JP6899667B2 - Sample transfer device, sample measurement device, sample transfer method and retainer - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a sample transfer device for transporting a sample, a sample measurement device provided with the sample transfer device, a sample transfer method for transporting a sample, and a retainer that can be used in the sample transfer device.

A transport system is known that transports a multi-well plate in which wells for accommodating a sample are arranged. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a configuration in which a multi-well plate 903 is delivered between the transport path 901 and the auto sealer 902, as shown in FIG. 24.

Delivery of the multi-well plate 903 is performed as follows. The multi-well plate 903 is positioned on the second lifter member 904 of the transport path 901. The four second lifter members 904 rise to a position slightly higher than the support plate 906 fixed to the arm member 905. The base end of the arm member 905 is connected to a rotating shaft 907 that is rotated by a motor or the like (not shown). When the arm member 905 rotates and enters under the multi-well plate 903, the second lifter member 904 is lowered and the multi-well plate 903 is placed on the support plate 906.

The arm member 905 rotates together with the multi-well plate 903 onto the first lifter member 909 provided on the base 908 of the auto sealer 902. The four first lifter members 909 rise to a position slightly higher than the support plate 906 to support the multi-well plate 903. The arm member 905 rotates and moves out from under the multi-well plate 903. When the first lifter member 909 is lowered, the multi-well plate 903 is placed on the plate stand 910 provided on the base 908. In this way, the delivery of the multi-well plate 903 from the transport path 901 to the auto sealer 902 is completed.

In the auto sealer 902, in order to improve the accuracy of the experiment, the upper surface of the multi-well plate 903 is sealed with, for example, a replaceable film or a permanent film, and the sample in the well provided on the multi-well plate 903 comes into contact with air as much as possible. Do not allow the liquid components in the sample to evaporate.

When the processing by the auto sealer 902 is completed, the multi-well plate 903 is carried out from the auto sealer 902 and stopped on the first lifter member 909 of the plate stand 910. The four first lifter members 909 rise to a position slightly higher than the support plate 906. When the arm member 905 rotates and enters under the multi-well plate 903, the first lifter member 909 is lowered and the multi-well plate 903 is placed on the support plate 906.

The arm member 905 rotates together with the multi-well plate 903 onto the second lifter member 904. The four second lifter members 904 rise to a position slightly higher than the support plate 906 to support the multi-well plate 903. The arm member 905 rotates and moves out from under the multi-well plate 903. When the second lifter member 904 is lowered, the multi-well plate 903 is placed on the transport path 901. In this way, the delivery of the multi-well plate 903 from the auto sealer 902 to the transport path 901 is completed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2002-31642

The configuration of Patent Document 1 is such that the arm member 905 is swiveled to convey the multi-well plate 903 while the multi-well plate 903 is raised and lowered by the first lifter member 909 and the second lifter member 904. The configuration becomes complicated and the size becomes large.

In view of such a problem, an object of the present invention is to provide a sample transfer device, a sample measurement device, a sample transfer method, and a retainer capable of smoothly transporting a sample along a two-dimensional plane with a simple configuration. To do.

The first aspect of the present invention relates to a sample transfer device. The sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment has a first recess (510, 120) and a second recess (520, 220) extending in a direction different from the extending direction of the first recess, and holds a sample. It has a holding body (500) for engaging with the first recess (510, 120) and a first protrusion (110, 540) for engaging with the first recess (510, 120), and is engaged with the first recess (510, 120). The first protrusion (110, 540) is transferred in the extending direction of the second recess (520, 220) to convey the holding body (500) to the first transport portion (310) and the second recess (520, 220). It has a second protrusion (210, 550) for engaging, and is transferred and held in the extending direction of the second protrusion (210, 550) engaged with the second recess (520, 220). A second transport unit (320) for transporting the body (500) is provided. First recess (510,120) is formed on at least one upper and lower surfaces of the holding member (500), first in the transport operation of transporting holder (500) in the direction of extension of the first recess (510,220) The second recesses (520, 220) extend to the side surface of the holding body (500) so as to allow the one protrusion (110, 540) to come off, and the second recesses (520, 220) are on the upper surface and the lower surface of the holding body (500). formed on at least one, it is formed into so that through with the outside extends to the side surface of the holding body (500).

According to the sample transfer device according to this aspect, when the first transfer portion transfers the first protrusion in the extending direction of the second recess, the holding body becomes the second due to the engagement between the first recess and the first protrusion. Receives a force in the extending direction of the recess. At this time, the second protrusion that engages with the second recess can move in the extending direction of the second recess along the second recess. Therefore, the holding body is conveyed in the extending direction of the second recess by the force applied by the movement of the first protrusion. Further, since the second recess is formed so as to extend to the side surface of the holding body, the holding body moves in the extending direction of the second recess, so that the second protrusion enters the second recess and the second recess Engage in. After the transfer of the holding body in the extending direction of the second recess is completed, when the second conveying portion transfers the second protrusion in the extending direction of the first recess, the engagement between the second recess and the second protrusion causes the second protrusion to engage. The holder receives a force in the extending direction of the first recess. At this time, the first protrusion that engages with the first recess can move in the extending direction of the first recess along the first recess. Therefore, the holding body is conveyed in the extending direction of the first concave portion by the force in the extending direction of the first concave portion applied by the movement of the second protrusion.

As described above, according to the sample transfer device according to the present embodiment, the sample can be prepared by a simple configuration using the engagement of the first recess and the first protrusion and the engagement of the second recess and the second protrusion. The holding body to be held can be smoothly conveyed along the two-dimensional plane. Further, by moving the second protrusion in the opposite direction and moving the first protrusion in the opposite direction, the holding body can be returned to the position before the transfer. Further, since the second protrusion can be inserted into and removed from the second recess in the extending direction of the second recess, the transport distance of the holding body in the extending direction of the second recess can be widened. Therefore, according to the sample transfer device according to this aspect, the retainer can be reciprocated over a wide range with a simple configuration.

The "first recess" and the "second recess" do not necessarily have to extend in a direction perpendicular to each other, and may extend in a direction not parallel to each other.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, the first recesses (510, 120) have the first protrusions (110, 540) in the transfer operation for transporting the holding body (500) in the extending direction of the first recess. It may be configured to extend to the side surface of the retainer (500) so that it can be pulled out. In this way, the transport distance of the holder in the extending direction of the first recess can be further increased.

Further, the second recesses (520, 220) reach the side surface of the holder (500) so that the second protrusion (210, 550) can be pulled out in the transport operation for transporting the holder 500 in the extending direction of the second recess. It can be an extended configuration. In this way, the transport distance of the holder in the extending direction of the second recess can be further increased.

In this case, the width of the second recess (520, 220) can be widened toward the side surface of the holder (500). Also, the width of the first recesses (510, 120) can be widened towards the sides of the retainer (500). In this way, even if there is a misalignment between the first protrusion and the first recess or between the second protrusion and the second recess, the first protrusion or the second protrusion is placed on the corresponding recess. Can be inserted and removed smoothly.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, the first recesses (510, 120) and the second recesses (520, 220) may be configured to be arranged on the lower surface (501) of the holder (500). In this way, the recess and the protrusion can be engaged with each other by placing the holding body at a predetermined position on the transport path. Therefore, it is not necessary to separately provide a mechanism for moving the recess or the protrusion for engagement, and the configuration of the sample transfer device can be simplified.

Further, the first protrusion (110, 540) has a wide portion (111) wider than the root side, and the first recess (510, 120) has a first width for receiving the wide portion (111). The second width, which is located on the root side of the first protrusion (110, 540) with respect to the portion (511) and the first width portion (511) and is narrower than the wide portion (111). It may be configured to include a portion (512). In this way, it is possible to prevent the holding body from being removed in the moving range in the extending direction of the second recess.

Further, the shapes of the first protrusion (110, 540) and the second protrusion (210, 550) when viewed in the protruding direction may be configured to be circular. In this way, when the first protrusion enters the first recess, the first protrusion is less likely to be caught in the first recess, and when the second protrusion enters the second recess, the second protrusion becomes the second. 2 It becomes difficult to get caught in the recess. Therefore, the first protrusion and the second protrusion can be smoothly entered into the first recess and the second recess, respectively.

Further, the first protrusion (110, 540) and the second protrusion (210, 550) may be configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. In this way, when the first protrusion enters the first recess, even if the first protrusion is caught in the first recess, the first protrusion rotates and the first protrusion becomes the first recess. Enter smoothly. Similarly, when the second protrusion enters the second recess, even if the second protrusion is caught in the second recess, the second protrusion rotates and the second protrusion becomes the second recess. Enter smoothly.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, the maximum width of the portion of the first protrusion (110, 540) inserted into the first recess (510, 120) is the width of the first recess (510, 120). It may be configured such that the maximum width of the portion of the second protrusion (210, 550) inserted into the second recess (520, 220) is substantially equal to the width of the second recess (520, 220). In this way, rattling does not occur substantially between the first protrusion and the first recess and between the second protrusion and the second recess. Therefore, the holding body can be smoothly conveyed, and the position accuracy of the holding body in the moving range can be improved.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this aspect, when viewed from above, the movement path (101) of the first protrusion (110, 540) and the movement path (201) of the second protrusion (210, 550). Can be set so that they do not intersect each other. In this way, the drive mechanism of the first transport unit and the drive mechanism of the second transport unit can be individually arranged without contacting each other. Therefore, the configuration of the first transport unit and the second transport unit can be simplified.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, the holding body has a third recess (530) extending in the same direction as the second recess (520, 220) and engages with the third recess (530). It may be configured to include a third transport portion (330) that transports the holding body (500) by transporting the three protrusions (810) in the extending direction of the first recess. Here, the third recess (530) is a third protrusion (810) in a transport operation in which the holding body (500) is conveyed by the first protrusion (110, 540) in the extending direction of the second recess (520, 220). ) Extends to the side surface of the holding body (500) on the extending direction side of the second recesses (520, 220) and communicates with the outside . In this way, the holding body can be transported to a range other than the transport range by the second transport unit by the third transport unit. Therefore, the transport range of the holder can be expanded.

In this case, the first recess (510, 120) is a holding body (500) so that the first protrusion (110, 540) can be removed in the transport operation in which the holding body (500) is conveyed by the third protrusion (810). extends to the side surface of) may be configured that passage with the outside. In this way, the transport distance of the holding body by the third protrusion can be increased.

The sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment may be configured to include a flat support surface (401) on which the lower surface (501) of the holder (500) is placed in the moving range of the holder (500). In this way, the holding body can be smoothly conveyed.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to the present embodiment, the retainer (500) can be configured such that a plate (600) in which wells (601) are formed in a matrix can be installed on the upper surface (502). In this way, the sample can be easily placed on the retainer.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, wells (508) can be formed in a matrix on the upper surface (502) of the holder (500). This way, the plate can be omitted.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, a recess (506) for installing the sample container (12) may be formed on the upper surface of the holder (500). This eliminates the need to dispense the sample contained in the sample container into the wells of the plate, and simplifies the operation.

