JP6675226B2 - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Description

  An embodiment of the present invention relates to an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction container and measures a mixture of the sample and the reagent dispensed into the reaction container.

  The automatic analyzer targets biochemical test items, immunological test items, etc., dispenses a sample collected from a subject and a reagent for each test item into a reaction vessel, and prepares a mixture of the sample and reagent in the reaction vessel. The change in color tone or turbidity caused by the reaction is measured optically. As a result of this measurement, analytical data represented by the concentration of each test item component contained in the sample, the activity of the enzyme, and the like are obtained.

  Some inspection items require re-inspection based on re-inspection conditions, such as when the obtained analysis data is an abnormal value. For this reason, there is an automatic analyzer having a retest function in which a sample requiring retest can be transported to a temporary storage location and, when retest is required, the sample can be retransmitted from the temporary storage location to the dispensing position.

JP-A-5-72215

  However, it is necessary to provide a temporary storage location or a transport line for transporting the sample to this location, which causes a problem that the size of the automatic analyzer increases.

  Embodiments have been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer that can prevent an increase in size.

  In order to achieve the above object, an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction container and measures a mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction container. A standby lane provided to be able to move the sample rack onto a dispensing lane capable of dispensing a sample in a held sample container, and a first moving mechanism for moving the sample rack on the standby lane And a second moving mechanism for moving the sample rack on one of the standby lane and the dispensing lane to the other lane; and a dispensing standby area disposed on the standby lane. The sample rack to be mounted is moved onto the dispensing lane, and the sample in the sample container held by the sample rack is dispensed, and when an abnormality related to the dispensing of the sample is detected, or The sample and the sample If the analysis data generated by the measurement of the mixed solution is data that satisfies the preset re-examination conditions, the analysis control unit moves the sample rack to the re-dispensing standby area provided on the standby lane. And.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an analysis unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the arrangement of a sampler unit, a sample dispensing probe, a sample dispensing arm, and a reaction container according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating N sample racks placed in a dispensing standby area on a standby lane according to the embodiment. The figure which shows the 1st sample rack moved to the dispensing lane from the standby lane which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows the 2nd sample rack moved to the dispensing lane from the standby lane which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows the 1st sample rack moved from the dispensing lane which concerns on embodiment to the dispensing standby area on a standby lane. The figure which shows the 3rd sample rack moved to the dispensing lane from the waiting lane which concerns on embodiment, and the 2nd sample rack moved to L4 direction every time the dispensing of the sample in a sample container is complete | finished. The figure which shows the 2nd sample rack moved from the dispensing lane to the position on the standby lane which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows the Nth sample rack moved from the dispensing lane which concerns on embodiment to the mounted position on the standby lane. The figure which shows the 3rd sample rack moved from a standby lane to a dispensing lane in order to transfer to a re-dispensing standby area concerning embodiment. The third sample rack moved from the dispensing lane to the re-dispensing standby area on the standby lane according to the embodiment and the third sample rack moved from the standby lane to the dispensing lane to move to the re-dispensing standby area 1 The figure which shows the 2nd sample rack. The figure which shows the 1st sample rack moved from the dispensing lane which concerns on embodiment to the re-dispensing standby area on a standby lane. The figure which shows the 1st and 3rd sample rack moved to the re-dispensing start position of the standby lane concerning embodiment. The figure which shows the 1st and 3rd sample rack moved to the re-dispensing end position of the standby lane concerning embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment. The automatic analyzer 100 dispenses a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample of each test item and a reagent of each test item, measures a mixture of the sample and the reagent, and generates standard data and test data. An analysis unit 10 is provided. Further, a data processing unit 40 is provided that processes the standard data and test data generated by the analysis unit 10 and generates calibration data and analysis data of each inspection item.

  In addition, the automatic analyzer 100 includes an output unit 50 that outputs the calibration data and the analysis data generated by the data processing unit 40. Further, a drive unit 31 that drives various units of the analysis unit 10 and an analysis control unit 32 that controls the drive unit 31 to operate various units of the analysis unit 10 are provided.

