JP2023172601A - Analysis device and analysis method - Google Patents

Abstract

To enable real-time measurement of viscoelasticity of samples.SOLUTION: An analysis device according to an embodiment comprises a measurement device and a computation unit. The measurement device comprises a measurement element disposed in a measurement area in a flow channel for flowing a sample, and a detection unit for detecting behavior of the measurement element. The computation unit computes an indicator related to at least either of viscoelasticity and viscosity of the sample on the basis of the behavior of the measurement element.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an analysis device and an analysis method.

There is a measurement device that analyzes human blood and measures the viscoelasticity of blood. Conventional measuring devices cannot perform measurements in real time, and it takes time from when a sample is placed in the measuring device until the viscoelasticity measurement results are obtained. Furthermore, the used sample is discarded and consequently consumed.

JP 2019-152663 Publication

The problem to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to enable the viscoelasticity of a sample to be measured in real time. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems.

The analyzer of the embodiment includes a measuring device and a calculation section. The measuring device includes a measuring element disposed in a measuring region in a flow path through which a sample flows, and a detecting section that detects behavior of the measuring element. The calculation unit calculates at least one of an index related to viscoelasticity or viscosity of the sample based on the behavior of the measurement element.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis device 100 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of a measuring device 120. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a measuring device 1 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the state of the measuring device 1 of the first embodiment before starting analysis of a sample. The figure which shows an example of the measuring instrument 1 of 2nd Embodiment. The figure which shows the state where the measuring element 22 rose to the 2nd position. The figure which shows an example of the measuring device 1 of 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the measurement element 32 has reached the top of the measurement area. The figure which shows an example of the measuring device 1 of 4th Embodiment. The figure which shows the state where the measuring element 43 is rising. The figure which shows an example of the measuring device 1 of 5th Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the measurement element 62 of a 1st modification. The figure which shows an example of the measurement element 72 of a 2nd modification. The figure which shows an example of the measurement element 72 of a 2nd modification.

Hereinafter, an analysis device and an analysis method according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis device 100 according to an embodiment. The analysis device 100 includes, for example, an operation section 110, a measuring device 120, an online section 130, a display section 140, a printing section 150, a processing circuit 160, and a memory 170. The analyzer 100 calculates the viscoelasticity of human blood (hereinafter referred to as sample) based on the detection results of the measuring device 120.

The operation unit 110 includes, for example, an input interface such as a keyboard, a mouse, buttons, and a touch key panel. Note that in this specification, the input interface is not limited to one that includes physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, examples of the input interface include an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs this electrical signal to a control circuit.

Various operations are performed on the operation unit 110. Operations performed on the operation unit 110 include, for example, setting analysis conditions, inputting subject information such as the subject ID and name of the subject, selecting measurement items for each test sample, and selecting each item. Examples include calibration operations, test sample analysis operations, etc.

The measuring device 120 detects data for calculating the viscoelasticity of a human body sample (hereinafter referred to as calculation element data). FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the measuring device 120. The measuring device 120 includes, for example, a measuring device 1, a waste bottle 2, and a tube 3. The tube 3 is made to be able to communicate with the blood vessel of the subject M via, for example, a syringe (not shown), and a portion of the sample L inside the blood vessel is supplied into the tube 3 . The sample L supplied to the tube 3 is transported to the measuring device 1.

The measuring device 1 detects the calculation element data of the transported sample L, returns a part of the sample L to the subject M, and discharges the other part into the waste bottle 2 as waste. The measuring device 1 may discharge all of the sample L into the waste bottle 2, or may return all of the sample L to the subject M. The sample L discharged into the waste bottle 2 is discarded after being subjected to a predetermined process. The specific configuration of the measuring instrument 1 will be further explained later by giving a plurality of examples.

A first anticoagulant container 4 and a second anticoagulant container 5 are connected to the tube 3 on the side that supplies the sample L from the subject M to the measuring device 1 . The first anticoagulant container 4 contains a low concentration anticoagulant, and the second anticoagulant container 5 contains a high concentration anticoagulant. Clogging of the channel may be prevented by adding a predetermined amount of anticoagulant to the sample L transported by the tube 3. If anticoagulant is added, analyzer 100 may report the amount of anticoagulant added to the user.

Furthermore, a mixing area for mixing the anticoagulant and the sample L may be provided in the middle of the tube 3. The effect of the anticoagulant on the viscoelasticity of the target sample may be measured by measuring the viscoelasticity of two samples L using different anticoagulants. This makes it possible to obtain the amount of anticoagulant that gives the patient sample a predetermined viscoelasticity (coagulability).

The online unit 130 outputs information such as the viscoelasticity of the sample L calculated by the processing circuit 160 to an external information system or the like. The display unit 140 displays information such as the viscoelasticity of the sample L calculated by the processing circuit 160. The printing unit 150 prints information such as the viscoelasticity of the sample L calculated by the processing circuit 160.

