JP7105167B2 - Analysis equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an analysis device and positioning method.

As an analysis device for analyzing the components in a sample, for example, as shown in Patent Document 1, the sample is electrophoresed in a capillary in a chip, and the transmitted light and the reflected light of the light irradiated to this sample are measured. There is equipment for component analysis.

JP 2012-093350 A

In such an analyzer, it is desired that an irradiation member for irradiating a sample with light is inserted into the insertion hole of the analysis tool, and the tip of the irradiation member is brought into contact with the bottom of the insertion hole. When bringing the irradiation member into contact with the analysis tool, it is required to suppress damage to the irradiation member and the analysis tool.

An object of the present invention is to suppress damage to the irradiation member and analysis tool when inserting the irradiation member into the insertion hole of the analysis tool.

In the first aspect, an introduction part into which an analysis tool containing a sample is introduced, an installation part in which the analysis tool is installed in the introduction part, and an insertion hole formed in the analysis tool and inserted into the insertion hole and an irradiating member that is in contact with the bottom portion and irradiates the sample with light, and an irradiating member that is separate from the irradiating member and presses the analysis tool installed in the installation section to sandwich the analysis instrument installed in the installation section. and a pressing member that is held at a predetermined position, and a measuring member that measures the components of the sample with the light emitted from the irradiating member to the sample on the analytical tool installed in the installation section.

By inserting the irradiating member into the insertion hole of the analysis tool and bringing it into contact with the bottom of the insertion hole, the distance between the irradiating member and the sample can be shortened and maintained constant, so that the light irradiation to the sample is stabilized. In addition, since the analysis tool set on the installation section is pressed by the pressing device to be sandwiched with the installation section and held at a predetermined position, the position of the analysis tool is also stabilized.

The irradiation member and the pressing member are separate bodies. Therefore, even if the pressing member approaches the analysis tool while the irradiation member is in contact with the bottom of the insertion hole, the irradiation member will not be pushed excessively into the insertion hole, and damage to the irradiation member and the analysis tool will not occur. can be suppressed.

Then, the measurement member measures the components of the sample by the light emitted from the irradiation member to the sample of the analysis tool introduced into the introduction section and installed in the installation section.

In a second aspect, in the first aspect, the analysis tool is pressed by the pressing member while the irradiation member is inserted into the insertion hole.
That is, after realizing the state in which the irradiation member is inserted into the insertion hole, the analysis tool can be pressed by the pressing member and held at a predetermined position.
In the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the direction in which the pressing member presses the analysis tool and the direction in which the irradiation member approaches the analysis tool are the same.

As a result, it is possible to realize a structure in which the moving region when the pressing member presses the analysis tool and the moving region when the irradiation member is inserted into the insertion hole overlap or approach each other, which contributes to the miniaturization of the analyzer.

In a fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the irradiating member includes: a projecting portion held by the pressing member so as to be able to move forward and backward; and an urging member that urges the projecting portion in a projecting direction from the pressing member.

Since the irradiating member has a protruding portion that is held by the pressing member so as to be able to move back and forth, the protruding portion can be advanced and inserted into the insertion hole of the analysis tool. Since the amount of protrusion of the protrusion is limited to a certain range by the restricting member, excessive protrusion of the protrusion can be suppressed. Since the projecting portion is biased in the projecting direction by the biasing member, the projecting portion can be maintained in a state of being projected from the pressing member, and can be reliably brought into contact with the bottom portion of the insertion hole.

According to a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the maximum value of the protrusion length of the protrusion is longer than the depth of the insertion hole.

As a result, a structure is realized in which the tip of the protrusion can be reliably brought into contact with the bottom of the insertion hole.

In a sixth aspect, according to the fifth aspect, the pressing member has a facing wall facing the analytical tool and having an insertion hole formed therein, and the projecting portion is inserted through the insertion hole.

Since the protrusion is inserted through the insertion hole, it is possible to suppress positional displacement of the irradiation member in the lateral direction of the protrusion (the direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion into the insertion hole).

In a seventh aspect according to the sixth aspect, the restricting member is attached to the protruding portion on the side opposite to the protruding side of the protruding portion from the pressing member and is wider than the hole diameter of the insertion hole; and a pair of opposing members that face the restricting plate on both sides of the protruding portion in the advancing/retreating direction.

Therefore, the movement range of the restricting plate is between the pair of facing members. Then, the moving range of the projecting portion can be reliably limited within this range, and excessive projection of the projecting portion from the pressing member can be suppressed.

In an eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the facing wall also serves as one of the facing members.

Since the opposing wall also serves as one of the opposing members, the number of parts can be reduced compared to a structure in which each of the pair of opposing members and the opposing wall are separate members.

In a ninth aspect, according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the analysis tool has a positioning member that positions the analysis tool at the predetermined position, and the pressing member is positioned by the positioning member. hold.

Since the analysis tool is positioned by the positioning member and the pressing member holds the positioned analysis tool, the analysis tool can be held at an accurate position. Since the irradiating member is inserted into the insertion hole of the analysis tool at the correct position, for example, it is possible to prevent the irradiating member from contacting a part other than the insertion hole.

In a tenth aspect, in any one of the first to ninth aspects, the analysis tool includes a chip having a capillary in which the sample migrates, and a cartridge having a liquid reservoir and superimposed on the chip, The pressing member presses the analytical instrument in the direction in which the chip and the cartridge are superimposed, sandwiches the analytical instrument with the installation portion, and fits the chip and the cartridge together.

In this manner, by pressing the cartridge in the stacking direction with respect to the analysis tool having a structure in which the cartridge is stacked on the chip, the cartridge can be securely fitted.

In the eleventh aspect, an introduction part into which an analysis tool containing a sample is introduced, an installation part in which the analysis tool is installed in the introduction part, and an insertion hole formed in the analysis tool are inserted into the insertion hole. an irradiating member that irradiates the sample with light at a predetermined position from the bottom of the apparatus; A pressing member that is sandwiched between and held at a predetermined position, and a measuring member that measures the components of the sample by the light irradiated from the irradiation member to the sample of the analysis tool installed in the installation section. have.

By inserting the irradiating member into the insertion hole of the analysis tool and positioning it at a predetermined position from the bottom of the insertion hole, the distance between the irradiating member and the sample can be kept constant, so the irradiation of the sample with light is stable. In addition, since the analysis tool set on the installation section is pressed by the pressing device to be sandwiched with the installation section and held at a predetermined position, the position of the analysis tool is also stabilized.

The irradiation member and the pressing member are separate bodies. Therefore, even if the pressing member approaches the analysis tool while the irradiation member is at a predetermined position from the bottom of the insertion hole, the irradiation member is not excessively pushed into the insertion hole. Tool damage can be suppressed.

Then, the measurement member measures the components of the sample by the light emitted from the irradiation member to the sample of the analysis tool introduced into the introduction section and installed in the installation section.

In a twelfth aspect, in the eleventh aspect, the analysis tool is pressed by the pressing member while the irradiation member is inserted into the insertion hole.
That is, after realizing the state in which the irradiation member is inserted into the insertion hole, the analysis tool can be pressed by the pressing member and held at a predetermined position.
In the thirteenth aspect, in the eleventh or twelfth aspect, the direction in which the pressing member presses the analysis tool and the direction in which the irradiation member approaches the analysis tool are the same.