  Further, the automatic analyzer 100 performs an input for setting an analysis parameter for generating analysis data for each test item, a sample ID for identifying the sample for each sample, and a test for generating the analysis data by setting the test item. An input for performing the inspection, an input for setting re-inspection parameters for determining whether or not to perform the second inspection (re-inspection) based on the analysis data generated by the first inspection, and an input for each inspection item. An operation unit 60 is provided for performing input and the like for setting the expiration date of reagents and calibration data. Further, a system control unit 70 that controls the analysis control unit 32, the data processing unit 40, and the output unit 50 is provided.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the analysis unit 10. The analysis unit 10 includes a sample container 11 for storing samples such as a standard sample and a test sample for each test item, a sample rack 12 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers 11 containing samples in a row, and a sample container And a sampler section 13 on which a sample rack 12 holding the sample rack 11 is placed. In addition, a reagent container 14 containing, for example, a one-reagent system and a two-reagent system first reagent which is a reagent that reacts with a component of each test item included in a sample, and a second reagent paired with the two-reagent system first reagent A reagent container 15 for storing a reagent.

  In the sample container 11, a sample ID such as a bar code for identifying the sample in the sample container 11 is written. Further, a rack ID such as a bar code for identifying the sample rack 12 is written on the sample rack 12.

  In addition, a reagent rack 16 that movably holds the reagent container 14 and a reagent rack 17 that movably holds the reagent container 15 are provided. Further, a plurality of reaction vessels 18 arranged on a circumference and a reaction disk 19 for holding the reaction vessels 18 rotatably are provided. Further, a sample dispensing probe 20 is provided for aspirating a sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 12 and discharging the sample into the reaction container 18. Further, a sample dispensing arm 21 for movably supporting the sample dispensing probe 20 is provided.

  In addition, there is provided a first reagent dispensing probe 22 that aspirates the first reagent in the reagent container 14 held in the reagent rack 16 and discharges the sample into the reaction container 18 into which the sample has been dispensed. . In addition, a first reagent dispensing arm 23 that movably supports the first reagent dispensing probe 22 is provided. In addition, a second reagent dispensing probe 24 for aspirating the second reagent in the reagent container 15 held by the reagent rack 17 and discharging the second reagent into the reaction container 18 into which the first reagent has been dispensed is provided. ing. Further, a second reagent dispensing arm 25 that movably supports the second reagent dispensing probe 24 is provided.

  Further, a stirring unit 26 is provided for stirring a mixture of the sample and the first reagent dispensed into the reaction container 18 and a mixture of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent. The reaction vessel 18 containing the mixed solution stirred by the stirring unit 26 is irradiated with light, and the light transmitted through the mixed liquid containing the standard sample and the test sample in the reaction vessel 18 is detected to generate a plurality of lights. A measurement unit 27 that generates standard data and test data indicated by absorbance is provided. Further, a washing unit 28 for washing the inside of the reaction vessel 18 after the measurement is provided. Then, the reaction container 18 washed by the washing unit 28 is used again for sample dispensing, reagent dispensing, and measurement.

  Although not shown, a pressure detector is provided for detecting the pressure inside the sample dispensing probe 20 that is sucking the sample. Then, when the sample dispensing probe 20 is clogged with, for example, fibrin or the like contained in the sample in the sample container 11, the pressure detector detects that the abnormality is related to the dispensing of the sample.

  Further, a cleaning tank to which the cleaning liquid is supplied to clean the sample dispensing probe 20 and a liquid level of the sample and the cleaning liquid by contact of the sample dispensing probe 20 with the sample in the sample container 11 and the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank. Is provided. When the amount of the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank or the sample in the sample container 11 is insufficient, the liquid level detector detects an abnormality relating to the dispensing of the sample.

