Automatic analysis device

Abstract

The present invention provides an automatic analysis device that prevents contamination of a reagent container storage box caused by microorganisms from outside the device. The device comprises a reagent container storage box for holding reagent containers, a reagent disk for accommodating reagent containers and transporting them to desired positions in the reagent container storage box, and an irradiation unit (902) for irradiating ultraviolet rays to the reagent disk and a loading system for the reagent container, a control unit (903) for controlling the irradiation unit, a driving battery (904), and a sterilization unit (901) including a mechanical switch (905). The sterilization unit (901) is used to prevent contamination in the sample container storage box.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic analysis device. Background Art

[0002] In an automatic analysis device that generally handles consumables such as analytical reagents, the workflow can be made more efficient by reducing the frequency of replacement / replenishment of these consumables. For example, for analytical reagents, the frequency of replacement / replenishment can be reduced by increasing the "on-machine stability period" which is the stability of the reagent when stored in the device. As a means to achieve this purpose, there is a method of providing an analytical reagent storage box with a cold-keeping function in order to prevent thermal denaturation of the reagent components. In addition to the cold-keeping function, it is also important to prevent contamination (contamination) caused by microorganisms such as bacteria and mold that invade from the outside of the device for improving the on-machine stability period. For example, by providing the analytical reagent storage box with a sterilization function, the analytical reagent storage box is always kept clean, which can prevent contamination caused by microorganisms. These functions help save man-hours and time for replacement / replenishment of analytical reagents, and are particularly necessary for large-scale facilities that process a large number of samples per day.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-219452

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-054292 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] As inventions related to reagent sterilization means for the purpose of improving the on-machine stability period of reagents used in automatic analysis devices, there are technologies described in Patent Documents 1 and 2. They are both technologies for the purpose of sterilizing "common reagents" such as cleaning solutions and buffer solutions that are not dependent on the type of analysis items but are commonly used. In detail, a sterilization unit is directly provided in the common reagent bottle, and sterilization operations are performed regularly to prevent the mixing and reproduction of microorganisms in the reagent bottle. On the other hand, technical development related to sterilization means for the purpose of sterilizing analytical reagent storage boxes has not yet been carried out.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analysis device having a sterilization means for a reagent container storage box in order to prevent contamination caused by microorganisms from outside the device.

[0010] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0011] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides an automatic analysis device, which comprises: a reagent container storage box for holding reagent containers; a reagent disk for accommodating reagent containers and transporting them to required positions in the reagent container storage box; an irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet rays to a loading system of the reagent disk and reagent containers; and a control unit for controlling the irradiation unit.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention, by preventing contamination by microorganisms from outside the device, it is possible to ensure cleanliness inside the reagent container storage box. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an automatic analyzer.

[0015] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a reagent container (sealed state).

[0016] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a reagent container (open state).

[0017] Figure 4 This is the appearance of the reagent disk.

[0018] Figure 5A This is a diagram of the appearance of the reagent disk with the cover removed.

[0019] Figure 5B This is a top view of the reagent disk with the cover removed.

[0020] Figure 5C This is a picture of a reagent disk.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the filling system.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the reagent container input unit and the filling system.

[0023] Figure 8 This is an enlarged view of the reagent container insertion section.

[0024] Fig. 9 This is a diagram showing a structural example of a sterilization unit of Example 1.

[0025] Fig. 10A This is a diagram of the mechanical switch of the sterilization unit of Example 1 (in the OFF state).

[0026] Fig. 10B This is a diagram of the mechanical switch (ON state) of the sterilization unit of Example 1.

[0027] Fig.11AThis is a flowchart of a sterilization procedure when the sterilization unit is used as a maintenance work in the first embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 11B This is a flowchart subsequent to the sterilization procedure in the case where the sterilization unit is used as the maintenance work of the first embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 12A This is a flowchart of a sterilization procedure when the sterilization unit is repeatedly used as a maintenance work in the first embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 12B This is a subsequent flowchart of the sterilization sequence in the case where the sterilization unit is repeatedly used as a maintenance work in the first embodiment.

[0031] Fig.13A This is a flowchart of a sterilization procedure when a sterilization unit is used in the preparatory operation before the start of analytical measurement in Example 1.

[0032] Fig. 13B This is a flowchart showing the continuation of the sterilization procedure when the sterilization unit is used in the preparatory operation before the start of analytical measurement in Example 1.

[0033] Fig. 13C This is a flowchart showing the continuation of the sterilization procedure when the sterilization unit is used in the preparatory operation before the start of analytical measurement in Example 1.

[0034] Fig.13D This is a flowchart showing the continuation of the sterilization procedure when the sterilization unit is used in the preparatory operation before the start of analytical measurement in Example 1.

[0035] Fig.14 This is a diagram showing an example of the installation structure of the sterilization unit of Example 2.

[0036] Fig.15 This is a diagram showing another example of the installation structure of the sterilization unit of Example 2.

[0037] In the figure:

[0038] 101—automatic analyzer, 106—sample dispensing tip / reaction container conveying unit, 108—insulation box, 109—reagent dispensing mechanism, 110—reagent container, 111—reagent disk, 113—detection unit, 114—sample conveying line, 117, 903—control unit, 203—RFID tag, 301—hinge, 302—protrusion, 303—opening, 304—sealing component, 401—cover, 402—jacket, 403, 506—device, 501—reagent drive disk, 507—reagent dispensing mechanism, 508—reagent container, 509—reagent disk, 510—reagent container, 511—reagent disk, 512—reagent disk, 513—detection unit, 514—sample conveying line, 515—control unit, 516—RFID tag, 517—hinge, 518—protrusion, 519—opening, 520—sealing component, 521—cover, 522—jacket, 523—reagent disk, 524—reagent disk, 525—reagent container, 526—reagent disk, 527—reagent disk, 528—reagent container, 529—reagent disk, 530—reagent disk, 531—reagent container, 532—reagent disk, 533—detection unit, 534—sample conveying line, 535—control unit, 536—control unit, 537—RFID tag, 538—reagent container 02—reagent drive disk drive unit, 503—fixed disk, 504—filling system, 505—reagent container moving unit, 601—reagent setting unit, 602—reagent driver, 701—opening, 704, 802—guide groove, 705—indicator light, 706—loading switch, 801—slot, 901, 1401, 1501—sterilization unit, 902—ultraviolet irradiation part, 904—driving battery, 905—mechanical switch, 906—heat dissipation part, 907—battery remaining indicator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] First, the main technical matters studied to obtain the above-mentioned solution to the problem of the present invention are described. In designing a sterilization means for a reagent container storage box, it is particularly necessary to pay attention to space saving and the possibility of interference with a working unit.

[0040] First, space saving will be explained. Generally, for common reagent bottles, in most cases, a setting place is provided outside the device to facilitate access by operators. In contrast, for analytical reagent containers, in most cases, a setting place is provided inside the device (referring to the aforementioned reagent container storage box). In addition, in the case of a device that automatically loads / unloads analytical reagent containers, in order to save space, in most cases the reagent container input area only has the minimum required size. Therefore, it must be noted that (i) the volume occupied by the reagent container storage box will not be extremely increased due to the installation of the sterilization means; and (ii) in the case of assuming that the sterilization means is regularly loaded / unloaded in the reagent container storage box, the volume occupied by the reagent container input area (hereinafter referred to as the reagent loading unit) will not be extremely increased.