As a result, it is possible to realize a structure in which the moving region when the pressing member presses the analysis tool and the moving region when the irradiation member is inserted into the insertion hole overlap or approach each other, which contributes to miniaturization of the analyzer.

In a fourteenth aspect, in the thirteenth aspect, the irradiating member comprises a projecting portion movably held by the pressing member, and a limiting member for limiting the amount of projection of the projecting portion toward the analysis tool within a certain range. and an urging member that urges the projecting portion in the projecting direction from the pressing member, and a restriction wall for restricting the movement of the restriction member in the direction of approaching the analysis tool, The restricting wall restricts the restricting member at the predetermined position, whereby the irradiation member is fixed at the predetermined position from the bottom of the insertion hole.

Since the irradiating member has a protruding portion that is held by the pressing member so as to be able to move back and forth, the protruding portion can be advanced and inserted into the insertion hole of the analysis tool. Since the amount of protrusion of the protrusion is limited to a certain range by the restricting member, excessive protrusion of the protrusion can be suppressed. Since the projecting portion is biased in the projecting direction by the biasing member, it can be maintained in a state of being projected from the pressing member, and can be reliably maintained at a predetermined position from the bottom of the insertion hole.

Movement of the restricting member to the analysis tool is restricted at a predetermined position by the restricting wall, so it is possible to reliably restrict this movement.

In a fifteenth aspect, in the fourteenth aspect, the irradiation member contacts the bottom of the insertion hole.

As a result, the distance between the irradiation member and the sample can be shortened and kept constant.

According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress damage to the irradiation member and analysis tool when inserting the irradiation member into the insertion hole of the analysis tool.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an analysis tool used for analysis by the analyzer. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the analysis tool shown in FIG. 2. FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the analysis tool shown in FIG. 2 taken along line 4-4. FIG. 5 is a front view showing the introduction section and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the introduction section and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a front view showing the introduction section and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the introduction section and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the introduction section and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a pressing member of the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sealing membrane is pierced with a piercing pin in the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a front view showing the introduction part and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment in a state where the analysis tool is inclined. FIG. 13 is a side view showing the introduction part and its vicinity inside the analyzer of the first embodiment in a state in which the analysis tool is inclined. FIG. 14 is a front view showing a state in which an irradiation member is inserted into an analysis tool inside the analysis apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a front view showing a state in which the irradiation member is inserted into the analysis tool inside the analysis apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a front view showing a state in which the analysis tool is pressed by the pressing member inside the analyzer of the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a state diagram of the analysis tool showing a state in the middle of sample analysis in the analyzer. FIG. 18 is a state diagram of the analysis tool showing a state in the middle of sample analysis in the analyzer. FIG. 19 is a state diagram of an analysis tool showing a state in the middle of sample analysis in the analyzer. FIG. 20 is a front view showing a state in which the power feeding probe is inserted into the analysis tool inside the analysis apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 21 is a plan view showing a state in which the power feeding probe is inserted into the analysis tool inside the analysis apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 22 is a state diagram of the analysis tool showing a state in the middle of sample analysis in the analyzer. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sealing membrane is pierced with a piercing pin in the analyzer of the second embodiment. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sealing membrane is pierced with a piercing pin in the analyzer of the third embodiment. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sealing membrane is pierced with a piercing pin in the analyzer of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sealing membrane is pierced with a piercing pin in the analyzer of the reference example. FIG. 27 is a front view showing a state in which an irradiation member is inserted into an analysis tool inside the analysis apparatus of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 28 is a front view showing a state in which the irradiation member is inserted into the analysis tool inside the analysis apparatus of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 29 is a front view showing a state in which an analysis tool is pressed by a pressing member inside the analyzer of the fifth embodiment.

[First embodiment]
The analyzer of the first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The analysis device of this embodiment is, for example, a device that analyzes the amount of glycated hemoglobin contained in blood. Blood is an example of a sample and is sometimes referred to as a specimen. Glycated hemoglobin is an example of an object to be analyzed by an analyzer.

<Appearance configuration of analyzer>
As shown in FIG. 1, analyzer 102 has housing 104 . In this embodiment, the housing 104 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box shape. Below, the vertical direction, the width direction, and the depth direction of the analyzer 102 are indicated by arrows U, W, and D, respectively. The direction of arrow W, the direction of arrow D, and the direction obtained by combining the direction of arrow W and the direction of arrow D are all horizontal directions. Further, the back side and front side in the depth direction of the analyzer 102 are indicated by arrows DA and DB, respectively.

The housing 104 is provided with a touch panel (not shown). An analysis worker can operate the analysis device 102 by touching the touch panel while referring to the information displayed on the touch panel.

Further, the housing 104 is provided with a printer (not shown). The analysis device 102 can print the results of analyzing the sample with a printer.

An opening/closing lid 114 is provided on the front surface 108 of the housing 104 . The opening/closing lid 114 is positioned between a projecting position (indicated by a chain double-dashed line) moved forward by the opening/closing mechanism 116 and a retracted position (indicated by a solid line) where it is flush with the front surface 108 after being moved to the rear side. can be slid. The tray 118 is exposed to the front side of the housing 104 together with the opening/closing lid 114 when the opening/closing lid 114 is in the projecting position. An analysis tool 42 containing a specimen (sample) can be placed on this tray.

<Configuration of analysis tool>
As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the analysis tool 42 of this embodiment has a structure including a chip 44 and a cartridge 46, as an example. With the cartridge 46 overlaid on the chip 44, the chip 44 is set in the tray 118 of the analyzer 102 with the arrow D1 facing the back. For the analysis tool 42 as well, the vertical direction, width direction, and depth direction of the analysis tool 42 set on the tray 118 of the analysis device 102 are indicated by arrows U, W, and D, respectively, for convenience. Further, the front side and the front side of the analysis tool 42 are indicated by arrows D1 and D2, respectively.

The chip 44 is formed by bonding together two plate members (an upper plate 44A and a lower plate 44B) having the same outer shape when viewed from above (as viewed in the direction of the arrow A1). The chip 44 is a plate-shaped member in which the plate members 44A and 44B are bonded together. With the chip 44 placed horizontally, the thickness direction of the chip 44 coincides with the vertical direction. The cartridge 46 is stacked on the chip 44 in the vertical direction, that is, in the thickness direction of the chip 44 .

A plurality of channels 48 are formed in the chip 44 .

The cross-sectional shape of each of the flow paths 48 and the shape of the chip 44 when viewed from above are not limited, and may be curved at one or more locations, or may be linear.

The flow channel cross-sectional areas of these flow channels 48 are set to such an extent that the pressurized liquid flows through these flow channels 48 when the liquid is pressurized by a pump 172 (see FIG. 11), which will be described later.

A projection 50 projecting toward the cartridge 46 is formed at the end of the flow path 48 . The convex portion 50 is an example of a piercing projection that pierces the bottom film 58, as will be described later.

A plurality of liquid reservoirs 52 are formed in the cartridge 46 .

These liquid reservoirs 52 are recessed portions formed in the upper portion of the cartridge 46 and the upper surface thereof is sealed with a sealing film 54 . In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of liquid tanks 52 are sealed with a single sealing film 54. However, the sealing film 54 is separated for each liquid tank 52. good too. The sealing film 54 may be made of any material as long as the liquid sealed in the liquid tank 52 is sealed without vaporization and is perforated by a perforating member provided in an analysis apparatus to be described later. structural laminate films.

