JP2020094900A - Autoanalyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

To clean an electrode unit by absorbing a detergent during startup.SOLUTION: An autoanalyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a reaction disk, a reagent dispensing probe, an electrode unit, and a control part. The reaction disk holds a plurality of reaction tubes. The reagent dispensing probe discharges a detergent to the reaction tubes being stopped at a first position of the reaction disk. The electrode unit is cleaned by the detergent drawn in from the reaction tubes being stopped at a second position of the reaction disk different from the first position, and measures the electrolyte concentration of a specimen. The control part causes the reaction disk to be rotationally moved a prescribed number of cycles at a prescribed rotation angle, and thereby moves the reaction tubes being stopped at the first position to the second position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to automatic analyzers.

The automatic analyzer is an apparatus that measures a plurality of component concentrations of a patient sample such as blood and urine and reports the measurement result. In the measurement of the patient sample, for example, the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid may be measured using electrodes.

In the conventional automatic analyzer, when the electrode is contaminated, the electrode unit is washed by increasing the number of times the calibration liquid is sucked. However, in some cases, the automatic analyzer cannot wash away the electrode stains only by washing with the calibration liquid. Further, when washing with a detergent, the conventional automatic analyzer is performed at the start of startup (startup) and at the end of shutdown (shutdown), but not during start-up.

JP, 2010-175275, A

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to wash the electrode unit by sucking the detergent during startup.

The automatic analyzer according to the embodiment includes a reaction disk, a reagent dispensing probe, an electrode unit, and a controller. The reaction disk holds a plurality of reaction tubes. The reagent-dispensing probe discharges the detergent to the reaction tube stopped at the first position of the reaction disk. The electrode unit is washed with the detergent sucked from the reaction tube stopped at the second position of the reaction disk different from the first position, and measures the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid. The control unit rotates the reaction disc at a predetermined rotation angle for a predetermined number of cycles to move the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism of FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the electrode unit of FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the detection unit in FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a suction operation of the mixed liquid according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a suction operation of the calibration liquid according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a time chart showing a plurality of solutions and electrode potentials of the respective solutions in association with each other in the case of cleaning with the calibration liquid in the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the detergent cleaning process of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a time chart showing a plurality of solutions and the electrode potentials of the respective solutions in association with each other in the case of cleaning with a detergent in the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first operation example of the detergent cleaning process according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the detergent cleaning process of FIG. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second operation example of the detergent cleaning process according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of an automatic analyzer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8 and a control circuit. 9 is provided.

The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample with a reagent used for various inspection items set for the sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent, and generates, for example, standard data and test data associated with the absorbance. Further, the analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent and generates, for example, standard data and test data associated with the electrode potential.

The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes the generated standard data and test data to generate calibration data and analysis data. The analysis circuit 3 reads the operation program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data, analysis data, and the like according to the read operation program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data indicating the relationship between the standard data and the standard value preset for the standard sample based on the standard data. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analysis data based on the test data and the calibration data of the inspection item corresponding to the test data. The analysis data includes data in which concentration values are associated with enzyme activity values, data in which the concentration of a desired ion in a sample is recorded in time series, and the like. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data and analysis data to the control circuit 9.

The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like. For example, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 described later at a predetermined rotation angle. The predetermined rotation angle is, for example, an angle of rotation in one cycle described later.

The input interface 5 accepts settings such as analysis parameters of each inspection item related to a sample requested to be measured via the in-hospital network NW by an operator's operation, for example. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch pad for inputting an instruction by touching an operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts an operation instruction input by the operator into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 9.

In this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to the one including physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the input interface 5 may be a processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 9. Good.

The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is realized by, for example, a display circuit, a printed circuit, an audio device, and the like.

The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display and a plasma display. Further, the display circuit may be a processing circuit which converts data representing a display target into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. The printed circuit includes, for example, a printer. Also, the printed circuit. An output circuit that outputs the data representing the print target to the outside may be used. The audio device includes, for example, a speaker. Further, the audio device may be an output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside.

The communication interface 7 is connected to, for example, the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with a HIS (Hospital Information System) via the in-hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 may perform data communication with the HIS via the examination department system connected to the in-hospital network NW.

The memory circuit 8 includes a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The storage circuit 8 is not necessarily realized by a single storage device. For example, the storage circuit 8 may be realized by a plurality of storage devices.

Further, the storage circuit 8 stores the examination order input by the operator or the examination order received by the communication interface 7 via the in-hospital network NW. The order information includes the sample ID, the inspection items required for the sample to be measured, and the measurement order regarding the inspection. The memory circuit 8 stores various set values for executing a series of operations of each unit of the automatic analyzer 1 in one cycle. The storage circuit 8 stores the operation program read by the control circuit 9.

The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the center of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the control circuit 9 outputs a control signal for driving each part of the analysis mechanism 2 to the drive mechanism 4. The control circuit 9 executes the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 to realize the function corresponding to the operation program. The control circuit 9 may include a memory that stores at least a part of the data stored in the storage circuit 8. The function of the control circuit 9 according to this embodiment will be described later.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism of FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a reaction disk 201, a thermostat 202, a rack sampler 203, a first reagent storage 204, and a second reagent storage 205. Further, the analysis mechanism 2 includes the sample dispensing arm 206, the sample dispensing probe 207, the washing tank 207a, the detergent storage container 207b, the first reagent dispensing arm 208, the first reagent dispensing probe 209, the washing tank 209a, and the second. A reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, a cleaning tank 211a, an electrode unit 212, a photometric unit 213, a cleaning unit 214 and a stirring unit 216 are provided.

In the following, first, the reaction disk 201, the thermostat 202, the rack sampler 203, the first reagent storage 204, and the second reagent storage 205 will be described.

The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 2011 arranged in a ring. The reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals (hereinafter, referred to as one cycle), for example, 4.5 seconds, by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction tube 2011 is made of, for example, glass.

The constant temperature unit 202 stores the heat medium set to a predetermined temperature and immerses the reaction tube 2011 in the stored heat medium to raise the temperature of the mixed liquid contained in the reaction tube 2011.