  Further, a cleaning tank to which the cleaning liquid is supplied to wash the first reagent dispensing probe 22 is provided, and a first reagent dispensing probe 22 is brought into contact with the first reagent in the reagent container 14 and the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank. A liquid level detector for detecting the liquid level of one reagent or washing liquid is provided. Then, the liquid level detector detects an abnormality relating to the dispensing of the first reagent when the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank or the first reagent sample in the reagent container 14 is insufficient.

  Further, a cleaning tank to which a cleaning liquid is supplied to wash the second reagent dispensing probe 24 is provided, and a second reagent dispensing probe 24 is brought into contact with the second reagent in the reagent container 15 and the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank. A liquid level detector for detecting the liquid level of the two reagents and the cleaning liquid is provided. Then, when the level of the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank or the second reagent sample in the reagent container 15 is insufficient, the liquid level detector detects an abnormality relating to the dispensing of the second reagent.

  In addition, a reaction vessel 18 is provided, and includes a constant temperature bath that holds a heating medium such as water for keeping the reaction vessel 18 at a predetermined temperature, and a temperature adjustment unit that adjusts the temperature of the heating medium in the constant temperature tank. I have. Then, when the heat medium in the thermostat does not fall within the preset allowable range, the temperature controller detects an abnormality related to the measurement of the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 18. In addition, when the plurality of standard data and the plurality of test data include data out of a preset allowable range, the measurement unit 27 detects an abnormality related to the measurement of the mixed solution in the reaction container 18.

  The data processing unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a calculation unit 41 and a data storage unit 42. Then, the calculation unit 41 generates calibration data from the standard data of each test item generated by the analysis unit 10 and converts the test data generated by the analysis unit 10 using the calibration data of this test item into analysis data. Generate. Measurement of mixed data containing analysis data exceeding the threshold set as the retest parameter, analysis data generated using expired reagents and calibration data, and reagents with abnormal dispensing detected An error flag is added to the analysis data generated by the above and the analysis data generated by the measurement of the mixture in which the abnormality related to the measurement is detected. The data storage unit 42 stores the calibration data generated by the calculation unit 41 for each test item, and stores the analysis data of each test item generated by the calculation unit 41 for each test sample.

  The output unit 50 includes a printing unit 51 that prints out the standard data and the analysis data generated by the data processing unit 40 and a display unit 52 that displays and outputs the data. The printing unit 51 includes a printer or the like, and prints calibration data and analysis data on printer paper or the like in accordance with a preset format.

  Further, the display unit 52 includes a monitor such as a CRT and a liquid crystal panel. Then, an analysis parameter setting screen for setting analysis parameters for each inspection item is displayed. In addition, a reexamination parameter setting screen for setting reexamination parameters such as a threshold value for each inspection item is displayed. Also, an inspection item setting screen for setting the sample ID and the inspection item for each sample is displayed.

  The drive unit 31 is provided below the sampler unit 13 of the analysis unit 10 and includes first and second moving mechanisms 311 and 312 that move the sample rack 12 of the sampler unit 13. Further, various units other than the sample rack 12 of the analysis unit 10 and a mechanism for driving this unit are provided. Then, the reagent racks 16 and 17 are driven to rotate the reagent containers 14 and 15 respectively. Further, the reaction disk 19 is driven to rotate the reaction container 18.

  In addition, the drive unit 31 drives the sample dispensing arm 21, the first reagent dispensing arm 23, and the second reagent dispensing arm 25, respectively, so that the sample dispensing probe 20, the first reagent dispensing probe 22, and the The two reagent dispensing probe 24 is rotated and moved up and down. Further, the stirring unit 26 and the cleaning unit 28 are moved up and down, respectively.

  The analysis control unit 32 controls the drive unit 31 based on input information such as analysis parameters, sample IDs set for each sample, and test items, and operates various units of the analysis unit 10. Then, sample dispensing, reagent dispensing, stirring of the mixed solution, measurement, and the like are executed. In addition, abnormality detection by each unit such as the measurement unit 27, the pressure detector, each liquid level detector, and the temperature adjustment unit of the analysis unit 10 and the condition that the threshold value of the set retest parameter exceeds the validity period and the expiration date are expired. And if the retest condition is satisfied in the first test, the retest is executed.

