JP2024055272A - Management system, and management program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a management system and a management program that allow easy and accurate management of samples.SOLUTION: A management system 1 is a system for managing samples 4 stored in containers 3 stored in a rack 2 that can store a plurality of containers 3, and comprises: a sample identification information acquisition unit that acquires sample identification information; a touch panel 32 that, in an installed state, detects storage positions of the containers 3 stored in the rack 2; a registration unit that registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition unit and container storage position information indicating the storage positions of the containers 3 detected by the touch panel 32 in association with each other; and a display control unit that causes the touch panel 32 to display the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered in the registration unit in association with each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a management system and a management program.

As one system for managing samples stored in containers stored in a rack capable of storing multiple containers, a system has been proposed that includes a rack that holds multiple microtubes to which RFID tags that record identification information are attached, a reader that reads the identification information from the RFID tag, and a control device that displays on a display unit only microtubes selected from the multiple microtubes based on the identification information of the microtubes and the arrangement information in the rack, and the identification information read by the reader and the arrangement information in the rack (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

International Publication No. WO2018/051803

However, in the above conventional system, as described above, RFID tags are attached to multiple microtubes. For example, if RFID tags are manually attached to microtubes for various reasons, and a large number of microtubes are stored in a rack, the effort of attaching RFID tags to the microtubes becomes significant, and sample management may become cumbersome. Therefore, there is room for improvement from the perspective of managing samples simply and accurately.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide a management system and management program that enable easy and accurate management of samples.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the management system described in claim 1 is a management system for managing samples stored in containers stored in a rack capable of storing multiple containers, and includes a sample identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information for uniquely identifying the sample, a storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of the container stored in the rack in an installation state in which the rack is installed at a detection position, a registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means and container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and a display control means for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in association with each other on a display means.

The management system according to claim 2 is the management system according to claim 1, in which, when the storage position detection means is unable to detect the storage position of the container in the installed state, the registration means cancels the registration of the sample identification information and the container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container, and the display control means does not cause the display means to display the sample identification information and the container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means.

The management system of claim 3 is the management system of claim 1 or 2, in which the storage position detection means is a touch panel of a mobile terminal, the detection position is a position on the touch panel, and the rack is provided with an operation assistant means for enabling the touch panel to detect the storage position of the container when the container is stored in the rack by operating the touch panel via the operation assistant means.

The management system described in claim 4 is the management system described in claim 1 or 2, and further includes a container detection means for detecting whether the container is stored in the rack, and a notification means for notifying notification information indicating that the container is stored when the container detection means detects that the container is stored but the storage position detection means does not detect the storage position of the container.

The management system according to claim 5 is the management system according to claim 1 or 2, and further includes a rack identification information acquisition means for acquiring rack identification information attached to the rack, which is used to uniquely identify the rack, and the registration means registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means in association with each other, and the display control means causes the sample identification information, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information registered by the registration means to be displayed on the display means in association with each other.

The management system of claim 6 is the management system of claim 5, in which the detection position is a position on the screen of the display means, and includes a guidance information storage means that stores the rack identification information and guidance information for guiding the storage position of the container that can be detected by the storage position detection means in a mutually associated manner, and the display control means extracts guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means from the guidance information stored in the guidance information storage means, and causes the extracted guidance information to be displayed on the display means.

The management program described in claim 7 is a management program executed by a management system for managing samples contained in containers stored in a rack capable of storing multiple containers, and causes a computer to function as an identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information for uniquely identifying the sample, a storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of the container stored in the rack in an installation state in which the rack is installed at the detection position, a registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition means and container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and a display control means for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in association with each other on a display means.

According to the management system of claim 1 or the management program of claim 7, the system includes a sample identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information, a storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of a container stored in the rack in an installed state, a registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means and the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and a display control means for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in association with each other on the display means. Therefore, compared to the conventional technology (technology in which a tag including specimen information is attached to a container for management), at least the sample identification information and the container storage position information can be registered without attaching sample identification information to the container, and the effort of attaching sample identification information to the container can be eliminated. In addition, the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means can be displayed on the display means in association with each other, and the storage position of the container in which the sample is stored can be visually confirmed. From the above, it is possible to easily and accurately manage samples stored in the rack.

According to the management system described in claim 2, when the storage position detection means is unable to detect the storage position of a container in the installed state, the registration means cancels the registration of the sample identification information and container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container, and the display control means does not cause the display means to display the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means. This makes it possible to prevent the display means from displaying the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means, thereby enabling more accurate management of samples stored in the rack.

According to the management system of claim 3, the storage position detection means is a touch panel of a mobile terminal, the detection position is a position on the touch panel, and the operation assistant means is provided on the rack, and when a container is stored in the rack, the touch panel is operated via the operation assistant means to enable the storage position of the container to be detected by the touch panel. Therefore, the storage position of the container can be detected using the touch panel, and the management system can be constructed relatively simply and inexpensively.

According to the management system described in claim 4, the system includes a container detection means for detecting whether or not a container is stored in the rack, and a notification means for notifying notification information when the container detection means detects that a container is stored but the storage position detection means does not detect the storage position of the container. This allows the notification information to be notified, and enables the worker to accurately understand the reason why the storage position of the container cannot be detected.

According to the management system of claim 5, the system includes a rack identification information acquisition means for acquiring rack identification information attached to the rack, and the registration means registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means in a mutually associated manner, and the display control means causes the display means to display the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration means in a mutually associated manner, so that the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means can be registered in a mutually associated manner, and the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration means can be displayed on the display means in a mutually associated manner. Therefore, the storage position of the container in which the sample is stored and the rack storing the container can be visually confirmed, making it possible to accurately manage the rack and the samples.

According to the management system described in claim 6, the detection position is a position on the screen of the display means, and the system includes a guidance information storage means for storing the rack identification information and the guidance information for guiding the storage position of the container that can be detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and the display control means extracts the guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means from the guidance information stored in the guidance information storage means and displays the extracted guidance information on the display means, so that the guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information can be displayed on the display means, and the storage position detection means can reliably detect the storage position of the container.

1A and 1B are perspective views showing an overview of a management system according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which FIG. 1A shows an installed state and FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a management device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a registration DB. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a guide table; 11 is a flowchart of a management process according to an embodiment. 13 is a flowchart of a registration process. 11 is a flowchart of a first detection process. 13 is a flowchart of a cancellation process. 13 is a flowchart of a second detection process. 13 is a flowchart of a display process. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a management process on a touch panel. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a registration process on a touch panel. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an example of a display process on a touch panel after a registration process. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an example of a display process on a touch panel after a cancellation process.

Below, an embodiment of a management system and a management program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. First, [I] the basic concept of the embodiment will be explained, then [II] the specific content of the embodiment will be explained, and finally, [III] modified examples of the embodiment will be explained. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.

[I] Basic Concept of the Embodiment First, the basic concept of the embodiment will be described. The embodiment generally relates to a management system and a management program for managing samples stored in containers stored in a rack capable of storing multiple containers.

Here, "sample" refers to a substance that is subjected to a test, analysis, and/or inspection, and is a concept that includes, for example, specimens and reagents.

The term "specimen" refers to a biological sample that is suspected to contain a target substance (or that is tested to see if it contains a target substance), and includes, for example, clinical specimens and liquids that contain physiologically active substances such as low molecular weight compounds.

The term "reagent" refers to something that is used to detect the substance to be analyzed through an immune reaction in a container described below, and is a concept that includes, for example, magnetic particle reagents, labeled antibodies, labeled antigens, etc.

[II] Specific Contents of the Embodiment Next, specific contents of the embodiment will be described.

(composition)
First, the configuration of a management system according to an embodiment will be described.

In the following explanation, the X direction in Figure 1 is referred to as the left-right direction of the management system (based on the direction as seen by the worker (not shown) using the management system, with the -X direction being the right direction of the management system and the +X direction being the left direction of the management system), the Y direction in Figure 1 is referred to as the front-to-back direction of the management system (the +Y direction is the front direction of the management system, and the -Y direction is the rear direction of the management system), and the Z direction in Figure 1 is referred to as the up-down direction of the management system (the +Z direction is the top direction of the management system, and the -Z direction is the bottom direction of the management system).