The processing circuit 160 includes, for example, a system control function 161, a measurement control function 162, and a calculation function 163. The processing circuit 160 realizes these functions by, for example, a hardware processor executing a program stored in a memory (storage circuit) 170.

Hardware processors include, for example, CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and programmable logic devices (for example, Simple Programmable Logic Devices). It means a circuit such as a device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). Instead of storing the program in the memory 170, the program may be directly incorporated into the circuit of the hardware processor. In this case, the hardware processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program built into the circuit. The above program may be stored in advance in the memory 170 or in a non-temporary storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and the non-temporary storage medium may be a drive device (not shown) of the analyzer 100. ) may be installed in the memory 170 from a non-transitory storage medium. The hardware processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as one hardware processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize each function. Further, a plurality of components may be integrated into one hardware processor to realize each function.

The system control function 161 acquires information such as an operator's command signal outputted from the operation unit 110, analysis conditions, subject information, and measurement items for each sample. The system control function 161 controls the entire system, such as control of the measuring device 120 via the measurement control function 162, creation of a calibration table, and control regarding calculation and output of analytical data, based on the acquired information.

The measurement control function 162 controls each member in the measurement device 120 according to instructions from the system control function 161. Control in the measurement control function 162 differs for each of the plurality of measurement devices 120 described below. Therefore, the control in the measurement control function will be explained in conjunction with the explanation of the individual measuring devices 120.

The calculation function 163 acquires each piece of information detected by the measuring device 120. The calculation function 163 calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample L of the subject based on each piece of acquired information. The calculation function 163 outputs the calculated viscoelasticity information to the online section 130, the display section 140, and the printing section 150, respectively.

In the analysis device 100, before the measurement device 120 detects the calculated element data, the calculation function 163 creates a calibration curve using a standard sample whose viscoelasticity is known. After the calculation function 163 creates a calibration curve, the measuring device 120 detects calculation element data of the sample L taken from the subject, and calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample L using the calculation function 163. The calculation function 163 further evaluates the calculated viscoelasticity. Note that the calculation function 163 may use another index having a correlation with viscoelasticity, such as a dynamic modulus of elasticity, instead of the viscoelasticity value itself.

The waste (standard sample) generated by creating the calibration curve is discharged into the waste bottle 2 and becomes waste, similar to the sample L that is discarded when the calculation element data is detected. When the amount of waste discharged from the waste bottle 2 exceeds a predetermined amount, the system control function 161 creates waste excess information indicating this, and displays the waste amount using the online section 130, display section 140, or printing section 150. Report excess information to users.

Note that if the standard sample remaining in the measuring device 1 or tube 3 does not affect the patient, the sample L used for measurement may be returned to the patient. Alternatively, an anticoagulant may be added to sample L obtained from a patient, and the influence of sample L on the anticoagulant may be measured. Examples of anticoagulants include heparin, but other anticoagulants may be used. An anticoagulant neutralizing agent, such as heparinase, may be added to a sample containing an anticoagulant. Other anticoagulant neutralizers may also be used.

Next, the measuring device 1 in the measuring device 120 of the first embodiment will be explained. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the measuring device 1 of the first embodiment. The measuring device 1 includes, for example, an attachment channel 11, a drive device 12, a magnet 13, a measuring element 14, a contact sensor 15, and a valve 16.

The attachment channel 11 can be attached to and detached from the measuring instrument 1. The attachment channel 11 extends in the vertical direction. A flow path through which the sample L flows is formed inside the attachment flow path 11 . A part of the flow path is a measurement area for detecting calculation element data, in this example, the moving speed of the measuring element 14, for example, the falling speed. The measurement area is formed to have a component along the vertical direction. Therefore, objects such as the measuring element 14 are allowed to move up and down within the attachment channel 11.

An inlet into which the sample L flows is formed at the lower end of the attachment channel 11, and an outlet into which the sample L flows is formed at the upper end. Tubes 3 are attached to the inlet and outlet of the attachment channel 11, respectively, and the sample L is circulated and supplied to the attachment channel 11 via the tube 3 connected to the subject M. The sample L that is circulated and supplied from the tube 3 passes only through the flow path formed in the attachment flow path 11 within the measuring instrument 1 .

The drive device 12 is provided along the attachment channel 11 on the side of the attachment channel 11 . The height range in which the drive device 12 is provided is a range that includes the height range of the measurement area formed in the attachment channel 11. A magnet 13 is attached to the drive device 12 . The drive device 12 moves the magnet 13 in the height direction according to the control of the measurement control function 162.