In this case, it is preferable that an identification mark for identifying the type of the sample in the sample container (12) installed in the recess (506) is attached to the upper surface of the holder (500). In this way, the operator can accurately grasp what kind of sample should be placed in the recess of the holder.

When the sample transfer device (10) includes a plurality of holding bodies (500) transported by the first transport unit (310), the plurality of holding bodies (500) are placed on the upper surface of each holding body (500). It is preferable that an identification mark indicating the transport order is attached. In this way, the processing order of the sample containers installed in each holding body can be accurately grasped.

Further, the sample transfer device (10) may be further provided with a lid holder (13) for installing the lid (12a) of the sample container (12). In this way, the operator can install the lid removed from the sample container on the lid holder of the sample transfer device, and can appropriately manage the lid removed from the sample container.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this aspect, the extending direction of the first recess may be substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the second recess. In this way, the first protrusion is transferred from the state in which the first recess and the first protrusion are engaged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the first recess, so that the first protrusion is driven. The force is efficiently transmitted to the first recess via the first protrusion. Similarly, since the second protrusion is transferred in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the second recess extends from the state in which the second recess and the second protrusion are engaged, it is driven by the second transport portion. The force is efficiently transmitted to the second recess via the second protrusion. Therefore, the driving force of the first transport unit and the second transport unit can be efficiently transmitted to the holding body.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, a plurality of first protrusions (110, 540) are arranged along the extending direction of the first recess, and the second protrusion (210, 550) extends the second recess. A plurality of configurations may be arranged along the direction. In this way, the first recess and the second recess can be stably pushed by the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

In the sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment, the retainer (500) can be formed of polyacetal. Polyacetal has low frictional resistance with stainless steel and electrogalvanized steel sheet (SECC). Therefore, when the support surface on which the holding body is placed is made of stainless steel or an electrogalvanized steel plate (SECC), the holding body can be smoothly conveyed on the supporting surface.

A second aspect of the present invention relates to a sample measuring device. The sample measuring device (30) according to the present embodiment includes the sample transport device (10) according to the first aspect, a suction unit (32) for sucking the sample transported by the holder (500), and a suction unit (32). ) Is provided with a measuring unit (33) for measuring the sample sucked by the above.

According to the sample measuring device according to this aspect, the same effect as that of the first aspect is obtained.

In this case, a plurality of wells (508) for accommodating the sample are arranged in the holding body (500) so as to be arranged in a matrix in the extending direction of the second recess and the extending direction of the first recess, and the suction portion (32) is arranged. A suction tube (710) for sucking a sample and a transfer section (720) for transferring the suction tube (710) in the extending direction of the second recess are provided, and the sample transfer device (10) is a first transfer section (10). The retainer (500) may be transported by the 310) and the second transport unit (320) so that the wells (508) lined up in the extending direction of the second recess are positioned in the transfer path of the suction pipe (710). Since the sample measuring device according to this aspect has a configuration in which the holding body is conveyed by the sample conveying device according to the first aspect, the holding body can be accurately conveyed in the extending direction of the first recess. Therefore, the wells lined up in the extending direction of the second recess can be accurately positioned in the movement path of the suction pipe. Therefore, the sample can be properly sucked from each well.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to a sample transfer device for transporting a sample in a first direction and a second direction along a two-dimensional plane. The sample transfer device (10) according to this embodiment includes a holding body (500) for holding a sample, a first transport unit (310) for transporting the first moving body (100) in the first direction, and a second. A second transport unit (320) for transporting the moving body (200) in the second direction is provided. Here, the first gap (510, 120) extending in the second direction is arranged in one of the holding body (500) and the first moving body (100) and engages with the first gap (510, 120). The first protrusion (110, 540) is arranged on the other side of the holding body (500) and the first moving body (100). Further, the second gap (520, 220) extending in the first direction is arranged in one of the holding body (500) and the second moving body (200) and engages with the second gap (520, 220). The second protrusion (210, 550) is arranged on the other side of the holding body (500) and the second moving body (200). The second gap (520, 220) and the second protrusion (210, 550) are arranged at positions where they engage with each other in the process of transporting the holding body (500) in the first direction, and the first gap (510, 510) is arranged. The 120) extends to the side surface of the holding body (500) or the first moving body (100) and communicates with the outside, and the second gaps (520, 220) carry the holding body (500) in the first direction. Through the side surface of the holding body (500) on the first direction side or the side surface of the second moving body (200) opposite to the first direction so that the second protrusion (210, 550) enters in the operation. There is.

According to the sample transfer device according to this aspect, the same effect as that of the first aspect is obtained.

The "first gap" and the "second gap" do not necessarily have to be composed of two surfaces facing each other, and may be composed of, for example, two linear portions facing each other. Further, the "first gap" and the "second gap" do not have to be bottomed recesses, and may be configured to include, for example, a bottomless opening.

A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a sample transport method. In the sample transport method according to this aspect, the first protrusions (110, 540) are engaged with the first recesses (510, 120) provided on the upper surface or the lower surface of the holding body (500) for holding the sample. The first protrusion (110, 540) is moved in the extending direction of the second recess provided on the upper surface or the lower surface of the holder, and the holder (500) is extended by the second recess (520, 220). A step of transporting in the direction (S11, S14), and in this step, a second protrusion (210, 550) is inserted into the second recess (520, 220) from the extending direction of the second recess, and then the second protrusion. The unit (210, 550) is moved in the extending direction of the first recess, and the holding body (500) is conveyed in the extending direction of the first recess (S12, S13). The first recesses (510, 120) extend to the side surface of the holder (500) and communicate with the outside, and the second recesses (520, 220) extend to the side surface of the holder (500) and communicate with the outside. There is.

According to the sample transport method according to this aspect, the same effect as that of the first aspect is obtained.

In the sample transport method according to this aspect, in the step of transporting the holding body (500) in the extending direction of the first recess, the first protrusion (110, 540) is pulled out from the first recess (510, 120). Is preferable. In this way, the transport distance of the holding body in the extending direction of the first recess can be increased.

A fifth aspect of the present invention relates to a retainer for holding a sample. The holding body (500) according to this embodiment includes a lower surface (501) having a first recess (510) and a second recess (520) extending in a direction different from that of the first recess (510). Here, the first recess (510) communicates with the outside and extends to at least one side surface, a second recess (520) communicates with the outside and extends to at least one side.

According to the holding body according to the present aspect, the same effect as that of the first aspect can be obtained by using this holding body.

According to the present invention, the sample can be smoothly conveyed along the two-dimensional plane by a simple structure.

FIG. 1A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the sample transfer device according to the first embodiment is viewed vertically downward. 1 (b) and 1 (c) are schematic views showing a configuration when the holder on which the plate according to the first embodiment is installed is viewed from the upper side and the lower side, respectively. 2 (a) and 2 (b) are schematic views for explaining the transport of the holding body according to the first embodiment. 3A and 3B are schematic views for explaining the transportation of the holding body according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a configuration when the sample transport device according to the first embodiment is viewed vertically downward. FIG. 5A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the first protrusion and the first recess according to the first embodiment are viewed in the positive direction of the Y-axis. FIG. 5B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the second protrusion and the second recess according to the first embodiment are viewed in the positive direction of the X-axis. FIG. 5C is a schematic view showing a configuration when the lower surface of the holding body according to the first embodiment is viewed in the negative direction of the Z axis. 6 (a) and 6 (b) are schematic views showing a configuration when the lower surface of the holding body according to the modified example of the first embodiment is viewed in the negative direction of the Z axis. FIG. 7A is a schematic view showing the configuration of the holding body and the plate according to the first embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 7B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body on which the plate according to the first embodiment is installed is viewed in the positive direction of the Y axis. FIG. 8A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the transfer unit according to the first embodiment is viewed in the positive direction of the Z axis. FIG. 8B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the guide member, the roller, and the support shaft according to the first embodiment are viewed in the negative direction of the Y-axis. FIG. 8C is a schematic view showing a configuration when the guide member, the roller, and the support shaft according to the first embodiment are viewed in the positive direction of the X-axis. FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing an external configuration of the sample measuring device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the sample measuring device according to the first embodiment. 11 (a) and 11 (b) are schematic views for explaining the transport of the holding body according to the first embodiment. 12 (a) and 12 (b) are schematic views for explaining the transport of the holding body according to the first embodiment. 13 (a) and 13 (b) are schematic views for explaining the transport of the holding body according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic view for explaining the transport of the holding body according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a transport operation of the holding body according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16A is a perspective view showing a configuration of a sample transfer device in a state where the lid is open, according to a modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 16B is a perspective view showing the configuration of the holding body according to the modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 16C is a perspective view showing the configuration of the lid holder according to the modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing a configuration when the sample transport device according to the second embodiment is viewed vertically downward. FIG. 18 is a schematic view showing a configuration when the lower surface of the holding body according to the second embodiment is viewed in the negative direction of the Z axis. 19 (a) and 19 (b) are schematic views for explaining the transport of the holding body according to the second embodiment. FIG. 20A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the sample transfer device according to the third embodiment is viewed vertically downward. FIG. 20B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body on which the plate according to the third embodiment is installed is viewed from below. FIG. 21A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body on which the plate according to the fourth embodiment is installed is viewed from above. FIG. 21B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body on which the plate according to the modified example of the fourth embodiment is installed is viewed from above. FIG. 22A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body on which the plate according to the fifth embodiment is installed is viewed from above. FIG. 22B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body on which the plate according to the modified example of the fifth embodiment is installed is viewed from above. FIG. 23A is a schematic view showing a configuration when the first recess according to the sixth embodiment is viewed in the positive direction of the Y-axis. FIG. 23B is a schematic view showing a configuration when the second recess according to the sixth embodiment is viewed in the positive direction of the X-axis. FIG. 23C is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body according to the sixth embodiment is viewed from above. FIG. 23D is a schematic view showing a configuration when the holding body according to the seventh embodiment is viewed from above. FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram for explaining a configuration related to the related technology.

<Embodiment 1>
As shown in FIG. 1A, the sample transfer device 10 includes a first moving body 100, a second moving body 200, a first transporting unit 310, a second transporting unit 320, and a support plate 400. Be prepared. The support plate 400 is made of, for example, stainless steel or an electrogalvanized steel plate (SECC). The sample transfer device 10 transports a sample along a two-dimensional plane. In the first embodiment, the sample transfer device 10 transports the sample along the XY plane. In FIG. 1A, the XYZ axes are orthogonal to each other. The XY plane indicates a horizontal plane, and the Z-axis positive direction indicates a vertical downward direction. In the drawings below, the XYZ axes are the same as the XYZ axes in FIG. 1 (a). The positive direction of the X-axis corresponds to the first direction, and the positive direction of the Y-axis corresponds to the second direction.

