JP2023104772A - automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve the measurement accuracy of an automatic analyzer.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer according to an embodiment comprises: a reaction tube installation unit on which reaction tubes are installed; a reaction tube conveying mechanism that conveys the reaction tubes; an imaging unit that is provided on the reaction tube conveying mechanism; and a first control unit that controls the reaction tube conveying mechanism to convey the reaction tubes to the reaction tube installation unit, and causes the imaging unit to pick up images of the reaction tubes.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The embodiments disclosed in the specification and drawings relate to automated analyzers.

Automated analyzers use a liquid mixture obtained by mixing a test sample such as blood collected from a subject or a sample such as a standard sample for each test item with a reagent corresponding to each test item. It is a device that analyzes the component of a test sample corresponding to each test item by measuring the target.

Conventionally, in an automatic analyzer, light intensity adjustment of a light emitting unit used for optical measurement is performed by inserting a plurality of light intensity measurement jigs into a reaction disk on which a reaction tube is installed, and is performed by adjusting the amount of light emitted from the light emitting portion. However, when using multiple light intensity measurement jigs, the amount of light obtained from the light emitting part is affected by individual differences in the light intensity measurement jigs. measurement results may vary. Therefore, it is desired to carry one light amount measuring jig to the reaction disk, measure the light amount of the light emitting section provided on the reaction disk, and adjust the light amount of each light emitting section.

Also, in an automatic analyzer using disposable reaction tubes, all the disposable reaction tubes supplied by a reaction tube supply unit that supplies disposable reaction tubes are installed on the reaction disk and used for optical measurement of the mixed solution. there is However, depending on the disposable reaction tube supplied by the reaction tube supply unit, there is a possibility that dust may be mixed in, chips and/or cracks may occur, and such a reaction tube may not be normal when used for measurement. Measurement results may not be obtained. For this reason, before using a reaction tube containing dust or the like for optical measurement, it was determined whether or not the reaction tube could be used for optical measurement, and it was determined that the reaction tube could not be used. It is desirable not to use reaction tubes for optical measurements.

JP 2014-145621 A Japanese Patent Publication No. 63-21139 JP 2017-26548 A

One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in the specification and drawings is to improve the measurement accuracy of an automatic analyzer. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings are not limited to the above problems. A problem corresponding to each effect of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can be positioned as another problem.

An automatic analyzer according to an embodiment includes a reaction tube installation unit in which a reaction tube is installed, a reaction tube transport mechanism for transporting the reaction tube, an imaging unit provided in the reaction tube transport mechanism, and the reaction tube transport mechanism. and a first control unit that controls to convey the reaction tube to the reaction tube installation unit and causes the imaging unit to image the reaction tube.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment; FIG. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the analysis mechanism in the automatic analyzer shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a photometry unit included in the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. 2 as viewed from above; FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a photometry unit included in the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. 2 as viewed from above; FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of another example of a photometry unit included in the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. 2 as viewed from above; FIG. 4 is a flow chart for explaining the content of measurement processing executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically showing an example of the relationship between the light receiving position of the imaging unit and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining the details of the measurement process executed by the automatic analyzer according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining the details of the measurement process executed by the automatic analyzer according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment; FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram schematically showing an example of the relationship between the amount of descent of the jig for measuring the amount of light and the height of the optical axis of the light emitting section in the automatic analyzer according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment; The block diagram which shows the example of a functional structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the analysis mechanism in the automatic analyzer shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining the contents of reaction tube imaging processing executed by the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment; FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a case where the reaction tube is determined to be unusable in the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment; FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment; The figure which shows an example of a structure of the analysis mechanism in the automatic analyzer shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a flow chart for explaining the contents of used reaction tube imaging processing executed by the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment; FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a case where a used reaction tube has an abnormality in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment;

Hereinafter, embodiments of an automatic analyzer will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, constituent elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, this automatic analyzer is, for example, a blood coagulation analyzer. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this 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 It comprises a circuit 8 and a control circuit 9 .

The analysis mechanism 2 generates a mixture of a blood sample, which is a sample of a subject, and a coagulation reagent, which is a reagent used in each test item. Also, depending on the test item, the analysis mechanism 2 mixes the standard solution diluted by a predetermined magnification with the reagent used for this test item. The analysis mechanism 2 continuously measures optical physical property values of a mixed liquid of a blood sample and a reagent or a mixed liquid of a standard liquid and a reagent. By this measurement, standard data and test data, which are represented by, for example, transmitted light intensity, absorbance, scattered light intensity, etc., are generated.

The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2 to generate calibration data and analysis data regarding coagulation of the blood sample. The analysis circuit 3, for example, reads an analysis program from the storage circuit 8, and analyzes the standard data and the test data according to the read analysis program. Note that the analysis circuit 3 may include a storage area for storing at least part of the data stored in the storage circuit 8 .

The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9 . The drive mechanism 4 is implemented by gears, stepping motors, belt conveyors, lead screws, and the like, for example.

The input interface 5 receives, for example, settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a blood sample for which measurement is requested from the user or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch pad through which instructions are input by touching an operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9 , converts an operation instruction input by a user into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 9 . It should be noted that the input interface 5 in this specification is not limited to having physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs this electrical signal to the control circuit 9 is also an input interface. 5 examples.

The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs signals supplied from the control circuit 9 . The output interface 6 is implemented by, for example, a display circuit, a printed circuit, an audio device, and the like. Display circuits include, for example, CRT displays, liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, LED displays, and plasma displays. Note that the display circuit also includes a processing circuit that converts data representing an object to be displayed into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. Printed circuits include, for example, printers and the like. The printed circuit also includes an output circuit for outputting data representing a print target to the outside. Audio devices include, for example, speakers and the like. An output circuit for outputting an audio signal to the outside is also included in the audio device.

The communication interface 7 connects with, for example, an intra-hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with HIS (Hospital Information System) via the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 may perform data communication with the HIS via a laboratory information system (LIS) connected to the hospital network NW.

The storage circuit 8 is composed of a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a processor-readable recording medium such as a semiconductor memory. Note that the memory circuit 8 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single memory device. For example, the memory circuit 8 can also be realized by a plurality of memory devices.

The storage circuit 8 also stores an analysis program to be executed by the analysis circuit 3 and a control program for realizing the functions of the control circuit 9 . The storage circuit 8 stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each inspection item. The storage circuit 8 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each blood sample. The storage circuit 8 stores an examination order input by a user or an examination order received by the communication interface 7 via the intra-hospital network NW.

The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1 . The control circuit 9 executes the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 to implement functions corresponding to the operation program. Note that the control circuit 9 may have a storage area for storing at least part of the data stored in the storage circuit 8 .

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 in the automatic analyzer 1 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment includes a reaction disk 201 , a constant temperature section 202 , a rack sampler 203 and a reagent storage 204 .

The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes (cuvettes) 2011 arranged in a ring. The reaction disk 201 conveys the reaction tube 2011 along a predetermined route. Specifically, during the sample analysis operation, the reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals by the driving mechanism 4 . The reaction tube 2011 is made of polypropylene (PP) or acrylic, for example. This reaction disk 201 constitutes a reaction tube installation portion in this embodiment.

The constant temperature unit 202 stores a 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 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers, and these sample containers contain blood samples, which are samples requested for measurement. The example shown in FIG. 2 shows a sample rack 2031 capable of holding five sample containers in parallel.

The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2032 for transporting the sample rack 2031 . That is, using this transport area 2032, the sample rack 2031 is transported from the loading position where the sample rack 2031 is loaded to the collection position where the sample rack 2031 whose measurement has been completed is collected. In the transport area 2032, a plurality of sample racks 2031 aligned in the longitudinal direction are moved in the direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4. FIG.

