JP6711690B2 - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to automatic analyzers.

The automatic analyzer is a device for measuring components contained in a sample, which are related to test items such as biochemical test items and immunological test items. For example, the automatic analyzer sucks the sample contained in the sample container with the sample dispensing probe and discharges the sucked sample to the reaction tube. Next, the automatic analyzer sucks the reagent used for the analysis of each inspection item by the reagent dispensing probe and discharges the sucked reagent to the reaction tube. Then, the automatic analyzer optically measures the change in color tone and/or turbidity caused by the reaction of the mixed liquid of the sample and the reagent discharged into the reaction tube, by the photometric unit.

By the way, in the analysis of each test item, serum or plasma separated from blood is often used as a sample. These samples may contain insoluble substances such as fibrin produced from blood components. When this kind of insoluble matter adheres to the sample dispensing probe that is sucking the sample, it causes clogging of the sample dispensing probe and causes a decrease in sample dispensing accuracy.

In order to solve this problem, there is known an automatic analyzer that is provided with a pressure sensor that detects the pressure inside the sample dispensing probe and can detect clogging of the sample dispensing probe. When clogging of the sample dispensing probe is detected in this type of automatic analyzer, the operator needs to confirm the sample that has caused clogging of the sample dispensing probe and measure the sample again. However, it is a burden on the operator to identify the sample that has caused the clogging of the sample dispensing probe, and to measure this sample again after confirming this sample, which reduces the throughput of the device and reports the measurement result. Will be delayed.

JP, 2005-157883, A

It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic analyzer capable of reducing the burden on the operator and suppressing the decrease in the throughput of the apparatus.

According to the embodiment, the automatic analyzer includes a dispensing probe, a pressure detector, and a dispensing controller. The dispensing probe sucks the sample contained in the sample container at the suction standard position in the sample container. The pressure detector detects the pressure of the dispensing probe. When there is an abnormality in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, the dispensing control unit changes the position for sucking the sample from the sample container from the standard suction position to the suction change position in the sample container. ..

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configurations of the dispensing unit and the pressure detector shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a sample suction position in the sample container. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the horizontal movement of the sample dispensing probe on the rotation trajectory. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the vertical movement of the sample dispensing probe. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a table which is stored in the storage circuit shown in FIG. 2 and which shows the relationship between the type of sample container and the movement amount of the sample suction position. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a dispensing operation by the control circuit shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of an analysis mechanism included in the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing another example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer.

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

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. The automatic analyzer 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes an analyzing mechanism 2, an analyzing circuit 3, a driving mechanism 4, an input interface circuit 5, an output interface circuit 6, a memory circuit 7, and a control circuit 8.

The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample with a reagent used for each inspection item set for this sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures a mixed liquid of a sample and a reagent, and generates standard data and test data represented by, for example, absorbance.

The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes the standard data and the test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis circuit 3 analyzes the standard data and the test data by reading the operation program from the storage circuit 7 and executing the read operation program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data indicating the relationship between the generated standard data and the standard value preset in the standard sample. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analysis data represented as a concentration value and an enzyme activity value based on the generated test data and the calibration data of the test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data and analysis data to the control circuit 8.

The drive mechanism 4 is realized by a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like. The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 8.

The input interface circuit 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch pad that inputs an instruction by touching an operation surface. From the input interface circuit 5, the operator, for example, a sample ID for identifying a sample to be inspected to be inspected, an inspection item for this sample ID, analysis parameters such as the sample and reagent dispensing amounts in each inspection item, and the like. Input the division information for dividing each inspection item into A line system or B line system. The input interface circuit 5 is connected to the control circuit 8, converts an operation instruction input by the operator into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 8. In this specification, the input interface circuit 5 is not limited to the one including physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electric signal processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 8 is also an input interface. Included in the example of circuit 5.

The output interface circuit 6 includes a display circuit 62 such as a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, and a plasma display, and a printing circuit 61 such as a printer. The output interface circuit 6 is connected to the control circuit 8 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 8.

For example, the display circuit 62 displays the calibration data and analysis data supplied from the control circuit 8. The display circuit 62 also displays an analysis parameter setting screen for setting analysis parameters such as the amount of sample to be dispensed for each inspection item (dispensing amount), the sample ID of this sample for each sample to be inspected, and this sample. An inspection item setting screen for setting inspection items for the ID, a classification setting screen for setting classification information for each inspection item, and the like are displayed. Further, for example, the printing circuit 61 prints the calibration data and the analysis data supplied from the control circuit 8 on a printer paper or the like according to a preset format.

The memory circuit 7 includes a recording medium readable by a processor, such as a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory. The storage circuit 7 stores an operation program executed by the analysis circuit 3 and an operation program executed by the control circuit 8. The storage circuit 7 stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each inspection item. The storage circuit 7 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each test sample. Further, the storage circuit 7 stores in advance information regarding the movement amount of the sample suction position.

The control circuit 8 is a processor that functions as the center of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 8 realizes the function corresponding to the operation program by executing the operation program stored in the storage circuit 7.

2 and 3 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIG. The analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes a reaction disk 201, a first reagent storage 202, and a second reagent storage 203.

The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 2011a classified into an A line system and a plurality of reaction tubes 2011b classified into a B line system. The reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b are alternately arranged at positions adjacent to each other on the circumference of the reaction disk 201. The reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b are made of glass, for example.

The first reagent container 202 is an example of a reagent container that holds a plurality of reagent containers containing reagents, and is arranged inside the reaction disk 201. The first reagent container 202 holds a plurality of reagent containers circumferentially by the first reagent container rack. The outer circle 2021 in the first reagent storage 202 shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 is one of the reagent containers arranged in the outer circumference of the reagent containers arranged in a circle in the first reagent storage 202. Indicates the position of the opening. The inner circle 2022 in the first reagent container 202 represents the position of the opening of the reagent container arranged in the inner circumference among the reagent containers arranged in the first reagent container 202 in a circumferential shape. The reagent container held in the first reagent container 202 contains the reagent to be dispensed into the reaction tube 2011b divided into the B line system. The reagent container whose opening is arranged along the outer circle 2021 accommodates the first reagent corresponding to each test item classified into the B line system. The reagent container whose opening is arranged along the inner circle 2022 accommodates the second reagent corresponding to the inspection item classified into the B line system. As the first reagent and the second reagent, the one to be used is determined for each inspection item. The first reagent container rack is rotated by the drive mechanism 4 with the center of the first reagent container 202 as the center of rotation.

The second reagent storage 203 is an example of the reagent storage in the present embodiment like the first reagent storage 202, and is arranged outside the reaction disc 201 and adjacent to the reaction disc 201. The second reagent container 203 holds a plurality of reagent containers circumferentially by the second reagent container rack. The outer circle 2031 in the second reagent container 203 shown in FIG. 2 is the opening of the reagent container arranged in the outer circumference of the reagent containers arranged in a circle in the second reagent container 203. Indicates a position. The inner circle 2032 in the second reagent storage 203 represents the position of the opening of the reagent container arranged in the inner circumference among the reagent containers arranged in the second reagent storage 203 in a circumferential shape. The reagent container held in the second reagent storage 203 contains the reagent to be dispensed into the reaction tube 2011a divided into the A line system. The reagent container whose opening is arranged along the outer circle 2031 accommodates the first reagent corresponding to each test item classified into the A line system. The reagent container whose opening is arranged along the inner circle 2032 accommodates the second reagent corresponding to the inspection item classified into the A line system. The second reagent container rack is rotated about the center of the second reagent storage 203 by the drive mechanism 4 as a rotation center.

The analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes a rack loading unit 220, a rack moving unit 230, and a rack collecting unit 240. The rack loading unit 220 loads the sample rack 102 holding a plurality of sample containers 100. A shape, for example, a pair of grooves, which can be picked up by a transfer arm 231 provided in the rack moving unit 230 is formed on both side surfaces of the sample rack 102.

The sample container 100 stores a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample. The sample container 100 is provided with an optical mark in which information regarding the sample container 100, identification information of the sample contained in the sample container 100, and the like are described. Here, the information about the sample container 100 includes, for example, types of sample containers such as a default container, a sample cup, and a blood collection tube. The sample identification information includes, for example, patient information, sample information, sample ID, and the like. The optical mark is a mark that encodes information about the sample container 100, sample identification information, and the like, such as a barcode, a one-dimensional pixel code, and a two-dimensional pixel code.

The sample rack 102 is loaded into the first loading lane 221 and the second loading lane 222. The sample rack 102 loaded into the first and second loading lanes 221 and 222 is moved by the drive mechanism 4 to a loading position where the rack moving unit 230 can move. At this time, the movement of the sample rack 102 in the first and second loading lanes 221 and 222 is realized by, for example, a belt conveyor and a lead screw.

The rack moving unit 230 includes a transfer arm 231, a transfer rail 232, a temporary placement lane 233, a sampling lane 234, a reinspection buffer lane 235, and a reader 236.

The transfer arm 231 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and transfers the sample rack 102. For example, the transport arm 231 transports the sample rack 102 placed at the loading position in the first loading lane 221 to the temporary placement lane 233 or the sampling lane 234 along the transport rail 232. Further, the transport arm 231 transports the sample rack 102 located at the carry-out position in the sampling lane 234 along the transport rail 232 to the reinspection buffer lane 235 or the first recovery lane 241 of the rack recovery unit 240.

The transfer arm 231 has, for example, a pair of claws that can move up and down. The transport arm 231 transports the sample rack so that the forklift holds and carries the luggage with the fork in a state where the claws are inserted in the pair of grooves formed in the sample rack 102.

The sampling lane 234 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 to move the sample rack 102 loaded therein. For example, the sampling lane 234 moves the opening of each sample container 100 held in the sample rack 102 to a predetermined position for sucking the sample. In addition, the sampling lane 234 moves the sample rack 102 to a carry-out position where it can be moved to the rack collection unit 240 when the dispensing of the samples contained in all the sample containers 100 held in the sample rack 102 is normally completed. Let The movement of the sample rack 102 in the sampling lane 234 is realized by, for example, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, or the like.

The reader 236 is provided near the position for sucking the sample. The reader 236 reads the optical mark attached to the sample container 100 moving in the sampling lane 234. The reader 236 outputs information based on the read optical mark to the control circuit 8. The reader 236 may be replaced with another sensor using RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) or the like.

The rack recovery unit 240 has first and second recovery lanes 241 and 242. The first and second recovery lanes 241 and 242 are driven by the drive mechanism 4 and move the sample rack 102 loaded by the transport arm 231 from the rack moving unit 230 to the take-out position.

Further, the analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes a first sample dispensing arm 204a, a second sample dispensing arm 204b, a first sample dispensing probe 205a, a second sample dispensing probe 205b, and a first dispensing. The injection unit 206a, the second dispensing unit 206b, the first pressure detector 2061a, the second pressure detector 2061b, the first liquid level detector 2062a, and the second liquid level detector 2062b are provided.

The first sample dispensing arm 204a supports the first sample dispensing probe 205a at one end thereof so as to be vertically movable. The first sample dispensing arm 204a is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. By rotating the first sample dispensing arm 204a, the first sample dispensing probe 205a is rotated along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory. A sample suction reference position 2341 and a sample suction preliminary position 2341a, which are positions for sucking the sample, are set on the rotation trajectory. The sample suction reference position 2341 is preset so as to be located on the sampling lane 234. The sample suction preliminary position 2341a is a position set from the sample suction reference position 2341 based on the movement amount stored in the storage circuit 7. In addition, a first sample discharge position 2012a, which is divided into the A line system and discharges the sucked sample, is set on the rotation orbit around which the first sample dispensing probe 205a is rotated. The first sample dispensing probe 205a is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at the sample suction reference position 2341, the sample suction preliminary position 2341a, and the first sample discharge position 2012a.

The first dispensing unit 206a uses the first sample dispensing probe 205a at the sample suction reference position 2341 or the sample suction preliminary position 2341a to perform the test on the test items classified into the A line system. Aspirate the sample contained in. Further, the first dispensing unit 206a discharges the sample sucked by the first sample dispensing probe 205a to the reaction tube 2011a located at the first sample discharging position 2012a under the control of the control circuit 8. Further, the first dispensing unit 206a supplies the cleaning liquid to the first sample dispensing probe 205a at the first sample probe cleaning position 2069a to clean the first sample dispensing probe 205a.

The first pressure detector 2061a measures the pressure inside the first sample dispensing probe 205a. The first pressure detector 2061a outputs the measurement result to the control circuit 8.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the first dispensing unit 206a and the first pressure detector 2061a. The first dispensing unit 206a shown in FIG. 4 is provided at a lower end of the tube 2063 connected to the first sample dispensing probe 205a, a syringe 2064 connected to the other end of the tube 2063, and a lower end of the syringe 2064. Plunger 2065 that fits into the opened opening. The first dispensing unit 206a also includes a tank 2066 that stores the pressure transmission medium that is filled inside each of the first sample dispensing probe 205a, the tube 2063, and the syringe 2064.

Further, the first dispensing unit 206a sucks the pressure transmitting medium stored in the tank 2066, and uses the sucked pressure transmitting medium as a cleaning liquid into the first sample dispensing probe 205a via the syringe 2064 and the tube 2063. The cleaning pump 2067 which supplies is provided. Further, the first dispensing unit 206a includes an opening/closing valve 2068 that opens/closes a flow path that connects the syringe 2064 and the washing pump 2067.

When the sample is dispensed, the flow path between the syringe 2064 and the washing pump 2067 is closed by the open/close valve 2068 controlled by the control circuit 8. When the drive mechanism 4 suction-drives the plunger 2065 in the direction of the arrow L1, the first sample dispensing probe 205a sucks the sample in the sample container 100 at the sample suction reference position 2341 or the sample suction preliminary position 2341a. Further, the drive mechanism 4 drives the plunger 2065 to discharge in the direction of the arrow L2, so that the first sample dispensing probe 205a discharges the sample into the reaction tube 2011a stopped at the first sample discharging position 2012a.

When the dispensing of the same sample is completed, or when it is determined that the dispensing of the sample is abnormal, the flow path between the syringe 2064 and the washing pump 2067 is controlled by the open/close valve 2068 controlled by the control circuit 8. Be released. The cleaning pump 2067 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and supplies the cleaning liquid into the first sample dispensing probe 205a.

