Biochemical analysis device and biochemical analysis method

Abstract

A biochemical analysis device and a biochemical analysis method are provided. A control device detects an error based on the current height (H3) of the nozzle (8) when the liquid level sensor detects that the nozzle (8) contacts the sample and the previous height (H2) when the liquid level sensor last detected that the nozzle (8) contacts the sample, and when an error is detected, performs error notification in a manner different from that when other errors are detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a biochemical analysis device and a biochemical analysis method. Background Art

[0002] In the past, an analysis device for performing biochemical analysis of a specimen by reacting a specimen and a reagent in a reaction container is known. The analysis device described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-42294 includes a storage container for storing the specimen, a nozzle (pipette) for aspirating the specimen, and a sensor. The sensor is used to detect whether the nozzle contacts the liquid surface of the specimen. When the device described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-42294 detects that the nozzle contacts the liquid surface, the nozzle starts aspiration of the specimen. Summary of the invention

[0003] When the nozzle detects the liquid level of the storage object as a specimen or reagent, the sensor causes the nozzle to suck the storage object. Generally speaking, when the nozzle sucks the storage object as a specimen or reagent multiple times, the liquid level of the storage object decreases monotonically each time the nozzle sucks the storage object. Therefore, the height of the nozzle when the nozzle detects the liquid level this time is lower than the height of the nozzle when the nozzle detected the liquid level last time. However, there is a situation where the height of the nozzle when the nozzle detects the liquid level this time is higher than the height of the nozzle when the nozzle detected the liquid level last time. This situation refers to, for example, a situation where bubbles of the storage object in the storage container are generated at a position higher than the liquid level of the storage object. When the nozzle contacts the bubble, the sensor may detect that the nozzle contacts the liquid level of the storage object. As a result, the analysis device cannot suck the storage object. In the invention recorded in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-42294, the following problem may occur: the user cannot recognize the error based on the situation that the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to contact the storage object is higher than the height of the nozzle when the nozzle was detected to contact the storage object last time.

[0004] The present disclosure is made to solve the above-mentioned problem, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a technology that allows a user to recognize an error caused by a situation in which the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to be in contact with a storage object is higher than the height of the nozzle when the nozzle was detected to be in contact with the storage object last time.

[0005] A biochemical analysis device according to one aspect of the present disclosure performs biochemical analysis of a specimen by causing a specimen and a reagent to react in a reaction container. The biochemical analysis device comprises: a nozzle that extracts a content from a storage container for storing a content that is a specimen or a reagent; a sensor that detects whether the nozzle contacts the content; a storage device; and a control device that controls the nozzle to rise and fall. The control device causes the nozzle to extract the content based on the detection that the nozzle contacts the content. The height of the nozzle when the nozzle contacts the content is stored in the storage device. An error is detected based on the fact that the first height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content is higher than the second height of the nozzle stored in the storage device, and the second height of the nozzle is the height of the nozzle when the sensor last detected that the nozzle contacted the content. In the case of an error detection, error notification is performed in a manner different from the case of detecting other errors.

[0006] The biochemical analysis method involved in other aspects of the present disclosure is used to perform biochemical analysis of a specimen by reacting a specimen and a reagent in a reaction container. The device for performing biochemical analysis comprises: a nozzle that extracts a content from a storage container for containing a content as a reagent or a specimen; a sensor that detects whether the nozzle contacts the content; a storage device; and a control device that controls to raise and lower the nozzle. The biochemical analysis method includes the following steps: when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content, the nozzle extracts the content; the height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content is stored in the storage device; based on the fact that the first height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content is higher than the second height of the nozzle stored in the storage device, an error is detected, and the second height of the nozzle is the height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content last time; and when an error is detected, an error notification is performed in a manner different from the case where other errors are detected.

[0007] The above objects, features, aspects and advantages and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of main parts of the analysis device according to the present embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the analysis device according to the present embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis system according to the present embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing a state before the piercer of the present embodiment penetrates the cover member.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a state where the piercer according to the present embodiment has penetrated the cover member.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a state after the piercer according to the present embodiment has penetrated the cover member and before the nozzle is inserted into the storage container.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a state in which the nozzle of the present embodiment contacts the liquid surface of the sample.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a state where the nozzle of the present embodiment is inserted into a sample.

[0016] Fig. 9 It is a diagram for explaining the collision sensor according to the present embodiment.

[0017] Fig.10 This is a diagram showing an example of types of cover members according to the present embodiment.

[0018] Fig.11 This is a diagram showing a state in which blood (sample) adheres to the inside of the piercer according to the present embodiment.

[0019] Fig.12 This is a diagram showing a method in which the nozzle according to the present embodiment detects a sample inside the piercer.

[0020] Fig.13 This is a diagram showing a state in which a liquid droplet in this embodiment contacts the side surface of a nozzle.

[0021] Fig.14 This is a diagram showing an example of a situation in which bubbles are generated above the liquid surface of a sample according to the present embodiment.

[0022] Fig.15 This is a diagram showing an example of the previous altitude and the current altitude.

[0023] Fig.16 It is a diagram showing upper limit values ​​and the like.

[0024] Fig.17 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen according to this embodiment.

[0025] Fig.18 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen according to this embodiment.

[0026] Fig.19 This is a diagram showing an example of an overview of each error message.

[0027] Fig. 20 This is an example of a setting screen for a difference threshold value.

[0028] Fig.21 This is an example of a setting screen for whether or not to enable error notification.

[0029] Fig. 22 This is a block diagram of an example of a functional configuration of a control device.

[0030] Fig.23 This is an example of a flow chart of a control device.

[0031] Fig.24 This is an example of a flow chart of the suction process.

[0032] Fig.25 This is an example of a flowchart of the first error process and the re-suction process.

[0033] Fig.26 This is an example of a flowchart of the second error processing and the re-through processing.

[0034] Fig. 27 This is an example of a flowchart of the third error process and re-suction process.

[0035] Fig.28 It is a cross-sectional view of a drill and a storage container according to a second embodiment.

[0036] Fig.29 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the pressure applied to the piezoelectric element and the number of pulses output by the control device to the drill motor.

[0037] Fig.30 This is a diagram for explaining a non-penetrating sensor.

[0038] Fig.31 This is a diagram showing an example of types of cover members according to the present embodiment.

[0039] Fig.32 This is a diagram showing an example of types of cover members according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same or equivalent parts in the figures, and their description will not be repeated. In addition, it is initially intended that at least a portion of the structure in each embodiment will be used in appropriate combination. In the accompanying drawings, the illustration is not made in accordance with the ratio of the actual size, and in order to facilitate the understanding of the structure, there are parts illustrated in a manner of changing the ratio in order to make the structure clear.

[0041] <First Embodiment>

[0042] [Device structure]

[0043] The biochemical analysis device involved in the first embodiment (hereinafter also referred to as "analyzer") is configured to dispense a specimen and a reagent into a reaction container using a nozzle, and optically measure the reaction state in the reaction container. Hereinafter, the specimen is sometimes referred to as a "sample" or "test specimen". The specimen is, for example, a blood component (serum or plasma) or urine. In this embodiment, a disposable test tube is used as a reaction container of the analyzer.

[0044] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of main parts of an analysis device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 In the example, the height direction of the analysis device 1 is set as the Z-axis direction, the width direction of the analysis device 1 is set as the X-axis direction, and the depth direction of the analysis device 1 is set as the Y-axis direction. The Z-axis direction is also the vertical direction of the analysis device 1. The analysis device 1 has a control device 500 for controlling each part of the analysis device 1. Figure 1 In the figure, for convenience, the control device 500 is recorded in the upper right corner, but in fact, the control device 500 is configured in the same Figure 1 Different locations.

[0045] The control device 500 transports a plurality of storage containers 2 containing samples to a predetermined position and causes the nozzle to suck the sample in each storage container 2 and dispense the sample.

[0046] The storage container 2 is placed in the analyzing device 1 in a state of being held by the rack 3. Each rack 3 holds a plurality of storage containers 2. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , five storage containers 2 are arranged on one rack 3. The analysis device 1 has a setting portion 4. A plurality of racks 3 are arranged on the setting portion 4. Figure 1 In the example shown, there are 11 brackets configured.

[0047] Typically, the storage container 2 has a cylindrical shape having an opening. Regarding the storage container 2, there are storage containers whose openings are covered by a cover member and storage containers whose openings are not covered by the cover member. The bracket 3 for holding the storage container 2 whose openings are covered by the cover member is also called a CTS (Closed Tube Sampling) bracket. In addition, the bracket 3 for holding the storage container 2 whose openings are not covered by the cover member is also called a SAM bracket. In addition, a mark for distinguishing whether it is a CTS bracket or a SAM bracket is provided on each bracket 3. Typically, the mark is a barcode. The analysis device 1 has a mark sensor 700 (refer to Figure 2 ). The control device 500 can determine whether the rack 3 holding the storage container 2 from which the sample is to be aspirated is a CTS rack or a SAM rack based on the detection result of the mark sensor 700.

[0048] The control device 500 moves the rack 3 to the conveying position 5 along the direction D1. The direction D1 is the direction in which the racks 3 are arranged. The direction D1 is also the X-axis direction.

[0049] Next, the control device 500 conveys the stent 3 from the setting portion 4 along the direction D2. The direction D2 is a direction orthogonal to the direction D1. The direction D2 is also the Y-axis direction. In the present embodiment, the control device 500 moves the plurality of stents 3 one by one to the conveying position 5 in sequence based on the input of the start operation by the user. The control device 500 conveys one stent 3 from the conveying position 5 along the direction D2.

[0050] The stent 3 transported from the setting unit 4 temporarily stops on the stent transport path 6. The control device 500 determines whether the stent 3 to be processed is a CTS stent or a SAM stent at a predetermined timing. When it is determined that the stent 3 to be processed is a CTS stent, the control device 500 uses the nozzle 8 to suck the sample from the storage container 2 held on the stent 3 (i.e., CTS stent) after penetrating the cover member with the drill 7. The drill 7 is cylindrical with a pointed front end. The drill 7 is also called a "drilling member" because it drills a hole in the cover member. In this way, the drill 7 is used to penetrate the cover member.

[0051] Furthermore, when it is determined that the rack 3 to be processed is a SAM rack, the control device 500 uses the nozzle 8 to suck the sample from the storage container 2 held on the rack 3 (ie, SAM rack).

[0052] The drill 7 extends in the vertical direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction). The drill driving device 71 holds the drill 7 and drives the drill 7 in a manner of ascending and descending the drill 7. The drill driving device 71 includes a drill arm 711 extending in the horizontal direction. The drill 7 is held at one end of the drill arm 711. A rotation shaft 712 is mounted at the other end of the drill arm 711. The drill arm 711 can rotate around the rotation shaft 712. The drill driving device 71 can move the drill 7 in the horizontal direction along the arc-shaped track 717 by rotating the drill arm 711 around the rotation shaft 712. The drill driving device 71 can also move the drill arm 711 in the vertical direction along the rotation shaft 712.

[0053] The nozzle 8 extends in the vertical direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction). The nozzle driving device 81 holds the nozzle 8 and drives the nozzle 8 in a manner that causes the nozzle 8 to rise and fall. The nozzle driving device 81 includes a nozzle arm 811 extending in the horizontal direction. The nozzle 8 is held at one end of the nozzle arm 811. A rotating shaft 812 is installed at the other end of the nozzle arm 811. The nozzle arm 811 is capable of rotating around the rotating shaft 812. The nozzle driving device 81 is capable of moving the nozzle 8 in the horizontal direction along the arc-shaped track 817 by rotating the nozzle arm 811 around the rotating shaft 812. The nozzle driving device 81 is also capable of moving the nozzle arm 811 in the vertical direction along the rotating shaft 812.

[0054] In this embodiment, the control device 500 drives the drill 7 by controlling the drill driving device 71. In addition, the control device 500 drives the nozzle 8 by controlling the nozzle driving device 81. The control device 500 controls the drill 7 by controlling the drill driving device 71. Figures 4 to 8 The cover member is pierced with the piercer 7 by a method. The control device 500 inserts the nozzle 8 into the pierced piercer 7 and lowers the nozzle 8. The control device 500 uses the nozzle 8 in the piercer to extract the sample in the absorption container 2. The extracted sample is temporarily held at a predetermined position.

[0055] In addition, there is a case where the nozzle 8 sucks the reagent before sucking the sample. In this case, for example, before the nozzle 8 sucks the sample, the nozzle driving device 81 rotates the nozzle arm 811, thereby moving the nozzle 8 to the top of the reagent held in the reagent holding portion 815. Thereafter, the nozzle driving device 81 moves the nozzle arm 811 vertically downward. Thus, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the reagent, and the nozzle 8 can suck the reagent. In addition, as a modified example, the analysis device 1 can also suck the reagent with other nozzles.

[0056] Then, the nozzle driving device 81 moves the nozzle arm 811 vertically upward to withdraw the nozzle 8 from the reagent. Figures 4 to 8 The suction action of the sample.

[0057] Thus, the piercer 7 is a member for penetrating the cover member 22. In addition, the nozzle 8 is a member for passing through the piercer 7 penetrating the cover member 22 and sucking the sample.

[0058] After the control device 500 uses the nozzle 8 to suck the sample of the storage container 2, the nozzle 8 is retracted from the storage container 2. Thereafter, the control device 500 stops the nozzle 8 just above the dispensing port 814 by rotating the nozzle arm 811. The dispensing port 814 is on the track 817. After the nozzle 8 stops just above the dispensing port 814, the control device 500 lowers the nozzle 8. Thus, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the dispensing port 814. The control device 500 causes the nozzle 8 to eject the retained sample in a state where it is inserted into the dispensing port 814, thereby dispensing the sample into the dispensing port 814. The sample dispensed into the dispensing port 814 is injected into a test tube arranged at the dispensing port 814.

[0059] Each time the sample is sucked, the nozzle 8 is pulled out from the storage container 2 and the piercer 7. After the nozzle 8 is cleaned with a cleaning solution after dispensing, the suction operation of the next sample is performed. When the nozzle 8 sucks the sample from the same storage container 2 multiple times, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the same storage container 2 multiple times. During the period when the sample is sucked from the same storage container 2 multiple times, the piercer 7 remains inserted into the storage container 2.

[0060] [Hardware structure of the analysis device]

[0061] Next, the hardware configuration of the analyzing device 1 will be described. Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the analysis device 1. The control device 500 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 530, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 532, a storage device 534, and an input / output buffer (not shown) for inputting and outputting various signals.

