, 13a, 13b 1st reagent container 14 1st reagent storage 15, 19 1st reagent rack 16, 20 2nd reagent rack 17 2nd reagent container 18 2nd reagent storage 21, 21a, 21b 1st reading part 22 First reading arm 23 Second reading unit 24 Second reading arm 25 Reaction vessel 40 Drive unit

Claims (8)

In 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 plurality of reagent containers containing the reagents are stored, and a reagent storage for keeping the stored reagent containers cool,
A reading unit that optically reads identification information attached to a side surface of the reagent container;
A first drive mechanism for moving the reading unit;
The first drive mechanism causes the reading unit to enter the reagent storage,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the reading unit reads the identification information in the reagent storage.   2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the first driving mechanism moves the reading unit downward from above the reagent storage to enter the reagent storage. A second drive mechanism for moving the side surface of the reagent container stored in the reagent store in the circumferential direction;
The reading unit is
The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the identification information attached to the side surface is read at a position facing an arcuate path on which the side surface of the reagent container moves.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 3, wherein the reading unit reads identification information attached to the side surface at a position facing a plurality of concentric orbits on which the side surface of the reagent container moves. . A first reagent rack disposed in the reagent storage and holding the reagent container;
A second reagent rack that is disposed on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack in the reagent storage and holds the reagent container;
The first drive mechanism is provided with the identification information on the inner peripheral side or the outer peripheral side surface of each reagent container held in one reagent rack of the first or second reagent rack. The reading unit is stopped at one of the first and second positions opposite to the side surface, and after the reading unit reads the identification information, the reading unit is moved from the one position to the other position. 5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the automatic analyzer is stopped at the other position opposite to the one side surface to which the identification information of each reagent container held in a reagent rack is attached. A first reagent rack disposed in the reagent storage and holding the plurality of reagent containers;
A second reagent rack that is disposed on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack in the reagent storage and holds the plurality of reagent containers;
The first driving mechanism includes an inner peripheral side surface of each reagent container held in the first reagent rack, and an outer peripheral side surface of each reagent container held in the second reagent rack. The reading unit is stopped at a position opposite to
The reading unit includes, at the position, identification information attached to a side surface on the inner peripheral side of each reagent container held in the first reagent rack, and each of the information held in the second reagent rack. 5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the identification information attached to the side surface on the outer peripheral side of the reagent container is read. The second drive mechanism drives the first and second reagent racks to move the reagent containers held in the first and second reagent racks in the circumferential direction;
The said reading part reads the identification information attached | subjected to the side surface of the said reagent container, when each said reagent container is moved to the circumferential direction by the said 2nd drive mechanism. Item 7. The automatic analyzer according to Item 6.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the reagent storage has a cover provided with a port through which the reading unit enters.

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