As shown in FIG. 1 (b), the sample transfer device 10 further includes a holding body 500. The holding body 500 is configured so that the plate 600 can be installed on the upper surface. Wells 601 are formed in a matrix on the plate 600. Specifically, on the plate 600, eight combinations of 12 wells 601 arranged in the X-axis direction are arranged in the Y-axis direction, and a total of 96 wells 601 are formed. The distance between the centers of the adjacent wells 601 is 9 mm, and the diameter at the upper end of the wells 601 is 5.5 mm. The operator accommodates the sample in each well 601 and installs a plate 600 for holding the sample on the upper surface of the holder 500. In this way, the retainer 500 holds the sample via the plate 600. When the retainer 500 is configured so that the plate 600 can be placed on the upper surface, the operator can easily place the sample on the retainer 500.

The retainer 500 is formed of, for example, polyacetal. In general, polyacetal has low frictional resistance with stainless steel or electrogalvanized steel sheet (SECC), which is a constituent material of the support plate 400. Therefore, by forming the holding body 500 with polyacetal, the holding body 500 can be smoothly conveyed on the support surface 401 of the support plate 400. The retainer 500 is preferably made of a resin material that is easy to mold and has a low frictional resistance with the support surface 401.

As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, a first recess 510 and a second recess 520 are arranged on the lower surface 501 of the holder 500. The first recess 510 extends parallel to the Y-axis direction and is composed of grooves formed on the lower surface 501. The second recess 520 extends parallel to the X-axis direction and is composed of a groove formed on the lower surface 501. When the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 are formed by grooves, the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 can be easily formed into the holding body 500. The first recess 510 is arranged so as to pass through the central position of the lower surface 501 in the X-axis direction. The second recess 520 is arranged so as to pass near the end of the lower surface 501 on the positive side of the Y axis.

Returning to FIG. 1A, the first transport unit 310 includes the first moving body 100 and the first projecting portion 110, and transports the first projecting portion 110 together with the first moving body 100 in the X-axis direction. The second transport unit 320 includes the second moving body 200 and the second projecting portion 210, and transports the second projecting portion 210 together with the second moving body 200 in the Y-axis direction. The first moving body 100 and the second moving body 200 are positioned on the lower surface side of the support plate 400, that is, on the Z-axis positive side. A pair of first protrusions 110 are arranged on the first moving body 100, and a pair of second protrusions 210 are arranged on the second moving body 200. The pair of first protrusions 110 are arranged in the Y-axis direction in the first moving body 100, and the pair of second protrusions 210 are arranged in the X-axis direction in the second moving body 200. The first protrusion 110 engages with the first recess 510, and the second protrusion 210 engages with the second recess 520.

When viewed in the Z-axis direction, the movement path 101 of the first moving body 100 and the moving path 201 of the second moving body 200 are set so as not to intersect with each other. As a result, the drive mechanism of the first transport unit 310 and the drive mechanism of the second transport unit 320 can be individually arranged without contacting each other. Therefore, the configuration of the first transport unit 310 and the second transport unit 320 can be simplified.

The support surface 401 is an upper surface of the support plate 400 formed in a plane shape. The lower surface 501 of the holding body 500 is placed on the support surface 401 within the moving range of the holding body 500. As a result, the holding body 500 can be smoothly conveyed on the support surface 401 while being supported by the support surface 401. The lower surface 501 of the holding body 500 may be supported only by the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210, and may be separated from the support surface 401.

The support plate 400 is formed with a pair of first grooves 411 and a pair of second grooves 412. The pair of first grooves 411 extend in the X-axis direction, and the pair of second grooves 412 extend in the Y-axis direction. The pair of first protrusions 110 project upward from the support surface 401 via the pair of first grooves 411. The pair of second protrusions 210 project upward from the support surface 401 via the pair of second grooves 412.

Next, the transfer of the holding body 500 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 3B. In addition, in FIGS. 2A to 3B, for convenience, the first moving body 100, the second moving body 200, the first transporting section 310, the second transporting section 320, and the plate 600 are shown. It has been omitted.

Here, the position of the holding body 500 when the holding body 500 is positioned at the end on the negative side of the X-axis of the support surface 401 is defined as the position 421. The position of the holding body 500 when the holding body 500 is positioned at the end of the support surface 401 on the positive side of the X-axis is defined as the position 424. The position of the holding body 500 when the holding body 500 is positioned between the positions 421 and the position 424 is defined as the position 422. The position of the holding body 500 when the holding body 500 is positioned at the end of the support surface 401 on the positive side of the Y-axis is defined as the position 423.

As shown in FIG. 2A, in the holding body 500, the pair of first protrusions 110 positioned at the end on the negative side of the X axis of the first groove 411 engages with the first recess 510. It is arranged on the support surface 401. As a result, the holding body 500 is positioned at the position 421. At this time, the first protrusion 110 is fitted into the first recess 510, and the lower surface 501 of the holding body 500 is supported by the support surface 401. Subsequently, the second protrusion 210 is positioned at the end on the negative side of the Y-axis of the second groove 412.

From the state of FIG. 2A, the first protrusion 110 is moved in the positive direction of the X-axis. As a result, the first protrusion 110 pushes the wall of the first recess 510 on the positive side of the X-axis, and the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the X-axis. At this time, when the holding body 500 approaches the position of the second protrusion 210, the second protrusion 210 enters the second recess 520 from the end on the X-axis positive side of the second recess 520. Then, when the first protrusion 110 moves to the central position of the first groove 411 in the X-axis direction, a pair of second protrusions 210 are fitted into the second recess 520 as shown in FIG. 2B. It becomes a state. Thus, the retainer 500 is positioned at position 422.

Subsequently, from the state shown in FIG. 2B, the second protrusion 210 is moved in the positive direction of the Y-axis. As a result, the second protrusion 210 pushes the wall on the positive side of the Y-axis of the second recess 520, and the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the Y-axis. At this time, the first protrusion 110 is pulled out from the end of the first recess 510 on the negative side of the Y axis to the outside of the holding body 500 in accordance with the movement of the holding body 500. Then, when the second protrusion 210 moves to the end on the positive side of the Y-axis of the second groove 412, the holding body 500 is positioned at the position 423 as shown in FIG. 3A.

Subsequently, from the state shown in FIG. 3A, the second protrusion 210 is moved in the negative direction on the Y-axis. As a result, the second protrusion 210 pushes the wall on the negative side of the Y-axis of the second recess 520, and the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the Y-axis. At this time, when the holding body 500 approaches the position of the first protrusion 110, the first protrusion 110 enters the first recess 510 from the end on the negative side of the Y axis of the first recess 510. Then, when the second protrusion 210 moves to the end on the negative side of the Y axis of the second groove 412, the pair of first protrusions 110 are fitted into the first recess 510 as shown in FIG. 3 (b). It will be in a state. Thus, the retainer 500 is repositioned at position 422.

After that, the first protrusion 110 is moved in the negative direction of the X-axis. As a result, the first protrusion 110 pushes the wall on the negative side of the X-axis of the first recess 510, and the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the X-axis. At this time, the second protrusion 210 is pulled out from the end of the second recess 520 on the positive side of the X-axis to the outside of the holding body 500 in accordance with the movement of the holding body 500. Then, when the first protrusion 110 moves to the end on the negative side of the X axis of the first groove 411, the holding body 500 is positioned at the original position 421. From the state of FIG. 3B, the first protrusion 110 may be moved in the positive direction of the X-axis. In this case, the second protrusion 210 is pulled out from the end on the negative side of the X-axis of the second recess 520 to the outside of the holding body 500. Then, the holding body 500 is positioned at the position 424.

As described above, when the first transport unit 310 transports the first moving body 100 in the positive direction of the X-axis, the holding body 500 is in the positive direction of the X-axis due to the engagement between the first recess 510 and the first protrusion 110. Receive power. At this time, since the second recess 520 extends in the X-axis direction, the second protrusion 210 that engages with the second recess 520 can move in the X-axis direction along the second recess 520. Therefore, the holding body 500 can move in the positive direction of the X-axis by the force applied in the positive direction of the X-axis by the movement of the first moving body 100.

Further, when the second transport unit 320 transports the second moving body 200 in the positive direction of the Y axis, the holding body 500 receives a force in the positive direction of the Y axis due to the engagement between the second recess 520 and the second protrusion 210. .. At this time, since the first recess 510 extends in the Y-axis direction, the first protrusion 110 that engages with the first recess 510 can move in the Y-axis direction along the first recess 510. Therefore, the holding body 500 can move in the Y-axis positive direction by the force in the Y-axis positive direction applied by the movement of the second moving body 200.

As described above, according to the sample transfer device 10, the sample has a simple configuration using the engagement of the first recess 510 and the first protrusion 110 and the engagement of the second recess 520 and the second protrusion 210. The holding body 500 that holds the above can be smoothly conveyed along the XY plane.

The second transport unit 320 transports the second moving body 200 in the Y-axis direction, but is not limited to this, and may transport the second moving body 200 in a direction having an angle with respect to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the XY plane. That is, the second transport unit 320 may transport the second moving body 200 in a direction different from the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction on the XY plane. In this case, the extending direction of the second groove 412, the extending direction of the first recess 510, and the arranging direction of the pair of first protrusions 110 are parallel to the conveying direction of the second moving body 200. As a result, the holding body 500 is conveyed by the first moving body 100 in the X-axis direction, and is conveyed by the second moving body 200 in a direction different from the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

However, the transport direction of the second moving body 200 is preferably substantially perpendicular to the transport direction of the first moving body 100. In this way, the first protrusion 110 moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the first recess 510 from the state in which the first recess 510 and the first protrusion 110 are engaged, so that the first transport is performed. The driving force of the portion 310 is efficiently transmitted to the first recess 510 via the first protrusion 110. Similarly, since the second protrusion 210 moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the second recess 520 extends from the state in which the second recess 520 and the second protrusion 210 are engaged, the second transport The driving force of the portion 320 is efficiently transmitted to the second recess 520 via the second protrusion 210. Therefore, the driving force of the first transport unit 310 and the second transport unit 320 can be efficiently transmitted to the holding body 500.

<Specific configuration>
Next, the configurations shown in FIGS. 1 (a) to 3 (b) will be described in more detail.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first moving body 100 has a long shape in the X-axis direction. A pair of first protrusions 110 are arranged near the end on the positive side of the X-axis and near the end on the negative side of the X-axis of the first moving body 100, respectively. Two holding bodies 500 are arranged on the support surface 401. The two pairs of the first protrusions 110 make it possible to simultaneously convey the two holding bodies 500 in the X-axis direction.

The first transport unit 310 includes a belt 311 and two pulleys 312, a motor 313, and a fastener 314. The belt 311 is hung on two pulleys 312. The two pulleys 312 are arranged side by side in the X-axis direction with a predetermined interval. The pulley 312 on the positive side of the X-axis is connected to the drive shaft of the motor 313. The motor 313 is composed of a stepping motor. The first moving body 100 is configured to be movable in the X-axis direction while being supported by a rail (not shown). The first moving body 100 is connected to the belt 311 by a fastener 314.