The magnet 13 is, for example, a so-called electromagnet that generates magnetic force when supplied with an electric current. The magnet 13 is supplied with current from a power source (not shown). The measurement control function 162 in the analyzer 100 transmits a signal for supplying or stopping the supply of current to the magnet 13 from the power source. The magnet 13 generates or eliminates magnetic force by supplying current or stopping the supply of current according to the control of the measurement control function 162. The magnet 13 guides the measuring element 14 by magnetic force.

The measurement element 14 is, for example, a substantially spherical member containing a magnetic material. The measuring element 14 is made of metal, for example, and is attracted by the magnetic force of the magnet 13. The measuring element 14 only needs to contain a magnetic material, and may be, for example, a magnetic resin sphere coated with metal. The drive device 12 raises and moves the magnet 13. The drive device 12 is an example of a magnet moving section. The drive device 12 transports the measuring element 14 upward by raising the magnet 13. The drive device 12 and the magnet 13 are an example of a transport section.

The contact sensor 15 is a sensor that detects contact with the measurement element 14. Contact sensor 15 is provided at the bottom of attachment channel 11 . The contact sensor 15 transmits contact data to the processing circuit 160 when the measuring element 14 that has fallen within the measurement area comes into contact with the measuring element 14 . The arithmetic function 163 of the analyzer 100 determines the measurement element 14 based on the fall start time when the magnetic force of the magnet 13 is extinguished and the measurement element 14 starts falling, and the fall end time when the contact data transmitted by the contact sensor 15 is acquired. 14 falls through the measurement area, the falling time is measured. The calculation function 163 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 14 based on the falling time and the distance of the measurement area. The falling speed becomes calculation element data. Contact sensor 15 is an example of a detection section. The calculation function 163 in the analyzer 100 is an example of a calculation unit.

The valve 16 is provided in the tube 3 at a position near the inlet of the attachment channel 11. The valve 16 opens and closes in response to an opening/closing signal sent by the measurement control function 162. By opening the valve 16, the sample L is supplied from the tube 3 to the attachment channel 11. By closing the valve 16, the supply of the sample L from the tube 3 to the attachment channel 11 is stopped.

Next, a procedure for calculating the viscoelasticity of the sample L using the measuring instrument 1 of the first example will be described. In calculating the viscoelasticity of the sample L, when a standard sample with known viscoelasticity is used, the falling speed at which the measuring element 14 falls through the measurement area is calculated to create a calibration curve. In creating a calibration curve, the measurement control function 162 first circulates and supplies a standard sample to the attachment channel 11. The supply rate of the standard sample when circulating the standard sample is, for example, a rate assumed to be the supply rate at which the sample L is circulated and supplied to the attachment channel 11 due to the heartbeat of the subject. Alternatively, the valve 16 may be closed so that the standard sample remains in the measurement area. At this time, the magnet 13 and the measuring element 14 are located at the lower end, and the measuring element 14 is in contact with the contact sensor 15.

Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 causes the power supply to supply power to the magnet 13 to cause the magnet 13 to generate magnetic force. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 causes the drive device 12 to raise the magnet 13 . When the magnet 13 rises, the measuring element 14 also rises due to the magnetic force of the magnet 13.

The measurement control function 162 causes the drive device 12 to move the magnet 13 to a position above the measurement area, for example to the top end, and then stops the drive device 12. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 sends a signal to the power source to eliminate the magnetic force of the magnet 13. When the magnetic force of the magnet 13 disappears, the measurement element 14 falls through the measurement area filled with the standard sample and reaches a lower position, for example, the bottom end of the measurement area. The upper position may be set higher than the lower position, the upper position may not be the uppermost end, and the lower position may not be the lowermost end. The distance between the upper position and the lower position may be at least a length that allows the viscoelasticity to be calculated based on the speed at which the measuring element 14 falls.

When the measuring element 14 reaches the lowest end of the measuring area, the contact sensor 15 detects the contact of the measuring element 14 and transmits the contact data to the processing circuit 160. In the analyzer 100, the calculation function 163 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 14, and creates a calibration curve by associating the falling speed of the measuring element 14 with the viscoelasticity of a known standard sample.

Thereafter, the measurement control function 162 closes the valve 16 and causes the drive device 12 to move the magnet 13 to the lower position. Then, the tube 3 is connected to the attachment channel 11 so that the sample L can flow through the attachment channel 11. Thereafter, the measurement control function 162 opens the valve 16 so that the inside of the attachment channel 11 is filled with the sample L. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the state of the measuring device 1 of the first embodiment before starting analysis of the sample L.

From this state, the measurement control function 162 opens the valve 16 and allows the sample L of the subject M to flow into the measuring instrument 1. When the measurement area in the measuring device 1 is filled with the sample L, the measurement control function 162 causes the power supply to supply power to the magnet 13 to generate magnetic force in the magnet 13, and then the drive device 12 is driven to raise the magnet 13 and measuring element 14.

