JP5808473B2 - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an automatic analyzer including a dispensing probe that dispenses a liquid.

  The automatic analyzer is intended for biochemical test items and immunological test items, etc., and changes in color and turbidity caused by the reaction of the mixture of the sample collected from the specimen and the reagent of each test item are measured with a spectrophotometer or a ratio. Optical data is measured by a photometric unit such as a turbidimeter, thereby generating analysis data represented by concentrations of various test item components in the sample, enzyme activities, and the like.

  In this automatic analyzer, since it is necessary to process a large number of samples and a large number of inspection items, each analysis unit is operated at a high speed, and the inspection target items set from the large number of inspection items for each sample are detected. Perform analysis. And a sample and a reagent are dispensed into a reaction container by each dispensing probe, and the mixed solution is measured by a photometric unit. Each dispensing probe is washed with washing water at the end of dispensing.

  However, if inspection items (influence items) that are sensitive to components such as components and trace components that require high accuracy are set for the sample, the subsequent sample in which the influence items are set via the dispensing probe. It has been known that there is a problem that the analysis data of the influence item deteriorates due to carry-over between test samples brought into the laboratory. In addition, there is a problem that analysis data of a test item using the affected reagent deteriorates due to carryover between the reagents brought into the succeeding reagent affected by the preceding reagent through the dispensing probe. is there.

  In order to solve this problem, set the detergent container to which the detergent with stronger washing power than the washing water has been transferred in place, and dispense the sample with the affected items set. By washing the dispensing probe with this detergent, it is possible to prevent the analysis data of the affected items from deteriorating. In addition, after dispensing the affected reagent, wash the dispensing probe with the detergent in the detergent container, and then dispense the affected reagent, thereby analyzing the analysis data for the test item that uses the affected reagent. Can be prevented.

JP-A-6-207944

  However, if the amount of detergent in the set detergent container is insufficient, it is necessary to temporarily stop the operation of each analysis unit and replenish the detergent. Further, when the number of times of washing with the detergent is increased, the detergent in the detergent container is consumed and the liquid level is lowered. Therefore, there is a problem that the moving distance of the dispensing probe is increased and it takes too much time for washing the detergent.

  The embodiment has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an automatic analyzer that can reduce the time and effort required for replenishing detergent and the time required for washing the detergent.

  In order to achieve the above object, the automatic analyzer of the embodiment dispenses a sample and a reagent, and in the automatic analyzer that measures the mixed solution, performs dispensing to suck and discharge the sample, A dispensing probe provided with a detection means for detecting the liquid level of the liquid by bringing it into contact with the liquid level of the liquid to be sucked, a detergent pot for storing the detergent for washing the dispensing probe, and the dispensing probe And a dispensing probe moving means for stopping the detergent pot at or near the detergent suction position of the detergent pot, and the detergent pot sucked by the dispensing probe stopped at the detergent suction position of the detergent pot. And a detergent supply means for supplying the dispensing probe, the dispensing probe moving means moves the dispensing probe to the detergent suction position when cleaning the dispensing probe. When the detection means cannot detect the liquid level of the detergent during the operation, the dispensing probe is stopped at the detergent suction position, and the detergent supply means is configured to move the dispensing probe to the detergent suction position. After stopping, the amount of the detergent reaching the position where the detergent suction distance is increased is supplied from the position where the detection means detects the liquid level.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on an Example. The perspective view which shows the structure of the analysis part which concerns on an Example. The figure which shows the structure of the washing | cleaning part which wash | cleans the sample dispensing probe which concerns on an Example. The figure which shows arrangement | positioning of the washing tank which wash | cleans the sample dispensing probe which concerns on an Example. The external view which shows the structure of the washing tank which wash | cleans the sample dispensing probe which concerns on an Example. The figure for demonstrating detergent washing | cleaning of the sample dispensing probe which concerns on an Example. The figure for demonstrating the structure of the washing | cleaning part which wash | cleans the 1st reagent dispensing probe which concerns on an Example. The figure for demonstrating the structure of the washing | cleaning part which wash | cleans the 2nd reagent dispensing probe which concerns on an Example. The figure which shows an example of the influence item setting screen displayed on the display part which concerns on an Example. The flowchart which shows the operation | movement which wash | cleans the sample dispensing probe of the automatic analyzer which concerns on an Example. The flowchart which shows the operation | movement which wash | cleans the sample dispensing probe of the automatic analyzer which concerns on an Example.

  Examples will be described below.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of an automatic analyzer will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. This automatic analyzer 100 measures a standard solution or test data by measuring a mixed solution of each sample such as a standard sample of each test item or a test sample collected from a test sample and a reagent used for analysis of each test item. And an analysis control unit 25 that drives and controls each analysis unit related to the measurement of the analysis unit 24.

  Also, the standard data and test data generated by the analysis unit 24 are processed to generate calibration data and analysis data, and the calibration data and analysis data generated by the data processing unit 30 are printed out. And an output unit 40 for displaying and outputting, an operation unit 50 for inputting various command signals, and the like, an analysis control unit 25, a data processing unit 30, and a system control unit 60 for controlling the output unit 40 in an integrated manner. Yes.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis unit 24. The analysis unit 24 includes a sample container 17 that accommodates each sample such as a standard sample and a test sample, a sample disk 5 that holds the sample container 17, and one reagent that reacts with a component of an inspection item included in each sample. Reagent container 6 for storing the first reagent of the system and the two reagent system, the reagent container 1 for storing the reagent container 6, and the reagent rack 1a for rotatably holding the reagent container 6 stored in the reagent container 1 A reagent container 7 containing a second reagent paired with a first reagent of the two reagent system, a reagent container 2 storing the reagent container 7, and a reagent container 7 stored in the reagent container 2 being rotated. A reagent rack 2a that can be held and a reaction disk 4 that rotatably holds a plurality of reaction vessels 3 arranged on the circumference are provided.

