JP7189054B2 - automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to automated analyzers.

An automatic analyzer is known that has a mechanism (automatic reagent loading mechanism) that automatically transfers a reagent container (reagent bottle) to a reagent storage when the reagent container (reagent bottle) is loaded into the reagent loading unit. In the automatic reagent loading mechanism, the reagent bottle is automatically transferred from the reagent storage to the reagent loading unit when the reagent bottle is taken out.

Further, a reagent bottle used in an automatic analyzer has a lid (cap) attached to the reagent outlet of the reagent bottle, for example, in order to prevent deterioration of the reagent. For example, it is recommended that a reagent bottle containing a specific reagent (a specific reagent bottle) should be capped during storage (while the device is powered off).

In an automatic analyzer equipped with an automatic reagent loading mechanism, for example, when the operator wants to take out a specific reagent bottle, the operator can select the reagent bottle individually on the screen displaying the information of the reagent bottle in the reagent storage (reagent storage information). must be selected. Therefore, when the operator wants to take out a plurality of reagent bottles, it is necessary for the operator to select all of the plurality of reagent bottles, which is troublesome.

JP 2011-13235 A

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to easily take out a specific reagent bottle in an automatic analyzer equipped with an automatic reagent loading mechanism.

An automatic analyzer according to an embodiment includes a reagent storage, a storage section, a selection section, and an automatic reagent loading mechanism. The reagent storage stores a plurality of reagent bottles. The storage unit stores cap information indicating whether at least one or more specific reagent bottles out of the plurality of reagent bottles require a cap during storage. The selection unit selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. The automatic reagent loading mechanism transfers the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent loading section for loading the reagent bottle.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism in FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of reagent storage information generation processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a reagent library according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of barcode information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of reagent storage information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the reagent bottle extraction process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of the reagent storage window according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of the cleaning window according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example of cap confirmation processing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of a reagent storage window according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a display example of a confirmation window according to the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation example of forget-to-return confirmation processing according to the third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of a confirmation window according to the third embodiment. FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing an operation example of cap forgetting confirmation processing according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a display example of a confirmation window according to the fourth embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic analyzer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8 (storage section) and a control circuit 9 (control section).

The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample with reagents used for various test items set for the sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures a mixture of a sample and a reagent, and generates standard data and test data associated with, for example, absorbance. Also, the analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixture of the sample and the reagent, and generates, for example, standard data and test data associated with the electrode potential.

The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes the generated standard data and test data to generate calibration data, analysis data, and the like. The analysis circuit 3 reads the operation program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data, analysis data, etc. according to the read operation program. For example, based on the standard data, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data indicating the relationship between the standard data and standard values preset for the standard sample. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analysis data based on the test data and the calibration data of the test items corresponding to the test data. The analysis data includes data in which concentration values and enzyme activity values are associated with each other, and data in which the concentrations of desired ions in samples are recorded in time series. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analysis data, and the like to the control circuit 9 .

The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9 . The drive mechanism 4 is implemented by gears, stepping motors, belt conveyors, lead screws, and the like, for example. For example, the drive mechanism 4 rotates a reaction disk 104, which will be described later, at a predetermined rotation angle. The predetermined rotation angle is, for example, the angle of rotation in one cycle, which will be described later. Further, the drive mechanism 4 rotates a reagent rack of the reagent storage 102, which will be described later.

The input interface 5 receives, for example, settings such as analysis parameters for each inspection item related to a sample for which measurement is requested via the hospital network NW, by the operator's operation. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch pad for inputting instructions by touching an operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9 , converts an operation instruction input by an operator into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 9 .

In this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to having physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the input interface 5 may be a processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 9. good.

The display 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and displays data representing the display object received from the control circuit 9 . Such data includes reagent storage windows, wash windows, confirmation windows, and the like. The display 6 corresponds to, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, and the like.

Note that the display 6 may be equipped with a touch panel. In this case the display 6 may have the functionality of the input interface 5 .

The communication interface 7 connects with, for example, an intra-hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with a HIS (Hospital Information System) via an intra-hospital network NW. Note that the communication interface 7 may perform data communication with the HIS via a laboratory system connected to the intra-hospital network NW.

The storage circuit 8 includes a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. Note that the storage circuit 8 is not necessarily realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 8 may be realized by a plurality of memory devices.

The storage circuit 8 also stores an examination order input by the operator, an examination order received by the communication interface 7 via the intra-hospital network NW, and the like. The order information includes a sample ID (reagent name), test items required for the sample to be measured, and a measurement order for the test. The storage circuit 8 stores various setting values for executing a series of operations of each part of the automatic analyzer 1 in one cycle. The storage circuit 8 stores an operation program read by the control circuit 9 .

The storage circuit 8 also stores a reagent library for a plurality of reagents. The reagent library is associated with reagent information and bottle information. The reagent information includes, for example, the reagent name, barcode ID, reagent type, number of tests remaining for warning, number of stable days after start of use, and the like. Bottle information includes expiration dates, lot and bottle numbers, and the like. The reagent information in the first embodiment may include, for example, information (cap information) regarding whether or not the reagent bottle should be capped during storage (whether or not a cap is required). Cap information indicating whether a specific reagent bottle requires a cap during storage may be stored.

The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1 . For example, the control circuit 9 outputs a control signal for driving each part of the analysis mechanism 2 to the drive mechanism 4 . The control circuit 9 executes the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 to implement functions corresponding to the operation program. Note that the control circuit 9 may include a memory that stores at least part of the data stored in the storage circuit 8 . Functions of the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment will be described later.

2 and 3 are diagrams showing configuration examples of the analysis mechanism of FIG. 2 and 3 , first side 114 , second side 116 , third side 138 and fourth side 140 define the outer boundaries of analysis mechanism 2 . First side 114 and second side 116 face each other, and third side 138 and fourth side 140 face each other.

The analysis mechanism 2 includes a reagent storage 102 , a reaction disk 104 and a reagent loading section 118 . Reagent storage 102 and reaction disk 104 have different rotating shafts as drive mechanisms. A reaction disk 104 is spaced above the reagent reservoir 102 . In addition, at least part of the installation range of the reaction disk 104 overlaps with the installation range of the reagent storage 102 . Note that the reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104 may be arranged next to each other, for example, on the same plane.

