Automatic analysis device and method for operating the automatic analysis device

Abstract

When the automatic analysis device (100) is in a standby state capable of accepting the measurement of a specimen, the supply amount of cleaning water supplied to the specimen dispensing probe (113), the specimen dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) is reduced compared to the supply amount when the specimen is measured, the specimen dispensing probe dispenses the specimen into a reaction container for reacting the specimen with the reagent, the specimen dispensing probe cleaning tank cleans the periphery of the specimen dispensing probe (113) after the specimen is dispensed, the reagent dispensing probe dispenses the reagent into the reaction container, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank cleans the periphery of the reagent dispensing probe (116) after the reagent is dispensed, and the cleaning mechanism cleans the reaction container where the measurement has been completed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer for performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of various biological samples (hereinafter referred to as specimens) such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, and a method for operating the automatic analyzer. Background Art

[0002] In order to respond quickly to emergency specimens and reduce the user's waiting time, and to reduce the operating costs of water, electricity, etc. generated when no measurements are performed, Patent Document 1 records two power-saving mode functions for stopping the mechanism from operating, namely, Mode 1 for stopping the operation of the cleaning mechanism during the standby time when the analysis module is not performing measurements after the measurement is completed, and Mode 2 for stopping the light source lamp in addition to Mode 1.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-129659 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] Automatic analysis devices that automatically perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of samples such as blood and urine have become increasingly popular, mainly in university hospitals and clinical testing centers that need to process a large number of patient samples in a short period of time.

[0008] In specimen testing using such an automatic analyzer, rapid output of results is required, and particularly for specimens that require urgent testing, rapid output of results is strongly required. On the other hand, it is impossible to predict when specimens that require urgent testing will occur.

[0009] Therefore, it is desired that the analyzer be operated 24 hours a day and be on standby while being kept in a state capable of measuring so that the measurement can be started quickly.

[0010] The following structure is adopted in the existing automatic analysis device: after the measurement of the biological sample is completed, the device is put on standby while continuing the following unit blank measurement and cleaning action, so that the measurement can be carried out quickly when the measurement request of the sample is accepted. Among them, the unit blank measurement is to store unit blank water (control water) in the reaction container, and use the analytical wavelength light to measure the absorbance of the reaction container to confirm that there is no abnormality in the reaction container. The above-mentioned cleaning action is used to prevent the unit or the probe from drying out.

[0011] However, when the cell blank measurement and the washing operation are continued, the detergent and the washing water are continuously consumed, and thus there is a problem that the longer the standby state is, the greater the consumption amount becomes.

[0012] Regarding the technology for reducing the consumption of water and detergent, the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 discloses a technology having a mode for stopping the power supply to the reaction disk or the cleaning mechanism.

[0013] However, in the structure described in Patent Document 1, although waste of electricity, detergent, and water can be suppressed, on the other hand, a cell blank measurement must be performed before the mode becomes measurable from the standby state, and there is a problem that time is required before measurement can be enabled.

[0014] As described above, there is a trade-off relationship in which when the measurement is started quickly, detergent and water are wasted, whereas when the detergent and water are reduced, the measurement is prevented from being started quickly.

[0015] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer and an operating method of the automatic analyzer that achieve both rapid start of measurement and reduction of water consumption.

[0016] Means for solving problems

[0017] The present invention includes a plurality of means for solving the above-mentioned problems, and one example is given. An automatic analysis device, which performs qualitative and quantitative analysis of a liquid after a sample and a reagent react, is characterized in that it comprises: a reaction disk, which has a plurality of reaction containers for reacting the sample and the reagent; a sample dispensing probe, which dispenses the sample into the reaction container on the reaction disk; a sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, which cleans the periphery of the sample dispensing probe after the sample is dispensed; a reagent dispensing probe, which dispenses the reagent into the reaction container on the reaction disk; a reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, which cleans the periphery of the reagent dispensing probe after the reagent is dispensed; a cleaning mechanism, which cleans the reaction container after the measurement has been completed; and a water supply mechanism, which supplies water to the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the reagent dispensing probe. The control unit supplies cleaning water to the probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank and the cleaning mechanism; a control unit, which executes a quasi-stop mode when the sample is not analyzed by the automatic analyzer and is in a standby state capable of accepting the sample measurement. The quasi-stop mode does not completely stop the supply of the cleaning water supplied by the water supply mechanism, but controls the supply amount to be smaller than the supply amount when the sample is measured; and a third setting unit, which is used to select whether to execute the quasi-stop mode, which is a mode of stopping the supply of the cleaning water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, the reagent dispensing probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the cleaning mechanism, and continuing to supply the cleaning water to at least one of the mechanisms.

[0018] Effects of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to achieve both rapid start of measurement and reduction of water consumption. Other problems, structures and effects than those described above will become clear through the following description of the embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 An outline of the system configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 2 Functional blocks of the control unit of the analysis module that performs the quasi-stop mode and the washing water discharge control in the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment are shown.

[0022] Figure 3 An example of the stop condition and the start condition in the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment is shown.

[0023] Figure 4 An example of a setting screen for determining whether to execute the quasi-stop mode in the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment is shown.

[0024] Figure 5 is a flow chart showing that in the automatic analysis device of Example 1, based on Figure 3 The stop condition and start condition shown are an example of a flow that controls the stop and start of the washing water.

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A continuation of the flowchart shown.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water of the automatic analyzer of Example 1.

[0027] Figure 8 An example of a setting screen for stopping and starting conditions of washing water in the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0028] Fig. 9 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water in the automatic analyzer of Example 2.