  In addition, a sample dispensing probe 16 for dispensing each sample in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 and sucking it into the reaction container 3, and rotating and moving the sample dispensing probe 16 up and down. A sample dispensing arm 10 that can be held, and a cleaning unit that cleans the sample dispensing probe 16 using cleaning water from the pure water device 110 or a detergent having a stronger cleaning power than the cleaning water, such as an alkaline detergent. 70. Further, the liquid level of the liquid in the sample in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 and the detergent stored in the cleaning unit 70 is changed to the liquid generated by the contact between the liquid level and one end of the sample dispensing probe 16. And a sample detector 16a that detects the change in capacitance between the sample dispensing probes 16.

  In addition, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 for aspirating the first reagent in the reagent container 6 held in the reagent rack 1a and dispensing the first reagent into the reaction container 3 from which each sample has been discharged, and the first reagent. A first reagent dispensing arm 8 that holds the reagent dispensing probe 14 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable, and a cleaning unit 80 that cleans the first reagent dispensing probe 14 using cleaning water or a detergent from the pure water device 110. And the liquid level of each liquid of the first reagent in the reagent container 6 held in the reagent rack 1a and the detergent stored in the washing unit 80 is detected by contact between the liquid level and the first reagent dispensing probe 14. And a first reagent detector 14a.

  Also, a first stirrer 18 that stirs the mixed solution of each sample and the first reagent discharged into the reaction vessel 3, and a first stirrer arm 20 that holds the first stirrer 18 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. And a washing tank 18a for washing the first stirring bar 18 every time the stirring of the mixed solution is completed.

  In addition, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 for aspirating the second reagent in the reagent container 7 held in the reagent rack 2a and dispensing it into the reaction container 3 from which the first reagent has been discharged, and the first reagent A second reagent dispensing arm 9 that holds the two reagent dispensing probes 15 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable, and a cleaning unit that cleans the second reagent dispensing probes 15 using cleaning water or detergent from the pure water device 110. 90 and the liquid level of each liquid of the second reagent in the reagent container 7 held in the reagent rack 2 a and the detergent stored in the washing unit 90 by contacting the liquid level with the second reagent dispensing probe 15. And a second reagent detector 15a for detection.

  Also, a second stirrer 19 that stirs the mixed solution of each sample, first reagent, and second reagent in the reaction vessel 3, and a second stirrer arm that holds the second stirrer 19 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable 21, a washing tank 19 a for washing the second stirrer 19 every time stirring of the mixed solution, a photometric unit 13 for optically measuring the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 3 by irradiating light, and a photometric unit 13 And a reaction container cleaning section 12 for cleaning the inside of the reaction container 3 after the measurement.

  Then, the photometry unit 13 irradiates light to the reaction vessel 3 that rotates and crosses, detects light transmitted through the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 3 by this irradiation for each wavelength of the inspection item, and detects the detected signal. Based on this, for example, standard data represented by absorbance data and test data are generated. Then, the generated standard data and test data are output to the data processing unit 30.

  The analysis control unit 25 includes a mechanism unit 26 having a mechanism including a motor that drives each analysis unit of the analysis unit 24 and a control unit 27 that controls each mechanism of the mechanism unit 26. The mechanism unit 26 includes a mechanism for rotating the sample disk 5, the reagent rack 1a, and the reagent rack 2a and a mechanism for rotating the reaction disk 4 for each analysis cycle. The sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, the second reagent dispensing arm 9, the first stirring arm 20, and the second stirring arm 21 are each provided with a mechanism for rotating and vertically moving. Moreover, the mechanism which moves the reaction container washing | cleaning part 12 up and down is provided. In addition, a mechanism for driving the cleaning units of the cleaning units 70, 80, 90 is provided.

  The control unit 27 drives each analysis unit such as the sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, and the second reagent dispensing arm 9 of the mechanism unit 26 and the washing units of the washing units 70, 80, and 90. A control circuit for controlling each mechanism is provided. Then, by controlling the mechanisms of the sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, and the second reagent dispensing arm 9, the sample dispensing probe 16, the first reagent dispensing probe 14, and the second reagent. The dispensing probe 15 is moved.

  The control circuit of the sample dispensing arm 10 of the control unit 27 is configured so that the sample dispensing probe 16 is placed on the rotation mechanism of the sample dispensing arm 10 at the height of the top dead center. Move to each upper stop position. Further, a downward movement drive pulse is supplied to the vertical movement mechanism of the sample dispensing arm 10 to move it downward from each upper stop position, and stop at a predetermined position based on a signal from the sample detector 16a of the analysis unit 24.

  Then, the sample disk 5 is moved downward from the upper stop position, and the sample can be sucked from the position where the liquid level of each sample in the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 is detected by the sample detector 16a. The sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at a position where the sample suction distance is lowered to a proper depth. Further, the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at a position where one end is in contact with the bottom surface in the reaction container 3 by moving the reaction container 3 downward from the upper stop position.

