WO2023243975A1

WO2023243975A1 - Specimen treatment apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2023243975A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/008072
Authority: WO
Inventors: 서재형; 최원용; 이도영
Original assignee: (주)옵토레인
Priority date: 2022-06-13
Filing date: 2023-06-13
Publication date: 2023-12-21
Also published as: KR20230171093A

Abstract

Disclosed are: a specimen treatment apparatus capable of guiding a location to which a specimen must be moved and automatically storing and managing a specimen ID; and a specimen collection method using same. The specimen treatment apparatus comprises: a universal transport medium (UTM) holding block which provides a receiving space for holding a plurality of UTMs, and comprises UTM LEDs arranged so as to correspond to the respective UTMs; and a PCR tube holding block which provides a receiving space for holding a plurality of PCR tubes, comprises PCR LEDs arranged so as to correspond to the respective PCR tubes and, according to the withdrawal of the UTMs held in the UTM holding block, enables the PCR LEDs corresponding to the PCR tubes to emit light according to the UTMs that are withdrawn.

Description

Specimen processing device

This application was filed on 2022.06.13. The benefit of priority is claimed based on the filed Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0071195, and all content disclosed in the document of the Korean Patent Application is incorporated as part of this specification.

The present invention relates to a sample processing device, and more specifically, to a sample processing device that guides the location to which the sample should move and automatically stores and manages the sample ID.

Generally, in virus testing, a universal transport medium (UTM) (i.e., viral clinical specimen transport medium) is used to transport specimens, and specimen management involves collecting specimen information (ID) in one-dimensional or The method is to issue a sticker in the form of a 2D barcode and attach it to the UTM.

Except for a few PCR test equipment in which the entire process is automated, a general PCR test requires the process of extracting DNA or RNA from a sample. To extract DNA or RNA, a specific amount of sample must be moved from the UTM containing the sample to the extraction cartridge using a pipette. The extraction cartridges were manufactured in various ways depending on the extraction equipment, but were generally manufactured to simultaneously extract RNA or DNA from 16 or 24 samples.

When transferring a sample to the extraction cartridge in multiple UTMs, the extraction cartridge does not have a separate storage function, so the location of the sample to be injected into the extraction cartridge must be written by hand on paper or using a keyboard or barcode scanner using a document program on a computer. Manage it by entering it in . At this time, due to the user's carelessness, a case may occur where the location information of the sample injected into the extraction cartridge and the location information of the recorded samples are not the same. This discrepancy in location information causes errors in test results and leads to misdiagnosis of the patient's condition.

To prevent such inconsistencies in location information, users must pay more attention to moving and managing specimens, which causes delays in work speed.

In addition, when moving a sample, if the moving location of the sample changes due to the user's carelessness, such as when multiple UTMs move to the extraction cartridge or from the extraction cartridge to the PCR tube, the test result may be incorrect. There is a problem that causes misdiagnosis of the patient's condition.

Accordingly, the technical problem of the present invention is focused on this point, and the purpose of the present invention is to manage specimen ID and guide the location to which the specimen should move when moving the specimen, and to process specimens that can automatically store and manage the specimen ID. The device is provided.

In order to realize the object of the present invention described above, the sample processing device according to one embodiment provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of universal transport media (UTM), and is arranged to correspond to each of the UTMs. UTM mounting block containing UTM LEDs; and providing an accommodating space for mounting a plurality of PCR tubes, including PCR LEDs disposed corresponding to each of the PCR tubes, corresponding to the drawn-out UTM according to the drawing of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. It includes a PCR tube mounting block that emits PCR LEDs corresponding to the PCR tube.

According to the sample processing device of the present invention, the time for moving and managing samples in virus testing can be shortened, and the occurrence of errors in test results can be improved to reduce the possibility of misdiagnosis of a patient's condition. Specifically, in specimen ID management and specimen movement, the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block are directly connected, the extraction cartridge mounting block is disposed between the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block, or the UTM mounting block, The extraction cartridge mounting block, the PCR tube mounting block, and the unicorn chip mounting block are sequentially connected to guide the location where the sample should be moved, and the sample ID can be automatically stored and managed, so moving and managing the sample. It is possible to shorten the time and improve the occurrence of errors in test results, thereby reducing the possibility of misdiagnosis of the patient's condition.

