JP5192316B2 - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer that dispenses a specimen and a reagent into a reaction container, reacts the specimen and the reagent, and optically sequentially analyzes a plurality of specimens.

  Conventionally, a series of analysis processes in which a specimen contained in a specimen container is dispensed into a reaction container by a specimen dispensing mechanism and reacted with a reagent in the reaction container to analyze the specimen is sequentially performed on the received specimen. Automatic analyzers are known. This automatic analyzer performs a process to determine whether or not the sample dispensing accuracy is normal by the sample dispensing mechanism, and if this determination process informs a decrease in dispensing accuracy, the dispensing accuracy decreases. The analysis accuracy is maintained by taking measures against the above. However, if this determination process is frequently performed in order to increase the reliability of the analysis, the analysis processing capability of the apparatus is reduced. For this reason, this determination processing is performed at a scheduled timing so as not to reduce the analysis processing capability of the apparatus.

  For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 describes a process for determining whether or not the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism is normal at the timing of the maintenance work of the sample dispensing mechanism.

JP 2007-327779 A

  However, the automatic analyzer described in Patent Document 1 performs a determination process of whether or not the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism is normal during a series of analysis processes of samples that are sequentially received. Even if there is a free time, the determination process is not performed except for the scheduled timing. As a result, there has been a problem that the accuracy of the dispensing accuracy could not be confirmed even when there was a time during which the analysis reliability could be improved without reducing the analysis processing capability of the apparatus.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer that can improve the reliability of analysis without reducing the analysis processing capability of the apparatus.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, an automatic analyzer according to the present invention stores the sample dispensed from a sample container containing a sample into a reaction container by a sample dispensing mechanism and a reagent. In an automatic analyzer that performs a series of analysis processes for reacting the reagent dispensed from a reagent container to the reaction container by a reagent dispensing mechanism in the reaction container to measure absorbance and analyzing the sample. A determination unit that determines whether or not the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operation state of dispensing the sample during the series of received analysis processes; and the determination unit distributes the sample by the sample dispensing mechanism. If it is determined that the operation state is not to be poured, a liquid sample for confirming dispensing accuracy is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism until the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operation state for dispensing the sample. A control means for controlling the dispensing of the liquid sample dispensed a predetermined number of times and measuring the absorbance of the dispensed liquid sample, and the sample dispensing mechanism based on the absorbance of the liquid sample measured the predetermined number of times. Determining means for determining whether or not the dispensing accuracy is normal.

  In the automatic analyzer according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the determination means sucks the sample by the sample dispensing mechanism when the sample container containing the sample that has received the first series of analysis processes is received. And / or the reaction container from which the sample that has received the first series of analysis processing is discharged has not been transferred to the position at which the sample is discharged by the sample dispensing mechanism. It is determined that a state or a state in which the series of analysis processes to be performed next is not accepted is not an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism.

  In the automatic analyzer according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the sample dispensing mechanism includes a sample dispensing nozzle that performs suction and discharge of the sample, and includes a position for sucking and a position for discharging the sample. It is arranged on the locus of the sample dispensing nozzle that moves between them, and has holding means for storing the liquid sample.

  In the automatic analyzer according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the reagent dispensing mechanism includes a reagent dispensing nozzle that performs suction and discharge of the reagent, and includes a position for sucking and a position for discharging the reagent. It is arranged on the locus of the reagent dispensing nozzle that moves between the two, and has a diluent holding means for storing a diluent for diluting the liquid sample in the reaction vessel.

  In the automatic analyzer according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the liquid sample is a dye solution.