Thereafter, the measurement control function 162 moves the measurement element 14 to a position above the measurement area, demagnetizes the magnet 13, and drops the measurement element 14, so that the measurement element 14 contacts the contact sensor 15. Contact sensor 15 detects contact with measurement element 14 and transmits contact data to processing circuit 160 . In the analyzer 100, the calculation function 163 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 14. After the contact of the measurement element 14 is detected by the contact sensor 15, the tube 3 connected to the attachment flow path 11 is removed after closing at least a portion of the flow path so that the sample in the flow path is not discharged. .

The arithmetic function 163 refers to the calculated falling speed of the measuring element 14 on the previously created calibration curve. The calculation function 163 calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample based on the result. The measurement control function 162 may report the viscoelasticity of the sample calculated by the calculation function 163 to the user through the online section 130, the display section 140, or the printing section 150.

The measurement control function 162 may, for example, set a predetermined range for the viscoelasticity of the sample. In this case, when the viscoelasticity calculated by the calculation function 163 deviates from a predefined range, the measurement control function 162 may report this to the user through the online section 130, display section 140, or printing section 150. .

Alternatively, the measurement control function 162 calculates the amount of change in the viscoelasticity of the sample using the viscoelasticity of the sample calculated by the calculation function 163, and the value of the viscoelasticity is within a range within a predetermined time based on the amount of change in viscoelasticity. You can decide whether to go outside or not. In this case, if the measurement control function 162 determines that the viscoelasticity value will be out of range within a predetermined time based on the amount of change in viscoelasticity, the measurement control function 162 notifies the user of this through the online section 130, display section 140, or printing section 150. You may report to The range of viscoelasticity and the time used for determination may be stored in advance by the analyzer 100, or may be set by the user.

In the analyzer 100 of the first embodiment, the measuring device 1 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 14 falling through the measuring area after filling the measuring area with the sample, and based on the calculated falling speed of the measuring element 14. Calculate the viscoelasticity of the sample. Therefore, since the viscoelasticity of the sample can be calculated while the sample is flowing into the measuring device 1, the viscoelasticity of the sample can be measured in real time.

Further, the sample supplied from the subject M moves only within the flow path of the tube 3 and the attachment flow path 11. Therefore, the used sample can be returned to the subject M, and the measuring instrument 1 can be prevented from being contaminated.

In the first embodiment described above, the calculation function 163 created the calibration curve based on the falling speed of the measurement element 14 in the measurement area, but it may create the calibration curve based on other calculation element data. The calculation function 163 creates a calibration curve using, for example, the position of the measuring element 14, the moving time for the measuring element 14 to move to a predetermined position, for example, the time for moving from the upper position to the lower position of the measurement area as calculation element data. Good too. In this case, the viscoelasticity may be measured with reference to the calibration curve for the time required to drop the measurement element 14 from a position above the measurement area to a position below the measurement area after filling the measurement area with the sample.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described. The analyzer 100 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the configuration of the measuring instrument 1. The analysis device 100 of the second embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the measuring device 1 of the second embodiment.

The measuring instrument 1 of the second embodiment includes, for example, an attachment channel 21, a measuring element 22, a magnetic force generator 23, a first position sensor 24, a second position sensor 25, and a valve 26. . Among these, the attachment flow path 21 and the valve 26 have the same configuration as the attachment flow path 11 and the valve 16 of the first embodiment, respectively.

The measuring element 22 is, for example, a member in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with a permanent magnet and chamfered corners. The measuring element 22 is entirely composed of, for example, a permanent magnet. The measurement element 22 is an example of a first magnet. The measuring element 22 may be configured with a permanent magnet provided at the bottom thereof. The measuring element 22 may have other shapes.

The magnetic force generator 23 is provided at the lower end of the attachment channel 11 . The magnetic force generator 23 is a so-called electromagnet that generates a magnetic force that repels the measuring element 22 when supplied with an electric current. The magnetic force generator 23 is supplied with current from a power source (not shown). The measurement control function 162 in the analyzer 100 transmits a signal for supplying or stopping the supply of current to the magnetic force generator 23 from the power source. The magnetic force generator 23 is supplied with current or stopped in accordance with the control of the measurement control function 162 to generate or eliminate magnetic force. The magnetic force generator 23 is an example of a second magnet.

The first position sensor 24 is a sensor that detects that the measurement element 22 is at a first position in the measurement area. The second position sensor 25 is a sensor that detects that the measurement element 22 is at a second position in the measurement area. The second position is higher than the first position. The first position sensor 24 and the second position sensor 25 may be any type of sensor.