Figure 1 is a perspective view for explaining a sample processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining instruments used for sample collection using the sample processing device shown in FIG. 1.

Figure 3 is a perspective view for explaining the UTM mounting block shown in Figure 1.

Figure 4 is a perspective view for explaining the extraction cartridge mounting block shown in Figure 1.

Figure 5 is a perspective view for explaining the PCR tube mounting block shown in Figure 1.

Figure 6 is a perspective view for explaining the unicorn chip holding block shown in Figure 1.

Figure 7a is a perspective view for explaining a storage module, which is a device configured to enable a memory such as ROM to be mounted on an extraction cartridge accommodated in an extraction cartridge holding block. FIG. 7B is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a memory such as ROM is removably connected to the extraction cartridge of FIG. 7A.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the sample processing device described above may further include a first controller. Here, when the UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block to move the specimen, the first controller recognizes the position of the UTM and controls the position to be displayed through the indicator LED next to the UTM slot at the corresponding position, The position to be injected is controlled to be displayed through the LED at the corresponding position among the indicator LEDs of the PCR tube mounting block, and when the UTM is mounted in the original position of the UTM mounting block, the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block at the corresponding position and the PCR tube mounting block are displayed. It is controlled to display the state of completion of sample movement through the indicator LED at the corresponding position of the tube holding block.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the UTM holding block includes a plurality of UTM slots formed to hold each of the UTMs; and a UTM sensor that detects whether a UTM is attached to each of the UTM slots.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the UTM holding block may further include a barcode scanner that scans information attached to the UTM.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the UTM LEDs include a plurality of UTM indicator LEDs corresponding to each of the UTMs and indicating the mounting state of the UTM; A plurality of UTM module LEDs arranged corresponding to UTM slots arranged in a row to display the mounting status of the UTM; And it may include a UTM work status LED that displays the work status of the UTM mounting block.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the PCR tube mounting block includes a PCR tube slot formed to hold a PCR tube; PCR indicator LED that indicates the injection location of the PCR tube module; and a PCR operation status LED indicating the PCR operation status.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a receiving space is provided for mounting a multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge), and is disposed between the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block to extract the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. Accordingly, it may further include an extraction cartridge holding block that emits cartridge LEDs corresponding to the area of the multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge) in response to the extracted UTM.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the sample processing device described above may further include a second controller. Here, the second controller uses the memory connector and storage module of the extraction cartridge mounting block to determine the sample ID of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block using a barcode scanner built into the UTM mounting block or connected to the device. It is controlled to read and store in the memory mounted on the storage module, and the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block is controlled to display a status including completion of mounting of the UTM and storage of the specimen ID.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the extraction cartridge mounting block includes an extraction cartridge slot formed to hold a multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge); And it may include a cartridge sensor that detects whether the multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge) is attached to the extraction cartridge slot.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the extraction cartridge holding block may further include a memory connector capable of reading a storage medium storing sample information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge LEDs include a first indicator LED that indicates the injection position of the extraction cartridge; a second indicator LED indicating the extraction location; and a work status LED that displays the work status.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an accommodating space for mounting a unicorn chip is provided, connected to the PCR tube mounting block, and UTM information corresponding to the drawn UTM according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. It may further include a unicorn chip holding block that stores in the memory of the unicorn chip.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the sample processing device described above may further include a third controller. When a UTM is pulled out to move a sample from the UTM mounting block, the third controller recognizes the location and controls the location to be displayed through an indicator LED next to the UTM slot at that location, and controls the extraction cartridge mounting block. Controlled to display the position to be injected through the LED at the corresponding position among the indicator LEDs, and when the UTM is mounted in the original position of the UTM mounting block, the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block at the corresponding position and the extraction cartridge mounting block It is controlled to display the state of completion of specimen movement through the indicator LED at the corresponding position.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the unicorn chip mounting block includes a plurality of unicorn chip slots formed to hold each unicorn chip; a plurality of chip indicator LEDs disposed adjacent to each of the unicorn chip slots to display a mounted state of the unicorn chip; A plurality of chip module LEDs arranged corresponding to unicorn chip slots arranged in a row to display a mounting state of the unicorn chip; And it may include a chip work status LED that displays the work status of the unicorn chip mounting block.

