JP6333584B2 - Clinical laboratory equipment - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a clinical testing apparatus.

  A clinical test is performed in order to objectively evaluate the state of a subject such as a patient. A clinical laboratory apparatus is mainly used for this clinical examination. An example of a clinical examination apparatus is an automatic analyzer.

  The automatic analyzer includes a step of washing and drying the reaction vessel, a step of dispensing a sample and a reagent into the reaction vessel, a step of producing a mixed solution by stirring the mixture, and the produced mixed solution. A step of measuring absorbance and outputting the measurement result. The automatic analyzer has structural elements for performing these steps.

  Hereinafter, the sample and the reagent may be referred to as “sample or the like”. Hereinafter, the sample, the reagent, and the mixed solution may be referred to as “liquid”. Furthermore, a sample container, a reagent container, and a reaction container in which a test sample and a reagent are put may be simply referred to as “containers”.

  As an example, a probe and a pump are used as structural elements in the step of dispensing liquid. In the dispensing step, first, the probe is moved to the position of the container containing the liquid. Next, the probe is lowered and immersed in the liquid, and a predetermined amount of liquid is sucked by a pump connected to the probe. Furthermore, after raising the probe, the probe is moved to the position of the reaction vessel. The sucked liquid is discharged into the container by a pump. Thus, the dispensing process is performed by moving the probe.

  Examples of the probe include a sample dispensing probe and a reagent dispensing probe. The sample dispensing probe dispenses a sample from the sample container to the reaction container. The reagent dispensing probe dispenses the reagent from the reagent container to the reaction container. Hereinafter, the sample dispensing probe and the reagent dispensing probe may be collectively referred to as “dispensing probe”.

  The automatic analyzer ensures high measurement performance by normally dispensing the liquid into the reaction vessel. For this reason, the dispensing performance of the dispensing probe greatly affects the measurement result of the mixed solution by the automatic analyzer.

JP2012-32310A

  However, the dispensing performance of the dispensing probe may be reduced by continuing to use the automatic analyzer. As the dispensing performance of the dispensing probe decreases, the liquid is not dispensed normally into the reaction vessel. As a result, the measurement result of the liquid mixture by the automatic analyzer may become abnormal.

  One cause of the drop in dispensing performance is deformation of the dispensing probe. Deformation of a probe such as a dispensing probe occurs, for example, when an external force is applied to the probe. As a case where the probe is deformed, for example, the maintenance of the automatic analyzer by the operator can be considered. During maintenance of the automatic analyzer, the operator intentionally contacts the probe or unintentionally contacts. The probe may be deformed due to this contact.

  When high measurement accuracy is required for measurement such as micro-measurement of a sample, even if the deformation of the probe is so small that it cannot be visually confirmed, the measurement result may be abnormal. For this reason, the automatic analyzer needs to maintain the dispensing performance of the probe high.

  Further, in the process of cleaning and drying the container, for example, a deformed dry chip may come into contact with the container and damage the container. Similarly, in the step of stirring the liquid, the deformed stirring bar may damage the container. When measurement is performed on a mixed solution contained in a damaged container, the measurement result may be abnormal.

  As described above, when an abnormality occurs in the structural element, the measurement result may be affected. Therefore, it is necessary for the automatic analyzer to maintain the performance of the structural element at a high level by increasing the detection accuracy of the structural element abnormality.

  This embodiment solves the above-described problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a clinical test apparatus capable of maintaining high measurement reliability by maintaining high performance of the structural elements.

In order to achieve the above object, the clinical examination apparatus of this embodiment includes at least one structural element, imaging means, storage means, determination means, and output means. The structural element is configured to operate in a process of cleaning a container, dispensing a sample and a reagent into the cleaned container, and analyzing a component of the mixed liquid, thereby enabling a cleaning operation. ing. Photographing means, structural elements Oite the cleaning stop position after the cleaning operation, to obtain a comparison image by capturing at least a portion of the structural element. The storage means stores in advance a reference video indicating a normal state of the structural element corresponding to the comparison video. The determination unit determines whether there is an abnormality in the structural element by comparing the comparison video with the reference video. The output means outputs information on the abnormality to the outside when the determination means determines that there is an abnormality.

The block diagram which shows the functional structure of the automatic analyzer of 1st Embodiment. The perspective view which shows the detailed structure of the analysis part of 1st Embodiment. The perspective view which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed another example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed another example of the installation form of a camera unit. The perspective view which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. The perspective view which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. The flowchart which showed an example of operation | movement of the automatic analyzer of 1st Embodiment. The time chart which showed the timing when 1st imaging | photography and 2nd imaging | photography are performed. The perspective view which shows the detailed structure of the analysis part of 2nd Embodiment. The perspective view which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. The flowchart which showed an example of operation | movement of the automatic analyzer of 2nd Embodiment. The perspective view which shows the detailed structure of the analysis part of 3rd Embodiment. The perspective view which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. The top view which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. Sectional drawing which showed an example of the installation form of a camera unit. The flowchart which showed an example of operation | movement of the automatic analyzer of 3rd Embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
As an example of the clinical testing apparatus of this embodiment, an automatic analyzer will be described with reference to each drawing.

[Automatic analyzer]
A configuration of the automatic analyzer 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 10. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a detailed configuration of the analysis unit 24.

  The automatic analyzer 10 is a device that measures the components of a mixed solution by mixing and stirring the sample dispensed in the reaction vessel 51 and stirring the mixture to prepare a mixed solution and analyzing the mixed solution.

  The automatic analyzer 10 includes a plurality of dispensing probes. Each dispensing probe dispenses a sample or the like into the reaction vessel 51. Moreover, the automatic analyzer 10 includes a stirring unit. The stirring means comprises at least one stirring bar. The stirring means stirs the stirrer by immersing the stirring bar in the mixed solution containing the sample or the like dispensed in the reaction vessel 51.

  The automatic analyzer 10 includes structural elements 600 configured to be able to execute each of the washing and drying process, the dispensing process, the stirring process, and the analysis process. In the washing / drying step, the container is washed and dried. In the dispensing step, the sample and the reagent are dispensed into the cleaned container. In the stirring step, a liquid mixture is generated by stirring the liquid dispensed in the container. An analysis process analyzes the component of a liquid mixture.

  Here, the term “structural element” refers to a mechanism or a part for performing at least a part of these steps. Further, the structural element 600 is configured to be able to perform a cleaning operation. The “cleaning operation” refers to, for example, an operation in which at least a part of the structural element 600 or a mechanism constituting the structural element 600 is cleaned by a cleaning unit provided in the automatic analyzer 10. Further, the “cleaning operation” refers to an operation in which, for example, the structural element 600 includes a cleaning unit, and the other components of the automatic analyzer 10 are cleaned by the cleaning unit.

  In this embodiment, a mechanism for performing the dispensing process will be described as a “structural element”. The structural element 600 is included in the analysis unit 24. The structural element 600 will be described in detail in the description of the analysis unit 24.

[overall structure]
First, the overall configuration of the automatic analyzer 10 will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 10 includes an analysis unit 24, an analysis control unit 25, a data processing unit 30, a photographing unit 40, a video acquisition unit 41, a storage unit 50, and a determination unit 60. The system control unit 70, the operation unit 80, and the output unit 90 are included.

  The analysis unit 24 generates a mixed solution containing the sample and reagent liquids, and measures the components of the mixed solution. The analysis control unit 25 includes a mechanism unit 26 and a control unit 27, and controls each analysis unit of the analysis unit 24. Detailed configurations of the analysis unit 24 and the analysis control unit 25 will be described later.

[System controller]
The system control unit 70 controls the analysis control unit 25, the data processing unit 30, the imaging unit 40, the video acquisition unit 41, the storage unit 50, the determination unit 60, and the output unit 90 in an integrated manner. The operation unit 80 inputs various command signals to the system control unit 70.

[Data processing section]
The data processing unit 30 includes a calculation unit 31 and a data storage unit 32.

[Calculation section]
The calculation unit 31 receives the measurement result of the component of the mixed solution output from the analysis unit 24, calculates the concentration of the specific substance in the mixed solution, and generates measurement data, calibration data, and the like.

[Data storage section]
The data storage unit 32 temporarily stores measurement data, calibration data, and the like generated by the calculation unit 31.

[Operation section]
Examples of the operation unit 80 include those having an independent operation input function such as a mouse and a keyboard. In addition, an operation input function such as a touch panel and a display function may be combined.

  The operation input input by the operation unit 80 is input as a command to the system control unit 70, for example. This operation input is input directly from, for example, an operation device constituting the operation unit 80. The operation input is input indirectly, for example, by selecting an object such as a button displayed on the display unit 91 with a mouse or the like.

[Output section]
The output unit 90 includes a display unit 91, a printing unit 92, and a notification unit 93. The output unit 90 outputs information received from the data processing unit 30, the operation unit 80, the determination unit 60 and the like to the outside based on the control of the system control unit 70. This output includes display output by the display unit 91, print output by the printing unit 92, notification output by the notification unit 93, and the like.

[Shooting Department]
The imaging unit 40 includes a solid-state imaging device (not shown) and an A / D converter (not shown). An example of the photographing unit 40 is a camera unit. Examples of the camera unit include a digital still camera that generates a still image by optically shooting, and a digital video camera that generates a moving image by optically shooting. Camera units 40a to 40c described later are examples of the photographing unit 40. Here, one moving image generated by the photographing unit 40 includes a plurality of time-series still images. In addition, a single moving image can be obtained by performing a process of combining a plurality of still images in time series. In the following, still images and moving images may be referred to as “video”.

  Examples of the solid-state imaging device include a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, and the like. The solid-state imaging device receives light and outputs an analog video signal to the A / D converter. The A / D converter receives an analog video signal, digitally converts the video signal, and generates digital image data.

  The imaging unit 40 outputs the video data to the storage unit 50, the video acquisition unit 41, the determination unit 60, and the like. The photographing unit 40 may be anything as long as it has a configuration capable of photographing a video.

  A plurality of imaging units 40 may be provided for one structural element 600. For example, two imaging units 40 are provided for one structural element 600. At this time, the two imaging units 40 are provided so as to face each other with the structural element 600 interposed therebetween, for example. Further, the two photographing units 40 may be provided, for example, such that the photographing regions of the two photographing units 40 are orthogonal to each other. By providing a plurality of imaging units 40 for one structural element 600, all the regions on the side surface of the structural element 600 can be imaged by these imaging units 40. As a result, it is possible to acquire the mode of all the regions on the side surface of the structural element 600. Thereby, in the determination part 60, the precision of determination of abnormality of the structural element 600 can be improved.

  In addition, a reflecting mirror can be provided in the vicinity of the structural element 600. For example, the reflecting mirror is provided so as to face the imaging unit 40 with the structural element 600 interposed therebetween. The imaging unit 40 images the side surface of the structural element 600 and also captures an image of the structural element 600 reflected on the reflecting mirror. By providing this reflecting mirror, it is possible to obtain the same effect as when another imaging unit 40 is provided at a position facing the imaging unit 40 with the structural element 600 interposed therebetween. In addition, the above-described reflecting mirrors may be provided in the two photographing units 40 provided so that the photographing regions are orthogonal to each other. For example, the imaging unit 40 detects vibration of the structural element 600 from the video in the video acquisition unit 41 described later. In this case, the photographing unit 40 is selected to be able to capture the vibration operation.

  The imaging unit 40 generates reference video data and outputs it to the storage unit 50 before measurement by the automatic analyzer 10. The imaging unit 40 optically captures the structural element 600 stopped at the imaging position to generate reference video data. The reference video data is video data including a reference video indicating the shape of the structural element 600 that is assumed to be normal. The reference image is used as an external shape of the normal structural element 600.

  The photographing position is the position of the structural element 600 when the structural element 600 is photographed by the photographing unit 40. For example, the photographing position is set such that at least a part including the tip of the structural element 600 is included in the photographing range of the photographing unit 40. The imaging position is, for example, a position where the structural element 600 has stopped after performing a predetermined cleaning operation. The structural element 600 includes, for example, a dispensing probe.

  Hereinafter, a case where the structural element 600 is a dispensing probe will be described. A normal dispensing probe is, for example, one that does not cause an abnormality when aspirating and discharging a sample. An example of the dispensing probe is an unused product. Moreover, it is an unused product and has no dirt on the surface.

