Sample analyzer and sample analysis method

Abstract

A sample analyzer and sample analysis method are disclosed. The sample analyzer includes a mixing position, a mixing device, and a controller. The mixing position is used to place a holding cup. The mixing device is used to perform a mixing operation on a liquid to be mixed in the holding cup placed in the mixing position. The mixing device includes at least two mixing mechanisms. The controller is used to control one or at least two mixing mechanisms to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup. When the at least two mixing mechanisms perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup, each mixing mechanism performs a different mixing mode. Because the mixing device on the sample analyzer includes at least two mixing mechanisms, multiple mixing mechanisms are used to perform different mixing modes. Therefore, for different test items, one or at least two mixing mechanisms can be matched to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed, thereby achieving effective mixing and ensuring the accuracy of the detection of different test items.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to in vitro detection equipment, and in particular to a sample analyzer and a sample analysis method. Background Art

[0002] In vitro diagnostics (IVDs) refer to products and services that obtain clinical diagnostic information by testing human samples, such as blood or urine, outside the human body, thereby determining disease or body function. Because IVDs can diagnose diseases quickly and accurately at an early stage, they are playing an increasingly important role in clinical care and related medical research.

[0003] During the testing of human samples, the sample to be tested is typically mixed with the corresponding reagent to form a reaction solution, which is then mixed using a mixing device to ensure a sufficient reaction between the sample and the reagent. Traditional mixing devices often use a single mixing mechanism to mix the reaction solution, effectively mixing only specific test items and failing to effectively mix other test items. This fails to meet the mixing requirements of different test items and, consequently, cannot guarantee the accuracy of the tests for different test items. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a sample analyzer is provided, comprising:

[0005] Mixing position, used to place the holding cup;

[0006] a mixing device for performing a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed placed in the receiving cup at the mixing position, the mixing device comprising at least two mixing mechanisms; and

[0007] A controller is connected to the mixing device, and the controller is used to control one or at least two of the mixing mechanisms to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the receiving cup. When at least two of the mixing mechanisms perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the receiving cup, the mixing modes executed by the mixing mechanisms are different.

[0008] In one embodiment, the mixing device includes an ultrasonic mixing mechanism, which is used to emit ultrasonic waves into the liquid to be mixed in the containing cup.

[0009] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism includes an ultrasonic transducer, a transmission member and a moving device, wherein the ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations, the transmission member has a first end and a second end, the first end of the transmission member is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the outer diameter of the second end of the transmission member is smaller than the inner diameter of the containing cup; the moving device is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the moving device is used to drive the ultrasonic transducer and the transmission member to move relative to the containing cup, and the second end of the transmission member can be inserted into the liquid to be mixed in the containing cup to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the liquid to be mixed in the containing cup.

[0010] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism includes an ultrasonic transducer and a transmission member, wherein the ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations, and the transmission member has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the transmission member is connected to the ultrasonic transducer; the second end of the transmission member is used to abut against the outer wall of the containing cup, and the portion where the outer wall of the containing cup contacts the transmission member is the portion surrounding the liquid to be mixed, so as to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the liquid to be mixed in the containing cup.

[0011] In one embodiment, the transmission member is a solid structure, and the outer diameter of the transmission member decreases gradually or in a step-like manner from the first end to the second end.

[0012] In one embodiment, the mixing device further includes a vortex mixing mechanism, and the vortex mixing mechanism is used to drive the containing cup to rotate eccentrically.

[0013] In one embodiment, a cup holder for placing a holding cup is installed on the vortex mixing mechanism, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism and the vortex mixing mechanism perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup on the cup holder separately or together.

[0014] In one embodiment, there are multiple vortex mixing mechanisms, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism can move between the multiple vortex mixing mechanisms to perform ultrasonic mixing operations on the liquid to be mixed in the receiving cup on the cup base of each vortex mixing mechanism.

[0015] In one embodiment, the controller is used to obtain test item parameters, match one or at least two mixing modes from a plurality of preset mixing modes according to the test item parameters, and control the corresponding mixing mechanism to perform a mixing operation.

[0016] In one embodiment, the sample analyzer also includes a sample carrying mechanism, a sample dispensing mechanism, a reagent carrying mechanism, a reagent dispensing mechanism, a reaction mechanism and a measuring mechanism, wherein the sample carrying mechanism is used to carry samples, the sample dispensing mechanism is used to absorb samples and discharge the samples into a holding cup, the reagent carrying mechanism is used to carry reagents, the reagent dispensing mechanism is used to absorb reagents and discharge the reagents into the holding cup, the mixing device is used to perform a mixing operation on a reaction liquid formed by the mixture of the reagent and the sample in the holding cup, the reaction mechanism is used to provide an incubation place for the reaction liquid in the holding cup, and the measuring mechanism is used to measure the reaction liquid.

[0017] In one embodiment, the sample analyzer further includes a transfer mechanism, the mixing position is provided outside the reaction mechanism, and the transfer mechanism is used to transfer the holding cup between the reaction mechanism and the mixing position.

[0018] In one embodiment, a sample analysis method is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0019] Place the holding cup on the mixing position;

[0020] According to the matched one or at least two mixing modes, the corresponding mixing mechanism is controlled to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the receiving cup.

