JP3391734B2 - Biological sample handling method and analyzer - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a technique for analyzing a biological sample, and more particularly to a sample handling method and an analyzing device capable of collecting a biological sample using a plurality of dispensing devices.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Analyzing a biological sample such as blood or urine derived from a patient is widely performed for diagnosing a pathological condition, and an automated analyzer is used in a hospital or a clinical laboratory. .

In many cases, the test results obtained by one automatic analyzer are not sufficient for diagnosing pathological conditions. In such a case, it is necessary to collect test data from a plurality of analyzers. The analysis system disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-281113 is configured so that one system can analyze many kinds of analysis items. This Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9
In the −281113 publication, a plurality of analysis units for biochemical analysis are arranged along the transport line of the sample rack,
An analysis system has been proposed in which the sample rack from the rack supply unit is stopped at any of the analysis units and a sample on the sample rack is dispensed by a pipette nozzle.

Further, US Pat. No. 5,470,534 is
The figure shows an analysis system in which a biochemical analyzer, an immunoanalyzer, a nucleic acid analyzer, etc. are arranged along the transport path of a sample container and the same sample can be measured by each analyzer. In this example, whether or not to advance the sample to the second measurement stage is determined according to the analysis result of the first measurement stage. A biochemical analysis item is analyzed in the first measurement stage, and a sample that needs to be transferred to the second measurement stage to determine a pathological condition is analyzed in the second measurement stage by an immunoanalyzer and / or a nucleic acid analyzer. .

On the other hand, in an apparatus for automatically analyzing a biological sample, it is general that a single pipette probe is used to dispense a large number of samples one after another, so that the previous sample remains on the pipette probe. The problem of subsequent sample contamination due to A known example dealing with this type of carryover is, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-169851. In this example, using a row of reaction vessels formed on the same circumference, analysis of biochemical analysis items such as measuring the components normally contained in blood and the agglutination reaction of latex particles are used. It has been shown to carry out the analysis of immunoassay items such as detecting the antigens or antibodies.

Further, according to Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-169851, the reagent dispensing probe after dispensing the reagent of the immunological analysis item is washed with a washing liquid for a sufficient washing time or the discharge amount of the washing liquid is changed. After washing with a large amount, and after dispensing the reagent for biochemical analysis items, wash the reagent dispensing probe for a short time or by washing with a small discharge amount of the washing liquid, thereby wasting the washing liquid. It describes that consumption is eliminated, and points out that even in the case of a sample dispensing probe other than the reagent, it is possible to eliminate wasteful consumption of the cleaning liquid by adjusting the flow rate of the cleaning liquid.

As another type of dispensing a biological sample, it is known to use a disposable nozzle tip. For example, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 8-146010, a tip holder is provided within a movable range of a coupling pipe capable of coupling nozzle tips, and a plurality of nozzle tips are arranged to move from a tip rack to a tip holder position. After transporting one nozzle tip by the gripper, the nozzle tip is coupled to the end of the coupling tube on the tip holder, the sample sucked into the coupled nozzle tip is discharged to the reaction container, and the sample It is shown to remove the nozzle tip from the coupling tube at the tip detachment station after dispensing.

Further, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 25755/1990, a plurality of reaction sections are arranged in the vicinity of a transfer line for transferring a sample rack, and a bypass line and a sample dilution section are arranged between the transfer line and each reaction section. The analysis device described above is described. It has been suggested that multiple reaction sites can be configured to perform colorimetric, electrode-based and immunological analysis. In this example, the sample rack is transferred from the transfer line to the bypass line by the rack changer attached to the transfer line, and the dilution arm dispenses the sample from the sample rack on the bypass line to the sample dilution section, and the The injection arm dispenses the sample from the sample dilution section to the reaction section. In this example, it is pointed out that it is desirable to arrange the plurality of reaction parts in an order that avoids mutual contamination between samples.

[0009]

Many methods for measuring immunoassay items include an operation of binding a labeling substance to a solid phase by utilizing an antigen-antibody reaction (that is, an immune reaction). When it is necessary to analyze the immunological analysis item by such a method and the biochemical analysis item by the method of measuring the reaction solution resulting from the chemical reaction by absorption measurement, or the DNA analysis item and the biochemical analysis item are analyzed. If necessary, it is convenient to handle the sample that a plurality of analysis units are arranged in the analysis system and the same sample container is commonly used for each analysis unit. US Pat. No. 5,470,534 relating to such analytical systems does not describe any measures to avoid carryover between samples. In addition, JP-A-9-28111
Although the publication No. 3 shows a plurality of analysis units, a biochemical analysis unit and an immunological analysis unit should be installed side by side.
Alternatively, it does not describe that a biochemical analysis unit and a DNA analysis unit are provided side by side.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 4-169851 proposes that the same dispensing probe that is repeatedly used is used for both biochemical analysis items and immunological analysis items, and carryover is avoided only by a washing operation. However, practically applicable washing time and washing flow rate are limited, so it is difficult to eliminate the effect of carryover on the measured values for immunoassay items that cause problems even in the presence of extremely small amounts of residual sample. .

According to the configuration using the disposable nozzle tip disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-146010, since the nozzle tip is replaced for each sample, there is no fear of carryover between samples. However, since the nozzle tip connection and disconnection operations are associated with each sample,
When a large number of analysis items such as biochemical analysis items must be processed in a short time, there is a problem in that sufficient processing capacity cannot be obtained.

In the analyzer disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 25755/1990, there is no difference in the structure of a plurality of reaction parts, and mutual contamination between samples can be avoided only by the arrangement order of the reaction parts. Is intended. However,
Since the diluting arm and the dispensing arm are repeatedly used in common for all the samples, it is difficult to avoid carryover between the samples due to the interposition of these arms.

An object of the present invention is to prevent the measured value of an immunoassay item from being affected by carryover between samples even if a pipette nozzle which is repeatedly used for sampling for a biochemical assay item is used. It is in.

Another object of the present invention is to analyze biochemical analysis items and immunological analysis items by different analysis units, without lowering the processing capacity for biochemical analysis items, and for immunological analysis items. It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and an apparatus capable of avoiding carryover between samples.

Another object of the present invention is to provide both a dispensing device of the type that collects a sample using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used and a dispensing device that collects a sample using a disposable nozzle tip. The purpose is to enable carry-over between samples to be avoided.

It is another object of the present invention to analyze a particular sample in which both analytes with a high need to avoid carryover and those with a low need to avoid carry over are analyzed. It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and an apparatus capable of processing a specific sample so as not to affect the analysis result by carryover with other samples.

[0017]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is an analysis for collecting samples from the same sample container to a plurality of receiving containers using a plurality of sample dispensing devices and analyzing the samples received in each receiving container. In the device, the plurality of sample dispensing devices includes a first dispensing device using a disposable nozzle tip and a second dispensing device using a repeatedly used pipette nozzle, and collecting samples from the same sample container. The operation is characterized by being configured to be executed by the second dispensing apparatus after being executed by the first dispensing apparatus.

The analyzer is preferably at least 2
Seed analysis unit, the first analysis unit has a dispensing device that collects a sample using a disposable nozzle tip, and the second analysis unit uses a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used to collect a sample. It has a dispensing device. In this case, regarding the specific sample to be analyzed and measured by the first and second analysis units, the first analysis unit performs sample collection prior to the sample collection by the second analysis unit, and the first analysis is performed. After the collection of the specific sample by the unit is completed, the specific sample is collected by the second analysis unit.

In the analyzer, a sample rack (which has a specific sample) which has been sampled by the first analysis unit and has not been sampled by the second analysis unit is put on standby. Provide a standby unit.
When the measurement result of the first analysis unit regarding the above-mentioned specific sample requires re-measurement, the specific sample is changed to the second sample.
The specific sample is transferred from the standby section to the first analysis unit before being collected in the first analysis unit and collected in the first analysis unit for remeasurement.