In order to realize the object of the present invention described above, a sample processing device according to another embodiment provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of universal transport media (UTM), and is arranged to correspond to each of the UTMs. UTM mounting block containing UTM LEDs; and providing an accommodation space for mounting a multi-well cartridge, disposed adjacent to the UTM mounting block, and corresponding to an area of the multi-well cartridge in response to the drawn-out UTM according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. It includes an extraction cartridge mounting block that emits cartridge LEDs.

In order to realize the above-described object of the present invention, a sample processing device according to another embodiment provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of universal transport media (UTM), and corresponds to each of the UTMs. UTM mounting block containing arranged UTM LEDs; Provides an accommodating space for mounting a multi-well cartridge, is disposed adjacent to the UTM mounting block, and corresponds to an area of the multi-well cartridge in response to the drawn-out UTM according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. Extraction cartridge mounting block that emits cartridge LEDs; And disposed adjacent to the extraction cartridge mounting block, providing an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of PCR tubes, and including PCR LEDs disposed corresponding to each of the PCR tubes, mounted on the UTM mounting block. It includes a PCR tube mounting block that emits PCR LEDs corresponding to the PCR tube in response to the UTM being pulled out as the UTM is pulled out.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. Since the present invention can be subject to various changes and have various forms, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the text. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to a specific disclosed form, and should be understood to include all changes, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

While describing each drawing, similar reference numerals are used for similar components. In the attached drawings, the dimensions of the structures are enlarged from the actual size for clarity of the present invention.

Terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component without departing from the scope of the present invention, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as a first component. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In this application, terms such as “comprise” or “have” are intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but are not intended to indicate the presence of one or more other features. It should be understood that this does not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of elements, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

Additionally, unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the related technology, and unless explicitly defined in the present application, should not be interpreted in an ideal or excessively formal sense. No.

Figure 1 is a perspective view for explaining a sample processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining instruments used for sample collection using the sample processing device shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the sample processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a UTM mounting block 100, an extraction cartridge mounting block 200, a PCR tube mounting block 300, and It includes a unicorn chip mounting block 400, and recognizes whether or not it is mounted at a specific location by mounting a means of moving the specimen, such as a plurality of UTMs.

The UTM mounting block 100 includes a first housing and provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of UTMs (B). Here, UTMs (B) are containers used as a means of collecting and moving samples. In this embodiment, the UTM mounting block 100 includes LEDs arranged corresponding to each of the UTMs (B). In this embodiment, 3*8 spaces are formed as accommodating spaces for mounting UTMs (B).

The extraction cartridge mounting block 200 includes a second housing and provides an accommodation space for mounting a multi-well cartridge. The multi-well cartridge includes a multi-well array in which a plurality of wells extending in the first direction of the drawing are arranged adjacent to each other in the second direction or the third direction of the drawing intersecting the first direction. For example, it may be configured as a multi-well containing 8*12, a total of 96 wells, but the present invention is not limited to this. Here, the inner bottom surface of each well may be concavely curved inward. The extraction cartridge mounting block 200 is disposed between the UTM mounting block 100 and the PCR tube mounting block 300, and as the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block 100 is pulled out, the multi- The LED corresponding to the area of the well cartridge emits light.

The PCR tube mounting block 300 includes a third housing and provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of PCR tubes (D). Here, the PCR tube (D) is provided to accommodate PCR reagents. In this embodiment, the PCR tube mounting block 300 includes LEDs disposed corresponding to each of the PCR tubes (D). The PCR tube mounting block 300 emits an LED corresponding to the PCR tube in response to the UTM being pulled out as the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block 100 is pulled out.