The first position sensor 24 and the second position sensor 25, for example, project light and receive reflected light from the projected light reflected on the measuring element 22, so that the measuring element 22 moves to the first position or the second position. It is a sensor that detects something. in this case. The measuring element 22 may be provided with a reflecting part that reflects the light projected by the first position sensor 24 and the second position sensor 25, for example. The first position sensor 24 and the second position sensor 25 may be different sensors.

In the analyzer 100 of the second embodiment, the measurement control function 162 positions the measurement element 22 at the first position after filling the measurement region with the sample. At this time, the first position sensor 24 detects the measurement element 22. From this state, the measurement control function 162 causes the magnetic force generator 23 to generate magnetic force to cause the measuring element 22 and the magnetic force generator 23 to repel each other, thereby raising the measuring element 22. Thereafter, the second position sensor 25 detects the measuring element 22.

The arithmetic function 163 determines the rising start time when the magnetic force generator 23 generates magnetic force to start the rising of the measuring element 22, and the rising time when the second position sensor 25 detects that the measuring element 22 has reached the second position. Based on the end time, the rising time when the measuring element 14 rises in the measurement area is measured. The calculation function 163 calculates the rising speed of the measuring element 14 based on the rising time and the distance between the first position and the second position. The rising speed becomes calculation element data.

In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, first, the measurement area is filled with the standard sample. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 causes the magnetic force generator 23 to generate magnetic force to raise the measuring element 22 from the first position to the second position. The calculation function 163 calculates the rising speed of the measuring element 22 at this time and creates a calibration curve. The calibration curve may be created based on the rise time of the measurement element 22.

Subsequently, the tube 3 is attached to the attachment channel 11, the sample L of the subject M is supplied to the attachment channel 11, and the measurement region of the attachment channel 11 is filled with the sample L. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 causes the magnetic force generator 23 to generate magnetic force to raise the measuring element 22 from the first position to the second position. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the measuring element 22 has reached the second position. The calculation function 163 calculates the rising speed of the measuring element 22 at this time, and calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample L by referring to the calculated rising speed with the previously created calibration curve.

The analysis device 100 of the second embodiment has the same effects as the analysis device 100 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the analyzer 100 of the second embodiment does not need to be provided with a drive device for mechanically raising the measurement element as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the device can be simplified accordingly, and the cost and size can be reduced.

[Third embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described. The analyzer 100 of the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the configuration of the measuring instrument 1. The analysis device of the third embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the measuring device 1 of the third embodiment.

The measuring instrument 1 of the third embodiment includes, for example, an attachment channel 31, a measuring element 32, a contact sensor 33, and a valve 34. Among these, the attachment flow path 31, the contact sensor 33, and the valve 34 have the same configurations as the attachment flow path 11, the contact sensor 15, and the valve 16, respectively, of the first embodiment.

The measuring element 32 is a spherical object. The measuring element 32 may be made of any material as long as it has a higher specific gravity than the sample L or the standard sample. The measuring element 32 may be made of metal, resin, or a combination of a plurality of materials, for example. The shape of the measuring element 32 may be other than spherical.

In the analyzer 100 of the third embodiment, after filling the measurement region with the sample L, the measurement control function 162 sends a close signal to the valve 34 to close the valve 34 and control the flow of the sample L in the measurement region. Then, the measurement element 32 is positioned at the lowest end of the measurement area. From this state, the measurement control function 162 sends an open signal to the valve 34 to open the valve 34 and allow the sample L to flow into the measurement region. The measurement element 32 is transported upward within the measurement region as the sample L flows, and reaches the uppermost end of the measurement region. Thereafter, the measurement control function 162 closes the valve 34 to stop the flow of the sample L within the measurement region. By stopping the flow of the sample L within the measurement area, the measurement element 32 falls within the measurement area. The contact sensor 33 detects that the fallen measurement element 32 has come into contact with it.

The calculation function 163 calculates the measurement element 32 based on the drop start time and the contact sensor 33 when the measurement control function 162 closes the valve 34 and starts dropping the measurement element 32 after the measurement element 32 is located at the top end of the measurement area. The falling time when the measuring element 14 falls through the measuring area is measured based on the falling end time when it is detected that the measuring element 14 has reached the lowest end of the measuring area. The calculation function 163 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 32 based on the calculated falling time and the height of the measurement area. The falling speed becomes calculation element data.

In the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, first, the measurement area is filled with the standard sample. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 causes the standard sample to further flow into the measurement area and moves the measurement element 32 to the top end of the measurement area. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 stops the inflow of the standard sample and causes the measurement element 32 to fall to the lowest end of the measurement area. The calculation function 163 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 32 at this time and creates a calibration curve. The calibration curve may be created based on the falling time of the measuring element 32.