Further, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a pull-in area 2033 for pulling the sample rack 2031 from the transfer area 2032 in order to move the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample suction position. The sample aspiration position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotation track of the sample pipetting probe 207 and the movement track of the opening of the sample container supported by the rack sampler 203 and held by the sample rack 2031 intersect. In the pull-in area 2033, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in the direction D2 by the driving mechanism 4. As shown in FIG.

Further, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a return area 2034 for returning the sample rack 2031 holding the sample container into which the sample has been sucked to the transport area. In the return area 2034, the sample rack 2031 is moved by the drive mechanism 4 in direction D3.

The reagent storage 204 retains a plurality of reagent containers 100 containing standard solutions and reagents used in each test item to be performed on blood samples while keeping them cool. A rotary table is rotatably provided in the reagent storage 204 . The rotary table holds and holds a plurality of reagent containers 100 in an annular shape. In this embodiment, although not shown in FIG. 2, the reagent storage 204 is covered with a detachable reagent cover.

Also, the analysis mechanism 2 according to the present embodiment shown in FIG.

A sample dispensing arm 206 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203 . The sample dispensing arm 206 is vertically movable and horizontally rotatable by the drive mechanism 4 . A sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

The sample-dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation track as the sample-dispensing arm 206 rotates. A sample aspirating position for aspirating the sample from the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203 is provided on this rotational track. A sample dispensing position for dispensing the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction tube 2011 is provided on the rotating orbit of the sample dispensing probe 207 . The sample dispensing position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the moving trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201 .

The sample pipetting probe 207 is driven by the driving mechanism 4 to move vertically at the sample aspirating position or the sample pipetting position. Also, the sample pipetting probe 207 aspirates the sample from the sample container located directly below the sample aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9 . Also, the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction tube 2011 positioned immediately below the sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9 . The sample pipetting arm 206 and the sample pipetting probe 207 constitute an example of the pipetting mechanism in this embodiment.

A reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage 204 . The reagent dispensing arm 208 is vertically movable and horizontally rotatable by the drive mechanism 4 . A reagent dispensing arm 208 holds a reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

The reagent-dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation track as the reagent-dispensing arm 208 rotates. A reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational track. The reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotation trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the opening of the reagent container 100 annularly placed on the turntable of the reagent storage 204 intersect. A reagent dispensing position for dispensing the reagent aspirated by the reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction tube 2011 is set on the rotation track of the reagent dispensing probe 209 . The reagent dispensing position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the rotation trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201 .

The reagent-dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the reagent-sucking position or the reagent-dispensing position on the rotation track. Also, the reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the reagent from the reagent container stopped at the reagent aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9 . Further, the reagent dispensing probe 209 dispenses the aspirated reagent into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9 .

Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment includes a reaction tube transport arm 210 , a reaction tube supply section 211 , and a jig 212 for measuring the amount of light.

The reaction tube transport arm 210 transports the reaction tube 2011 from the reaction tube supply unit 211 to the reaction disk 201 by the drive mechanism 4 . For example, the reaction tube transfer arm 210 includes a reaction tube holding portion 2101 for holding the reaction tube 2011 and one transfer arm 2102 for rotating and vertically moving the reaction tube holding portion 2101 . Further, the reaction tube transport arm 210 is provided with an imaging unit 2103 for imaging the reaction tube 2011 . The reaction tube holder 2101 is, for example, a gripper. The transport arm 2102 is vertically movable and horizontally rotatable by the driving mechanism 4 . The imaging unit 2103 images the reaction tube 2011 under the control of the control circuit 9 . Also, the imaging unit 2103 is, for example, an imaging sensor used for measuring the amount of light. Note that the imaging unit 2103 may be an imaging device such as a camera. The reaction tube transfer arm 210 is an example of a reaction tube transfer mechanism. Moreover, the number of transfer arms 2102 constituting the reaction tube transfer arm 210 is arbitrary. For example, the reaction tube transfer arm 210 may be composed of two or more transfer arms.

The reaction tube transport arm 210 according to the present embodiment includes a reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210, a reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101, or a light amount measurement device held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101. The reaction tube 2011 is transported from the reaction tube supply unit 211 to the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 so that the jig 212 passes through the transport path. In addition, the transport path of the reaction tube 2011 or the light amount measuring jig 212 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 is, for example, an arc shape accompanying rotation about one end of the transport arm 2102. is formed on the rotation orbit of The reaction tube installation positions of the reaction disk 201 are, for example, the rotational trajectory of the reaction disk 201, which is the transport path of the reaction tubes 2011, and the position of the reaction tube 2011 or the light intensity measurement jig 212 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101. This is the position at which the rotation track, which is the conveying route, intersects. The reaction tube 2011 or the light amount measuring jig 212 transported by the reaction tube transport arm 210 is installed at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 .

The transport path of the reaction tube 2011 or the light amount measuring jig 212 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 is arbitrary. For example, the transport path of the reaction tube 2011 or the light intensity measurement jig 212 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 may be formed on an elliptical orbit and have a specific shape. It may be a transport route that does not.

The reaction tube supply unit 211 supplies empty reaction tubes 2011 . The reaction tube supply part 211 is provided near the outer circumference of the reaction disk 201 . The reaction tube supply section 211 includes, for example, a reaction tube housing section 2111 and a reaction tube supply rail 2112 . The reaction tube housing part 2111 houses, for example, a plurality of empty reaction tubes 2011 . The reaction tube accommodating part 2111 supplies empty reaction tubes 2011 to the reaction tube supply rail 2112 by the control circuit 9 . The reaction tube supply rail 2112 is, for example, inclined from the reaction tube housing portion 2111 toward the reaction tube supply position. Therefore, the reaction tube 2011 slides on the reaction tube supply rail 2112 by gravity and moves to the reaction tube supply position. At the reaction tube supply position, for example, the rotation trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube 2011 of the reaction tube holding portion 2101 in the reaction tube transport arm 210, and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 on the reaction tube supply rail 2042 intersect. position.

The light amount measuring jig 212 is a jig used for measuring the light amount of a light emitting section of a photometry unit, which will be described later, and the height of the optical axis. The light amount measuring jig 212 is configured including, for example, a mirror 2121 and a mirror container 2122 . The mirror 2121 is a member that reflects the light emitted from the light emitting section and guides it to the imaging section 2103 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 . The member that reflects the light emitted from the light emitting unit and guides it to the imaging unit 2103 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 is not limited to the mirror, and may be a reflecting member such as a prism that reflects light. The mirror container 2122 is a container for containing the mirror 2121 and has the same shape as the reaction tube 2011, for example.

The light quantity measurement jig 212 according to the present embodiment is installed, for example, at the jig installation position of the analysis mechanism 2 . This jig setting position is provided on the rotation track which is the transport path of the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 . In the present embodiment, the light amount measurement jig 212 is installed at the jig installation position of the analysis mechanism 2, but the light amount measurement jig 212 is installed at the jig installation position of the analysis mechanism 2. It doesn't have to be. That is, the installation location of the light amount measurement jig 212 is arbitrary. storage). In the following description of the present embodiment, the light quantity measurement jig 212 is installed at the jig installation position of the analysis mechanism 2 .

Furthermore, in the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, the same number of photometry units as the reaction tubes 2011 that can be held in the reaction disk 201 are provided inside. This photometry unit constitutes the photometry section in this embodiment. 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing configuration examples of the photometry unit 213. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometry unit 213 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. As shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometry unit 213 is viewed from the cross-sectional direction of the reaction disk 201. As shown in FIG.

The photometric unit 213 continuously measures the optical physical properties of the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent dispensed into the reaction tube 2011 . In the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, a plurality of photometry units 213 are provided. For example, the photometry units 213 are provided in the same number as the reaction tubes that can be held by the reaction disk 201 . That is, one photometric unit 213 is provided for one reaction tube held by the reaction disk 201 . Since each photometry unit 213 has the same configuration, only one photometry unit 213 is illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 as a representative.