One end of the first pressure detector 2061a shown in FIG. 4 is connected to the tube 2063 of the first dispensing unit 206a. The first pressure detector 2061a includes a pressure sensor 20611, an amplifier 20612, and an A/D converter 20613. The pressure sensor 20611 measures the pressure inside the first sample dispensing probe 205a with reference to atmospheric pressure. The pressure sensor 20611 outputs a signal based on the measured pressure to the amplifier 20612. The amplifier 20612 amplifies the signal output from the pressure sensor 20611 and outputs the amplified signal to the A/D converter 20613. The A/D converter 20613 converts the signal amplified by the amplifier 20612 into a digital signal. The pressure detector 2061 outputs a digital signal to the control circuit 8.

The first pressure detector 2061a includes the first sample dispensing probe 205a when the sample is sucked by the first sample dispensing probe 205a, that is, when the suction operation is performed by the first dispensing unit 206a. A suction pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure inside is detected. Further, the first pressure detector 2061a dispenses the first sample while the sample is being discharged by the first sample dispensing probe 205a, that is, when the discharging operation is being performed by the first dispensing unit 206a. A discharge pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure in the probe 205a is detected. Further, the first pressure detector 2061a detects a cleaning pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure in the first sample dispensing probe 205a when the cleaning liquid is being supplied by the cleaning pump 2067 of the first dispensing unit 206a. To do.

One end of the first liquid level detector 2062a is electrically connected to the first sample dispensing probe 205a. The first liquid level detector 2062a includes an oscillation circuit, a bridge circuit, a differential amplifier, a synchronous detection circuit, an integration circuit, an amplification circuit, and the like. The first liquid level detector 2062a detects contact of the first sample dispensing probe 205a with the sample, for example, by a change in capacitance when the first sample dispensing probe 205a contacts the sample in the sample container 100. To do. In addition, the first liquid level detector 2062a separates the first sample dispensing probe 205a from the sample due to a change in capacitance when the first sample dispensing probe 205a is separated from the sample in the sample container 100. To detect. The first liquid surface detector 2062a outputs to the control circuit 8 a detection signal regarding contact and separation of the first sample dispensing probe 205a.

The second sample dispensing arm 204b supports one end of the second sample dispensing probe 205b so as to be vertically movable. The second sample dispensing arm 204b is rotated by the drive mechanism 4 on the same rotation axis as the first sample dispensing arm 204a. By rotating the second sample dispensing arm 204b, the second sample dispensing probe 205b is rotated along the same rotation trajectory as the first sample dispensing probe 205a. A second sample ejection position 2012b, which is divided into the B line system and ejects the aspirated sample, is set on the rotation trajectory. The second sample dispensing probe 205b is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically in the sample suction reference position 2341, the sample suction preliminary position 2341a, and the second sample ejection position 2012b.

The second dispensing unit 206b uses the second sample dispensing probe 205b at the sample suction reference position 2341 or the sample suction preliminary position 2341a to perform the test on the test items classified into the B line system. Aspirate the sample contained in. Further, the second dispensing unit 206b discharges the sample sucked by the second sample dispensing probe 205b to the reaction tube 2011b located at the second sample discharging position 2012b under the control of the control circuit 8. In addition, the second dispensing unit 206b supplies the cleaning liquid to the second sample dispensing probe 205b at the first sample probe cleaning position 2069b to clean the second sample dispensing probe 205b. The second pressure detector 2061b measures the pressure inside the second sample dispensing probe 205b and outputs the measurement result to the control circuit 8. The configurations of the second dispensing unit 206b and the second pressure detector 2061b are the same as the configurations of the first dispensing unit 206a and the first pressure detector 2061a shown in FIG.

One end of the second liquid level detector 2062b is electrically connected to the second sample dispensing probe 205b. The second liquid level detector 2062b detects the contact of the second sample dispensing probe 205b with the sample, for example, by a change in capacitance when the second sample dispensing probe 205b contacts the sample in the sample container 100. To do. Further, the second liquid level detector 2062b separates the second sample dispensing probe 205b from the sample due to a change in capacitance when the second sample dispensing probe 205b is separated from the sample in the sample container 100. To detect. The second liquid surface detector 2062b outputs to the control circuit 8 a detection signal regarding contact and separation of the second sample dispensing probe 205b.

The analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes a first A reagent dispensing arm 207, a first A reagent dispensing probe 208, a second A reagent dispensing arm 209, a second A reagent dispensing probe 210, and a 1B reagent. A dispensing arm 211, a first B reagent dispensing probe 212, a second B reagent dispensing arm 213, a second B reagent dispensing probe 214, a first stirring unit 215, and a second stirring unit 216 are provided.

The first A reagent dispensing arm 207 supports the first A reagent dispensing probe 208 at one end thereof so as to be vertically movable. The first A reagent dispensing arm 207 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. By rotating the 1A reagent dispensing arm 207, the 1A reagent dispensing probe 208 is rotated along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory. On this rotation orbit, a reagent suction position for sucking the first reagent corresponding to each inspection item divided into the A line system from the reagent container arranged on the outer circle 2031 of the second reagent storage 203, and the suction position The first reagent ejection position 2013a for ejecting the first reagent to the reaction tube 2011a is set.

The first-A reagent dispensing probe 208 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory and the first reagent discharge position 2013a. Further, the first-A reagent dispensing probe 208, under the control of the control circuit 8, sucks the first reagent from the reagent container located at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory. Further, the first A reagent dispensing probe 208 discharges the sucked first reagent to the reaction tube 2011a located at the first reagent discharging position 2013a under the control of the control circuit 8.

The second A reagent dispensing arm 209 supports the second A reagent dispensing probe 210 at one end thereof so as to be vertically movable. The second A reagent dispensing arm 209 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. By rotating the second A reagent dispensing arm 209, the second A reagent dispensing probe 210 is rotated along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory. On this rotation orbit, a reagent suction position for sucking the second reagent corresponding to each inspection item divided into the A line system from the reagent container arranged on the inner circle 2032 of the second reagent storage 203, and the suction The second reagent discharge position 2014a for discharging the second reagent to the reaction tube 2011a is set.

The second A reagent dispensing probe 210 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory and the second reagent discharging position 2014a. Further, the second-A reagent dispensing probe 210, under the control of the control circuit 8, sucks the second reagent from the reagent container located at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory. Further, the second A reagent dispensing probe 210 discharges the sucked second reagent to the reaction tube 2011a located at the second reagent discharging position 2014a according to the control of the control circuit 8.

The first B reagent dispensing arm 211 supports the first B reagent dispensing probe 212 at one end so as to be vertically movable. The first B reagent dispensing arm 211 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. By rotating the first B reagent dispensing arm 211, the first B reagent dispensing probe 212 is rotated along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory. On this rotation orbit, a reagent suction position for sucking the first reagent corresponding to each test item classified into the B line system from the reagent container arranged on the outer circle 2021 of the first reagent storage 202, and a suction A first reagent discharge position 2013b for discharging the first reagent to the reaction tube 2011b is set.

The first B reagent dispensing probe 212 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory and the first reagent discharge position 2013b. Further, the first B reagent dispensing probe 212 sucks the first reagent from the reagent container located at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory under the control of the control circuit 8. Further, the first B reagent dispensing probe 212 discharges the sucked first reagent to the reaction tube 2011b located at the first reagent discharging position 2013b under the control of the control circuit 8.