The reagent storage 102 cools a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n containing reagents that react with predetermined components contained in the standard sample or test samples. Since the reaction disk 104 is arranged above the reagent reservoir 102, it is difficult for the operator to directly access the reagent reservoir 102 regardless of whether the apparatus is in operation or not. A structure in which direct access is difficult means a structure in which the operator cannot easily take the reagent bottle into and out of the reagent storage 102 by himself/herself. A reagent rack is rotatably provided in the reagent storage 102 . The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n arranged in an annular shape. The reagent rack is rotated by the driving mechanism 4 .

Each of the plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n has at least one type of reagent. For a reagent bottle with two reagents, one container (outer annular array containers 208a-n, described below) contains the first reagent, and the other container (inner annular array containers 210a-n, described below) contains the first reagent. ) contains the second reagent paired with the first reagent. Hereinafter, the case of a reagent bottle with two types of reagents will be described. Further, each of the plurality of reagent bottles 224a to 224n is attached with a numeric string bar code associated with information such as the reagent name and bottle type, for example. The barcode attached to the reagent bottle in the first embodiment may include, for example, cap information.

Specifically, the reagent reservoir 102 comprises outer annular array containers 208a-n that move along a first annular path 209 and inner annular array containers 210a-n that move along a second annular path 211. have. Each of the first annular path 209 and the second annular path 211 are concentric circles.

The reaction disk 104 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 108a-n in a circular arrangement. The reaction disk 104 is alternately rotated and stopped by the drive mechanism 4 at predetermined time intervals (hereinafter referred to as one cycle), for example, 4.5 seconds. The plurality of reaction tubes 108a-n are made of glass, for example. Hereinafter, the path along which the reaction tubes 108a-n move will be referred to as a reaction tube annular path.

The reagent input part 118 is provided on the first side surface 114 of the analysis mechanism 2 . The reagent input 118 has a plurality of carriers 124a-n for carrying a plurality of sample containers and a mounting rack 120 having a plurality of slots 122a-n for receiving a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n. In the example of FIG. 2, one of the slots in the loading rack 120 has a carrier 124a,b,n and a reagent bottle 224b,n inserted. In the example of FIG. 3, one of the slots in the loading rack 120 has a carrier 124b,n and a reagent bottle b,n inserted. Although each of the plurality of carriers 124a-n holds six sample containers, the number of sample containers is not limited to this. Each of the plurality of sample containers is attached with a numeric string bar code associated with information such as a patient ID, for example.

The reagent input 118 further includes a positioner 126 for carrying a plurality of carriers 124a-n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n. The positioner 126 corresponds to part of the drive mechanism 4 described above. Positioner 126 has an arm 130 that engages a plurality of carriers 124a-n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n. Positioner 126 and arm 130 retrieve a plurality of carriers 124a-n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n inserted into slots 122a-n and distribute them along positioner track portion 128 provided on first side 114. operable to transport a plurality of carriers 124a-n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n to different locations.

The positioner 126 has a barcode reader for reading barcodes affixed to each of the plurality of sample containers and the plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n held by each of the plurality of carriers 124a-n. For example, when the positioner 126 transports the carrier 124a, the barcode reader reads the barcodes attached to each of the plurality of sample containers held by the carrier 124a. Further, for example, when the positioner 126 transfers the reagent bottle 224b, the barcode reader reads the barcode attached to the reagent bottle 224b. Information of these read barcodes (barcode information) is output to the control circuit 9 . In the following description, unless otherwise specified, only the barcode attached to the reagent bottle will be described.

It should be noted that what is attached to the reagent container and the reagent bottle is not limited to the barcode. For example, an IC tag using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) may be attached, and the positioner 126 or the like may have a reader compatible with these IC tags.

The analysis mechanism 2 has a first vehicle shuttle 134 and a second vehicle shuttle 136 near the second side 116 . As shown in FIG. 2, positioner 126 has an arm 130 that engages carrier 124a. Vehicle 124a is transferred to first vehicle shuttle 134 by rotation of arm 130 and movement of positioner 126, as shown in FIG.

First vehicle shuttle 134 has a first track portion 142 extending from first side 114 to second side 116 . The first track portion 142 has a track device such as a belt and chain. First vehicle shuttle 134 has a first motor 146 on second side 116 for driving first track portion 142 . First vehicle shuttle 134 has a first sensor 150 on first side 114 .

A second vehicle shuttle 136 is positioned adjacent to the first vehicle shuttle 134 . The second vehicle shuttle 136 has a second track portion 144 extending from the first side 114 to the second side 116 . The second track section 144 has, for example, a track device. The second vehicle shuttle 136 has a second motor 148 on the second side 116 for driving a second track portion 144 . The second vehicle shuttle 136 has a second sensor 152 on the first side 114 side.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a first vehicle shuttle 134 can carry a vehicle 124a positioned on a first track section 142 to any location. The second vehicle shuttle 136 can carry the vehicle 124c located on the second track section 144 to any location.

(Transfer of reagent bottle)
The analysis mechanism 2 has a reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 for taking in and out reagent bottles from an opening provided in the reagent storage 102 . The reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 has an arm (not shown). As shown in FIG. 2, reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 has an arm that engages reagent bottle 224a. The reagent bottle 224 a is stored in the reagent storage 102 by the operation of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 . Alternatively, the reagent bottle 224 a is removed from the reagent storage 102 by the operation of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 . The positioner 126 and the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 are collectively referred to as an automatic reagent loading mechanism.

The analysis mechanism 2 further has a first pipetting mechanism, a second pipetting mechanism and a third pipetting mechanism (none shown). The first pipetting mechanism is provided, for example, on the inner circumference of the reagent reservoir 102 and on the outer circumference of the reaction disk 104 . A second pipetting mechanism is provided, for example, on the inner circumference of the reaction disk 104 . A third pipetting mechanism is provided, for example, on the outer circumference of the reagent storage 102 . The positions where the first pipetting mechanism, the second pipetting mechanism, and the third pipetting mechanism are provided are not limited to the positions described above.

The first pipetting mechanism has a first reagent dispensing arm. The first reagent dispensing arm is vertically movable and horizontally rotatable by the drive mechanism 4 . A first reagent-dispensing arm holds a first reagent-dispensing probe at one end.