The unicorn chip mounting block 400 includes a fourth housing and provides an accommodation space for mounting the unicorn chip (E). Here, the Unicorn Chip (E) is a device that is fastened to the Unicorn Cartridge Case and causes a PCR reaction inside the Unicorn Chip (E) using real time PCR equipment. The sample and PCR reagent are injected through the inlet of the Unicorn chip (E), and the Unicorn chip (E) is attached to the UTM tube (B) using a barcode scanner (A) or a barcode scanner mounted on the body (C). ) has a memory to store sample information read. The barcode scanner (A) described above can be connected through the external interface of the device. The above-mentioned barcode sticker (C) contains sample information and is generally attached to the side of the UTM. In this embodiment, the unicorn chip mounting block 400 is connected to the PCR tube mounting block 300, and upon withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block 100, UTM information corresponding to the drawn UTM is stored in the unicorn chip. Save it in memory (E).

The UTM mounting block 100, the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, the PCR tube mounting block 300, and the extraction chip mounting block 400 include a communication interface and a power interface for electrically connecting each block.

In one embodiment of the present invention, in specimen ID management and specimen movement, the UTM mounting block 100 and the PCR tube mounting block 300 are directly connected to guide the location to which the specimen should be moved and automatically determine the specimen ID. Sample collection methods for storage and management may be implemented.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in managing the specimen ID and moving the sample, the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 is placed between the UTM mounting block 100 and the PCR tube mounting block 300 to guide the location to which the sample should be moved. And, a sample collection method that automatically stores and manages the sample ID can be performed.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in specimen ID management and specimen movement, the UTM mounting block 100, the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, the PCR tube mounting block 300, and the unicorn chip mounting block 400 are sequentially used. A sample collection method can be performed that is connected, guides the location where the sample should move, and automatically stores and manages the sample ID in the memory of the unicorn chip (E).

As described above, it is possible to recognize whether a specimen is mounted at a specific location by mounting a means of moving the specimen, such as a plurality of UTMs. Additionally, the specimen ID can be stored in the form of a one-dimensional (ID) or two-dimensional (2D) barcode using a barcode scanner and storage device. In addition, the specimen storage device can recognize the location where the specimen transport means is mounted and store and manage the specimen ID for each location where the specimen transport means is mounted. Additionally, when moving a sample for testing, the location to be moved can be specified using an indicator such as an LED.

According to the present invention, the time for moving and managing specimens in virus testing can be shortened, and the occurrence of errors in test results can be improved to reduce the possibility of misdiagnosis of a patient's condition.

Figure 3 is a perspective view for explaining the UTM mounting block 100 shown in Figure 1.

Referring to FIG. 3, the UTM holding block 100 includes a first housing 110, a plurality of UTM slots 120 formed in the first housing 110 to hold each UTM, and UTM slots 120. A plurality of UTM indicator LEDs 130 arranged adjacent to each other to indicate the mounting state of the UTM, and a plurality of UTM modules arranged at one end of the UTM slots 120 arranged in a row to display one row of UTMs. It includes LEDs 140, a UTM status LED 150 indicating the status of the UTM mounting operation, a sensor (not shown) that detects whether the UTM is attached, and a 1D/2D barcode scanner 160. In this embodiment, the UTM slots 120 are formed as 3*8, the UTM indicator LEDs 130 are formed as 3*8, the UTM module LEDs 140 are formed as 3, and the UTM status LED (150) is exemplarily shown as one, but is not limited to this number.

Figure 4 is a perspective view for explaining the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 shown in Figure 1.

Referring to FIG. 4, the extraction cartridge holding block 200 includes a second housing 210, an extraction cartridge slot 220 formed in the second housing to hold the extraction cartridge, and a plurality of devices that indicate the sample injection position of the extraction cartridge. First cartridge indicator LEDs 230, a plurality of second cartridge indicator LEDs 240 indicating the extraction position of the sample in the extraction cartridge, cartridge status LED 250 indicating the status of the extraction cartridge, extraction It includes a sensor (not shown) that can check whether the cartridge is attached, and a storage medium connector 260, which is an interface for storing sample information in a storage medium. In this embodiment, the first cartridge indicator LED 230 is formed in 3 * 8 pieces, the second cartridge indicator LED 240 is formed in 3 pieces, and the cartridge status LED 250 is formed in 1 piece. Although shown, it is not limited to these numbers.

