Automatic analysis device

Abstract

The automatic analyzing device comprises: a first system (11) which does not require the use of degassed water; a second system (12) which preferably uses degassed water and has a degassing device (21) for generating degassed water and a second pump (19) for conveying degassed water; and a box (1) which is formed with a first compartment (4) for storing water supplied to the first system (11) and a second compartment (5) for storing degassed water supplied to the second system (12), wherein the second system (12) is composed of a circulation system and a use system, wherein the circulation system has A suction flow path (20) and a return flow path (24) connect the degassing device (21), the second pump (19) and the second section (5) of the box (1). The use system has a discharge flow path (22) and a connection flow path (27) connecting the degassing device (21) to a use portion using degassed water. Inside the box (1) are provided: a partition (3) forming a first section (4) and a second section (5); and a water passage (6) for moving water between the first section (4) and the second section (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic analysis device for performing qualitative and quantitative analysis on samples such as blood and urine. Background Art

[0002] With the purpose of improving the insufficient degassing performance associated with the high-speed operation of the device, the following structure is described in Patent Document 1: a water supply pump for supplying liquid, a degassing device for degassing the liquid supplied by the water supply pump, and a circulation flow path for returning the degassed liquid to the flow path before degassing, at least one of a specimen sampling mechanism and a reagent sampling mechanism using the degassed liquid, a water supply control valve for each sampling mechanism, a pressure switching valve being provided in the circulation flow path, the degassed liquid being supplied to the specimen sampling mechanism and the reagent sampling mechanism when the pressure switching valve is closed, and the degassed liquid being circulated in the degassing device via the circulation flow path when the pressure switching valve is open.

[0003] [Prior art literature]

[0004] [Patent Document]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3123748 Summary of the Invention

[0006] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0007] Many inventions utilize syringe pumps as dispensing mechanisms in automated analyzers. To transmit pressure instantly and accurately, it is desirable to fill the interior with a non-compressible fluid such as water (hereinafter referred to as system water).

[0008] When bubbles exist in the system water, the propagation of pressure is affected. Therefore, in order to improve the dispensing accuracy, it is preferable to use degassed water in the system water. The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 describes an automatic analyzer with such a structure.

[0009] Here, system water used for purposes other than pressure propagation in the dispensing mechanism does not need to be deaerated water. Therefore, adopting a configuration in which deaerated water is supplied to such locations where deaerated water is not required would lead to an increase in the size of the deaerated water generation and storage mechanism, such as the deaerator, and consequently, the size of the device itself, which is therefore desirable to avoid.

[0010] Patent Document 1 improves insufficient degassing performance by returning the degassed liquid to the flow path before degassing and circulating it multiple times. Patent Document 1 also describes an example of providing a small buffer tank when a large amount of water is required.

[0011] However, if the buffer tank is provided separately from the tank that supplies water to the device as described in Patent Document 1, the device becomes larger and more complicated. Therefore, it is understood that there is room for further miniaturization and simplification.

[0012] An object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer capable of miniaturizing and simplifying the system for supplying and utilizing system water compared to conventional systems.

[0013] [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] The present invention includes multiple means for solving the above-mentioned problems, but if one example is cited, the automatic analyzer is characterized in that it comprises: a first system, which does not require the use of degassed water; a second system, which preferably uses the above-mentioned degassed water and has a degassing device for generating the above-mentioned degassed water and a pump for conveying the above-mentioned degassed water; and a common tank, which forms a first section for storing water supplied to the above-mentioned first system and a second section for storing the above-mentioned degassed water supplied to the above-mentioned second system, the above-mentioned second system is composed of a circulation system and a use system, the circulation system has a piping connecting the above-mentioned degassing device, the above-mentioned pump and the above-mentioned second section of the above-mentioned common tank, the use system has a piping connecting the above-mentioned degassing device and a use part that uses the above-mentioned degassed water, and the interior of the above-mentioned common tank is provided with: a partition, which forms the above-mentioned first section and the above-mentioned second section; and a water flow section, which allows the above-mentioned water to move between the above-mentioned first section and the above-mentioned second section.

[0015] [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, the system for supplying and utilizing system water can be made smaller and simpler than before. Other problems, structures, and effects than those described above will become clear from the following description of the embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a configuration diagram of an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning system of an automatic analyzer according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a partition related to a tank storing cleaning water in the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing another example of a partition related to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing another example of a partition related to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing another example of a partition related to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing another example of a partition related to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing another example of a partition related to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing another example of a partition related to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing another example of the box of the automatic analyzer according to the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing another example of the arrangement of piping connected to the box of the automatic analyzer of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] use Figures 1 to 11 An embodiment of the automatic analyzer of the present invention will be described.