[0062] The CPU 530 expands the control program stored in the storage device 534 in the RAM 532 and executes the control program. The control program is a program that records the processes of various processing performed by the control device 500. In addition to the control program, the storage device 534 also stores various information and data used for various processing. The control device 500 performs various processing in the analysis device according to these control programs and various information and data. In addition, the processing is not limited to the processing performed by software, and the processing can also be performed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuit).

[0063] In addition to the control program recording the processing procedure, information or data such as reagent information, analysis schedule, and analysis history are also registered in the storage device 534. The reagent information is information of each reagent (such as reagent ID, reagent type, expiration date, etc.).

[0064] In order to efficiently analyze all the scheduled samples, the analysis schedule is determined based on sample information (e.g., analysis items for each sample) and the availability of each port. For example, the analysis schedule includes the timing of each dispensing and measurement, the sample and reagent to be dispensing, and the photometric port to be measured. The analysis schedule is managed for each sample ID (each sample container).

[0065] The analysis history record indicates the progress of the analysis, including the progress of the analysis, and is updated sequentially according to the progress of the analysis. The analysis history record includes, for example, the movement path of the test tube (including the current position), the sample and reagent dispensed into the test tube, the photometric port where the measurement was performed, and the measurement result. The analysis history record is managed for each test tube. The control device 500 and the user can each confirm whether the analysis is performed (or progressed) as per the analysis schedule by referring to the analysis history record.

[0066] In addition, the analysis device 1 has a drill driving device 71, a nozzle driving device 81, a liquid level sensor 82, a collision sensor 809, and a bracket 3. The details of the liquid level sensor 82 and the collision sensor 809 are described later. The nozzle driving device 81 drives the nozzle 8. The control device 500 sends a control signal to the drill driving device 71. The drill driving device 71 drives the drill 7 based on the control signal from the control device 500. The drill driving device 71 includes a pulse motor. Hereinafter, the pulse motor of the drill driving device 71 is also referred to as a "drill motor 713 (refer to Figure 4 The control device 500 can determine the position of the drill 7 according to the number of pulses applied to the pulse motor of the drill driving device 71, and can control the position of the drill 7. That is, the driving amount of the drill 7 corresponds to the number of pulses applied to the pulse motor of the drill driving device 71.

[0067] In addition, the control device 500 sends a control signal to the nozzle drive device 81. The nozzle drive device 81 drives the nozzle 8 based on the control signal from the control device 500. The nozzle drive device 81 includes a pulse motor. The pulse motor of the nozzle drive device 81 is also referred to as a "nozzle motor 813 (refer to Figure 6 The control device 500 can determine the position of the nozzle 8 according to the number of pulses applied to the pulse motor of the nozzle driving device 81, and can control the position of the nozzle 8. That is, the driving amount of the nozzle 8 corresponds to the number of pulses applied to the pulse motor of the nozzle driving device 81.

[0068] Thus, the control device 500 drives the nozzle 8 and the drill 7. Figure 1As described in , the control device 500 drives the support 3. The support 3 is a member for arranging the storage container 2. The support 3 corresponds to the "arranging unit" of the present disclosure.

[0069] [Analysis system configuration example]

[0070] Next, a configuration example of an analysis system including the analysis device 1 will be described. Figure 3 : is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis system 120 . Figure 3 The analysis system 120 in the example has an analysis device 1, an input device 200, a display device 250, and a host device 270. The host device 270 corresponds to the “external device” of the present disclosure.

[0071] The input device 200 is a device to which the user inputs various information. The input device 200 includes a mouse and a keyboard, etc. The information input from the input device 200 is sent to the analysis device 1. The display device 250 displays various information based on the control of the analysis device 1. In addition, the analysis device 1 can also be configured to include at least one of the input device 200 and the display device 250. In addition, the analysis system 120 can also include a touch panel that integrates the input device 200 and the display device 250. In addition, the analysis device 1 can also include the touch panel. The host device 270 is an upstream device of the analysis device 1. Information from the host device 270 is input to the analysis device 1. When receiving an error notification from the analysis device 1, the host device 270 performs an error notification.

[0072] [Suction of sample]

[0073] Next, use Figures 4 to 8 The following describes a flow of sucking a sample in the storage container 2 having the cover member 22 using the piercer 7 and the nozzle 8. In addition, a part of the rack on which the storage container 2 is placed is shown as a placement portion.

[0074] Figure 4 2 is a diagram showing a state before the drill 7 penetrates the cover member 22. The drill driving device 71 rotates the drill arm 711 when the drill 7 is inserted into the storage container 2, thereby Figure 4 As shown, the drill 7 is moved horizontally to above the storage container 2.

[0075] Figure 5 2 is a diagram showing a state after the drill 7 has penetrated the cover member 22. The drill driving device 71 moves the rotary shaft 712 and the drill arm 711 vertically downward to move the drill 7 vertically downward. As a result, the drill 7 penetrates the cover member 22, and then the drill 7 enters the storage container 2.

[0076] Figure 62 is a diagram showing a state after the piercer 7 has penetrated the cover member 22 and before the nozzle 8 is inserted into the storage container 2. When the nozzle 8 is inserted into the storage container 2, the nozzle driving device 81 rotates the nozzle arm 811 to horizontally move the nozzle 8 to the top of the piercer 7 inserted into the storage container 2. Figure 6 As shown, the nozzle driving device 81 moves the nozzle 8 vertically downward so that the nozzle 8 is inserted into the drill 7 .

[0077] Here, if Figure 6 As shown, a liquid level sensor 82 is provided inside the nozzle arm 811. Typically, the liquid level sensor 82 is an electrostatic capacitance sensor. The liquid level sensor 82 detects a change in electrostatic capacitance when the front end of the nozzle 8 or the side of the nozzle 8 contacts the sample. The liquid level sensor 82 detects the contact between the nozzle 8 and the sample based on the change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0078] Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing a state where the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface 17A of the sample 17. Figure 7 As shown, the nozzle 8 is lowered, as shown in Figure 7 When the front end of the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface 17A of the sample as shown, the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the front end of the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface 17A based on the change in electrostatic capacitance. The control device 500 determines that the front end of the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface 17A based on the detection result of the liquid level sensor 82. In this way, the liquid level sensor 82 is a sensor for detecting whether the nozzle 8 contacts the sample. The liquid level sensor corresponds to the "first sensor" of the present disclosure.

[0079] When the control device 500 determines that the tip of the nozzle 8 has contacted the liquid surface 17A, the control device 500 further lowers the nozzle 8 by a predetermined amount. By lowering the nozzle 8 by the predetermined amount, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the sample 17 .

[0080] Figure 8 814 is a diagram showing a state where the nozzle 8 is inserted into the sample 17. The control device 500 drives a pump (not shown) while the nozzle 8 is immersed in the sample in the storage container 2, thereby sucking out the sample in the storage container 2. As described above, the control device 500 dispenses the sucked out sample into the dispensing port 814.

[0081] [Collision Sensor]

[0082] Next, the collision sensor 809 will be described. Figure 4 and Figure 5As described above, the control device 500 causes the piercer 7 to penetrate the cover member 22. Generally, the cover member 22 is rubber-like, but when the hardness of the cover member 22 is high (the cover member 22 is hard), the piercer 7 may not penetrate. If the nozzle 8 is further lowered in a state where the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22, the nozzle 8 may be damaged due to the pressure contact of the cover member 22 to the nozzle 8. Therefore, the analysis device 1 of this embodiment detects whether the nozzle 8 collides with the collision object. For example, when the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22, the collision object is the cover member 22. In addition, when the nozzle 8 is lowered in a state where the piercer 7 has penetrated the cover member 22, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the storage container 2. When the nozzle 8 is inserted into the storage container 2, the nozzle 8 may collide with foreign matter in the storage container 2 as the collision object. In this case, the analysis device 1 of this embodiment also detects whether the nozzle 8 has collided with the collision object.

[0083] In addition, based on the detection of the collision of the nozzle 8 with the cover member 22 , the control device 500 executes the second error processing.

[0084] In addition, the second error processing includes at least one of a second alarm processing and a second error storage processing. The second alarm processing is a processing of outputting a second alarm sound from the speaker 722 and a processing of displaying an error image on the display device 250. The second alarm sound is a sound indicating that the nozzle 8 collides with the cover member 22. In addition, the second error image is an image indicating that the nozzle 8 collides with the cover member 22. The second error image is, for example, an image called "P error" described later. The second error storage processing is a processing of storing the error history in a prescribed storage area. The prescribed storage area can be set as a storage area of ​​the analysis device 1 or a storage area of ​​an external device of the analysis device 1. And, when the user operates the input device 200 to display the second error image when the error storage processing is executed, the stored error history is displayed on the display device 250. The collision sensor for detecting the collision state is described below.

[0085] Fig. 9 It is a diagram for explaining a collision sensor. Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing the interior of the nozzle arm 811 . Fig. 9 (A) is a diagram showing a condition where the nozzle 8 is not in a collision state. Fig. 9 (B) is a diagram showing a state where the nozzle 8 is in a collision state.

[0086] A force-applying member 803, a light shielding plate 804, a base 805, a retaining member 806, and a collision sensor 809 are arranged on the nozzle arm 811. The base 805 is a member for supporting the nozzle 8. The base 805 is engaged with the nozzle 8. The collision sensor 809 corresponds to the "second sensor" of the present disclosure. The force-applying member 803 is, for example, a spring, more specifically, a compression coil spring. One end of the force-applying member 803 is mounted on the inner surface of the nozzle arm 811. In addition, the other end of the force-applying member 803 is retained by the retaining member 806. The retaining member 806 retains the force-applying member 803 and is engaged with the outer periphery of the base 805. Therefore, the force-applying member 803 applies force to the nozzle 8 downward in the Z-axis direction.

[0087] The light shielding plate 804 has an L-shaped cross section. In addition, one end of the light shielding plate 804 is joined to the outer periphery of the base 805. The collision sensor 809 has a light output unit 801 and a light input unit 802. The light output unit 801 outputs light to the light input unit 802. When light is input to the light input unit 802, a light signal is sent to the control device 500. The light signal is a signal indicating that light is input to the light input unit 802.

[0088] The nozzle driving device 81 lowers the nozzle 8 by lowering the rotating shaft 812. Fig. 9 As shown in (A), when the nozzle 8 is not in a collision state, the light from the light output unit 801 is blocked by the light shielding plate 804. Therefore, when the nozzle 8 is not in a collision state, the light from the light output unit 801 is not input to the light input unit 802. As described above, the force of the force-applying member 803 is applied downward to the nozzle 8. Therefore, in a state where the nozzle 8 is not in a collision state (for example, a state where the nozzle 8 begins to collide with the collision object), the state where the light is not input to the light input unit 802 (that is, Fig. 9 The state shown in (A)).

[0089] However, when the nozzle 8 starts to contact the object to be collided (for example, the cover member 22), the nozzle 8 is blocked by the cover member 22, so that a force is applied to the nozzle 8 upward in the Z-axis direction. Then, when the nozzle 8 continues to descend and the result is that the force applied to the nozzle 8 upward exceeds the force applied to the nozzle 8 downward by the force applying member 803, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown in (B), the nozzle 8 rises relative to the nozzle arm 811.

[0090] Since the nozzle 8 rises relative to the nozzle arm 811, the light shielding plate 804 connected to the nozzle 8 also rises. Fig. 9As shown in (B), when the shading plate 804 rises, the light from the light output unit 801 is not blocked by the shading plate 804. As a result, the light is input to the light input unit 802. When light is input to the light input unit 802, the light signal from the light input unit 802 is input to the control device 500. The control device 500 determines that it is in a collision state due to the input of the light signal.

[0091] In this way, Fig. 9 In the example, the following structure is used: when the nozzle 8 rises relative to the nozzle arm 811, the state in which light is not input to the light input unit 802 is switched to the state in which light is input to the light input unit 802. As a modified example, the following structure may be used: when the nozzle 8 rises relative to the nozzle arm 811, the state in which light is input to the light input unit 802 is switched to the state in which light is not input to the light input unit 802.

[0092] That is, the analysis device 1 includes a light output unit 801 that outputs light, a light input unit 802 to which light is input, and a force-applying member 803. The force-applying member 803 applies a force to the nozzle 8 in a downward direction (i.e., the direction of the storage container 2). Then, when the nozzle 8 moves upward relative to the nozzle arm 811 and the input state of the light input unit 802 is changed, the control device 500 determines that it is in a collision state. The change of the input state of the light input unit 802 can be set as "from a state where light is not input to the light input unit 802 to a state where light is input to the light input unit 802" as in the present embodiment. In addition, the change of the input state of the light input unit 802 can also be set as "from a state where light is input to the light input unit 802 to a state where light is not input to the light input unit 802" as in the modified example.

[0093] In addition, as described above, the situations in which the collision state of the nozzle 8 is detected mainly include the following situations: "a situation in which the nozzle 8 collides with an object to be collided in the drill 7", "a situation in which the drill 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22 and the nozzle 8 collides with the cover member 22 as an object to be collided", and "a situation in which the nozzle 8 collides with an object to be collided in the storage container 22 when the drill 7 is able to penetrate the cover member 22".

[0094] In the present embodiment, the analyzing device 1 detects whether or not the nozzle 8 collides with the cover member 22 as the collision target by the following method. Fig.10 is an example of the first information stored in the first storage device 5341. The first storage device 5341 includes the storage device 534 (refer to Figure 2 ). Fig.10 In the embodiment, a first cover member and a second cover member are specified.

[0095] Assume that the first cover member is a material that is easier to stretch than the second cover member. In addition, the pulse corresponding to the first cover member is P1, and the pulse corresponding to the second cover member is P2. Among them, P1>P2. Generally speaking, when the drill 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22, when the cover member 22 is the first cover member, the cover member 22 stretches compared to when the cover member 22 is the second cover member. Therefore, when the drill 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22, when the cover member 22 is the first cover member, the part where the nozzle 8 collides with the cover member 22 becomes lower in the Z-axis direction compared to when the cover member 22 is the second cover member. Therefore, as Fig.10 As shown, it is set to P1>P2.

[0096] The control device 500 acquires the type of the cover member 22. The control device 500 determines, for example, whether the cover member 22 is the first cover member or the second cover member. The driving amount (i.e., the number of pulses) of the nozzle 8 when the collision of the nozzle 8 is detected by the collision sensor 809 is the driving amount (i.e., the number of pulses) associated with the acquired type of the cover member 22. Fig.10 In the case of the pulse P1 or the pulse P2 shown, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 collides with the cover member 22.

