Specimen storage tool and specimen processing device

Abstract

The utility model provides a specimen storage tool and a specimen processing device which can restrain oil from being attached to the back face of a specimen glass slide. A specimen storage tool (400), which has a closed-end shape and an open upper part, has a plurality of first ribs (421, 431) formed so as to extend up and down on the inner wall thereof, and stores a specimen slide on which a specimen is applied in an internal space in a state of being supported between the plurality of adjacent first ribs (421, 431), has a protrusion (413). And a protruding part provided on the inner bottom surface so as to be separated from the plurality of first ribs (421, 431), and supporting the lower end of the stored specimen slide so as to be separated from the inner bottom surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a specimen storage tool and a specimen processing device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, the following specimen analysis system is known: a smear specimen preparation device smears a blood sample on a slide to prepare a specimen slide, the prepared specimen slide is stored in a specimen storage device and transferred, a specimen image capture device captures an image of the specimen slide, the sample is analyzed based on the captured image, and the captured specimen slide is stored in the specimen storage device (see Patent Document 1). Furthermore, if the results of the image analysis require visual inspection using a microscope, the inspector removes the specimen slide from the specimen storage device and performs a microscopic inspection.

[0003] The specimen storage device has a box-like shape with an open top and has a plurality of partitions formed on the inner surfaces of two opposing longitudinal walls. Specimen slides are stored from above in the specimen storage device between adjacent partitions, with the surface on which the sample is applied (i.e., the smeared surface) facing sideways (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-20353 Utility Model Content

[0007] Here, in the specimen image capture device, when capturing a specimen slide, immersion oil (hereinafter referred to as "oil") is filled between the smeared surface of the specimen slide and the objective lens of the specimen image capture device. Therefore, after capturing the image, the specimen slide with oil attached to the smeared surface is stored in a specimen storage device. When the specimen slide with oil attached is stored in the specimen storage device, the oil that falls from the smeared surface to the bottom of the specimen storage device and is retained may sometimes adhere to the back side of the specimen slide (a surface of the smeared surface and the surface opposite to the surface). In this case, the inspector needs to remove the oil attached to the back side of the specimen slide when inspecting with a microscope.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a specimen storage tool capable of suppressing oil from adhering to the back surface of a specimen slide, and a specimen processing apparatus including the specimen storage tool.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a specimen storage device is provided, which has a bottom and an open top, and has a plurality of supporting portions extending up and down on the inner side wall, for storing a specimen slide with a sample smeared on the slide in an internal space in a state supported between adjacent plurality of supporting portions. The specimen storage device has a protrusion, which is arranged on the inner bottom surface in a manner separated from the plurality of supporting portions, and supports the lower end of the stored specimen slide in a state separated from the inner bottom surface.

[0010] According to the above embodiment, the lower end of the specimen slide is supported by the protrusion in a state separated from the inner bottom surface. Even if oil falls onto the inner bottom surface, it can be prevented from adhering to the back surface of the specimen slide. In addition, since the protrusion is separated from the support portion, the oil is prevented from circulating between the protrusion and the support portion, and the oil can be prevented from adhering to the back surface of the specimen slide via the protrusion and the support portion.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, the protrusion is provided on the inner bottom surface so as to extend along the inner side wall.

[0012] According to the above aspect, it is possible to more reliably suppress the backflow of oil between the protrusion and the support portion.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of rows of protrusions are provided on the inner bottom surface.

[0014] According to the above aspect, since the lower end of the specimen slide can be supported at a plurality of positions, the specimen slide can be supported in a stable state without being tilted.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of rows of protrusions are provided in parallel and linearly on the inner bottom surface.

[0016] According to the above aspect, each specimen slide can be supported in a stable state by the protrusion.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, the protrusion exists only in a portion of the entire length of the inner bottom surface in the direction in which the protrusion extends.

[0018] According to the above aspect, since a gap is formed between the protrusion and the inner wall surface, the oil spreads over a wide area of ​​the inner bottom surface. Therefore, the surface height of the oil remaining on the inner bottom surface becomes low, and the oil can be more reliably prevented from adhering to the specimen slide.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the lower ends of the plurality of support portions extend to the inner bottom surface, and the protrusion is provided on the inner bottom surface in a manner separated from the inner side wall.

[0020] According to the above aspect, since the support portion extends to the inner bottom surface, the specimen slide can be supported in a stable state. In addition, since the support portion is separated from the protrusion, the oil can be more reliably suppressed from circulating between the protrusion and the support portion.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, the lower ends of the plurality of support parts are located above the inner bottom surface.

[0022] According to the above aspect, since the lower end of the support portion is separated from the inner bottom surface, it is possible to suppress the backflow of oil between the inner bottom surface and the support portion.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, the height of the protrusion is 50% or less of the height of the internal space.

[0024] According to the above aspect, when the specimen slides are stored, the center of gravity of the specimen storage tool does not become too high, and the specimen storage tool can be transported in a stable state.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, the total width of the cross section of the protrusion is 60% or less of the width of the inner bottom surface.

[0026] According to the above aspect, the protrusions are present at least on the left and right sides in the width direction of the specimen slide, and the specimen slide can be stably supported.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, the stored specimen slide is an imaged specimen slide, and the shortest distance between the protrusion and the plurality of support portions is greater than the oil droplet attached to the slide.

[0028] According to the above aspect, even when a photographed specimen slide with oil attached thereto is stored, it is possible to more reliably suppress the backflow of oil between the protrusion and the support portion.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, the stored specimen slide is an imaged specimen slide, and the shortest distance between the protrusion and the plurality of support portions is 2 mm or more.

[0030] According to the above aspect, even when a photographed specimen slide with oil attached thereto is stored, it is possible to more reliably suppress the backflow of oil between the protrusion and the support portion.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present invention, a gripping portion for gripping the specimen storage tool is formed on the outer wall surface.

[0032] According to the above aspect, the person in charge of the examination can move the specimen storage tool by gripping the gripping portion.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, the grip portion includes a plurality of concave and convex portions.

[0034] According to the above aspect, the friction of the gripping portion is increased, and the examiner can grip the specimen storage tool more reliably.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, the stored specimen slide is a photographed specimen slide.

[0036] This can prevent the oil used for imaging from adhering to the back surface of the specimen slide.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sample smeared on the slide is blood or urine.