[0029] Fig.10 This is another example of the timing chart of the cleaning water in the automatic analyzer of the second embodiment.

[0030] Fig.11 An example of a setting screen for stopping and starting conditions of washing water in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0031] Fig.12 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water in the automatic analyzer of Example 3.

[0032] Fig.13This is a timing chart of the cleaning water in the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.14 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water in the automatic analyzer according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic analyzer and the method for operating the automatic analyzer according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0035] <Example 1>

[0036] use Figures 1 to 7 A description will be given of Example 1 of the automatic analyzer and the method for operating the automatic analyzer according to the present invention.

[0037] First, use Figure 1 The overall configuration of the automatic analysis system of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 The overall structure of an automatic analysis system according to an embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown.

[0038] Figure 1 The automatic analysis device (100) shown is a device for performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of samples such as blood and urine, and is mainly composed of a transport module (101), an analysis module (111), and an operation module (121).

[0039] The transport module (101) is used to put a specimen rack (104) carrying one or more specimen containers into the automatic analyzer (100) and to recover the specimen rack, and to transport the specimen rack to the analysis module (111), wherein the one or more specimen containers contain specimens to be analyzed.

[0040] The conveying module (101) includes a rack buffer (103), a rack supply tray (102), a rack storage tray (106) and a conveying line (105).

[0041] In the conveying module 101, the specimen rack (104) set in the rack supply tray (102) is conveyed to the rack buffer (103) through the conveying line (105). There is a sensor for determining whether there is a specimen container on the specimen rack (104) (not shown in the figure) in the middle of the conveying line (105). Here, if it is determined that there is a specimen container, the specimen barcode (not shown in the figure) attached to the specimen container is read by the specimen barcode reader (not shown in the figure) to identify the identification information of the specimen. In the actual system, the patient is determined based on the identification information.

[0042] The rack buffer (103) is a rotor structure that performs circular motion, and has slots that radially hold a plurality of sample racks (104) on concentric circles, wherein a plurality of sample containers are placed on the outer circumference of the sample rack (104). The slots are rotated by a motor, thereby moving any sample rack (104) to or from a desired destination. With such a structure, it is not necessary to process the sample rack (104) that was placed first in order. That is, if the priority is high, it can be processed first.

[0043] A conveyor line (105) is connected to a certain point on the radial circumference of the rack buffer (103) to carry in and out the sample rack (104). If this point is set as the 0 degree position on the circumference, a sample dispensing line (112) for introducing the sample rack (104) into the analysis module (111) described later is connected to the position of 90 degrees on the circumference from the position connected to the conveyor line (105) to carry in and out the sample rack (104).

[0044] The sample racks (104) that have been dispensed in each analysis module (111) wait for the output of the measurement results in the rack buffer (103), and can also be automatically retested as needed. In addition, when the processing is completed, it is transported to the rack storage tray (106) via the conveyor line (105).

[0045] The analysis module (111) performs measurement operations of requested measurement items on the sample and outputs the measurement results, and is connected to the transport module (101).

[0046] The analysis module (111) comprises: a reaction disk (115), a reagent disk (117), a sample dispensing line (112), a sample dispensing probe (113), a sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), a reagent dispensing probe (116), a reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), a cleaning mechanism (115A), a cleaning water tank (120A), an injection pump (120B), a cleaning water supply piping (120C), a biochemical measurement unit (118), an electrolyte measurement unit (114), and a control unit (122).

[0047] Reaction containers (not shown) are arranged on the circumference of the reaction disk (115). A sample dispensing line (112) is provided near the reaction disk (115) for carrying in a sample rack (104) on which sample containers are placed.

[0048] A rotatable and vertically movable sample dispensing probe (113) is provided between the reaction disk (115) and the sample dispensing line (112). The sample dispensing probe (113) moves while drawing an arc around the rotation axis to dispense the sample from the sample rack (104) into the reaction container.

[0049] After the sample is dispensed, the sample dispensing probe (113) is internally cleaned with cleaning water supplied from the cleaning water tank (120A), and externally cleaned in the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A) with cleaning water supplied from the cleaning water tank (120A).

[0050] The reagent disk (117) is a storage room in which a plurality of reagent bottles (not shown) containing reagents can be placed on a circumference. The reagent disk (117) is kept cold.

[0051] A reagent dispensing probe (116) capable of rotating and moving up and down is provided between the reaction disk (115) and the reagent disk (117). The reagent dispensing probe (116) moves while drawing an arc around the rotation axis, enters the reagent disk (117) from the reagent dispensing probe suction port, and dispenses the reagent from the reagent bottle into the reaction container.

[0052] After the reagent is dispensed, the reagent dispensing probe (116) is internally cleaned with cleaning water supplied from the cleaning water tank (120A), and externally cleaned in the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A) with cleaning water supplied from the cleaning water tank (120A).

[0053] The sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A) is provided within the operating range of the sample dispensing probe (113) to clean the periphery of the sample dispensing probe (113). The reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A) is provided within the operating range of the reagent dispensing probe (116) to clean the periphery of the reagent dispensing probe (116).

[0054] The cleaning mechanism (115A) sucks the reaction liquid in the reaction container held in the reaction disk (115) after the measurement is completed, and cleans the inside of the reaction container with the cleaning water supplied from the cleaning water tank (120A) to prepare for the next analysis. In addition, in the standby state without analysis, blank water for unit blank measurement is supplied as needed.

[0055] The cleaning water tank (120A) stores cleaning water for supplying to the specimen dispensing probe (113), the specimen dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A) and the cleaning mechanism (115A), and supplies the cleaning water via the injection pump (120B) and the cleaning water supply piping (120C).