[0021] In one embodiment, the mixing mode is selected by the following steps:

[0022] Get test project parameters;

[0023] One or at least two mixing modes are matched from a plurality of preset mixing modes according to the test item parameters.

[0024] In one embodiment, the mixing mode includes an ultrasonic mixing mode and / or a vortex mixing mode, wherein the ultrasonic mixing mode is used to emit ultrasonic waves into the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup, and the vortex mixing mode is used to mix the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup by eccentric rotation.

[0025] In one embodiment, the mixing mode includes multiple ultrasonic mixing modes, each of which has different ultrasonic intensities and / or ultrasonic action times.

[0026] In one embodiment, the mixing mode includes multiple vortex mixing modes, and the multiple vortex mixing modes have different mixing durations.

[0027] In one embodiment, the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup includes a reaction liquid formed by a sample and a reagent.

[0028] In one embodiment, the following steps are further included before performing the mixing operation:

[0029] The sample dispensing mechanism and the reagent dispensing mechanism respectively inject the sample and the reagent into the holding cup to form a reaction solution;

[0030] After performing the mixing operation, the following steps are also included:

[0031] The transfer mechanism transfers the holding cup after the mixing operation into the reaction mechanism, and the reaction solution is incubated on the reaction mechanism;

[0032] The transfer mechanism transfers the holding cup to the magnetic separation mechanism, and the magnetic separation mechanism performs a magnetic separation operation on the incubated reaction solution;

[0033] The magnetic separation mechanism injects the substrate into the reaction solution after magnetic separation;

[0034] The transfer mechanism transfers the holding cup into the reaction mechanism, and the reaction solution containing the substrate is injected and incubated on the reaction mechanism;

[0035] The reaction mechanism transfers the holding cup to the detection position, and the measurement mechanism performs optical measurement on the reaction liquid.

[0036] According to the sample analyzer and sample analysis method of the above-mentioned embodiment, since the mixing device on the sample analyzer includes at least two mixing mechanisms, the multiple mixing mechanisms are used to execute different mixing modes, so that for different test items, one or at least two mixing mechanisms can be matched to perform mixing operations on the liquid to be mixed, so as to achieve effective mixing, thereby ensuring the accuracy of detection of different test items. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an immunoluminescence analyzer in one embodiment;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a structural block diagram of the control part of an immunoluminescence analyzer in one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 3 A schematic structural diagram of a contact ultrasonic mixing mechanism in one embodiment;

[0040] Figure 4 A structural view of a transmission member in one embodiment;

[0041] Figure 5 A structural view of a transmission member in one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a mobile device in an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasonic mixing mechanism in one embodiment;

[0044] Figure 8A schematic structural diagram of a non-contact ultrasonic mechanism in one embodiment;

[0045] Figure 9 A schematic structural diagram of a non-contact ultrasonic mechanism in one embodiment;

[0046] Figure 10 is a side view of a holding device in one embodiment;

[0047] Figure 11 A top view of a holding device in one embodiment;

[0048] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a vortex mixing mechanism in one embodiment;

[0049] Figure 13 is a timing diagram of a sample analysis method in an embodiment;

[0050] Figure 14 is a flow chart of a sample analysis method in an embodiment;

[0051] Figure 15 A flow chart of ultrasonic mixing in one embodiment;

[0052] Figure 16 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a sample analysis method in an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The present invention will be further described in detail below by means of specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Similar elements in different embodiments are numbered with associated similar elements. In the following embodiments, many detailed descriptions are provided to enable the present application to be better understood. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that some of the features may be omitted in different circumstances, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, some operations related to the present application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid the core of the present application being overwhelmed by excessive descriptions, and for those skilled in the art, it is not necessary to describe these related operations in detail. They will fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and the general technical knowledge in the art.

[0054] In addition, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification may be combined in any appropriate manner to form various embodiments. Furthermore, the steps or actions in the method description may be reordered or adjusted in a manner readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various sequences in the specification and drawings are provided solely for the purpose of clearly describing a particular embodiment and are not intended to be mandatory, unless otherwise specified.

[0055] The serial numbers assigned to components herein, such as "first," "second," etc., are used solely to distinguish the objects being described and do not convey any sequential or technical meaning. References to "connection" and "coupling" herein, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (couplings).

[0056] The present invention is further described in detail below by means of specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Similar elements in different embodiments are numbered with associated similar elements. In the following embodiments, many detailed descriptions are provided to enable the present application to be better understood. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that some of the features may be omitted under different circumstances, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, some operations related to the present application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid the core portion of the present application being overwhelmed by excessive descriptions. For those skilled in the art, it is not necessary to describe these related operations in detail. They can fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and the general technical knowledge in the art.

[0057] Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in this specification may be combined in any appropriate manner to form various embodiments. Furthermore, the steps or actions in the method description may be reordered or adjusted in a manner readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various sequences in the specification and accompanying drawings are provided solely for clarity of description of an embodiment and are not intended to be mandatory, unless otherwise specified.

[0058] The serial numbers assigned to components herein, such as "first," "second," etc., are used solely to distinguish the objects being described and do not convey any sequential or technical meaning. References to "connection" and "coupling" herein, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (couplings).

