JP6937101B2 - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Description

An embodiment of the present invention relates to an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent and measures a mixed solution of the dispensed sample and the reagent.

The automatic analyzer optically measures changes in color tone and turbidity caused by the reaction of a mixed solution of a sample collected from a subject and a reagent of each test item for biochemical test items and immunological test items. By this measurement, analytical data represented by the concentration of each test item component contained in the sample, the activity of the enzyme, etc. is generated.

In this automatic analyzer, each inspection item selected according to the inspection is analyzed from a large number of inspection items. The reagents for each test item are stored in the reagent container, and the reagent container is stored in the reagent storage. Identification information that identifies the reagent as a reagent for each test item is attached to each reagent container, for example, with a one-dimensional code.

A large number of reagent containers are stored in the reagent storage, and a first reagent rack that holds a plurality of reagent containers on the outer circumference of the two concentric circles so that a large number of stored reagent containers can be held, and a first reagent rack. A second reagent rack that holds a plurality of reagent containers on the inner circumference is arranged in the reagent storage. Identification information is read from the code of each reagent container held in the first and second reagent racks by a reader, and information on the holding position of each reagent container stored in the reagent storage by the first and second reagent racks. To get. Then, the reagent container to be dispensed is moved to a position where the reagent dispensing probe can be sucked by the rotation of each of the first and second reagent racks, and is separated from each reagent container into the reaction vessel by the reagent dispensing probe. Note.

By the way, since the inside of the reagent chamber is cooled, dew condensation water is generated. If this condensed water stays in the cord, the reader makes a mistake in reading the identification information. In order to avoid this problem, the cord is attached to the outer peripheral side surface of the reagent container held in the first and second reagent racks, and the reader is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the first reagent rack. Further, the two adjacent reagent containers of the first reagent rack are arranged so that the reader can read the identification information of each reagent container of the second reagent rack arranged so as to separate the reagent containers of the first reagent rack. It is held at a predetermined interval. Therefore, there is a problem that the number of reagent containers that can be stored in the reagent storage is reduced by the amount that the number of reagent containers that can be held by the first reagent rack is reduced.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-178311

The problem to be solved by the present invention is that the number of reagent containers that can be stored in the reagent container can be increased automatically without deteriorating the reading accuracy of the identification information attached to the reagent container stored in the reagent container. It is to provide an analyzer.

In order to achieve the above object, the automatic analyzer of the embodiment is an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction vessel and measures a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel. A plurality of reagent containers containing reagents are stored, and a reagent storage that keeps the stored reagent containers cool, a reading unit that optically reads identification information attached to the side surface of the reagent container, and the reading unit are moved. The first driving mechanism is provided with a first driving mechanism for causing the reading unit to enter the reagent storage, and the reading unit reads the identification information in the reagent storage. ..

The block diagram which shows the structure of the automatic analyzer which concerns on embodiment. The perspective view which shows the structure of the analysis part which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows the appearance of the 1st reagent container which concerns on embodiment. The configuration of the first reagent storage according to the embodiment, the first reagent storage, the first reagent rack, the second reagent rack, the first reading unit, the first reading arm, the first reagent dispensing probe and the first reagent storage. Note A plan view showing the arrangement of the arms. The block diagram which shows the structure of the 1st reading part which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows the structure of the 1st reading arm which concerns on embodiment. The figure which shows each stop position of the 1st reading part which concerns on embodiment. The figure for demonstrating another example of the 1st reagent container, 1st reading part and 1st reading arm which concerns on embodiment. The figure for demonstrating another example of the 1st reagent container and 1st reading part which concerns on embodiment.

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

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment. The automatic analyzer 100 measures a mixed solution of each sample such as a standard sample of each test item to be inspected and a test sample collected from the subject and a reagent of each test item, and measures standard data and a test. The analysis unit 10 for generating data is provided. The analysis unit 10 is composed of a plurality of units for dispensing each sample, dispensing each reagent, and the like, and includes a drive unit 40 for driving these units.

Further, the automatic analysis device 100 includes an analysis control unit 44 that controls the drive unit 40 to operate each unit of the analysis unit 10. In addition, the analysis unit 10 includes a reagent information storage unit 45 that stores identification information and the like that identify the reagent used for measurement. Further, it includes a data processing unit 50 that processes the standard data and the test data generated by the analysis unit 10 and generates the calibration data and the analysis data of each inspection item.