The photometry unit 213 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 has, for example, a light emitter 2131 and photodetectors 2132 and 2133 . For example, the photometry unit 213 has a light-emitting part 2131 on the annular center side of the reaction tube 2011 held annularly by the reaction disk 201 . The light emitting part 2131 is provided so as to emit light toward the outside of the ring in which the reaction tubes 2011 are arranged.

The light emitting section 2131 generates light of two wavelengths. The light emitting unit 2131 generates, for example, first light with a long wavelength and second light with a short wavelength. For example, the wavelength of the first light is in the red wavelength range of 620-750 nm, and the wavelength of the second light is in the violet to blue wavelength range of 380-495 nm. The wavelengths of the first and second lights may each be included in the red wavelength range of 620 to 750 nm. The light emitting unit 2131 includes, for example, a multi-wavelength LED capable of generating light of a plurality of wavelengths, two LEDs each generating light of predetermined wavelengths, and a filter that transmits light of a desired wavelength from light of a wide wavelength range. It is realized by a light source unit or the like.

The light emitting section 2131 emits first and second lights under the control of the control circuit 9 . Specifically, for example, the light emitting unit 2131 alternately emits the first and second lights at a predetermined cycle. At this time, the light emitting unit 2131 alternately emits the first and second lights, for example, at a cycle of 0.05 seconds, which is half of 0.1 seconds, which is the minimum measurement unit of coagulation. Light emitted from the light emitting part 2131 enters the reaction tube 2011 .

Note that the light emitting unit 2131 may emit light of one wavelength designated by the control circuit 9 . Also, the light emitting section 2131 may emit the first and second lights at the same time. However, at this time, it is necessary to provide the photodetectors 2132 and 2133 with filters for excluding light of unnecessary wavelengths.

The photodetector 2132 is disposed at a position facing the light emitting section 2131 with the reaction tube 2011 interposed therebetween. The light emitted from the light emitting part 2131 is incident on the first side wall of the reaction tube 2011 and emitted from the second side wall facing the first side wall. A photodetector 2132 detects light emitted from the reaction tube 2011 .

Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2132 detects light transmitted through the mixture of the standard solution and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011 . The photodetector 2132 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, eg, 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, or the like. The predetermined time interval is, for example, synchronized with the frequency of occurrence of the first light. Note that the photodetector 2132 may, for example, detect only light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the first light. Also, the photodetector 2132 detects light transmitted through the mixed liquid of the blood sample and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011 . The photodetector 2132 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals to generate test data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, or the like. The photodetector 2132 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3 .

The photodetector 2133 is arranged such that the light irradiation axis of the light emitting part 2131 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2133 intersect at approximately 90 degrees inside the reaction tube 2011 . The light emitted from the light emitting part 2131 is incident from the first side wall of the reaction tube 2011, scattered by particles in the mixed liquid, and then emitted from the third side wall adjacent to the first side wall at 90 degrees. A photodetector 2133 detects light emitted from the reaction tube 2011 . The photodetector 2133 is an example of a scattered light receiver, for example.

Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2133 detects light scattered by the mixed liquid of the standard liquid and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011 . The photodetector 2133 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, eg, 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data represented by scattered light intensity or the like. The predetermined time interval is, for example, synchronized with the frequency of occurrence of the second light. Note that the photodetector 2133 may, for example, detect only light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the second light. Also, photodetector 2133 detects light scattered by the mixed liquid of the blood sample and reagent in reaction tube 2011 . The photodetector 2133 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals to generate test data represented by scattered light intensity and the like. The photodetector 2133 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3 .

The photodetectors 2132 and 2133 may output the intensity of the detected light to the analysis circuit 3 as a detection signal. At this time, the analysis circuit 3 samples the detection signal at predetermined time intervals, for example, 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data and test data.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the photometry unit 213 according to this embodiment. Similar to FIG. 3, FIG. 5 shows an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometry unit 213 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. In FIG. The photometric unit 213 shown in FIG. 5 has two LEDs 51 and 52 as the light emitting section 2131 . In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the light irradiation axis of the LED 52 is tilted by a predetermined angle with respect to the light irradiation axis of the LED 51 .

The photodetector 2132 is disposed at a position facing the LED 51 across the reaction tube 2011, as in the examples of FIGS. On the other hand, the photodetector 2133 is arranged such that the light irradiation axis of the LED 52 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2133 intersect at approximately 90 degrees inside the reaction tube 2011 .

The control circuit 9 shown in FIG. 1 executes a control program stored in the storage circuit 8 to implement functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91, a first control function 92, a measurement function 93, and a first report function 94 by executing a control program. In this embodiment, the case where the system control function 91, the first control function 92, the measurement function 93, and the first report function 94 are realized by a single processor will be described, but it is not limited to this. . For example, a plurality of independent processors may be combined to configure a control circuit, and each processor may execute a control program to realize these various functions.

The system control function 91 is a function that controls all the parts in the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface 5 . For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 controls the sample dispensing arm 206 and the reagent dispensing arm 208 by controlling the drive mechanism 4 and the analysis mechanism 2 to dispense samples and reagents into the reaction tube 2011. In addition, the analysis circuit 3 is controlled so as to perform analysis corresponding to the inspection item.

The first control function 92 is a function of controlling the reaction tube transport arm 210 and the imaging unit 2103 provided on the reaction tube transport arm 210 by controlling the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4. . Specifically, the first control function 92 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to transfer the reaction tube 2011 from the reaction tube supply unit 211 to the reaction disk 201, and the imaging unit provided on the reaction tube transfer arm 210. 2103 is a function to control so that the reaction tube 2011 is imaged. Further, the first control function 92 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to transfer the light intensity measurement jig 212 to the reaction disk 201 .

The measurement function 93 is a function for measuring the light amount of the light emitting section 2131 and the optical axis height of the light emitting section 2131 . Specifically, the measurement function 93 controls the photometric unit 213 and the like to control the amount of light received by the light emitting unit 2131 and the amount of light received by the imaging unit 2103 via the jig 212 for measuring the amount of light. This is a function of measuring the optical axis height of the light emitting section 2131, which is the height from the bottom surface to the optical axis of the light emitting section 2131. FIG.

The first reporting function 94 is a function for reporting the measurement result of the light amount of the light emitting unit 2131 and the measurement result of the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 to the user. Specifically, the first reporting function 94 reports, via the output interface 6, the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 measured by the measuring function 93 and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 measured by the measuring function 93. report to the user at least one of the tightness measurements;

Note that the system control function 91, the first control function 92, the measurement function 93, and the first report function 94 shown in FIG. 1 reporting department.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart for explaining the details of the measurement process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In this measurement process, the light amount of the light emitting unit 2131 and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 are measured, and the measurement results of the light amount and the optical axis height are reported to the user. For example, this measurement process is a process that is executed at a timing specified by the user, such as every morning before using the device or once a week.

As shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 first moves the reaction tube holder 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 to the jig installation position (step S11). The process of moving the reaction tube holder 2101 to the jig installation position is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to move the reaction tube holder 2101 to the jig installation position.