The rack sampler 203 movably supports a sample rack 2031 that can hold a plurality of sample containers 100 that store the samples requested to be measured. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a sample rack 2031 that can hold five sample containers 100 in parallel is shown.

The rack sampler 203 has a reader 300. The reader 300 is provided at a position where, for example, the optical mark attached to the sample container 100 can be read. The optical mark is a mark that encodes identification information of the sample contained in the sample container 100, for example, a barcode, a one-dimensional pixel code, a two-dimensional pixel code, or the like. The reader 300 starts reading the optical mark in response to an instruction to start reading the ID from the control circuit 9. When the sample container 100 arrives at a position where the optical mark can be read, the reader 300 reads the identification information of the sample from the optical mark. The reader 300 supplies the read identification information to the control circuit 9. Note that the reader 300 may be replaced by another sensor using RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) or the like.

The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area for transporting the sample rack 2031 from a loading position at which the sample rack 2031 is loaded to a recovery position at which the sample rack 2031 for which measurement has been completed is recovered. In the transport area, the plurality of sample racks 2031 aligned in the lateral direction are moved in the direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

Further, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a pull-in area for pulling the sample rack 2031 from the transport area in order to move the sample container 100 held by the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample suction position. The sample suction position is provided, for example, at a position where a rotation trajectory of a sample dispensing probe 207, which will be described later, and a movement trajectory of the opening of the sample container supported by the rack sampler 203 and held by the sample rack 2031 intersect. Be done. In the pull-in area, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in the direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4. Further, at a position where the optical mark in the pull-in area can be read, the optical mark written on the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 moved in the direction D2 is read by the reader 300.

Further, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a return area for returning the sample rack 2031 holding the sample container in which the sample is sucked to the transport area. In the return area, the sample rack 2031 is moved in the direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

The first reagent container 204 cools a plurality of reagent containers 101 containing a first reagent that reacts with a predetermined component contained in a standard sample or a predetermined component contained in a test sample. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the first reagent storage 204 is covered with a removable reagent cover. A reagent rack is rotatably provided in the first reagent storage 204. The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 arranged in an annular shape. The reagent rack is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. The reagent container 101 may contain an electrode detergent for cleaning the electrodes. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the “detergent” means “electrode detergent”.

A first reagent suction position is set at a predetermined position on the first reagent storage 204. The first reagent suction position is provided, for example, at a position where a rotation trajectory of a first reagent dispensing probe 209, which will be described later, and a movement trajectory of the opening of the reagent container 101 annularly arranged in the reagent rack intersect. Be done.

The second reagent storage 205 keeps, for example, a plurality of reagent containers 101 that store a second reagent that forms a pair with the first reagent of the two-reagent system. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the second reagent storage 205 is covered with a removable reagent cover. A reagent rack is rotatably provided in the second reagent storage 205. The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 arranged in an annular shape. The second reagent kept cool in the second reagent store 205 may have the same component and the same concentration as the first reagent kept cool in the first reagent store 204.

A second reagent suction position is set at a predetermined position on the second reagent storage 205. The second reagent suction position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the opening of the reagent container 101 annularly arranged in the reagent rack intersect.

Next, the sample dispensing arm 206, the sample dispensing probe 207, the washing tank 207a, the detergent storage container 207b, the first reagent dispensing arm 208, the first reagent dispensing probe 209, the washing tank 209a, the second reagent dispensing arm. 210, the 2nd reagent dispensing probe 211, the washing tank 211a, the electrode unit 212, the photometric unit 213, the washing unit 214, and the stirring unit 216 are demonstrated.

The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided to be vertically movable in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arcuate rotation trajectory along with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm 206. The opening of the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203 is located on this rotation path.

A sample discharge position for discharging the sample sucked by the sample dispensing probe 207 to the reaction tube 2011 is provided on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207. The sample discharge position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201.

Further, a cleaning position for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided at a position different from the sample suction position and the sample discharging position on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207. A washing tank 207a for washing the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided at the washing position.

In addition, a detergent suction position for the sample dispensing probe 207 to suck the detergent is provided at a position different from the sample suction position, the sample discharge position, and the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207. Good. A detergent storage container 207b may be provided at the detergent suction position to store a detergent used for cleaning the electrode unit described later.

The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically above the opening of the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203, at the sample discharge position, the washing position, or the detergent suction position. ..

Further, the sample dispensing probe 207 sucks the sample from the opening of the sample container under the control of the control circuit 9. Further, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the sucked sample to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample discharging position under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs the series of dispensing operations once, for example, in one cycle.

Further, the sample dispensing probe 207, under the control of the control circuit 9, sucks the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 207a located immediately below the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207. The cleaning liquid is, for example, pure water, an alkaline detergent for washing the probe, an acidic detergent for washing the probe, or the like. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the sucked cleaning liquid to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample discharging position. As a result, the sample dispensing probe 207 and the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample discharge position are cleaned. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs the series of cleaning operations once, for example, in one cycle.

Further, when the automatic analyzer 1 is provided with the detergent storage container 207b, the sample dispensing probe 207 is positioned directly below the detergent suction position on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 under the control of the control circuit 9. The detergent is sucked from the detergent storage container 207b. Further, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the sucked detergent to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample discharging position under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs the series of dispensing operations once, for example, in one cycle.

The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the first reagent storage 204. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided to be vertically movable in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 holds the first reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

The first reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory with the rotation of the first reagent dispensing arm 208. A first reagent suction position is provided on this rotation path. Further, a first reagent ejection position for ejecting the reagent sucked by the first reagent dispensing probe 209 to the reaction tube 2011 is set on the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209. The first reagent discharge position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201. Further, a cleaning position for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is provided at a position different from the first reagent aspirating position and the first reagent discharging position on the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209. ing. A washing tank 209a for washing the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is provided at the washing position.