The second B reagent dispensing arm 213 supports the second B reagent dispensing probe 214 at one end thereof so as to be vertically movable. The second B reagent dispensing arm 213 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. By rotating the second B reagent dispensing arm 213, the second B reagent dispensing probe 214 is rotated along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory. On this rotation orbit, a reagent suction position for sucking the second reagent corresponding to each test item classified into the B line system from the reagent container arranged on the inner circle 2022 of the first reagent storage 202, and a suction The second reagent ejection position 2014b for ejecting the second reagent to the reaction tube 2011b is set.

The second B reagent dispensing probe 214 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the reagent suction position on the rotation orbit and the second reagent discharge position 2014b. Further, the second-B reagent dispensing probe 214, under the control of the control circuit 8, sucks the second reagent from the reagent container located at the reagent suction position on the rotation trajectory. Further, the second B reagent dispensing probe 214 discharges the sucked second reagent to the reaction tube 2011 located at the second reagent discharging position 2014 under the control of the control circuit 8.

The first stirring unit 215 and the second stirring unit 216 each have a stirring arm and a stirring bar. The stirring arm supports the stirring bar near the tip end in a rotatable and vertically movable manner. The first stirring unit 215 moves the stirring bar to the stirring position 2015a on the reaction disk 201 according to the control of the control circuit 8, and the stirring bar moves the stirring bar to the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011a located at the stirring position 2015a. Stir the mixture. Further, the first stirring unit 215 moves the stirrer to the stirring position 2015b on the reaction disk 201 according to the control of the control circuit 8 and the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011b located at the stirring position 2015b by the stirring bar. Stir the mixture with.

The second stirring unit 216 moves the stirring bar to the stirring position 2016a on the reaction disk 201 according to the control of the control circuit 8, and the stirring bar causes the sample, the first reagent, and the sample in the reaction tube 2011a located at the stirring position 2016a. The second reagent mixture is agitated. Further, the second stirring unit 216 moves the stirring bar to the stirring position 2016b on the reaction disk 201 according to the control of the control circuit 8, and the stirring bar causes the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube 2011b located at the stirring position 2016b. , And the mixed solution of the second reagent are stirred.

The analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes a photometric unit 217, a cleaning unit 218, and an electrolyte measuring unit 219.
The photometric unit 217 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometric unit 217 emits light from the light source to the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b under the control of the control circuit 8. The photodetector detects light that has passed through the mixed liquid of the standard sample and the reagent or the mixed liquid of the test sample and the reagent in the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b. The photodetector generates standard data or test data represented by, for example, absorbance based on the detected light intensity. The photometric unit 217 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

The cleaning unit 218 includes a waste liquid nozzle, a cleaning nozzle, and a drying nozzle. The cleaning unit 218 uses the waste liquid nozzle to suck the mixed liquid in the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b located at the reaction tube cleaning position as waste liquid. The cleaning unit 218 cleans the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b by discharging pure water to the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b located at the reaction tube cleaning position by the cleaning nozzle. The cleaning unit 218 supplies the dry air to the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b by the drying nozzle to dry the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b washed with pure water.

The electrolyte measuring unit 219 measures the specific electrolyte existing in the mixed liquid in the reaction tubes 2011a and 2011b. The electrolyte measuring unit 219 measures, for example, the concentration of ions generated from the specific electrolyte.

The control circuit 8 according to the present embodiment realizes the various functions shown in FIG. 1 by executing the operation program read from the storage circuit 7. That is, the control circuit 8 includes a system control function 81, an analysis control function 82, and a dispensing monitor function 83. In the present embodiment, the case where the system control function 81, the analysis control function 82, and the dispensing monitor function 83 are realized by a single processor will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may execute the operation program to realize the system control function 81, the analysis control function 82, and the dispensing monitor function 83.

The system control function 81 is a function that collectively controls each unit in the automatic analyzer 1 based on the input information input from the input interface circuit 5.

The analysis control function 82 is a function of controlling the drive mechanism 4 based on the input information input from the input interface circuit 5. For example, in the analysis control function 82, the control circuit 8 is provided in the analysis mechanism 2 by supplying a drive pulse to the stepping motor or the like provided in the drive mechanism 4 based on the input information input from the input interface circuit 5. Controls the operation of each part.

More specifically, for example, the control circuit 8 determines the first sample dispensing arm 204a, the first sample dispensing probe 205a, and the first dispensing unit 206a based on the input information input from the input interface circuit 5. , Suction operation, discharge operation, and cleaning operation are controlled. At this time, the control circuit 8 uses the determination result, which is acquired by the dispensing monitor function 83, whether the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in a normal state, and uses the first sample dispensing arm 204a, The first sample dispensing probe 205a and the first dispensing unit 206a are controlled.

The control circuit 8 also causes the second sample dispensing arm 204b, the second sample dispensing probe 205b, and the second dispensing unit 206b to perform a suction operation and a discharge operation based on the input information input from the input interface circuit 5. , And control to perform the cleaning operation. At this time, the control circuit 8 uses the determination result, which is acquired by the dispensing monitor function 83, whether the second sample dispensing probe 205b is in the normal state, and uses the second sample dispensing arm 204b, The first sample dispensing probe 205b and the first dispensing unit 206b are controlled.

Hereinafter, in the analysis control function 82, the operation in which the control circuit 8 controls the first sample dispensing arm 204a, the first sample dispensing probe 205a, and the first dispensing unit 206a will be described in more detail. The second sample dispensing arm 204b, the second sample dispensing probe 205b, and the second dispensing unit 206b are similarly controlled.

For example, when the sample is sucked at the suction standard position shown in FIG. 5 or when the sample sucked at this sample suction position is discharged, the control circuit 8 causes the first sample dispensing probe 205a by the dispensing monitor function 83. Is determined to be in an abnormal state. The suction standard position refers to the sample suction reference position 2341 and the position moved by the reference distance D downward from the position where contact of the sample is detected. When it is determined that the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in the abnormal state, the control circuit 8 does not report the calibration data and analysis data stored for the inspection item for which the determination is made to the outside. This is because the sampling operation is performed again for the inspection item for which the first sample dispensing probe 205a is determined to be abnormal. When the control circuit 8 determines that the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in the abnormal state, the control circuit 8 repeats the discharge of the cleaning liquid until the first sample dispensing probe 205a determines that the normal state. It controls the unit 206a.

The control circuit 8 changes the sample suction position by referring to the information regarding the movement amount stored in the storage circuit 7 when the same sample is sucked by the first sample dispensing probe 205a in which the abnormality is eliminated. The information regarding the movement amount of the sample suction position includes information regarding the movement amount from the sample suction reference position 2341a to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a and the movement in the depth direction with respect to the reference distance D from the position where the contact of the sample is detected. Contains information about the quantity. The amount of movement of the sample suction position is, for example, a distance to the extent that it can be separated from an insoluble matter such as fibrin existing at the suction standard position if the sample is in a normal state.
The change of the sample suction position is realized by changing the sample suction position in the horizontal direction and/or the vertical direction. Changing the sample suction position in the horizontal direction means, for example, changing the sample suction reference position 2341 to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example in which the sample suction position of the sample by the first sample dispensing probe 205a is changed from the sample suction reference position 2341 to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a. Further, changing the sample suction position in the vertical direction means shifting the sample suction position, which is the reference distance D, in the depth direction from the position where the first sample dispensing probe 205a contacts the sample. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example in which the sample suction position of the sample by the first sample dispensing probe 205a is changed in the depth direction.