  According to the present invention, the determination means determines whether or not it is in an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism during a series of analysis processes of the sequentially received samples, and the control means determines the determination. When it is determined that the means is not in an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism, the sample dispensing mechanism dispenses the sample before the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operation state in which the sample is dispensed. The liquid sample for checking the accuracy of dispensing is dispensed into the reaction vessel a predetermined number of times, and control is performed to measure the absorbance of the dispensed liquid sample, and the determination means measures the liquid sample measured the predetermined number of times. The sample dispensing mechanism determines whether the dispensing accuracy of the sample dispensing mechanism is normal based on the absorbance of the sample, so that the sample dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism during the series of analysis processes of the sample sequentially received Empty for dispensing When there is a gap, it becomes possible to check the dispensing accuracy of the sample by the sample dispensing mechanism using this idle time, and the dispensing accuracy of the sample by the sample dispensing mechanism has been reduced In addition, treatment for maintaining dispensing accuracy can be performed. Therefore, the reliability of analysis can be increased without degrading the analysis processing capability of the apparatus.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of an automatic analyzer according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment includes a measuring unit 2 and a control device 3. The measurement unit 2 includes the sample in the sample container 10a supplied from the sample supply unit 10, the first reagent in the first reagent container 41a supplied from the first reagent container 41, and, if necessary, a second reagent container. The second reagent in the second reagent container 42a supplied from 42 is dispensed into the reaction container 30a, and the reaction occurring in the reaction container 30a is optically measured. The control device 3 controls the entire automatic analyzer 1 including the measuring unit 2 and analyzes the measurement result in the measuring unit 2. The automatic analyzer 1 automatically performs biochemical analysis of a plurality of specimens in order by cooperation of these units. The automatic analyzer 1 dispenses the dye solution held in the dye solution holding unit 51 and the dilution solution held in the diluent holding unit 43 into the reaction vessel 30a, and the dye solution in the reaction vessel 30a is optically distributed. Determination processing is performed to determine whether or not the sample dispensing accuracy is normal based on the result of the measurement.

  First, the measurement unit 2 will be described. The measurement unit 2 includes a sample supply unit 10, a sample holding unit 20, a reaction tank 30, a first reagent storage 41, a second reagent storage 42, a sample dispensing mechanism 50, and a first reagent dispensing mechanism 61. A second reagent dispensing mechanism 62, a first stirring unit 71, a second stirring unit 72, a photometric unit 80, a washing unit 90, a dye solution holding unit 51, and a diluent holding unit 43. .

  The sample supply unit 10 includes a plurality of sample racks 10b that hold a plurality of sample containers 10a containing liquid samples such as blood and are sequentially transferred in the direction of the arrows in the figure. The specimen in the specimen container 10a transferred to the specimen aspirating position by the specimen dispensing mechanism 50 on the specimen supply unit 10 is dispensed into the reaction container 30a by the specimen dispensing mechanism 50.

  The sample holding unit 20 can detachably store a plurality of sample containers 20a for storing various samples other than general samples (standard samples for preparing calibration curves, quality control samples, emergency samples, STAT samples, retest samples, etc.). . The sample holding unit 20 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise about a vertical line passing through the center of the sample holding unit 20 as a rotation axis by driving a driving mechanism (not shown) under the control of the control device 3. Yes, the desired specimen container 20a is transferred to the specimen aspirating position by the specimen dispensing mechanism 50.

  The reaction vessel 30 transfers the reaction vessel 30a to a predetermined position in order to dispense the sample or reagent into the reaction vessel 30a, to stir, wash, or measure the sample or reagent in the reaction vessel 30a. The reaction tank 30 is rotatable about a vertical line passing through the center of the reaction tank 30 as a rotation axis when driven by a drive mechanism (not shown) under the control of the control device 3. An openable / closable lid and a thermostatic chamber (not shown) are provided above and below the reaction tank 30, respectively.

  The first reagent container 41 can detachably store a plurality of first reagent containers 41a in which the first reagent dispensed first among the two types of reagents dispensed in the reaction container 30a is accommodated. The first reagent storage 41 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise around a vertical line passing through the center of the first reagent storage 41 as a driving mechanism (not shown) is driven under the control of the control device 3. The desired first reagent container 41a is transferred to the reagent aspirating position by the first reagent dispensing mechanism 61.

  The second reagent container 42 includes a plurality of detachable second reagent containers 42a containing second reagents dispensed next to the first reagent among the two types of reagents dispensed into the reaction container 30a. Can be stored. Similar to the first reagent storage 41, the second reagent storage 42 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise under the control of the control device 3, and a desired second reagent container 42a can be separated from the second reagent container 42a. The reagent is transferred to the reagent suction position by the injection mechanism 62.

  The sample dispensing mechanism 50 includes an arm 50a to which a sample dispensing nozzle 50b for aspirating and discharging a sample is attached to the tip. The arm 50a freely moves up and down in the vertical direction and rotates around a vertical line passing through its base end as a central axis. As shown in FIG. 2, the sample dispensing mechanism 50 includes an intake / exhaust mechanism 50c using an intake / exhaust syringe between pipes 50d connecting the sample dispensing nozzle 50b to a supply mechanism (not shown). The sample dispensing mechanism 50 operates the intake / exhaust mechanism 50c with the valve 50e closed, thereby dispensing the sample via the liquid Wa such as wash water supplied from a supply mechanism (not shown) and filled in the pipe 50d. A suction pressure or a discharge pressure is applied to the tip of the nozzle 50b. The sample dispensing mechanism 50 aspirates a specified amount of sample from the sample container 10a transferred to the sample aspiration position of the sample supply unit 10 by the sample dispensing nozzle 50b, and rotates the arm 50a counterclockwise in the drawing. Then, a sample dispensing process is performed in which a specified amount of sample is discharged and dispensed into the reaction container 30a that has been transferred to the position for discharging the sample on the reaction tank 30.