The first reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the first reagent suction position, the first reagent discharge position, or the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 sucks the first reagent from the reagent container located immediately below the first reagent suction position. That is, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is an example of the reagent dispensing probe according to the present embodiment. Further, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 discharges the sucked first reagent to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the first reagent discharging position under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 performs this series of dispensing operations, for example, once during one cycle.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 sucks the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 209a located immediately below the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 discharges the sucked cleaning liquid to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the first reagent discharging position. As a result, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the first reagent discharge position are cleaned. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 performs this series of cleaning operations, for example, once during one cycle.

The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the second reagent storage 205. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided by the drive mechanism 4 so as to be vertically movable in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 holds the second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end.

The second reagent dispensing probe 211 rotates along a circular arc-shaped rotation trajectory with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm 210. A second reagent suction position is provided on this rotation path.

A second reagent ejection position for ejecting the reagent sucked by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 to the reaction tube 2011 is set on the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The second reagent ejection position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disc 201.

Further, a detergent discharge position for discharging the detergent sucked by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 to the reaction tube is set on the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The detergent discharge position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201, and is a position different from the second reagent discharge position. ..

Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is washed at a position different from the second reagent suction position, the second reagent discharging position, and the detergent discharging position on the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The position is provided. A cleaning tank 211a for cleaning the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is provided at the cleaning position.

The second reagent dispensing probe 211 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the second reagent suction position, the second reagent discharge position, the detergent discharge position, or the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the second reagent from the reagent container located immediately below the second reagent suction position. That is, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is an example of the reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment. Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the sucked second reagent to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the second reagent discharging position under the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of dispensing operations, for example, once during one cycle.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the washing liquid from the washing tank 211a located immediately below the washing position on the rotation trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the sucked cleaning liquid to the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the second reagent discharging position. As a result, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the second reagent discharge position are cleaned. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of cleaning operations once, for example, during one cycle.

The electrode unit 212 measures the electrolyte concentration of the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent discharged into the reaction tube 2011. The electrode unit 212 has an ion-selective electrode (ISE) and a reference electrode. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the electrode unit 212 measures the potential between the ISE and the reference electrode for the mixed liquid containing the ions to be measured. The electrode unit 212 outputs the data obtained by measuring the potential to the analysis circuit 3 as standard data or test data. Hereinafter, the configuration of the electrode unit 212 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the electrode unit of FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the electrode unit 212 includes a detection unit 40, a solution storage unit 41, a suction unit 43, and a waste liquid tank 47. The detection unit 40 detects a plurality of electrolytes containing test item components, such as sodium ions, potassium ions, and chlorine ions, by measuring a mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent. The solution storage unit 41 stores a calibration liquid containing a plurality of electrolytes having a predetermined concentration. The suction unit 43 sucks each of the mixed solution and the calibration solution. The waste liquid tank 47 stores each solution which is detected by the detection unit 40 and is no longer needed. The detector 40 can be attached to and detached from the electrode unit 212.

The detection unit 40 is movably arranged between the reaction tube 2011 and the storage container 412 of the solution storage unit 41 by the drive mechanism 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the detection unit in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the detection unit 40 includes, for example, a composite electrode 45 and a suction nozzle 46. The composite electrode 45 is kept at a constant temperature (for example, 37 degrees Celsius). The suction nozzle 46 is detachably attached to the lower end of the composite electrode 45. The composite electrode 45 includes an ISE 451, an ISE 452, an ISE 453, and a reference electrode 454. The composite electrode 45 is formed with a through hole 45 a that communicates with the suction nozzle 46 and penetrates the ISE 451, ISE 452, ISE 453, and the reference electrode 454.

The ISE 451 has a through-hole 45a formed in a part thereof and has a sensitive film for selectively detecting sodium ions. The ISE 451 applies a potential proportional to the logarithm of the sodium ion concentration to the reference electrode 454 under the condition that the activity of each solution flowing into the through hole 45a and the solution temperature are constant by the suction operation of the suction unit 43. appear.

The ISE 452 has a through-hole 45a formed in a part thereof and has a sensitive film for selectively detecting potassium ions. The ISE 452 applies a potential proportional to the logarithm of the potassium ion concentration to the reference electrode 454 under the condition that the activity of each solution flowing into the through hole 45a and the solution temperature are constant due to the suction operation of the suction unit 43. appear.

The ISE 453 has a through-hole 45 a formed in a part thereof and has a sensitive film for selectively detecting chloride ions. The ISE 453 applies a potential inversely proportional to the logarithm of the chlorine ion concentration to the reference electrode 454 under the condition that the activity of each solution flowing into the through hole 45a and the solution temperature are constant by the suction operation of the suction unit 43. appear.

The reference electrode 454 has a liquid junction part in which a through hole 45a is formed in part and which generates a constant potential.

The solution storage unit 41 includes a calibration solution bottle 411, a storage container 412, a supply pump 413, and a drainage pump 414. The calibration solution bottle 411 contains the calibration solution. The supply pump 413 is a pump that sucks the calibration liquid in the calibration liquid bottle 411 by driving the driving mechanism 4 and supplies the calibration liquid into the storage container 412. The storage container 412 is a container that stores the calibration liquid supplied by the supply pump 413 at the same temperature as the composite electrode 45. The drainage pump 414 is a pump that drains the calibration liquid remaining in the storage container 412 after being sucked into the detection unit 40 by the suction unit 43.

The standard sample includes two types of first standard sample and second standard sample having different concentrations of each electrolyte. A first standard value indicating the concentration of each electrolyte contained in the first standard sample and a second standard value indicating the concentration of each electrolyte contained in the second standard sample are stored by input from the input interface 5. Stored in circuit 8. The first standard value and the second standard value are included in the standard data described above.