  Further, the cleaning unit 70 is moved downward from the upper stop position toward the detergent suction position. If the liquid level of the detergent cannot be detected by the sample detector 16a during the movement to the detergent suction position, the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at the detergent suction position. Further, when the detergent level is detected by the sample detector 16a during the movement to the detergent suction position, it is near the detergent suction position lowered by a distance (detergent suction distance) greater than the sample suction distance from the detection position. The sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped.

  The control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 of the control unit 27 is configured to place the first reagent dispensing probe 14 on the rotating mechanism of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 at the height of the top dead center in the reagent container 1 and the reaction container 3. , And the cleaning unit 80 are moved to the respective upper stop positions, and then a downward movement drive pulse is supplied to the vertical movement mechanism of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 to lower the reagent container 1 and the cleaning unit 80 from the respective upper stop positions. And is stopped at a predetermined position based on a signal from the first reagent detector 14a of the analysis unit 24.

  Then, the first reagent can be aspirated from the position where the first reagent detector 14a detects the liquid level of each first reagent in the reagent container 6 by moving the reagent container 1 downward from the upper stop position. The first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped at a position where the reagent suction distance, which is the depth, is lowered.

  Further, the cleaning unit 80 is moved downward from the upper stop position toward the detergent suction position. When the detergent level cannot be detected by the first reagent detector 14a during the movement to the detergent suction position, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped at the detergent suction position. Further, when the liquid level of the detergent is detected by the first reagent detector 14a during the movement to the detergent suction position of the cleaning unit 80, the reagent suction has a depth that allows the detergent to be sucked from the detection position. The first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped in the vicinity of the detergent suction position lowered by a distance (reagent detergent suction distance) that is equal to or greater than the distance.

  The control circuit of the second reagent dispensing arm 9 of the control unit 27 is configured to place the second reagent dispensing probe 15 on the rotating mechanism of the second reagent dispensing arm 9 at the height of the top dead center, the reagent storage 2 and the reaction container 3. , And the cleaning unit 90 is moved to each upper stop position, and then a downward movement drive pulse is supplied to the vertical movement mechanism of the second reagent dispensing arm 9 to lower the reagent container 2 and the cleaning unit 90 from the respective upper stop positions. And is stopped at a predetermined position based on a signal from the second reagent detector 15a of the analysis unit 24.

  Then, the second reagent can be aspirated from the position where the second reagent detector 15a detects the liquid level of each second reagent in the reagent container 7 by moving the reagent container 2 downward from the upper stop position. The second reagent dispensing probe 15 is stopped at the position where the reagent aspiration distance is lowered.

  Further, the cleaning unit 90 is moved downward from the upper stop position toward the detergent suction position. When the detergent level cannot be detected by the second reagent detector 15a during the movement to the detergent suction position, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped at the detergent suction position. In addition, when the detergent level of the detergent is detected by the second reagent detector 15a during the movement to the detergent suction position of the cleaning unit 90, the detergent suction position is lowered near the detergent suction distance for the reagent from the detection position. The first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped.

  The data processing unit 30 shown in FIG. 1 includes a calculation unit 31 that processes standard data and test data output from the photometry unit 13 of the analysis unit 24 to generate calibration data and analysis data for each inspection item, A data storage unit 32 for storing the standard data and analysis data generated by the unit 31.

  The calculation unit 31 generates calibration data representing the relationship between the standard value and the standard data from the standard data output from the photometry unit 13 and a standard value preset in the standard sample of the standard data, and the generated calibration data is The data is output to the output unit 40 and stored in the data storage unit 32.

  Further, the calibration data of the inspection item corresponding to the test data output from the photometry unit 13 is read from the data storage unit 32. Then, analysis data represented as a concentration value or an activity value is generated from the test data output from the photometry unit 13 using the read calibration data. The generated analysis data is output to the output unit 40 and stored in the data storage unit 32.

  The data storage unit 32 includes a memory device such as a hard disk, and stores the calibration data output from the calculation unit 31 for each inspection item. Moreover, the analysis data of each inspection item output from the calculation unit 31 is stored for each test sample.

  The output unit 40 includes a printing unit 41 that prints out calibration data and analysis data output from the calculation unit 31 of the data processing unit 30 and a display unit 42 that displays and outputs the calibration data. The printing unit 41 includes a printer or the like, and prints the calibration data and analysis data output from the calculation unit 31 on printer paper or the like according to a preset format.

  The display unit 42 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel, and displays calibration data and analysis data output from the calculation unit 31. Also, an analysis parameter setting screen for setting analysis parameters of test items that can be analyzed by the automatic analyzer 100, and a reagent for setting information of reagents used for analysis of the test items set on the analysis parameter setting screen Display the information setting screen. Also, for each test sample, setting of inspection items for selecting and setting items to be inspected from identification information for identifying the test samples such as name and ID, and inspection items set on the analysis parameter setting screen Display the screen.

  In addition, to set inspection items (influence items) that are easily affected by components or trace components that require high accuracy due to carry-over between test samples from the inspection items set on the analysis parameter setting screen. Display the influence item setting screen. Further, an influence reagent setting screen for setting the first and second reagents that are affected by carry-over between reagents and the first and second reagents that are affected by the first and second reagents are displayed.