[0059] For the immunoluminescence analyzer, a one-step test item in the present invention means that a test item only needs one step of incubation; correspondingly, a multi-step test item means that a test item needs to be incubated in multiple steps. For example, a two-step test item means that the test item needs to be incubated in two steps. First, the reagents required for the first step incubation are added to the sample, and then the first step incubation is performed. After the first step incubation time is reached, the reagents required for the second step incubation are added, and then the second step incubation is performed. After the second step incubation time is reached, magnetic separation is performed again, and then the measurement is performed. Generally speaking, for a multi-step test item, magnetic separation needs to be performed after the last step of incubation is completed before the measurement can be performed; and in a multi-step test item, whether magnetic separation is required after the incubation steps other than the last step depends on factors such as the type of test item. For example, in a two-step test item, if magnetic separation is required after incubation in the first step of the test, then the two-step test item can be called a two-step two-separation test item; if magnetic separation is not required after incubation in the first step of the test, then the two-step test item can be called a two-step one-separation test item.

[0060] In a one-step test project or a multi-step test project, the type of reagents required to be added in each incubation step or each incubation can be one or more types, which is determined according to factors such as the type of test project; when in a one-step test project or a multi-step test project, there are one or more steps in the test, and the types of reagents to be added in the incubation are more than one, such a test project can be called a multi-component test project.

[0061] In one embodiment, a sample analyzer is provided. The sample analyzer includes a mixing device comprising multiple mixing mechanisms. One or at least two mixing mechanisms are matched to different test items to mix the liquid to be mixed, thereby improving detection accuracy. The sample analyzer can be a biochemical analyzer or an immunoassay analyzer. This embodiment uses an immunoluminescence analyzer as an example.

[0062] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The immunoluminescence analyzer primarily includes a mixing device, a sample carrier 21, a sample dispensing mechanism 22, a reagent carrier 31, a reagent dispensing mechanism 32, a reaction mechanism 40, a magnetic separation mechanism 50, and a controller 60. The sample carrier 21, the sample dispensing mechanism 22, the reagent carrier 31, the reagent dispensing mechanism 32, the reaction mechanism 40, the magnetic separation mechanism 50, and the mixing device are all mounted on a base 100. The controller 60 is mounted on the main unit of the base 100, or alternatively, on the base 100. The biochemical analyzer does not include the aforementioned magnetic separation mechanism.

[0063] The immunoluminescence analyzer further includes a cup loading mechanism 71 , a cup throwing position 72 , a first transfer mechanism 81 , a second transfer mechanism 82 and a measuring mechanism 90 , which are installed on a machine base 100 .

[0064] The reaction mechanism 40 is arranged in the middle, and the reagent carrying mechanism 31 , the magnetic separation mechanism 50 , the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 , the cup loading mechanism 71 , the cup throwing position 72 and the measuring mechanism 90 are respectively arranged around the reaction mechanism 40 .

[0065] The cup loading mechanism 71 is used to store new unused holding cups 103, which are also called reaction cups. The cup loading mechanism 71 itself also has a cup moving function, which can transfer the holding cup 103 from the storage position to the position to be grasped.

[0066] The first transfer mechanism 81 is arranged between the cup-loading mechanism 71 and the reaction mechanism 40. The first transfer mechanism 81 is a cup-grabbing mechanism. The first transfer mechanism 81 is used to transfer the new holding cup 103 on the cup-loading mechanism 71 to the sample loading position 101 close to the reaction mechanism 40, and to transfer the holding cup 103 on the sample loading position 101 into the reaction mechanism 40.

[0067] The cup-throwing position 72 is located within the movement range of the first transfer mechanism 81 and is connected to the recycling box. The cup-throwing position 72 is used to recycle the used holding cup 103. The first transfer mechanism 81 is also used to transfer the holding cup 103 after testing on the reaction mechanism 40 to the cup-throwing position 72.

[0068] The sample carrier 21 is used to carry samples. In some examples, the sample carrier 21 may include a sample delivery module (SDM). In other examples, the sample carrier 21 may also be a sample tray, which includes multiple locations for placing samples, such as sample tubes. The sample tray can be rotated to dispatch samples to corresponding locations, such as the location for the sample dispensing mechanism 22 to aspirate the sample.

[0069] The sample dispensing mechanism 22 includes a sampling needle, a moving mechanism, and a drive pump. The moving mechanism drives the sampling needle between the sample carrier 21 and the sample loading station 101, while the drive pump provides power for the sampling needle to aspirate and discharge the sample. The sample dispensing mechanism 22 is used to aspirate the sample from the sample tube on the sample carrier 21 and to dispense the aspirated sample into the holding cup 103 on the sample loading station 101.

[0070] The reagent carrying mechanism 31 is used to carry reagents. In one embodiment, the reagent carrying mechanism 31 can be a reagent tray, which is a disc-shaped structure with multiple positions for carrying reagent containers. The reagent carrying mechanism 31 can rotate and drive the reagent containers it carries to rotate, and is used to rotate the reagent containers to a specific position, such as a position where the reagent is drawn by the reagent dispensing mechanism 32. There can be one or more reagent carrying mechanisms 31.