[0029] First, use Figure 1 The overall configuration of the automatic analyzer according to this embodiment will be described in outline. Figure 1 The overall schematic configuration of an automatic analyzer according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 1 The automatic analysis device 100 shown is a device for automatically analyzing a specimen, and is equipped with a specimen disk 101, a specimen dispensing mechanism 102, a reaction unit 103, a reaction tank 104, a reagent disk 105, a reagent dispensing mechanism 106, a stirring mechanism 107, a photometer 108, a unit cleaning mechanism 109, cleaning tanks 110, 111, a cleaning tank 112, and a control unit 150.

[0031] The specimen tray 101 is a device for placing specimen containers holding specimens on the apparatus. It holds multiple specimen containers. In addition to the specimen tray 101, a transport mechanism for transporting a specimen rack holding a single specimen container or a specimen rack holding multiple specimen containers may be provided, or such a transport mechanism may be used in place of the specimen tray 101.

[0032] The reaction tank 104 stores a plurality of reaction cells 103 for reacting a sample such as blood or urine with a reagent, separated from each other at predetermined intervals along its circumference. Constant-temperature water flows through the reaction tank 104 to maintain the reaction cells 103 and the reaction solution within them at a constant temperature.

[0033] The reagent disk 105 is a storage in which a plurality of reagent bottles containing reagents corresponding to measurement items can be stored in a circular shape. The reagent disk 105 is kept cooled.

[0034] The sample dispensing mechanism 102 is provided between the reaction tank 104 and the sample disk 101 and is configured to be rotatable in an arc shape and movable up and down. Sample probes are provided at the front ends of the respective mechanisms.

[0035] The sample probe moves while drawing an arc around the rotation axis of the sample dispensing mechanism 102 , and performs various dispensing operations such as aspirating a sample for measurement from a sample container or the reaction unit 103 and discharging the sample to the reaction unit 103 .

[0036] The reagent dispensing mechanism 106 is provided adjacent to the reaction tank 104 and the reagent disk 105 , and is configured to be rotatable in an arc shape and movable up and down. A reagent probe is provided at the front end thereof.

[0037] The reagent probe moves while drawing an arc around the rotation axis of the reagent dispensing mechanism 106 , and performs a dispensing operation of sucking the reagent from the reagent bottle and discharging the reagent to the reaction unit 103 .

[0038] The stirring mechanism 107 includes, for example, a stirring blade or a spatula-like rod (not shown) provided at the front end. The stirring blade or rod is immersed in the reaction solution, which is a mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction unit 103, and is rotated to stir the mixture. It should be noted that the stirring mechanism 107 is not limited to such a mechanism and can be a mechanism using ultrasonic waves.

[0039] The photometer 108 is a device for colorimetrically analyzing a reaction solution after the sample and reagent in the reaction unit 103 react. The photometer 108 is disposed opposite to a light source (not shown) disposed inside the reaction tank 104 so as to sandwich the reaction unit 103 .

[0040] The unit cleaning mechanism 109 is a device that sucks the reaction liquid after analysis and cleans the reaction unit 103 .

[0041] A cleaning tank 110 is provided between the reaction tank 104 and the sample disk 101 for cleaning the sample probe of the sample dispensing mechanism 102. Furthermore, a cleaning tank 111 is provided between the reaction tank 104 and the reagent disk 105 for cleaning the reagent probe of the reagent dispensing mechanism 106. Furthermore, a cleaning tank 112 is provided between the reaction tank 104 and the stirring mechanism 107 for cleaning the stirring mechanism 107, thereby preventing contamination.

[0042] The control unit 150 is connected to the devices in the automatic analyzer 100 and controls the overall operation of the automatic analyzer 100. The control unit 150 is a computer including a CPU, memory, etc., and performs calculation processing to determine the concentration of a predetermined component in the sample based on the detection results of the photometer 108.

[0043] The control unit 150 controls the operation of each device based on various programs stored in the storage device. The storage device stores various parameters input via the input device, information about the sample being measured (such as sample type information), and measurement results, in addition to various programs for sample measurement.

[0044] Furthermore, the control processing of the operations executed by the control unit 150 may be integrated into one program, divided into multiple programs, or a combination thereof. In addition, part or all of the program may be implemented by dedicated hardware or modularized.