  The operation unit 50 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, and includes analysis parameters for each test item, reagent information, test sample identification information and test items, affected items, and first and An input operation for setting the second reagent and the affected first and second reagents is performed. In addition, a measurement start operation for causing the analysis unit 24 to measure each sample is performed.

  The system control unit 60 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and includes analysis parameter information, reagent information, test sample identification information, test item information, and influence item information input by operation from the operation unit 50. After storing input information such as information, information on the first and second reagents affecting and information on the affected first and second reagents in the storage circuit, the analysis control unit 25, data processing based on these input information The unit 30 and the output unit 40 are controlled to control the entire system.

  Next, the configuration of the cleaning units 70, 80, and 90 in the analysis unit 24 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the cleaning unit 70. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the arrangement of some cleaning units of the cleaning unit 70. FIG. 5 is an external view showing the configuration of the cleaning unit shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a view for explaining detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the cleaning unit 80. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the cleaning unit 90.

  In FIG. 3, the cleaning unit 70 includes a cleaning tank 71 for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 using cleaning water and a detergent, a cleaning water supply pump 72 for supplying cleaning water to the cleaning tank 71, and a cleaning tank 71. Each of the cleaning units includes a detergent supply pump 73 that supplies the detergent, and a drainage tank 74 that stores the cleaning water discharged from the cleaning tank 71 and the detergent.

  FIG. 4 is a view showing the arrangement of the cleaning tank 71. This washing tank 71 is arranged between the sample container 17 held on the sample disk 5 and the reaction container 3 held on the reaction disk 4 and is indicated by a broken line of the sample dispensing probe 16 that moves at the height of the top dead center. It is arranged on the indicated circular orbit.

  Thus, by arranging the cleaning tank 71 between the sample container 17 that reciprocates to dispense the sample and the reaction container 3, the sample dispensing probe 16 can be quickly moved to the upper stop position of the cleaning tank 71. Can move. Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced.

  FIG. 5 is an external view showing the configuration of the cleaning tank 71. The washing tank 71 has two washing water supply ports 711 arranged opposite to each other through which the washing water from the washing water supply pump 72 flows, and opposed to each other that discharges the washing water flowing from the washing water supply port 711. The two outlets 712 and the detergent supply port 713 into which the detergent from the detergent supply pump 73 flows are provided.

  Further, the cleaning tank 71 includes a detergent pot 714 having an opening on the upper side for storing the detergent flowing in from the detergent supply port 713, and the sample dispensing probe 16 moving along the circular path pass through the cleaning tank 71. Two notches 715 provided as possible, and a discharge port 716 provided on the lower side for discharging the cleaning water and detergent used for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 to the drainage tank 74 I have.

  The cleaning water supply port 711 and the discharge port 712 are disposed at the same height as one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 that moves along the circular orbit. Then, the cleaning water flowing in from the cleaning water supply port 711 is discharged almost horizontally from the discharge port 712 and comes into contact with the sample at one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 that has moved to a position crossing the discharge port 712 (cleaning water cleaning position). Clean the entire outer wall. In parallel with this cleaning, the entire inner wall in contact with the sample is cleaned with cleaning water supplied into the sample dispensing probe 16 from the other end.

  Further, in order to avoid carryover between the detergent and the test sample, the detergent adhering to the outer wall of one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 that has sucked the detergent for washing the detergent moving to the washing water washing position is washed away. In parallel with this cleaning, the detergent sucked by the cleaning water supplied into the sample dispensing probe 16 from the other end is discharged and the detergent attached to the inner wall is washed away.

  The detergent pot 714 is disposed in the vicinity of the discharge port 712 and is positioned in the vicinity of one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 whose upper end is stopped at the upper stop position.

  In this way, the sample dispensing probe 16 can be moved into the detergent pot 714 in a short time by arranging the detergent pot 714 so that the upper end is positioned in the vicinity of one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 at the upper stop position. Can do. Further, by disposing the detergent pot 714 near the discharge port 712, the sample dispensing probe 16 that has been subjected to the detergent cleaning can be moved to the cleaning water cleaning position in a short time. Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced.

  The cleaning water supply pump 72 shown in FIG. 3 is driven by the mechanism unit 26 of the analysis control unit 25, sucks the cleaning water from the pure water device 110 and supplies the cleaning water to the cleaning tank 71.

  The detergent supply pump 73 is disposed below the cleaning tank 71, and includes a detergent bottle 731 for storing detergent, a detergent pump 732 for supplying detergent to the cleaning liquid tank 71, and a detergent bottle 731 whose first end is a tube. And a three-way valve 733 having a second end connected to the detergent supply port 713 of the washing tank 71 by a tube and a third end connected to the detergent pump 732 by a tube.

  The detergent bottle 731 is disposed below the cleaning tank 71 and below each analysis unit of the analysis unit 24 in FIG. Thereby, since it can arrange | position without enlarging the area in the horizontal direction of the analysis part 24, the capacity | capacitance of the detergent bottle 731 can be increased, and the frequency of replenishing detergent into the detergent bottle 731 can be reduced. .

  The detergent pump 732 is driven by the mechanism unit 26 and sucks detergent from the detergent bottle 731 through the three-way valve 733 whose second end is closed and whose first and third ends are opened. After the suction, the sucked detergent is supplied to the detergent supply port 713 of the cleaning liquid tank 71 through the three-way valve 733 whose first end is closed and whose second and third ends are opened.