[0071] The reagent dispensing mechanism 32 includes a reagent needle, a moving mechanism, and a drive pump. The moving mechanism is used to drive the reagent needle to move two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally between the reagent carrying mechanism 31 and the reaction mechanism 40. The drive pump is used to provide the reagent needle with power to aspirate and discharge the reagent. The reagent dispensing mechanism 32 is used to aspirate the reagent from the reagent tube on the reagent carrying mechanism 31 and to inject the aspirated reagent into the sample-containing cup 103 on the reaction mechanism 40. The sample and reagent in the cup 103 mix and react to form a reaction solution.

[0072] The reaction mechanism 40 is used to provide an incubation place for the reaction liquid. The reaction mechanism 40 can be a reaction disk, which is arranged in a disc-shaped structure and has one or more placement positions for placing reaction cups. The reaction disk can rotate and drive the reaction cups in its placement positions to rotate, and is used to arrange the reaction cups in the reaction disk and incubate the reaction liquid in the reaction cups.

[0073] The magnetic separation mechanism 50 includes a cleaning liquid dispensing structure, a magnetic attraction structure, a liquid suction structure and a substrate dispensing mechanism. The cleaning liquid dispensing structure is used to add cleaning liquid into the reaction liquid after incubation, and the cleaning liquid is used to separate free substances in the reaction liquid after incubation; the magnetic attraction structure is used to perform a magnetic attraction operation on the reaction liquid filled with cleaning liquid, and the magnetic attraction structure is used to adsorb the reaction complex bound to the magnetic beads; the liquid suction structure is used to discharge other components except the reaction complex bound to the magnetic beads from the holding cup 103; the substrate dispensing mechanism is used to add the substrate into the reaction liquid in the holding cup 103, the substrate reacts with the reaction complex in the reaction liquid, and the substrate performs luminescent marking on the reaction complex.

[0074] Two magnetic separation mechanisms 50 are provided, and the two magnetic separation mechanisms 50 can work independently of each other to improve the efficiency of the test.

[0075] The second transfer mechanism 82 is installed between the reaction mechanism 40 and the magnetic separation mechanism 50. A mixing position 102 is provided near the reaction mechanism 40 and the magnetic separation mechanism 50. The mixing position 102 and the sample adding position 101 are both provided with a cup seat for placing the holding cup 103. The second transfer mechanism 82 is used to transfer the holding cup 103 between the reaction mechanism 40, the magnetic separation mechanism 50 and the mixing position 102.

[0076] The measuring mechanism 90 is used to perform light measurement on the reaction solution after incubation to obtain sample reaction data. For example, the measuring mechanism 90 detects the luminescence intensity of the reaction solution to be measured and calculates the concentration of the component to be measured in the sample through a calibration curve.

[0077] The machine base 100 is also provided with a cleaning mechanism and a waste liquid suction mechanism. The cleaning mechanism is used to clean the sampling needle and the reagent needle, and the waste liquid suction mechanism is used to suck the reaction liquid after detection.

[0078] In this embodiment, the mixing device includes two mixing mechanisms, namely an ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and a vortex mixing mechanism 200. The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is used to transmit ultrasonic waves into the reaction liquid in the container 103 to perform an ultrasonic mixing operation on the reaction liquid; the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is used to drive the container 103 to rotate eccentrically, so that the reaction liquid in the container 103 forms a vortex rotation, thereby performing a vortex mixing operation on the reaction liquid.

[0079] The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are interchangeable, operating in the same position and occupying the same cycle in the overall testing process. The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is a movable mechanism, wherein when one of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is operating, the other is not operating without mechanical interference or timing conflict. The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 can also operate simultaneously without interfering with each other.

[0080] The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is arranged near the mixing position 102 , and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is installed at the mixing position 102 . The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are respectively used to perform mixing operations on the reaction liquid in the holding cup 103 on the mixing position 102 .

[0081] A mixing operation is performed on the reaction liquid at the mixing position 102 . The reaction liquid includes different liquids in the detection process, such as the reaction liquid including the reaction liquid before incubation, the reaction liquid after incubation, and the reaction liquid injected with the substrate.

[0082] In one embodiment, at least two mixing positions 102 are provided to increase the placement position of the holding cup 103. One ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 corresponds to at least two mixing positions 102. That is, one ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 can ultrasonically mix the reaction liquid 104 in multiple holding cups 103 respectively. During the ultrasonic mixing process of one holding cup 103, the holding cups 103 on other mixing positions 102 can be transferred or otherwise operated. The holding cups 103 on multiple mixing positions 102 are alternately mixed to improve detection efficiency.

[0083] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 can also be provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the mixing position 102 .

[0084] In one embodiment, a mixing device is provided at other positions other than the mixing position 102, and the mixing device performs mixing operations on different liquids to be mixed. For example, a mixing device is provided at the sample adding position 101, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are used to perform a mixing operation on the sample in the holding cup 103 on the sample adding position 101, so that the components in the sample are evenly dispersed, which is conducive to the full reaction of the sample and the reagent. For another example, a mixing device is installed in the magnetic separation mechanism 50, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are used to perform a mixing operation on the reaction liquid injected with the cleaning liquid or the reaction liquid injected with the substrate in the holding cup 103 in the magnetic separation mechanism 50, so as to improve the accuracy of the detection.