[0056] An electrolyte measurement unit (114) and a biochemical measurement unit (118) are also arranged around the reaction disk (115).

[0057] The control unit (122) disposed in the analysis module (111) is connected to each mechanism in the analysis module (111) to control the operation thereof.

[0058] In particular, when the automatic analyzer (100) is not performing sample analysis and is in a standby state capable of accepting sample measurement, the control unit (122) of this embodiment executes a quasi-stop mode in which the supply amount of the cleaning water supplied by the cleaning water tank (120A) and the injection pump (120B) is controlled to be smaller than the supply amount during sample measurement. The details of the quasi-stop mode will be described later. Figure 2 The following figures are described in detail.

[0059] The operation module (121) has a user interface, such as a display unit (108), and an input unit (107) such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel for inputting various instructions, wherein the display unit (108) displays an operation screen for specifying a measurement item to be measured for a sample to be measured and an operation screen for confirming the measurement result. The operation module (121) is a part that performs the following role, namely, aggregating information of each module of the entire automatic analyzer (100).

[0060] The operation module (121) is connected to a control unit (122) provided in the analysis module (111) and a control unit (not shown) provided in the transport module (101) via a wired or wireless network line. The operation module (121) is configured to send instructions to control the actions of various mechanisms in the analysis module (111) and various mechanisms in the transport module (101), and to receive data related to the measurement from the control unit (122) and display them on the display unit (108).

[0061] about Figure 1 The analysis module (111) is described by taking the method of integrating the measurement parts of biochemical items and electrolyte items into one analysis module as an example, but the module structure is not limited to this method, and can be set as a biochemical measurement unit (118) monomer or an electrolyte measurement unit (114) monomer, or as an immunoassay module, and can also be appropriately configured according to the use environment. A blood coagulation analysis measurement unit, etc. can also be appropriately configured. In addition, the transport module can be omitted.

[0062] In addition, although the case where there is one analysis module has been described, two or more analysis modules may be provided. In this case, each analysis module is not particularly limited, and necessary analysis units may be provided according to the use environment.

[0063] Next, explain Figure 1 An overview of the mechanism and operation of the automatic analyzer (100) is shown.

[0064] The transport module (101) transports the sample racks (104) placed on the rack supply tray (102) of the automatic analyzer (100) one by one to the transport line (105), and then transports them to the rack buffer (103). The sample racks (104) transported to the rack buffer (103) are transported to the sample dispensing line (112) of the analysis module (111).

[0065] When the sample rack (104) reaches the sample dispensing line (112) of the analysis module (111), the sample dispensing probe (113) performs dispensing operation on each sample loaded on the sample rack (104) according to the measurement items requested by the operation module (121).

[0066] Here, when the measurement item is a biochemical item, the sample dispensing probe (113) discharges the absorbed sample into a reaction container located on a reaction disk (115), and further adds a reagent absorbed from a reagent disk (117) by a reagent dispensing probe (116) to the reaction container and stirs it. Then, the optical characteristics are measured by the biochemical measurement unit (118), and the measurement results are sent to the operation module (121).

[0067] In addition, when the requested measurement item is an electrolyte item, the sample dispensing probe (113) discharges the absorbed sample to the electrolyte measurement unit (114), the electromotive force is measured by the electrolyte measurement unit (114), and the measurement result is sent to the operation module (121).

[0068] The operation module (121) calculates the concentration of a specific component in the sample by performing calculation processing based on the sent measurement results.

[0069] Next, refer to Figures 2 to 7 The details of the quasi-stop mode and the washing water discharge control in the automatic analyzer (100) of this embodiment are described.

[0070] Figure 2 An example of a functional block diagram of a control unit of an analysis module (111) for performing a quasi-stop mode and washing water discharge control is shown. Figure 3 An example showing stop conditions and start conditions. Figure 4 An example of a screen for selecting whether to execute the quasi-stop mode is shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 A flowchart showing the control of stopping and starting the washing water according to the stopping conditions and starting conditions. Figure 7 A timing chart showing the flow of wash water when the flowchart is implemented.

[0071] As functional blocks associated with the quasi-stop mode, the control unit (122) of this embodiment includes a quasi-stop mode setting memory (501), a quasi-stop mode condition table (502), a quasi-stop mode action determination unit (503), and a measurement status management unit (504) for managing the measurement status of the device. In addition, as functional blocks for controlling each cleaning water, the control unit (122) includes a reaction container cleaning control unit (505), a sample dispensing probe control unit (506), and a reagent dispensing probe control unit (507).

[0072] The quasi-stop mode setting memory (501) sets whether to perform the quasi-stop mode. Figure 4 The setting is performed by selecting a "yes" button (611) or a "no" button (612) on a quasi-stop mode execution selection screen (610) for selecting whether to execute the quasi-stop mode displayed on the display unit (108).

[0073] The quasi-stop mode condition table (502) stores the conditions of each washing water. Figure 3 The stop conditions and start conditions are shown in the figure. In this embodiment, the stop conditions are set to four conditions: (A) all sample dispensing is completed, (B) all reagent dispensing is completed, (C) all measurement results are outputted, and (D) there is no stop. The start conditions are set to three conditions: (a) start transporting the sample, (b) start dispensing the sample, and (c) start dispensing the reagent.

[0074] The quasi-stop mode action determination unit (503) refers to the quasi-stop mode setting memory (501), the quasi-stop mode condition table (502) and the measurement status management unit (504) to determine the necessity of stopping and starting the cleaning water, and outputs the determination result to the reaction container cleaning control unit (505), the sample dispensing probe control unit (506) and the reagent dispensing probe control unit (507).