The management system 1 is a system for managing samples 4 contained in containers 3 stored in a rack 2, and generally includes an alignment unit 10, an operation assistance unit 20, a container detection unit (not shown), a rack identification information detection unit (not shown), and a management device 30, as shown in FIG. 1.

As for the connection form of each component that makes up this management system 1, in the embodiment, the container detection unit and the rack identification information detection unit are each connected to the management device 30 via a network (not shown) so that they can communicate with each other.

(Configuration - Rack)
Here, the rack 2 is for storing the containers 3, and is configured using, for example, a known rack capable of storing a plurality of containers 3 (as an example, a resin rack having a plurality of storage sections 2a each having an open upper end and lower end). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1(a), the rack is provided with five rows of storage sections 2a in the left-right direction and five rows of storage sections 2a in the front-rear direction (i.e., 25 storage sections 2a). However, the number is not limited to this, and for example, the rack may be provided with less than 15 storage sections 2a, or may be provided with 16 or more storage sections 2a.

In the embodiment, a plurality of racks 2 are used, and the management system 1 is used to manage samples 4 contained in containers 3 stored in each of the plurality of racks 2.

Furthermore, each of the multiple racks 2 will be described as having at least one rack identification information (not shown) attached thereto (specifically, only one is attached to any one of the multiple corners of the rack 2).

Here, "rack identification information" refers to information for uniquely identifying rack 2, and is configured using, for example, QR code information (registered trademark), barcode information (examples include normal barcodes, two-dimensional barcodes, and three-dimensional barcodes), Data Matrix, wireless tags (examples include RFID, etc.), etc.

(Configuration - Container)
The container 3 is for containing the sample 4, and is configured using, for example, a known container (for example, a resin spitz or cuvette, or a glass test tube or vial, etc.).

In the embodiment, it is assumed that each of the multiple racks 2 contains at least one item.

(Configuration - Alignment section)
The alignment unit 10 is an alignment means for placing the rack 2 at a detection position DP (described later) on a touch panel 32 of the management device 30 (described later). The alignment unit 10 is configured using, for example, a known alignment member (as an example, a resin alignment member that can be detachably attached to the touch panel 32 (described later)).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1(b), the alignment unit 10 includes a first alignment unit 11 having an inverted L-shaped planar shape, and a second alignment unit 12 having an L-shaped planar shape.

The first alignment unit 11 and the second alignment unit 12 are located near a detection position DP described below, and are provided at positions where the rack 2 can be fitted by the first alignment unit 11 and the second alignment unit 12. In detail, as shown in FIG. 1(b), the first alignment unit 11 is located to the left and forward of the detection position DP described below, and the second alignment unit 12 is located to the right and rear of the detection position DP described below.

With this configuration, the rack 2 can be fitted using the first alignment unit 11 and the second alignment unit 12, and the rack 2 can be easily and accurately installed at the detection position DP described below.

However, this is not limited thereto, and for example, the alignment unit 10 may include only one of the first alignment unit 11 or the second alignment unit 12.

(Configuration: Operation Support Section)
The operation assistant unit 20 is an operation assistant means for enabling, when a container 3 is stored in the rack 2, a storage position of the container 3 to be detected by a touch panel 32 described below by operating the touch panel 32 via the operation assistant unit 20. As shown in Fig. 1, the operation assistant unit 20 is provided in each storage unit 2a of the rack 2, and includes a pressing unit 21 and a moving unit (not shown).

(Configuration-Operation assistance section-Pressing section)
The pressing portion 21 is for pressing a touch panel 32 described later. The pressing portion 21 is formed, for example, of a resin plate-like body capable of supporting the container 3, and is provided at the lower end of each storage portion 2a of the rack 2 as shown in FIG.

(Configuration-Operation Support Section-Movement Section)
The moving section utilizes the weight of the container 3 placed on the pressing section 21 to move the pressing section 21 to a position where the pressing section 21 can come into contact with a touch panel 32 described below. The moving section is configured using, for example, an expandable member (as an example, an elastic member such as a spring), and is provided between the lower end of each storage section 2a of the rack 2 and the pressing section 21, and is connected to the lower end and the pressing section 21.

This type of operation assistance unit 20 allows the storage position of the container 3 to be detected using a touch panel 32 described below, making it possible to configure the management system 1 relatively simply and inexpensively.

(Configuration: Container Detection Section)
The container detection unit is a container detection means that detects whether or not a container 3 is stored in the rack 2. This container detection unit is configured using, for example, a known sensor (as one example, an electric, optical, or electrostatic sensor that can be stored in the storage unit 2a of the rack 2), and at least one container detection unit is provided in the rack 2 (in the embodiment, a plurality of container detection units are provided).

Specifically, in order to accurately detect the containers 3 stored in each storage section 2a of the rack 2, the container detection section is provided at the upper end of each storage section 2a of the rack 2 or in a position close to the upper end.

However, this is not limiting, and for example, the container detection unit may be provided at the vertical center of each storage unit 2a of the rack 2 or a position close to the center. Alternatively, the container detection unit may be configured using a known electrostatic sensor that is approximately the same size as the planar size of the rack 2, and may be provided on the upper or lower surface of the rack 2.

(Configuration: Rack Identification Information Detection Unit)
The rack identification information detection unit detects rack identification information. This rack identification information detection unit is configured using, for example, a known reading device (e.g., a barcode reader, a QR code reader, an antenna capable of communicating with a wireless tag, etc.), and at least one or more of them are provided on or near a touch panel 32 of a management device 30 described later.

Specifically, when rack 2 is installed in the opposite direction in the installation state described below, the rack identification information detection unit is provided only inside (or outside) either the first alignment unit 11 or the second alignment unit 12 so that the rack identification information detection unit does not detect the rack identification information.

However, this is not limiting, and for example, the first alignment unit 11 and the second alignment unit 12 may be provided inside (or outside) each of them. Alternatively, they may be provided at a location away from the management device 30.

(Configuration - Management Device)
The management device 30 is a device for managing samples 4 contained in containers 3 housed in a rack 2. The management device 30 is configured using, for example, a known mobile terminal (specifically, a tablet terminal), and is placed on a workbench 5 as shown in Fig. 1, and includes a communication unit 31, a touch pad 32a, a display unit 32b, an audio output unit 33, a power supply unit 34, a control unit 35, and a storage unit 36 as shown in Fig. 2. Note that the configuration of the management device 30 that is not specifically mentioned is omitted here as it is the same as that of a known tablet terminal.

(Configuration-Management Device-Communication Unit)
The communication unit 31 is a communication means for communicating between the management device 30 and the container detection unit and rack identification information detection unit, and/or external devices not shown (e.g., other mobile terminals described below, other management servers, etc.), and is configured using known communication means for communication using a wireless communication network and/or a wired communication network.

(Configuration - Management Device - Touchpad)
The touch pad 32a is an operation means for receiving various operation inputs from an operator by being pressed by the operator's finger or the like, and is also a storage position detection means for detecting the storage positions of the containers 3 stored in the rack 2 in a state where the rack 2 is installed at the detection position DP (hereinafter referred to as the "installed state") The touch pad 32a is configured using, for example, a known touch pad (as an example, a touch pad equipped with an operation position detection means using a resistive film method, a capacitive method, or the like).

Here, "detection position DP" means a position at which it is possible to detect the storage position of the container 3 stored in the rack 2. In the embodiment, it is described as a position on the touch panel 32 described below (i.e., a position on the screen of the display unit 32b, specifically, a position in an area within a predetermined distance from the center of the touch panel 32 described below. In FIG. 1(b), it is shown by dotted hatching).

(Configuration-Management Device-Display Unit)
The display unit 32b is a display means for displaying various information under the control of the control unit 35, and is configured using, for example, a known display means (for example, a known flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display). Note that in the embodiment, the touch pad 32a and the display are described as being integrally formed as the touch panel 32.

