Sample assay device and method performed in the sample assay device

Abstract

The present invention aims to prevent the shortening of the measurement time of a sample by suppressing the operation of detecting the state of a container. The present invention provides a sample measurement device (100), which includes: a measurement unit (10) for measuring the sample, a detection unit (20) for detecting at least one of a container (42) capable of storing the sample or a cover (41) of the container (40), and a moving mechanism (30) for moving at least one of the container (40) or the detection unit (20). In the state where the moving mechanism (30) moves the container relative to the detection unit (20), the detection unit (20) detects at least one of the container (40) or the cover (41).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sample assay device and a method executed in the sample assay device. Background Art

[0002] A sample measurement device is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] like Fig.13 As shown, the sample processing system 900 (sample measuring device) disclosed in the above-mentioned patent document 1 includes: a measuring unit 901 for measuring a sample, a detection unit 904 for detecting the presence or absence of a plug 903 of a container 902 storing a sample, and a conveying mechanism 906 for conveying the container 902 stored in a movable rack 905. When the sample processing system 900 of this patent document 1 detects the presence or absence of the plug 903 of the container 902 by the detection unit 904, the conveying of the conveying mechanism 906 is suspended, and the container 902 is first lifted upward from the rack 905, and then the detection is performed.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-085967. Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] However, when the sample processing system 900 of the above-mentioned patent document 1 detects the presence of the stopper 903 of the container 902 by the detection unit 904, the transport operation of the transport mechanism 906 is first suspended, and the container 902 is lifted upward from the rack 905 and then the detection is performed. Therefore, there is a defect that the operation time required for detecting the presence of the stopper 903 of the container 902 is long. In the previous sample measurement device, the measurement of the sample in the measurement unit is the speed limiting factor of the entire device, so there is no need to quickly supply the sample to the measurement unit. In other words, the measurement process of the sample in the measurement unit takes a long time, so there is no need to shorten the operation time required for detecting the container state. However, in the sample processing system of the above-mentioned patent document 1, if the measurement process of the sample in the measurement unit is shortened, the operation of detecting the container state such as detecting the presence of the container stopper will become the speed limiting factor, and there is a problem of hindering the shortening of the measurement time.

[0009] The present invention aims to prevent the operation of detecting the state of a container from hindering the reduction of the sample measurement time.

[0010] Technical means

[0011] A sample measuring device (100) according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises: a measuring unit (101) for measuring a sample; a detecting unit (20, 21, 22, 23) for detecting at least one of a container (40, 42) capable of storing the sample or a cover (41) of the container (40); a moving mechanism (30) for moving at least one of the container (40, 42) or the detecting unit (20, 21, 22, 23); and when the moving mechanism (30) moves the container relative to the detecting unit, the detecting unit (20, 21, 22, 23) detects at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41).

[0012] The technical solution of the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect is as described above. Therefore, when detecting the container (40, 42), it is not necessary to pause the relative movement of the container (40, 42) relative to the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23). Compared with the case where the relative movement of the container (40, 42) is paused and then detected, the time required to detect at least one of the presence or absence of the container (40, 42) and the presence or absence of the cover (41) of the container (40) can be shortened. This can prevent the operation of detecting the state of the container (40, 42) from hindering the shortening of the sample measuring time.

[0013] The preferred technical solution of the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect is that the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) detects at least one of the container (40, 42) and the cover (41) according to the movement amount or movement position of the moving mechanism (30). With such a technical solution, the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) can detect when the container (40, 42) is located at a position where the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) can detect, so that at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) of the container (40) can be easily detected without pausing the relative movement of the container (40, 42).

[0014] In this case, the preferred technical solution is: the moving mechanism (30) includes a motor (30a) and an encoder (30b); the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) detects at least one of the container (40, 42) and the cover (41) according to the output of the encoder (30b). This technical solution can easily obtain the movement amount or movement position of the moving mechanism (30).

[0015] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is: when the detection section (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, the moving mechanism (30) moves the container (40, 42) to the detection section (20, 21, 22, 23). With this technical solution, at least one of the container (40, 42) and the cover (41) can be detected without pausing the container (40, 42) relative to the detection section (20, 21, 22, 23).

[0016] At this time, the preferred technical solution is that the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) detects at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) according to the moving distance of the container (40, 42) from the reference position. According to this technical solution, when the container moves a certain distance from the reference position to the detection position of the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23), the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, so that the container (40, 42) can be effectively detected during the process of moving the container (40, 42).

[0017] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is that when the detecting section (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, the moving mechanism (30) moves the detecting section (20, 21, 22, 23) to the container (40, 42). With this technical solution, the presence or absence of at least one of the container (40, 42) and the cover (41) can be detected without pausing the detecting section (20, 21, 22, 23) relative to the container (40, 42).

[0018] At this time, the preferred technical solution is: the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) detects at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) according to the distance between the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) and the initial position of the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23). According to this technical solution, when the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) moves a certain distance from the initial position to the position of the container (40, 42), the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, so that the container (40, 42) can be effectively detected even in the process of moving the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23).

[0019] Preferably, when the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, the moving mechanism (30) moves the container (40, 42) and the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23).

[0020] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first level, a preferred technical solution is: the moving mechanism (31) linearly transports the sample rack (105) containing a plurality of containers (40, 42), and the detection unit detects at least one of each container or the cover of each container stored in the sample rack when the moving mechanism moves the sample rack relative to the detection unit. Through this technical solution, the plurality of containers (40, 42) can be linearly moved in a state of being stored in the sample rack (105) and detected by the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) during the process, so that the plurality of containers (40, 42) can be detected while moving. In this way, the detection time can be effectively shortened compared to the case where the plurality of containers (40, 42) are stopped separately for detection.

[0021] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is: the moving mechanism (30) includes a turntable (32, 33), and the turntable (32, 33) is rotated to transport the container (40, 42) arranged on the turntable (32, 33). This technical solution allows the container (40, 42) arranged on the turntable (32, 33) to be tested without pausing the rotation of the turntable (32, 33).

