WO2017024899A1

WO2017024899A1 - Reagent workstation

Info

Publication number: WO2017024899A1
Application number: PCT/CN2016/086824
Authority: WO
Inventors: 盛司潼; 冯传发
Original assignee: 广州康昕瑞基因健康科技有限公司
Priority date: 2015-08-11
Filing date: 2016-06-23
Publication date: 2017-02-16
Also published as: CN106701527A

Abstract

Disclosed is a reagent workstation, relating to the field of biological reagent processing equipment. The reagent workstation comprises a housing (10), a pipetting module (20), a functional platform module (30), a nucleic acid extraction module (40) and a main control module (50). The pipetting module (20) is located at the upper part inside the housing (10), and realizes the pipetting of the reagent via the instruction of the main control module (50). The functional platform module (30) is located at the lower part inside the housing (10), and is used for realizing the storage of reagents, consumables and wastes. The nucleic acid extraction module (40) is located inside the housing (10), and is used for realizing the automatic extraction of nucleic acid according to the instruction of the main control module (50). The nucleic acid extraction module (40) can realize the extraction of the nucleic acid via the instruction of the main control module (50). The functional platform module (30) and the pipetting module (20) realize the automatic preparation of the reagents via the instruction of the main control module (50), so that the reagent workstation has the functions of nucleic acid extraction and reagent automatic preparation, so as to satisfy the diversified requirements of the laboratory.

Description

Reagent workstation

Technical field

The present invention relates to the field of biological reagent processing equipment, and more particularly to a reagent workstation.

Background technique

In the field of genetic engineering and protein engineering technology research, nucleic acid molecules are the main research object, and the separation and linearization of nucleic acids is the basic technology of nucleic acid research. Nucleic acid is the basic unit representing the genetic characteristics of living organisms. Nucleic acid detection is an advanced biological test at the molecular level. It is more sensitive, specific, and windowless than traditional morphological, cytological, and immunological tests. Significant advantages such as the period. Nucleic acid detection includes qualitative PCR, molecular hybridization, real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and other technologies. The primary key of these nucleic acid detection technologies is to complete the extraction of nucleic acids from biological samples. Therefore, the efficient and accurate extraction of nucleic acid templates has become the premise of subsequent nucleic acid detection.

There is an automated nucleic acid extraction platform in the prior art. The nucleic acid extraction platform is provided with six functional regions: a sample region, a consumable region, a reagent zone, a relay zone, a nucleic acid extraction zone, and a waste zone. The sample area is used to place the sample to be tested, the consumable area is used to place the consumables required for the experiment, the reagent area is used to place the reagents required for the experiment, and the nucleic acid extraction area is provided with a magnetic bead separation and purification system for nucleic acid extraction, and the transfer zone is set to be loaded. The rack is placed for components such as deep-hole plates for sample loading, reagent addition and preparation, and the waste area may include a waste pipe collection bucket and a waste liquid tank. The nucleic acid extraction platform moves to a magnetic bead separation and purification system set in the nucleic acid extraction zone by mechanically clamping five 96-well deep well plates with a sample and extraction reagent in the transfer zone and a 96-well plate with a magnetic head sleeve. 1 to 6 positions for nucleic acid extraction, the extraction process involves heating, cleavage, cooling, magnetic beads adsorption of nucleic acids in the first and second 96-well plates, and the magnetic beads adsorbed with nucleic acid are eluted through the third plate. The liquid and the fourth W/E buffer are washed to remove proteins, salts, etc., and eluted in the W/E buffer of the fifth 96-well plate to release nucleic acid to realize nucleic acid extraction.

The nucleic acid extraction platform of the prior art has a single function, has only the function of nucleic acid extraction, does not have a reagent preparation function, and cannot meet the diversified needs of the laboratory.

Therefore, there is a need for an automated reagent workstation that has both nucleic acid extraction functionality and reagent formulation capabilities.

Summary of the invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a reagent workstation, which aims to solve the problems in the prior art that the nucleic acid extraction platform has a single function, only has a nucleic acid extraction function, and does not have a reagent preparation function.

In order to achieve the object of the invention, the reagent workstation comprises: a casing, a pipetting module, a functional platform module, a nucleic acid extraction module and a main control module;

The pipetting module is located in an upper part of the casing, and the reagent is removed by an instruction of the main control module;

The functional platform module is located in a lower part of the casing for storing reagents, consumables and wastes;

The nucleic acid extraction module is located in the casing for realizing automatic extraction of nucleic acid according to instructions of the main control module, including a transmission unit and an oscillating unit; the transmission unit is configured to realize movement of the mounted container, and the transmission unit includes a kit line for transporting a container containing the reagent; the oscillating unit is for agitating the reagent in the container placed on the transmission unit.

The pipetting module, the function platform module and the nucleic acid extraction module are all connected with the main control module, and the main control module can send relevant instructions to the corresponding module.

The main control module is disposed under the functional platform module or disposed above the pipetting module or in an interlayer disposed on the rear wall of the casing or as a separate device.

Wherein the kit pipeline comprises a conveyor belt.

Further, the container is detachably fixed to the conveyor belt.

Wherein, a lower part of the reagent line is provided with a heat block for heating the reagent and a lifting mechanism for controlling the up and down movement of the heat block.

Wherein, the pipetting module may include a robot capable of moving in the XYZ axis direction and a pipette unit fixed to the robot.

The functional platform module includes a bottom plate, a reagent storage unit, a consumable unit, a waste unit, a reagent reaction unit, and a sample storage unit.

Further, the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit may all adopt a drawer structure.

Further, the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit are all detachably mounted on the bottom plate.

Further, the function platform module is provided with a plurality of drawer limit parts, and each adjacent drawer limit The spacing between the components is a, and the widths of the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit are all integer multiples of a; the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, and the reagent A drawer card position corresponding to the drawer limiting member is disposed on the bottom surface of the reaction unit and the sample storage unit.

Further, the base is provided with a plurality of interfaces connected to the main control module, and the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the rear of the sample storage unit are all provided with an interface with the base. socket.