  The first reagent dispensing mechanism 61 includes an arm 61a having a first reagent dispensing nozzle 61b for aspirating and discharging the first reagent attached to the tip. The arm 61a freely moves up and down in the vertical direction and rotates around a vertical line passing through its base end as a central axis. Similar to the sample dispensing mechanism 50, the first reagent dispensing mechanism 61 includes an intake / exhaust mechanism using an unillustrated intake / exhaust syringe or piezoelectric element. The first reagent dispensing mechanism 61 sucks the first reagent in the first reagent container 41a transferred to the reagent aspirating position on the first reagent storage 41 by the first reagent dispensing nozzle 61b, and moves the arm 61a to the position shown in FIG. A prescribed amount of the first reagent is discharged and dispensed into the reaction vessel 30a that is rotated in the middle clockwise direction and transferred to the position on the reaction tank 30 where the first reagent is discharged.

  Similar to the first reagent dispensing mechanism 61, the second reagent dispensing mechanism 62 includes an arm 62a having a second reagent dispensing nozzle 62b for aspirating and discharging the second reagent attached to the tip, and an unillustrated suction / discharge unit. A suction / discharge mechanism using a syringe or piezoelectric element is provided, and the second reagent in the second reagent container 42a transferred to the reagent suction position on the second reagent storage 42 is sucked by the second reagent dispensing nozzle 62b and then reacted. A prescribed amount of the second reagent is discharged and dispensed into the reaction container 30a that has been transferred to the position on the tank 30 where the second reagent is discharged.

  The 1st stirring part 71 and the 2nd stirring part 72 stir the liquid mixture of the reagent and specimen which were dispensed to the reaction container 30a, and promote reaction.

  The photometry unit 80 irradiates the reaction container 30a transferred to a predetermined measurement position with measurement light from a light source, and splits the light transmitted through the mixture of the specimen and the reagent in the reaction container 30a, and each wavelength by the light receiving element. By measuring the intensity of light, the absorbance at a wavelength peculiar to the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent to be analyzed is measured.

  The cleaning unit 90 sucks and discharges the liquid mixture in the reaction vessel 30a that has been measured by the photometry unit 80 by a nozzle (not shown), and performs cleaning by injecting and sucking cleaning liquid such as detergent and cleaning water. .

  The dye solution holding unit 51 includes a dye solution containing unit 51a in which a dye solution as a liquid sample for dispensing accuracy confirmation is held. The dye solution storage unit 51a is formed of, for example, a cylindrical recess, and functions as a holding unit that stores the dye solution. The dye solution storage unit 51a is disposed on the locus of the sample dispensing nozzle 50b that moves between the position where the sample is aspirated and the position where the sample is discharged. A specified amount of the dye solution stored in the dye solution storage unit 51 a is dispensed into the reaction container 30 a by the sample dispensing mechanism 50.

  The diluent holding unit 43 includes a diluent container 43a that holds a diluent for diluting the dye solution. The diluent storage part 43a is formed of, for example, a cylindrical recess and functions as a diluent holding means. The diluent storage unit 43a is disposed on the locus of the first reagent dispensing nozzle 61b that moves between the position where the first reagent is sucked and the position where the first reagent is discharged. The diluent stored in the diluent container 43a is dispensed into the reaction container 30a by the first reagent dispensing mechanism 61 in a specified amount. Note that the dye solution storage unit 51a and the dilution solution storage unit 43a may be realized by, for example, a prismatic recess as long as the dye solution or the dilution solution can be stored.

  Next, the control device 3 will be described. The control device 3 includes a control unit 100, an input unit 110, an analysis unit 120, a storage unit 130, and an output unit 140. These units included in the measurement unit 2 and the control device 3 are connected to the control unit 100.

  The control unit 100 is configured using a CPU or the like, and controls processing and operation of each unit of the automatic analyzer 1. The control unit 100 performs predetermined input / output control on information input / output to / from each of these components, and performs predetermined information processing on this information. The control unit 100 includes an operation state determination unit 100a that determines whether or not the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 during a series of analysis processes of sequentially received samples, and an operation state determination. When the unit 100a determines that the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is not in an operation state for dispensing the sample, the sample dispensing mechanism 50 causes the sample dispensing mechanism 50 to enter the operation state for dispensing the sample. The dye solution is dispensed into the reaction vessel 30a a predetermined number of times, and an accuracy analysis control unit 100b that performs control for measuring the absorbance of the dispensed dye solution, and the absorbance of the dye solution measured a predetermined number of times. An accuracy correctness determination unit 100c that determines whether the dispensing accuracy of the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is normal is provided.