[0085] In this embodiment, the controller 60 is respectively connected to the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10, the vortex mixing mechanism 200, the sample dispensing mechanism 22, the reagent dispensing mechanism 32, the reaction mechanism 40, the magnetic separation mechanism 50, the first transfer mechanism 81 and the second transfer mechanism 82. The controller 60 is used to control the test timing of the entire sample analyzer.

[0086] When the controller 60 controls the mixing device, the controller 60 obtains the test item input or selected by the doctor, and obtains the test item parameters corresponding to the test item, and matches a mixing mode from multiple mixing modes according to the test item parameters to mix the reaction liquid.

[0087] Different mixing modes have different mixing mechanisms, different mixing intensities or different mixing times, wherein the mixing mechanism uses the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 alone to perform ultrasonic mixing, or uses the vortex mixing mechanism 200 alone to perform vortex mixing, or uses a combination of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 to perform mixing. The mixing intensity is controlled by the input power, and can be set to at least three mixing intensities including strong, medium and weak, and can be set to at least two mixing times including 1s and 2s.

[0088] The mixing modes include at least the following:

[0089] In the first mixing mode, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is used to perform ultrasonic mixing, with a weak mixing intensity and a mixing time of 1 second.

[0090] The second mixing mode uses the vortex mixing mechanism 200 to perform ultrasonic mixing operation, with a weak mixing intensity and a mixing time of 2 seconds;

[0091] The third mixing mode uses the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 to perform ultrasonic mixing operations, with a medium mixing intensity and a mixing time of 1 second.

[0092] In the fourth mixing mode, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are used to perform the mixing operation simultaneously. The mixing intensity of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is weak, the mixing time of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is 2 seconds, and the mixing intensity of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is medium, and the mixing time of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is 2 seconds.

[0093] In the fifth mixing mode, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are used to perform mixing operations in sequence. The mixing intensity of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is strong, and the mixing time of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is 1s. The mixing intensity of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is weak, and the mixing time of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is 2s.

[0094] The test item parameters include numbers, letters, or a combination of the two, such as the test item parameter of the TNI (troponin) item is 2, and the test item parameter of the E2 (estradiol) item includes 0 and 1. The controller 60 pre-stores the project test parameters corresponding to different test items, and each project test parameter corresponds to a mixing mode. For example, if the test item parameter 0 corresponds to the first mixing mode, when the test item parameter obtained by the controller 60 is 0, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is driven to perform vortex mixing with a weak intensity and a time of 1s on the reaction liquid; if the test item parameter 1 corresponds to the second mixing mode, when the test item parameter obtained by the controller 60 is 1, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is driven to perform vortex mixing with a weak intensity and a time of 2s on the reaction liquid; if the test item parameter 2 corresponds to the third mixing mode, when the test item parameter obtained by the controller 60 is operation 2, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is driven to perform ultrasonic mixing with a medium intensity and a time of 1s on the reaction liquid.

[0095] Different mixing modes can be set according to specific test items, so that the mixing device can effectively mix the reaction solution in different test items.

[0096] Please refer to Figure 3 In this embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is a device independent of other mechanisms, that is, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 can operate independently, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 can operate independently of the sample dispensing mechanism 22, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 can operate synchronously or asynchronously with other mechanisms to improve the efficiency of project detection.

[0097] The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is a contact-type ultrasonic mixing mechanism comprising an ultrasonic transducer 11, a transmission element 12, and a moving device 13. The ultrasonic transducer 11 comprises a backing layer, a piezoelectric layer, and a matching layer, which are sequentially connected. The piezoelectric layer is a piezoelectric crystal. Under the action of a driving electrical signal, the piezoelectric crystal produces compression and expansion in the thickness direction through the inverse piezoelectric effect. This deformation frequency reaches the ultrasonic frequency, generating ultrasonic vibrations. The ultrasonic transducer 11 is connected to a controller 60, which is used to control the output power and output duration of the ultrasonic transducer 11 to achieve a variety of ultrasonic mixing modes with different ultrasonic intensities and durations.

[0098] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The transmission member 12 is a solid rod-shaped structure. The transmission member 12 has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is the upper end and the second end is the lower end. The first end of the transmission member 12 is provided with an external thread, and the lower end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 is provided with an internal thread. The transmission member 12 is installed on the lower end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 by a threaded connection. The transmission member 12 can also be connected to the ultrasonic transducer 11 by other means such as snap connection. The transmission member 12 is a resonant rod. The transmission member 12 is connected to the matching layer of the ultrasonic transducer 11. The transmission member 12 is used to transmit ultrasonic vibrations. Compared with the transmission member 12 with a hollow structure, the solid transmission member 12 is conducive to the propagation of axial vibrations, and when the outer diameter of the transmission member 12 decreases along the direction of ultrasonic vibration transmission, the solid transmission member 12 is conducive to energy convergence to achieve a better ultrasonic mixing effect.

[0099] The outer diameter of the transmission member 12 gradually decreases or decreases in a step-like manner from the first end to the second end. The transmission member 12 has the function of gathering energy. When the ultrasonic vibration is transmitted from the first end to the second end, the axial cross-sectional area of ​​the second end relative to the first end decreases, and the ultrasonic vibration is more concentrated at the second end relative to the first end, so that the second end of the transmission member 12 amplifies the amplitude of the emitted ultrasonic vibration relative to the first end, thereby increasing the emitted ultrasonic energy.