The control circuit 8 uses the first sample dispensing arm 204a, so as to suck the sample at the changed sample suction position in the analysis regarding the same inspection item as the external inspection limited inspection item or the analysis regarding the next inspection item. The first sample dispensing probe 205a and the first dispensing unit 206a are controlled.

Further, the control circuit 8 causes the dispensing monitor function 83 to dispense the first sample when the sample is sucked at the changed sample suction position, that is, at the suction change position, or when the sample sucked at the sample suction position is discharged. It is determined whether the injection probe 205a is in an abnormal state. When determining that the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in an abnormal state, the control circuit 8 outputs a clogging error report to the output interface circuit 6 and stops the dispensing operation for this sample. On the other hand, when the control circuit 8 determines that the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in the normal state, it inherits the suction change position as the subsequent sample suction position.

When a plurality of types of containers are used as the sample container 100, the storage circuit 7 stores, for example, a table showing the relationship between the type of sample container and the movement amount of the sample suction position, as shown in FIG. .. According to FIG. 8, when the sample container 100 is the default container, the movement amount from the sample suction reference position 2341 to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a, that is, the horizontal movement amount is set to “2 mm”, The information regarding the movement amount in the depth direction with respect to the reference distance, that is, the movement amount in the vertical direction is set to “2 mm”. When the sample container 100 is the sample cup A, the horizontal movement amount is set to “2 mm” and the vertical movement amount is set to “2 mm”. When the sample container 100 is the sample cup B, the horizontal movement amount is set to “4 mm” and the vertical movement amount is set to “3 mm”. When the sample container 100 is the blood collection tube A, the horizontal movement amount is set to “2 mm” and the vertical movement amount is set to “2 mm”. When the sample container 100 is the blood collection tube B, the horizontal movement amount is set to “4 mm” and the vertical movement amount is set to “3 mm”. The amount of movement of the sample suction position is preset for each type of the sample container 100 based on the shape of the sample container 100, the container diameter, the cross-sectional area, the depth, and the like. The control circuit 8 refers to the table shown in FIG. 8 to determine the movement amount when changing the sample suction position. Specifically, the control circuit 8 acquires information based on the optical mark from the reader 236. The control circuit 8 determines the type of the sample container 100 to be analyzed from the information about the sample container 100 included in the information based on the optical mark. The control circuit 8 collates the determined type of the sample container 100 with the table stored in the storage circuit 7, and determines the horizontal movement amount and the vertical movement amount of the sample suction position.

Further, the control circuit 8 determines whether to change the sample suction position according to the remaining amount of the sample contained in the sample container 100. The control circuit 8 does not change the sample suction position when the remaining amount of the sample is less than the preset amount. This makes it possible to prevent the tip of the sample dispensing probe 205a from coming into contact with the inclined portion of the inner wall of the sample container. In the analysis control function 82, the control circuit 8 detects the remaining amount of the sample as follows, for example.

The control circuit 8 outputs a detection signal output from the first liquid level detector 2062a regarding contact or separation of the first sample dispensing probe 205a and, for example, a drive pulse supplied to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a. Based on the information, the distance that the first sample dispensing probe 205a has moved from the upper stop position to the detection position of the sample liquid level in the sample container 100 is calculated. The control circuit 8 dispenses the amount of the sample in the sample container 100 to the reaction tube 2011a based on the information such as the calculated distance, the size and height of the sample container 100, and the amount of the sample set as an analysis parameter. Convert to the number of times possible and detect.

The dispensing monitor function 83 is a function of monitoring the state of the first sample dispensing probe 205a and the state of the second sample dispensing probe 205b, and determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred. For example, in the dispensing monitor function 83, the control circuit 8 outputs the detection signal output from the first liquid level detector 2062a regarding the contact and separation between the first sample dispensing probe 205a and the sample, and the first pressure detector. It is determined whether or not the state of the first sample dispensing probe 205a is normal based on the pressure information with respect to the atmospheric pressure inside the first sample dispensing probe 205a detected by the 2061a. For example, the control circuit 8 determines that the suction of the sample by the first sample dispensing probe 205a is abnormal when the detected value during the suction operation is lower than the preset suction pressure. Further, the control circuit 8 determines that the ejection of the sample by the first sample dispensing probe 205a is abnormal when the detection value during the ejection operation is higher than the preset ejection pressure. Further, the control circuit 8 determines that the cleaning by the first sample dispensing probe 205a is abnormal when the detected value during the cleaning operation is higher than the preset cleaning pressure.

Next, the dispensing operation by the automatic analyzer 1 configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 8. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the dispensing operation by the control circuit 8 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 9, when the control circuit 8 controls the first sample dispensing arm 204a, the first sample dispensing probe 205a, and the first dispensing unit 206a in the inspection related to the inspection items classified into the A line system. Will be described as an example.

First, the control circuit 8 determines whether or not the current suction is related to the leading inspection item for the sample to be analyzed (step S91). The determination as to whether or not it is related to the first inspection item is made based on, for example, the management information about the inspection item requested for the sample, which is stored in the storage circuit 7. If it is the first inspection item (Yes in step S91), the control circuit 8 sets the "clogging flag" of the sample to be analyzed to "0" (step S92). When it is not the first inspection item (No in step S91) or after step S92, the control circuit 8 determines whether or not the "clogging flag" is "0" (step S93).

In step S93, when the “clogging flag” is “0” (Yes in step S93), the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a to the sample suction reference position 2341. , Stop at the upper stop position on the sample container 100. The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a downward from the upper stop position, and the first liquid surface detector 2062a detects contact with the sample in the sample container 100. It is stopped at the suction stop position which is moved by the reference distance D downward from the position (step S94). When the “clogging flag” is not “0” (No in step S93), the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a, and the sample container 100 Stop at the upper stop position. The control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a downward from the upper stop position, and the first liquid surface detector 2062a detects contact with the sample in the sample container 100. It is stopped at the suction stop position which is moved by the reference distance D and a predetermined movement amount downward from the position (step S95).

When the first sample dispensing probe 205a reaches the suction stop position, the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to cause the first sample dispensing probe 205a to have an amount corresponding to the dispensing amount of the preset inspection item. The sample is sucked (step S96).

The control circuit 8 acquires the pressure data at the time of sucking the sample from the first pressure detector 2061a (step S97). The control circuit 8 uses the first sample dispensing probe 205a based on the detection signal output from the first liquid level detector 2062a, the pressure data output from the first pressure detector 2061a, and the preset suction pressure. It is determined whether the suction of the sample is abnormal, that is, whether the first sample dispensing probe 205a is clogged (step S98).

When the first sample dispensing probe 205a is not clogged (normal in step S98), the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a to the first sample discharging position 2012a and suck the sample. The prepared sample is ejected at the first sample ejection position 2012a (step S99). The control circuit 8 acquires the pressure data at the time of discharging the sample from the first pressure detector 2061a (step S910).

The control circuit 8 controls the first sample dispensing probe 205a based on the detection signal output from the first liquid level detector 2062a, the pressure data output from the first pressure detector 2061a, and the preset discharge pressure. It is determined whether the ejection of the sample is abnormal, that is, whether the first sample dispensing probe 205a is clogged (step S911). If the first sample dispensing probe 205a is not clogged (normal in step S911), the control circuit 8 sets the "clogging flag" of the sample to "0" (step S912).