[0041] Next, the possibility of interference with the working part is explained. As described later, in most cases, the automatic analysis device is equipped with a reagent drive disk in the reagent container storage box for accommodating the analysis reagent container and transporting it to the required position in the reagent container storage box. In this case, it is necessary to pay attention that the sterilization means and the related power supply cables and other components do not interfere with the reagent drive disk as the working part in space.

[0042] Hereinafter, various modes for implementing the present invention will be described in order according to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, the expression "sterilization" or "destroying microorganisms" is used to mean "detoxifying microorganisms" in addition to "killing microorganisms". In addition, in addition to the meaning of completely exterminating bacteria and microorganisms, these expressions are also used to mean reducing bacteria and microorganisms. Before describing each embodiment in detail, the overall structure of the automatic analysis device common to each embodiment is described.

[0043] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration example of an automatic analyzer. A sample transport line 114 in the automatic analyzer 101 transports the sample 104 to a sample dispensing mechanism adjacent to a sample dispensing unit 115 .

[0044] The sample dispensing tip / reaction container transport unit 106 moves in the directions of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis above the sample dispensing tip / reaction container waste hole 102, the sample dispensing tip holding unit 103, the reaction solution stirring unit 105, the sample dispensing tip / reaction container station 107, and a portion of the incubator 108. The sample dispensing tip / reaction container transport unit 106 moves the reaction container from the sample dispensing tip / reaction container station 107 to the incubator 108. The sample dispensing tip / reaction container transport unit 106 also moves the sample dispensing tip to the sample dispensing tip holding unit 103.

[0045] The sample dispensing unit 115 moves to the upper area of ​​the sample dispensing tip holding portion 103 where the sample dispensing tip is placed, and picks up any one of the sample dispensing tips. The sample dispensing unit 115 moves to the upper area of ​​the sample, obtains the sample by suction, and then further moves to the upper area of ​​the reaction container on the incubator 108 to discharge the sample into the reaction container. After that, the sample dispensing unit 115 moves to the upper area of ​​the sample dispensing tip / reaction container waste hole, and drops the sample dispensing tip into the hole for waste. The incubator 108 has the ability to lock multiple reaction containers, so that the reaction containers are moved to predetermined positions on the circumference of the incubator 108 through rotational motion.

[0046] The reagent disk 111 holds a plurality of reagent containers 110, and each reagent container 110 is moved to a predetermined position on the circumference of the reagent disk 111 by a rotational motion. The reagent dispensing mechanism 109 moves to an upper region of a predetermined type of reagent on the reagent disk 111, and then the dispensing mechanism attracts a predetermined amount of reagent, moves to an upper region of a predetermined reaction container on the incubator, and then discharges the reagent into the reaction container.

[0047] A magnetic particle stirring arm 116 (also referred to as a stirrer) is installed on the reagent disk 111 as a stirring means. The arm 116 moves to the upper area of ​​the reagent container containing the magnetic particle solution to be stirred, and the magnetic particle stirring member of the arm 116 is lowered to rotate the stirring member, thereby stirring the magnetic particle solution. In order to prevent the magnetic particles in the solution from naturally settling, the magnetic particle stirring arm 116 stirs the magnetic particles until before the reagent is dispensed. After stirring, the magnetic particle stirring arm 116 moves to the upper area of ​​the cleaning unit containing the cleaning solution, and then descends to rotate the magnetic particle stirring member to remove the magnetic particles attached to the stirring member.

[0048] The reaction solution suction nozzle 112 sucks the sample and the predetermined reagent from the reaction container to form a reaction solution after a predetermined reaction time, and then supplies the reaction solution to the detection unit 113. The detection unit 113 qualitatively / quantitatively analyzes the substance to be measured in the reaction solution. The sample dispensing tip / reaction container transport unit 106 moves the reaction container after analysis to the upper area of ​​the sample dispensing tip / reaction container disposal hole, and puts the reaction container into the disposal hole for disposal.

[0049] In addition, the sample transmission line 114, reagent disk 111, incubator 108, sample dispensing unit 115, reagent dispensing mechanism 109, sample dispensing tip / reaction container conveying unit 106, and detection unit 113 described above in the automatic analyzer are referred to as an analysis action unit. Furthermore, in addition to the analysis action unit, the automatic analyzer also has a control unit 117 and an operation unit 118 for controlling the overall operation of the automatic analyzer. The control unit 117 is composed of, for example, a hardware substrate and a computer, and is connected to a storage device 119 such as a hard disk. The operation unit 118 is composed of a display device as a display, a mouse, a keyboard, and other input devices. The storage device 119 stores, for example, a temperature range corresponding to each unit.

[0050] The control unit 117 may also be constituted by a dedicated circuit substrate as hardware, or may be constituted by software executed by a computer. In the case of hardware, it can be realized by integrating multiple operators that perform processing on a wiring substrate, or in a semiconductor chip or package. In the case of software, it can be realized by carrying a high-speed general-purpose CPU on a computer to execute a program for the required calculation processing. Existing devices can also be upgraded by a storage medium recording the program. In addition, these devices, circuits, and computers are connected through a wired or wireless network, and data can be appropriately sent and received.

[0051] Figure 2 , Figure 31 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing an example of a reagent container used in the automatic analysis device of each embodiment. The reagent container 110 is composed of three containers in one group, for example, a group is composed of a magnetic particle solution and two reagents. Each container includes a main body for accommodating the reagent, an opening 303 for accessing the reagent, and a cover 201 for closing the opening 303. The overall shape of the reagent container 110 is a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape with a shoulder 202, and three openings 303 are arranged on the upper side of the shoulder and protrude upward. In order to enable the opening and closing action of the reagent container cover opening and closing device loaded into the automatic analysis device, a round rod-shaped protrusion 302 is provided at one end of the cover 201, and the protrusion 302 protrudes to the side direction of the reagent container 110 relative to the cover 201. In addition, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag 203 is installed on the end face of the reagent container 110. The built-in memory of the RFID tag 203 stores a container ID for specifying the reagent container 110, the type of reagent contained in the reagent container 110, the amount of reagent, the expiration date of the reagent, and other necessary information. In addition, the means for reading the reagent container information is not limited to RFID, and other information reading means such as barcodes may also be used.

[0052] Figure 2 2 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a reagent container in a sealed state. In the initial state, the opening 303 is sealed by the cover 201. In addition, in order to reliably seal the opening 303, a sealing member 304 that can be inserted into the opening 303 is provided on the cover. If the opening 303 is always open, the reagent inside may evaporate and the reagent concentration may change. In addition, if the reagent container 110 is accidentally touched during processing, there is a risk that the reagent in the reagent container 110 will spill out. The opening 303 is sealed with the cover 201, and the cover 201 is opened when necessary, so that these problems can be alleviated. Figure 3 301 is a schematic perspective view of a reagent container in an open state. The cover 201 rotates with the hinge 301 as the rotation axis, thereby opening the cover 201 from the protrusion 302. At this time, the sealing member 304 is completely removed from the opening 303, and the cover 201 is opened at a large angle with the hinge 301 as the center.