A communication portion 56 that communicates with the flow path of the chip 44 is formed in the lower portion of the liquid tank 52 . Some of the plurality of liquid tanks 52 are filled with a liquid LA such as a diluent or an electrophoretic liquid. A lower portion of the communication portion 56 of the liquid tank 52 in which the liquid is sealed is sealed with a bottom film 58 .

In addition, in the flow path 48 of the chip 44, a filter may be provided on the upstream side of the liquid flow from the capillary 68, which will be described later. This filter removes foreign matter other than the liquid and realizes a structure that does not flow into the capillary 68 .

Capillaries 68 are formed between the channels 48 corresponding to two specific communication portions 56 among the plurality of liquid reservoirs 52 . The channel cross-sectional area of the capillary 68 is set so that the liquid existing in the channel 48 flows by capillarity. Therefore, the channel cross-sectional area of capillary 68 is smaller than the channel cross-sectional area of any of channels 48 . Electrodes 62 are provided in the communicating portions 56 on both sides of the capillary 68 .

Side holes 64 corresponding to the electrodes 62 are formed in one side surface 46A of the cartridge 46, as shown in FIG. A side hole 64 is a hole that reaches the electrode 62 from one of the two sides (one side 46A) of the analysis tool 42 . As will be described later, a voltage can be applied between the two electrodes 62 by inserting a power supply probe 194 (an example of a power supply member) of the analyzer 102 into the side hole 64 of the cartridge 46 and bringing it into contact with the electrodes 62 . It is possible.

The one side 46A and the other side 46B of the cartridge 46 are the same as the one side 42A and the other side 42B of the analytical tool 42, respectively.

In this embodiment, the capillary 68 has a structure in which a groove formed in the lower plate 44B is covered with the upper plate 44A. Therefore, in effect, the capillaries 68 are formed in the bottom plate 44B of the tip 44. As shown in FIG.

The analytical tool 42 (cartridge 46 and chip 44) has an insertion hole 70 formed at an intermediate position of the capillary 68 from the top side. In this embodiment, the upper plate 44A of the chip 44 is also partially formed with the insertion hole 70 .

An irradiation member 176 (see FIG. 4) of the analysis device 102 is inserted into the insertion hole 70 . The irradiation member 176 is a member that irradiates a sample electrophoresed in the capillary 68 with light from an irradiation section 176A at the tip. The irradiation portion 176A of the irradiation member 176 is in contact with the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, the chip 44 is formed with an isosceles triangular cut 72 in plan view on the same side as the other side surface 42B of the analysis tool 42 . The notch 72 is an example of the recess 71 . The notch 72 has two inclined surfaces 72A and 72B that are inclined with respect to the introduction direction of the analysis tool 42 (back side, arrow D1 direction). A positioning pin 140A, which will be described later, is fitted into the notch 72 . Then, the inclined surfaces 72A and 72B come into contact with the positioning pin 140A.

A notch 73 is also formed as a concave portion 71 at a position different from the notch 72 in the chip 44 . Unlike the cut 72, the cut 73 has a substantially trapezoidal or rectangular shape in a plan view, and is fitted with a positioning pin 140B, which will be described later. Then, the inner surface 71D comes into contact with the positioning pin 140B.

The concave portion 71 may have three or more cuts in addition to the configuration of the cuts 72 and 73 described above, and its shape is not limited to the shape of the cuts 72 or 73. . In any case, any shape can be used as long as it can contact or fit with a contact member such as a positioning pin of the analyzer and can position the analysis tool.

The other side surface 46B of the cartridge 46 is formed with an escape portion 46C (see FIG. 9) for avoiding contact with the positioning pins 140A and 140B.

The analysis tool 42 has the cartridge 46 mounted above the chip 44, and in this state, the claw portion 74 formed on the cartridge 46 is engaged with the chip 44, and the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 are integrated. . By bringing the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 relatively close to each other in the integrated state, the cartridge 46 and the chip 44 can be fitted. When the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 are integrated and fitted together, the analytical tool 42 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. In addition, when the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 are fitted together, it is possible to analyze the components of the sample electrophoresed in the capillary 68 .

The operation of fitting the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 may be performed by an analysis operator, but is also performed in the analysis device 102 as will be described later. In the mated state, the bottom membrane 58 is perforated by the protrusion 50 on the corresponding side of the bottom membrane 58 . The convex portion 50 is an example of a perforating protrusion that perforates the bottom film 58 that forms the bottom surface of the liquid tank 52, but any shape can be employed as long as the bottom film 58 can be opened.

As described above, an example consisting of the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 is shown as the analysis tool 42, but one side is pushed into the pushing member 128 provided in the analysis device 102 described later, and after being pushed by the pushing member 128, Any shape may be used as long as it has a configuration in which the other side surface on the opposite side of the one side surface contacts the contact member. For example, regardless of the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, it may be an oval columnar shape, a columnar shape having a stepped side surface, or the like. In addition, it is preferable that the analysis tool 42 includes a capillary into which the electrophoretic solution and the sample are introduced, and the sample is electrophoresed. Any analysis tool containing a sample may be used. For example, analysis tools used for electrochemical assays, colorimetric assays, immunological assays, etc. can be mentioned, regardless of the analytical tools used for electrophoresis. In either case, it can be used when the positioning of the analysis tool in the measuring device is required.

<Internal configuration of analyzer>
As shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, an introduction section 120 is provided inside the housing 104 (see FIG. 1) of the analyzer 102 at a position where the tray 118 is accommodated. The analysis tool 42 placed on the tray 118 is introduced into the introduction section 120 by retracting the tray 118 into the housing 104 (moving to the back side). The introduction part 120 is a part into which the analysis tool 42 having the electrode 62 for electrophoresis of the sample is introduced in the capillary 68 .

The introduction section 120 has an installation section 122 and a pressing member 124 and a measurement member 126 above the installation section 122 . As will be described later, the measuring member 126 is a member that measures the components of the sample contained in the analytical tool 42 while the analytical tool 42 is introduced into the introduction section 120 . More specifically, in the present embodiment, it is a member that measures the components of a sample using light that illuminates the sample migrating in the capillary 68 of the analysis tool 42 . As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, the measurement member 126 includes an absorbance sensor 186 and a measurement unit 190 that identifies the type and amount of sample components based on data from the absorbance sensor 186 .

The installation portion 122 includes a general portion 122A at a predetermined height when the analyzer 102 is viewed in the depth direction (direction of arrow D), and a base portion 122B protruding upward from the central portion in the width direction of the general portion 122A. ,have. The analysis tool 42 is installed on the pedestal portion 122B in the installation portion 122 . With the analysis tool 42 installed on the pedestal portion 122B, the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42 and the channel 48 are horizontal.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the introduction portion 120 is provided with a pushing member 128 .

A pushing rod 134 is held on the pushing member 128 by a holding mechanism (not shown). The pushing rod 134 can move forward and backward toward one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42 . The tip of the pushing rod 134 is a pushing portion 134P that contacts and pushes one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42. As shown in FIG.