Further, the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit, and the sample storage unit front end each have a display device.

Further, the display device is configured to display a connection state of the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit, and the sample storage unit to the base.

Further, the display device is an indicator light.

Further, the reagent reaction unit includes a magnetic separation portion, and the magnetic separation portion cooperates with the pipetting module to realize separation of the magnetic beads; the magnetic separation portion includes a cavity for accommodating the solution containing the magnetic beads and a magnetic force for generating magnetic force. Magnetic generating device.

Further, the reagent reaction unit further includes an oscillating mixing portion including a cavity for containing the solution and an oscillation generating device for generating the oscillation.

The reagent workstation further includes an environmental control module disposed in an upper portion of the casing, the pipetting module being located under the environmental control module, wherein the environmental control module is configured to control an internal space environment of the reagent workstation.

Further, the environmental control module includes an air purification unit and a sterilization unit, the sterilization unit is located below the air purification unit, and the air purification unit is configured to filter air entering the internal space of the reagent workstation and to make the reagent workstation internal The air flow in the space flows directionally from inside to outside; the sterilization unit is used to sterilize the interior of the reagent workstation.

Further, the air purifying unit is a fan filter unit, and the sterilizing unit is an ultraviolet lamp uniformly arranged in an upper portion of the casing.

It can be seen from the above that the nucleic acid extraction module of the invention can realize the extraction of nucleic acid by the instruction of the main control module, and the functional platform module and the pipetting module realize the automatic preparation of the reagent through the instruction of the main control module, so that one reagent workstation has the nucleic acid extraction at the same time. And the reagents are automatically formulated to meet the diverse needs of the laboratory.

DRAWINGS

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a schematic view showing the system structure of a reagent workstation in a first embodiment of the present invention.

2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d are diagrams showing four specific embodiments of the main control module of the present invention.

3 is a schematic structural view of a pipetting module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 4a, 4b, 4c are diagrams of three specific embodiments of a pipette in a pipetting module.

Figure 5 is a schematic view showing the structure of a kit of the present invention.

6a, 6b, and 6c are schematic views showing the structure of the reagent line and the container.

6d, 6e, and 6f are schematic structural views of a kit assembly line, a thermal block, and a lifting mechanism.

Figure 7 is a schematic view showing the structure of another embodiment of the kit stream of the present invention.

8a, 8b, 8c, and 8d are diagrams showing four specific embodiments of a kit pipeline and a packaging device.

FIG. 9 is a schematic structural diagram of a function platform module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

10a and 10b are schematic diagrams showing the structure of a drawer unit on a functional platform module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

11a and 11b are diagrams showing two specific embodiments of the drawer limit member and the drawer card position of the drawer unit.

Figure 12 is a schematic view showing the structure of the interface between the socket of the drawer unit and the base.

13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d are diagrams showing four embodiments of the magnetic separation unit of the reagent reaction unit.

14a and 14b are views showing two specific embodiments of the oscillating mixing unit of the reagent reaction unit.

Figure 15a is a diagram of a second embodiment of a reagent workstation of the present invention.

Figure 15b is a view showing a specific embodiment of the environment control module in the second embodiment of the reagent workstation of the present invention.

15c is a diagram showing a specific embodiment of a reagent workstation main control module and an environment control module according to the present invention.

detailed description

The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention proposes a first embodiment. The reagent workstation includes a casing 10, a pipetting module 20, a functional platform module 30, a nucleic acid extraction module 40, and a main control module.

(1) the pipetting module 20, the function platform module 30, the nucleic acid extraction module 40 and the main control module are disposed in the casing 10;

(2) The pipetting module 20 is located in the upper part of the casing 10, and the pipetting module 20 realizes the removal of the reagent by the instruction of the main control module; the instructions include, but are not limited to, the type of the reagent, the amount of the reagent to be transferred, and the like;

(3) The function platform module 30 is located in the lower part of the casing, and the function platform module 30 is used for realizing the storage of reagents, consumables and wastes. After the pipetting module 20 receives the instruction sent by the main control module, the function platform module The corresponding position of 30 is used to extract the reagent, and the reagent is delivered to the designated position for preparation, and the reagent is automatically prepared.

(4) The nucleic acid extraction module 40 is configured to perform nucleic acid extraction according to the instruction of the main control module. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the nucleic acid extraction module 40 includes a transmission unit 41 and an oscillating unit 42, and the transmission unit 41 is located in the function. Behind the platform module 30, the movement of the mounted container is realized by an instruction of the main control module, and the transmission unit 41 includes a reagent kit pipeline for conveying a container for holding the reagent; the oscillation unit 42 is located above the transmission unit 41. On the rear wall of the casing, the oscillating unit 42 is used to agitate the reagents in the container placed on the transmission unit 41 by the instructions of the main control module.

(5) The main control module, the pipetting module 20, the function platform module 30 and the nucleic acid extraction module 40 are all connected with the main control module, and the main control module can send relevant instructions to the corresponding module.

The pipetting module 20 in this embodiment is disposed in the upper part of the casing, and the pipetting module 20 is controlled by the main control module to transfer the reagent to a designated position as needed to realize automatic configuration of the reagent; in the nucleic acid extraction module 40 The transmission unit 41 cooperates with the oscillating unit 42. The transmission unit 41 drives the container for holding the reagent to the underside of the oscillating unit 42, and the oscillating unit 42 agitates the reagent in the container to mix the reagents, thereby realizing the extraction of the nucleic acid; The reagent workstation of the invention has both a nucleic acid extraction function and a reagent preparation function.

For the position of the main control module 50 in the casing 10, the present invention provides an example. As shown in FIG. 2a, as a preferred solution, the main control module 50 is disposed under the functional platform module 30, and the transmission unit 41 is located. Behind the functional platform module 30, the oscillating unit 42 is located on the rear wall of the casing above the transmission unit 41; the pipetting module 20, the functional platform module 30, the transmission unit 41 and the oscillating unit 42 are all connected to the main control module 50. The main control module 50 sends relevant instructions to the corresponding module to control its action.