Further, the automatic analyzer 100 includes an output unit 60 that prints out and displays and outputs the calibration data and the analysis data generated by the data processing unit 50. In addition, an operation unit that inputs analysis parameters such as the amount of sample and reagent to be dispensed for each test item, input to execute calibration to generate calibration data, input to execute test to generate analysis data, etc. It is equipped with 70. Further, it includes a system control unit 71 that controls an analysis control unit 44, a data processing unit 50, and an output unit 60.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the analysis unit 10. The analysis unit 10 includes a sample disk 12 that holds a plurality of sample containers 11. The sample container 11 stores each sample such as a standard sample for each inspection item and a test sample. In addition, a plurality of first reagent containers 13 are stored, and a first reagent storage 14 for keeping the reagents stored in the stored first reagent containers 13 is provided. The first reagent container 13 contains a reagent containing a component that reacts with a component of each test item contained in the sample, for example, a first reagent of a one-reagent system and a two-reagent system.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the appearance of the first reagent container 13. The first reagent container 13 has a square column shape and has an opening near one end in the longitudinal direction of the upper surface. Then, the first reagent container 13 has the first reagent in the first reagent container 13 and one side surface having a short side in the vicinity of the quadrangular opening forming the upper surface as one side. The first reagent identification information for identifying the first reagent container 13 is attached by a coded, for example, a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code 131.

The first reagent identification information includes information such as a test item number for identifying each test item, a container number for identifying the first reagent container 13, and an expiration date indicating the usable period of the first reagent, for example, by date. Includes. The surface of the cord 131 is covered with a water-repellent laminated film in order to prevent deterioration due to dirt, water, or the like.

By attaching the first reagent identification information to the side surface of the first reagent container 13 with the code 131 in this way, it is possible to prevent the dew condensation water from staying in the code 131 of the first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14. be able to.

Returning to FIG. 2, the analysis unit 10 includes a second reagent storage 18 in which a plurality of second reagent containers 17 are stored and the reagents stored in the stored second reagent containers 17 are kept cold. The second reagent container 17 contains a second reagent paired with the first reagent of the two-reagent system of each test item. The second reagent container 17 is configured in the same manner as the first reagent container 13, and the second side surface has a short side in the vicinity of the square opening forming the upper surface as one side surface. The second reagent in the reagent container 17 and the second reagent identification information for identifying the second reagent container 17 are attached with a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

Further, the analysis unit 10 is arranged in the first reagent storage 14, and holds a plurality of first reagent containers 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14 in a circular shape on the outside of two concentric circles so as to be movable in the circumferential direction. An annular first reagent rack 15 is provided. Further, a plurality of first reagent containers 13 arranged in the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack 15 in the first reagent storage 14 and stored in a circular shape inside two concentric circles in the first reagent storage 14 are rotated. It comprises an annular second reagent rack 16 that is movably held in the direction. Further, an annular first container 17 arranged in the second reagent storage 18 and stored in the second reagent storage 18 in a circular shape on the outside of two concentric circles is movably held in the circumferential direction. The reagent rack 19 of 1 is provided. Further, a plurality of second reagent containers 17 arranged on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack 19 in the second reagent storage 18 and stored in a circular shape inside two concentric circles in the second reagent storage 18 are rotated. It includes an annular second reagent rack 20 that is movably held in the direction.

Further, the analysis unit 10 is located at a position facing an arcuate orbit in which one side surface of the first reagent container 13 moves due to the movement of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14. A first reading unit 21 for reading the first reagent identification information attached to the first reading unit 21 and a first reading arm 22 for movably supporting the first reading unit 21 are provided. Further, one side surface of the second reagent container 17 is attached to the one side surface at a position facing an arc-shaped orbit to which one side surface of the second reagent container 17 moves due to the movement of the plurality of second reagent containers 17 stored in the second reagent storage 18. It includes a second reading unit 23 that reads the second reagent identification information, and a second reading arm 24 that movably supports the second reading unit 23.

Further, the analysis unit 10 includes a plurality of reaction vessels 25 arranged on the circumference and a reaction disk 26 for holding the reaction vessels 25 so as to be rotatable and movable.

Further, the analysis unit 10 includes a sample dispensing probe 27 for sucking the sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample disk 12 and discharging the sample into the reaction vessel 25 for each inspection item. It also includes a sample dispensing arm 28 that supports the sample dispensing probe 27 so that it can rotate and move up and down.