  The input unit 110 is configured using a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel display screen that also serves as an input / output function, and the like, and acquires various information necessary for analyzing a sample, instruction information for an analysis operation, and the like. The input unit 110 may acquire various information necessary for analyzing the sample, analysis operation instruction information, and the like from an external device via a communication network (not shown).

  The analysis unit 120 calculates the absorbance and the like based on the measurement result measured by the photometry unit 80 to obtain the concentration of the detection target in the sample, and performs component analysis of the sample.

  The storage unit 130 has a hard disk that magnetically stores information, and a memory that electrically reads various programs related to the process from the hard disk when the automatic analyzer 1 executes the process. The storage unit 130 stores information such as absorbance calculated by the analysis unit 120. The storage unit 130 may include an auxiliary storage device that can read information stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a PC card.

  The output unit 140 includes a display, a printer, a speaker, and the like, and outputs absorbance, sample analysis results, and the like. Further, the output unit 140 may output the absorbance, the analysis result of the sample, and the like to an external device via a communication network (not shown).

  In the automatic analyzer 1 configured as described above, the first reagent dispensing mechanism 61 dispenses the first reagent from the first reagent container 41a to the reaction container 30a with respect to the reaction containers 30a that are sequentially transferred. The sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses a specified amount of sample from the sample container 10a to the reaction container 30a. Subsequently, after the first stirring unit 71 stirs and reacts the first reagent in the reaction container 30a with the sample, the photometric unit 80 measures the absorbance of the mixed solution of the first reagent and the sample. Further, the second reagent dispensing mechanism 62 dispenses the second reagent from the second reagent container 42a to the reaction container 30a as necessary. Subsequently, after the second stirring unit 72 stirs and reacts the mixed solution of the first reagent, the sample, and the second reagent in the reaction container 30a, the photometry unit 80 performs the first reagent, the sample, and the second reagent. The absorbance of the mixed solution is measured. Then, the analysis unit 120 analyzes the measurement result and automatically performs component analysis of the sample. In addition, the cleaning unit 90 cleans and dries the reaction container 30a that has been measured by the photometric unit 80, and a series of analysis processes of the sequentially received samples are continuously performed.

  Here, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not it is an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 during a series of analysis processes of the sequentially received samples. When the operation state determination unit 100a determines that the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is not in an operation state in which the sample is dispensed, the accuracy analysis control unit 100b performs an operation until the sample dispensing mechanism 50 enters an operation state in which the sample can be dispensed. In the meantime, the dye solution is dispensed into the reaction container 30a a predetermined number of times by the sample dispensing mechanism 50, and the absorbance of the dispensed dye solution is measured. The accuracy correctness determination unit 100c determines whether or not the dispensing accuracy of the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is normal based on the absorbance of the dye solution measured a predetermined number of times, and dispenses the sample by the sample dispensing mechanism 50. When the injection accuracy has dropped, the series of sample processing is stopped.

  Next, with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. 3, a sequence of a series of sample analysis processes sequentially received by the control unit 100 will be described. First, as shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 100 performs an analysis process on the sample received as the first series of analysis processes (hereinafter referred to as the first analysis process) (step S100), and as the next series of analysis processes. After the received sample analysis process (hereinafter referred to as the next analysis process) is performed (step S200), it is determined whether or not the acceptance of the series of sample analysis processes is completed (step S1), and the series of samples is determined. If the acceptance of the analysis process is not completed (step S1; No), the process proceeds to step S200 and the above-described process is repeated. On the other hand, when reception of a series of analysis processes for the sample is completed (step S1; Yes), the control unit 100 ends this process.

  Here, the first analysis processing procedure by the control unit 100 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, first, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not the sample received as the first analysis process is in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S101). Here, when the received sample is not in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses, the sample container 10a containing the received sample is transferred to a position where the sample dispensing mechanism 50 sucks the sample. Or a state in which the specimen is not transferred to the position where the specimen is discharged by the specimen dispensing mechanism 50. When the sample received as the first analysis process is in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S101; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b proceeds to step S118, and the received sample is analyzed. After performing the analysis process, the process returns to step S100 in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the sample received as the first analysis process is not in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S101; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b performs the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism 50. Whether or not the self-diagnosis check setting for automatically diagnosing is determined (step S102).