  Measurement of mixed data containing analysis data that is outside the threshold set as the retest parameter, analysis data generated using expired reagents and calibration data, and reagents with abnormal dispensing detected An error flag is added to the analysis data generated by the above and the analysis data generated by the measurement of the mixed liquid in which the abnormality related to the measurement has been detected, so that the data satisfies the retest condition. Therefore, in the retest, the same test and the same reagent as in the first test are dispensed to perform the second test to generate the retest data that is the analysis data.

  In addition, when an abnormality related to the dispensing of a sample is detected, the sample cannot be dispensed, so that the inspection of the sample whose dispensing has been interrupted is a re-inspection target. In the re-inspection, among the inspection items set for the interrupted sample, the inspection item when the dispensing of the sample was interrupted in the first inspection and the inspection item for which the sample was not dispensed were re-examined. Be subject to inspection.

  In the embodiment of the present application, various abnormalities can be detected by various units of the analysis unit 10 in addition to the above-described units, and any abnormality detection may be used as the reinspection condition.

  The operation unit 60 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, buttons, and a touch key panel. Then, an input for setting an analysis parameter, an input for setting a retest parameter, an input for setting a sample ID and a test item, and the like are performed.

  The system control unit 70 includes a CPU and a storage circuit. Then, after storing the input information such as each analysis parameter, each retest parameter, each sample ID, and the test item input from the operation unit 60, the analysis control unit 32, the data processing unit 40, and the like are stored based on the input information. And the output unit 50.

  Next, the configuration of the sampler unit 13 in the analysis unit 10 will be described in detail.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the arrangement of the sampler unit 13, the sample dispensing probe 20, the sample dispensing arm 21, and the reaction vessel 18. The sampler section 13 includes a standby lane 80 and a dispensing lane 81 arranged so that the longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the standby lane 80.

  The standby lane 80 is provided so that the sample rack 12 can be moved to a dispensing lane 81 in which the sample in the sample container 11 held by the sample rack 12 can be dispensed. The standby lane 80 includes a dispensing standby area 801 on the same plane and a re-dispensing standby area 802 adjacent to the arrow L1 which is one of the longitudinal directions of the standby lane 80 with respect to the dispensing standby area 801. Are arranged.

  In the dispensing standby area 801, a sample rack 12 to be inspected holding a sample container 11 containing a sample to be dispensed for the first time for each inspection item is placed in a standby lane. 80 so as to be parallel to the longitudinal direction. Further, in the re-dispensing standby area 802, after the first dispensing of the sample in the sample container 11 among the sample racks 12 placed in the dispensing standby area 801 is performed, A sample rack 12 to be retested, which holds a sample container 11 containing a sample to be dispensed for the second time, is stored.

  The sampler section 13 includes a position detector 82 for detecting the position of each sample rack 12 placed in the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80, and each sample at the rack ID reading position P1 on the standby lane 80. A rack ID reader 83 for reading a rack ID written on the rack 12. Further, a sample ID reader 84 for reading a sample ID written on the sample container 11 at the sample ID reading position P3 held on the sample rack 12 on the dispensing lane 81 is provided. Further, an LED 85 is provided on the standby lane 80 that lights up so that the re-dispensing standby area 802 can be identified. Then, of the LEDs 85, a range 85a in the longitudinal direction of the standby lane 80 in the re-dispensing standby area 802 is illuminated so as to be movable.

  The re-dispensing standby area 802 is arranged such that the range 85a can be changed by an input from the operation unit 60 according to the number of sample racks 12 to be stored.