Further, the analysis unit 10 is the first in the first reagent container 13 of each test item held in the first or second reagent racks 15 and 16 from which the first reagent identification information has been read by the first reading unit 21. The first reagent dispensing probe 29 for sucking one reagent and discharging the sample into the dispensed reaction vessel 25 is provided. Further, the first reagent dispensing arm 30 for supporting the first reagent dispensing probe 29 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided.

Further, the analysis unit 10 supports the first stirrer 31 for stirring the mixed solution of the sample and the first reagent dispensed into each reaction vessel 25 and the first stirrer 31 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. It is provided with a first stirring arm 32.

Further, the analysis unit 10 has a second reagent container 17 in the second reagent container 17 for each test item held in the first or second reagent racks 19 and 20 for which the second reagent identification information has been read by the second reader 23. The second reagent dispensing probe 33 for sucking the reagent and discharging the first reagent into the dispensed reaction vessel 25 is provided. Further, a second reagent dispensing arm 34 that supports the second reagent dispensing probe 33 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable is provided.

Further, the analysis unit 10 rotates and moves up and down a second stirrer 35 for stirring the sample, the first reagent, and the mixed solution of the second reagent dispensed into each reaction vessel 25, and the second stirrer 35. It is provided with a second stirring arm 36 that movably supports it. Further, each reaction vessel 25 containing the stirred mixture in the first stirrer 31 and each reaction vessel 25 containing the stirred mixture in the second stirrer 35 are irradiated with light and measured optically. The measuring unit 37 is provided. In addition, a cleaning nozzle 38 for cleaning each reaction vessel 25 for which the measurement by the measuring unit 37 has been completed is provided.

Then, the measuring unit 37 irradiates each rotating reaction vessel 25 with light, and the light transmitted through the mixed solution containing the standard sample in the reaction vessel 25 or the mixed solution containing the test sample. Is detected. Then, based on the detected signal, standard data represented by absorbance and test data are generated and output to the data processing unit 50.

The drive unit 40 shown in FIG. 1 includes each unit of the analysis unit 10 and each drive mechanism for moving the first and second reagent containers 13 and 17. Then, the sample disk 12 of the analysis unit 10 is driven to move each sample container 11. Further, the first reagent rack 15 is driven to move each of the first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 in the circumferential direction. Further, the second reagent rack 16 is driven to move each of the first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 in the circumferential direction. Further, the first reagent rack 19 is driven to move each of the second reagent containers 17 held in the first reagent rack 19 in the circumferential direction. Further, the second reagent rack 20 is driven to move each of the second reagent containers 17 held in the second reagent rack 20 in the circumferential direction. Further, the first reading arm 22 is driven to move the first reading unit 21. Further, the second reading arm 24 is driven to move the second reading unit 23. Further, the reaction disk 26 is driven to rotate and move each reaction vessel 25. Further, the sample dispensing arm 28 is driven to move the sample dispensing probe 27 between the sample container 11 and the reaction container 25. Further, the first reagent dispensing arm 30 is driven to move the first reagent dispensing probe 29 between the first reagent container 13 and the reaction container 25 held in the first or second reagent racks 15 and 16. Let me. Further, the first stirrer arm 32 is driven to move the first stirrer 31 into the reaction vessel 25. Further, the second reagent dispensing arm 34 is driven to move the second reagent dispensing probe 33 between the second reagent container 17 and the reaction container 25 held in the first or second reagent racks 19 and 20. Let me. Further, the second stirrer arm 36 is driven to move the second stirrer 35 into the reaction vessel 25.

The analysis control unit 44 receives the first reagent identification information read by the first reading unit 21 of the analysis unit 10 in each of the first and first reagents in which the first reagent container 13 in which the first reagent identification information is read is held. It is stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 in association with the information on the holding positions of the second reagent racks 15 and 16. Further, the second reagent identification information read by the second reading unit 23 is stored in the first and second reagent racks 19, 20 in which the second reagent container 17 in which the second reagent identification information is read is held. It is stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 in association with the information of the holding position of.