  The imaging position is, for example, a position where the portion including the tip of the dispensing probe is cleaned in a cleaning tank as a cleaning means and then the dispensing probe is pulled up from the cleaning tank in the vertical direction and stopped. When the dispensing probe stops at the imaging position, the position of the tip portion of the dispensing probe is higher than, for example, the top surface of the cleaning tank. At this time, the position of the tip portion of the dispensing probe is higher than the liquid level of the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank.

  The imaging unit 40 generates comparative video data during measurement by the automatic analyzer 10, for example. The imaging unit 40 can generate an image capable of detecting vibration of a dispensing probe, for example. The image generated by the imaging unit 40 can detect the vibration of the dispensing probe by the detection unit 20 based on this image, for example. In this case, the imaging unit 40 is selected to have a configuration capable of generating an image capable of detecting the amplitude of vibration of the dispensing probe, for example. That is, in this case, the imaging unit 40 is selected to have a configuration capable of generating an image capable of detecting a positional change of the dispensing probe, for example.

  For example, a camera unit having a zoom lens capable of enlarging and photographing a dispensing probe can be cited as an apparatus having this configuration. This camera unit can take an image after enlarging the dispensing probe with a zoom lens. Thereby, the positional change of the dispensing probe can be detected from the video imaged and generated by this camera unit. Moreover, as what has this structure, the high-resolution camera unit with a large number of pixels of the solid-state image sensor with which the imaging | photography part 40 was equipped is mentioned, for example. By imaging the dispensing probe with this high-resolution camera unit, it is possible to generate an image having a resolution capable of detecting a positional change of the dispensing probe. As an example of this, consider a case where a dispensing probe is photographed at an equal magnification with a high-resolution camera unit. The size of the pixels constituting this image is, for example, 1/500 or less with respect to the amplitude of the vibration at the tip of the dispensing probe. Moreover, it is 1/1000 or less suitably. A combination of a high-resolution camera unit and a zoom lens may be used as the photographing unit 40.

  In the case where vibration of the dispensing probe is detected based on the image generated by the imaging unit 40, the imaging unit 40 has a configuration capable of generating an image capable of detecting the magnitude of the vibration frequency of the dispensing probe, for example. To be elected. That is, in this case, the imaging unit 40 is selected to have a configuration capable of detecting a temporal change of the dispensing probe.

  The imaging unit 40 is installed at a position where the dispensing probe can be imaged during the measurement operation of the automatic analyzer 10. The position where the imaging unit 40 is installed may be, for example, a position on the upper surface of the casing of the automatic analyzer 10 or a position outside the automatic analyzer 10. The imaging unit 40 is installed so that fixed-point imaging can be performed at a predetermined position, which will be described later, during measurement by the automatic analyzer 10.

  The imaging unit 40 optically images the dispensing probe during measurement by the automatic analyzer 10. The imaging unit 40 images, for example, the side surface of the dispensing probe. Imaging of the probe by the imaging unit 40 is performed, for example, when the dispensing probe stops at the imaging position. Also, this imaging is performed, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the dispensing probe stopped at the imaging position.

  Examples of the predetermined time include a time until vibration of the dispensing probe stops, a time until the amplitude of vibration of the dispensing probe becomes smaller than a predetermined magnitude, and the like.

  The video acquisition unit 41 outputs a determination result of whether video acquisition is possible to the system control unit 70. The system control unit 70 receives an input capable of acquiring a video from the video acquisition unit 41 and controls the photographing unit 40 to generate a comparative video. The generated and acquired comparison video is output to the storage unit 50, for example, and the storage unit 50 stores the comparison video. The video acquisition unit 41 includes a processing unit 42 and an acquisition determination unit 43. The acquisition determination unit 43 receives vibration information of the dispensing probe from the processing unit 42, and determines whether or not the comparison video can be acquired (generated) from the vibration state of the dispensing probe.

  The processing unit 42 is a vibration detecting unit that receives information including vibration information of the dispensing probe and analyzes the information to acquire vibration information of the dispensing probe.

  The processing unit 42 outputs the vibration information of the dispensing probe to the acquisition determination unit 43. For example, the processing unit 42 performs image analysis processing on the video received from the photographing unit 40 under the control of the system control unit 70. This image is taken so that the vibration of the dispensing probe can be detected. As long as this image is photographed so that the vibration of the dispensing probe can be detected, the entire image of the dispensing probe does not necessarily have to be photographed. That is, this image includes at least a partial image of the dispensing probe. This video is, for example, a moving image. In this moving image, for example, the sampling frequency when captured by the imaging unit 40 is greater than the frequency of the dispensing probe. Therefore, it is possible to capture the vibration movement of the dispensing probe based on this moving image.

  The processing unit 42 detects the frequency, amplitude, and the like of the vibration of the dispensing probe by performing image analysis processing on the video output from the imaging unit 40. For this image analysis processing, for example, a conventionally known method can be appropriately selected and applied.

  As an example of the image analysis process, the vibration of the dispensing probe can be detected by performing the following process.

  The processing unit 42 first binarizes the image based on the luminance value. By this binarization, for example, the dispensing probe portion is black and the background portion is white. Next, the processing unit 42 extracts the edge of the dispensing probe based on the boundary between the dispensing probe and the background. Next, the processing unit 42 draws a horizontal line at a predetermined position (for example, a position a predetermined distance vertically upward from the tip). Next, the processing unit 42 sets one of the two intersections of the horizontal line and the edge as edge coordinates. The setting of the edge coordinates by the processing unit 42 is performed on the image every time the image is sampled in the photographing unit 40. The processing unit 42 generates a video by displaying this image in time series, and detects the vibration amplitude, frequency, etc. of the dispensing probe from the temporal position change of the edge coordinates in this video. The processing unit 42 detects the amplitude information of the vibration of the dispensing probe by the image analysis process as described above, and outputs this information to the acquisition determination unit 43.

  The acquisition determination unit 43 determines whether or not the comparison video can be acquired based on the vibration information. The acquisition determining unit 43 receives the vibration information of the dispensing probe and determines that the comparison image can be generated when the vibration of the dispensing probe is stopped or the vibration can be regarded as stopped. This information is output to the system control unit 70.

  The system control unit 70 receives information indicating that the comparison video can be acquired from the acquisition determination unit 43 and controls the photographing unit 40. The imaging unit 40 performs fixed-point imaging of the dispensing probe stopped at the imaging position and generates comparison video data. In this case, the shooting position is the same as the shooting position at which a reference video to be described later is shot. That is, the imaging unit 40 generates a reference video and a comparative video that are captured in the same imaging region.

  The comparative image is an image including an image of the dispensing probe during the measurement operation. The image of the dispensing probe included in the comparison image is compared with the image of the dispensing probe included in the reference image by the determination unit 60 described later.

  The imaging unit 40 captures the dispensing probe and generates a comparison image while the dispensing probe vibrates. An image of a dispensing probe included in the generated comparison video may be an image of a dispensing probe that has warped due to vibration. That is, even if the imaging unit 40 captures a normal dispensing probe, the image of the dispensing probe included in the generated comparison image may be warped. If it does so, the determination part 60 will determine the abnormality of a dispensing probe based on this comparison image | video, and a normal dispensing probe may be erroneously determined as an abnormal dispensing probe. That is, the imaging unit 40 needs to output a video generated by imaging the dispensing probe when it can be regarded as a stationary state or a stationary state as a comparative video.

  From this, when the vibration of the dispensing probe is stopped or when it can be considered that the vibration is stopped, the acquisition determination unit 43 determines whether or not the comparison video can be acquired, and outputs this to the system control unit 70. . In other cases, a determination tongue is output to the system control unit 70 that it is impossible to obtain a comparison image. Further, the acquisition determination unit 43 may be configured to determine whether or not the comparison video can be acquired and to directly control the photographing unit 40.

  The case where the vibration of the dispensing probe can be regarded as stopped includes, for example, the case where the vibration amplitude of the dispensing probe at a predetermined position is smaller than a predetermined threshold. This threshold value can be set, for example, within a predetermined range at the position of the tip of the dispensing probe.

  When the acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired, the video acquisition unit 41 outputs the information that can be acquired to the system control unit 70. The system control unit 70 that has received the acquirable information controls the photographing unit 40 to generate a comparison video, and outputs this to the determination unit 60. Examples of acquisition of comparative videos by the video acquisition unit 41 are listed below.

  As a first example, photographing is performed twice, that is, first photographing and second photographing. First, the imaging unit 40 performs first imaging for detecting vibration of the dispensing probe. In the first shooting, the dispensing probe stopped at the shooting position is shot at a fixed point to generate video data. When the acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired based on the video data generated by the first shooting, the information indicating that the comparison video can be acquired is output to the system control unit 70. The system control unit 70 that has received the information that can acquire the comparative video, for example, controls the imaging unit 40 to cause the dispensing probe stopped at the imaging position to perform fixed-point imaging to generate video data, and the video data is compared with the comparative video data. To the determination unit 60.

  In this case, the time immediately after the dispensing probe stops at the imaging position is the start time of the first imaging for imaging in order to detect the vibration of the dispensing probe. In addition, the time when the vibration of the dispensing probe is stopped or when the vibration of the dispensing probe is stopped is the start time of the second imaging for capturing an image for obtaining the comparison video.

  The first shooting is high-speed shooting, and a moving image with a high frame rate is obtained by this shooting. By this first imaging, an image capable of detecting the vibration of the dispensing probe can be generated.

  In the second imaging, the imaging range of the imaging unit 40 includes at least the tip of the dispensing probe. The imaging range of the imaging unit 40 in the second imaging includes a half portion from the tip portion of the entire dispensing probe. The imaging range of the imaging unit 40 in the second imaging includes the entire dispensing probe. The video acquired by the second shooting may be a moving image or a still image.

  The second imaging may be performed at any time as long as the dispensing probe does not move as long as it is after the start time of the second imaging. A comparison image is acquired by the second shooting.

  For example, the photographing unit 40 can switch the photographing mode between the first photographing and the second photographing. Examples of switching of the shooting mode include switching of the shooting angle of view. When the imaging unit 40 includes, for example, a zoom lens that can be electrically driven, enlargement imaging of the dispensing probe is performed by narrowing the imaging angle of view with the zoom lens as the telephoto side during the first imaging. Can do. Thereby, the imaging | photography part 40 can produce | generate the image | video which expanded a part of dispensing probe. As a result, the photographing unit 40 can obtain an image that is easy to detect vibration.

  Further, when the second image is taken, the entire angle of the field of view of the dispensing probe can be taken by widening the angle of view by using this lens as the wide angle side. Thereby, the imaging | photography part 40 can produce | generate the image | video which shows the whole dispensing probe shape. As a result, the imaging unit 40 can generate an image capable of detecting an abnormality such as a shape in the entire dispensing probe.

  As a second example, it is possible to specify and acquire a comparison video from the video stored in the storage unit 50 and the like based on the time when it is determined that the comparison video can be acquired and the shooting time. For example, the system control unit 70 controls the imaging unit 40 to continuously generate video data including a dispensing probe image and store the video data in the storage unit 50 or the like. When the acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired, the comparison video is specified and acquired from the stored video.

  The comparison video is specified from the time when it is determined that the comparison video can be acquired and the shooting time. The comparison video is selected from videos taken after the time when it is determined that the comparison video can be acquired. The video data generated in the imaging unit 40 is stored in, for example, a memory (not shown) provided in the imaging unit 40 or the storage unit 50.

  As a third example, it is possible to provide a detection unit (not shown) that detects vibration of the dispensing probe. The detection unit outputs vibration detection information including vibration information of the dispensing probe to the processing unit 42. The detection unit may be, for example, a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor. Examples of the contact sensor include a vibration detection element provided on the side surface of the dispensing probe. Examples of the vibration detection element include a piezoelectric vibration sensor and an acceleration detection type vibration sensor. Examples of the non-contact type sensor include a photoelectric vibration sensor and a laser Doppler vibration sensor in which a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit are provided so as to sandwich a dispensing probe. The processing unit 42 performs analysis processing on the detection information received from the detection unit, acquires vibration information of the dispensing probe, and outputs the vibration information to the acquisition determination unit 43. The acquisition determination unit 43 receives the vibration information of the dispensing probe from the processing unit 42, analyzes the vibration state of the dispensing probe, and determines whether or not the comparison video can be acquired from the analysis result. The acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired when the vibration of the dispensing probe is stopped or can be considered that the vibration has stopped, and outputs the information that can be acquired to the system control unit 70. .