  The three-way valve 733 is, for example, a three-way electromagnetic valve that is driven and controlled by the control unit 27. When the detergent is sucked from the detergent bottle 731 by the detergent pump 732, the first and third ends are opened and the second end is opened. Close. When the detergent is supplied to the cleaning liquid tank 71, the second and third ends are opened and the first end is closed.

  As described above, by providing the detergent supply pump 73 that supplies the detergent to the detergent pot 714, it is possible to reduce the time and effort required to replenish the detergent.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 6, the detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 will be described. The sample dispensing probe 16 is moved to the upper stop position above the detergent pot 714 and then moved downward toward the detergent suction position in order to perform detergent washing before dispensing the test sample for which the influence item is set. Let

  Then, as shown in FIG. 6 (a), while one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 is moving to the detergent suction position where the detergent suction distance D is entered into the detergent pot 714, for example, a short distance of 2 mm. If the sample detector 16a cannot detect the level of the detergent in the detergent pot 714, the sample dispensing probe 16 is stopped at the detergent suction position.

  When the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent supply pump 73 supplies detergent to the detergent pot 714. When the detergent level is detected by the sample detector 16a within a preset allowable time after the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent suction distance D is increased from the detection position. Supply as much detergent as possible. As shown in FIG. 6B, the liquid level of the supplied detergent is located at a substantially upper end of the detergent pot 714. Then, the detergent in the detergent pot 714 is sucked to clean the sample dispensing probe 16 with detergent.

  Further, when the liquid level cannot be detected by the sample detector 16a within the allowable time after the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the detergent suction position, for example, the amount of detergent in the detergent bottle 731 is insufficient. to decide. Then, the movement of the sample dispensing probe 16 to the position for dispensing the test sample in which the supply operation of the detergent supply pump 73 and the subsequent influence items are set is stopped, and the display unit 42 displays, for example, the inside of the detergent bottle 731. A message is displayed to notify the information about the amount of the detergent that is insufficient and the information about the test sample for which dispensing has been stopped.

  Further, when the liquid level of the detergent is detected by the sample detector 16a while the sample dispensing probe 16 is moving to the detergent suction position, the sample is dispensed in the vicinity of the detergent suction position that is lower than the detection position by the detergent suction distance D. Note Probe 16 is stopped.

  When the sample dispensing probe 16 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply pump 73 stops supplying detergent into the detergent pot 714. Then, the detergent in the detergent pot 714 is sucked to clean the sample dispensing probe 16 with detergent.

  Thus, the sample dispensing probe 16 can be lowered in a short time by stopping the sample dispensing probe 16 at or near the detergent suction position. When the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent can be supplied in a short time by supplying an amount of detergent necessary for detergent cleaning into the detergent pot 714. Moreover, when the sample dispensing probe 16 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply time into the detergent pot 714 can be stopped to reduce the detergent supply time.

  Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to discard the remaining amount that cannot be sucked when the detergent is transferred to the detergent container, waste of the detergent can be prevented, and the cost of the detergent can be reduced.

  The cleaning unit 80 is configured in the same manner as the cleaning unit 70, and as shown in FIG. 7, the first reagent disposed between the reagent container 6 stored in the reagent container 1 and the reaction container 3 held in the reaction disk 4. A cleaning tank 81 for cleaning water and detergent for the dispensing probe 14 is provided. Although not shown, a cleaning water supply pump that sucks from the pure water device 110 and supplies cleaning water to the cleaning tank 81, a detergent supply pump that supplies detergent to the cleaning tank 81, and cleaning water discharged from the cleaning tank 81 And each washing | cleaning unit of the drainage tank which stores a detergent is provided.

  And while one end of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is moving to the detergent suction position of the cleaning tank 81, it is impossible to detect the level of the detergent stored in the cleaning tank 81 by the first reagent detector 14a. In this case, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped at the detergent suction position.

  When the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent supply pump supplies the detergent to the washing tank 81. Then, when the detergent level is detected by the first reagent detector 14a within the allowable time after the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops at the detergent suction position, the reagent detergent suction distance is increased from the detection position to the position. Supply as much detergent as possible. Then, the detergent in the washing tank 81 is sucked to clean the first reagent dispensing probe 14 with detergent.

  In addition, when it is impossible to detect the liquid level by the first reagent detector 14a within the allowable time after the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops at the detergent suction position, the supply operation of the detergent supply pump and the subsequent effects are provided. The movement of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 to the position for dispensing the first reagent to be received is stopped, information indicating that the amount of detergent is insufficient on the display unit 42, and information on the first reagent that has stopped dispensing. Display a message to notify you.

  Further, when the liquid level of the detergent is detected by the first reagent detector 14a while the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is moving to the detergent suction position, the detergent suction position is lowered from the detection position by the reagent detergent suction distance. The first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped in the vicinity.

  When the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply pump stops supplying the detergent to the detergent cleaning tank 81. Then, the detergent in the washing tank 81 is sucked to clean the first reagent dispensing probe 14 with detergent.

  In this way, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 can be lowered in a short time by stopping the first reagent dispensing probe 14 at or near the detergent suction position. When the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent can be supplied in a short time by supplying the cleaning tank 81 with an amount of detergent necessary for the detergent cleaning. In addition, when the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply time to the cleaning tank 81 can be stopped, whereby the detergent supply time can be reduced.

  Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to discard the remaining amount that cannot be sucked when the detergent is transferred to the detergent container, waste of the detergent can be prevented, and the cost of the detergent can be reduced.

  The cleaning unit 90 is configured in the same manner as the cleaning unit 70, and as shown in FIG. 8, the second reagent disposed between the reagent container 7 stored in the reagent storage 2 and the reaction container 3 held in the reaction disk 4. A cleaning tank 91 for cleaning the dispensing probe 15 and cleaning the detergent is provided. Although not shown, a cleaning water supply pump that sucks from the pure water device 110 and supplies cleaning water to the cleaning tank 91, a detergent supply pump that supplies detergent to the cleaning tank 91, and cleaning water discharged from the cleaning tank 91 And each washing | cleaning unit of the drainage tank which stores a detergent is provided.

  And while the one end of the second reagent dispensing probe 15 is moving to the detergent suction position of the washing tank 91, it is impossible to detect the level of the detergent stored in the washing tank 91 by the second reagent detector 15a. In this case, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 is stopped at the detergent suction position.

  When the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent supply pump supplies the detergent to the washing tank 91. When the second reagent detector 15a detects the detergent liquid level within the allowable time after the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stops at the detergent suction position, the reagent detergent suction distance is increased from the detection position to the position. Supply as much detergent as possible. Then, the detergent in the washing tank 91 is sucked to clean the second reagent dispensing probe 15 with detergent.

  In addition, when the second reagent detector 15a cannot detect the liquid level within the allowable time after the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stops at the detergent suction position, the supply operation of the detergent supply pump and subsequent effects The movement of the second reagent dispensing probe 15 to the position for dispensing the second reagent to be received is stopped, the information indicating that the amount of detergent is insufficient in the display unit 42, and the information on the second reagent that has stopped dispensing. Display a message to notify you.

  Furthermore, when the liquid level of the detergent is detected by the second reagent detector 15a while the second reagent dispensing probe 15 is moving to the detergent suction position, the detergent suction position is lowered by the reagent detergent suction distance from the detection position. The second reagent dispensing probe 15 is stopped in the vicinity.

  When the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply pump stops supplying the detergent to the detergent cleaning tank 91. Then, the detergent in the washing tank 91 is sucked to clean the second reagent dispensing probe 15 with detergent.

  In this way, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 can be lowered in a short time by stopping the second reagent dispensing probe 15 at or near the detergent suction position. When the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent can be supplied in a short time by supplying the cleaning tank 91 with an amount of detergent necessary for the detergent cleaning. In addition, when the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply time to the cleaning tank 91 can be stopped, whereby the detergent supply time can be reduced.

  Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the second reagent dispensing probe 15 can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to discard the remaining amount that cannot be sucked when the detergent is transferred to the detergent container, waste of the detergent can be prevented, and the cost of the detergent can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, an example of the cleaning operation of the sample dispensing probe 16 of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an influence item setting screen displayed on the display unit 42. 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing an operation of cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 of the automatic analyzer 100. FIG.

  In FIG. 9, the influence item setting screen 43 includes an “item” field for displaying the name of the inspection item set on the analysis parameter setting screen by an abbreviation, and an influence item setting area 43 a for setting the influence item. Is done.

  In the “item” column, item names such as “GOT”, “GPT”, “Ca”, and “HBsAg”, which are analysis items that can be analyzed set on the analysis parameter setting screen, are displayed. When an operation for selecting, for example, “HBsAg” as an influential item from the item names displayed in the “item” column is performed from the operation unit 50, the position 43b corresponding to “HBsAg” in the influential item setting area 43a “◯” is displayed, and “•” is displayed at an unselected position. The information on the influence item set on the influence item setting screen 43 by this selection operation is stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 60.

  10 and 11 are flowcharts showing the operation of the automatic analyzer 100. The system control unit 60 includes analysis parameters of test items that can be analyzed, reagent information, identification information of the test sample, test item information set for each test sample, information on the influence item, and the first to affect And information on the second reagent and the affected first and second reagents are stored.

  Reagent containers 6 and 7 containing first and second reagents used for analysis of inspection items are stored in the reagent containers 1 and 2. A sample container 17 containing a test sample to be inspected is held by the disk sampler 5. And if operation which starts the measurement of a test sample is performed from the operation part 50, the automatic analyzer 100 will start operation | movement (step S1 of FIG. 10).

  The system control unit 60 instructs the analysis control unit 25, the data processing unit 30, and the output unit 40 to measure the test sample, and instructs the analysis control unit 25 to perform cleaning. The control unit 27 of the analysis control unit 25 controls the mechanism unit 26 and the cleaning units 70, 80, 90 to sample the sample dispensing arm 10, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, and the second reagent dispensing arm of the analyzing unit 24. 9 and the like are operated, and the analysis units such as the sample dispensing probe 16, the first reagent dispensing probe 14, and the second reagent dispensing probe 15 are set to the home position. Moreover, the detergent of each washing tank 71, 81, 91 in the washing | cleaning part 70,80,90 is set to a home position.