The first reagent-dispensing probe rotates along the arcuate first rotation track as the first reagent-dispensing arm rotates. A first reagent aspirating position is provided on the first rotational track, where the first reagent dispensing probe aspirates the first reagent from the reagent bottle (outer annular array container). The first reagent aspirating position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the first rotation orbit and the first annular path 209 . Further, a first reagent ejection position is provided on the first rotation orbit at which the first reagent sucked by the first reagent dispensing probe is ejected into the reaction container. The first reagent ejection position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the first rotation orbit and the reaction tube annular path.

A washing position where the first reagent dispensing probe is washed may be provided at a position different from the first reagent aspirating position and the first reagent discharging position on the first rotation orbit. Moreover, a cleaning tank for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe may be provided at the cleaning position.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the first reagent dispensing probe aspirates the first reagent from the outer annular array container located directly below the first reagent aspirating position. Then, under the control of the control circuit 9, the first reagent dispensing probe discharges the aspirated first reagent into the reaction tube positioned immediately below the first reagent discharge position. The first reagent dispensing probe performs a series of operations (dispensing operations) of this aspiration and ejection, for example, once during one cycle.

The second pipetting mechanism has a second reagent dispensing arm. The second reagent dispensing arm is vertically movable and horizontally rotatable by the drive mechanism 4 . A second reagent-dispensing arm holds a second reagent-dispensing probe at one end.

The second reagent-dispensing probe rotates along the arc-shaped second rotation track as the second reagent-dispensing arm rotates. A second reagent aspirating position is provided on the second rotational track, where the second reagent dispensing probe aspirates the second reagent from the reagent bottle (the inner annular array container). The second reagent aspirating position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the second rotation orbit and the second annular path 211 . Further, a second reagent ejection position is provided on the second rotation orbit, at which the second reagent sucked by the second reagent dispensing probe is ejected into the reaction container. The second reagent discharge position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the second rotation orbit and the reaction tube circular path.

A washing position where the second reagent dispensing probe is washed may be provided at a position different from the second reagent aspirating position and the second reagent discharging position on the second rotation orbit. Also, a cleaning tank for cleaning the second reagent dispensing probe may be provided at the cleaning position.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the second reagent dispensing probe aspirates the second reagent from the outer annular array container located directly below the second reagent aspirating position. Then, under the control of the control circuit 9, the second reagent dispensing probe discharges the aspirated second reagent into the reaction tube positioned immediately below the second reagent discharging position. The second reagent dispensing probe performs this dispensing operation, for example, once during one cycle.

A third pipetting mechanism has a sample dispensing arm. The sample dispensing arm is vertically movable and horizontally rotatable by a drive mechanism 4 . A sample dispensing arm holds a sample dispensing probe at one end.

The sample pipetting probe rotates along the arcuate third rotating track as the sample pipetting arm rotates. A first sample aspiration position and a second sample aspiration position where the sample pipetting probe aspirates the sample from the sample container are provided on the third rotation track. The first sample suction position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the third rotation track and the first track portion 142 . The second sample suction position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the third rotation track and the second track portion 144 . Further, a sample ejection position is provided on the third rotation track for ejecting the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe into the reaction container. The sample discharge position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the third rotation trajectory and the reaction tube circular path.

A washing position where the sample dispensing probe is washed may be provided at a position different from the first sample aspirating position, the second sample aspirating position, and the sample discharging position on the third rotation orbit. good. Also, a washing tank for washing the sample pipetting probe may be provided at the washing position.

Under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe aspirates the sample from the sample container located directly below the first sample aspirating position or from the sample container located directly below the second sample aspirating position. Then, under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample pipetting probe discharges the aspirated sample into the reaction tube positioned immediately below the sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe performs this dispensing operation, for example, once during one cycle.

Although not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the analysis mechanism 2 further includes an electrode unit, a photometry unit, a washing unit and a stirring unit. The electrode unit measures the electrolyte concentration of the liquid mixture of the sample and the reagent discharged into the reaction tube. The photometry unit optically measures a predetermined component in the mixture. The cleaning unit cleans the inside of the reaction tube that has finished measuring the mixed liquid in the electrode unit or the photometry unit. The stirring unit has a stirrer that stirs the sample, the reagent, the liquid mixture, and the like contained in the reaction tube located directly below the stirring position on the reaction disk 104 .

Next, each function of the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9 shown in FIG. 1 executes an operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 to implement functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9 executes an operation program to perform a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), and a display control function 95 (display controller).

In the first embodiment, a single processor realizes the system control function 91, the acquisition function 92, the generation function 93, the extraction function 94, and the display control function 95. However, the present invention is not limited to this. . For example, a control circuit is configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor executes an operation program to realize a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92, a generation function 93, an extraction function 94, and a display control function 95. I don't mind. This also applies to other embodiments described below.

With the system control function 91 , the control circuit 9 centrally controls each part in the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface 5 , for example. Specifically, the control circuit 9 controls the rotating motion of the reagent rack of the reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104, the rotating motion and dispensing motion of the sample pipetting probe, the rotating motion and dispensing motion of the first reagent pipetting probe. It controls the injection operation, the rotation operation of the second reagent pipetting probe, the pipetting operation, and the like. The control circuit 9 also controls the transport operations of the positioner 126 , the first transporter shuttle 134 , the second transporter shuttle 136 and the reagent bottle transporter mechanism 222 .

In addition, the control circuit 9 executes each function related to the reagent storage information generation process and the process of taking out a specific reagent bottle (reagent bottle take-out process) according to the read operation program. The above functions include, for example, an acquisition function 92, a generation function 93, a retrieval function 94, a display control function 95, and the like. Note that each function described above may include a part of the functions of the system control function 91 .

As used herein, "a specific reagent bottle" means a reagent bottle that needs to be capped during storage. "During storage" indicates a state in which the reagent is not stored in the reagent storage 102, or a state in which the autoanalyzer is powered off while the reagent is stored in the reagent storage 102 (power-off period).

The acquisition function 92 is a function for acquiring information about reagent bottles. Specifically, the control circuit 9 uses the acquisition function 92 to acquire the barcode information of the barcode attached to the reagent bottle. Furthermore, the control circuit 9 acquires information (cap information) regarding whether or not capping is necessary based on at least one of the acquired barcode information and the reagent library stored in the storage circuit 8 .