Subsequently, the tube 3 is attached to the attachment channel 11, the sample L of the subject M is supplied to the attachment channel 11, the measurement region of the attachment channel 11 is filled with the sample L, and the valve 34 is closed. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 opens the valve 34 and raises the measurement element 32 within the measurement region to the top of the measurement region by the flow rate of the sample L. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a state in which the measurement element 32 has reached the top of the measurement area. Subsequently, the measurement control function 162 closes the valve 34 to stop the sample L from flowing into the measurement area, and causes the measurement element 32 to fall to the lowest end of the measurement area. The calculation function 163 calculates the falling speed of the measuring element 32 at this time, and calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample L by referring to the calculated falling speed with the previously created calibration curve.

The analysis device 100 of the third embodiment has the same effects as the analysis device 100 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the analyzer 100 of the third embodiment does not need to be provided with a magnetic force generator or the like as in the second embodiment. Therefore, it is possible to further simplify the device, thereby achieving cost reduction and miniaturization.

[Fourth embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. The analyzer 100 of the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the configuration of the measuring instrument 1. The analysis device of the fourth embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the measuring device 1 of the fourth embodiment.

The measuring device 1 of the fourth embodiment includes, for example, an attachment channel 41, a guide member 42, a measuring element 43, and a valve 44. Among these, the valve 44 has the same configuration as the valve 16 of the first embodiment.

The attachment channel 41 has a truncated conical shape in which the diameter of the upper surface is longer than the diameter of the lower surface. An inlet into which the sample L flows is formed at the lower end of the attachment channel 41, and an outlet into which the sample L flows is formed at the upper end. Tubes 3 are attached to the inlet and outlet, respectively, and the sample L is circulated and supplied to the attachment channel 41 via the tube 3 connected to the subject M.

The guide member 42 is a rod-shaped member that extends in the vertical direction and is attached in the measurement area formed in the attachment channel 41 . The guide member 42 is arranged so as to connect the circular center points of the upper and lower surfaces of the attachment channel 41 . The guide member 42 is fixed to the upper surface and the lower surface of the attachment channel 41, respectively. The guide member 42 guides the moving direction of the measuring element 43 in a direction along the flow direction of the sample L.

The measuring element 43 has a spherical shape, and a through hole through which the guide member 42 passes is formed in the central portion when viewed from above. The measuring element 43 may be made of any material as long as it has a higher specific gravity than the sample L or the standard sample. The measuring element 43 may be made of metal, resin, or a combination of a plurality of materials, for example. The shape of the measuring element 43 may be other than spherical. The measurement element 43 is vertically movable along the guide member 42 within the measurement area.

In the analyzer 100 of the fourth embodiment, a calibration curve is created in the calculation function 163 in the same manner as the analyzer 100 of the third embodiment. After creating a calibration curve, the analyzer 100 of the fourth embodiment detects the fall time of the measuring element 43 using the same procedure as the analyzer 100 of the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the measuring element 43 is raised. The calculation function 163 calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample L by referring to the calculated falling time to the calibration curve.

Alternatively, in the analyzer 100 of the fourth embodiment, the viscoelasticity of the sample L may be calculated using the following procedure. In addition, in the analyzer 100, when calculating the viscoelasticity, a calibration curve is created in advance by the arithmetic function 163 by executing the following procedure by replacing the sample L with the standard sample.

First, with the measurement region filled with the sample L, the measurement control function 162 causes the sample L to flow into the measurement region at a constant speed and moves the measurement element 43 upward. Here, the attachment channel 41 has a shape in which the cross-sectional area on the inlet side is different from the cross-sectional area on the outlet side, and the cross-sectional area on the inlet side is larger than the cross-sectional area on the outlet side. In areas where the flow path is narrow, the upward force applied to the measurement particles is greater than in areas where the flow path is wide. Therefore, if the flow velocity is constant, the force in the downward direction of the measurement element 43 and the force in the upward direction are balanced. The measuring element 43 is in a stopped state.

The attachment channel 41 is provided with a distance sensor (not shown). The distance sensor is a sensor that detects the distance from the upper end surface or the lower end surface of the attachment channel 41 to the measurement element 43. The distance sensor detects the distance to the measurement element 43 and transmits it to the processing circuit 160. In the analyzer 100, the calculation function 163 calculates the viscoelasticity of the sample L by referring to the distance detected by the distance sensor with a calibration curve created in advance.

The analysis device 100 of the fourth embodiment has the same effects as the analysis device 100 of the third embodiment. Furthermore, in the analyzer 100 of the fourth embodiment, the moving direction of the measuring element 43 is regulated by the guide member 42. Therefore, the trajectory of the measurement element 43 within the measurement region is stabilized, so that the viscoelasticity can be calculated with high accuracy.