[0038] When taking an image of a specimen slide in which blood or urine is smeared on the slide, emulsified oil may be applied to the specimen slide. Therefore, the present invention is particularly suitable for situations in which the sample is blood or urine.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a specimen processing device is provided, which comprises: a smear specimen preparation device, which smears a sample on a slide to prepare a specimen slide; a specimen image capture device, which captures an image of the specimen slide; the above-mentioned specimen storage device; and a storage device transfer device, which transports the specimen storage device containing the specimen slide from the smear specimen preparation device to the specimen image capture device.

[0040] According to one aspect of the present invention, the specimen processing apparatus is configured to store the imaged specimen slide in the specimen storage device.

[0041] Since the photographed specimen slide is adhered with emulsified oil, the utility model is particularly suitable for storing the photographed specimen slide in a specimen storage device.

[0042] According to the present invention, a specimen storage tool capable of suppressing oil from adhering to the back surface of a specimen slide and a specimen processing apparatus including the specimen storage tool can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the structure of an embodiment of a specimen processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 This figure shows a specimen slide before sample smearing.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the specimen storage tool of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 4 This is a side view showing the specimen storage tool in the specimen processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0047] Figure 5yes Figure 8 VV section view in.

[0048] Figure 6 yes Figure 8 VI-VI section view in.

[0049] Figure 7 yes Figure 8 Section view VII-VII in the figure.

[0050] Figure 8 This is a plan view showing a specimen storage tool in the specimen processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 Sectional view IX-IX in.

[0052] Figure 10 This is a side view showing the specimen storage tool in the specimen processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0053] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 XI-XI sectional view in FIG.

[0054] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 Section view XII-XII in.

[0055] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the specimen storage tool of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the specimen storage tool of the present invention.

[0057] Description of Reference Numerals

[0058] 1: Specimen processing device; 10: Specimen slide; 11: Specimen smearing section; 12: Frosting section; 100: Smear specimen preparation device; 110: Slide supply section; 120: Printing section; 130: Smearing section; 135: Insert specimen storage device setting area; 140: Drying section; 141: First transport section; 150: Staining section; 151: Staining tank; 152: Cleaning tank; 153: Drying tank; 160: Slide storage section; 161: Cassette transport 162: Box feeding path; 163: Box feeding path; 164: Horizontal conveying mechanism; 170: Horizontal conveying unit; 200: Storage tool transport device; 210: Specimen storage tool transport unit; 220: First transport unit; 221: Box buffer area; 222: First box storage area; 223: Insert specimen storage tool setting area; 230: Second transport unit; 231: Box setting area; 232: Second box storage area; 250: Specimen transfer unit ; 260: Horizontal moving mechanism; 261: Transport unit; 270: Control unit; 272: Communication unit; 300: Specimen image capturing device; 310: Specimen transfer unit; 320: Oil coating unit; 330: Imaging unit; 332: Control unit; 334: Communication unit; 335: Display monitor; 400: Specimen storage device; 410: Base; 411: Bottom plate; 412: Foot; 413: Protrusion; 420: Front part; 421: First rib; 4 30: Back face; 431: First rib; 440: Right side of face; 441: Second rib; 442: Holding part; 450: Left side of face; 451: Second rib; 452: Holding part; 500: Specimen storage tool; 513: Protrusion; 600: Specimen storage tool; 620: Front face; 621: First rib; 630: Back face; 631: First rib; A: Specimen storage position; D: Input part; P: Specimen selection position; W: Specimen handover position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Hereinafter, the specimen storage tool and the specimen processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described using embodiments.

[0060] [Specimen processing device]

[0061] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the structure of an embodiment of the specimen processing device of the present invention. Figure 1As shown, the specimen processing apparatus 1 includes a smear preparation device 100, a storage tool transport device 200, a specimen image capturing device 300, and a specimen storage tool 400 for storing a specimen slide 10. In the smear preparation device 100, a sample such as blood or urine is smeared on a slide to prepare a specimen slide. The prepared specimen slide 10 is transported (conveyed) to the specimen image capturing device 300 by the storage tool transport device 200. The specimen slide 10 is imaged in the specimen image capturing device 300, and analysis is performed based on the captured image.

[0062] [Specimen slide]

[0063] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a specimen slide before sample smearing. Figure 2 As shown, the specimen slide 10 is made of a rectangular, colorless, transparent glass plate (slide), with a specimen smear portion 11 and a frosted portion 12 on one surface. The frosted portion 12 is formed at one end of the slide in the longitudinal direction, and is formed into an area capable of being printed, for example, by coating the surface with a rigid resin or the like. Sample identification information and imaging necessity identification information are printed on the frosted portion 12. The sample identification information is information used to identify the sample. Furthermore, the imaging necessity identification information is information used to identify whether the sample is to be imaged by the specimen imaging device 300. This information is printed in the form of, for example, a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), or other code, symbol, or text. The imaging necessity identification information is pre-entered into the host computer (host computer) at the time of inspection, or it can be automatically assigned by the host computer. The specimen smear portion 11 is the area extending from the other end of the slide in the longitudinal direction to the frosted portion 12, and is the area in the center where the specimen is smeared. Hereinafter, the surface having the specimen smear portion 11 is referred to as the smear surface, and the surface opposite thereto is referred to as the back surface. The material of the slide glass is not limited to glass, and may be, for example, resin.

[0064] [Smear specimen preparation device]

[0065] Back to Figure 1 The smear preparation device 100 is a device for preparing a specimen slide by smearing a subject's sample, such as blood or urine (in this embodiment, blood), onto a specimen slide 10 and performing processes such as drying and staining. The smear preparation device 100 includes a slide supply unit 110, a printing unit 120, a smearing unit 130, a drying unit 140, a staining unit 150, and a slide storage unit 160.

[0066] The slide glass supply unit 110 stores a plurality of specimen slides 10 before sample smearing, and supplies the specimen slides 10 to the printing unit 120 .

[0067] The printing unit 120 prints various information such as sample identification information and imaging necessity identification information on the frosted portion 12 of the specimen slide 10 . The printing unit 120 transfers the printed specimen slide 10 to the smearing unit 130 .

[0068] The smearing unit 130 smears the sample on the specimen smearing portion 11 of the specimen slide 10 sent from the printing unit 120 . The smearing unit 130 transfers the smeared specimen slide 10 to the drying unit 140 .

[0069] The drying section 140 receives the specimen slide 10 smeared with the sample from the smearing section 130 and dries the specimen smeared portion 11 smeared with the sample.

