A high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer and control method thereof

By adopting a combination of lateral and longitudinal translation units in the fluorescence immunoassay, the problems of complex equipment structure and unadjustable sample seats in the prior art are solved, and efficient heating, detection and retraction of samples of different sizes are achieved. This improves the reliability and efficiency of the equipment.

CN110361528BActive Publication Date: 2024-12-27SUZHOU HELMEN PRECISION INSTR
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN201910704575.4
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2019-07-31
Publication Date
2024-12-27
Estimated Expiration
2039-07-31

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Most of the existing semi-automatic gold standard and fluorescence detection equipment are rotating disk types, which have problems such as huge mechanism, complex structure, low reliability, high cost, inconvenient maintenance, unadjustable sample seats, and difficult sample sampling.

Method used

A high-throughput automated fluorescence immunoassay device is designed, using a structure that combines a lateral translation unit and a longitudinal translation unit, equipped with a debugged sample base and a heating unit, so as to ensure the positioning of the sample through the in-place detection unit, and realize the heating of the sample. Inspection and sample withdrawal operations have simple overall structure, easy adjustment, high reliability and low cost.

Benefits of technology

It realizes efficient heating, detection and sample retraction of samples of different sizes. The whole machine is compact in structure and adapts to samples of different lengths, reducing maintenance costs and improving equipment reliability and efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer and a control method thereof. A transverse translation unit parallel to a plurality of adjustable sample seats is mounted on a base, a heating unit is arranged at the bottom of the adjustable sample seat, and a longitudinal translation unit is arranged in cooperation with the transverse translation unit. The longitudinal translation unit drives a sample withdrawal unit and a fluorescence detection unit to complete the detection and sample withdrawal operation after sample cultivation, and an in-place detection unit is used to ensure information feedback and positioning after each sample seat is placed. The present invention can continuously complete the heating, detection and sample withdrawal of multiple samples of different sizes with only two sets of drives. The samples can enter the sample seat in an unordered manner. The in-place detection mechanism can adapt the whole machine to samples of different lengths. All work is completed within the range covered by the transverse translation unit. The whole machine has a simple structure, is easy to adjust, has high reliability, low cost, occupies a small space, and is easy to maintain. It is an ideal mechanism for semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of using optical means, namely using infrared light, visible light or ultraviolet light to test or analyze materials, and particularly relates to a high-throughput automatic fluorescence immunoassay analyzer in the field of semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Immunochromatography (Lateral Flow Immunoassay, LFIA) rapid detection technology is based on chromatography technology and antigen-antibody specific immune response. At present, the main immunochromatography technologies include fluorescent immunochromatography and colloidal gold chromatography. Immunochromatography rapid detection technology can be widely used in on-site quantitative detection. It is an important direction for the development of instant detection technology in the future. It is widely used in food, animal husbandry, public security drug detection and hospital biochemical detection.

[0003] In order to improve the efficiency of batch testing, semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment has been developed. However, in the prior art, most semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment are turntable type, which has the following defects:

[0004] (1) The organization is large and complex;

[0005] (2) Low reliability, high cost, and inconvenient maintenance;

[0006] (3) The specimen holder is not adjustable. In order to accommodate specimens of different widths, thicknesses, and lengths, multiple sets of equipment may be required.

[0007] (4) The sample falls by its own weight and can easily get stuck in the machine body, causing unnecessary disassembly or malfunction. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present invention solves the problem that in the prior art, most semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment are turntable-type and thus cause a series of defects, and provides an optimized high-throughput automated fluorescence immunoassay analyzer and a control method thereof.

[0009] The technical solution adopted by the present invention is a high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer, comprising a base, on which a lateral translation unit is mounted; a plurality of adjustable sample seats are laterally distributed and parallel to the front end edge of the base of the lateral translation unit; any of the adjustable sample seats is provided with a heating unit; a longitudinal translation unit is provided corresponding to the plurality of adjustable sample seats to cooperate with the lateral translation unit, the longitudinal translation unit is provided with a sample withdrawal unit and a fluorescence detection unit, and the movement directions of the longitudinal translation unit and the lateral translation unit are perpendicular to each other in a horizontal plane; an in-place detection unit is provided on the base between any of the adjustable sample seats and the lateral translation unit; the lateral translation unit, the heating unit, the longitudinal translation unit, the sample withdrawal unit, the fluorescence detection unit and the in-place detection unit are connected to a controller.

[0010] Preferably, the lateral translation unit includes two support frames respectively arranged at the two longitudinal ends of the base, and the tops of the two support frames are provided with first screws parallel to the base, one end of the first screw is connected to the output end of the first motor, and the outer sleeve of the first screw is provided with a first nut; the first nut is arranged in cooperation with the longitudinal translation unit.