  Then, all the sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 are simultaneously moved by the first moving mechanism 311 of the driving unit 31 at the same speed in the L1 direction in the same direction and the arrow L2 direction opposite to the L1 direction. You. The sample rack 12 at the pull-in position P2 on the standby lane 80 is dispensed from the standby lane 80 by the second moving mechanism 312 of the drive unit 31 in the dispensing lane 81 in the direction of the arrow L3 perpendicular to the L1 and L2 directions. Moved up. The sample rack 12 moved to the dispensing lane 81 is moved in the L1 direction on the dispensing lane 81 by the second moving mechanism 312. The sample rack 12 moved on the dispensing lane 81 in the L1 direction is moved by the second moving mechanism 312 onto the standby lane 80 in the direction of arrow L4 opposite to the direction of L3.

  The analysis control unit 32 includes a preset re-inspection condition, a sample ID, an inspection item set for the sample identified by the sample ID, position information of each sample rack 12 detected by the position detector 82, and a rack ID. Based on the rack ID read by the reader 83, the sample ID read by the sample ID reader 84, the analysis data generated by the data processing unit 40, and the like, all the sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 and the dispensing lane 81 are displayed. Control movement.

  Then, the sample rack 12 placed in the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80 is moved to the dispensing lane 81, and the sample in the sample container 11 held by the sample rack 12 is dispensed. When the dispensing of the sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 12 is completed, the sample is moved to the dispensing standby area 801 and the analysis data generated by measuring the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the sample container 11 Is the data that satisfies the preset re-inspection conditions, the sample rack 12 is moved from the dispensing standby area 801 to the re-dispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80 via the dispensing lane 81.

  Further, the sample rack 12 placed in the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80 is moved to the dispensing lane 81, and the sample in the sample container 11 held by the sample rack 12 is dispensed. When an abnormality related to the dispensing of the sample is detected, the sample rack 12 is moved from the dispensing lane 81 to the re-dispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80.

  Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  After an input of a sample ID and an input for setting an inspection item for each sample to be inspected are performed from the operation unit 60, and an input of an inspection start is performed, the system control unit 70 The processing unit 40 and the output unit 50 are instructed to start inspection. The analysis control unit 32 controls the drive unit 31 to operate various units of the analysis unit 10.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the LED 85 of the sampler unit 13 in the analysis unit 10 has a range 85a of a re-dispensing standby area 802 adjacent to the dispensing standby area 801 with the rack ID reading position P1 on the standby lane 80 as an end. Lights up. Then, N sample racks 12 to be inspected, which hold the sample containers 11 containing the sample of the input sample ID, are placed in the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80.

  The position detector 82 detects the position of the dispensing standby area 801 where the N sample racks 12 are placed. As shown in FIG. 4, the first moving mechanism 311 of the driving unit 31 moves the N sample racks 12 whose positions have been detected in the L1 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  The rack ID reader 83 reads the rack ID of the first sample rack 12 that reaches the rack ID reading position P1 by moving in the L1 direction. The first moving mechanism 311 moves each sample rack 12 in the dispensing standby area 801 in the L1 direction until the first sample rack 12 from which the rack ID has been read reaches the pull-in position P2. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  The second moving mechanism 312 moves the first sample rack 12 at the retracted position P2 from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81 as shown in FIG. The sample ID reader 84 reads the sample ID of each sample container 11 at the sample ID reading position P3 held in the first sample rack 12 moved from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81. The rack ID reader 83 reads the rack ID of the second sample rack 12 at the rack ID reading position P1.

  The second moving mechanism 312 moves the first sample rack 12 on the dispensing lane 81 from which the sample ID has been read by one in the L1 direction on the dispensing lane 81. The first moving mechanism 311 moves (N-1) sample racks 12 in the dispensing standby area 801 by one sample rack 12 in the L1 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the second moving mechanism 312 moves the second sample rack 12 at the retracted position P2 from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81. The sample ID reader 84 reads the sample ID of each sample container 11 at the sample ID reading position P3 held in the second sample rack 12 moved from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81. The rack ID reader 83 reads the rack ID of the third sample rack 12 at the rack ID reading position P1.

  The sample dispensing probe 20 dispenses a sample in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4 held in the first sample rack 12 on the dispensing lane 81. The second moving mechanism 312 moves the first sample rack 12 by one sample container 11 in the L4 direction each time the dispensing of the sample in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4 is completed.