Similarly, the second transport unit 320 includes a belt 321 and two pulleys 322, a motor 323, and a fastener 324. The belt 321 is hung on two pulleys 322. The two pulleys 322 are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction with a predetermined interval. The pulley 322 on the positive side of the Y-axis is connected to the drive shaft of the motor 323. The motor 323 is composed of a stepping motor. The second moving body 200 is connected to the belt 321 by a fastener 324.

The support plate 400 includes wall portions 431 to 435 and 441 to 445 around the support surface 401. The wall portions 431 to 433 surround the three sides of the holder 500 located at position 421. Walls 433-435 surround the three sides of the retainer 500 located at position 424. The walls 441 to 443 surround the three sides of the retainer 500 located at position 423. In this way, the holding body 500 is surrounded by the three wall portions at the positions 421, 423, and 424, so that the holding body 500 on the support surface 401 is reliably positioned at the positions 421, 423, and 424.

In particular, since the position of the holder 500 in the X-axis direction is defined by the wall portions 441 and 442 in the vicinity of the position 423, the plate installed on the holder 500 when the sample is sucked by the suction tube 710 described later. The position of the well 601 of 600 can be matched with the suction position of the suction tube 710. As a result, the sample can be properly sucked by the suction tube 710.

The wall portions 444 and 445 are provided between the positions 422 and 423. The distance between the wall portion 444 and the wall portion 445 in the X-axis direction is substantially equal to the width of the holder 500 in the X-axis direction from a state larger than the width of the holder 500 in the X-axis direction from position 422 to position 423. It changes to a state. As a result, when the holding body 500 is transported from the position 422 to the position 423, even if the position of the holding body 500 in the X-axis direction is deviated, the position of the holding body 500 in the X-axis direction is moved by the wall portions 444 and 445. It is gradually adjusted to the position of position 423 in the X-axis direction. Therefore, the holding body 500 can be smoothly transferred from the position 422 to the position 423.

The sample transfer device 10 further includes a pair of sensors 451 to 455. The pair of sensors 451 to 455 are transmissive sensors including a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit, and can detect whether the paired sensors are in a light-shielding state or a transmissive state.

The pair of sensors 451 is used to detect whether the plate 600 on the holder 500 positioned at position 421 is properly installed on the holder 500. Specifically, when the orientation of the plate 600 installed on the holding body 500 is incorrect, the plate 600 on the holding body 500 is set at a higher position than when the plate 600 is properly installed, as will be described later. Positioned. The pair of sensors 451 are installed in the sample transfer device 10 so as to be in a transmissive state when the plate 600 is properly installed and to be in a light-shielding state when the plate 600 is erroneously installed. Therefore, based on the detection signals of the pair of sensors 451 it is possible to detect whether or not the plate 600 on the holding body 500 at the position 421 is properly installed on the holding body 500.

The pair of sensors 452 are installed in the sample transfer device 10 in the same manner as the pair of sensors 451. The pair of sensors 452 are used to detect whether the plate 600 on the retainer 500 at position 422 is properly mounted on the retainer 500.

The pair of sensors 453 are used to detect the retainer 500 moving between positions 422 and 423. The pair of sensors 453 are in a light-shielding state when the holding body 500 is located in a range displaced from the position 422 to the position 423 by a predetermined distance, and are in a transmissive state when the holding body 500 is removed from this range to the position 423 side. Therefore, based on the detection signals of the pair of sensors 453, it is possible to detect whether or not the holding body 500 is positioned in a range displaced by a predetermined distance from the position 422 to the position 423.

The pair of sensors 454 are used to detect whether or not the plate 600 is installed on the holder 500 located at the position 421. Specifically, as will be described later, the holding body 500 is provided with a pair of holes 504 penetrating in the Y-axis direction. The pair of sensors 454 are in a light-shielded state by the plate 600 when the plate 600 is installed in the holding body 500 at the position 421, and are in a transparent state when the plate 600 is not installed in the holding body 500 in the position 421. It is installed in the sample transfer device 10. Therefore, based on the detection signals of the pair of sensors 454, it is possible to detect whether or not the plate 600 is installed in the holding body 500 at the position 421.

The pair of sensors 455 are installed in the sample transfer device 10 in the same manner as the pair of sensors 454. The pair of sensors 455 is used to detect whether or not the plate 600 is installed on the holder 500 at position 422.

The processing device 20, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 9, includes a suction pipe 710 and a transfer unit 720 that transfers the suction pipe 710 in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction. The movement path of the suction tube 710 in the X-axis direction is set so that the sample can be sucked from all the wells 601 of the plate 600 installed in the holder 500. Specifically, when the holder 500 is positioned most on the positive side of the Y-axis, the positions of the 12 wells 601 arranged in a row in the X-axis direction at the end on the negative side of the Y-axis of the plate 600 in the XY plane. The movement path of the suction pipe 710 in the X-axis direction is set so as to overlap with the above. Thereby, by moving the holding body 500 in the Y-axis direction, the suction tube 710 can suck the sample in all the wells 601. Further, the movement path of the suction pipe 710 in the X-axis direction is set so as to overlap the external position 21 of the processing device 20 shown in FIG. The configuration of the transfer unit 720 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the first protrusion 110 has a wide portion 111 that is wider than the root side, that is, the Z-axis positive side. The shape of the first protrusion 110 when viewed in the protruding direction, that is, the Z-axis direction is circular. The first protrusion 110 is configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. The maximum width of the portion of the first protrusion 110 inserted into the first recess 510 is substantially equal to the width of the first recess 510.

Specifically, the first protrusion 110 includes a wide portion 111 and a shaft member 112. The shaft member 112 extends in the Z-axis direction. The end of the shaft member 112 on the positive side of the Z axis is installed in the first moving body 100. The wide portion 111 is installed at the end on the negative side of the Z-axis of the shaft member 112 so that it can rotate around the shaft member 112. The shape of the wide portion 111 when viewed in the Z-axis direction is circular. The wide portion 111 is composed of rollers.

The first recess 510 is located on the root side of the first protrusion 110 with respect to the first width portion 511 that receives the wide portion 111 and the first width portion 511, and is narrower than the wide portion 111. A second width portion 512 is provided. The first width portion 511 extends in the Y-axis direction and is composed of a pair of walls parallel to the YZ plane. The second width portion 512 extends in the Y-axis direction and is composed of a pair of walls parallel to the YZ plane. The first width portion 511 includes the position of the wide portion 111 in the Z-axis direction. The second width portion 512 is positioned on the Z-axis positive side of the wide portion 111 in the Z-axis direction.

The width of the first width portion 511, that is, the distance between the pair of walls constituting the first width portion 511 is w1, and the width of the second width portion 512, that is, the second width portion 512 is The distance between the pair of walls that compose is w2. The relationship between w1 and w2 is w1> w2. The diameter of the wide portion 111 is w1 or less and larger than w2. More specifically, the width of the first width portion 511 is set to 9.2 mm, and the diameter of the wide portion 111 is set to 9.0 mm, which is substantially the same value as w1. The diameter of the shaft member 112 is smaller than w2. By configuring the first protrusion 110 and the first recess 510 in this way, it is possible to prevent the holder 500 from being removed in the movement range in the X-axis direction.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the second protrusion 210, like the first protrusion 110, has a wide portion 211 that is wider than the root side, that is, the Z-axis positive side. The shape of the second protrusion 210 when viewed in the protruding direction, that is, in the Z-axis direction is circular. The second protrusion 210 is configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. The maximum width of the portion of the second protrusion 210 inserted into the second recess 520 is substantially equal to the width of the second recess 520.

Specifically, the second protrusion 210 includes a wide portion 211 and a shaft member 212. The shaft member 212 extends in the Z-axis direction. The end of the shaft member 212 on the positive side of the Z axis is installed in the second moving body 200. The wide portion 211 is installed at the end on the negative side of the Z-axis of the shaft member 212 so that it can rotate around the shaft member 212. The shape of the wide portion 211 when viewed in the Z-axis direction is circular. The wide portion 211 is composed of rollers.

The second recess 520 includes a first width portion 521 that receives the wide portion 211. The first width portion 521 extends in the X-axis direction and is composed of a pair of walls parallel to the XZ plane. The width of the first width portion 521, that is, the distance between the pair of walls constituting the first width portion 521 is w1. The diameter of the wide portion 211 is w1 or less. More specifically, the width of the first width portion 521 is set to 9.2 mm, and the diameter of the wide portion 211 is set to 9.0 mm, which is substantially the same value as w1. The diameter of the shaft member 212 is smaller than w1. By forming the second protrusion 210 and the second recess 520 in this way, the holding body 500 can be removed in the movement range in the Y-axis direction.

The second recess 520 may also include a second width portion narrower than the wide portion 211, similarly to the first recess 510. In this way, it is possible to prevent the holding body 500 from being removed even in the moving range in the Y-axis direction. However, when the second recess 520 does not include the second width portion, the holding body 500 can be easily attached to and detached from the sample transfer device 10 within the moving range in the Y-axis direction.

As described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the shapes of the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 when viewed in the protruding direction are circular. As a result, when the first protrusion 110 enters the first recess 510, the first protrusion 110 is less likely to be caught in the first recess 510, and when the second protrusion 210 enters the second recess 520, the first protrusion 110 is less likely to be caught in the first recess 510. The second protrusion 210 is less likely to be caught in the second recess 520. Therefore, the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 can be smoothly entered into the first recess 510 and the second recess 520, respectively.

Further, as described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 are configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. As a result, when the first protrusion 110 enters the first recess 510, even if the first protrusion 110 is caught in the first recess 510, the first protrusion 110 rotates to cause the first protrusion. The portion 110 smoothly enters the first recess 510. Similarly, when the second protrusion 210 enters the second recess 520, even if the second protrusion 210 is caught in the second recess 520, the second protrusion 210 rotates to cause the second protrusion. The portion 210 smoothly enters the second recess 520.

Further, as described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the maximum width of the portion of the first protrusion 110 inserted into the first recess 510 is substantially equal to the width of the first recess 510. The maximum width of the portion of the second protrusion 210 inserted into the second recess 520 is substantially equal to the width of the second recess 520. As a result, rattling does not occur substantially between the first protrusion 110 and the first recess 510, and between the second protrusion 210 and the second recess 520. Therefore, the holding body 500 can be smoothly conveyed, and the position accuracy of the holding body 500 in the moving range, for example, the position accuracy of the holding body 500 conveyed to the positions 421 to 424 can be improved.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the end portion 522 on the positive side of the X-axis of the second recess 520 is open in the positive direction of the X-axis. The end portion 522 is an end portion on the side where the second protrusion 210 enters in the transport operation of transporting the holding body 500 in the positive direction of the X-axis. By opening the end portion 522 in the positive direction of the X-axis, the transport distance of the holding body 500 in the X-axis direction can be increased as compared with the case where the end portion 522 is not opened in the positive direction of the X-axis.