For the position of the main control module 50 in the casing 10, the present invention also provides an example. Referring to FIG. 2b, the pipetting module 20 is located in the upper part of the casing 10, and the functional platform module 30 is located in the lower part of the casing 10. The transmission unit 41 is located behind the functional platform module 30, the oscillating unit 42 is located on the rear wall of the casing above the transmission unit 41; the main control module 50 is disposed above the pipetting module 20, the pipetting module 20, The function platform module 30, the transmission unit 41 and the oscillating unit 42 are all connected to the main control module 50, and the relevant control module 50 sends relevant instructions to the corresponding module to control its action.

For the position of the main control module 20, the present invention also proposes another example. As shown in FIG. 2c, the pipetting module 20 is located in the upper part of the casing 10, and the functional platform module 30 is located in the lower part of the casing 10. The transmission unit 41 Located behind the functional platform module 30, the oscillating unit 42 is located on the rear wall of the casing above the transmission unit 41; the main control module 50 is placed in an interlayer of the rear wall of the casing 10, and the pipetting module 20 The function platform module 30, the transmission unit 41, and the oscillating unit 42 are all connected to the main control module 50, and the main control module 50 sends relevant instructions to the corresponding module to control its action.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2d, the present invention also provides an example for the position of the main control module 50. The functional platform module 30 is located in the lower part of the casing 10, and the transmission unit 41 is located behind the functional platform module 30, and the oscillation is performed. The unit 42 is located on the rear wall of the casing above the transmission unit 41; the main control module 50 is located outside the casing, the main control module 50 is an independent control system, and the main control module 50 is separately piped through the casing. The module 20, the functional platform module 30, the transmission unit 41, and the oscillating unit 42 are connected.

With respect to the pipetting module 20, the present invention provides a specific embodiment, and the pipetting module 20 may include a robot that is movable in the XYZ axis direction and a pipette unit that is fixed to the robot.

As shown in FIG. 3, the pipetting module 20 includes a robot 21 and a pipette unit 22 fixed to the robot, wherein the manipulator 21 is for moving the pipette unit 22 in three directions in the casing XYZ, so the manipulator 21 can adopt a variety of structures, for example: 1, using a belt-type structure, the part of the structure that needs to be moved is fixed on the conveyor belt, and the rotation of the conveyor belt is driven by a motor or a motor to realize the movement of the pipette unit in the XYZ-axis direction; 2, using the screw drive structure to achieve, the part of the structure that needs to be moved is fixed on the slide table, through the cooperation of the screw rod and the slide table, the rotation of the motor or motor is converted into the movement of the slide table, thereby realizing the pipette unit Movement in the XYZ-axis direction, of course, the structure of the manipulator 21 of the present invention is not limited to the above two.

The pipette unit 22 can include a plurality of pipettes of different ranges. In one embodiment, the pipette unit 22 includes two or two different ranges of pipettes, each having a pipette range of 0.5 μL. -10 μL, 50 μL - 1200 μL. In this solution, different amounts of pipettes can be selected according to the amount of reagents to be removed for reagent removal, and the reagents can be quickly removed under the premise of ensuring precise pipetting. Further, each or each set of pipettes contains one or more channels. In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4a, each pipette has eight channels. In this solution, the pipette has a range of 0.5 μL to 10 μL. The pipette of the present solution can be customized according to different needs. Quickly realize the removal of reagents and improve the efficiency of reagent preparation. In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 4b, each pipette contains four channels, and the pipette has a range of 50 μL to 1000 μL. The four channels quickly realize the removal of reagents according to different needs and improve the efficiency of reagent preparation. In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 4c, each pipette has four channels, and the pipette has a range of 0.5 μL to 10 μL. The position of each channel of the pipette of the present embodiment can be separate. Control and meet the different needs to quickly achieve the removal of reagents. In another embodiment, the pipette unit 22 includes two different ranges of pipettes, the first pipette has eight channels, the pipette has a range of 0.5 μL to 10 μL, and the second pipette It also contains eight channels, and the pipette range is 50μL-1000μL. This solution can select different pipettes for reagent removal according to the amount of reagents to be removed, and realize the reagent fast under the premise of ensuring precise pipetting. Move.

The pipetting module 20 of the present invention establishes a connection with the main control module by wire or wirelessly, and the main control module can send an instruction to the pipetting module 20 to control the movement of the manipulator 21, and the manipulator 21 drives the pipetting through the control of the main control module. The unit 22 is rapidly moving, and the pipette unit 22 includes a plurality of pipettes of different ranges and having different numbers of channels, and can select different pipettes for rapid removal of reagents according to the amount of reagents to be removed. Accurate pipetting of reagents, automatically transfer reagents to designated locations for preparation, to achieve automatic configuration of reagents, and improve the efficiency of reagent preparation.

The present invention provides a specific embodiment for the nucleic acid extraction module. The nucleic acid extraction module 40 includes a transmission unit 41 for accommodating movement of the mounted container, and an oscillating unit 42 for A reagent cartridge line 410 for transporting a container for containing a reagent, as shown in FIG. 5, the kit assembly line 410 includes a rotating spindle 4101, a driving wheel 4012 rotated by a rotating spindle 4101, a driven wheel 4103, and a belt 4104, a conveyor belt The 4104 sleeve is rotated on the driving wheel 4102 and the driven wheel 4103 by the driving wheel 4102 to drive the belt 4104 to rotate, and the conveyor belt 4104 realizes the movement of the container.

In the embodiment, the reagent workstation uses the magnetic bead method to perform high-throughput automatic extraction of nucleic acid, and the reagent line can be pipetted, dispensed, and finally realized by the cooperation of the reagent assembly line 410 and the pipetting module 20 described above. Automated preparation; under the control of the main control module, the pipelined operation of the kit can realize reciprocating motion, and cooperate with the oscillating unit 42 to realize automatic extraction of nucleic acid. The reagent workstation of the embodiment has both automated nucleic acid extraction and reagent preparation functions.