[0011] Preferably, a first guide rail is provided at the rear end of the support frame parallel to the first screw rod, the first nut is connected to the first slider through a first fixing plate, the first slider is matched with the first guide rail; the first slider is matched with the longitudinal translation unit.

[0012] Preferably, the longitudinal translation unit includes a second fixed plate arranged in cooperation with the transverse translation unit, a second motor is provided at the rear end of the second fixed plate, the output end of the second motor is connected to a second screw rod, a second nut is provided at the outer sleeve of the second screw rod, and the second nut is respectively arranged in cooperation with the fluorescence detection unit and the sample withdrawal unit; the second fixed plate is provided with a scanning unit connected to the controller toward the front end.

[0013] Preferably, a second guide rail is provided at the bottom of the second fixing plate parallel to the second screw rod, and the second nut is matched with the second guide rail via a second sliding block.

[0014] Preferably, a fluorescence detection unit is provided at the bottom of the second nut; the sample withdrawal unit includes a third fixing plate arranged at the front end of the second nut, and a sample withdrawal rod is provided at the bottom of the third fixing plate facing forward; the distance between the horizontal projection of the sample withdrawal rod and the horizontal projection of the fluorescence detection unit is greater than 0.

[0015] Preferably, any of the adjustable sample seats comprises a left seat and a right seat, and a heating unit is provided between the left seat, the right seat and the bottom plate; and a transverse slide groove is provided on the top of the heating unit corresponding to the left seat and the right seat, respectively.

[0016] Preferably, a buckle facing the front end of the bottom plate is provided on any one of the left seats and / or right seats, and the buckle is arranged in cooperation with the specimen.

[0017] Preferably, the in-place detection unit includes an adjustable positioning plate. A plurality of positioning holes corresponding to the adjustable specimen seats one by one are provided at the rear end of the adjustable positioning plate. In-place sensors are provided on the adjustable positioning plate corresponding to the positioning holes one by one behind the positioning holes; A plurality of U-shaped contact pieces are arranged in cooperation with the adjustable positioning plate. The rear part of the U-shaped contact piece penetrates through the positioning hole, and the rear end face of the U-shaped contact piece is attached to the in-place sensor. The top surface of the middle part of the U-shaped contact piece is attached to the bottom surface of the adjustable positioning plate, and the front part of the U-shaped contact piece is attached to the front end face of the adjustable positioning plate and corresponds to the adjustable specimen seat one by one.

[0018] A control method for the high-throughput automated fluorescence immunoassay analyzer as described above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0019] Step 1: Install the in-place detection unit, align the corresponding in-place sensors and adjustable specimen seats one by one, and complete the positioning; Initialize the analyzer and set the current working temperature of the heating unit.

[0020] Step 2: The first motor and the second motor work, respectively driving the first nut and the second nut to return to the ends of the first screw rod and the second screw rod close to the first motor and the second motor.

[0021] Step 3: Place a specimen on any one of the adjustable specimen seats, adjust the adjustable specimen seat until the bottom of the specimen is buckled with the buckle and the in-place sensor detects that the specimen is in place; The controller controls the heating unit at the bottom of the current adjustable specimen seat to start heating, and the controller times.

[0022] Step 4: The first motor works, the first nut and the first screw rod cooperate and reach in front of the currently placed specimen to be cultivated; The controller controls the scanning unit to scan the specimen, and the scanning unit transmits the scanning data to the controller to generate the cultivation time of the current specimen.

[0023] Step 5: If the cultivation time of any specimen reaches the standard value, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, determine whether any in-place sensor detects that the specimen is in place. If so, the heating unit of the specimen seat where the new specimen is in place starts heating and timing, and return to Step 4. Otherwise, repeat Step 5.

[0024] Step 6: The first motor works, the first nut and the first screw rod cooperate and reach in front of the specimen that has completed cultivation; The first motor stops working.

[0025] Step 7: The second motor works, the second nut and the second screw rod cooperate, and the second nut drives the fluorescence detection unit to scan outward from the insertion end of the specimen and then return. The fluorescence detection unit transmits the detection data to the controller.

[0026] Step 8: The first motor works, and the first nut and the first screw rod cooperate to move until the sample withdrawal rod faces the insertion end of the current sample; the first motor stops working; if the incubation time of any other sample reaches the standard value, return to step 6, otherwise, proceed to the next step;

[0027] Step 9: The second motor works, the second nut cooperates with the second screw rod, the second nut drives the sample withdrawal rod forward, and the sample withdrawal rod pushes the sample out;

[0028] Step 10: The controller analyzes the detection data; returns to step 5 or shuts down.