[0097] For example, when it is determined that the cover member 22 is the first cover member, when the driving amount (i.e., the number of pulses) of the nozzle 8 when the collision of the nozzle 8 is detected is P1 (or a value close to P1), the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 has collided with the cover member 22. In addition, when it is determined that the cover member 22 is the second cover member, when the driving amount (i.e., the number of pulses) of the nozzle 8 when the collision of the nozzle 8 is detected is P2 (or a value close to P2), the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 has collided with the cover member 22.

[0098] In addition, Fig.10 In the embodiment, the pulse numbers of two types of cover members 22 are specified. However, the pulse numbers of three or more types of cover members 22 may be specified. In other words, Fig.10 The information is information obtained by associating pulses (that is, predetermined drive amounts) with respect to two or more types of cover members 22 .

[0099] As described above, each rack 3 is provided with a mark for distinguishing whether it is a CTS rack or a SAM rack. The mark for distinguishing a CTS rack may also include information that allows the control device 500 to determine the type of the cover member 22 of the storage container 2 held on the CTS rack. In this case, the control device 500 obtains the type of the cover member 22 of the storage container 2 based on the detection result of the mark sensor 700. Next, the control device 500 refers to the information indicating Fig.10 The number of pulses associated with the type of cover member 22 is acquired based on the information of the setting contents.

[0100] In addition, when the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 has collided with the cover member 22, that is, when the second error processing is executed, the control device 500 executes the re-penetration processing of the piercer 7. The re-penetration processing of the piercer 7 is a processing for making the piercer 7 penetrate the cover member 22 again when the piercer 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22. The re-penetration processing is a processing for attempting to penetrate the cover member 22 by temporarily raising the piercer 7 and then lowering the piercer 7 again.

[0101] In addition, a limit is set for the number of times of re-penetration processing. If the control device 500 performs the re-penetration processing multiple times, the piercer 7 hits the cover member 22, and fragments of the cover member 22 may be mixed into the sample 17. In addition, if the control device 500 performs the re-penetration processing multiple times, the piercer 7 hits the cover member 22, and the piercer 7 may be damaged.

[0102] Therefore, by setting a limit on the number of times of re-penetration processing, the "possibility of the fragments of the cover member 22 being mixed into the sample 17" and the "possibility of the nozzle 8 being damaged" can be reduced. The limit number corresponds to the "prescribed number of times" of the present disclosure. The limit number is, for example, "2 times".

[0103] The control device 500 performs the re-penetration process until the number of re-penetration processes reaches a predetermined number of times. In addition, when the number of re-penetration processes reaches a predetermined number of times, the control device 500 notifies an alarm. Regarding the notification of the alarm, for example, an alarm sound is output from the speaker 722.

[0104] [Liquid level detection in the drill]

[0105] After the drill 7 has completed the penetration of the cover member 22, the control device 500 Figure 6 As shown, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the interior of the drill 7 and lowered.

[0106] Here, the case where the storage container 2 is a blood collection tube is described as an example. Usually, blood is collected by a nurse or the like using a blood collection needle. The blood collected from the subject is stored in a blood collection tube with a cover member 22. When the nurse removes the blood collection needle from the blood collection tube after collecting blood, a small amount of blood may adhere to the upper part of the cover member 22. In this case, when the piercer 7 penetrates the cover member 22, the blood adhered to the cover member 22 may sometimes invade the inside of the piercer 7. In addition, when the piercer 7 penetrates the cover member 22, due to the difference between the pressure value inside the storage container 2 and the pressure value outside the storage container 2, there is a case where the sample 17 in the storage container 2 flows back to the piercer 7. In this case, blood also adheres to the inside of the piercer 7.

[0107] Fig.11 2 is a diagram showing a state where blood (sample) is attached to the inside of the piercer 7. Fig.11 The attached sample is set as droplet 610. Droplet 610 is a part of the sample. Fig.11 In the example of FIG. 5 , the tip of the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610. When the tip of the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610, the liquid level sensor 82 detects the droplet 610. Therefore, the control device 500 starts suction of the nozzle 8 based on the detection of the droplet 610, thereby performing empty suction of the nozzle 8. Empty suction is suction performed at a location where no specimen exists.

[0108] Therefore, in this embodiment, the control device 500 detects that the nozzle 8 contacts the sample (at Fig.11 In the example of droplet 610), the first error handling is performed.

[0109] The first error processing includes at least one of a first alarm processing and a first error storage processing. The first alarm processing is a processing of outputting a first alarm sound from the speaker 722 and a processing of displaying a first error image on the display device 250. The first error image is an image indicating that the nozzle 8 detects the sample inside the piercer 7. The first error image is, for example, an image called "P error" described later. The first error storage processing is a processing of storing an error history in a predetermined storage area. The predetermined storage area may be a storage area of ​​the analyzer 1 or a storage area of ​​an external device of the analyzer 1. When the error storage processing is executed, when the user operates the input device 200 to display the first error image, the stored error history is displayed on the display device 250. In addition, when the control device 500 executes the first error processing, the nozzle 8 is not caused to perform the suction processing. When the control device 500 executes the first error processing, the nozzle 8 is not caused to perform the suction processing, but the re-suction processing is executed. The re-suction processing is a suction processing performed by the nozzle 8 after the nozzle 8 is temporarily raised and then lowered again.

[0110] Next, a method in which the control device 500 causes the nozzle 8 to detect the sample inside the piercer 7 will be described. Fig.12 1 is a diagram showing a method in which the nozzle 8 detects a sample inside the drill 7. Fig.12 , the initial position X1 of the front end of the piercer 7 and the initial position X2 of the front end of the nozzle 8 are shown. The piercer 7 shown by the dotted line indicates the piercer 7 at the initial position. The piercer 7 shown by the solid line indicates the piercer 7 that has penetrated the cover member 22. The initial position X1 of the front end of the piercer 7 is the position of the front end of the piercer 7 before being driven. The initial position X2 of the front end of the nozzle 8 is the position of the front end of the nozzle 8 before being driven. Figure 8As shown in etc., the initial position X2 of the front end of the nozzle 8 is set to be higher than the initial position X1 of the front end of the drill 7.

[0111] Fig.12 In the example of, the drill 7 forms the front end of the drill 7 by forming a tapered surface 7A. The drill 7 has a first length L1 and a second length L2 longer than the first length L1 in the extending direction of the drill 7. In order for the drill 7 to penetrate the cover member 22, the distance for driving the drill 7 is determined. This distance is the distance L2 + L4. In addition, the distance between the initial position X2 and the initial position X1 is set as the distance L5.

[0112] As Fig.11 and Fig.12 shown, when the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 inside the drill 7, the driving distance LN of the nozzle 8 is L4 + L5 < LN < L4 + L5 + L2. In addition, when the driving distance LN of the nozzle 8 is LN ≥ L4 + L5 + L2, detecting that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen means that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen outside the drill 7.

[0113] Therefore, in the present embodiment, when it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen while the driving distance LN of the nozzle 8 is less than L4 + L5 + L2, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 inside the drill 7. In other words, when it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen while the driving amount of the nozzle 8 is less than the driving amount corresponding to L4 + L5 + L2, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 inside the drill 7. In addition, the threshold Th related to the driving amount is set as "the driving amount equivalent to L4 + L5 + L2". In this case, when it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen while the driving amount of the nozzle 8 is less than the threshold Th, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 inside the drill 7.

[0114] In addition, the threshold Th is the driving amount equivalent to the distance L4, the distance L5, and the distance L2. In addition, since the distance L4 and the distance L5 are predetermined values, the threshold Th can also be referred to as the driving amount equivalent to the length L2 in the extending direction of the drill 7. That is, when it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen while the driving amount of the nozzle 8 (i.e., the driving distance of the nozzle 8) is less than the threshold Th, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen inside the drill 7. In other words, the control device 500 determines whether it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the specimen inside the drill 7 based on the driving amount of the nozzle 8 and the driving amount equivalent to the length L2 in the extending direction of the drill 7.

[0115] In addition, there is a case where the nozzle 8 is lowered obliquely inside the drill 7. In this case, the control device 500 determines that the droplet 610 contacts the side surface of the nozzle 8. Fig.13 610 is a diagram showing a state where the droplet 610 contacts the side of the nozzle 8. Fig.13 In the case shown in FIG. 1 , the control device 500 also performs the first error processing. Fig.13 In the example, the front end of the nozzle 8 slightly protrudes from the piercer 7. In this way, even if the front end of the nozzle 8 slightly protrudes from the piercer 7 and the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610, the control device 500 can determine that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610. For example, the length of the piercer in the extension direction may be set to L3. Here, L3 = L2 + α. The value of α may be determined by the designer of the analysis device 1. In addition, as a modified example, the length of the piercer in the extension direction may be set to L1.

[0116] The situation in which the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid droplet 610 in the piercer 7 refers to a situation that may occur in the first suction process in one storage container 2 .

[0117] [Liquid level detection in storage container]

[0118] As in Figure 8 As also described in , etc., after the piercer 7 penetrates the cover member 22, the nozzle 8 is inserted into the inside of the piercer 7 that has penetrated, so that the nozzle 8 sucks the sample of the storage container 2. For example, when multiple suction processes are performed in one storage container 2, after one suction process is performed, the sample in the storage container 2 decreases. Therefore, in general, the height of the liquid level when the suction process is performed should be lower than the height of the liquid level when the suction process is performed the previous time.

[0119] However, there is a case where bubbles of the sample or the like are generated above the liquid surface of the sample due to, for example, vibration of the analysis device 1 or the like. Fig.14 17A is a diagram showing an example of a situation in which bubbles 612 are generated above the liquid surface 17A of the sample 17. Fig.14 As shown, it is assumed that the nozzle 8 contacts the bubble 612. In this case, although the nozzle 8 has not reached the liquid surface of the sample 17, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface of the sample 17 based on the detection result of the liquid surface sensor 82. In this case, there is a case where the nozzle 8 performs dry suction.

[0120] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the control device 500 determines the height of the nozzle 8 when detecting that the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface 17A, and stores the determined height of the nozzle 8 in the storage device 534. The height of the nozzle 8 is also referred to as the "last height". In addition, the detection of the contact of the nozzle 8 with the liquid surface 17A is also referred to as the "last detection". The height of the nozzle 8 corresponds to the drive amount of the nozzle 8 from the initial position. Since the drive amount of the nozzle 8 is the number of pulses output to the nozzle motor, the control device 500 determines the number of pulses as the height of the nozzle 8. After storing the last height, the control device 500 causes the nozzle 8 to perform a suction process.

[0121] Thereafter, when the nozzle 8 is detected to be in contact with the liquid surface 17A during the next suction process, the height of the nozzle 8 is determined, and the determined height of the nozzle 8 is stored in the storage device 534. The height of the nozzle 8 is also referred to as the "current height". In addition, the detection of the contact of the nozzle 8 with the liquid surface 17A is also referred to as the "current detection". In addition, the "current height" corresponds to the "first height" of the present disclosure. In addition, the "previous height" corresponds to the "second height" of the present disclosure.

[0122] Fig.15 It is a diagram showing an example of the liquid surface 17A that the nozzle 8 contacts. Fig.15 (A) is a diagram showing an example of the liquid surface 17A related to the previous height. Fig.15 (B) is a diagram showing an example of the liquid surface 17A related to the current height when the bubble 612 or the like is not generated in the nozzle 8 . Fig.15 (C) is a diagram showing an example of the liquid surface 17A related to the current height when bubbles 612 etc. are generated in the nozzle 8. Fig.15 In the example of FIG. 1 , the height of the position of the nozzle 8 is set to be the height based on the bottom surface 2B of the storage container 2 .

[0123] The control device 500 determines whether the current height (i.e., the first height) is higher than the previous height (i.e., the second height). Fig.15 (A) and Fig.15 As shown in (B), when it is determined that the current height H1 is lower than the previous height H2 (that is, when it is determined that the current height H1 < the previous height H2), the control device 500 performs the suction process of the nozzle.

[0124] On the other hand, Fig.15 (A) and Fig.15As shown in (C), the control device 500 performs the third error processing when it is determined that the current height H3 is higher than the previous height H2 (that is, when it is determined that the current height H3> the previous height H2). In addition, a part of the sample 17 other than the bubble 612 is attached to the liquid surface 17A. Fig.15 In addition, even if the previous height was Fig.15 The situation shown in (A) and the height this time is Fig.13 In the case shown, it is determined that the current height H3 is higher than the previous height H2. Therefore, in this case, the control device 500 also executes the third error processing.

[0125] The third error processing includes at least one of a third alarm processing and a third error storage processing. The third alarm processing is a processing of outputting a third alarm sound from the speaker 722 and a processing of displaying a third error image on the display device 250. The third error image is an image indicating that the nozzle 8 detects the sample inside the storage container 2. The third error image is an image called S rise described later. The third alarm sound is a sound indicating that the nozzle 8 detects the sample inside the storage container 2. The third error storage processing is a processing of storing the error history in a predetermined storage area. The predetermined storage area can be set as a storage area of ​​the analyzer 1 or a storage area of ​​an external device of the analyzer 1. And, when the user performs an operation to display the third error image on the input device 200 when the error storage processing is executed, the stored error history is displayed on the display device 250. In addition, when the control device 500 executes the third error processing, the nozzle 8 does not perform the suction processing, but performs the re-suction processing. As described above, the re-suction processing is a suction processing performed by the nozzle 8 after the nozzle 8 is temporarily raised and the nozzle 8 is lowered again. When the first to third error processing are executed, a droplet 610 may exist in the piercer 7 (see Fig.13 ). Therefore, the control device 500 can also pull out the drill 7 from the storage container 2, and clean and dry the drill 7. After that, the control device 500 lowers the drill 7 again.

[0126] In this way, the control device 500 performs the third error processing based on the current height of the nozzle 8 when the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid surface 17A of the sample 17 (i.e., the first height) and the previous height of the nozzle 8 when the liquid level sensor 82 last detected (i.e., the second height) stored in the storage device 534. Typically, the control device 500 determines whether the current height (i.e., the first height) is higher than the previous height (i.e., the second height). When the control device 500 determines that the current height H3 is higher than the previous height H2 (i.e., when it is determined that the current height H3> the previous height H2), the third error processing is performed.

[0127] In addition, if Fig.15 As shown in (D), due to the influence of the surface tension of the sample 17, the outer part of the liquid surface 17A may rise compared to the central part of the liquid surface 17A. In this case, the nozzle 8 is lowered with the front end of the nozzle 8 facing the inclined direction. In this case, the current height H4> the previous height H2.

[0128] However, even in Fig.15 In the state shown in (D), the nozzle 8 sucks the sample 17, and the probability that the nozzle 8 performs empty suction is also low. Fig.15 In the state shown in (D) of FIG. 1 , the control device 500 performs the suction process of the nozzle 8. That is, even if the current height is higher than the previous height, the control device 500 performs the suction process of the nozzle 8 when the difference ΔH between the current height and the previous height is less than the threshold value. The case where the difference ΔH is less than the difference threshold value is as follows Fig.15 The threshold value is set to a value corresponding to a predetermined pulse amount of the nozzle motor 813. The predetermined pulse amount is, for example, 10 pulses, which is approximately 1.5 mm.

[0129] In this embodiment, the control device 500 performs the third error processing when the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude and the difference ΔH between the current altitude and the previous altitude is greater than the threshold. In addition, as a modified example, the control device 500 may not use the threshold and perform the third error processing when it is determined that the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude. In this way, the control device 500 performs the third error processing based on the fact that the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude.

[0130] In addition, the control device 500 can also perform error processing under other conditions. For example, Fig.16 is a diagram for explaining an example of other conditions. Fig.16As shown, an upper limit value and a lower limit value are set for the liquid level 17A of the sample 17. When the driving amount when the liquid level sensor 82 detects the sample 17 is less than the driving amount corresponding to the upper limit value, that is, when the liquid level sensor 82 detects the sample 17 at a height higher than the upper limit value, the control device 500 executes the fourth error processing. For example, the fourth error processing is executed when too much sample 17 is stored in the storage container 2.

[0131] The fourth error processing includes at least one of the fourth alarm processing and the fourth error storage processing. The fourth alarm processing is a processing of outputting the fourth alarm sound from the speaker 722 and a processing of displaying the fourth error image on the display device 250. The fourth error image is an image indicating that the detection position of the liquid level sensor 82 is a position higher than the upper limit value. The fourth error image corresponds to the S error described later. The fourth alarm sound is a sound indicating that the detection position of the liquid level sensor 82 is a position higher than the upper limit value. The fourth error storage processing is a processing of storing the error history of the fourth error in a prescribed storage area. The prescribed storage area can be set as a storage area of ​​the analysis device 1 or a storage area of ​​an external device of the analysis device 1. In addition, when the user performs an operation to display the fourth error image on the input device 200 when the error storage processing is executed, the fourth error image is displayed on the display device 250.

[0132] In addition, when the driving amount when the liquid level sensor 82 detects the sample 17 is greater than the driving amount corresponding to the lower limit value, that is, when the liquid level sensor 82 detects the sample 17 at a position below the lower limit value, the control device 500 executes the fifth error processing. For example, the fifth error processing is executed when too little sample 17 is contained in the storage container 2.

[0133] The fifth error processing includes at least one of a fifth alarm processing and a fifth storage processing. The fifth alarm processing is a processing of outputting a fifth alarm sound from the speaker 722 and a processing of displaying a fifth image on the display device 250. The fifth image is an image indicating that the detection position of the liquid level sensor 82 is lower than the lower limit value. The fifth error image corresponds to S insufficient, which will be described later. The fifth alarm sound is a sound indicating that the detection position of the liquid level sensor 82 is lower than the lower limit value. The fifth storage processing is a processing of storing the error history of the fifth error in a prescribed storage area. The prescribed storage area can be set to a storage area of ​​the analysis device 1 or a storage area of ​​an external device of the analysis device 1. Furthermore, when the user performs an operation for displaying the fifth image on the input device 200 while the error storage processing is being executed, the fifth image is displayed on the display device 250. In addition, as Fig.16 As shown, the range between the upper limit value and the lower limit value is called the "normal range".

[0134] [About error display]

[0135] Next, an example of error display by the display device 250 is described. Fig.17 This is an example of a list screen for requesting the analysis device 1. Fig.17 As shown in the screen of FIG. 1 , for example, a request to the analysis device 1 is input from the input device 200. Fig.17 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the main items displayed are a request identification column 950, a specimen column 951, a rack column 952, a status column 954, an analysis item column 956, a request list button 906, a data list button 908, and an error button 910. When the request list button 906 is operated, the Fig.17 screen.

[0136] The request identification column 950 displays identification information for identifying each request. The request identification column 950 displays a request number as identification information. The sample column 951 displays information for identifying a sample to be analyzed. Fig.17 In the example, for example, S1 to S8 are displayed as identification information of the specimen. In addition, a specimen barcode may also be displayed as identification information of the specimen. The category of the rack and the date and time of the commission are displayed in the rack column 952. The category of the rack is information indicating the place where the specimen is stored. For example, for a commission with a commission number of "2", the rack is displayed as "S001-02" and the date and time of the commission is "4 / 19 at 14:26". In addition, the first letter "S" of the category of the rack indicates a SAM rack, and the first letter "P" of the category of the rack indicates a CTS rack.

[0137] In addition, an analysis item to be executed (hereinafter referred to as "analysis item") is associated with each request number. Fig.17 In the example, as analysis items, there are analysis items A to analysis item D. In each analysis item, the reagent to be used, the amount of the sample to be used, and the analysis method are specified. In addition, each analysis is performed in the order of analysis of analysis item A, analysis of analysis item B, analysis of analysis item C, and analysis of analysis item D. In addition, more than one analysis item commissioned for one sample is also referred to as "multiple analysis items". In this way, in this embodiment, the analysis mechanism 723 can perform analysis of each analysis item in multiple analysis items (analysis item A to analysis item D) on one sample under the control of the control device 500. In addition, the display device 250 displays the sample (i.e., the identification information S1 to S8 of the sample).

[0138] In addition, an error message is displayed in the status bar. Fig.17In the example, as error messages, "S rise ×" information and "P error ×" information are displayed. The "S rise ×" information and the third error message indicating an error based on the third error processing (see below) are displayed. Fig.19 ) or the third error image. The information "P error ×" indicates the first error message (refer to the following Fig.19 ) and the second error message (see below Fig.19 ), wherein the first error message indicates an error based on the first error processing, and the second error message indicates an error based on the second error processing. In addition, the information of "P error ×" may also correspond to the first error image or the second error image mentioned above.

[0139] Although not shown in the figure, a fourth error message "S error" is also displayed (see the following description). Fig.19 ) and the fifth error message "S is insufficient" (see below) Fig.19 ). "S error" is the fourth error image or an error message indicating an error based on the fourth error processing. "S insufficient" is the sixth error image or an error message indicating an error based on the fifth error processing. In addition, other error messages may also be displayed. Regarding other error messages, for example, there are error messages indicating that the dispensing of reagents has failed and error messages indicating that reagents are insufficient.

[0140] Fig.18 is a diagram showing an overview of the analysis results. Fig.17 When the data list button 908 is pressed, the control device 500 displays Fig.18 The analysis results are listed in the screen. Fig.18 In the example of , a request identification column 950, a specimen column 951, a rack column 952, and an analysis result column 959 are displayed. Fig.18 The time recorded in the request identification column 950 in the example is the time when the processing performed by the analysis device 1 ends. Fig.18 In the example of , four analysis results, analysis results 961 to 964, are shown.

[0141] In the analysis result 961, the analysis result of the sample S7 is shown. For the analysis item A, the analysis result A10 is derived. However, for the next analysis item B, an error of S rising is detected. Here, the error of "S rising" is Fig.15(C) is an error when the liquid level sensor 82 detects the droplet 610. This error is detected when the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610. Since the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610, the droplet 610 falls and most of the droplets 610 disappear. In this embodiment, when the error of S rising is detected, the nozzle 8 is raised and then lowered again to cause the nozzle 8 to be sucked again. At the time of the nozzle 8 sucking again, the droplets 610 mostly disappear.

[0142] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the error of S rise is detected, the analysis unit 723 also performs analysis on the items other than the item in which the error of S rise is detected among the multiple items including the item in which the error of S rise is detected. In other words, when the error of S rise is detected, the analysis unit 723 performs analysis on the remaining analysis items other than the analysis item in which the error of S rise is detected among the multiple analysis items on the specimen.

[0143] exist Fig.18 In the analysis result 961 of the example, it is shown that an error of S rise is detected in analysis item B. Therefore, for a plurality of analysis items including analysis item B, the analysis is performed on the items after the item (i.e., analysis item B) in which the error of S rise is detected (i.e., analysis item C and analysis item D). Fig.18 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , an error in which S rises is also detected for analysis item C and analysis item D.

[0144] On this basis, the analysis unit 723 reanalyzes the sample in which the error S rise is detected. Fig.18 In the example of , the analysis unit 723 re-analyzes the sample B in which the error S rise was detected as shown in the analysis result 963. In the analysis result 963, the analysis result is displayed together with the text "re-check" indicating that the analysis was re-executed. Fig.18 In the example, analysis result A12 is displayed for the analysis result of analysis item A. Analysis result B12 is displayed for the analysis result of analysis item B. Analysis result C12 is displayed for the analysis result of analysis item C. Analysis result D12 is displayed for the analysis result of analysis item D. In addition, analysis result A12, analysis result B12, analysis result C12, and analysis result D12 are each displayed in association with a text image such as "Recheck".

[0145] In addition, when the rise of S is detected, the sample in which the rise of S is detected (in Fig.18In the example of the present invention, an error message 972 indicating an S rise is displayed in association with the specimen S7). In addition, when an S rise is detected, an error message 976 indicating an S rise is displayed in association with the erroneous analysis item in which the S rise is detected among the plurality of analysis items. Fig.18 In the example, regarding analysis result 961, error information 972 of S rise is displayed in association with specimen S7. In addition, regarding analysis result 961, error information 976 of S rise is displayed in association with analysis items (i.e., analysis items B to D) in which S rise errors are detected among the plurality of analysis items.

[0146] In addition, when a P error is detected, the analysis unit 723 does not perform analysis on the sample except for the analysis item in which the P rise error is detected. In the case of a P error being detected, the analysis unit 723 performs analysis again on the sample B in which the P error is detected. Fig.18 In the example of , as shown in analysis result 962, a P error is detected in the inspection based on analysis item B, so analysis of analysis item C and analysis item D is not performed. Fig.18 In the example, the text "Not checked" is displayed for analysis item C and analysis item D. Fig.18 In the example of , the analysis unit 723 re-analyzes the sample B in which the error of P rise was detected as shown in the analysis result 964. In the analysis result 964, the analysis result is displayed together with the text "re-check" indicating that the analysis was re-executed. Fig.18 In the example of FIG. 1 , the analysis result of the analysis of the analysis item A is displayed as analysis result A13. The analysis result of the analysis of the analysis item B is displayed as P error detected again.

[0147] In addition, when a P error is detected, the sample in which the P error is detected (in Fig.18 In the example of the sample S8), error information 974 of P error is displayed in association with the sample S8). In addition, when a P error is detected, error information 978 of P error is displayed in association with the analysis item in which the P error is detected among the plurality of analysis items. Fig.18 In the example, regarding the analysis result 962, error information 974 of P error is displayed in association with the specimen S8. In addition, regarding the analysis result 962, error information 978 of P error is displayed in association with the analysis item (i.e., analysis item B) in which the P error is detected among the plurality of analysis items.

[0148] Here, in the case where an error of S rising is detected, the analyzing device 1 prompts the user to select which analysis result A10 or analysis result A12 is selected, wherein the analysis result A10 is obtained by analyzing the remaining analysis items except the analysis item in which the error of S rising is detected ( Fig.18 The analysis result A12 is obtained by re-analyzing the sample in which the error S rise was detected ( Fig.18 Therefore, in this embodiment, the control device 500 displays the error message 972 of S rise in a manner different from other error messages (error message of P error, error message of S deficiency, error message of S error). Fig.18 In the example of , displaying in different manners means displaying in a manner that the direction of the hatched oblique lines of the error message 972 of the S rise is different from the direction of the hatched oblique lines of the error message 974 of the P error. The error message 972 of the S rise is displayed in a first color (e.g., orange), and the error message 974 of the P error is displayed in a second color (e.g., pink).

[0149] Additionally, when performing the initial suction (e.g. Fig.18 In the case of the analysis result 961 of the analysis item A, there is already a droplet 610 in the borer 7. Fig.13 In the condition of , the nozzle 8 performs empty suction. Then, by performing the second suction, Fig.11 In this case, the control device 500 may not execute the remaining analysis items of the analysis result 961, but display P error (first error image) for rechecking. This is because, in Fig.13 When the sample is detected at the position and the analysis result A10 of the analysis result 961 is derived, the sample may not be correctly aspirated, and P error is displayed to prevent the user from using the analysis result A10.

[0150] In addition, Fig.18 In the example of FIG. 5 , an example is described in which the display method of the error information associated with the specimen is different in the case of S rise and P error. However, the control device 500 may display at least one of the error information associated with the specimen and the error information associated with the analysis item in which the error is detected in a different manner from the error information indicating that other errors are detected.

[0151] In addition, regarding an error that is different from both an S rise and a P error (for example, an S error or an S shortage), a mark of “×” is not displayed like an S rise and a P error.

[0152] In addition, when operating Fig.18 When the error button 910 is pressed, for example, the specific content of the P error (that is, whether it is an error based on the first error processing or an error based on the second error processing) is displayed.

[0153] Fig.19 is a diagram showing an example of the outline of each error message. The first error message is a message indicating that "the nozzle has detected the sample inside the drill." The first error message, for example, indicates Fig.11 The first error message corresponds to the P error described above. The second error message is a message indicating that the nozzle collides with the cover member. The second error message, for example, indicates Fig. 9 The second error message corresponds to the P error described above. The third error message is a message indicating that "the liquid level is detected at a higher position than the last time". The third error message, for example, indicates Fig.15 The third error message corresponds to the above-mentioned S rise.

[0154] The fourth error message is a message indicating that "the liquid level is detected at a position above the upper limit value". Fig.16 The fourth error message corresponds to the above-mentioned S error. The fifth error message is a message indicating that "the liquid level was detected at a position lower than the lower limit value". The fifth error message is, for example, a message indicating that the liquid level sensor 82 was detected at a position lower than the lower limit value. Fig.16 A message when the liquid level is detected at a position below the lower limit value shown. The fifth error message corresponds to the above-mentioned insufficient S. In this way, the first error message to the fifth error message are different messages. In addition, the error represented by the first error message is called the first error. The error represented by the second error message is called the second error. The error represented by the third error message is called the third error. The error represented by the fourth error message is called the fourth error. The error represented by the fifth error message is called the fifth error. In addition, the display device 250 can also display the error message in association with the identification information of the specimen in which the error based on the error message occurred.

[0155] [About threshold setting]

[0156] Next, an example of a screen that the control device 500 causes the display device 250 to display will be described. The user can freely set the threshold value of the difference. Fig. 20 This is an example of a setting screen for the difference threshold. The control device 500 displays the setting screen in the display area 250A of the display device 250. Fig. 20In the setting screen, a text image such as "Please enter the difference threshold" and an input area 260 for entering the difference threshold are displayed. The user uses the input device 200 to enter the difference threshold in the input area 260. The threshold can be set to the allowable distance between the previous height and the current height, or it can be set to the number of pulses of the nozzle motor 813 corresponding to the distance. Fig. 20 In the example of , it is set to be a distance (for example, in mm). When the threshold value of the difference is input, the control device 500 sets the threshold value of the difference. For example, the control device 500 stores the threshold value of the difference in the storage device 534. The control device 500 performs the third error processing based on the threshold value of the difference stored in the storage device 534.

[0157] In addition, in this embodiment, the user can set whether to send the analysis device 1 to the host device 270 (see Figure 3 ) for error notification. Fig.21 This is an example of a setting screen for the presence or absence of error notification. The control device 500 displays this setting screen in the display area 250A of the display device 250. Fig.21 In the setting screen, a text image such as "Should I notify the host device of the error?", a YES image 262, a NO image 264, and a cursor 266 are displayed. The user uses the input device 200 to align the cursor 266 with either the YES image 262 or the NO image 264. Then, the user performs a decision operation on the input device 200, whereby the control device 500 performs a process corresponding to the image aligned with the cursor 266. For example, when the user performs a decision operation with the cursor 266 aligned with the YES image 262, the control device 500 notifies the host device 270 of the error. On the other hand, when the user performs a decision operation with the cursor 266 aligned with the NO image 264, the control device 500 does not notify the host device 270 of the error. In addition, the user may set the error notification for each of the first to fifth error processes.

[0158] [Functional configuration example of control device]

[0159] Fig. 22 1 is a block diagram of a functional configuration example of the control device 500. The control device 500 has functions of a first error processing unit 502, a nozzle driving unit 504, a second error processing unit 506, a drill driving unit 508, a third error processing unit 510, and a receiving unit 542.

[0160] When the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the nozzle 8 has contacted the sample when the driving amount of the nozzle 8 is less than the threshold value Th (for example, "driving amount equivalent to L4+L5+L2"), the first error processing unit 502 determines that the nozzle 8 has contacted the liquid drop 610 inside the piercer 7. The first error processing unit 502 executes the first error processing when it is determined that the nozzle 8 has contacted the liquid drop 610 inside the piercer 7. At the same time, the nozzle driving unit 504 causes the nozzle driving device 81 to perform a re-suction process of the nozzle 8.

[0161] The second error processing unit 506 executes the second error processing based on the detection of the collision by the collision sensor 809. At the same time, the drill driving unit 508 causes the drill driving device 71 to execute the re-penetration processing of the drill 7.

[0162] When the current height is higher than the previous height and the difference between the current height and the previous height is greater than the threshold, the third error processing unit 510 executes the third error processing. At the same time, the nozzle driving unit 504 causes the nozzle driving device 81 to perform the re-suction process of the nozzle 8. In addition, the display device 250 displays a setting screen for the difference threshold (see Fig. 20 ). The receiving unit 542 receives the difference threshold value input from the setting screen. The difference threshold value received by the receiving unit 542 is stored in the storage device 534. The third error processing unit 510 uses the difference threshold value stored in the storage device 534 to determine whether the third error has occurred.

[0163] [Flowchart of the analysis device]

[0164] Figure 23 to Figure 27 is a flowchart showing an example of the process procedure executed by the analysis device 1. When the "execution condition for executing the suction process once for the sample stored in the storage container 2" is satisfied, the control device 500 executes Figure 23 to Figure 27 The "condition for executing one suction process" for the first suction process performed on one storage container 2 is, for example, "a condition that a start operation is performed by the user". In addition, the "condition for executing one suction process" for the second and subsequent suction processes performed on one storage container 2 is, for example, "a condition that the previous suction process is completed".

[0165] Fig.23 This is the main process of the control device 500. Fig.23 In step S2, the control device 500 determines whether the rack 3 holding the storage container 2 containing the sample is a CTS rack or a SAM rack. When the control device 500 determines that the rack 3 holding the storage container 2 containing the sample is a CTS rack ("Yes" in step S2), the process proceeds to step S4.

[0166] In step S4, the control device 500 lowers the piercer 7 (the piercer 7 starts to lower). When the piercer 7 is lowered, the process proceeds to step S5. In addition, at the time point when the piercer 7 is lowered, there are cases where the piercer 7 has penetrated the cover member 22 and cases where the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22. In step S5, the control device 500 starts to lower the nozzle. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S6. Next, in step S6, the control device 500 determines whether the droplet 610 is detected in the piercer 8. In step S6, if it is determined that the droplet 610 is detected in the piercer 8 ("Yes" in step S6), the process proceeds to step S12. In step S12, the control device 500 performs the first error processing and the re-suction processing. The process of step S12 will be described later. In addition, in step S6, if the droplet 610 is not detected in the piercer 8 ("No" in step S6), the process proceeds to step S18.

[0167] In step S18, the control device 500 determines whether the nozzle 8 is detected to collide with the cover member 22. In step S18, when the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 is detected to collide with the cover member 22 ("Yes" in step S18), the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, the control device 500 executes the second error process and the re-penetration process. The process of step S20 will be described later.

[0168] If the control device 500 determines in step S18 that the collision of the nozzle 8 with the cover member 22 is not detected in the piercer 7 (NO in step S18 ), the process proceeds to step S22 .

[0169] In step S22, the control device 500 determines whether the liquid surface is detected outside the piercer 7. If the determination in step S22 is "No", the process returns to step S5, and the nozzle 8 is continued to be lowered. In addition, if the determination in step S22 is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the control device 500 performs a suction process. The process of step S24 will be described later.

[0170] In addition, if the judgment in step S2 is "No", that is, if the sample in the storage container 2 not covered by the cover member 22 is sucked, the process proceeds to step S26. In step S26, the control device 500 lowers the nozzle 8 (the nozzle 8 starts to lower). When the process of step S26 is completed, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0171] Fig.24This is a flowchart of the "suction process" of step S24. In step S242, the control device 500 determines whether the nozzle 8 detects the liquid surface. In the case where the judgment in step S242 is "No", in step S244, the control device 500 drives the nozzle 8 (that is, lowers it). In addition, the control device 500 repeats the processing of steps S242 and step S244 until the nozzle 8 detects the liquid surface. In addition, in step S242 of step S24 after the judgment in step S22 is "Yes", it is judged as "Yes".

[0172] If the judgment in step S242 is "yes", the process proceeds to step S245. In step S245, the control device 500 determines whether the height of the nozzle 8 when the liquid level is detected is within the normal range (refer to Fig.16 ). If it is determined as "No" in step S245, the process proceeds to step S256. In step S256, the control device 500 executes the fourth error processing or the fifth error processing. In step S256, typically, when it is determined that the height of the nozzle 8 is higher than the upper limit value, the control device 500 executes the fourth error processing. In addition, in step S256, typically, when it is determined that the height of the nozzle 8 is lower than the lower limit value, the control device 500 executes the fifth error processing. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0173] In step S246, the control device 500 determines whether the current height of the nozzle 8 is "higher than the previous height of the nozzle 8 and the difference between the current height and the previous height is greater than the threshold value". If it is determined in step S246 that the nozzle 8 is higher than the previous height and the difference between the current height and the previous height is greater than the threshold value (that is, if it is determined as "yes" in step S246), the process proceeds to step S254. On the other hand, if it is determined as "no" in step S246, the process proceeds to step S248. In addition, Fig.24 In step S246, a statement such as "Is the nozzle position higher than the last detected nozzle position?" is shown in a simplified manner.

[0174] In step S248, the control device 500 deletes the last height of the nozzle. Next, in step S250, the current height of the nozzle 8 (i.e., the height of the nozzle 8 when it is determined to be "yes" in step S242) is stored in the storage device 534 as the last height. The last height stored in step S242 is used in step S246 in the next suction process. Next, in step S252, the control device 500 causes the nozzle 8 to suck the sample.

[0175] Next, an example of a flowchart (subroutine) of the first error process and the re-suction process in step S12 will be described. Fig.25 This is an example of a flowchart of the first error process and the re-suction process.

[0176] In step S202, the control device 500 performs the first error processing. Next, in step S204, the nozzle automatic number X is increased by 1. Here, the nozzle automatic number X is the number of times the re-suction process of the nozzle 8 is performed. The initial value of the nozzle automatic number X is 0. In step S206, the control device 500 determines whether the nozzle automatic number X has reached a specified value Xth. The specified value Xth corresponds to the "first specified number" of the present disclosure. In step S206, when the control device 500 determines that the nozzle automatic number X has reached the specified value Xth ("yes" in step S206), an alarm process is performed in step S210. Here, the alarm process of step S210 is an alarm process different from the alarm process of the first error process of step S202. In addition, the alarm process of step S210 can also be set to the same alarm process as the alarm process of the first error process of step S202. By ending the alarm process, the overall process ends.

[0177] In addition, when the control device 500 determines in step S206 that the nozzle automatic number X has not reached the specified value Xth ("No" in step S206), in step S208, the control device 500 raises the drill 7 and the nozzle 8, and then the processing ends. Fig.25 Although not particularly shown, the control device 500 cleans and dries the drill 7 pulled out from the storage container 2 using a predetermined cleaning mechanism or the like.

[0178] Next, an example of a flowchart (subroutine) of the second error processing and the re-through processing in step S20 will be described. Fig.26 This is an example of a flowchart of the second error processing and the re-through processing.

[0179] In step S122, the control device 500 performs the second error processing. Next, in step S124, the automatic number of drills Y is increased by 1. Here, the automatic number of drills Y is the number indicating the number of execution times of the re-penetration processing of the drill 7. The initial value of the automatic number of drills Y is 0. In step S126, the control device 500 determines whether the automatic number of drills Y has reached a specified value Yth. The specified value Yth corresponds to the "second specified number of times" of the present disclosure. The specified value Yth is associated with the identification information of the specimen (for example, the specimen barcode). In addition, the specified value Yth and the specimen identification information associated with the specified value Yth are stored in a specified area. In step S126, when the control device 500 determines that the automatic number of drills Y has reached the specified value Yth ("Yes" in step S126), an alarm process is performed in step S130. Here, the alarm process of step S130 is an alarm process different from the alarm process of the second error processing of step S122. By terminating the alarm process, the overall process ends.

[0180] In addition, when the control device 500 determines in step S126 that the number of automatic drillings Y has not reached the specified value Yth ("No" in step S126), in step S128, the control device 500 raises the drilling 7 and the nozzle 8, and then the processing ends. Fig.26 Although not particularly shown, the control device 500 cleans and dries the drill 7 pulled out from the storage container 2 using a predetermined cleaning mechanism or the like.

[0181] Next, an example of a flowchart (subroutine) of the third error process and the re-suction process of step S254 will be described. Fig. 27 This is an example of a flowchart of the third error process and re-suction process.

[0182] In step S2542, the control device 500 performs the third error processing. Next, in step S2544, the nozzle automatic number Z is increased by 1. Here, the nozzle automatic number Z is the number of times the re-suction process of the nozzle 8 is performed. The initial value of the nozzle automatic number Z is 0. In step S2546, the control device 500 determines whether the nozzle automatic number Z has reached the specified value Zth. In step S2546, when the control device 500 determines that the nozzle automatic number Z has reached the specified value Zth ("Yes" in step S2546), an alarm process is performed in step S130. Here, the alarm process of step S2550 is an alarm process different from the alarm process of the third error processing of step S2542. By ending the alarm process, the overall process ends.

[0183] In addition, when the control device 500 determines in step S2546 that the nozzle automatic number Z has not reached the specified value Zth ("No" in step S2546), in step S2548, the control device 500 raises the drill 7 and the nozzle 8. Thereafter, the processing ends. Fig.26 Although not particularly shown in the figure, the control device 500 uses a predetermined cleaning mechanism or the like to clean and dry the drill 7 pulled out of the storage container 2. After that, the process returns to step S2. In addition, the drill automatic number of times Y and the nozzle automatic number of times X may be set to the same number of times. In addition, the drill automatic number of times Y and the nozzle automatic number of times X may be set to different numbers of times.

[0184] In addition, Fig.25 Step S208, Fig.26 Step S128 and Fig. 27 After the processing of step S2548 is completed, the processing after step S2 is executed again, so the suction processing is actually performed again. Fig.25 In the processing of step S210, step S130 and step S2550, the analysis processing and the alarm processing may be terminated together.

[0185] Furthermore, the control device 500 may store at least one of the predetermined value Xth, the predetermined value Yth, and the predetermined value Zth in association with the sample identification information.

[0186] <Second Embodiment>

[0187] In the first embodiment described above, the analysis device 1 uses the collision sensor 809 (see Fig. 9 ) to detect whether the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22. However, the analysis device 1 may use other members to detect whether the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22. In the second embodiment, the analysis device 1 uses a piezoelectric element to detect whether the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22.

[0188] Fig.28 2 is a cross-sectional view of the piercer 7 and the storage container 2 according to the second embodiment. A piezoelectric element 850 is provided on the periphery of the piercer 7. Fig.28 In the example of FIG. 8 , the piezoelectric element 850 is disposed near the front end of the drill 7. Fig.28 In the example of , the piezoelectric element 850 is provided at a position above the tapered surface 7A of the drill 7 .

[0189] The piezoelectric element 850 is connected to the control device 500. The piezoelectric element 850 converts the force applied to the piezoelectric element 850 into a voltage corresponding thereto, and outputs a current based on the voltage value to the control device 500. The control device 500 determines the force applied to the piezoelectric element 850 based on the current.

[0190] Fig.29 850 and the number of pulses output by the control device 500 to the drill motor 713. Fig.29 In FIG. 8 , the X-axis represents the number of pulses outputted to the drill motor by the control device 500 , and the Y-axis represents the pressure applied to the piezoelectric element 850 .

[0191] Fig.29 (A) shows a case where the piercer 7 has penetrated the cover member 22 . Fig.29 (B) shows a case where the piercer 7 does not penetrate the cover member 22 .

[0192] exist Fig.29 In the example of (A), during the period from 0 to PA of the pulse number, the pressure value of the pressure applied to the piezoelectric element 850 is 0. The period from 0 to PA of the pulse number is the period from when the piercer 7 is in the initial position until the piercer 7 contacts the cover member 22. The period from PA to PB of the pulse number is the period from when the piercer 7 contacts the cover member 22 until the front end 7B of the piercer 7 pushes the cover member 22.

[0193] The period of pulse numbers PB to PC is the period from when the tip 7B of the piercer 7 presses the cover member 22 until the tip 7B of the piercer 7 penetrates the cover member 22. Fig.29 In the example (A), the pulse number PB means that the cover member 22 is stretched and the tip 7B of the piercer 7 protrudes the most. Then, when the pulse number becomes PC, the tip 7B of the piercer 7 penetrates the cover member 22.

[0194] exist Fig.29 In the example (A), there are inflection points α and β as the locations where the pressure value increases as the number of pulses increases and decreases (see Fig.29 The inflection point α is the point where the pressure value changes from the increasing direction to the decreasing direction. The inflection point β is the point where the degree of change (gradient) of the decrease in the pressure value decreases.

[0195] On the other hand, Fig.29 In (B), the pressure change during the period from 0 to PA is Fig.29 The same as (A). Fig.29In (B), when the number of pulses is greater than or equal to PA, there is no "region where the pressure value increased as the number of pulses increases decreases".

[0196] Thus, in this embodiment, when the control device 500 detects the inflection point β as the pulse number increases, it determines that the drill 7 has penetrated the cover member 22. When the control device 500 does not detect the inflection point β as the pulse number increases, it determines that the drill 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22.

[0197] <Third Embodiment>

[0198] The analysis device 1 of the third embodiment has a third sensor for detecting a collision state of the piercer 7 and the cover member 22. The cover member 22 is generally made of a material that is difficult to penetrate, such as a rubber material. Therefore, the piercer driving device 71 drives the piercer 7 with a large force. In addition, when the piercer 7 collides with the impurities mixed in the storage container 2, the piercer 7 is driven with a large force, and the storage container 2 may be damaged. In addition, when the piercer 7 is driven with a large force in a state where the piercer 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22, the storage container 2 may also be damaged.

[0199] Therefore, the analyzer 1 of the present embodiment performs the sixth error processing based on the detection of the collision of the drill 7 (for example, failure to penetrate the cover member 22) during the descent of the drill 7. In the present embodiment, the analyzer 1 detects the collision state of the drill 7 against the cover member 22, and when the collision state is still detected even when the drill 7 is driven by the additional pulse number described later, the analyzer 1 detects the "non-penetration state of the drill 7 not penetrating the cover member 22". Here, the "collision state" refers to the state in which the cover member 22 applies a predetermined amount of force F upward to the drill 7 driven downward when the drill 7 contacts the cover member 22 (see Fig.30 (B)).

[0200] In addition, the sixth error processing includes at least one of the sixth alarm processing and the sixth error storage processing. The sixth alarm processing is a processing of outputting the sixth alarm sound from the speaker 722 and a processing of displaying an error image on the display device 250. The sixth alarm sound is a sound indicating that the drill 7 has failed to penetrate the cover member 22. In addition, the sixth error image is an image indicating that the drill 7 has failed to penetrate the cover member 22. The sixth error image corresponds to the above-mentioned P error. The sixth error storage processing is a processing of storing the error history in a prescribed storage area. The prescribed storage area can be set as a storage area of ​​the analysis device 1 or a storage area of ​​an external device of the analysis device 1. And, when the user performs an operation for displaying the sixth error image on the input device 200 when the error storage processing is executed, the stored error history is displayed on the display device 250. The collision sensor for detecting the collision state and the non-penetration state is described below.

[0201] Fig.30 It is a diagram for explaining a collision sensor. Fig.30 is a diagram showing the interior of the drill arm 711 . Fig.30 (A) is a diagram showing a condition where the drill 7 is not in a collision state. Fig.30 (B) is a diagram showing a condition where the drill 7 is in a collision state.

[0202] The drill arm 711 is provided with a force-applying member 703, a holding member 706, a visor 704, and a collision sensor 709. The collision sensor 709 corresponds to the "sixth sensor" of the present disclosure. The force-applying member 703 is, for example, a spring, more specifically, a compression coil spring. One end of the force-applying member 703 is mounted on the inner surface of the drill arm 711. In addition, the other end of the force-applying member 703 is held by the holding member 706. The holding member 706 holds the force-applying member 703 and is engaged with the outer periphery of the drill 7. Therefore, the force-applying member 703 applies force to the drill 7 downward in the Z-axis direction.

[0203] The light shielding plate 704 has an L-shaped cross section. In addition, one end of the light shielding plate 704 is joined to the outer periphery of the drill 7. The collision sensor 709 has a light output unit 701 and a light input unit 702. The light output unit 701 outputs light to the light input unit 702. When light is input to the light input unit 702, a light signal is sent to the control device 500. The light signal is a signal indicating that light is input to the light input unit 702.

[0204] The drill driving device 71 lowers the drill 7 by lowering the rotating shaft 712. Fig.30As shown in (A), when the collision state is not in progress, the light from the light output unit 701 is not input to the light input unit 702 due to the light shielding plate 70. As described above, the force of the force applying member 703 is applied downward to the drill 7. Therefore, when the collision state is not in progress (for example, when the drill 7 begins to collide with the cover member 22), the force applied to the drill 7 maintains the state in which the light is not input to the light input unit 702 (that is, Fig.30 The state shown in (A)).

[0205] However, when the drill driving device 71 further lowers the drill 7 after the drill 7 starts to contact the cover member 22, the drill 7 is blocked by the cover member 22, so that a force is applied to the drill 7 upward in the Z-axis direction. Then, when the drill 7 is further lowered and the force applied to the drill 7 upward exceeds the force applied to the drill 7 downward by the force applying member 703, as shown in FIG. Fig.30 As shown in (B), the drill 7 rises relative to the drill arm 711. Here, the above-mentioned "force F of a predetermined amount" corresponds to "a force exceeding the force applied downward by the urging member 703".

[0206] As the drill 7 rises relative to the drill arm 711, the light shielding plate 704 engaged with the drill 7 also rises. Fig.30 As shown in (B), when the shading plate 704 rises, the light from the light output unit 701 is not blocked by the shading plate 704. As a result, the light is input to the light input unit 702. When light is input to the light input unit 702, the light signal from the light input unit 702 is input to the control device 500. The control device 500 determines that it is in a collision state due to the input of the light signal.

[0207] In addition, Fig.30 In the example of , the following structure is used: when the drill 7 rises relative to the drill arm 711, the drill 7 and the rotation shaft 712 protrude from the drill arm 711. Fig.30 In the example of the embodiment, the structure is as follows: when the drill 7 rises relative to the drill arm 711, the state in which light is not input to the light input unit 702 is switched to the state in which light is input to the light input unit 702. As a modified example, the structure may be as follows: when the drill 7 rises relative to the drill arm 711, the state in which light is input to the light input unit 702 is switched to the state in which light is not input to the light input unit 702.

[0208] That is, the analysis device 1 includes a light output unit 701 that outputs light, a light input unit 702 to which light is input, and a force applying member 703. The force applying member 703 applies a force to the drill 7 in a downward direction (i.e., the direction of the storage container 2). Furthermore, when the drill 7 moves upward relative to the drill arm 711 and changes the input state of the light input unit 702, the control device 500 determines that it is in a collision state. The change of the input state of the light input unit 702 can be set as "from a state where light is not input to the light input unit 702 to a state where light is input to the light input unit 702" as in the present embodiment. In addition, the change of the input state of the light input unit 702 can also be set as "from a state where light is input to the light input unit 702 to a state where light is not input to the light input unit 702" as in the modified example.

[0209] In addition, even if the control device 500 determines the collision state, there is a case where the control device 500 can penetrate the cover member 22 by further lowering the drill 7. Therefore, in the present embodiment, even if the control device 500 determines the collision state, the following processing is performed: the drill 7 is further lowered by outputting a predetermined amount of pulses to the drill motor 713 of the drill driving device 71. Hereinafter, the pulse to be output is also referred to as an "additional pulse". In addition, the additional pulse corresponds to the "predetermined drive amount" of the present disclosure.

[0210] When the control device 500 enables the drill 7 to penetrate the cover member 22 by outputting an additional pulse to the drill motor 713, the control device 500 executes the following processing, that is, a processing for driving the nozzle 8. On the other hand, when the drill 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22 even when the control device 500 outputs an additional pulse to the drill motor 713, the control device 500 determines that it is in a "non-penetration state" and executes the sixth error processing.

[0211] In the present embodiment, when the drill 7 has penetrated the cover member 22 when the control device 500 outputs an additional pulse to the drill motor 713, the upward force applied to the drill 7 is released. When the upward force applied to the drill 7 is released, the state of the light input unit 702 becomes a "light non-input state" by the downward force applied to the drill 7 from the force applying member 703. When the control device 500 determines that the light non-input state is reached, the control device 500 determines that the drill 7 has completed the penetration of the cover member 22. On the other hand, when the light input state continues even when the control device 500 outputs an additional pulse to the drill motor 713, the control device 500 determines that the drill 7 has failed to penetrate the cover member 22 (that is, is in a non-penetration state).

[0212] That is, in the present embodiment, when the control device 500 performs the processing in the order of “determining the light input state of the light input section 702”, “outputting an additional pulse”, and “determining the light non-input state of the light input section 702”, the control device 500 determines that the piercer 7 has penetrated the cover member 22. On the other hand, when the control device 500 performs the processing in the order of “determining the light input state of the light input section 702”, “applying an additional pulse”, and “determining the light input state of the light input section 702”, the control device 500 determines that the piercer 7 is in the non-penetration state in which the cover member 22 has not been penetrated.

[0213] The control device 500 executes the sixth error processing based on the detection of the collision of the drill 7 with the cover by the collision sensor 709. More specifically, the control device 500 executes the sixth error processing when (a) the collision state is detected (i.e., after the light input state is reached), (b) the drill 7 is driven at a predetermined drive amount (i.e., when an additional pulse is output to the drill motor 713), or (c) the collision state continues (i.e., when the light input state continues).

[0214] As a modified example, the control device 500 may detect that the drill 7 stops despite the output of pulses to the drill motor 713. In this case, the detection by the second sensor may be regarded as "the control device 500 detects that the drill 7 stops".

[0215] In the present embodiment, the additional pulse is set to be different for each type of cover member 22 . Fig.31 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the setting contents of the additional pulse. Fig.31 In the embodiment, a first cover member and a second cover member are specified.

[0216] The first cover member is made of a material that is easier to stretch than the second cover member. Therefore, in order for the drill 7 to penetrate, the first cover member requires a greater number of pulses than the second cover member. Therefore, in this embodiment, the pulse corresponding to the first cover member is P2, and the pulse corresponding to the second cover member is P1. In addition, P2>P1.

[0217] express Fig.31 The information of the setting contents is stored in the second storage device 5342. The second storage device 5342 is included in the storage device 534 (refer to Figure 2 )middle.

[0218] In addition, when the control device 500 determines that the drill 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22, that is, when the sixth error process is executed, the control device 500 executes the re-penetration process of the drill 7. The re-penetration process of the drill 7 is a process of making the drill 7 penetrate the cover member 22 again when the drill 7 fails to penetrate the cover member 22. The re-penetration process is a process of attempting to penetrate the cover member 22 by temporarily raising the drill 7 and then lowering the drill 7 again.

[0219] In addition, a limit is set for the number of times of re-penetration processing. If the control device 500 performs the re-penetration processing multiple times, the piercer 7 hits the cover member 22, and fragments of the cover member 22 may be mixed into the sample 17. In addition, if the control device 500 performs the re-penetration processing multiple times, the piercer 7 hits the cover member 22, and the piercer 7 may be damaged.

[0220] Therefore, by setting a limit on the number of times of re-penetration processing, the "possibility of the fragments of the cover member 22 being mixed into the sample 17" and the "possibility of the piercer 7 being damaged" can be reduced. The limit number corresponds to the "third prescribed number of times" of the present disclosure. The limit number is, for example, "2 times".

[0221] The control device 500 performs the re-penetration process until the number of re-penetration processes reaches a predetermined number of times. In addition, when the number of re-penetration processes reaches a predetermined number of times, the control device 500 issues an alarm. The alarm notification is, for example, outputting an alarm sound from the speaker 722. In addition, the collision detection of the drill 7 is, for example, Fig.23 In the case where a collision of the drill 7 is detected, the process of step S20 is executed, for example. In addition, the prescribed number of times related to the re-penetration process corresponds to Fig.26 Yth.

[0222] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0223] In this embodiment, the error message when an error in S rising is detected is different from the above-mentioned embodiment. There are the following three reasons for the occurrence of the error in S rising. The first reason is that the bubble 612 is detected in the storage container 2 (see Fig.15 (C)). As the second reason, the first height is higher than the second height and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than the above threshold. The second reason may occur in the following cases: due to impact on the analysis device 1, such as Fig.15 As shown in (D), the liquid surface 17A becomes curved, and the nozzle 8 contacts the end of the curve. The third reason is that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 in the drill 7 (see Fig.11 ).

[0224] Therefore, in this embodiment, when an error in detecting S rising is detected, the control device 500 displays a notification that any of the following situations may occur: bubbles 612 are detected in the storage container 2; the first height H1 is higher than the second height H2, and the difference between the first height H1 and the second height H2 is above the threshold; and the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 in the drill 7.

[0225] Fig.32 This is an example of a display screen of this embodiment. Fig.32 In the example, the following screen is displayed: "One of the following situations may occur: bubbles of the contents are detected in the storage container; the liquid level is detected at a higher position than the last time; liquid drops are detected in the drill." By displaying such a screen, the user can recognize the cause of the S rise error.

[0226] [Other embodiments]

[0227] (1) In the above-mentioned embodiment, the case where the nozzle 8 sucks the sample is mainly described. However, the object sucked by the nozzle 8 may also be a reagent. The reagent may also be contained in a storage container covered by the cover member 22. In addition, the reagent may also be contained in a storage container that is not covered by the cover member 22 and the opening is exposed. In addition, in the present disclosure, the reagent and the specimen are referred to as "contained objects". The storage container 2 is a container for containing the contained object. In addition, the liquid level sensor 82 is a sensor for detecting the liquid level of the contained object.

[0228] (2) In the above embodiment, the control device 500 uses the driving amount of the nozzle 8 as a method for detecting whether the nozzle 8 is in contact with the liquid droplet 610 in the piercer 7. However, the control device 500 may detect whether the nozzle 8 is in contact with the liquid droplet 610 in the piercer 7 by other methods. For example, the analysis device 1 may include a camera for photographing the inside of the piercer 7. Alternatively, when the camera captures the contact with the liquid droplet 610 in the piercer 7, the control device 500 detects that the nozzle 8 is in contact with the liquid droplet 610 in the piercer 7.

[0229] (3) In the above embodiment, the error notification is mainly described as the error display. However, the error notification is not limited to the error display, and other methods may be used. For example, the error notification may be output with a sound indicating that an error has occurred, or information indicating that an error has occurred may be printed on paper and output.

[0230] [Parenthesis]

[0231] (1-1) The control device 500 stores the position of the nozzle 8 when it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the contained object (the sample in this embodiment) in the storage device 534 (see Fig.24 In addition, the control device 500 performs an error notification based on the fact that the current height of the nozzle 8 when the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the nozzle 8 contacts the storage object is higher than the previous height of the nozzle 8 stored in the storage device as the height when the liquid level sensor 82 last detected that the nozzle 8 contacted the storage object (refer to Fig.18 The S rises and Fig.24 The third error handling of step S254).

[0232] In addition, this error notification is performed differently from other errors (for example, a P error error, an S error error, an S insufficient error).

[0233] According to such a structure, error notification is performed based on the fact that the current height of the nozzle when the nozzle 8 is detected to be in contact with the storage object is higher than the previous height of the nozzle when the nozzle 8 was detected to be in contact with the storage object last time. Fig.15 As shown in (C), when bubbles are generated above the contents and the nozzle contacts the bubbles, an error notification is performed. In addition, the error notification is performed in a different manner from the error notification when other errors are detected. Therefore, when it is detected that the nozzle contacts the contents in the drill and when it is detected that the nozzle collides with the cover member, an error notification is performed, so that the user can easily identify the reason why the analysis device cannot extract the contents. In addition, when the error notification is executed, the nozzle 8 does not perform suction, so the situation of performing empty suction of the contents can be reduced. In addition, there is the following situation: the user confirms the error notification, so that when an abnormality occurs in the contents (for example, bubbles are generated in the contents), the user can immediately eliminate the abnormality of the contents by, for example, changing the storage container 2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary waste of the contents and useless analysis of the specimen.

[0234] (1-2) The control device 500 determines whether the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude (for example, referring to Fig.24 In addition, when the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude and the difference between the current altitude and the previous altitude is greater than the threshold, the control device 500 performs the third error processing. Fig.15 In the case of (C), the control device 500 executes the third error processing. According to such a structure, when the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude and the difference between the current altitude and the previous altitude is less than the threshold, the control device 500 does not execute the third error processing. For example, when the current altitude is Fig.15In the case of (D), the control device 500 does not execute the third error processing. Therefore, the control device 500 can avoid executing the useless third error processing.

[0235] (1-3) The receiving unit 542 of the control device 500 receives Fig. 20 The screen shown accepts the change of the threshold value.

[0236] According to such a configuration, since the user can change the threshold value, user convenience can be improved.

[0237] (1-4) After determining whether the current altitude is higher than the previous altitude, the control device 500 deletes the previous altitude stored in the storage device (refer to Fig.24 Step S248).

[0238] According to such a structure, it is possible to prevent a plurality of second heights from remaining in the storage device, and to reduce the storage capacity of the storage device.

[0239] (1-5) Fig.24 As shown in step S254, the control device 500 performs error notification (third error processing) while executing the processing of controlling the nozzle 8 so that the nozzle 8 again sucks the absorbed content (re-suction processing).

[0240] According to such a configuration, since the nozzle 8 is caused to perform the re-suction process, the nozzle 8 can suck the contents without delay.

[0241] (1-6) The receiving unit 542 of the control device 500 receives Fig.21 The screen shown receives an input of whether or not to transmit an error notification based on error processing to the host device 270 .

[0242] According to such a configuration, the user can select whether to transmit an error notification to the host device 270 , thereby improving user convenience.

[0243] (1-7) As an error notification, such as Fig.32 As shown, the control device 500 performs notification that any of the following situations may occur: bubbles of the contained matter are detected in the storage container 2; the first height is higher than the second height, and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than a threshold value; and the nozzle contacts a droplet of the contained matter in the drill. Therefore, the user can recognize that any of the following situations may occur: bubbles of the contained matter are detected in the storage container 2; the first height is higher than the second height, and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than a threshold value; and the nozzle contacts a droplet of the contained matter in the drill.

[0244] (1-8) The analysis unit 723 can perform multiple analysis items on the sample. Fig.17 As shown, the display device 250 displays identification information ( Fig.17 951) and multiple analysis items ( Fig.17 When the error in S rising is detected, the analysis unit 723 performs analysis on the sample for the remaining analysis items except for the analysis item in which the error is detected. Fig.18 As shown, as error notification, when the control device 500 detects an error, error information 972 indicating that S has risen is displayed in association with the specimen, and error information 976 is displayed in association with the analysis item in which an error has been detected among the plurality of analysis items. At least one of the error information associated with the specimen and the error information associated with the analysis item in which an error has been detected is displayed in a manner different from the error information indicating that other errors have been detected. Fig.17 In the example shown in Figure 1, error messages for S rising are displayed in orange, and error messages for other errors (such as P errors) are displayed in pink.

[0245] As described above, when the error of S rise is detected, the analysis unit 723 analyzes the items other than the item of the detected S rise error among the plurality of items including the item of the detected S rise error. Therefore, when the control device 500 detects the error of S rise, it can remind the user to select the analysis item other than the item of the detected S rise error by analyzing the remaining analysis items ( Fig.18 The analysis results of 961) and the analysis results obtained by re-analyzing the wrong specimens detected with S rise ( Fig.18 Any one of the analysis results obtained by analyzing the analysis result 963).

[0246] (2-1) Regarding the control device 500, Fig.11 As shown, when the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the nozzle 8 contacts the liquid drop 610 in the piercer 7, the nozzle 8 cannot extract the contents, and the control device 500 executes an error notification (eg Fig.18 The P error and Fig.19 ). In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown in (B), when it is detected that the nozzle 8 hits the cover member 22, the nozzle 8 cannot suck the contents, and the control device 500 performs an error notification (for example, Fig.18 The P error and Fig.19 The error notification is, for example, a notification indicating that the drill 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22.

[0247] According to such a structure, the user confirms the error notification, thereby the user can recognize the reason why the analysis device cannot extract the content (that is, the reason that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 in the piercer 7 or the reason that the nozzle 8 hits the cover member 22). In addition, the user can recognize the reason in advance without directly confirming the analysis device 1 and the storage container 2. Therefore, the user performs operations to remove the reason, etc., thereby the user can recognize the analysis result without delay. In addition, with respect to the analysis device 1, when the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 in the piercer 7 or when the nozzle 8 hits the cover member 22, the nozzle 8 does not perform suction, so that empty suction of the nozzle 8 can be prevented. If it is assumed that empty suction is performed, the data of the analysis result is unqualified, and the user himself needs to request re-analysis. In addition, as a result, the acquisition of the analysis result will be delayed. In this embodiment, since empty suction can be prevented, it is not necessary to ask the user to request re-analysis, and the acquisition of the analysis result can be prevented from being delayed.

[0248] In the present embodiment, the error notification based on the nozzle 8 contacting the droplet 610 in the piercer 7 and the error notification based on the detection of the nozzle 8 hitting the cover member 22 may be the same or different.

[0249] (2-2) Fig.12 As shown, the control device 500 determines whether it is detected that the nozzle 8 contacts the droplet 610 in the piercer 7 based on the driving amount of the nozzle 8 and the driving amount based on the length in the extending direction of the piercer 7.

[0250] According to such a configuration, when it is detected that the nozzle 8 has come into contact with the liquid droplet 610 in the piercer 7 , error notification can be appropriately performed.

[0251] (2-3) Fig.25 As shown, when the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the nozzle 8 has come into contact with the liquid droplet 610 , the control device 500 causes the nozzle 8 to perform a re-suction process.

[0252] According to such a configuration, when the liquid level sensor 82 detects that the nozzle 8 has come into contact with the liquid droplet 610 , a process of causing the nozzle 8 to suck up the contents again is executed, so that the nozzle 8 can suck up the contents without delay.

[0253] (2-4) When the control device 500 detects the liquid level in the drill 7 (in Fig.23 In step S6, the control device 500 executes the process of step S12. In the process of step S12, if Fig.25 As shown in step S206, the control device 500 performs the re-inhalation process until the number of re-inhalation processes ( Fig.25In addition, after the number of times of the re-suction process reaches the specified value Xth, an alarm notification is performed in step S210 as an error notification. According to such a structure, the user can recognize that the number of times of the re-suction process of the nozzle 8 has reached the specified value Xth based on the alarm.

[0254] (2-5) Fig.26 As shown, when the collision sensor 809 detects that the nozzle 8 has collided, the control device 500 causes the drill 7 to perform a re-penetration process.

[0255] When the collision sensor 809 detects that the nozzle 8 has collided, the piercer 7 is likely to fail to penetrate the cover member 22. Therefore, according to such a configuration, the control device 500 can make the piercer 7 appropriately penetrate the cover member 22 by causing the piercer 7 to execute a re-penetration process.

[0256] (2-6) When the control device 500 detects that the nozzle 8 in the drill 7 has collided (in Fig.23 In step S18, the control device 500 executes the process of step S20. In the process of step S20, if Fig.26 As shown in step S126, the control device 500 performs the re-penetration process until the number of re-penetration processes ( Fig.26 In addition, after the number of re-penetration processes reaches the specified value Yth, an alarm notification is performed in step S130 as an error notification. According to such a structure, the user can recognize that the number of re-penetration processes of the drill 7 has reached the specified value Yth based on the alarm.

[0257] In addition, when the control device 500 detects the liquid level at a higher position than the previous time (in Fig.24 If the result of step S246 is "Yes", the control device 500 executes the process of step S254. Fig. 27 As shown in step S2546, the control device 500 performs the re-inhalation process until the number of re-inhalation processes ( Fig.25 In addition, after the number of times of the re-suction process reaches the specified value Zth, an alarm notification is performed in step S2550 as an error notification. According to such a structure, the user can recognize that the number of times of the re-suction process of the nozzle 8 has reached the specified value Zth based on the alarm.

[0258] (2-7) The analysis device 1 includes a first storage device 5341 for storing information obtained by associating "the number of pulses for determining whether a collision with the cover member 22 is detected" with respect to two or more types of cover members 22 (for example, see Fig.10 ). The control device 500 acquires the type of the cover member 22. When the driving amount of the nozzle 8 when the collision of the nozzle 8 is detected is the driving amount associated with the acquired type of the cover member 22, the control device 500 determines that the nozzle 8 has collided with the cover member 22 and executes the second error notification. As described above, the second error notification is a notification indicating that the drill 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22.

[0259] According to such a configuration, even when the type of the cover member 22 is different, the control device 500 can appropriately determine whether the nozzle 8 has collided with the cover member 22 .

[0260] (2-8) When the collision sensor 809 detects that the nozzle 8 has collided, the control device 500 issues an error notification (P error in the above example) indicating that the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22. Thus, the user can recognize that the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22.

[0261] (2-9) As described in the third embodiment, the analysis device 1 includes the collision sensor 709 (third sensor) for detecting the non-penetration state in which the drill 7 does not penetrate the cover member 22. The control device 500 executes the second error notification indicating that the drill 7 does not penetrate the cover member 22 (for example, displays the sixth error image described above) based on the detection of the non-penetration state.

[0262] According to such a configuration, the user can recognize that the piercer 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22 based on the second error notification.

[0263] (2-10) After detecting the non-penetration state in which the drill 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22, if the collision is detected by the collision sensor 709 when the drill 7 is driven with an additional number of pulses, the control device 500 executes the second error notification.

[0264] According to such a configuration, even when the non-penetration state between the drill 7 and the cover member 22 is detected, the drill 7 may penetrate the cover member 22 when the drill 7 is driven with the additional pulse number. In addition, when the non-penetration state between the drill 7 and the cover member 22 is detected, the case where the non-penetration state is detected by the collision sensor 709 even when the drill 7 is driven with the additional pulse number means that the drill 7 has not penetrated the cover member 22. Therefore, when the non-penetration state between the drill 7 and the cover member 22 is detected, the second error notification is executed when the non-penetration state is detected by the collision sensor 709 even when the drill 7 is driven with the additional pulse number, so that the appropriate second error notification can be executed.

[0265] (2-11) A second storage device 5342 is provided for storing information in which the number of additional pulses is associated with two or more types of cover members 22 (for example, see Fig.31 ) The control device 500 obtains the type of the cover member 22 and refers to the information to obtain the number of additional pulses associated with the type of the cover member 22 .

[0266] According to such a configuration, for example, the number of additional pulses can be set according to the hardness of the cover member 22, and the number of additional pulses can be set according to the ease of expansion of the cover member 22 (see Fig.31 ) to drive the drill 7.

[0267] (2-12) When the non-penetration state is detected, the control device 500 causes the drill 7 to execute the re-penetration process and executes the second error notification (for example, displaying the sixth error image).

[0268] According to such a configuration, since the process of automatically penetrating the piercer 7 through the cover member 22 is performed, the piercer 7 can be penetrated through the cover member 22 without delay.

[0269] (2-13) The control device 500 performs the re-penetration process until the number of re-penetration processes ( Fig.26 In addition, after the number of re-penetration processing reaches the specified value Yth, an alarm notification is performed in step S210. According to such a structure, the user can recognize that the number of re-penetration processing of the drill 7 has reached the specified value Yth based on the alarm.

[0270] [Way]

[0271] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the above-described exemplary embodiments are specific examples of the following aspects.

[0272] (Item 1-1) The analysis device performs biochemical analysis of a specimen by causing a specimen and a reagent to react in a reaction container. The analysis device comprises: a nozzle that draws a content from a storage container for a content that is a specimen or a reagent; a sensor that detects whether the nozzle contacts the content; a storage device; and a control device that controls the nozzle to rise and fall, wherein the control device draws the content from the nozzle based on detection that the nozzle contacts the content, stores the height of the nozzle when the nozzle contacts the content in the storage device, detects an error based on the fact that a first height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content is higher than a second height of the nozzle stored in the storage device, the second height of the nozzle being the height of the nozzle when the sensor last detected that the nozzle contacted the content, and when an error is detected, performs error notification in a manner different from when other errors are detected.

[0273] According to such a structure, the analysis device detects an error based on the fact that the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to be in contact with the storage object is higher than the last height of the nozzle when the nozzle was detected to be in contact with the storage object. In addition, when the analysis device detects an error, it performs error notification in a manner different from the case where other errors are detected. Therefore, the user can recognize the error based on the fact that the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to be in contact with the storage object is higher than the last height of the nozzle when the nozzle was detected to be in contact with the storage object.

[0274] (Item 1-2) In the analysis device described in Item 1-1, when the first height is higher than the second height and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than a threshold value, the control device performs error notification.

[0275] According to such a configuration, for example, it is determined whether the first height is higher than the second height, and error notification is performed when the first height is higher than the second height and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than a threshold value, so that error notification can be appropriately performed.

[0276] (Item 1-3) In the analysis device described in Item 1-2, the control device accepts the change of the threshold value.

[0277] According to such a configuration, since the user can change the threshold value, user convenience can be improved.

[0278] (Item 1-4) In the analysis device described in Item 1-2 or Item 1-3, the storage container is covered with a cover member, and the biochemical analysis device also has a borer for penetrating the cover member, and the nozzle passes through the borer that penetrates the cover member and absorbs the content, and the error notification is a notification that any of the following situations may occur: bubbles of the content are detected in the storage container; the first height is higher than the second height, and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than a threshold value; and the nozzle contacts droplets of the content in the borer.

[0279] According to such a structure, the user can recognize that any of the following situations may occur: bubbles of the contents are detected in the storage container; the first height is higher than the second height, and the difference between the first height and the second height is greater than a threshold; and the nozzle contacts droplets of the contents in the drill.

[0280] (Item 1-5) In the analysis device described in any one of Items 1-1 to 1-4, the control device deletes the second height stored in the storage device after determining whether the first height is higher than the second height.

[0281] According to such a structure, it is possible to prevent a plurality of second heights from remaining in the storage device, and to reduce the storage capacity of the storage device.

[0282] (Item 1-6) In the analyzing apparatus described in any one of Items 1-1 to 1-5, the control device performs a process of controlling the nozzle to cause the nozzle to suck up the absorbed content again, and performs an error notification.

[0283] According to such a configuration, since the process of causing the nozzle to suck the absorbed contents again is executed, the nozzle can be made to suck the absorbed contents without delay.

[0284] (Item 1-7) In the analysis device described in any one of Items 1-1 to 1-6, the control device receives an input of whether to send an error notification to an external device, and the external device executes the error notification when receiving the error notification based on the error processing.

[0285] According to such a configuration, the user can select whether to send an error notification to an external device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0286] (Item 1-8) The analysis device described in any one of Items 1-1 to Item 1-7 further comprises: an analysis mechanism capable of performing analysis of multiple analysis items on a specimen; and a display device that displays identification information for identifying the specimen and multiple analysis items, wherein when an error is detected, the analysis mechanism performs analysis of the remaining analysis items among the multiple analysis items except for the analysis item in which the error is detected on the specimen, and as an error notification, the control device displays error information associated with the specimen and displays error information associated with the analysis item in which the error is detected among the multiple analysis items, and displays at least one of the error information associated with the specimen and the error information associated with the analysis item in which the error is detected in a manner different from the error information indicating that other errors have been detected.

[0287] According to such a configuration, when the above-mentioned error is detected, analysis of the remaining analysis items other than the analysis item in which the error is detected can be performed on the sample, and the above-mentioned error can be recognized more clearly than other errors.

[0288] (Items 1-9) A biochemical analysis method for performing biochemical analysis of a specimen by causing the specimen and a reagent to react in a reaction container, the device for performing the biochemical analysis comprising: a nozzle that draws a content from a storage container for containing a content serving as a reagent or a specimen; a sensor for detecting whether the nozzle contacts the content; a storage device; and a control device that controls so that the nozzle rises and falls, the biochemical analysis method comprising the following steps: causing the nozzle to draw the content when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content; storing in the storage device the height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content; detecting an error based on the fact that a first height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the content is higher than a second height of the nozzle stored in the storage device, the second height of the nozzle being the height of the nozzle when the sensor last detected that the nozzle contacted the content; and when an error is detected, performing an error notification in a manner different from that in cases where other errors are detected.

[0289] According to such a structure, the analysis device detects an error based on the fact that the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to be in contact with the storage object is higher than the last height of the nozzle when the nozzle was detected to be in contact with the storage object. In addition, when the analysis device detects an error, it performs error notification in a manner different from the case where other errors are detected. Therefore, the user can recognize the error based on the fact that the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to be in contact with the storage object is higher than the last height of the nozzle when the nozzle was detected to be in contact with the storage object.

[0290] (Item 2-1) The analysis device performs biochemical analysis of a specimen by causing a specimen and a reagent to react in a reaction container. The analysis device comprises: a configuration unit for configuring a storage container, the storage container being used to store a storage object as a specimen or a reagent and having a cover member; a piercer for penetrating the cover member; a nozzle that passes through the piercer penetrating the cover member and sucks the storage object; a first sensor for detecting whether the nozzle contacts the storage object; a second sensor for detecting whether the nozzle collides; and a control device that drives the nozzle and the piercer. An error notification is performed when the first sensor detects that the nozzle contacts a droplet of the storage object in the piercer, and an error notification is performed when the second sensor detects that the nozzle collides with the cover member.

[0291] According to this structure, an error notification is performed when the first sensor detects that the nozzle contacts a drop of the content in the piercer, and an error notification is performed when the second sensor detects that the nozzle hits the cover member. Therefore, the user can easily recognize the reason why the analyzer cannot extract the content.

[0292] (Item 2-2) In the analysis device described in Item 2-1, the drill is extended, and the control device drives the nozzle along the extension direction of the drill. The control device determines whether the nozzle is detected to contact the droplet in the drill based on the driving amount of the nozzle and the driving amount corresponding to the length in the extension direction of the drill.

[0293] According to such a configuration, when it is detected that the nozzle has come into contact with a droplet in the piercer, error processing can be appropriately performed.

[0294] (Item 2-3) In the analyzing apparatus described in Item 2-1 or Item 2-2, the control device performs a re-suction process of controlling the nozzle so that the nozzle again sucks the absorbed content.

[0295] According to such a configuration, since the nozzle is attempted to automatically suck the contents again, the nozzle can be made to suck the contents without delay.

[0296] (Item 2-4) In the analysis device described in Item 2-3, the control device performs the re-aspiration process until the number of re-aspiration processes reaches a first specified number of times, and when the number of re-aspiration processes reaches the first specified number of times, the control device performs error notification.

[0297] According to such a configuration, the user can recognize, based on the error notification, that the number of times of re-suction processing of the nozzle has reached the first predetermined number of times.

[0298] (Item 2-5) In the analysis device described in any one of Items 2-1 to 2-4, when the second sensor detects that the nozzle has collided, the control device performs a re-penetration process of controlling the drill to make the drill penetrate the cover member again.

[0299] According to such a configuration, since the piercer is attempted to automatically penetrate the cover member again, after the piercer automatically penetrates the cover member again, the nozzle can suck up the contents without delay.

[0300] (Item 2-6) In the analysis device described in Item 2-5, the control device performs re-penetration processing until the number of re-penetration processing reaches a second specified number of times, and when the number of re-penetration processing reaches the second specified number of times, the control device performs error notification.

[0301] According to such a configuration, the user can recognize, based on the error notification, that the number of times the drill has re-penetrated has reached the second predetermined number of times.

[0302] (Item 2-7) In the analysis device described in any one of Items 2-1 to 2-6, there is also a first storage device for storing first information obtained by associating drive amounts with categories of two or more cover members, respectively. The control device obtains the category of the cover member, and when the drive amount of the nozzle when the second sensor detects that a collision has occurred with the nozzle is a drive amount associated with the acquired category of the cover member, the control device determines that the nozzle has collided with the cover member.

[0303] According to such a structure, it can be confirmed that the nozzle hits the cover member.

[0304] (Item 2-8) In the analyzing device described in any one of Items 2-1 to 2-7, when the second sensor detects that the nozzle has collided, the control device executes an error notification indicating that the piercer has not penetrated the cover member.

[0305] The situation where the second sensor detects that the nozzle has collided is assumed to be a situation where the drill has not penetrated the cover member. According to such a structure, when the second sensor detects that the nozzle has collided, that is, when the drill has not penetrated the cover member, the user can recognize that the drill has not penetrated the cover member based on the error notification.

[0306] (Item 2-9) In the analysis device described in any one of Items 2-1 to 2-8, there is also a third sensor for detecting a non-penetration state in which the drill has not penetrated the cover member, and the control device executes an error notification indicating that the drill has not penetrated the cover member based on the detection of the non-penetration state.

[0307] According to such a configuration, the user can recognize that the piercer has not penetrated the cover member based on the error notification.

[0308] (Item 2-10) In the analyzing device described in Item 2-9, after the third sensor detects a collision state between the drill and the cover member, even if the drill is driven at a specified driving amount, if the third sensor detects a non-penetration state, the control device also performs an error notification.

[0309] According to such a structure, even when the collision of the drill with the cover member is detected, the drill may penetrate the cover member when the drill is driven at a predetermined driving amount. In addition, when the collision of the drill with the cover member is detected, the case where the second sensor detects that the drill has not penetrated the cover member even when the drill has been driven at a predetermined driving amount means that the drill has not penetrated the cover member. Therefore, when the collision of the drill with the cover member is detected, if the second sensor detects that the drill has been driven at a predetermined driving amount, the second error processing is executed, so that the appropriate second error processing can be executed.

[0310] (Item 2-11) The analysis device described in Item 2-10 further includes a second storage device for storing information obtained by associating specified driving amounts with two or more types of cover members, respectively. The control device obtains the type of the cover member, and the control device refers to the information to obtain the specified driving amount associated with the type of the cover member.

[0311] According to such a configuration, for example, a predetermined driving amount can be set based on the hardness of the cover member, and the drill can be driven according to the hardness of the cover member.

[0312] (Item 2-12) In the analysis device described in any one of Items 2-9 to 2-11, when the non-penetration state is detected, the control device performs a re-penetration process of controlling the piercer to make the piercer penetrate the cover member again.

[0313] According to such a configuration, since the piercer is attempted to automatically penetrate the cover member again, after the piercer automatically penetrates the cover member again, the nozzle can suck up the contents without delay.

[0314] (Item 2-13) In the analysis device described in Item 2-12, the control device performs re-penetration processing until the number of re-penetration processing reaches a third specified number of times, and when the number of re-penetration processing reaches the third specified number of times, the control device performs error notification.

[0315] According to such a configuration, the user can recognize, based on the error notification, that the number of automatic processes of the piercer and the number of automatic processes of the nozzle have reached the second predetermined number of times.

[0316] (Item 2-14) A biochemical analysis method for performing a biochemical analysis of a specimen by causing a specimen and a reagent to react in a reaction container. The device for performing the biochemical analysis comprises: a configuration unit for configuring a storage container, the storage container being used to store a storage object as a specimen or a reagent and having a cover member; a borer for penetrating the cover member; a nozzle that passes through the borer penetrating the cover member and sucks the storage object; a first sensor for detecting whether the nozzle contacts the storage object; a second sensor for detecting whether the nozzle collides; and a control device that drives the nozzle and the borer, the biochemical analysis method comprising the following steps: performing an error notification when the first sensor detects that the nozzle contacts a droplet of the storage object in the borer; and performing an error notification when the second sensor detects that the nozzle collides with the cover member.

[0317] According to this structure, an error notification is performed when the first sensor detects that the nozzle contacts a drop of the content in the piercer, and an error notification is performed when the second sensor detects that the nozzle hits the cover member. Therefore, the user can easily recognize the reason why the analyzer cannot extract the content.

[0318] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the embodiments disclosed this time should be considered to be illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

Claims

1. A biochemical analysis device for performing biochemical analysis of a sample by causing a sample and a reagent to react in a reaction container, the biochemical analysis device comprising: a nozzle for sucking the contained object serving as the specimen or the reagent from a containing container for containing the contained object; A sensor for detecting whether the nozzle contacts the received object; Storage device; as well as a control device that controls so that the nozzle rises and falls, wherein the control device causes the nozzle to suck the contained object based on detecting that the nozzle contacts the contained object; The control device stores the height of the nozzle when the nozzle is detected to be in contact with the contained object in the storage device, The control device detects an error based on the fact that a first height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the contained object is higher than a second height of the nozzle stored in the storage device, the second height of the nozzle being the height of the nozzle when the sensor last detected that the nozzle contacted the contained object, The control device, when detecting the error, performs error notification in a manner different from that when detecting other errors.

2. The biochemical analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control device executes the error notification when the first height is higher than the second height and the difference between the first height and the second height is equal to or greater than a threshold.

3. The biochemical analysis device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The control device receives a change in the threshold value.

4. The biochemical analysis device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The storage container is covered with a cover member, The biochemical analysis device further comprises a drill for penetrating the cover member. The nozzle passes through the piercer penetrating the cover member and sucks the contained object. The error notification is a notification that any of the following situations may have occurred: detecting bubbles of the contained object in the containing container; The first height is higher than the second height, and a difference between the first height and the second height is greater than or equal to the threshold; and The nozzle contacts a droplet of the content within the piercer.

5. The biochemical analysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: After determining whether the first height is higher than the second height, the control device deletes the second height stored in the storage device.

6. The biochemical analysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The control device performs a process of controlling the nozzle so that the nozzle automatically sucks the stored object, and performs the error notification.

7. The biochemical analysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The control device receives an input of whether to transmit the error notification to an external device that executes the error notification.

8. The biochemical analysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also available: an analysis unit capable of performing analysis of a plurality of analysis items on the sample; and a display device for displaying identification information for identifying the sample and the plurality of analysis items, wherein, when the error is detected, the analysis unit performs analysis on the sample for the remaining analysis items among the plurality of analysis items except for the analysis item in which the error is detected, As the error notification, the control device displays error information associated with the specimen when the error is detected, and displays error information associated with the analysis item among the multiple analysis items in which the error is detected, and displays at least one of the error information associated with the specimen and the error information associated with the analysis item in which the error is detected in a manner different from the error information indicating that the other errors have been detected.

9. A biochemical analysis method for performing biochemical analysis of a sample by causing a sample and a reagent to react in a reaction container, The device for performing the biochemical analysis comprises: a nozzle for sucking a contained object serving as a reagent or a specimen from a containing container for containing the contained object; A sensor for detecting whether the nozzle contacts the received object; Storage device; as well as a control device that controls so that the nozzle rises and falls, The biochemical analysis method comprises the following steps: When the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the contained object, the nozzle sucks the contained object; storing the height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the received object in the storage device; Detecting an error based on a first height of the nozzle when the sensor detects that the nozzle contacts the contained object being higher than a second height of the nozzle stored in the storage device, the second height of the nozzle being the height of the nozzle when the sensor last detected that the nozzle contacted the contained object; and In the case where the error is detected, error notification is performed in a manner different from the case where other errors are detected.

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