Further, in the analyzer 100 of the fourth embodiment, the attachment channel 41 has a shape in which the area on the inlet side is larger than the area on the outlet side, so that the sample can be attached to the measuring instrument 1 (attachment channel 41). The viscoelasticity of sample L can be calculated while L is being supplied in circulation. Therefore, the viscoelasticity of the sample L can be easily calculated in real time.

[Fifth embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. The analyzer 100 of the fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the configuration of the measuring instrument 1. The analysis device of the fifth embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the measuring device 1 of the fifth embodiment.

The measuring device 1 of the fifth embodiment includes an attachment channel 51, a guide member 52, a measuring element 53, and a spring 54. Among these, the attachment flow path 51, the guide member 52, and the measurement element 53 are arranged in a direction obtained by rotating the attachment flow path 41, the guide member 42, and the measurement element 43 in the fourth embodiment by 90 degrees, respectively. . Therefore, for example, the attachment channel 51 and the guide member 52 are arranged along the horizontal direction. Further, the tubes 3 attached to the inlet and outlet of the attachment channel 51 are arranged along the vertical direction. A valve similar to the fourth embodiment is provided near the inlet side of the fifth attachment channel in the tube 3.

The spring 54 is a tension spring that is connected to the inflow port side surface of the mounting channel 51 (the surface on the right side of the paper) and the measurement element 53, and pulls the measurement element 53 toward the inflow port side of the mounting channel 51. . The spring 54 urges the measuring element 53 from the upstream side to the downstream side of the flow path. The spring 54 is an example of a biasing section. FIG. 11 shows the spring 54 in an expanded state.

In the analyzer 100 of the fifth embodiment, the viscoelasticity of the sample may be calculated using the procedure described in the fourth embodiment. In this case, in the fourth embodiment, instead of the gravity applied to the measurement element 43, the behavior of the fourth measurement element may be detected on the assumption that a tensile force by the spring 54 is applied to the measurement element 53.

The analysis device 100 of the fifth embodiment has the same effects as the analysis device 100 of the third embodiment. Furthermore, in the analyzer 100 of the fifth embodiment, the fifth measuring element is pulled by the spring 54. For this reason, the direction in which the attachment channel 51 extends may be made in any direction regardless of gravity. Therefore, it is possible to easily adjust the mounting position and the like according to the shape and the like of the measuring instrument 1.

In addition, in the first to third embodiments as well, by applying a biasing force in one direction to the measuring elements 14, 22, and 32 by a spring, the biasing force by the spring is likened to gravity, and the sample is The viscoelasticity of can be calculated. In this case, the mounting channels 11, 21, and 31 can be arranged along the direction in which the biasing force is applied by the spring, and for example, the mounting channels 11, 21, and 31 can be arranged in a direction having a component along the horizontal direction, for example, the mounting channels 11, 21, and Channels 11, 21, and 31 may be arranged. The direction in which the biasing force is applied by the spring may be a direction other than the horizontal direction, for example, an inclined direction that is inclined with respect to the vertical direction.

[First modification]
Next, a first modification of each of the above embodiments will be described. The shape of the measuring element in each of the above embodiments is spherical or the like, but the measuring element may have the following shapes as shown in modified examples. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the measurement element 62 of the first modification. In the first modification, the measuring device 1 includes an attachment channel 61, and a measurement element 62 is provided in the measurement region of the attachment channel 61. The measuring element 62 has a so-called capsule shape, which is a spherical shape stretched in the vertical direction, and a protruding member 63 that protrudes outward is attached to the measuring element 62 .

A plurality of protruding members 63, in this modification, four protruding members 63 are arranged at regular intervals on the outer periphery of the measuring element 62. The protruding members 63 have the same shape and extend in the vertical direction (the direction in which the sample L flows). A flow path is formed between the protruding members 63 and the inner surface of the attachment flow path 61 to allow the sample L or standard sample to flow therebetween. The attachment channel 61 is an example of a tubular body. The protruding member 63 is an example of a flow path forming part. The side of the protrusion member 63 facing the inner surface of the attachment channel 61 has a curved cross section. Therefore, when the measuring element 62 rotates within the measurement area, the protruding member 63 makes it difficult to interfere with the rotation.

The supplies supplied by subject M may include solids such as fibrin clots. If such solids are included in the sample L, there is a concern that the solids flowing through the attachment channel 61 may cause clogging between the attachment channel 61 and the measurement element 62 . In this respect, a flow path is formed between the plurality of protruding members 63. When solids pass through this flow path,
Clogging between the attachment channel 61 and the measuring element 62 can be avoided.