[0029] The present invention provides an optimized high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer and a control method thereof. A lateral translation unit parallel to a plurality of adjustable sample seats is set up on a base, a heating unit is set at the bottom of the adjustable sample seat for heating and cultivating the sample, the lateral translation unit is matched with a longitudinal translation unit, and the longitudinal translation unit drives a sample withdrawal unit and a fluorescent detection unit to complete the detection and sample withdrawal operation after the sample is cultivated, so that the in-place detection unit ensures information feedback and positioning after each sample seat is placed. The present invention can continuously complete the heating, detection and sample withdrawal of multiple samples of different sizes with only two sets of drives, and the samples can enter the sample seat in disorder.

[0030] The adjustable sample holder of the present invention can be inserted with samples of different widths and thicknesses, and the in-place detection mechanism can make the whole machine adapt to samples of different lengths. All work is completed within the range covered by the lateral translation unit. The whole machine has a simple structure, is easy to adjust, has high reliability, low cost, occupies a small space, and is easy to maintain. It is an ideal mechanism for semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention from a top view angle;

[0032] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention at an upward viewing angle;

[0033] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heating unit and the adjustable sample holder of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cooperation between the lateral translation unit and the longitudinal translation unit after the first screw rod and the first nut are omitted in the present invention;

[0035] Figure 5 It is a structural schematic diagram of the adjustable positioning plate for upward viewing angle in the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present invention is further described in detail below in conjunction with embodiments, but the protection scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0037] The present invention relates to a high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer, comprising a base 1, on which a transverse translation unit is mounted; a plurality of adjustable sample seats 2 are laterally distributed and parallel to the front end edge of the base of the transverse translation unit; any of the adjustable sample seats 2 is provided with a heating unit 3; a longitudinal translation unit corresponding to the plurality of adjustable sample seats 2 is provided to cooperate with the transverse translation unit, the longitudinal translation unit is provided with a sample withdrawal unit and a fluorescence detection unit 4, and the movement directions of the longitudinal translation unit and the transverse translation unit are perpendicular to each other on a horizontal plane; an in-place detection unit is provided on the base between any of the adjustable sample seats 2 and the transverse translation unit; the transverse translation unit, the heating unit 3, the longitudinal translation unit, the sample withdrawal unit, the fluorescence detection unit 4 and the in-place detection unit are connected to a controller.

[0038] In the present invention, the base 1 as a whole carries all functional components of the analyzer, and the area occupied by the base 1 and a small amount of space at the front end thereof can complete the automated fluorescent immunoassay of samples in multiple channels.

[0039] In the present invention, the end where the adjustable sample seat 2 is located is regarded as the "front", and the end where the adjustable sample seat 2 is located is regarded as the horizontal side, and all subsequent positions are regarded as the reference.

[0040] In the present invention, there are multiple adjustable sample holders 2 arranged in parallel, generally 6 to 8 of them can be set, which can ensure the rapid flow of the analyzer as a whole; a heating unit 3 is set at the bottom of each adjustable sample holder 2 for heating the sample 27 and cultivating and incubating it.

[0041] In the present invention, a transverse translation unit parallel to the adjustable sample stand 2 is mounted on the base 1. Specifically, the transverse translation unit is laterally arranged above the middle of the base 1 to drive the transverse movement of the longitudinal translation unit.

[0042] In the present invention, the longitudinal translation unit drives the sample withdrawal unit and the fluorescence detection unit 4 to complete the detection and sample withdrawal operations of the sample 27 after incubation.

[0043] In the present invention, the in-place detection unit ensures information feedback and positioning after the sample holder 2 is placed in the sample 27 each time, and the in-place detection unit can be adapted to samples 27 of different models and sizes.

[0044] In the present invention, the controller can be configured as a conventional control circuit or an integrated chip, which is easily understood by those skilled in the art, and those skilled in the art can configure it by themselves according to their needs.

[0045] In the present invention, it is obvious that an audio and visual prompt unit for providing arrival prompts, alarm prompts, etc. and a communication unit for network communication with other devices can also be integrated as needed. This is content that can be easily understood by technicians in this field, and they can set it themselves according to their needs.

[0046] The present invention can continuously complete the heating, testing and sample withdrawal of a plurality of samples 27 of different sizes with only two sets of driving, and the samples 27 can enter the sample holder 2 in an unordered manner.