[0045] The control unit 150 of this embodiment also executes control to start analysis after the automatic analyzer 100 is activated and water is degassed by the degassing device 21 for a predetermined period of time. This will be described in detail later.

[0046] In this automated analyzer, non-degassed water is used to clean the target equipment in the cleaning tanks 110, 111, and 112 and the unit cleaning mechanism 109. In contrast, degassed water is used in the sample dispensing mechanism 102 and the reagent dispensing mechanism 106 for sample and reagent dispensing and internal cleaning. It should be noted that either degassed or non-degassed water can be used for the blank water in the reaction tank 103 and the constant-temperature water in the reaction tank 104.

[0047] The above is the overall structure of the automatic analyzer 100 .

[0048] The analysis process of a sample by the automatic analyzer 100 as described above is generally performed according to the following procedure.

[0049] First, a specimen container containing a specimen to be analyzed is placed on the specimen disk 101 and rotated to a specimen collection position.

[0050] The specimen dispensing mechanism 102 discharges the sucked specimen into the reaction unit 103 located on the reaction tank 104, and the reagent dispensing mechanism 106 further adds the reagent sucked from the reagent bottle on the reagent disk 105 to the reaction unit 103, and the stirring mechanism 107 mixes and stirs the specimen and reagent in the reaction unit 103.

[0051] Then, the optical properties of the light from the light source that passes through the reaction solution held in the reaction cell 103 are measured by the photometer 108 , and the measurement results are transmitted to the control unit 150 .

[0052] The control unit 150 calculates the concentration of the specific component in the sample based on the transmitted measurement results through calculation processing. The analysis results are notified to the user via the display device and recorded in the storage device.

[0053] Next, use Figure 2 The details of a cleaning system, which is an example of a mechanism using degassed water and non-degassed water in the automatic analyzer 100 of this embodiment, will be described. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning system of the automatic analyzer of the present invention.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, a tank 1 is filled with water 2. A partition 3 is provided inside the tank 1 to divide the tank 1 into a first compartment 4 for storing water supplied to a first system 11 and a second compartment 5 for storing deaerated water supplied to a second system 12.

[0055] In addition, the partition 3 does not completely separate the first section 4 and the second section 5 , but is provided with a water passage 6 .

[0056] The water passage 6 ensures a passage for the water 2 to move between the first section 4 and the second section 5, and allows the water 2 stored in each space to move back and forth. However, the ease of this movement may be limited.

[0057] A water supply pipe 7 and a first suction pipe 8 are inserted into the first section 4 , and a second suction pipe 9 and a return pipe 10 are inserted into the second section 5 .

[0058] The water usage system of the device is divided into a first system 11 that does not require the use of degassed water and a second system 12 that preferably uses degassed water. The first system 11 draws and uses water from the first section 4 through the first suction pipe 8, and the second system 12 draws and uses water from the second section 5 through the second suction pipe 9.

[0059] Water is supplied from an external water source to the tank 1 through a water supply pipe 7. The water level is controlled by a water level sensor (not shown), and the water supply valve 13 is controlled so as to be maintained within a certain range.

[0060] In the first system 11, water drawn in by a first pump 14 through the first suction pipe 8 and the first suction channel 15 is discharged through a first discharge channel 16. The first system 11 is used, for example, in a cleaning tank 17, which can clean the outer surface of the nozzle used in analysis. The discharge of the cleaning water is controlled by a valve 18.

[0061] In addition, the cleaning tank 17 is a general term for the above-mentioned cleaning tanks 110 , 111 , 112 and the unit cleaning mechanism 109 .

[0062] Although not shown in the figure, there are also usage targets in addition to the cleaning tank 17. The distal end of the first discharge flow path 16 branches off for each usage target and is provided with a valve, and the discharge is controlled by each valve.

[0063] In the second system 12, water is sucked by the second pump 19 through the second suction pipe 9 and the second suction flow path 20. A degassing device 21 is provided midway in the second suction flow path 20 to degas the water sucked while passing therethrough.

[0064] A common degassing device 21 is a device formed of a silicon hollow fiber membrane. By setting the outer side of the hollow fiber membrane to a negative pressure, a structure is formed in which only the gas in the liquid is separated from the wall surface of the hollow fiber when the liquid passes through the inner side of the hollow fiber membrane.

[0065] The front end of the second pump 19 is connected to the second discharge flow path 22 , but a portion of the second pump 19 branches off at a branch 23 and returns to the second section 5 via a return flow path 24 and the return pipe 10 .