The first analysis unit is an immunoassay item or D
The NA analysis item is configured to be measured, and the second analysis unit is configured to measure the biochemical analysis item, whereby the immune analysis item or the DNA analysis item is sampled prior to the sampling of the biochemical analysis item. In this case, since the nozzle tip is replaced every time the sample is changed, the analytical measurement value of the immune analysis item or the DNA analysis item is not affected by carryover between samples. In addition, by washing the pipette nozzle used repeatedly for collecting samples for biochemical analysis items with a known washing method each time the sample changes, the analytical measurement value of the biochemical analysis items is affected by carryover between samples. Absent.

The analysis device is preliminarily provided with an analysis item for which it is necessary to avoid the influence of carry-over between samples in a very small amount (that is, at a high level), that is, a specific analysis item for which sampling with a nozzle tip is required. Register Such a specific analysis item is stored in the storage unit of the control unit, and if a specific analysis item is included in each item to be analyzed instructed by the operator for a large number of samples, the When a sample is processed for sampling, it is first transported to the first analysis unit for sampling by the nozzle tip before being transported to another analysis unit.

A specific sample rack having a specific sample that needs to be analyzed in both the first and second analysis units is subject to the above-described restrictions on the transfer sequence or transfer path, but the sample by the nozzle tip is used. The sample rack having only the sample that does not need to be sampled is sampled by stopping in the order of arrangement of the plurality of analysis units arranged along the transport path of the transport device. In this case, an efficient sample collection process will be performed.

The plurality of analysis units includes a first analysis unit having a dispensing device using a disposable nozzle tip, and second and third analysis units having a dispensing device using a repeatedly used pipette nozzle. The third analysis unit from the side closer to the rack supply device,
In the case where the first analysis unit and the second analysis unit are arranged in this order, first, regarding a specific sample rack having a specific sample that needs to be analyzed and measured by the first, second and third analysis units, After being transported to the first analysis unit and sampled by the nozzle tip, the specific sample rack is made to stand by in the standby unit, and it is necessary to re-measure the specific sample by the first analysis unit. The specific sample rack that has been on standby in the standby unit is delivered to the rack transport device via the return line, and a sample is collected for remeasurement by the first analysis unit.

Then, the specific sample rack after having undergone the sample collection for re-measurement of the specific sample in the first analysis unit is delivered to the rack transfer device via the return line, and the third analysis unit. And / or a specific sample is taken in the second analysis unit. On the other hand, as the re-measurement of the specific sample becomes unnecessary, the specific sample rack that has been on standby in the standby unit is delivered to the rack transport device via the return line, and the third analysis unit and / or the third analysis unit. A specific sample is taken by two analysis units.

In the method of handling a biological sample according to the present invention, the sample rack having the sample is positioned in at least one of the plurality of analysis units, and the sample collected from the sample rack is analyzed by the analysis unit. A sample is processed by a pipetting device having a first analysis unit having a pipetting device using a disposable nozzle tip and a second analysis unit having a pipetting device using a pipette nozzle repeatedly used A specific sample rack having a specific sample to be analyzed in the first and second analysis units is transferred to the first analysis unit prior to being transferred to the second analysis unit,
Collecting a specific sample in the analysis unit of the first analysis unit, temporarily holding the specific sample rack sampled in the first analysis unit in the standby unit before sending it to the second analysis unit, When it is determined whether or not the sample needs to be remeasured by the first analysis unit, and when the determination result is remeasurement, the specific sample rack is transported from the standby unit to the second analysis unit, and the pipette nozzle is used. If a specific sample is taken, and if the result of the determination regarding the specific sample requires re-measurement, the specific sample rack is transported from the standby unit to the first analysis unit, and the first analysis is performed for re-measurement. Collecting a specific sample in the unit, and transporting the specific sample rack that has been sampled for re-measurement to the second analysis unit and specify it with the pipette nozzle Taking a sample, and wherein the.

Further, in the method for handling a biological sample according to the present invention, a screen for selecting an analysis item for each sample is displayed on the display device to avoid the influence of carryover between samples on the selected analysis item. An instruction column that can instruct that there is a need is displayed on the display device. Then, when a sample to be analyzed together with the analysis item instructed that the carry-over should be avoided through the display device and the analysis item not instructed to be avoided is collected in the analysis unit. First, after the sampling of the analysis item for which the necessity of avoidance is instructed is completed, the sampling of the analysis item for which the necessity for avoidance is not instructed is executed. In this case, the information that the carry-over avoidance is necessary for the analysis item for which the carry-over avoidance is instructed is stored in the storage unit, and the information stored when the same analysis item is subsequently selected. Can be output to a display device.

[0027]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a sample container containing a biological sample such as serum, plasma or urine is handled while loaded in a sample rack as a container holder. The sample rack may be of any type as long as it can hold one or more sample containers, but the following examples show an example of holding up to five sample containers.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an embodiment of an automatic analyzer to which the present invention is applied. In FIG.
The rack supply device 10 operates so as to supply the sample rack 2 to the rack transfer line 60 of the rack transfer device.
The rack supply apparatus 10 has an area where a tray on which a plurality of sample racks are arranged can be placed, and an identification reading unit 15.
Specimen rack 2 having sample in rack supply device 10
Since it is loaded, it may be referred to as a rack loading unit.
The sample racks 2 loaded into the rack supply device are pushed out one by one toward the entrance side of the rack transport line 60 by a known rack pushing mechanism. The sample rack 2 pushed out is moved to the reading position of the identification reading unit 15 by a moving device such as a movable hook.

The sample rack 2 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped support, and can hold a plurality of sample containers 5 in a row along the length direction of the sample rack. A bar code label in which rack identification information including a rack type and a rack number is encoded is attached to such a sample rack 2. Further, a bar code label in which sample information such as a container identification number, a patient code, a department code and a sample reception number is encoded is attached to each sample container 5.

The automatic analyzer of FIG. 1 is equipped with a rack storage section 30 in which the sample racks 2 that have been transported by the rack transport line 60 are stored in an orderly manner. Rack feeder 1
The rack transfer line 60 is provided between 0 and the rack storage section 30.
An electrolyte item analysis unit 300, an immune item or DNA item analysis unit 100, a biochemical item analysis unit 200, and a standby unit 20 as a standby unit are arranged in this order from the side closer to the rack supply device.

The electrolyte item analysis unit 300 dispenses a sample from the sample rack stopped at the sample collection position of the analysis unit 300 on the rack transport line 60 to the dilution container 305 built in the analysis unit 300. It has a pouring device 302. This dispensing device 302
Has a reusable pipette nozzle, i.e. a commonly used dispensing nozzle for different samples,
The sample in the sample container on the sample rack is sucked and held in the pipette nozzle, and the held predetermined amount of sample is discharged to the dilution container 305. The sample diluted with the diluting solution in the diluting container 305 is guided to the flow cell by an intake pipe (not shown), and electrolyte components such as sodium ions, potassium ions, and chlorine ions contained in the sample are arranged in the flow cell. It is measured by an ion selective electrode corresponding to each ion. The analysis unit controller 301 built in the analysis unit 300 performs a calculation for obtaining the concentration of each electrolyte component based on the detection signal of each ion, and reports the obtained measured value to the overall controller 50.

Immune item or DNA item analysis unit 1
As described later, 00 uses a disposable nozzle tip, sucks and holds the sample in the nozzle tip from the sample container on the sample rack positioned at the sample collection position of the bypass line 61, and holds a predetermined amount of the held sample. A dispensing device 102 is provided which operates to dispense the sample into the reaction vessel on the reaction disk 103. The dispenser 102 replaces the nozzle tip as the sample changes. For example, if there is only one analytical item to be analyzed in the analysis unit 100 for the previous sample, the dispensing device 102 will display 1 for the previous sample.
After the first sampling operation, the used nozzle tip is removed and a new nozzle tip is installed. On the other hand, when there are three analysis items to be analyzed by the analysis unit 100 for the next sample, the dispensing device 102 removes the used nozzle tip after three sampling operations for the three reaction vessels. , Install a new nozzle tip for subsequent samples.

When the analysis unit 100 is a unit for analyzing the immunological analysis item, the sample collected in the reaction disk 103 is mixed with the reagent for the immune reaction, and is necessary after the immune reaction between the sample and the reagent. Accordingly, the analysis item is measured through further steps. In this case, immune response is a synonym for antigen-antibody reaction. Analysis unit 1
When 00 is a unit for analyzing a DNA analysis item, the sample collected in the reaction disk 103 is mixed with the reagent for nucleic acid analysis, and after the hybridization reaction, the site to which the label is bound is cleaved with a restriction enzyme. Then, the analysis result of the DNA analysis item is obtained based on the measurement of the label.

One embodiment for obtaining the measured value of the immunoassay item by utilizing the immune reaction between the sample and the reagent is a method of measuring a labeling substance using a solid phase such as magnetic particles sensitized with an antibody. is there. For example, an analyte in a sample and a solid phase are bound by an immunoreaction, a reagent having a labeling substance is bound to the first complex by an immunoreaction, and then the solid phase and the liquid phase are separated. The separated liquid phase is introduced into a flow cell, and the labeling substance is measured by fluorescence photometry or chemiluminescence photometry. Alternatively, the solid phase after liquid phase separation is guided to a photometric position, and the label bound on the solid phase is measured by the chemiluminescence method or the electrochemiluminescence method. Analysis unit control unit 101 built in the analysis unit 100
Manages the operation control of each mechanism in the analysis unit 100 and the calculation of measurement data of analysis items.

As will be described later, the analysis unit 200 for biochemical items includes a pipetting nozzle 202 that is repeatedly used, that is, a pipetting device 202 that collects a sample using a pipetting nozzle that is commonly used. This dispensing device 202
Is sucking and holding the sample near the tip of the pipette nozzle from the sample container on the sample rack positioned at the sample collection position of the bypass line 62 via the rack transport line 60, and holding a predetermined amount of the sample in the reaction disk 2
03 to discharge into the reaction container. The chemical reaction between the sample and the reagent proceeds in the reaction container, and the optical characteristics of the formed reaction solution are measured. In this example, the reaction solution is optically measured in a state where the reaction solution is contained in the reaction container, and the measurement value of the biochemical analysis item is obtained. Analysis unit 20
The analysis unit control unit 201 built in 0 controls the operation of each mechanical unit in the analysis unit 200 and the calculation of measurement data of analysis items.

In the analyzer shown in FIG. 1, the rack carrying device for carrying a sample rack having a sample is a rack carrying line 60 and a bypass line 6 for the analyzing unit 100.
1 and a bypass line 62 for the analysis unit 200. Each bypass line 61, 62 is a rack transfer line 6
It is formed substantially parallel to 0, receives the sample rack from the rack transport line 60 on the upstream side of the bypass line, and delivers the sample rack to which the sample has been dispensed to the rack transport line 60 on the downstream side of the bypass line. Rack transfer line 60 and bypass lines 61, 6
The sample rack on 2 is transported to a predetermined position by a known transporting means in which a belt conveyor or a movable hook is driven by a motor.

The sample rack 2 having the sample is positioned in at least one of the plurality of analysis units, and after the sample is taken from the sample rack by the corresponding analysis unit, it is transported to the standby unit 20. The sample rack that may be retested is held in the standby unit 20 until the necessity of remeasurement is determined by the control unit. The sample rack that has entered the standby unit 20 is moved in a u shape. The sample rack whose measurement result in the analysis unit is determined not to be remeasured for all the samples on the sample rack is immediately stored in the rack storage section 30.
However, the sample rack having the sample whose measurement result in the related analysis unit is determined to require re-measurement is moved from the standby unit 20 to the return line 65, and is returned to the entrance side of the rack transfer line 60 by the return line 65. It is transported, again delivered to the rack transport line 60, transported to the analysis unit to be remeasured, and sampled.

As described above, the standby unit 20 temporarily puts the sample rack subjected to the sample collection in any of the plurality of analysis units on standby, but the analysis unit 100 for the immunity item collects the sample. The received sample rack is treated specially. That is, the three analysis units 100, 2
00 and 300 or two analysis units 100 and 2
00 is called a specific sample, and a sample rack having the specific sample is called a specific sample rack for convenience, this specific sample rack will be referred to as another analysis unit. Prior to transport to the immunoassay unit, the specific sample is first transported to the immune item analysis unit 100, and a specific sample is sampled by the nozzle tip connected to the dispensing device 102. This specific sample rack is put in the standby unit 20 without stopping at another analysis unit. Then, when it is determined that the re-measurement of the specific sample is necessary based on the measurement result by the analysis unit 100, the specific sample rack waiting in the standby unit 20 is returned via the return line 65. Hand over to the rack carrier.

The specific sample rack for remeasurement does not stop at another analysis unit, and the analysis unit 1 for the immunity item is used.
The sample is transported to the rack by the rack transport device and a specific sample is taken for re-measurement. At this time, the dispensing device 1
A new pipette tip is connected to the nozzle connection tube of 02. Such an operation is performed when only one sample container is held in the sample rack, and in the case of a plurality of samples, it is necessary to satisfy the collection of all the samples, so the sample rack transport operation becomes complicated. .

The operation of the rack supply device 10, the standby unit 20, the rack storage unit 30, the transfer device including the transfer line 60, and the return line 65 in FIG. The reading result by the bar code reader 16 as the identification information reading device of the sample rack and the sample container of the rack supply device 10 is also transmitted to the overall control unit 50. The integrated control unit 50 has a storage unit 51, an operation unit 52 having a keyboard, and a CRT 5 as a screen display device.
3, Printer 5 for outputting analysis results of each sample
4 and the floppy disk memory 55 storing the operation program of the analyzer.

Items to be analyzed for each sample on each sample rack are designated in advance by the operation section 52 before the start of the analysis operation and are stored in the storage section 51. The information read by the code reader 16 and the already-stored analysis item information are collated, and the analysis unit to which each sample rack should be transported can be determined based on the collation result.

Although the example of FIG. 1 shows an example in which one analysis unit 100 used for the analysis measurement of the immunological analysis item and one analysis unit 200 used for the analysis measurement of the biochemical analysis item are arranged, respectively. Each of these analysis units has two units along the rack transport line 60.
It is also possible to arrange more than one table.

Next, details of the configuration example of the analysis unit for the immune analysis item will be described with reference to FIGS. The analysis unit 100 includes a dispensing device 102 for collecting a sample, a reaction disk 103 having a constant temperature maintaining function and capable of rotationally transferring a mounted reaction container 105, and a reagent bottle 117 in which a plurality of types of reagents are combined for each analysis item. Are arranged along the circumference and are rotatable, a reagent dispensing pipetter 110 for dispensing a reagent from a reagent bottle 117 to a reaction container 105 on the reaction disc 103, and a sample formed on the reaction disc 103. Detection unit 1
Shipper mechanism 130 to be introduced into 40, parts supply area 1
A transport mechanism 120 and the like for transporting the unused reaction container 105 and the unused nozzle tip 125 in 35 to a predetermined position by a grip portion is provided.

The dispensing device 102 for sampling is shown in FIG.
It has a connecting pipe 104 to which a disposable nozzle tip 125 as shown in FIG. The connecting pipe 104 is in communication with a pump system 109 having an intake / exhaust mechanism, and is held by a movable arm 106 that moves up and down and horizontally.

When the analysis operation is started, the transport mechanism 120
Holds the disposable unused reaction container 105 placed in the component supply area 135 by the grip portion 128 and conveys it to the reaction disc 103, and releases the grip at the position 121 to place the reaction container on the reaction disc. . Next, the transport mechanism 120 grips the unused nozzle chip 125 placed in the component supply area 135 with the grip portion 128, releases the grip at the coupling position 107, and mounts the nozzle chip.

The sample rack 2 transported from the rack supply device 10 through the rack transport line 60 is the analysis unit 1
00 to the bypass line 61, sampling position
Moved to 111. The dispensing device 102 includes the movable arm 10
6 is positioned at the connecting position 107, and the connecting pipe 104 is lowered to fit an unused nozzle tip 125 to the tip of the connecting pipe 104 (see FIG. 3). Next, the dispensing device 102 swivels the connecting pipe 104 to the sampling position, inserts the tip of the nozzle tip 125 to slightly below the liquid level of the sample in the sample container 5 on the sample rack, and a predetermined amount of sample is placed. The suction is held in the nozzle tip 125.

Since the unused reaction container 105 has been moved from the position 121 to the discharge position 112, the dispensing device 102
Discharges a predetermined amount of the sample held in the nozzle tip 125 into the reaction container 105 at the discharge position 112. After the required number of samplings for one sample, the pipetting device 102 disconnects the connecting tube 104 from the disconnection position 1.
08, the used nozzle tip 125 is removed from the connecting pipe 104. The operation of removing the nozzle tip is achieved by bringing the upper end surface of the nozzle tip into contact with the lower surface of the split groove that is larger than the outer diameter of the connecting pipe 104 and smaller than the outer diameter of the upper end of the nozzle tip 125, and raises the connecting pipe 104. It The removed nozzle tips are collected in the waste box. When there are a plurality of analysis items to be analyzed by the analysis unit 100 for samples in the same sample container,
After continuously using one nozzle tip for sampling of those analysis items, the nozzle tip is removed from the connecting pipe 104. This reduces the number of exhausted nozzle tips.

The reaction container that has received the sample is moved to the reagent receiving position 113 by the reaction disk 103. The reagent dispensing pipetter 110 sucks the dispersion liquid of the magnetic fine particles as a solid phase into the pipette nozzle at the position 118 and discharges the dispersion liquid to the reaction container on the reagent receiving position 113. Along with this, the first immune reaction in which the analyte, for example, the antigen in the sample, binds to the solid phase is started. After a predetermined time, the reagent dispensing pipetter 110 discharges the reagent containing the labeling substance sucked into the pipette nozzle at the position 119 to the reaction container positioned at the reagent receiving position 113 again. Along with this, the second immune reaction in which the labeling substance binds to the analyte in the reaction container is started. The pipette nozzle of the reagent dispensing pipetter 110 is washed and used for each reagent dispensing.

After that, the reaction container 105 containing the reaction solution of the immune reaction is positioned at the suction position 114 by the reaction disk 103. The sipper mechanism 130 introduces the reaction liquid from the reaction container at the suction position 114 into the detection unit 140 through the suction nozzle. In the detection unit 140, a liquid phase containing a substance that is not bound to the magnetic particles flows while the magnetic particles are adsorbed on the wall surface of the flow path by the magnet. Thereby, the solid phase and the liquid phase are separated. The separated liquid phase is guided to the measurement unit, and the fluorescence or chemiluminescence of the labeling substance contained in the liquid phase is measured. Alternatively, the separation site and the measurement unit are also used, and chemiluminescence or electrochemiluminescence is generated in the labeling substance bound to the magnetic particles via the analyte, and the measurement is performed. After that, the shipper mechanism 130 sucks the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 131 through the suction nozzle, and the detection unit 1
The inside of the channel 40 is washed. The used reaction vessel is removed from the reaction disc 103 at position 121 by the transport mechanism.

Next, details of the configuration example of the analysis unit for biochemical analysis items in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the analysis unit 200 for analyzing and processing a biochemical analysis item includes a translucent reaction container 205.
Has a reaction disk 203 in which are arranged concentrically. Water kept at a predetermined temperature (for example, 37 ° C.) is supplied to the constant temperature bath of the reaction disk 203 from a constant temperature water supply device 230.
There are two reagent supply systems, and the first reagent disk 215
Reagents selected from a large number of reagent bottles 217 arranged according to the analysis item are dispensed into the reaction container 205 on the reaction disk 203 by the reagent dispensing pipettor 210,
A reagent selected from a large number of reagent bottles 218 arranged on the second reagent disc 216 according to the analysis item is dispensed by the reagent dispensing pipettor 211 to the reaction container 205 on the reaction disc. The stirring device 219 stirs the mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction container.

The dispensing device 202 for collecting a sample is equipped with a pipette nozzle 225 capable of sucking and discharging a liquid, and the pipette nozzle is arranged at a sample collecting position on the bypass line 62 and a sample discharging position 204 on the reaction disk 203. Can be positioned in the probe cleaning tank 207. The pipette nozzle 225 in which one sample is dispensed on the sample rack 2 is washed with the washing liquid on the outer wall surface and the inner wall surface of the pipette nozzle in the probe washing tank 207 before another sample is collected, and a large number of samples are sampled. Repeatedly used for.

The reaction liquid of the sample and the reagent formed in the reaction container 205 on the reaction disk 203 is irradiated with the light flux from the multi-wavelength light source 235 while being contained in the reaction container. The light transmitted through the reaction vessel is a multi-wavelength photometer 24
0, the wavelength corresponding to the analysis item is selectively detected, and the photometric signal is digitized by the analog-digital converter 245 and input to the analysis unit control unit 201 for arithmetic processing. The photometric reaction container is cleaned by a container cleaning unit (not shown) and moved to a sample discharge position so as to receive a new sample.

In the analysis unit 200 of FIG. 4, the sample rack 2 transported through the rack transport line 60 and transferred to the bypass line 62 is positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 62. The dispensing device 202 inserts the tip of the pipette nozzle 225 to slightly below the liquid surface of the sample in the sample container 5 at the sample collection position, sucks and holds a predetermined amount of sample near the tip of the nozzle, and holds the pipette nozzle 225. The sample is moved to the sample discharge position 204 of the reaction container row. Then, the sample held in the nozzle is discharged into the cleaned reaction container 205 at the discharge position.

The reaction vessel 205 that received the sample was
The reaction disk 203 moves to the addition position of the first reagent, and the reagent dispensing pipetter 210 dispenses the first reagent corresponding to the analysis item. Next, the mixture in the reaction container is stirred by the stirring mechanism 219, and the chemical reaction between the sample and the reagent is advanced. In the case of an analysis item that requires the second reagent, the second reagent is further added by the reagent dispensing pipetter 211 at the addition position of the second reagent. The reaction container containing the reaction solution is transported so as to cross the light flux at the photometric position 241, and the absorbance of the reaction solution is obtained based on the transmitted light at that time, and the analysis unit control unit 201 determines the measurement target object in the sample. The concentration or enzyme activity value is calculated and stored in the storage unit 51 of the overall control unit 50.

Next, an operation example of the automatic analyzer in the embodiment of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. Before starting the analysis operation, the analysis items required for each patient-derived sample are input through the operation unit 52. Each sample is usually commissioned to test multiple analytical items. In this automatic analyzer, analysis items that are highly required to avoid carryover of samples are set in advance and stored in the storage unit 51 of the overall control unit 50.

When an instruction to set the analysis conditions is given from the operation unit 52, the analysis condition setting screen 70 is displayed on the CRT 53 which is a screen display device. As shown in FIG. 5, this screen 70 has a routine operation screen call button 7 at the top.
1, reagent management screen call button 72, calibration screen call button 73, accuracy management screen call button 7
4 and a utility screen call button 75 are arranged, and the respective screens are displayed in the center by pressing each button with a touch panel method with a finger or operating a mouse or the like and clicking with a pointer. . FIG. 5 shows an example of calling the corresponding screen by instructing the utility screen call button 75. Analysis condition setting screen 7
A help button 76 is arranged below 0, and when this button is instructed, an explanation is displayed for screen operation.

Further, in either the left or right area of the analysis condition setting screen 70, a stop instruction button 81 of the analyzer and a stop instruction button 8 of the sampling operation during the analysis operation are provided.
2, an alarm screen call button 83, a screen call button 84 showing the status of each analysis unit and rack transportation,
A print instruction button 85 for the printer 54, a start instruction button 86 for the analyzer, and the like are arranged. The above-mentioned buttons are always displayed while the analysis condition setting screen 70 is displayed.

Now, the utility screen call button 75
Is selected, the system area 15 is displayed in the display area 150.
1, maintenance 152, application 153, calculation item 154, carryover 155, report 156, unit configuration 157 screen call buttons appear, addition instruction button 161, database write instruction button 162 to floppy disk memory, A delete instruction button 163 and a read instruction button 164 from the floppy disk memory appear. When the application screen call button 153 is selected in this state, a list list 170 showing a plurality of analysis items and sample types appears, and detailed screen call buttons 171 to 174 appear.

Further, when the analysis button 171 is selected from the detailed screen call buttons, the display area 180 is displayed.
A screen as shown in FIG. 5 appears. That is, a sample amount setting column 181, a reagent dispensing amount setting column 182, a carryover avoidance level setting column 183 between samples, and a storage instruction button 184 are displayed.

In the screen of FIG. 5, the analysis items displayed in the list list 170 are TSH for thyrotropin and T4 for thyroxine.
ne) and FT4 is free thyroxine (free thyroxi
ne), and T3 is tri-iodothion
yronine), and CEA is an embryonal tumor antigen (carcino-emb
ryonic antigen), HCG is human chorionic gonadotropin, TNT is troponin T, HBsAg is hepatitis B surface antigen, and a
-HBs are antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen. All of these are immunoassay items.

Now, of the analysis items of the list list 170, H
BsAg is selected, 30 μl is input as the sample collection amount in the sample amount setting field 181, and 70 μl is input as the first reagent R1 addition amount in the reagent dispensing amount setting field 182.
It is assumed that 60 μl is input as the addition amount of the second reagent R2, and 40 μl is input as the addition amount of the bead reagent. It is also assumed that the "high" level of "high" and "low" is selected and designated in the carry-over avoidance level setting field 183. The high / low level selection is made by the level selection button 187. Then, a storage instruction button 184
When is selected, it means that with respect to the HBsAg analysis item, the avoidance level of carryover between samples is instructed in association with the analysis item together with the sample amount and the reagent dispensing amount, and is stored in the storage unit 51.

Next, another analysis item displayed in the list list 170 is selected, and in the same manner, the sample amount, reagent dispensing amount,
By setting the carryover avoidance level according to the corresponding item, these conditions can be set one after another. Further, by selecting a plurality of analysis items from the list 170 and instructing a common carry-over avoidance level, it is possible to collectively instruct the carry-over avoidance level for a plurality of analysis items. It will be possible.

The level of "high" in the carry-over avoidance level setting field 183 causes the sampling to be executed under the condition that there is no carry-over between the samples. Specifically, each sample is replaced with a new one. The integrated control unit 50 controls the transport destination of the corresponding sample rack so as to execute the sample collection by the dispensing device using the disposable nozzle tip. When the “high level” is instructed for a specific analysis item, the storage unit 51 stores the specific analysis item that requires dispensing with a disposable nozzle tip. In contrast, "low"
Level is an indication that sampling may be performed using a dispenser with a pipette nozzle that is used repeatedly for multiple samples by washing,
The analysis item corresponding to this can be analyzed and measured by the analysis unit 200 and / or the analysis unit 300 in FIG.

The analysis conditions set by the setting screen as shown in FIG. 5 are continuously used corresponding to each analysis item unless the conditions are changed thereafter. Therefore, if the analysis item described below is input when the patient sample inspection request is made, the analysis conditions set in FIG. 5 are automatically applied.

As described above, in the analyzer of FIG.
For analysis items designated as having a special need for avoiding carryover between samples, that is, at the “high” level, the designation information is stored in the storage unit. Then, when the same analysis item as the already-indicated analysis item is selected through the analysis condition setting screen 70 for setting a new analysis condition thereafter, the stored information, that is, the information indicating that the carry-over avoidance is necessary is displayed. It operates so as to be output to the display device. In the case of the example in FIG. 5, when the analysis item is selected, “high” is displayed in the setting field 183.

Next, the work of the operator at the start of daily analysis work will be described. When the routine operation screen call button 71 is selected on the analysis condition setting screen 70, the item selection screen as shown in FIG.
It is displayed in 3. On this screen, a sample type selection field 251, a sample number input field 252, a patient identification number input field 253, a sample cup type selection field 254, an analysis item selection area 255, a front sample instruction button 256, and a rear sample instruction button. 257, a registration instruction button 258 is displayed. Of these, the analysis item selection area 255 has a reservation registration function for 5 pages, and 24 pages are provided for each page.
It has an item input field or an analysis item selection field. When the previous sample instruction button 256 is selected, the analysis item information regarding the sample immediately before the currently displayed sample is displayed instead of the current display content. When the subsequent sample instruction button 257 is selected, analysis item information regarding the sample immediately after the currently displayed sample is displayed.

The screen of FIG. 6 shows the analysis items selected on the first page of the analysis item selection area 255. The analysis items displayed are AST aspartate aminotransferase (asparatate).
It is an aminotransferase and ALT is an alanine aminotransferase.
nsferase) and IP is inorganic phosph
orus) and TP is the total protein (A)
lb is albumin, LD is lactated dehydrogenase, UA is uric acid, and CRE is creatinine.
inine), Na is a sodium ion, and K is a potassium ion.

FIG. 6 shows an example in which 10 biochemical analysis items to be analyzed on the first page are selected for the serum sample with the sample number 1. Further, FIG. 7 is an example in which seven immune analysis items to be analyzed on the second page of the analysis item selection area 255 are selected for samples having the same sample number. By selecting the registration instruction button 258 after inputting all the analysis items requested to be inspected for the same sample, analysis and measurement reservations for a plurality of analysis items relating to the sample are made and stored in the storage unit 51. . Since the screen of the display area 150 is updated by this registration operation, the analysis item regarding the sample of the next sample number can be selected. Thus, the operator executes the work of selecting the analysis items one after another for all the samples requested for inspection. In the example of FIGS. 6 and 7, 17 analysis items are registered for the sample with the sample number 1.

When the reagent management screen call button 72 of the analysis condition setting screen 70 is selected, a setting screen of analysis items to be analyzed and measured by each analysis unit in the analysis apparatus of FIG. 1 is displayed. The assignment of the analysis item to each analysis unit is executed in advance before the input work of the requested analysis item for each sample as shown in FIG. When assigning which analysis item to process to each analysis unit, the level of carryover avoidance between samples set in FIG. 5 is reflected. That is, the "high" level analysis item is assigned to the analysis unit 100 having a dispensing device using a disposable nozzle tip.

On the other hand, when instructing an item to be analyzed for each sample during routine work, the relationship between the analysis item and the carry-over avoidance level and the analysis item assigned to each analysis unit are already determined by the automatic analyzer. Since the control unit is registered in the control unit, the control unit collates, for example, the requested analysis item relating to the sample of sample number 1, and determines which analysis unit of the plurality of analysis units should perform the analysis process. Incidentally, in the sample of sample No. 1, the electrolyte component is related to the analysis unit 300, the immune analysis item is related to the analysis unit 100, and the biochemical analysis item is related to the analysis unit. Therefore, in the case of the configuration example of FIG. Will be analyzed in the analysis unit. When setting the analysis conditions for each analysis item through the screens shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, a screen for selecting the analysis item for which the analysis conditions should be set is displayed on the display device and selected on the screen. An instruction column that can instruct that it is necessary to avoid the influence of carryover between samples on the analyzed items is displayed on the display device. After that, the samples to be analyzed for the analysis items indicated by the display device that it is necessary to avoid the carryover and the analysis items that are not indicated for the avoidance are the analysis units 100, 200, 300.
When the sample is collected by the analysis unit, the sample collection of the analysis items for which the necessity of avoidance is not indicated is executed after the sample collection of the analysis items for which the necessity for avoidance is indicated is completed.

Next, an example of handling a sample by the automatic analyzer of FIG. 1 will be described. Here, for the sake of convenience, the first sample rack that is first supplied from the rack supply device 10 to the rack transport line 60 holds a single sample for analyzing and measuring electrolyte analysis items and biochemical analysis items.
It is assumed that the second sample rack to be supplied next holds a single sample for analyzing and measuring the electrolyte analysis item, the immunoassay item, and the biochemical analysis item. If multiple samples are loaded in the same sample rack,
The sample rack has a transport route so that samples of analysis items related to all the samples can be collected.

The first sample rack pushed out from the rack supply device 10 to the entrance side of the transport device is positioned at the reading position of the identification reading section 15, and the sample information of the bar code label attached to the sample container is read by the bar code reader. 16
Read by. The integrated control unit 50 collates the read information with the information of the analysis condition instructed for the sample, and based on the collation result, there is no specific analysis item that requires sample collection by the nozzle tip. And the requested analysis item corresponding to the analysis item assigned to each analysis unit, and the analysis unit to which the first sample rack should stop is determined.

Since the first sample rack has only the sample which does not need to be analyzed by the analysis unit 100 for the immunity item, after stopping by the analysis unit 300 for the electrolyte item arranged from the side close to the rack supply device 10, It is decided by the integrated control unit 50 to transport the biochemical item to the analysis unit 200 for a stop. That is, the sample rack in this case is transported so as to drop in as necessary in the arrangement order of the plurality of analysis units. Both the analysis unit 200 and the analysis unit 300 are analysis units having a dispensing device using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used.

The first sample rack from which the identification information has been read is moved to the sample collection position of the electrolyte item analysis unit 300, and a portion of the sample on the sample rack is aspirated by the dispensing device 302 to serve as a receiving container. Is discharged to the dilution container 305. The first sample rack that has completed the sample collection in the analysis unit 300 is transported to the analysis unit 200 for biochemical items without stopping by the analysis unit for immune items. The first sample rack is temporarily stopped at the entrance of the bypass line 62, then moved to the bypass line 62, and positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 62. The pipetting device 202 repeats the operation of pipetting the sample in the sample container on the first sample rack into the reaction containers 205 of the number corresponding to the plurality of items to be analyzed by the pipette nozzle 225. When the planned number of analysis items have been collected, the first sample rack is moved to the rack transport line 60, and then the standby unit 2
It is transported into 0.

The result of the analytical measurement by each analytical unit is
When the control unit determines that the remeasurement is not necessary, the first sample rack exits from the standby unit 20 and is stored in the rack storage unit 30. If the control unit determines that the measurement result of the analysis by the analysis unit 200 needs to be remeasured for one or more analysis items, the first sample rack waiting in the standby unit 20 returns to the return line. It is moved to 65, is conveyed to the entrance side of the conveyance line 60, and is then conveyed again to the analysis unit 200 by the conveyance line. Then, after the number of samples corresponding to the analysis items for remeasurement is sampled, the first sample rack is stored in the rack storage unit 30 via the transport line 60. Analysis units 200 and 30 for samples on the first sample rack
The analysis result of 0 can be output to the CRT 53 and the printer 54.

The second sample rack can be supplied from the rack supply device 10 to the inlet side of the rack transport device while the first sample rack is in the process of being processed. The second sample rack moved to the reading position of the identification reading unit 15 is read by the barcode reader 16 as sample information displayed as a barcode on the outer wall of the sample container. The control unit collates the analysis condition setting information, the instruction information input or selected from the operation unit 52, and the read information with respect to the sample on the second sample rack, and determines the analysis unit to which the second sample rack should stop. Since the biological sample held in the second sample rack is instructed to analyze and measure the electrolyte analysis item, the immunological analysis item, and the biochemical analysis item, the second sample rack has three analysis units in the configuration example of FIG. 100,
It is decided to drop in at 200 and 300.

In this case, the control unit recognizes that a plurality of analysis items instructed to be analyzed include a specific analysis item that requires dispensing with a disposable nozzle tip, and the corresponding analysis items are analyzed. It is decided to first transport the second sample rack to the analysis unit 100, which can perform the injection. Based on this determination, the control unit controls the operation of the rack transport device so as to transport the second sample rack to the analysis unit 100 before transporting it to another analysis unit.
The analysis items assigned to the analysis unit 100 are not limited to immunological analysis items, and even biochemical analysis items are set to have a high carryover avoidance level between samples as shown in FIG. If the analysis item is a different analysis item, a sample is taken for the analysis item.

The second sample rack in the identification reading section 15 does not stop at the analysis unit 300 closest to the rack supply device, based on the determination of the transport order described above.
It is carried into the bypass line 61 corresponding to the second analysis unit 100 in the arrangement order via the rack transfer line 60,
It is located at the sampling position on the bypass line 61. The dispensing device 102 connects an unused disposable nozzle tip 125 to the connecting pipe 104, and dispenses the same sample on the second sample rack into the reaction containers 105 corresponding to the number of analysis items instructed. repeat. The second sample rack that has received the sample by the nozzle tip is transferred from the bypass line 61 to the rack transfer line 60, and is transferred to the standby unit 20 without stopping at the analysis unit 200 having the third arrangement order.

While the second sample rack is temporarily on standby in the standby unit 20, the analysis and measurement result by the analysis unit 100 for the relevant sample is obtained. The control unit
Based on the analysis measurement result by the analysis unit 100, it is determined whether or not remeasurement is necessary for each measured analysis item. When it is determined that the remeasurement is not necessary for any of the analysis items, the second sample rack that has been waiting in the standby unit 20 is moved to the return line 65, and the rack is returned to the return line 65. It is transported to the entrance side of the transport line 60. Next, the second sample rack stops at the analysis unit 300 for electrolyte items, and the dispensing device 30
Receive a specific sample with two pipette nozzles. Then, the second sample rack does not stop at the analysis unit 100, and the analysis unit 20 is arranged in the third arrangement order.
Pipette nozzle 2 of the pipetting device 202, which is transported to 0 and positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 62.
Receive a specific sample according to 25.

Analysis unit 300 and analysis unit 20
The second sample rack that has received the sample collection at 0 is transported to the standby unit 20 and temporarily stands by. Then, the necessity of re-measurement is determined based on the analysis measurement results by the second and third analysis units, and if re-measurement is not necessary, it is stored in the rack storage section 30. It is again conveyed to the analysis unit 300 and / or the analysis unit 200 via the return line 65 to receive a sample for remeasurement. After that, the second sample rack is transported and stored in the rack storage section 30.

On the other hand, when it is determined that re-measurement is required for any of the analysis items based on the analysis measurement result by the analysis unit 100 for the immunity item, the control unit controls the second sample rack. Are transported as follows. That is, the second sample rack holding a specific sample is transferred from the standby unit 20 to the return line 65,
It is conveyed to the entrance side of the rack conveyance line 60 by the return line 65 and delivered to the rack conveyance line. The rack transport line 60 transports the second sample rack to the bypass line 61 corresponding to the analysis unit 100 without stopping at the analysis unit 300. At this point, the second sample rack has not been sampled by the other analysis units 200 and 300.

The dispensing device 102 of the analysis unit 100 is
A specific sample on the second sample rack positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 61 is re-measured for the analysis item determined to require re-measurement. Dispense using a new disposable nozzle tip.

Second sample collection for remeasurement
The sample rack is once moved to the rack transfer line 60,
Immediately bypass line 6 corresponding to analysis unit 200
It is transported to 2. Then, the pipette nozzle 225 of the dispensing device 202 receives the first sample collection. The second sample rack that has received a sample for a specific sample is transferred to the return line 65 via the rack transport line 60, then delivered to the rack transport line 60, and transported to the analysis unit 300. Then, the dispensing device 302
Receive a first sample with a pipette nozzle for a specific sample.

Alternatively, when the sample collection for the remeasurement of the analysis unit 100 is completed, the second sample rack is moved to the rack transfer line 60 and then to the return line 65, and the rack transfer line 60. It is also possible to control so as to be sampled for a specific sample in the analysis unit 300 and then in the analysis unit 200. In any case, the second sample rack that has been sampled by the analysis units 200 and 300 is the standby unit 2
It is transported to 0 and temporarily waits until the necessity of re-measurement by those analysis units is determined. The transport operation relating to the second sample rack after the necessity of remeasurement is determined is the same as that already described.

Depending on the patient sample, analysis of only one of the three analysis units of FIG. 1, analysis by two analysis units of immunity and biochemistry, or analysis of two of immunity and electrolytes.
Some can be done by a single analysis unit. In the case of a sample to be analyzed and measured by the analysis unit 100 and the analysis unit 200 or 300, first, a sample is sampled by the analysis unit 100, and then a sample for remeasurement is sampled by the same analysis unit 100, and then another sample is analyzed. The unit 200 or 300 is configured to collect a sample in the same sample container.

As described above, in the apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, after completion of the sample collection in the analysis unit having the dispensing device using the disposable nozzle tip, the dispensing is performed by using the pipette nozzle which is washed and repeatedly used. Since it is configured to collect samples in the same sample container by an analysis unit with a device, it is possible to perform analysis and measurement while maintaining high reliability for analysis items for which the effect of carryover between samples must be strictly avoided. it can. In addition, analysis items that are not significantly affected by carryover between samples are sampled by a pipetting device that uses pipette nozzles that are repeatedly used, so that the processing capacity of the entire analysis device does not decrease so much. This is because the number of analysis items required for pipette nozzles is overwhelmingly larger than that for which it is necessary to use disposable nozzle tips.

Next, the configuration of another embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The automatic analyzer for biological sample analysis of FIG. 8 includes a sample container transfer device 800, a first analysis unit 810 for analyzing and measuring immune analysis items,
Second analysis unit 82 for analyzing and measuring biochemical analysis items
It has 0. The sample container transfer device 800 has a rotatable sample disk 801 capable of holding a large number of sample containers 802 in a circle.

The first dispensing device 830 is a dispensing device in which disposable nozzle tips are exchanged for each sample. The second dispensing device 840 is a dispensing device that uses a pipette nozzle that is washed and repeatedly used. First
The analysis unit 810 of (1) is capable of arranging a large number of reaction vessels 812 on the reaction disk 811 in an exchangeable manner, and includes a reaction vessel exchange device 813 for exchanging a used reaction vessel with an unused reaction vessel. Reaction disk 8
Into the reaction container 812 above 11, necessary reagents corresponding to the immunological analysis items are dispensed from the reagent supply unit 816.

The first pipetting device 830 can connect a disposable unused nozzle tip on the tip feeding device 814 to the tip connecting pipe. The used nozzle tip is removed from the connecting pipe and discarded in the discard box 815. The first analysis unit 810 includes a measurement unit that measures the reaction liquid or solid phase after the immune reaction. The reaction disc 821 in the second analysis unit 820 has an array of translucent reaction vessels 822. In those reaction vessels 822,
The reagent supply unit 826 dispenses necessary reagents according to the biochemical analysis items. The second analysis unit 820 includes a measurement unit that measures the optical characteristics of the reaction liquid after the chemical reaction.

In the automatic analyzer of FIG. 8, it is assumed that a specific sample that needs to be analyzed and measured for both immunological analysis items and biochemical analysis items is contained in one specific sample container 802. When starting analysis on such a specific sample, the corresponding specific sample container is positioned at the sample collection position a by the sample disk 801. Then, a part of the specific sample is sucked into the nozzle tip by the first dispensing device 830 to which an unused nozzle tip is connected, and is discharged to the reaction container 812 on the reaction disk 811. In the reaction container, the immune reaction between the sample and the reagent proceeds, and the immune analysis item to be analyzed is measured.

After the sample collection by the first aliquoting device for the above-mentioned specific sample container is completed, the same sample container is positioned at the sample collection position b and programmed so that the sample collection by the second aliquoting device is executed. ing. Second in the reaction vessel 822 on the reaction disk 821
The specific sample dispensed by the pipette nozzle of the dispenser is subjected to a chemical reaction with the reagent in the reaction container, and biochemical analysis items are measured based on photometry of the formed reaction solution.

According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, both the biochemical analysis item and the immunological analysis item can be measured, but the analytical measurement value of the immunological analysis item is not affected by carryover between samples. When measuring biochemical and immunoassay items, apply a dispenser that uses a disposable nozzle tip and a dispenser that uses a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used to a sample in the same sample container, and dispense with a disposable nozzle tip. By performing the injection operation prior to using the pipette nozzle, it is possible to avoid the carryover between samples caused by the pipette nozzle intervening for the analytical items that extremely dislike the carryover, and for the biochemical analytical items. Allows commonly used pipette nozzles to be used for sampling.

[0093]

According to the present invention, a dispenser using a disposable nozzle tip and a dispenser using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used are associated with different analysis units so that each dispenser can operate from the same sample container. By making it possible to collect a sample by, it is possible to preferably avoid carryover between samples when measuring severe analysis items and relatively gentle analysis items against carryover avoidance. In addition, according to the present invention, when analyzing a specific sample in which both an analysis item with a high necessity to avoid carryover between samples and an analysis item with a low necessity to avoid carryover are different from each other. It is possible to process a specific sample so as not to affect the analysis result of each analysis item by the influence of carryover with the sample.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of an analysis unit for immune analysis items in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the dispensing device in the analysis unit of FIG.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of an analysis unit for biochemical analysis items in FIG.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a screen for setting a sample amount, a reagent dispensing amount, and a carryover avoidance level.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting a designated analysis item for each sample.

7 is a diagram of an example screen for selecting a designated analysis item for the same sample as that in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of another embodiment according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

2 ... Sample rack, 5, 802 ... Sample container, 10 ... Rack supply device, 20 ... Standby unit, 30 ... Rack storage section, 50 ... Overall control section, 60 ... Rack transport line, 6
1, 62 ... Bypass line, 65 ... Return line, 70 ...
Analysis condition setting screen, 100, 200, 300, 810,
820 ... Analysis unit, 101, 201, 301 ... Analysis unit control unit, 102, 202, 302 ... Dispensing device,
104 ... Connection pipe, 105, 205, 812, 822 ... Reaction container, 125 ... Nozzle tip, 800 ... Sample container transfer device, 830 ... First dispensing device, 840 ... Second dispensing device.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (58) Fields surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G01N 35/00-35/10 G01N 27/28 G01N 27/416 G01N 33/543 531

Claims (18)