Figure 5 is a perspective view for explaining the PCR tube mounting block 300 shown in Figure 1.

Referring to FIG. 5, the PCR tube mounting block 300 includes a third housing 310, a plurality of PCR tube slots 320 formed in the third housing 310 to mount the PCR tube module, and a PCR tube module. A plurality of PCR tube indicator LEDs 330 indicating the injection location, and a plurality of PCR tube module LEDs 340 disposed at one end of the PCR tube slots 320 arranged in a row and indicating one row of PCR tubes. ), and includes a PCR tube status LED (350) that indicates the working status of the PCR tube mounting. In this embodiment, the PCR tube slots 320 and the PCR tube indicator LEDs 330 are each formed of 3*8, the PCR tube module LEDs 340 are formed of 3, and the PCR tube block status LED ( 350) is exemplarily shown as one, but is not limited to this number.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view for explaining the unicorn chip mounting block 400 shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 6, the unicorn chip holding block 400 includes a fourth housing 410, a plurality of unicorn chip holding slots 420 formed in the fourth housing 410 to hold each of the unicorn chips, and a unicorn chip holding block 400. A plurality of unicorn chip indicator LEDs 430 that display the sample ID storage state and mounting state, a plurality of unicorn chip module LEDs 440 that indicate the extraction location of the unicorn chip module when injecting samples in batches, and a unicorn chip mounting block It includes a unicorn chip mounting block status LED (450) that indicates the working status of (400). In this embodiment, the unicorn chip mounting slots 420 are formed in 3 rows, each row having 8 slots, the unicorn chip indicator LEDs 430 are formed in 3*8 pieces, and the unicorn chip module LEDs 440 It is shown as an example that the unicorn chip holding block status LED 450 is formed of 3 pieces and the unicorn chip holding block status LED 450 is formed of 1 piece, but it is not limited to these numbers.

Figures 7a and 7b are perspective views schematically illustrating the extraction cartridge accommodated in the extraction cartridge mounting block 200. In particular, Figure 7a schematically shows that a storage module 294, which is a device equipped with a memory 292 such as ROM, is detachably coupled to the extraction cartridge 290, and Figure 7b shows the extraction cartridge 290. It is schematically shown that a memory 292, such as a ROM, is connected in a detachable manner.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7B, the memory 292 and the memory connector are electrically connected to the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, and a barcode scanner (A) (shown in FIG. 2) or UTM mounting block ( Using a barcode scanner (not shown) connected to 100), the sample ID of the barcode attached to the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block 100 is read and the sample information is stored in the memory 292.

When the sample ID barcode from each of the UTMs placed in the UTM mounting block 100 is read with an externally connected or internally mounted barcode scanner and placed in the UTM slot, the position of the UTM slot is recognized and the unicorn chip mounting block 400 It is stored in the memory 292 of the unicorn chip mounted in the unicorn chip slot at the same location.

The indicator LED next to the UTM slot in the UTM mounting block 100 and the indicator LED next to the unicorn chip slot in the unicorn chip mounting block 400 can be used to determine whether or not a unicorn chip is installed in each slot in various ways, such as turning on or flashing or changing color. Displays ID storage status.

Figure 8 is a block diagram schematically explaining a sample processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 and 8, when the UTM mounting block 100 (shown in FIG. 3) and the PCR tube mounting block 300 (shown in FIG. 5) are directly connected, that is, the extraction cartridge mounting If the block 200 (shown in FIG. 4) is not connected, when the UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block 100 to move the sample, the sample processing device according to the first embodiment recognizes the location and Among the UTM indicator LEDs 130, the UTM indicator LED next to the UTM slot at the corresponding position displays the corresponding position in various ways, such as turning on or blinking or changing color. In addition, the sample processing device displays the position to be injected among the PCR tube indicator LEDs 330 of the PCR tube holding block 300 in various ways, such as turning on or blinking the LED at the corresponding position or changing color.