When the first sample dispensing probe 205a is clogged in step S98 or step S911 (abnormality in step S98 or abnormal in S811), the control circuit 8 determines whether the "clogging flag" is "1". Is determined (step S913). When the "clogging flag" is "1" (Yes in step S913), the control circuit 8 outputs the clogging error report to the output interface circuit 6 as the clogging continues even after the sample suction position is changed. Then, (step S914), the dispensing of the sample from this sample container is stopped. The display circuit 62 of the output interface circuit 6 displays the clogging error report output from the control circuit 8. The clogging error report includes, for example, the sample ID that caused the clogging and a report that the first sample dispensing probe 205a has clogged. Further, the jamming error report output from the control circuit 8 may be printed from the printing circuit 61 of the output interface circuit 6 on a printer paper or the like according to a preset format.

When the "clogging flag" is not "1" in step S913 (No in step S913), the control circuit 8 sets the "clogging flag" of the sample to "1" (step S915).

When the "clogging flag" is set in step S912 or step S915, the control circuit 8 controls the drive mechanism 4 to move the first sample dispensing probe 205a to the first sample probe cleaning position 2069a, and then the first dispensing operation. The unit 206a is controlled to discharge the cleaning liquid (step S916). The control circuit 8 acquires the pressure data for cleaning the first sample dispensing probe 205a from the first pressure detector 2061a (step S917). The control circuit 8 determines whether or not the first sample dispensing probe 205a is clogged based on the pressure data output from the first pressure detector 2061a and the preset cleaning pressure (step S918).

If the first sample dispensing probe 205a is not clogged (normal in step S918), the control circuit 8 terminates the process and dispenses the next inspection item in the same sample or dispenses the next sample. Move on to. When the first sample dispensing probe 205a is clogged (abnormality in step S918), the control circuit 8 controls the first dispensing unit 206a to remove the cleaning liquid from the first sample dispensing probe 205a in the next analysis cycle. Discharge.

Note that, before the step S95 in FIG. 9, the control circuit 8 may determine whether or not the remaining amount of the sample contained in the sample container 100 is a preset amount. If it remains, the control circuit 8 shifts the processing to step S95, and if it does not remain, the processing circuit 8 terminates the processing because the sample suction position cannot be changed.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 detects the pressure inside the first sample dispensing probe 205a by the first pressure detector 2061a. The control circuit 8 provided in the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the first sample dispensing probe 205a due to the sample sucked at the suction standard position based on the pressure data detected by the first pressure detector 2061a. To judge. Then, when an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a, the control circuit 8 re-sucks the sample in which the abnormality has occurred from a suction change position different from the suction standard position.

Insoluble matter such as fibrin that causes clogging rarely exists at all positions above the liquid surface of the sample container 100. According to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment, when an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a, it is possible to suck the sample from different sample suction positions where it is assumed that the insoluble matter does not exist. It will be possible. This allows the analysis of the same sample to be continued, eliminating the need for retesting. Further, since it is not necessary to perform a retest, it is not necessary for the operator to search for a sample causing an abnormality, and it is not necessary for the operator to check the state of the searched sample.

Therefore, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of the first embodiment, the burden on the operator can be reduced and the time required for re-examination can be eliminated, so that the measurement result can be reported quickly. That is, a decrease in throughput can be suppressed.

Further, in the first embodiment, the control circuit 8 moves the first sample dispensing probe 205a to a different position on the rotation trajectory in the horizontal direction, and moves the first sample dispensing probe 205a to a deeper position in the vertical direction. The sample suction position is changed by at least one of the above movement and the movement. This makes it possible to select how to change the sample suction position, for example, according to the type of sample, dispensed amount, type of inspection item, and required accuracy.

Further, in the first embodiment, the control circuit 8 stops the sampling operation for this sample when an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a due to the same sample sucked at the suction change position. ing. Accordingly, when the abnormality of the first sample dispensing probe 205a repeatedly occurs with respect to the same sample, the retesting operation can be performed.

Further, in the first embodiment, the control circuit 8 grasps the type of the sample container 100 to be analyzed, such as the default container, the sample cup, and the blood collection tube, based on the information read by the reader 236. Then, the control circuit 8 determines the movement amount of the sample suction position by collating the grasped type with a correspondence table stored in advance. This makes it possible to set an optimum amount of movement in consideration of the shape of the sample container, the container diameter, the cross-sectional area, the depth, and the like.

Further, in the first embodiment, the control circuit 8 does not change the sample suction position when the remaining amount of the sample in the sample container 100 is smaller than a preset amount. This makes it possible to prevent the tip of the first sample dispensing probe 205a from coming into contact with the inclined portion of the inner wall of the sample container.

In the first embodiment, the case where the control circuit 8 stops the sample sampling operation when an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a due to the same sample sucked at the suction change position will be described as an example. did. However, it is not limited to this. The control circuit 8 performs the sampling operation of the sample when the first sample dispensing probe 205a has an abnormality due to the same sample sucked at the suction change position after changing the sample suction position a plurality of times, for example, twice. You may make it stop. The horizontal movement amount of the first sample dispensing probe 205a cannot be set outside the opening of the sample container 100. Further, the amount of movement of the first sample dispensing probe 205a in the vertical direction cannot be set more than the depth of the sample container 100. Therefore, the maximum number of times of repeating the change of the sample suction position is, for example, the container diameter and depth of the sample container 100, the horizontal movement amount and the vertical movement amount of the first sample dispensing probe 205a. And the diameter of the first sample dispensing probe 205a, etc., are set in advance based on a relational expression. However, in order to suppress the consumption of the sample, it is desirable to keep the number of times of changing the sample suction position small.
Further, in the first embodiment, the case where only one type of movement of the sample suction position is set for each sample container has been described. However, it is not limited to this. When sucking the same sample at the suction change position after changing the sample suction position a plurality of times, the movement amount of the sample suction position may be changed according to the number of changes. For example, the amount of movement in the horizontal direction and the amount of movement in the vertical direction may be increased each time the sample suction position is changed. As a result, each time the sample suction position is changed, the sample suction position is moved away from the position causing the clogging, so that an abnormality is less likely to occur in the first sample dispensing probe 205a.

Further, in the first embodiment, the case where the insertion position of the first sample dispensing probe 205a in the sample container 100 is moved horizontally by moving the first sample dispensing probe 205a to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a. Was described as an example. However, it is not limited to this. The control circuit 8 may control the drive mechanism 4 to drive the belt conveyor of the sampling lane 234 to move the insertion position of the first sample dispensing probe 205a in the sample container 100 in the horizontal direction. ..

Further, in the first embodiment, the case where the movement amount of the sample suction position is switched according to the type of the sample container 100 has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to this. The control circuit 8 may switch the movement amount of the sample suction position according to the pressure data output from the first pressure detector 2061a. In this case, the storage circuit 7 stores, for example, a table showing the relationship between the pressure data and the movement amount of the sample suction position.

Further, in the first embodiment, when an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a, the suction position of the sample by the first sample dispensing probe 205a is sucked again from a suction change position different from the suction standard position. The case has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to this. When an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a, the sample suction position of the second sample dispensing probe 205b may be sucked from a suction change position different from the suction standard position.

Specifically, for example, it is assumed that the “clogging flag” of the sample is set to “1” in step S915 of FIG. 9 when the sample is dispensed by the first sample dispensing probe 205a. After sucking the sample by the first sample dispensing probe 205a, the control circuit 8 performs the dispensing related to the inspection items of the B line system set for the same sample in the same analysis cycle as the second sample dispensing probe 205b. It is carried out by. At this time, the control circuit 8 performs the dispensing operation by the second sample dispensing probe 205b according to the processing procedure shown in FIG.