  The system control unit 70 can generate the comparison video by controlling the photographing unit 40 as in the first example. Further, when the imaging unit 40 continuously acquires and stores video data including a probe image, the system control unit 70 can acquire a comparative video in the same manner as in the second example.

  In the third example, the vibration of the dispensing probe is detected by a detection unit provided on the side of the dispensing probe. For this reason, it is not necessary to generate an image in which the vibration of the dispensing probe can be detected by the imaging unit 40. That is, it is not necessary for the photographing unit 40 to be an expensive high-speed camera unit or a high-resolution camera unit. As a result, the photographing unit 40 can be an inexpensive normal camera unit.

[Storage unit]
The storage unit 50 stores a reference video before measurement by the automatic analyzer 10. For example, the reference video is stored in the storage unit 50 for each measurement before the measurement. The storage unit 50 stores a reference image output from a camera unit provided corresponding to each dispensing probe. For example, when the automatic analyzer 10 includes a plurality of dispensing probes, the storage unit 50 stores reference images corresponding to the respective dispensing probes in correspondence with the dispensing probes.

[Determining part]
The determination unit 60 compares the image of the dispensing probe shown in the reference image with the image of the dispensing probe shown in the comparison image, and the factor causing the dispensing abnormality is dispensed based on the comparison result. Determine if it is in the probe.

  As a case where the factor causing the dispensing abnormality is in the dispensing probe, first, there is a case where the shape of the dispensing probe is abnormal. Abnormalities in the shape of the probe occur when the shape of the dispensing probe changes from the original shape. When a probe having an abnormal shape performs a dispensing operation, a dispensing abnormality occurs. This change in the shape of the dispensing probe occurs, for example, when the dispensing probe is crushed or bent due to contact, collision, or the like. Dispensing abnormalities include, for example, insufficient dispensing amount or scattering during dispensing by dispensing probe. An example of means for detecting an abnormality in the shape of the dispensing probe is a determination process based on comparison of images of the dispensing probe. This determination processing is performed, for example, by comparing the image of the dispensing probe shown in the reference image with the image of the probe shown in the comparison image, and when the images of the two dispensing probes do not match. Is determined to be abnormal.

  For this comparison, for example, a difference image is used, for example, as shown below. First, the comparison image and the reference image are normalized as preprocessing for generating a difference image. By this normalization, the pixel value ranges of the comparison image and the reference image become the same. The comparison image is a still image that forms a comparison video. The reference image is a still image constituting a reference video. Next, the normalized comparison image and reference image are converted from a color image to a monochrome image. At this time, when there is a positional deviation between the image of the dispensing probe shown in the comparison image and the image of the dispensing probe shown in the reference image, for example, processing such as pattern matching based on a pre-registered position To overlap. Then, the luminance value of the monochrome reference image is subtracted from the monochrome comparison image to generate monochrome difference image data.

  The determination unit 60 determines the state of the dispensing probe based on the difference between the dispensing probe image shown in the comparison image included in the difference image data and the dispensing probe image shown in the reference image. . When the difference is 0, for example, the determination unit 60 determines that the shape of the dispensing probe is normal. The determination unit 60 determines that the shape of the dispensing probe is abnormal when the difference is other than zero. For example, when the difference area (area) exceeds a predetermined size, the determination unit 60 determines that the shape of the dispensing probe is abnormal. Further, the determination unit 60 determines that the shape of the dispensing probe is abnormal when the shape of the generated difference image is a predetermined shape. Examples of the predetermined shape include a shape in which the tip of the dispensing probe is crushed, a shape in which the tip of the dispensing probe is bent, and a shape in which the dispensing probe is warped.

  As a case where the factor causing the dispensing abnormality is in the dispensing probe, secondly, there is a case where the surface condition of the dispensing probe is abnormal. Examples of the case where there is an abnormality in the surface state of the dispensing probe include a case where dirt remains on the surface of the dispensing probe or a droplet of cleaning liquid remains. In this case, when a sample or the like is dispensed into the reaction container 51 with a dispensing probe, so-called “take-away” (which means that the residue adhering to the dispensing probe becomes a foreign substance and is mixed into the liquid mixture) occurs. Dispensing abnormality occurs when the sample or the like stored in the reaction container 51 is diluted, or foreign matters are mixed into the sample or the like stored in the reaction container 51.

  An example of means for detecting an abnormality in the surface state of the dispensing probe is a determination process based on comparison of images of the dispensing probe. This determination process can be performed in the same manner as the process described above as an example of a means for detecting a change in the shape of the dispensing probe. Specifically, the image of the dispensing probe shown in the reference image is compared with the image of the dispensing probe shown in the comparison image, and if the images of the two dispensing probes do not match, It is determined that the surface condition is abnormal.

  When detecting an abnormality in the surface state of the probe, the determination unit 60 may perform determination based on the luminance value of the difference image described above. As a case where an abnormality in the surface state of the dispensing probe is detected, there is a case where there is a portion having high luminance on the surface of the image of the dispensing probe. It is considered that the portion having high brightness on the surface of the image of the dispensing probe is scattered light by the droplet of the cleaning liquid. From this, the determination part 60 can determine that the droplet remains on the surface of the dispensing probe.

  Further, the determination unit 60 may detect and determine the abnormality of the surface state of the dispensing probe by image comparison after detecting and determining the abnormality of the shape of the dispensing probe by image comparison, for example. Moreover, when the imaging | photography part 40 is provided with two or more with respect to one dispensing probe, the determination part 60 can perform determination for every image | video produced | generated by the imaging | photography part 40, for example. In this case, for example, the determination unit 60 can make a determination by combining the images acquired by the plurality of imaging units 40 according to, for example, a preset composite condition.

[Detailed configuration of analysis unit]
Next, an example of the configuration of the analysis unit 24 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the analysis unit 24 performs absorption measurement of a mixed solution of a sample (specimen) and a reagent, and outputs measurement data. The measurement data is, for example, sample data. The specimen data is data obtained by measuring a mixed solution containing a sample in the above-described absorption measurement. Examples of the measurement data include preliminary measurement data such as calibration data, accuracy control data, sample blank data, and reagent blank data in addition to sample data. This absorbance measurement is performed by the photometry unit 12.

  The control unit 27 controls the driving of each unit included in the analysis unit 24 by instructing the mechanism unit 26. Each unit includes a first reagent container 1, a second reagent container 2, a reaction disk (reaction container) 4, a sample disk 5, and each arm (sample dispensing arm 17, first reagent dispensing arm 8, second reagent). A dispensing arm 9, a first stirring arm 11a, and a second stirring arm 11b).

  The analysis unit 24 includes a structural element 600. The structural element 600 comprises a sample section 100, a first section 200, a second section 300, a reaction section 400 and a washing section 500.

  Each of the sections includes a configuration movable in the vertical direction. Each of the sections is configured to be able to perform a cleaning operation.

  The sample section 100 includes a sample dispensing probe 16 and handles a sample. The sample dispensing probe 16 performs a cleaning operation by being cleaned in the cleaning tank 19a. Moreover, the camera unit 40a which image | photographs the external shape of the sample dispensing probe 16 after washing | cleaning is provided.

  The first section 200 includes the first reagent dispensing probe 14 and handles the first reagent. The first reagent dispensing probe 14 performs a cleaning operation by being cleaned in the cleaning tank 19b. Moreover, the camera unit 40b which image | photographs the external shape of the 1st reagent dispensing probe 14 after washing | cleaning is provided.

  The second section 300 includes the second reagent dispensing probe 15 and handles the second reagent. The second reagent dispensing probe 15 performs a cleaning operation by being cleaned in the cleaning tank 19c. Moreover, the camera unit 40c which image | photographs the external shape of the 2nd reagent dispensing probe 15 after washing | cleaning is provided.

  The reaction section 400 includes a first stirring bar 18a and a second stirring bar 18b. The first stirring bar 18a is cleaned in the cleaning tank 19d, and the second stirring bar 18b is cleaned in the cleaning tank 19e.

  The cleaning section 500 includes a cleaning probe and a drying tip, and handles cleaning liquid. For example, a plurality of cleaning probes are provided. Further, the cleaning section 500 is provided with a dry tip 111.

  In this embodiment, the sample section 100, the first section 200, and the second section 300 of the structural element 600 will be described. These sections are structures for performing a dispensing process.

  In this embodiment, the structural element 600 includes at least a dispensing probe included in each section. The reaction section 400 will be described in the second embodiment. The cleaning section 500 will be described in the third embodiment.

[Sample section]
First, the configuration of the sample section 100 will be described. The sample section 100 includes a sample disk 5, a sample container 61, a sample dispensing probe 16, a sample dispensing pump (not shown), a sample dispensing arm 17, a washing tank 19a, and a camera unit 40a. .

[Sample dispensing probe]
The sample dispensing probe 16 performs a dispensing operation by sucking and discharging the sample stored in the sample container 61 into the reaction container 51. The sample dispensing probe 16 has an elongated shape with a flow path penetrating both ends. The lower end of both ends is an opening for sucking and discharging the sample. This opening becomes the discharge part 16a. The shape of the sample dispensing probe 16 is typically a straight tube shape, but may be a curved tube shape having a bent portion in advance.

  The sample dispensing pump changes the pressure in the sample dispensing probe 16. By this pressure change, suction and discharge by the sample dispensing probe 16 are performed. The sample dispensing arm 17 holds the sample dispensing probe 16 so as to be movable. The suction and discharge of the sample is performed at a preset suction position and discharge position.

  Further, the sample dispensing probe 16 moves in parallel in the vertically upper region of the sample container 61, the reaction container 51, and the washing tank 19a by the operation of the sample dispensing arm 17. The sample dispensing probe 16 moves up and down from the stop positions set in the sample container 61, the reaction container 51, and the washing tank 19a by the operation of the sample dispensing arm 17.

  The sample disk 5 holds a sample container 61. The sample container 61 accommodates a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample. The sample disk 5 includes a holding unit that holds the sample container 61 and is configured to be rotatable. By rotating the sample disk 5, the sample container 61 held on the sample disk 5 is conveyed to a preset suction position.

  The sample section 100 may have a rack sampler (not shown). The rack sampler includes a rack and a conveyance path (not shown). A sample container 61 is placed on this rack. In this rack, for example, sample containers 61 are placed in a line. This rack can move on the transport path. A plurality of racks are held on the transport path. The moving direction of the rack is, for example, a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the sample containers are arranged.

  The rack provided in the rack sampler is transported to the vicinity of the sample dispensing probe 16 by moving on the transport path. This rack moves, for example, in the direction in which the sample containers 61 are arranged. As a result, the sample container 61 placed on the rack is transported to a preset suction position.

[Washing tank]
The cleaning tank 19a cleans the portion including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 using a cleaning liquid. For example, this cleaning liquid is accommodated in the cleaning tank 19a. The cleaning tank 19a performs cleaning using this cleaning liquid. The cleaning tank 19a includes, for example, a mechanism for supplying a partial cleaning liquid including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 into the cleaning tank 19a. The cleaning tank 19a performs cleaning by spraying a cleaning liquid from this mechanism onto a portion including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16, for example. The cleaning liquid may be any liquid as long as it can clean the sample dispensing probe 16. The cleaning liquid is, for example, distilled water or water containing a detergent.

  As the sample dispensing probe 16 moves, the portion including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 is accommodated in the cleaning tank 19a. Thereby, for example, the portion including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 is immersed in the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 19a. The cleaning tank 19a generates a flow in the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 19a. The flow of the cleaning liquid collides with a portion immersed in the cleaning liquid of the sample dispensing probe 16 so that the portion is cleaned.

  An example of cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 by the cleaning tank 19a will be shown. When the dispensing process of the same sample by the sample dispensing probe 16 is completed, the control unit 27 controls the mechanism unit 26 to clean the sample dispensing probe 16.

  The mechanism unit 26 moves the sample dispensing arm 17 in the horizontal direction to stop the sample dispensing probe 16 at a position vertically above the cleaning tank 19a. The mechanism unit 26 further moves the sample dispensing probe 16 vertically downward, and inserts the sample dispensing probe 16 into the cleaning tank 19a. The cleaning tank 19a cleans the sample dispensing probe 16 inserted into the cleaning tank 19a with a cleaning liquid or the like.

  When the cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 16 is completed, the mechanism unit 26 operates the sample dispensing probe 16 vertically upward to stop the sample dispensing probe 16 again at a position vertically above the cleaning tank 19a. The sample dispensing probe 16 stops at a position vertically above the cleaning tank 19a until the next sample container 61 is set at the sample suction position.