However, this is not limited to the above, and for example, the touchpad 32a and the display may be formed separately.

(Configuration-Management Device-Audio Output Unit)
The audio output unit 33 is an audio output means that outputs various information by voice under the control of the control unit 35, and is configured using, for example, a known speaker.

(Configuration - Management Device - Power Supply Section)
The power supply unit 34 is a power supply means that supplies power supplied from a commercial power source or a battery (not shown) to each component of the management device 30.

(Configuration-Management Device-Control Unit)
The control unit 35 is a control means for controlling the management device 30, and is specifically a computer including a CPU, various programs interpreted and executed on the CPU (including basic control programs such as an OS, and application programs that are started on the OS and realize specific functions), and an internal memory such as a RAM for storing programs and various data. Note that the management program according to the embodiment is installed in the management device 30 via any recording medium or network, thereby substantially configuring each part of the control unit 35.

As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 35 conceptually includes a sample identification information acquisition unit 35a, a registration unit 35b, a display control unit 35c, a notification unit 35d, and a rack identification information acquisition unit 35e.

The sample identification information acquisition unit 35a acquires sample identification information.

Here, "sample identification information" refers to information for uniquely identifying sample 4, and is configured using, for example, QR code information (registered trademark), barcode information (examples include normal barcodes, two-dimensional barcodes, and three-dimensional barcodes), Data Matrix, wireless tags (examples include RFID, etc.), etc.

In the embodiment, the combination of the above-mentioned "sample identification information acquisition unit 35a" and the "communication unit 31" or the "touch pad 32a" corresponds to the "sample identification information acquisition means" in the claims.

The registration unit 35b is a registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition unit 35a and information indicating the storage position of the container 3 detected by the storage position detection unit (hereinafter referred to as "container storage position information") in association with each other.

In the embodiment, the details of the container storage position information are as follows: the container storage position information is information indicating a position based on two-dimensional coordinates on the touch panel 32 (specifically, left-right coordinates and front-back coordinates on the touch panel 32). For example, if the storage section 2a in which the container 3 is stored is located in the first row from the front of the rack 2 and in the third column from the left of the rack 2, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 is expressed as (x1, y3).

The display control unit 35c is a display control means that causes the sample identification information and container storage location information registered in the registration unit 35b to be displayed on the display unit 32b in association with each other.

The notification unit 35d is a notification means that, when the container detection unit detects that the container 3 is stored but the storage position detection unit does not detect the storage position of the container 3, notifies information indicating that (hereinafter, referred to as "notification information").

The rack identification information acquisition unit 35e acquires the rack identification information attached to the rack 2.

In the embodiment, the combination of the above-mentioned "rack identification information acquisition unit 35e" and "rack identification information detection unit" corresponds to the "rack identification information acquisition means" in the claims.

More details about the processing performed by this control unit 35 will be described later.

(Configuration-Management Device-Storage Unit)
The memory unit 36 is a storage means for storing programs and various data necessary for the operation of the management device 30, and is configured using a rewritable recording medium, and can use a non-volatile recording medium such as a flash memory.

As shown in FIG. 2, the memory unit 36 also includes a registration database 36a (hereinafter, the database is referred to as "DB") and a guidance table 36b.

(Configuration-Management Device-Storage Unit-Registration DB)
The registration DB 36a is a registration storage means that stores at least sample identification information and container storage location information in a mutually associated manner, and as shown in Figure 3, it stores the items "rack identification information,""storage section array number information,""sample identification information," and "container storage location information," as well as information corresponding to each item, in a mutually associated manner.

Among these, the information corresponding to the item "Rack identification information" is rack identification information, such as "111111111111111111", which is the barcode information for rack 2, as shown in FIG. 3.

In addition, the information corresponding to the item "storage unit array number information" is storage unit array number information indicating the array number of the storage unit 2a of the rack 2. For example, if the front-to-back direction of the rack 2 is called a "row" and the left-to-right direction of the rack 2 is called a "column," then as shown in FIG. 3, this corresponds to the array number "1-1" of the storage unit 2a arranged in the first row from the front of the rack 2 and the first column from the left of the rack 2.

In addition, the information corresponding to the item "sample identification information" is sample identification information, for example, "0001", which is the ID of sample 4, as shown in Figure 3.

In addition, the information corresponding to the item "container storage position information" is container storage position information, and for example, as shown in FIG. 3, this corresponds to "(x1, y3)", which is the storage position of container 3 in the first row from the front and the third column from the left of rack 2, and "(x2, y2)", which is the storage position of container 3 in the second row from the front and the second column from the left of rack 2.

(Configuration-Management Device-Memory Unit-Guide Table)
The guidance table 36b is a guidance information storage means that stores rack identification information and guidance information in a mutually associated manner, and as shown in Figure 4, it stores the items "rack identification information,""storage section array number information,""storage section position information," and "guidance information," as well as information corresponding to each item, in a mutually associated manner.

Here, "guidance information" refers to information for guiding the storage position of a container 3 that can be detected by the storage position detection unit. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the guidance information GL is described as image information consisting of a plurality of coordinate lines that intersect with the storage positions of the plurality of containers 3 that can be stored in the rack 2 in an installed state in a plan view, and a plurality of first coordinate lines GL1 along the left-right direction and a plurality of second coordinate lines GL2 along the front-rear direction. However, this is not limited to this, and the information may be, for example, image information that indicates only the storage positions of the containers 3.

Among these, the information corresponding to the item "Rack identification information" is rack identification information, such as "111111111111111111", which is the barcode information for rack 2, as shown in FIG. 4.

In addition, the information corresponding to the item "Storage unit array number information" is storage unit array number information, and for example, as shown in FIG. 4, this corresponds to "1-1", which is the array number of storage unit 2a arranged in the first row from the front of rack 2 and in the first column from the left of rack 2.

In addition, the information corresponding to the item "storage unit position information" is storage unit position information indicating the position of the storage unit 2a of the rack 2 (specifically, the position based on the two-dimensional coordinates on the touch panel 32), and for example, as shown in FIG. 4, this corresponds to "(x1, y1)" which is the position of the storage unit 2a arranged in the first row from the front of the rack 2 and in the first column from the left of the rack 2.

In addition, the information corresponding to the item "Guidance information" is guidance information, such as "PIC001.JPG", which is image information showing the above-mentioned multiple coordinate lines, as shown in FIG. 4.

(Management process)
Next, a description will be given of the management process executed by the thus configured management system 1. In the following description, steps will be abbreviated as "S" in the description of each process shown in Figs.

The management process is a process for managing the samples 4 contained in the containers 3 stored in the rack 2. The timing for executing this management process is arbitrary, but in the embodiment, it is described as being started after each device in the management system 1 is powered on.

In addition, the management process will be described on the assumption that rack identification information, sample identification information, and container storage position information are not stored in registration DB 36a.

When the management process is started, as shown in FIG. 5, at SA1, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing for executing the registration process described below (hereinafter referred to as the "registration timing") has arrived.

While the method for determining whether or not the registration timing has arrived is arbitrary, in the embodiment, a display area D1 (hereinafter referred to as "operation display area D1") in FIG. 11 is generated on the screen of touch panel 32 (specifically, display unit 32b), and a determination is made based on whether or not a registration process button B1, which is displayed in the generated operation display area D1 and which instructs execution of a registration process described below, has been operated. Here, if the registration process button B1 has been operated, it is determined that the registration timing has arrived, and if the registration process button B1 has not been operated, it is determined that the registration timing has not arrived.

Returning to FIG. 5, if the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the registration timing has arrived (SA1, Yes), it starts the registration process (SA2) and then proceeds to SA1. On the other hand, if it determines that the registration timing has not arrived (SA1, No), it proceeds to SA3. The details of the registration process will be described later.

At SA3, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing for executing the cancellation process (hereinafter referred to as the "cancellation timing") has arrived.