[0047] The adjustable sample holder 2 of the present invention can be inserted with samples 27 of different widths and thicknesses, and the in-place detection mechanism can make the whole machine adapt to samples 27 of different lengths. All work is completed within the range covered by the lateral translation unit. The whole machine has a simple structure, is easy to adjust, has high reliability, low cost, occupies a small space, and is easy to maintain. It is an ideal mechanism for semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment.

[0048] The lateral translation unit includes two support frames 5 respectively arranged at the two longitudinal ends of the base 1, and the tops of the two support frames 5 are provided with first screw rods 6 parallel to the base 1, one end of the first screw rod 6 is connected to the output end of the first motor 7, and the outer sleeve of the first screw rod 6 is provided with a first nut 8; the first nut 8 is arranged in cooperation with the longitudinal translation unit.

[0049] A first guide rail 9 is provided at the rear end of the support frame 5 parallel to the first screw rod 6. The first nut 8 is connected to the first slider 11 through the first fixing plate 10. The first slider 11 is cooperated with the first guide rail 9; the first slider 11 is cooperated with the longitudinal translation unit.

[0050] In the present invention, the lateral translation unit is elevated as a whole by a support frame 5, and the support frame 5 is arranged at the left and right ends of the base 1. A first screw 6 is arranged on the top thereof, and a first motor 7 is arranged at one end of the first screw 6. The output of the first motor 7 drives the first screw 6 to rotate, thereby driving the movement of a first nut 8 arranged outside the first screw 6.

[0051] In the present invention, the position of the first nut 8 relative to the first screw rod 6 can be limited by controlling the first motor 7. This is a conventional technology in the field, and those skilled in the art can set it according to their needs.

[0052] In the present invention, it is obvious that in order to facilitate the control of the analyzer, the first screw 6 is also parallel to the plurality of adjustable sample seats 2, that is, the stroke of the mechanism unit arranged thereunder toward any corresponding adjustable sample seat 2 is equal.

[0053] In the present invention, the first nut 8 can be directly integrated with the longitudinal translation unit and drive the longitudinal translation unit to move; in fact, in order to ensure the stable operation of the overall mechanism, a first guide rail 9 can be set at the rear end of the support frame 5 parallel to the first screw rod 6, and the first nut 8 is connected to the first slider 11 through the first fixed plate 10, and the longitudinal translation unit under the first slider 11 is driven to move through the cooperation between the first slider 11 and the first guide rail 9.

[0054] In the present invention, in order to ensure the cooperation between the first slider 11 and the first guide rail 9, the first slider 11 is generally configured to have a built-in slide groove, and the first guide rail 9 passes through the slide groove.

[0055] In the present invention, generally speaking, in order to further ensure the operation effect, the first fixing plate 10 and the first sliding block 11 can be integrated.

[0056] The longitudinal translation unit includes a second fixed plate 12 that is arranged to cooperate with the transverse translation unit. A second motor 13 is provided at the rear end of the second fixed plate 12. The output end of the second motor 13 is connected to a second screw rod 14. A second nut 15 is provided on the outer sleeve of the second screw rod 14. The second nut 15 is respectively arranged to cooperate with the fluorescence detection unit 4 and the sample withdrawal unit; the second fixed plate 12 is provided with a scanning unit 26 connected to the controller toward the front end.

[0057] A second guide rail 16 is provided at the bottom of the second fixing plate 12 parallel to the second screw rod 14 , and the second nut 15 is matched with the second guide rail 16 via a second sliding block 17 .

[0058] A fluorescence detection unit 4 is provided at the bottom of the second nut 15; the sample withdrawal unit includes a third fixing plate 18 provided at the front end of the second nut 15, and a sample withdrawal rod 19 is provided at the bottom of the third fixing plate 18 facing forward; the distance between the horizontal projection of the sample withdrawal rod 19 and the horizontal projection of the fluorescence detection unit 4 is greater than 0.

[0059] In the present invention, the longitudinal translation unit includes a second fixed plate 12 arranged to cooperate with the transverse translation unit. The purpose of the second fixed plate 12 is mainly to connect with the transverse translation unit, specifically, to connect with the bottom of the first slider 11. Of course, the second fixed plate 12 can also be integrated with the first fixed plate 10 to increase strength.

[0060] In the present invention, a second motor 13 is disposed at the rear end of the second fixing plate 12 , and the output end of the second motor 13 drives the second screw rod 14 to move, thereby driving the second nut 15 to move forward and backward.

[0061] In the present invention, a fluorescence detection unit 4 is provided at the bottom of the second nut 15. The fluorescence detection unit 4 is a conventional technology in this field, and is generally a fluorescence immunoassay card detection mechanism. Technical personnel in this field can purchase and set it according to needs, such as the built-in modules of the series products of Hemai Technology, etc., or they can assemble it by themselves according to needs.