The generation function 93 is a function for generating reagent storage information indicating information regarding reagent bottles placed in the reagent storage. Specifically, the control circuit 9 uses the generation function 93 to generate reagent storage information in which at least the installation position of the reagent bottle, the reagent name of the reagent contained in the reagent bottle, and the cap information of the reagent are associated with each other. Generate. The generated reagent storage information is stored in the storage circuit 8 . The reagent storage information may include the number of remaining reagent tests, the expiration date of the reagent, the expiration date of the reagent stability, and the like. The reagent storage information may also include the order in which the reagent bottles were stored in the reagent storage (storage order).

A take-out function 94 is a function for automatically taking out a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, after receiving a takeout instruction for a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information, the control circuit 9 uses the takeout function 94 to select a specific reagent bottle among the plurality of reagent bottles arranged in the reagent storage. An instruction to take out is output to the drive mechanism 4 or the like.

The display control function 95 is a function for displaying a reagent storage window, a cleaning window, etc., which will be described later. Specifically, the control circuit 9 causes the display control function 95 to display the reagent storage window on the display 6 . Alternatively, the control circuit 9 causes the display 6 to display the cleaning window using the display control function 95 .

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9. FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of reagent storage information generation processing according to the first embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 4 is started by the control circuit 9 executing a program for the reagent storage information generation process at the timing when the operator finishes loading reagent bottles into the reagent loading unit 118 of the automatic analyzer 1, for example. be.

(Step S101)
When the reagent storage information generation process is started, the control circuit 9 executes the acquisition function 92 . When the acquisition function 92 is executed, the control circuit 9 acquires the barcode information of the barcode attached to the reagent bottle loaded into the reagent loading section 118 . Then, the control circuit 9 collates the reagent name included in the barcode information with the reagent name included in the reagent library stored in the storage circuit 8 .

(Step S102)
After obtaining the barcode information, the control circuit 9 uses the obtaining function 92 to obtain the cap information based on at least one of the barcode information and the reagent library. In the first embodiment, at least one of the barcode information and the reagent library includes cap information. A reagent library and barcode information containing cap information according to the first embodiment are exemplified below.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a reagent library according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, in the reagent library 302 according to the first embodiment, reagent information and bottle information are associated with the reagent name "R1_Lib1". The reagent information includes the reagent name, barcode ID, reagent type, number of remaining warning tests, number of stable days after use, and the like. Furthermore, the reagent information includes cap information 304 that allows selection of whether or not capping is required. In FIG. 5, the cap necessity is selected as "required", so it can be seen that the reagent bottle containing the reagent "R1_Lib1" requires a cap during storage.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of barcode information according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, barcode information 306 according to the first embodiment is represented by an eight-digit number. If the barcode numbers start from the left, the starting position is 1 and the 4-digit number is assigned the reagent name. Similarly, the single digit starting position 5 is assigned a bottle type, the single digit starting position 6 is assigned a reagent type and the last (starting position 8) is assigned a 1 A checksum is assigned to each digit. Further, in the bar code information 306, as cap information 307, whether or not a cap is necessary is assigned to a one-digit number whose starting position is the seventh. For example, if the read bar code information indicates whether or not a cap is required (2: required), the reagent bottle to which the bar code of the read bar code information is affixed must be capped during storage. I understand.

(Step S103)
After obtaining the cap information, the control circuit 9 executes the generation function 93 . When the generating function 93 is executed, the control circuit 9 generates reagent storage information that associates at least the installation position of the reagent bottle, the reagent name of the reagent contained in the reagent bottle, and the cap information of the reagent. The reagent storage information according to the first embodiment is exemplified below.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of reagent storage information according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the reagent storage information 308 includes the installation position of the reagent bottle (item "Position"), the reagent name, the number of remaining tests, the expiration date of the reagent (item "Expiration date"), and the A stability deadline (item “stability deadline”) and cap information (item “cap necessity”) are associated with each other. In FIG. 7, the reagent name "reagent A" at position "1" and the reagent name "reagent D" at position "4" both require capping or not, so that "reagent A" and "reagent D" It can be seen that each of the reagent bottles accommodated in 1 requires a cap during storage. The reagent storage information may be associated with a plurality of reagent bottles loaded into the reagent loading section 118 and the positions of the plurality of slots 122a to 122n in the mounting rack 120. FIG.

When creating the reagent storage information, if the capping information included in the reagent library and the barcode information are different (for example, the reagent library indicates whether capping is required or not, and the barcode information indicates capping ”), the control circuit 9 may cause the display control function 95 to display a confirmation window indicating that the cap information is different on the display 6 .

After generating the reagent storage information, the control circuit 9 ends the reagent storage information generation process. After generating the reagent storage information, the control circuit 9 may cause the display control function 95 to display a reagent storage window (described later) based on the reagent storage information on the display 6 . After displaying the reagent storage window, the control circuit 9 may terminate the reagent storage information generation process.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the reagent bottle extraction process according to the first embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 8, for example, at the timing when the reagent storage information generation processing and the inspection in the automatic analyzer 1 are completed and the operator inputs a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, the control circuit 9 executes the program for the reagent bottle extraction processing. is started by executing As a method for the operator to input a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, for example, pressing the "remove (cap required)" button on the reagent storage window, or pressing the "start cleaning" button on the cleaning window. There are cases. A reagent storage window and a cleaning window according to the first embodiment will be described below by way of example.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of the reagent storage window according to the first embodiment. For example, the reagent storage window 312 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the base window 310 displayed on the display 6. FIG. The base window 310 displays a character display portion ("Waiting" in FIG. 9) indicating the state of the automatic analyzer 1, a reagent storage window 312 including reagent storage information, and the like. For example, when the operator presses the "take out (cap required)" button 314 in the reagent storage window 312, the control circuit 9 starts reagent bottle take-out processing. It should be noted that not all the information included in the reagent storage information may be displayed on the reagent storage window. For example, in the reagent storage information of FIG. 9, the display of the expiration date is omitted.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of the cleaning window according to the first embodiment. For example, the wash window 322 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the base window 320 displayed on the display 6. FIG. The base window 320 displays the aforementioned character display portion, a cleaning window 322 related to cleaning of the automatic analyzer (device cleaning), and the like. Equipment cleaning includes cleaning of the aforementioned dispensing probes, cleaning of a plurality of reaction tubes 108a-n held by the reaction disk 104, and the like. For example, when the operator presses the "start washing" button 324 in the washing window 322, the control circuit 9 executes the apparatus washing and starts the reagent bottle removal process. "Device cleaning" is often called "cleaning at the end of work" because it is often performed at the end of work for the automatic analyzer.