  Here, the control unit 27 moves the sample dispensing probe 16 downward after moving the sample dispensing probe 16 to the upper stop position of the detergent pot 714 in the washing tank 71 at the height of the top dead center. If it is impossible to detect the detergent liquid level by the sample detector 16a during the movement to the detergent suction position (No in step S2 in FIG. 10), the process proceeds to step S3 in FIG. If the detergent level is detected by the sample detector 16a during the movement to the detergent suction position (Yes in step S2 in FIG. 10), the detergent in the detergent pot 714 is set to the home position. Determination is made, and the process proceeds to step S5 in FIG.

  After “No” in Step S2 of FIG. 10, the control unit 27 stops the sample dispensing probe 16 at the detergent suction position (Step S3 of FIG. 10).

  After the sample dispensing probe 16 stops, the control unit 27 supplies an amount of detergent that reaches the position where the liquid level in the detergent pot 714 rises from the position where the sample detector 16a detects the detergent suction distance D (see FIG. 10 step S4). This supply sets the detergent in the detergent pot 714 to the home position.

  As described above, by setting the detergent in the detergent pot 714 to the home position before starting the dispensing of the test sample, the amount of liquid necessary for the detergent washing of the sample dispensing probe 16 thereafter is determined by the detergent. The pot 714 can be supplied in a short time. Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced.

  After “Yes” in step S2 in FIG. 10 or after step S4, the control unit 27 moves the sample dispensing probe 16 to the home position (step S5 in FIG. 10).

  After the sample dispensing probe 16 has moved to the home position, the control unit 27 identifies the test sample identification information supplied from the system control unit 60, information on the inspection items set for each test sample, and influence items. Whether or not, for example, “HBsAg”, which is an influence item set on the influence item setting screen 43 in FIG. 9, is included in the inspection items set to the test sample to be dispensed based on the information of Is determined. If the test sample to be dispensed contains an influence item (Yes in step S6 in FIG. 10), the process proceeds to step S7 in FIG. If the test sample to be dispensed does not contain an influence item (No in step S6 in FIG. 10), the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

  After moving the sample dispensing probe 16 to the upper stop position of the detergent pot 714 at the height of the top dead center, the control unit 27 moves the sample dispensing probe 16 downward. If it is impossible to detect the detergent liquid level by the sample detector 16a during the movement to the detergent suction position (No in step S7 in FIG. 10), the process proceeds to step S8 in FIG. If the detergent level is detected by the sample detector 16a during the movement to the detergent suction position (Yes in step S7 in FIG. 10), the process proceeds to step S9 in FIG.

  After “No” in Step S7 of FIG. 10, the control unit 27 stops the sample dispensing probe 16 at the detergent suction position (Step S8 of FIG. 10).

  After “Yes” in step S7 in FIG. 10, the control unit 27 stops the sample dispensing probe 16 in the vicinity of the detergent suction position which is lowered by the detergent suction distance D from the position where the detergent liquid level in the detergent pot 714 is detected. (Step S9 in FIG. 10).

  After the sample dispensing probe 16 stops, the control unit 27 causes the detergent supply pump 73 to supply detergent into the detergent pot 714 (step S10 in FIG. 11).

  When the liquid level in the detergent pot 714 is detected by the sample detector 16a within the allowable time after the sample dispensing probe 16 stops (Yes in step S11 in FIG. 11), the detergent suction is performed from the detection position. The amount of detergent reaching the position where the distance D increases is supplied, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG. Further, when the liquid level in the detergent pot 714 cannot be detected by the sample detector 16a within the allowable time after the sample dispensing probe 16 stops (No in step S11 in FIG. 11), step S13 in FIG. Migrate to

  After step S9 in FIG. 10 or “Yes” in step S11 in FIG. 11, detergent cleaning is performed by sucking into the sample dispensing probe 16 a detergent that is equal to or larger than the sample suction amount at the time of sample dispensing (step in FIG. 11). S12).

  After “No” in step S11 in FIG. 11, the control unit 27 stops dispensing the test sample including the affected item (step S13 in FIG. 11).

  After stopping the dispensing of the test sample including the influence item, a message notifying the information of the test sample whose dispensing has been stopped is displayed on the display unit 42 (step S14 in FIG. 11).

  After “No” in step S6 in FIG. 10, step S12 in FIG. 11, or step S14 in FIG. 11, the control unit 27 moves the sample dispensing probe 16 to the washing water washing position, and the sample dispensing probe 16. The washing water is washed (step S15 in FIG. 11).

  When there is an undispensed test sample other than the test sample for which dispensing has been stopped after dispensing of the test sample including the affected item or after stopping the dispensing of this test sample (Fig. 11 in step S16), the process returns to step S6 in FIG. If there is no undispensed test sample other than the test sample for which dispensing has been stopped (No in step S16 in FIG. 11), the process proceeds to step S17.

  When the system control unit 60 instructs the analysis control unit 25, the data processing unit 30, and the output unit 40 to stop measuring the test sample and instructs the analysis control unit 25 to stop cleaning, the automatic analyzer 100 is The operation is terminated (step S17 in FIG. 11).

  According to the embodiment described above, by providing the detergent pot 714 for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 and the detergent supply pump 73 for supplying the detergent to the detergent pot 714, the labor for replenishing the detergent can be reduced. Can be reduced.

  Further, by disposing the detergent pot 714 between the sample container 17 that reciprocates to dispense the sample and the reaction container 3, the sample dispensing probe 16 is moved to the upper stop position of the detergent pot 714 in a short time. be able to. Further, by disposing the detergent pot 714 so that the upper end is positioned in the vicinity of one end of the sample dispensing probe 16 at the upper stop position, the sample dispensing probe 16 can be moved into the detergent pot 714 in a short time. . Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced.