Similarly, the end portion 523 on the negative side of the X-axis of the second recess 520 is opened in the negative direction of the X-axis. The end portion 523 is an end portion on the side where the second protrusion 210 enters and then exits in the transport operation for transporting the holding body 500 in the positive direction of the X-axis. By opening the end portion 523 in the negative direction of the X-axis, the transport distance of the holding body 500 in the X-axis direction can be increased as compared with the case where the end portion 523 is not opened in the negative direction of the X-axis.

The width of the end 522 widens toward the edge of the end 522, that is, toward the positive X-axis. Similarly, the width of the end 523 increases toward the edge of the end 523, that is, toward the negative X-axis direction. As a result, even if the position of the second protrusion 210 and the second recess 520 is displaced, the second protrusion 210 can be smoothly inserted and removed from the second recess 520.

Further, the end portion 513 on the negative side of the Y-axis of the first recess 510 is opened in the negative direction of the Y-axis. The end portion 513 is an end portion on the side where the first protrusion 110 comes out in the transport operation of transporting the holding body 500 in the positive direction of the Y axis. By opening the end portion 513 in the negative direction of the Y-axis, the transport distance of the holding body 500 in the Y-axis direction can be increased as compared with the case where the end portion 513 is not opened in the negative direction of the Y-axis.

The width of the end portion 513 increases toward the edge of the end portion 513, that is, toward the negative direction of the Y-axis. As a result, even if the position of the first protrusion 110 and the first recess 510 is displaced, the first protrusion 110 can be smoothly inserted and removed from the first recess 510.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the first recess 510 may intersect the second recess 520. Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, the first recess 510 may intersect with the second recess 520 and be opened in the positive direction of the Y-axis. In the case of the configuration of FIG. 6B, for example, the holding body 500 positioned at positions 421 and 424 can be pushed out to the negative side of the Y-axis by a mechanism provided separately. In this case, since the first protrusion 110 comes out of the end 514 on the positive side of the Y-axis of the first recess 510, the holding body 500 at positions 421 and 424 can be pushed out to the negative side of the Y-axis.

As shown in FIG. 7A, a recess 503 is provided on the upper surface 502 of the holding body 500. Holes 504 are provided on the side surfaces of the recess 503 on the positive side of the Y-axis and the negative side of the Y-axis, respectively. The holes 504 on the positive side of the Y-axis and the holes 504 on the negative side of the Y-axis are in the same position when viewed in the Y-axis direction. A notch 505 is provided at a position on the X-axis positive side and the Y-axis positive side of the upper surface 502. The plate 600 has a shape that fits into the outer peripheral shape of the upper surface 502. A notch 602 is provided at a position on the X-axis positive side and the Y-axis positive side of the plate 600. When the plate 600 is installed on the holding body 500, the notch 602 of the plate 600 is aligned with the notch 505 of the holding body 500, and the plate 600 is installed on the upper surface 502 of the holding body 500.

The bottom surface of the recess 503 is provided with a recess 506 for installing a sample container for accommodating a sample. As a result, instead of installing the plate 600 on the holding body 500, a sample container for accommodating the sample can be installed on the holding body 500. In this case, the holding body 500 conveys the sample in the sample container installed in the recess 506 in the XY plane like the plate 600.

As shown in FIG. 7B, when the plate 600 is installed in the retainer 500, 96 wells 601 are housed in the recess 503. At this time, the well 601 is positioned between the pair of holes 504. As a result, when the plate 600 is installed on the holding body 500 located at the position 421, the pair of sensors 454 are in a light-shielding state, and when the plate 600 is not installed on the holding body 500 located at the position 421, the pair of sensors 454 is in a light-shielding state. The pair of sensors 454 are in a transparent state. Therefore, according to the pair of sensors 454, it is possible to detect whether or not the plate 600 is installed on the holding body 500 at the position 421. Similarly, according to the pair of sensors 455, it is possible to detect whether or not the plate 600 is installed in the holding body 500 at the position 422.

If the plate 600 is placed in the retainer 500 in the wrong orientation, that is, if the notch 602 of the plate 600 is not aligned with the notch 505 of the retainer 500, the position of the plate 600 will be in the state of FIG. 7B. It shifts in the negative direction of the Z axis. As a result, when the plate 600 is properly installed on the holding body 500 at the position 421, the sensor 451 is in a transmissive state, and when the plate 600 is not properly installed on the holding body 500 at the position 421, the sensor 451 is in a light-shielding state. It becomes. Therefore, according to the pair of sensors 451 it is possible to detect whether or not the plate 600 is properly installed in the holding body 500 at the position 421. Similarly, according to the pair of sensors 452, it is possible to detect whether or not the plate 600 is properly installed on the holding body 500 at the position 422.

As described above, the configuration of the first recess 510 and the first protrusion 110 prevents the holding body 500 from being removed in the movement range in the X-axis direction, so that the position of the holding body 500 in the Z-axis direction is set. It is always kept in the proper position. Therefore, when the sensors 451 and 452 are in a light-shielding state, it is possible to eliminate the possibility that the holding body 500 is installed on the support surface 401 in an inclined state. Therefore, it is possible to reliably detect whether or not the plate 600 is properly installed on the holding body 500 at positions 421 and 422.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the transfer unit 720 includes transfer mechanisms 730 and 740 and a support unit 750.

The transfer mechanism 730 includes a belt 731, two pulleys 732, a motor 733, a support member 734, a fastener 735, and a rail 736. The belt 731 is hung on two pulleys 732. The two pulleys 732 are arranged side by side in the X-axis direction with a predetermined interval. The pulley 732 on the positive side of the X-axis is connected to the drive shaft of the motor 733. The motor 733 is composed of a stepping motor. The support member 734 is configured to be movable in the X-axis direction while being supported by a rail (not shown). The support member 734 is connected to the belt 731 by a fastener 735. The rail 736 extends in the Z-axis direction and is installed on the support member 734.

The transfer mechanism 740 includes a belt 741, two pulleys 742, a motor 743, a support member 744, a fastener 745, and a guide member 746. The belt 741 is hung on two pulleys 742. The two pulleys 742 are arranged side by side in the Z-axis direction with a predetermined interval. In FIG. 8A, for convenience, only the pulley 742 on the negative side of the Z axis is shown. The pulley 742 on the negative side of the Z axis is connected to the drive shaft of the motor 743. The motor 743 is composed of a stepping motor. The support member 744 is configured to be movable in the Z-axis direction while being supported by a rail (not shown). The support member 744 is connected to the belt 741 by a fastener 745. The guide member 746 extends in the X-axis direction and is installed on the support member 744.

The support portion 750 includes a sliding member 751, a support shaft 752, a roller 753, and a holding member 754. The sliding member 751 is configured to be movable in the Z-axis direction while being supported by the rail 736. The support shaft 752 extends in the Y-axis direction, and the end of the support shaft 752 on the positive side of the Y-axis is installed on the sliding member 751. The roller 753 is installed at the end on the negative side of the Y-axis of the support shaft 752 so that it can rotate about the support shaft 752. The holding member 754 is installed on the sliding member 751 and holds the suction pipe 710.

As shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, the guide member 746 includes a recess 746a extending in the X-axis direction. The roller 753 is housed in the recess 746a so as to be movable in the X-axis direction.

When the transfer unit 720 moves the suction pipe 710 in the Z-axis direction, the motor 743 is driven. As a result, the belt 741 moves, and the support member 744 and the guide member 746 move in the Z-axis direction in accordance with the movement of the belt 741. When the guide member 746 moves in the Z-axis direction, the roller 753 sandwiched between the recesses 746a receives a force in the Z-axis direction. When the roller 753 receives a force in the Z-axis direction, the sliding member 751 and the holding member 754 move in the Z-axis direction via the support shaft 752. In this way, the suction tube 710 is moved in the Z-axis direction.

When the transfer unit 720 moves the suction pipe 710 in the X-axis direction, the motor 733 is driven. As a result, the belt 731 moves, and the support member 734 moves in the X-axis direction in accordance with the movement of the belt 731. When the support member 734 moves in the X-axis direction, the sliding member 751 receives a force in the X-axis direction via the rail 736. At this time, the roller 753 moves in the X-axis direction while being guided in the recess 746a. When the sliding member 751 receives a force in the X-axis direction, the holding member 754 moves in the X-axis direction. In this way, the suction tube 710 is moved in the X-axis direction.

In this way, the suction tube 710 is moved in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction, and is not moved in the Y-axis direction. Further, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the Y-axis direction near the position 423 as described above. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the suction tube 710 can suck the sample from all the wells 601 of the plate 600 installed in the holding body 500 even if there is no mechanism for moving the suction tube 710 in the Y-axis direction. It becomes. Further, since the transfer unit 720 does not need to be provided with a mechanism for moving the suction pipe 710 in the Y-axis direction, the configuration of the transfer unit 720 is simplified.

As shown in FIG. 9, the sample measuring device 30 includes a sample transporting device 10 and a processing device 20. The suction pipe 710 and the transfer unit 720 are arranged in the processing device 20.

The sample measuring device 30 is a device for measuring a sample prepared based on the BEAMing (Bead, Emulsion, Amplification, and Magnetics) method. The sample to be contained in the well 601 of the plate 600 is prepared in advance by pretreatment based on the BEAMing method. The pretreatment based on the BEAMing method comprises, for example, a DNA extraction treatment, a dilution treatment, an emulsion preparation treatment, a PCR treatment, an emulsion destruction treatment, a hybridization treatment, a washing treatment, and the like. The sample measuring device 30 measures the sample prepared by the pretreatment using a flow cytometer.

The sample measuring device 30 may be a device that performs a part or all of the pretreatment based on the BEAMing method in addition to the measurement process by the flow cytometer. Instead of the measurement process by the flow cytometer, the sample measuring device 30 may be used. It may be an apparatus that performs a part or all of the pretreatment based on the BEAMing method. Further, the sample measuring device 30 is not limited to the processing based on the BEAMing method, and may be a device that measures or processes a sample.

When measuring a sample, the operator accommodates the sample in wells 601 of the two plates 600. The operator opens the lid 11 of the sample transfer device 10 as shown by the dotted arrow. The lid portion 11 is provided at a position where the upper portion of the holding body 500 positioned at positions 421 and 422 is opened. The two holding bodies 500 are positioned at positions 421 and 422 as initial positions. The operator installs two plates 600 containing the sample on the two holding bodies 500 positioned at positions 421 and 422, and closes the lid 11.

Subsequently, the operator operates the input unit 35, which will be described later, to start the measurement of the sample by the sample measuring device 30. As a result, the holding body 500 is conveyed, and the sample in the well 601 is sucked by the suction tube 710. Then, the sample measuring device 30 measures the sample by the measuring unit 33 described later, and displays the measurement result on the display unit 34 described later.