[0053] Figure 4 1 is an appearance diagram of the reagent disk 111 of each embodiment. In order to control the reagent container 110 to a constant temperature, the reagent disk 111 includes a cover 401 and a jacket 402 having a heat insulation function. In addition, an RFID information reading device 403 is provided on a part of the cover 401. As described later, the jacket 402 also has an RFID information reading device. In order to distinguish them, the above-mentioned device 403 is referred to as an RFID information reading device A.

[0054] Figure 5A4 is an external view showing the reagent disk 111 with the cover 401 removed. Figure 5B is a top view thereof. The reagent disk 111 includes: a reagent drive disk 501 (also referred to as the first turntable partition) for transporting the reagent container 110 to a desired position; a reagent drive disk drive unit 502 for driving the reagent drive disk 501; a fixed disk 503 (also referred to as the second turntable partition) having a reagent stirring position 508; a loading system 504 that enables the reagent container 110 to be installed in the system even during analysis; a reagent container moving unit 505 (also referred to as a container moving mechanism) for moving the reagent container 110 from the reagent drive disk 501 to the fixed disk 503 or the loading system 504; an RFID information reading device 506 (referred to as an RFID information reading device B in order to distinguish it from the reading device 403 on the cover 401 described above); and a partition for separating the space between the reagent containers 110. Here, each space separated by the partition is referred to as a reagent container setting slot.

[0055] like Figure 5B As shown in the top view, there is a reagent dispensing position 509 on the working path of the reagent drive disk 501. The reagent stirring position 508 is adjacent to the reagent dispensing position 509 and exists on the working path of the reagent dispensing pipette. The area of ​​the reagent disk is also called the processing area.

[0056] Figure 5C yes Figure 5A , Figure 5B 1 is a side view of the reagent disk shown in FIG. 1 . At the reagent stirring position 508, while the magnetic particle stirring arm 116 is stirring the magnetic particle solution in the reagent container, the reagent dispensing pipette 109 can dispense the same type of reagent into other reaction containers. Thus, the magnetic particle stirring time can be fully ensured, and dispensing and stirring can be performed simultaneously. Therefore, analysis can be performed without reducing production volume. Figure 5C In the embodiment, the reagent dispensing position 509 and the reagent stirring position 508 are arranged in a straight line, and both positions exist at the same position on the working path of the reagent dispensing pipette. Even when the working path of the reagent dispensing pipette is located on the circumference, it can be said that they are substantially the same.

[0057] Figure 6 yes Figure 5AA schematic diagram of a filling system 504 is shown. The filling system forms a part of a fixed device located at the inner circumference of the reagent disk, and the system moves upward and downward. For example, in the case where a fixed device is present at the outer circumference of the reagent disk, the filling system can also be constructed in a manner that allows the filling system to be pulled out in a vertical direction or a horizontal direction. Moreover, a part of the fixed device is the filling system, and the system is in a shape that can replace up to five reagent containers, so it is also possible to replace more than two reagent containers, or to replace only one reagent container. The filling system 504 includes: a reagent setting unit 601 for carrying the reagent container 110; and a reagent driver 602 for moving the reagent upward / downward.

[0058] Figure 7 1 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the reagent container input part and the filling system of the automatic analysis device of each embodiment, and shows the state where the filling system 504 is located at the uppermost part. The reagent container input part has: an opening 701 for introducing the reagent container into the inside of the device; and a reagent loading part composed of a space between an upper surface 702 and a lower surface 703 in front of the opening connected to the opening 701. In addition, when the filling system is located at the lowermost part, the opening 701 becomes blocked by the shielding member. In this embodiment, a plurality of guide grooves 704 for guiding the reagent container are radially arranged on the lower surface in front of the opening connected to the opening 701. The guide groove 704 is used to slide the lower end of the reagent container 110 therein and guide it toward the inside of the opening 701. In this example, five guide grooves are provided along the insertion direction of the reagent container. As shown in the figure, the five guide grooves 704 arranged radially are connected to the five narrow grooves on the filling system which are also arranged radially. That is, the radially arranged slits 801 and the radially arranged guide grooves 704 are completely continuous and constitute an integrated radial groove.

[0059] The operator places the bottom of the reagent container into the guide groove 704, and only slides the reagent container along the guide groove 704 toward the deep side of the opening 701 while holding the reagent container, so that the reagent container can be inserted into the narrow groove 801. An indicator light 705 indicating the status is provided above each guide groove. In addition, a loading switch 706 is provided next to the opening 701. As described later, the loading switch 706 is a hardware switch for raising / lowering the filling system 504, and is used when discharging / adding the reagent.

[0060] Figure 81 is a diagram of an enlarged reagent loading unit. As shown in the figure, in addition to the guide groove 704 on the lower surface of the reagent loading unit, a guide groove 802 is also provided on the upper surface. The guide groove 802 on the upper surface is also configured radially in the same manner as the guide groove on the lower surface. The reagent container 110 slides by fixing the upper and lower ends in the guide grooves 704 and 802 located on the upper and lower sides of the input area, so that the slit 801 can be inserted with higher accuracy. Further, the guide groove 802 on the upper surface has an opening and closing mechanism for the lid of the reagent container, and is configured so that the lid becomes a half-open state (hereinafter, the mechanism is referred to as a half-opener, and the function is referred to as a half-open function) in the process of sliding the reagent container to the innermost side. Thus, when the operator puts in the reagent container, it is not necessary to open the lid by his own hands every time.

[0061] Hereinafter, an example of a reagent discharge / addition procedure performed by an operator in the automatic analyzer of each embodiment will be described.

[0062] First, the process of continuous reagent filling operation is described. The operator selects the reagent discharge / addition request through the host. The host analyzes the working state of the device at this time, and then, if it is determined that the reagent replacement can be performed, the host lights up the indicator light 705 to notify that the reagent replacement can be performed. The operator determines that the reagent can be replaced according to the information from both the host and the indicator light 705.

[0063] After receiving the reagent discharge request from the operator, the reagent drive disk 501 rotates to move the reagent container to be discharged to a position adjacent to the loading system 504. Then, the reagent container moving unit 505 moves the reagent container from the reagent drive disk 501 to the loading system 504. In this state, if the operator presses the loading switch 706, the loading system 504 moves upward, and the operator is in a state where the reagent container can be discharged.

[0064] Here, when additional reagents are needed, the operator can set the reagent container of the additional object to the filling system 504. After the reagent container is set, if the operator presses the loading switch 706, the filling system 504 moves downward. At this time, the filling system 504 temporarily stops at a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 403 (device A). Here, the RFID information of the additional reagent container is read through the device and then entered into the device. If the reagent information is entered, the reagent container is moved to the reagent drive disk 501 through the reagent container moving unit 505.

[0065] In addition, if the additional reagent container is inserted in the reverse direction by mistake, the RFID information cannot be read normally and the reagent information cannot be entered. At this time, the device notifies the operator of the failure to enter the reagent information via the display. Further, the filling system 504 is moved upward to a state where the reagent container that failed to enter can be removed. In this state, the operator temporarily removes the container from the slot 801 and then inserts the container into the guide again in the correct direction.