While the method for determining whether the cancellation timing has arrived is arbitrary, in this embodiment, the determination is made based on whether the cancellation processing button B2 displayed in the operation display area D1 of FIG. 11, which instructs the execution of the cancellation processing described below, has been operated. Here, if the cancellation processing button B2 has been operated, it is determined that the cancellation timing has arrived, and if the cancellation processing button B2 has not been operated, it is determined that the cancellation timing has not arrived.

5, if the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the cancellation timing has arrived (SA3, Yes), it starts a cancellation process (SA4) and then proceeds to SA1. On the other hand, if the control unit 35 determines that the cancellation timing has not arrived (SA3, No), it proceeds to SA5.
The details of the cancellation process will be described later.

At SA5, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing to execute the display process (hereinafter referred to as the "display timing") has arrived.

While the method for determining whether or not the display timing has arrived is arbitrary, in the embodiment, the determination is made based on whether or not the display processing button B3 displayed in the operation display area D1 of FIG. 11, which instructs the execution of the display processing described below, has been operated. Here, if the display processing button B3 has been operated, it is determined that the display timing has arrived, and if the display processing button B3 has not been operated, it is determined that the display timing has not arrived.

Returning to FIG. 5, if the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the display timing has arrived (SA5, Yes), it starts the display process (SA6) and then proceeds to SA1. On the other hand, if it determines that the display timing has not arrived (SA5, No), it proceeds to SA1, and thereafter repeats the processes from SA1 to SA6 in the same manner. The details of the display process will be described later.

(Management process - registration process)
Next, the registration process of SA2 in FIG. 5 will be described.

The registration process is a process of registering at least sample identification information and container storage location information in association with each other.

When the registration process is started, as shown in FIG. 6, in SB1, the sample identification information acquisition unit 35a of the management device 30 acquires sample identification information.

The method for acquiring this sample identification information is arbitrary, but for example, the sample identification information may be acquired by accepting input of the sample identification information via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a) and/or by receiving the sample identification information from an external device via the communication unit 31.

At SB2, the rack identification information acquisition unit 35e of the management device 30 acquires the rack identification information.

The method for acquiring this rack identification information is arbitrary, but in the embodiment, after the rack 2 is installed at the detection position DP (i.e., in the installed state), the rack identification information attached to the rack 2 is detected by the rack identification information detection unit, and thus acquired.

However, without being limited thereto, for example, the rack identification information may be acquired by accepting input of the rack identification information via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a) and/or receiving the rack identification information from an external device via the communication unit 31. In this case, the combination of the above-mentioned "rack identification information acquisition unit 35e" and the "touch panel 32" or "communication unit 31" corresponds to the "rack identification information acquisition means" in the claims.

In SB3, the display control unit 35c of the management device 30 displays the guidance information on the touch panel 32 (specifically, the display unit 32b).

The method for displaying this guidance information is up to you, but in this embodiment it is displayed as follows:

That is, first, from the guidance information stored in the guidance table 36b, the guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by SB2 is extracted. Next, as shown in FIG. 12, a display area D2 (hereinafter referred to as the "registered display area D2") is generated on the screen of the touch panel 32 (specifically, the display unit 32b). Then, the extracted guidance information GL (specifically, a plurality of first coordinate lines GL1 and a plurality of second coordinate lines GL) is displayed in the generated registered display area D2.

This allows guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information to be displayed on the touch panel 32, and enables the storage position detection unit to reliably detect the storage position of the container 3.

Returning to FIG. 6, at SB4, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 starts the first detection process.

(Management process--Registration process--First detection process)
Next, the first detection process at SB4 in FIG. 6 will be described.

The first detection process refers to a process of detecting the storage position of a container 3 stored in a rack 2 that contains a sample 4 to be registered.

When the first detection process is started, as shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 in SC1 determines whether the timing for detecting the storage position of the container 3 stored in the rack 2 (hereinafter referred to as the "first detection timing") has arrived.

Whether or not the first detection timing has arrived can be determined by any method, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a predetermined operation input has been received via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a) after the container 3 containing the sample 4 to be registered is placed in the rack 2 installed at the detection position DP in SB2 (note that if the container 3 has already been placed in the rack 2 during the processing of SB2, it may be determined simply based on whether or not the predetermined operation input has been received). Here, if the predetermined operation input has been received, it is determined that the first detection timing has arrived, and if the predetermined operation input has not been received, it is determined that the first detection timing has not arrived.

Then, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 waits until the first detection timing arrives (SC1, No), and transitions to SC2 if it is determined that the first detection timing has arrived (SC1, Yes).

In SC2, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 detects the storage position of the container 3 stored in the rack 2 using the touch panel 32.

The method for detecting the storage position of the container 3 is arbitrary, but in this embodiment, it is detected as follows.

That is, first, it is determined whether or not the pressing portion 21 of the operation assistance portion 20 provided in each storage portion 2a of the rack 2 is in contact with the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a). Here, if the pressing portion 21 is in contact with the touch panel 32, it is determined that a container 3 is stored in the storage portion 2a in which the pressing portion 21 is provided, and the position of the contact (specifically, a position based on the two-dimensional coordinates on the touch panel 32) is detected as the storage position of the container 3 to be detected. On the other hand, if the pressing portion 21 is not in contact with the touch panel 32, it is determined that a container 3 is not stored in the storage portion 2a in which the pressing portion 21 is provided, and the position of the storage portion 2a is not detected as the storage position of the container 3 to be detected.

In SC3, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether a container 3 is stored in the storage unit 2a in which the storage position of the container 3 was not detected in SC2.

While the method for determining whether the container 3 is stored or not is arbitrary, in this embodiment, the determination is made as follows.

That is, first, a container detection unit provided in each storage unit 2a of the rack 2 detects whether or not a container 3 is stored in each storage unit 2a. Next, while referring to the storage unit position information on the guide table 36b, it is determined whether or not the position of the storage unit 2a in which the container detection unit that has detected that a container 3 is stored (specifically, a position based on the two-dimensional coordinates on the touch panel 32) matches the storage position of the container 3 detected by SC2. Here, if they match, it is determined that the container 3 is not stored, and if they do not match, it is determined that the container 3 is stored.

Then, if the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the container 3 is stored (SC3, Yes), it proceeds to SC4. On the other hand, if it determines that the container 3 is not stored (SC3, No), it ends the first detection process and returns to the registration process of FIG. 6.

In SC4, the notification unit 35d of the management device 30 notifies the notification information. After that, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 proceeds to SC1, and repeats the processes from SC1 to SC4 until it is determined in SC3 that the container 3 is not stored.

The method of notifying this notification information is arbitrary, but for example, a display area (not shown) (hereinafter referred to as the "notification display area") may be generated on the screen of the touch panel 32 (specifically, the display unit 32b) and notification information (for example, text data including a standard message such as "Please accurately store the container 3 located in the first row from the front and the third column from the left of the rack 2") may be displayed in the generated notification display area. Alternatively, the notification information may be output as audio by the audio output unit 33. Alternatively, the notification information may be transmitted to an external device and the display unit or audio output unit 33 of the external device may display or output the notification information as audio. Alternatively, these notification methods may be combined.

By using the first detection process described above, it is possible to notify the operator of the alarm information, enabling the operator to accurately understand the reason why the storage position of the container 3 cannot be detected.

Returning to FIG. 6, in SB5, the registration unit 35b of the management device 30 registers at least the sample identification information acquired in SB1 and the container storage location information indicating the storage location of the container 3 detected in SC2 in association with each other. Thereafter, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 ends the registration process and returns to the management process of FIG. 5.

The method for registering this sample identification information is optional, but in this embodiment, it is registered as follows.

That is, first, the storage unit array number information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SB2 is acquired from the storage unit array number information of the guide table 36b. Next, the storage unit array number information is displayed in the registration display area D2 of FIG. 12 (for example, the storage unit array number information is displayed in five columns in the left-right direction and five columns in the front-back direction). Next, an operation to associate the sample identification information acquired in SB1 with the displayed storage unit array number information (hereinafter referred to as an "association operation") is accepted via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a), and the sample identification information, the storage unit array number information, and the rack identification information acquired in SB2 are associated with each other and manually stored in the registration DB 36a. Next, using a known method, the rack identification information, storage unit sequence number information, and storage unit position information in the guide table 36b are referenced, and the container storage position information is registered by automatically storing the container storage position information in the registration DB 36a in association with the sample identification information stored in the registration DB 36a (i.e., the sample identification information acquired in SB1, the storage unit sequence number information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SB2, the rack identification information acquired in SB2, and the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 detected in SC2 are registered in association with each other).

