JP2021092417A - Specimen analysis device and scheduling method - Google Patents

Abstract

To efficiently and flexibly schedule a new processing sequence in a specific analysis device.SOLUTION: When scheduling a new processing sequence #5, a collision generated between the new processing sequence #5 and reserved processing sequences #1 to #4 is determined. A non-executed immune reaction process 106 before the process in which a collision occurs is selected as a process to be adjusted. By changing time length of the process to be adjusted, avoidance of a collision is tried. A pretreatment process may set to be the process to be adjusted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention relates to a sample analyzer and a scheduling method, and more particularly to scheduling a processing sequence consisting of a series of plurality of steps for processing a sample.

Immunoassay devices, biochemical analyzers, and the like are known as sample analyzers. The sample is blood, urine, tissue, etc. collected from a living body. The immunoassay device will be described below.

The immunoassay device is a device that analyzes a sample by utilizing an immune reaction (specifically, an antibody-antigen reaction). In the immunoassay device, a plurality of reagents (or a plurality of sets) corresponding to a plurality of analysis items are prepared. Further, in the immunoassay apparatus, a plurality of processing sequences are prepared in order to actually execute a plurality of analysis items. Each processing sequence is composed of a series of steps for processing a sample and corresponds to a processing protocol. Its configuration depends on the analytical method used.

For example, in the one-step method, a reagent dispensing step, a sample dispensing step, an immune reaction step, a BF (Bound / Free) washing step (BF separation step), a substrate solution dispensing step, an enzyme reaction step, and a measuring step. The processing sequence composed of is executed. In the two-step method (sandwich method), the first reagent dispensing step, the sample dispensing step, the first immune reaction step, the first BF washing step, the second reagent dispensing step, the second BF washing step, and the substrate liquid dispensing step. , An enzyme reaction step, and a processing sequence consisting of a measurement step are executed. After the step of pretreating the sample, the first reagent dispensing step, the first immune reaction step, the first BF washing step, and the like may be executed. The time required for each step (for example, reaction time) depends on the analytical method to be performed and the reagents used.

In the immunoassay apparatus, for example, a plurality of reserved processing sequences having different execution start times are managed on a reservation table for scheduling. In addition, scheduling for a new processing sequence is performed on the reservation table. Specifically, the new processing sequence is registered in the reservation table after necessary adjustments for the new processing sequence. The control unit controls each configuration in the immunoassay device according to the contents of the reservation table. Scheduling of processing sequences is also called allocation of processing sequences.

In scheduling a new processing sequence, a conflict may occur between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group. Here, a collision means a duplicate reservation of a plurality of processes using the same equipment, that is, a physically incompatible relationship. For example, a state in which a plurality of cleaning processes using the same cleaning equipment are reserved at the same time corresponds to a collision.

In the event of a collision, some collision avoidance method is applied. For example, adjustments are made to gradually delay the execution start time of the new processing sequence until the conflict is resolved. As a result, it may be necessary to delay the execution start time by, for example, several tens of cycle times until the reservation of the new processing sequence is completed. According to the adjustment method, there arises a problem that the operating efficiency of the immunoassay device is lowered or the number of processing sequence executions per unit time is lowered.

On the other hand, there is also known a method of avoiding the occurrence of a collision by collectively reserving a plurality of processing sequences having a certain relationship in which a collision does not occur. However, such a method has a problem that a plurality of new processing sequences cannot be flexibly scheduled.

In addition, Patent Document 1 discloses an analyzer having a function of adjusting the time interval from the injection of the sample into the container to the injection of the reagent into the container. Patent Document 1 does not describe adjusting the time length other than that.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 6-22204

An object of the present invention is to enable a sample analyzer to efficiently schedule a new processing sequence. Alternatively, an object of the present invention is to enable flexible scheduling of new processing sequences in a sample analyzer.

The sample analyzer according to the present invention is a determination means for determining a collision occurring between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group when scheduling a new processing sequence, and an adjustment for making adjustments for avoiding the collision. By changing the time length of the adjustment target process and the selection means for selecting the unexecuted reaction process prior to the process in which the collision occurred as the adjustment target process, including the means. It is characterized by including a trial means for attempting to avoid the collision.

The scheduling method according to the present invention includes a step of determining a collision that occurs between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group when scheduling a new processing sequence, and an unexecuted step that precedes the step in which the collision occurs. It is characterized by including a step of selecting the reaction step of the above as a step to be adjusted, and a step of trying to avoid the collision by changing the time length of the step to be adjusted.

According to the present invention, a new processing sequence can be efficiently scheduled in the sample analyzer. Alternatively, according to the present invention, a new processing sequence can be flexibly scheduled in the sample analyzer.

It is a conceptual diagram which shows the immunoassay apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the configuration example of a scheduler. It is a figure which shows the collision example. It is a figure which shows the example of insufficient collision avoidance. It is a figure which shows the collision avoidance example and the problem. It is a figure which shows the collision avoidance example which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the other collision avoidance example which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the collision avoidance example in the case where a collision occurs in the 1st BF cleaning step. It is a figure which shows the collision avoidance example in the case where a collision occurs in the 2nd BF cleaning step. It is a figure which shows the collision avoidance example which presupposes a shortened sequence. It is a figure for demonstrating the selection of the adjustment method. It is a figure for demonstrating the correction of the measured value. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a reaction time and a photometric value. It is a figure which shows the metering value characteristic. It is a flowchart which shows the scheduling method which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows 1st example of the time length change method. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd example of the time length change method.