Further, when the analysis control unit 44 receives an input from the operation unit 70 to execute the calibration, the reaction vessel 25 is washed, the standard sample of each test item is dispensed, and the first reagent of each test item is used. Dispensing, stirring the mixed solution of the standard sample and the first reagent of each test item, dispensing of the second reagent of each test item, and the mixed solution of the standard sample, the first reagent and the second reagent of each test item. And the measurement of the mixed solution of each inspection item are performed once every one cycle time to generate standard data.

After the calibration is completed, when an input is made from the operation unit 70 to execute the test, each reaction vessel 25 is washed, each test sample is dispensed, and the first reagent of each test item is dispensed. Stirring of the mixed solution of the test sample and the first reagent of each test item, dispensing of the second reagent of each test item, and stirring of the mixed solution of the test sample and the first reagent and the second reagent of each test item. And the measurement of the stirred mixed solution are performed once every one cycle time, and the test data is generated for each test item.

The data processing unit 50 includes a calculation unit 51 and a data storage unit 52. Then, the calculation unit 51 generates calibration data showing the relationship between the standard value and the standard data from the standard data generated by the measurement unit 37 of the analysis unit 10 and the standard value set in the standard sample of the standard data. Further, from the test data generated by the measurement unit 37, analysis data represented as a concentration value or an activity value is generated using the calibration data of the test items corresponding to the test data. Further, the data storage unit 52 includes a memory device such as a hard disk, and stores the calibration data generated by the calculation unit 51 for each inspection item. In addition, the analysis data of each inspection item generated by the calculation unit 51 is saved for each test sample.

The output unit 60 includes a printing unit 61 that prints out standard data and analysis data generated by the data processing unit 50, and a display unit 62 that displays and outputs the data. Then, the printing unit 61 is provided with a printer or the like, and prints out the calibration data and the analysis data on the printer paper or the like according to a preset format.

The display unit 62 includes a monitor such as a CRT or a liquid crystal panel, and displays a screen for setting analysis parameters of each inspection item. In addition, for the test sample to be inspected, identification information such as a name and ID for identifying the test sample and a screen for setting each test item are displayed. It also displays calibration data and analysis data.

The operation unit 70 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, buttons, and a touch key panel, and performs input for setting analysis parameters of each inspection item. In addition, input for setting identification information and each test item for the test sample is performed. In addition, input for executing calibration, inspection, etc. is performed.

The system control unit 71 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and after storing the analysis parameter information of each inspection item, the identification information of the test sample, the input information such as the inspection item, etc. input from the operation unit 70 in the storage circuit, Based on these input information, the analysis control unit 44, the data processing unit 50, and the output unit 60 are integrated to control the entire system.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, the configuration of the first reagent storage 14, the first reading unit 21, and the first reading arm 22 of the analysis unit 10 and the reading of the first reagent identification information in the automatic analyzer 100 will be performed. An example of the operation will be described.

Since the second reagent storage 18 is configured in the same manner as the first reagent storage 14, the description thereof will be omitted. Further, since the second reading unit 23 is configured in the same manner as the first reading unit 21, the description thereof will be omitted. Further, since the second reading arm 24 is configured in the same manner as the first reading arm 22, the description thereof will be omitted. Further, since the operation of reading the second reagent identification information is performed in the same manner as the operation of reading the first reagent identification information, the description thereof will be omitted.

First, the configuration of the first reagent storage 14 will be described.

FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the first reagent storage 14, the first reagent storage 14, the first reagent rack 15, the second reagent rack 16, the first reading unit 21, the first reading arm 22, and the first reagent dispensing. It is a top view which showed the arrangement of the probe 29 and the 1st reagent dispensing arm 30.

The first reagent storage 14 includes a reagent case 141 having an opening in the upper part in which each first reagent container 13 is stored, and a circular reagent cover 142 that covers the opening of the reagent case 141 so as to be openable and closable. Then, the reagent cover 142 has a first penetration so that the first reagent dispensing probe 29 can enter the first reagent container 13 at the first suction position P1 held in the first reagent rack 15. Hole 143 is provided. Further, a second through hole 144 is provided so that the first reagent dispensing probe 29 can enter the first reagent container 13 at the second suction position P2 held in the second reagent rack 16. There is.