A pushing spring (not shown) is attached to the pushing rod 134 . Then, the pushing rod 134 is pushed in the direction of the arrow P1 via this pushing spring by a pushing motor (not shown), and the push-in portion 134P at the tip comes into contact with one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42. As shown in FIG. In this state, the pushing rod 134 moves further toward the analysis tool 42 and pushes the analysis tool 42 in the arrow P1 direction. However, as will be described later, when the tip 44 of the analysis tool 42 is in contact with the positioning pins 140A and 140B and the movement of the analysis tool 42 in the direction of the arrow P1 is blocked, the push spring is compressed and the push rod 134 is suppressed from pushing the analysis tool 42 excessively. Regardless of the above, the specific configuration of the pushing member may be any configuration as long as it can contact one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42 and push the analysis tool 42 in the direction of the arrow P1.

One or more positioning pins (in this embodiment, in the depth direction) are provided on the side of the analysis tool 42 where the notch 72 of the tip 44 is formed (the other side surface 42B side), that is, on the opposite side of the push rod 134 . Two positioning pins 140A and 140B) are erected with a gap therebetween. The positioning pins 140A and 140B are examples of convex portions and also examples of contact members. Furthermore, the pushing member 128 and the contact members (positioning pins 140A and 140B) constitute an example of a positioning member for positioning the analysis tool 42 at a predetermined position.

As also shown in FIG. 9, each of the positioning pins 140A and 140B is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a conical tip (upper end). Further, the height of the positioning pins 140A and 140B reaches the lower plate 44B of the analysis tool 42 placed on the pedestal 122B, but does not reach the upper plate 44A. Furthermore, the vicinity of the upper plate 44A where the positioning pins 140A and 140B are located is formed smaller than the lower plate 44B so that even if the positioning pins are high due to dimensional errors, they do not reach the upper plate 44A. there is

The positioning pin 140A on the front side is located at the position where the notch 72 of the tip 44 is formed in the depth direction (direction of arrow D). On the other hand, the positioning pin 140B on the back side is located at the position where the recess 71 is formed on the back side of the notch 72 in the depth direction (direction of arrow D).

Positions of the positioning pins 140A and 140B in the width direction (direction of arrow W) are, as shown in FIG. . When the analysis tool 42 is pushed in the direction of the arrow P1 by the push rod 134, the lower plate 44B of the chip 44 comes into contact with the positioning pins 140A and 140B, and the analysis tool 42 is positioned in the width direction (direction of the arrow W). .

Here, when either of the two inclined surfaces 72A and 72B of the notch 72 contacts the positioning pin 140A, the analysis tool 42 also moves in the depth direction (arrow D direction). Then, as shown in FIG. 8, both of the inclined surfaces 72A and 72B are positioned to contact the positioning pin 140A.

The configuration of the contact member and the protrusions is not limited to the above, and when the analysis tool 42 is pushed in the direction of the arrow P1 and moves, it contacts the side of the analysis tool 42 on which the recess 71 is formed (the other side surface 42B side), and moves in the width direction. Any configuration may be used as long as it is configured to be positioned in the direction of arrow W. In particular, the configuration of the contact member and the convex portion can be formed according to the shape of the analytical instrument, but preferably the contact member is the convex portion. When the contact member is a convex portion, it is possible to achieve a structure in which the analysis tool reliably contacts the convex portion (protruding portion). More preferably, the contact member as the convex portion is a pin (positioning pins 140A and 140B are examples) protruding from the installation portion where the analysis tool is installed. In the structure in which the protrusion is a pin, the protrusion can be configured with a simple structure.

A pressing member 124 is provided above the installation portion 122, as also shown in FIG. The pressing member 124 has a facing wall 142 that faces the upper surface of the analysis tool 42 introduced into the introducing section 120 . The opposing wall 142 is vertically moved by a vertical drive mechanism 144 .

In this embodiment, the vertical drive mechanism 144 has an elevation motor 148 that is driven and controlled by a control device 146 . The driving force of the elevation motor 148 acts on the opposing wall 142 via a spring (not shown), and the opposing wall 142 is raised and lowered.

By driving the elevating motor 148 , the opposing wall 142 descends via the spring, and the opposing wall 142 contacts the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42 . After this contact, even if the lifting motor 148 is further driven, the spring (not shown) is compressed and the opposing wall 142 does not move down further. This realizes a structure in which the opposing wall 142 does not excessively press the analysis tool 42 .

The opposing wall 142 has a wall body 160 having a predetermined rigidity and an adhesive sheet 162 attached to the bottom surface of the wall body 160 . The adhesion sheet 162 has lower elasticity than the wall body 160 and the cartridge 46 of the analysis tool 42, and is easily elastically deformed by an external force.

That is, in a state in which the facing wall 142 is pushed toward the analysis tool 42 , the contact sheet 162 is elastically compressed in the thickness direction (vertical direction) rather than the wall body 160 and the cartridge 46 . Thereby, as shown in FIG. 16, the contact sheet 162 is brought into close contact with the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42 when the opposing wall 142 is lowered. The opposing wall 142 is also an example of the contact portion.

In particular, the analysis tool 42 of this embodiment has a plurality of liquid reservoirs 52, and one adhesive sheet 162 is brought into close contact with the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42 corresponding to the plurality of liquid reservoirs 52. FIG. Then, the analysis instrument 42 can be sandwiched between the opposing wall 142 and the installation portion 122 by being pressed in the height direction, that is, in the overlapping direction of the chip 44 and the cartridge 46 .

The wall body 160 is provided with a plurality of perforation pins 164 (the same number as the liquid tanks 52 in this embodiment) corresponding to each of the liquid tanks 52 . The piercing pin 164 is an example of a piercing member. All of the perforation pins 164 protrude below the contact sheet 162 . By lowering the opposing wall 142 , the perforation pin 164 can perforate the sealing film 54 in the corresponding liquid reservoir 52 .

When the pressing member 124 presses the analysis tool 42 and the contact sheet 162 is in close contact with the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42, the lower end of each perforation pin 164 is below the sealing film 54 as shown in FIG. side, i.e. inside the corresponding liquid reservoir 52 . A gap GP is generated between the hole HP formed by the punch pin 164 and the punch pin 164 .

As shown in FIG. 10, among the plurality of liquid tanks 52, for example, perforation pins 164 (in the example of FIG. 10, perforation pins 164A and 164E) corresponding to liquid tanks 52 in which liquid is sealed in advance, but are limited to these. ) is formed with a bent portion 165 at its tip. At the bent portion 165 , the punch pin 164 is bent in a direction (substantially right angle in the example of FIG. 10 ) intersecting the pressing direction (downward) of the pressing member 124 . The perforation pin 164 formed with such a bent portion 165 can perforate the sealing film 54 to a larger extent than the perforation pin 164 without the bent portion 165 formed therein. The gap GP occurring between 164 also becomes larger.

The facing wall 142 (the adhesion sheet 162 and the wall body 160) is formed with a spatial recess 166 that surrounds each of the punch pins 164 and that is recessed upward. That is, a space concave portion 166 is formed in the opposing wall 142, which is an example of the contact portion. The space recess 166 is a part of the opposed wall 142 around the piercing pin 164 that is partially recessed in a direction away from each of the liquid reservoirs 52 . Due to the presence of such spatial recesses 166 , sealed spaces 168 are formed between each of the liquid reservoirs 52 and the opposing wall 142 . A sealing member is a configuration for forming a closed space 168 between the analysis tool 42 and the perforation site by the perforation member by using the space recess 166 of the analysis device 102 and the upper surface of the analysis tool 42 in this way. . Of course, depending on the shape of the analysis device 102 and the analysis tool 42, the shape and formation method of the sealed space and the shape of the sealing member can be changed as appropriate.