[0022] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is: the moving mechanism transports a sample rack storing a plurality of containers, and when the moving mechanism moves the sample rack relative to the detecting unit, the detecting unit detects the cap (41) of each container stored in the sample rack. With this technical solution, the cap (41) of the container (40) can be detected without pausing the relative movement of the sample rack, and according to the detection result of whether the cap (41) is present, operations such as opening the stopper or changing the dispensing method can be taken for each container on the sample rack.

[0023] Regarding the sample measurement device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is: the moving mechanism includes a placement component, each placement component places a container, the moving mechanism transports the placement component, and the detection unit detects the configuration of at least one container placed by at least one placement component. Through this technical solution, it is possible to not perform detection processing on the position without the container (40, 42) according to the presence or absence of the container (40, 42) in each placement component, and only perform detection processing on the position with the container (40, 42). In this way, the measurement time can be effectively shortened.

[0024] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is: comprising a control unit (50) for controlling the moving mechanism (30), the control unit (50) storing the detection results of the detection units (20, 21, 22, 23). This technical solution can control the relative movement required by the detection containers (40, 42) through the control unit (50) and store the detection results.

[0025] In this case, a preferred technical solution is: further comprising an information acquisition unit (61) for acquiring information on at least one of the presence or absence of a container (40, 42) or the presence or absence of a cover (41) of the container (40) based on the detection results of the detection units (20, 21, 22, 23) stored in the control unit (50). With this technical solution, the control unit (50) storing the detection results does not need to analyze the detection results, thereby preventing an increase in the burden of detection processing.

[0026] Regarding the sample measuring device (100) of the first aspect, a preferred technical solution is: the moving mechanism (30) includes a placement component, each placement component places a container (40, 42), the moving mechanism (30) transports the placement component, and the sample measuring device (100) further includes: an information acquisition unit (61), the information acquisition unit (61) associates at least one of the two items of the presence or absence of a container (40, 42) or the presence or absence of a cover (41) of the container (40, 42) with each placement component based on at least one of the time when at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) is detected, or the position of the container (40, 42) relative to the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) during detection. Through this technical solution, after the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, the information can be associated and analyzed by the information acquisition unit (61), thereby preventing the processing burden from increasing when performing detection.

[0027] Preferably, while the moving mechanism (30) moves the container relative to the detection portion (20, 21, 22, 23), the detection portion (20, 21, 22, 23) continuously performs the detection operation.

[0028] Preferably, the moving mechanism (30) includes a turntable (32, 33), the turntable (32, 33) includes a placement component, each placement component places a container (40, 42) for preparing a measurement sample, and the sample measurement device (100) further includes a control unit (50), the control unit (50) controls the moving mechanism (30) to turn the turntable (32, 33), so that in response to the start of the sample measurement device (100), at least one container (40, 42) is detected by the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23), and an operation is performed to discard the detected at least one container (40, 42) from the turntable (32, 33).

[0029] The method according to the second aspect of the present invention is a method performed in a sample measuring device. The method comprises: moving a container capable of storing a sample relative to a detection unit; and detecting at least one of the container (40, 42) storing the sample or a cover (41) of the container (40) by the detection unit while the container (40, 42) is moved relative to the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23).

[0030] The technical solution of the method in the second aspect is as described above. When detecting the container (40, 42), it is not necessary to pause the relative movement of the container (40, 42) relative to the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23). Therefore, compared with the case where the relative movement of the container (40, 42) is paused before the detection, the time required to detect at least one of the presence or absence of the container (40, 42) and the presence or absence of the cover (41) of the container (40) can be shortened. In this way, the operation of detecting the state of the container (40, 42) can be prevented from hindering the shortening of the sample measurement time.

[0031] The preferred technical solution of the method at the second level is as follows: the movement of the container (40, 42) includes moving a placement component, each placement component places a container (40, 42), and the detection includes detecting at least one of each container (40, 42) placed by the placement component or the cover (41) of each container (40, 42) while moving the placement component relative to the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23), wherein the method also includes positioning at least one placement component, and the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) of the container (40, 42) in at least one placement component is detected. With this technical solution, when the container (40, 42) is located at a position where the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) can detect, the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, so that at least one of the two items, namely, the presence or absence of the container (40, 42) and the presence or absence of the cover (41) of the container (40), can be easily detected without pausing the relative movement of the container (40, 42).

[0032] The preferred technical solution of the method in the second aspect is as follows: when the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, the movement of the container (40, 42) includes the movement of the container (40, 42) to the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23). With this technical solution, the presence or absence of at least one of the container (40, 42) and the cover (41) can be detected without pausing the container (40, 42) relative to the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23).

[0033] At this time, the preferred technical solution is that the detection includes detecting at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) of the container (40, 42) according to the moving distance of the container (40, 42) from the reference position. According to this technical solution, when the container (40, 42) moves a certain distance from the reference position to reach the detection position of the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23), the detection is performed by the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23), so that the container (40, 42) can be effectively detected even in the process of moving the container (40, 42).

[0034] The preferred technical solution of the method in the second aspect is as follows: when the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) performs detection, the movement of the container (40, 42) includes moving the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) to the container (40, 42). With this technical solution, the presence or absence of at least one of the container (40, 42) and the cover (41) can be detected without pausing the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23) relative to the container (40, 42).

[0035] At this time, the preferred technical solution is: the detection includes detecting at least one of the container (40, 42) or the cover (41) according to the moving distance of the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) from the initial position of the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23). According to this technical solution, when the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) moves a certain distance from the initial position to the position of the container (40, 42), the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23) performs the detection, so that the container (40, 42) can be effectively detected even in the process of moving the detection part (20, 21, 22, 23).

[0036] The preferred technical solution of the method in the second aspect is as follows: it also includes storing the detection results of the detection parts (20, 21, 22, 23). In this technical solution, the control part (50) controls the relative movement required by the detection containers (40, 42) and can store the detection results.

[0037] In this case, a preferred technical solution is to obtain information on at least one of the two items, whether there is a container (40, 42) or whether there is a cover (41) of the container (40), based on the stored detection results of the detection unit (20, 21, 22, 23). With this technical solution, the control unit (50) storing the detection results does not need to analyze the detection results of at least one of the two items, whether there is a container (40, 42) or whether there is a cover (41) of the container (40), and obtain the information, thereby preventing the processing burden from increasing when performing the detection.