Further, the container is detachably fixed to the conveyor belt 4104. By means of detachable fixing, on the one hand, the smoothness of the container when transported on the conveyor belt 4104 is improved, and on the other hand, when the container needs to be removed from the conveyor belt 4104, the detachable fixing method of the present solution does not affect the container. The removal took effect. In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6a, the conveyor belt 4104 is provided with a through hole having a diameter slightly larger than the container, and the container 43 is covered with a snap ring 4301, and the outer diameter of the snap ring 4301 is larger than the inner diameter of the through hole, so the container 43 can be placed in the through hole, and the conveyance is realized by the conveyor belt 4104. Since the through hole has a limit effect on the container 43, the stability of the container 43 during transportation is ensured. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6b, a bottom block of the container 43 is provided with a block 4302, and the belt 4104 is provided with a rotating buckle 4105. The container 43 is fixed to the conveyor belt by the action of the rotating buckle 4105. On the 4104, when the container needs to be removed, the rotary buckle 4105 is opened, and since the rotary buckle 4105 fixes the container, the stability of the container 43 is ensured. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6c, a double-sided tape 4106 is attached to the upper surface of the conveyor belt 4104, and the container 43 is attached to the double-sided tape 4106. This structure can also realize the detachable type of the container 43. fixed. The container 43 is detachably fixed to the conveyor belt 4104 to ensure the smoothness of the container 43 when transported on the conveyor belt 4104. The container may be one of a 96-well plate, a deep-well plate, a microplate, or a custom kit. Several.

In addition, the lower part of the reagent line of the kit may be provided with a heat block for heating the reagent and a lifting mechanism for controlling the up and down movement of the heat block. With this structure, in the process of nucleic acid extraction, if it is necessary to heat the liquid in the container, the passage is passed. The function of the lifting mechanism controls the rise of the heat block to achieve heating of the container. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6d, the lifting mechanism 430 is a cylinder or a linear motor, and the thermal block 420 is disposed at a lower portion of the belt 4104, and the heating of the container 43 is achieved by the heat transfer of the conveyor belt 4104. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6e, the structure of the container 43 and the conveyor belt 4104 is the same as that of FIG. 6a, and the heat block 420 is placed under the container 43, and the bottom of the container 43 is applied by the action of the lifting mechanism 430. Achieve heating. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6f, the side wall of the container 43 is provided with a block 4302, and the conveyor belt 4104 is provided with a through hole having a diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the container 43, and the container 43 is In the through hole, the buckle 4302 on the belt 4104 is fastened on the block 4105, so that the container 43 is fixed on the belt 4104, and the heat block 420 is placed under the container 43 by the action of the lifting mechanism 430. Heating is achieved at the bottom of the container. In this solution, the container in the reagent line can be heated by a heat block to incubate the liquid in the container at a constant temperature.

The oscillating unit 42 is for agitating the reagent in the container 43 placed on the transmission unit 41. The oscillating unit 42 includes two Z-axis robots, a magnetic head and a magnetic sleeve. The two robots respectively drive the magnetic head and the magnetic sleeve to move up and down in the vertical direction. In a specific embodiment, the two Z-axis robots are Z-axis screw drive mechanisms, wherein one Z-axis screw drive mechanism is connected to the magnetic head, the drive head is moved up and down, and the other Z-axis screw drive mechanism is connected to the magnetic sleeve to drive the magnetic Set up and down movement, when it is necessary to achieve magnetic separation, the magnetic head enters the magnetic sleeve, and enters the kit to adsorb the magnetic beads together; when it is necessary to beat and mix, the magnetic head is in the upper position, the magnetic sleeve Drop the independent motion and tap the mixing reagent.

In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the reagent assembly line 410 includes a bottom plate 4106, a container 43 detachably fixed to the bottom plate 4106, and a multi-arm robot 4107. The multi-arm robot 4107 is disposed on a slide bar 4108. The action of the drive means is movable back and forth over the slide bar 4108, and the streamlined transmission of the container 43 is effected by a plurality of grips 4109 of the multi-arm robot 4107.

The reciprocating motion of the container on the reagent line 410 of the reagent workstation of the present invention realizes the extraction of the nucleic acid by the cooperation of the oscillating unit 42, and the reciprocating movement of the container on the reagent line 410, and the movement of the reagent can be realized by the cooperation with the pipetting module 20. The liquid dispensing module has the function of automatic reagent preparation. Therefore, the reagent workstation of the invention has the functions of nucleic acid extraction and reagent preparation, and solves the single function of the nucleic acid extraction platform in the prior art, and has only the nucleic acid extraction function. Without the problem of reagent preparation. It should be noted that the reagent workstation of the present invention cannot be regarded as a simple combination of a device having a nucleic acid extraction function and a device having a reagent preparation function. Unlike the prior art, the reagent workstation of the present invention is a reagent cartridge pipeline. The design of the structure, and the cooperation of the kit pipeline and the pipetting module, can realize the pipetting and dispensing of the reagents, and at the same time cooperate with the packaging device to realize automatic packaging, so the reagent workstation of the invention can realize nucleic acid extraction, reagent preparation and reagents. Automated packaging. In addition, an anti-collision mechanism may be disposed at an upper position of the oscillating unit 42. The anti-collision mechanism has a contact switch. When the robot 21 of the pipetting module 20 moves to the position where the oscillating unit 42 is located, the manipulator 21 first contacts the collision avoidance. On the contact switch of the mechanism, after the contact switch is turned on, a signal is sent to the control module, and the control module sends a corresponding command to the pipetting module 20 to control the manipulator 21 to stop moving, and at the same time, the alarm device can be activated to issue an alarm signal.

The kit line 410 of the present invention can be equipped with automated packaging equipment, and thus the kit line of the present invention provides the possibility of automated packaging of reagents. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8a, the reagent workstation 100 is disposed side by side with the packaging device 200, and the reagent assembly line 410 in the reagent workstation 100 is directly inserted into the packaging device 200 from the reagent workstation 100, within the reagent workstation 100. The prepared kit is transferred to the packaging device 200 through the action of the reagent line 410 to realize automatic packaging of the kit. Therefore, the automated preparation and packaging process of the kit is completed by the automatic preparation of the reagents of the reagent workstation 100 and the automated packaging of the packaging device 200.