[0070] The staining section 150 includes a staining tank 151 , a cleaning tank 152 , and a drying tank 153 . In each tank, the specimen slide 10 smeared with the sample dried in the drying section 140 is stained, cleaned, and dried.

[0071] The slide storage unit 160 stores the stained specimen slides 10 in the specimen storage utensil 400 and transports the stained specimen slides 10 to the storage utensil transport device 200. The slide storage unit 160 includes a cassette transport unit 161 for transporting the specimen storage utensil 400. As will be described later, the specimen storage utensil 400 is a container for storing a plurality of stained specimen slides 10.

[0072] The cassette transport unit 161 includes a cassette inlet path 162, which stores a plurality of empty specimen containers 400 and transports the stored specimen containers 400 to the rear of the smear preparation apparatus 100; a cassette outlet path 163, which stores specimen containers 400 containing specimen slides 10 and transports the stored specimen containers 400 to the front of the smear preparation apparatus 100; and a transverse transport mechanism 164, which transports the specimen containers 400 from the cassette inlet path 162 to the cassette outlet path 163. Furthermore, a transverse transport unit 170 is provided at the downstream end of the cassette outlet path 163 of the cassette transport unit 161. This transverse transport unit 170 transfers the specimen containers 400 from the smear preparation apparatus 100 to the container transport apparatus 200.

[0073] The box transport unit 161 is a device that extends from the insertion portion D, into which empty specimen storage containers are inserted, to an area in contact with the transverse transport mechanism 164, and transports the specimen storage containers 400. A conveyor belt or the like can be used as the box transport unit 161. The box transport unit 161 transports the empty specimen storage containers 400 inserted by the user to the specimen storage position. At the specimen storage position, the specimen slides 10 that have completed the drying process in the drying tank 153 are stored in the specimen storage container 400. The specimen storage container 400 containing the specimen slides 10 is transferred from the box input path 162 to the box output path 163 by the transverse transport mechanism 164.

[0074] The upstream end of the cassette delivery path 163 is located in an area in contact with the transverse conveying mechanism 164, and the downstream end is located in an area in contact with the transverse conveying unit 170. The cassette delivery path 163 is composed of, for example, a conveyor belt, and transports the specimen storage device 400 transferred from the cassette input path 162 by the transverse conveying mechanism 164 to the transverse conveying unit 170. The specimen storage device 400 transported by the cassette delivery path 163 is transferred by the transverse conveying unit 170 to the cassette buffer area 221 of the storage device transporting device 200 at the downstream end of the cassette delivery path 163.

[0075] As such a smear preparation apparatus, for example, a smear preparation apparatus SP-50 manufactured by Sysmex Corporation or a slide preparation / staining apparatus SC-120 manufactured by Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics can be applied.

[0076] [Storage tool transport device]

[0077] The storage tool transport device 200 includes a specimen storage tool transport unit 210 for transporting a specimen storage tool 400 storing a plurality of specimen slides 10; a specimen transfer unit 250 for removing and transferring the specimen slides 10 stored in the specimen storage tool 400; and a horizontal movement mechanism 260 for delivering the specimen slides 10 transferred by the specimen transfer unit 250 to the specimen imaging device 300. The specimen transfer unit 250 extends across the upper portion of the specimen storage tool transport unit 210.

[0078] Storage tool transporting device 200 includes a control unit 270 for controlling the operation of storage tool transporting device 200, and a communication unit 272 connected to control unit 270. Control unit 270 includes, for example, a CPU, RAM, and ROM, and functions are achieved by the CPU executing programs stored in the ROM. Communication unit 272 is capable of communicating with other devices, for example, via wired or wireless communication.

[0079] The storage container transport device 200 also includes an identification information acquisition unit for reading the sample identification information and imaging necessity identification information printed on the frosted portion 12 of the specimen slide 10 removed from the specimen storage container 400 by the specimen transfer unit 250. The identification information acquisition unit is comprised of, for example, a scanner.

[0080] The specimen storage tool transport unit 210 includes a first transport unit 220 extending in the transverse direction and a second transport unit 230 extending parallel to the first transport unit 220. The first transport unit 220 is located on the specimen imaging device 300 side. Both the first transport unit 220 and the second transport unit 230 are formed, for example, of conveyor belts and transport the specimen storage tool 400 transversely.

[0081] The first transport unit 220 includes a cartridge buffer area 221 located upstream (on the right) of the specimen transfer unit 250 and a first cartridge storage area 222 located downstream (on the left) of the specimen transfer unit 250 .

[0082] The box buffer area 221 stores the specimen storage utensil 400 delivered by the transverse transport unit 170. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an inserted specimen storage utensil setting area 223 is provided in the downstream area of ​​the box buffer area 221 of the first transport unit 220. In some cases, a specimen slide 10 produced by a method other than the smear preparation device 100, such as by a user's manual work, is imaged by the specimen imaging device 300 and analyzed. The inserted specimen storage utensil setting area 223 is an area where the specimen storage utensil 400 storing the specimen slide 10 produced by a method other than the smear preparation device 100 is placed. The specimen storage utensil 400 set in the inserted specimen storage utensil setting area 223 is transported to the specimen selection position P by the first transport unit 220. The first transport unit 220 is driven so that the specimen storage tool 400 is not present in the inserted specimen storage tool setting area 223 , so that the specimen storage tool 400 can be placed in the inserted specimen storage tool setting area 223 .

[0083] As a result of the specimen slide 10 that is the imaging target of the specimen image capturing device 300 being taken out by the specimen transfer unit 250 , the first cassette storage area 222 stores the specimen storage tool 400 that only stores the specimen slide 10 that is not the imaging target of the specimen image capturing device 300 .

[0084] The second transport unit 230 includes a cassette installation area 231 located upstream (on the right side) of the specimen transfer unit 250 and a second cassette storage area 232 located downstream (on the left side) of the specimen transfer unit 250 .

[0085] The cassette setting area 231 is an area where empty specimen storage tools 400 are placed.

[0086] The second cassette storage area 232 is an area for storing the specimen storage tools 400 containing the specimen slides 10 that have been transported by the second transport unit 230 and have been imaged by the specimen image capturing device 300 .

[0087] The specimen transfer unit 250 is provided across the first and second transport units 220 and 230. The specimen transfer unit 250 is a mechanism for gripping the specimen slide 10 and moving it between the specimen transfer position W, the specimen selection position P, and the specimen storage position A.