When the calibration is performed, the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the first standard sample into the reaction tube 2011, and the first reagent dispensing probe 209 deposits into the reaction tube 2011 into which the first standard sample is dispensed. Dispense the first reagent. By dispensing the first standard sample and the first reagent, the first standard sample is diluted with the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and the first standard mixed solution containing each electrolyte at a concentration lower than that of the calibration solution. Becomes

Similarly, when the calibration is executed, the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the second standard sample into the reaction tube 2011, and the first reagent dispensing probe 209 dispenses the second standard sample. The first reagent is dispensed into the reaction tube 20111. By dispensing the second standard sample and the first reagent, the second standard sample is diluted with the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and the second standard mixed solution containing each electrolyte at a concentration higher than that of the calibration solution. Becomes

When the inspection is performed, the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses a test sample whose concentration of each electrolyte is unknown to the reaction tube 2011, and the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is a reaction tube to which the test sample is dispensed. Dispense the first reagent into 2011. By dispensing the test sample and the first reagent, the test sample becomes a test mixed solution diluted with the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011.

The suction unit 43 includes a suction pump 431 and a tube 432 that connects the suction pump 431 and the detection unit 40. The suction pump 431 has, for example, a syringe pump including a syringe and a plunger.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a suction operation of the mixed liquid according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, in the suction pump 431, the detection unit 40 is moved by the drive mechanism 4 so that the suction nozzle 46 causes the first standard mixed solution, the second standard mixed solution, and the test mixed solution in the reaction tube 2011. When stopped at the position where each mixed solution has entered, the suction operation of sucking each mixed solution is performed by the suction drive of the drive mechanism 4. The position where the suction nozzle 46 of the electrode unit 212 sucks the mixed liquid or the like from the reaction tube 2011 may be referred to as an electrode suction position.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a suction operation of the calibration liquid according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the suction pump 431 is stopped at a position where the detection unit 40 is moved by the drive mechanism 4 and the suction nozzle 46 enters the calibration liquid in the storage container 412 before and after the suction operation of each mixed liquid. Then, the suction operation of sucking the calibration liquid is performed by the suction drive of the drive mechanism 4.

The suction operation of the calibration liquid is performed, for example, between the suction of one mixed liquid and the suction of another mixed liquid. By sucking the calibration liquid, it is possible to prevent the mixed liquid from remaining in the through hole 45a. That is, the suction operation of the calibration liquid can be regarded as a cleaning operation with the calibration liquid. However, when the inside of the through-hole 45a is significantly soiled, the calibration liquid may not be able to remove the soil, and it is necessary to remove the soil inside the through-hole 45a by sucking the detergent.

In summary, the electrode unit 212 measures the potential between each of the composite electrodes 45 and the reference electrode 454. Specifically, the electrode unit 212 uses the signal corresponding to the potential when each electrolyte contained in the first standard mixed solution or the second standard mixed solution in the reaction tube 2011 is detected as standard data in the analysis circuit 3 Output to. Further, the electrode unit 212 outputs a signal corresponding to the potential when each electrolyte contained in the test mixed liquid in the reaction tube 2011 is detected to the analysis circuit 3 as test data. Further, the test data includes calibration data which is a signal corresponding to the potential when each electrolyte contained in the calibration liquid is detected. That is, the test data includes data during measurement of the test mixed liquid based on the sample and data during measurement of the calibration liquid.

The photometric unit 213 optically measures a predetermined component in the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent discharged into the reaction tube 2011. The photometric unit 213 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometric unit 213 emits light from the light source under the control of the control circuit 9. The irradiated light is incident on the first side wall of the reaction tube 2011 and emitted from the second side wall facing the first side wall. The photometric unit 213 detects the light emitted from the reaction tube 2011 with a photodetector.

Specifically, for example, the photodetector detects the light that has passed through the mixed liquid of the standard sample and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and based on the intensity of the detected light, obtains the standard data represented by the absorbance or the like. To generate. Further, the photodetector detects the light that has passed through the mixed liquid of the test sample and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates the test data represented by the absorbance or the like based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit 213 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

The cleaning unit 214 cleans the inside of the reaction tube 2011 after the measurement of the mixed liquid in the electrode unit 212 or the photometric unit 213 is completed. The cleaning unit 214 includes a cleaning liquid supply pump (not shown) that supplies a cleaning liquid for cleaning the reaction tube 2011. In addition, the cleaning unit 214 includes a cleaning nozzle (not shown) that discharges the cleaning liquid supplied from the cleaning liquid supply pump into the reaction tube 2011 and sucks the mixed liquid in the reaction tube 2011 and each liquid of the cleaning liquid. There is.

The stirring unit 216 is provided near the outer circumference of the reaction disk 201. The stirring unit 216 has a stirrer, and by the stirrer, the sample and the first reagent stored in the reaction tube 2011 located at the stirring position on the reaction disk 201 or the reaction tube 2011 is stored. The sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent that are present are stirred.

Next, the function of the control circuit 9 according to the present embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9 shown in FIG. 1 executes the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 to realize the function corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91, a potential acquisition function 92, a potential determination function 93 (determination unit), and a reporting function 94 (reporting unit) by executing the operation program. In the present embodiment, the case where the system control function 91, the potential acquisition function 92, the potential determination function 93, and the reporting function 94 are realized by a single processor will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a control circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may execute an operation program to realize the system control function 91, the potential acquisition function 92, the potential determination function 93, and the reporting function 94. Absent.

The control circuit 9 centrally controls each unit in the automatic analyzer 1 based on, for example, input information input from the input interface 5 by the system control function 91. Specifically, the control circuit 9 controls the rotation operation of the reaction disk 201, the rotation operation and the dispensing operation of the sample dispensing probe 207, and the rotation operation and the dispensing operation of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. To control.

Further, the control circuit 9 executes each function related to the electrode cleaning processing according to the read operation program. The above functions include, for example, a potential acquisition function 92, a potential determination function 93, and a reporting function 94. It should be noted that each of the above-mentioned functions may include a part of the system control function 91.

The control circuit 9 uses the potential acquisition function 92 to acquire the potential of the calibration liquid sucked into the detection unit 40, for example.