[0075] The reaction container cleaning control unit (505) receives the judgment of the quasi-stop mode action judgment unit (503) and controls the discharge of blank water for unit blank measurement and system water for reaction container cleaning. The sample dispensing probe control unit (506) receives the judgment of the quasi-stop mode action judgment unit (503) and controls the discharge of internal cleaning water and external cleaning water of the sample dispensing probe (113). The reagent dispensing probe control unit (507) receives the judgment of the quasi-stop mode action judgment unit (503) and controls the discharge of internal cleaning water and external cleaning water of the reagent dispensing probe (116).

[0076] In the present invention, when the quasi-stop mode is set, the operation state (401) is shifted to the quasi-stop mode, and the supply of cleaning water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) is stopped, and the measurement is waited to start. At this time, the supply to at least one of the mechanisms is not stopped but continued.

[0077] Whether or not to supply each washing water does not need to be fixed at all locations, and can be set independently. The independent setting is described in the second embodiment.

[0078] In addition, the stop condition and the start condition can also be set independently for the supply destination of the washing water to which the supply is set to be stopped. This aspect is described in the third embodiment.

[0079] Next, use Figure 5 and Figure 6 The determination flow of the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) of the control unit (122) is described.

[0080] The quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) executes the following operation every time period corresponding to one analysis cycle: Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 Flowchart of the process.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, first, the quasi-stop mode action determination unit (503) determines whether the cleaning has stopped (step S301) in order to determine whether the quasi-stop mode (402) state has been entered. When it is determined that the cleaning has stopped, the process enters Figure 6 In step S309 shown, when it is determined that the process has not stopped, the process proceeds to step S302.

[0082] The criteria for determining whether the state has entered the quasi-stop mode (402) are not particularly limited to this, and other criteria may be used.

[0083] Next, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether the condition for stopping cleaning is Figure 3 The process proceeds to step S305 when the condition (A), (B), or (C) is determined to be set. When the condition (A) is determined to be set, the process proceeds to step S303.

[0084] Next, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether condition (B) is set (step S303). If it is determined that condition (B) is set, the process proceeds to step S306, and if it is not determined that condition (B) is set, the process proceeds to step S304.

[0085] Next, the semi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether the condition (C) is set (step S304). If it is determined that the condition (C) is set, the process proceeds to step S307, and if it is not determined that the condition (C) is set, the process ends.

[0086] If it is determined in step S302 that condition (A) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) then determines whether aliquoting of all samples has been completed (step S305). If it is determined to be completed, the process proceeds to step S308, and if it is not determined to be completed, the process ends.

[0087] If it is determined in step S303 that condition (B) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) then determines whether the dispensing of all reagents has been completed (step S306). If it is determined to be completed, the process proceeds to step S308, and if it is not determined to be completed, the process ends.

[0088] If it is determined in step S304 that condition (C) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) then determines whether the output of all measurement results has been completed (step S307). If it is determined to be completed, the process proceeds to step S308, and if it is not determined to be completed, the process ends.

[0089] When it is determined in step S305 that the dispensing of all samples has been completed, when it is determined in step S306 that the dispensing of all reagents has been completed, or when it is determined in step S307 that the output of all measurement results has been completed, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) stops supplying the washing water to the supply destination that is the supply stop target, thereby stopping washing (step S308), and the process enters Figure 6 At this time, as described above, the supply of washing water to the supply destinations that are not the stop targets continues.

[0090] When it is determined in step S301 that the cleaning has stopped or step S308 has been completed, Figure 6 As shown, next, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether the condition for starting cleaning is Figure 3 The process proceeds to step S312 if the condition (a) is set, and to step S310 if the condition (a) is not set.

[0091] Next, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether condition (b) is set (step S310). If it is determined that condition (b) is set, the process proceeds to step S313, and if it is not determined that condition (b) is set, the process proceeds to step S311.

[0092] Next, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether the condition (c) is set (step S311).

[0093] If it is determined that the condition (c) is set, the process proceeds to step S314 , and if it is not determined that the condition (c) is set, the process ends.

[0094] If it is determined in step S309 that condition (a) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) then determines whether the transport of the specimen has started (step S312). If it is determined to have started, the process proceeds to step S315, and if it is not determined to have started, the process ends.

[0095] If it is determined in step S310 that condition (b) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) then determines whether the sample aliquoting has started (step S313). If it is determined to have started, the process proceeds to step S315, and if it is not determined to have started, the process ends.

[0096] If it is determined in step S311 that condition (c) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) determines whether the reagent dispensing has started (step S314). If it is determined to have started, the process proceeds to step S315, and if it is not determined to have started, the process ends.

[0097] When it is determined in step S312 that the transport of the specimen has started, when it is determined in step S313 that the dispensing of the specimen has started, or when it is determined in step S314 that the dispensing of the reagent has started, the quasi-stop mode action determination unit (503) then supplies cleaning water to the supply destination that is the supply stop object to start cleaning (step S315), and ends the processing.

[0098] use Figure 7In such an automatic analyzer (100), as the supply destinations for stopping the supply of cleaning water, system water (404) for cleaning the cleaning mechanism (115A), sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405) for internal cleaning of the sample dispensing probe (113), sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406) for external cleaning of the sample dispensing probe (113) in the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) for internal cleaning of the reagent dispensing probe (116), and reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) for external cleaning of the reagent dispensing probe (116) in the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A) are set, and a timing diagram is described when the condition for stopping cleaning is set to condition (C) and the condition for starting cleaning is set to condition (a).