(Step S111)
When the reagent bottle removal process is started, the control circuit 9 accepts a removal instruction regarding a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, for example, after the “remove (cap required)” button 314 in the reagent storage window 312 is pressed (that is, after the reagent bottle removal process is started), the cap necessity “necessary” in the reagent storage information is displayed. Items 316 and 318 are automatically selected, and the control circuit 9 accepts take-out instructions relating to reagent bottles (specific reagent bottles) associated with these items. When the "start washing" button 324 on the washing window 322 is pressed, the operation is the same as when the "take out (cap required)" button 314 on the reagent storage window 312 is pushed.

(Step S112)
After receiving a retrieval instruction for a particular reagent bottle, control circuit 9 executes retrieval function 94 . When the takeout function 94 is executed, the control circuit 9 transfers a specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent loading section 118 based on the takeout instruction.

For example, when "reagent A" of item 316 in FIG. 9 is taken out, assuming that the reagent bottle containing "reagent A" is the reagent bottle 224a in FIG. The reagent rack of the reagent storage 102 is rotated to move the reagent bottle 224 a directly below the opening provided in the reagent storage 102 . The reagent bottle 224a moved to the opening is removed from the reagent storage 102 by the operation of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222. FIG. A reagent bottle 224a removed from the opening is engaged by the arm 130 and transferred by the positioner 126 to one of the plurality of slots 122a-n.

When all of the specific reagent bottles have been transferred to the reagent loading unit 118, the control circuit 9 terminates the reagent bottle extraction process. If the storage order is included in the reagent storage information, the control circuit 9 may transfer the reagent bottles to a series of adjacent slots of the plurality of slots 122a-n in accordance with the storage order.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment includes a reagent storage that stores a plurality of reagent bottles, and at least one or more specific reagent bottles among the plurality of reagent bottles that are capped during storage. a storage unit for storing cap information indicating whether or not the cap is required; a selection unit for selecting a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information; and an automatic reagent loading mechanism that transfers the reagent to the reagent loading unit.

Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, the selection section selects a specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction from the operator. Alternatively, the selection unit selects a specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction to start cleaning in end-of-work cleaning.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, it is possible to easily take out a specific reagent bottle in an automatic analyzer equipped with an automatic reagent loading mechanism. Therefore, according to the present automatic analyzer, it is possible to selectively take out only the reagent bottles that require capping by a simple method, thus reducing the burden on the operator.

(Second embodiment)
In the first embodiment, processing for automatically taking out a specific reagent bottle has been described. In the second embodiment, processing for checking the cap of the reagent bottle will be described.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, an automatic analyzer 1A according to the second embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control A circuit 9A is provided.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9A according to the second embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9A shown in FIG. 11 executes an operation program stored in the storage circuit 8, thereby realizing functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9A executes an operation program to perform a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), a display control function 95A (display control unit) and a confirmation function 96 (cap confirmation unit).

The control circuit 9A executes each function related to the cap confirmation process according to the read control program. The above functions include, for example, a display control function 95A, a confirmation function 96, and the like. Note that each of the above functions may include part of other functions of the control circuit 9A.

The display control function 95A is a function of displaying a confirmation window, which will be described later, in addition to the functions of the display control function 95 described above. Specifically, the control circuit 9 causes the confirmation window to be displayed in front of the reagent storage window by the display control function 95A.

A confirmation function 96 is a function for confirming the cap of a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, after receiving a cap confirmation instruction for a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information, the control circuit 9A uses the confirmation function 96 to select a specific reagent bottle among the plurality of reagent bottles arranged in the reagent storage. to the drive mechanism 4 or the like. Then, the control circuit 9A identifies a specific reagent bottle without a cap.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1A according to the second embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9A.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example of cap confirmation processing according to the second embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 12, for example, at the timing when the reagent storage information generation process and the inspection in the automatic analyzer 1A are completed and the operator inputs a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, the control circuit 9A executes the program for the cap confirmation process. It is started by running As a method for the operator to input a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, for example, there is a case where the "cap confirmation" button on the reagent storage window is pressed, and a case where the "end" button on the base window is pressed. . The "end" button is a button for turning off the power of the automatic analyzer 1A. A reagent storage window (base window) according to the second embodiment will be described below as an example.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of a reagent storage window according to the second embodiment. For example, reagent vault window 328 shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on base window 326 displayed on display 6 . The base window 326 displays a character display indicating the status of the automatic analyzer 1A, a reagent storage window 328 including reagent storage information, and the like. For example, when the operator presses the "cap confirmation" button 330 in the reagent storage window 328, the control circuit 9A starts cap confirmation processing. Further, for example, when the operator presses the "end" button 336 in the base window 326, the control circuit 9A starts cap confirmation processing.

(Step S201)
When the cap confirmation process is started, the control circuit 9A accepts a cap confirmation instruction regarding a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, for example, after the "cap confirmation" button 330 in the reagent storage window 328 is pressed (that is, after the cap confirmation process is started), the item 332 and the item 334 are automatically selected, and the control circuit 9A receives cap confirmation instructions regarding reagent bottles (specific reagent bottles) associated with these items. When the "end" button 336 on the base window 326 is pressed, the operation is the same as when the "confirm cap" button 330 on the reagent storage window 328 is pressed.

(Step S202)
After receiving a cap confirmation instruction for a particular reagent bottle, the control circuit 9A performs a confirmation function 96. FIG. When the confirmation function 96 is executed, the control circuit 9A confirms whether or not a specific reagent bottle has a cap based on the cap confirmation instruction. As a method for confirming the presence or absence of the cap, for example, there are a case of using an obstacle sensor (contact sensor) and a case of using a non-contact sensor such as an ultrasonic sensor and an optical sensor. The contact sensor and the non-contact sensor correspond to the "sensor" in the claims.