[0066] (Example 1)

[0067] Embodiment 1 is an embodiment of an automatic analyzer having the following structure, that is, comprising: a reagent container storage box for holding reagent containers; a reagent tray for accommodating reagent containers and transporting them to a desired position in the reagent container storage box; an irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet rays to the reagent tray and the reagent container loading system; and a control unit for controlling the irradiation unit. In particular, in this embodiment, a structure in which an irradiation unit for ultraviolet rays for sterilization is mounted on the reagent container is described.

[0068] Fig. 9 The sterilization unit 901 for sterilization of the automatic analyzer of this embodiment is shown. As shown in the figure, all the structural components represented by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 902 are installed inside the reagent container 110, and the shape of the container itself is the same as that of a common reagent container. With such a structure, it can be loaded into the device in the same way as a common reagent container. That is, there is no need to set up a dedicated input part for the container, which can achieve space saving.

[0069] The components other than the ultraviolet irradiation unit 902 include a control unit 903 for controlling the ultraviolet irradiation of the irradiation unit, a driving battery 904, a mechanical switch 905 for switching the timing of ultraviolet irradiation, a heat dissipation unit 906 for alleviating local heat generated by ultraviolet irradiation, and a battery remaining indicator 907 for displaying the remaining battery. In this way, the reagent container is provided with the irradiation unit, and the reagent container provided with the irradiation unit at least includes a control unit, a driving battery for driving the irradiation unit, and a switch for switching the timing of ultraviolet irradiation.

[0070] Here, ultraviolet LED is used in the ultraviolet irradiation section 902. As mentioned above, in order to ensure the stability of the reagent on the machine, it is necessary to keep the temperature in the reagent disk 111 constant (for example, 2 to 10°C). Therefore, from the perspective of stable storage of the reagent on the device, it is important to equip the ultraviolet irradiation section 902 with a heat dissipation section 906 to alleviate the local heat generated by ultraviolet irradiation.

[0071] Next, the switching function of the irradiation timing of the mechanical switch 905 will be described. Fig. 10A , 10BThe switch 905 is OFF and ON respectively. Fig. 10A As shown in FIG. 1 , the switch 905 is OFF when the cover 201 is completely closed. Fig. 10B As shown, when the cover 201 is half-opened, the switch 905 is turned on (also turned on when fully opened). The switch 905 has a spring 1002 under the convex portion 1001. When the cover 201 is fully closed, the spring 1002 and the convex portion 1001 are pressed in, becoming electrically insulated from the control unit and not irradiating ultraviolet rays.

[0072] Here, if the cover 201 is in a half-open state, the pressing of the convex portion 1001 is released as the spring 1002 is opened, and the state of electrical conduction with the control unit is achieved, and ultraviolet rays are irradiated. As described below, this function is useful in preventing the operator from being exposed to ultraviolet rays due to the sterilization unit 901. When using the sterilization unit 901, the operator first sets the unit in the guide groove 704 of the reagent loading unit with the cover 201 closed.

[0073] Then, if a predetermined process before the sterilization unit 901 is put into the device is performed, for example, after the sterilization unit 901 is instructed to be put into the device via the user interface (UI), if the loading switch 706 is pressed, the loading system 504 rises. In addition, the operator slides the set sterilization unit 901 along the guide groove 704 and inserts it into the narrow groove 801. At this time, when the sterilization unit 901 passes through the guide groove 802 on the upper surface, the cover 201 becomes a half-open state through the above-mentioned half-open function, and the switch 905 becomes an ON state. That is, the ultraviolet irradiation is started only after the sterilization unit 901 is inserted into the narrow groove 801. Thereby, the ultraviolet exposure of the operator caused by the unit can be prevented before it happens. The number of mechanical switches 905 does not need to be three, and it can also be one or two.

[0074] The switching mechanism of the irradiation timing is not limited to the above, and multiple switches can be used in combination. For example, a toggle switch, which is one of the same mechanical switches, can be used in addition to the above switch 905. It can also be configured so that the toggle switch is mounted on the outer surface of the container in a manner that allows the operator to switch freely, and the ultraviolet rays are irradiated only after the toggle switch is turned on and the mechanical switch 905 is turned on.

[0075] In addition to the mechanical switch, a switching mechanism using a sensor such as an illumination sensor, a temperature sensor, an acceleration sensor, etc. can also be used. The switch using the illumination sensor turns the switch to an ON state when the illumination is lower than a preset threshold. If the illumination is lower than the threshold only when the sterilization unit 901 is present in the reagent disk, the operator outside the reagent disk can be prevented from being exposed to ultraviolet rays.

[0076] The switch using the temperature sensor turns on when the temperature is lower than a preset threshold. This is similar to the illumination sensor. If the temperature is lower than the threshold only when the sterilization unit 901 is present in the reagent disc, the ultraviolet exposure of the operator outside the reagent disc can be prevented. The switch using the acceleration sensor turns on when a certain acceleration is detected. Here, it is assumed that the reagent disc rotates the reagent drive disc 501 while irradiating ultraviolet rays while maintaining the sterilization unit. That is, the acceleration generated when the reagent drive disc 501 enters the rotational action from the stopped state is detected, and then the ultraviolet rays are irradiated.

[0077] In addition to the above, a switching mechanism using wireless communication can also be used. For example, after the sterilization unit is loaded onto the reagent disk in a state where the power is cut off, the switch can be turned on (ON) by the remote control corresponding to the unit. In addition, as one of the wireless communication technologies, the RFID used in the automatic analyzer of the present embodiment can also be used. For example, it is sufficient to switch the circuit of the switch of the unit when the tag information is read when the RFID tag 203 is loaded. Thus, when the tag information of the RFID tag 203 is read by the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) during loading of the unit, the switch becomes ON. On the other hand, when the tag information is read again by the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) during unloading of the unit, the switch becomes OFF.

[0078] This switching means can also utilize RFID information reading device 506 (device B). That is, after the unit is loaded, the reagent drive disk 501 rotates and moves to a position adjacent to the reading device 506 (device B). Then, the tag information of the RFID tag 203 is read, and the switch becomes ON. After the unit is used, it is moved to a position adjacent to the device 506 (device B) again, and the tag information is read, so that the switch becomes OFF. The great advantage of the switch utilizing wireless communication is that ultraviolet irradiation can be switched in an area that is impossible for an operator to access such as the inside of the reagent container safe deposit box.

[0079] In this way, by increasing the number and types of switches and increasing the steps leading to ultraviolet irradiation, the risk of ultraviolet exposure to operators can be reduced. In addition to increasing the steps before irradiation, the above risk can also be reduced by complicating the logic leading to irradiation. Fig. 9 The case where three mechanical switches 905 are provided is taken as an example and described in detail.