[0100] Specifically, the transmission member 12 includes a first end 121, an intermediate section 122, and a second end 123. The first end 121 is a connecting end with an external thread, and the second end 123 is a needle rod structure. The outer diameter of the second end 123 is smaller than the inner diameter of the accommodating cup 103, allowing the second end 123 of the transmission member 12 to be inserted into the accommodating cup 103. The intermediate section 122 is a trumpet-shaped structure. The end of the intermediate section 122 connected to the first end 121 is the trumpet's large end, and the end of the intermediate section 122 connected to the second end 123 is the trumpet's small end. The axial diameter of the intermediate section 122 gradually decreases from the trumpet's large end to the trumpet's small end.

[0101] The middle section 122 can also be composed of one of a cylindrical rod and a conical rod or any combination of the two. Figure 5The middle section 122 of structure a comprises two cylindrical rods of different diameters; structure b comprises four cylindrical rods of different diameters; structure c comprises one conical rod; and structure d comprises two cylindrical rods of different diameters and one conical rod. All five transmission member 12 configurations gradually decrease in diameter or in a stepped manner from the first end to the second end, thereby amplifying the amplitude.

[0102] Please refer to Figure 6 The moving device 13 includes a mounting base 131 , a swing arm assembly 132 , a first moving assembly 133 and a second moving assembly 134 .

[0103] The swing arm assembly 132 includes a swing arm 1321 and a lifting rod 1322. The lifting rod 1322 is vertically and rotatably mounted on the mounting base 131. The swing arm 1321 is horizontally disposed, with one end of the swing arm 1321 connected to the lifting rod 1322. The ultrasonic transducer 11 is mounted on the end of the swing arm 1321 distal from the lifting rod 1322. The swing arm assembly 132 is used to drive the vertical lifting and horizontal rotation of the ultrasonic transducer 11 and the transmission member 12. In one embodiment, the swing arm 1321 and the lifting rod 1322 may also be an integrated structure.

[0104] The first moving assembly 133 is a lifting assembly. The first moving assembly 133 includes a lifting motor 1331 and a lifting transmission assembly 1332. The lifting motor 1331 is mounted on the mounting base 131. The lifting transmission assembly 1332 includes a transmission wheel, a transmission belt, a gear, and a rack. The rack is vertically mounted on the lifting rod 1322. The gear is rotatably mounted on the mounting base 131. The gear and rack are meshed. The lifting motor 1331 is connected to the gear via the transmission wheel and transmission belt. The lifting motor 1331 drives the lifting rod 1322 to move up and down via the gear and rack. In one embodiment, the first moving assembly 1333 is a linear motor. The output shaft of the linear motor is directly connected to the lifting rod 1322, and can also drive the lifting rod 1322 to move up and down.

[0105] The second moving assembly 134 is a rotating assembly, comprising a rotating motor 1341 and a rotating transmission assembly 1342. The rotating motor 1341 is mounted on the mounting base 131. The rotating transmission assembly 1342 comprises a transmission belt and a rotating gear. The transmission belt is a gear belt. The rotating gear is mounted on the lifting rod 1322. The rotating gear and the lifting rod 1322 are connected by a keyway. The lifting rod 1322 can be raised and lowered relative to the rotating gear. The rotating gear is used to drive the lifting rod 1322 to rotate. The rotating motor 1341 is connected to the rotating gear via a transmission belt, and the rotating motor 1341 is used to drive the lifting rod 1322 to rotate. In one embodiment, the rotating motor 1341 is connected to the lifting rod 1322 via a gear train, and can also drive the lifting rod 1322 to rotate.

[0106] In one embodiment, the moving device 13 only includes a mounting base 131 , a swing arm assembly 132 and a first moving assembly 133 . The ultrasonic device 10 has a lifting function. The ultrasonic device 10 is used to perform a mixing operation on the reaction liquid 104 in the holding cup 103 at a specific mixing position 102 .

[0107] In one embodiment, the second moving component 134 can also be a planar moving component composed of X-axis movement and Y-axis movement. The X-axis movement and Y-axis movement are respectively realized by two motors, which can also drive the transmission member 12 to move alternately between multiple mixing positions 102.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 7 In this embodiment, the transmission member 12 of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is directly inserted into the reaction liquid 104 in the holding cup 103. The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 has a preset frequency and voltage, which causes ultrasonic vibrations to propagate primarily along the axial direction. The second end surface of the transmission member 12 serves as the ultrasonic wave emitting surface. During ultrasonic mixing, the second end surface of the transmission member 12 emits ultrasonic waves into the reaction liquid 104, forming an ultrasonic field within the reaction liquid 104. Under the influence of this ultrasonic field, the reaction liquid 104 generates a vigorous flow, thereby achieving uniform mixing of the components within the reaction liquid 104.