[Camera unit]
The camera unit 40a optically captures the sample dispensing probe 16 included in the structural element 600 and generates image data. This image data includes image data indicating the outer shape of the sample dispensing probe 16. The camera unit 40a is installed at a position where an area in the vertical direction of the cleaning tank 19a can be photographed. For example, the camera unit 40a is fixed and installed at a position where the portion including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at a predetermined stop position can be photographed. The predetermined stop position is, for example, a position vertically above the cleaning tank 19a. Hereinafter, this position may be referred to as a cleaning stop position. Further, another camera unit may be installed at a position facing the camera unit 40a with the sample dispensing probe 16 interposed therebetween. In addition, a mirror for taking an image of the sample dispensing probe 16 may be installed at a position opposite to the sample dispensing probe 16 of the camera unit 40a. By adopting these configurations, it is possible to take an image of an area behind the camera unit 40a on the side surface of the sample dispensing probe 16.

[Camera unit installation form]
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40a. FIG. 3 shows an enlarged view of the vicinity of the cleaning tank 19 a in the sample section 100. In the drawing, the z direction is a vertically upward direction, the r direction is a shooting direction of the camera unit 40a, and the θ direction is a direction orthogonal to the shooting direction and the vertical direction. The camera unit 40a includes a lens unit 40a1. Here, the photographing direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis of the lens unit 40a1.

  4 is a cross-sectional view showing a cut surface obtained by cutting the configuration shown in FIG. 3 along a plane including the sample dispensing probe 16 and parallel to the r direction. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera unit 40 a is provided so that the side portion of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning stop position can be photographed.

  The camera unit 40a and the cleaning tank 19a are provided, for example, in a space between the side of the sample disk 5 and the side of the reaction disk 4. When the analysis unit 24 includes a rack sampler (not shown), the camera unit 40a and the cleaning tank 19a are provided, for example, in a space sandwiched between the side of the rack sampler and the side of the reaction disk 4.

  The cleaning tank 19a is installed on the surface of the base 19a1, which is the bottom surface in this space, for example. The cleaning tank 19a is constituted by, for example, a recess formed on the surface of the base 19a1. The vertical position of the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning stop position is, for example, above the upper surface of the cleaning tank 19a.

  In this case, the vertical position of the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 is higher than the upper surface of the base 19a1. Further, the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning stop position faces, for example, the opening of the cleaning tank 19a. Further, the central axis of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning stop position and, for example, the central axis of the cleaning tank 19a are on the same straight line.

  The camera unit 40a is provided on the surface of the base 19a1, for example. The camera unit 40a is provided at a position where the imaging region includes at least a part of the side including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16. The camera unit 40a is provided, for example, at a position where the entire side of the sample dispensing probe 16 is included in the imaging region. The lens unit 40a1 can be configured with a wide-angle lens capable of photographing the entire sample dispensing probe 16. The camera unit 40a is provided so that the side of the sample dispensing probe 16 faces the lens surface of the lens portion 40a1. Moreover, the camera unit 40a is provided so that the optical axis of the lens part 40a1 and the sample dispensing probe 16 may cross | intersect, for example. Moreover, the camera unit 40a is provided so that the optical axis of the lens part 40a1 and the central axis of the sample dispensing probe 16 may cross | intersect, for example. The camera unit 40a is provided at a position higher than the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the washing stop position. When the camera unit 40a is provided at a position lower than the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16, for example, the camera unit 40a can be inclined obliquely upward. Thereby, even if the camera unit 40 a is provided at a position lower than the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16, a desired area in the side portion of the sample dispensing probe 16 can be photographed.

  The camera unit 40a may be accommodated in the camera housing 40a2, for example. The camera housing 40a2 is provided on the surface of the base 19a1 so that the side portion of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the washing stop position can be photographed. The camera housing 40a2 has a cover function of protecting the camera unit 40a by wrapping it. For example, the camera housing 40a2 protects the camera unit 40a from a liquid or protects it from an external impact. The camera housing 40 a 2 includes a window 40 a 3 on the side surface facing the sample dispensing probe 16. The window 40a3 is configured to be able to transmit light. When the camera unit 40a is housed in the camera housing 40a2, the camera unit 40a can take an image of the sample dispensing probe 16 through the window 40a3.

  For example, the camera housing 40a2 is configured as shown in FIG. 3 so that the camera unit 40a can be provided at a position higher than the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the washing stop position. Specifically, in this configuration, the camera housing 40a2 has a column shape higher than the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the washing stop position. A window 40a3 is provided at a position higher than the tip of the side surface of the camera housing 40a2. The camera unit 40a is accommodated in the camera housing 40a2. At this time, the camera unit 40a is housed so that the window 40a3 and the lens surface of the lens 40a1 face each other. Thereby, the camera unit 40a can be provided at a position vertically above the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the cleaning stop position. The camera unit 40a is provided so that the optical axis of the lens portion 40a1 and the sample dispensing probe 16 are orthogonal to each other. As a result, an image with less distortion (distortion aberration) can be obtained as compared with a case where the sample dispensing probe 16 is photographed from an obliquely downward direction.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the installation form of the camera unit 40a. As shown in FIG. 5, a camera unit 40m is provided at a position facing the camera unit 40a with the sample dispensing probe 16 interposed therebetween. The rest of the configuration of the camera unit 40a is the same as the configuration shown in FIG. For example, the camera unit 40m may be housed in a camera housing 40m2 having a window 40m3.

  FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing still another example of the installation form of the camera unit 40a. As shown in FIG. 6, a reflecting mirror 170 is provided at a position facing the camera unit 40a with the sample dispensing probe 16 interposed therebetween. The rest of the configuration of the camera unit 40a is the same as the configuration shown in FIG.

  The camera unit 40a photographs the side surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 and photographs an image of the sample dispensing probe 16 reflected on the reflecting mirror 170. In addition, by providing a plurality of camera units 40 a for the sample dispensing probe 16, it is possible to photograph all regions on the side surface of the sample dispensing probe 16 and obtain the mode. Thereby, the precision of determination of abnormality of the sample dispensing probe 16 in the determination part 60 can be improved.

  Also, by providing the reflecting mirror 170, the same effect can be obtained without providing another camera unit 40m at a position facing the camera unit 40a with the sample dispensing probe 16 interposed therebetween. In addition, the reflecting mirrors 170 can be provided so as to correspond to two camera units provided so that the imaging areas are orthogonal to each other.

[First section]
The first section 200 includes a first reagent container 1, a reagent container 6, a first reagent dispensing probe 14, a first reagent dispensing pump (not shown), a first reagent dispensing arm 8, and a washing. A tank 19b and a camera unit 40b are provided.

[First reagent storage]
The first reagent storage 1 includes a reagent rack 1a. The reagent rack 1a rotatably holds the reagent container 6 stored in the first reagent storage 1. The reagent container 6 accommodates the first reagent of the 1 reagent system and the 2 reagent system containing the component that reacts with the component of the test item included in the sample.

[First reagent dispensing probe]
The first reagent dispensing probe 14 performs a dispensing operation by sucking the first reagent accommodated in the reagent container 6 and discharging it into the reaction container 51. The first reagent dispensing probe 14 has an elongated shape with a flow path penetrating both ends. The lower end of both ends is an opening for discharging the reagent. This opening becomes the discharge portion 14d. The shape of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is, for example, a cylindrical shape.

  The first reagent dispensing pump changes the pressure in the first reagent dispensing probe 14. By this pressure change, suction and discharge by the first reagent dispensing probe 14 are performed.

  The first reagent dispensing arm 8 holds the first reagent dispensing probe 14 so as to be movable. The suction and discharge of the first reagent are performed at a preset suction position and discharge position. As the first reagent dispensing arm 8 operates, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 moves to the suction position or the discharge position.

[Washing tank]
For example, a cleaning liquid is accommodated in the cleaning tank 19b. The cleaning tank 19b cleans the portion including the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 using this cleaning liquid. The washing tank 19b can be configured similarly to the washing tank 19a by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the first reagent dispensing probe 14, for example. Further, by this replacement, what has been described in the cleaning tank 19a can be applied to the cleaning tank 19b.

[Camera unit]
The camera unit 40b optically captures the first reagent dispensing probe 14 included in the structural element 600 and generates image data. This image data includes image data indicating the outer shape of the first reagent dispensing probe 14. The camera unit 40b obtains image data by optically photographing the outer shape of the first reagent dispensing probe 14. The camera unit 40b can be configured similarly to the camera unit 40a by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the first reagent dispensing probe 14 and replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the cleaning tank 19b. In addition, by rereading this, what has been described for the camera unit 40a can be applied to the camera unit 40b.

[Camera unit installation form]
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40b. FIG. 7 shows an enlarged view of the vicinity of the cleaning tank 19 b in the first section 200. In the figure, the z direction is the vertical direction, the r direction is the shooting direction of the camera unit 40b, and the θ direction is a direction orthogonal to the shooting direction and the vertical direction. The camera unit 40b includes a lens unit 40b1. Here, the imaging direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis of the lens unit 40b1.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a cut surface obtained by cutting the configuration shown in FIG. 7 along a plane including the first reagent dispensing probe 14 and parallel to the r direction. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the camera unit 40b is provided so as to be able to photograph the side portion of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the washing stop position. The camera unit 40b and the cleaning tank 19b are provided, for example, in a space sandwiched between the side part of the first reagent storage 1 and the side part of the reaction disk 4. The cleaning tank 19b is installed, for example, on the surface of the base 19b1, which is the bottom surface in this space. The cleaning tank 19b is constituted by, for example, a recess formed on the surface of the base 19b1. The vertical position of the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the cleaning stop position is, for example, above the upper surface of the cleaning tank 19b.

  Other than the above in the installation form of the camera unit 40b, the cleaning tank 19a is replaced with the cleaning tank 19b, and the sample dispensing probe 16 is replaced with the first reagent dispensing probe 14, so that it is the same as the installation form of the camera unit 40a. It can be installed in the form.

  Moreover, the camera unit 40b may be accommodated in the camera housing 40b2 provided with the window part 40b3, for example. The camera housing 40b2 has the same configuration as the camera housing 40a2, for example. Further, the camera housing 40b2 in which the camera unit 40b is accommodated can be installed in the same manner as the camera housing 40a2 in which the camera unit 40a is accommodated, for example. Further, what has been described in the installation form of the camera housing 40a2 in which the camera unit 40a is accommodated can be applied to the installation form of the camera housing 40b2 in which the camera unit 40b is accommodated. When the configuration and installation mode of the camera unit 40b are configured in the same manner as the camera unit 40a, the sample dispensing probe 16 is replaced with the first reagent dispensing probe 14, and the lens unit 40a1, the camera housing 40a2, and the window unit 40a3 are replaced with the lens unit. 40b1, camera housing 40b2, and window 40b3.

[Second section]
The second section 300 includes a second reagent storage 2, a reagent container 7, a second reagent dispensing probe 15, a second reagent dispensing pump (not shown), a second reagent dispensing arm 9, and a washing A tank 19c and a camera unit 40c are provided.

[Second reagent storage]
The second reagent storage 2 includes a reagent rack 2a. The reagent rack 2a rotatably holds the reagent container 7 stored in the second reagent storage 2. The reagent container 7 accommodates a first reagent system and a second reagent system second reagent containing a component that reacts with a test item component contained in the sample.

[Second reagent dispensing probe]
The second reagent dispensing probe 15 performs a dispensing operation by sucking and discharging the second reagent accommodated in the reagent container 7 into the reaction container 51. The second reagent dispensing probe 15 has the same configuration as the first reagent dispensing probe 14, for example. In addition, what has been described for the first reagent dispensing probe 14 can be applied to the second reagent dispensing probe 15.

  The second reagent dispensing pump changes the pressure in the second reagent dispensing probe 15. By this pressure change, suction and discharge by the second reagent dispensing probe 15 are performed.

  The second reagent dispensing arm 9 holds the second reagent dispensing probe 15 so as to be movable. Aspiration and discharge of the second reagent are performed at preset suction positions and discharge positions. As the second reagent dispensing arm 9 operates, the second reagent dispensing probe 15 moves to the suction position or the discharge position.

[Washing tank]
For example, a cleaning liquid is accommodated in the cleaning tank 19c. The cleaning tank 19c cleans the portion including the tip of the second reagent dispensing probe 15 using this cleaning liquid. The washing tank 19c can be configured similarly to the washing tank 19a by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the second reagent dispensing probe 15, for example. In addition, by this replacement, what has been described in the cleaning tank 19a can be applied to the cleaning tank 19c.