In addition, when the light amount measurement jig 212 is installed (stored) in a place other than the jig installation position of the analysis mechanism 2 in the automatic analyzer 1, such as being installed (stored) outside the automatic analyzer 1, The user may install the light amount measuring jig 212 at the jig installation position and hold it in the reaction tube holding section 2101 , and the user may move the light amount measuring jig 212 from the installation position to the reaction tube holding section 2101 . Alternatively, the user may hold the light quantity measurement jig 212 in the reaction tube holder 2101 . When the user carries the light amount measuring jig 212 from the installation location to the reaction tube holding section 2101, the reaction tube transport arm 210 does not have to be moved. That is, when the light quantity measurement jig 212 is installed (stored) outside the automatic analyzer 1, such as when it is installed (stored) at a location other than the jig installation position of the analysis mechanism 2 of the automatic analyzer 1. , step S11 may be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the light amount measuring jig 212 (step S13). The process of holding the light amount measuring jig 212 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to cause the reaction tube holder 2101 to hold the light intensity measurement jig 212 at the jig installation position.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 installs the light amount measuring jig 212 on the reaction disk 201 (step S15). The process of setting the reaction disk 201 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to install the light intensity measurement jig 212 at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 causes the light emitting section 2131 to emit light (step S17). The process of causing the light emitting section 2131 to emit light is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 causes the light emitting unit 2131 on which the light amount measuring jig 212 is installed to emit light. In step S17, the automatic analyzer 1 causes the light emitting unit 2131 in which the light amount measurement jig 212 is installed to emit light, and causes the light emission unit 2131 in which the light amount measurement jig 212 is not installed to emit light. good too.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 measures the amount of light emitted from the light emitting section 2131 (step S19). The process of measuring the amount of light emitted from the light emitting section 2131 is implemented by the measurement function 93 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, in the automatic analyzer 1 , the light emitted by the light emitting unit 2131 is received by the imaging unit 2103 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 via the mirror 2121 of the light intensity measurement jig 212 . to measure the amount of light in the

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 measures the height of the optical axis of the light emitting section 2131 (step S21). The process of measuring the optical axis height of the light emitting section 2131 is implemented by the measurement function 93 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 measures the height of the optical axis of the light emitting unit 2131 based on the light receiving position within the image capturing unit 2103 where the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 is received by the image capturing unit 2103. do.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram schematically showing an example of the relationship between the light receiving position of the imaging unit 2103 and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the light amount measuring jig 212 installed at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 reflects the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 by the mirror 2121, and the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 is reflected by the imaging unit 2103. receive the light emitted from At this time, as shown in FIG. 7A, when the position where the light emitting unit 2131 irradiates the mirror 2121 with light is below the mirror 2121 in the height direction, that is, when the optical axis height H is low, the light emitting unit 2131 The light emitted from the illuminating unit 2103 illuminates a position to the left of the center of the imaging unit 2103 , that is, a position (proximal) in the imaging unit 2103 close to the light emitting unit 2131 .

In addition, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the position where the light emitting unit 2131 irradiates the mirror 2121 with light is near the center of the mirror 2121 in the height direction, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 The center position of the portion 2103 is irradiated. moreover. As shown in FIG. 7C, when the position where the light emitting unit 2131 irradiates the mirror 2121 is above the mirror 2121 in the height direction, that is, when the optical axis height H is high, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 The emitted light is irradiated to a position to the right of the center of the imaging unit 2103 , that is, a position (distal) in the imaging unit 2103 far from the light emitting unit 2131 . That is, since there is a certain relationship between the light receiving position of the imaging unit 2103 and the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131, the automatic analyzer 1 can detect the light receiving position of the imaging unit 2103 as shown in FIG. , the optical axis height H of the light emitting portion 2131 can be measured. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the reaction tube holder 2101 does not hold the light amount measuring jig 212, but the automatic analyzer 1 holds the light amount measuring jig 212 and the optical axis height You may make it measure height H.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the amount of light is outside a predetermined range (step S23). A first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 realizes the judgment as to whether or not the amount of light is outside the predetermined range. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the measurement result of the amount of light measured in step S19 is outside a predetermined range.

When determining that the amount of light is not out of the predetermined range (step S23: No), the automatic analyzer 1 reports the measurement result of the amount of light and that the measurement result of the amount of light is not out of the predetermined range (step S25). . This reporting process is realized by the first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 allows the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 measured in step S19 and the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 determined in step S23 through the output interface 6 to be within a predetermined range. It is reported to the user that it is not out of range, that is, that the measurement result of the light amount of the light emitting unit 2131 determined in step S23 is within a predetermined range.

On the other hand, when determining that the amount of light is outside the predetermined range (step S23: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 automatically adjusts the amount of light (step S27). This process of automatically adjusting the amount of light is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, for example, the automatic analyzer 1 automatically adjusts the gain of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 and measures the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the amount of light after automatic adjustment is outside a predetermined range (step S29). The process of determining whether or not it is outside the predetermined range is realized by the first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment measured in step S27 is outside a predetermined range.

Then, if the light intensity after automatic adjustment in step S27 is not outside the predetermined range (step S29: No), the automatic analyzer 1 determines that the measurement result of the light intensity after automatic adjustment and the measurement result of the light intensity after automatic adjustment are predetermined. is not out of range (step S31). This reporting process is realized by the first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 outputs the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment measured in step S27 and the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment determined in step S29 via the output interface 6. The user is informed that the measurement result of the amount of light is not outside the predetermined range, that is, that the measurement result of the amount of light of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment determined in step S29 is within the predetermined range.

On the other hand, if the amount of light after automatic adjustment is outside the predetermined range (step S29: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 determines that the measurement result of the amount of light after automatic adjustment and the measurement result of the amount of light after automatic adjustment are within the predetermined range. Report that it is outside (step S33). This reporting process is realized by the first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 outputs the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment measured in step S27 and the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment determined in step S39 via the output interface 6. It reports to the user that the measurement result of the amount of light is out of the predetermined range. Further, when the automatic analyzer 1 reports to the user that the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 is out of the predetermined range, the automatic analyzer 1 detects that the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 after automatic adjustment is out of the predetermined range. A setting screen may be displayed on the display circuit of the output interface 6 to allow the user to set whether or not to use the reaction tube installation position of a certain reaction disk 201, and the automatic analyzer 1 emits light after automatic adjustment. It may be automatically set not to use the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 where the measurement result of the light quantity of the part 2131 is out of the predetermined range.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the optical axis height H is outside a predetermined range (step S35). A first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 implements the determination of whether or not it is outside the predetermined range. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the measurement result of the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 measured in step S21 is outside the predetermined range.

If the optical axis height H is not out of the predetermined range (step S35: No), the automatic analyzer 1 determines that the measurement result of the optical axis height H and the measurement result of the optical axis height H are out of the predetermined range. It is reported that it is not (step S37). This reporting process is realized by the first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1, via the output interface 6, the measurement result of the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 measured in step S21 and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 determined in step S35 The user is notified that the measurement result of H is not out of the predetermined range, that is, that the measurement result of the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 determined in step S35 is within the predetermined range.

On the other hand, when the optical axis height H is outside the predetermined range (step S35: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 collects the measurement result of the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 Report that the measurement result of H is out of the predetermined range (step S39). This processing of reporting to the user is realized by the first reporting function 94 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1, via the output interface 6, the measurement result of the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 measured in step S21 and the optical axis height of the light emitting unit 2131 determined in step S35 Report to the user that the measurement result of H is out of the predetermined range. Further, when the automatic analyzer 1 reports to the user that the measurement result of the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 is out of the predetermined range, the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 is out of the predetermined range. The display circuit of the output interface 6 may display a setting screen that allows the user to set whether or not to use the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201, and the automatic analyzer 1 uses the light emitting unit 2131 It may be automatically set not to use the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 whose optical axis height H is out of a predetermined range.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not other light emitting units 2131 need to be measured (step S41). The process of determining whether or not the measurement of the other light emitting unit 2131 is necessary is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the measurement of the other light-emitting unit 2131 is necessary based on whether the measurement of the other light-emitting unit 2131 has been completed.

Then, if measurement of another light emitting unit 2131 is required (step S41: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 holds the light quantity measurement jig 212 (step S43). The process of holding the light amount measuring jig 212 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to hold the light amount measuring jig 212 installed at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 by the reaction tube holding unit 2101 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the automatic analyzer 1 installs the light amount measuring jig 212 on the reaction disk 201 (step S45). The process of setting the reaction disk 201 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to transport the light intensity measurement jig 212 to measure the other light emitting part 2131, and the next reaction on the reaction disk 201. A light amount measuring jig 212 is installed at the pipe installation position. Then, the process returns to step S17 to repeat the process from step S17.