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

(1) Outline of Embodiment The sample analyzer according to the embodiment includes a determination means and an adjustment means. The determination means determines a collision that occurs between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group when scheduling the new processing sequence. The adjusting means is a means for making adjustments to avoid a collision. The adjusting means includes a selection means and a trial means. The selection means selects an unexecuted reaction step prior to the step in which the collision occurred as the step to be adjusted. The trial means attempts to avoid a collision by changing the time length of the process to be adjusted.

In sample analysis, the time length in each reaction process is an important factor that influences measurement accuracy and measurement sensitivity. Therefore, it is usual to schedule a new processing sequence while setting the time length to a predetermined value or a fixed value. However, in general, as the reaction time increases, the reaction result approaches an equilibrium state or becomes an equilibrium state. Further, in normal sample measurement, a sufficient time length of the reaction step is set. In many cases, even if the time length of the reaction step is slightly shortened, there is no significant difference in the reaction treatment results. If the reaction processing result changes due to the shortening of the time length, it is possible to deal with it by correcting the measurement data and measurement conditions. Similarly, in general, even if the time length of the reaction step is extended, there is often no significant difference in the reaction treatment results. If the reaction processing result changes due to the extension of the time length, it is possible to deal with it by correcting the measurement data and measurement conditions.

The above configuration is based on the above concept. That is, in the above configuration, one of the unexecuted reaction processes is selected as the adjustment target process, and the process that caused the collision is shifted on the time axis by changing the time length, thereby trying to avoid the collision. It is a thing. Scheduling can be performed more efficiently or flexibly than when shifting the entire new sequence.

For example, in the immunoassay apparatus, candidates for the process to be adjusted include a pretreatment step, an immune reaction step, an enzyme reaction step, and the like. In particular, the pretreatment step is a step that is unlikely to be affected by the change in the time length, and is a promising candidate for the step to be adjusted. If the pretreatment process is performed in a unit that is independent of the other units, it is a more promising candidate. For a reaction process in which it is difficult to change the time length, the time length may be treated as immutable. If collisions cannot be avoided by changing the time length, one or more collision avoidance methods that have been used in the past may be selectively applied.

In the embodiment, the collision is the same time reservation of a plurality of dispensing processes using the same dispensing equipment, the same time reservation of a plurality of cleaning processes using the same cleaning equipment, and the same time reservation of a plurality of measuring processes using the same measuring equipment. Means at least one of the time reservations. When a plurality of collisions occur at the same time, avoidance of individual collisions may be attempted sequentially from the collision on the upstream side to the collision on the downstream side on the time axis. Alternatively, batch avoidance of a plurality of collisions may be attempted.

If no conflict occurs during scheduling of the new processing sequence, the configuration and reservation of the processing sequence is finalized, which becomes the reserved processing sequence. Even if a conflict occurs when scheduling a new processing sequence but it can be avoided, the configuration and reservation of the new processing sequence after avoidance are fixed, and the new processing sequence after avoidance becomes a reserved processing sequence.

In the embodiment, the selection means selects the adjustment target process from the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group. In avoiding a collision, it is generally easier to make adjustments by setting any reaction step in the new processing sequence as the adjustment target step, but setting any reaction step in the reserved processing sequence as the adjustment target step. It is also possible. In any case, the unexecuted reaction step is selected as the step to be adjusted.

In embodiments, changing the time length includes at least one of shortening and extending the time length. From the viewpoint of processing efficiency, it is better to preferentially use the reduction of time length. From the viewpoint of accuracy, it is better to preferentially use the extension of time length. It may be decided which method is prioritized according to the operating status and the user's instruction.

In an embodiment, the trial means changes the time length within a time range defined for the reagents used in the process to be adjusted. When the time range in which the time length can be changed differs depending on the reagent, the above configuration is adopted. Time information may be added to each reagent bottle or the like, and the time information may be read and used for the above control.

In the embodiment, the steps to be adjusted are a pretreatment step, an immune reaction step, and / or an enzyme reaction step. In particular, the time length of the pretreatment step is relatively easy to change, and its property is utilized for collision avoidance. The pretreatment step is also a reaction step using reagents.

The sample analyzer according to the embodiment includes a correction means for directly or indirectly correcting the measured value obtained by executing the processing sequence including the adjustment target step in which the time length is changed. For example, the relationship between the reaction time and the measured value may be investigated in advance, and the correction curve may be determined from the relationship. A method of directly correcting the final measured value, a method of indirectly correcting the numerical value on which the final measured value is based, and the like can be considered. The measured value corresponds to the sample analysis result.

In the embodiment, the selection means selects the adjustment target process from the plurality of new processing sequences when collectively reserving the plurality of new processing sequences. For example, a plurality of new processing sequences corresponding to a plurality of analysis instructions for the same sample may be collectively reserved.

In the embodiment, a plurality of types of processing sequences corresponding to a plurality of types of analysis instructions are prepared. The abbreviated processing sequence is included in the plurality of types of processing sequences. The shortened processing sequence includes a reaction step in which the shortest time length is set as the initial time length.
When the new processing sequence is a shortened processing sequence and the adjustment target process is a reaction process in the shortened processing sequence, the scheduling trial means causes a collision by extending the time length of the adjustment target process. Try to avoid it.