[Camera unit]
The camera unit 40c optically captures the second reagent dispensing probe 15 included in the structural element 600 and generates image data. This image data includes image data indicating the outer shape of the second reagent dispensing probe 15. The camera unit 40c obtains image data by optically photographing the outer shape of the second reagent dispensing probe 15. The camera unit 40c can be configured similarly to the camera unit 40a by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the second reagent dispensing probe 15 and replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the cleaning tank 19c. In addition, by this replacement, what has been described for the camera unit 40a can be applied to the camera unit 40c.

[Camera unit installation form]
FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40c. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the cleaning tank 19 c in the second section 300. In the figure, the z direction is the vertical direction, the r direction is the shooting direction of the camera unit 40c, and the θ direction is a direction orthogonal to the shooting direction and the vertical direction. The camera unit 40c includes a lens unit 40c1. Here, the imaging direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis of the lens unit 40c1.

  FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a cut surface obtained by cutting the configuration shown in FIG. 9 along a plane including the second reagent dispensing probe 15 and parallel to the r direction. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the camera unit 40c is provided so as to be able to photograph the side of the sample dispensing probe 16 stopped at the washing stop position.

  The camera unit 40c and the cleaning tank 19c are provided, for example, in a space sandwiched between the side part of the second reagent storage 2 and the side part of the reaction disk 4. The cleaning tank 19c is installed, for example, on the surface of the base 19c1, which is the bottom surface in this space. The cleaning tank 19c is constituted by, for example, a recess formed on the surface of the base 19c1. The vertical position of the tip of the second reagent dispensing probe 15 stopped at the cleaning stop position is, for example, above the upper surface of the cleaning tank 19c. Except for the above, the installation configuration of the camera unit 40c is the same as the installation configuration of the camera unit 40a by replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the cleaning tank 19c and replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the second reagent dispensing probe 15. It can be installed in the form.

  Moreover, the camera unit 40c may be accommodated in the camera housing 40c2, for example. The camera housing 40c2 has the same configuration as the camera housing 40a2, for example. Further, the camera housing 40c2 in which the camera unit 40c is accommodated can be installed on the base 19c1 in the same manner as the camera housing 40a2 in which the camera unit 40a is accommodated, for example. Further, what has been described in the installation form of the camera housing 40a2 in which the camera unit 40a is accommodated can be applied to the installation form of the camera housing 40c2 in which the camera unit 40c is accommodated. When the configuration and installation mode of the camera unit 40c are configured in the same manner as the camera unit 40a, the sample dispensing probe 16 is replaced with the second reagent dispensing probe 15, and the lens unit 40a1, the camera housing 40a2, and the window unit 40a3 are replaced with the lens unit. 40c1, the camera housing 40c2, and the window 40c3, respectively.

[Analysis control section]
The analysis control unit 25 includes a mechanism unit 26 and a control unit 27. The analysis control unit 25 controls each mechanism of the sample section 100, the first section 200, and the second section 300 via the control unit 27 and the mechanism unit 26.

(Mechanism part)
The mechanism unit 26 includes a motor, a gear, and the like, and drives each analysis unit of the analysis unit 24. The mechanism unit 26 includes, for example, a mechanism that rotates the sample disk 5, the reagent rack 1 a, and the reagent rack 2 a, and a mechanism that rotates the reaction disk 4.

  The mechanism 26 is a mechanism for rotating and vertically moving the sample dispensing arm 17, the first reagent dispensing arm 8, the second reagent dispensing arm 9, the first stirring arm 20, and the second stirring arm 21, respectively. It has.

  Moreover, the mechanism part 26 is equipped with the mechanism which carries out the suction and discharge drive of the sample dispensing pump, the 1st reagent dispensing pump, and the 2nd reagent dispensing pump (all are not shown), for example. The mechanism unit 26 further includes a mechanism for moving the reaction container cleaning unit 13 up and down.

(Control part)
The control unit 27 includes a control circuit that controls driving of each analysis unit by the mechanism unit 26. The control unit 27 moves the dispensing probe provided in each section by controlling the mechanism of the arm provided in each section. The control unit 27 is provided with a control circuit. This control circuit includes a control program.

[Operation of automatic analyzer]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment. FIG. 11 shows the flow of control and operation in the first section 200 of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment. The control described below can be applied to the sample section 100 and the second section 300 by replacing the corresponding configuration.

  The first reagent dispensing arm 8 has a rotation mechanism and a vertical movement mechanism. The control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 rotates the first reagent dispensing arm 8 in the horizontal direction by controlling the rotation mechanism. The control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 moves the first reagent dispensing arm 8 up and down in the vertical direction by controlling the vertical movement mechanism.

  The first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped at a preset standby position before the analysis unit 24 starts to operate. An example of the position of the standby position in the vertical direction is the position of the top dead center. The position of the top dead center is the highest position among the positions where the first reagent dispensing probe 14 can move.

  First, the first reagent is dispensed into the reaction container 51 using the first reagent dispensing probe 14 (step S001). Specifically, each control circuit provided in the control unit 27 controls the rotation mechanism and the vertical movement mechanism, and further controls the first reagent dispensing pump, so that the predetermined reaction container 6 and the predetermined reaction container are controlled. A predetermined first reagent is dispensed into 51.

  This dispensing operation is performed as follows, for example. First, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the rotation mechanism to horizontally move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 and move it to a preset first reagent pre-suction stop position. The stop position before inhaling the first reagent is a position where the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops in order to aspirate the first reagent accommodated in the reagent container 6.

  The vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent inhalation is, for example, the same position as the vertical position of the end opening at the standby position. The vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent inhalation is, for example, a position facing the opening of the reagent container 6 at a predetermined distance. The horizontal position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent inhalation is, for example, a position included in the horizontal region of the opening of the reagent container 6. Further, the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent inhalation is, for example, on the same straight line as the central axis of the reagent container 6.

  Next, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vertically downward to move to a preset first reagent suction position. At the first reagent inhalation position, the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is inserted into the reagent container 6. In the first reagent inhalation position, the portion including the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is immersed in the first reagent accommodated in the reagent container 6, for example.

  Next, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing pump controls the first reagent dispensing pump to generate a negative pressure, and sucks the first reagent into the first reagent dispensing probe 14. When this aspiration control is completed, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 again controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vertically upward, and at the stop position after the first reagent inhalation. Stop.

  The stop position after inhalation of the first reagent is a position where the first reagent dispensing probe 14 waits (stops) before moving to the next process (first reagent discharge process) after aspiration of the first reagent. The stop position after the first reagent inhalation is, for example, the same position as the stop position before the first reagent inhalation.

  The vertical positions of the stop position before the first reagent inhalation and the stop position after the first reagent inhalation are positions that do not collide with each analysis mechanism when the first reagent dispensing probe 14 moves horizontally. Such a position may be used. The vertical position of each of the stop position before the first reagent inhalation and the stop position after the first reagent inhalation is, for example, a position where the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is a top dead center.

  Next, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the rotation mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 horizontally and move it to a preset first reagent pre-discharge stop position. The stop position before discharging the first reagent is a position where the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops to discharge the first reagent accommodated in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 into the reaction container 51.

  The vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent discharge is, for example, the same position as the vertical position of the end opening at the stop position before the first reagent inhalation. . The vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before discharging the first reagent is, for example, a position facing the opening of the reaction container 51 at a predetermined distance.

  The horizontal position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent discharge is, for example, a position included in the horizontal region of the opening of the reaction container 51. Further, the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before the first reagent discharge is, for example, on the same straight line as the central axis of the reaction container 51.

  Next, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vertically downward to move to a preset first reagent discharge position. At the first reagent discharge position, the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is inserted into the reaction container 51. At the first reagent discharge position, the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 faces the liquid surface of the liquid stored in the reagent container 6 at a predetermined interval. This liquid is, for example, a sample.

  Next, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing pump controls the first reagent dispensing pump to generate a positive pressure, so that the first reagent accommodated in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is contained in the reaction container 51. To discharge. When this discharge control is completed, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 again controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vertically upward, at the stop position after the first reagent dispensing. Stop.

  The stop position after discharging the first reagent is a position where the first reagent dispensing probe 14 waits (stops) before discharging to the next process (the cleaning process of the first reagent dispensing probe 14) after discharging the first reagent. is there. The stop position after the first reagent discharge is, for example, the same position as the stop position before the first reagent discharge.

  The vertical positions of the first reagent discharge stop position and the first reagent discharge stop position are any positions that do not collide with each analysis mechanism when the first reagent dispensing probe 14 moves horizontally. It may be a position. Examples of the vertical position of the stop position before the first reagent discharge and the stop position after the first reagent discharge include a position where the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is a top dead center.

  Next, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped at the stop position before washing (step S002). Specifically, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the rotation mechanism to horizontally move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 from the stop position after discharging the first reagent, and sets the pre-cleaning before setting. Move to the stop position and stop.

  The stop position before cleaning is a position where the portion including the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped for cleaning in the cleaning tank 19b. The vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position before washing is, for example, the vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 at the stop position after discharging the first reagent. At the same position. The vertical position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the pre-cleaning stop position is, for example, a position facing the opening position of the cleaning tank 19b at a predetermined distance. The horizontal position of the end opening of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the pre-cleaning stop position is, for example, a position that is included in the horizontal region of the opening of the cleaning tank 19b. Further, the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the pre-cleaning stop position is, for example, on the same straight line as the central axis of the cleaning tank 19b.

  Next, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vertically downward to move to a preset washing position. At the cleaning position, the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is inserted into the cleaning tank 19b. At the cleaning position, the portion including the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is immersed in, for example, a cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 19b.

  Next, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is washed in the washing tank 19b (step S003). Specifically, the control circuit of the cleaning tank 19b generates a flow in the cleaning liquid. When this flow collides with a portion of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 immersed in the cleaning liquid, the portion is cleaned. The portion immersed in the cleaning liquid in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is, for example, a portion including the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14. In this cleaning, the outer surface of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is mainly cleaned.

  Further, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing pump controls the first reagent dispensing pump to generate a negative pressure and sucks the cleaning liquid so as to be accommodated in the first reagent dispensing probe 14. Further, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing pump controls the first reagent dispensing pump to generate a positive pressure, and discharges the cleaning liquid stored in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 to the cleaning tank 19b. . The first reagent dispensing probe 14 is washed by repeating the suction and discharge of the cleaning liquid by the first reagent dispensing probe 14. In this cleaning, the inner surface of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is mainly cleaned. When this washing control is completed, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 again controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vertically upward and stop it at the stop position after washing ( Step S004).

  The stop position after washing is a position where the first reagent dispensing probe 14 waits (stops) after the washing before moving to the next process (for example, the first reagent inhaling process). The stop position after cleaning is, for example, the same position as the stop position before cleaning.

  Next, the system control unit 70 controls the camera unit 40 b to output a video generated by photographing the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position after washing to the video acquisition unit 41. The video acquisition unit 41 controls the system control unit 70 to output the acquired comparison video to the determination unit 60 when the acquisition determination unit 43 that has received this video determines that the comparison video can be acquired. The determination of the acquisition of the comparison video by the acquisition determination unit 43 is performed based on, for example, the first to third examples described above in the description of the video acquisition unit 41. In this flowchart, the first of these examples is used.

  The camera unit 40b performs the first shooting (step S005). The video generated by the first shooting is output to the video acquisition unit 41. The image generated by the first imaging is used to detect the vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe stopped at the stop position after washing. The video acquisition unit 41 receives the video obtained by the first shooting and determines whether or not the comparative video can be acquired (step S006).

  The video obtained by the first shooting is processed by the processing unit 42 of the video acquisition unit 41. By this process, the vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is detected and output to the acquisition determination unit 43 as vibration data. The acquisition determination unit 43 receives the vibration data and determines whether or not the comparison video can be acquired based on the amplitude of the vibration.

  When the acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired (step S006: YES), the system control unit 70 controls the photographing unit 40. Upon receiving the control signal from the system control unit 70, the imaging unit 40 performs the second imaging to acquire (generate) a video (step S007), and outputs this video to the determination unit 60 as a comparative video.

  The acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired when it can be considered that the vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped or the vibration is stopped.