[0088] The horizontal movement mechanism 260 is a mechanism for horizontally moving the specimen slide 10 between the specimen transfer position W and the specimen transfer section 310 of the specimen image capturing device 300. The horizontal movement mechanism 260 includes a transport unit 261 that grips the specimen slide 10 and moves it laterally. The horizontal movement mechanism 260 grips the specimen slide 10, which has been transferred to the specimen transfer position W by the specimen transfer unit 250, and transfers it to the specimen transfer section 310. Furthermore, the horizontal movement mechanism 260 receives the specimen slide 10, which has been imaged by the specimen image capturing device 300, from the specimen transfer section 310 and transfers it to the specimen transfer position W.

[0089] The first transport unit 220 transports the specimen storage unit 400, located in the cassette buffer area 221, to the specimen selection position P. Once the specimen storage unit 400 has been transported to the specimen selection position P, the specimen transfer unit 250 sequentially selects the specimen slides 10 within the specimen storage unit 400. The identification information acquisition unit acquires the sample identification information and imaging necessity identification information printed on the frosted portion 12 of the selected specimen slides 10 and, based on the acquired information, determines whether the specimen slides 10 are to be imaged by the specimen imaging device 300. The specimen transfer unit 250 returns any specimen slides 10 not to be imaged by the specimen imaging device 300 to the specimen storage unit 400. The first transport unit 220 transports the specimen storage unit 400, after the selection of the specimen slides 10 to be imaged, from the specimen selection position P to the first cassette storage area 222. Therefore, the specimen storage tool 400 located in the first cassette storage area 222 stores only the specimen slides 10 that are not the imaging target of the specimen image capturing device 300 .

[0090] The specimen slide 10 determined to be an imaging target of the specimen imaging apparatus 300 is transferred to the specimen transfer position W by the specimen transfer unit 250 , and further transported to the specimen transfer unit 310 of the specimen imaging apparatus 300 by the horizontal movement mechanism 260 .

[0091] The second transport unit 230 transports the empty specimen storage unit 400 placed in the cassette storage area 231 to the specimen storage position A. At the specimen storage position A, the specimen transfer unit 250 sequentially stores the specimen slides 10 that have been imaged by the specimen image capturing device 300 into the specimen storage unit 400. When the specimen storage unit 400 is full, the second transport unit 230 transports the specimen storage unit 400 from the specimen storage position A to the second cassette storage area 232. Therefore, the specimen storage unit 400 located in the second cassette storage area 232 only stores the specimen slides 10 that have been imaged by the specimen image capturing device 300.

[0092] [Specimen image capture device]

[0093] The specimen image capturing apparatus 300 includes a transport unit (not shown) for moving the specimen slide 10, an oil coating unit 320, and an imaging unit 330. Furthermore, the specimen image capturing apparatus 300 includes a control unit 332 for controlling the operation of the specimen image capturing apparatus 300, and a communication unit 334 connected to the control unit 332. The specimen image capturing apparatus 300 is communicatively connected to the communication unit 272 of the storage tool transport apparatus 200 via the communication unit 334, thereby enabling the specimen image capturing apparatus 300 and the storage tool transport apparatus 200 to operate in coordination with each other.

[0094] The transport section is a mechanism for transporting the specimen slide 10 between the specimen transfer section 310 , the oil application section 320 , and the imaging section 330 in the specimen image capturing apparatus 300 .

[0095] The oil coating unit 320 is a mechanism for coating immersion oil on the specimen slide 10 to be imaged.

[0096] The imaging unit 330 is a device for capturing an image of the sample applied to the specimen slide 10 .

[0097] The control unit 332 includes, for example, a CPU, RAM, and ROM, and realizes its functions by the CPU executing a program stored in the ROM. The communication unit 334 can communicate with other devices, for example, by wire or wirelessly.

[0098] A specimen transfer unit 310 is provided on the storage tool transport device 200 side of the specimen image capture device 300. The transport unit receives a specimen slide 10 from the transport unit 261 that has moved to the front of the specimen transfer unit 310 and transports the received specimen slide 10 to the oil coating unit 320. The transported specimen slide 10 is coated with immersion oil by the oil coating unit 320. The specimen slide 10 is then transported by the transport unit to the imaging unit 330, where an image of the specimen is captured.

[0099] The captured image data is sent to the control unit 332, which performs processing such as cell feature extraction, identification and classification, blood cell image capture, automatic blood cell classification, and counting of each blood cell type. Upon request, the control unit 332 can display the captured image data and analysis results on a display monitor 335 or output them to a printer (not shown). The control unit 332 is communicatively connected to the control unit 270 of the storage tool transport device 200 via the communication units 334 and 272, enabling the specimen image capturing device 300 and the storage tool transport device 200 to operate in coordination with each other.

[0100] The specimen slide 10 after imaging is returned by the transport unit to the specimen delivery unit 310 and then to the transport unit 261 on standby. The transport unit 261, holding the specimen slide 10, then moves to the specimen delivery position W. The specimen slide 10 transported by the transport unit 261 is stored at the specimen delivery position W by the specimen transfer unit 250 in the specimen storage unit 400 on standby at the specimen storage position A.

[0101] As such a specimen image capturing apparatus, for example, an automatic digital cell morphology analyzer DI-60 manufactured by Sysmex Corporation or an automatic digital cell morphology analyzer MC-80 manufactured by Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics can be used.

[0102] [Specimen storage equipment]

[0103] Figures 3 to 12 It is a figure which shows the 1st embodiment of the specimen storage tool concerning this invention. Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional picture. Figure 4 It is a side view. Figure 5 yes Figure 8 The VV section view in Figure 6 yes Figure 8 The VI-VI section view in Figure 7 yes Figure 8 Section view VII-VII in the figure. Figure 8 It is a top view. Figure 9 yes Figure 5 Sectional view IX-IX in. Figure 10 It is a side view. Figure 11 yes Figure 8 The XI-XI section view in Figure 12 yes Figure 8 In the following description, Figure 8 The Y1 side, Y2 side, X1 side, and X2 side in the figure are referred to as the rear, front, left, and right, respectively. Figure 8 The Y1-Y2 direction in is called the front-back direction. Figure 8 The X1-X2 direction in is called the left-right direction.