[0066] The circulation system is composed of the suction flow path 20 and the return flow path 24 connecting the degassing device 21, the second pump 19 and the second section 5 of the box 1, and the use system is composed of the discharge flow path 22 and the connecting flow path 27 connecting the degassing device 21 and the use part using degassed water.

[0067] The second system 12 is used for example by a sample dispensing mechanism 102 and a reagent dispensing mechanism 106 , which are composed of a syringe pump 25 , a nozzle 26 , and a connecting flow path 27 thereof.

[0068] The nozzle 26 can be moved to the sample container or the reaction unit 103 by a nozzle moving mechanism (not shown).

[0069] Since the pressure fluctuation generated by the syringe pump 25 needs to be instantly and accurately propagated to the nozzle 26 , the system water used in the sample dispensing mechanism 102 and the reagent dispensing mechanism 106 is preferably degassed water.

[0070] After the dispensing is completed, the inside of the nozzle 26 needs to be cleaned, and the water used at this time is discharged through the valve 28.

[0071] There are sometimes multiple dispensing mechanisms, and there are also applications where deaerated water is preferably used in addition to the dispensing mechanism.

[0072] The distal end of the second discharge flow path 22 is branched according to these usage targets, and each of the branches is provided with a valve, and the discharge is controlled by each valve.

[0073] The suction ports of the first suction pipe 8 and the second suction pipe 9 are preferably arranged near the bottom of the tank 1 to float bubbles generated during water supply or room temperature changes and to reduce the possibility of bubbles.

[0074] The outlets of the water supply pipe 7 and the return pipe 10 do not necessarily have to be below the box 1, but by being arranged at a position lower than the water surface, it is possible to further suppress the situation where air is drawn in and the dissolved air tends to increase when the water surface falls. Therefore, it is preferred that these outlets are also lower than the water surface.

[0075] In order to dispense a minute amount with high precision, the diameter of the nozzle 26 can be made extremely small. Therefore, in order to clean the inside of the nozzle 26, it is preferable to use a type of pump capable of applying high pressure, such as a gear pump, as the second pump 19.

[0076] Since the hollow fiber membrane passes through the degassing device 21, if the flow resistance is large and the suction pressure of the second pump 19 is insufficient, another pump can be further provided before the degassing device.

[0077] Alternatively, because degassing can be performed in cycles, even if the degassing capacity per pass is reduced, methods can be considered to reduce the flow resistance, thereby enabling a configuration that does not require an additional pump. If a small degassing device with low flow resistance can be used, the device can be miniaturized and costs can be reduced.

[0078] Next, use Figures 3 to 9 The details and modifications of the separator 3 will be described. Figures 3 to 9 This is a diagram showing an example of a partition related to a tank for storing washing water in the automatic analyzer of this embodiment.

[0079] Separator 3 as Figure 2 The rectangular plate shown below is designed to prevent deaerated water returning to tank 1 after passing through deaerator 21 from spreading throughout tank 1 and causing it to be used in first system 11, where it is not needed. This prevents wasteful use of deaerated water, which has been carefully degassed, and helps effectively reduce dissolved oxygen concentration.

[0080] In addition, the first section 4 and the second section 5 can be completely separated by the partition 3, but in this case, water level control must be performed in each section, and a water level sensor and a water supply valve must be installed in each section for separate control, which has the disadvantage of complicating the device.

[0081] Therefore, in the present invention, the interior of the tank 1 is not completely partitioned by the partition 3 , but a water passage 6 that allows the water 2 to flow back and forth between the partitions is provided in a portion of the partition 3 .

[0082] The cross-sectional area of the water passage 6 is preferably reduced within a range that does not affect the reciprocating motion.

[0083] Furthermore, if water flows from the degassed second compartment 5 to the non-degassed first compartment 4 through the water passage 6, while this is better than not having the separator 3 at all, it still results in waste. Therefore, it is preferred that the water in the water passage 6 flow in one direction, from the first compartment 4 to the second compartment 5. Figure 3 3 is a diagram for explaining the features of the separator 3 used in this structure. Figure 3 In, although Figure 2 The tank 1 is the same as the tank 1, but the water supply pipe 7 and the return pipe 10 are not described for ease of understanding. Figures 4 to 9 Same here.

[0084] To achieve Figure 3 The flow of water 2 from the first section 4 to the second section 5 shown is only required to cause the water level in the second section 5 to drop faster than the water level in the first section 4 .