However, this is not limiting, and for example, by accepting a predetermined operation via the touch panel 32, the sample identification information acquired at SB1, the storage section sequence number information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired at SB2, the rack identification information acquired at SB2, and the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 detected at SC2 may be associated with each other and manually stored in the registration DB 36a, thereby registering them.

As an example, when sample identification information obtained at SB1 is 0001, 0002, rack identification information obtained at SB2 is 11111111111111111, and container storage position information is (x1, y3), (x2, y2), an association operation is accepted, and as shown in FIG. 3, sample identification information = 0001, storage section array number information = (1-3), and rack identification information = 11111111111111111 are associated with each other and stored in registration DB 36a, and sample identification information = 0002, storage section array number information = (2-2), and rack identification information = 11111111111111111 are associated with each other and stored in registration DB 36a. Furthermore, the container storage position information = (x1, y3) may be stored in the registration DB 36a in correlation with the sample identification information = 0001, which has the same storage unit position information, and the container storage position information = (x2, y2) may be automatically stored in the registration DB 36a in correlation with the sample identification information = 0002, which has the same storage unit position information.

This allows the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition unit 35a, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition unit 35e to be registered in association with each other.

By performing the above registration process, compared to the conventional technology (technology in which a tag containing specimen information is attached to a container for management), it is possible to register at least the sample identification information and container storage location information without attaching sample identification information to the container 3, eliminating the need to attach sample identification information to the container 3.

(Management process - Cancellation process)
Next, the cancellation process of SA4 in FIG. 5 will be described.

The cancellation process is a process for canceling the registration of sample identification information and container storage location information registered during the registration process.

The reason for executing the cancellation process here is that registered sample 4 may be taken out of rack 2 when it is used for analysis, etc., and in such a case, the sample 4 must be managed accurately.

When the cancellation process is initiated, as shown in FIG. 8, in SD1, the rack identification information acquisition unit 35e of the management device 30 acquires rack identification information in a manner substantially similar to the process in SB2.

At SD2, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 starts the second detection process.

(Management process-Cancellation process-Second detection process)
Next, the second detection process of SD2 in FIG. 8 will be described.

The second detection process refers to a process for detecting the storage position of the container 3 after at least a portion of the container 3 stored in the rack 2 has been removed after the registration process.

When the second detection process is started, as shown in FIG. 9, in SE1, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing for detecting the storage position of the container 3 stored in the rack 2 (hereinafter referred to as the "second detection timing") has arrived.

Whether or not the second detection timing has arrived can be determined by any method, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a predetermined operation input has been received via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a) after a container 3 containing a sample 4 to be used for analysis, etc., has been removed from a rack 2 installed at the detection position DP in SD1 (note that if the container 3 has already been removed from the rack 2 during processing of SD1, it may be determined simply based on whether or not the predetermined operation input has been received). Here, if the predetermined operation input has been received, it is determined that the second detection timing has arrived, and if the predetermined operation input has not been received, it is determined that the second detection timing has not arrived.

Then, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 waits until the second detection timing arrives (SE1, No), and transitions to SE2 if it is determined that the second detection timing has arrived (SE1, Yes).

In SE2, the control unit 35 of the management device 30, in substantially the same manner as in the process of SB2, causes the touch panel 32 to detect the storage position of the container 3 stored in the rack 2. Thereafter, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 ends the second detection process and returns to the cancellation process of FIG. 8.

Returning to FIG. 8, in SD3, the registration unit 35b of the management device 30 cancels at least a portion of the sample identification information and container storage location information registered in SA2. Thereafter, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 ends the cancellation process and returns to the management process of FIG. 5.

The method for canceling this registration is optional, but in this embodiment it is cancelled as follows.

That is, first, from the container storage position information registered in the registration DB 36a immediately before the processing of SD3, the container storage position information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SD1 is extracted. Next, from the extracted container storage position information, container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 other than the storage position of the container 3 detected in SE2 is further extracted. Then, from the sample identification information registered in the registration DB 36a immediately before the processing of SD3, the sample identification information corresponding to the extracted container storage position information is deleted from the registration DB 36a, and from the container storage position information registered in the registration DB 36a immediately before the processing of SD3, the extracted container storage position information is deleted from the registration DB 36a, thereby canceling the registration (i.e., canceling the registration of the sample identification information and the container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container 3 that is no longer detected in SE2).

As an example, if rack identification information = 111111111111111111, sample identification information = 0001, 0002, and container storage position information = (x1, y3), (x2, y2) are registered in registration DB 36a immediately before processing SD3, and if the storage position of container 3 detected in SE2 is = (x1, y3), then container storage position information = (x2, y2) indicating a storage position of container 3 other than the storage position of container 3 and sample identification information = 0002 corresponding to the container storage position information may be deleted from registration DB 36a.

In addition, if all containers 3 are removed from the rack 2 for which the rack identification information was acquired in SD1, and the storage positions of the containers 3 cannot be detected in SE2, the registration may be canceled by deleting all of the sample identification information and container storage position information corresponding to the acquired rack identification information from among the sample identification information and container storage position information registered in the registration DB 36a immediately before the processing of SD3.

(Management process - Display process)
Next, the display process at SA6 in FIG. 5 will be described.

The display process is a process that displays at least the sample identification information and container storage location information registered in the registration DB 36a after the registration process or the cancellation process.

When the display process is started, as shown in FIG. 10, the rack identification information acquisition unit 35e of the management device 30 in SF1 acquires rack identification information that uniquely identifies the rack 2 to be displayed.

The method for acquiring this rack identification information is arbitrary, but in the embodiment, the display area D3 (hereinafter referred to as the "search display area D3") in Figs. 13 and 14 is generated on the screen of the touch panel 32 (specifically, the display unit 32b), and the rack identification information is acquired by inputting the rack identification information into the first input area D4 for inputting the rack identification information, which is displayed in the generated search display area D3, via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a).

However, this is not limited to the above, and the rack identification information may be obtained, for example, by receiving the rack identification information from an external device via the communication unit 31.

Returning to FIG. 10, in SF2, the sample identification information acquisition unit 35a of the management device 30 acquires sample identification information that uniquely identifies the sample 4 to be displayed among the samples 4 contained in the containers 3 stored in the rack 2 to be displayed.

The method for acquiring this sample identification information is arbitrary, but in the embodiment, the sample identification information is acquired by inputting the sample identification information into the second input area D5 displayed in the search display area D3 in Figures 13 and 14, which is for inputting the sample identification information, via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a).

However, this is not limited to the above, and the sample identification information may be obtained, for example, by receiving the sample identification information from an external device via the communication unit 31.

In SF3, the display control unit 35c of the management device 30 associates the sample identification information and container storage location information registered in the registration DB 36a with each other and displays them on the touch panel 32 (specifically, the display unit 32b).

The method for displaying this sample identification information is optional, but in this embodiment, it is displayed as follows.

That is, first, after processing SF2, when the display operation button B4 displayed in the search display area D3 in Figures 13 and 14, which instructs the display of sample identification information, etc., is operated, the container storage location information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SF1 is extracted from the container storage location information registered in the registration DB 36a immediately before processing SF3.

Next, if the sample identification information and container storage location information are registered in the registration process, and container storage location information corresponding to the sample identification information acquired in SF2 can be extracted from the extracted container storage location information, the sample identification information acquired in SF2 and the extracted container storage location information are displayed in a graphical format in a search display area D3 in mutual association. Also, the rack identification information acquired in SF1 is displayed in the first input area D4, and the sample identification information acquired in SF2 is displayed in the second input area D5 (i.e., the sample identification information, container storage location information, and rack identification information registered in the registration unit 35b are displayed on the touch panel 32 in mutual association).