  When the dispensing of the samples in all the sample containers 11 held in the first sample rack 12 is completed, the second moving mechanism 312 moves the first sample rack 12 to the dispensing lane as shown in FIG. The first sample rack 12 in the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80 is moved from above 81 to the position where the first sample rack 12 is placed.

  The second moving mechanism 312 moves the second sample rack 12 from which the sample ID has been read by one sample rack 12 on the dispensing lane 81 in the L1 direction. The first moving mechanism 311 moves the (N-1) sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 by one sample rack 12 in the L1 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the second moving mechanism 312 moves the third sample rack 12 at the retracted position P2 from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81. The sample ID reader 84 reads the sample ID of each sample container 11 at the sample ID reading position P3 held in the third sample rack 12 moved from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81. The rack ID reader 83 reads the rack ID of the fourth sample rack 12 at the rack ID reading position P1.

  The sample dispensing probe 20 dispenses the sample in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4 held in the second sample rack 12 on the dispensing lane 81. The second moving mechanism 312 moves the second sample rack 12 by one sample container 11 in the L4 direction each time the dispensing of the sample in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4 is completed.

  When the dispensing of the samples in all the sample containers 11 held in the second sample rack 12 is completed, the second moving mechanism 312 dispenses the second sample rack 12 as shown in FIG. It moves from the lane 81 to the mounted position on the standby lane 80.

  The second moving mechanism 312 moves the third sample rack 12 from which the sample ID has been read by one in the L1 direction on the dispensing lane 81. The first moving mechanism 311 moves each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80 by one in the L1 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  The sample dispensing probe 20 dispenses a sample in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4 held in the third sample rack 12 on the dispensing lane 81. The second moving mechanism 312 moves the third sample rack 12 by one sample container 11 in the L4 direction each time the dispensing of the sample in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4 is completed.

  When the dispensing of the samples in all the sample containers 11 held in the third sample rack 12 is completed, the second moving mechanism 312 moves the third sample rack 12 to the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80. Move to the position where the third sample rack 12 is placed.

  The first and second moving mechanisms 311 and 312 move the fourth and subsequent (N−3) sample racks 12 in the same manner as the first to third sample racks 12. The rack ID reader 83 reads the rack IDs of the fourth and subsequent (N−3) sample racks 12 in the same manner as the first to third sample racks 12. The sample ID reader 84 reads the sample IDs of the sample containers 11 held in the fourth and subsequent (N−3) sample racks 12 in the same manner as in the first to third sample racks 12. Further, the sample dispensing probe 20 dispenses the sample of the sample container 11 held in the fourth and subsequent (N−3) sample racks 12 in the same manner as the first to third sample racks 12. Do.

  When the dispensing of the samples in all the sample containers 11 held in the N-th sample rack 12 is completed, the second moving mechanism 312 moves the N-th sample on the dispensing lane 81 as shown in FIG. The rack 12 is moved to a position where the N-th sample rack 12 is placed in the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80.

  After all the analysis data is generated in the data processing unit 40 by dispensing the sample in the sample containers 11 held in the N sample racks 12, the analysis control unit 32 generates the analysis data in the data processing unit 40. If the analysis data does not include the analysis data that satisfies the retest condition, the operation of all the units of the analysis unit 10 is terminated. When the analysis data generated by the data processing unit 40 includes the analysis data that satisfies the retest condition, the sample container 11 that holds the sample in which the analysis data that satisfies the retest condition is generated is held. The sample rack 12 to be retested is moved from the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80 to the redispensing standby area 802.

  Here, for example, the first and third sample racks 12 holding the sample containers 11 that hold the samples for which the analysis data out of the threshold set as the retest parameters are retained are re-distributed from the dispensing standby area 801. A description will be given of an example of the case of moving to the waiting area 802.