Further, the reagent cover 142 includes first and second reading ports 145 and 146, and a first door 147 and a second reading port 146 that open and close the first reading port 145 by driving the opening and closing of the drive unit 40. A second door 148 that opens and closes is provided. Then, the first reading unit 21 enters from the first reading port 145 and moves in the circumferential direction of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15, thereby causing the first reagent container. It stops at a position facing a circular orbit in which one side surface to which the first reagent identification information of 13 is attached moves. Then, the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15 is read. Further, the first reading unit 21 enters from the second reading port 146 and moves in the circumferential direction of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16, thereby causing the first reagent container. The side surface to which the first reagent identification information of 13 is attached stops at a position facing the moving circular orbit. Then, the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent container 13 at the second reading position P4 held in the second reagent rack 16 is read.

Next, the configuration of the first reading unit 21 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the first reading unit 21. The first reading unit 21 includes an irradiation unit 80 that irradiates light, an image pickup unit 81 that generates image data, and an image processing unit 82 that processes the image data generated by the image pickup unit 81.

The irradiation unit 80 includes a light source such as a light emitting diode that emits light. Then, light is irradiated toward the code 131 of the first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15. Further, the code 131 of the first reagent container 13 at the second reading position P4 held in the second reagent rack 16 is irradiated with light.

The image pickup unit 81 includes a lens 811, an image pickup device 812, and an image generation unit 813. The lens 811 is irradiated from the irradiation unit 80 and forms an image of the light reflected from the code 131 of the first reagent container 13. The image sensor 812 includes, for example, CMOS, and converts the imaged light into an electric signal. The image generation unit 813 generates image data based on the electric signal converted by the image sensor 812.

The image processing unit 82 corrects the image data generated by the image generation unit 813 of the imaging unit 81, and then generates the binarized data that has been binarized into white and black based on, for example, a predetermined threshold value. Next, the binarized data is converted into the first reagent identification information represented by characters or the like using a preset conversion table. Then, the converted first reagent identification information is output to the analysis control unit 44.

The first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 and the plurality of first reagent containers 13 of the first reagent container 13 held next to the first reagent container 13 are irradiated with light, and the light is irradiated. A wide-angle lens that forms an image of the light reflected from the plurality of first reagent containers 13 may be provided so that the first reagent information of the plurality of first reagent containers 13 can be read at the same time.

Further, when the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 is attached by the one-dimensional code 131, the code 131 is scanned with light such as a laser beam to irradiate the code 131, and the reflected light is detected to detect the first reagent container 13. It may be carried out so as to read the reagent identification information.

Next, the configuration of the first reading arm 22 will be described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the first reading arm 22. The first reading arm 22 is composed of a shaft 221, a first arm 222, and a second arm 223. The shaft 221 is rotated and vertically driven by the drive unit 40. The first arm 222 is arranged horizontally, and one end thereof is fixed to the upper end portion of the shaft 221. The upper end of the second arm 223 is fixed to the other end of the first arm 222, and the lower end is fixed to the first reading unit 21.

Next, an example of the operation of reading the first reagent identification information of the automatic analyzer 100 will be described.

In the standby state before the operation of each unit of the analysis unit 10 is started, the first reading unit 21 is above the first reagent storage 14 and is on the orbit T1 of the arc shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. It is stopped at the basic position R0 of.

Each of the first reagent containers 13 stored concentrically in the first reagent storage 14 is provided so that one side surface to which the first reagent identification information is attached is substantially perpendicular to the radial direction of the circle. It is held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16. Further, in each of the first reagent containers 13, one side surface to which the first reagent identification information is attached is located on the outer peripheral side, and the other side surface facing one side surface of the four side surfaces is located on the inner peripheral side. Are held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16, respectively.

The person in charge of the automatic analyzer 100 confirms whether or not the first reagent container 13 for each test item is stored in the first reagent storage 14. In addition, the amount of the first reagent in the first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14 is confirmed. Then, the first reagent container 13 in which the amount of the first reagent is insufficient is taken out from the first reagent storage 14, and the first reagent container 13 filled with the first reagent is stored in the first reagent storage 14. .. In addition, the first reagent container 13 for a new test item may be stored in the first reagent storage 14. The first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent storage 14 is placed in an arbitrary holding position of the first or second reagent racks 15 and 16.

After that, when an input for executing any of reading, calibration, inspection, etc. of the reagent identification information is performed from the operation unit 70, the analysis control unit 44 prepares for the dispensing of the first reagent, and the first and second reagents are prepared. In order to check each inspection item in which the first reagent container 13 is held in the reagent racks 15 and 16 and the holding position of the first reagent container 13, the first reagent container 13 in the first reagent storage 14 is checked. 1 Read the reagent identification information.