[0062] In the present invention, the scanning unit 26 has the function of scanning and reading codes, and can scan the code 28 on the reagent card to obtain relevant information about the inspection items, reagent batches and incubation time, which is convenient for management. The position of its setting is adjustable, and it can be fixed by setting an extended arm plate on the second fixed plate 12, and the position of the adjustable positioning plate 21 relative to the base 1 can also be changed to correspond and read the code 28 on the scanning unit 26 and the sample 27. This is a conventional technical content, and those skilled in the art can purchase and set the scanning unit 26 according to needs, and can also assemble it by themselves according to needs.

[0063] In the present invention, the code 28 set on the sample 27 is a one-dimensional code to meet the requirements.

[0064] In the present invention, a third fixing plate 18 is provided at the front end of the second nut 15, and a sample withdrawal rod 19 is provided at the bottom of the third fixing plate 18 facing forward. The height of the sample withdrawal rod 19 coincides with the height range of a general sample 27 placed on the adjustable sample holder 2, that is, it can act on the inserted end of the sample 27 and push the sample 27 out through the movement of the second nut 15 and the sample withdrawal rod 19.

[0065] In the present invention, in order to ensure that the operations between the sample withdrawal unit and the fluorescence detection unit 4 do not affect each other, the distance between the horizontal projection of the sample withdrawal rod 19 and the horizontal projection of the fluorescence detection unit 4 is greater than 0. Generally speaking, the fluorescence detection unit 4 is arranged directly below the second nut 15, and the sample withdrawal rod 19 is relatively arranged at the side and front of the second nut 15. In this case, it is only necessary to move the lateral translation unit a short distance, so that the second nut 15 can drive the sample withdrawal unit or the fluorescence detection unit 4 to complete different operations.

[0066] Different from the traditional large-scale sample ejection mechanism, the present invention makes clever use of the structure of the whole machine and carries a low-cost, reliable and simple sample ejection rod 19, so as to achieve the purpose of being compact, reliable and low-cost.

[0067] In the present invention, in order to ensure the overall stable operation of the mechanism, a second guide rail 16 can be provided at the bottom of the second fixing plate 12 parallel to the second screw rod 14 , and the second nut 15 can move more stably through the cooperation between the second slider 17 and the second guide rail 16 .

[0068] In the present invention, in order to ensure the cooperation between the second slider 17 and the second guide rail 16, generally, the second slider 17 is configured with a chute inside, and the second guide rail 16 penetrates through the chute.

[0069] In the present invention, the second nut 15 and the second slider 17 can also be integrally provided to reduce the fastening operation.

[0070] Any one of the adjustable specimen holders 2 includes a left seat and a right seat, and a heating unit 3 is provided between the left seat and the right seat and the bottom plate 1; horizontal chutes 29 are respectively provided at the tops of the heating units 3 corresponding to the left seat and the right seat.

[0071] On any one of the left seat and / or the right seat, a buckle 20 facing the front end of the bottom plate 1 is provided, and the buckle 20 is cooperatively arranged with the specimen 27.

[0072] In the present invention, in order to achieve a high degree of adaptability of the specimen 27, the adjustable specimen holder 2 is configured in the form of a left seat and a right seat, and the left seat and the right seat can move left and right in the horizontal chute 29 to achieve the purpose of clamping the specimen 27.

[0073] In the present invention, the adjustable specimen holder 2 can adapt to specimens 27 of different widths and thicknesses, has a simple and reliable structure, and low cost.

[0074] In the present invention, a heating unit 3 is provided between the left seat and the right seat and the bottom plate 1. Generally speaking, the heating unit 3 is a heating panel that is integrally matched with the adjustable specimen holder 2, and it can be controlled by a controller to achieve the purpose of constant temperature incubation.

[0075] In the present invention, in order to better ensure the adaptability between the adjustable specimen holder 2 and the specimen 27, a buckle 20 facing the front end of the bottom plate 1 can be provided on each adjustable specimen holder 2, that is, the buckle 20 can be inserted and combined with the jack at the bottom of the specimen 27 to ensure that the specimen 27 is in the correct position and remains stable during the entire incubation and detection process.

[0076] In the present invention, the buckle 20 can be provided on both the left seat and the right seat of each adjustable specimen holder 2 at the same time, or can be provided on only one of the left seat and the right seat.