As described above, the operator can also install the sample container containing the sample in the holding body 500 instead of the plate 600. The operator can also position the sample container containing the sample at a position 21 outside the sample measuring device 30 to measure the sample in the sample container. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the suction tube 710 moves to just above the position 21, and the sample is sucked from the sample container located at the position 21.

As shown in FIG. 10, the sample measuring device 30 drives the sample transfer device 10, the transfer unit 720, the control unit 31, the suction unit 32, the measurement unit 33, the display unit 34, the input unit 35, and the like. A unit 36 and a sensor unit 37 are provided. The transfer unit 720, the control unit 31, the suction unit 32, the measurement unit 33, the display unit 34, the input unit 35, the drive unit 36, and the sensor unit 37 are attached to the processing device 20 shown in FIG. Have been placed. When the information processing device is separately connected to the processing device 20, the control unit 31, the display unit 34, and the input unit 35 may be arranged in the information processing device.

The control unit 31 includes, for example, an arithmetic processing unit and a storage unit. The arithmetic processing unit is composed of, for example, a CPU, an MPU, and the like. The storage unit is composed of, for example, a flash memory, a hard disk, or the like. The control unit 31 receives signals from each part of the sample measuring device 30 and controls each part of the sample measuring device 30. The suction unit 32 includes a suction tube 710 and a pressure application unit for sucking the sample. The suction unit 32 applies a negative pressure to the suction tube 710 by the pressure application unit, and sucks the sample conveyed by the holding body 500 through the suction tube 710. The measuring unit 33 includes a flow cytometer, and measures the sample sucked by the suction unit 32 using the flow cytometer.

The display unit 34 and the input unit 35 are arranged on, for example, a side surface portion or an upper surface portion of the processing device 20. The display unit 34 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel or the like. The input unit 35 is composed of, for example, a button, a touch panel, or the like. The drive unit 36 includes other mechanisms arranged in the sample measuring device 30. The sensor unit 37 includes other sensors arranged in the sample measuring device 30.

Next, the transfer of the holding body 500 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 (a) to 14 (14).

As shown in FIG. 11A, the two holding bodies 500 are positioned at positions 421 and 422 as initial positions. In this state, as described above, the plates 600 are installed on the two holding bodies 500, respectively. When the measurement start instruction is input, the second protrusion 210 is moved in the positive direction of the Y axis from the state of FIG. 11A, and the holding body 500 at the position 422 is moved as shown in FIG. 11B. Positioned at position 423. Here, when the holding body 500 is conveyed from the position 422 to the position 423, the suction tube 710 is transferred in the X-axis direction, and the sample is sucked in order from all the wells 601 on the holding body 500.

Subsequently, the second protrusion 210 is moved in the negative direction on the Y axis from the state shown in FIG. 11B, and the holding body 500 at position 423 is returned to position 422 as shown in FIG. 12A. Subsequently, the first protrusion 110 is moved in the positive direction of the X-axis from the state shown in FIG. 12 (a), and the holding bodies 500 at positions 421 and 422 are moved to positions 422, respectively, as shown in FIG. 12 (b). It is positioned at 424. As described with reference to FIG. 4, the pair of first protrusions 110 on the positive side of the X-axis and the pair of first protrusions 110 on the negative side of the X-axis are simultaneously connected to the X-axis by the first moving body 100. It is sent in the positive direction. As a result, the holding body 500 on the positive side of the X-axis and the holding body 500 on the negative side of the X-axis are simultaneously transferred in the positive direction of the X-axis.

Subsequently, the second protrusion 210 is moved in the positive direction of the Y-axis from the state shown in FIG. 12 (b), and the holding body 500 at position 422 is positioned at position 423 as shown in FIG. 13 (a). Also in this case, when the holding body 500 is conveyed from the position 422 to the position 423, the suction tube 710 is transferred in the X-axis direction, and the sample is sucked in order from all the wells 601 on the holding body 500. Subsequently, the second protrusion 210 is moved in the negative direction of the Y-axis from the state shown in FIG. 13A, and the holding body 500 at position 423 is returned to position 422 as shown in FIG. 13B. Subsequently, the first protrusion 110 is moved in the negative direction of the X-axis from the state shown in FIG. 13B, and the holding bodies 500 at positions 422 and 424 are moved to positions 421 and 422, respectively, as shown in FIG. Positioned.

In this way, suction for all wells 601 on the two retainers 500 is completed. The operator opens the lid 11 and collects the plate 600 placed on the holder 500 located at positions 421 and 422.

When the plate 600 is placed on only one of the two holding bodies 500 positioned at the position 421 and the position 422, only the transport operation for the holding body 500 on which the plate 600 is placed is executed. When the plate 600 is placed only on the holding body 500 positioned at the position 421, the transporting operation for the holding body 500 positioned at the position 422 is skipped among the above-mentioned transporting operations. Further, when the plate 600 is placed only on the holding body 500 positioned at the position 422, the transporting operation for the holding body 500 positioned at the position 421 is skipped among the above-mentioned transporting operations.

Next, the transfer operation of the holding body 500 will be described with reference to FIG. The flowchart shown in FIG. 15 shows the transport operation of the holding body 500 on the negative side of the X-axis among the two holding bodies 500.

In step S11, the control unit 31 drives the first transport unit 310 in a state where the first recess 510 and the first protrusion 110 are engaged, and moves the first protrusion 110 in the positive direction of the X-axis. Then, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the X-axis. As a result, the holding body 500 positioned at the position 421 as the initial position as shown in FIG. 12A is conveyed to the position 422 as shown in FIG. 12B. In step S11, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the X-axis, so that the second protrusion 210 is inserted into the second recess 520.

In step S12, the control unit 31 drives the second transport unit 320 in a state where the second recess 520 and the second protrusion 210 are engaged, and moves the second protrusion 210 in the positive direction of the Y axis. Then, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the Y axis. As a result, the holding body 500 positioned at the position 422 as shown in FIG. 12 (b) is conveyed to the position 423 as shown in FIG. 13 (a). In step S12, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the Y-axis, so that the first protrusion 110 inserted in the first recess 510 is pulled out from the first recess 510.

In step S13, the control unit 31 drives the second transport unit 320 in a state where the second recess 520 and the second protrusion 210 are engaged, and moves the second protrusion 210 in the negative direction on the Y axis. Then, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the Y-axis. As a result, the holding body 500 positioned at the position 423 as shown in FIG. 13 (a) is conveyed to the position 422 as shown in FIG. 13 (b). In step S13, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the Y-axis, so that the first protrusion 110 is inserted into the first recess 510.

In step S14, the control unit 31 drives the first transport unit 310 in a state where the first recess 510 and the first protrusion 110 are engaged, and moves the first protrusion 110 in the negative direction on the X-axis. Then, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the X-axis. As a result, the holding body 500 positioned at the position 422 as shown in FIG. 13B is conveyed to the position 421 as shown in FIG. In step S14, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the X-axis, so that the second protrusion 210 inserted in the second recess 520 is pulled out from the second recess 520. In this way, the transport operation of the holding body 500 on the negative side of the X-axis is completed.

The same applies to the transport operation of the holding body 500 on the positive side of the X-axis. In the transport operation of the holder 500 on the positive side of the X-axis, the process of step S11 is moved between the process of step S13 and the process of step S14.

When the holding body 500 is conveyed along the XY plane as described above, the holding body 500 can be conveyed to each device, for example, when the processing devices are provided at positions 421, 423, and 424. As a result, the sample can be delivered between the devices installed at the positions 421, 423, and 424. For example, when a device for performing pretreatment based on the BEAMing method is placed near the position 421, the sample prepared by the pretreatment in this device is placed in the well 601 of the plate 600 on the holder 500 positioned at the position 421. It can also be dispensed. In this way, the sample produced by the pretreatment apparatus can be conveyed to the position 423 by the holding body 500 and sucked by the suction tube 710, so that the pretreatment and the measurement based on the BEAMing method can be smoothly performed. Can be done.

In the case where the plate 600 is removed and the sample container containing the sample is directly placed on the holding body 500, the processing order of each holding body 500, the type of sample to be placed on each holding body 500, etc. The identification mark indicating the above may be attached to each holding body 500, positions 421, 422 and the like.

For example, when the operator performs quality control of the sample measuring device 30, a sample container containing a control substance is installed in the holding body 500, the input unit 35 is operated, and the measurement of the control substance by the sample measuring device 30 is started. .. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, an identification mark 503a indicating the type of control substance to be installed in the recess 506 is attached to the bottom surface of the recess 503 of the holder 500, and the holder 503a is also held. An identification mark 503b indicating the processing order of the body 500 may be attached. FIG. 16B shows the holding body 500 on the negative side of the X-axis of FIG. 16A.

The holder 500 on the negative side of the X-axis has an identification mark 503a of the character "NC" indicating that the sample container 12 for quality control to be held in the recess 506 is a reagent container containing a negative control substance. , The identification mark 503b of the character "2" indicating that the processing order is the second is attached. Further, on the holder 500 on the positive side of the X-axis, an identification mark of the character "PC" indicating that the sample container 12 for quality control to be held in the recess 506 is a reagent container containing a positive control substance. 503a and the identification mark 503b of the character "1" indicating that the processing order is the first are attached. Further, in the configuration example of FIG. 16A, identification marks 421a and 422a indicating the processing order of the holder 500 are provided at positions 421 and 422 on the upper surface of the housing of the sample transfer device 10 on the negative side of the Y axis, respectively. It is attached.

With these identification marks, the operator can accurately grasp whether the sample container 12 containing the positive control substance or the sample container 12 containing the negative control substance should be held in the holder 500. Therefore, the processing order of each sample container 12 can be grasped.

Based on the identification mark 503a of each holder 500, the operator installs a sample container 12 containing a negative control substance in the holder 500 located at position 421, and positive for the holder 500 located at position 422. A sample container 12 containing the control substance of the above is installed. In this way, since the sample container 12 containing the quality control substance can be installed in the recess 506, the operator does not need to dispense the control substance contained in the sample container 12 into the well 601 of the plate 600, and the sample measurement is performed. The operation of quality control of the device 30 can be easily performed.

Further, in the configurations of FIGS. 16A and 16B, the identification label 503a determines in advance whether the sample container 12 containing the positive or negative control substance is installed in each holder 500. Therefore, the sample measuring device 30 can determine whether the control substance transported by the sample transport device 10 and subjected to quality control is a positive or negative control substance. Therefore, the sample measuring device 30 smoothly executes the processing for quality control according to the positive or negative quality control conditions held in advance without receiving the input operation for designating the control substance to be used for quality control from the operator. it can.

Further, in the configuration example of FIG. 16A, a lid holder 13 for placing the lid 12a of the sample container 12 is provided at positions 421 and 422 on the upper surface of the housing of the sample transfer device 10 on the negative side of the Y axis. It is provided. The operator can install the lid 12a removed from the sample container 12 on the lid holder 13, and can appropriately manage the lid 12a removed from the sample container 12.