For example, when checking the presence or absence of a cap on a reagent bottle (specific reagent bottle) stored in the reagent storage 102 in FIG. , the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reagent rack of the reagent storage 102 under the control of the control circuit 9A to position the reagent bottle 224a directly below the first reagent suction position. Then, the drive mechanism 4 lowers the first reagent dispensing probe onto the reagent bottle 224a. At this time, if the contact sensor of the first reagent-dispensing probe responds, that is, if an obstacle is detected, the control circuit 9A detects that the reagent bottle 224a (here, the outer annular array container) has a cap. and discriminate. On the other hand, if the contact sensor of the first reagent dispensing probe does not respond, that is, if no obstacle is detected, the control circuit 9A determines that the reagent bottle 224a has no cap. When checking the presence or absence of the cap of the inner annular container of the reagent bottle 224a, the procedure is the same as above, except that the reagent bottle 224a is positioned immediately below the second reagent aspirating position and the second reagent dispensing probe is used. .

When using a non-contact sensor, the non-contact sensor may be installed, for example, at least one of the vicinity of the first reagent aspirating position and the vicinity of the second reagent aspirating position. When the reagent bottle is positioned at the reagent aspirating position, the non-contact sensor detects whether the reagent bottle is capped. Incidentally, the non-contact sensor may be installed at any position directly above the first annular path 209 and the second annular path 211 .

(Step S203)
After confirming whether or not the specific reagent bottle has a cap, the control circuit 9A determines whether or not there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap. If there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap (step S203: YES), that is, if there is a reagent bottle without a cap in the specific reagent bottle, the process proceeds to step S204. If there is no specific reagent bottle without a cap (step S203: NO), that is, if it is determined that all of the specific reagent bottles are capped, the cap confirmation process ends.

(Step S204)
After a particular uncapped reagent bottle is identified, control circuitry 9A executes display control function 95A. When the display control function 95A is executed, the control circuit 9A causes the display 6 to display information about a specific capless reagent bottle. Specifically, the control circuit 9A causes the display control function 95A to display, on the display 6, a confirmation window containing information about a specific reagent bottle without a cap. The confirmation window according to the second embodiment is exemplified below.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a display example of a confirmation window according to the second embodiment. For example, the confirmation window 338 shown in FIG. 14 is displayed in a higher layer than the base window 326 displayed on the display 6 . Confirmation window 338 includes, for example, a "Yes" button 340 and a "No" button 342 along with the text "Uncapped reagent bottle found. Do you want to cap it? Reagent name: Reagent A". Is displayed.

When the operator presses the "yes" button 340, the control circuit 9A drives the driving mechanism 4 to remove the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent ("reagent A" in FIG. 14) from the reagent storage 102. It is transferred to the reagent charging section 118 . When the operator presses the "No" button 342, the control circuit 9A may store the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent in the reagent storage information as, for example, information with no cap attached.

Note that the timing at which the cap confirmation process is executed in the control circuit 9A is not limited to the above. For example, when the reagent bottle removal process in the first embodiment is started by pressing the "start cleaning" button in the cleaning window, the cap confirmation process may be executed after the cleaning operation is completed.

(Application example of the second embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the process of confirming the cap of a specific reagent bottle stored in the reagent storage has been described. In an application example of the second embodiment, a process of confirming a cap when a reagent bottle is transferred using a positioner will be described.

The positioner 126 according to the application example of the second embodiment further has a non-contact sensor near the installation position of the barcode reader. For example, when the positioner 126 transports the reagent bottle, the non-contact sensor checks whether the reagent bottle is capped at the same time as the barcode reader reads, or before or after. For example, in this application example, the control circuit 9A executes the cap confirmation process after the reagent bottle removal process is completed, and when the specific reagent bottle is returned from the reagent input unit 118 to the reagent storage 102 again, the specific Detects the presence or absence of caps on reagent bottles. Note that the processing after detecting the presence or absence of the cap is substantially the same as that described in the second embodiment.

As described above, the automated analyzer according to the second embodiment, like the automated analyzer according to the first embodiment, has a reagent storage that stores a plurality of reagent bottles and a storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether or not at least one or more specific reagent bottles require a cap during storage; a selection unit that selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information; and an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring the specified reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent loading section for loading the reagent bottle.

Furthermore, the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment includes a sensor that detects whether or not a specific reagent bottle stored in the reagent storage is capped, and based on the result detected by the sensor, the cap is detected. and a cap confirming unit for confirming the presence or absence of a reagent bottle not marked with . Also, the sensor is configured by a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor.

Further, in the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment, the cap confirmation unit confirms whether or not the reagent bottle is capped by receiving an instruction from the operator. Alternatively, the cap confirming unit confirms whether or not the cap is attached to the reagent bottle by receiving an instruction (notification of completion) to end the cleaning of the end-of-work cleaning.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, when a specific reagent bottle is returned to the reagent storage, forgetting to close the cap can be detected.

(Third Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the process of confirming the cap of a specific reagent bottle has been described. In the third embodiment, processing for confirming whether a specific reagent bottle has been forgotten to be returned will be described.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, an automatic analyzer 1B according to the third embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control A circuit 9B is provided.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9B according to the third embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9B shown in FIG. 15 executes the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8, thereby realizing functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9B executes an operation program to perform a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), a display control function 95A (display control unit) and confirmation function 96A (bottle confirmation unit).

The control circuit 9B executes each function related to the forget-to-return confirmation process according to the read control program. The above functions include, for example, a display control function 95A and a confirmation function 96A. Note that each function described above may include a part of other functions of the control circuit 9B.

The confirmation function 96A is a function for confirming whether or not a specific reagent bottle that has been taken out once has been returned to the reagent storage again (that is, confirms whether it has been forgotten to return). Specifically, the control circuit 9B, after receiving a return forgetting confirmation instruction for a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information, uses the confirmation function 96A to check whether any of the specific reagent bottles that have been taken out have been returned to the reagent storage. Identify specific reagent bottles that are not

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1B according to the third embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9B. It is assumed that the forgetting-to-return confirmation process described below is executed after the reagent bottle removal process of the first embodiment is performed. Here, at the same time as or after the reagent bottle extraction process is executed, the control circuit 9B stores the reagent storage information (first reagent storage information) immediately before the specific reagent bottle is extracted from the reagent storage 102 into the memory ( For example, it is assumed that it is stored in the storage circuit 8) or the like.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation example of forget-to-return confirmation processing according to the third embodiment. For example, the flowchart of FIG. 16 shows that after the reagent bottle removal process in the first embodiment is completed and the reagent bottle removed by the operator is stored again in the reagent storage, the operator inputs a predetermined At the timing when the instruction is input, the control circuit 9B starts by executing the program for the forgetting to return confirmation process. As a method for the operator to input a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, for example, there is a case where the "cap confirmation" button on the reagent storage window is pressed, and a case where the "end" button on the base window is pressed. . The reagent storage window (base window) in FIG. 13 will be described below as an example.