The facing wall 142 is provided with a gas introduction pipe 170 as an example of a gas introduction member corresponding to each of the space recesses 166 . The lower end of the gas introduction pipe 170 is a gas inlet/outlet 170A through which fluid enters and exits the closed space 168 . In the present embodiment, the lower end position of any of the plurality of gas introduction pipes 170, that is, the position of the gas inlet/outlet port 170A, is the same position as the upper surface 166T of the recessed space 166. It is a structure in which the doorway 170A is located in the sealed space 168 without protruding.

A pump 172 is connected to the gas introduction pipe 170 . By driving the pump 172 , it is possible to send air to the closed space 168 or suck air from the closed space 168 . In addition, it is possible to provide one common pump 172 for a plurality of gas introduction pipes 170 via a branch pipe. A switching structure can be adopted.

As shown in FIG. 11, the gas introduction pipe 170 and the perforation pin 164 are displaced in the horizontal direction (at least one of the depth direction and the width direction). That is, the gas inlet/outlet port 170A of the gas introduction pipe 170 is located along the film surface of the sealing film 54 at a position displaced from the perforation portion (hole portion HP) by the perforation pin 164 .

The piercing pin 164 described above is an example of a piercing member. The piercing member may have any shape as long as it can pierce the sealing film 54 on the upper surface of the liquid reservoir 52 in the analysis tool 42 . The gas introduction pipe 170 described above is also an example of the gas introduction member, and may have any shape as long as it introduces the gas into the closed space. However, in this embodiment, the perforating member and the gas introducing member are separate members. In either case, the shape is such that the liquid in the liquid tank 52 can be prevented from adhering to the gas introduction member that introduces the gas into the liquid tank 52 of the analysis tool 42. It has a shape that can suppress the inflow of liquid.

As shown in FIG. 10, an insertion hole 174 is formed in the facing wall 142 . An irradiation member 176 is inserted through the insertion hole 174 . Light from a light emitting unit (not shown) is guided to the irradiation member 176 by, for example, an optical fiber. The irradiating member 176 is a member that irradiates the light from an irradiating section 176A at the tip. Substantially, the illumination member 176 may be constructed as part of an optical fiber. It should be noted that an LED chip, an optical filter, a lens, or the like that emits light in a predetermined wavelength range may be provided, and the light emitting portion may have a shape such as a slit.

Since the irradiation member 176 is inserted through the insertion hole 174 , displacement in the horizontal direction with respect to the opposing wall 142 is suppressed.

The position of the insertion hole 174 is a position corresponding to the insertion hole 70 of the analysis tool 42 positioned at a predetermined position in the introduction portion 120 . Also, the outer diameter of the irradiation member 176 is smaller than the inner diameter of the insertion hole 174 . Thereby, the structure is such that the irradiation member 176 can be inserted into the insertion hole 70 . A lower portion of the irradiation member 176 is a protruding portion 176T that protrudes below the contact sheet 162 .

A restriction plate 178 wider than the insertion hole 174 is attached to the upper portion of the irradiation member 176 , that is, the side opposite to the side protruding from the pressing member 124 . The restriction plate 178 is an example of a restriction member that restricts the amount of projection of the projecting portion toward the analysis tool within a certain range, but it can take any shape as long as it has a restriction function. Also, one or a plurality of struts 180 are erected upward from the facing wall 142 , and the struts 180 pass through the restricting plate 178 .

A facing plate 182 wider than the support 180 is formed at the tip of the support 180 . A restricting plate 178 is positioned between the opposing wall 142 and the opposing plate 182 , and the restricting plate 178 can move vertically while being guided by the strut 180 . Confined between plates 182 . As a result, the projecting range of the projecting portion 176T (the projecting length projecting from the opposing wall 142) can also be limited to a predetermined range, and excessive projecting of the projecting portion 176T from the opposing wall 142 can be suppressed. The opposing wall 142 and the opposing plate 182 are paired and face the restricting plate 178 on both sides of the projecting portion 176T in the advancing/retreating direction. That is, the opposing wall 142 and the opposing plate 182 are an example of a pair of opposing members. The facing wall 142 also serves as part of the facing member. As a result, the number of parts is reduced compared to a structure in which the facing wall 142 is a separate member from the facing member.

A spring 184 is interposed between the restricting plate 178 and the opposing plate 182 . The urging force of the spring 184 urges the irradiation member 176 downward via the restricting plate 178 . The spring 184 that applies this biasing force is an example of a biasing member that biases the projecting portion 176T in the projecting direction from the pressing member 124 . As long as it has such an urging function, the urging member can take any shape. As a result, the protruding portion 176T of the irradiation member 176 can maintain a state of protruding from the opposing wall 142 with a predetermined protruding length. 14 and 15, the downward movement range of the projecting portion 176T is limited to a predetermined range by the contact of the limiting plate 178 with the opposing wall 142. As shown in FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 14, when the limit plate 178 is in contact with the opposing wall 142, the maximum protrusion length TL of the protrusion 176T is longer than the depth SD of the insertion hole .

Therefore, when the opposing wall 142 is lowered and the irradiation member 176 is inserted into the insertion hole 70 , the irradiation portion 176A at the tip comes into contact with the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70 . In this manner, the irradiation member 176 and the restricting plate 178 descend while maintaining a constant positional relationship with the opposing wall 142 until the irradiation section 176A contacts the bottom section 70B.

In this state, even if the opposing wall 142 tries to move further downward, since there is a gap between the restricting plate 178 and the opposing plate 182, the opposing wall 142 is moved by reducing the gap (while compressing the spring 184). 142 moves downward, but the irradiation member 176 does not move downward (see FIG. 16).

In this embodiment, the direction in which the pressing member 124 presses the analysis tool 42 (the direction in which the opposing wall 142 approaches the analysis tool 42) and the direction in which the irradiation member 176 approaches the analysis tool 42 are the same. Since the movement trajectory of the pressing member 124 and the movement trajectory of the irradiation member partially overlap, these members can be arranged in a space-saving manner compared to a structure in which these movement trajectories are separated without overlapping. .

The introduction part 120 is provided with an absorbance sensor 186 at a position below the insertion hole 70 in the analysis tool 42 set at a predetermined position. The sample electrophoresing in the capillary 68 is irradiated with light from the irradiation member 176, and measurement is performed by the measurement member 126 based on the transmitted light that has passed through the sample. For example, the absorbance sensor 186 detects absorbance based on this transmitted light. Further, for example, the measurement member includes, for example, a photodiode, a photo IC, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 10, the opposing wall 142 is further provided with a plurality of tilt detection rods 188 as an example of a tilt detection section. The tilt detection unit is a member that detects the tilt of the analysis tool 42 introduced into the introduction unit 120, that is, the tilt with respect to the horizontal direction (specifically, whether it is tilted or not). This inclination can be detected both in the width direction as shown in FIG. 12 and in the depth direction as shown in FIG. Each of the tilt detection rods 188 is held vertically movably with respect to the opposing wall 142 .

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the position of the lower end of the tilt detection rod 188 is a position where the analysis tool 42 introduced into the introduction section 120 does not come into contact with the analysis tool 42 when it is not tilted. However, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, it is set at a predetermined position so that the lower end of the tilt detection rod 188 comes into contact when the analysis tool 42 is tilted. When the facing wall 142 is further lowered while the tilt detecting rod 188 is in contact with the analysis tool 42 , the tilt detecting rod 188 moves upward relative to the facing wall 142 . Upon detecting such upward movement of the tilt detection rod 188, the control device 146 can determine that the analysis tool 42 is tilted and perform a predetermined process.

As shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, feeding probes 194 corresponding to the side holes 64 of the analysis tool 42 are projected from the introduction portion 120 . The power supply probe 194 advances or retreats with respect to one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42 by the driving force of a motor (not shown) controlled by the control device 146 .

The power supply probe 194 is an example of a power supply member. Each of the plurality of power supply probes 194 is advanced with respect to one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42, inserted into the corresponding side hole 64, and contacts the electrode 62. As shown in FIG.

The power supply probe 194 is positioned to the side of the analytical instrument 42 held at a predetermined position in the introduction section 120, and does not exist other than to the side. Therefore, a structure is realized in which various members can be arranged at positions avoiding the feeding probe 194 . For example, the pressing member 124 is arranged above the analysis tool 42, and interference between the pressing member 124 and the power feeding probe 194 is suppressed. Moreover, the installation section 122 is arranged below the analysis tool 42 , and interference between the power supply probe 194 and the installation section 122 is also suppressed. The shape of the power supply member is not particularly limited as long as power can be supplied to the electrode 62 .

Next, the operation of the analysis device 102 of this embodiment and the method of analyzing the components of the sample in the analysis tool 42 will be described.

First, a part of the flow channel 48 of the analysis tool 42 is filled with a sample (blood in this embodiment).

By performing a predetermined input operation on the touch panel of the analyzer 102, the opening/closing lid 114 is moved forward and the tray 118 is exposed, as indicated by the two-dot chain line in FIG.

With the analysis tool 42 containing the sample placed on the tray 118, the tray 118 and the opening/closing lid 114 are pushed (or a predetermined operation is performed from the touch panel (not shown) of the analysis device 102) to move the tray 118 to the back side. move to As a result, the analysis tool 42 is introduced into the introduction section 120 as shown in FIG. Then, the analysis tool 42 is installed on the pedestal portion 122B of the installation portion 122 .

The analyzer 102 has a tilt detector. Therefore, in this state, the analyzer 102 detects the inclination of the analysis tool 42 by means of this inclination detector. Specifically, the control device 146 drives the elevation motor 148 to lower the opposing wall 142 of the pressing member 124 to a predetermined position.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 12 or FIG. 13 , if the analysis tool 42 is tilted, part of the plurality of tilt detection rods 188 will come into contact with the analysis tool 42 . In this case, the control device 146 stops driving the lifting motor 148 and performs predetermined processing corresponding to the tilting of the analysis tool 42 . The "predetermined process" referred to here includes, for example, a process of temporarily stopping the component analysis of the sample and notifying the operator of the inclination of the analysis tool 42, and the like.

Since a plurality of tilt detection rods 188 are provided, it is possible to suppress deterioration in tilt detection accuracy due to the tilt direction and tilt amount (tilt angle) of the analysis tool 42 .

Note that the structure of the tilt detection unit that detects the tilt of the analysis tool 42 is not limited to the one described above. For example, a structure may be employed in which the tilt is detected by irradiating the analysis tool 42 with light from a plurality of positions.

When the analysis tool 42 is not tilted (including when the tilt is within the allowable range), the controller 146 positions the analysis tool 42 (executes the positioning direction). In this state, as shown in FIG. 6, the notch 72 of the analysis tool 42 and the positioning pin 140A are out of contact, and the recess 71 and the positioning pin 140B are also out of contact.

The controller 146 drives a pushing motor (not shown), and pushes one side 46A of the analysis tool 42 with the pushing rod 134 . As a result, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the tip 44 of the analysis tool 42 contacts the positioning pins 140A and 140B, so that the analysis tool 42 is positioned at a predetermined position.

In particular, in this embodiment, the height of the positioning pin 140A reaches the lower plate 44B of the chip 44 but does not reach the upper plate 44A. The analysis tool 42 is positioned by contacting the lower plate 44B of the chip 44 with the positioning pins 140A and 140B. Since the capillaries 68 are formed in the lower plate 44B of the chip 44, the capillaries 68 can be substantially positioned accurately.

A notch 72 is formed in the chip 44 . When the analysis tool 42 approaches toward the positioning pin 140A, one of the inclined surfaces 72A and 72B contacts the positioning pin 140A, and the analysis tool 42 is further pushed in, the analysis tool 42 moves in the depth direction (arrow D direction). Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the analysis tool 42 is positioned at a position where both the inclined surface 72A and the inclined surface 72B contact the positioning pin 140A. That is, the analysis tool 42 is positioned not only in the width direction (direction of arrow W) but also in the direction of depth (direction of arrow D: introduction direction to introduction portion 120).

In this state, the positioning pin 140A is fitted in the notch 72, and the positioning pin 140B is fitted in the notch 73, so that the analysis tool 42 is prevented from shifting in the depth direction while being positioned.

Next, the control device 146 drives the elevation motor 148 to lower the opposing wall 142 . Thereby, as shown in FIG. 14, the irradiation member 176 also descends and approaches the analysis tool 42 . Since the analysis tool 42 is already positioned at a predetermined position and the insertion hole 70 is also positioned, the irradiation member 176 is inserted into the insertion hole 70 without contacting the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42 .

Then, as shown in FIG. 15 , the irradiation portion 176A at the lower end of the irradiation member 176 contacts the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70 . In this state, as shown in FIG. 16, even if the elevation motor 148 is further driven, the irradiation member 176 and the limiting plate 178 do not descend, so the irradiation portion 176A of the irradiation member 176 is strongly pushed by the bottom portion 70B and damaged. can be suppressed.

In addition, due to the descent of the opposing wall 142 , each of the plurality of perforation pins 164 perforates the sealing film 54 of the corresponding liquid reservoir 52 . Then, the contact sheet 162 is brought into contact with the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42. As shown in FIG.

In this state, as shown in FIG. 11 , a closed space 168 is formed between each of the plurality of liquid reservoirs 52 and the analysis tool 42 around the perforated portion by the perforation pin 164 . Since the contact sheet 162 is in surface contact with the upper surface 42T of the analysis tool 42, the closed space 168 can be more reliably maintained in a sealed state, compared to a structure in which the contact member linearly contacts.

In this state, the analytical instrument 42 is vertically sandwiched between the installation portion 122 on which the analytical instrument 42 is installed and the pressing member 124, so that the cartridge 46 and the chip 44 are fitted. Then, as shown in FIG. 17, the projections 50 perforate the corresponding bottom film 58, so that the liquid can flow downward from the liquid tank 52 having the perforated bottom film 58. As shown in FIG. However, since the cartridge 46 and the chip 44 are in close contact with each other in the vertical direction, leakage of liquid from the liquid tank 52 in which the bottom membrane 58 is perforated into the gap between the cartridge 46 and the chip 44 is suppressed.

Since the analysis tool 42 is pressed by the pressing member 124 and held between the installation portion 122 and the pressing member 124, positional displacement of the analysis tool 42 is suppressed. In this embodiment, since the analysis tool 42 is positioned by the positioning member, the analysis tool 42 can be maintained in a positioned state by pressing the analysis tool 42 with the pressing member 124 .