  After the N-th sample rack 12 has been moved to the dispensing standby area 801, the first moving mechanism 311 moves the N sample racks 12 in the dispensing standby area 801 until the third sample rack 12 reaches the pull-in position P2, for example. The sample rack 12 is moved in the L2 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  The second moving mechanism 312 moves the third sample rack 12 moved to the retraction position P2 from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81 as shown in FIG. Next, the sample rack 12 moved on the dispensing lane 81 is moved on the dispensing lane 81 in the L1 direction. After the third sample rack 12 has been moved onto the dispensing lane 81, the first moving mechanism 311 sets (N-1) in the dispensing standby area 801 until the first sample rack 12 reaches the pull-in position P2. ) The sample racks 12 are moved in the L2 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  The second moving mechanism 312 transfers the third sample rack 12 moved on the dispensing lane 81 in the L1 direction from the dispensing lane 81 to the re-dispensing standby area on the standby lane 80 as shown in FIG. Move to 802. Further, the first sample rack 12 at the retraction position P2 is moved from the standby lane 80 to the dispensing lane 81. Next, it moves in the L1 direction on the dispensing lane 81.

  The third sample rack 12 is stopped at a position where the sample container 11 containing the sample to be re-inspected on the dispensing lane 81 reaches the suction position P4, and the sample dispensing probe 20 is used to inspect the re-inspected object. You may implement so that a sample of an item may be dispensed.

  The second moving mechanism 312 moves the first sample rack 12 moved on the dispensing lane 81 on the dispensing lane 81 in the L1 direction. The first moving mechanism 311 moves one (N-1) sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 in the L2 direction. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80.

  The second moving mechanism 312 transfers the first sample rack 12 moved on the dispensing lane 81 in the L1 direction from the dispensing lane 81 to the re-dispensing standby area on the standby lane 80 as shown in FIG. Move to 802.

  The first sample rack 12 is stopped at a position where the sample container 11 containing the sample to be re-inspected on the dispensing lane 81 reaches the suction position P4, and the sample dispensing probe 20 inspects the re-inspected object. You may implement so that a sample of an item may be dispensed.

  The first moving mechanism 311 stores the first and third sample racks 12 stored in the re-dispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80 and the (N-2) sample racks 12 in the dispensing standby area 801. In the direction L2, as shown in FIG. 14, the sample rack 12 is stopped at a position where the re-dispensing start position, for example, the first sample rack 12 reaches the rack ID reading position P1. The analysis control unit 32 moves the range 85 a where the LED 85 is lit in the same direction at the same speed as each sample rack 12 on the standby lane 80. The analysis control unit 32 moves the lit area 85a of the LED 85 in the same direction at the same speed as each of the sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80, and stops at the timing when each of the sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 stops. Let it.

  As described above, the sample rack 12 to be retested can be moved from the dispensing standby area 801 on the standby lane 80 on which the sample rack 12 is placed to the redispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80. it can. Further, by lighting the range 85a of the re-dispensing standby area 802, the sample rack 12 to be re-tested moved to the re-dispensing standby area 802 can be easily identified.

  Here, when a retest start input is performed from the operation unit 60, the first moving mechanism 311 moves the first sample rack 12 from the redispensing start position to the position where the first sample rack 12 reaches the retraction position P2. The N sample racks 12 are moved in the L1 direction. The second moving mechanism 312 moves the first sample rack 12 from the standby lane 80 to a position on the dispensing lane 81 where the sample container 11 accommodating the sample to be retested reaches the suction position P4. The sample dispensing probe 20 dispenses a sample of the inspection item to be retested in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4. When the dispensing of the sample for the reinspection is completed, the first sample rack 12 is moved from the dispensing lane 81 to the first moved position in the re-dispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80.

  In addition, the first moving mechanism 311 moves the N sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 in the L1 direction until the third sample rack 12 reaches the pull-in position P2. The second moving mechanism 312 moves the third sample rack 12 from the standby lane 80 to a position on the dispensing lane 81 where the sample container 11 accommodating the sample to be retested reaches the suction position P4. The sample dispensing probe 20 dispenses a sample of the inspection item to be retested in the sample container 11 at the suction position P4.