For example, when the operator presses the "confirm cap" button 330 in the reagent storage window 328, the control circuit 9B starts forgetting to return confirmation processing. Further, for example, when the operator presses the "End" button 336 in the base window 326, the control circuit 9B starts the forget-to-return confirmation process.

(Step S301)
When the forget-to-return confirmation process is started, the control circuit 9B receives a confirmation instruction (bottle confirmation instruction) regarding a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, for example, after the "confirm cap" button 330 in the reagent storage window 328 is pressed (that is, after the return forgetting confirmation process is started), the item 332 of the cap necessity "required" in the reagent storage information and Items 334 are automatically selected, and the control circuit 9A receives bottle confirmation instructions regarding reagent bottles (specific reagent bottles) associated with these items. When the "end" button 336 on the base window 326 is pressed, the operation is the same as when the "confirm cap" button 330 on the reagent storage window 328 is pressed.

(Step S302)
After receiving the bottle confirmation instruction, the control circuit 9B executes the confirmation function 96A. When the confirmation function 96A is executed, the control circuit 9B confirms the presence or absence of a specific reagent bottle based on the bottle confirmation instruction. Specifically, the control circuit 9B compares the stored first reagent storage information with the current second reagent storage information to determine whether the second reagent storage information exists in the first reagent storage information. A reagent bottle that is not in the reagent storage information, that is, a specific reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage is identified.

(Step S303)
If there is a specific reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage (step S303: YES), that is, if there is a reagent bottle that the operator forgot to return to the reagent storage after the reagent bottle removal process, the process proceeds to step S304. . If there is no specific reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage (step S303: NO), that is, if the operator has returned all the bottles that were taken out to the reagent storage after the reagent bottle removal process, the forget-to-return confirmation is performed. End the process.

(Step S304)
After identifying a particular reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent reservoir, control circuit 9B executes display control function 95A. When the display control function 95A is executed, the control circuit 9B displays on the display 6 a confirmation window containing information on the particular reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage. A confirmation window according to the third embodiment is exemplified below.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of a confirmation window according to the third embodiment. For example, the confirmation window 344 shown in FIG. 17 is displayed in a higher layer than the base window 326 displayed on the display 6 . In the confirmation window 344, for example, "A reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage has been found. Do you want to return it to the reagent storage? Reagent name: Reagent A", along with a "Yes" button 346 and a "No" button. 348 is displayed.

When the operator presses the "Yes" button 346, the control circuit 9B waits until the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent ("Reagent A" in FIG. 17) is stored in the reagent storage 102. When the operator presses the "No" button 348, the control circuit 9B discards the first reagent storage information.

Note that the timing at which the return forgetting confirmation process is executed in the control circuit 9B is not limited to the above. For example, when the reagent bottle removal process in the first embodiment is started by pressing the "start cleaning" button in the cleaning window, the forgetting to return confirmation process may be executed after the cleaning operation is completed. At this time, the cap confirmation process in the second embodiment may also be performed at the same time, or before or after the forget-to-return confirmation process.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment includes a reagent storage for storing a plurality of reagent bottles and a plurality of a storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether or not at least one or more specific reagent bottles of the reagent bottles require capping during storage, and selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. A selection unit and an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring a selected specific reagent bottle from a reagent storage to a reagent input unit for inputting the reagent bottle are provided.

Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment, the storage unit includes first reagent storage information including information on a plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage, and specific bottles transferred by the automatic reagent loading mechanism. stores the second reagent storage information that at least one of the reagent bottles has been returned to the reagent storage, and the automatic analyzer compares the first reagent storage information and the second reagent storage information to obtain the reagent A bottle confirmation unit is provided for confirming information on reagent bottles that are in short supply in the storage.

Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment, the bottle confirmation unit receives an instruction from the operator to obtain the first reagent storage information and the second reagent storage information at the time of receiving the instruction. Check the missing reagent bottle information by comparing the Alternatively, the bottle confirmation unit receives a notification of completion of cleaning at the end of work, and compares the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information at the time of receiving the completion notification. Check the information on the reagent bottle that is stored.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, it is possible to confirm whether or not a particular reagent bottle has been returned to the reagent storage when it has been forgotten.

(Fourth embodiment)
In the third embodiment, the process of confirming whether a specific reagent bottle has been forgotten to be returned has been described. In the fourth embodiment, processing for confirming whether or not the cap is left on during storage will be described.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, an automatic analyzer 1C according to the fourth embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8 and a control A circuit 9C is provided.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9C according to the fourth embodiment will be described. A control circuit 9C shown in FIG. 18 executes an operation program stored in the storage circuit 8, thereby realizing functions corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9C executes an operation program to perform a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), a display control function 95A (display control unit) and confirmation function 96B (cap forgetting confirmation unit).

The control circuit 9C executes each function related to the cap forgetting confirmation process according to the read control program. The above functions include, for example, a display control function 95A and a confirmation function 96B. Note that each of the above functions may include part of other functions of the control circuit 9C.

The confirmation function 96B is a function for confirming whether or not a specific reagent bottle that was stored in the reagent storage at the time of the previous termination is capped at the next activation. Specifically, the control circuit 9C uses the confirmation function 96B to confirm whether or not the specific reagent bottle that was stored in the reagent storage at the time of the previous termination is capped at the next activation. The control circuit 9C then identifies a specific reagent bottle without a cap.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1C according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9C. In addition, the cap forgetting confirmation processing described below is performed when the automatic analyzer 1C is started (after the power is turned on), and the reagent storage information (the third reagent storage) in the previous power-off period of the automatic analyzer 1C. information) is stored in the storage circuit 8.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing an operation example of cap forgetting confirmation processing according to the fourth embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 19 is started by the control circuit 9C executing a cap forgetting confirmation process program at the timing of startup after the power of the automatic analyzer 1C is turned on, for example.