[0038] Effects of the Invention

[0039] This can prevent the work of detecting the state of the container from inhibiting the shortening of the measurement time of the sample. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 A block diagram of a sample measuring device;

[0041] Figure 2 A schematic top view of an example of the overall structure of a sample measurement device;

[0042] Figure 3 A block diagram of a control-related structure of a sample measurement device;

[0043] Figure 4 A block diagram for explaining a control unit of a sample measuring device;

[0044] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a detection unit of a sample measurement device;

[0045] Figure 6 FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a detection unit of a sample measurement device;

[0046] Figure 7 FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a detection unit of a sample measurement device;

[0047] Figure 8 A diagram for explaining a detection process of a control unit of a sample measurement device;

[0048] Fig. 9 A diagram for explaining a first modified example of the moving mechanism of the sample measuring device;

[0049] Fig.10 A diagram for explaining a second modified example of the moving mechanism of the sample measuring device;

[0050] Fig.11 A flowchart for explaining a cover detection process of a sample measuring device;

[0051] Fig.12 A flowchart for explaining a container detection process of a sample measuring device;

[0052] Fig.13 A diagram for explaining the prior art. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The following describes the embodiments based on the drawings.

[0054] (Overview of sample measurement device)

[0055] First refer to Figure 1 An overview of the sample measurement device 100 according to one embodiment will be described.

[0056] The sample measurement device 100 is a device for measuring a sample including a target component.

[0057] The sample includes a sample collected from the subject and from a living body. The sample contains the object component to be measured. The sample can be the sample itself or a test specimen prepared by adding a certain reagent to the sample. The subject is mainly a human, but can also be other animals other than humans. The sample measurement device 100, for example, performs clinical examinations or measurements required for medical research on samples collected from patients. Samples from living bodies are, for example, liquids such as blood (whole blood, serum or plasma), urine or other body fluids collected from the subject, or liquids obtained by performing certain pretreatments on the collected body fluids and blood. In addition, the sample can also be, for example, a part of the subject's tissue or cells other than liquids. The sample measurement device 100 detects certain object components contained in the sample. The object components can include, for example, certain components in blood and urine samples, cells, and formed elements. The object components can be nucleic acids such as DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), cells and intracellular substances, antigens or antibodies, proteins, peptides, etc.

[0058] The sample measuring device 100 includes a measuring unit 101 for measuring a sample. The measuring unit 101 may be a measuring unit that operates as a separate analyzing device, such as a blood cell counting device, a blood coagulation analyzing device, an immunoassay device, or a urine formed element analyzing device. The measuring unit 101 may not operate as a separate analyzing device, but may perform the operation processing required for the sample measurement by cooperating with other units.

[0059] The measuring unit 101 measures the components contained in the sample. Specifically, the measuring unit 101 measures the measuring sample obtained by adding the reagent in the reagent container to the sample, and measures the components of the sample. The method used by the measuring unit 101 to measure the target component is not limited, and a chemical method, an optical method, an electromagnetic method, or other method corresponding to the target component can be used. Based on the measurement results of the measuring unit 101, for example, the presence or absence of the target component, the number or amount of the target component, the concentration of the target component, the existence ratio, etc. are analyzed.

[0060] The sample measuring device 100 includes a detection unit 20 that detects at least one of the configuration and structure of a container 40 that can store a sample. The detection unit 20 detects, for example, whether the container 40 is present. In addition, the detection unit 20 detects, for example, whether the container 40 is disposed. In addition, the detection unit 20 detects, for example, whether the container 40 has a cover. The detection unit 20 may be, for example, a sensor that irradiates light and detects reflection, a sensor that irradiates light and detects transmission, a camera that photographs the container 40, or the like. In addition, the detection unit 20 may be a line array camera. In addition, the detection unit 20 may be a magnetic sensor, a contact sensor, a sensor that detects eddy currents, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like.

[0061] The sample measuring device 100 includes a moving mechanism 30 that moves the container 40 relative to the detection unit 20. The moving mechanism 30 may be, for example, a conveyor, a turntable, etc., and moves the container 40 relative to the detection unit 20. In addition, the moving mechanism 30 may include a linear motor and move the container 40 relative to the detection unit 20. The moving mechanism 30 may move the container 40 relative to the detection unit 20 that does not move, or may move the detection unit 20 relative to the container 40 that does not move. In addition, the moving mechanism 30 may move both the container 40 and the detection unit 20. In addition, the moving mechanism 30 may also move the container 40 stored on the rack.

[0062] In the present embodiment, the detection unit 20 detects the container 40 which is in a state of relative movement due to the moving mechanism 30. That is, the detection unit 20 does not need to stop the relative movement of the container 40 when performing the detection.

[0063] As described above, the technical solution of the sample measuring device 100 of this embodiment does not require the relative movement of the container 40 with respect to the detection unit 20 to be paused when detecting the container 40. Therefore, compared with the case where the relative movement of the container 40 is paused before the detection, the time required to detect at least one of the arrangement and structure of the container 40 can be shortened. In this way, it is possible to prevent the work of detecting the state of the container 40 from inhibiting the shortening of the sample measurement time.

[0064] (Sample measurement method)

[0065] Next, the sample measurement method according to this embodiment will be described.

[0066] The sample measurement method of this embodiment detects at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 that can accommodate the sample when the sample moves relative to the detection unit 20, and determines at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 based on the detection result of the detection unit 20 to measure the sample.

[0067] As described above, the technical solution of the sample measurement method of this embodiment does not need to pause the relative movement of the container 40 with respect to the detection unit 20 when detecting the container 40. Therefore, compared with the case where the relative movement of the container 40 is paused before the detection, the time required for detecting at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 can be shortened. In this way, it is possible to prevent the work of detecting the state of the container 40 from inhibiting the shortening of the sample measurement time.

[0068] (Structure of sample measuring device)

[0069] Reference Figure 2 right Figure 1 A more specific configuration example of the sample measurement device 100 will be described. Figure 2, an automatic measuring device for blood coagulation analysis is shown as an example of the sample measuring device 100 .