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, from the storage unit position information in the guide table 36b, storage unit position information P1 corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SF1 is extracted, and the extracted storage unit position information P1 is displayed in the search display area D3 (in FIG. 13, the storage unit position information P1 is displayed as a box). Furthermore, from the extracted storage unit position information P1, the storage unit position information P1 corresponding to the extracted container storage position information P2 is superimposed and the container storage position information P2 is displayed in a graphical format (in FIG. 13, the container storage position information P2 is indicated by a star).

As an example, in the registration process, after the rack identification information = 111111111111111111, sample identification information = 0001, storage section sequence number information = (1, 3), and container storage position information P2 = (x1, y3) are mutually associated and registered in the registration DB 36a, if the rack identification information acquired in SF1 = 111111111111111111 and the sample identification information acquired in SF2 = 0001, the registered container storage position information P2 may be displayed superimposed on the storage section position information P1 in the first row from the front and the third column from the left, as shown in FIG. 13. Furthermore, the rack identification information = 11111111111111111 may be displayed in the first input area D4, and the sample identification information = 0001 may be displayed in the second input area D5.

On the other hand, if the sample identification information and container storage location information are cancelled in the cancellation process, and therefore the container storage location information corresponding to the sample identification information acquired in SF2 cannot be extracted from the extracted container storage location information, the container storage location information is not displayed in the search display area D3 as shown in FIG. 14 (i.e., the sample identification information and container storage location information whose registration has been cancelled in the registration unit 35b are not displayed on the touch panel 32).

As an example, in the cancellation process, after the rack identification information = 111111111111111111, sample identification information = 0001, storage section sequence number information = (1, 3), and container storage position information P2 = (x1, y3) are cancelled from the registration DB 36a, if the rack identification information acquired in SF1 = 111111111111111111 and the sample identification information acquired in SF2 = 0001, the cancelled container storage position information P2 may not be displayed in the search display area D3, as shown in FIG. 14.

Returning to FIG. 10, in SF4, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing to end the display process (hereinafter referred to as the "end timing") has arrived.

Whether or not the end timing has arrived may be determined by any method, but may be determined, for example, based on whether or not a predetermined operation has been accepted via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a) or whether or not a predetermined signal has been received from an external device. Here, if the predetermined operation has been accepted or the predetermined signal has been received, it may be determined that the end timing has arrived, and if the predetermined operation has not been accepted or the predetermined signal has not been received, it may be determined that the end timing has not arrived.

If the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the end timing has arrived (SF4, Yes), it ends the display process and returns to the management process of FIG. 5. On the other hand, if it determines that the end timing has not arrived (SF4, No), it proceeds to SF5.

In SF5, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing to reacquire the rack identification information (hereinafter referred to as the "first reacquisition timing") has arrived.

Whether or not the first re-acquisition timing has arrived may be determined by any method, but may be determined, for example, based on whether or not a predetermined operation has been accepted via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a). Here, if the predetermined operation has been accepted, it may be determined that the first re-acquisition timing has arrived, and if the predetermined operation has not been accepted, it may be determined that the first re-acquisition timing has not arrived.

Then, if the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the first re-acquisition timing has arrived (SF5, Yes), it transitions to SF1, and if it determines that the first re-acquisition timing has not arrived (SF5, No), it transitions to SF6.

In SF6, the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines whether the timing has come to reacquire the sample identification information (hereinafter referred to as the "second reacquisition timing").

Whether or not the second re-acquisition timing has arrived may be determined by any method, but may be determined, for example, based on whether or not a predetermined operation has been accepted via the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a). Here, if the predetermined operation has been accepted, it may be determined that the second re-acquisition timing has arrived, and if the predetermined operation has not been accepted, it may be determined that the second re-acquisition timing has not arrived.

Then, if the control unit 35 of the management device 30 determines that the second re-acquisition timing has arrived (SF6, Yes), it transitions to SF2, and if it determines that the second re-acquisition timing has not arrived (SF6, No), it transitions to SF4.

By this display process, the sample identification information and container storage position information registered by the registration unit 35b can be displayed on the touch panel 32 (specifically, the display unit 32b) in association with each other, and the storage position of the container 3 in which the sample 4 is stored can be visually confirmed. In particular, the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration unit 35b can be displayed on the touch panel 32 in association with each other, and the storage position of the container 3 in which the sample 4 is stored and the rack 2 storing the container 3 can be visually confirmed, making it possible to accurately manage the rack 2 and the sample 4. In addition, the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration unit 35b can be prevented from being displayed on the touch panel 32, making it possible to more accurately manage the sample 4 stored in the rack 2.

In addition, the above-described management process makes it possible to easily and accurately manage the samples 4 stored in the rack 2.

(Effects of the embodiment)
Thus, according to the embodiment, the rack 2 includes a sample identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information, a storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of the container 3 stored in the rack 2 in an installed state, a registration unit 35b for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means and the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and a display control unit 35c for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration unit 35b in association with each other on the touch panel 32. This makes it possible to register at least the sample identification information and the container storage position information without attaching the sample identification information to the container 3, and to eliminate the trouble of attaching the sample identification information to the container 3, as compared with the conventional technology (a technology in which a tag including specimen information is attached to a container for management). In addition, the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration unit 35b can be displayed on the touch panel 32 in association with each other, and the storage position of the container 3 in which the sample 4 is stored can be visually confirmed. From the above, it becomes possible to easily and accurately manage the samples 4 stored in the rack 2.

In addition, when the storage position detection means detects that the storage position of the container 3 is no longer detected in the installed state, the registration unit 35b cancels the registration of the sample identification information and container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container 3, and the display control unit 35c does not display on the touch panel 32 the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration unit 35b. This makes it possible to prevent the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration unit 35b from being displayed on the touch panel 32, making it possible to more accurately manage the samples 4 stored in the rack 2.

The storage position detection means is the touch panel 32 of the mobile terminal, the detection position DP is a position on the touch panel 32, and the operation assistant unit 20 is provided on the rack 2. When the container 3 is stored in the rack 2, the touch panel 32 is operated via the operation assistant unit 20, so that the storage position of the container 3 can be detected by the touch panel 32. Therefore, the storage position of the container 3 can be detected using the touch panel 32, and the management system 1 can be constructed relatively simply and inexpensively.

The rack 2 also includes a container detection unit that detects whether or not a container 3 is stored therein, and a notification unit 35d that notifies the operator of notification information when the container detection unit detects that a container 3 is stored therein but the storage position detection means has not detected the storage position of the container 3. This allows the notification information to be notified, enabling the operator to accurately understand the reason why the storage position of the container 3 cannot be detected.

The rack identification information acquisition means is provided for acquiring rack identification information attached to the rack 2. The registration unit 35b registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 detected by the storage position detection means, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means in a mutually associated manner. The display control unit 35c displays the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration unit 35b in a mutually associated manner on the touch panel 32. Therefore, the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means can be registered in a mutually associated manner, and the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration unit 35b can be displayed on the touch panel 32 in a mutually associated manner. Therefore, the storage position of the container 3 in which the sample 4 is stored and the rack 2 storing the container 3 can be visually confirmed, making it possible to accurately manage the rack 2 and the sample 4.

The detection position DP is a position on the screen of the display means, and includes a guidance table 36b that stores rack identification information and guidance information for guiding the storage position of the container 3 that can be detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other. The display control unit 35c extracts guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means from the guidance information stored in the guidance table 36b and displays the extracted guidance information on the touch panel 32. This allows the guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information to be displayed on the touch panel 32, and makes it possible to reliably detect the storage position of the container 3 by the storage position detection means.

[III] Modifications to the embodiments The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the specific configurations and means of the present invention can be modified and improved as desired within the scope of the technical ideas of each invention described in the claims. Such modifications will be described below.