[0109] In addition to achieving uniform mixing of reaction liquid 104 through ultrasonic vibration, the cavitation effect generated by ultrasonic waves in the liquid can also evenly disperse any aggregated, adhered substances in reaction liquid 104. By controlling the frequency and sound pressure of the ultrasonic waves, combined with the amplification effect of transmission element 12, the ultrasonic energy entering reaction liquid 104 in holding cup 103 exceeds the ultrasonic cavitation threshold. During the ultrasonic mixing process, ultrasonic cavitation can occur in reaction liquid 104. When ultrasonic cavitation occurs, a large amount of energy is released, exerting a certain force on aggregated, adhered substances in reaction liquid 104, causing them to disperse. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic vibration mixing effect allows these substances to be evenly dispersed in the reaction cup.

[0110] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is a non-contact ultrasonic mixing mechanism. The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is in contact with the receiving cup 103 , and the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 are transmitted to the reaction liquid in the receiving cup 103 through the receiving cup 103 .

[0111] Please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 includes an ultrasonic transducer 11 and a transmission member 12. During ultrasonic mixing, the second end of the transmission member 12 rests against the outer wall of the holding cup 103, transmitting ultrasonic vibrations to the reaction liquid 104 through the holding cup 103. Because the transmission member 12 does not need to be inserted into the holding cup 103, its axial length is shorter than that of contact-type transmission members. However, it also features a gradual or step-wise decrease from the first end to the second end to achieve amplified amplitude.

[0112] During ultrasonic mixing, the second end surface of the transmission member 12 of this embodiment abuts against the outer wall of the containing cup 103. The portion of the outer wall of the containing cup 103 that contacts the transmission member 12 surrounds the reaction liquid 104, thereby transmitting the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer 11 to the liquid in the containing cup 103. The portion of the containing cup 103 surrounding the reaction liquid 104 is the bottom of the containing cup 103 and the lower sidewall connected to the bottom. Therefore, the ultrasonic vibrations can be transmitted to the liquid in the containing cup 103 at any position where the second end of the transmission member 12 abuts against the bottom of the containing cup 103 or the lower sidewall connected to the bottom.

[0113] In this embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is a movable structure, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 also includes a moving device, which includes a mounting seat and a horizontal moving component. The horizontal moving component is installed on the mounting seat, and the ultrasonic transducer is installed on the horizontal moving component. The horizontal moving component is a cylinder or a linear motor, and the horizontal moving component is used to drive the second end of the transmission member 12 to abut against or leave the outer wall of the accommodating cup 103 on the mixing position 102.

[0114] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is configured as a fixed structure, and the transmission member 12 is located at a preset position, so that after the receiving cup 103 is placed on the mixing position 102 , the receiving cup 103 will directly contact the second end of the transmission member 12 .

[0115] In this embodiment, the sample analyzer further includes a clamping device 110 , which is used to limit the radial freedom of the accommodating cup 103 on the mixing position 102 .

[0116] Please refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11The clamping device 110 includes two opposing clamping assemblies, each of which includes a clamping motor 111, a clamping cam 112, and a clamping block 113. The clamping motor 111 is mounted on the base 100, with its output shaft facing upward and vertically connected to the clamping cam 112. The clamping cam 112 is horizontally disposed and in contact with the clamping block 113. The clamping block 113 is mounted on the base 100 for horizontal movement, with its two side surfaces respectively adapted to the receiving cup 103 and the clamping cam 112. If the receiving cup 103 is a circular tube, the surface of the clamping block 113 facing the receiving cup 103 is a concave arc surface; if the receiving cup 103 is a square tube, the surface of the clamping block 113 facing the receiving cup 103 is a flat surface. The raised portion of the guide clamping cam 112 is a convex arc surface, while the surface of the clamping block 113 facing the clamping cam 112 is a concave arc surface with a larger curvature, so that the concave arc surface of the clamping block 113 can guide the raised portion of the clamping cam 112 to slide in and out. The clamping motor 111 is used to drive the clamping cam 112 to rotate, so that the clamping cam 112 drives the clamping block 113 to move closer to or away from the receiving cup 103. When the raised portions of the two clamping cams 112 are both facing the receiving cup 103 and aligned in a straight line, the two clamping blocks 113 clamp the receiving cup 103, limiting the radial freedom of the receiving cup 103. This can prevent the receiving cup 103 from shaking during the ultrasonic mixing process and ensure good contact between the receiving cup 103 and the transmission member 12.

[0117] In this embodiment, since the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 contacts the lower end of the container 103 to achieve ultrasonic mixing, the clamping block 113 of the clamping device 110 clamps against the lower sidewall of the container 103 to improve clamping stability. When the transmission member 12 of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 abuts against the lower sidewall of the container 103, the transmission member 12 and the clamping block 113 are staggered relative to each other on the lower sidewall of the container 103.

[0118] In one embodiment, the clamping device 110 may also include a linear drive and a clamping block. The linear drive is a cylinder or a linear motor. The linear drive drives the clamping block to move closer to and away from the receiving cup 103, which can also achieve the limitation of the receiving cup 103.

[0119] This embodiment adopts a non-contact ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 , which can also transmit ultrasonic vibration to the reaction liquid 104 in the receiving cup 103 to form an ultrasonic sound field and ultrasonic cavitation phenomenon, so as to ultrasonically mix the reaction liquid 104 in the receiving cup 103 .