[0070] (Blood coagulation assay)

[0071] For example, in Figure 2 In the example, the sample measuring device 100 irradiates light from the light transmitting unit to the measuring sample prepared by adding a reagent to the sample, and detects the transmitted light or scattered light of the light irradiated to the measuring sample by the light receiving unit. The sample is plasma or serum separated from blood. The sample measuring device 100 analyzes the sample by a coagulation method, a synthetic substrate method, an immunoturbidimetric method, or an agglutination method. The analyzing unit 104 analyzes the sample based on the detected light.

[0072] In the coagulation method, light is irradiated onto the sample to be measured, and the coagulation time of fibrinogen in the sample being converted into fibrin is measured based on the electrical signal of the transmitted light or scattered light from the sample. The measurement items of the coagulation method include PT (prothrombin time), APTT (activated partial thromboplastin time), Fbg (fibrinogen content), etc.

[0073] In the synthetic substrate method, light is irradiated onto the measurement sample, and the degree of color development caused by the color-developing synthetic substrate acting on the enzyme in the measurement sample is measured based on the electrical signal of the transmitted light from the sample. The measurement items of the synthetic substrate method include ATIII (antithrombin III), α2-PI (α2-antiplasmin), PLG (plasminogen), etc.

[0074] In immunoturbidimetry, a reagent that produces an antigen-antibody reaction with coagulation and fibrinolytic factors in the sample is added to the sample, and the antigen-antibody reaction causes the substances contained in the reagent to agglutinate. In immunoturbidimetry, light is irradiated to the measurement sample, and the agglutination rate of the substances contained in the reagent in the measurement sample is measured based on the electrical signal of the transmitted light or scattered light from the sample. The measurement items of immunoturbidimetry include D-dimer, FDP (fibrin degradation product), etc.

[0075] In the agglutination method, light is irradiated onto the measurement sample, and the absorbance change during the agglutination reaction of platelets in the measurement sample is measured based on the electrical signal of the transmitted light from the sample. The measurement items of the agglutination method include vWF:RCo (von Willebrand's ristocetin cofactor), platelet aggregation function, etc.

[0076] (Immunoassay)

[0077] In addition, the sample measuring device 100 can be, for example, an automatic measuring device for immunoassay analysis. The sample measuring device 100 detects the target component by using the antigen-antibody reaction between the target component in the blood and the component in the reagent. For example, antigens or antibodies, proteins, peptides, etc. contained in the blood are detected as target components. The immunoassay device obtains serum or plasma as a sample and performs quantitative or qualitative measurement on the antigens or antibodies contained in the sample. In addition, the antigen-antibody reaction includes not only the reaction between the antigen and the antibody, but also the reaction using specific binding substances such as aptamers. Aptamers are nucleic acid molecules or peptides obtained by synthesis that specifically bind to specific substances.

[0078] The sample measuring device 100 measures light generated by a sample, that is, measures chemiluminescence based on a test substance contained in the sample. The sample measuring device 100 generates measurement data based on the light measured by the measuring unit.

[0079] Here, chemiluminescence refers to light emitted by the energy of a chemical reaction. For example, chemiluminescence can refer to light emitted when a molecule is excited to an excited state by a chemical reaction and then returns to a ground state from the excited state. The chemiluminescence measured by the measuring unit is, for example, light generated by a reaction between an enzyme and a substrate based on an enzyme immunochemiluminescence assay (CLEIA).

[0080] Regarding the enzyme immunochemiluminescence assay, for example, in the 2STEP method, (1) the test substance in the sample is immobilized on a solid phase carrier in a reaction container, then, (2) a BF separation is performed once to separate the solid phase immobilized with the test substance from the liquid phase, (3) a labeled substance is bound to the solid phase immobilized with the test substance in the reaction container, (4) a second BF separation is performed, and (5) a chemiluminescent substrate is added to the reaction container to produce an enzyme reaction. In addition to the 2STEP method, the enzyme immunochemiluminescence assay also includes the well-known 1STEP method and the D-1STEP method (delay-1 step method). The measurement items of the 2STEP method include HBsAg. The measurement items of the 1STEP method include HBsAb. The measurement items of the D-1STEP method include FT3, FT4, TSH, etc.

[0081] The chemiluminescence measured by the measuring unit may be light based on, for example, chemiluminescence analysis (CLIA), electrochemiluminescence analysis (ECLIA), fluorogenic enzyme assay (FEIA), LOCI (Luminescent Oxygen Channeling Immunoassay), or BLEIA (Bioluminescent Enzyme-Linked Immunoassay).

[0082] (Blood Cell Analysis)

[0083] In addition, the sample measuring device 100 can be, for example, an automatic measuring device for blood cell measurement and analysis. The sample measuring device 100 allows a measuring sample prepared by mixing a blood sample and a reagent to flow into a flow path, detects blood cell components flowing in the flow path, and counts them. The measuring unit of the unit used for blood cell analysis performs measurement by, for example, flow cytometry. That is, the measuring unit includes: a flow path portion that allows the sample to flow, a light transmitting portion that irradiates the measuring light to the sample flowing in the flow path portion, and a light receiving portion that detects the light irradiated on the sample.

[0084] The measuring unit allows particles such as cells to flow into the sheath liquid flow formed in the flow path unit, irradiates the flowing particles with laser light from the light transmitting unit, and detects scattered light and fluorescence through the light receiving unit. The sample measuring device 100 analyzes each particle based on the light measured by the measuring unit. For example, a scatter plot is prepared using the scattered light intensity and fluorescence intensity as parameter combinations, and the sample is analyzed based on the distribution of the scatter plot. The measurement items of flow cytometry include NEUT (neutrophil), LYMPH (lymphocyte), MONO (monocyte), EO (eosinophil), BASO (basophil), etc.

[0085] In addition, the sample measuring device 100 performs measurement by, for example, a sheath flow DC detection method. That is, the measuring unit includes: a flow path unit having an opening for allowing the sample to flow, and a detection unit for detecting changes in electricity between a pair of electrodes (not shown) arranged opposite to each other with the opening sandwiched therebetween. The measuring unit allows particles such as cells to flow into the sheath liquid flow passing through the opening, and allows a direct current to flow between the electrodes. The measuring unit detects each particle based on the pulsed current change when the particle passes through the opening. The measurement items of the sheath flow DC detection method include WBC (white blood cell) count, RBC (red blood cell) count, HGB (hemoglobin amount), HCT (hematocrit), MCV (mean corpuscular volume), MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin amount), MCHC (mean hemoglobin concentration), PLT (platelet count), etc.