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the self-diagnosis check setting causes the input setting screen 140 a to be output to the output unit 140, and the operator selects “Yes” in the setting item of the self-diagnosis check setting by the input unit 110. The setting is canceled by selecting “No”.

  If the self-diagnosis check setting is not set (step S102; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b proceeds to step S118, performs the received sample analysis process, and then returns to step S100 in FIG. On the other hand, when it is a self-diagnosis check setting (step S102; Yes), the precision analysis control part 100b starts the dispensing process of the dye solution from the dye solution storage part 51a to the reaction container 30a (step S103). Thus, when there is an idle time in the sample dispensing operation by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 during a series of analysis processes of the samples that are sequentially received, the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses the sample using this idle time. Processing for confirming accuracy is started.

  Here, the amount of the dye solution to be dispensed into the reaction container 30a is, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, by causing the input setting screen 140a to be output to the output unit 140 and the operator to set the dispensing amount using the input unit 110. It is set by selecting an arbitrary dispensing amount from among a plurality of dispensing amounts in the item.

  When the dye solution dispensing process is started, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not the sample received as the first analysis process is in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses ( Step S104). When the sample received as the first analysis process is in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S104; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b is configured to cancel the dye liquid dispensing process. Whether or not (step S105).

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the setting for canceling the dye liquid dispensing process is such that the input setting screen 140 a is output to the output unit 140, and the operator sets the setting items of the self-diagnosis check setting by the input unit 110. Setting is made by selecting a certain “Yes”, and setting is canceled by selecting “No”.

  When the setting is to cancel the dye solution dispensing process (step S105; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b stops the dye solution dispensing process (step S106), proceeds to step S118, and is accepted. After performing a series of analysis processes on the sample, the process returns to step S100 in FIG. Thus, the sample analysis process can be prioritized over the dye liquid dispensing process. On the other hand, if the setting is not to cancel the dye liquid dispensing process (step S105; No), the process proceeds to step S107.

  On the other hand, when the sample received as the first analysis process is not in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S104; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether the dye liquid dispensing process has been completed. Is determined (step S107). When the dispensing process of the dye solution is completed (step S107; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b transfers the reaction container 30a in which the dye solution has been dispensed to the position where the diluent is discharged, and the diluent storage unit A dispensing process for a prescribed amount of diluent is started from 43a into the reaction vessel 30a (step S108). On the other hand, when the dispensing process of the dye solution is not completed (step S107; No), the process proceeds to step S104 and the above-described process is repeated.

  When the diluent dispensing process is started, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not the sample received as the first analysis process is in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses ( Step S109). When the sample received as the first analysis process is in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S109; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b is configured to cancel the diluent dispensing process. Whether or not (step S110).

  Here, the setting for canceling the diluting solution dispensing process is the same as the dye solution, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the input setting screen 140 a is output to the output unit 140, and the operator performs self-diagnosis by the input unit 110. It is set by selecting “Yes” in the setting item of the check setting, and the setting is canceled by selecting “No”.

  When the setting is to cancel the diluting liquid dispensing process (step S110; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b stops the diluting liquid dispensing process (step S111), proceeds to step S118, and is accepted. After performing a series of analysis processes on the sample, the process returns to step S100 in FIG. Thus, the sample analysis process can be prioritized over the diluent dispensing process. On the other hand, when it is not the setting which cancels the dispensing process of dilution liquid (Step S110; No), it shifts to Step S112.

  On the other hand, when the sample received as the first analysis process is not in an operation state in which the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses (step S109; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether the diluent dispensing process has been completed. Is determined (step S112). When the dispensing process of the diluted solution is completed (step S112; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b measures the absorbance of the diluted dye solution (step S113). Next, the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether or not the number of times of dispensing the dye solution has reached a predetermined number (step S114).

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the number of times of dispensing of the dye solution is output to the output unit 140 by the input setting screen 140 a, and the operator inputs a desired value in the input field in the setting item of the number of times of dispensing. It is set by inputting the number of times.

  When the number of dispensing of the dye solution has not reached the predetermined number (step S114; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b proceeds to step S103 and repeats the above-described processing. On the other hand, when the number of times of dispensing of the dye solution has reached the predetermined number (step S114; Yes), the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c calculates the coefficient of variation of the absorbance of the dye solution obtained by analyzing the predetermined number of times (step S114). S115).