  When the dispensing of the sample to be retested is completed, the third sample rack 12 is moved from the dispensing lane 81 to the first moved position in the re-dispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80. The first moving mechanism 311 stores the first and third sample racks 12 returned to the re-dispensing standby area 802 on the standby lane 80 and the (N-2) sample racks 12 in the dispensing standby area 801. It stops at the re-dispensing end position which has been moved in the L1 direction by one piece. The analysis control unit 32 moves the lit area 85a of the LED 85 in the same direction at the same speed as each of the sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80, and stops at the timing when each of the sample racks 12 on the standby lane 80 stops. Let it.

  Then, by the second dispensing of the sample, the reprocessing data is generated in the data processing unit 40 and output from the output unit 50, and then the system control unit 70 transmits the data to the analysis control unit 32, the data processing unit 40, and the output unit 50. By giving an instruction to end the test, the automatic analyzer 100 ends the operation.

  According to the embodiment described above, the re-dispensing standby area in which the sample rack 12 to be re-tested can be stored on the standby lane 80 provided so that the sample rack 12 to be tested can be moved to the dispensing lane 81. By providing the 802, it is not necessary to provide a storage space for temporarily storing the sample rack 12 which may be re-examined after the first sample dispensing, thereby preventing the analysis unit 10 from being enlarged. Can be. Further, since a transport line for transporting to the temporary storage location is not required, it is possible to prevent the analysis unit 10 from being enlarged.

  While some embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. These new embodiments can be implemented in other various 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 their equivalents.

Reference Signs List 11 Sample container 12 Sample rack 13 Sampler unit 18 Reaction container 20 Sample dispensing probe 32 Analysis control unit 80 Standby lane 81 Dispensing lane 311 First moving mechanism 312 Second moving mechanism 801 Dispensing standby area 802 Waiting for redispensing area

Claims (8)

In an automatic analyzer for dispensing a sample and a reagent into a reaction vessel and measuring a mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel,
A standby lane provided so that the sample rack can be moved onto a dispensing lane capable of dispensing a sample in a sample container held in a sample rack;
A first moving mechanism for moving the sample rack on the standby lane;
A second moving mechanism that moves the sample rack on one of the standby lane and the dispensing lane to the other lane;
Wherein said sample racks placed on the disposed a dispensing waiting area to the waiting lane is moved onto the dispensing lane, the dispensing of the sample in the sample container held on the sample rack is completed it is moved to the dispensing waiting area, when the sample and analytical data generated by the measurement of the mixed solution of the reagent is data that applies to re-inspection condition set in advance, the sample rack from the dispensing standby area An analysis control unit that moves on the dispensing lane and moves the sample rack moved on the dispensing lane to a re-dispensing standby area disposed on the standby lane,
An automatic analyzer equipped with: The re-dispensing standby area is disposed in one direction in the longitudinal direction of the standby lane with respect to the dispensing standby area,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the first moving mechanism moves the sample rack on the standby lane in the longitudinal direction.   3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the first moving mechanism moves all the sample racks on the standby lane at the same speed in the same direction. 4.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the re-dispensing standby area and the dispensing standby area are arranged on the same plane of the standby lane.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the re-dispensing standby area is arranged so that a range in a longitudinal direction of the standby lane is identifiable.   The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the re-dispensing standby area is arranged so that a range in a longitudinal direction of the standby lane can be changed. The analysis control unit moves the sample rack placed in the dispensing standby area onto the dispensing lane, dispenses a sample in a sample container held by the sample rack, and If the analysis data generated by the measurement of the mixed solution of the reagent is greater than a preset threshold, according to any one of claims 1 to 6 to move the sample rack to the re-dispensing standby area Automatic analyzer. The analysis control unit moves the sample rack placed in the dispensing standby area onto the dispensing lane, and dispenses the sample in the sample container held in the sample rack. When the analysis data generated by measuring the mixture of the sample and the reagent exceeds a preset threshold, the sample rack is moved from the dispensing standby area to the re-dispensing standby area. The automatic analyzer according to claim 7 , which is moved to an area.

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