[0086] (Overall structure)

[0087] exist Figure 2 In the configuration example, the sample measuring device 100 includes a measuring unit 101, a transport unit 102, and an analysis unit 104. In addition, the sample measuring device 100 includes detection units 21, 22, and 23 as the detection unit 20. In addition, the sample measuring device 100 includes a moving mechanism 31, and turntables 32 and 33 as the moving mechanism 30.

[0088] exist Figure 2 In the configuration example, the sample measuring device 100 has a function of aspirating the sample from the container 40 storing the sample and dispensing the sample into the container 42 in a certain amount.

[0089] The transport unit 102 contains a sample rack 105. The sample rack 105 can hold a plurality of containers 40 containing samples. The transport unit 102 transports the sample rack 105 placed by the user and places each container 40 at a certain sample aspiration position 501 or 502. Labels (not shown) in which identification information is recorded in a barcode or the like are attached to the sample rack 105 and the container 40. The identification information of the sample rack 105 and the container 40 is read by a barcode reader 103 provided in the transport path and sent to the analysis unit 104. The sample in the container 40 is associated with the measurement result of the sample and managed by the identification information.

[0090] The transport unit 102 is provided with a moving mechanism 31 that moves the container 40 relative to the detection unit 21. The detection unit 21 detects the container 40 that is being moved relative to the container 40 by the moving mechanism 31.

[0091] The moving mechanism 31 linearly transports the container 40, and transports the container 40 in a state in which the container 40 is stored in the sample rack 105 that can store a plurality of containers 40. Thus, the plurality of containers 40 are linearly moved in a state in which they are stored in the sample rack 105, while being detected by the detection unit 21, thereby enabling the detection of the plurality of containers 40 while being moved. Therefore, the detection time can be effectively shortened compared to the case in which the plurality of containers 40 are stopped and detected.

[0092] When the detection unit 21 is about to perform detection, the moving mechanism 31 moves the container 40 relative to the stopped detection unit 21. In this way, at least one of the arrangement and structure of the container 40 can be detected without stopping the container 40 relative to the detection unit 21.

[0093] The detection unit 21 continues to detect even when the container 40 is not being detected. This eliminates the need to frequently perform on-off control of the detection of the detection unit 21, thereby preventing an increase in control load when the container 40 is being detected.

[0094] The measuring unit 101 includes sample dispensing units 110 and 120 for aspirating the sample in the container 40 and dispensing the sample into the container 42 in a certain amount.

[0095] The sample dispensing parts 110 and 120 are composed of dispensing arms that rotatably place the suction head 111 for sample dispensing. The suction head 111 is connected to a pump (not shown) to perform quantitative aspiration and discharge of the sample. The sample dispensing part 110 can move the suction head 111 and aspirate a certain amount of sample from the container 40 at the sample aspiration position 501. The sample dispensing part 120 can move the suction head 111 and aspirate a certain amount of sample from the container 40 at the sample aspiration position 502. The sample dispensing parts 110 and 120 can respectively move the suction head 111 and discharge the aspirated sample into the container 42 arranged at a certain sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing parts 110 and 120 change the aspiration method according to the presence or absence of the cover 41 of the container 40 to which the sample is to be aspirated, and aspirate the sample. When the cover 41 is installed on the container 40, the sample dispensing parts 110 and 120 press down from the top of the container 40 to insert the suction head 111 into the cover 41. When the container 40 is not provided with the cap 41, the sample dispensing units 110 and 120 do not press down the container 40 but directly lower the tip 111 relative to the container 40. When the container 40 is provided with the cap 41, the stopper of the cap 41 may be opened before aspiration.

[0096] The measurement unit 101 performs optical measurement on a measurement sample prepared by adding a certain reagent to the sample aspirated into the sample dispensing unit 110 .

[0097] The measurement unit 101 includes a mechanism for transferring a container 42 for storing a sample and a reagent and preparing a measurement specimen to each unit. Figure 2 In the structural example, the measuring part 101 includes a turntable 32 for transporting a container 42. The turntable 32 is annular in a top view and can rotate in a circumferential direction. The turntable 32 includes a plurality of placement holes 131 arranged along the circumferential direction. Each placement hole 131 can hold a container 42. The sample dispensing part 110 can dispense the aspirated sample into a new container 42 placed on the turntable 32 at the sample dispensing position 503. The sample dispensing part 120 can also aspirate the sample from the container 42 that stores the sample on the turntable 32.

[0098] That is, the moving mechanism 30 includes the turntables 32 and 33, and the container 42 placed on the turntables 32 and 33 is transported by rotating the turntables 32 and 33. In this way, the container 42 placed on the turntables 32 and 33 can be inspected without stopping the rotation of the turntables 32 and 33.

[0099] A plurality of new containers 42 are stored in a container storage portion (not shown) and taken out one by one from the container storage portion. The containers 42 taken out from the container storage portion can be placed in the placement holes 131 of the turntable 32.

[0100] The detection unit 22 can detect whether there is a container 42 placed on the turntable 32. The detection unit 22 is used to confirm that the container 42 has been placed on the turntable 32. In addition, the detection unit 22 is also used to confirm that the container 42 has been taken out of the turntable 32. In addition, the detection unit 22 is used to confirm that no container 42 is placed on the turntable 32 in the initial operation.

[0101] exist Figure 2 In the configuration example, the sample measuring device 100 has a function of preparing a measurement sample by adding a reagent to the sample in the container 42. The measurement sample is a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent.

[0102] The measuring unit 101 includes a gripping mechanism 160 capable of conveying the container 42. The gripping mechanism 160 can grip and convey the container 42, place the container 42 in the placement hole 131, and remove the container 42 from the placement hole 131. In addition, the gripping mechanism 160 can convey the placed container 42 to the disposal port 261.