On the other hand, when it is determined not to measure the other light emitting units 2131 (step S41: No), the automatic analyzer 1 ends the measurement process according to this embodiment by executing step S41.

As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment, the reaction tube transport arm 210 is controlled to transport one light intensity measurement jig 212 to the reaction disk 201 and set it on the reaction disk 201. Since the light amount of the plurality of light emitting units 2131 and the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 are measured by one light amount measuring jig 212, the measurement accuracy of the automatic analyzer 1 can be improved. That is, since the automatic analyzer 1 is not affected by the individual difference of the light intensity measurement jigs by using one light intensity measurement jig 212, the adjusted light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 does not vary. It is possible to reduce the possibility of variations occurring in the measurement results of the light amounts of the plurality of light emitting units 2131 and the measurement results of the optical axis height H of the light emitting units 2131 .

[Modification 1 of the first embodiment]
In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 is measured based on the light receiving position, which is the position where the imaging unit 2103 receives the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131. However, the light from the light emitting unit 2131 is determined based on the amount of descent of the light amount measuring jig 212 when the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 is received by the image capturing unit 2103 at a predetermined position in the image capturing unit 2103. It is also possible to measure the axial height H. Hereinafter, a case where this modification is applied to the first embodiment will be referred to as Modification 1, and portions different from the above-described first embodiment will be described.

Note that the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 1, so description thereof will be omitted. Also, the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the modified example 1 of the first embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 2, so the description is omitted. Furthermore, the configuration of the photometry unit 213 of the automatic analyzer 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment is the same as that shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, so the description thereof is omitted.

8 and 9 are flowcharts for explaining the content of the measurement process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment, and correspond to FIG. 6 in the above-described first embodiment. is. It should be noted that the processing of steps S11 and S13 shown in FIG. 8 is the same as that of FIG. 6 in the above-described first embodiment, so the description thereof will be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the light amount measuring jig 212 above the reaction disk 201 (step S51). The process of transporting the reaction disk 201 upward is realized by the first control function 92 of the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to transport the light amount measuring jig 212 above the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 . Note that the processing of step S17 shown in FIG. 8 is the same as that of FIG. 6 in the above-described first embodiment, so description thereof will be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the light amount measuring jig 212 (step S53). The process of lowering the light amount measuring jig 212 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to lower the light intensity measurement jig 212 at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether light is received at a predetermined position within the imaging unit 2103 (step S55). The process of determining whether or not light has been received at a predetermined position of the imaging unit 2103 is realized by the first control function of the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the imaging section 2103 has received the light emitted from the light emitting section 2131 at a predetermined position within the imaging section 2103 .

Then, as shown in FIG. 8, when the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 is not received by the imaging unit 2103 at a predetermined position within the imaging unit 2103 (step S55: No), the process returns to step S53 described above, The process from step S35 is repeated to wait. That is, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to lower the light intensity measurement jig 212 while the imaging unit 2103 directs the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 to a predetermined position in the imaging unit 2103 . to wait until it receives light.

On the other hand, in step S55, when the imaging unit 2103 receives the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 at a predetermined position in the imaging unit 2103 (step S55: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 detects the light intensity measurement jig 212. is acquired (step S57). The procedure for obtaining this amount of descent is implemented by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 acquires the amount of descent of the light amount measuring jig 212 when the imaging section 2103 receives the light emitted from the light emitting section 2131 at a predetermined position within the imaging section 2103 . Note that step S19 after step S39 is the same as in the above-described first embodiment, so description thereof will be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the automatic analyzer 1 measures the optical axis height H (step S59). The process of measuring the optical axis height H is implemented by the measurement function 93 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 measures the optical axis height H based on the amount of descent of the light amount measuring jig 212 acquired in step S57.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram schematically showing an example of the relationship between the amount of descent of the light amount measuring jig 212 and the height of the optical axis of the light emitting section 2131 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. is. In the example shown in FIG. 10 , the predetermined position P within the imaging unit 2103 is near the center of the imaging unit 2103 . As shown in FIG. 10( a ), the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to install the light quantity measurement jig 212 on the reaction disk 201 at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 . lower to In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the imaging unit 2103 does not receive light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 . In other words, the light emitted from the light emitting section 2131 is not applied to the mirror 2121 of the light amount measuring jig 212 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 10B, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 to further lower the light intensity measurement jig 212 . In the example shown in FIG. 10B, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 is applied to the mirror 2121 of the light amount measuring jig 212, and the mirror 2121 reflects the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 to the imaging unit 2103. do. The imaging unit 2103 receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 via the mirror 2121 . However, since the position at which the imaging unit 2103 receives the light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 is not the predetermined position P in the imaging unit 2103, the automatic analyzer 1 further lowers the light amount measuring jig 212.

Next, as shown in FIG. 10C, the automatic analyzer 1 further lowers the light amount measuring jig 212 so that the light emitted from the light emitting section 2131 is directed to the mirror 2121 of the light amount measuring jig 212. The light is received at a predetermined position P within the imaging unit 2103 via the . At this time, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 to obtain the amount of descent that is the amount by which the light intensity measurement jig 212 is lowered. Then, the optical axis height H of the light emitting portion 2131 is measured based on this amount of descent. Note that when the imaging unit 2103 receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 2131 at a predetermined position P in the imaging unit 2103, the light amount measuring jig 212 may be installed on the reaction disk 201, and FIG. As shown in c), the light amount measuring jig 212 may not be installed on the reaction disk 201 .

The processing from step S23 to step S43 shown in FIG. 9 after this step S59 is the same as that in FIG. 6 in the above-described first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9 , the automatic analyzer 1 transports the light amount measuring jig 212 above the reaction disk 201 . The process of transporting the reaction disk 201 upward is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to transport the light intensity measurement jig 212, and moves the light intensity measurement jig 212 to the reaction tube installation position of the next light emitting unit 2131. let it be installed. Then, the process returns to step S17 to repeat the process from step S17.

On the other hand, when it is determined not to measure the other light emitting units 2131 (step S41: No), the automatic analyzer 1 ends the measurement process according to the first modification of the present embodiment by executing step S41. .

As described above, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment, the reaction tube transport arm 210 is controlled to move one light quantity measurement jig 212 to react, as in the first embodiment. Since the reaction disk 201 is transported to the disk 201 and the light intensity of the plurality of light emitting portions 2131 provided on the reaction disk 201 and the optical axis height H of the light emitting portion 2131 are measured by one light intensity measuring jig 212, automatic analysis is performed. The measurement accuracy of the device 1 can be improved. That is, since the automatic analyzer 1 is not affected by the individual difference of the light intensity measurement jig 212 by using one light intensity measurement jig 212, the adjusted light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 does not vary. , it is possible to reduce the possibility of variations occurring in the measurement result of the light amount of the light emitting unit 2131 and the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 .

[Modification 2 of the first embodiment]
In the above-described first embodiment and modified example 1 of the first embodiment described above, the automatic analyzer 1 measures both the light amount of the light emitting unit 2131 and the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131, The results were reported to the user. The automatic analyzer 1 according to Modification 2 of the first embodiment measures either the light intensity of the light emitting unit 2131 or the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131. , may be reported to the user.