[0104] The specimen storage device 400 is, for example, a container integrally formed of resin or the like. Figures 3 to 11 As shown, the specimen storage device 400 has a plurality of first ribs 421 and 431 serving as a plurality of support portions on the inner side walls of the opposing front portion 420 and rear portion 430. Furthermore, by inserting a specimen slide 10 from above so that the side edges of the specimen slide 10 are positioned between adjacent first ribs 421 and 431, multiple specimen slides 10 can be stored in an upright position (i.e., with the smeared surface and back surface facing sideways) within the interior space of the specimen storage device 400. While this embodiment describes a case where multiple specimen slides 10 are stored within the specimen storage device 400, the number of specimen slides that can be stored is any one or more.

[0105] like Figure 3 As shown, the specimen storage device 400 is a bottomed device with an open top. In a plan view, it comprises a rectangular base 410, a front portion 420 and a rear portion 430 extending along the long sides of the base 410, and a right side portion 440 and a left side portion 450 extending along the short sides of the base 410 between the edges of the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430. The area enclosed by the base 410, the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430, and the right side portion 440 and the left side portion 450 constitutes a storage space with an open top.

[0106] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the base 410 includes a bottom plate 411 whose upper surface serves as the inner bottom surface of the specimen storage tool 400 , and legs 412 that support the bottom plate 411 and are grounded.

[0107] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 4 , the bottom plate 411 is formed into a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from above. Figure 8 as well as Figure 9As shown, on the upper surface of the base plate 411, i.e., the inner bottom surface, two rows of protrusions 413 are formed at intervals along the front-to-back direction. The protrusions 413 are formed by a portion of the base plate 411 protruding upward. The upper surface of the protrusions 413 is formed horizontally. A pair of protrusions 413 extend linearly along the inner wall surfaces of the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430, parallel to the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430. Each protrusion 413 extends parallel to the left and right directions and is located symmetrically about a center line extending in the left and right directions at the center of the inner bottom surface in the front-to-back direction. The two protrusions 413 are located closer to the center (inside) than the front end portions of the first ribs 421 and 431 in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the two protrusions 413 are provided separately from the front end portions of the first ribs 421 and 431 in the front-to-back direction. When the specimen slide 10 is stored in the specimen storage device 400, the two protrusions 413 support the specimen slide 10 with the lower end (lower edge) of the specimen slide 10 separated from the inner bottom surface. The shape and arrangement of the protrusions 413 are not limited to those described above. For example, the upper surface of the protrusions 413 may be concave and convex, or the upper surface may be inclined.

[0108] The height of the protrusion 413 is preferably at least 1 mm to prevent the upper surface of oil accumulated on the base plate 411 from contacting the lower edge of the specimen slide 10 supported on the protrusion 413. Furthermore, the height of the protrusion 413 is preferably no more than 50% of the height of the internal space. The internal space height refers to the height from the upper surface of the base plate 411 to the upper edges of the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430. If the height of the protrusion 413 exceeds 50% of the internal space height, the position supporting the specimen slide 10 becomes high in the specimen storage device 400. When storing multiple specimen slides 10 (e.g., ten or more), the specimen storage device 400 becomes unstable, potentially causing it to topple over during transport by the storage device transporting device 200 or during operation by an inspector. On the other hand, if the height of the protrusion 413 is 50% or less of the height of the internal space, the specimen storage tool 400 remains stable even when a plurality of specimen slides 10 are stored in the specimen storage tool 400 .

[0109] The total width of the protrusion 413 in a longitudinal cross-section in the front-to-back direction is preferably no more than 60% of the width of the inner bottom surface. If the total width of the protrusion 413 is large, the area of ​​the inner bottom surface outside the protrusion 413 becomes narrower. This results in a higher height on the top surface of the oil remaining on the inner bottom surface, so the height of the protrusion 413 must be designed to be sufficiently high. In contrast, if the total width of the protrusion 413 in a longitudinal cross-section in the front-to-back direction is no more than 60% of the width of the inner bottom surface, the height of the top surface of the oil remaining on the inner bottom surface is lowered, thereby reducing the height of the protrusion 413 and preventing oil from adhering to the back surface of the specimen slide 10.

[0110] The shortest distance between the protrusion 413 and the plurality of first ribs 421, 431 is preferably greater than the distance between the protrusion 413 and the plurality of first ribs 421, 431 and the specimen slide 10. Specifically, the shortest distance between the protrusion 413 and the plurality of first ribs 421, 431 is preferably at least 2 mm. This prevents oil from flowing back between the protrusion 413 and the first ribs 421, 431. Consequently, it is possible to prevent oil that has fallen from the smeared surface of the specimen slide 10 from adhering to the back surface of the smeared surface of the specimen slide 10 or another specimen slide 10 via the protrusion 413 and the ribs 421, 431.

[0111] Furthermore, each protrusion 413 exists only within a portion of the inner bottom surface, in the direction in which the protrusion 413 extends, i.e., along a portion of its total length in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the protrusion 413 does not extend to the area near the right side 440 and left side 450 of the inner bottom surface, but terminates closer to the center of the right side 440 and left side 450. Furthermore, the ends of each protrusion 413 are separated from the right side 440 and left side 450, with a gap formed between them. This separation of the ends of each protrusion 413 from the right side 440 and left side 450 prevents oil that has fallen from the specimen slide 10 from being partially retained on the inner bottom surface. This reduces the height of the oil's upper surface, thus reducing the height of the protrusion 413 and preventing it from adhering to the back of the specimen slide 10.

[0112] The front portion 420 and the rear portion 430 are respectively symmetrical in shape and are formed in the same shape as each other. The front portion 420 and the rear portion 430 are slightly inclined upward toward the outside of the specimen storage container 400. A plurality of first ribs 421, 431 serving as support portions for supporting the specimen slide 10 are formed on the inner side walls of the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430. The first ribs 421, 431 are formed by molding the wall surfaces forming the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430 so as to protrude toward the inside of the specimen storage container 400. The first ribs 421, 431 are formed to extend in the up-down direction, with a plurality of rows of first ribs 421, 431 arranged side by side in the left-right direction. Each first rib 421, 431 extends in a straight line in the up-down direction. As shown Figures 5 to 8 As shown, each first rib 421, 431 has a protruding front end portion 421A, 431A and a protruding base portion 421B, 431B. The protruding base portion 421B, 431B extends upward from the inner bottom surface of the specimen storage container 400, and the protruding front end portion 421A, 431A extends upward from the upper end of the protruding base portion 421B, 431B. When viewed from above, the protruding base portion 421B, 431B is formed into a roughly rectangular shape with two parallel side surfaces, and the protruding front end portion 421A, 431A is formed into a triangular shape that gradually becomes thinner from the center of the specimen storage container 400 toward the inner side wall of the front portion 420 or the rear portion 430. The interval between the protruding base portions 421B, 431B of adjacent first ribs 421, 431 is slightly larger than the thickness of the specimen slide 10. As shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the lower end and central portion of each first rib 421, 431 have a constant width, while the upper end has a tapered shape with the width narrowing upward. The outer walls of the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430, where they contact the first ribs 421, 431, have a concave shape corresponding to the shape of the first ribs 421, 431.