[0080] As one of the means of complicating the logic, there is a method of setting certain rules for the switching order of the three mechanical switches. For example, in the reagent container 110, when the surface to which the RFID tag 203 is attached is called the front / front surface, ultraviolet rays are irradiated in sequence from the container at the rear only when the switch is ON. In fact, when the sterilization unit 901 is slid to the deepest side in the correct direction (the direction in which the RFID tag 203 is facing the RFID information reading device 403), the switch becomes ON in the above order. By setting such a rule, the risk of ultraviolet irradiation when the operator mistakenly opens the cover 201 can be reduced.

[0081] As described above, in this embodiment, the case of using a UV LED (Light Emitting Diode) as the UV irradiation unit is described. Although a mercury lamp can also be used as a UV light source, the use of a UV LED is more advantageous in terms of space saving. The central wavelength of the radiated light from the UV LED is preferably 180nm to 340nm, which is known to be useful for sterilization. It is particularly preferred to be around 260nm, which is a wavelength with high sterilization efficiency, that is, 230nm to 290nm.

[0082] The amount of ultraviolet light irradiation depends on the current, voltage and power-on time of the LED, and is controlled by the control unit 903. The amount of ultraviolet light irradiation per unit area required for sterilization is determined by the combination of the bacterial species and the irradiation wavelength of the sterilization object. Therefore, for each combination of the bacterial species and the wavelength of the ultraviolet light used, the amount of irradiation light required for sterilization is obtained in advance by actual measurement or calculation. This information is stored in the storage unit 903A of the control unit 903 as a table.

[0083] From the viewpoint of bactericidal effect, the larger the irradiation light quantity, the better. On the other hand, it is necessary to consider the influence of various structural components (reagent containers, reagent disks) in the reagent composition and the reagent container safe box with ultraviolet irradiation. That is, it is necessary to control the irradiation wavelength and the irradiation light quantity in a way that they will not be denatured due to ultraviolet irradiation. The irradiation light quantity of denaturation within the allowable range is determined according to the combination of the reagent used and the irradiation wavelength, so for each combination, it is obtained in advance by actual measurement or calculation. These information are stored in the storage unit 903A of the control unit 903 as a table. In addition, the denaturation of reagent components and structural components can be defined by the chemical combination and molecular weight changes evaluated by infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, etc. Further, about the change of the mechanical properties of the structural components, it can be defined by the change of parameters such as hardness and Young's modulus evaluated by the indentation test using a nanoindenter, etc.

[0084] In the control of the irradiation light amount, in addition to the above-mentioned sterilization effect and the denaturation of reagent components / various structural parts, the influence of the temperature environment in the reagent disk is also necessary. For example, when the temperature in the reagent disk needs to be maintained at 2 to 10°C, it must be noted that the temperature around the sterilization unit does not exceed 10°C due to the lighting of the LED. In this embodiment, the local temperature rise can be suppressed by assembling the heat dissipation unit 906 in the irradiation unit. Here, the heat dissipation unit 906 uses a radiator and a fan.

[0085] The number of LEDs used need not be limited to one as in the present embodiment, and multiple LEDs may be used for the purpose of expanding the irradiation range. In addition, optical components such as lenses and reflectors may also be used. The optical components may also be attached to the sterilization unit 903 or may be provided in the reagent container storage box. Furthermore, a driver may be used to make the installation position / angle of the LED variable, thereby expanding the irradiation range.

[0086] As mentioned above, for the ultraviolet irradiation unit, in addition to LEDs, mercury lamps can also be used. The amount of irradiation light depends on the current, voltage and power-on time of the mercury lamp. As in the case of LEDs, for each combination of the bacterial species to be sterilized and the light emission wavelength of the lamp, the amount of irradiation light required for sterilization is determined in advance by actual measurement or calculation. This information is stored in the storage unit 903A of the control unit 903 as a table. Furthermore, the denaturation of various structural components in the reagent components and the reagent container storage box also needs to be considered in the same way as in the case of LEDs. That is, for each combination of the reagent used and the irradiation wavelength, the amount of irradiation light with denaturation within the allowable range is determined in advance by actual measurement or calculation.

[0087] This information is stored as a table in the storage unit 903A of the control unit 903. In addition, the mercury lamp also contains wavelengths in the visible to infrared regions that do not participate in sterilization, so it is preferable to control the irradiation wavelength through an optical filter. Regarding the irradiation range, it can be enlarged by increasing the number of lamps and using optical components such as lenses and reflectors. The optical components can be attached to the sterilization unit 903 or equipped in the reagent container storage box. Furthermore, it is also possible to use a driver to make the installation position / angle of the lamp variable, thereby achieving the enlargement of the irradiation range.

[0088] Batteries are used to supply power to various structural components of the sterilization unit 903 represented by the ultraviolet irradiation unit. From the perspective of convenience, it is preferred that the battery can be used repeatedly by charging. In the selection of the battery to be used, safety, energy density, and quality, etc. need to be considered. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that common rechargeable batteries such as nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and lithium-ion polymer batteries are used. In addition, the charging operation is performed regularly by the operator outside the device. That is, after the sterilization unit has been used a certain number of times, the unit is unloaded and the battery is taken out. Then, the taken out battery is placed in a dedicated charger for charging. The charger can also be configured so that charging can be performed only by setting the sterilization unit without removing the battery. In addition, wireless charging can also be used as the charging method.

[0089] For charging outside the above-mentioned device, for example, a charging port can also be provided in a device such as a reagent container safe. For example, a portion of the fixed disk 503 can also be used as a charging port. At this time, the reagent stirring position 508 can also be used as a charging port, or a new charging port can be provided. In addition, one of the slots provided in the reagent container in the reagent drive disk 501 can also be used as a slot dedicated to the sterilization unit, and charging can be performed here. Here, dedicated to the sterilization unit means a slot that is not shared with the analytical reagent container. In addition, wireless charging can also be used as the charging method. The charging sequence is explained together with the method of using the sterilization unit (described later).

[0090] Next, the method for managing the remaining battery level will be described. The remaining battery level can be visually confirmed by the operator through the above-mentioned remaining battery level indicator 907. In addition, the charging port provided in the above-mentioned device can also be made into a structure that can confirm the remaining battery level. Thus, each time the sterilization unit is moved or set at the charging port, the remaining battery level can be automatically confirmed by the device. Furthermore, the remaining battery level can be stored as one of the tag information of the RFID tag 203. Thus, each time the tag information is read by the RFID information reading device 403 / 506, the remaining battery level can be confirmed. Here, the remaining battery level read by the charging port / RFID information reading device is displayed on the device GUI and can be confirmed by the operator.

[0091] The following is a description of the method for using the sterilization unit of the present embodiment. Here, consider the case where the operator uses the unit as a device maintenance operation. In addition, before the implementation of this operation, the device is in a so-called standby state in which no analysis action or the like is performed. Further, it is assumed that while the unit is held in a state where a reagent container is provided with a slot in the reagent drive disk 501, the reagent drive disk is rotated while irradiating ultraviolet rays. The reagent container provided slot mentioned here does not refer to the slot dedicated to the sterilization unit mentioned above, but refers to the slot shared with the analytical reagent container. In addition, as a switching mechanism for the timing of ultraviolet irradiation, the mechanical switch 905 using the above-mentioned half-opener and the switch using wireless communication with the RFID information reading device 506 (device B) are cited and used.

[0092] Fig.11A , Fig. 11B , Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B It is a flowchart of the operation procedure, and the main actors are the automatic analysis device controlled by the control unit 117, 903, and the operator. Fig.11A , Fig. 11B The sterilization unit used is shown as being unloaded after executing the operation once. Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B This operation is repeatedly performed until the remaining battery power is exhausted, and then the sterilization unit used is uninstalled.

[0093] First, the former is explained. When loading the sterilization unit into the device, the operator initially instructs the input of the sterilization unit on the device UI (S1101). Then, the device confirms whether there is an empty slot for setting the unit on the reagent drive disk (S1102). If it is determined that there is no empty slot, this intention is displayed as a warning message on the GUI (S1103). The operator who confirms this information selects and unloads an appropriate reagent container (the order of reagent discharge has been described, so it is omitted here, S1104). After the reagent is discharged, the input of the unit is instructed again (S1101).

[0094] After the device confirms the existence of the empty slot, the operator presses the loading switch 706 (S1105). Then, the loading system 504 moves upward, and the operator can put the sterilization unit in (S1106). In this state, the operator sets the unit in the loading system 504 (S1107) and presses the loading switch 706 again (S1108). Then, the loading system 504 moves downward (S1109). In this process, the battery remaining amount of the RFID tag stored in the sterilization unit is read by the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) (S1110).

[0095] Here, if the RFID information is not read normally due to the sterilization unit being inserted in the reverse direction, this fact is displayed on the GUI as a warning message (S1111). Then, in order to discharge the sterilization unit, the loading system 504 moves upward (S1112). The operator who confirms the warning message temporarily removes the sterilization unit from the slot 801 and reinserts the guide in the correct direction (S1113).

[0096] In reading the RFID tag information (S1110), if the information is read normally, Fig. 11B As shown, the read battery remaining amount is then confirmed (S1114). Here, if the battery remaining amount does not meet the required sufficient amount, this fact is displayed as a warning message on the GUI (S1115). Then, in order to discharge the sterilization unit, the loading system 504 moves upward (S1116). After the operator confirms the warning message, the sterilization unit is discharged from the loading system 504 (S1117), and the battery is charged (S1118). After the battery is charged, the sterilization unit is put in again (S1101~).

[0097] When the battery remaining amount is the required sufficient amount, the information of the sterilization unit represented by the battery remaining amount is entered into the storage unit of the device (S1119). After entry, the sterilization unit moves to the reagent drive disk 501 (S1120) through the reagent container moving unit 505. Then, the operator indicates the execution of the sterilization action on the UI of the device (S1121). Thus, the sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 506 (device B) (S1122), and the LED is turned on through communication with the device (S1123). After the LED is turned on, the reagent drive disk rotates based on a predetermined sequence, thereby performing sterilization in the safe deposit box (S1124). That is, the control unit controls the sterilization unit to irradiate ultraviolet rays after it moves to a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 506 (device B).

[0098] After the sterilization operation is completed, the sterilization unit moves again to the position adjacent to the reading device 506 (device B) (S1125). Then, through communication with the device, the LED goes out (S1126). After the LED goes out, the sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the filling system 504, and further moves to the filling system 504 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1127). After that, the filling system 504 moves upward (S1128), and becomes a state in which the operator can take out the sterilization unit (S1129). Finally, the operator takes out the sterilization unit, and this maintenance operation is completed.

[0099] In this way, after the RFID tag information is entered, the control unit moves the sterilization unit toward the reagent drive disk to instruct the execution of the sterilization action. In addition, the control unit controls so that after the sterilization unit is moved to a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device B, the sterilization unit is illuminated to execute the sterilization action. Further, the control unit controls so that after the execution of the sterilization action, the sterilization unit is moved to a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device B, and then the irradiation unit is extinguished.

[0100] Next, use Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B , a case where this maintenance operation is repeatedly performed until there is no battery remaining is described. Here, the following situation is assumed: before this maintenance operation is performed, the sterilization unit after use is directly kept in the reagent disk. In addition, the initial LED is set to be off. First, the operator indicates the execution of the sterilization action on the device UI (S1201). Then, the sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the filling system 504, and then moves to the filling system 504 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1202). Then, the filling system 504 moves upward and temporarily stops at a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) (S1203). Then, the battery remaining is read through the device (device A) (S1204).

[0101] Here, when the remaining battery level is less than the required amount, this fact is displayed as a warning message on the GUI (S1205). Then, in order to discharge the sterilization unit, the loading system 504 moves upward (S1206). After the operator confirms the warning message, the sterilization unit is discharged from the loading system 504 (S1207), and the battery is charged (S1208).

[0102] When the remaining battery level is sufficient, the sterilization unit information such as the remaining battery level is updated (S1209). After the update, the loading system 504 moves downward (S1210), and the sterilization unit moves to the reagent drive disk 501 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1211). Then, the sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 506 (device B) (S1212), as shown in FIG. Fig. 12B As shown, the LED is turned on by communication with the device (S1213). After the LED is turned on, the reagent drive disk rotates based on a predetermined sequence, thereby sterilizing the inside of the storage box (S1214).

[0103] After the sterilization operation is completed, the sterilization unit moves again to the position adjacent to the reading device 506 (device B) (S1215), and the LED turns off through communication with the device (S1216). After the LED turns off, the sterilization unit moves to the position adjacent to the filling system 504, and further moves to the filling system 504 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1217). The filling system 504 moves upward and temporarily stops at a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) (S1218). Then, the battery remaining amount is read through the device (device A) (S1219).

[0104] Here, when the remaining battery level is less than the required amount, this fact is displayed as a warning message on the GUI (S1220). Then, in order to discharge the sterilization unit, the loading system 504 moves upward (S1221). The operator who confirms the warning message discharges the sterilization unit from the loading system 504 (S1222) and charges the battery (S1223).

[0105] When the remaining battery level is sufficient, the sterilization unit information is updated (S1224). After the update, the loading system 504 moves downward (S1225), and the sterilization unit is moved to the reagent drive disk 501 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1226). So far, this maintenance operation is completed. Finally, the updated sterilization unit information is stored in the storage device 119, and the operator can confirm the loading status and battery remaining level of the sterilization unit in advance during the next maintenance operation.

[0106] In addition, when the maintenance operation is completed, the operation date can also be stored by the storage device 119. Thus, for example, the following function can be provided: when a constant period is separated from the date on which the maintenance operation was last performed, information urging the implementation of the operation is displayed on the GUI. In addition, in addition to the information display, the device can also automatically perform the operation when there is no measurement commission. Regarding the battery, when the charging port is located in the reagent container storage box (in the fixed disk 503, in the reagent drive disk 501), if the sterilization unit is moved to the charging port after the operation is completed, the battery can be charged until the next operation is performed. In addition, by indicating the discharge of the sterilization unit on the device UI, for example, even when the battery remaining is the required sufficient amount, the sterilization unit can be discharged at any time. As described above, the operator sometimes uses the sterilization unit as a device maintenance operation.