[Second embodiment]
In the above-described first embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to transport the light amount measuring jig 212 to the reaction disk 201, and the imaging unit 2103 measures the light amount of the light emitting unit 2131. , and the optical axis height H of the light emitting unit 2131 was measured, but the imaging unit 2103 can be used for other purposes. Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to hold the reaction tube 2011 supplied by the reaction tube supply unit, and the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction tube transport arm 210 can be used for inspection based on the captured image captured by the imaging unit 2103, and the unusable reaction tube 2011 is discarded. Hereinafter, portions different from the above-described first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 11, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2A, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, and a storage circuit. 8 and a control circuit 9A. The configurations of the analysis circuit 3, the drive mechanism 4, the input interface 5, the output interface 6, the communication interface 7, and the storage circuit 8 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and thus descriptions thereof are omitted.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2A in the automatic analyzer 1 shown in FIG. 11. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 12, the analysis mechanism 2A according to this embodiment includes a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature section 202, a rack sampler 203, a reagent storage 204, a sample dispensing arm 206, and a sample dispensing probe 207. , a reagent dispensing arm 208 and a reagent dispensing probe 209 . The configuration of the reaction disk 201, constant temperature unit 202, rack sampler 203, reagent storage 204, sample dispensing arm 206, sample dispensing probe 207, reagent dispensing arm 208, and reagent dispensing probe 209 of the second embodiment is , are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

The analysis mechanism 2A according to this embodiment also includes a reaction tube transport arm 210, a reaction tube supply section 211A, and a disposal box 214. As shown in FIG. Although illustration of the light amount measurement jig 212 is omitted in FIG. 12, the analysis mechanism 2A according to the second embodiment includes the light amount measurement jig 212, as in the first embodiment described above. may Also, the structure of the reaction tube transfer arm 210 is the same as that of the first embodiment, so the explanation is omitted.

The reaction tube supply unit 211A supplies empty reaction tubes 2011 . The reaction tube supply part 211A is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. As shown in FIG. The reaction tube supply section 211A according to this embodiment includes, for example, a reaction tube housing section 2111, a reaction tube supply rail 2112, and a light source section 2113. As shown in FIG. The light source unit 2113 irradiates the reaction tube 2011 with light in order to check whether the reaction tube 2011 has foreign matter, cracks, chips, or the like. Therefore, the light source unit 2113 is arranged at a position where the reaction tube 2011 supplied to the reaction tube supply position can be irradiated with light. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the light source unit 2113 is arranged directly below the reaction tube supply position of the reaction tube supply rail 2112 and irradiates the reaction tube 2011 with light from the bottom surface direction. Since the configurations of the reaction tube housing part 2111 and the reaction tube supply rail 2112 are the same as those of the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted.

In addition, in the reaction tube supply unit 211A according to this embodiment, the light source unit 2113 is arranged at a position where the reaction tube 2011 supplied to the reaction tube supply position can be irradiated with light. The position is not limited to this. That is, the light source unit 2113 can be arranged at any position. For example, the light source unit 2113 may be installed at a predetermined position on the rotation track, which is the transport path of the reaction tube transport arm 210 .

In the example shown in FIG. 12, the light source unit 2113 irradiates the reaction tube 2011 with light from the bottom surface direction, but the direction in which the light source unit 2113 irradiates the reaction tube 2011 with light is not limited to the bottom surface direction. That is, the direction in which the light source unit 2113 irradiates the reaction tube 2011 with light is arbitrary. Light may be irradiated from the upper surface direction of 2011 .

The discard box 214 is a box for storing discarded reaction tubes 2011, such as used reaction tubes 2011 containing a sample-reagent mixed solution and reaction tubes 2011 determined to be unusable. A disposal box 214 is provided near the outer circumference of the reaction disk 201 . The reaction tube 2011 to be discarded is transported by the reaction tube transfer arm 210 or the like to the reaction tube disposal position of the disposal box 214, which is the position for discarding the reaction tube. The reaction tube disposal position is, for example, a rotation trajectory that is a transport path of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 . This is the position where the opening of the waste box 214 intersects. The disposal box 214 constitutes a reaction tube disposal section in this embodiment.

Furthermore, in the analysis mechanism 2A according to this embodiment, the same number of photometry units 213 as the reaction tubes 2011 that can be held in the reaction disk 201 are provided inside. The photometry unit 213 constitutes a photometry section in this embodiment. Since the configuration of the photometry unit 213 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

The control circuit 9A shown in FIG. 11 executes a control program stored in the storage circuit 8 to implement functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9A executes a control program to perform a system control function 91, a first control function 92, a measurement function 93, a first report function 94, a first determination function 95, a second report function 96; In this embodiment, the system control function 91, the first control function 92, the measurement function 93, the first report function 94, the first determination function 95, and the second report function 96 are performed by a single processor. is realized, but is not limited to this. For example, a plurality of independent processors may be combined to configure a control circuit, and each processor may execute a control program to realize these various functions. The functions of the system control function 91, the first control function 92, the measurement function 93, and the first report function 94 of this embodiment are the system control function 91, the first control function 92, and the measurement function shown in FIG. 93, and the function of the first reporting function 94, so description thereof is omitted.

The first determination function 95 is a function in which the first control function 92 controls the imaging unit 2103 to analyze the captured image of the reaction tube 2011 and determines whether or not the reaction tube 2011 can be used. Specifically, the first control function 92 controls the imaging unit 2103 to analyze whether or not the reaction tube 2011 is contaminated with foreign matter, cracked, or chipped in the captured image of the reaction tube 2011 captured. This is a function for determining whether or not the reaction tube 2011 can be used.

The second reporting function 96 reports to the user that the reaction tube 2011 should be discarded when the first determination function 95 determines that the reaction tube 2011 is unusable. Specifically, when the first determination function 95 determines that the reaction tube 2011 is unusable, the second reporting function 96 reports through the output interface 6 that the reaction tube 2011 is unusable. , reports to the user that the reaction tube 2011 will be discarded.

Note that the system control function 91, the first control function 92, the measurement function 93, the first report function 94, the first determination function 95, and the second report function 96 shown in FIG. It constitutes a control section, a first control section, a measurement section, a first reporting section, a first determination section, and a second reporting section.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the content of the reaction tube imaging process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In this reaction tube imaging process, the reaction tube 2011 is imaged, the captured image is analyzed and reported to the user, and if the reaction tube 2011 cannot be used, the reaction tube is discarded. For example, this reaction tube imaging process is a process executed at the timing when the reaction tube transport arm 210 transports the reaction tube 2011 supplied to the reaction tube supply unit 211A.

As shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 first moves the reaction tube transport arm 210 to the reaction tube supply section 211A (step S71). The process of moving to the reaction tube supply section 211A is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to move the reaction tube holding part 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 to the reaction tube supply position of the reaction tube supply part 211A.

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the reaction tube 2011 (step S73). This process of holding the reaction tube 2011 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to hold the reaction tube 2011 supplied to the reaction tube supply position by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 causes the light source section 2113 to emit light (step S75). The processing for causing the light source unit 2113 to emit light is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A.

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 takes an image of the reaction tube 2011 (step S77). The process of imaging the reaction tube 2011 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the imaging unit 2103 so that the imaging unit 2103 images the reaction tube 2011 when the reaction tube transport arm 210 transports the reaction tube 2011 . More specifically, at the reaction tube supply position where the light source unit 2113 is arranged, the first control function 92 irradiates the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction tube transport arm 210 with the light of the light source unit 2113 to capture an image. The reaction tube 2011 is imaged by the unit 2103 .

In step S77, the reaction tube 2011 was imaged by the imaging unit 2103 when it was held by the reaction tube transport arm 210 at the reaction tube supply position. do not have. That is, the position for imaging the reaction tube 2011 is arbitrary. For example, the position for imaging the reaction tube 2011 is a position above the light source unit 2113 arranged at a predetermined position on the rotation track of the reaction tube transport arm 210. Alternatively, the image may be captured at a position where the light from the light source unit 2113 is not emitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 analyzes the captured image of the reaction tube 2011 (step S79). The process of analyzing the captured image is realized by the first determination function 95 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 analyzes whether the captured image of the reaction tube 2011 captured in step S77 has damage such as a crack or chip.