  When the acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video cannot be acquired (step S006: NO), the system control unit 70 controls the shooting unit 40 to continue the first shooting to acquire the video, and the acquisition determination unit 43 In response to this video, continues to determine whether to obtain a comparative video.

  The acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video cannot be acquired when the vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 continues. For the detection of the vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14, for example, the method described above as the probe detection method is appropriately used.

  The reference video acquired by the second shooting may be a still image or a moving image. Further, when the reference video is acquired as a still image, the photographing unit 40 can acquire a plurality of reference videos. As long as the timing of the second imaging is after the imaging time of the second imaging, the imaging may be performed at any timing as long as the probe does not move. The second shooting is performed at the same shooting position as the first shooting.

  FIG. 12 is a time chart showing the timing at which the first imaging and the second imaging are performed after the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is stopped. In this time chart, a time chart 150, a time chart 151, and a time chart 153 are shown in association with respective times.

  The time chart 150 shows the operation timing of the first reagent dispensing probe 14. The horizontal axis of the time chart 150 is time. The time chart 151 shows how the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vibrates. In the time chart 151, a vibration waveform 152 of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is shown. The vertical axis of the time chart 151 is the amplitude of vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14, and the horizontal axis is time. The time chart 153 shows the height of the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe 14. The vertical axis of the time chart 153 is the vertical position x (height x), and the horizontal axis is time t. Further, x1 is the height at the dispensing position, and x2 is the height at the stop position before cleaning and the stop position after cleaning. Here, x2 is a position higher than x1.

  In this time chart, the time t shown in the time charts 150 to 153 is associated. In the time chart 150, at time T0, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 moves vertically downward from the pre-wash stop position (height x = x2) to the wash position (height x = x1). At time T1, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 reaches the washing position, and the washing tank 19b starts washing the first reagent dispensing probe 14. At time T2, the cleaning tank 19b finishes cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe 14. With this termination, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 moves vertically upward from the cleaning position (height x = x1) to the post-cleaning stop position (height x = x2).

  At time T3, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops at the post-wash stop position (height x = x2). At time T3, the system control unit 70 controls the imaging unit 40 to start imaging (first imaging) of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stopped at the stop position after washing. The start time of the first imaging is not limited to time T3, and may be any time between time T3 and time T4. The image acquired by the imaging unit 40 by the first imaging is output to the processing unit 42. The time from time T3 to time T4 is, for example, 0.5 seconds to 1 second. This corresponds to 1/8 to 1/4 of the total cycle time. The total cycle time is the time during which the sample is placed in the reaction vessel 51 and the first reagent and the second reagent are dispensed.

  The time chart 151 shows the vibration waveform 152 of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 detected by being processed in the processing unit 42. This vibration occurs in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. In this case, the processing unit 42 detects the vibration in the horizontal direction. The acquisition determination unit 43 determines the shootable time of the second shooting based on the amplitude of the vibration waveform. In the time chart 151, at the stage of time T3, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 vibrates with a large amplitude. Thereafter, the vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 attenuates with time. At time T4, the amplitude of vibration of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 becomes substantially zero. The acquisition determination unit 43 determines the shooting start time of the second shooting as time T4. At time T <b> 5, the system control unit 70 controls the photographing unit 40 to perform photographing (second photographing), obtains a comparison video, and outputs the comparison video to the determination unit 60. At time T5, the first reagent dispensing probe 14 moves from the post-cleaning stop position to, for example, the first reagent pre-inhalation stop position. The second imaging may be performed at any time as long as it is between time T4 and time T5. In addition, the video acquired by this shooting may be a still image or a moving image.

  Receiving the comparison video, the determination unit 60 acquires the reference video stored in the storage unit 50 (step S008). The reference image shows the first reagent dispensing probe 14 having a normal shape. The reference image is acquired by, for example, fixed-point imaging by the imaging unit 40 in a measurement preparation stage by the automatic analyzer 10.

  The determination unit 60 determines whether there is an abnormality in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 based on the reference image and the comparison image (step S009). When the determination unit 60 determines that an abnormality (deformation, droplet adhesion, etc.) has occurred in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 (step S009: YES), the system control unit 70 controls the notification unit 93, for example. Then, the outside is informed that an abnormality has occurred in the first reagent dispensing probe 14 (step S010). In addition to this abnormality notification, the system control unit 70 controls the display unit 91 to display the content of the abnormality on the display screen provided in the display unit 91. The contents of the abnormality include the presence / absence of the bending of the first reagent dispensing probe 14, the degree of the bending, the presence / absence of the deposit on the surface of the first reagent dispensing probe 14, the amount of the deposit.

  Determination of the presence or absence of abnormality of the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is performed using, for example, the above-described difference image. In this case, the threshold value used for abnormality determination can be arbitrarily set according to the abnormality content. When it is determined that the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is abnormal, the analysis control unit 25 stops the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 as necessary. The determination of stopping the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 is made based on the type of abnormality, the degree of abnormality, and the like.

  When the determination unit 60 determines that the first reagent dispensing probe 14 is not deformed (step S009: NO), the process returns to step S005 to continue monitoring the first reagent dispensing probe 14.

  The timing for monitoring the first reagent dispensing probe 14 may be performed at any timing at which the first reagent dispensing probe 14 stops at the stop position after washing, or at a timing with a predetermined interval. It may be broken.

[Operation and effect of automatic analyzer]
The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is configured such that the structural element 600 includes a dispensing probe and detects an abnormality of the dispensing probe. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 10 acquires a reference image indicating the normal shape of the dispensing probe in advance with the imaging unit 40, and images the dispensing probe corresponding to the reference image with the imaging unit 40 during the measurement operation. Get a comparison video. The determination unit 60 compares the reference image and the comparison image, and determines the abnormality of the dispensing probe from the difference.

  In acquisition of the comparison video by the imaging unit 40, the imaging unit 40 images the dispensing probe stopped at the stop position after cleaning. In addition, the imaging unit 40 acquires a comparative image by performing imaging after a predetermined time has elapsed since the dispensing probe stopped at the stop position after cleaning.

  Immediately after the dispensing probe stops at the stop position after washing, the dispensing probe vibrates. At this time, when the imaging unit 40 images the dispensing probe, an image of the dispensing probe warped by vibration is acquired, and there is a possibility that the dispensing probe is erroneously recognized as having an abnormality.

  Since the imaging unit 40 performs imaging after a predetermined time during which the vibration is settled and acquires a comparative image, a still image of the dispensing probe can be obtained. Thereby, the accuracy which determines the abnormality of a dispensing probe improves.

<Second Embodiment>
[Automatic analyzer]
The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is configured to detect an abnormality of the stirrer as a configuration in which the structural element 600 includes the stirrer.

[overall structure]
The overall configuration of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment can be the same as that of the first embodiment, except that the structural element 600 is a stirring means provided with a stirring bar. The imaging unit 40, the storage unit 50, and the determination unit 60 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment by replacing the dispensing probe with a stirrer, and as in the first embodiment, the stirrer Abnormalities can be detected.

  When detecting the vibration of the stirring bar based on the image acquired by the imaging unit 40, for example, the imaging unit 40 is configured to be able to acquire an image capable of detecting the magnitude of the vibration frequency of the stirring bar. . That is, in this case, the photographing unit 40 is selected to have a configuration capable of detecting a temporal change in the stirring bar.

[Detailed configuration of analysis unit]
Next, an example of the configuration of the analysis unit 24 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The analysis unit 24 has a configuration other than that described in this description, for example, the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

  The analysis unit 24 includes a structural element 600. This structural element 600 comprises a reaction section 400. In this embodiment, a reaction section 400 that is a configuration for performing a stirring step in the structural element 600 will be described.

[Reaction section]
The reaction section 400 includes a configuration that is vertically movable. The reaction section 400 is configured to be able to perform a cleaning operation.

  In this embodiment, the structural element 600 includes at least a stir bar. The reaction section 400 includes a first stirrer 18a and a second stirrer 18b. The first stirring bar 18a is cleaned in the cleaning tank 19d, and the second stirring bar 18b is cleaned in the cleaning tank 19e. Further, a camera unit 40d for photographing the outer shape of the first stirring bar 18a after the cleaning operation and a camera unit 40e for photographing the outer shape of the second stirring bar 18b after the cleaning operation are provided.

[Stirrer]
The first stirring bar 18 a agitates the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent dispensed in the reaction vessel 51. The second stirrer 18b stirs the mixed solution of the sample dispensed in the reaction vessel 51, the first reagent, and the second reagent. These stirrers are provided with vibrators, and the liquid is agitated when the vibrator immersed in the liquid performs a vibration operation.

  The 1st stirring arm 11a hold | maintains the 1st stirring element 18a so that a movement is possible. The liquid is stirred by the first stirring bar 18a at a preset stirring position. As the first stirring arm 11a operates, the first stirring bar 18a moves to the stirring position. The same applies to the second stirring arm 11b corresponding to the second stirring bar 18b.

[Washing tank]
For example, a cleaning liquid is accommodated in the cleaning tank 19d. The cleaning tank 19d cleans the portion including the tip of the first stirring bar 18a using this cleaning liquid. The cleaning tank 19d can be configured similarly to the cleaning tank 19a, for example, by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the first stirring bar 18a. Further, by this replacement, what has been described in the cleaning tank 19a can be applied to the cleaning tank 19b. This can be similarly applied to the cleaning tank 19b corresponding to the second stirring bar 18b.

[Camera unit]
The camera unit 40d optically captures the first stirring bar 18a included in the structural element 600 and generates image data. This image data includes image data indicating the outer shape of the first stirring bar 18a. The camera unit 40d obtains image data by optically photographing the outer shape of the first stirring bar 18a. The camera unit 40d can have the same configuration as the camera unit 40a by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the first stirring bar 18a and replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the cleaning tank 19d. Moreover, by this replacement, what has been described for the camera unit 40a can be applied to the camera unit 40d. This can be similarly applied to the camera unit 40e corresponding to the second stirring bar 18b.

[Camera unit installation form]
FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40e for photographing the second stirring bar 18b. The configuration described below can also be applied to the camera unit 40d that photographs the first stirring bar 18a. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the cleaning tank 19e in the reaction section 400. FIG. In the figure, the z direction is the vertical direction, the r direction is the shooting direction of the camera unit 40e, and the θ direction is a direction orthogonal to the shooting direction and the vertical direction. The camera unit 40e includes a lens unit 40e1. Here, the imaging direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis of the lens unit 40e1.

  FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a cut surface obtained by cutting the configuration shown in FIG. 14 along a plane including the central axis of the second stirrer 18b and parallel to the r direction.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the camera unit 40e is provided so as to be able to photograph the side of the second stirring bar 18b stopped at the cleaning stop position. The camera unit 40e and the cleaning tank 19e are provided in the vicinity of the second stirring bar 18b, for example. The cleaning tank 19e is installed on the surface of the base 19e1, which is the bottom surface in this space, for example. The vertical position of the tip of the second stirring bar 18b stopped at the cleaning stop position is, for example, higher than the upper surface of the cleaning tank 19c. Other than the above in the installation form of the camera unit 40e, the cleaning tank 19a is replaced with the cleaning tank 19e, and the sample dispensing probe 16 is replaced with the second stirring bar 18b. Can be installed.

  The camera unit 40e may be accommodated in the camera housing 40e2, for example. The camera housing 40e2 has the same configuration as the camera housing 40a2, for example. Further, when the camera housing 40e2 in which the camera unit 40e is accommodated is installed, it can be installed in the same manner as the camera housing 40a2 in which the camera unit 40a is accommodated by the following replacement. Further, by replacing this, what has been described in the installation form of the camera housing 40a2 in which the camera unit 40a is accommodated can be applied to the installation form of the camera housing 40e2 in which the camera unit 40e is accommodated. In this case, the sample dispensing probe 16 is read as the second stirring bar 18b, and the lens portion 40a1, the camera housing 40a2, and the window portion 40a3 are read as the lens portion 40e1, the camera housing 40e2, and the window portion 40e3.

[Operation of automatic analyzer]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment. FIG. 16 shows the flow of control and operation in the reaction section 400 of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment. In this flowchart, the operation of the first stirring bar 18a is shown, but the second stirring bar 11b and the second stirring arm 11b corresponding to the second stirring bar 18b also operate similarly.

  The first stirring bar 18a has a rotation mechanism and a vertical movement mechanism. The control circuit of the first stirring arm 11a rotates the first stirring arm 11a in the horizontal direction by controlling the rotation mechanism. The control circuit of the first stirring arm 11a moves the first stirring arm 11a up and down in the vertical direction by controlling the vertical movement mechanism.