As shown in FIG. 16A, the two lid holders 13 may be provided at the closest position in the negative direction of the Y-axis of the recess 506 when each holding body 500 is in the initial position shown in FIG. 16A. preferable. As a result, the operator can smoothly attach / detach the lid 12a to / from the sample container 12 and attach / detach the lid 12a to / from the lid holder 13.

As shown in FIG. 16C, the lid holder 13 has a pair of protrusions 13a protruding in the negative direction of the Z axis and a plane 13b parallel to the horizontal plane (XY plane). The lid 12a is placed on the flat surface 13b. The pair of protrusions 13a regulates the movement of the lid 12a mounted on the plane 13b in the Y-axis direction. An inclined surface 13c and a wall surface 13d are continuously formed vertically on the inner surface of the pair of protrusions 13a. In a plan view, the inclined surface 13c has an arc shape, and the diameter becomes smaller toward the negative side of the Z axis. In a plan view, the wall surface 13d has an arc shape. The wall surface 13d is configured such that all the regions face each other with a slight gap on the outer peripheral surface of the lid 12a in a state where the lid 12a is placed on the flat surface 13b. As a result, the lid 12a is restricted from falling off from the plane 13b in the X-axis direction. The lid holder 13 has a symmetrical shape in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

The operator can smoothly place the lid 12a removed from the sample container 12 on the flat surface 13b from above the lid holder 13 along the inclined surface 13c. Further, since the portion of the lid holder 13 above the flat surface 13b is open in the positive and negative directions of the X-axis, the operator can easily pick the lid 12a placed on the flat surface 13b in the X-axis direction.

As shown in FIG. 16C, the lid holder 13 is preferably configured so that the width of the pair of protrusions 13a in the X-axis direction is smaller than the diameter of the lid 12a. In this way, when the lid 12a is placed on the flat surface 13b, the portion of the lid 12a on the positive and negative sides of the X-axis protrudes from the protrusion 13a, so that the operator can pick up the lid 12a placed on the flat surface 13b more smoothly. ..

<Embodiment 2>
As shown in FIG. 17, the sample transfer device 10 of the second embodiment further includes a third transfer unit 330 and a third mobile body 800 as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 (a). The third transport unit 330 transports the third moving body 800 in the Y-axis direction. The third moving body 800 is positioned on the Z-axis positive side of the support plate 400, like the first moving body 100 and the second moving body 200. A pair of third protrusions 810 are arranged on the third moving body 800. The pair of third protrusions 810 are aligned in the X-axis direction in the third moving body 800. When viewed in the Z-axis direction, the movement path 801 of the third moving body 800 is set so as not to intersect the moving path 101 of the first moving body 100 and the moving path 201 of the second moving body 200.

Further, in the second embodiment, as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the end portion of the support plate 400 on the positive side of the X-axis is extended in the negative direction of the Y-axis. A pair of third grooves 413 are formed in the portion of the support plate 400 extended in the negative direction of the Y-axis. The pair of third grooves 413 extend in the Y-axis direction. The pair of third protrusions 810 project upward from the support surface 401 via the pair of third grooves 413.

As shown in FIG. 18, a third recess 530 is arranged on the lower surface 501 of the holding body 500 of the second embodiment as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5 (c). The third recess 530 extends parallel to the X-axis direction and is composed of a groove formed on the lower surface 501. The third recess 530 is arranged on the negative side of the Y axis with respect to the second recess 520. Specifically, the third recess 530 is arranged so as to pass near the end of the lower surface 501 on the negative side of the Y axis. The third recess 530 engages with the third protrusion 810. Other configurations of the third recess 530 are the same as those of the second recess 520. The first recess 510 intersects the second recess 520 and the third recess 530, and is open in the positive Y-axis direction and the negative Y-axis direction. Other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

In the second embodiment, the transport of the holding body 500 in the X-axis direction by the first transport unit 310 and the transport of the holding body 500 in the Y-axis direction by the second transport unit 320 are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the holding body 500 positioned at the position 424 by the first transport unit 310 is transported in the negative direction on the Y axis by the third transport unit 330.

As shown in FIG. 19A, when the suction operation by the suction pipe 710 is completed, the holding body 500 is conveyed from the position 423 to the position 422. The first protrusion 110 is moved in the positive direction of the X-axis from the state shown in FIG. 19A, and the holding body 500 at position 422 is positioned at position 424 as shown in FIG. 19B. At this time, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the positive direction of the X-axis, so that the second protrusion 210 inserted in the second recess 520 is pulled out from the second recess 520. Then, the third protrusion 810 is inserted into the third recess 530.

From the state shown in FIG. 19B, the third protrusion 810 is moved in the negative direction on the Y axis, and the holding body 500 at position 424 is positioned at position 425. At this time, the holding body 500 is conveyed in the negative direction of the Y-axis, so that the first protrusion 110 inserted in the first recess 510 is pulled out from the first recess 510.

Here, in the transport operation of transporting the holding body 500 in the Y-axis direction by the second transport portion 320, the third recess 530 and the third protrusion 810 do not engage with each other. In the transport operation of transporting the holding body 500 in the Y-axis direction by the third transport portion 330, the second recess 520 and the second protrusion 210 do not engage with each other. As a result, the holding body 500 can be transported from the transport range in the X-axis direction to both the positive direction in the Y-axis and the negative direction in the Y-axis, and the transport range of the holding body 500 can be expanded. When the holding body 500 is conveyed to the position 425, the plate 600 on the holding body 500 can be supplied to other devices or the like at the position 425. Further, an operator different from the operator who installed the plate 600 at the position 421 can take out the plate 600 on the holding body 500 located at the position 425.

<Embodiment 3>
As shown in FIG. 20 (a), in the third embodiment, the first recess 120 is arranged in the first moving body 100 as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 (a). The second recess 220 is arranged in the two moving bodies 200. The first recess 120 is formed by a groove extending in the Y-axis direction, and the second recess 220 is formed by a groove extending in the X-axis direction. The first recess 120 and the second recess 220 are arranged on the negative side of the Z-axis of the support plate 400. In FIG. 20A, the support plate 400 is shown by a broken line for convenience.

As shown in FIG. 20B, a pair of first protrusions 540 and a pair of second protrusions 550 are arranged on the lower surface 501 of the holding body 500. The pair of first protrusions 540 are arranged in the Y-axis direction, and the pair of second protrusions 550 are arranged in the X-axis direction. The pair of first protrusions 540 are arranged at the center position of the lower surface 501 in the X-axis direction, and the pair of second protrusions 550 are arranged near the ends of the lower surface 501 on the positive side of the Y axis. The first protrusion 540 engages with the first recess 120, and the second protrusion 550 engages with the second recess 220. Other configurations of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the holding body 500 can be conveyed in the X-axis direction by transferring the first recess 120 in the X-axis direction in a state where the first recess 120 and the first protrusion 540 are engaged with each other. Further, the holding body 500 can be conveyed in the Y-axis direction by transferring the second recess 220 in the Y-axis direction while the second recess 220 and the second protrusion 550 are engaged with each other. Therefore, also in the third embodiment, the holding body 500 can be conveyed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

As shown in the first and third embodiments, the first recess 510 is arranged on one of the holding body 500 and the first moving body 100, and the first protrusion 110 is placed on the other of the holding body 500 and the first moving body 100. It may be arranged. Similarly, the second recess 520 may be arranged on one of the holding body 500 and the second moving body 200, and the second protrusion 210 may be arranged on the other of the holding body 500 and the second moving body 200. Also in the second embodiment, the third recess 530 may be arranged in the third moving body 800, and the third protrusion 810 may be arranged in the holding body 500.

However, when the holding body 500 is provided with the first protrusion 540 and the second protrusion 550 as in the third embodiment, when the holding body 500 is removed from the sample transfer device 10, the first protrusion 540 and the second protrusion 540 are provided. 2 The protrusion 550 may come into contact with an object and be damaged. Therefore, as shown in the first and second embodiments, the first recess 510, the second recess 520, and the third recess 530 are arranged in the holding body 500, and the first protrusion 110, the second protrusion 210, and the first protrusion 210 are arranged. It is preferable to arrange the three protrusions 810 on the first moving body 100, the second moving body 200, and the third moving body 800, respectively. As a result, the work of removing the holding body 500 can be smoothly carried out.

<Embodiment 4>
As shown in FIG. 21A, in the fourth embodiment, the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 are arranged on the upper surface 502 of the holding body 500. In the fourth embodiment, as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 (b), the upper surface 502 is widened in the negative X-axis direction and the positive Y-axis direction, and the widened upper surface 502 has a second upper surface. One recess 510 and a second recess 520 are provided. Further, in the fourth embodiment, the first moving body 100 and the first protrusion 110 are arranged on the upper surface 502 side. Similarly, the second moving body 200 and the second protrusion 210 are arranged on the upper surface 502 side. Other configurations of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 21B, the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 may be arranged on the upper surface 507 provided between the upper surface 502 and the lower surface 501.

Also in the configurations of FIGS. 21A and 21B, by moving the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210, the holding body 500 is moved in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction as in the first embodiment. Can be transported. However, in the configurations of FIGS. 21A and 21B, the size of the holding body 500 in the XY plane becomes large, so that the holding body 500 becomes large. Further, since the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 are positioned above the holding body 500, the mechanism for transporting the holding body 500 becomes complicated. Further, since at least one of the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 restricts the movement of the holding body 500 in the Z-axis direction, the holding body 500 cannot be taken out from the support surface 401.

Therefore, it is preferable that the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 are arranged on the lower surface 501 of the holder 500 as in the first embodiment. When the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 are arranged on the lower surface 501, the recess and the protrusion can be engaged by placing the holding body 500 at a predetermined position on the transport path. For example, in the case of the first embodiment, the holding body 500 can be arranged on the support surface 401 from above near the position 423. When the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 are arranged on the lower surface 501 in this way, a mechanism for separately moving the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 in the Z-axis direction for engagement is provided. It is not necessary to provide the sample transfer device 10, and the configuration of the sample transfer device 10 can be simplified.

In addition, in the upper surfaces 502 and 507 of FIGS. 21A and 21B, the first protrusion and the second protrusion extending upward may be arranged. In this case, the first moving body 100 and the second moving body 200 are arranged with a first recess and a second recess, and the first recess and the second recess are positioned above the holding body 500. However, also in this case, as in the cases of FIGS. 21A and 21B, the mechanism for transporting the holding body 500 becomes complicated, and the holding body 500 cannot be taken out from the support surface 401. Therefore, when the first protrusion and the second protrusion are arranged on the holding body 500, it is desirable that the first protrusion and the second protrusion are arranged on the lower surface 501 as shown in FIG. 20 (b).