  Next, the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c determines whether or not the calculated variation coefficient is less than the reference value CV (step S116), and the calculated variation coefficient is not less than the reference value CV, that is, greater than or equal to the reference value CV. (Step S116; No), the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c stops the sample analysis process (Step S117). When the calculated coefficient of variation is equal to or greater than the reference value CV, the sample analysis process is stopped because the variation in the dispensed amount is large, so that the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is reduced. In this state, a series of analysis processing of the specimen is not continued.

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the reference value CV serving as a reference for the coefficient of variation causes the input setting screen 140 a to be output to the output unit 140, and the operator inputs the reference value CV in the setting item of the reference value CV. It is set by inputting a numerical value as a desired reference value corresponding to the dispensed amount in the column.

  On the other hand, when the calculated coefficient of variation is less than the reference value CV (step S116; Yes), the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c performs a series of sample analysis processes (step S118), and then proceeds to step S100 in FIG. Return.

  Next, the next analysis processing procedure by the control unit 100 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, first, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not the sample is in an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism 50, that is, whether or not the sample analysis process is accepted. (Step S201). When the sample analysis process has been received (step S201; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b proceeds to step S218, performs the received sample analysis process, and then returns to step S200 in FIG. To do. On the other hand, if the sample analysis process has not been accepted (step S201; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b is set for self-diagnosis check for automatically diagnosing the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism 50. Is determined (step S202).

  Here, the self-diagnosis check setting is performed by an input setting screen 140a output to the output unit 140, for example, as shown in FIG. When the self-diagnosis check setting is not set (step S202; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b returns to step S200 in FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is a self-diagnosis check setting (step S202; Yes), the precision analysis control part 100b starts the dispensing process of the dye solution from the dye solution storage part 51a to the reaction container 30a (step S203). Thus, when there is an idle time in the sample dispensing operation by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 during a series of analysis processes of the samples that are sequentially received, the sample dispensing mechanism 50 dispenses the sample using this idle time. Processing for confirming accuracy is started.

  Here, the amount of the dye solution to be dispensed into the reaction container 30a is set by, for example, an input setting screen 140a output to the output unit 140, as shown in FIG. Is called.

  When the dye solution dispensing process is started, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not the sample analysis process is accepted (step S204). When the sample analysis process has been received (step S204; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether or not the setting is to cancel the dye solution dispensing process (step S205).

  Here, the setting for canceling the dispensing process of the dye solution is similar to the first analysis process, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the input setting screen 140 a is output to the output unit 140, and the operator operates the input unit 110. The setting is made by selecting “Yes” in the setting item of the self-diagnosis check setting, and the setting is canceled by selecting “No”.

  When the setting is to cancel the dye solution dispensing process (step S205; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b stops the dye solution dispensing process (step S206), proceeds to step S218, and is accepted. After performing a series of analysis processes on the sample, the process returns to step S200 in FIG. Thus, the sample analysis process can be prioritized over the dye liquid dispensing process. On the other hand, if the setting is not to cancel the dye liquid dispensing process (step S205; No), the process proceeds to step S207.

  On the other hand, when the sample analysis process is not received (step S204; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether or not the dye liquid dispensing process is completed (step S207). When the dispensing process of the dye solution is completed (step S207; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b transfers the reaction container 30a in which the dye solution is dispensed to the position where the diluent is discharged, and the diluent storage unit A dispensing process for a prescribed amount of diluent from 43a to the reaction vessel 30a is started (step S208). On the other hand, when the dispensing process of the dye solution is not completed (step S207; No), the process proceeds to step S204 and the above-described process is repeated.

  When the diluting liquid dispensing process is started, the operation state determination unit 100a determines whether or not the sample analysis process is accepted (step S209). When the sample analysis process has been received (step S209; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether or not the setting is to cancel the dilution liquid dispensing process (step S210).

  Here, the setting for canceling the diluting liquid dispensing process is the same as in the first analysis process. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the input setting screen 140 a is output to the output unit 140, and the operator operates the input unit 110. The setting is made by selecting “Yes” in the setting item of the self-diagnosis check setting, and the setting is canceled by selecting “No”.

  When the setting is to cancel the diluting liquid dispensing process (step S210; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b stops the diluting liquid dispensing process (step S210), proceeds to step S218, and is accepted. After performing a series of analysis processes on the sample, the process returns to step S200 in FIG. Thus, the sample analysis process can be prioritized over the diluent dispensing process. On the other hand, when it is not the setting which cancels the dispensing process of dilution liquid (Step S210; No), it shifts to Step S212.