In step S91 of the processing procedure shown in FIG. 9, the control circuit 8 determines that the current suction is related to the second and subsequent inspection items (No in step S91). Then, in step S93, the control circuit 8 determines whether or not the “clogging flag” of the sample to be analyzed is “0”. At this time, the "clogging flag" of the sample is set to "1" at the time of dispensing by the first sample dispensing probe 205a. The control circuit 8 determines that the “clogging flag” is “1” (No in step S93), moves the second sample dispensing probe 205b to the sample suction preliminary position 2341a, and moves it to the upper stop position on the sample container 100. To stop. Then, the control circuit 8 moves the second sample dispensing probe 205b downward from the upper stop position, and moves downward from the position where the second liquid level detector 2062b detects contact with the sample in the sample container 100. Then, it is stopped at the suction stop position which has moved by the reference distance D and a predetermined movement amount (step S95).

Further, in the first embodiment, the case where the same sample sucked at the suction change position causes an abnormality in the first sample dispensing probe 205a and the sampling operation for this sample is stopped has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to this. When an abnormality occurs in the first sample dispensing probe 205a and an abnormality occurs in the second sample dispensing probe 205b due to the same sample sucked at the suction change position, the control circuit 8 performs sampling for this sample. The operation may be stopped.

(Second embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the case where the automatic analyzer 1 operates alone has been described. However, as shown in FIG. 10, the analysis mechanism 2a and the analysis mechanism 2b may be connected. Although FIG. 10 illustrates the case where the automatic analyzers 1a and 1b are connected as an example, the number of connected automatic analyzers is not limited to two and may be four.

The automatic analyzer 1a includes an analyzing mechanism 2a, an analyzing circuit 3, a driving mechanism 4, an input interface circuit 5, an output interface circuit 6, a memory circuit 7, and a control circuit 8a. The analysis mechanism 2a has a configuration in which the rack recovery unit 240 is removed from the analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIG. The control circuit 8a includes a system control function 81, an analysis control function 82a, and a dispensing monitor function 83 by executing the operation program read from the storage circuit 7.

The automatic analyzer 1b includes an analyzing mechanism 2b, an analyzing circuit 3, a driving mechanism 4, an input interface circuit 5, an output interface circuit 6, a storage circuit 7, and a control circuit 8b. The analysis mechanism 2b has a configuration in which the rack loading unit 220 is removed from the analysis mechanism 2 shown in FIG. The control circuit 8b has a system control function 81, an analysis control function 82b, and a dispensing monitor function 83 by executing the operation program read from the storage circuit 7.

In the analysis control function 82a, the control circuit 8a controls the first sample dispensing arm 204a and the first sample dispensing arm 204a so that the first sample dispensing probe 205a performs the dispensing related to the inspection item classified into the A line system in accordance with the analysis cycle. The 1-sample dispensing probe 205a and the first dispensing unit 206a are controlled. The control circuit 8a also performs the second sample dispensing arm 204b and the second sample dispensing so that the second sample dispensing probe 205b performs the dispensing related to the inspection item classified into the B line system according to the analysis cycle. The probe 205b and the second dispensing unit 206b are controlled.

Specifically, for example, the control circuit 8a moves the suction standard position, that is, the sample suction reference position 2341 by the first sample dispensing probe 205a, and the reference distance D downward from the position where the contact of the sample is detected. When the sample is sucked at the different position or when the sample sucked at the sample suction position is discharged, the dispensing monitor function 83 determines whether or not the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in an abnormal state. When the control circuit 8a determines that the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in an abnormal state, the control circuit 8a stores the sample suction position of the second sample dispensing probe 205b that subsequently aspirates the same sample according to the dispensing cycle in the storage circuit 7. It is changed by referring to the information regarding the movement amount stored in. When the control circuit 8a determines that the first sample dispensing probe 205a is in an abnormal state, the control circuit 8a indicates that the sample to be analyzed has caused an abnormality in the first sample dispensing probe 205a. Notify 1b.

Further, the control circuit 8a is, for example, at the suction standard position, that is, at the position moved by the reference distance D downward from the sample suction reference position 2341 by the second sample dispensing probe 205b and the position where the contact of the sample is detected. When the sample is sucked or when the sample sucked at this sample suction position is discharged, the dispensing monitor function 83 determines whether or not the second sample dispensing probe 205b is in an abnormal state. When the control circuit 8a determines that the second sample dispensing probe 205b is in an abnormal state, the control circuit 8a stores the sample suction position of the first sample dispensing probe 205a that subsequently aspirates the same sample in the storage circuit 7. Change the information by referring to the stored information regarding the movement amount. When the control circuit 8a determines that the second sample dispensing probe 205b is in an abnormal state, the control circuit 8a indicates that the sample to be analyzed causes an abnormality in the second sample dispensing probe 205b. Notify 1b.

The process of the control circuit 8a after changing the sample suction position is the same as the process of the control circuit 8.

In the analysis control function 82b, the control circuit 8b controls the first sample dispensing arm 204a and the first sample dispensing arm 204a so that the first sample dispensing probe 205a performs the dispensing related to the inspection item classified into the A line system in accordance with the analysis cycle. The 1-sample dispensing probe 205a and the first dispensing unit 206a are controlled. Further, the control circuit 8b performs the second sample dispensing arm 204b and the second sample dispensing so that the second sample dispensing probe 205b performs the dispensing related to the inspection item classified into the B line system according to the analysis cycle. The probe 205b and the second dispensing unit 206b are controlled.

Specifically, when the control circuit 8b receives a notification from the automatic analyzer 1a regarding a sample in which an abnormality has occurred, the control circuit 8b updates the management information stored in the storage circuit 7, for example, based on this notification. The management information includes the status of the sample, and this update changes the status of the sample from, for example, “clogging flag=0” to “clogging flag=1”.

The control circuit 8b refers to the management information stored in the storage circuit 7 when the sample is sucked at the suction standard position by the first sample dispensing probe 205a or the second sample dispensing probe 205b, and the analysis is performed. It is determined whether the target sample is a sample in which the first sample dispensing probe 205a or the second sample dispensing probe 205b has an abnormality. When the sample has an abnormality, the control circuit 8b sucks the sample at the suction change position by the first sample dispensing probe 205a or the second sample dispensing probe 205b.

The process of the control circuit 8b after changing the sample suction position is the same as the process of the control circuit 8.

When the sample to be analyzed is not the sample in which the first sample dispensing probe 205a or the second sample dispensing probe 205b has an abnormality, the control circuit 8b performs the same process as the control circuit 8a.

The processing procedure of the control circuits 8a and 8b in the dispensing operation is the same as that shown in FIG.

As described above, in the second embodiment, information about the sample in which the first sample dispensing probe 205a or the second sample dispensing probe 205b has an abnormality in the automatic analyzer 1a is sent to the automatic analyzer 1b. Output. Even when the sample to be analyzed is first sucked, the control circuit 8b provided in the automatic analyzer 1b, when this sample is the sample in which the probe abnormality has occurred in the automatic analyzer 1a, This sample is sucked at the suction change position. This allows the automatic analyzer 1b to suck the sample from the sample suction position where the insoluble matter is assumed not to exist when the sample is first sucked.