[0099] At this time, in the state of the measurement operation (401), the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) advances the processing according to steps S301→S302→S303→S304→S307 to confirm whether the output of all measurement results has been completed. Figure 7 As shown, the supply of washing water is not stopped (No in step S307) and the process is performed in standby mode. Figure 5 and Figure 6 Flowchart of the process.

[0100] Therefore, blank water (403) for unit blank measurement is supplied to the reaction container on the reaction disk (115), and system water (404) for cleaning is supplied. In addition, sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405) and sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406) are supplied to the sample dispensing probe (113), and reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) are supplied to the reagent dispensing probe (116), and cleaning is repeated.

[0101] On the other hand, when the output of all measurement results is completed, the state is shifted from the operation (401) state to the quasi-stop mode (402).

[0102] In the quasi-stop mode (402) where the measurement is not performed, Figure 7 As shown, the blank water (403) is continuously supplied. On the other hand, the supply of system water (404), sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405), sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406), reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) is stopped.

[0103] Afterwards, in this embodiment, since condition (a) is set, the quasi-stop mode operation determination unit (503) confirms whether the transportation of the specimen has started (step S312). If the transportation of the specimen has started, the system water (404), the specimen dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405), the specimen dispensing probe external cleaning water (406), the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407), and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) are supplied, that is, the cleaning is started, and the state is transferred from the quasi-stop mode (402) to the operation (401) state.

[0104] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0105] In the automatic analyzer (100) of the above-mentioned embodiment 1 of the present invention, when the sample is not analyzed but is in a standby state capable of accepting sample measurement, a quasi-stop mode is executed to control the supply amount of cleaning water supplied by the cleaning water tank (120A) and the injection pump (120B) to be smaller than the supply amount when the sample is measured. This can solve the opposite problems of maintaining a state in which the measurement can be started quickly by continuing the actions required to start the measurement, and suppressing the water consumption to the minimum required.

[0106] For example, if the above Figure 7 In such a case, by continuing to supply blank water (403) to the reaction container, a cell blank measurement for confirming that there is no abnormality in the cell can be performed, thereby enabling the next measurement to be started quickly after the state is shifted from the quasi-stop mode (402) to the operating (401) state.

[0107] In addition, in the quasi-stop mode (402), by stopping the supply of system water (404), water for cleaning the inside of the sample dispensing probe (405), water for cleaning the outside of the sample dispensing probe (406), water for cleaning the inside of the reagent dispensing probe (407), and water for cleaning the outside of the reagent dispensing probe (408), water consumption can be suppressed to the required minimum compared to the existing situation where cleaning water is continuously discharged even though cleaning is not required.

[0108] In addition, the quasi-stop mode stops the supply of cleaning water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A), and continues to supply cleaning water to one or more of the mechanisms, thereby stopping the supply of cleaning water to areas where the cleaning water consumption is high and reliably reducing the cleaning water consumption.

[0109] Furthermore, a quasi-stop mode execution selection screen (610) is provided for selecting whether to execute the quasi-stop mode, thereby enabling switching between a situation where it is desired to reduce the consumption of washing water and a situation where rapid recovery of the measurement is more important than a reduction in consumption, thereby ensuring convenience for the user.

[0110] <Example 2>

[0111] use Figures 8 to 10 An automatic analyzer and a method for operating the automatic analyzer according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 8 An example of a setting screen for stopping and starting conditions of washing water in the automatic analyzer of the second embodiment is shown. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 This is an example of a timing chart of cleaning water in the automatic analyzer of the second embodiment.

[0112] In this embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. This also applies to the following embodiments.

[0113] In the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the objects to which the supply of cleaning water is stopped in the quasi-stop mode are fixed in the quasi-stop mode condition table (502) within the device. In contrast, in the present embodiment, for example, a screen for selecting whether to stop the supply of cleaning water for each supply object is displayed in the display unit (108) of the operation module (121), and the user can make a selection.

[0114] In this embodiment, if Figure 8 As shown, a stop / start condition setting screen (601) for cleaning water is displayed in the display unit (108), and in this screen, it is independently set whether cleaning water is supplied to the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) in the quasi-stop mode, and the user uses the input unit (107) to make an appropriate selection.

[0115] For example, when the quasi-stop mode (402) is continued for a long time, it is considered that if the water supply is stopped, the sample dispensing probe (113) will dry out, which will affect the next measurement.

[0116] At this time, if Figure 8As shown, it is selected not to set (continue to supply) blank water (403), sample dispensing probe internal washing water (405), and sample dispensing probe external washing water (406). In contrast, it is selected to set (stop supply) system water (404), sample dispensing probe internal washing water (405), sample dispensing probe external washing water (406), reagent dispensing probe internal washing water (407), and reagent dispensing probe external washing water (408). After that, by selecting the setting registration button 605, the setting is reflected on the device side.

[0117] then, Fig. 9 This is a timing chart showing the washing water when the stop condition is (C) completion of output of all measurement results and the start condition is (a) start of sample transport.

[0118] In the operating state (401), when the output of all measurement results has been completed, the system water (404) set under condition (C), the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407), and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) stop cleaning, and the operating state (401) is transferred to the quasi-stop mode (402).

[0119] In contrast, in the quasi-stop mode (402), based on Figure 8 According to the settings in the screen shown, blank water (403), sample dispensing probe internal washing water (405), and sample dispensing probe external washing water (406) are continuously supplied.