In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 8b, the kit line 410 is configured as a ring structure, while in the present embodiment the kit line 410 is of an elliptical configuration and the kit line 410 passes through simultaneously. In the reagent workstation 100 and the packaging device 200; in operation, the reagent workstation 100 is configured to enter the packaging device 200 through the action of the elliptical reagent assembly line 410, and the reagent packaging process is implemented under the action of the packaging device 200, and thereafter The kit can be transported to the outside of the packaging device 200, and the kit can be removed from the kit line 410 by a structure such as a robot, and a kit for further preparation can be placed on the kit line 410, in the specific embodiment. This structure allows reagent formulation and reagent packaging to be carried out continuously, improving the efficiency of reagent formulation and reagent packaging. It should be noted that the kit pipeline 410 is arranged in a square and circular structure to realize automatic assembly and packaging of the kit.

Considering that specific conditions are required during the transport of the kit, such as maintaining a constant temperature, avoiding the influence of the environment on the reagents, etc., in another embodiment, as shown in Figure 8c, the reagent workstation 100 is directly The packaging device 200 is designed as a one-piece structure, and the reagent workstation 100 and the packaging device 200 are disposed inside the same casing, and the reagent kit prepared in the reagent workstation 100 area is directly transferred to the packaging device 200 area for automatic packaging, and the reagent can also be realized. The automated configuration of the cartridge is packaged; since the reagent workstation 100 and the packaging device 200 are disposed within the same housing, the environmental impact on the well-equipped kit is minimized.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8d, by setting a transfer robot 300, the reagent package 100 prepared by the reagent workstation 100 is transferred from the reagent workstation to the packaging device 200, and the kit is automatically packaged; In this example, the reagent workstation can be used in combination with different packaging equipment to meet the packaging requirements of different reagents.

The reagent workstation of the present invention has both a reagent preparation function and a nucleic acid extraction function. In addition, the reagent workstation 100 can cooperate with the automatic packaging device 200 to realize automatic formulation and packaging of the reagent. The above solution of the present invention provides an implementable solution for the automatic preparation and packaging of the reagent, and solves the problems of low efficiency and poor packaging effect by using the artificial packaging reagent in the prior art.

As shown in FIG. 9, as an example of the functional platform module 30, the functional platform module in the first embodiment described above includes a reagent storage unit 31, a consumable unit 32, a waste unit 33, a reagent reaction unit 34, and a sample storage unit 35. . The consumable unit 32 is configured to store consumables required for the operation of the pipetting module 20, including but not limited to a magnetic sleeve, a kit, a V-groove, and a microplate; and the scrap unit 33 is used to store a reagent workstation. Waste generated during work. The waste unit 33 includes a blood waste recovery assembly 331 for recovering bloody waste, and a general waste recovery assembly 332 for recovering waste other than blood. Waste material other than the sample storage unit 35 For storing samples, stored separately from other reagents to avoid contamination; the reagent reaction unit 34 is for reaction by a solution configured by the pipetting module.

The reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the scrap unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34 and the sample storage unit 35 are all mounted on the bottom plate 36 in a detachable manner in the working process of the reagent workstation. The position and size of the reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the waste unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34, and the sample storage unit 35 can be set as needed. Therefore, the functional platform module 30 area can be arbitrarily combined as needed, and the flexibility is better.

Further, in the specific embodiment of the functional platform module 30 described above, the present invention proposes another location and size for the reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the scrap unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34, and the sample storage unit 35. For example, as shown in FIG. 10a, the function platform module 30 is provided with a plurality of drawer limiting members 301, and the number of drawer limiting members 301 is determined according to the number of drawer units 300 on the functional platform module 30. The storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the scrap unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34, and the sample storage unit 35 may each be referred to as a drawer unit 300. As shown in FIG. 10a, the spacing between each adjacent drawer limiting member 301 is a, the width of the drawer unit 300 is an integer multiple of a, and the drawer unit 300 is provided with a drawer limiting member 301 on the bottom surface thereof. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 10a, a total of nine drawer limiting members 301 are provided. The width of the first drawer unit 3001 is a, the width of the second drawer unit 3002 is 3a, and the third drawer The width of the unit 3003 is 2a, the width of the fourth drawer unit 3004 is a, the width of the fifth drawer unit 3005 is 2a, the first drawer unit 3001, the second drawer unit 3002, the third drawer unit 3003, and the fourth drawer The bottom surface of the unit 3004 and the fifth drawer unit 3005 are provided with at least one drawer card position that cooperates with the drawer limiting member. For example, the bottom surface of the first drawer unit 3001 is provided with a drawer card position, and the bottom surface of the second drawer unit 3002 is provided. There are three drawers, three drawers 3003 have two drawer slots on the bottom, a fourth drawer unit 3004 has a drawer slot on the bottom, and a fifth drawer unit 3005 has two drawers on the bottom. Bit. Of course, the number of the above-mentioned drawer card slots is only a preferred embodiment. When two drawer card slots are disposed on the second drawer unit 3002 or only one drawer card slot is disposed on the third drawer unit 3003, The cooperation of the drawer unit 300 with the bottom plate 306 affects. It should be understood that Fig. 10a illustrates the invention only as an embodiment, and the number of drawer units 300 in Fig. 10a can be increased or decreased as needed. By designing the structure of the drawer unit 300, any assembly of each drawer unit 300 can be realized. When a position of one of the drawer units 300 needs to be replaced, it is directly removed and inserted into a position to be placed. Utilizes the limited space of the functional platform module 30 to achieve the function Optimized layout of platform module 30.