Moreover, even with a structure that requires a large force to fit the cartridge 46 and the chip 44, since the analytical instrument 42 is sandwiched between the installation portion 122 and the pressing member 124 and pressed, the cartridge 46 and the chip 44 can be securely attached. can be mated. Moreover, the analyzing tool 42 can be pressed by the pressing member 124 while maintaining the state in which the irradiation member 176 is inserted into the insertion hole 70 .

Here, the controller 146 drives the pump 172 (see FIG. 11) to supply and suck the gas to and from the specific liquid tank 52 at predetermined timings. Since a gap GP is generated between the perforation pin 164 and the sealing film 54 at the perforation location by the perforation pin 164, the air passing through the gap GP between the sealed space 168 and the corresponding liquid tank 52 is prevented. It is possible to move.

As an example, first, as shown in FIG. 17, air is introduced (pressurized) into one liquid tank 52 (left liquid tank 52 in FIG. 17). As a result, the sample is diluted with liquid LA, stirred, and sent to another liquid tank 52 through a specific flow path 48 .

Further, as shown in FIG. 18, air is introduced (pressurized) into a different liquid tank (liquid tank 52 on the right side in FIG. 18). As a result, the liquid LA in the corresponding liquid tank 52 is filled in the channel 48 connected to this liquid tank 52 . Then, as shown in FIG. 19, the capillary 68 is filled with liquid by capillary action.

Thus, the perforation pin 164 that perforates the sealing film 54 and the gas introduction pipe 170 that introduces gas (fluid) into the sealed space 168 are separate members. A gas inlet/outlet port 170A at the lower end of each gas introduction pipe 170 is positioned inside the corresponding sealed space 168 . Therefore, the liquid in the liquid tank 52 is suppressed from entering the inside of the gas introduction pipe 170 . For example, it is possible to prevent the diluted sample from remaining inside the gas introduction tube 170 during the previous sample analysis, and to prevent the remaining diluted sample from being mixed with the diluted sample during the next analysis.

Further, in the present embodiment, the gas inlet/outlet port 170A is positioned along the film surface of the sealing film 54 at a position offset from the perforated portion by the perforating pin 164 . Therefore, even if the liquid in the liquid tank 52 reaches the closed space 168 through the gap between the perforation pin 164 and the sealing film 54, the liquid can be prevented from flowing into the gas inlet/outlet 170A.

Furthermore, even if a part of the member constituting the sealing film 54 is broken by the perforation of the sealing film 54 by the perforating pin 164, the gas inlet/outlet port 170A is separated from the perforated portion. , the debris can be prevented from entering the gas inlet/outlet 170A.

Next, the control device 146 drives a pushing motor (not shown) to bring the power supply probe 194 closer to one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42 as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 . The power supply probes 194 are inserted into the corresponding side holes 64 and come into contact with the electrodes 62 . At this stage, the analysis tool 42 is positioned in the depth direction. That is, since the analysis tool 42 is positioned in a direction that intersects (perpendicularly in the example of FIG. 21) the direction in which the power supply probe 194 approaches the analysis tool 42, the tip of the power supply probe 194 touches one side surface 46A of the analysis tool 42. It is securely inserted into the side hole 64 without contacting the .

In this state, the controller 146 applies a predetermined voltage between the electrodes 62 from the power supply probe 194, as shown in FIG. Thereby, the components of the sample are electrophoresed in the capillary 68 . Also, at this time, the control device 146 irradiates light from the irradiation section 176A of the irradiation member 176 . Then, the absorbance of the electrophoresed diluted sample is detected by the absorbance sensor 186 to measure the components of the sample.

At this time, the irradiation portion 176A of the irradiation member 176 is in contact with the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70 . That is, the irradiation section 176A is in a position close to the capillary 68, and the distance is kept constant. Therefore, the sample electrophoresed in the capillary 68 can be stably irradiated with light.

In addition, since the analysis tool 42 is sandwiched between the facing wall 142 of the pressing member 124 and the installation portion 122 and held at a predetermined position, the position of the analysis tool 42 is stabilized. Since the capillary 68 is formed in the chip 44 of the analysis tool 42, the position of the capillary 68 is also stable. Therefore, the component analysis of the sample can be performed more accurately.

After the component analysis of the sample is completed, the control device 146 retracts the power supply probe 194 and pulls it out of the side hole 64, raises the opposing wall 142 to release the pressure of the analysis device 102, and furthermore, the irradiation member 176 is pulled out from the insertion hole 70. Furthermore, the pushing rod 134 is retracted and separated from the analyzer 102 .

Then, the opening/closing lid 114 and the tray 118 are moved forward to make it possible to take out the analysis tool 42 . The analysis tool 42 after the analysis is finished can be discarded.

In this embodiment, the analysis tool 42 contains and packages a sample to be measured and liquids required for measurement (diluent LA and electrophoretic liquid LB). The analyzer 102 does not need to set liquids necessary for measurement in advance, and does not require a reservoir for temporarily storing these liquids, a pump for sending them to the measurement site, or the like. Therefore, the analysis device 102 can be simplified in structure and miniaturized.

Although the rod-shaped positioning pins 140A and 140B are mentioned above as an example of the contact member, the contact member is not limited to such rod-shaped pins, and may be, for example, a plate-shaped member. Using a rod-shaped pin as the contact member allows the contact member to be arranged even in a narrower space than a plate-shaped member. By providing a plurality of rod-shaped pins, rotation of the analysis tool 42 in contact with the pins can be suppressed and stable positioning can be achieved, compared to a configuration in which only one pin is provided.

[Second to fifth embodiments, reference examples]
Next, second to fifth embodiments and reference examples will be described. In each of the following embodiments and reference examples, the overall configuration of the analyzer is the same as in the first embodiment, so detailed description is omitted. Elements, members, and the like that are the same as in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

In the analyzer 202 of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the lower end portion of the gas introduction pipe 170 protrudes below the upper surface 106 of the space recess 166 to form a protruding portion 170B. The lower end portion of gas introduction pipe 170 is also the tip portion including gas inlet/outlet port 170A.

In the second embodiment, the lower end portion of the gas introduction pipe 170 protrudes in this way. Therefore, even if the liquid that has flowed into the closed space 168 moves along the upper surface 106 toward the gas introduction pipe 170, the gas introduction pipe 170 itself dams up the liquid, so that the liquid does not flow into the gas inlet/outlet port 170A. Inflow can be suppressed.

In the analyzer 302 of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 24, a wall member 196 extending downward from the upper surface 106 of the spatial recess 166 is formed. A wall member 196 is positioned between the piercing pin 164 and the gas introduction tube 170 . Moreover, the position of the lower end of the wall member 196 is a position that does not contact the sealing film 54 and creates a gap with the sealing film 54 .

Since the third embodiment has the wall member 196 as described above, even if the liquid flowing into the closed space 168 moves along the upper surface 106 toward the gas introduction pipe 170, the wall member 196 prevents the liquid from flowing. can be blocked. This can prevent the liquid from flowing into the gas inlet/outlet 170A. The shape of the wall member 196 is not limited as long as it is positioned between the perforating member (the perforating pin 164 as an example) and the gas introducing member (the gas introducing pipe 170 as an example). That is, regardless of the shape of the wall member, movement of the liquid along the upper surface 106 toward the gas introduction pipe 170 can be blocked in the closed space 168 .