[0085] Specifically, if the water consumption per unit time of the first system 11 is V A , the water consumption per unit time of the second system 12 is set to V B The cross-sectional area of the first section 4 when the box 1 is viewed from the upper surface side in the vertical direction is defined as A. A , let the cross-sectional area of the second interval 5 be A B , then the water level drops per unit time in the first interval 4 and the second interval 5 by h A 、h B They are

[0086] h A =V A / A A …(1)

[0087] h B =V B / A B …(2).

[0088] During operation of the device, V A 、V B It can be considered to be known, so according to h A <h B (=V A / A A <V B / A B ), that is, the above formulas (1) and (2), preferably the cross-sectional area A in the first section 4 A The cross-sectional area A of the second section 5 B Ratio A A / A B The water consumption per unit time V in the first interval 4 A The water consumption per unit time V in the second interval 5 B The ratio V A / V B Satisfy A A / A B >V A / V B The spacer 3 is provided at this position.

[0089] By providing such a partition 3, the tank 1 can have the function of storing deaerated water, and the device structure can be simplified without providing a separate buffer tank.

[0090] Next, use Figure 4 The following drawings describe variations of the separator 3 and the water passage 6 .

[0091] The water flow portion 6 does not necessarily need to be provided at the upper side of the tank 1. For example, there is a water level sensor with a certain detection range, which detects the lower limit of the water level and supplies water, and detects the upper limit and stops the water supply.

[0092] When attempting to control the water levels of both the first section 4 and the second section 5 using a single water level sensor, if the lower limit of the boundary of the water passage 6 is located above the lower limit of the detection range of the water level sensor, then if the water surface falls below the lower limit of the water passage 6, the water level of the section on the side without the water level sensor cannot be detected. In such a case, it is considered to install a water level sensor in each of the first section 4 and the second section 5.

[0093] Although it is also possible to consider lowering the lower limit of the water passage 6, as mentioned above, increasing the water passage 6 has hidden dangers in ensuring efficient deaeration water volume. Figure 4 As shown, it is conceivable to arrange the water passage portion 6a at the lower portion.

[0094] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment, the water level sensor 29 has a detection range 29a, and a water passage 6a is provided below the partition 3a. In this case, the water level in the first section 4 drops by h A and the water level drop h in the second interval 5 B The water passage 6a can be located at the upper Figure 3 The same method as shown is considered by satisfying h A <h B The cross-sectional area A of the first interval 4 A and the cross-sectional area A of the second section 5 BThe partition 3 a is provided at the position to ensure the flow from the first section 4 to the second section 5 .

[0095] Even in such a case, if the suction ports of the first suction pipe 8 and the second suction pipe 9 are located at the lower portion of the tank 1 as described above, a desired result can be obtained.

[0096] However, when a water passage portion 6a is provided at the lower portion of the box 1, if the water passage portion 6a is close to the suction port of the second suction piping 9, the non-degassed water flowing from the first interval 4 to the second interval 5 becomes a first-in-first-out form. Therefore, it can be said that by improving this point, it is more likely to obtain the effect of circulating degassing such as allowing the degassing device 21 to pass through multiple times to fully perform degassing.

[0097] Therefore, if Figure 5 As shown, it is preferred that the partitions 3b and 3c are composed of two plates, and a space is set between the partitions 3b and 3c composed of more than two plates to increase the distance between the outlet on the second interval 5 side of the water flow portion 6b and the suction port of the second suction piping 9.

[0098] like Figure 5 The partition 3c shown rises from the bottom surface of the tank 1 on the second section 5 side relative to the partition 3b, and its upper end is located below the detection limit of the water level sensor 29. Such partitions 3b and 3c allow the water passage 6b to be separated from the suction port of the second suction pipe 9.

[0099] The narrow space between the opening of the water passage 6b viewed from the first section 4 and the opening of the water passage 6b viewed from the second section 5 can be regarded as the water passage 6b in the entire space. Figure 3 When a planar partition 3 and water passage 6 are distinguished, this can be referred to as a water passage area. The presence of a water passage area further reduces the diffusion of water 2 within the tank 1, thereby ensuring efficient deaerated water. To enhance this effect, partitions 3b and 3c can be arranged alternately. When further partitions are provided, the outlet of the water passage area on the second section 5 side is preferably located at the upper side of the second section 5.

[0100] Furthermore, the partition is formed of a single rectangular parallelepiped plate, and the height of the water passage portion does not need to be uniform in the horizontal direction.