In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10b, the reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the reagent reaction unit 35, the sample storage unit 34, and the scrap unit 33 are arranged side by side, and the width thereof is 2a, 4a, 2a, a, a. . The function platform module 30 is provided with a plurality of drawer limiting members 301. The reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the reagent reaction unit 34, the sample storage unit 35 and the bottom surface of the scrap unit 33 are each provided with at least one and drawer limiting member 301. Fitted drawers for card slots. In the present solution, the bottom surface of the reagent storage unit 31 is provided with two drawer card positions that cooperate with the drawer limiting member 301. The bottom surface of the consumable unit 32 is provided with four drawer card positions that cooperate with the drawer limiting member 301, and the sample storage unit The bottom surface of the 34 is provided with two drawer latches that cooperate with the drawer limiting member 301. The bottom surfaces of the scrap unit 33 and the reagent reaction unit 35 are respectively provided with a drawer card position that cooperates with the drawer limiting member 301. The present scheme can realize each drawer unit by designing the structure of the drawer unit 300 (the reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the scrap unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34, and the sample storage unit 35 can be referred to as a drawer unit 300). Any assembly of 300, when it is necessary to replace the position of one of the drawer units 300, directly remove it and insert it into the position to be placed, for example, as shown in FIG. 10b, when the consumable unit 32 needs to be moved to the functional platform module 30 In the position of the left end, the consumable unit 32 is removed from the functional platform module 30, and the consumable unit 32 is directly inserted into the function by the cooperation of the four drawer slots on the bottom surface of the consumable unit 32 and the drawer limiting member 301 on the functional platform module 30. The leftmost position of the platform module 30. When the reagent storage unit 31, the waste unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34, and the sample storage unit 35 need to be moved to the position, they may be set as needed. This structure fully utilizes the limited space of the functional platform module 30, and realizes the optimized layout of the functional platform module 30.

In a specific embodiment of the drawer limiting member 301 and the drawer card, as shown in FIG. 11a, the drawer limiting member 301 is a guide bar, and the drawer card is a guiding slot 302. When it is necessary to transfer to a position to be placed, the guide groove 302 of the drawer unit 300 can be directly inserted into the guide bar 301. For the manner in which the drawer limiting member 301 and the drawer card are engaged, there are other forms, for example, a guide groove is disposed on the bottom plate 306, and the guide bar is disposed under the drawer unit 300. Similarly, the drawer unit 300 can be disassembled and assembled. . In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11b, the drawer limiting member 301 is a fixing post fixed on the bottom plate, and the drawer card 302 is a fixing hole disposed at the bottom of the drawer, and passes through the fixing post and the fixing hole. In cooperation, the detachable fixing of the drawer unit 300 and the base 306 can be achieved.

Further, the base 306 of the functional platform module 30 is provided with a plurality of interfaces connected to the main control module 50, the reagent storage unit 31, the consumable unit 32, the scrap unit 33, the reagent reaction unit 34, and the sample storage list. The rear portion of the unit 35 is provided with a socket that cooperates with the interface of the base 36. In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, on the basis of the above embodiment of FIG. 10a, the present invention proposes another embodiment. In the present solution, widths a, 3a, 2a, a, 2a are respectively provided. The first drawer unit 3001, the second drawer unit 3002, the third drawer unit 3003, the fourth drawer unit 3004, and the fifth drawer unit 3005 are provided with a plurality of interfaces 3061 on the base, and the spacing between adjacent interfaces 3061 is a. The first drawer unit 3001, the second drawer unit 3002, the third drawer unit 3003, the fourth drawer unit 3004, and the fifth drawer unit 3005 are respectively provided with sockets 3062 that cooperate with the interface 3061; The front ends of the unit 3001, the second drawer unit 3002, the third drawer unit 3003, the fourth drawer unit 3004, and the fifth drawer unit 3005 each have a display device for displaying a connection state, and in the embodiment, the display device is an indicator light. 3063, the indicator light 3063 is used to display the connection state of the first drawer unit 3001, the second drawer unit 3002, the third drawer unit 3003, the fourth drawer unit 3004, and the fifth drawer unit 3005 respectively to the base, in the drawer unit When the docking unit 300 is not inserted into the designated position, the socket 3062 of the drawer unit 300 and the interface 3061 on the base 306 cannot be connected, and the main control module 50 cannot receive the signal, and the indicator light 3063 is controlled. Illuminating (or extinguishing) signals that the drawer unit 300 is not inserted or not fully inserted into the designated position, so that the influence on the reagent formulation due to the position of the drawer unit 300 can be avoided. In this solution, not only can any assembly of each drawer unit 300 be realized, but when a position of one of the drawer units 300 needs to be replaced, it is directly removed and inserted into a position to be placed, and the functional platform module 30 is fully utilized. Space, the optimized layout of the functional platform module 30 is realized; after each drawer unit 300 is inserted into the corresponding position of the functional platform module 30, the connection state of the drawer units 300 can also be displayed through the indicator light 3063, thereby ensuring each drawer unit 300. Inserted into the specified location.

The reagent reaction unit 34 of the functional platform module 30 includes a magnetic separation portion 340 that cooperates with the pipetting module 20 to effect separation of the magnetic beads. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13a, the magnetic separation portion 340 A cavity 3401 for accommodating a solution containing magnetic beads and a magnetic force generating device 3402 for generating a magnetic force are provided. In the present example, the magnetic force generating device 3402 is disposed at a lower portion of the cavity, and the magnetic force generating device 3402 includes a lifting device disposed on the bottom plate. a driving device 3403, a guiding post 3405 disposed between the cavity 3401 and the bottom plate 3404, and a permanent magnet 3406 movable up and down on the guiding post 3405. The lifting driving device 3403 is a lifting cylinder or a linear motor through a lifting cylinder or The action of the linear motor causes the permanent magnet 3406 to move up and down on the guide post 3405. When the permanent magnet 3406 rises to the bottom of the cavity 3401, the magnetic beads in the cavity 3401 can be adsorbed to the bottom of the cavity. As shown in FIG. 13b, another example of the magnetic separation portion 340, in this example, the magnetic force The generating device 3402 is an electromagnet disposed at a lower portion of the cavity. When the control electromagnet is energized, the electromagnet can adsorb the magnetic beads in the cavity 3401 to the bottom of the cavity. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13c, the magnetic force generating device 3402 is an electromagnet surrounding the lower side of the cavity. When the control electromagnet is energized, the magnetic beads in the cavity 3401 can be adsorbed to the bottom of the cavity. . In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13d, the magnetic force generating device 3402 is disposed on the side of the cavity, and the permanent magnet 3406 is driven to move closer to or away from the cavity by the action of the driving device 3407. Similarly, when The magnet 3406 is close to the side of the cavity 3401, and the magnetic beads in the cavity 3401 can be adsorbed to the bottom of the cavity to realize the separation of the magnetic beads.