In the above configuration, the shortest time length is set as the initial time length of the reaction process that is a candidate for the adjustment target process, and only the extension is performed when adjusting the time length. If no adjustment is performed, the shortened processing sequence is reserved as it is, so that the throughput of the sample analyzer can be increased as a whole. All or part of a plurality of types of processing sequences may be shortened processing sequences. All or part of the plurality of reaction steps in the shortened processing sequence may be a reaction step in which the shortest time length is defined.

The scheduling method according to the embodiment includes a determination step, a selection step, and a trial step. In the determination step, when scheduling a new processing sequence, a collision that occurs between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group is determined. In the selection step, an unexecuted reaction step prior to the step in which the collision occurred is selected as the step to be adjusted. In the trial step, collision avoidance is attempted by changing the time length of the adjustment target process. Each of the above steps is automatically executed in the sample analyzer.

The above method can be realized as a function of hardware or a function of software. In the latter case, a program that executes the above method is installed in the information processing apparatus via a portable storage medium or via a network. The concept of an information processing device includes a sample analyzer. The sample analyzer is, for example, an immunoassay device, a biochemical analyzer, or the like.

(2) Details of the Embodiment FIG. 1 shows an immunoassay device 10 as a sample analyzer according to the embodiment. The immunoassay device 10 supports a plurality of immunoassay methods including a one-step method, a two-step method, and the like. A plurality of types of processing sequences (hereinafter, simply referred to as "sequences") are prepared for executing these measurement methods. The configuration and scheduling of each sequence will be described in detail later. Specifically, the immunoassay device 10 is a fully automatic immunoassay device according to a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA).

The lower part of FIG. 1 (see reference numeral 10B) shows a physical layout corresponding to a top view of the immunoassay device 10. Its content is exemplary and various physical layouts can be adopted. In the upper part of FIG. 1 (see reference numeral 10A), the configuration relating to the control of the immunoassay device 10 is shown as a plurality of blocks.

In the lower part of FIG. 1, a sample rack supply unit 14, a sample rack discharge unit 16, a transport path 20, a transport path 22, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the main body 12. A plurality of sample racks 18 are placed on the sample rack supply unit 14. A plurality of samples (more accurately, containers containing the samples) are held by the individual sample racks 18. Each sample is blood, urine, etc. collected from a living body. Each sample rack 18 is sent from the sample rack supply unit 14 to the transport path 20. Each of the fed sample racks 18 is transported by the transport path 20. A bar code label reader (BCR) 19 is provided in the middle of the transport path 20. The BCR 19 optically reads the content of the barcode label attached to each sample, that is, the barcode. Thereby, one or more analysis items can be specified for each sample. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 18A indicates a sample rack positioned in the sample suction position.

The transport path 20 is a feed transport path, and the transport path 22 is a return transport path. The transport paths 20 and 22 are each composed of a belt conveyor. A lateral feed mechanism 24 is provided between the transport paths 20 and 22. The sample rack is sent out from the transport path 22 to the sample rack discharge unit 16. A plurality of sample racks that have undergone analysis processing are accumulated on the sample rack discharge unit 16.

The main body 12 is provided with a central processing unit 26, a pretreatment unit 28, an immune reaction processing unit 29, a first reagent cold storage 30, and a second reagent cold storage 32. The central processing unit 26 has a turntable. The turntable is provided with, for example, a ring-shaped first hole row and a ring-shaped second hole row, which are arranged concentrically. The first hole row is composed of a plurality of holes arranged in a ring shape, and the second hole row is also composed of a plurality of holes arranged in a ring shape. A cuvette, which is a sample container, is inserted into each hole (see reference numeral 38). Reference numeral 36 indicates a cuvette supply unit. The first hole row and the second hole row rotate independently of each other. In the central processing unit 26, for example, sample dispensing (specifically, sample discharge), reagent dispensing (specifically, reagent discharge), substrate liquid dispensing (specifically, substrate liquid discharge), and BF cleaning (specifically, substrate liquid discharge) BF separation), stirring, etc. are performed. Reference numeral 40 indicates sample dispensing.

Preprocessing is executed in the preprocessing unit 28. The pretreatment section 28 has a turntable, in which a row of holes composed of a plurality of holes arranged in a ring shape is formed. The cuvette containing the sample to be pretreated is transferred from the central processing section 26 to the pretreatment section 28 (see reference numeral 42). Specifically, the cuvette is inserted into the hole at the transfer destination. The pretreated cuvette is transferred from the pretreatment section 28 to the central processing section 26 (see reference numeral 42). The pretreatment is a treatment that is applied to the sample before performing the immune response treatment. Reagents are also used in pretreatment. Pretreatment is also a type of reaction treatment. Various processes can be mentioned as pre-processes. This includes, for example, a treatment that acts on a specific protein in a sample, and also includes a treatment that causes a dissociation in a specific complex in the sample. Pretreatment may be performed under heating. In that case, the sample after the pretreatment may be cooled in a cooling unit (not shown). The heated sample may wait for a certain period of time in a cooling unit or the like before being transferred to the central processing unit 26. This standby process is also a part of the pretreatment process and is included in the adjustment target process.

The immune reaction processing unit 29 has a turntable, in which a row of holes composed of a plurality of holes arranged in a ring shape is formed. The cuvette containing the sample is transferred from the central processing unit 26 to the immune reaction processing unit 29 (see reference numeral 48). The cuvette after the immune reaction treatment is transferred from the immune reaction processing unit 29 to the central processing unit 26 (see reference numeral 48). In the immune reaction processing unit 29, the immune reaction processing using the reagent is executed. In the case of the two-step method, the immune reaction treatment includes a first immune reaction treatment step and a second immune reaction treatment step.

The immune reaction processing unit 29 may perform the enzyme reaction treatment, the central processing unit 26 may perform the enzyme reaction treatment, and the enzyme reaction treatment may be performed at a place different from those. You may.

The first reagent cold storage 30 is configured as a constant temperature bath, and a plurality of reagent bottles for accommodating a plurality of reagents are provided inside the first reagent cold storage 30. Each of the plurality of reagents is a reagent containing magnetic particles to which an antibody or an antigen is bound. These reagents are used in the immune reaction process (in the case of the two-step method, the first immune reaction process). Reagent dispensing is indicated by reference numeral 44.

Like the first reagent cold storage 30, the second reagent cold storage 32 is configured as a constant temperature bath, and a plurality of reagent bottles containing a plurality of reagents are provided inside the second reagent cold storage 32. The plurality of reagents include reagents used in the immune reaction treatment (in the case of the two-step method, the second immune reaction treatment), reagents used in the pretreatment, reagents used in the enzyme reaction treatment, and the like. It can be. Reagent dispensing is indicated by reference numeral 46.

The measuring unit 34 is a unit that measures the light generated in the sample. The concentration of the substance to be analyzed is calculated from the amount of light emitted based on the calibration curve created in advance. Reference numeral 50 indicates the transfer of the cuvette from the central processing unit 26 to the measuring unit 34.

In FIG. 1, the cuvette transfer mechanism, the dispensing mechanism, the BF cleaning mechanism, the stirring mechanism, and the like are not shown. Although a plurality of turntables are shown in FIG. 1, they may be integrated or the number of turntables may be increased.

The control unit 52 is composed of a processor, for example, a CPU that operates according to a program. The control unit 52 controls the operation of each configuration shown in FIG. Further, the control unit 52 has a function of scheduling individual sequences, and the function is shown as a scheduler 54 in FIG.

The control unit 64 acquires sample information based on the barcode information read from each sample. When sample information is sent from the control unit 64 to the upper system, an analysis instruction including analysis items and the like is sent from the upper system to the control unit 64. The control unit 64 specifies an analysis item, an analysis method, and the like based on the analysis instruction. Then, the sequence corresponding to the analysis instruction is selected and the scheduling is executed. The immunoassay device 10 itself may specify the analysis item or the like from the sample information without making an inquiry to the higher-level system.

A storage unit 56 is connected to the control unit 52. The storage unit 56 is composed of a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, and the like. A reservation table 58 is constructed on the storage unit 56. The reservation table 58 includes a plurality of reserved sequences as its contents. The control unit 52 controls the operation of each configuration in the immunoassay device 10 based on the contents of the reservation table 58. An input unit 60 and a display 62 are connected to the control unit 52. The input unit 60 is composed of a keyboard, a pointing device, and the like. The display is composed of an LCD or the like.

Generally, in scheduling a new sequence, a collision may occur between the new sequence and the reserved sequence group in sample dispensing, reagent dispensing, BF washing, and the like. That is, there is a possibility that duplicate reservations may occur in which the same equipment or the same equipment is used simultaneously in a plurality of processes. The scheduler 54 has a function of resolving such a collision when it occurs. This will be described in detail with reference to the respective figures after FIG.

FIG. 2 schematically shows a series of processes executed by the scheduler 54. FIG. 2 also shows a reserved sequence group 72 that constitutes the contents of the reservation table 58.

According to the newly accepted analysis instruction 68, the sequence 70 for executing the specified analysis item (and the specified analysis method) is specified and selected. It can be called a new sequence. The sequence 70 in the default state, which has not undergone the time length change described below, can be said to be a specified sequence. As described above, a plurality of types of sequences are prepared, and the sequence 70 corresponding to the analysis item is selected from the sequences. A plurality of specified sequences having different configurations may be prepared for one analysis item.

When a new sequence is selected, a reservation for that new sequence is attempted (see reference numeral 74). Specifically, a tentative reservation of a new sequence is made on the reservation table 58.
After the tentative reservation, the presence or absence of a collision between the new sequence and the plurality of reserved sequence groups 72 is determined (see reference numeral 76). If there is no collision (see reference numeral B), the content of the tentative reservation is finalized. As a result, the new sequence becomes a reserved sequence, and it is added to the reserved sequence group 72.

On the other hand, if there is a collision (see reference numeral A), adjustment control is executed (see reference numeral 78). Multiple methods can be selectively applied to avoid collisions. Among them are a change in the time length of the adjustment target process selected from the new sequence (see reference numeral 80) and a change in the time length of the adjustment target process selected from the reserved sequence group (see reference numeral 80). Reference numeral 88), is included.