The control circuit 9 uses the potential determination function 93 to determine whether the acquired potential of the calibration liquid is within a predetermined range in order to determine whether the electrodes are dirty. Specifically, the control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are not contaminated when the acquired potential is within the first range. The control circuit 9 determines that the electrode is contaminated when the acquired potential is not within the first range (that is, outside the first range). In addition, "the electrode is free from dirt" is synonymous with the state in which the electrode can be normally used. In addition, if the electrode is dirty, for example, ions other than the measurement target may adhere to the electrode, causing the potential of the calibration solution to be measured extremely high or extremely low, making it impossible to perform accurate measurement. is there.

Further, the control circuit 9 may perform the determination using the second range including the first range when it is determined that the electrodes are contaminated by the determination using the first range. When the acquired potential is not within the second range (that is, outside the second range), the control circuit 9 determines that the electrode is extremely dirty. The control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are contaminated when the acquired potential is within the second range and outside the first range.

The control circuit 9 uses the reporting function 96 to report the result of the cleaning process using the detergent (detergent cleaning process described below) to the output interface 6. Specifically, the control circuit 9 displays the fact that the cleaning is completed on the output interface 6 and reports it to the user when the electrodes are not contaminated by the detergent cleaning process. The control circuit 9 displays on the output interface 6 the fact that the cleaning cannot be carried out and reports it to the user if the electrode remains dirty even after the cleaning process.

The control circuit 9 may immediately restart the measurement of the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid using the electrodes when the cleaning of the electrode unit 212 is completed, that is, when the electrodes are clean. Moreover, the control circuit 9 may report to the user that the measurement is restarted.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9. Further, hereinafter, description will be given with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7 and the time chart of FIG. 8, and mainly the measurement and processing in the case of using the electrode of the ISE453.

7. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a time chart showing a plurality of solutions and electrode potentials of the respective solutions in association with each other in the case of cleaning with the calibration liquid in the embodiment.

The flowchart in FIG. 7 is started, for example, by the control circuit 9 executing a program for performing an electrode cleaning process at the timing when the electrode unit 212 measures the electrode potential by the calibration liquid during the analysis by the automatic analyzer 1. It The test data 50 in FIG. 8 shows potentials corresponding to the calibration liquid suction operation 51, the mixed liquid suction operation 52, the calibration liquid suction operation 53, and the cleaning operation 54 (calibration liquid suction operation). The subsequent electrode cleaning process is performed, for example, during the calibration liquid suction operation 51 and the calibration liquid suction operation 53.

(Step ST101)
When the electrode cleaning process is started, the control circuit 9 executes the system control function 91. When the system control function 91 is executed, the control circuit 9 instructs the electrode unit 212 to suck the calibration liquid. Upon receiving the instruction from the control circuit 9, the electrode unit 212 sucks the calibration liquid supplied to the storage container 412.

(Step ST102)
After sucking the calibration liquid, the control circuit 9 executes the potential acquisition function 92. When the electric potential acquisition function 92 is executed, the control circuit 9 measures the electric potential of the electrodes. Specifically, the control circuit 9 acquires data on the potential between the ISE 453 and the reference electrode 454 while the calibration liquid is being sucked.

(Step ST103)
After acquiring the potential data, the control circuit 9 executes the potential determination function 93. When the potential determination function 93 is executed, the control circuit 9 determines whether the acquired potential is within the first range. If the acquired potential is within the first range, it is determined that the electrodes are clean, and the process ends. If the acquired potential is not within the first range, it is determined that the electrode is dirty, and the process proceeds to step ST104.

Specifically, when the electrode cleaning process is performed in the calibration liquid suction operation 51 of FIG. 8, the potential corresponding to the calibration liquid suction operation 51 is within the first range r1. Therefore, the control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are not contaminated and ends the process.

The first range r1 indicates a normal range as the potential of the calibration liquid, and is a range between the first upper limit value V _th1a and the first lower limit value V _th1b . Further, the potential of the calibration liquid is set with reference to the potential V _c0 which is within the range of the first range r1. That is, if the potential of the calibration liquid deviates from the first range r1, it means that the electrode has some problem.

When the electrode cleaning process is performed in the calibration liquid suction operation 53 of FIG. 8, the potential V _c1 corresponding to the calibration liquid suction operation 53 is outside the first range r1. Therefore, the control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are dirty and performs the process of step ST104.

(Step ST104)
Further, the control circuit 9 uses the potential determination function 93 to determine whether the acquired potential is within the second range. If the obtained potential is within the second range, it is determined that the electrode is dirty (that is, there is no extreme dirt), and the process proceeds to step ST105. If the acquired potential is not within the second range, it is determined that the electrodes are extremely dirty, and the process proceeds to the detergent cleaning process of step ST108.

Specifically, the potential corresponding to the calibration liquid suction operation 53 is within the second range r2. Therefore, the control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are dirty and performs the process of step ST105.

(Step ST105)
After the electric potential is determined, the control circuit 9 instructs the electrode unit 212 to suck the calibration liquid by the system control function 91. Upon receiving the instruction from the control circuit 9, the electrode unit 212 sucks the calibration liquid supplied to the storage container 412.

(Step ST106)
After sucking the calibration liquid, the control circuit 9 measures the potential of the electrode by the potential acquisition function 92. Specifically, the control circuit 9 acquires data on the potential between the ISE 453 and the reference electrode 454 while the calibration liquid is being sucked.

(Step ST107)
After acquiring the potential data, the control circuit 9 determines whether or not the acquired potential is within the first range by the potential determination function 93. If the acquired potential is within the first range, it is determined that the electrodes have been cleaned, and the process ends. If the acquired potential is not within the first range, it is determined that the electrode has stains, and the process returns to step ST105.

Specifically, the potential corresponding to the cleaning operation 54 is within the first range r1. Therefore, the control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are not contaminated and ends the process.

Next, the detergent cleaning process of step ST108 will be described. Further, hereinafter, description will be made using the flowchart of FIG. 9 and the time chart of FIG. 10.

Note that FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the detergent cleaning process of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a time chart showing a plurality of solutions and the electrode potentials of the respective solutions in association with each other in the case of cleaning with a detergent in the embodiment.