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the reaction tube 2011 imaged in step S77 is usable (step S81). The process of determining whether or not the reaction tube 2011 is usable is realized by the first determination function 95 in the control circuit 9 . Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the reaction tube 2011 is usable based on the analysis result in step S79 of the captured image of the reaction tube 2011 captured in step S77.

Then, in step S81, when it is determined that the reaction tube 2011 imaged in step S77 is usable (step S81: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reaction tube 2011 to the reaction disk 201 (step S83). The process of transporting the reaction tube 2011 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. More specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to transfer the reaction tube 2011 held in step S73 to the reaction disk 201. FIG.

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 installs the reaction tube 2011 on the reaction disk 201 (step S85). The process of setting the reaction disk 201 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to install the reaction tube 2011 at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 .

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S81 that the reaction tube 2011 imaged in step S77 is unusable (step S81: No), the automatic analyzer 1 reports to the user that the reaction tube 2011 will be discarded. (step S87). This processing of reporting to the user is realized by the second reporting function 96 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 reports to the user via the output interface 6 that the reaction tube 2011 imaged in step S77 will be discarded.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example in which the reaction tube 2011 is determined to be unusable in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the reaction tube 2011 is held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transfer arm 210, and the light emitted from the light source portion 2113 is applied from the bottom surface of the reaction tube 2011. In the example shown in FIG. The example shown in FIG. 14A is an example in which the reaction tube 2011 is contaminated with foreign matter FM. This foreign matter FM is, for example, dust, dirt, dust, or the like. In this way, when the reaction tube 2011 contains foreign matter FM, it is determined that the reaction tube 2011 cannot be used. Also, the example shown in FIG. 14(b) shows an example in which the reaction tube 2011 has damage CR such as cracks or chips. In this way, when the reaction tube 2011 is damaged CR, it is determined that the reaction tube 2011 cannot be used.

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reaction tube 2011 to the reaction tube disposal position (step S89). The process of transporting the reaction tube to the reaction tube disposal position is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to transport the reaction tube 2011 determined to be unusable in step S81 to the reaction tube disposal position of the disposal box 214 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the automatic analyzer 1 discards the reaction tube 2011 (step S91). The process of discarding the reaction tube 2011 is realized by the first control function 92 in the control circuit 9A. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 discards the reaction tube 2011 by controlling the reaction tube transport arm 210 to store the reaction tube 2011 held in the reaction tube holding section 2101 in the disposal box 214 .

By executing step S85 or step S91, the reaction tube imaging process according to the present embodiment ends.

As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment, all the reaction tubes 2011 supplied from the reaction tube supply unit 211A are imaged by the imaging unit 2103 before being placed on the reaction disk 201. , it is determined whether or not it can be used, and the unusable reaction tube 2011 is discarded without being placed on the reaction disk 201, so that the measurement accuracy of the automatic analyzer 1 is improved. That is, when dust is mixed in the reaction tube 2011 or when the reaction tube 2011 is cracked or chipped, the automatic analyzer 1 determines that the reaction tube 2011 is unusable, and inspects the reaction tube 2011. Since the reaction tube 2011 is discarded without being used for the purpose, it is less likely that the reaction tube 2011 containing dust or chipped and/or cracked will not give correct measurement results. Therefore, the measurement accuracy of the automatic analyzer 1 can be improved.

[Third embodiment]
The automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to transport a used reaction tube (hereinafter referred to as a used reaction tube) 2011 containing a mixture of a sample and a reagent to a reaction tube. The used reaction tube 2011 is transported to the disposal position, the used reaction tube 2011 is imaged, and the captured image of the used reaction tube 2011 is analyzed to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the used reaction tube 2011. It is designed to report to the user when The automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment can be implemented in addition to or independently of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and/or second embodiment described above. Hereinafter, assuming that the third embodiment is implemented independently of the above-described first and second embodiments, portions different from the above-described first and second embodiments will be described.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 15, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2B, 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 9B. The configurations of the analysis circuit 3, the drive mechanism 4, the input interface 5, the output interface 6, the communication interface 7, and the storage circuit 8 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and thus descriptions thereof are omitted.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2B in the automatic analyzer 1 shown in FIG. 15. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 16, the analysis mechanism 2B according to this embodiment includes a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature section 202, a rack sampler 203, a reagent storage 204, a sample dispensing arm 206, and a sample dispensing probe 207. , a reagent dispensing arm 208 and a reagent dispensing probe 209 . The configuration of the reaction disk 201, constant temperature unit 202, rack sampler 203, reagent storage 204, sample dispensing arm 206, sample dispensing probe 207, reagent dispensing arm 208, and reagent dispensing probe 209 of the second embodiment is , are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

The analysis mechanism 2B according to this embodiment also includes a reaction tube transfer arm 210 and a disposal box 214 . Although illustration of the reaction tube supply unit 211 and the light quantity measurement jig 212 is omitted in FIG. The analysis mechanism 2B of the apparatus 1 may include a reaction tube supply section 211 and a jig 212 for measuring the amount of light. Also, the configuration of the disposal box 214 is the same as that of the second embodiment, so the description is omitted.

The reaction tube transport arm 210 according to the present embodiment includes a reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 and a used reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 as a transport path. The used reaction tube 2011 is conveyed from the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 to the reaction tube disposal position of the disposal box 214 so as to pass through the . Other configurations of the reaction tube transfer arm 210 are the same as those of the above-described first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

Furthermore, in the analysis mechanism 2B according to the present embodiment, the same number of photometry units 213 as the reaction tubes 2011 that can be held in the reaction disk 201 are provided inside. The photometry unit 213 constitutes a photometry section in this embodiment. Since the configuration of the photometry unit 213 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

The control circuit 9B shown in FIG. 15 executes a control program stored in the storage circuit 8, thereby realizing functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9B has a system control function 91, a second control function 97, a second determination function 98, and a third reporting function 99 by executing a control program. In this embodiment, the case where the system control function 91, the second control function 97, the second determination function 98, and the third report function 99 are realized by a single processor will be described. is not limited to For example, a plurality of independent processors may be combined to configure a control circuit, and each processor may execute a control program to realize these various functions. Also, the functions of the system control function 91 of the present embodiment are the same as the functions of the system control function 91 shown in FIG. 1, so the description thereof will be omitted.

The second control function 97 is a function of controlling the reaction tube transfer arm 210 and the imaging section 2103 provided on the reaction tube transfer arm 210 by controlling the analysis mechanism 2B and the drive mechanism. Specifically, the second control function 97 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to take out the used reaction tube 2011 from the reaction disk 201 and transfer it to the reaction tube disposal position of the disposal box 214, and the reaction tube transfer arm 210 is a function of controlling the used reaction tube 2011 to be imaged by the imaging unit 2103 of 210 .

The second determination function 98 analyzes the captured image of the used reaction tube 2011 captured by the second control function 97 controlling the imaging unit 2103 and determines whether or not the used reaction tube 2011 has an abnormality. It is a function to Specifically, the second control function 97 controls the imaging unit 2103 to analyze whether or not there are bubbles on the liquid surface of the used reaction tube 2011 in the captured image of the used reaction tube 2011 captured. Then, it is determined whether or not there is an abnormality.

The third reporting function 99 reports to the user that the used reaction tube 2011 is abnormal when the second determining function 98 determines that the used reaction tube 2011 is abnormal. Specifically, when the second determination function 98 determines that the used reaction tube 2011 has an abnormality, the third reporting function 99 reports through the output interface 6 that the used reaction tube 2011 has an abnormality. to the user.

Note that the system control function 91, the second control function 97, the second determination function 98, and the third reporting function 99 shown in FIG. It constitutes a determination section and a third reporting section.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart for explaining the contents of the used reaction tube imaging process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In this used reaction tube imaging process, the used reaction tube 2011 is imaged, the captured image is analyzed, and reported to the user. For example, this used reaction tube imaging process is a process executed at the timing when the used reaction tube 2011 is transported by the reaction tube transport arm 210 .