Therefore, according to the automatic analyzers 1a and 1b according to the second embodiment, the burden on the operator can be reduced and the time required for re-examination can be eliminated, so that the measurement result can be reported quickly. That is, a decrease in throughput can be suppressed.

(Other embodiments)
In the first and second embodiments, the case where the automatic analyzers 1, 1a, 1b have the configuration shown in FIG. 1 has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to this. The automatic analyzers 1, 1a, 1b may have a configuration like the automatic analyzer 1c shown in FIG. 11, for example. At this time, the automatic analyzer 1c is connected to the information processing device 9 and outputs the standard data and the test data generated by the photometric unit 217 to the information processing device 9. The information processing device 9 includes a control circuit 91 having an analysis function 912, and generates calibration data, analysis data, etc. based on standard data and test data.

Further, in the first and second embodiments, the case where the automatic analyzers 1, 1a, 1b include two sample dispensing probes has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to this. The automatic analyzer may have only one sample dispensing probe.

The word "processor" used in the above description is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (for example, , Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The processor realizes the function by reading and executing the program stored in the memory circuit. It should be noted that each processor of the present embodiment is not limited to the case where each processor is configured as a single circuit, and a plurality of independent circuits may be combined and configured as one processor to realize its function. Good. Further, the plurality of constituent elements in FIG. 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize its function.

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples 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. The embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and the scope thereof, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the scope of equivalents thereof.

1, 1a, 1b, 1c... Automatic analyzer, 2, 2a, 2b... Analysis mechanism, 3... Analysis circuit, 4... Driving mechanism, 5, 5c... Input interface circuit, 6, 6c... Output interface circuit, 61, 61c ... Print circuit, 62, 62c... Display circuit, 7... Storage circuit, 8, 8a, 8b, 8c... Control circuit, 81... System control function, 82, 82a, 82b... Analysis control function, 83... Dispensing monitor function, 9... Information processing device, 91... Control circuit, 911... System control function, 912... Analysis function, 100... Sample container, 102... Sample rack, 201... Reaction disk, 2011a, 2011b... Reaction tube, 2012a... First sample discharge Position, 2012b... 2nd sample discharge position, 2013a, 2013b... 1st reagent discharge position, 2014a, 2014b... 2nd reagent discharge position, 2015a, 2015b, 2016a, 2016b... Stirring position, 202... 1st reagent storage, 2021... Outer circle, 2022... Inner circle, 203... Second reagent storage, 2031... Outer circle, 2032... Inner circle, 204a... First sample dispensing arm, 204b... Second sample dispensing arm, 205a... First sample dispensing Probe, 205b... Second sample dispensing probe, 206a... First dispensing unit, 206b... Second dispensing unit, 2061a... First pressure detector, 2061b... Second pressure detector, 20611... Pressure sensor, 20612... Amplifier, 20613... Converter, 2062a... First liquid level detector, 2062b... Second liquid level detector, 2063... Tube, 2064... Syringe, 2065... Plunger, 2066... Tank, 2067... Wash pump, 2068... Open/close valve , 2069a... First sample probe washing position, 2069b... Second sample probe washing position, 207... 1A reagent dispensing arm, 208... 1A reagent dispensing probe, 209... 2A reagent dispensing arm, 210... 2A Reagent dispensing probe, 211... 1B reagent dispensing arm, 212... 1B reagent dispensing probe, 213... 2B reagent dispensing arm, 214... 2B reagent dispensing probe, 215... First stirring unit, 216... Second agitating unit, 217... Photometric unit, 218... Washing unit, 219... Electrolyte measuring unit, 220... Rack loading unit, 221... First loading lane, 222... Second loading lane, 230... Rack moving unit, 231... Conveying Arm, 232... Transport rail, 233... Temporary placement lane, 234... Sampling lane, 2341... Sample suction reference position, 23 41a... Sample suction preliminary position, 235... Re-inspection buffer lane, 236... Reader, 240... Rack recovery unit, 241... First recovery lane, 242... Second recovery lane.

Claims (11)

A sample stored in a sample container, a dispensing probe for sucking at a suction standard position in the sample container,
A pressure detector for detecting the pressure of the dispensing probe,
When there is an abnormality in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, a position for sucking the sample from the sample container is changed from the standard suction position to a suction change position in the sample container, and a dispensing control unit. Be equipped with
The said dispensing control part is an automatic analyzer which switches the movement amount from the said suction standard position to the said suction change position according to the kind of the said sample container . The dispensing control unit suctions the suction standard position by at least one of a horizontal movement of the dispensing probe on a rotation path, a vertical movement of the dispensing probe, and a movement thereof. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, which is changed to a change position. The dispensing probe sucks the sample contained in the sample container at the suction change position,
The pressure detector detects the pressure of the dispensing probe that has sucked the sample at the suction change position,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the dispensing control unit stops the sampling operation for the sample when the pressure detected by the pressure detector is abnormal. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the pressure detector detects the pressure of the dispensing probe when the sample is sucked by the dispensing probe and when the sucked sample is discharged. .. The dispensing control unit, is less than the amount remaining of the sample is set in advance, automatically according to any one of the suction standard position of claims 1 to 4 does not change to the suction change position Analysis equipment. A sample stored in a sample container, a dispensing probe for sucking at a suction standard position in the sample container,
A pressure detector for detecting the pressure of the dispensing probe,
When there is an abnormality in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, a position for sucking the sample from the sample container, from the standard suction position, a dispensing control unit for changing to a suction change position in the sample container,
A second dispensing probe for sucking the sample contained in the sample container ;
Was immediately Bei,
The dispensing control unit, if there is an abnormality in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, automatic said second dispensing probe to change the position for sucking the sample from the sample container to the aspirating change position Analysis equipment. The second dispensing probe sucks the sample contained in the sample container at the suction change position,
Further comprising a second pressure detector for detecting the pressure of the second dispensing probe,
7. The automatic analyzer according to claim 6 , wherein the dispensing control unit stops the sampling operation for the sample when the pressure detected by the second pressure detector is abnormal. The dispensing control unit sucks the sample stored in the sample container at the suction standard position, and when the pressure detected by the pressure detector causes an abnormality, the abnormality occurs due to the sample. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , which notifies the effect to another connected automatic analyzer. The dispensing control unit changes the suction of the sample by the dispensing probe from the suction standard position to the suction when receiving a notification from the other automatic analyzer to be connected that an abnormality has occurred in the sample. automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 7 to change the position. A sample stored in a sample container, a dispensing probe for sucking at a suction standard position in the sample container,
A pressure detector for detecting the pressure of the dispensing probe,
When there is an abnormality in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, a position for sucking the sample from the sample container is changed from the standard suction position to a suction change position in the sample container, and a dispensing control unit.
Equipped with,
The dispensing control unit sucks the sample stored in the sample container at the suction standard position, and when an abnormality occurs in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, the abnormality is caused by the sample. An automatic analyzer that informs other connected automatic analyzers. A sample stored in a sample container, a dispensing probe for sucking at a suction standard position in the sample container,
A pressure detector for detecting the pressure of the dispensing probe,
When there is an abnormality in the pressure detected by the pressure detector, a position for sucking the sample from the sample container is changed from the standard suction position to a suction change position in the sample container, and a dispensing control unit.
Equipped with,
The dispensing control unit changes the suction of the sample by the dispensing probe from the suction standard position to the suction when the abnormality is caused by the sample from another automatic analyzer to be connected. An automatic analyzer that changes the position.