[0103] The measurement section 101 includes a reagent table 190 for storing reagent containers 191 used in measurement, and reagent dispensing sections 200 and 210 for aspirating and discharging reagents from the reagent containers placed on the reagent table 190 .

[0104] The reagent table 190 is arranged inside the rotating table 32 and is circular in top view. The reagent table 190 can place a plurality of reagent containers 191 along the circumferential direction. The reagent table 190 can rotate along the circumferential direction and place any reagent container 191 at a certain reagent aspiration position by rotating.

[0105] The reagent dispensing parts 200 and 210 include a suction head (not shown) for reagent dispensing. The suction head is connected to a pump (not shown) and can perform quantitative aspiration and discharge of the reagent. The reagent dispensing part 200 can aspirate a certain amount of reagent from a reagent container 191 placed at a certain reagent aspiration position on the reagent table 190. The reagent dispensing part 200 can move the suction head to the reagent dispensing position and discharge a certain amount of reagent to the container 42 at the reagent dispensing position.

[0106] The reagent dispensing unit 210 can aspirate a certain amount of reagent from a reagent container 191 placed at a certain reagent aspirating position on the reagent table 190. The reagent dispensing unit 210 can move the tip to the reagent dispensing position and discharge a certain amount of reagent to the container 42 at the reagent dispensing position.

[0107] The measuring unit 101 includes a turntable 33 for placing and heating containers 42 containing samples. The turntable 33 includes a plurality of placement holes 221 for placing a plurality of containers 42 containing samples, and a clamping mechanism 222 for clamping and transferring the containers 42. The turntable 33 has a built-in heater (not shown) for heating the containers 42 placed in the plurality of placement holes 221.

[0108] The turntable 33 is circular in a top view, and has a plurality of placement holes 221 arranged along the circumferential direction. The turntable 33 can rotate along the circumferential direction, and can transfer the containers 42 placed in the plurality of placement holes 221 along the circumferential direction by rotating while heating to a certain temperature by a heater. The clamping mechanism 222 can clamp and transfer the container 42, place the container 42 in the placement hole 221, and take the container 42 out of the placement hole 221.

[0109] The detection unit 23 can detect the presence or absence of the container 42 arranged on the turntable 33. The detection unit 23 is used to confirm that the container 42 has been placed on the turntable 33. In addition, the detection unit 23 is also used to confirm that the container 42 has been taken out from the turntable 33. In addition, the detection unit 23 is also used to confirm that the turntable 33 is not equipped with a container 42 in the initial operation.

[0110] Alternatively, the sample measuring device 100 may not include the reagent table 190 , the reagent dispensing unit 200 , and the turntable 33 , but may perform measurement on the container 42 containing the prepared measurement sample in advance.

[0111] The measurement unit 101 includes a detection unit 230 for optically measuring a measurement sample in a container 42. The detection unit 230 includes a container placement unit 231 for placing the container 42 storing the sample, and a light receiving unit arranged corresponding to the container placement unit 231.

[0112] exist Figure 2 In the configuration example, the detection unit 230 includes a plurality of container placement parts 231. In the detection unit 230, the plurality of container placement parts 231 are linearly arranged in two rows at a certain interval.

[0113] The measuring section 101 includes a gripping mechanism 180 for transferring the container 42 to the detection unit 230 .

[0114] The clamping mechanism 180 includes a moving mechanism (not shown) that moves in three orthogonal axial directions X, Y, and Z, and can clamp and transfer the container 42. The clamping mechanism 180 can take out the container 42 from the placement hole 221 of the turntable 33 and transfer it to the reagent dispensing position, and place the container 42 after the reagent dispensing in the container placement part 231 of the detection unit 230. In addition, the clamping mechanism 180 can also take out the container 42 after the measurement is completed from the container placement part 231 and transfer it to the waste port 260.

[0115] The measurement sample in the container 42 placed in the container placement part 231 of the detection unit 230 is optically measured. The light irradiation part irradiates the container 42 placed in the container placement part 231 of the detection unit 230 with light for measurement. The light receiving part receives the transmitted light or scattered light irradiated on the container 42, and outputs an electric signal corresponding to the amount of light received. The electric signal is transmitted to the analysis part 104. The analysis part 104 analyzes the sample based on the electric signal output by the light receiving part.

[0116] (Control device)

[0117] like Figure 3 As shown, the sample measuring device 100 includes a control device 60 that controls the operation of the measuring unit 101. The control device 60 controls the operation of each part of the sample measuring device 100. The control device 60 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and other computing devices, and controls each part in the measuring unit 101 and the transport unit 102 according to the program stored in the storage unit. The storage unit includes a storage medium such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a hard disk, which stores the program and data required for the operation of the control device 60.

[0118] like Figure 4 As shown, the control device 60 includes an information acquisition unit 61 and a memory 62. The information acquisition unit 61 can be a software part controlled by a program. The memory 62 includes storage media such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory) and a hard disk. The control device 60 controls the control unit 50 that controls the moving mechanism 30. The control unit 50 includes hardware parts such as FPGA (field-programmable gate array) 51. The FPGA51 is provided with a storage unit 52 for storing information.

[0119] The moving mechanism 30 includes a motor 30a and an encoder 30b. The control unit 50 drives the motor 30a while detecting the driving amount or driving position of the encoder 30b. The detection unit 20 detects the container 40 or 42 in a relatively moving state based on the driving amount or driving position of the motor 30a obtained by the encoder 30b. In this way, the moving amount or moving position of the moving mechanism 30 can be easily obtained.

[0120] Specifically, the control unit 50 moves the container 40 or 42 relative to the detection unit 20 through the moving mechanism 30 and stores the detection result of the detection unit 20 at a certain relative position in the storage unit 52. In this way, the control unit 50 can control the relative movement of the container 40 or 42 required for detection and store the detection result.

[0121] The information acquisition unit 61 can acquire information. The information acquisition unit 61 acquires information on at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 or 42 based on the detection result of the detection unit 20 stored by the control unit 50. In this way, the control unit 50 that stores the detection result does not need to analyze the detection result of at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 or 42 as the acquired information, thereby preventing an increase in the processing load when performing the detection.