As shown in FIG. 17, the automatic analyzer 1 first moves the reaction tube transport arm 210 to the reaction disk 201 (step S101). The process of moving the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to the reaction disk 201 is realized by the second control function 97 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 to move the reaction tube holding part 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 to the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the used reaction tube 2011 (step S103). The process of holding the used reaction tube 2011 is realized by the second control function 97 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 210 so that the used reaction tube 2011 is held by the reaction tube holding section 2101 of the reaction tube transport arm 210 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the automatic analyzer 1 captures an image of the used reaction tube 2011 (step S105). The process of imaging the used reaction tube 2011 is realized by the second control function 97 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the imaging unit 2103 so as to image the used reaction tube 2011 when the reaction tube transport arm 210 transports the used reaction tube 2011 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the automatic analyzer 1 analyzes the captured image of the used reaction tube 2011 (step S107). The process of analyzing the captured image is implemented by the second determination function 98 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 analyzes whether the captured image of the used reaction tube 2011 captured in step S105 has an abnormality such as air bubbles.

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the used reaction tube 2011 (step S109). This determination processing is realized by the second determination function 98 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the liquid surface of the used reaction tube 2011 based on the analysis result of the captured image of the used reaction tube 2011 in step S107.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a case where the used reaction tube 2011 is abnormal in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, the used reaction tube 2011 is held by the reaction tube holding portion 2101 of the reaction tube transfer arm 210 . The example shown in FIG. 18 shows an example in which bubbles BU are present on the liquid surface of the used reaction tube 2011 . When bubbles BU are generated on the liquid surface of the used reaction tube 2011 in this way, it is determined that the used reaction tube 2011 has an abnormality.

Then, in step S109, when it is determined that the used reaction tube 2011 has an abnormality (step S109: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 reports to the user that the used reaction tube has an abnormality (step S111). This reporting process is realized by the third reporting function 99 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 reports, via the output interface 6, that the used reaction tube 2011 imaged in step S85 has an abnormality.

After the processing of this step S111, or when it is determined that there is no abnormality in the used reaction tube 2011 in step S109 described above (step S109: No), the automatic analyzer 1 replaces the used reaction tube 2011 with the reaction tube. It is transported to the disposal position (step S113). The process of transporting the reaction tube to the disposal position is realized by the second control function 97 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transfer arm 210 to transfer the used reaction tube 2011 to the reaction tube disposal position of the disposal box 214 .

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the automatic analyzer 1 discards the used reaction tube 2011 (step S115). The process of discarding the used reaction tube 2011 is realized by the second control function 97 in the control circuit 9B. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 discards the reaction tube 2011 by controlling the reaction tube transport arm 210 to store the reaction tube 2011 held in the reaction tube holding section 2101 in the disposal box 214 .

By executing this step S115, the used reaction tube imaging process according to the present embodiment ends.

As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the used reaction tube 2011 is transported to the reaction tube disposal position by controlling the reaction tube transport arm 210, the used reaction tube 2011 is It is possible to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the used reaction tube 2011 by taking an image. Therefore, the user can know whether or not an accurate measurement result can be obtained.

In addition, the term "processor" used in the above description includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device ( For example, simple programmable logic device (SPLD), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and field programmable gate array (FPGA). A processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. It should be noted that instead of storing the program in the memory circuit, the program may be configured to be directly embedded in the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. Note that the processor is not limited to being configured as a single processor circuit, but may be configured as one processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize its function. Furthermore, multiple components may be integrated into a single processor to achieve its functionality.

Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and methods described herein can be embodied in many other forms. In addition, various omissions, substitutions, and alterations may be made to the forms of the apparatus and methods described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms and modifications as fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Automatic analyzer, 2, 2A, 2B... Analysis mechanism, 3... Analysis circuit, 4... Drive mechanism, 5... Input interface, 6... Output interface, 7... Communication interface, 8... Memory circuit, 9, 9A, 9B ... control circuit, 91 ... system control function, 92 ... first control function, 93 ... measurement function, 94 ... first reporting function, 95 ... first determination function, 96 ... second reporting function, 97 ... second control function, 98... second determination function, 99... third reporting function,

Claims (13)

a reaction tube installation portion in which the reaction tube is installed;
a reaction tube transport mechanism for transporting the reaction tube;
an imaging unit provided in the reaction tube transport mechanism;
a first control unit that controls the reaction tube transport mechanism to transport the reaction tube to the reaction tube installation unit and causes the imaging unit to image the reaction tube;
Automatic analyzer with a light emitting unit that emits light so as to irradiate the reaction tube with light;
a light amount measuring jig used for measuring the light amount of the light emitting unit;
2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, further comprising: a measurement unit in said reaction tube installation unit, which measures the amount of light received by said light emitting unit from said imaging unit via said jig for measuring light amount. The measuring unit measures light intensity based on a light receiving position, which is a position in the imaging unit at which the imaging unit receives light emitted from the light emitting unit in a state in which the jig for measuring the amount of light is installed in the reaction tube installation unit. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the height of the optical axis of the light-emitting section, which is the height from the bottom surface of the jig for measuring the amount of light to the optical axis of the light-emitting section, is measured. In the measurement unit, the first control unit controls the reaction tube transport mechanism to move the light amount measurement jig in a state where the light amount measurement jig is transported above the reaction tube installation unit. While being lowered, the bottom surface of the jig for measuring the amount of light is determined based on the amount of descent of the jig for measuring the amount of light when the imaging unit receives the light emitted from the light emitting unit at a predetermined position within the imaging unit. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, which measures the height of the optical axis of said light-emitting part, which is the height from the height of said light-emitting part to the optical axis of said light-emitting part. 5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 3, further comprising a first reporting section that reports at least one of a measurement result of the light amount of said light emitting section and a measurement result of an optical axis height of said light emitting section. The first reporting unit measures the light intensity of the light emitting unit when at least one of the measurement result of the light intensity of the light emitting unit and the measurement result of the optical axis height of the light emitting unit is outside a predetermined range. 6. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5, which reports that at least one of the result and the measurement result of the optical axis height of the light emitting unit is outside a predetermined range. 7. The first control unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first control unit controls the imaging unit so as to image the reaction tube when the reaction tube transport mechanism transports the reaction tube. automatic analyzer. The first control unit further comprises a first determination unit that controls the imaging unit, analyzes the captured image of the reaction tube that is captured, and determines whether or not the reaction tube is usable. 7. The automatic analyzer according to 7. When the first determination unit determines that the reaction tube is usable, the first control unit controls the reaction tube transport mechanism to transport the reaction tube to the reaction tube installation unit. Item 9. The automatic analyzer according to item 8. When the first determination unit determines that the reaction tube is unusable, the first control unit controls the reaction tube transport mechanism to discard the reaction tube at a reaction tube disposal position. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8 or 9, which is transported to. 11. The automatic analyzer according to claim 10, further comprising a second reporting section that reports that the reaction tube is discarded when the first determination section determines that the reaction tube is unusable. a reaction tube installation unit in which a reaction tube is installed; a reaction tube transport mechanism for transporting the reaction tube;
an imaging unit held by the reaction tube transport mechanism;
controlling the reaction tube transport mechanism to transport the used reaction tube containing the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent from the reaction tube installation unit to a reaction tube disposal position where the reaction tube is discarded; and a second control section that controls the imaging section so as to capture an image of the used reaction tube. a second determination unit that analyzes the captured image of the used reaction tube and determines whether or not the used reaction tube has an abnormality;
a third reporting unit that reports that the used reaction tube has an abnormality when the second determination unit determines that the used reaction tube has an abnormality;
13. The automated analyzer of claim 12, further comprising: