JP3906781B2 - Specimen analysis system and method of handling the same - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a sample analysis system and a handling method thereof, and more particularly to a sample analysis system configured to analyze a sample transported by a transport line by at least one analysis unit of a plurality of samples and a handling method thereof.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A system for transporting a biological sample such as blood or urine to a transport line and analyzing a plurality of analysis items using a plurality of analyzers arranged along the transport line has been proposed. For example, in JP-A-7-92171, a plurality of analyzers having different numbers of samples to be analyzed per unit time are arranged along a main transfer line, and sublines are arranged between the main transfer line and each analyzer. An example is shown.
[0003]
In the analysis system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-92171, the information on the barcode label attached to the container is read on the inlet side of the main transport line, and then the container transferred to the main transport line corresponds to one analyzer. Transfer to the sub-line and return the container from the sub-line to the main transfer line after the sampling process. The container transfer order is controlled so that the analysis processing time in each analyzer is averaged.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the analysis system such as the prior art described above, the sample processing function in each analyzer installed is fixed, so that the test efficiency decreases when the test environment of the sample in the laboratory changes. There is.
[0005]
An object of the present invention is to make it possible to change the system configuration of the sample processing function without changing the arrangement state of a plurality of analysis units in the sample analysis system.
[0006]
Another object of the present invention is to make it possible to change the combination of analysis items that can be processed in the sample analysis system in accordance with changes in the test environment.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The sample analysis system according to the present invention includes a first storage means for storing analysis items to be analyzed for samples on each sample rack, and an analysis item input screen for each type of reagent supply type for each analysis unit to be used. Display means for displaying the analysis item, second storage means for storing the analysis item information for each analysis unit input to the screen display means, and the analysis unit to which the sample rack should stop is the analysis item in the first storage means. Based on the information, the means for determining from among the plurality of analysis units stored in the second storage means, and the operation of the transport line are controlled so that the corresponding sample rack is transported to the determined analysis unit. And a control means.
[0008]
In such a sample analysis system, one type of reagent supply type is a type in which a reagent is supplied by a pipetter, and the other type is a type in which a reagent is supplied by a dispenser. The sample analysis system preferably further includes third storage means for storing analysis unit combination information set through the screen display means, and the screen display means is for setting a combination of a plurality of analysis units. The installation position information and reagent supply type of each analysis unit are displayed on the setting screen.
[0009]
In the method for configuring a sample analysis system according to the present invention, a screen having an analysis item setting field for setting an analysis item is displayed on the screen display device in association with the reagent supply type of each analysis unit, and A combination of a plurality of analysis units to which analysis items are assigned is stored in a storage unit.
[0010]
Further, according to the sample analysis system handling method of the present invention, a screen having an analysis unit setting button and an analysis item setting button is displayed on the display device in accordance with a display instruction of the system setting screen. As the unit setting button is selected, a screen for setting the combination of multiple analysis units to be used is displayed on the display device, and the analysis item setting button on the system setting screen is selected. Accordingly, a screen having a reagent supply type display column and an analysis item setting column corresponding to each analysis unit is displayed on the display device, and a combination of a plurality of set analysis units and an analysis set for each analysis unit are displayed. The item is stored in the storage unit, and the sample rack is set up according to the analysis item to be analyzed for the sample on the sample rack to be supplied to the transport line. Stop by to the analysis unit, characterized in that is changed.
[0011]
In a preferred embodiment, the analysis item information of the sample on the sample rack to be supplied to the transport line is read by the identification information reader before the sample rack is transported by the transport line, and the analysis item information is read. In the analysis unit where the sample rack having the sample is stopped, the sample is sampled for the analysis process. In addition, when there is an analysis item display instruction after setting analysis items for each analysis unit, a list of processable analysis items corresponding to each set analysis unit is displayed on the display device. Is done.
[0012]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A schematic configuration of an embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0013]
The sample analysis system of FIG. 1 includes an analysis unit that supplies a reagent using a dispenser as shown in FIG. 2, and an analysis unit that supplies a reagent using a pipetter as shown in FIG. Including mixed. The analysis units 3A, 3F, and 3G in FIG. 1 are dispenser-type analysis units that have fixed analysis channels and each of the plurality of reagent discharge nozzles is dedicated to each reagent. The analysis units 3B, 3C, 3D and 3E are pipetter type analysis units in which analysis channels are randomly accessed without being fixed, and one reagent pipetting nozzle dispenses reagents corresponding to analysis items one after another.
[0014]
The sample analysis system of FIG. 1 is configured to use only serum as a sample type. For example, in this system, analysis units 3A, 3B, and 3C analyze serum, and analysis units 3D and 3E perform plasma processing. The analysis units 3F and 3G can be configured to analyze urine.
[0015]
In FIG. 1, the analysis units 3A to 3G have sampling lines 4A to 4G which are transport paths having a function of returning the sample rack 1 taken in from the main transport line 20 to the main transport line 20 after positioning the sample rack 1 at the sampling position, and each sampling. The identification information readers 51 to 57 for reading the identification information of the sample rack 1 or the identification information of each sample container on the sample rack and the analysis items of the sample and the reagent are provided corresponding to the line. The reaction units 5A to 5G for proceeding the reaction in the reaction vessel and optically measuring the reacted liquid, and reagent supply units 26 to 29 and 32 to 34 are provided. Of the reagent supply units of the respective analysis units, 26, 27, 28 and 29 are of the pipetter type, and 32, 33 and 34 are of the dispenser type.
[0016]
The rack supply unit 17 has an area where a large number of sample racks 1 can be set, and has a delivery mechanism for sending the sample racks 1 to the main transport line 20 one by one. The rack collection unit 18 has an area for collecting the sample rack 1 holding the sample sampled for analysis processing in any one or more analysis units, and an alignment mechanism for arranging the sample racks in an orderly manner. Have The temporary storage unit 22 temporarily stores the sample rack 1 sampled by one or more analysis units until a measurement result is output. If retesting is necessary, the corresponding sample rack is returned via the return line 25. Is sent out again by the main transfer line 20, and the sample rack is sent out to the rack collection unit 18 when re-examination is unnecessary.
[0017]
The control device includes an overall control computer 40, analysis unit computers 6A to 6G, which are provided corresponding to the respective analysis units, and perform necessary processing and control in the respective analysis units, and a flexible disk memory 41. Have. The processing of the output signals from the photometers in the respective analysis units is shared by the analysis unit side computers 6A to 6G, and the overall control computer 40 connected thereto operates the operation of each analysis unit, the operation of the rack transport system and the system. In addition to controlling the operation of necessary parts, the calculation and control necessary for various information processing are executed. The division of roles between the computers is not limited to this, and can be changed in various ways according to the necessity in the configuration, or the computer on the analysis unit side can be made unnecessary by using only the overall control computer 40. It is. The overall control computer 40 includes a storage unit 45, and is connected to an operation unit 42 for data input, a CRT 43 for displaying information on a screen, and a printer 44 that can output measurement results.
[0018]
For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 2, the sample rack 1 is composed of a box-shaped holding body in which a plurality of sample containers 2 containing, for example, five samples are loaded. May be used. An identification information medium indicating rack identification information is provided on the outer wall of the sample rack 1, and an identification information medium indicating sample identification information is provided on the outer wall of the sample container 2. As these identification information media, barcode labels, magnetic recording media, and the like are used. The barcode provided in the sample rack 1 has information on the rack number and the sample type. The barcode provided in the sample container 2 has information on each sample, for example, information such as a reception number, a reception date, a patient name, a patient number, a sample type, and a requested analysis item.
[0019]
The identification information reading device 50 in FIG. 1 inputs the result of reading the identification information (barcode) of the sample rack 1 and the sample container 2 before being transported by the main transport line 20 to the computer 40. The identification information reader 58 provided in the temporary storage unit 22 reads the barcode of the sample rack or the sample container when the sample rack 1 enters and exits the temporary storage unit 22 and transmits the barcode to the overall computer 40.
[0020]
Reagent identification information is displayed on the outer wall of the reagent bottles 12, 12A, 12B for various analysis items stored in the reagent supply units of the respective analysis units 3A to 3G by barcodes or the like. The reagent identification information includes a reagent production lot number, a reagent bottle size, a usable reagent solution amount, an expiration date, a sequence number that differs for each bottle, an analysis item code, and the like. Such reagent identification information is read by a bar code reader, and the reagent bottle set position in the reagent supply unit, the number of times the reagent can be analyzed calculated from the amount of liquid that can be used and one dispensed amount, The type, the number of the analysis unit in which the reagent is stored, and the like are registered in the storage unit 45.
[0021]
The main transport line 20 includes a transport belt for placing the sample rack 1 and a belt driving motor, and is controlled by the control unit so as to continuously transport the sample rack to a desired position. Each sampling line 4A-4G can move a conveyance belt intermittently so that a rack may be stopped at a rack drawing position, a dispensing position, and a rack delivery position. The sample rack 1 transported by the main transport line 20 is moved along the row of analysis units, stopped before the analysis unit designated by the control device, and immediately designated by the rack transfer mechanism (described later). Moved to the line drawing position of the unit sampling line. The sample rack 1 for which the sample dispensing operation has been completed at the dispensing position is delivered from the rack delivery position of the sampling line onto the main transport line 20 by the rack transfer mechanism.
[0022]
A configuration example of an analysis unit whose reagent supply type is a dispenser type will be described with reference to FIG. The reaction unit 5A of the analysis unit 3A is provided with two concentric reaction container rows each having a translucent reaction container 46a, and the light transmitted through the reaction container 46a from the light source 14a is divided into a plurality of wavelengths for each reaction container row. Is provided with a multi-wavelength photometer 15a. A sample dispenser 48a having a pipetter nozzle connected to the sample pipetter pump 47a and a first reagent nozzle group connected to the reagent dispenser pump 60 are provided in the vicinity of the reaction unit 5A so as to act on each reaction container row. A holding unit 64 and a second reagent nozzle group holding unit 66, a first stirring mechanism 65 and a second stirring mechanism 67, and a reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 19a are arranged. In the reagent cooler 62, the reagent bottles 12 of the first reagent and the second reagent (only for necessary analysis items) for a plurality of analysis items are arranged and cooled to a predetermined temperature. The reagent solution in each reagent bottle 12 is supplied to the corresponding reagent discharge nozzle on the reaction container row by the reagent dispenser pump 60 through the tube. In this case, the dispenser type reagent supply unit 32 of the analysis unit 3A shown in FIG. 1 includes the reagent dispenser pump 60 of FIG. 2, the reagent cooler 62 provided with a large number of reagent bottles 12, the first reagent nozzle group holding unit 64, the first 2 reagent nozzle group holding part 66 etc. are included.
[0023]
The individual sample racks 1 supplied from the rack supply unit 17 are transported by the main transport line 20, and are transferred to the sampling line 4A of the analysis unit 3A when analysis processing by the analysis unit 3A is necessary. A predetermined amount of the sample on the sample rack 1 that has come to the dispensing position is dispensed into the reaction container 46a by the pipette nozzle of the sample dispenser 48a. In this reaction container, the reagent corresponding to the analysis item is discharged at a predetermined position on the reaction container row, and the reaction proceeds. After a predetermined time, the optical characteristics of the reaction solution in the reaction vessel 46a are measured by the multiwavelength photometer 15a. The signal output from the multi-wavelength photometer 15a is processed by the logarithmic converter 30a and the analog / digital converter 31a under the control of the analysis unit side computer 6A, and is transmitted to the overall control computer 40. The dispenser-type analysis units 3F and 3G have the same configuration as the analysis unit 3A.
[0024]
Next, a configuration example of an analysis unit whose reagent supply type is a pipetter method will be described with reference to FIG. In the reaction container 46b arranged in the reaction section 5B of the analysis unit 3B, the reaction between the sample and the reagent relating to a predetermined analysis item is advanced. The sample rack 1 moved from the main transport line 20 to the sampling line 4B (FIG. 1) is positioned at the dispensing position, and the sample designated by the pipette nozzle of the sample dispensing device 48b is collected and transferred to the reaction container 46b. A predetermined amount of specimen is discharged. The sample dispenser 48b has a sample pipetter pump 47b. The reaction unit 5B is maintained at a constant temperature (for example, 37 ° C.) by a constant temperature liquid supplied from the constant temperature bath 10.
[0025]
The pipetter type reagent supply unit 26 of the analysis unit in FIG. 3 includes two reagent disks 26A and 26B for the first reagent and the second reagent. Reagent bottles 12A and 12B including various reagents prepared for a large number of analysis items have reagent identification information displayed on their outer wall surfaces by bar codes, and the reagent bottles 12A and 12B have reagent disks 26A and 12B. 26B, the reagent identification information of each reagent bottle is read by the barcode readers 23A and 23B, and the information is set on the reagent disk of the reagent bottle, the corresponding analysis item, and the reagent bottle is set. The storage unit 45 is registered together with the analysis unit number and the like. The reagent dispensers 8A and 8B each include a reagent pipette pump 11 connected to each pipette nozzle that can be swung and moved up and down.
[0026]
The column of the reaction containers 46b into which the specimens are dispensed is rotated and a predetermined amount of reagent solution is aspirated by the reagent dispenser 8A from the reagent bottle 12A positioned at the reagent aspirating position according to the analysis item. The reagent is discharged into the reaction container 46b at the reagent addition position. After the contents are stirred by the stirring mechanism 13A at the stirring position, the reaction container row is transferred a plurality of times, and when the reaction container 46b reaches the second reagent addition position, the reagent dispenser 8B determines the reagent according to the analysis item. The reagent solution is sucked from the reagent bottle 12B positioned at the suction position, and the reagent is discharged into the reaction container. Next, the contents of the reaction vessel are stirred by the stirring mechanism 13B. Thereafter, the reaction container 46b passes through the light beam from the light source 14b as the reaction container row rotates, and the light transmitted through the reaction solution in the reaction container 46b is detected by the multiwavelength photometer 15b. The signal of the wavelength corresponding to the analysis item is processed by the logarithmic converter 30b and the analog / digital converter 31b controlled by the analysis apparatus side computer 6B, and the digital signal is transmitted to the overall control computer 40. The measured reaction container 46b is cleaned by the cleaning mechanism 19b and reused. The analysis units 3C, 3D, and 3E have the same configuration as the analysis unit 3B.
[0027]
Next, a sample analysis operation in the sample analysis system of FIG. 1 will be described.
[0028]
Before the sample rack 1 is set in the rack supply unit 17, the combination of analysis units to be used in the sample analysis system of FIG. 1 and the types of analysis items that can be analyzed in each analysis unit used are already set. It is assumed that This system setting will be described later.
[0029]
Before starting the sample analysis process, an initial screen for setting analysis conditions is displayed on the CRT 43 as a screen display device, and various analysis conditions are set through the keys of the operation unit 42 and the screen of the CRT 43. The analysis item requested to be examined by the requester for each sample is registered in the overall control computer 40 through the operation unit 42 together with the same reception number or patient number displayed on the sample container. In this case, the storage unit 45 of the computer 40 functions as a first storage unit that stores analysis items to be analyzed for each sample. The analysis condition information of each analysis item is stored in the flexible disk memory 41. Among the analysis conditions, the analysis item code consists of a 5-digit number. Analysis condition parameters that should be commonly used by multiple analysis units for the same type of analysis items are the measurement wavelength in the photometer, sample collection amount, calibration curve calibration method, standard solution concentration, number of standard solutions, and abnormal analysis values. For example, check limit value.
[0030]
Among the analysis condition parameters, the parameters stored for each reagent bottle include the number of necessary reagents from the first reagent to the fourth reagent, the reagent bottle code consisting of a 5-digit number, and the reagent distribution. This is the amount of injection, the number of tests that can be analyzed per reagent bottle, and so on. Analytical units 3A, 3B, and 3C are set to accept serum samples, analytical units 3D and 3E are set to accept plasma samples, and analytical units 3F and 3G are set to accept unit conditions for analysis. Acceptable specimen types are registered together with the unit number.
[0031]
As the reagent bottles are stored in the reagent supply sections of the plurality of analysis units to be used in the analysis units 3A to 3G, the reagent identification information of each reagent bottle is associated with the analysis unit number as a whole. Registered in the control computer 40. In this case, for example, it is assumed that the analysis units 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3G are set as analysis unit groups to be used for serum samples. Among them, each reagent supply unit 32 of the analysis units 3A and 3G has, for example, reagent bottles for GOT and GPT which are liver function test items with a large number of sample requests and calcium, UA and BUN which are emergency test items, respectively. The reagent supply unit 26 of the analysis unit 3B stores, for example, reagent bottles for GOT and GPT which are liver function test items and other analysis items with a small number of test requests, and the reagent supply unit of the analysis unit 3C. 27 stores, for example, reagent bottles for calcium, UA, BUN, which are emergency test items, and other analysis units with a small number of test requests. Therefore, the liver function test item can be analyzed by the three analysis units 3A, 3B, and 3G, and the emergency test item can be analyzed by the three analysis units 3A, 3C, and 3G. It is determined by the operator according to the actual situation of the laboratory in each facility what kind of analysis item reagent is stored in duplicate in what number of analyzers.
[0032]
As each reagent bottle 12, 12A, 12B is stored in each reagent supply unit, the reagent identification information provided in the reagent bottle is read and already registered as an analysis condition parameter using the reagent bottle code as a key. And the analysis items corresponding to the reagent bottle, the size of the bottle, the number of tests that can be analyzed, the setting position of the reagent bottle, and the like are associated with each other and registered in the overall control computer 40. At the same time, the maximum possible number of analyzes based on the total number of reagent bottles for the same kind of analysis items in a plurality of analysis units capable of analyzing the same kind of analysis items is also registered and displayed on the CRT 43 as necessary.
[0033]
After the corresponding reagents for the analysis items necessary for each analysis unit are stored, the calibration curve calibration operation for all analysis items that can be analyzed by the analysis unit is performed for each analysis unit prior to the sample analysis processing. Each is executed. Since the calibration curve calibration values differ depending on the reagent bottles set in each analysis unit, the calibration curve calibration results obtained by the individual analysis units for each analysis item are stored in the storage unit 45 of the overall control computer 40. These calibration results are used for concentration calculation when the corresponding analysis item is analyzed in each analysis unit.
[0034]
When one of the plurality of sample racks 1 placed on the rack supply unit 17 is pushed out toward the main transport line 20, the identification information of the sample rack 1 and the identification information of the sample container 2 are identified accordingly. It is read by the information reading device 50. Based on the read information, a group of analysis units 3A, 3B, 3C and 3G for the serum sample is selected. Alternatively, the analysis units 3A, 3B, 3C and 3G are recognized as a group of analysis units in a state to be used.
[0035]
Furthermore, the sample number such as the reception number and the registration status of the analysis item are collated with the reading of the sample identification information, the analysis item instructed to be measured for each sample on the sample rack 1 is determined, and the identification information is The overall control computer 40 determines which of the analysis units 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3G should perform the analysis processing on each analysis item of the read sample. In this case, the overall control computer 40 monitors the number of analysis items for which analysis processing has already been instructed to each analyzer and how much time is required until the end of the dispensing of these samples. In particular, regarding a specific analysis item that can be analyzed by a plurality of analysis units, it is determined which analysis unit is efficient to cause the analysis processing of the analysis item. For example, regarding GOT and GPT, which are specific analysis items, it is determined whether the analysis unit with the smallest number of samples waiting to be processed at that time is 3A, 3B, or 3G, and the designated analysis unit has the shorter waiting time. It is said. In addition to such a method of automatically specifying an analysis unit for analyzing a specific analysis item according to the degree of busyness among a plurality of analysis units, an operator can process each analysis item from the operation unit 42 in advance. A designation method in which the priority order of analysis units to be used is input is also possible.
[0036]
The sample rack 1 in which a plurality of specific analysis items have samples to be analyzed and the stoppage destination (for example, the analysis unit 3B) is determined is continuously transported by the main transport line 20 to the designated analysis unit 3B, and the analysis unit 3B. Is stopped before the entrance to the sampling line 4B. Next, the sample rack 1 is moved to the sampling line 4B, and a predetermined sample is dispensed to the reaction unit 5B by the sample dispenser 48b at the dispensing position, and then returned to the main transport line 20.
[0037]
When analysis items to be analyzed by other analysis units remain for samples on the same sample rack 1, the sample rack 1 is transported to the analysis unit 3C by the main transport line 20 and transferred to the sampling line 4C. The sample is dispensed.
[0038]
The remaining amount of reagent in the reagent bottle for each analysis item in each analysis unit in FIG. 1 is monitored by the overall control computer 40. As a method for monitoring the remaining amount of the reagent, a method based on detecting the reagent liquid level in the reagent bottle at the time of dispensing the reagent by the liquid level detector provided in the reagent pipette nozzle, or dispensing of the reagent. In this case, a method of subtracting the number of analyzes that has been input in advance is employed. In any of the methods, whether or not the amount of reagent for the analysis item is insufficient is determined by determining whether or not the remaining number of analyzable times has reached a predetermined value by the overall control computer 40. The As the predetermined value in this case, the remaining number is set to a small number such as zero, once, or twice. Further, for example, when it is determined that the GOT reagent of the designated analysis unit 3B is insufficient, the GOT analysis process by the analysis unit 3B is stopped, and at the same time, the GOT analysis process by the analysis unit 3A in which sufficient GOT reagent remains The switching operation of the analyzer is controlled so as to be possible. Therefore, the sample to be subjected to the GOT analysis process thereafter is transported to another analysis unit 3A having the next priority and subjected to the GOT analysis process.
[0039]
The control device in the embodiment of FIG. 1 knows which analysis unit is instructing the analysis processing of each analysis item, and these data are stored in the storage unit 45. The overall control computer 40 stores information on which analysis unit is processing each analysis item in a memory table, and displays the information on the CRT 43 as a list when there is a request from the operator. Let me.
[0040]
In the embodiment apparatus of FIG. 1, each of the analysis units 3A to 3G can be instructed to start and stop the operation by key operation of the operation unit 42, and based on instruction information from such an operation unit. The overall control computer 40 causes the sample rack 1 from the rack supply unit 17 to be transported via the main transport line 20 only to the remaining analysis units other than the analysis unit that has been shut down. In particular, in the time period when the number of requested specimens is small and the urgent specimen inspection work is the main time, such as at night, for example, only the analysis units 3C and 3G for serum specimens are in an operating state and the remaining analysis is performed. It can be operated to stop the unit. In the time zone when the number of requested samples increases, the plurality of analysis units that have been stopped are restarted.
[0041]
Further, in the embodiment apparatus of FIG. 1, when an abnormal situation occurs in one of the analysis units and the analysis process by the analysis unit becomes impossible, the same analysis process is controlled to be replaced by another analysis unit. The apparatus instructs transport of the sample rack to another analysis unit and analysis processing by another analysis unit. For example, by setting the reagents for a plurality of analysis items in duplicate in the two analysis units 3B and 3C, the analysis process can be performed without interrupting the analysis operation for the plurality of analysis items.
[0042]
FIG. 4 shows an example of a rack transfer mechanism. As the rack transfer mechanism, a moving robot having a rack gripping arm, a mechanism having an extruding lever for pushing the sample rack from one of the main transport line and the sampling line to the other, and the like are used. FIG. 4 belongs to the former type.
[0043]
Between the main transport line 20 and the sampling line 75 (4A to 4G in FIG. 1), a connection passage 70 having a width capable of moving the sample rack 1 is formed. The rack transfer mechanism is provided above the connection passage 70, and includes a main pulley 71 and a driven pulley 72 attached to the drive shaft of the motor, a belt 73 placed between these pulleys, and an openable and closable attached to the belt 73. It has a gripping device 74 composed of a pair of fingers. In FIG. 4, the connecting passage 70, the sampling line 75, the motor, the main driving pulley 71, the driven pulley 72, the belt 73, and the gripping device 74 attached to the driving shaft of the motor are not provided in the main line but are provided in each analysis unit. ing.
[0044]
FIG. 4 shows a state in which the gripping device 74 is waiting for the sample rack 1 to arrive on the main transport line. In this state, the sample rack 1 is grasped by the grasping device 74, and the grasping device 74 is moved to the position of the sampling line 75 through the connection passage 70 by rotating the motor, and the sample rack 1 is moved to the position of the grasping device 74. When released from the grip, the sample rack 1 can be moved onto the sampling line 75. Of course, when the sample rack 1 thus moved onto the sampling line 75 is returned to the main transport line 20, the reverse operation may be performed.
[0045]
The above is the explanation of the analysis (inspection) operation. In the embodiment of the present invention, the system setting is performed prior to the analysis operation. That is, the relationship between the analysis unit to be used and the position where the analysis unit is arranged, that is, the analysis unit setting which analysis unit is used at which position, and the analysis path in which these analysis units are used in what combination The contents of the setting of the analysis item for each analysis unit, such as the setting of the analysis item and the analysis item to be analyzed by each analysis unit, are stored in the storage unit 45 of the overall control computer 40. Before explaining this system setting, a simple explanation will be given below.
[0046]
The number of analysis units used may be arbitrary. If this number is n, 2 n combinations of analysis units, that is, analysis paths can be set. For simplicity, four analysis units are used, two of which are analysis units P1 and P2 using a pipetter method as a reagent supply method, and the remaining two units are using a dispenser method as a reagent supply method. Assume that the analysis units are D1 and D2. In this case, P means a pipetter type, and D means a dispenser type.
[0047]
For the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that there are roughly three analysis paths as shown in FIGS. 5 (1), (2), and (3). FIG. 5 (1) shows the type in which the sample rack should stop at which analysis unit and in what order is automatically selected and determined by the overall control computer according to the requested analysis item. The analysis path shown in FIG. 5A is referred to as an “automatic” type analysis path.
[0048]
FIG. 5 (2) shows a parallel type, in which the analysis units P1, D1 and P2, D2 are connected in series, and the two series sets are connected in parallel. FIG. 5 (3) shows a hybrid type, in which the analysis units P1, P2 and D1, D2 are connected in parallel, and the two parallel sets are connected in series.
[0049]
The analysis items to be analyzed by the analysis units P1, P2, D1, and D2 are determined by the item setting described later. Here, for the sake of easy understanding, the analysis items that can be analyzed by the analysis units P1 and P2 are the same. Further, the analysis items to be analyzed by the analysis units D1 and D2 are also the same. 5 (2), the first analysis path formed by connecting the analysis units P1 and D1 in series and the second analysis path formed by connecting the analysis units P2 and D2 in series are mutually connected. Will be the same. That is, two identical analysis paths exist. According to the same concept, in FIG. 5 (3), there are four identical analysis paths.
[0050]
In either case of FIGS. 5 (2) and 5 (3), which analysis path is selected and used from among several fixed same analysis paths is determined by the overall control computer. In addition, the selection and determination of the analysis paths should be performed in the order of the lowest number, for example, whether the analysis path is free, whether there are sufficient reagents, or if all analysis paths are acceptable. It is performed according to a predetermined selection criterion. The analysis paths in FIGS. 5 (2) and 5 (3) are referred to herein as “fixed” type analysis paths.
[0051]
Therefore, in order to describe the system setting according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 6, first, the analysis unit is set (step 601). This is a step of determining and registering which analysis unit at which position is used. Alternatively, step 601 is a step of determining and registering which analysis unit is operated for the analysis operation. Thereafter, in the case of the “fixed” type, it is also possible to add a step of registering the sample rack in which analysis unit and in what order, that is, determining the transport route of the sample rack and registering it during the analysis operation. .
[0052]
In step 602, it is specified whether the combination of the plurality of analysis units is “automatic” type or “fixed” type. If the designation is “automatic”, in step 603, analysis items that can be analyzed by each analysis unit are set for each analysis unit. Specifically, the analysis units P1 and P2 are set so that, for example, the same analysis item can be analyzed using the screen as shown in FIG. 11 described later, and analysis items such as CRP, BUN, CRE, and GLU are set. Settings are made. Similarly, for analysis units D1 and D2, for example, analysis items such as AST, ALT, LD, ALP, TP, and ALB are set so that the same analysis item can be analyzed.
[0053]
In this case, since these analysis items set for each analysis unit to be used are registered in the computer 40, the storage unit 45 stores the second storage means for storing analysis item information for each analysis unit. Function as. Therefore, in the analysis operation, the analysis item information read by the identification information reading device 50 for the sample on the sample rack from the analysis item information of the entire system as a set of analysis items assigned to each analysis unit. The computer 40 determines that the sample rack stops at a specific analysis unit that processes the analysis item.
[0054]
On the other hand, if the “fixed” type is specified in step 602 in FIG. 6, whether the analysis path is parallel type or hybrid type is set in step 604, and then, in step 605, the case of step 603 is set. Similarly, analysis items are set for each analysis unit.
[0055]
The combination of a plurality of analysis units can be set according to each step of FIG. 6 through observation of a setting screen generated by the overall control computer 40 and displayed on the CRT 43 for each step. The generation and display of the setting screen itself can be realized by an ordinary known technique.
[0056]
In the system configuration, when the operator requests the control unit to display the analysis unit configuration screen, the system setting screen as shown in FIG. In FIG. 7, a system setting screen 701 includes a title column 702, a display block 703 of the rack supply unit, a display block 704 of the rack collection unit, a broken line area 705 sandwiched between both display blocks, and a display instruction for the analysis unit setting screen. For example, a button 707 for instructing display of an analysis path designation screen, a button 708 for instructing display of an item setting screen, and the like. However, the broken line area 705 in the figure is not displayed in the initial stage. When the “analysis unit setting” button 706 is clicked on this setting screen, the setting screen of FIG. 8 is displayed on the CRT 43.
[0057]
In FIG. 8, the analysis unit setting screen 81 has a title field 82 and an analysis unit display area 83. In the display area 83, only the installation position number 84 of the analysis unit is displayed in the initial stage. When the operator inputs the number of the analysis unit and the reagent supply type to be used in correspondence with each installation position number from the operation unit 42 in the unit input field 85, for example, the screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed. In this example, “P1” means that the reagent supply type is the analysis unit number 1 with the pipetter method, and “D1” is the analysis unit number 1 with the reagent supply type is the dispenser method. Means that. When the end of setting is instructed after all the analysis units to be used are input, the contents set in FIG. 8 are stored in the storage unit 45. In this case, the storage unit 45 functions as a storage unit that stores combination information of a plurality of analysis units set through the screen display unit.
[0058]
Note that the screen 81 in FIG. 8 may be displayed on a part of the setting screen in FIG. 7 or may be displayed as a whole replaced with the setting screen in FIG. It may be displayed in a place completely independent of the screen. Here, it is assumed that the setting screen 81 in FIG. 8 is displayed in place of the setting screen 701 in FIG. The same applies to other setting screens to be described later.
[0059]
For the sake of clarity, it is assumed that the combination of analysis units shown in FIG. 5 (2) is designated and set. In FIG. 8, the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 are displayed on the analysis unit installation position display section 84 as shown in the figure, and symbols P1, P2, D1, and D2 for specifying the analysis units are displayed in the unit input field 85. Are displayed as shown in the figure. As a result, the combination of the analysis units P1, P2, D1, and D2 at the installation positions 1, 2, 3, and 4 is stored and registered in the storage unit 45 of the overall control computer. This step is step 601 in FIG.
[0060]
When the input to the setting screen 81 in FIG. 8 is finished, if the end key of the operation unit 42 is pressed or a close button (not shown) on the screen 81 is clicked, the screen returns to the system setting screen in FIG.
[0061]
Next, in FIG. 7, when a button 707 “designate analysis path” is clicked, a setting screen shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. A screen 91 for selecting an analysis route setting method in FIG. 9 has a title column 92 and a route designation region 93. The routing area 93 includes buttons 94 and 95 for selecting “fixed” or “automatic”. Here, the selection of whether the analysis path is “fixed” or “automatic” is made by clicking either button. The case of FIG. 9 indicates that the “fixed” type analysis path has been selected. This step is step 602 in FIG.
[0062]
In FIG. 9, when “Fixed” is selected and the close button is clicked, a setting screen 101 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed. Since the analysis path to be specified is the “fixed” type analysis path shown in FIG. 5B, the first and second paths are set. In FIG. 10, analysis unit P1 and D1 are designated at number 1 corresponding to the first analysis path, and analysis units P2 and D2 are designated at number 2 corresponding to the second analysis path, thereby analyzing them. The route is stored and registered in the storage unit 45 of the overall control computer. This step is step 604 in FIG. When the close button is clicked after this step, the screen returns to the screen of FIG. 7 and the screen display of FIG. 7 changes to a screen display including a portion indicated by a broken line area 705.
[0063]
When the “item setting” button 708 is clicked on the system setting screen 701 in FIG. 7, an analysis item setting screen 111 as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed. The screen 111 in FIG. 11 includes a title column 112, an analysis unit name column 113, and a display area 114. In the display area 114, analysis item setting fields 117 and 118 are displayed so as to correspond to the reagent position numbers 115 and 116, respectively. The analysis unit name column 113 displays the reagent supply type (P or D) of one analysis unit among the plurality of analysis units to be used and its unit number. The analysis item is set for each analysis unit. When the close button is clicked after setting the analysis item for the first analysis unit, for example, P1, the second analysis unit, for example, D1 is displayed in the analysis unit name column 113, and the entire screen is also displayed for D1. The screen is switched to the setting screen 111 and displayed. When the close button is clicked when the setting of analysis items for all the analysis units to be used is completed, the screen returns to the setting screen 701 in FIG.
[0064]
The example of FIG. 11 is an analysis item setting screen when D1 is designated as the analysis unit. In this case, according to the example described with reference to FIG. 6, reagent position numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, analysis items AST, ALT, LD, ALP, TP, and ALB are input from the operation unit 42 and stored and stored in the storage unit 45 of the overall control computer. When the next analysis unit, for example, P2 is called after setting the analysis item for the analysis unit D1, "P2" is displayed in the analysis unit name column 113, and the screen 111 in which the analysis item setting columns 117 and 118 are blank is displayed. Since it is displayed, analysis items can be set in the same manner as in the above-described example.
[0065]
In the example of FIG. 5 (2), since it is assumed that the analysis units D1 and D2 have the same setting conditions, for the analysis unit D2, the analysis item setting column of the same reagent position number as in the analysis unit D1 is displayed. The same analysis item is input, and the information is stored in the storage unit 45 in association with the reagent supply type and the analysis unit number. For analysis units P1 and P2, analysis items such as CRU, BUN, CRE, and GLU are input corresponding to reagent position numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the respective analysis item setting screens, and the information is registered. Is done. This step is step 603 and step 605 in FIG.
[0066]
When the operator wants to know the type of analysis item set in each analysis unit after setting the analysis item as one of the functional configurations of the sample analysis system is established for each analysis unit, the operation unit 42 The stored information is called up by the CRT 43 and a list of analysis items corresponding to each analysis unit is displayed. In the case of the “automatic” type, a combination of a plurality of analysis units used as a sample analysis system and a plurality of analysis items that can be processed by each analysis unit are determined, thereby establishing an analysis system. Once such a functional configuration of the sample analysis system is established, the same configuration state can be continuously used thereafter, so that the operator need only input the sample information for the actual sample analysis work.
[0067]
In the embodiment described above, the positions of the P-type analysis unit and the D-type analysis unit can be interchanged, so that the flexibility of the system configuration can be further increased. Further, even a user can easily perform system setting through observation of a screen for the setting.
[0068]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, the system configuration of the sample processing function can be changed via the screen without changing the arrangement state of the plurality of analysis units in the sample analysis system.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a sample analysis system as an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is an operation explanatory diagram of an analysis unit having a dispenser type reagent supply function in the embodiment of FIG. 1; FIG.
FIG. 3 is an operation explanatory diagram of an analysis unit having a pipetter type reagent supply function in the embodiment of FIG. 1;
4 is a conceptual diagram of a rack transfer mechanism in the embodiment of FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a combination example of analysis units.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a setting example of the system configuration of the sample analysis system.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display example of a system setting screen used for system configuration.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of an analysis unit setting screen.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a screen for selecting an analysis path setting method.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen for designating analysis paths.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example of an analysis item setting screen.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Sample rack, 2 ... Sample container, 3A-3G ... Analysis unit, 4A-4G ... Sampling line, 5A-5G ... Reaction part, 12, 12A, 12B ... Reagent bottle, 15A, 15B ... Multiwavelength photometer, 17 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS ... Rack supply unit, 18 ... Rack collection | recovery unit, 20 ... Main conveyance line, 26A, 26B ... Reagent disk, 26-29, 32-34 ... Reagent supply part, 40 ... Computer for whole control, 45 ... Memory | storage part, 50- 58 ... Identification information reading device, 81 ... Analysis unit setting screen, 111 ... Analysis item setting screen, 701 ... System setting screen.

Claims (2)

A sample in which a plurality of analysis units are arranged along a transport line for transporting a sample rack that holds a sample, and the sample on the sample rack is analyzed by any one or more of the plurality of analysis units In a method for configuring an analysis system,
Display a screen having an analysis item setting field for setting an analysis item on the screen display device in association with the reagent supply type of each analysis unit, and a combination of a plurality of analysis units to which analysis items are assigned respectively. Is stored in a storage unit. A method for configuring a sample analysis system, The configuration method according to claim 1,
Display the analysis unit setting button and analysis item setting button on the system setting screen.
When the analysis unit setting button is selected, a screen for specifying a plurality of analysis units to be used is displayed, and when the analysis item setting button is selected, a plurality of specified units are displayed. A method of configuring an analysis system, comprising: displaying a screen having an analysis item designation field related to one of the analysis units.

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