The reagent reaction unit 34 further includes an oscillating mixing portion 341 including a cavity 3410 for containing a solution and an oscillation generating device 3411 for generating an oscillation, specifically to the present example, as shown in FIG. 14a, The oscillating generating device 3411 includes a base 3412, an oscillating motor 3413, a struts 3414, and an eccentric block 3415. The cavity 3410 is fixed to the base 3412 by the struts 3414, and the oscillating motor 3413 is also fixed on the base 3412. The eccentric block 3415 is mounted on the oscillating surface. The motor 3413 is on the motor shaft. Therefore, the rotation of the oscillating motor 3413 drives the eccentric block 3415 to oscillate to realize oscillation. By controlling the on/off of the oscillating motor, the control of the oscillating mixing portion 341 can be realized, thereby realizing the oscillation of the reaction reagent. Mix the effect. In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14b, the cavity 3410 is disposed on a slider 3416. The slider 3416 is mounted in a sliding slot. One end of the slider 3416 is rotatably connected with a connecting rod 3417. The other end of the 3417 is rotatably mounted on a rotating wheel 3418. Therefore, the rotation of the rotating wheel 3418 can drive the connecting rod 3417 to reciprocate, thereby driving the sliding block 3416 to reciprocate in the sliding groove to realize the solution in the cavity 3410. The oscillating action; adjusting the fixed point of the connecting rod 3417 and the rotating wheel 3418, the amplitude of the reciprocating motion of the slider 3416 can be adjusted. For example, when the fixed point of the connecting rod 3417 and the rotating wheel 3418 is point A, the amplitude of the reciprocating motion of the slider 3416 is large. When the fixed point of the connecting rod 3417 and the rotating wheel 3418 is changed to the point B, the amplitude of the reciprocating motion of the slider 3416 is reduced. Therefore, the vibration of the cavity 3410 is adjusted by adjusting the fixed point of the connecting rod 3417 and the rotating wheel 3418. Amplitude.

Through the above-mentioned first embodiment, the reagent workstation of the invention can realize nucleic acid extraction, automatic preparation of reagents, realize nucleic acid extraction, reagent preparation, magnetic bead separation and constant temperature incubation on the same device, and solve the nucleic acid in the prior art. The extraction platform has a single function and only has the function of nucleic acid extraction, and does not have the problem of reagent preparation function. Moreover, through the cooperation of the kit pipeline and the packaging device, the automatic packaging of the reagent can be realized, and an implementable scheme is provided for the automatic preparation and packaging of the reagent. In addition, each unit of the functional platform module adopts a drawer type and a detachable structure, which can realize arbitrary assembly of each unit. By setting the position of each unit, the limited space of the platform module is fully utilized to realize the function platform. Module Optimized layout.

As shown in FIG. 15a, a second embodiment of the reagent workstation of the present invention, in the embodiment, the reagent workstation includes a casing 10, an environmental control module 60, a pipetting module 20, a functional platform module 30, and nucleic acid extraction. Module 40 and main control module 50. Referring to Figure 15a, a schematic diagram of the structure of the reagent workstation is given, and the reagent workstation will now be described in detail.

(1) The environment control module 60, the pipetting module 20, the function platform module 30, the nucleic acid extraction module 40, and the main control module 50 are disposed in the casing.

(2) The pipetting module 20 is located in the upper part of the casing 10, and the pipetting module 20 realizes the removal of the reagent by the instruction of the main control module 50; the instructions include, but are not limited to, the type of the reagent, the amount of the reagent to be transferred, and the like;

(3) The environment control module 60 is disposed in an upper portion of the casing, the pipetting module 20 is located below the environment control module 60, and the environment control module 60 is configured to control an internal space environment of the reagent workstation;

(4) The function platform module 30 is located in the lower part of the casing 10, and the function platform module 30 is used for realizing the storage of reagents, consumables and wastes. After receiving the instruction sent by the main control module 50, the pipetting module 20 functions from the function. The corresponding position of the platform module 30 realizes the extraction of the reagent, and the reagent is delivered to the designated position for preparation, and the reagent is automatically prepared.

(5) The nucleic acid extraction module 40 is configured to perform nucleic acid extraction according to the instruction of the main control module. In this embodiment, in conjunction with FIG. 15a, the nucleic acid extraction module 40 includes a transmission unit 41 and an oscillating unit 42, and the transmission unit 41 is located at the functional platform module. At the rear of 30, the movement of the mounted container is realized by an instruction of the main control module 50, and the transmission unit 41 includes a reagent kit line for conveying a container for holding the reagent; the oscillation unit 42 is located above the transmission unit 41. On the rear wall of the casing, an oscillating unit 42 is used to agitate the reagents in the container placed on the transmission unit 41.

(6) The main control module 50 is located below the function platform module 30, and the pipetting module 20, the environment control module 60, the function platform module 30, and the nucleic acid extraction module 40 are all connected to the main control module 50, and the main control module 50 can be Send the relevant instructions to the corresponding module.

The pipetting module 20 in the embodiment is disposed in the upper part of the casing 10, and the pipetting module 20 is controlled by the main control module 50 to transfer the reagent to a designated position as needed to realize automatic configuration of the reagent; the nucleic acid extraction module 40 The transmission unit 41 cooperates with the oscillating unit 42. The transmission unit 41 drives the container containing the reagent to the underside of the oscillating unit 42, and the oscillating unit 42 agitates the reagent in the container to mix the reagents, thereby realizing the extraction of the nucleic acid; Therefore, the reagent workstation of this program has both nucleic acid extraction function and test The agent formulating function, and when the pipetting module 20 and the nucleic acid extraction module 40 are in operation, the environment control module 60 sterilizes the interior of the reagent workstation and filters the air entering the interior of the reagent workstation.