The test data 60 in FIG. 10 shows potentials corresponding to the calibration liquid suction operation 61, the mixed liquid suction operation 62, the calibration liquid suction operation 63, and the cleaning operation 64 (detergent suction operation). Subsequent detergent cleaning processing is performed after the operation of sucking the calibration liquid 63. For example, in step ST104 described above, the potential V _c2 corresponding to the suction operation 63 of the calibration liquid is outside the range of the second range r2 (that is, not within the second range). Therefore, the control circuit 9 determines that the electrodes are extremely dirty and performs the process of step ST201.

The second range r2 includes the first range r1 and is a range between the second upper limit value V _th2a and the second lower limit value V _th2b . If the potential of the electrode is outside the range of the first range r1 and within the range of the second range r2, it is determined that the electrode is dirty. Further, when the potential of the electrode is outside the range of the second range r2, it is determined that the electrode is extremely dirty.

(Step ST201)
When the detergent cleaning process starts, the control circuit 9 determines whether the detergent cleaning process can be executed. Specifically, the control circuit 9 determines whether or not there is a vacancy in the reaction tube for containing the detergent in the latest cycle. For example, when the reaction tube is empty, the control circuit 9 determines that the detergent cleaning process can be performed and performs the process of step ST202. On the other hand, for example, when the reaction tube contains a reagent or a mixed solution that needs to be diluted, the control circuit 9 determines that the detergent cleaning process cannot be executed and repeats the process of step ST201.

The determination as to whether or not the detergent cleaning process can be performed is not limited to the above. Specifically, the control circuit 9 may determine whether the detergent cleaning process can be interrupted in the measurement order determined by the inspection order. For example, when the interruption can be made, the control circuit 9 determines that the detergent cleaning process can be executed, and performs the process of step ST202. On the other hand, for example, when the interrupt cannot be made, the control circuit 9 determines that the detergent cleaning process cannot be executed, and repeats the process of step ST201.

Further, the control circuit 9 may make the determination depending on whether or not there is an analysis with an urgent sample. For example, when there is no analysis on the urgent sample, the control circuit 9 determines that the detergent cleaning process can be performed, and performs the process of step ST202. On the other hand, for example, when there is an analysis with an emergency sample, the control circuit 9 determines that the detergent cleaning process cannot be executed, and repeats the process of step ST201.

(Step ST202)
When it is determined that the detergent cleaning process can be executed, the control circuit 9 executes the system control function 91. When the system control function 91 is executed, the control circuit 9 instructs the second reagent dispensing probe 211 to dispense the detergent. In response to the instruction from the control circuit 9, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the detergent contained in the reagent container 101 held in the second reagent storage 205. Then, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the sucked detergent to the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201 located immediately below the detergent discharge position.

(Step ST203)
After discharging the detergent into the reaction tube, the control circuit 9 instructs the drive mechanism 4 to rotate the reaction disk 201 by the system control function 91. The drive mechanism 4 receives the instruction from the control circuit 9 and rotates the reaction disk 201. By rotating the reaction disk 201, the control circuit 9 can move the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position to the electrode suction position.

(Step ST204)
After rotating the reaction disk, the control circuit 9 instructs the electrode unit 212 to suck the detergent by the system control function 91. In response to the instruction from the control circuit 9, the electrode unit 212 sucks the detergent from the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the electrode suction position.

(Step ST205)
After sucking the detergent, the control circuit 9 instructs the electrode unit 212 to suck the calibration liquid by the system control function 91. Upon receiving the instruction from the control circuit 9, the electrode unit 212 sucks the calibration liquid supplied to the storage container 412.

(Step ST206)
After sucking the calibration liquid, the control circuit 9 measures the potential of the electrode by the potential acquisition function 92. Specifically, the control circuit 9 acquires data on the potential between the ISE 453 and the reference electrode 454 while the calibration liquid is being sucked.

(Step ST207)
After acquiring the potential data, the control circuit 9 determines whether the acquired potential is within the first range by the potential determination function 93. If the obtained potential is within the first range, it is determined that the electrodes have been cleaned, and the process proceeds to step ST210. When the acquired potential is not within the first range, it is determined that the electrode has stains, and the process proceeds to step ST208.

(Step ST208)
After the electric potential is determined, the control circuit 9 determines whether or not the electrode has been washed with the detergent a predetermined number of times. When the cleaning is performed a predetermined number of times, it is determined that the electrode cannot be cleaned, and the process proceeds to step ST209. If the cleaning has not been performed a predetermined number of times, it is determined that the cleaning of the electrode is insufficient, and the process returns to step ST201.

(Step ST209)
After the number of washings is determined, the control circuit 9 executes the reporting function 94. When the report function 94 is executed, the control circuit 9 displays on the output interface 6 that the cleaning cannot be performed, and reports it to the user. If the user is notified, the detergent cleaning process ends.

(Step ST210)
After the potential has been determined, the control circuit 9 executes the reporting function 94. When the report function 94 is executed, the control circuit 9 displays the completion of cleaning on the output interface 6 and reports it to the user. If the user is notified, the detergent cleaning process ends.

(First operation example)
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first operation example of the detergent cleaning process according to the embodiment. In the following, for example, the specific operation of steps ST202 and ST203 in the flowchart of FIG. 9 will be described using the schematic diagram of FIG. Note that, hereinafter, each unit operates in response to an instruction from the control circuit 9, and the description of the control circuit 9 is omitted.

In step ST202, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the detergent from the reagent container located immediately below the second reagent suction position p1. After the probe suctions and holds the detergent, the second reagent dispensing arm 210 rotates in the direction of arrow ar1 from the second reagent suction position p1 to the detergent discharge position p2 (first position). After rotating, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the detergent to the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position p2.

In step ST203, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 at a predetermined rotation angle for a predetermined number of cycles. Specifically, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 for one cycle (one rotation) to move the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position p2 to the electrode of the electrode unit 212. To the suction position p3 (second position).

When the electrode unit 212 is provided at the position p4, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 for two cycles (twice rotation), so that the reaction stopped at the detergent discharge position p2. The tube 2011 is moved to the position p4.