[0113] The right side face 440 and the left side face 450 are respectively symmetrical in shape and are formed in the same shape as each other. Figure 5 as well as Figure 8 As shown, second ribs 441 and 451 are provided on the inner wall surfaces of the right side surface 440 and the left side surface 450. The second ribs 441 and 451 are formed to extend in the vertical direction and have a substantially rectangular horizontal cross-sectional shape. Figure 5 As shown, the upper ends of the inner side surfaces (the surfaces on the left-right center side) of the second ribs 441 and 451 are inclined upward and outward in thickness. The lower ends of the tapered upper ends of the second ribs 441 and 451 are equal in height to the lower ends of the protruding tip portions 421A and 431A of the first ribs 421 and 431. The second ribs 441 and 451 are provided separately from the protrusion 413.

[0114] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 As shown, gripping parts 442 and 452 are formed at the upper end of the outer wall of the right side face 440 and the left side face 450. The gripping parts 442 and 452 are used to be gripped by the inspector who handles the specimen storage tool. In this embodiment, the gripping parts 442 and 452 are rectangular and formed in the center in the front-to-back direction. Figure 5As shown, the gripping portions 442 and 452 are formed by alternating a plurality of concave and convex portions (concave portions and convex portions) extending in the front-back direction in the height direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gripping portions 442 and 452 are formed at the upper end portions of the outer wall surfaces of the right side surface 440 and the left side surface 450. However, the positions where the gripping portions are formed are not limited to these, and they may also be formed at the front surface 420 and the rear surface 430, etc.

[0115] When storing a specimen slide 10 in the specimen storage device 400, the specimen slide 10 is inserted from above so that its side edges are located between adjacent first ribs 421, 431, or between first ribs 421, 431 and second ribs 441, 451. Thus, the stored specimen slide 10 is supported in the left-right direction by the adjacent first ribs 421, 431, or by the first ribs 421, 431 and second ribs 441, 451. Furthermore, the distance between the inner sidewall of the front portion 420 and the inner sidewall of the rear portion 430 is slightly larger than the width of the specimen slide 10, thereby supporting the stored specimen slide 10 in the front-back direction. Furthermore, the lower edge of the stored specimen slide 10 is supported by the protrusion 413, thereby being supported in a state separated from the inner bottom surface.

[0116] If immersion oil adheres to the smeared surface of a specimen slide 10 while it is stored and photographed in the specimen storage container 400, the oil adhered to the specimen slide 10 will drip onto the inner bottom surface of the specimen storage container 400. While the dripping oil may remain on the inner bottom surface, the gaps formed between the protrusion 413 and the right side surface 440 and the left side surface 450 allow the oil to diffuse through these gaps and spread across the entire inner bottom surface. This reduces the surface height of the oil remaining on the inner bottom surface.

[0117] Furthermore, since the protrusion 413 is separated from the first ribs 421 and 431, even if oil adheres to the protrusion 413, the oil is prevented from flowing back to the first ribs 421 and 431. Similarly, since the protrusion 413 is separated from the second ribs 441 and 451, even if oil adheres to the protrusion 413, the oil is prevented from flowing back to the second ribs 441 and 451.

[0118] Furthermore, since the protruding front ends 421A and 431A of the first ribs 421 and 431 and the front ends of the second ribs 441 and 451 have the above-mentioned shapes, when the specimen slide 10 is stored in the specimen storage tool 400, even if the horizontal position of the specimen slide 10 is slightly deviated from the center position of the adjacent ribs, the specimen slide 10 can be stored smoothly.

[0119] [Specimen examination method]

[0120] Next, the specimen inspection method according to this embodiment will be described.

[0121] First, the smear preparation apparatus 100 smears a sample of a subject on a slide glass and performs processes such as drying and staining to prepare a specimen slide glass (specimen preparation step).

[0122] In the specimen preparation step, first, the smear specimen preparation device 100 supplies the specimen slide 10 before sample smearing to the printing unit 120 via the slide supply unit 110. Next, the smear specimen preparation device 100 prints various information, such as sample identification information and information indicating whether or not imaging is required, on the frosted portion 12 of the specimen slide 10 via the printing unit 120. The smear specimen preparation device 100 transfers the printed specimen slide 10 to the smearing unit 84. Next, the smear specimen preparation device 100 smears the sample on the specimen smearing portion 11 of the specimen slide 10 via the smearing unit 130. The smear specimen preparation device 100 transfers the smeared specimen slide 10 to the drying unit 140. Next, the smear specimen preparation device 100 dries the specimen smearing portion 11 of the specimen slide 10 smeared with the sample via the drying unit 140. The smear preparation device 100 transports the dried specimen slide 10 to the staining unit 150 . Next, the smear preparation device 100 stains, washes, and dries the specimen slide 10 in the staining tank 151 , the washing tank 152 , and the drying tank 153 of the staining unit 150 .

[0123] The smear preparation device 100 stores the stained, line-treated, and dried specimen slides 10 in the specimen storage position in an empty specimen storage container 400 transported by the cassette transport unit 161. Each specimen slide 10 is introduced from above into the interior of the specimen storage container 400, with its side edges positioned between adjacent first ribs 421 and 431. The lower edge of the specimen slide 10 is supported by the protrusion 413 and then stored within the specimen storage container 400. The smear preparation device 100 then transfers the specimen storage container 400, containing the specimen slides 10, from the cassette inlet path 162 to the cassette outlet path 163 via the transverse transport mechanism 164. The smear preparation apparatus 100 then transports the specimen storage tool 400 transferred to the cassette delivery path 163 to the lateral transport unit 170 , and the lateral transport unit 170 transfers the specimen storage tool 400 to the cassette buffer area 221 of the storage tool transport device 200 .