[0107] Next, the case where this operation is performed during the preparation operation before the start of the analytical measurement is described. Here, the following case is taken as an example: the maintenance operation is previously performed and the sterilization unit after use is directly stored in the charging port in the reagent disk or storage box (if it is already installed). Fig.13A , Fig. 13B , Fig. 13C , Fig.13D The flowchart showing the operation procedure is a flowchart in which the main actors are the automatic analyzer controlled by the control unit 117, 903 and the operator.

[0108] First, if Fig.13A As shown, if the operator requests the analysis measurement, the preparatory actions before the analysis measurement are started (S1301). The sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the filling system 504, and then moves to the filling system 504 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1302). Thereafter, the filling system 504 moves upward and temporarily stops at a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) (S1303). Then, the battery remaining amount is read by the device (device A) (S1304). Here, in a case where the battery remaining amount is less than the required sufficient amount, this effect is displayed on the GUI as a warning message (S1305). Then, in order to discharge the sterilization unit, the filling system 504 moves upward (S1306). After the operator who confirms the warning message discharges the sterilization unit from the filling system 504 (S1307), as shown Fig. 13B As shown, a sterilization unit with fully charged batteries is provided (S1310).

[0109] In the case where there is no sterilization unit with fully charged batteries, the operator presses the loading switch 706 (S1308). The loading system 504 then moves downward (S1309), and then the sterilization operation is not performed. After the preparatory operation before the start of the analysis is completed, the analysis operation is entered. In the case where the sterilization unit with fully charged batteries is reset, if the operator presses the loading switch 706 (S1311), the loading system moves downward (S1312). In this process, the battery remaining amount is read by the above-mentioned reading device (device A) (S1313).

[0110] Here, in the case where the RFID information is not read normally due to the sterilization unit being inserted in the reverse direction, this effect is displayed on the GUI as a warning message (S1314). Then, in order to discharge the sterilization unit, the loading system 504 moves upward (S1315). The operator who confirms the warning message temporarily removes the sterilization unit from the slot 801 and inserts the guide again in the correct direction (S1316). During the reading of the RFID information (S1313), if the information is read normally, the remaining battery level is then confirmed (S1317). Here, in the case where the remaining battery level is less than the required amount, this effect is displayed on the GUI as a warning message (S1318). Afterwards, the sterilization action is not performed, and after the preparatory action before the start of the analysis is completed, the analysis action is entered.

[0111] On the other hand, Fig. 13CAs shown, when the battery remaining amount is the required sufficient amount, the sterilization unit information such as the battery remaining amount is updated (S1319). Then, the filling system 504 moves downward (S1320), and the sterilization unit moves to the reagent drive disk 501 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1321). Then, the sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 506 (device B) (S1322), and the LED lights up through communication with the device (S1323). After the LED lights up, the reagent drive disk rotates based on a predetermined sequence, thereby performing sterilization in the storage box (S1324).

[0112] After the sterilization action is completed, the sterilization unit moves again to the above-mentioned position adjacent to the reading device 506 (device B) (S1325), and the LED is turned off through communication with the device (S1326). After the LED is turned off, the sterilization unit moves to a position adjacent to the filling system 504, and then moves to the filling system 504 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1327). The filling system 504 moves upward and temporarily stops at a position adjacent to the RFID information reading device 403 (device A) (S1328). Then, the battery remaining level is read through the device (device A) (S1329). Here, in the case where the battery remaining level is less than the required sufficient level, as Fig.13D As shown, this is displayed as a warning message on the GUI (S1330). After that, the sterilization operation is not performed, and the analysis operation is entered after the preparatory operation before the analysis is started is completed.

[0113] When the remaining battery level is sufficient, the sterilization unit information such as the remaining battery level is updated (S1331). After the update, the loading system 504 moves downward (S1332), and the sterilization unit is moved to the reagent drive disk 501 through the reagent container moving unit 505 (S1333). At this point, the maintenance operation is completed. Finally, the updated sterilization unit information is stored in the storage device 119, and the operator can confirm the loading status and battery remaining level of the sterilization unit in advance during the next maintenance operation.

[0114] In addition, when the maintenance work is completed, the operation date can also be stored by the storage device 119. Thus, for example, the following function can be provided: when a constant period is separated from the date on which the maintenance work was last performed, information urging the implementation of the operation is displayed on the GUI. In addition, in addition to the information display, the device can also automatically perform the operation when there is no measurement commission. Regarding the battery, when the charging port is located in the reagent container storage box, that is, in the fixed disk 503 and the reagent drive disk 501, if the sterilization unit is moved to the charging port after the operation is completed, the battery can be charged until the next operation is performed. In addition, by indicating the discharge of the sterilization unit on the device UI, for example, even when the battery remaining is sufficient to meet the required amount, the sterilization unit can be discharged at any time.

[0115] The above is the case where the preparatory action before the start of the analysis is performed. It is not limited to this, and it can also be performed when the device is started or shut down. In addition, the device can also automatically perform the operation after a certain fixed period of time has passed after the device is shut down. In addition, the operation process is different from the above Fig.13A , Fig. 13B , Fig. 13C , Fig.13D The flowchart is the same as

[0116] Next, the order of the sterilization action is described. This action is based on the principle of rotating the reagent drive disk 501 that maintains the sterilization unit at a constant interval under the state of lighting the LED. Preferably, while changing the irradiation angle, the reagent drive disk 501 is rotated, etc., to irradiate the light evenly in the safe deposit box as much as possible. In addition, as has been described, it is also possible to enlarge the irradiation range by arranging optical components (reflectors, lenses, etc.) in the reagent container safe deposit box. It is also possible to investigate in advance the places that are prone to contamination (places connected to the outside of the device, etc.), and irradiate ultraviolet rays to the places. In addition, a variety of sequences can also be prepared so that the operator can choose freely. For places that are difficult to reach light in structure, for example, the gap between the bottom surface of the filling system 504 and the bottom surface of the jacket 402, ultraviolet rays are irradiated on the basis of moving the filling system 504 slightly upward, so that sterilization can be achieved.

[0117] As described in detail above, the structure of this embodiment can provide an automatic analysis device that can ensure the cleanliness of the reagent container storage box by saving space in the reagent container storage box, avoiding interference with the reagent drive disk, and preventing contamination caused by microorganisms from outside the device.

[0118] (Example 2)

[0119] Embodiment 2 is an embodiment of an automatic analyzer having the following structure, and is an embodiment of a structure in which an irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet rays is provided in a part of the automatic analyzer, and the structure is provided with: a reagent container storage box for holding reagent containers; a reagent tray for accommodating reagent containers and transporting them to a desired position in the reagent container storage box; an irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet rays to the reagent tray and the reagent container loading system; and a control unit for controlling the irradiation unit. In this embodiment, in particular, the case where the irradiation unit is provided in the jacket 402 of the reagent tray or in the loading system 504 is exemplified.

[0120] Fig.14 The figure shows a case where the sterilization unit 1401 is installed in the jacket 402. In this figure, two sterilization units 1401 are installed, but the number is not limited to this, and it can also be one, or it can be more than three. That is, at least one irradiation unit is set inside the jacket 402 of the reagent disk. On the other hand, Fig.15 The sterilization unit 1501 is shown as being installed in the loading system 504. In this case, there is no limitation on the number of sterilization units installed, and it can be one or more. That is, at least one irradiation unit is installed in the loading system.