The first reading unit 21 moves horizontally from the basic position R0 along the trajectory T1 by rotationally driving the first reading arm 22 by the driving unit 40. Then, it stops at the first reading stop position R1 shown in FIG. 7A, above the first door 147 that closes the first reading port 145 provided on the reagent cover 142 of the first reagent storage 14. do. The first door 147 opens the first reading port 145 by the open drive of the drive unit 40.

The first reading unit 21 moves downward from above the first reagent storage 14 due to the downward drive of the first reading arm 22 by the driving unit 40, and moves from the first reading port 145 into the first reagent storage 14. enter in. Then, as shown in FIG. 7A, the first reading of one side surface to which the first reagent identification information on the outer peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 is attached. It stops at the first reading stop position R2 facing one side surface of the first reagent container 13 at position P3.

When the first reading unit 21 stops at the first reading stop position R2, the first reagent rack 15 makes one rotation and moves each of the first reagent containers 13 in the circumferential direction. The first reading unit 21 reads the first reagent identification information from the code 131 of each first reagent container 13 passing through the first reading position P3 by the rotation of the first reagent rack 15 and outputs the first reagent identification information to the analysis control unit 44. do.

The analysis control unit 44 determines the rotation position of the first reagent rack 15 obtained from the drive unit 40 when the first reagent identification information output from the first reading unit 21 and the first reagent identification information are read. Based on the information, the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 and the information of the holding position of the first reagent container 13 are stored in the reagent information storage unit 45. do.

When the first reagent rack 15 makes one rotation and then stops, the first reading unit 21 moves upward due to the upward driving of the first reading arm 22 by the driving unit 40, and the first reading stop position R1. Stop at. The first door 147 closes the first reading port 145. The first reading unit 21 horizontally moves above the first reagent storage 14 along the orbit T1 and is above the second door 148 closing the second reading port 146, in FIG. 7 (b). It stops at the second reading stop position R3 shown. The second door 148 opens the second reading port 146 by the open drive of the drive unit 40.

In this way, the first reading unit 21 is brought into the first reagent storage 14, stopped at the first reading stop position R2, and then each of the first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the outer peripheral side surface of the above, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 is accurate without being affected by dew condensation water. Can be read well.

The first reading unit 21 moves downward from above the first reagent storage 14 by being driven downward by the first reading arm 22, and enters the first reagent storage 14 from the second reading port 146. Then, as shown in FIG. 7B, the second reading of one side surface to which the first reagent identification information on the outer peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is attached. It stops at the second reading stop position R4 facing one side surface of the first reagent container 13 at position P4.

When the first reading unit 21 stops at the second reading stop position R4, the second reagent rack 16 rotates once and moves around each of the first reagent containers 13. The first reading unit 21 reads the first reagent identification information from the code 131 of each first reagent container 13 passing through the second reading position P4 by the rotation of the second reagent rack 16 and outputs the first reagent identification information to the analysis control unit 44. do.

In this way, the first reading unit 21 is brought into the first reagent storage 14, stopped at the second reading stop position R4, and then each of the first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the outer peripheral side surface of the above, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is accurate without being affected by dew condensation water. Can be read well.

Further, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of each of the first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 from between the two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the distance between the two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 can be narrowed. As a result, more first reagent containers 13 can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

At the first reading stop position R2 and the second reading stop position R4, one aspect in which the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 at the first reading position P3 is attached, and the first The angle of the first reading unit 21 is different from the one side surface of the first reagent container 13 to which the first reagent identification information is attached at the reading position P4 of 2. The image processing unit 82 corrects the image data generated by the image capturing unit 81 of the first reading unit 21 due to this difference in angle.

The analysis control unit 44 determines the rotation position of the first reagent identification information output from the first reading unit 21 and the second reagent rack 16 obtained from the driving unit 40 when the first reagent identification information is read. Based on the information, the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 and the information of the holding position of the first reagent container 13 are stored in the reagent information storage unit 45. ..

When the second reagent rack 16 makes one rotation and stops, the first reading unit 21 rises and stops at the second reading stop position R3. The second door 148 closes the second reading port 146. The first reading unit 21 horizontally moves along the trajectory T1 from the second reading stop position R3 and stops at the basic position T0.