The new sequence change (see reference numeral 80) involves two steps. The first step is the selection of the change target (see reference numeral 82), and the second step is the selection of the change direction (see reference numeral 84). More specifically, in the first step, a reaction step (pretreatment step, immune reaction step, etc.) included in the new sequence and prior to the step in which the collision occurred is selected as the adjustment target step. Will be done. Subsequently, in the second step, whether to shorten or extend the time length of the adjustment target process is selected and executed. The configuration of the new sequence changes partially and on a trial basis by changing the time length of the process to be adjusted. Subsequently, a tentative reservation is executed for the new sequence after the time length change (see reference numeral 74), and the presence or absence of a collision between the new sequence after the time length change and the reserved sequence group is determined (reference numeral 74). 76). If a collision occurs (if the collision cannot be avoided), the above time length change is implemented again. A changeable range is defined for each time length, and the time length can be changed within that range. An upper limit may be set for the number of repetitions of the time length change.

In the above adjustment control (see reference numeral 78), when the reserved sequence change is selected (see reference numeral 88), the unexecuted reaction process prior to the collision is adjusted from the reserved sequence group. Selected as a process, its time length is shortened or extended. That is, the first step and the second step are executed in the same manner as described above. Then, the presence or absence of a collision between the new sequence and the reserved sequence group 72 is determined again. If necessary, the reserved sequence change 88 is repeatedly executed.

When the collision can be avoided by changing the time length, the tentative reservation of the new sequence is confirmed, and it is added to the reserved sequence group 72 as the reserved sequence. If the collision is avoided by changing the time length of the reaction process in the reserved sequence, the change is confirmed.

If the collision cannot be avoided even by changing the time length, or if the time-out occurs, another method for avoiding the collision is implemented. Specifically, the tentative reservation of the new sequence is repeated while gradually delaying the start time of the new sequence until the collision is resolved (see reference numerals 86 and 74).

The scheduler 54 according to the embodiment also has a function of making a bulk reservation (see reference numeral 92). For example, a plurality of new sequences corresponding to a plurality of analysis instructions for the same sample are tentatively reserved at once. If a conflict occurs between them and the reserved sequence group, the same time length change as described above is executed to resolve the conflict. If a collision occurs between a plurality of new sequences prior to the summary reservation, adjustments such as changing the time length may be made in advance so that the collision is resolved.

Adjustment method selection conditions, time length change conditions, etc. may be specified in advance. These conditions may be set automatically depending on the situation. The operation of each configuration in the immunoassay device is controlled based on the reserved sequence group (see reference numeral 94). When it becomes necessary to correct the measured value as a result of changing the time length, information 96 indicating the changed time length is passed from the scheduler 54 to a correction unit (not shown).

In FIG. 2, the block specified by reference numeral 76 corresponds to the determination means. The blocks specified by reference numerals 74, 78, 80, 88, 92 correspond to the adjusting means (selecting means and trial means). The control unit shown in FIG. 1 functions as a correction means.

FIG. 3 shows an example of a collision. The vertical axis indicates the sequence arrangement direction, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the time axis. In the illustrated example, # 1 to # 4 represent reserved sequences. # 5 indicates a new sequence. A new sequence is being reserved, that is, a new sequence is tentatively reserved. The horizontal axis indicates the process arrangement direction and corresponds to the time axis.

In FIG. 3, R indicates a reagent dispensing step, and S indicates a sample dispensing step. I-1 indicates an immune reaction step or a first immune reaction step, and I-2 indicates a second immune reaction step. BF1 indicates a cleaning step or a first BF cleaning step, and BF2 indicates a second BF cleaning step. E indicates an enzyme reaction process, and M indicates a measurement process (photometric process). The above items are the same in each of the figures after FIG.

By the way, sequence # 1 has a configuration corresponding to the two-step method, and the time length of the first immune reaction step I-1 and the time length of the second immune reaction step I-2 contained therein are relatively long. .. Sequence # 2 also has the same configuration as sequence # 1. Sequence # 3 has a configuration corresponding to the two-step method, and the time length of the first immune reaction step I-1 and the time length of the second immune reaction step I-2 contained therein are relatively short. Sequence # 4 has a configuration corresponding to the one-step method, and the time length of the immune reaction step I-1 contained therein is relatively long. The novel sequence # 5 has a configuration corresponding to the one-step method, and in the initial configuration, the time length of the immune reaction step I-1 is relatively short.

Note that Δt is a basic unit of time. It is usually the smallest unit of operation of the device and is also called cycle time. Each step has a time length corresponding to an integral multiple of its basic unit. Δt is, for example, 15 seconds. In FIG. 3, the time length of each step is not accurately represented in order to explain the collision described below in an easy-to-understand manner. For example, the actual time length of the BF cleaning process corresponds to 4 to 8 cycle times, but when considering collisions on the same equipment (specifically, the same cuvette position), the first cycle time among them In FIG. 3, only the head cycle time is shown because it is only necessary to consider. As for the measurement process, only the first cycle time is shown as described above. This also applies to each of the figures after FIG.

In FIG. 3, in the tentative reservation state of the new sequence # 5, a collision 102 occurs between the BF cleaning step 100 in the new sequence # 5 and the BF cleaning step (first BF cleaning step) 112 in the sequence # 1. ing. The timing at which the collision 102 occurs is t1.