(About the problem to be solved and the effects of the invention)
First, the problems that the invention aims to solve and the effects of the invention are not limited to those described above, and the present invention may solve problems that are not described above or achieve effects that are not described above, or may solve only some of the problems that are described or achieve only some of the effects that are described.

(Regarding decentralization and integration)
In addition, each of the electrical components described above is functionally conceptual, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution or integration of each part is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc. In addition, the "device" in this application is not limited to one configured by a single device, but includes one configured by multiple devices. For example, the management device 30 may be distributed and configured into multiple devices configured to be able to communicate with each other, and a control unit 35 may be provided in some of these multiple devices, and a memory unit 36 may be provided in another part of these multiple devices.

(shape, number, structure, time series)
The components illustrated in the embodiments and drawings may be modified and improved as desired within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention with respect to the shape, numerical values, or structure or chronological relationships of multiple components.

(About the rack)
In the above embodiment, a plurality of racks 2 are used, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, only one rack 2 may be used. In this case, the rack identification information acquisition unit 35e may be omitted. In addition, SB2 and SB3 of the registration process, SD1 of the cancellation process, and SF1 and SF5 of the display process may be omitted.

(Regarding the management system)
In the above embodiment, the management system 1 is described as including the alignment unit 10 and the container detection unit, but this is not limiting, and the alignment unit 10 and/or the container detection unit may be omitted. When the container detection unit is omitted, the notification unit 35d of the management device 30 may be omitted, and SC3 and SC4 of the first detection process may be omitted.

(Regarding the management device)
In the above embodiment, the management device 30 is described as including the registration unit 35b and the display control unit 35c, but is not limited thereto. For example, the registration unit 35b and/or the display control unit 35c may be provided in another device (e.g., a stationary personal computer) instead of the management device 30.

In the above embodiment, the management device 30 is described as having the guidance table 36b, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the guidance table 36b may be omitted. In this case, the process of SB3 in the registration process may be omitted.

In the above embodiment, the management device 30 is described as having a container detection unit and a rack identification information detection unit, but this is not limited to the above. For example, in addition to these detection units, a sample amount detection means for detecting the amount of sample 4 contained in the container 3 stored in the rack 2 may be provided, and the sample 4 may be managed based on the detection result of this sample amount detection means. In this case, the sample amount detection means may be a combination of a known imaging means (e.g., a known camera) located above and/or to the side of the rack 2 in the installed state, and an analysis means for detecting the amount of sample 4 contained in the container 3 stored in the rack 2 based on the image captured by the imaging means using a known image analysis method.

As an example, in the registration process, the amount of sample 4 contained in the container 3 may be detected by the sample amount detection means, and information indicating the detection result may be correlated with the sample identification information and registered in the registration DB 36a or displayed on the touch panel 32.

Alternatively, in the registration process and/or cancellation process, container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 may be registered in the registration DB 36a based on whether or not the amount of sample 4 contained in the container 3 is less than a threshold value as determined by the sample amount detection means (for example, if the amount of sample 4 contained in the container 3 is less than a threshold value, even if the storage position of the container 3 is detected by the touch panel 32, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 may not be registered in the registration DB 36a).

(Regarding the storage position detection means)
In the above embodiment, the storage position detection means is described as the touch panel 32 (specifically, the touch pad 32a) of the management device 30, but is not limited thereto. For example, it may be an electrostatic sensor provided at or near the lower end of each storage section 2a of the rack 2.

Alternatively, in the installed state, it may be a combination of a known imaging means (e.g., a known camera) located above the rack 2, and an analysis means that uses a known image analysis method to detect the storage position of the container 3 based on the image captured by the imaging means. In this case, the operation assistance unit 20 may be omitted. Also, the detection position DP may be on the display screen of another mobile terminal.

(Regarding the container detection unit)
In the above embodiment, the container detector is described as an electrical, optical, or electrostatic sensor, but is not limited thereto. For example, the container detector may be a combination of a known imaging means (e.g., a known camera) located above the rack 2 in an installed state and an analysis means that detects whether or not the container 3 is stored in the rack 2 based on an image captured by the imaging means using a known image analysis method.

(Regarding the operation assistance section)
In the above embodiment, the pressing portion 21 of the operation assisting portion 20 is described as being made of a resin material, but is not limited thereto, and may be made of, for example, silicone rubber or a fiber material. Also, the pressing portion 21 is described as being made of a plate-like body, but is not limited thereto, and may be made of, for example, a sphere, a semi-sphere, a rod-like body, or a disk-like body.

(Regarding management processing)
In the above embodiment, it has been described that SA3 and SA4 are executed, but this is not limiting, and for example, the processes of SA3 and SA4 may be omitted.

(Regarding registration process)
In the above embodiment, in SB2, the rack identification information acquisition unit 35e of the management device 30 simply acquires only the rack identification information, but this is not limited to this. For example, in addition to the rack identification information, supplemental information indicating the shape and/or material of the rack 2 may also be acquired by a predetermined method, and based on the supplemental information, it may be determined whether the rack identification information should be acquired, and the rack identification information may be acquired based on the determination result.

In the above embodiment, the sample identification information acquired at SB1, the storage section sequence number information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired at SB2, the rack identification information acquired at SB2, and the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container 3 detected at SC2 are registered in association with each other in the registration process. However, this is not limited to this. For example, in addition to these pieces of information, sample detail information indicating details of the sample 4 (e.g., the type of sample 4, the amount of sample 4 contained, the test items of sample 4, etc.) acquired in a predetermined manner (e.g., receiving from an external device, etc.) may also be registered in association with each other. Then, in the display process, the sample detail information may also be displayed on the touch panel 32 in association with each other.

(Regarding cancellation processing)
In the above embodiment, in SD3, the registration unit 35b of the management device 30 cancels the registration of the sample identification information and the container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container 3 that is no longer detected in SE2, but this is not limited to this. For example, even if the storage position of a specific container 3 is no longer detected in SE2 due to removal of the specific container 3 from the rack 2, it may be possible to avoid canceling the registration of the sample identification information and the container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the specific container 3 by accepting a cancellation avoidance operation via the touch panel 32 regardless of whether the specific container 3 is stored in the rack 2 again thereafter.

(Display processing)
In the above embodiment, in SF3, the display control unit 35c of the management device 30 correlates the sample identification information and the container storage location information registered in the registration DB 36a with each other and displays them on the touch panel 32. However, this is not limited to this. For example, they may be displayed on a display unit other than the touch panel 32 (for example, the display unit 32b of another terminal device).

In addition, in the above embodiment, the processing of SF2 is described, but this is not limited to this, and for example, the processing of SF2 may be omitted. In this case, in SF3, the display control unit 35c of the management device 30 extracts the container storage position information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SF1 from the container storage position information registered in the registration DB 36a immediately before the processing of SF3, and extracts the storage section position information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SF1 from the storage section position information of the guide table 36b. Then, the container storage position information may be displayed in a diagram format by superimposing the storage section position information corresponding to the extracted container storage position information among the extracted storage section position information. In addition, the rack identification information acquired in SF1 may be displayed in the first input area D4. Furthermore, sample identification information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired in SF1 may be extracted from the sample identification information registered in the registration DB 36a, and the extracted sample identification information may be displayed in the second input area D5, or may be displayed superimposed on (or in the vicinity of) the corresponding storage section position information. (That is, the rack identification information acquired in SF1, all of the container storage position information corresponding to that rack identification information, and all of the sample identification information corresponding to that rack identification information may be displayed on the touch panel 32 in mutual association.)

In the above embodiment, in SF3, the display control unit 35c of the management device 30 is described as displaying the container storage location information and the storage unit location information in a diagram format, but this is not limited thereto, and the information may be displayed in a table format, for example.

(Additional Note)
The management system of Appendix 1 is a management system for managing samples contained in containers stored in a rack capable of storing multiple containers, and comprises a sample identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information for uniquely identifying the sample, a storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of the container stored in the rack in an installation state in which the rack is installed at a detection position, a registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means and container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and a display control means for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in association with each other on a display means.