[0077] The in-place detection unit includes an adjustable positioning plate 21. A plurality of positioning holes 23 corresponding to the adjustable specimen holders 2 are provided at the rear end of the adjustable positioning plate 21. In-place sensors 22 corresponding to the positioning holes 23 are provided on the adjustable positioning plate 21 behind the positioning holes 23; a plurality of U-shaped contact pieces 24 are cooperatively arranged on the adjustable positioning plate 21. The rear part of the U-shaped contact piece 24 penetrates through the positioning hole 23 and the rear end face of the U-shaped contact piece 24 is attached to the in-place sensor 22. The top surface of the middle part of the U-shaped contact piece 24 is attached to the bottom surface of the adjustable positioning plate 21, and the front part of the U-shaped contact piece 24 is attached to the front end face of the adjustable positioning plate 21 and corresponds to the adjustable specimen holder 2 one by one.

[0078] In the present invention, since the specifications of the samples 27 are different, the degree of pushing of different samples 27 may be uncontrollable, so it is necessary to set up an in-place detection unit, which can adapt to samples 27 of different lengths, and the mechanism adjustment is simple, reliable and low-cost.

[0079] In the present invention, the contact signal is transmitted through the front end face and the rear end face of the C-shaped contact piece 24. When the front end face of the C-shaped contact piece 24 hits the inserted sample 27, the rear end face of the C-shaped contact piece 24 that penetrates the positioning hole 23 obtains a signal, triggering the operation of the in-place sensor 22.

[0080] In the present invention, generally, the in-position sensor 22 can also be configured as a micro switch.

[0081] In the present invention, based on the fact that the sample 27 may be particularly short, the in-place detection unit is not only provided with an in-place sensor 22 for helping the sample 27 to be detected in-place, but also provided with an adjustable positioning plate 21, that is, the distance of the positioning plate 21 relative to the adjustable sample holder 2 can be different to accommodate different samples 27; generally speaking, the distance between the adjustable positioning plate 21 and the in-place sensor 22 is adjusted by adjusting the relative position of the adjustable positioning plate 21 and the base 1, such as by providing a long hole 25 on the base 1, and providing a sliding rod at the bottom of the adjustable positioning plate 21 to match the long hole 25.

[0082] A control method for the high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer comprises the following steps.

[0083] Step 1: Install the in-place detection unit, align the corresponding in-place sensor 22 and the adjustable sample holder 2 one by one, and complete the positioning; initialize the analyzer and set the current working temperature of the heating unit 3;

[0084] Step 2: The first motor 7 and the second motor 13 work to respectively drive the first nut 8 and the second nut 15 to return to the ends of the first screw 6 and the second screw 14 close to the first motor 7 and the second motor 13 .

[0085] In the present invention, generally, the ends of the first screw 6 and the second screw 14 close to the first motor 7 and the second motor 13 are assumed to be the initial positions of the first nut 8 and the second nut 15 by default.

[0086] In the present invention, the first motor 7 and the second motor 13 can be configured as stepper motors, or ordinary motors, and the first nut 8 and the second nut 15 can be controlled to move to preset positions by controlling the rotation of the motors.

[0087] In the present invention, for the first nut 8 , the preset position includes the central axis position of each adjustable sample holder 2 , and the position of the first nut 8 when the sample withdrawal rod 19 is aligned with the central axis of each adjustable sample holder 2 .

[0088] In the present invention, for the second nut 15 , its maximum stroke is the distance from the initial position of the fluorescence detection unit 4 to the detection position of the sample 27 closest to the edge of the base 1 .

[0089] In the present invention, generally speaking, the temperature requirements of the same batch of samples 27 are the same. Therefore, although the same batch of samples 27 can be placed on any sample holder 2 at any time during testing, in fact, the working temperature of all samples 27 is equal, so the working temperature of the heating unit 3 can be set during the initialization process.

[0090] Step 3: Place the sample 27 on any adjustable sample holder 2, and adjust the adjustable sample holder 2 until the bottom of the sample 27 is engaged with the buckle 20 and the in-place sensor 22 detects that the sample 27 is in place; the controller controls the heating unit 3 at the bottom of the current adjustable sample holder 2 to start heating, and the controller counts.

[0091] Step 4: The first motor 7 works, the first nut 8 and the first screw 6 cooperate and reach the currently placed sample 27 to be incubated; the controller controls the scanning unit 26 to scan the sample 27, and the scanning unit 26 transmits the scanning data to the controller to generate the incubation time of the current sample 27.

[0092] Step 5: If the incubation time of any sample 27 reaches the standard value, proceed to the next step; otherwise, determine whether any in-place sensor 22 detects that the sample 27 is in place; if so, the sample holder 2 with a new sample 27 in place starts heating timing, and returns to step 4; otherwise, repeat step 5;

[0093] In the present invention, steps 3 to 5 satisfy the requirement that the sample 27 can be placed in an unordered manner on the adjustable sample holder 2, the start of timing is confirmed by the in-place sensor 22, and the subsequent operations are automatically performed after the incubation time is reached by controlling the time by the controller.