FIG. 4 shows a state in which the execution start time of the new sequence # 5 is delayed by Δt and then a tentative reservation is made for the new sequence # 5 (which can also be said to be a change state of the tentative reservation). The original execution start time is indicated by ts1, and the newly set execution start time is indicated by ts2. The collision between the BF cleaning step 100A in the new sequence # 5 and the BF cleaning step 112 in the reserved sequence # 1 has been resolved, but this time, the BF cleaning step 100A in the new sequence # 5 and Another collision 104 has occurred with the BF cleaning step 114 in the reserved sequence # 2. The timing of the collision 104 is indicated by t2.

FIG. 5 shows a state in which the execution start time of the new sequence # 5 is delayed by 2Δt, and then the tentative reservation of the new sequence # 5 is made. The newly set execution start time is indicated by ts3. No collision has occurred between the new sequence # 5 (including the BF cleaning step 100B) and the reserved sequence groups # 1 to # 4 (including the BF cleaning steps 112 and 114). That is, the collision has been resolved.

However, the delay in the execution start time of the new sequence causes a problem of reduced throughput. When the number of reserved sequences is large (for example, 20), scheduling for a new sequence cannot be performed unless the execution start time is constantly delayed considerably.

FIG. 6 shows a first collision avoidance example according to the embodiment. When the collision shown in FIG. 3 occurs, the reaction step (naturally not executed) existing before the step in which the collision occurred is selected as the adjustment target step in the new sequence # 5. The time length of the process to be adjusted is changed in cycle time units. Specifically, the time length is shortened or extended.

In the illustrated example, the immune reaction step 106 is selected as the step to be adjusted, and by shortening the time length by Δt (that is, one unit), a novel sequence including the immune reaction step 106A having a shortened time length is included. # 5 is being reconfigured on a trial basis. In the tentative reservation state, the collision that has occurred in relation to the BF cleaning step 100C has been eliminated, and no other collision has occurred. Therefore, the reservation of the reconstructed new sequence is confirmed. The new sequence becomes a reserved sequence.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, it is conceivable to extend the time length of the immune reaction step 106 by 2 units to avoid collision. Even in that case, the execution start time of the new sequence # 5 can be maintained. When a plurality of collisions have occurred, adjustments may be made to avoid each collision stepwise from the upstream side to the downstream side on the time axis. When a plurality of reaction steps are candidates for the adjustment target process, the adjustment target process is sequentially selected according to the selection conditions specified in advance or randomly.

FIG. 7 shows a second collision avoidance example according to the embodiment. When the collision shown in FIG. 3 occurs, an unexecuted reaction process existing before the process in which the collision occurred is selected as the adjustment target process in the reserved sequence # 1 having a collision relationship. The time length of the process to be adjusted is shortened or extended in cycle time units.

In the illustrated example, the first immune reaction step 110 is selected as the step to be adjusted, and by shortening the time length by one unit, a reserved sequence including the first immune reaction step 110A having a shortened time length. # 1 is being reconfigured on a trial basis. In the reconstructed state, the BF cleaning step 112 related to the collision is advanced by one unit on the time axis. No collision has occurred between the BF cleaning step 100 in the new sequence # 5 and the BF cleaning step 112A in the reserved sequence # 1. That is, the collision has been resolved. At that point, the reservation of the new sequence # 5 is confirmed, and at the same time, the contents of the reconstructed reserved sequence # 1 are confirmed.

In general, when changing the configuration of a reserved sequence, new conflicts are likely to occur. Therefore, the method is preferably used in a limited way. For example, if the collision cannot be avoided even if the time length of the new sequence is repeatedly changed, the time length may be shortened or extended only once for the reserved sequence.

FIG. 8 shows some examples of time length changes when a collision occurs in the first BF cleaning step 116 included in the new sequence. (A0) indicates a new sequence. P indicates a pretreatment step. These matters are the same in FIGS. 9 and 10 which will be described later.

(A1) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by shortening the pretreatment step prior to the first BF cleaning step 116 by one unit (see reference numeral 118). The first BF cleaning step 116 is moving forward one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 116A). (A2) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by extending the pretreatment step by one unit (see reference numeral 120). The first BF cleaning step 116 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 116B). (A3) shows a novel sequence reconstituted (see reference numeral 122) by shortening the first immune reaction step prior to the first BF wash step 116 by one unit. The first BF cleaning step 116 is moving forward one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 116C). (A4) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending the first immune response step by one unit (see reference numeral 124). The first BF cleaning step 116 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 116D).

If the conflict is resolved after the time length change, the configuration and reservation of the reconstructed new sequence is finalized. If the collision is not resolved after the time length is changed (including the case where a new collision occurs), the tentative reservation with the time length change is repeated while changing the change conditions.

FIG. 9 shows some examples of time length changes when a collision occurs in the second BF cleaning step 126 included in the new sequence. Similarly to the above, (A0) indicates a new sequence.