<Embodiment 5>
As shown in FIG. 22 (a), in the fifth embodiment, the first recess 510 is arranged on the lower surface 501 of the holder 500, and the second recess 520 is arranged on the upper surface 502 of the holder 500. In the fifth embodiment, as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 (b), the upper surface 502 is widened in the positive direction of the Y axis, and the second concave portion 520 is provided in the widened upper surface 502. Has been done. Further, in the fifth embodiment, the second moving body 200 and the second protrusion 210 are arranged on the upper surface 502 side. Other configurations of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 22B, the first recess 510 may be arranged on the upper surface 502 of the holding body 500, and the second recess 520 may be arranged on the lower surface 501 of the holding body 500. In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 22 (b), as compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 (b), the upper surface 502 is expanded in the negative direction of the X-axis, and the portion of the expanded upper surface 502 is expanded. A first recess 510 is provided. In this case, the first moving body 100 and the first protrusion 110 are arranged on the upper surface 502 side.

Also in the configurations of FIGS. 22A and 22B, by moving the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210, the holding body 500 is moved in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction as in the first embodiment. Can be transported. Further, in the configurations of FIGS. 22A and 22B, the first moving body 100 and the second moving body 200 are separately arranged on the upper side and the lower side of the holding body 500. Therefore, since the movement path 101 of the first moving body 100 and the moving path 201 of the second moving body 200 are deviated in the Z-axis direction, they do not intersect with each other. Therefore, even if the movement paths 101 and 201 are set to intersect in the Z-axis direction, the drive mechanism of the first transport unit 310 and the drive mechanism of the second transport unit 320 are arranged without contacting each other. it can.

<Embodiment 6>
In the first to fifth embodiments, the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 210 are respectively engaged with the gap formed by the first recess 510 and the second recess 520, but the first protrusion The gap in which the 110 and the second protrusion 210 are engaged does not necessarily have to be formed by the recess, and for example, the configuration shown in FIGS. 23 (a) and 23 (b) and the configuration shown in FIG. 23 (c). It may be. In both the configurations of FIGS. 23 (a) and 23 (b) and the configurations of FIG. 23 (c), the first recess 510 and the second recess 520 are changed to gaps as compared with the first embodiment. , Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

In the case of the configuration shown in FIGS. 23 (a) and 23 (b), the first gap 560 and the second gap 570 are composed of two linear portions 515 facing each other.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23A, the lower surface 501 formed in a plate shape is cut out in the Y-axis direction, so that two linear portions 515 facing each other are formed. The linear portion 515 extends in the Y-axis direction, and the width in the Z-axis direction gradually decreases in the projecting direction. The apex of the linear portion 515 in the protruding direction extends linearly in the Y-axis direction. A rod-shaped first protrusion 110 is inserted between the two linear portions 515. The vertices of the two linear portions 515 engage the first protrusion 110. As shown in FIG. 23B, the plate-shaped lower surface 501 is cut out in the X-axis direction to form two linear portions 524 facing each other. The linear portion 524 extends in the X-axis direction and gradually decreases in width in the Z-axis direction in the protruding direction. The apex of the linear portion 524 in the protruding direction extends linearly in the X-axis direction. A rod-shaped second protrusion 210 is inserted between the two linear portions 524. The vertices of the two linear portions 524 engage the second protrusion 210.

In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 23 (c), the first gap 580 and the second gap 590 penetrate the holding body 500 in the Z-axis direction. In this case, the first gap 580 and the second gap 590 are configured as openings having no bottom, not recesses having a bottom as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B.

In both the configurations of FIGS. 23 (a) and 23 (b) and the configuration of FIG. 23 (c), the first protrusion 110 is engaged with the first gap 560 and 580, and the second protrusion 210 is engaged with the second gap. It can be engaged with 570 and 590. Therefore, as in the first embodiment, the holding body 500 can be conveyed in the XY plane.

<Embodiment 7>
As shown in FIG. 23 (d), in the seventh embodiment, the recess 503, the hole 504, the notch 505, and the recess of the holder 500 are compared with the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 7 (a). 506 is omitted, and instead, wells 508 are formed in a matrix on the upper surface 502. 96 wells 508 are formed on the upper surface 502 like the wells 601 of the plate 600.

When the holding body 500 is configured in this way, the plate 600 can be omitted. However, in the seventh embodiment, the operator needs to open the lid 11 and drop the sample directly onto the well 508 of the holder 500 located at positions 421 and 422. Alternatively, the operator needs to remove the retainer 500 on the support surface 401, hold the sample in the well 508 at another location, and then place the retainer 500 on the support surface 401 again. Therefore, from the viewpoint of reducing the complexity of the work, it is preferable to use the plate 600 for holding the sample as in the first embodiment.

10 Sample transfer device 30 Sample measurement device 32 Suction unit 33 Measurement unit 100 1st moving body 101 Movement path 110, 540 1st protrusion 111 Wide part 200 2nd moving body 201 Movement path 210, 550 2nd protrusion 310 1st Transport unit 320 Second transport unit 330 Third transport unit 401 Support surface 500 Holder 501 Lower surface 502 Upper surface 510, 120 First recess 511 First width part 512 Second width part 513 End part 520, 220 Second Recess 522, 523 End 530 Third recess 560, 580 First gap 570, 590 Second gap 600 Plate 601, 508 Well 800 Third moving body 810 Third protrusion

Claims (28)

A holding body having a first recess and a second recess extending in a direction different from the extending direction of the first recess, and holding a sample.
A first protrusion for engaging with the first recess, and the first protrusion engaged with the first recess is transferred in the extending direction of the second recess to convey the holding body. 1 transport unit and
A second protrusion having a second protrusion for engaging with the second recess, and the second protrusion engaged with the second recess is transferred in the extending direction of the first recess to convey the holding body. Equipped with 2 transport units
Said first recess, said formed on at least one upper and lower surfaces of the holding member, so that said first projection in the transport operation of transporting the holder in the direction of extension of the first recess comes out, the holding member It extends to the side of the body and communicates with the outside.
It said second recess is formed on at least one upper and lower surfaces of the holding member, communicating with the outside and extends to the side surface of the holding member,
Sample transfer device. The sample according to claim 1 , wherein the second recess extends to the side surface of the holder so that the second protrusion can be removed in a transport operation of transporting the holder in the extending direction of the second recess. Conveyor device. The sample transfer device according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the width of the second recess is widened toward the side surface of the holder. The sample transfer device according to claim 2 , wherein the width of the first recess is widened toward the side surface of the holder. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the first recess and the second recess are respectively arranged on the lower surface of the holder. The first protrusion has a wide portion that is wider than the root side.
The first recess is located on the root side of the first protrusion with respect to the first width portion that receives the wide portion and the first width portion, and is narrower than the wide portion. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , further comprising a portion having a width of 2. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are circular in shape when viewed in the projecting direction. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. The maximum width of the portion of the first protrusion inserted into the first recess is substantially equal to the width of the first recess.
The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the maximum width of the portion of the second protrusion inserted into the second recess is substantially equal to the width of the second recess. The sample according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the movement path of the first protrusion and the movement path of the second protrusion are set so as not to intersect each other when viewed from above. Conveyor device. The holding body has a third recess extending in the same direction as the second recess.
A third transport portion for transporting the holding body by transporting the third protrusion engaged with the third recess in the extending direction of the first recess is provided.
The third recess extends to the side surface of the holding body and extends to the outside so that the third protrusion enters in the transport operation in which the holding body is conveyed by the first protrusion in the extending direction of the second recess. communicates, the sample transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10. Said first recess, said third projection by such that the first protrusion in the transport operation of transporting the holder escapes communicates with the outside extends to the side surface of the holding body, to claim 11 The sample transfer device described. The sample transporting device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 , further comprising a flat support surface on which the lower surface of the holding body is placed in the moving range of the holding body. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 , wherein the retainer is configured so that a plate having wells formed in a matrix can be installed on the upper surface. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 , wherein wells are formed in a matrix on the upper surface of the holder. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 , wherein a recess for installing a sample container is formed on the upper surface of the holder. The sample transfer device according to claim 16 , wherein an identification mark for identifying the type of a sample in the sample container installed in the recess is attached to the upper surface of the holder. A plurality of holding bodies transported by the first transport unit are provided.
The sample transporting apparatus according to claim 16 or 17 , wherein an identification mark indicating the transporting order of the plurality of holding bodies is attached to the upper surface of each holding body. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 16 to 18 , further comprising a lid holder for installing the lid of the sample container. The sample transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 19 , wherein the extending direction of the first recess is substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the second recess. A plurality of the first protrusions are arranged along the extending direction of the first recess.
The sample transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 20 , wherein a plurality of the second protrusions are arranged along the extending direction of the second recess. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the retainer is formed of polyacetal. The sample transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 22 and
A suction unit that sucks the sample conveyed by the holder, and
A sample measuring device including a measuring unit for measuring a sample sucked by a suction unit. A plurality of wells for accommodating the sample are arranged in the holding body so as to be arranged in a matrix in the extending direction of the second recess and the extending direction of the first recess.
The suction unit includes a suction tube for sucking the sample and a transfer unit for transferring the suction tube in the extending direction of the second recess.
The sample transport apparatus transports the holding member by the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit, positioning the wells arranged in a direction of extension of the second recess in the transport path of the suction tube, according to claim 23 The sample measuring device according to. A sample transfer device for transporting a sample along a two-dimensional plane.
A retainer for holding the sample and
A first transport unit that transports the first moving body in the first direction,
A second transport unit that transports the second moving body in the second direction is provided.
The first gap is arranged on one of the holding body and the first moving body, and the first protrusion that engages with the first gap is placed on the other of the holding body and the first moving body.
A second gap extending in a direction different from the extending direction of the first gap is arranged on one of the holding body and the second moving body, and a second protrusion engaging with the second gap is arranged between the holding body and the second moving body. Place it on the other side of the second moving body ,
The second gap and the second protrusion are arranged at positions where the holding body engages with each other in the process of being conveyed in the first direction.
The first gap extends to the side surface of the holding body or the first moving body and communicates with the outside.
The second gap extends to the side surface of the holding body or the second moving body and communicates with the outside so that the second protrusion enters in the transporting operation of transporting the holding body in the first direction. ,
Sample transfer device. With the first protrusion engaged with the first recess provided on the upper or lower surface of the holder that holds the sample, the first protrusion is placed on the second recess provided on the upper or lower surface of the holder. And the step of transporting the holding body in the extending direction of the second recess by moving the holding body in the extending direction of
In the step, after inserting the second protrusion into the second recess from the extending direction of the second recess, the second protrusion is moved in the extending direction of the first recess to move the holding body into the first recess. a step of conveying the extending direction of the concave portion, were closed,
The first recess extends to the side surface of the holder and communicates with the outside.
A sample transport method in which the second recess extends to the side surface of the holder and communicates with the outside. The sample transport method according to claim 26 , wherein in the step of transporting the holding body in the extending direction of the first recess, the first protrusion is pulled out from the first recess. A retainer for holding a sample
A lower surface having a first recess and a second recess extending in a direction different from the extending direction of the first recess is provided.
The first recess extends to at least one side surface and communicates with the outside .
The second recess extends to at least one side surface and communicates with the outside.
Retaining body.

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