Then, during calibration or inspection after the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13 held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16 has been read, the analysis control unit 44 may perform the analysis control unit 44. Dispensing of the first reagent for each test item is executed based on the first reagent identification information stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 and the information on the holding positions of the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16. Then, when the first reagent container 13 containing the first reagent to be dispensed is held in, for example, the first reagent rack 15, the first reagent rack 15 is driven to drive the first reagent to be dispensed. The container 13 is stopped at the first suction position P1. Then, the first reagent dispensing probe 29 dispenses the first reagent in the first reagent vessel 13 at the first suction position P1 into the reaction vessel 25.

Here, when the first reagent of each test item is dispensed every cycle, the first reagent identification information may be read. In this case, if the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is held in the first reagent rack 15, the first reading unit 21 is stopped at the first reading stop position R2, and then the first reagent is used. When the rack 15 is driven to move the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed to the first suction position P1 and the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is moved to the first suction position P1, the first The first reading unit 21 is made to read the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 passing through the reading position P3 of 1. Further, when the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is held in the second reagent rack 16, the first reading unit 21 is stopped at the second reading stop position R4, and then the second reagent rack is used. When the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is moved to the second suction position P2 by driving 16 and the first reagent container 13 to be dispensed is moved to the second suction position P2, the second The first reading unit 21 is made to read the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 passing through the reading position P4. Then, the first reagent identification information stored in the reagent information storage unit 45 in association with the holding position of the first reagent container 13 identified by the latest first reagent identification information read by the first reading unit 21 is updated. Replace with the first reagent identification information of the above and save.

The first reagent container 13, the first reading unit 21, and the first reading arm 22 are not limited to the above embodiment, and the first reagent container, the first reading unit, and the first reading arm 22 described below may be used. It may be replaced and implemented. In the first reagent container 13, the first reagent identification information is attached by code 131 to the other side surface facing the one side to which the first reagent identification information is attached among the four sides of the first reagent container 13. 1 Replace with reagent container 13a. Further, in the first reading unit 21, as shown in FIG. 8, the second arm 223 of the first reading arm 22 is rotated 180 degrees around the central axis of the second arm 223. It is replaced with the first reading unit 21a fixed to the arm 223 of 2. Further, in the first reading arm 22, as shown in FIG. 8A, the first reading unit 21a is the first reagent on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. Among the other side surfaces to which the identification information is attached, the second reading stop position R4 facing the other side surface of the first reagent container 13a at the first reading position P3 and as shown in FIG. 8 (b). Of the other side surfaces to which the first reagent identification information on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is attached, the other side surface of the first reagent container 13a at the second reading position P4. The shaft 221 is replaced with a shaft in which the arrangement of the shaft 221 is changed and the length of the first arm 222 is changed in the first arm so that the shaft 221 can be stopped at the third reading stop position R5 facing the above.

In this way, the first reading unit 21a is brought into the first reagent storage 14, stopped at the second reading stop position R4, and then each of the first reagent containers 13a held in the first reagent rack 15. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the other side surface on the inner peripheral side of the above, the influence of the dew condensation water on the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13a held in the first reagent rack 15. It can be read accurately without receiving.

Further, after the first reading unit 21a is allowed to enter the first reagent storage 14 and stopped at the third reading stop position R5, the inside of each first reagent container 13a held in the second reagent rack 16. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to the other side surface on the peripheral side, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13a held in the second reagent rack 16 is affected by the condensed water. It can be read accurately without any problems.

Further, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of each of the first reagent containers 13a held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13a held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the distance between the two adjacent first reagent containers 13a held in the first reagent rack 15 can be narrowed. As a result, more first reagent containers 13a can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

Further, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and the first reagent container 13 and the first reading unit 21 may be replaced with the first reagent container and the first reading unit described below. In the first reagent container 13, as shown in FIG. 9, the first reagent container 13b is replaced with the first reagent container 13b in which the first reagent identification information is attached to one side surface and the other side surface of the first reagent container 13 with a code 131. Further, in the first reading unit 21, as shown in FIG. 9, at the second reading stop position R4, the first reagent container 13b at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15 The outer peripheral side of the first reagent container 13b at the second reading position P4 held in the second reagent rack 16 and the first reading unit 21 for reading the first reagent identification information attached to the other side surface on the inner peripheral side. The first reading unit 21a for reading the first reagent identification information attached to one side surface is replaced with the integrated first reading unit 21b.