  On the other hand, when the sample analysis process has been received (step S209; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether or not the diluent dispensing process has been completed (step S212). When the dispensing process of the diluted solution is completed (step S212; Yes), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b measures the absorbance of the diluted dye solution (step S213). Next, the accuracy analysis control unit 100b determines whether or not the number of times of dispensing the dye solution has reached a predetermined number (step S214).

  Here, the number of times of dispensing of the dye solution is the same as in the first analysis process, for example, as shown in FIG. It is set by inputting a desired number of times in the input field in the setting item.

  When the number of times of dispensing of the dye solution has not reached the predetermined number (step S214; No), the accuracy analysis control unit 100b proceeds to step S203 and repeats the above-described processing. On the other hand, when the number of times of dispensing of the dye solution has reached the predetermined number (step S214; Yes), the accuracy correctness determining unit 100c calculates the coefficient of variation of the absorbance of the dye solution obtained by analyzing the predetermined number of times (step S214). S215).

  Next, the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c determines whether or not the calculated variation coefficient is less than the reference value CV (step S216), and the calculated variation coefficient is not less than the reference value CV, that is, greater than or equal to the reference value CV. (Step S216; No), the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c stops the sample analysis process (step S217). When the calculated coefficient of variation is equal to or greater than the reference value CV, the sample analysis process is stopped because the variation in the dispensed amount is large, so that the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is reduced. In this state, a series of analysis processing of the specimen is not continued.

  Here, the reference value CV serving as the reference for the coefficient of variation is the same as in the first analysis process, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the input setting screen 140a is output to the output unit 140, and the operator uses the input unit 110 as a reference. It is set by inputting a numerical value as a desired reference value corresponding to the dispensed amount in the input field in the setting item of the value CV.

  On the other hand, when the calculated variation coefficient is less than the reference value CV (step S216; Yes), the accuracy correctness determination unit 100c returns to step S200 in FIG.

  In this embodiment, when there is a vacant time in the sample dispensing operation by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 during a series of analysis processes of sequentially received samples, the sample dispensing mechanism 50 uses this vacant time. It becomes possible to confirm the dispensing accuracy of the specimen. Thereby, when the sample dispensing accuracy by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 is lowered, it is possible to perform treatment for maintaining accuracy. Therefore, the reliability of analysis can be increased without degrading the analysis processing capability of the apparatus.

  In this embodiment, the accuracy analysis control unit 100b is in an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism 50 during the dye solution dispensing process or the diluent dispensing process. In this case, the analysis process of the sample is performed by stopping the dispensing process of the dye solution or the diluted solution. Therefore, the analysis process of the sample may be performed in preference to the dispensing process of the dye solution or the diluted solution. it can. Therefore, the analysis processing capability of the automatic analyzer 1 is not reduced.

  Further, in this embodiment, the dye solution storage unit 51a is disposed on the locus of the sample dispensing nozzle 50b that moves between the position where the sample is aspirated and discharged, and the diluent storage unit 43a is Since it is arranged on the locus of the first reagent dispensing nozzle 61b that moves between the position where one reagent is aspirated and the position where it is ejected, the dye solution and the diluted solution can be quickly dispensed into the reaction vessel 30a. it can.

  Further, in this embodiment, since a dye solution that is easy to handle and inexpensive as a liquid sample for confirming the dispensing accuracy is used, is the dispensing accuracy of the sample dispensing mechanism 50 normal without any effort and cost? It can be determined whether or not.

  In this embodiment, the liquid sample for confirming the dispensing accuracy is exemplified by using the dye solution. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the state where the dispensing accuracy of the specimen dispensing mechanism 50 is normal, the sample is continuously used. Even if the absorbance is measured by dispensing a plurality of times, any liquid sample can be used as long as approximately the same absorbance measurement value can be obtained.