[0120] Afterwards, since condition (a) is set, when the measurement starts and the sample transportation begins, the system water (404), the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) start cleaning, and the state is transferred from the quasi-stop mode (402) to the operation (401) state.

[0121] In addition, since the amount of external cleaning water used for one discharge is more than 10 times that of the internal cleaning water, Fig.10 As shown, it can be set to continue discharging the cleaning water (405) inside the sample dispensing probe and the cleaning water (407) inside the reagent dispensing probe in the quasi-stop mode, while stopping the discharge of the cleaning water (406) outside the sample dispensing probe and the cleaning water (408) outside the reagent dispensing probe in the quasi-stop mode.

[0122] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0123] The automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment of the present invention can also achieve substantially the same effects as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment described above.

[0124] In addition, whether cleaning water is required while waiting for the next measurement varies depending on the characteristics of the mechanism. Therefore, by providing a stop / start condition setting screen (601) for cleaning water, it is independently set whether cleaning water is supplied to the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) in the quasi-stop mode. This allows the user to choose to continue discharging cleaning water or stop discharging cleaning water, thereby more reliably suppressing the useless discharge of cleaning water.

[0125] For example, if the above Figure 8 If the setting is set, in the quasi-stop mode (402), the blank water (403) is continuously discharged to maintain the state in which the measurement can be performed, and the sample dispensing probe (113) can be prevented from drying out by continuously discharging the sample dispensing probe internal washing water (405) and the sample dispensing probe external washing water (406). In addition, by stopping the system water (404) that is not needed for washing, the reagent dispensing probe internal washing water (407) and the reagent dispensing probe external washing water (408), the consumption of washing water can be reduced.

[0126] In addition, the objects for reducing the supply of cleaning water or stopping the supply are set to the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A) and the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), thereby continuously cleaning the inside of the sample dispensing probe (113) and the reagent dispensing probe (116) to prevent drying and reduce water consumption.

[0127] <Example 3>

[0128] use Fig.11 as well as Fig.12 An automatic analyzer and an operating method of the automatic analyzer according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.11 An example of a setting screen for the stop and start conditions of the washing water in the automatic analyzer of the third embodiment is shown. Fig.12 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water of the automatic analyzer of the third embodiment.

[0129] In contrast to the above-mentioned embodiment 2, which stops and starts the washing water to be stopped, this embodiment displays a screen in the display unit (108) of the operating module (121) for independently setting the timing of entering the standby state for transitioning to the quasi-stop mode and the timing of starting measurement to transition to the operating state, so that the user can make a selection.

[0130] That is, in the present embodiment, the timing of entering the standby state in the quasi-stop mode differs according to the target of supply of washing water.

[0131] In this embodiment, if Fig.11As shown, the display unit (108) displays a screen (620) for setting the stop / start conditions of the cleaning water. In this screen, the specimen dispensing probe (113), the specimen dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) independently set the timing for entering the standby state to transfer to the quasi-stop mode and the timing for starting the measurement to transfer to the operating state, and the user uses the input unit (107) to make an appropriate selection.

[0132] For example, if the sample dispensing probe (113) or the reagent dispensing probe (116) completes the sample dispensing and the reagent dispensing for the last requested item, it is no longer necessary to supply the cleaning water. In this case, it is more effective to stop supplying the cleaning water at the timing when each cleaning water is no longer needed, rather than stopping supplying the cleaning water at the same time when all the measurement results are output.

[0133] In addition, in terms of the structure of the automatic analyzer, it is considered that it takes time for the sample to reach the analysis module (111) from the transport module (101). As in Example 1, when the sample transport is started, even if the supply of cleaning water is started at the same time, in fact, the sample dispensing probe (113) and the reagent dispensing probe (116) are used for measurement more than several minutes after the sample is transported. In this case, it is more effective to start supplying cleaning water at the timing when each cleaning water is needed.

[0134] As mentioned above, Fig.11 As shown, blank water (403) is not set, and system water (404), sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405), sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406), reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) are set.

[0135] In addition, the stop condition of the system water (404) is set to (C) all measurement results are outputted, and the start condition is set to (a) the specimen transport is started. Furthermore, the stop condition of the specimen dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405) and the specimen dispensing probe external cleaning water (406) can be set to (A), and the start condition can be set to (b), and the stop condition of the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) can be set to (B), and the start condition can be set to (c).

[0136] Fig.12 The timing chart of the washing water in such a setting is shown.

[0137] like Fig.12As shown, in the operating state (401), the sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405) and the sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406) set under condition (A) stop cleaning when all sample dispensing is completed, and the operating state (401) is transferred to the quasi-stop mode (402).

[0138] After that, in the quasi-stop mode (402), when all reagent dispensing is completed, the cleaning of the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) set under condition (B) is stopped.

[0139] And thereafter, when the output of all measurement results is completed, the system water (404) set under condition (C) stops cleaning the reaction container.

[0140] At this point, all the washing waters set to stop washing are stopped.

[0141] After that, when measurement is started and sample transportation is started, system water (404) set to condition (a) starts washing the reaction container.

[0142] When the sample dispensing starts, the sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405) and the sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406) set to condition (b) start cleaning.

[0143] And thereafter, when reagent dispensing starts, the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) set under condition (c) start cleaning, and the state shifts from the quasi-stop mode (402) to the operation (401) state.

[0144] This allows the entire cleaning process to be performed again.

[0145] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0146] The automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment of the present invention can also obtain substantially the same effects as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment described above.