In this way, the first reading unit 21b is made to enter the first reagent storage 14, and the other side surface and the second side of the first reagent container 13b at the first reading position P3 held in the first reagent rack 15. It is stopped at the second reading stop position R4 facing one side surface of the first reagent container 13b at the second reading position P4 held in the reagent rack 16. Then, while rotating the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16, the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13b at the first and second reading positions P3 and P4 is read, so that the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16 are read. The first reagent identification information of each of the first reagent containers 13b held in the second reagent racks 15 and 16 can be accurately read without being affected by the condensed water.

Further, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of each of the first reagent containers 13b held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13b held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the distance between the two adjacent first reagent containers 13b held in the first reagent rack 15 can be narrowed. As a result, more first reagent containers 13b can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

Further, unlike the first reading unit 21, it is not necessary to stop at two first and second reading stop positions R2 and R4, so that the reagents are held in the first and second reagent racks 15 and 16. The reading time of the first reagent identification information of all the first reagent containers 13b can be shortened.

According to the above-described embodiment, the first reading unit 21 provided so as to be movable is allowed to enter the first reagent storage 14, and is held on the outer peripheral side of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to one side surface, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 is accurate without being affected by dew condensation water. Can be read well.

Further, the first reading unit 21 is made to enter the first reagent storage 14, stopped at the second reading stop position R4, and then the outer periphery of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16. By reading the first reagent identification information attached to one side surface of the side, the first reagent identification information of each first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 is affected by the condensed water. Can be read accurately without any.

Further, it is necessary to read the first reagent identification information of the first reagent container 13 held in the second reagent rack 16 from between two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15. Therefore, the distance between the two adjacent first reagent containers 13 held in the first reagent rack 15 can be narrowed. As a result, more first reagent containers 13 can be held in the first reagent rack 15.

As described above, the first reagent container 13 that can be stored in the first reagent container 14 without deteriorating the reading accuracy of the first reagent identification information attached to the first reagent container 13 stored in the first reagent container 14. You can increase the number.

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other embodiments, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

13, 13a, 13b 1st reagent container 14 1st reagent storage 15, 19 1st reagent rack 16, 20 2nd reagent rack 17 2nd reagent container 18 2nd reagent storage 21, 21a, 21b 1st reading unit 22 1st reading arm 23 2nd reading unit 24 2nd reading arm 25 Reaction vessel 40 Drive unit

Claims (6)

In an automatic analyzer that dispenses a sample and a reagent into a reaction vessel and measures a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel.
A reagent storage in which a plurality of reagent containers containing the reagents are stored and the stored reagent containers are kept cold,
A reading unit that optically reads the identification information attached to the side surface of the reagent container,
A first drive mechanism for moving the reading unit and
A first reagent rack arranged in the reagent storage and holding the plurality of reagent containers, and
A second reagent rack arranged on the inner peripheral side of the first reagent rack in the reagent storage and holding the plurality of reagent containers is provided.
The reading unit reads a first reading unit that reads the inner peripheral side surface of the reagent container held in the first reagent rack and an outer peripheral side surface of the reagent container held in the second reagent rack. It is integrated with the second reading unit.
The first driving mechanism causes the reading unit to enter the reagent storage and holds the reading unit on the inner peripheral side surface of each reagent container held in the first reagent rack and in the second reagent rack. The reading unit is stopped at a position facing the outer peripheral side surface of each of the reagent containers.
The reading unit is provided with identification information attached to the inner peripheral side surface of each of the reagent containers held in the first reagent rack at the position, and each of the above-mentioned ones held in the second reagent rack. An automatic analyzer characterized by reading identification information attached to the outer peripheral side surface of a reagent container. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the first driving mechanism moves the reading unit downward from above the reagent storage to enter the reagent storage. A second drive mechanism for moving the side surface of the reagent container stored in the reagent storage in the circumferential direction is further provided.
The reading unit
The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the identification information attached to the side surface of the reagent container is read at a position facing the moving arcuate orbit. The automatic analyzer according to claim 3, wherein the reading unit reads identification information attached to the side surface at a position facing a plurality of concentric orbits to which the side surface of the reagent container moves. .. The second driving mechanism drives each of the first and second reagent racks to move the reagent container held in each of the first and second reagent racks in the circumferential direction.
3. Item 4. The automatic analyzer according to item 4. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the reagent storage has a cover provided with a port into which the reading unit enters.

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