[Second modification]
14 and 15 are diagrams showing an example of the measurement element 72 of the second modification. In the second modification, the measuring device 1 includes an attachment channel 71, and a measurement element 72 is provided in the measurement region of the attachment channel 71. Like the measuring element 62, the measuring element 72 has a spherical shape elongated in the vertical direction to form a so-called capsule shape, and a spiral protruding member 73 is formed on the outer periphery of the capsule. The spiral protruding member 73 is an example of a spiral portion.

The helical protruding member 73 is formed in a spiral shape around the outer circumferential portion of the measuring element 72 . In the example shown in FIG. 14, the spiral protruding member 73 has a shape that rotates a plurality of times. A spiral flow path (flow hole) through which the sample L or standard sample flows is formed in the gap between the overlapping portions of the spiral protruding members 73. By forming the spiral flow path (flow hole), the measuring element 72 can be moved at low speed while rotating. Therefore, it is possible to stabilize the rotational movement of the measuring element 72 and to reduce the speed of movement, thereby improving measurement accuracy and resolution. As shown in FIG. 15, the spiral protruding member 73 on the outer circumference of the measuring element 72 may have only one turn.

In each of the above embodiments, the calculation function 163 in the analyzer 100 calculates viscoelasticity, but the calculation function 163 may calculate viscosity instead of viscoelasticity, or calculate an index related to viscosity, for example, the viscosity itself. In addition, viscosity coefficient, viscosity coefficient, kinematic viscosity, etc. may be calculated. The calculation function 163 may calculate some or all of the viscoelasticity and viscosity or the index regarding viscoelasticity and viscosity.

According to at least one embodiment described above, there is provided a measuring device including a measuring element disposed in a measuring region in a flow path through which a sample flows, and a detecting section that detects the behavior of the measuring element, and the behavior of the measuring element. By having an arithmetic unit that calculates an index related to at least one of the viscoelasticity and viscosity of the sample based on the above, the viscoelasticity of the sample can be measured in real time.

Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and gist of the invention as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

1...Measuring device 2...Disposal bottle 3...Tube 4...First anticoagulant container 5...Second anticoagulant container 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71...Mounting channel 12...Drive device 13... Magnet 14, 22, 32, 43, 53, 62, 72... Measuring element 15, 33... Contact sensor 16, 26, 34, 44... Valve 23... Magnetic force generator 24... First position sensor 25... Second position Sensors 42, 52...Guide member 54...Spring 63...Protrusion member 73...Protrusion member 100...Analyzer 110...Operation section 120...Measuring device 130...Online section 140...Display section 150...Printing section 160...Processing circuit 161...System Control function 162...Measurement control function 163...Calculation function 170...Memory M...Subject

Claims (15)

a measuring device comprising a measuring element arranged in a measuring region in a flow path through which the sample flows, and a detecting section that detects the behavior of the measuring element;
a calculation unit that calculates an index related to at least one of viscoelasticity and viscosity of the sample based on the behavior of the measurement element;
Analysis equipment. The behavior of the measurement element includes at least one of the position of the measurement element within the flow path, the movement speed of the measurement element, or the travel time for the measurement element to move to a predetermined position.
The analysis device according to claim 1. The measurement area is formed with a component along the vertical direction,
calculating the viscoelasticity of the sample based on the falling speed of the measurement element within the measurement area;
The analysis device according to claim 2. further comprising a transport unit that transports the measurement element upward within the measurement region;
The analysis device according to claim 3. The measurement element includes a magnetic material,
The transport unit includes a magnet that guides the magnetic body.
The analysis device according to claim 4. further comprising a magnet moving unit that moves the magnet;
The analysis device according to claim 5. The measurement element includes a first magnet,
The transport unit includes a second magnet that repels the first magnet.
The analysis device according to claim 4. The measurement element is transported upward as the sample flows within the measurement region.
The analysis device according to claim 1. further comprising a guide member that guides the movement direction of the measurement element in a direction along the flow direction of the sample;
The analysis device according to claim 8. The inlet and outlet of the sample in the measurement region have different cross-sectional areas;
The analysis device according to claim 8. The measurement area is formed with a component along the horizontal direction,
comprising a biasing section that biases the measurement element from the upstream side to the downstream side of the flow path;
The analysis device according to claim 2. The measurement element further includes a flow path forming part that forms a flow path through which the sample flows between the measurement element and the inner surface of the tube forming the flow path.
The analysis device according to claim 1. The flow path forming section includes a protrusion that protrudes to the outside of the measurement element.
The analysis device according to claim 12. The flow path forming part includes a spiral part formed on the outer periphery of the measuring element.
The analysis device according to claim 12. moving a measurement element placed in a measurement region in a flow path through which the sample flows in the measurement region;
Detecting the behavior of the moved measurement element,
evaluating an index related to at least one of viscoelasticity and viscosity of the sample based on the detected behavior of the measurement element;
Analysis method.

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