[0122] In addition, the information acquisition unit 61 can associate information. In addition, the detection unit 20 acquires first information related to at least one of the presence or absence of the container 40 or 42 and the presence or absence of the cover 41 of the container 40. The storage unit 52 stores second information related to at least one of the time when the first information is acquired and the relative position of the container 40 or 42 relative to the detection unit 20. The information acquisition unit 61 associates the first information and the third information related to at least one of the identification of the container 40 or 42 and the position of the container 40 or 42 on the moving mechanism 30 based on the second information. In this way, after the detection unit 20 performs detection, the information can be associated and analyzed by the information acquisition unit 61, so that the processing load when performing detection can be prevented from increasing.

[0123] FPGA51 can quickly determine the presence or absence of container 40 or 42 on moving mechanism 30 and the presence or absence of cover 41 without stopping the relative movement of container 40 or 42. Specifically, FPGA51 determines the presence or absence of container 40 or 42 during the relative movement operation and transmits the latched result to the upper level. In addition, FPGA51 obtains the relationship between the container position and the presence or absence of container 40 or 42 from the pulse value of motor 30a or encoder 30b and latches the result.

[0124] FPGA51 operates at a clock frequency of 20 MHz, for example. FPGA51 sets the container position to monitoring start position positioning + first positioning position + container interval × n and operates. The presence or absence of a container is determined only when the detection unit 20 has passed the container positioning. FPGA51 changes the end flag from 0 to 1 after all detections are completed.

[0125] (Detection Department)

[0126] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the detection unit 20 (21) detects whether the container 40 has a cover 41. The detection unit 20 includes a light emitting unit 20a and a light receiving unit 20b. The detection unit 20 irradiates visible light or infrared light from the light emitting unit 20a to the light receiving unit 20b. The light emitting unit 20a and the light receiving unit 20b are arranged at different heights in the vertical direction. That is, the light emitting unit 20a irradiates light obliquely to the light receiving unit 20b. In the detection unit 20, when the container 40 does not have a cover 41, Figure 5 As shown, the light from the light emitting unit 20a reaches the light receiving unit 20b. When the light is detected by the light receiving unit 20b, the detection unit 20 detects that there is no cover 41. In addition, in the detection unit 20, when the container 40 has the cover 41, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, the light of the light emitting unit 20a is blocked by the cover 41, and the light does not reach the light receiving unit 20b. When the light receiving unit 20b does not detect light, the detection unit 20 detects that the cover 41 is present. The positions of the light emitting unit 20a and the light receiving unit 20b of the detection unit 20 can be adjusted according to the size and type of the container 40 and the cover 41 used.

[0127] like Figure 7 As shown, the detection unit 20 (22 and 23) detects the presence of the container 42 to detect the arrangement of the container 42. The detection units 22 and 23 are respectively provided near the turntables 32 and 33. In addition, the detection units 22 and 23 are reflection type sensors. The detection units 22 and 23 detect reflected light when the container 42 exists. And the detection units 22 and 23 do not detect reflected light when the container 42 does not exist. The detection units 22 and 23 can use analog sensors.

[0128] like Figure 8 As shown, the detection unit 20 detects the container 40 or 42 in a relatively moving state according to the movement amount or movement position of the moving mechanism 30. In this way, the detection unit 20 can detect the container 40 or 42 when it is located at a relative position where the detection unit 20 can detect it, so at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 or 42 can be easily detected without pausing the relative movement of the container 40 or 42.

[0129] Specifically, a reference position whose relative position to the detection unit 20 is known is provided in the moving section of the container 40 or 42 in the moving mechanism 30. The moving mechanism 30 moves the container 40 or 42 with the reference position as the starting point. In this way, when the container 40 or 42 moves a certain distance d1 from the reference position to reach the detection position of the detection unit 20, the detection unit 20 performs detection, so that the container 40 or 42 can be reliably detected during the movement of the container 40 or 42. In addition, after the distance d1 has been moved, the detection unit 20 performs detection every time the arrangement interval d2 of the container 40 or 42 is relatively moved. In addition, the position of the arrangement container 40 or 42 is detected during the relative movement within the monitoring range d3.

[0130] Every time the arrangement position of the container 40 or 42 reaches the detection position, the control unit 50 latches and stores the detection signal of the detection unit 20 via the FPGA 51 .

[0131] like Fig. 9 As shown, the following technical solution can also be adopted: when the detection unit 20 performs detection, the moving mechanism 30 moves the detection unit 20 relative to the stopped container 40 or 42. In this way, at least one of the configuration and structure of the container 40 or 42 can be detected without pausing the detection unit 20 relative to the container 40 or 42.

[0132] In this case, the detection unit 20 is set to an initial position, and the moving mechanism 30 moves the detection unit 20 with the initial position as the starting point. In this way, the detection unit 20 performs detection when the detection unit 20 moves a certain distance from the initial position to the position of the container 40 or 42, and the container 40 or 42 can be reliably detected during the movement of the detection unit 20.

[0133] like Fig.10 As shown, the following technical solution may also be adopted: when the detection part 20 is to perform detection, the moving mechanism 30 may move both the detection part 20 and the container 40 or 42 .

[0134] (Cap detection processing)

[0135] Refer to the following Fig.11 The cover detection process performed by the control unit 50 will be described.

[0136] In response to the conveyance start instruction from the control device 60 in step S1 , the control unit 50 causes the moving mechanism 30 to start conveying the container 40 in step S2 .

[0137] In step S3, the control unit 50 determines whether the transport position of the moving mechanism 30 is at the detection position based on the signal of the encoder 30b. If it is not at the detection position, the control unit 50 repeats the determination of step S3 until the transport position reaches the detection position. If it is at the detection position, the process proceeds to step S4. In step S4, the control unit 50 stores the detection result of the detection unit 20.

[0138] In step S5, the control unit 50 determines whether there are any remaining detection positions. If there are, the process returns to step S3. If there are no remaining detection positions, the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, the control unit 50 ends the detection. In addition, the control unit 50 stops the transport of the container 40.

[0139] In step S7, after the detection of the detection unit 20 is completed, the control device 60 obtains the detection results stored by the control unit 50 at any time. After all the detection results have been obtained from the control unit 50, in step S8, the control device 60 resets the detection results. In this way, the next detection can be performed.