[0147] In addition, there is also a screen (620) for setting the stop / start conditions of the washing water. In this screen, the timing of entering the standby state of the quasi-stop mode and the timing of starting measurement and thus transitioning to the operating state are independently set for the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A). Thus, it is possible to set conditions so that the supply of washing water is stopped in sequence from the parts that do not need to be cleaned, which can further improve the effect of reducing water consumption. In addition, with regard to the conditions for starting cleaning, it is also possible to set conditions so that cleaning is started in sequence from the parts that need to be cleaned, based on the same consideration, which can further improve the effect of reducing water consumption.

[0148] <Example 4>

[0149] use Fig.13 An automatic analyzer and an operating method of the automatic analyzer according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.13 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water in the automatic analyzer of the fourth embodiment.

[0150] In the above-described first to third embodiments, the discharge timings of the washing water in one cycle do not overlap, and even if the washing water is stopped in the quasi-stop mode, the water pressure of other washing water is not affected.

[0151] In contrast, in large-scale automatic analysis devices, for example, the time per cycle is short in order to increase throughput, so Fig.13 As shown, there may be a case where the discharge timings of the respective wash waters overlap.

[0152] At this time, the water pressure of the washing water when all washing water is in operation will be different from the water pressure of the washing water when some washing water is stopped in the quasi-stop mode, which may affect the discharge amount of the washing water in the quasi-stop mode.

[0153] In order to cope with such a situation, the quasi-stop mode can be set so that the supply time of the washing water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) is shorter than the supply time when the sample is measured. Thus, since the washing time of the washing water is changed, even if the mode is changed, the operation can be automatically performed with the same discharge amount.

[0154] In a large automatic analyzer with a short cycle time, there may be an overlapping section (901) in the time of draining blank water (403), system water (404), and cleaning water (405) in the sample dispensing probe in one cycle.

[0155] Therefore, when entering the quasi-stop mode (402), the washing water (405) in the sample dispensing probe stops, and the water pressure of the blank water (403) and system water (404) that continue to discharge washing water increases, and more washing water than the specified amount is discharged.

[0156] In order to deal with such a situation, when the reaction container cleaning control unit (505) enters the quasi-stop mode, if it detects that the device has entered the quasi-stop mode, it switches to an action (902) for shortening the cleaning water discharge time by shortening the valve opening time, thereby keeping the discharge volume before and after the quasi-stop mode the same.

[0157] When the device returns to operation from the quasi-stop mode, the operation of dispensing the cleaning water in the sample probe (405) starts, so the operation is switched to return to the original cleaning water discharge time (903).

[0158] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0159] The automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention can also achieve substantially the same effects as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment described above.

[0160] In addition, the quasi-stop mode makes the supply time of cleaning water to at least one of the specimen dispensing probe (113), the specimen dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) shorter than the supply time when the specimen is measured. Therefore, even if it is assumed that the cleaning water cannot be discharged in a specified amount when operating in the quasi-stop mode, the device can automatically change the cleaning water discharge time to continue to maintain a constant discharge amount, thereby maintaining performance equivalent to operation.

[0161] In this embodiment, the same switching button / setting label as that in Embodiment 2 can be used, such as a switching button for selecting whether to perform processing for shortening the washing water discharge time (supply time) and a washing water stop condition setting label (603) and a washing water start condition setting label (604) for selecting the supply timing.

[0162] In addition, the chart for shortening the washing water discharge time (supply time) as in the present embodiment and the chart for stopping the washing water supply described in the first embodiment can be used together.

[0163] <Example 5>

[0164] use Fig.14 An automatic analyzer and a method for operating the automatic analyzer according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.14 This is a timing chart of the cleaning water of the automatic analyzer of the fifth embodiment.

[0165] The automatic analyzer of this embodiment is different from that of Embodiments 1 and 4. In the quasi-stop mode, the supply interval of cleaning water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) is longer than the supply interval during sample measurement.

[0166] At this time, if Fig.14 As shown, in the operation (401) state, when the output of all measurement results has been completed, the system water (404) set with condition (C), the reagent dispensing probe internal cleaning water (407) and the reagent dispensing probe external cleaning water (408) stop cleaning, and the operation (401) state is transferred to the quasi-stop mode (402).

[0167] In the quasi-stop mode (402), blank water (403) is continuously supplied. Also, the supply timing of the sample dispensing probe internal cleaning water (405) and the sample dispensing probe external cleaning water (406) is set to 2 cycles once, and the water supply is continued after a gap.

[0168] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0169] As in Example 5 of the present invention, the quasi-stop mode makes the supply interval of cleaning water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe (113), the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank (113A), the reagent dispensing probe (116), the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank (116A), and the cleaning mechanism (115A) longer than the supply interval when measuring the sample, thereby achieving an effect substantially the same as that of the automatic analyzer and the operating method of the automatic analyzer in the above-mentioned Example 1.

[0170] In this embodiment, the same switching button / setting label as that in Embodiment 2 can be used, such as a switching button for selecting whether to perform processing for shortening the washing water discharge time (supply time) and a washing water stop condition setting label (603) and a washing water start condition setting label (604) for selecting the supply timing.

[0171] Furthermore, the chart for shortening the washing water discharge interval as in this embodiment can be used in combination with the chart for stopping the washing water supply described in the first embodiment or the chart for shortening the discharge time described in the fourth embodiment.

[0172] <Others>

[0173] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and includes various modified examples. The above-described embodiments are described in detail to explain the present invention in an easy-to-understand manner, and are not limited to having all the described structures.

[0174] In addition, a part of the structure of a certain embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment, and a structure of another embodiment can be added to a structure of a certain embodiment. In addition, for a part of the structure of each embodiment, other structures can be added, deleted, or replaced.