[0124] Next, the storage tool transport device 200 transports the specimen storage tool 400 containing the specimen slide 10 from the smear preparation device 100 to the specimen image capture device 300 (storage tool transport step). Furthermore, in this embodiment, only the specimen slide 10 is moved for a portion of the distance between the smear preparation device 100 and the specimen image capture device 300. Even in this case where only the specimen slide 10 is moved for a portion of the distance, this is also included in the storage tool transport device 200 transporting the specimen storage tool 400 containing the specimen slide 10 from the smear preparation device 100 to the specimen image capture device 300 as defined in the utility model.

[0125] In the storage tool transport step, the storage tool transport device 200 first transports the specimen storage tool 400, which has been transferred to the cassette buffer area 221, to the specimen selection position P via the first transport unit 220. Furthermore, the specimen storage tool 400 arranged in the inserted specimen storage tool setting area 223 is also transported to the specimen selection position P. Next, the storage tool transport device 200 removes each specimen slide 10 from the specimen storage tool 400 transported to the specimen selection position P via the specimen transfer unit 250, and reads the sample identification information and imaging necessity identification information printed on the frosted portion 12 via the identification information acquisition unit. The storage tool transport device 200 then determines whether a specimen slide 10 is a target for imaging by the specimen image capturing device 300 based on the information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit, and returns the specimen slides 10 not targeted for imaging by the specimen image capturing device 300 to the specimen storage tool 400 via the specimen transfer unit 250. Furthermore, the storage tool transport device 200 uses the specimen transfer unit 250 to transfer the specimen slides 10 targeted for imaging by the specimen image capturing device 300 to the specimen transfer position W. Furthermore, the storage tool transport device 200 uses the horizontal movement mechanism 260 to transfer the specimen slides 10 transferred to the specimen transfer position W to the specimen transfer unit 310 of the specimen image capturing device 300. The storage tool transport device 200 uses the first transfer unit 220 to transfer the specimen storage tool 400, with only the specimen slides 10 not targeted for imaging by the specimen image capturing device 300 remaining, to the first cassette storage area 222.

[0126] Next, the specimen image capturing device 300 captures an image of the specimen smeared on the specimen slide 10 and performs a predetermined analysis (image capturing step).

[0127] During the image capturing step, the specimen image capturing device 300 first receives the specimen slide 10 from the transport unit 261 in the specimen interface 310 via the transport unit and transports it to the oil application unit 320. The specimen image capturing device 300 then applies immersion oil to the sample applied to the specimen slide 10 via the oil application unit 320. The specimen image capturing device 300 then transports the specimen slide 10 via the transport unit to the imaging unit 330, where it captures an image of the sample. The specimen image capturing device 300, through the control unit 332, performs prescribed processing on the captured image data and analyzes the sample. Furthermore, the specimen image capturing device 300 displays the captured image data or analysis results on a display monitor 335 or outputs them to a printer (not shown). The specimen image capturing device 300 then transfers the imaged specimen slide 10 to the specimen interface 310 via the transport unit, where it is then transferred to the transport unit 261, which is on standby. The storage tool transport device 200 then transfers the specimen slide 10 to the specimen transfer position W via the transport unit 261 and transfers it to the specimen transfer unit 250. The specimen transfer unit 250 then stores the specimen slide 10 in the specimen storage tool 400, which is waiting at the specimen storage position A. Consequently, the specimen storage tool 400 at the specimen storage position A only stores specimen slides that have been imaged by the specimen imaging device 300. Furthermore, the storage tool transport device 200 then transfers the specimen storage tool 400 to the second cassette storage area 232 via the second transport unit 230.

[0128] Through the above steps, the processing of the specimen slide that needs to be analyzed by the specimen imaging device 300 is completed, and the processed specimen slide 10 is stored in the specimen storage tool 400 and transported to the second cassette storage area 232 .

[0129] [Effects]

[0130] According to this embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

[0131] According to this embodiment, the specimen storage device 400 has a protrusion 413 on its inner bottom surface. This protrusion 413 is provided separately from the plurality of first ribs 421 and 431, and supports the lower end of the stored specimen slide 10 while it is separated from the inner bottom surface. Because the protrusion 413 thus supports the lower end of the specimen slide 10 while it is separated from the inner bottom surface, even if oil drips onto the inner bottom surface, it is prevented from adhering to the back of the smeared surface of the specimen slide 10. Furthermore, because the protrusion 413 is separate from the first ribs 421 and 431, it is possible to prevent oil from flowing back between the protrusion 413 and the first ribs 421 and 431, and thus prevent oil from adhering to the back of the specimen slide 10 via the protrusion 413 and the first ribs 421 and 431.

[0132] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the protrusion 413 is provided on the inner bottom surface so as to extend along the inner side wall. This can more reliably suppress the backflow of oil between the protrusion 413 and the first ribs 421 and 431.

[0133] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the specimen storage tool 400 is provided with multiple rows of protrusions 413 on the inner bottom surface. This allows the lower end of the specimen slide 10 to be supported at multiple positions, thereby supporting the specimen slide 10 in a stable state.

[0134] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the protrusions 413 are provided in a plurality of rows in a straight line and in parallel on the inner bottom surface, thereby enabling the protrusions 413 to support each specimen slide 10 in a stable state.

[0135] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the protrusion 413 is present only within a portion of the total length of the inner bottom surface in the direction in which the protrusion 413 extends. This creates gaps between the protrusion 413 and the right side surface 440 and the left side surface 450, allowing oil to spread over a wider area of ​​the inner bottom surface. Consequently, the surface height of any oil remaining on the inner bottom surface is reduced, more reliably preventing oil from adhering to the back surface of the specimen slide 10.

[0136] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the lower ends of the plurality of first ribs 421 and 431 extend to the inner bottom surface, and the protrusion 413 is provided on the inner bottom surface, separated from the front portion 420 and the rear portion 430. Thus, since the first ribs 421 and 431 extend to the inner bottom surface, the specimen slide 10 can be supported stably. Furthermore, since the first ribs 421 and 431 are separated from the protrusion 413, it is possible to more reliably prevent oil from flowing back between the protrusion 413 and the first ribs 421 and 431.

[0137] According to this embodiment, the height of the protrusion 413 is 50% or less of the height of the internal space. This prevents the center of gravity of the specimen storage tool 400 from being too high when the specimen slides 10 are stored, and allows the specimen storage tool 400 to be transported in a stable state.

[0138] According to this embodiment, the total cross-sectional width of the protrusions 413 is less than 60% of the width of the inner bottom surface.