(57) [Claims] 1. A first analysis unit for collecting a sample using a disposable nozzle tip, and a second for collecting a sample using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used.
And a first analysis unit, the first analysis unit and the second analysis unit to analyze and measure a specific sample prior to the second analysis unit collecting the first sample.
Of the specific analysis sample is performed by the first analysis unit, and the specific sample is collected by the second analysis unit after the specific analysis sample is collected by the first analysis unit. Analysis equipment. 2. The analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the first analysis unit measures the labeling substance after an immune reaction between the analyte in the sample and the labeling substance, and the second analysis unit. An analyzer is characterized in that the unit measures optical characteristics of a reaction liquid of a chemical reaction between a sample and a reagent. 3. The analysis device according to claim 1, wherein sampling is performed in the first analysis unit, but in the second analysis unit.
The analysis unit is provided with a standby section for waiting an uncollected sample, and when the measurement result of the first analysis unit needs to be remeasured with respect to the specific sample, the specific sample is analyzed by the second analysis. An analyzer which is characterized in that the specific sample is transferred from the standby unit to the first analysis unit before being collected in the unit, and the specific sample is collected in the first analysis unit for remeasurement. 4. An analyzer that collects samples from the same sample container into a plurality of receiving containers by using a plurality of sample dispensing devices and analyzes the samples received in each receiving container. The dispensing device consists of a first dispensing device with a disposable nozzle tip and a second dispensing pipette nozzle with repeated use.
The dispensing operation of the sample from the same sample container is configured to be performed by the second dispensing device after being performed by the first dispensing device. Analyzer. 5. A rack loading section into which a sample rack having a sample is loaded, a plurality of analysis units for analyzing the sample, and a sample rack exiting from the rack loading section, the plurality of analysis units according to the analysis items. At least one of
In an analyzer equipped with a rack transport device for transporting one by one, the plurality of analysis units include a first analyzer unit having a dispenser using a disposable nozzle tip and a dispenser using a pipette nozzle repeatedly used. A sample rack including a second analysis unit having, a storage unit for storing a specific analysis item that needs to be sampled by the nozzle tip, and a sample rack having a sample to be analyzed for the specific analysis item, Prior to the transfer to the first analysis unit, the sample analyzer collects the sample for the specific analysis item by the nozzle tip. 6. The analyzer according to claim 5, wherein a display device for displaying a screen for designating the specific analysis item and the specific analysis among a plurality of analysis items instructed to be analyzed. A control unit is provided for recognizing the sample containing the item and controlling the rack transport device so that the sample rack having the recognized sample is transported to the first analysis unit at the beginning of the sample collection process. An analysis device characterized by the above. 7. The analysis device according to claim 6, wherein the screen displayed by the display device includes an analysis item selection field in which one or more analysis items can be selected from a plurality of analysis items.
An analysis apparatus having a level instruction column capable of instructing a carry-over avoidance level in association with a selected analysis item. 8. The analysis apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of analysis units are arranged along a transportation path of the rack transportation apparatus, and a sample having only a sample for which analysis of the specific analysis item is unnecessary. The analysis apparatus is characterized in that the rack is transported so as to drop in as necessary according to the arrangement order of the plurality of analysis units. 9. A rack transport device for transporting a sample rack having a sample, a rack supply device for supplying the sample rack to the rack transport device, a rack storage section for storing a transported sample rack, and the rack. A plurality of analysis units for collecting and analyzing samples from the sample rack transported by the transport device, and a standby unit for temporarily holding the sample rack subjected to sample sampling in any of the plurality of analysis units In the analyzer provided with a return line capable of returning the sample rack that has been on standby in the standby unit to the entrance side of the rack transporter, the plurality of analysis units is a dispensing device that uses disposable nozzle tips. A first analysis unit having and second and third dispensers having a dispensing device using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used. An analysis unit, and a third analysis unit, a first analysis unit and a second analysis unit are arranged in this order from the side closer to the rack supply device, and the first, second and third analysis units are used. Regarding a specific sample rack having a specific sample that needs to be analyzed and measured, first, the specific sample rack is transported to the first analysis unit and sampled by the nozzle tip, and then the specific sample rack is made to stand by in the standby unit. When it is necessary to re-measure the specific sample by the first analysis unit, the specific sample rack waiting in the standby unit is transferred to the rack transport device via the return line, An analyzing apparatus configured to collect a sample for remeasurement in the first analyzing unit. 10. The analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the specific sample rack after being subjected to sample collection for remeasurement of the specific sample is transferred to the rack transporting device via the return line. An analysis device, wherein the specific sample is collected by the third analysis unit and / or the second analysis unit. 11. The analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the re-measurement of the specific sample is not required, and the specific sample rack that has been on standby in the standby unit is passed through the return line. An analysis device configured to deliver to the rack transport device, and to collect the specific sample by the third analysis unit and / or the second analysis unit. 12. The analysis device according to claim 9, wherein the first analysis unit obtains a measurement value of an analysis item by utilizing an immune reaction between a sample and a reagent, and the second analysis unit includes a sample. And a reagent for obtaining a measurement value of an analysis item by utilizing a chemical reaction of a reagent, and the third analysis unit obtains a measurement value of an electrolyte component in a sample by using an ion selective electrode. Analyzer. 13. The analyzer according to claim 12, wherein the first analysis unit separates a solid phase and a liquid phase after an immune reaction and measures the solid phase or the liquid phase after the separation. The second analysis unit is an apparatus for optically measuring a reaction solution in a state where the reaction solution is contained in a reaction container. 14. A biological sample handling method in which a sample rack having a sample is positioned in at least one of a plurality of analysis units, and a sample collected from the sample rack is analyzed by the analysis unit. The sample is processed in an analyzer that includes a first analyzer unit that has a dispenser that uses a nozzle tip and a second analyzer unit that has a dispenser that uses a pipette nozzle that is used repeatedly. And a specific sample rack having a specific sample to be analyzed in the second analysis unit is transferred to the first analysis unit prior to being transferred to the second analysis unit, and the first analysis unit. Collecting the above-mentioned specific sample in the above-mentioned specific analysis unit sampled in the above-mentioned first analysis unit. Before the rack is sent to the second analysis unit, it is temporarily held in the standby section, the necessity of re-measurement by the first analysis unit for the specific sample is determined, and the determination result is If the measurement is unacceptable, the specific sample rack is transported from the standby unit to the second analysis unit, and the specific sample is collected by the pipette nozzle. When the determination result requires remeasurement For transporting the specific sample rack from the standby unit to the first analysis unit, collecting the specific sample in the first analysis unit for remeasurement, and for remeasurement. The specific sample rack for which a sample has been collected is transported to the second analysis unit, and the specific sample is collected by the pipette nozzle. Handling of Le. 15. The handling method according to claim 14,
A method for handling a biological sample, wherein a sample rack having a sample that does not need to be analyzed by the first analysis unit is transported to the second analysis unit without stopping at the first analysis unit. 16. A method for handling a biological sample, which analyzes a plurality of types of analysis items based on a reaction between a sample and a reagent in a reaction container of an analysis section, displays a screen for selecting an analysis item on a display device. , A display is provided on the display device that indicates that it is necessary to avoid the influence of carryover between samples for the selected analysis item, and that it is necessary to avoid carryover through the display device. A sample of analysis items for which avoidance is instructed when a sample to be analyzed for the instructed analysis items and analysis items that are not required to be avoided is collected in the above-mentioned analysis section. A method of handling a biological sample, which comprises collecting a sample of an analysis item which is not instructed to be avoided after the collection is completed. 17. The handling method according to claim 16,
Information regarding the necessity of avoiding carry-over is stored in the storage unit for the above-mentioned analysis item for which the necessity of avoidance is instructed, and is stored when the same analysis item is selected for setting new analysis conditions. A method for handling a biological sample, wherein the above-mentioned information is output to the display device. 18. A method of handling a biological sample, wherein an analysis apparatus having a plurality of analysis units having a sample collection function is used, and a sample collection of an analysis item suitable for each analysis unit can be performed. A first analysis section for receiving a sample collected using a nozzle tip that is replaced as the sample changes, and a first analysis section for receiving a sample collected using a pipette nozzle commonly used for different samples. When collecting a specific sample for analyzing a plurality of analysis items having different carryover avoidance levels, the carryover avoidance is performed before collecting the specific sample for the analysis item having a low carryover avoidance level. A high level analysis item of the specific sample is sampled in the first analysis unit, and The analytical item having a high carry-over avoidance level analyzed by the analyzing unit is determined to be unnecessary for remeasurement, and then the analytical item having a low carry-over avoiding level of the specific sample is sampled to the second analyzing unit. How to handle biological samples.