[0175] Description of Reference Numerals

[0176] 100…Automatic analysis device

[0177] 101…Conveyor module

[0178] 102…Rack Supply Tray

[0179] 103…Rack Buffer

[0180] 104…Specimen rack

[0181] 105…Conveyor line

[0182] 106…Storage tray

[0183] 107…Input section

[0184] 108…Display unit

[0185] 109… Storage

[0186] 111…Analysis module

[0187] 112...Specimen dispensing line

[0188] 113…Specimen dispensing probe

[0189] 113A Sample dispensing probe cleaning tank

[0190] 114…Electrolyte measurement unit

[0191] 115…Reaction plate

[0192] 115A…Cleaning mechanism

[0193] 116…Reagent dispensing probe

[0194] 116A…Reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank

[0195] 117…Reagent disk

[0196] 118…Biochemical Assay Unit

[0197] 120A clean water tank (water supply mechanism)

[0198] 120B…Injection pump (water supply mechanism)

[0199] 120C…Flush water supply piping (water supply mechanism)

[0200] 121…Operation module

[0201] 122…Control Department

[0202] 401...Action

[0203] 402…Quasi-stop mode

[0204] 403…Blank water

[0205] 404…System Water

[0206] 405…Rinse water in the sample dispensing probe

[0207] 406…External cleaning water for sample dispensing probe

[0208] 407…Rinse water in the reagent dispensing probe

[0209] 408…Rinse water for reagent dispensing probe

[0210] 501… Quasi-stop mode setting memory

[0211] 502…Quasi-stop mode condition table

[0212] 503 ... Quasi-stop mode operation determination unit

[0213] 504…Measurement Status Management Department

[0214] 505…Reaction vessel cleaning control unit

[0215] 506…Sample dispensing probe control unit

[0216] 507…Reagent dispensing probe control unit

[0217] 601 ... Wash water stop / start condition setting screen (first setting section)

[0218] 602 ... a switch button for setting whether or not to use washing water (first setting unit)

[0219] 603 ... Washing water stop condition setting tag (second setting unit)

[0220] 604 ... Wash water start condition setting tag (second setting unit)

[0221] 605…Set registration button

[0222] 610 ... Quasi-stop mode execution selection screen (third setting section)

[0223] 611… is a button

[0224] 612…No button

[0225] 620 ... Wash water stop / start condition setting screen (second setting section)

[0226] 901 ... Repeating interval of the timing of washing water discharge during operation

[0227] 902…Washing water discharge operation when entering the quasi-stop mode

[0228] 903 ...returns to the washing water discharge action during operation.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device for performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of a liquid after a sample and a reagent are reacted, characterized in that: have: a reaction disk having a plurality of reaction containers for reacting the specimen with the reagent; a sample dispensing probe for dispensing the sample into the reaction container on the reaction disk; a sample dispensing probe cleaning tank for cleaning the periphery of the sample dispensing probe after the sample has been dispensed; a reagent dispensing probe for dispensing the reagent into the reaction container on the reaction disk; a reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank for cleaning the outer periphery of the reagent dispensing probe after the reagent has been dispensed; A cleaning mechanism for cleaning the reaction container after the measurement is completed; a water supply mechanism that supplies cleaning water to the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, the reagent dispensing probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the cleaning mechanism; a control unit that, when the sample is not analyzed by the automatic analyzer but is in a standby state capable of receiving measurement of the sample, executes a quasi-stop mode that does not completely stop the supply of the cleaning water supplied by the water supply mechanism but controls the supply amount to be smaller than the supply amount when the sample is measured; as well as a third setting unit, which is used to select whether to execute the quasi-stop mode, The quasi-stop mode is a mode in which the supply of the cleaning water to at least one of the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, the reagent dispensing probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the cleaning mechanism is stopped, and blank water for unit blank measurement is continued to be supplied to the reaction container on the reaction disk.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The automatic analyzer further includes a first setting unit for independently setting whether to supply the cleaning water to the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, the reagent dispensing probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the cleaning mechanism in the quasi-stop mode.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The automatic analysis device also has a second setting unit, which independently sets the timing of entering the standby state to transfer to the quasi-stop mode and the timing of starting measurement to transfer to the operating state for the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, the reagent dispensing probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the cleaning mechanism.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that The objects to which the supply amount of the washing water is reduced or the supply of the washing water is stopped are the sample dispensing probe washing tank and the reagent dispensing probe washing tank.

5. A method for operating an automatic analyzer, the automatic analyzer comprising a reaction disk having a plurality of reaction containers for reacting a specimen with a reagent, and performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of a liquid after the specimen and the reagent react, characterized in that: When the automatic analyzer is in a standby state capable of receiving measurement of the sample, the automatic analyzer is operated in a quasi-stop mode, and whether or not to execute the quasi-stop mode is selectable. The quasi-stop mode does not completely stop the supply of cleaning water to the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing probe cleaning tank, the reagent dispensing probe, the reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank, and the cleaning mechanism, but stops the supply of the cleaning water to at least one of the mechanisms, and continues to supply blank water for unit blank measurement to the reaction container on the reaction disk. The sample dispensing probe dispenses the sample into the reaction container, The sample dispensing probe cleaning tank cleans the periphery of the sample dispensing probe after the sample is dispensed. The reagent dispensing probe dispenses the reagent into the reaction container, The reagent dispensing probe cleaning tank cleans the outer periphery of the reagent dispensing probe after the reagent is dispensed. The cleaning mechanism cleans the reaction container after measurement has been completed.

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