[0139] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the specimen slide 10 stored is a photographed specimen slide 10, and the shortest distance between the protrusion 413 and the plurality of first ribs 421, 431 is greater than the oil droplets adhering to the slide. Furthermore, the shortest distance between the protrusion 413 and the plurality of first ribs 421, 431 is at least 2 mm. Thus, even when storing a photographed specimen slide 10 with oil attached, it is possible to more reliably prevent oil from flowing back between the protrusion 413 and the first ribs 421, 431.

[0140] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the specimen storage tool 400 has grips 442 and 452 formed on its outer wall for gripping the specimen storage tool 400. This allows the examiner to grip the grips 442 and 452 and move the specimen storage tool 400.

[0141] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the gripping portions 442 and 452 include a plurality of concave and convex portions, thereby increasing the friction of the gripping portions 442 and 452 and enabling the specimen storage tool 400 to be gripped more reliably.

[0142] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the specimen slide 10 stored in the specimen storage tool 400 is a slide glass or an imaged specimen slide 10. This can prevent the oil used for imaging from adhering to the back surface of the specimen slide 10.

[0143] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sample smeared on the slide is blood or urine. When capturing an image of the specimen slide 10 smeared with blood or urine, emulsified oil may be applied to the specimen slide 10. Therefore, when the sample is blood or urine, the specimen storage device 400 according to this embodiment is particularly suitable.

[0144] [Second embodiment of specimen storage tool]

[0145] Furthermore, while this embodiment describes the case where two rows of protrusions are formed, the present invention is not limited thereto; one row, or three or more rows of protrusions may also be formed. However, when the width of the protrusions is reduced, it is preferable to form two or more rows of protrusions to stably support the specimen slide 10. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the protrusions are formed in a straight line when viewed from above, but the shape of the protrusions is not limited to a straight line. For example, a single row of protrusions may be formed that is wide in the front-to-back direction.

[0146] Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view of a specimen storage tool according to the second embodiment. Figure 13 The cross-sectional view shown corresponds to that of the first embodiment. Figure 11The specimen storage tool 500 of the second embodiment differs from the specimen storage tool of the first embodiment only in the structure of the protrusion 513 . Components identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0147] like Figure 13 As shown, the specimen storage device 500 of the second embodiment is oriented in the front-back direction ( Figure 13 The protrusion 513 is formed wide in the left-right direction (in the left-right direction). When viewed from above, the protrusion 513 is formed in a rectangular shape. As in the first embodiment, the protrusion 513, the right side face 440 and the left side face 450 are wide in the left-right direction (in the left-right direction). Figure 13 The upper end of the protrusion 513 is formed flat. The protrusion 513 is formed in the center of the front-back direction of the inner bottom surface. Figure 13 As shown, the protrusion 513 is provided separately from the first ribs 421 , 431 .

[0148] According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment are achieved. When the protrusions are formed in a row, the width of the protrusions in the cross-sectional direction is preferably 60% or less of the width of the inner bottom surface of the specimen storage container.

[0149] [Third embodiment of specimen storage tool]

[0150] In addition, in the first embodiment, the case where the ribs formed on the right side surface 440 and the left side surface 450 extend to the bottom surface has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view showing a specimen storage tool according to a third embodiment. Figure 14 The cross-sectional view shown corresponds to that of the first embodiment. Figure 11 The specimen storage device 600 of the third embodiment differs from the specimen storage device of the first embodiment only in the structure of the first ribs 621 and 631. Structures identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0151] like Figure 14 As shown, in the specimen storage device 600 of the third embodiment, the lower ends of the first ribs 621 and 631 formed on the front portion 620 and the rear portion 630 are separated in height from the inner bottom surface of the base portion 410, forming a gap between the lower ends of the first ribs 621 and 631 and the inner bottom surface. Furthermore, the lower ends of the first ribs 621 and 631 are higher than the upper end of the protrusion 413.

[0152] According to this embodiment, the lower ends of the plurality of first ribs 621 and 631 are located above the inner bottom surface. Thus, since the first ribs 621 and 631 are separated from the inner bottom surface, it is possible to suppress the backflow of oil from the inner bottom surface through the first ribs 621 and 631.

[0153] In the above-described embodiments, the specimen storage device 400 has been described as storing the specimen slides 10 after imaging. However, the specimen storage device 400 can also be used to store the specimen slides 10 after staining.

Claims

1. A specimen storage device, characterized in that: The specimen storage device has a bottomed shape and an open top, and has a plurality of support portions extending vertically on the inner side wall, for storing a specimen slide smeared with a sample between adjacent support portions in the inner space. The specimen storage tool includes a protrusion provided on the inner bottom surface in a manner separated from the plurality of support portions, and supports the lower end of the stored specimen slide in a state separated from the inner bottom surface.

2. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The protrusion is provided on the inner bottom surface so as to extend along the inner side wall.

3. The specimen storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The inner bottom surface is provided with a plurality of rows of the protrusions.

4. The specimen storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The plurality of rows of protrusions are arranged in parallel and in a straight line on the inner bottom surface.

5. The specimen storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The protrusion exists only in a portion of the entire length of the inner bottom surface in the direction in which the protrusion extends.

6. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lower ends of the plurality of support portions extend to the inner bottom surface, and the protrusion is provided on the inner bottom surface in a manner separated from the inner side wall.

7. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lower ends of the plurality of support portions are located above the inner bottom surface.

8. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The height of the protrusion is less than or equal to 50% of the height of the internal space.

9. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The total width of the cross section of the protrusion is 60% or less of the width of the inner bottom surface.

10. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample slides stored are sample slides after photographing. The shortest distance between the protrusion and the plurality of support portions is greater than an oil droplet attached to the slide glass.

11. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample slides stored are sample slides after photographing. The shortest distance between the protrusion and the plurality of support portions is 2 mm or more.

12. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A gripping portion for gripping the specimen storage tool is formed on the outer wall surface.

13. The specimen storage device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The holding portion includes a plurality of concave and convex portions.

14. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The stored specimen slide is a photographed specimen slide.

15. The specimen storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample smeared on the slide is blood or urine.

16. A specimen processing device, characterized in that: have: a smear specimen preparation device that smears a sample on a glass slide to prepare a specimen slide; a specimen image capturing device for capturing an image of the specimen slide; The specimen storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 15; and A storage container transfer device is configured to transport the specimen storage container containing the specimen slide from the smear preparation device to the specimen image capturing device.

17. The specimen processing device according to claim 16, wherein: The specimen processing apparatus is configured to store the imaged specimen slide in the specimen storage tool.

Images