[0094] In the present invention, specifically, starting from the time when the constant temperature is set when the machine is turned on, the heating unit 3 starts heating, and the sample 27 that is subsequently placed but has not yet been scanned also starts heating and incubation as soon as it is placed, and the time consumed will be included in the total incubation time.

[0095] In the present invention, when the sample 27 is placed on the sample holder 2 , the first motor 7 starts to work, positions the sample 27 on the horizontal plane, and simultaneously obtains scanning data with the scanning unit 26 , such as obtaining a specific incubation time by scanning the code 28 on the sample 27 .

[0096] In the present invention, for the convenience of management, in actual operation, after obtaining the new incubation time, the controller will sort all recorded incubation times from small to large according to the remaining time, to ensure that fluorescence detection and ejection can be performed immediately after the sample 27 that is about to be incubated is completed.

[0097] Step 6: The first motor 7 starts working, the first nut 8 and the first screw 6 cooperate and reach the sample 27 that has been cultivated; the first motor 7 stops working.

[0098] In the present invention, at this time, the position of the first nut 8 is aligned with the central axis position of the adjustable sample holder 2 where the incubated sample 27 is located.

[0099] Step 7: The second motor 13 works, the second nut 15 cooperates with the second screw 14, and the second nut 15 drives the fluorescence detection unit 4 to scan outward from the insertion end of the sample 27 and retract, and the fluorescence detection unit 4 transmits the detection data to the controller.

[0100] Step 8: The first motor 7 starts working, and the first nut 8 and the first screw 6 move together until the sample withdrawal rod 19 faces the insertion end of the current sample 27; the first motor 7 stops working; if the incubation time of any other sample 27 reaches the standard value, return to step 6, otherwise, proceed to the next step.

[0101] In the present invention, when the fluorescence detection of the previous sample 27 is completed and there is a need for the fluorescence detection of the next sample 27, the sample withdrawal operation is not performed temporarily, but the next sample 27 that needs to be fluorescently detected is detected first, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the detection.

[0102] In the present invention, the position of the first nut 8 in step 8 is the position of the first nut 8 when the sample withdrawal rod 19 is aligned with the central axis of each adjustable sample holder 2 .

[0103] Step 9: The second motor 13 works, the second nut 15 cooperates with the second screw rod 14 , the second nut 15 drives the sample ejection rod 19 forward, and the sample ejection rod 19 pushes the sample 27 out.

[0104] Step 10: The controller analyzes the detection data; returns to step 5 or shuts down.

[0105] In the present invention, the controller can analyze the detection data by itself, or transmit it to the PC to be analyzed by a more sophisticated instrument; this process does not interfere with the normal operation of steps 3 to 9.

[0106] The present invention sets up a lateral translation unit parallel to a plurality of adjustable sample holders 2 on a base 1, sets a heating unit 3 at the bottom of the adjustable sample holder 2 for heating and cultivating the sample 27, and cooperates with a longitudinal translation unit to drive a sample withdrawal unit and a fluorescence detection unit 4 to complete the detection and sample withdrawal operation of the sample 27 after cultivation through the longitudinal translation unit, so that the in-place detection unit ensures information feedback and positioning after each placement of the sample holder 2; the present invention can continuously complete the heating, detection and sample withdrawal of multiple samples 27 of different sizes with only two sets of drives, and the samples 27 can enter the sample holder 2 in an unordered manner.

[0107] The adjustable sample holder 2 of the present invention can be inserted with samples 27 of different widths and thicknesses, and the in-place detection mechanism can make the whole machine adapt to samples 27 of different lengths. All work is completed within the range covered by the lateral translation unit. The whole machine has a simple structure, is easy to adjust, has high reliability, low cost, occupies a small space, and is easy to maintain. It is an ideal mechanism for semi-automatic gold label and fluorescence detection equipment.