[0121] First, the irradiation part of the present embodiment for irradiating ultraviolet rays is described. As in the first embodiment, an LED is used as the ultraviolet irradiation part. A mercury lamp can also be used as an ultraviolet light source, but the use of an ultraviolet LED is more advantageous in terms of space saving. The central wavelength of the radiated light from the ultraviolet LED is preferably 180nm to 340nm, which is known to be useful for sterilization. It is particularly preferred to be around 260nm, i.e., 230nm to 290nm, which is a wavelength with high sterilization efficiency.

[0122] In the first embodiment, the control of the irradiation light amount is performed by the control unit 903 in the sterilization unit. Figure 1 The control unit 117 on the device side shown in the figure is performed. As for the irradiation light amount required for sterilization, it is previously obtained by actual measurement or calculation for each combination of the bacterial species and the wavelength of the ultraviolet light used, as in Example 1. In Example 1, this information is stored as a table in the storage unit 903A of the control unit 903, while in this embodiment, it is stored in the storage device 119 on the device side.

[0123] Regarding the denaturation of the reagent components and various structural components in the reagent container storage box based on ultraviolet rays, such as the reagent container and the reagent disk, the irradiation light amount within the allowable range is obtained in advance by actual measurement or calculation for each combination of the reagent used and the irradiation wavelength. These information are stored in the storage device 119 as a table. In addition, the denaturation of the reagent components and structural components can be defined by the change of chemical bonding and molecular weight evaluated by infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, etc. Further, the change of the mechanical properties of the structural components can be defined by the change of parameters such as hardness and Young's modulus evaluated by the indentation test using a nanoindenter, etc.

[0124] In controlling the amount of irradiated light, in addition to the above-mentioned sterilization effect and the denaturation of reagent components / various structural parts, the influence on the temperature environment in the reagent disk is also necessary. For example, when the temperature in the reagent disk needs to be maintained at 2-10°C, it is necessary to pay attention to not causing the temperature around the sterilization unit to exceed 10°C due to the lighting of the LED. By assembling a heat dissipation unit such as a heat sink on the irradiation unit, the local temperature rise can be suppressed.

[0125] The number of LEDs used does not need to be limited to one, and multiple LEDs may be used for the purpose of expanding the irradiation range. In addition, optical components such as lenses and reflectors may also be used. The optical components may be attached to the sterilization unit or to any location in the reagent container storage box. Moreover, by using a driver, the installation position / angle of the LED can be changed, thereby expanding the irradiation range. In addition, places that are prone to contamination (such as the same place as the outside of the device) may be investigated in advance and concentratedly set around them.

[0126] In addition to LED, mercury lamp can also be used in the ultraviolet irradiation part, which is the same as in Example 1. As in the case of LED, for each combination of the bacterial species of the sterilization object and the luminous wavelength of the lamp, the irradiation light amount required for sterilization is obtained in advance by actual measurement or calculation. This information is stored in the storage device 119 as a table. Furthermore, the denaturation of various structural components in the reagent components and the reagent container storage box also needs to be considered in the same way as the case of LED. That is, for each combination of the reagent used and the irradiation wavelength, the irradiation light amount that is denatured to within the allowable range is obtained in advance by actual measurement or calculation. This information is stored in the storage device 119 as a table. In addition, the mercury lamp contains wavelengths in the visible to infrared region that do not participate in sterilization, so it is necessary to control the irradiation wavelength through an optical filter. Regarding the irradiation range, it can be expanded by increasing the number of lamps and using optical components such as lenses and reflectors. The optical component can also be attached to the sterilization unit 9, or it can be equipped in any place in the reagent container storage box. Moreover, it is also possible to use a driver to make the installation position / angle of the lamp variable, thereby achieving the expansion of the irradiation range.

[0127] Next, the power supply means for the sterilization unit of this embodiment is described. Unlike the first embodiment, the power supply for the sterilization unit does not use a battery, but can be directly supplied from the device. It can be wired power supply or wireless charging. Because no battery is used, there is no need to check the remaining battery level before the sterilization maintenance work is performed.

[0128] The switching of the irradiation timing is performed by the control unit 117 instead of using the various switches described in Example 1. However, in order to minimize the risk of ultraviolet exposure of the operator, an interlocking mechanism is preferably provided. For example, when the sterilization unit is provided in a reagent container storage box, an interlocking mechanism is provided on the cover 401 of the storage box, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to ultraviolet rays when the operator opens the cover 401 during device maintenance operations. In addition, when the unit is provided in the loading system 504, the risk can also be reduced by providing an interlocking mechanism on the cover 401. That is, as long as the loading system is configured to move only downward, the ultraviolet rays can be irradiated when the jacket 402 is completely shielded.

[0129] The operation sequence of the sterilization unit is the same as that of Example 1. That is, the operator can also perform the sterilization operation as one of the device maintenance operations. In addition, it can also be performed during the preparatory operation before the start of the analysis and measurement, when the device is started, when the device is shut down, and after the device is shut down. Moreover, the device can also automatically perform it when a certain fixed period has passed since the last operation.

[0130] Next, the sequence of the sterilization operation is described. When the sterilization unit is provided in the reagent container storage box, the operator cannot access the reagent container storage box except when the lid 401 of the storage box is opened, so the ultraviolet rays can be irradiated at all times. On the other hand, when the unit is provided in the loading system 504, the loading system 504 is located at the bottom, and the ultraviolet rays are irradiated only when the lid 401 is completely closed.

[0131] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and includes various modified examples. For example, the above-described embodiments are examples described in detail for better understanding of the present invention, and are not limited to all the structures that must be described.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that: have: a reagent container storage box that holds the reagent containers; A reagent drive disk, which receives the reagent container and transports it to a desired position of the reagent container storage box; an irradiation unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the reagent drive disk and a loading system for mounting the reagent container on the reagent drive disk; and a control unit that controls the irradiation unit, The reagent container is provided with the irradiation unit. The reagent container comprises: a main body for accommodating the reagent; an opening for accessing the reagent; a cover for sealing the opening; the control unit; a driving battery for driving the irradiation unit; and a switch for switching the timing of ultraviolet irradiation. The switch is turned off when the cover is completely closed, and is turned on when the cover is half-opened or fully opened.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The reagent drive disk is equipped with an RFID information reader A, i.e., a radio frequency identification information reader A. The control unit reads the RFID tag information of the reagent container having the irradiation unit through the RFID information reading device A, checks the remaining amount of the driving battery, and enters the RFID tag information when the remaining amount is a required sufficient amount.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, characterized in that: After the RFID tag information is recorded, the control unit moves the reagent container provided with the irradiation unit toward the reagent drive disk and instructs execution of a sterilization operation.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 3, characterized in that The reagent drive disk is equipped with an RFID information reader B. The control unit controls the reagent container provided with the irradiation unit to be moved to a position adjacent to the RFID information reader B, and lights up the irradiation unit to perform a sterilization operation.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 4, characterized in that The control unit controls the reagent container provided with the irradiation unit to be moved to a position adjacent to the RFID information reader B and turns off the irradiation unit after the sterilization operation is performed.

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