Automatic sampler control device and automatic measurement system

Abstract

The present invention provides a control device for an automatic sampler and an automatic measurement system, which can easily set and change the measurement status of a sample using holding position information indicating the actual holding position of the sample, and can easily grasp the measurement status. The control device for the automatic sampler is used in the automatic sampler and includes a control unit and a storage unit. The automatic sampler includes: a sample holding unit that holds a plurality of samples in an array; and a sample introduction unit that introduces the plurality of samples one by one into the measurement device. The control unit causes a predetermined display unit to display holding position information indicating the holding positions of the plurality of samples in the sample holding unit. When a user specifies one of a plurality of measurement conditions indicating the measurement status of a predetermined sample in the holding position information, the position of the specified sample and the measurement condition are associated and stored in the storage unit, and the sample for which the measurement condition is specified is displayed in a color-coded or highlighted manner in the holding position information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device for an automatic sampler provided in a measuring device such as a chromatograph, and an automatic measuring system including the control device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in liquid chromatography (HPLC) devices and other instruments, autosamplers are used to automate the introduction of samples into the instrument. These autosamplers include a sample holder, such as a rack, that holds multiple samples in an array, and a sample introduction unit that introduces the samples one by one into the measurement device. For example, serial numbers are assigned to the samples, indicating the order in which they are introduced from the sample holder.

[0003] Conventionally, the measurement order (introduction order) of samples by an autosampler is set by inputting the positions of samples and measurement conditions for each serial number of the sample holder in a reservation table on the device screen.

[0004] However, when inputting in a table format, the operation is complicated. When inputting in a table, it is difficult to intuitively grasp the actual placement position of the sample in the sample holder, and input errors are likely to occur.

[0005] Therefore, a technology has been developed in which the arrangement state of the sample in the sample holding portion is displayed on a screen, and the measurement order and measurement conditions of the sample can be set in a table format while checking the display screen (Patent Document 1).

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3394744

[0009] In addition, if Figure 12 As shown, in the method described in Patent Document 1, a window showing an analysis reservation input form 500 and a sample holding diagram 600 showing the actual sample arrangement (holding) state are displayed on the display screen. In this case, the sample at position 2-2 (column 2, row 2) of the sample holder with serial number 1 is first measured. Subsequently, the samples at positions 1-1 (column 1, row 1) and 4-2 (column 4, row 2) of the sample holders with serial numbers 2 and 3 are measured in sequence.

[0010] However, in this way, when the arrangement order of the samples on the sample holding diagram 600 is different from the measurement order of the samples based on the serial numbers, it is difficult to know where the next measurement sample is located. For example, there is a problem that before entering the next measurement, the sample needs to be replaced due to defects, or it is difficult to make changes such as urgently inserting other samples for measurement.

[0011] Furthermore, when changing the measurement order, it is necessary to return to the analysis reservation input table 500 and input the positions of the samples to be measured, which is a cumbersome operation and prone to errors.

[0012] In particular, in the case of blood tests in hospitals, etc., there are many unstable operations such as inserting tests on urgent patients, which easily lead to the above-mentioned problems. Moreover, if there are mistakes such as taking the wrong sample, it will become a serious problem. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Therefore, the present invention is completed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a control device for an automatic sampler and an automatic measurement system including the control device, which can easily set and change the measurement status of the sample based on the holding position information showing the actual sample holding position, and can easily grasp the measurement status.

[0014] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention is used for an automatic sampler having a sample holding part and a sample introduction part, wherein the sample holding part holds a plurality of samples in an array, and the sample introduction part introduces the plurality of samples into the measuring device one by one. The control device has a control part and a storage part, characterized in that the control part causes a specified display part to display holding position information, which represents the holding positions of the plurality of samples on the sample holding part. When a user specifies one of a plurality of measurement conditions representing the measurement status of the specified sample on the holding position information, the control part causes the position of the specified sample to be associated with the measurement condition and stored in the storage part, and the control part causes the sample for which the measurement condition is specified to be displayed in a color-differentiated or emphasized manner on the holding position information.

[0015] According to the control device of the automatic sampler, by selecting a sample on the holding position information showing the holding position reflecting the actual arrangement order (measurement order) of each sample, the measurement status of each sample can be easily set and changed visually corresponding to the arrangement order of the samples.

[0016] Furthermore, since the measurement status of each designated sample is displayed by distinguishing or emphasizing the color, the arrangement order of the samples and the measurement status of the samples can be easily grasped visually.

[0017] As a result, the sample can be easily replaced before measurement, or another sample can be inserted for measurement while observing the measurement status.

[0018] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, when a measurement reservation status indicating the next measurement in the measurement status is specified, the control unit may control the sample introduction unit to introduce the corresponding sample from the sample holding unit into the measurement device at the moment when the current measurement ends.

[0019] The control device of this autosampler uses the measurement reservation status indicating the next measurement as the measurement status, making it possible to visually and easily set and change the sample to be measured next using the holding position information reflecting the actual arrangement order (measurement order) of each sample. Furthermore, it is easy to understand the position of the sample to be measured next. As a result, the sample can be accurately transferred to the measurement through simple and visually easy-to-understand operations.

[0020] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, it may also be that, when there are multiple samples for which the measurement reservation status is specified, the control unit controls the sample introduction unit to introduce the samples into the measurement device in sequence starting from the sample at the following position: the position corresponds to the first arrangement in the predetermined continuous arrangement order of the multiple samples on the sample holding unit.

[0021] According to the control device of the automatic sampler, since the measurement reservation status can be specified for multiple samples, and the measurement order is the actual arrangement order of each sample, it is easy to grasp the position of the sample to be measured next. Moreover, since the measurement reservation can be made for multiple samples, forgetting of measurement can be prevented.

[0022] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, it may be that the control unit displays measurement selection information indicating whether the measurement reservation status is specified on the holding position information, and when the user selects the intention to cancel the designation of the measurement reservation status on the measurement selection information, the control unit deletes the position of the selected sample and the information on the measurement reservation status from the storage unit, and ends the color-differentiation display or emphasis display of the sample for which the measurement reservation status is specified on the measurement selection information.

[0023] According to this control device for the autosampler, the measurement reservation status can be designated or canceled by selecting the measurement selection information, so cancellation is easy and visually understandable.

[0024] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, the control unit may display measurement selection information indicating whether the measurement reservation status is specified on the holding position information, and when the user selects the meaning of specifying the measurement reservation status on the measurement selection information, the control unit controls the sample introduction unit to introduce the corresponding sample from the sample holding unit into the measurement device at the moment when the current measurement ends.

[0025] According to this control device for the autosampler, the measurement reservation status can be designated by selecting the measurement selection information, and thus the designation is easy and visually understandable.

[0026] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, the storage unit may store the type of the sample in association with the measurement conditions in advance, and when the user specifies the information setting condition for setting the type of the sample in the measurement condition on the holding position information, the control unit urges the user to set the type of the sample, and associates the position of the sample with the type of the sample and stores them in the storage unit.

[0027] According to this autosampler control device, if the information setting status is designated, the sample type setting can be prompted, thereby preventing the sample type from being forgotten or mistakenly set for another sample, and enabling reliable setting.

[0028] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, the storage unit may pre-store the type of the sample at the specified position on the holding position information, and when the user specifies the information setting status for the sample of the determined type on the holding position information, the control unit may invalidate the specification.

[0029] According to this control device for the autosampler, it is possible to prevent the type of a sample, whose type is predetermined in the holding position information, from being changed by mistake.

[0030] In the control device for the automatic sampler of the present invention, the control unit may display the type of the sample whose type has been determined or the type of the sample for which the information setting status is specified on the holding position information.

[0031] According to this control device for the automatic sampler, the type of the sample located at the holding position can be visually grasped in a comprehensive manner based on the holding position information.

[0032] In the control device for the automatic sampler of the present invention, the control unit may invalidate the designation when the measurement reservation status is designated for the sample for which the information setting status is not designated.

[0033] According to this control device for the autosampler, it is possible to prevent erroneous measurement of a sample whose type and the like are not specified in relation to the measurement conditions.

[0034] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, a standard sample for generating a calibration curve corresponding to the type set in the information setting status may be pre-held at a specified position of the sample holding portion, and the storage portion may pre-store the position of the standard sample. When the user specifies the information setting status for the specified sample on the holding position information, the control portion may display calibration curve information, which is used to specify whether to generate a calibration curve corresponding to the type. When the user selects the intention to generate the calibration curve on the calibration line information, the control portion controls the sample introduction portion with reference to the storage portion to introduce the standard sample from the sample holding portion into the measuring device.

[0035] According to the control device of the automatic sampler, by selecting a sample while maintaining position information, the user can easily choose to generate a calibration curve, and the calibration curve is automatically generated according to the type of sample. Therefore, there is no need for settings for generating the calibration curve, and errors such as generating an incorrect calibration curve can be prevented.

[0036] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, a diluted sample and a container for dilution for generating a calibration curve corresponding to the type set in the information setting status may be pre-held at a specified position of the sample holding portion, and the storage portion may pre-store the positions of the diluted sample and the container. When the user selects the intention to generate the calibration curve, the control portion controls the sample introduction portion with reference to the storage portion, takes out the standard sample and the diluted sample from the sample holding portion and mixes them in the container, and after modulating the standard sample of multiple concentrations for generating the calibration curve, introduces the container into the measuring device.

[0037] Generating a calibration curve requires standard samples of multiple concentrations, but sometimes it is difficult to store multiple standard samples of different concentrations in a sample holder. Therefore, automatically preparing the diluted standard samples of multiple concentrations each time a calibration curve is generated from a single-concentration standard sample and a diluted sample facilitates calibration curve generation.

[0038] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, it is also possible that, when the diluted sample and the container are not held at the specified position of the sample holding portion, the control portion displays the holding position of the diluted sample and the container on the holding position information, and reports that the sample at each holding position is the diluted sample and the container based on the information set in the information setting status, so as to urge the user to set the diluted sample and the container.

[0039] According to this control device for the automatic sampler, the user can be made aware that the diluted sample and the container have been forgotten to be set, and a calibration curve can be accurately generated.

[0040] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, it may be that the control unit automatically assigns the measuring status as the measuring status on the holding position information for the sample currently introduced into the measuring device, and performs color-differentiated display or emphasized display. When the measurement of the sample corresponding to the measuring status is completed, the control unit automatically assigns the measurement completed status as the measuring status on the holding position information, and performs color-differentiated display or emphasized display.

[0041] According to the control device of the autosampler, since the status of the measuring process and the status of the measurement completion are automatically assigned, the positions of the samples being measured and the samples having been measured can be easily and accurately grasped visually.

[0042] In the control device of the automatic sampler of the present invention, it may be that when the user specifies one of the measurement conditions for the sample corresponding to the measurement completion status on the holding position information, the control unit associates the specified position of the sample with the measurement condition and stores them in a prescribed storage unit.

[0043] According to the control device of the automatic sampler, it is possible to reset any measurement status for samples in all measurement statuses except the status in which measurement is being performed while retaining the position information. Therefore, it becomes easy to change the settings, for example, by urgently inserting a new sample at the position of a sample that has been measured to perform measurement.

[0044] In the control device for the automatic sampler of the present invention, when the user selects the sample on the holding position information, the control unit may display corresponding information related to the sample.

[0045] According to this control device for the autosampler, by displaying corresponding information related to the selected sample on the holding position information, such information can be easily acquired, and it is possible to prevent the information of other samples from being mistakenly acquired.

[0046] In the control device for the automatic sampler of the present invention, the measurement status may be the measurement completion status, and the control unit may obtain a measurement result of the sample and display the measurement result as the related information.

[0047] The automatic measurement system of the present invention includes the control device of the automatic sampler, the automatic sampler, and the measurement device.

[0048] The automatic measurement system of the present invention may also be a liquid chromatography measurement system.

[0049] Effects of the Invention

[0050] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a control device for an autosampler that can easily set and change the measurement status of a sample based on holding position information indicating the actual sample holding position, and can easily grasp the measurement status. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of an automatic measurement system (liquid chromatograph) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the structure of an automatic sampler.

[0053] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the holding position information displayed on the display unit.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing a case where the user designates one of the measurement conditions of a predetermined sample in the holding position information.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an information setting window that prompts the user to set the sample type when the user designates the information setting status.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a case where the user designates a measurement reservation status.

[0057] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a case where the user cancels the measurement reservation status.

[0058] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing a table stored in the storage unit.

[0059] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing how measurement results are displayed when the user selects a predetermined sample on the holding position information.

[0060] Figure 10This is a diagram showing another example of a sample holding portion and holding position information indicating the sample holding portion.

[0061] Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing a diluted sample and a dilution container held in a sample holding portion for generating a calibration curve.

[0062] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing a method of designating the measurement order of samples in a conventional autosampler.

[0063] Description of Reference Numerals

[0064] 3: Automatic sampler; 3a: Sample holding part; 3b: Sample introduction part; 6: Detector (measuring device); 7: Data processing device (control device of automatic sampler); 8: Storage part; 9: Control part; 10: Display part; 100: Liquid chromatograph (automatic measurement system); 201a~201c: Tubular bottle (sample); 201d: Dilution container (empty container); 300: Holding position information; 302: Holding position; 304: Check box (measurement selection information); 306: Type of sample; 312: Information setting status; 312Wd: Check button (calibration curve information); 314: Measurement reservation status; 316: Measurement in progress status; 318: Measurement completion status; U: User input. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an automatic measurement system (liquid chromatograph) 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] The liquid chromatography apparatus 100 is a device for performing qualitative or quantitative analysis on a specified measurement object, and comprises a data processing device (control unit) 7 for controlling the entire apparatus, a mobile phase (a mixed solution of an eluent and a solvent) 1, a pump 2 for conveying the mobile phase 1, an automatic sampler 3 for injecting a sample, a column 4 for separating components, a column oven 5 for maintaining a constant temperature of the column 4, a detector 6 for detecting the separated components, and a display unit 10.

[0067] The data processing device 7 is composed of a computer having a control unit (CPU) 9 and a storage unit (hard disk, etc.). The control unit (CPU) 9 performs analysis and analyzes the analysis results, and the storage unit (hard disk, etc.) 8 stores the analysis and analysis results. The display unit (monitor) 10 displays the analysis and analysis results and is a touch panel that allows the user U to perform various inputs, selections, settings, etc. on the display unit 10 instead of a keyboard, etc.

[0068] The detector 6 corresponds to the “measurement device” in the claims. The data processing device 7 corresponds to the “autosampler control device” in the claims. That is, the autosampler control device of the embodiment of the present invention can be additionally applied to all measurement devices.

[0069] In addition, the liquid chromatography apparatus 100 corresponds to the “automatic measurement system” in the claims.

[0070] The detector 6 has an element for detecting signal intensity and detects the signal intensity with respect to time. As the detector, a three-dimensional detector can also be used, which has multiple detection elements and can simultaneously acquire signals at multiple wavelengths.

[0071] The sample is injected from a syringe (not shown) of the autosampler 3 and passes through the column 4 together with the mobile phase 1 supplied from the pump 2 to be separated into various components in the sample.

[0072] The sample separated into components is detected by the detector 6. The signal from the detector 6 is sent to the data processing device 7 for data processing.

[0073] Column 4 is a device generally used as a separation unit for separating the components of a sample present in mobile phase 1. Column 4 includes packed columns, monolithic columns, and the like. Various types of fillers can be used as column packing agents for column 4, including adsorption, distribution, and ion exchange types. Column 4 is preferably placed in a column oven 5 to maintain a constant temperature, thereby enabling reproducible sample separation.

[0074] The storage unit 8 is used to store the measurement conditions, calibration curve data, etc. of each sample. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the storage unit 8 stores the measurement status and the type of sample in a table 8 t for each holding position (serial number) of the following sample.

[0075] like Figure 2 As shown, the autosampler 3 includes a sample holding portion 3a for holding a plurality of samples (vials) 201a and 201b in an aligned manner, and a sample introduction portion 3b for introducing the plurality of samples into the measurement device one by one.

[0076] Here, the sample holding portion 3a is a rack having ten holding holes 3h for holding samples 201a, 201b, ... arranged in a row. In the order (sequence) of continuous arrangement of the holding holes 3h, from Figure 2 Measure in sequence from the left side.

[0077] The sample introduction portion 3b includes: an arm 3t; a head 3s with a needle, which is provided on the lower surface of the arm 3t and introduces multiple samples one by one into the measuring device (detector 6); and a moving mechanism (not shown, which is a well-known actuator) that moves the arm 3t in the planar direction and the vertical direction.

[0078] In this example, the sample is a liquid, placed in a vial (container) and sealed with a cap. Then, a needle tip is inserted into the cap of the vial for 3 seconds to aspirate the sample inside the vial and introduce it into a syringe.

[0079] Alternatively, the sample may be solid or powder. In this case, the sample placed directly on a sample holding portion such as a turntable can be grasped by a gripping portion provided on the sample introduction portion and carried into the measuring device.

[0080] Therefore, in the present invention, "introduction" refers to the following situations: moving the sample such as the liquid inside the container to the measurement site of the measuring device without moving the container held in the sample holding portion; and moving the sample directly to the measurement site of the measuring device.

[0081] In addition, as for the measuring device, in addition to the detector 6, a fluorescent X-ray analyzer and the like can be exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0082] Next, refer to Figures 3 to 9 , the operation of the control unit 9 in response to the operation performed by the user while viewing the display screen of the display unit 10 will be described.

[0083] Figure 3 The holding position information 300 displayed on the display unit 10 under the control of the control unit 9 is shown. The holding position information 300 indicates the holding positions of the plurality of samples in the sample holding unit 3 a .

[0084] exist Figure 3 In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the autosampler 3 may be provided with two sample holders 3 a, each of which holds ten samples (vials) arranged in a row. The actual sample holder 3 a corresponding to the upper section 300x of the holding position information 300 holds a predetermined type of sample, such as Blank or Std. On the other hand, the actual sample holder 3 a corresponding to the lower section 300y holds UNK (unknown sample), and several of the holding holes 3 h have no sample (vial) placed in them.

[0085] Here, using the lower section 300y of the holding position information 300 as an example, the holding positions 302 of each sample are indicated by circles, with the order of arrangement (serial number) displayed within the circles. The order in which the samples are measured (the order in which they are introduced into the detector 6) is determined from the earliest to the latest serial number. In this example, after measurements are performed starting from the left (blank) of the upper section 300x of the holding position information 300, from 1 to 10, measurements are then performed starting from the left (blank) of the lower section 300y, from 11 to 20.

[0086] Furthermore, the sample type (blank, CBZ, UNK, etc.) 306 is displayed above the holding position 302 , and measurement selection information (check box) 304 described later is displayed below the holding position 302 .

[0087] Figure 4 This shows a case where the user U designates one of the measurement statuses of a predetermined sample (serial number 15 ) in the holding position information 300 .

[0088] The measurement status indicates any one of a plurality of measurement statuses. In this example, the unset status 310 (in Figure 4 In the example, each sample is surrounded by a hollow circle), information setting status 312 (in Figure 4 ), and the measurement reservation status, measurement in progress status, and measurement completion status described later.

[0089] Even if the user U does not designate the unset state 310 , the measuring state, or the measurement completed state, the control unit 9 automatically assigns them.

[0090] The unset status 310 is a status in which the measurement status is not set, excluding the measurement-in-progress status and the measurement-completed status.

[0091] For example, after a sample designated with the measurement reservation status 314 is introduced into the detector 6, the control unit 9 receives a measurement-in-progress signal from the detector 6, thereby recognizing that the measurement is in progress.

[0092] For example, the control unit 9 receives a measurement completion signal (or measurement result data) from the detector 6 , and thus can recognize that the measurement has been completed.

[0093] exist Figure 4 For example, when the user U clicks on the sample (serial number 15) and clicks on the information setting status 312 as the measurement status, the control unit makes Figure 5 The information setting window 312W is displayed on the display unit 10 so as to overlap with the holding position information 300 .

[0094] exist Figure 5In the input box 312Wa of the information setting window 312W, the user U is prompted to set the sample type and makes an appropriate input in the input box 312Wa, or, if the candidate types are predetermined, selects the type using a selection bar and clicks the set button 312Wb to confirm the selection. Figure 5 When the setting button 312Wb is clicked, the information setting status 312 is confirmed for the first time.

[0095] As a result, the control unit 9 associates the position of the sample (serial number 15), the information setting status 312, and the type of sample (carbamazepine) and stores them in the storage unit 8. Furthermore, the control unit 9 displays or highlights the sample (serial number 15) designated by the information setting status 312 on the retained position information 300. In this example, the sample (serial number 15) is displayed in a color-coded manner using gray hatching.

[0096] In this way, Figure 4 In FIG. 3 , three consecutive samples (serial numbers 13 to 15) are displayed using different colors to indicate the information setting status 312 .

[0097] As described above, in this embodiment, by selecting a sample on the holding position information 300 showing the holding position 302 reflecting the actual arrangement order (measurement order) of each sample, the measurement status of each sample can be easily set and changed visually corresponding to the arrangement order of the samples.

[0098] Furthermore, the measurement status of each designated sample is displayed in a color-coded or highlighted manner, so that the arrangement order of the samples and the measurement status of the samples can be easily grasped visually.

[0099] As a result, the sample can be easily replaced before measurement, or another sample can be inserted for measurement while observing the measurement status.

[0100] Next, refer to Figure 6 The measurement reservation status will be described. In this example, the user U checks the measurement selection information (check box) 304 for the sample (sequence number 15) to designate the measurement reservation status 314.

[0101] The control unit 9 displays the sample (serial number 15) designated by the measurement reservation status 314 in different colors using oblique hatching, and stores the position of the sample (serial number 15) and the measurement reservation status 314 in association with each other in the storage unit 8 .

[0102] Furthermore, when the current measurement (sample with serial number 12) is completed, the control unit 9 controls the sample introduction unit 3b to introduce the samples (serial numbers 13 and 15) designated with the measurement reservation status 314 into the detector 6.

[0103] In this way, samples with serial numbers 13 and 15 were measured in sequence.

[0104] During measurement, the control unit 9 refers to the storage unit 8 and transmits measurement conditions corresponding to the type (carbamazepine) of the measurement target sample (serial number 15) to the detector 6, and the detector 6 performs measurement according to these conditions.

[0105] Here, the sample currently being measured (serial number 12) is automatically assigned a measurement status 316 and displayed in different colors using horizontal hatching.

[0106] Furthermore, the measurement-completed sample (serial number 11) is automatically assigned a measurement-completed status 318 and displayed in a color-coded manner using cross-hatching.

[0107] In addition, if Figure 6 As shown, when the user U designates the measurement reservation status 314 for a sample (eg, serial number 19) for which the information setting status 312 is not designated (ie, the status 310 is not set), the control unit 9 invalidates the designation.

[0108] This can prevent a situation in which a sample whose type and the like related to the measurement conditions are not determined is erroneously measured.

[0109] Here, as Figure 6 As shown, when there are multiple samples (serial numbers 13 and 15) designated in the measurement reservation status 314, the control unit 9 sequentially introduces the samples into the detector 6, starting with the sample at the position corresponding to the first serial number in the predetermined continuous arrangement (sequence) of the samples on the sample holder 3a. In other words, the samples are measured in the order of serial numbers 13 and 15.

[0110] On the other hand, Figure 7 As shown, the user U can also cancel the measurement reservation status 314 by unchecking the check box 304. Figure 7 In the display, the measurement reservation status 314 for the sample with serial number 13 is canceled, the control unit 9 deletes the location and measurement reservation status information for the sample with serial number 13 from the storage unit 8, and ends the color-coded display or highlighted display of the sample with serial number 13 as the measurement reservation status 314. When the checkbox is unchecked, the status returns to the previous display.

[0111] As a result, the measurement of the sample with serial number 13 is stopped, and the measurement of the sample with the second-highest serial number, ie, serial number 15, is performed.

[0112] As described above, in this embodiment, by using the measurement reservation status indicating the next measurement as the measurement status, the sample to be measured next can be easily set and changed visually on the holding position information 300 reflecting the actual arrangement order (measurement order) of each sample. Furthermore, the position of the sample to be measured next can be easily understood.

[0113] In addition, the measurement reservation status can be specified for multiple samples. The measurement order is the actual arrangement order of each sample. Therefore, in this regard, it is easy to grasp the location of the sample to be measured next. Moreover, since the measurement reservation can be made for multiple samples, forgetting of measurement can be prevented.

[0114] Furthermore, by checking the measurement selection information (check box) 304 , the measurement reservation status can be designated or canceled, so designation and cancellation are easy and visually understandable.

[0115] Next, return Figure 5 , the determination of the calibration curve is explained.

[0116] exist Figure 5 When the user U selects the check button (calibration curve information) 312Wd for generating a calibration curve in the information setting window 312W, the control unit 9 automatically generates a calibration curve for the sample type (carbamazepine) specified in the information setting window 312W.

[0117] First, if Figure 4 As shown in the sample (serial number 3) in the upper section 300x of the holding position information 300, a standard sample for generating a calibration curve corresponding to the type of sample (carbamazepine: CBZ) is pre-held at a specified position of the actual sample holding portion 3a, and the storage portion 8 pre-stores the position of the standard sample.

[0118] The control unit 9 controls the sample introduction unit 3 b with reference to the storage unit 8 , and introduces the CBZ standard sample with the serial number 3 from the actual sample holding unit 3 a into the detector 6 to perform calibration curve measurement.

[0119] Generating a calibration curve requires standard samples of multiple concentrations. However, it may be difficult to store multiple standard samples of different concentrations in a sample holder. Therefore, each time a calibration curve is generated using a standard sample of one concentration (the CBZ standard sample of sequence number 3), diluted standard samples of multiple concentrations may be prepared.

[0120] Figure 11The diluted sample (diluent) 201c for generating a calibration curve and an empty container 201d for dilution held in the sample holding portion 3a are shown. The diluent 201s is placed in the diluted sample (vial). Figure 11 In the example, the diluted sample 201c and the empty container 201d correspond to Figure 3 Serial numbers 9 and 10.

[0121] Furthermore, the storage unit 8 stores in advance the positions of the diluted sample 201 c and the container 201 d .

[0122] Next, when user U selects the checkbox (calibration curve information) 312Wd to generate a calibration curve, control unit 9 controls sample introduction unit 3b with reference to storage unit 8. The sample introduction unit 3b removes the CBZ standard sample (serial number 3) from actual sample holder 3a and mixes it in container 201d to prepare diluted standard samples of multiple concentrations. Next, control unit 9 introduces the diluted standard sample (serial number 10) in container 201d into detector 6 to measure the calibration curve.

[0123] In addition, the diluted sample 201c and the empty container 201d may not be held at the predetermined positions (serial numbers 9 and 10) of the sample holding portion 3a.

[0124] Therefore, when the control unit 9 detects this state, it displays the holding positions (serial numbers 9 and 10) of the diluted sample 201c and the container 201d in the holding position information 300. In addition, the information setting status is set so that serial numbers 9 and 10 mean "diluted sample" and "empty container", respectively.

[0125] Therefore, the control unit 9 notifies the user that the sample at each holding position is a diluted sample and a container based on the information set in the information setting status, and urges the user to set the diluted sample 201c and the empty container 201d.

[0126] There is no particular limitation on the report, and "diluted sample" and "empty container" may be displayed on the holding position information 300 at the holding positions (serial numbers 9 and 10) of the diluted sample 201c and the container 201d, respectively. The display may also be a color-coded display or a flashing emphasized display.

[0127] Alternatively, "Diluted Sample" and "Empty Container" may be displayed on the display screen of the display unit 10 using a separate mark, telop, or the like, at the holding positions (serial numbers 9 and 10), in addition to the holding position information 300. Alternatively, notification may be provided by voice.

[0128] As described above, by selecting a sample on the holding position information 300 , the user can easily select whether to generate a calibration curve. Calibration curves are automatically generated according to the type of sample, eliminating the need for settings for generating calibration curves. This can prevent errors such as generating an erroneous calibration curve.

[0129] In addition, in this example, Figure 4 The types of the samples in the upper section 300x of the holding position information 300 are all determined in advance, thereby preventing the types from being changed by mistake.

[0130] That is, Figure 6 As shown, even if the user U specifies the information setting status for the sample (eg, serial number 3) in the upper row 300x, the control unit 9 invalidates the specification.

[0131] In addition, in this example, Figure 4 In the upper section 300x of the holding position information 300, the type of sample (blank, CBZ, etc.) 306 is displayed.

[0132] On the other hand, in the lower row 300y, UNK is uniformly displayed as the sample type 306. However, the type of the sample (eg, CBZ) for which the information setting status 312 is specified may be displayed in the lower row 300y.

[0133] As described above, by displaying the sample type 306 , the type of the sample located at the holding position 302 can be visually grasped in a comprehensive manner on the holding position information 300 .

[0134] In this example, any measurement status can be re-set on the holding position information 300 for samples in all measurement statuses except the measurement-in-progress status 316 .

[0135] For example, in Figure 7 For a sample that has been measured (sequence number 11) and a sample that has had its measurement reservation status 314 canceled (sequence number 13), you can specify either the information setting status 312 or a new measurement reservation status 314. For a sample that has not had its status 310 set, you can also specify either the information setting status 312 or the measurement reservation status 314.

[0136] In addition, Figure 5 In the information setting window 312W, when the user U clicks the "clear sample information" button 312Wc, the sample type set in the information setting state 312 is cleared (deleted). In this example, the default setting is made to form the unset state 310 with a white circle.

[0137] As described above, on the holding position information 300, any measurement status can be reset for samples in all measurement statuses except the measurement status 316. Therefore, it becomes easy to change the settings, such as urgently inserting a new sample at the position of the sample where measurement has been completed to perform measurement.

[0138] Furthermore, in this example, when the user U selects a predetermined sample on the holding position information 300 , the control unit 9 may display corresponding information related to the sample.

[0139] For example, if the selected sample is in the information setting status 312 or the measurement reservation status 314 , the type of the sample can be displayed.

[0140] In addition, if Figure 9 As shown, if the selected sample is in the measurement completed state 318, the measurement result can be displayed.

[0141] As described above, by displaying the corresponding information related to the selected sample on the holding position information 300 , the information can be easily acquired, and it is possible to prevent the information of other samples from being mistakenly acquired.

[0142] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and naturally encompasses various modifications and equivalents within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0143] The form of the sample holding portion and the holding position information indicating the sample holding portion is not limited, for example, Figure 10 As shown, the sample holder may be arranged and held along the circumference of the circular sample holder.

[0144] Each measurement status is not limited to being displayed by different colors, but can also be displayed by highlighting such as blinking.

[0145] The sample holding portion and the holding position information indicating the sample holding portion are not limited to Figure 3 Such a column arrangement, for example, Figure 10 As shown, each sample may be held along the circumference of a circular sample holding portion.

Claims

1. A control device for an automatic sampler, the control device being used for an automatic sampler having a sample holding portion and a sample introduction portion, wherein: The sample holding portion holds a plurality of samples in an array, the sample introduction portion introduces the plurality of samples one by one into the measuring device, and the control device includes a control portion and a storage portion, and is characterized in that: The control unit causes a predetermined display unit to display holding position information indicating holding positions of the plurality of samples in the sample holding unit in an arrangement order. The holding position information displays a serial number as the arrangement order for each sample at the holding position, and displays measurement selection information close to the holding position. As the measurement state of the sample, a measurement status is provided, and the measurement status includes an unset status in which the type of the sample is not set, an information setting status in which the type of the sample is set by selecting the unset status, a measurement reservation status showing the next measurement object at the moment the current measurement is completed, a measurement in progress status, and a measurement completed status. When the information setting status is specified by the user selecting the holding position of the sample specified in the holding position information displayed on the display unit, or when the measurement reservation status is specified by the user selecting the measurement selection information, the control unit causes the specified position of the sample and the measurement status to be associated and stored in the storage unit. Furthermore, the control unit causes the holding position of the sample corresponding to the measurement status designated by the user to be displayed in a color-coded or emphasized manner on the holding position information.

2. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 1, wherein: When the measurement reservation status is designated, the control unit controls the sample introduction unit to introduce the corresponding sample from the sample holding unit into the measurement device at the time when the current measurement ends.

3. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 2, wherein: When there are a plurality of samples for which the measurement reservation status is specified, The control unit controls the sample introduction unit to sequentially introduce the samples into the measurement device starting from the sample at a position corresponding to the first position in a predetermined sequential arrangement order of the plurality of samples on the sample holding unit.

4. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 2, wherein: When the user selects to cancel the designation of the measurement reservation status in the measurement selection information, The control unit deletes the information on the position of the selected sample and the measurement reservation status from the storage unit, and ends the color-differentiated display or emphasized display of the holding position of the sample for which the measurement reservation status is specified in the measurement selection information in the holding position information.

5. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 2, wherein: When the user selects to designate the measurement reservation status in the measurement selection information, The control unit controls the sample introduction unit to introduce the corresponding sample from the sample holding unit into the measurement device when the current measurement is completed.

6. The control device for the automatic sampler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The storage unit stores the sample type and the measurement conditions in association with each other in advance. When the user designates the information setting status on the holding position information, the control unit prompts the user to set the type of the sample, and associates the position of the sample with the type of the sample and stores them in the storage unit.

7. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 6, wherein: The storage unit stores in advance the type of the sample at the predetermined position on the holding position information. When the user designates the information setting status for the sample of the specified type in the holding position information, the control unit invalidates the designation.

8. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 6, wherein: The control unit causes the type of the sample whose type has been determined or the type of the sample whose information setting status is specified to be displayed on the holding position information.

9. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 8, wherein: When the measurement reservation status is specified for the sample for which the information setting status is not specified, the control unit invalidates the specification.

10. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 6, wherein: A standard sample for generating a calibration curve corresponding to the type set in the information setting status is held in advance at a predetermined position of the sample holding portion. The storage unit stores the position of the standard sample in advance. When the user specifies the information setting status for the predetermined sample in the holding position information, the control unit displays calibration curve information for specifying whether to generate a calibration curve corresponding to the type. When the user selects to generate the calibration curve in the calibration curve information, The control unit controls the sample introduction unit with reference to the storage unit to introduce the standard sample from the sample holding unit into the measurement device.

11. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 10, wherein: A diluted sample and a container for dilution for generating a calibration curve corresponding to the type set in the information setting status are held in advance at a predetermined position of the sample holding portion. The storage unit stores the diluted sample and the position of the container in advance. When the user selects to generate the calibration curve, The control unit controls the sample introduction unit with reference to the storage unit, takes out the standard sample and the diluted sample from the sample holding unit, mixes them in the container, prepares the standard sample at multiple concentrations for generating the calibration curve, and then introduces the container into the measurement device.

12. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 11, wherein: When the diluted sample and the container are not held at a predetermined position of the sample holding portion, The control unit displays the holding positions of the diluted sample and the container on the holding position information, and reports that the samples at each holding position are the diluted sample and the container based on the information set in the information setting status, thereby urging the user to set the diluted sample and the container.

13. The control device of the automatic sampler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control unit automatically assigns the measurement-in-progress status to the holding position information as the measurement status for the sample currently introduced into the measurement device, and displays the sample in a color-coded manner or by emphasizing the status. When the measurement of the sample corresponding to the ongoing measurement status is completed, the control unit automatically assigns a measurement completed status to the holding position information as the measurement status and displays it in a color-coded manner or by emphasizing the status.

14. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 13, wherein: When the user designates one of the measurement conditions for the sample corresponding to the measurement completion status in the holding position information, the control unit associates the designated position of the sample with the measurement condition and stores the measurement condition in a predetermined storage unit.

15. The control device of the automatic sampler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: When the user selects the sample on the holding position information, the control unit causes corresponding information related to the sample to be displayed.

16. The control device of the automatic sampler according to claim 11, wherein: When the user selects the sample on the holding position information, the control unit causes corresponding information related to the sample to be displayed. The measurement status is the measurement completion status, The control unit obtains a measurement result of the sample and displays the measurement result as related information.

17. An automatic measurement system, comprising: The control device of the automatic sampler according to any one of claims 1 to 16; said automatic sampler; as well as The measuring device.

18. The automatic measurement system according to claim 17, wherein: The automatic measurement system is a liquid chromatography measurement system.

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