  In this embodiment, an example in which a prescribed amount of diluent is dispensed from the diluent container 43a into the reaction vessel 30a to dilute the dye solution is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the photometric unit 80 can perform photometry. It suffices to dispense a sufficient amount of the dye solution into the reaction vessel 30a. For example, the liquid Wa filled in the pipe 50d of the sample dispensing mechanism 50 shown in FIG. 2 may be used as the diluent. In this case, the valve 50e is switched to “open”, a diluent is supplied from a supply mechanism (not shown) into the pipe 50d, and a prescribed amount of diluent is supplied from the sample dispensing nozzle 50b to the reaction vessel 30a. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 7, the automatic analyzer 4 can have a simple device configuration that does not include the diluent holding unit 43.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the detail of the sample dispensing mechanism shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a series of analysis processing of the sample sequentially received by the control part shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the first analysis process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the next analysis processing shown in FIG. It is a figure explaining the input setting screen output to the output part shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which is a modification of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,4 Automatic analyzer 2 Measuring part 3 Control apparatus 10 Sample supply part 10a, 20a Sample container 10b Sample rack 20 Sample holding part 30 Reaction tank 30a Reaction container 41 1st reagent container 41a 1st reagent container 42 2nd reagent container 42a Second reagent container 43 Diluent holder 43a Diluent container 50 Sample dispensing mechanism 50a, 61a, 62a Arm 50b Sample dispensing nozzle 50c Intake / exhaust mechanism 50d Pipe 50e Valve 51 Dye solution holding section 51a Dye solution container 61 First Reagent dispensing mechanism 61b 1st reagent dispensing nozzle 62 2nd reagent dispensing mechanism 62b 2nd reagent dispensing nozzle 71 1st stirring part 72 2nd stirring part 80 Photometry part 90 Washing part 100 Control part 100a Operation state judgment part 100b Accuracy analysis control unit 100c Accuracy correctness determination unit 110 Input unit 120 Analysis unit 130 Storage unit 140 Output 140a input setting screen Wa liquid S analyte CV reference value

Claims (5)

The reaction container dispenses the specimen dispensed from the specimen container containing the specimen into the reaction container by the specimen dispensing mechanism and the reagent dispensed from the reagent container containing the reagent to the reaction container by the reagent dispensing mechanism. An automatic analyzer that performs a series of analysis processes for measuring the absorbance by reacting in the sample and analyzing the sample, wherein the sample dispensing mechanism has a sample dispensing nozzle for aspirating and discharging the sample The automatic analyzer is
Determining means for determining whether or not the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operation state of dispensing the sample during the series of sequentially received analysis processes;
If the determination means determines that the sample dispensing mechanism is not in an operating state for dispensing the sample, the sample dispensing mechanism is in operation until the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operating state for dispensing the sample. A control means for controlling to measure the absorbance of the dispensed liquid sample by dispensing a liquid sample for confirmation of dispensing accuracy into the reaction container a predetermined number of times by
Determination means for determining whether or not the dispensing accuracy of the specimen dispensing mechanism is normal based on the absorbance of the liquid sample measured only the predetermined number of times;
An automatic analyzer comprising: a holding unit that is disposed on a locus of the sample dispensing nozzle that moves between a position where the sample is aspirated and a position where the sample is discharged, and which stores the liquid sample . The reagent dispensing mechanism has a reagent dispensing nozzle for aspirating and discharging the reagent,
Diluent holding means disposed on the locus of the reagent dispensing nozzle that moves between a position for aspirating the reagent and a position for discharging the reagent, and for storing a diluent for diluting the liquid sample in the reaction vessel The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 , further comprising: The reaction container dispenses the specimen dispensed from the specimen container containing the specimen into the reaction container by the specimen dispensing mechanism and the reagent dispensed from the reagent container containing the reagent to the reaction container by the reagent dispensing mechanism. An automatic analyzer that performs a series of analysis processes for measuring the absorbance by reacting in the sample and analyzing the sample, wherein the reagent dispensing mechanism has a reagent dispensing nozzle for aspirating and discharging the reagent The automatic analyzer is
Determining means for determining whether or not the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operation state of dispensing the sample during the series of sequentially received analysis processes;
If the determination means determines that the sample dispensing mechanism is not in an operating state for dispensing the sample, the sample dispensing mechanism is in operation until the sample dispensing mechanism is in an operating state for dispensing the sample. A control means for controlling to measure the absorbance of the dispensed liquid sample by dispensing a liquid sample for confirmation of dispensing accuracy into the reaction container a predetermined number of times by
Determination means for determining whether or not the dispensing accuracy of the specimen dispensing mechanism is normal based on the absorbance of the liquid sample measured only the predetermined number of times;
Diluent holding means disposed on the locus of the reagent dispensing nozzle that moves between a position for aspirating the reagent and a position for discharging the reagent, and for storing a diluent for diluting the liquid sample in the reaction vessel When
An automatic analyzer characterized by comprising: The determination means has not transferred the sample container containing the sample that has received the first series of analysis processing to a position where the sample is sucked by the sample dispensing mechanism and / or the first series. The reaction container in which the sample that has received the analysis process is discharged has not been transferred to the position where the sample is discharged by the sample dispensing mechanism, or the series of analysis processes to be performed next is received. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the automatic analyzer determines that a state in which the sample is not dispensed is not an operation state in which the sample is dispensed by the sample dispensing mechanism.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the liquid sample is a dye solution.

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