(Step S401)
When the cap forgetting confirmation process is started, the control circuit 9C reads the third reagent storage information stored in the storage circuit 8. FIG.

(Step S402)
After reading the third reagent reservoir information, the control circuit 9C executes a verification function 96B. When executing the confirmation function 96B, the control circuit 9C determines whether or not there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap continuously from the previous power-off period. Specifically, the control circuit 9C confirms whether or not information indicating that the cap is not attached is included in the third reagent storage information.

If there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap continuously from the previous power-off period (step S402: YES), that is, if the third reagent storage information includes information that the cap is not attached, the process goes to step S403. If there is no specific reagent bottle without a cap continuously from the previous power-off period (step S402: NO), that is, if information that the cap is not attached is not included in the third reagent storage information, the cap Terminate the forgetting confirmation process.

(Step S403)
After identifying a specific reagent bottle without a cap continuously from the previous power-off period, the control circuit 9C executes the display control function 95B. When the display control function 95B is executed, the control circuit 9C causes the display 6 to display a confirmation window containing information on a specific uncapped reagent bottle. The confirmation window according to the fourth embodiment is exemplified below.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a display example of a confirmation window according to the fourth embodiment. For example, a confirmation window 352 shown in FIG. 20 is displayed in a higher layer than the base window 350 displayed on the display 6 . In the confirmation window 352, for example, a "Yes" button 354 and a "No ' button 356 is displayed.

If the operator presses the "Yes" button 354, the control circuit 9C automatically performs a calibration measurement of the displayed reagent, invalidating the calibration curve for the displayed reagent ("Reagent A" in FIG. 20). or both. A calibration measurement is a measurement for creating a new calibration curve. When the operator presses the “No” button 348 , the drive mechanism 4 is driven to transfer the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent from the reagent storage 102 to the reagent input section 118 .

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment stores a plurality of reagent bottles in the same manner as the automatic analyzers according to the first, second, and third embodiments. and a storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether at least one or more specific reagent bottles out of a plurality of reagent bottles require a cap during storage. and a reagent automatic loading mechanism for transferring the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent input unit for inputting the reagent bottle.

Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment, the storage unit stores information about a plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage and information indicating whether or not a specific reagent bottle has a cap during the power-off period. When the power is turned on, the automatic analyzer stores third reagent storage information including A forgetting confirmation unit is provided.

Furthermore, the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment includes a controller that invalidates the calibration curve for the reagent contained in the reagent bottle that was not capped during storage. Alternatively, the automatic analyzer is provided with a control section for ordering control measurement for creating a calibration curve for reagents contained in reagent bottles that were not capped during storage.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, when the power is turned on the next day, it is possible to confirm the information of the reagent bottle whose cap has been forgotten to be closed.

According to at least one embodiment described above, a specific reagent bottle can be easily taken out in an automatic analyzer equipped with an automatic reagent loading mechanism.

While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as the scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.

1 automatic analyzer 2 analysis mechanism 3 analysis circuit 4 drive mechanism 5 input interface 6 display 7 communication interface 8 storage circuit 9 control circuit 91 system control function 92 acquisition function 93, 93A generation function 94 extraction function 95, 95A display control function 96, 96A, 96B confirmation function

Claims (16)

a reagent storage that stores a plurality of reagent bottles;
a storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether or not at least one or more specific reagent bottles among the plurality of reagent bottles require a cap during storage;
a selection unit that selects the specific reagent bottle based on the cap information;
an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to a reagent input unit for loading the reagent bottle. The selection unit selects the specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction from an operator.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. The selection unit selects the specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction to start cleaning in end-of-work cleaning.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. a sensor for detecting whether or not the specific reagent bottle stored in the reagent storage is capped;
4. The automated system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a cap confirmation unit that confirms the presence or absence of an uncapped reagent bottle based on the result detected by the sensor. Analysis equipment. a sensor for detecting whether or not the specific reagent bottle transferred to the reagent storage is capped;
4. The automated system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a cap confirmation unit that confirms the presence or absence of an uncapped reagent bottle based on the result detected by the sensor. Analysis equipment. The sensor is configured by a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 4 or 5. The cap confirmation unit confirms whether or not the reagent bottle is capped by receiving an instruction from an operator.
An automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 6. The cap confirming unit confirms whether or not the cap is attached to the reagent bottle by receiving the end-of-work cleaning end notification.
An automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 6. The storage unit stores first reagent storage information including information on the plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage, and at least one of the specific reagent bottles transferred by the automatic reagent loading mechanism stored in the reagent storage. store the second reagent storage information returned to the
a bottle confirmation unit that confirms information about reagent bottles that are in short supply in the reagent storage by comparing the first reagent storage information and the second reagent storage information;
The automated analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 8, further comprising: By receiving an instruction from an operator, the bottle checking unit compares the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information at the time of receiving the instruction from the operator, The automatic analyzer according to claim 9, wherein information about the missing reagent bottle is confirmed. The bottle confirmation unit receives a notification of completion of cleaning at the end of work, and compares the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information at the time of receiving the completion notification, thereby confirming the shortage. 10. The automatic analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the information of the reagent bottle that is being used is confirmed. The storage unit stores third reagent storage information including information about the plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage and information indicating whether or not the specific reagent bottle has a cap during a power-off period,
a cap forgetting confirmation unit for confirming the presence or absence of a reagent bottle without a cap among the specific reagent bottles based on the third reagent storage information when the power is turned on;
The automated analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 8, further comprising: 13. The automatic analyzer according to claim 12, further comprising a controller that invalidates the calibration curve for the reagent contained in the reagent bottle that was not capped during storage. 13. The automatic analyzer according to claim 12, further comprising a control unit that orders calibration measurement for creating a calibration curve for the reagent contained in the reagent bottle that was not capped during storage. 12. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising a display control unit that displays information about reagent bottles that are in short supply in the reagent storage on a display. 15. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 14, further comprising a display control section for displaying information on the uncapped reagent bottles on the display.

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