Subsequently, when the UTM is placed in the original position of the UTM mounting block 100, the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block 100 at the corresponding position and the indicator LED of the corresponding position of the PCR tube mounting block 300 indicate that the specimen movement is completed. To indicate that the specimen movement has been completed, the state is indicated in various ways, such as lighting, flashing, or changing color.

In this embodiment, a first controller (CON1) may be provided to control operations between the UTM mounting block 100 and the PCR tube mounting block 300. The first controller (CON1) may be provided in the UTM mounting block 100 or in the PCR tube mounting block 300.

The first controller (CON1) recognizes the position of the UTM when the UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block 100 to move the specimen and controls the position to be displayed through the indicator LED next to the UTM slot at that position. . Additionally, the first controller (CON1) controls the position to be injected to be displayed through the LED at the corresponding position among the indicator LEDs of the PCR tube mounting block 300. In addition, when the UTM is mounted in the original position of the UTM mounting block 100, the first controller (CON1) turns on the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block 100 at the corresponding position and the indicator LED of the corresponding position of the PCR tube mounting block 300. It is controlled to display the state in which specimen movement is completed.

Figure 9 is a block diagram schematically explaining a sample processing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 and 9, when used without the Unicorn chip mounting block 400 (shown in FIG. 4), that is, when using the UTM mounting block 100 (shown in FIG. 3) and the PCR tube mounting block When the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 is connected between 300 (shown in FIG. 5), the UTM mounting block is connected using the memory connector of the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 and the storage module (shown in FIG. 7B). The sample ID of the UTM mounted on 100 can be processed in the same manner as described above and stored and managed in a memory mounted on the storage module. Here, the stored data can be configured in various file formats such as CSV, and the specimen ID stored in the memory is extracted using a linkage device with a PC.

The indicator LED of the UTM mounting block 100 displays the storage status of the sample ID in various ways, such as lighting or flashing, changing color, etc., to indicate the status of UTM mounting and completion of storage of the sample ID.

In this embodiment, a second controller (CON2) may be provided to control operations between the UTM mounting block 100, the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, and the PCR tube mounting block 300. The second controller CON2 may be provided in the UTM mounting block 100, the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, or the PCR tube mounting block 300.

The second controller (CON2) uses the memory connector of the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 and the storage module to process the sample ID of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block 100 and stores it in the memory mounted on the storage module. Control it to do so. In addition, the second controller (CON2) controls the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block 100 to display a status including completion of mounting of the UTM and storage of the specimen ID.

Figure 10 is a block diagram schematically explaining a sample processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

1 to 6 and 10, when the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 (shown in Figure 4) is connected to the PCR tube mounting block 300 (shown in Figure 5), for the movement of the sample When a UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block 100, the sample processing device recognizes the location and displays the location in various ways, such as lighting or flashing an indicator LED next to the UTM slot at the location, changing color, etc. In addition, the sample processing device displays the position to be injected among the indicator LEDs of the extraction cartridge holding block 200 by lighting, blinking, or changing the color of the LED at the corresponding position.

Subsequently, when the UTM is placed in the original position of the UTM mounting block 100, the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block 100 at the corresponding position and the indicator LED of the corresponding position of the extraction cartridge mounting block 200 indicate that the specimen movement is completed. To indicate the completion of sample movement, various methods such as lighting, flashing, or color change are used to indicate the state.

In this embodiment, a third controller (CON3) may be provided to control operations between the UTM mounting block 100, the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, the PCR tube mounting block 300, and the extraction cartridge mounting block 200. there is. The third controller (CON3) may be provided in the UTM mounting block 100, may be provided in the extraction cartridge mounting block 200, may be provided in the PCR tube mounting block 300, and may be provided in the PCR tube mounting block ( 300).