Further, the discharge position of the electrode unit 212 is not limited to the above, and the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position may be moved to the discharge position of the electrode unit 212 while the reaction disk 201 makes one rotation. In other words, the drive mechanism 4 may move the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position to the discharge position of the electrode unit 212 by rotating the reaction disk 201 a predetermined number of cycles. The predetermined number of cycles is, for example, 4 times or less.

Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 in the first operation example of the embodiment has the second reagent suction position p1, the second reagent discharge position p2′ (third position) and the detergent discharge position on the rotation trajectory. The suction position or the discharge position is set in the order of p2. In the first operation example, the number of cycles for moving the reaction tube stopped at the second reagent discharge position p2′ to the electrode suction position p3 is the same as the number of cycles of the reaction stopped at the detergent discharge position p2. More than the number of cycles of moving the tube to the electrode suction position p3.

Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 in the first operation example of the embodiment sucks in the order of the second reagent suction position p1, the second reagent discharge position p2′, and the detergent discharge position p2 on the rotation trajectory. Although the position or the ejection position is set, it is not limited to this. For example, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 may set the suction position or the discharge position in the order of the second reagent suction position, the detergent discharge position, and the second reagent discharge position on the rotation trajectory. In this case, the suction position of the electrode unit 212 is changed based on the detergent discharge position.

(Second operation example)
In the first operation example, the automatic analyzer 1 dispenses the detergent into the reaction tube 2011 by the second reagent dispensing probe 211. On the other hand, in the second operation example, the automatic analyzer 1 dispenses the detergent to the reaction tube 2011 by the sample dispensing probe 207. In this case, the automatic analyzer 1 includes the detergent storage container 207b.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the detergent cleaning process of FIG. The flowchart of FIG. 12 shows another processing form of step ST300 of the flowchart of FIG. The process of step ST300 may be the process of the first operation example or the process of the second operation example depending on the determination result of step ST201.

(Step ST301)
When the detergent cleaning process is executed, the control circuit 9 executes the system control function 91. When the system control function 91 is executed, the control circuit 9 instructs the sample dispensing probe 207 to dispense the detergent. Upon receiving the instruction from the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 sucks the detergent contained in the detergent storage container 207b. Then, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the sucked detergent into the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201 located immediately below the sample discharging position.

(Step ST302)
After discharging the detergent into the reaction tube, the control circuit 9 instructs the drive mechanism 4 to rotate the reaction disk 201 by the system control function 91. The drive mechanism 4 receives the instruction from the control circuit 9 and rotates the reaction disk 201. By rotating the reaction disk 201, the control circuit 9 can move the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the sample discharge position to the second reagent discharge position.

(Step ST303)
After rotating the reaction disk, the control circuit 9 causes the system control function 91 to dispense the detergent to the second reagent dispensing probe 211 from the reaction tube containing the detergent to another reaction tube. Give instructions. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 receives the instruction from the control circuit 9 and sucks the detergent contained in the reaction tube 2011. Then, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the sucked detergent to another reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 located immediately below the detergent discharge position.

(Step ST304)
After discharging the detergent to another reaction tube, the control circuit 9 instructs the drive mechanism 4 to rotate the reaction disk 201 by the system control function 91. The drive mechanism 4 receives the instruction from the control circuit 9 and rotates the reaction disk 201. By rotating the reaction disk 201, the control circuit 9 can move another reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position to the electrode suction position of the electrode unit 212.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating another operation example of the detergent cleaning processing according to the embodiment. In the following, for example, the specific operation of step ST300 in the flowchart of FIG. 12 will be described using the schematic diagram of FIG. Note that, hereinafter, each unit operates in response to an instruction from the control circuit 9, and the description of the control circuit 9 is omitted.

In step ST301, the sample dispensing probe 207 sucks the detergent from the detergent storage container 207b (storage container) located immediately below the detergent suction position. After the probe suctions and holds the detergent, the sample dispensing arm 206 rotates in the direction of arrow ar11 from the detergent suction position to the sample discharge position p11. After the rotation, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the detergent to the reaction tube 2011 (second reaction tube) stopped at the sample discharging position p11 (third position).

In step ST302, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 at a predetermined rotation angle. Specifically, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 for one cycle to move the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the sample discharge position p11 to the second reagent discharge position p12 (fourth position). Move up to.

In step ST303, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the detergent from the reaction tube 2011 stopped at the second reagent discharge position p12. After the probe sucks and holds the detergent, the second reagent dispensing arm 210 rotates in the direction of the arrow ar12 from the second reagent ejection position 12 to the detergent ejection position p13 (first position). After rotating, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the detergent to another reaction tube 2011 (reaction tube) stopped at the detergent discharge position p13.

In step ST304, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 at a predetermined rotation angle for a predetermined number of cycles. Specifically, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 for one cycle to move another reaction tube 2011 stopped at the detergent discharge position p13 to the electrode suction position p14( of the electrode unit 212). 2nd position).

When the electrode unit 212 is provided at the position p15, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 for two cycles (twice), thereby stopping the reaction disk 201 at the detergent discharge position p13. The reaction tube 2011 is moved to the position p15. Further, the ejection position of the electrode unit 212 is not limited to the above. Since this is the same as the first operation example, description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 in the second operation example of the embodiment has a suction position or a suction position in the order of the second reagent suction position, the second reagent discharge position p12, and the detergent discharge position p13 on the rotation trajectory. The discharge position is set. In the second operation example, the number of cycles for moving the reaction tube stopped at the second reagent discharge position p12 to the electrode suction position p14 is the same as the number of cycles of the reaction tube stopped at the detergent discharge position p13. Is greater than the number of cycles for moving the electrode to the electrode suction position p14.