Claims

1. A high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer, comprising a base, characterized in that: A lateral translation unit is mounted on the base; a plurality of adjustable sample seats are arranged in a lateral distribution parallel to the front end edge of the base of the lateral translation unit; any of the adjustable sample seats is equipped with a heating unit; a longitudinal translation unit is arranged corresponding to the plurality of adjustable sample seats to cooperate with the lateral translation unit, the longitudinal translation unit is equipped with a sample withdrawal unit and a fluorescence detection unit, and the movement direction of the longitudinal translation unit is perpendicular to that of the lateral translation unit on a horizontal plane; The lateral translation unit comprises two support frames respectively arranged at the two longitudinal ends of the base, the tops of the two support frames are provided with first screw rods parallel to the base, one end of the first screw rod is connected to the output end of the first motor, and the outer sleeve of the first screw rod is provided with a first nut; the first nut is arranged in cooperation with the longitudinal translation unit; The longitudinal translation unit comprises a second fixing plate arranged in cooperation with the lateral translation unit, a second motor is arranged at the rear end of the second fixing plate, an output end of the second motor is connected to a second screw, a second nut is arranged at the outer sleeve of the second screw, and a fluorescence detection unit is arranged at the bottom of the second nut; a scanning unit connected to the controller is arranged in cooperation with the front end of the second fixing plate; The sample withdrawal unit comprises a third fixing plate arranged at the front end of the second nut, and a sample withdrawal rod is arranged at the bottom of the third fixing plate facing forward; the distance between the horizontal projection of the sample withdrawal rod and the horizontal projection of the fluorescence detection unit is greater than 0; Any of the adjustable sample seats comprises a left seat and a right seat, and a heating unit is arranged between the left seat and the right seat and the bottom plate; any of the left seat and / or the right seat is provided with a buckle facing the front end of the bottom plate, and the buckle is arranged in cooperation with the sample; An in-place detection unit is provided on the base between any of the adjustable sample seats and the lateral translation unit; the in-place detection unit includes an adjustable positioning plate, a rear end of the adjustable positioning plate is provided with a plurality of positioning holes corresponding to the adjustable sample seats one by one, and an in-place sensor corresponding to the positioning holes is provided on the adjustable positioning plate behind the positioning holes; the adjustable positioning plate is provided with a plurality of U-shaped contact pieces, the rear part of the U-shaped contact piece passes through the positioning holes and the rear end surface of the U-shaped contact piece is fitted with the in-place sensor, the middle top surface of the U-shaped contact piece is fitted with the bottom surface of the adjustable positioning plate, and the front part of the U-shaped contact piece is attached to the front end surface of the adjustable positioning plate and corresponds to the adjustable sample seat one by one; The lateral translation unit, the heating unit, the longitudinal translation unit, the sample withdrawal unit, the fluorescence detection unit and the in-place detection unit are connected to a controller.

2. A high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that: A first guide rail is provided at the rear end of the support frame parallel to the first screw rod. The first nut is connected to the first slider via a first fixing plate. The first slider is matched with the first guide rail. The first slider is matched with the longitudinal translation unit.

3. A high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that: A second guide rail is provided at the bottom of the second fixing plate parallel to the second screw rod, and the second nut is matched with the second guide rail via a second sliding block.

4. A high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tops of the heating units corresponding to the left seat and the right seat are respectively provided with transverse sliding grooves.

5. A control method for a high-throughput automated fluorescent immunoassay analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The method comprises the following steps: Step 1: Install the detection unit, align the corresponding in-place sensor and the adjustable sample holder one by one, and the positioning is completed; initialize the analyzer and set the current working temperature of the heating unit; Step 2: The first motor and the second motor work to respectively drive the first nut and the second nut to return to the ends of the first screw and the second screw close to the first motor and the second motor; Step 3: Place the sample on any adjustable sample holder, and adjust the adjustable sample holder until the bottom of the sample is engaged with the buckle and the in-place sensor detects that the sample is in place; the controller controls the heating unit at the bottom of the current adjustable sample holder to start heating, and the controller starts timing; Step 4: The first motor works, the first nut and the first screw cooperate and reach the front of the currently placed sample to be cultivated; the controller controls the scanning unit to scan the sample, and the scanning unit transmits the scanning data to the controller to generate the cultivation time of the current sample; Step 5: If the incubation time of any sample reaches the standard value, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, determine whether any in-place sensor detects that the sample is in place. If so, the sample holder with a new sample in place starts heating timing and returns to step 4. Otherwise, repeat step 5. Step 6: The first motor starts working, the first nut and the first screw rod cooperate and reach the front of the sample that has been cultivated; the first motor stops working; Step 7: The second motor works, the second nut cooperates with the second screw, the second nut drives the fluorescence detection unit to scan outward from the insertion end of the sample and then retract, and the fluorescence detection unit transmits the detection data to the controller; Step 8: The first motor works, and the first nut and the first screw rod cooperate to move until the sample withdrawal rod faces the insertion end of the current sample; the first motor stops working; if the incubation time of any other sample reaches the standard value, return to step 6, otherwise, proceed to the next step; Step 9: The second motor works, the second nut cooperates with the second screw rod, the second nut drives the sample withdrawal rod forward, and the sample withdrawal rod pushes the sample out; Step 10: The controller analyzes the detection data; returns to step 5 or shuts down.