  Before starting the dispensing of the test sample, the detergent in the detergent pot 714 is set to the home position, so that the amount of liquid necessary for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 16 is stored in the detergent pot 714. It can be supplied in a short time. Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced.

  Moreover, in order to perform detergent cleaning, the sample dispensing probe 16 can be lowered in a short time by stopping the sample dispensing probe 16 at or near the detergent suction position. When the sample dispensing probe 16 stops at the detergent suction position, the detergent can be supplied in a short time by supplying an amount of detergent necessary for detergent cleaning into the detergent pot 714. Moreover, when the sample dispensing probe 16 stops near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply time into the detergent pot 714 can be stopped to reduce the detergent supply time.

  Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to discard the remaining amount that cannot be sucked when the detergent is transferred to the detergent container, waste of the detergent can be prevented, and the cost of the detergent can be reduced.

  Further, by providing cleaning tanks 81 and 91 for cleaning the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 and a detergent supply pump for supplying detergent to the cleaning tanks 81 and 91, the detergent can be replenished. Such labor can be reduced. The first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 can be lowered in a short time by stopping the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 near the detergent suction position or the vicinity of the detergent suction position. . Next, when the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 are stopped at the detergent suction position, the detergent is supplied in a short time by supplying the cleaning tanks 81 and 91 with an amount of detergent necessary for the detergent cleaning. be able to. In addition, when the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 stop near the detergent suction position, the detergent supply time to the washing tanks 81 and 91 can be stopped, thereby reducing the time for supplying the detergent. it can. Thereby, the time required for detergent cleaning of the first and second reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to discard the remaining amount that cannot be sucked when the detergent is transferred to the detergent container, waste of the detergent can be prevented, and the cost of the detergent can be reduced.

16 Sample dispensing probe 71 Washing tank 72 Washing water supply pump 73 Detergent supply pump 74 Drain tank 711 Washing water supply port 712 Discharge port 713 Detergent supply port 714 Detergent pot 715 Notch 716 Discharge port

Claims (7)

In an automatic analyzer that dispenses samples and reagents and measures the mixture,
A dispensing probe comprising a detecting means for detecting the liquid level of the liquid by bringing it into contact with the liquid level of the liquid to be sucked while performing dispensing to suck and discharge the sample;
A detergent pot for storing a detergent for washing the dispensing probe;
A dispensing probe moving means for moving the dispensing probe to stop at or near the detergent suction position of the detergent pot;
Detergent supply means for supplying the detergent sucked by the dispensing probe stopped at the detergent suction position of the detergent pot to the detergent pot;
In cleaning the dispensing probe,
When the dispensing probe moving means is unable to detect the level of the detergent by the detection means while the dispensing probe is moving to the detergent suction position, the dispensing probe is moved to the detergent suction position. Stop in position,
The detergent supply means supplies the detergent in an amount reaching the position where the detergent suction distance is increased from the position where the liquid level is detected by the detection means after the dispensing probe stops at the detergent suction position. An automatic analyzer characterized by It has influence item setting means to set inspection items that are easily affected,
If the liquid level cannot be detected by the detecting means within an allowable time after the dispensing probe stops at the detergent suction position, the dispensing probe moving means is configured to perform the influence item setting means that follows. 2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the movement of the dispensing probe for dispensing the sample including the set inspection item is stopped.   The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, further comprising an output unit that outputs a message for notifying information on the sample for which dispensing has been stopped.   In the detergent cleaning of the dispensing probe, the dispensing probe moving means lowers the detergent suction distance from the position of the detergent liquid surface detected while the dispensing probe is moving to the detergent suction position. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing probe is stopped at a position. The detection means detects the liquid level of the sample contained in a sample container by contact between the liquid level and the dispensing probe,
The detergent suction distance is a distance equal to or greater than a sample suction distance for moving the dispensing probe from a position where the liquid level of the sample is detected by the detection means to a depth at which the sample can be sucked. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4. A container for storing the sample, and a cleaning means for cleaning the dispensing probe disposed between the reaction containers from which the sample sucked from the container is discharged with cleaning water every time when dispensing is completed,
6. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the detergent pot is arranged in the vicinity of the cleaning means. In an automatic analyzer that dispenses samples and reagents and measures the mixture,
A dispensing probe comprising a detection means for detecting the liquid level of the liquid by bringing the reagent into suction and discharging, and contacting the liquid level of the liquid to be sucked;
A detergent pot for storing a detergent for washing the dispensing probe;
A dispensing probe moving means for moving the dispensing probe to stop at or near the detergent suction position of the detergent pot;
Detergent supply means for supplying the detergent sucked by the dispensing probe stopped at the detergent suction position of the detergent pot to the detergent pot;
In cleaning the dispensing probe,
When the dispensing probe moving means is unable to detect the level of the detergent by the detection means while the dispensing probe is moving to the detergent suction position, the dispensing probe is moved to the detergent suction position. Stop in position,
The detergent supply means supplies the detergent in an amount reaching the position where the detergent suction distance is increased from the position where the liquid level is detected by the detection means after the dispensing probe stops at the detergent suction position. An automatic analyzer characterized by

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