[0101] For example, when making box 1 from Figure 3 When the direction of the diagram is rotated 90 degrees and observed, Figure 6 As shown, the partition 3d may be formed of a vertical slit. This slit-shaped opening serves as the water passage 6d.

[0102] It is preferable that the slit is cut below the lower detection limit of the water level sensor 29. The area of the water passage 6d is suppressed from expanding in the horizontal direction, and the diffusion of the deaerated water can be suppressed.

[0103] Furthermore, the water-passing portion may be in the form of a circular or polygonal hole, or a plurality of slit-shaped or hole-shaped water-passing portions may be provided on a single separator. In such a case, the separator arrangement may be designed to provide water-passing areas, and multiple water-passing portions and water-passing areas of various shapes may be combined.

[0104] Moreover, if Figure 7 As shown, in order to more reliably form a one-way flow from the first interval 4 to the second interval 5, a partition 3e can be formed by a plate. In addition, a water passage 6e is formed by an opening hole of the partition 3e arranged between the first interval 4 and the second interval 5, and a check valve 30 is arranged in the opening hole. The check valve 30 allows water to flow from the first interval 4 to the second interval 5 and prevents degassed water from flowing from the second interval 5 to the first interval 4.

[0105] The check valve 30 is configured so that when the water level in the second compartment 5 is lower than that in the first compartment 4 , the non-deaerated water flows from the first compartment 4 to the second compartment 5 due to the pressure difference, but the deaerated water does not flow from the second compartment 5 to the first compartment 4 by closing the valve.

[0106] In this case, in order to perform water level control in two sections using one water level sensor, it is preferable to install the water level sensor 29 in the first section 4 .

[0107] The separator 3 does not necessarily need to be composed of a single vertical plate.

[0108] For example, Figure 8 As shown, the partition 3f may be provided obliquely inside the tank 1. In this case, the water level drop in the first section 4 and the second section 5 may be considered based on the cross-sectional area of each section when the partition 3f is viewed from above.

[0109] By providing such a partition 3f, the volume ratio between the first section 4 and the second section 5 can be changed while maintaining the flow from the first section 4 to the second section 5. This improves the degree of freedom in designing the tank 1.

[0110] In particular, the second section 5 requires a certain volume to maintain an efficient dissolved oxygen concentration due to the relationship between the amount of water consumed and the amount of water returned.

[0111] Here, in Figure 2In the case of a vertical plane partition 3 as shown in FIG, the cross-sectional area ratio for achieving the water level drop directly becomes the volume ratio, so it is impossible to reduce the area ratio by more than that. Figure 8 As shown, by providing the partition 3f at an angle, the volume ratio can be changed while maintaining the cross-sectional area ratio for generating the target water level drop, thereby reducing the size of the tank 1. This further reduces the size of the tank 1.

[0112] Figure 9 In this case, the water level drop in each section is preferably considered based on the cross-sectional area of each section viewed from above the partition 3g.

[0113] In addition, the partition does not necessarily have to stand up from the bottom surface of the box 1. Figure 9 As shown, the partition 3g can also extend from the side of the tank 1. Of course, the suction ports of the first suction pipe 8 and the second suction pipe 9 can be at different heights. In this case, suction is preferably directed to the lower portion of each section. This structure further increases design flexibility and allows the capacity of the tank 1 to be significantly reduced depending on water consumption, thereby further miniaturizing the device.

[0114] Furthermore, use Figure 10 and Figure 11 Other methods of boxes are described. Figure 10 1 is a diagram showing another example of a box of the automatic analyzer of this embodiment. Figure 11 This is a diagram showing another example of the installation of piping connected to the tank.

[0115] In the automatic analyzer 100, the box 1 may need to be cleaned for maintenance, so it is preferable that the box 1 and the piping be detachable from each other. In addition, since the box 1 needs to be restored to its original state after being disassembled, a structure that can be easily restored is desirable.

[0116] Therefore, if Figure 10 As shown, the tank 1 preferably includes a water supply pipe 7 and a first suction pipe 8 constituting a first system 11 , a second suction pipe 9 and a return pipe 10 constituting a second system 12 , and a tank cover 31 to which a water level sensor 29 is fixed.

[0117] Furthermore, it is preferable to provide a fixed position notification portion on the box cover 31. This fixed position notification portion indicates the fixed position to prevent the box cover 31 from being fixed in the opposite direction of the first suction pipe 8 in the first section 4 and the second suction pipe 9 in the second section 5 when the box cover 31 is restored to its original state. As an example of the fixed position notification portion, a mark can be provided or the shape of the box cover 31 can be made asymmetrical.

[0118] In addition, as described above, the piping does not need to be inserted from the upper side of the box 1. For example, Figure 11 As shown, the water supply pipe 7, the first suction pipe 8, the second suction pipe 9, and the return pipe 10 are provided so as to protrude from the bottom of the tank 1a. Alternatively, they may be provided so as to protrude from the side of the tank.

[0119] Furthermore, the box and the piping may be integrated, the piping and the flow path may be provided with connectors, and the connectors may be connected to each other. More preferably, a marking may be added to the connector to prevent mis-plumbing.

[0120] Furthermore, immediately after the automatic analyzer 100 is activated, the dissolved oxygen concentration in the second zone 5 is often unclear. Therefore, the control unit 150 preferably controls the circulation system to circulate for a predetermined period of time from the time the automatic analyzer 100 is activated. In this circulation system, the system water passes through the degassing device 21, and analysis begins only after degassing to a predetermined level. For example, the system may be configured to prevent the system from starting operation if the predetermined period of time has not elapsed. Alternatively, this may be included in the preparatory actions during the device's startup.

[0121] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0122] The automatic analyzer 100 of the present embodiment described above includes: a first system 11 that does not require the use of degassed water; a second system 12 that preferably uses degassed water and includes a degassing device 21 for generating degassed water and a second pump 19 for conveying the degassed water; and a housing 1 having a first compartment 4 for storing water supplied to the first system 11 and a second compartment 5 for storing degassed water supplied to the second system 12. The second system 12 is composed of a circulation system and a use system. The circulation system includes a suction flow path 20 and a return flow path 24 connecting the degassing device 21, the second pump 19, and the second compartment 5 of the housing 1; and the use system includes a discharge flow path 22 and a connection flow path 27 connecting the degassing device 21 to a user using the degassed water. Disposed within the housing 1 are: partitions 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, and 3g defining the first compartment 4 and the second compartment 5; and water passages 6, 6a, 6b, 6d, 6e, 6f, and 6g for moving water between the first compartment 4 and the second compartment 5.

[0123] With this structure, the tank 1 storing deaerated water and non-deaerated water can be made common, so the deaerated water supply system can be miniaturized and simplified, thereby miniaturizing the automatic analyzer 100 itself.

[0124] In addition, since the partitions 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, and 3g are arranged such that when the box 1 is viewed from the upper surface side in the vertical direction, the cross-sectional area A of the first section 4 is A The cross-sectional area A of the second section 5 B Ratio AA / A B The water consumption per unit time V in the first interval 4 is A The water consumption per unit time V in the second interval 5 B The ratio V A / V B Since it is arranged in a large manner, the flow of water 2 from the first section 4 to the second section 5 can be effectively formed, thereby effectively suppressing the flow of degassed water to the first section 4 side holding non-degassed water, and efficiently using degassed water on the side using degassed water.

[0125] Furthermore, the partition 3d is composed of one plate, and the water passage 6d is composed of at least one of a slit, a circular hole, and a polygonal hole provided in the partition 3d, thereby being able to separate the interior of the box 1 with a simple structure and ensure a water passage.

[0126] In addition, the partition 3d is composed of a plate, and the water flow portion 6d is composed of an opening hole of the partition 3d arranged between the first section 4 and the second section 5. A check valve 30 is also provided in the opening hole. The check valve 30 allows water to flow from the first section 4 to the second section 5 and prevents degassed water from flowing from the second section 5 to the first section 4. This can further suppress the mixing of degassed water and non-degassed water in the water flow portion 6d, thereby enabling more efficient generation and use of degassed water.

[0127] Moreover, the partitions 3b and 3c are composed of more than two plates, and a space formed between the more than two plates is provided in the water passage portion 6b. This can further suppress the mixing of degassed water and non-degassed water in the water passage portion 6b, thereby enabling more efficient generation and use of degassed water.

[0128] Furthermore, by providing the partition 3f obliquely with respect to the vertical direction, the volume ratio can be changed while maintaining the cross-sectional area ratio for generating the target water level drop, thereby reducing the size of the tank 1. This further reduces the size of the tank 1.

[0129] Furthermore, the tank 1 includes a tank cover 31 that fixes the pipes constituting the first system 11 and the second system 12 . Therefore, the pipes can be removed together by removing the tank cover 31 , thereby reducing the burden on the user during maintenance.