[0140] (Container inspection and processing)

[0141] Refer to the following Fig.12 The container detection process performed by the control unit 50 will be described.

[0142] This container detection process is performed to detect that no container 42 is placed on the turntables 32 and 33 in the initial operation of the sample measuring device 100. In step S12, the control unit 50 starts rotating the turntable 32 or 33 in response to the turntable rotation start command from the control device 60 in step S11. The control unit 50 rotates the turntable 32 or 33 once every several seconds, for example.

[0143] In step S13, the control unit 50 determines whether the rotation position of the turntable 32 or 33 is the detection position based on the signal of the encoder 30b. If it is not the detection position, the control unit 50 repeats the determination of step S13 until the rotation position reaches the detection position. If it is the detection position, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the control unit 50 stores the detection result of the detection unit 20.

[0144] In step S15, the control unit 50 determines whether there is any remaining detection position. That is, the control unit 50 determines whether the turntable 32 or 33 has completed one full rotation. If there is any remaining, the process returns to step S13. If there is no remaining, the process proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the control unit 50 stops the rotation of the turntable 32 or 33 and ends the detection.

[0145] In step S17, after the detection of the detection unit 20 is completed, the control device 60 obtains the detection result stored by the control unit 50 at any time. In step S18, when there is a container 42 on the turntable 32 or 33, the control device 60 discards the container 42 placed on the turntable 32 or 33. After the control device 60 obtains all the detection results from the control unit 50, it resets the detection results in step S19. In this way, the next detection can be performed.

[0146] In addition, all the contents of the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative and not limiting. The scope of the present invention is not limited by the description of the above embodiments, but is limited only by the claims, and includes all modifications under the contents of the claims having equivalent meanings and equivalent scopes.

[0147] Number Description

[0148] 20, 21, 22, 23: Detection Department

[0149] 30, 31: Mobile mechanism

[0150] 30a: Motor

[0151] 30b: Encoder

[0152] 32, 33: Turntable

[0153] 40, 42: Container

[0154] 41: Cover

[0155] 50: Control Department

[0156] 52: Storage

[0157] 61: Information Acquisition Department

[0158] 100: Sample measurement device

[0159] 101: Measurement Department

Claims

1. A sample measuring device, comprising: A measuring unit, used for measuring the sample; A moving mechanism, comprising a turntable, the turntable comprising placing components, each of the placing components being used to place a respective container and being configured to move by rotating the turntable, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a motor for rotating the turntable, and an encoder for outputting a signal indicating a rotation position of the turntable; a detection unit for detecting the presence of a container capable of accommodating the sample on the turntable, wherein the detection unit irradiates light to one of the mounting parts located at the detection position, and receives reflected light in response to the presence of the container in the mounting part at the detection position, and does not receive the reflected light when the container is not in the mounting part; and a control section for controlling the moving mechanism to rotate the turntable without stopping the rotation, while allowing the detection section to keep detecting the presence of the container until all of the placement components are positioned at the detection position by the rotation, to determine whether one of the placement components is positioned at the detection position based on the signal from the encoder, and to store the result of the detection each time each of the placement components is positioned at the detection position; Wherein, after completing the detection of each of the placement components, the control unit controls the moving mechanism to stop the rotation, and if the detection unit has detected at least one container, the control unit performs an operation to control the clamping mechanism to discard the detected at least one container from the turntable.

2. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detection unit detects the container and / or the cover on the container according to the output of the encoder.

3. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detection unit detects the container and / or a cap on the container according to a movement distance of the container from a reference position.

4. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, wherein: The moving mechanism linearly transports the sample rack containing a plurality of containers, and In a state where the moving mechanism moves the sample rack relative to the detection unit, the detection unit detects each container stored in the sample rack and / or a cap on each container.

5. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, wherein: The moving mechanism transports a sample rack containing a plurality of containers, and The detection unit detects the cap of each container stored in the sample rack in a state where the moving mechanism moves the sample rack relative to the detection unit.

6. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising: An information acquisition unit is used to acquire information about the presence or absence of the container and / or the presence or absence of a cover on the container based on the detection result of the detection unit stored in the control unit.

7. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample measuring device also includes: an information acquisition unit, which associates the presence or absence of the container and / or the presence or absence of the cover on the container with each of the placement components based on at least one of the time when the container and / or the cover on the container is detected, or the position of the container relative to the detection unit during detection.

8. The sample measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detection portion continuously performs a detection operation while the moving mechanism moves the container relative to the detection portion.

9. A method performed in a sample assay device, comprising: A mobile turntable, the turntable comprising a plurality of placement components, each placement component being used to place a respective container, wherein the rotation of the turntable is performed by a motor; Outputting a signal indicating the rotation position of the turntable through an encoder; irradiating light to one of the placement components positioned at the detection position; receiving reflected light in response to the presence of the container in the placement member at the detection position, thereby detecting the presence of the container capable of accommodating the sample on the turntable; Performing a detection in an initial operation of the sample measuring device to confirm that no container is placed on any of the placement components, while allowing the detection unit to keep detecting the presence of the container until all of the placement components are positioned at the detection position through the rotation; determining whether one of the mounted components is positioned at the detection position based on the signal from the encoder; storing the result of the detection each time each of the placement components is positioned at the detection position; After completing the detection of each of the placement components, stopping the rotation; In response to the stop of the rotation of the turntable, if the detection portion has detected at least one container in the initial operation, the control portion performs an operation to control a gripping mechanism to discard the detected at least one container from the turntable.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that: The detection includes detecting each container placed by the placing component and / or the cover on each container while moving the placing component relative to the detection portion, characterized in that: The method further comprises positioning at least one seating component, a container on the at least one seating component and / or a cap on the container being detected.

11. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that: The detection includes detecting the container and / or a cover on the container according to a movement distance of the container from a reference position.

12. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that: When the detection portion performs detection, the relative movement between the container and the detection portion includes moving the detection portion toward the container.

13. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that: The detection includes detecting the container and / or the cover on the container according to a moving distance from an initial position of the detection portion.

14. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: Information on the presence or absence of the container and / or the presence or absence of a cap on the container is acquired based on the detection result stored in the detection unit.

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