Further, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 in the second operation example of the embodiment has a suction position or a suction position in the order of the second reagent suction position, the second reagent discharge position p12, and the detergent discharge position p13 on the rotation trajectory. Although the ejection position is set, it is not limited to this. For example, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 may set the suction position or the discharge position in the order of the second reagent suction position, the detergent discharge position, and the second reagent discharge position on the rotation trajectory. In this case, the sample ejection position is changed based on the second reagent ejection position. Further, the suction position of the electrode unit 212 is changed based on the detergent discharge position.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment includes a reaction disk that holds a plurality of reaction tubes, and a reagent dispensing probe that discharges detergent to the reaction tube stopped at the first position of the reaction disk. An electrode unit for measuring the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid, which is to be washed with a detergent sucked from a reaction tube stopped at a second position of the reaction disk different from the first position A control unit for moving the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position by rotating the reaction disk at a predetermined rotation angle for a predetermined number of cycles.

Therefore, the present automatic analyzer can perform not only the cleaning of the electrode by suction of the calibration liquid but also the cleaning of the electrode by suction of the detergent during startup. As a result, the present automatic analyzer can suppress the influence of electrode contamination more than ever before. Further, even if the electrode is contaminated, the automatic analyzer can eliminate the electrode contamination faster than before.

In addition, the automatic analyzer moves the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position by causing the control unit to rotate the reaction disk at a predetermined rotation angle four times or less. Can be made

Further, in the automatic analyzer, the control unit can move the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position while the reaction disk is rotated once.

Further, the automatic analyzer further includes a reagent container for storing a reagent container containing a detergent, and the reagent dispensing probe sucks the detergent contained in the reagent container and stops at the first position of the reaction disc. Detergent can be discharged into the reaction tube.

Further, the automatic analyzer is capable of dispensing the reagent into the reaction tube stopped at the third position of the reaction disc different from the first position and the second position in the reagent dispensing probe, The number of cycles of moving the reaction tube stopped at the position 3 to the second position is greater than the number of cycles of moving the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position.

Further, the automatic analyzer sucks the storage container containing the detergent and the detergent stored in the storage container, and stops at the third position of the reaction disc different from the first position and the second position. The second reaction tube further includes a sample dispensing probe for discharging the detergent, and the control unit rotates the reaction disk once at a predetermined rotation angle to stop the reaction disk at the third position. The second reaction tube is moved to a fourth position of the reaction disk different from the first position, the second position and the third position, and stopped at the fourth position in the reagent dispensing probe. The detergent contained in the second reaction tube can be sucked, and the detergent can be discharged to the reaction tube stopped at the first position.

In the automatic analyzer, the number of cycles for moving the second reaction tube stopped at the fourth position to the second position is the same as the number of cycles for moving the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position. More than the number of cycles to move to.

In addition, the automatic analyzer further includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the electrode of the power supply unit can be cleaned, and when it is determined that the electrode is dirty, the electrode unit can repeat suction with detergent. .

In addition, the automatic analyzer further includes a reporting unit that reports the result of the cleaning process using the detergent, and when it is determined that the electrode is dirty, the reporting unit can report that the cleaning cannot be performed.

Further, when it is determined that the electrode is not contaminated, the automatic analyzer can restart the measurement of the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid using the electrode in the control unit.

In addition, the automatic analyzer further includes a reporting unit that reports the result of the cleaning process using a detergent, and when it is determined that the electrodes are clean, the reporting unit reports that the measurement is restarted. You can

According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to wash the electrode unit by sucking the detergent during startup.

The word "processor" in each of the above embodiments is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC, a programmable logic device (for example, a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD)). , A complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and an FPGA).

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples 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. The embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and the scope thereof, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the scope of equivalents thereof.

1 Automatic analyzer 9 Control circuit (control section)
201 Reaction disc 205 Second reagent storage (reagent storage)
207 Sample dispensing probe 207b Detergent storage container (storage container)
211 Second reagent dispensing probe (reagent dispensing probe)
212 electrode unit

Claims (11)

A reaction disk holding a plurality of reaction tubes,
A reagent dispensing probe for discharging a detergent to the reaction tube stopped at the first position of the reaction disk,
Is to be washed with the detergent sucked from the reaction tube stopped at the second position of the reaction disk different from the first position, and for measuring the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid An electrode unit,
A control unit for moving the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position by rotating the reaction disk at a predetermined rotation angle for a predetermined number of cycles. , Automatic analyzer. The control unit moves the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position by rotating the reaction disk at the predetermined rotation angle four times or less.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. The control unit moves the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position while rotating the reaction disk once.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. Further comprising a reagent container for storing a reagent container containing the detergent,
The reagent dispensing probe sucks the detergent contained in the reagent container and discharges the detergent to the reaction tube stopped at the first position of the reaction disc,
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The reagent dispensing probe dispenses a reagent to the reaction tube stopped at a third position of the reaction disk different from the first position and the second position,
The number of cycles for moving the reaction tube stopped at the third position to the second position is equal to the number of cycles for moving the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position. More than
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A storage container containing the detergent,
The detergent contained in the storage container is sucked, and the detergent is discharged into a second reaction tube stopped at a third position of the reaction disc different from the first position and the second position. Further comprising a sample dispensing probe,
The control unit rotates the reaction disk once at the predetermined rotation angle to move the second reaction tube stopped at the third position to the first position, Moving to a fourth position of the reaction disc that is different from the second position and the third position,
The reagent dispensing probe sucks the detergent contained in the second reaction tube stopped at the fourth position, and places the detergent in the reaction tube stopped at the first position. Eject,
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The number of cycles for moving the second reaction tube stopped at the fourth position to the second position is the number of cycles for moving the reaction tube stopped at the first position to the second position. More cycles than allowed,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 6. Further comprising a determination unit that determines whether or not the electrodes of the electrode unit have been cleaned,
If it is determined that the electrodes are dirty,
The electrode unit repeats suction with the detergent,
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 7. A report unit for reporting the result of the cleaning treatment using the detergent,
If it is determined that the electrodes are dirty,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the reporting unit reports that cleaning cannot be performed. If it is determined that the electrodes are clean,
The control unit restarts measurement of the electrolyte concentration of the test liquid using the electrode,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 8. A report unit for reporting the result of the cleaning treatment using the detergent,
If it is determined that the electrodes are clean,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 10, wherein the reporting unit reports that the measurement is restarted.