(A1) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by shortening the pretreatment step prior to the second BF cleaning step 126 by one unit (see reference numeral 130). The second BF cleaning step 126 is moving forward one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 126A). (A2) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by extending the pretreatment step by one unit (see reference numeral 132). The second BF cleaning step 126 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 126B). (A3) shows a novel sequence reconstituted (see reference numeral 134) by shortening the first immune response step prior to the second BF wash step 126 by one unit. The second BF cleaning step 126 is moving forward one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 126C). (A4) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending the first immune response step by one unit (see reference numeral 136). The second BF cleaning step 126 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 126D).

(A5) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by shortening the second immune response step prior to the second BF wash step 126 by one unit (see reference numeral 138). The second BF cleaning step 126 moves forward one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 126E). (A6) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending the second immune response step by one unit (see reference numeral 140). The second BF cleaning step 126 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 126F).

FIG. 10 shows a modified example. In this modification, the shortest sequence is used as the new sequence. On that premise, the time length of the adjustment target process is extended.

Specifically, the novel sequence shown in (A0) includes a pretreatment step 143 having the shortest time length, a first immune reaction step 144 having the shortest time length, and a second immune reaction having the shortest time length. It has step 145. In the tentative reservation state of such a new sequence, a collision occurs in the second BF cleaning step with other BF cleaning steps in the other sequence. An example of changing the time length to avoid this collision will be described below.

(A1) shows a new sequence reconstructed by extending the pretreatment step 143 by one unit (see reference numeral 146). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 142A). (A2) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by extending the pretreatment step 143 by 2 units (see reference numeral 148). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by 2 units on the time axis (see reference numeral 142B). (A3) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by extending the pretreatment step 143 by 3 units (see reference numeral 150). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by 3 units on the time axis (see reference numeral 142C).

(A4) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending the first immune response step 144 by one unit (see reference numeral 152). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 142D). (A5) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending each of the pretreatment step 143 and the first immune reaction step 144 by 1 unit (see reference numerals 154 and 156). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by 2 units on the time axis (see reference numeral 142E).

(A6) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending the second immune response step 145 by one unit (see reference numeral 158). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by one unit on the time axis (see reference numeral 142F). (A7) shows a novel sequence reconstructed by extending each of the pretreatment step 143 and the second immune reaction step 145 by 1 unit (see reference numerals 160 and 162). The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by 2 units on the time axis (see reference numeral 142G). (A8) shows a novel sequence reconstituted by extending each of the pretreatment step 143, the first immune reaction step 144 and the second immune reaction step 145 by 1 unit (see reference numerals 164, 166, 168). There is. The second BF cleaning step 142 is shifted backward by 3 units on the time axis (see reference numeral 142H).

As described above, according to the scheduling method according to the embodiment, the reservation of the new sequence can be made more flexibly and efficiently than the method of delaying the execution start time of the new sequence. As a result, the throughput can be improved.

As shown in FIG. 11, when a plurality of adjustment methods A1 to An exist, the evaluation values E1 to En are calculated for each of them (see reference numeral 170), and the best evaluation value is specified from the evaluation values. The method may be selected (see reference numeral 172). When calculating the evaluation value, the penalty may be smaller in the case of shortening than in the case of extension, or may be increased in accordance with the increase in the amount of change in the time length.

FIG. 12 shows a correction method. Specifically, a configuration is shown in which the measured value is corrected as the time length is changed. Normally, the conversion unit 176 calculates a measured value (for example, the concentration of the substance to be measured) 180 from the measured value 174 obtained by the luminescence measurement based on the calibration curve 178. When the correction is performed, the correction unit 182 provided with the correction table 184 corrects the actually measured value according to the amount of change in the time length. The correction table 184 is a table for managing the correction value corresponding to the change amount of the time length, and corresponds to the correction curve. Based on the corrected measured value 174, the conversion unit 176 calculates the measured value 180. Instead of such an indirect correction, the measured value may be directly corrected, or other indirect correction such as adjustment of the detection sensitivity may be performed.

FIG. 13 shows the relationship between the reaction time (time length) and the photometric value. In the figure, the cycle shows the elapsed time from the start of measurement, that is, the measurement time. Each measured value is a count value. When the standard measurement time is 8 cycles, the corresponding photometric value is set as the reference value (100%) (see reference numeral 188). FIG. 13 also shows the ratio of individual metering values to reference values. The range of -10% to + 10% with respect to the reference value is indicated by reference numeral 190.

FIG. 14 shows a metering value characteristic 192 configured by plotting the metering values shown in FIG. The horizontal axis shows the reaction time, that is, the measurement time, and the vertical axis shows the count value. As described above, when 8 cycles are used as a reference (see reference numeral 194), for example, a range of -10% to + 10% is defined as a permissible range of measurement value change of 196 (see reference numeral 190 in FIG. 13). The range on the horizontal axis corresponding to the permissible range 196 is the time range (changeable time range) 198 in which the time length can be changed.

For example, the barcode information given to each reagent bottle may include information indicating a changeable time range corresponding to each reaction step. According to the configuration, when the barcode is read, the changeable time range can be specified and control can be performed based on the specified changeable time range. Other media such as RF tags may be used instead of the barcode. Information indicating the changeable time range may be managed by a server on the network.

FIG. 15 shows a scheduling method according to the embodiment as a flowchart. In S10, a new analysis instruction is accepted. In S12, a new sequence is specified based on the analysis instruction, and a tentative reservation is made. In S14, the presence or absence of a collision between the new sequence and the reserved sequence group is determined. If no collision has occurred, the reservation of the new sequence is confirmed in S16. The new sequence becomes a reserved sequence.