The third controller (CON3) recognizes the location when a UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block 100 to move the specimen and controls the location to be displayed through an indicator LED next to the UTM slot at that location. In addition, the third controller (CON3) controls to display the position to be injected through the LED at the corresponding position among the indicator LEDs of the extraction cartridge mounting block 200. In addition, the third controller (CON3), when the UTM is mounted in the original position of the UTM mounting block 100, displays an indicator LED of the UTM mounting block 100 at the corresponding position and an indicator of the corresponding position of the extraction cartridge mounting block 200. It is controlled to display the status of sample movement completion through LED.

As described above, according to the present invention, the time for moving and managing specimens in virus testing can be shortened, and the occurrence of errors in test results can be improved to reduce the possibility of misdiagnosis of a patient's condition. Specifically, in specimen ID management and specimen movement, the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block are directly connected, the extraction cartridge mounting block is disposed between the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block, or the UTM mounting block, The extraction cartridge mounting block, the PCR tube mounting block, and the unicorn chip mounting block are sequentially connected to guide the location where the sample should be moved, and the sample ID can be automatically stored and managed, so moving and managing the sample. It is possible to shorten the time and improve the occurrence of errors in test results, thereby reducing the possibility of misdiagnosis of the patient's condition.

Although the above has been described with reference to examples, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and changes to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below. You will understand.

[Explanation of symbols]

100: UTM holding block, 110: first housing, 120: UTM slots, 130: UTM indicator LED, 140: UTM module LED, 150: UTM status LED, 160: 1D/2D barcode scanner, 200: extraction cartridge holding block , 210: second housing, 220: extraction cartridge slot, 230: first cartridge indicator LED, 240: second cartridge indicator LED, 250: cartridge status LED, 260: memory connector, 300: PCR tube holding block, 310: first 3 housing, 320: PCR tube slots, 330: PCR tube indicator LED, 340: PCR tube module LED, 350: PCR tube status LED, 400: Unicorn chip holding block, 410: fourth housing, 420: extraction slots, 430: Unicorn chip indicator LED, 440: Unicorn chip module LED, 450: Unicorn chip status LED

According to the sample processing device of the present invention, the time for moving and managing samples in virus testing can be shortened, and the occurrence of errors in test results can be improved to reduce the possibility of misdiagnosis of a patient's condition. Specifically, in specimen ID management and specimen movement, the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block are directly connected, the extraction cartridge mounting block is disposed between the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block, or the UTM mounting block, The extraction cartridge mounting block, the PCR tube mounting block, and the unicorn chip mounting block are sequentially connected to guide the location where the specimen should be moved, and the specimen ID can be automatically stored and managed, so moving and managing the specimen. It is possible to shorten the time and improve the occurrence of errors in test results, thereby reducing the possibility of misdiagnosis of the patient's condition.

Claims

A UTM mounting block that provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of universal transport media (UTM) and includes UTM LEDs arranged corresponding to each of the UTMs; and

Provides an accommodating space for mounting a plurality of PCR tubes, and includes PCR LEDs disposed corresponding to each of the PCR tubes, in response to the UTM being pulled out according to the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. A specimen processing device comprising a PCR tube mounting block that emits PCR LEDs corresponding to the PCR tube.
The method of claim 1, wherein when the UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block to move the specimen, the position of the UTM is recognized and the position is controlled to be displayed through an indicator LED next to the UTM slot at the position,

Controlling the position to be injected so that the position to be injected is displayed through the LED at the corresponding position among the indicator LEDs of the PCR tube holding block,

When the UTM is placed in the original position of the UTM mounting block, a first controller is used to control the state of sample movement completion through the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block at the corresponding position and the indicator LED of the corresponding position of the PCR tube mounting block. A sample processing device further comprising:
The method of claim 1, wherein the UTM holding block is:

A plurality of UTM slots formed to hold each of the UTMs; and

A specimen processing device comprising a UTM sensor that detects whether a UTM is attached to each of the UTM slots.
The specimen processing device according to claim 3, wherein the UTM holding block further includes a barcode scanner that scans information attached to the UTM.
The method of claim 3, wherein the UTM LEDs are:

A plurality of UTM indicator LEDs corresponding to each of the UTMs and indicating the mounting status of the UTM;

A plurality of UTM module LEDs arranged corresponding to UTM slots arranged in a row to display the mounting status of the UTM; and