  First, the liquid mixture (liquid) in the reaction vessel 51 is stirred using the first stirring bar 18a (step S020). Specifically, each control circuit provided in the control unit 27 controls the rotation mechanism and the vertical movement mechanism, and further controls the first stirrer 18 a to stir the liquid in the reaction vessel 51.

  This stirring operation is performed as follows, for example. The control circuit of the first stirring arm 11a first controls the rotation mechanism to move the first stirring bar 18a horizontally, and moves it to a preset pre-stirring stop position. The pre-stirring stop position is a position where the first stirrer 18a stops to stir the liquid stored in the reaction vessel 51.

  The position of the lower end portion of the first stirring bar 18a stopped at the pre-stirring stop position is, for example, a position facing the opening of the reaction vessel 51 with a predetermined distance. The horizontal position of the lower end (front end) of the first stirrer 18 a stopped at the pre-stirring stop position is, for example, a position included in the horizontal region of the opening of the reaction vessel 51. Further, the central axis of the first stirring bar 18 a stopped at the pre-stirring stop position is, for example, on the same straight line as the central axis of the reaction vessel 51.

  Next, the control circuit of the first stirring arm 11a controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first stirring bar 18a vertically downward to move to a preset stirring position. At the stirring position, the tip of the first stirring bar 18 a is inserted into the reaction vessel 51. At the stirring position, the portion including the tip of the first stirring bar 18 a is immersed in the liquid stored in the reaction vessel 51.

  Next, the control circuit of the first stirrer 18a controls the first stirrer 18a to generate vibration, and stirs the liquid in the reaction vessel 51. When the stirring control is completed, the control circuit of the first stirring arm 11a controls the vertical movement mechanism again to move the first stirring bar 18a vertically upward, and stops at the stop position after stirring.

  The post-stirring stop position is a position where the first stirring bar 18a waits (stops) before moving to the next step (step of cleaning the first stirring bar 18a) after stirring the liquid. The stop position after stirring is, for example, the same position as the stop position before stirring.

  The vertical position of the pre-stirring stop position and the post-stirring stop position may be any position as long as it does not collide with each analysis mechanism when the first stirrer 18a moves horizontally. The vertical position of the stop position before stirring and the stop position after stirring is, for example, a position where the tip of the first stirring bar 18a becomes the top dead center.

  Next, the first stirring bar 18a is stopped at the stop position before cleaning (step S021). Specifically, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the rotation mechanism to move the first stirrer 18a horizontally from the stop position after stirring and move it to the preset stop position before washing. Stop.

  The stop position before cleaning is a position where the part including the tip of the first stirring bar 18a is stopped to be cleaned by the cleaning tank 19d. The vertical position of the tip of the first stirrer 18a stopped at the stop position before cleaning is, for example, the same position as the vertical position of the tip at the stop position after stirring. The vertical position of the tip of the first stirring bar 18a stopped at the stop position before cleaning is, for example, a position facing the opening position of the cleaning tank 19d with a predetermined distance. The horizontal position of the tip of the first stirring bar 18a stopped at the stop position before cleaning is, for example, a position that is included in the horizontal region of the opening of the cleaning tank 19d. Further, the central axis of the first stirring bar 18a stopped at the stop position before cleaning is, for example, on the same straight line as the central axis of the cleaning tank 19d.

  Next, the control circuit of the first stirring arm 11a controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first stirring bar 18a vertically downward to move to a preset cleaning position. At the cleaning position, the tip of the first stirring bar 18a is inserted into the cleaning tank 19d. In the cleaning position, the portion including the tip of the first stirring bar 18a is immersed in, for example, a cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 19d.

  Next, the first stirring bar 18a is washed by the washing tank 19d (step S022). The control circuit of the cleaning tank 19d generates a flow in the cleaning liquid. When this flow collides with a portion immersed in the cleaning liquid in the first stirring bar 18a, the portion is cleaned. The part immersed in the cleaning liquid in the first stirrer 18a is, for example, a part including the tip of the first stirrer 18a. By this washing, the first stirring bar 18a is washed. In addition, the cleaning tank 19a includes a mechanism for supplying a partial cleaning liquid including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16 into the cleaning tank 19a, for example. The cleaning tank 19a performs cleaning by spraying a cleaning liquid from this mechanism onto a portion including the tip of the sample dispensing probe 16, for example.

  Next, the first stirring bar 18a is stopped at the stop position after cleaning (step S023). Specifically, when this cleaning control is completed, the control circuit of the first reagent dispensing arm 8 controls the vertical movement mechanism again to move the first stirring bar 18a vertically upward, and stops at the stop position after cleaning. Let

  The post-cleaning stop position is a position where the first stirrer 18a waits (stops) before moving to the next step after cleaning. The stop position after cleaning is, for example, the same position as the stop position before cleaning.

  Subsequent processing is performed similarly to steps S005 to S010 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 by replacing the first reagent dispensing probe 14 with the first stirring bar 18a and replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the cleaning tank 19d. (Steps S024 to S29).

[Operation and effect of automatic analyzer]
The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is configured such that the structural element 600 includes a stirrer and detects an abnormality of the stirrer. In this case, the automatic analyzer 10 acquires a reference image indicating the normal shape of the stirrer in advance by the photographing unit 40, and photographs a stirrer corresponding to the reference image during the measurement operation by the photographing unit 40, thereby comparing the comparison image. get. The determination unit 60 compares the reference image and the comparison image, and determines the abnormality of the stirring bar from the difference.

  In the acquisition of the comparative image by the imaging unit 40, the imaging unit 40 images the stirring bar stopped at the stop position after cleaning. In addition, the photographing unit 40 obtains a comparative image by photographing after a predetermined time after the stirring bar stops at the stop position after washing.

  Immediately after the stirring bar stops at the stop position after cleaning, the stirring bar vibrates. At this time, when the photographing unit 40 photographs the stirrer, an image of the stirrer warped by vibration is acquired, and there is a possibility that it is recognized that the stirrer is abnormal.

  The imaging unit 40 acquires a comparative image by performing imaging after a predetermined time when the vibration is settled, so that a still image of the stirring bar can be obtained. Thereby, the accuracy of determination of the abnormality of the stirring bar is improved.

  Thereby, it can reduce that the deformed stirring element contacts the inside of the reaction vessel 51 and further damages the reaction vessel 51 due to the stirring operation. As a result, it is possible to reduce abnormality in the measurement result due to the absorption measurement being performed on the damaged reaction vessel 51.

<Third Embodiment>
[Automatic analyzer]
The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is configured such that the structural element 600 includes a cleaning mechanism, and detects an abnormality of the cleaning mechanism.

[overall structure]
The overall configuration of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment can be the same as that of the first and second embodiments, except that the structural element 600 is a cleaning mechanism. The imaging unit 40, the storage unit 50, and the determination unit 60 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment by replacing the dispensing probe with a cleaning probe and / or a dry tip included in the cleaning mechanism. As in the first embodiment, an abnormality of the cleaning mechanism can be detected.

  Here, the amplitude of vibration of the cleaning probe at the stop position after cleaning is the same as the amplitude of vibration of the dispensing probe shown in the first embodiment, for example.

  When the vibration of the stirring bar is detected based on the image acquired by the imaging unit 40, for example, the imaging unit 40 is configured to be able to acquire an image capable of detecting the magnitude of the vibration frequency of the dry tip. . That is, in this case, the photographing unit 40 is selected to have a configuration that can detect a temporal change in the dry chip.

[Detailed configuration of analysis unit]
Next, an example of the configuration of the analysis unit 24 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The analysis unit 24 has a configuration other than that described in this description, for example, the same configuration as in the first and second embodiments.

  The analysis unit 24 includes a structural element 600. This structural element 600 comprises a cleaning section 500. In this embodiment, a cleaning section 500 which is a configuration for performing a cleaning / drying process in the structural element 600 will be described.

[Washing section]
The cleaning section 500 includes a configuration movable in the vertical direction. Further, the cleaning section 500 is configured to be able to perform a cleaning operation.

  In this embodiment, the structural element 600 includes at least cleaning means (cleaning mechanism). In addition, the reaction section 400 includes the reaction vessel cleaning unit 13. The reaction container cleaning unit 13 includes a cleaning mechanism, and performs a cleaning operation by cleaning and drying the inside of the reaction container 51 that has been measured by the photometry unit 12. Moreover, the camera unit 40f which image | photographs the external shape of the reaction container washing | cleaning unit 13 after washing | cleaning operation is provided.

[Reaction vessel cleaning unit]
The reaction container cleaning unit 13 cleans and dries the inside of the reaction container 51 that has been measured by the photometry unit 12. The reaction container cleaning unit 13 is a cleaning mechanism including a plurality of cleaning probes and a drying chip. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the reaction container cleaning unit 13 includes a first cleaning probe 13a, a second cleaning probe 13b, a third cleaning probe 13c, and a drying chip 13d. Hereinafter, the first cleaning probe 13a, the second cleaning probe 13b, and the third cleaning probe 13c may be collectively referred to as a cleaning probe. The cleaning probe aspirates the liquid in the reaction vessel 51, and the inside of the reaction vessel 51 is washed by discharging and sucking liquids such as acid, alkali, and water from the washing probe into the reaction vessel 51, respectively. Is done. In addition, after this cleaning, the inside of the reaction vessel 51 is dried by inserting the drying chip 13 d into the reaction vessel 51.

[Camera unit]
The camera unit 40f optically captures the reaction container cleaning unit 13 included in the structural element 600 and generates image data. This image data includes image data indicating the outer shape of the reaction vessel cleaning unit 13. The image data includes image data indicating at least a part of the outer shape including the tip of the cleaning probe. The image data may include at least one cleaning probe image, but preferably includes all cleaning probe images provided in the reaction vessel cleaning unit 13. Further, this image data includes image data indicating at least a part of the outer shape including the tip of the dry tip 13d. In this case, the image data only needs to include the image of the dry tip 13d, but preferably, the image data includes the image of the cleaning probe. The image data includes, for example, images of all the cleaning probes provided in the reaction container cleaning unit 13 and an image of the dry tip 13d. That is, the image data indicates a cleaning mechanism constituted by a plurality of mechanisms.

  The camera unit 40f can be configured similarly to the camera unit 40a by replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the cleaning probe and / or the dry tip 13d and replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the reaction vessel 51. In addition, by this replacement, what is described in the camera unit 40a can be applied to the camera unit 40f.

[Camera unit installation form]
FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40 f that photographs the reaction container cleaning unit 13. FIG. 19 is a top view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40 f that photographs the reaction container cleaning unit 13. 18 and 19 show the vicinity of the reaction vessel cleaning unit 13 in the cleaning section 500 in an enlarged manner. The hatched portion in FIG. 19 indicates the camera unit 40f and does not indicate a cross section. 18 and 19, the z direction is the vertical direction, the r direction is the shooting direction of the camera unit 40f, and the θ direction is a direction orthogonal to the shooting direction and the vertical direction. The camera unit 40f includes a lens unit 40f1. Here, the photographing direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis of the lens unit 40f1. The cleaning probe and the dry tip 13d are arranged linearly, for example. For example, the camera unit 40f is installed so that the photographing direction r is a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction. Further, the cleaning probe and the dry tip 13d are arranged in a circumferential shape, for example. For example, the camera unit 40f is installed so that the photographing direction r is the radial direction of the arrangement direction. The camera unit 40f is provided in the vicinity of the reaction vessel cleaning unit 13, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the camera unit 40 f is provided on a base 19 f 1 that is a planar region sandwiched between the reaction disk 4 and the first reagent storage 1. The camera unit 40f photographs the reaction container cleaning unit 13 stopped at the cleaning stop position. For example, the camera unit 40f has a configuration capable of photographing each of the first cleaning probe 13a, the second cleaning probe 13b, the third cleaning probe 13c, and the dry chip 13d. In this case, the camera unit 40f has, for example, a plurality of imaging elements and an optical system corresponding to the imaging elements. In addition, the camera unit 40f has a configuration capable of, for example, photographing the cleaning probe and the dry chip 13d all together. By storing the cleaning probe and the dry chip 13d in one photographing range, only one image sensor of the camera unit 40f is required, and the camera unit 40f is not enlarged.

  FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an installation form of the camera unit 40 f that photographs the reaction container cleaning unit 13. FIG. 20 shows the configuration shown in FIG. 18 cut along a plane including the third cleaning probe 13c and parallel to the zr plane. The camera unit 40f is provided so that the side of the cleaning probe and / or the dry chip 13d stopped at the cleaning stop position can be photographed. The vertical position of the tip of the cleaning probe and the dry tip 13d stopped at the cleaning stop position is, for example, above the upper surface of the reaction vessel 51. Except for the above, the installation configuration of the camera unit 40f is the same as the installation configuration of the camera unit 40a by replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the reaction vessel 51 and replacing the sample dispensing probe 16 with the cleaning probe and / or the dry chip 13d. Can be installed in any form.

  Moreover, the camera unit 40f may be accommodated in the camera housing 40f2, for example. The camera housing 40f2 is a cover that protects the camera unit 40f by wrapping it. The camera housing 40f2 protects the camera unit 40f from, for example, a liquid or protects from an external impact. The camera housing 40f2 includes a window portion 40f3, and the lens portion 40f1 included in the camera unit 40f photographs the cleaning probe and / or the dry tip 13d through the window portion 403.

[Operation of automatic analyzer]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment. FIG. 21 shows the flow of control and operation in the cleaning section 500 of the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment.

  The reaction container cleaning unit 13 has a vertical movement mechanism. The control circuit of the reaction container cleaning unit 13 moves the cleaning probe and the drying tip 13d provided in the reaction container cleaning unit 13 vertically by controlling the vertical movement mechanism.

  Each control circuit provided in the control unit 27 controls the vertical movement mechanism, and further controls the cleaning probe and the drying tip 13d to clean and dry the inside of the reaction vessel 51 (step S040).

  This cleaning operation is performed as follows, for example. The control circuit of the reaction disk 4 first controls the rotation mechanism to move the reaction vessel 51 for which the absorption measurement has been completed, and moves it to a preset stop position before washing. The stop position before cleaning is a position where the reaction container cleaning unit 13 stops in order to clean and dry the reaction container 51.

  The first cleaning probe 13a stops relatively at the pre-cleaning stop position when the reaction vessel 51 to be cleaned stops at a position facing the lower end opening of the first cleaning probe 13a at a predetermined distance. It becomes. The central axis of the first cleaning probe 13a stopped at the stop position before cleaning and the central axis of the reaction vessel 51 are, for example, on the same straight line.

  Next, the control circuit of the reaction container cleaning unit 13 controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first cleaning probe 13a vertically downward and to a cleaning position set in advance. At the cleaning position, the end opening of the first cleaning probe 13 a is inserted into the reaction vessel 51. At this time, the end opening of the first cleaning probe 13 a is immersed in the liquid stored in the reaction vessel 51.

  Next, the control circuit of the first cleaning probe 13a controls the first cleaning probe 13a to suck the liquid stored in the reaction vessel 51 from the end opening of the first cleaning probe 13a. Further, the control circuit of the second cleaning probe 13b performs a cleaning operation by discharging the cleaning liquid to the reaction vessel 51 from which the liquid has been sucked, and sucks the cleaning liquid after the cleaning operation. . In addition, the control circuit of the third cleaning probe 13c causes the third cleaning probe 13c to perform a rinsing operation by discharging distilled water into the reaction vessel 51 that has been cleaned with the cleaning liquid. After the rinsing operation, the third cleaning probe 13c performs the rinsing operation. Suction. Further, the control circuit of the dry chip 13 d inserts the dry chip 13 d into the reaction container 51 and sucks the liquid in the reaction container 51. These washing controls may be performed simultaneously in the adjacent reaction vessels 51 or may be performed separately.

  Next, the cleaning probe or the like is stopped at the stop position after cleaning (step S041). Specifically, when these cleaning controls are completed, the control circuit of the reaction vessel cleaning unit 13 again controls the vertical movement mechanism to move the first cleaning probe 13a vertically upward and stop it at the stop position after cleaning. .

  The stop position after cleaning is a position where each cleaning probe and the dry chip 13d wait (stop) after the reaction container 51 is cleaned and before moving to the next process (cleaning process of another reaction container 51). The stop position after cleaning is, for example, the same position as the stop position before stirring.

  Subsequent processing is similar to steps S005 to S010 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 by replacing the first reagent dispensing probe 14 with each cleaning probe and / or the dry tip 13d and replacing the cleaning tank 19a with the cleaning tank 19d. (Steps S042 to S047).

  In step S043 and step S044, when the cleaning probe and the dry tip 13d are photographed all at once, the acquisition determination unit 43 determines whether or not the comparison video can be acquired as follows. When at least one of the cleaning probe and the dry tip 13d vibrates, the acquisition determination unit 43 determines that the comparison video can be acquired when the vibration is stopped or when it can be considered that the vibration has stopped.

[Operation and effect of automatic analyzer]
The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is configured such that the structural element 600 includes a cleaning mechanism and detects an abnormality of the cleaning mechanism. In this case, the automatic analyzer 10 obtains a reference image indicating the normal shape of the cleaning mechanism in advance by the photographing unit 40, and photographs the cleaning mechanism corresponding to the reference image by the photographing unit 40 during the measurement operation, thereby comparing the comparison image. get. The determination unit 60 compares the reference image and the comparison image, and determines an abnormality of the cleaning mechanism from the difference. This cleaning mechanism is, for example, a cleaning probe, a dry tip 13d, or the like.

  In the acquisition of the comparison video by the imaging unit 40, the imaging unit 40 images the cleaning mechanism stopped at the stop position after cleaning. In addition, the photographing unit 40 obtains a comparative image by photographing after a predetermined time after the cleaning mechanism stops at the stop position after cleaning.

  Immediately after the cleaning mechanism stops at the stop position after cleaning, the cleaning mechanism vibrates. At this time, if the photographing unit 40 photographs the cleaning mechanism, an image of the cleaning mechanism warped by vibration is acquired, and there is a possibility that it is recognized that the cleaning mechanism is abnormal.

  Since the imaging unit 40 performs imaging after a predetermined time during which the vibration is reduced and acquires a comparative image, a still image of the cleaning mechanism can be obtained. Thereby, the accuracy of determining the abnormality of the cleaning mechanism is improved.

  As a result, it is possible to reduce the damage of the reaction vessel 51 due to the deformation of the dry tip 13d constituting the cleaning mechanism and the contact of the deformed dry tip 13d with the inside of the reaction vessel 51. As a result, it is possible to reduce abnormality in the measurement result due to the absorption measurement being performed on the damaged reaction vessel 51.

  The automatic analyzer 10 of the above embodiment can have at least one configuration of the first embodiment to the third embodiment, and can also be configured by combining these embodiments. In other words, the structural element 600 may include at least one of, for example, a dispensing probe, an agitation unit including an agitator, a cleaning probe, and a cleaning mechanism including a drying tip 13d.

  The configuration described in the above embodiment can be applied to clinical examination apparatuses other than the automatic analyzer.

  Examples of clinical testing apparatuses include clinical analyzers such as automatic analyzers, blood gas analyzers, electrophoresis apparatuses, and liquid chromatography apparatuses, nuclear medicine apparatuses such as radioimmunoassay apparatuses, latex agglutination reaction measuring apparatuses, and nephelometers. Blood test equipment such as immune serum test equipment, automatic blood cell counter, blood coagulation measurement equipment, microbe classification and identification equipment, bacteria culture test equipment such as blood culture test equipment and DNA / RNA measurement equipment, urine analysis equipment, fecal occult blood measurement equipment, etc. Urinalysis equipment, pathological examination equipment such as automatic tissue cell staining equipment, physiological function testing equipment, other clinical examination equipment such as micropipette, washing device dispensing device, and centrifuge.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 1st reagent storage 1a Reagent rack 2 2nd reagent storage 2a Reagent rack 4 Reaction disk 5 Sample disk 6 Reagent container 7 Reagent container 8 1st reagent dispensing arm 9 2nd reagent dispensing arm 10 Automatic analyzer 11a 1st stirring Arm 11b Second stirring arm 12 Photometric unit 13 Reaction vessel cleaning unit 13a First cleaning probe 13b Second cleaning probe 13c Third cleaning probe 13d Drying tip 14 First reagent dispensing probe 14d Discharge unit 15 Second reagent dispensing probe 16 Sample dispensing probe 16a Discharge unit 17 Sample dispensing arm 18 Stirring means 18a First stirrer 18b Second stirrer 19a Cleaning tank 19b Cleaning tank 19c Cleaning tank 19d Cleaning tank 19e Cleaning tank 24 Analysis section 25 Analysis control section 26 Mechanism section 27 Control unit 30 Data processing unit 31 Calculation unit 32 Data storage unit 40 imaging unit 40a camera unit 40b camera unit 40c camera unit 40d camera unit 40e camera unit 40f camera unit 40m camera unit 41 video acquisition unit 42 processing unit 43 acquisition determination unit 50 storage unit 51 reaction vessel 60 determination unit 61 sample Container 70 System control unit 80 Operation unit 90 Output unit 91 Display unit 92 Printing unit 93 Notification unit 100 Sample section 111 Drying chip 150 Time chart 151 Time chart 152 Vibration waveform 153 Time chart 170 Reflector 19a1 Base 19b1 Base 19c1 Base 19e1 Base 19f1 Base 200 First section 300 Second section 400 Reaction section 403 Window 40a1 Lens 40a2 Camera housing 40a3 Window part 40b1 Lens part 40b2 Camera housing 40b3 Window part 40c1 Lens part 40c2 Camera housing 40c3 Window part 40e1 Lens part 40e2 Camera housing 40e3 Window part 40f1 Lens part 40f2 Camera housing 40f3 Window part 40m1 Lens part 40m1 Lens part 40m1 Lens part 40m1 Section 600 structural elements

Claims (9)

The container is washed, and a mixed liquid is generated by dispensing a sample and a reagent into the washed container, and operates in a process of analyzing the components of the mixed liquid. Has two structural elements,
The structural elements Oite the cleaning stop position after the cleaning operation, a photographing means for obtaining a comparison image by capturing at least a portion of said structural element,
Storage means in which a reference image indicating a normal state of the structural element corresponding to the comparison image is stored in advance;
Determination means for determining presence of an abnormality in the structural element by comparing the comparison image and the previous SL reference image,
An output means for outputting information of the abnormality to the outside when the determination means determines that there is an abnormality;
With
Clinical laboratory equipment. The determination unit determines whether there is an abnormality based on the deformation of the structural element by comparing the comparison video with the reference video.
The clinical examination apparatus according to claim 1 characterized by things. The structural element includes a mechanism movable in a vertical direction, and is configured to be able to stop at a predetermined position.
The photographing means acquires the comparison image by photographing the structural element at the cleaning stop position after the cleaning operation.
The clinical examination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 , characterized by the above-mentioned. The photographing means acquires the comparative image by performing the photographing after a lapse of a predetermined time after the structural element stops at the cleaning stop position.
The clinical examination device according to claim 3 characterized by things. Vibration detection means for detecting vibration in at least a part of the structural element after the structural element stops at the cleaning stop position;
The imaging means acquires the comparison video by performing the imaging when the vibration component is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold;
The clinical examination apparatus according to claim 3 or 4 , characterized by the above-mentioned. The vibration detection means detects the vibration by performing vibration detection processing based on an image including the structural element photographed by the photographing means.
The clinical examination apparatus according to claim 5 characterized by things. The structural element includes a dispensing probe having an opening for dispensing liquid into a container;
A first cleaning means for cleaning the dispensing probe as the cleaning operation;
The imaging means includes first imaging means for imaging the dispensing probe,
The first imaging unit acquires the comparison image by imaging the dispensing probe after the cleaning operation by the first cleaning unit.
The clinical examination apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein The structural element includes a stirring unit that includes a stirring bar and stirs the liquid contained in the container,
A second cleaning means for cleaning the stirrer as the cleaning operation;
The imaging means includes second imaging means for imaging the stirrer,
The second imaging unit acquires the comparison image by imaging the stirring bar after the cleaning operation by the second cleaning unit.
The clinical examination apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein The structural element includes a third cleaning unit including a cleaning nozzle and a drying tip for cleaning the container as the cleaning operation,
The photographing means includes a third photographing means for photographing the cleaning nozzle and the dry chip,
The third photographing unit obtains the comparison image by photographing the cleaning nozzle and the dry chip after the cleaning operation by the third cleaning unit;
The clinical examination apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the clinical examination apparatus is characterized.

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