[0130] In addition, a fixed position notification portion indicating the fixed position is provided on the box cover 31, thereby reliably preventing the box cover 31 from being inserted in reverse, thereby preventing the first system 11 and the second system 12 from being fixed oppositely and causing degassed water and non-degassed water to be used oppositely, thereby greatly contributing to the stable operation of the device.

[0131] Furthermore, the automatic analyzer 100 is provided with a control unit 150 for controlling the operation of devices within the automatic analyzer 100 . The control unit 150 can start analysis after the degassing device 21 has degassed water for a certain period of time after the automatic analyzer 100 is started, thereby contributing to improving the analysis reliability of the automatic analyzer 100 .

[0132] <Other>

[0133] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible. The above-described embodiments are described in detail to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and are not necessarily limited to embodiments having all the described configurations.

[0134] [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1, 1a... box (shared box)

[0136] 2… Water

[0137] 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g… separators

[0138] 4…First section

[0139] 5…Second section

[0140] 6, 6a, 6b, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g... water supply part

[0141] 7…Water supply pipe

[0142] 8…First suction pipe

[0143] 9…Second suction pipe

[0144] 10…Return piping

[0145] 11…First System

[0146] 12…Second System

[0147] 13…Water supply valve

[0148] 14…First pump

[0149] 15…First suction channel

[0150] 16…First discharge flow path

[0151] 17…cleaning tank

[0152] 18…valve

[0153] 19…Second pump

[0154] 20…Second suction flow path

[0155] 20…Suction flow path

[0156] 21…Degassing device

[0157] 22...Second discharge flow path

[0158] 22…Discharge flow path

[0159] 23…Branches

[0160] 24…Return flow

[0161] 25…Syringe pump

[0162] 26…Nozzle

[0163] 27…Connecting flow path

[0164] 28…valve

[0165] 29…Water level sensor

[0166] 29a…Detection range

[0167] 30…Check valve

[0168] 31…Box cover

[0169] 100…Automatic Analyzer

[0170] 101…Specimen plate

[0171] 102…Specimen dispensing mechanism

[0172] 103…Reaction unit

[0173] 104…Reaction tank

[0174] 105…reagent tray

[0175] 106…reagent dispensing mechanism

[0176] 107…Stirring mechanism

[0177] 108…Photometer

[0178] 109…Unit cleaning mechanism

[0179] 110…cleaning tank

[0180] 111…cleaning tank

[0181] 112…cleaning tank

[0182] 150…Control Unit

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that have: The first system does not require the use of deaerated water; a second system using the deaerated water and comprising a deaerator for generating the deaerated water and a pump for transporting the deaerated water; and A common tank is formed with a first compartment for storing non-deaerated water supplied to the first system and a second compartment for storing the deaerated water supplied to the second system. A water supply pipe including a water supply valve and a water level sensor are provided in the first section so that the water level in the second section is lower than that in the first section. The second system is composed of a circulation system having a pipe connecting the degassing device, the pump, and the second section of the common tank, and a use system having a pipe connecting the degassing device and a user unit using the degassed water. The common tank is provided with a partition forming the first compartment and the second compartment, and a water passage for moving the non-deaerated water from the first compartment to the second compartment.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The partition is provided in such a manner that when the common box is viewed from the upper surface in the vertical direction, the cross-sectional area A of the first section is A The cross-sectional area A of the second interval B Ratio A A / A B The water consumption per unit time V is greater than the first interval A The water consumption per unit time V in the second interval is B The ratio V A / V B .

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The water passing portion has a shape of at least one of a slit, a circular hole, and a polygonal hole provided in the partition.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The above-mentioned separator is composed of one plate. The water passage is formed by an opening provided in the partition between the first section and the second section. The opening hole is further provided with a check valve that allows the non-deaerated water to flow from the first section to the second section and blocks the deaerated water from flowing from the second section to the first section.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The above-mentioned separator is composed of two or more plates. The water passage portion is provided with a space formed between the two or more plates.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The partition is provided so as to be inclined with respect to the vertical direction.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The common tank includes a tank cover to which the pipes constituting the first system and the second system are fixed.

8. The automatic analysis device according to claim 7, characterized in that The box cover is provided with a fixed position notification portion for indicating a fixed position.

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that It also includes a control unit that controls the operation of the devices in the automatic analyzer. The control unit can start analysis after the non-degassed water is degassed by the degassing device for a predetermined period of time after the automatic analyzer is activated.

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