In a specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15b, the environment control module 60 includes an air purification unit 601 and a sterilization unit 602. The sterilization unit 602 is located below the air purification unit 601, and the air purification unit 601 is used for filtering. The air entering the interior space of the reagent workstation is caused to flow inwardly from the inside to the outside of the reagent workstation; the sterilization unit 602 is used to sterilize the interior of the reagent workstation. In the specific embodiment, the air purifying unit 601 is a fan filter unit, and the sterilizing unit 602 is an ultraviolet lamp uniformly arranged in an upper portion of the casing. The fan filter unit can consider the air entering the internal space of the actual workstation, so that the internal space of the reagent workstation keeps the air circulation, and the ultraviolet lamp realizes the sterilization effect, which provides a better working environment for the processes of nucleic acid extraction and reagent preparation.

It should be noted that the structures of the pipetting module 20, the nucleic acid extraction module 40, and the functional platform module 30 in the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied to the second embodiment, and in the second embodiment, the pipetting is not performed. The specific structure of the module 20, the nucleic acid extraction module 40, and the functional platform module 30 will be described.

In the second embodiment, the main control module 50 is located below the functional platform module 30, but the position of the main control module 50 can still be set according to the positions of FIG. 2b, FIG. 2c, and FIG. 2d in the first embodiment, for example, for example. As shown in FIG. 15c, as an example of the main control module 50 and the environment control module 60, the environment control module 60 is located above the pipetting module 20, and the main control module 50 is disposed outside the casing 10, and the main control module 50 is independent. The control module 50 is connected to the pipetting module 20, the function platform module 30, the transmission unit 41 and the oscillating unit 42 in the casing 10 via wires.

In addition, in the casings of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, detachable handles are respectively provided on both sides of the casing to facilitate a position that can be held when the reagent workstation needs to be manually moved. The casing is provided with a small platform at a position parallel to the bottom plate of the functional platform module. The main function of the small platform is two points, one is to provide a small space for temporary items, and the other is to provide a supporting surface for the drawer module. It is more convenient and reliable to make the drawer in and out; the small platform is foldable, and the small platform can be folded when needed to reduce the width of the reagent workstation.

Through the above-mentioned second embodiment, the reagent workstation of the invention can realize nucleic acid extraction, automatic preparation of reagents, realize nucleic acid extraction, reagent preparation, magnetic bead separation and constant temperature incubation on the same device, and solve the nucleic acid in the prior art. The extraction platform has a single function and only has the function of nucleic acid extraction, and does not have the problem of reagent preparation function. Moreover, by the cooperation of the kit pipeline and the packaging device, the reagent can be realized. The dynamic packaging provides an implementable solution for the automated formulation of reagents. In addition, each unit of the functional platform module adopts a drawer type and a detachable structure, which can realize arbitrary assembly of each unit. By setting the position of each unit, the limited space of the platform module is fully utilized to realize the function platform. The optimal layout of the module.

The above is only the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the protection of the present invention. Within the scope.

Claims

A reagent workstation, characterized in that: the reagent workstation comprises a casing, a pipetting module, a functional platform module, a nucleic acid extraction module and a main control module;

The pipetting module is located at an upper portion of the casing for realizing the removal of the reagent according to the instruction of the main control module;

The functional platform module is located in a lower part of the casing for storing reagents, consumables and wastes;

The nucleic acid extraction module is located in the casing for realizing automatic extraction of nucleic acid according to instructions of the main control module, including a transmission unit and an oscillating unit; the transmission unit is configured to realize movement of the mounted container, and the transmission unit includes a kit line for transporting a container containing the reagent; the oscillating unit is for agitating the reagent in the container placed on the transmission unit.
The reagent workstation of claim 1 wherein said kit line comprises a conveyor belt detachably secured to the conveyor belt.
The reagent workstation according to claim 1, wherein a lower portion of the reagent line is provided with a heat block for heating the reagent, and a lifting mechanism for controlling the up and down movement of the heat block.
The reagent workstation according to claim 1, wherein the functional platform module comprises a bottom plate, a reagent storage unit, a consumable unit, a waste unit, a reagent reaction unit, and a sample storage unit, the reagent storage unit, a consumable unit, and a waste. The unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit are all of a drawer type structure and are detachably mounted on the bottom plate.
The reagent workstation according to claim 4, wherein the functional platform module is provided with a plurality of drawer limiting members, and the spacing between the adjacent drawer limiting members is a, the reagent storage unit, The width of the consumable unit, the scrap unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit are all integer multiples of a; the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit are all provided with a limit on the bottom of the drawer. The drawer position of the part fits.
The reagent workstation according to claim 4, wherein the base is provided with a plurality of interfaces connected to the main control module, the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the sample storage unit. Each part is provided with a socket matched with the interface of the base, and the reagent storage unit, the consumable unit, the waste unit, the reagent reaction unit and the front end of the sample storage unit each have a display device for displaying the connection state.
The reagent workstation according to claim 4, wherein said reagent reaction unit comprises The magnetic separation portion, the magnetic separation portion cooperates with the pipetting module to realize separation of the magnetic beads; the magnetic separation portion includes a cavity for accommodating the solution containing the magnetic beads and a magnetic force generating device for generating a magnetic force.
The reagent workstation according to claim 4, wherein said reagent reaction unit further comprises an oscillating mixing portion, said oscillating mixing portion comprising a cavity for containing the solution and an oscillation generating means for generating oscillation.
The reagent workstation according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the reagent workstation further comprises an environmental control module disposed in an upper portion of the casing, the pipetting module being located under the environmental control module, the environment The control module is used to control the internal space environment of the reagent workstation.
The reagent workstation according to claim 9, wherein said environmental control module comprises an air purification unit and a sterilization unit, said sterilization unit being located below the air purification unit, said air purification unit for filtering the incoming reagent The air in the interior space of the workstation and the flow of air in the interior space of the reagent workstation are directed from inside to outside; the sterilization unit is used to sterilize the interior of the reagent workstation.