A specimen processing device comprising a UTM work status LED that displays the work status of the UTM holding block.
The method of claim 5, wherein the PCR tube mounting block,

A PCR tube slot formed to hold a PCR tube;

PCR indicator LED that indicates the injection location of the PCR tube module; and

A specimen processing device comprising a PCR operation status LED that displays the PCR operation status.
The method of claim 1, wherein an accommodating space is provided for mounting a multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge), and is disposed between the UTM mounting block and the PCR tube mounting block, according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. A specimen processing device further comprising an extraction cartridge holding block that emits cartridge LEDs corresponding to an area of the multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge) in response to the extracted UTM.
The method of claim 7, wherein the sample ID of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block is processed and stored in a memory mounted on the storage module using the memory connector of the extraction cartridge mounting block and the storage module,

A specimen processing device further comprising a second controller that controls the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block to display a status including completion of mounting of the UTM and completion of storage of the specimen ID.
The method of claim 7, wherein the extraction cartridge mounting block,

An extraction cartridge slot formed to hold a multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge); and

A specimen processing device comprising a cartridge sensor that detects whether the multi-well cartridge (extraction cartridge) is attached to the extraction cartridge slot.
The method of claim 9, wherein the extraction cartridge mounting block,

A sample processing device further comprising a memory connector capable of reading a storage medium storing sample information.
The method of claim 9, wherein the cartridge LEDs,

A first indicator LED indicating the injection position of the extraction cartridge;

a second indicator LED indicating the extraction location; and

A specimen processing device comprising a working status LED that displays the working status.
The method of claim 7, which provides an accommodation space for mounting the extraction chip, is connected to the PCR tube mounting block, and stores UTM information corresponding to the extracted UTM according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. A sample processing device further comprising an extraction chip holding block stored in the memory of the extraction chip.
The method of claim 12, wherein when the UTM is pulled out from the UTM mounting block to move the sample, the location is recognized and controlled to display the location through an indicator LED next to the UTM slot at the location,

Controlling to display the position to be injected through the LED at the corresponding position among the indicator LEDs of the extraction cartridge holding block,

When the UTM is placed in the original position of the UTM mounting block, a third control unit controls to display the state in which the specimen movement is completed through the indicator LED of the UTM mounting block at the corresponding position and the indicator LED of the corresponding position of the extraction cartridge mounting block. A sample processing device further comprising a controller.
The method of claim 12, wherein the extraction chip holding block is:

A plurality of unicorn chip slots formed to hold each unicorn chip;

a plurality of chip indicator LEDs disposed adjacent to each of the unicorn chip slots to display a mounted state of the unicorn chip;

A plurality of chip module LEDs arranged corresponding to unicorn chip slots arranged in a row to display a mounting state of the unicorn chip; and

A sample processing device comprising a chip operation status LED that displays the operation status of the extraction chip holding block.
A UTM mounting block that provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of universal transport media (UTM) and includes UTM LEDs arranged corresponding to each of the UTMs; and

Provides an accommodating space for mounting a multi-well cartridge, is disposed adjacent to the UTM mounting block, and corresponds to an area of the multi-well cartridge in response to the drawn-out UTM according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. A specimen processing device comprising an extraction cartridge holding block that emits cartridge LEDs.
A UTM mounting block that provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of universal transport media (UTM) and includes UTM LEDs arranged corresponding to each of the UTMs;

Provides an accommodating space for mounting a multi-well cartridge, is disposed adjacent to the UTM mounting block, and corresponds to an area of the multi-well cartridge in response to the drawn-out UTM according to the withdrawal of the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block. Extraction cartridge mounting block that emits cartridge LEDs; and

It is disposed adjacent to the extraction cartridge mounting block, provides an accommodation space for mounting a plurality of PCR tubes, and includes PCR LEDs disposed corresponding to each of the PCR tubes, and the UTM mounted on the UTM mounting block A specimen processing device comprising a PCR tube holding block that emits PCR LEDs corresponding to the PCR tube in response to the UTM being drawn out.