On the other hand, when the occurrence of a collision is determined in S14, in S18, from the new sequence and the reserved sequence group, the reaction step prior to the collision occurrence step and not performed is selected as the adjustment target step. And its time length is changed. In that case, the changeable time range defined for the reagent used in the adjustment target step is referred to, and the time length is changed within that range. The change of the time length is repeated while switching the changing direction of the time length and switching the process to be adjusted according to a predetermined condition.

In S20, it is determined whether or not the collision has been resolved (whether or not a new collision has occurred). When the collision is resolved, S16 is executed. If the collision is not resolved by changing the time length, the collision is resolved by another method in S22. For example, a process of deferring the execution start time of a new sequence is executed until the collision is resolved. Then, S16 is executed. In S24, it is determined whether or not to continue this process.

16 and 17 show specific examples of a part of S18 shown in FIG. In FIG. 16, in S30, the time length of the process to be adjusted is shortened by one unit. In S32, it is determined whether or not the collision has been resolved. If it is determined that the problem has not been resolved, it is determined in S34 whether or not the lower limit (minimum value) of the time length has been reached. S30 is repeatedly executed until the lower limit is exceeded. If it is determined in S34 that the time length exceeds the lower limit, the time length of the process to be adjusted is extended by one unit in S36. In S38, it is determined whether or not the collision has been resolved. If it is determined that the collision has not been resolved, it is determined in S40 whether or not the time length exceeds the upper limit (maximum value). S36 is repeatedly executed until the time length exceeds the upper limit. The method shown in FIG. 16 prioritizes shortening over extension.

In FIG. 17, in S50, the time length of the adjustment target process is shortened by one unit. In S52, it is determined whether or not the collision has been resolved. If it is determined that the collision has not been resolved, the time length (initial time length) of the process to be adjusted is extended by one unit in S54. In S56, it is determined whether or not the collision has been resolved. If it is determined that the collision has not been resolved, the time length of the adjustment target process is shortened by 2 units in S58. In S60, it is determined whether or not the collision has been resolved. If it is determined that the collision has not been resolved, the time length of the adjustment target process is increased by 2 units in S62. After that, the time length is changed until the collision is resolved while alternately selecting shortening and expanding.

When implementing the scheduling method according to the embodiment, if the range of time length change is increased, the control becomes complicated and it becomes difficult to maintain the accuracy. Therefore, for example, the time length can be shortened or extended only for one unit. You may. Further, even if the time length is adjusted, the influence is relatively unlikely to occur, and the time length of the pretreatment step located at the uppermost stream may be preferentially changed. It is also conceivable to limit the process to be adjusted to the pretreatment process in the new sequence and the reserved sequence group. The scheduling method according to the embodiment may be applied to a sample analyzer other than the immunoassay device.

10 Immunoassay, 26 Central processing unit, 28 Pretreatment unit, 29 Immune reaction processing unit, 30 1st reagent cold storage, 32 2nd reagent cold storage, 34 Measuring unit, 54 scheduler, 58 Reservation table.

Claims (9)

When scheduling a new processing sequence, a determination means for determining a collision between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group, and
An adjustment means for making adjustments to avoid the collision, and
Including
The adjusting means
A selection means for selecting an unexecuted reaction step prior to the step in which the collision occurred as the step to be adjusted, and a selection means.
A trial means for trying to avoid the collision by changing the time length of the adjustment target process, and
A sample analyzer comprising: In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
The collision is caused by the same time reservation of a plurality of dispensing processes using the same dispensing equipment, the same time reservation of a plurality of cleaning processes using the same cleaning equipment, and the same time reservation of a plurality of measurement processes using the same measuring equipment. Means at least one of
A sample analyzer characterized by this. In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
The selection means selects the adjustment target process from the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group.
A sample analyzer characterized by this. In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
The change in time length includes at least one of the reduction and extension of the time length.
A sample analyzer characterized by this. In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
The trial means changes the time length within a time range defined for the reagent used in the adjustment target step.
A sample analyzer characterized by this. In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
A correction means for directly or indirectly correcting the measured value obtained by executing the processing sequence including the adjustment target process in which the time length is changed is included.
A sample analyzer characterized by this. In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
The selection means selects the adjustment target process from the plurality of new processing sequences when making a collective reservation for the plurality of new processing sequences.
A sample analyzer characterized by this. In the sample analyzer according to claim 1,
Multiple types of processing sequences are available for multiple types of analysis instructions.
The plurality of types of processing sequences include a shortened processing sequence.
The shortened processing sequence includes a reaction step in which the shortest time length is defined as the initial time length.
The trial means extends the time length of the adjustment target step when the new processing sequence is the shortened processing sequence and the adjustment target step is the reaction step in the shortened processing sequence. By doing so, an attempt is made to avoid the collision.
A sample analyzer characterized by this. When scheduling a new processing sequence, a step of determining a collision between the new processing sequence and the reserved processing sequence group, and
A step of selecting an unexecuted reaction step prior to the step in which the collision occurred as a step to be adjusted, and a step of selecting the step to be adjusted.
A step of trying to avoid the collision by changing the time length of the adjustment target process, and
A scheduling method characterized by including.

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