In the analysis device 402 of the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 25, the structure of the second embodiment (the protrusion 170B is configured at the lower end portion of the gas introduction pipe 170) and the structure of the third embodiment (the wall member 196 is formed). Therefore, in the fourth embodiment, it is possible to more reliably prevent the liquid that has flowed into the sealed space 168 from flowing into the gas inlet/outlet port 170A.

FIG. 26 partially shows the analysis device 502 of the reference example. In the structure shown in FIG. 26 , the gas introduction pipe 170 also serves as the perforation pin 164 , and the tip of the gas introduction pipe 170 can perforate the sealing film 54 . A gas inlet/outlet 170A is formed on the side surface of the gas introduction pipe 170 so as to be positioned above the sealing film 54, that is, inside the sealed space 168. As shown in FIG.

Even in the structure of the reference example, since the gas inlet/outlet 170A is not located in the liquid tank 52, it is possible to suppress the liquid in the liquid tank 52 from flowing into the gas inlet/outlet 170A.

In the first to fourth embodiments and the reference example described above, the irradiation portion 176A, which is the tip portion of the illumination member 176, contacts the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70, and the illumination member 176 approaches (falls) to the analysis tool 42. ) is a restricted structure. On the other hand, it may further have a structure for restricting the access of the illumination member 176 to the analysis tool 42 .

27 to 29 partially show an analysis device 502 according to a fifth embodiment, which further has a structure for restricting access of the illumination member 176 to the analysis tool 42 from the viewpoint described above.

In the analyzer 502 of the fifth embodiment, the restriction plate 178 is provided with a protruding portion 178D that protrudes laterally beyond the opposing wall 142 . For example, the protruding portion 178D may be configured by forming the restriction wall 178 to be large (wide) as a whole, or may be formed by partially protruding the restriction plate 178 in a bar shape. .

A limiting wall 504 is provided in the housing 104 (see FIG. 1 showing the first embodiment) of the analysis device 502 . The limiting wall 504 is provided at a predetermined position so that the protruding portion 178D comes into contact with the limiting plate 178 together with the opposing wall 142 when it reaches a predetermined height position as shown in FIG. In this state, the irradiation portion 176A of the lighting member 176 is at a predetermined position from the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70, and the protruding portion 178D contacts the limiting wall 504, so the limiting plate 178 does not descend further.

In the fifth embodiment having such a structure, it is possible to physically restrict the lowering of the limiting plate 178 while the irradiation portion 176A of the lighting member 176 is at a predetermined position from the bottom portion 70B of the insertion hole 70 . In this state, the sample electrophoresing in the capillary 68 can be irradiated with light from the irradiation section 176A.

The structure of the fifth embodiment is a structure that can be effectively adopted, for example, when the height position of the bottom portion 70B varies due to individual differences in the analysis tools 42. FIG.

In the fifth embodiment, the irradiation section 176A may or may not be in contact with the bottom section 70B. In the structure in which the irradiation section 176A is in contact with the bottom section 70B, the position of the irradiation section 176A with respect to the bottom section 70B is stable. In addition, the biasing force of the spring 184 can be applied to the analytical instrument 42 and the restricting wall 504 in a distributed manner. On the other hand, if the irradiation section 176A is not in contact with the bottom section 70B, a structure can be realized in which the biasing force of the spring 184 is not applied to the analysis tool 42. FIG.

When the illumination portion 176A contacts the bottom portion 70B, the illumination member 176 operates as follows. The contacts are substantially simultaneous. However, substantially, first, the irradiation section 176A comes into contact with the bottom section 70B, and while the analysis tool 42 is slightly deformed at the position of the bottom section 70B (to the extent that it does not affect the analysis), the protruding section 178D is brought into contact with the restriction wall 504. A contacting operation order can be adopted. Conversely, the protrusion 178D may first come into contact with the limiting wall 504, and while the limiting wall 504 is deformed, the irradiation section 176A may come into contact with the bottom 70B.

As for the operation of the illumination member 176 when the irradiation portion 176A is not in contact with the bottom portion 70B, the protruding portion 178D contacts the limiting wall 504 before the irradiation portion 176A contacts the bottom portion 70B. That is, if the descent of the lighting member 176 is stopped at this stage, the protruding portion 178D is supported by the limiting wall 504, and the subsequent descent is limited, so that the state where the illuminating portion 176A does not come into contact with the bottom portion 70B can be maintained. .

42 Analysis tool 44 Chip 44A Upper plate 44B Lower plate 46 Cartridge 46A One side 46B Other side 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D, 50E, 50F Projection 52 Liquid tank 54 Sealing film 58 Bottom film 62 Electrode 64 Side hole 66 Bottom film 68 capillary 70 insertion hole 70B bottom 72 notch 72A, 72B inclined surface 102 analyzer 120 introduction part 122 installation part 124 pressing member 126 measuring member 128 pushing member 134 pushing rods 140A, 140B positioning pin 142 facing wall 144 vertical drive mechanism 146 control Device 162 Adhesive sheet 164 Perforated pin 165 Bent portion 166 Spatial recess 166T Upper surface 168 Sealed space 170 Gas introduction pipe 170A Gas inlet/outlet 170B Projection 174 Insertion hole 176 Irradiation member 176A Irradiation unit 176T Projection 186 Absorbance sensor 188 Tilt detection rod 192 Push motor 194 feeding probe 196 wall member 202 analyzer 302 analyzer 402 analyzer 502 analyzer 504 limiting wall

Claims (8)

the analytical tool containing the samplebe placedan installation section;
A facing wall provided above the installation section so as to come into contact with the upper surface of the analysis instrument by moving downward with respect to the analysis instrument placed on the installation section, and provided with an insertion hole from the upper surface to the lower surface. When,
an opposing plate provided above the opposing wall and moving together with the opposing wall;
a limiting plate provided between the facing wall and the facing plate so as to move upward and away from the facing wall;
attached to the restricting plate downward from the restricting plate, inserted through the insertion hole of the opposing wall, and protruding downward from the opposing wall; an irradiating member that irradiates the sample with light;
The facing wall is configured such that the tip of the irradiation member protruding from the facing wall contacts the analysis tool, and the lower surface of the facing wall contacts the analysis tool and presses the analysis tool downward. a drive mechanism for moving the wall downward;
a measurement member for measuring the components of the sample by means of the light emitted from the irradiation member to the sample of the analysis tool installed in the installation section;
analyzer. 2. The analysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the analysis tool is pressed by the opposing wall while the irradiation member is inserted into an insertion hole formed in the analysis tool. 3. The analysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the direction in which said analysis tool is pressed by said opposing wall and the direction in which said irradiation member approaches said analysis tool are the same. It is interposed between the restricting plate and the opposing plate and allows the restricting plate to move downward. biasing member to bias,
The analyzer according to claim 3, comprising: 3. The analyzer according to claim 2 , wherein a maximum value of a projection length of a projecting portion, which is a portion of the irradiation member that projects downward from the facing wall, is longer than the depth of the insertion hole. The restriction plate wider than the hole diameter of the insertion holeClaim 1The analyzer described in . a positioning member for positioning the analysis tool at a predetermined position ;
has
The analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the facing wall presses the analysis tool positioned by the positioning member. The analysis tool comprises a chip having a capillary in which the sample migrates, and a cartridge having a liquid reservoir and superimposed on the chip,
8. The opposing wall presses the analysis instrument in the direction in which the chip and the cartridge are superimposed, sandwiches the analysis instrument between the mounting portion and the chip, and fits the chip and the cartridge together. or the analysis device according to item 1.

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