The management system described in Appendix 2 is the management system described in Appendix 1, in which, when the storage position detection means is no longer able to detect the storage position of the container in the installed state, the registration means cancels the registration of the sample identification information and the container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container, and the display control means does not cause the display means to display the sample identification information and the container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means.

The management system described in Supplementary Note 3 is the management system described in Supplementary Note 1 or 2, in which the storage position detection means is a touch panel of a mobile terminal, the detection position is a position on the touch panel, and the rack is provided with an operation assistant means for enabling the touch panel to detect the storage position of the container when the container is stored in the rack by operating the touch panel via the operation assistant means.

The management system described in Supplementary Note 4 is the management system described in Supplementary Note 1 or 2, and further includes a container detection means for detecting whether or not the container is stored in the rack, and a notification means for notifying notification information indicating that the container is stored when the container detection means detects that the container is stored but the storage position detection means does not detect the storage position of the container.

The management system described in Appendix 5 is the management system described in Appendix 1 or 2, and further includes a rack identification information acquisition means for acquiring rack identification information attached to the rack, which is used to uniquely identify the rack, and the registration means registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means in association with each other, and the display control means causes the sample identification information, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information registered by the registration means to be displayed on the display means in association with each other.

The management system described in Appendix 6 is the management system described in Appendix 5, in which the detection position is a position on the screen of the display means, and the system includes a guidance information storage means that stores the rack identification information and guidance information for guiding the storage position of the container that can be detected by the storage position detection means in a mutually associated manner, and the display control means extracts guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means from the guidance information stored in the guidance information storage means, and causes the extracted guidance information to be displayed on the display means.

The management program described in Appendix 7 is a management program executed by a management system for managing samples contained in containers stored in a rack capable of storing multiple containers, and causes a computer to function as: identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information for uniquely identifying the sample; storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of the container stored in the rack in an installation state in which the rack is installed at the detection position; registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition means and container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other; and display control means for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in association with each other on a display means.

(Effect of supplementary notes)
According to the management system described in Appendix 1 or the management program described in Appendix 7, the rack includes a sample identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information, a storage position detection means for detecting the storage position of a container stored in the rack in an installed state, a registration means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means and the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and a display control means for displaying the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in association with each other on the display means. Therefore, compared to the conventional technology (a technology in which a tag including specimen information is attached to a container for management), at least the sample identification information and the container storage position information can be registered without attaching sample identification information to the container, and the effort of attaching sample identification information to the container can be eliminated. In addition, the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means can be displayed on the display means in association with each other, and the storage position of the container in which the sample is stored can be visually confirmed. From the above, it is possible to easily and accurately manage samples stored in the rack.

According to the management system described in Appendix 2, when the storage position detection means is unable to detect the storage position of a container in the installed state, the registration means cancels the registration of the sample identification information and container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container, and the display control means does not cause the display means to display the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means. This makes it possible to prevent the display means from displaying the sample identification information and container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means, thereby enabling more accurate management of samples stored in the rack.

According to the management system described in Appendix 3, the storage position detection means is a touch panel of a mobile terminal, the detection position is a position on the touch panel, and the operation assistant means is provided on the rack, and when a container is stored in the rack, the touch panel is operated via the operation assistant means to enable the storage position of the container to be detected by the touch panel. Therefore, the storage position of the container can be detected using the touch panel, and the management system can be constructed relatively simply and inexpensively.

The management system described in Appendix 4 includes a container detection means for detecting whether or not a container is stored in the rack, and a notification means for notifying notification information when the container detection means detects that a container is stored but the storage position detection means does not detect the storage position of the container. This allows the notification information to be notified, enabling the worker to accurately understand the reason why the storage position of the container cannot be detected.

According to the management system described in Appendix 5, a rack identification information acquisition means is provided for acquiring rack identification information attached to the rack, and the registration means registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means in a mutually associated manner, and the display control means causes the display means to display the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration means in a mutually associated manner, so that the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means can be registered in a mutually associated manner, and the sample identification information, container storage position information, and rack identification information registered by the registration means can be displayed on the display means in a mutually associated manner. Therefore, the storage position of the container in which the sample is stored and the rack storing the container can be visually confirmed, making it possible to accurately manage the rack and the samples.

According to the management system described in Appendix 6, the detection position is a position on the screen of the display means, and the system includes a guidance information storage means that stores the rack identification information and guidance information for guiding the storage position of the container that can be detected by the storage position detection means in association with each other, and the display control means extracts guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means from the guidance information stored in the guidance information storage means and displays the extracted guidance information on the display means, so that the guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information can be displayed on the display means, and the storage position detection means can reliably detect the storage position of the container.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Management system 2 Rack 2a Storage section 3 Container 4 Sample 5 Workbench 10 Alignment section 11 First alignment section 12 Second alignment section 20 Operation assistance section 21 Pressing section 30 Management device 31 Communication section 32 Touch panel 32a Touch pad 32b Display section 33 Audio output section 34 Power supply section 35 Control section 35a Sample identification information acquisition section 35b Registration section 35c Display control section 35d Notification section 35e Rack identification information acquisition section 36 Memory section 36a Registration DB
36b Guidance table B1 Registration process button B2 Cancellation process button B3 Display process button B4 Display operation button DP Detection position D1 Operation display area D2 Registration display area D3 Search display area D4 First input area D5 Second input area GL Guidance information GL1 First coordinate line GL2 Second coordinate line P1 Storage section position information P2 Container storage position information

Claims (7)

A management system for managing samples contained in containers stored in a rack capable of storing a plurality of containers, comprising:
A sample identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information for uniquely identifying the sample;
a storage position detection means for detecting a storage position of the container stored in the rack in an installation state in which the rack is installed at a detection position;
a registering means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquiring means and container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detecting means in association with each other;
a display control means for causing a display means to display the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in such a manner that the sample identification information and the container storage position information are associated with each other;
A management system comprising: when the storage position detection means detects no longer the storage position of the container in the installed state, the registration means cancels the registration of the sample identification information and the container storage position information corresponding to the storage position of the container;
the display control means does not allow the display means to display the sample identification information and the container storage position information whose registration has been cancelled by the registration means.
The management system according to claim 1 . the storage position detection means is a touch panel of a mobile terminal,
the detection position is a position on the touch panel,
an operation assistant means provided on the rack, the operation assistant means being configured to operate the touch panel via the operation assistant means when the container is stored in the rack, thereby enabling the storage position of the container to be detected by the touch panel;
The management system according to claim 1 or 2. a container detection means for detecting whether the container is stored in the rack;
and a notification means for, when the container detection means detects that the container is stored but the storage position detection means does not detect the storage position of the container, notifying the user of notification information indicating that fact.
The management system according to claim 1 or 2. a rack identification information acquiring means for acquiring rack identification information attached to the rack for uniquely identifying the rack;
the registration means registers the sample identification information acquired by the sample identification information acquisition means, the container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detection means, and the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means in association with each other;
the display control means causes the display means to display the sample identification information, the container storage position information, and the rack identification information registered by the registration means in association with each other.
The management system according to claim 1 or 2. the detected position is a position on a screen of the display means,
a guidance information storage means for storing the rack identification information and guidance information for guiding the storage position of the container that can be detected by the storage position detection means in a mutually associated manner;
The display control means extracts guidance information corresponding to the rack identification information acquired by the rack identification information acquisition means from the guidance information stored in the guidance information storage means, and causes the display means to display the extracted guidance information.
The management system according to claim 5. A management program to be executed by a management system for managing samples contained in containers stored in a rack capable of storing a plurality of containers, the management program comprising:
Computer,
An identification information acquisition means for acquiring sample identification information for uniquely identifying the sample;
a storage position detection means for detecting a storage position of the container stored in the rack in an installation state in which the rack is installed at a detection position;
a registering means for registering the sample identification information acquired by the identification information acquiring means and container storage position information indicating the storage position of the container detected by the storage position detecting means in association with each other;
a display control means for causing a display means to display the sample identification information and the container storage position information registered by the registration means in such a manner that the sample identification information and the container storage position information are associated with each other;
A management program that acts as a

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