[0120] Please refer to Figure 12In this embodiment, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 includes a drive motor 201, a transmission belt 202, an eccentric shaft 203 and a mounting base 204. The drive motor 201 is fixedly mounted on the mounting base 204, and the output shaft of the drive motor 201 is set downward. The eccentric shaft 203 is rotatably mounted on the mounting base 204 through a bearing. The eccentric shaft 203 is set vertically. The eccentric shaft 203 has a first section and a second section that are not collinear. The first section is located at the lower position and the second section is located at the upper position. The first section and the second section of the eccentric shaft 203 are both parallel to the output shaft of the drive motor 201. Pulleys are mounted on the output shaft of the drive motor 201 and on the first section of the eccentric shaft 203. A transmission belt 202 is connected to the pulleys of the drive motor 201 and the eccentric shaft 203. The drive motor 201 drives the eccentric shaft 203 to rotate via the transmission belt 202. A cup holder 205 for placing the holding cup 103 is mounted on the eccentric shaft 203. The eccentric shaft 203 can then drive the holding cup 103 on the cup holder 205 to rotate eccentrically, thereby performing a vortex mixing operation on the reaction liquid in the holding cup 103. The drive motor 201 is connected to a controller 60, which controls the output power and output duration of the drive motor 201 to achieve a variety of vortex mixing modes with different intensities and durations.

[0121] The cup holder 205 is the mixing position 102, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 can be moved to the mixing position 102 to perform an ultrasonic mixing operation on the reaction liquid in the cup 103 on the cup holder 205, so that the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 can perform a mixing operation on the reaction liquid in the cup 103 on the cup holder 205 separately or jointly.

[0122] In this embodiment, the controller 60 is connected to the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200. The controller 60 can control the mixing intensity and mixing time of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 to combine multiple ultrasonic modes to meet the mixing requirements of the reaction solution in different detection projects. The analyzer of this embodiment also has stronger fault tolerance. If one of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 fails, the other can take over the mixing, thereby ensuring the continuity of the test.

[0123] In one embodiment, a sample analysis method is provided. The sample analysis method is performed by the sample analyzer in the above embodiment.

[0124] Please refer to Figure 13 In the whole machine test, according to different reagent items, the sample analyzer mainly includes the following five different test processes:

[0125] Test process 1. One-step separation: After adding sample S and reagent R respectively, perform one incubation and one magnetic separation operation, then add substrate A, incubate and measure light.

[0126] Test process 2, two-step method for one-time separation: after adding sample S, reagent R1 is added in the first step. Reagent R1 can be one reagent or multiple reagents. The sample and reagent R1 are mixed to form a reaction solution for the first incubation; after the first incubation, reagent R2 is added in the second step. Reagent R2 can be one reagent or multiple reagents. Reagent R2 and the reaction solution after the first incubation form a new reaction solution for the second incubation; the reaction solution after the second incubation is subjected to magnetic separation, addition of substrate A, incubation and photometry in sequence.

[0127] Test process three, two-step method with two separations: After adding the sample, reagent R1 is added in the first step. The sample and reagent R1 are mixed to form a reaction solution for the first incubation. After the first incubation, the first magnetic separation operation is performed; after the first magnetic separation operation, reagent R2 is added in the second step. Reagent R2 and the reaction solution after the first magnetic separation form a new reaction solution for the second incubation; the reaction solution of the second incubation undergoes a second magnetic separation operation; the reaction solution after the second magnetic separation operation is sequentially filled with substrate A, incubated, and photometry.

[0128] Test process 4, sample pretreatment: add sample S, then add pretreatment reagent, the pretreatment reagent pretreats the sample to form sample S'; add reagent R to the pretreated sample S', and then perform incubation, magnetic separation, addition of substrate A, incubation and light measurement in sequence.

[0129] Test Process 5: Sample pretreatment: Add sample S, then add diluent, which dilutes the sample to obtain a sample S' with a lower concentration; add reagent to the diluted sample S', and then perform incubation, magnetic separation, addition of substrate A, incubation, and light measurement in sequence.

[0130] In this embodiment, the sample analysis method is controlled and executed by the controller 60, and is described by taking a one-step method and a single magnetic separation as an example. In this sample analysis method, ultrasonic mixing is performed on the reaction solution.

[0131] Please refer to Figure 14 The sample analysis method of this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0132] S101: Add sample;

[0133] The first transfer mechanism 81 transfers the new receiving cup 103 on the cup loading mechanism 71 to the sample loading position 101;

[0134] The sample dispensing mechanism 22 sucks the sample S from the sample carrying mechanism 21 and injects the sucked sample S into the receiving cup 103 on the sample injecting position 101 .

[0135] S102: Add reagents;

[0136] The first transfer mechanism 81 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the sample S from the sample adding position 101 to the outer ring of the reaction mechanism 40; the reaction mechanism 40 transfers the holding cup 103 to which the reagent R needs to be added to the reagent adding position;

[0137] The reagent dispensing mechanism 32 draws the reagent R from the reagent carrying mechanism 31 and injects the drawn reagent into the receiving cup 103 at the sample reagent adding position in the reaction mechanism 40 . The sample S and the reagent R in the receiving cup 103 are mixed to form a reaction solution.

[0138] S103: Mixing;

[0139] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the reaction solution to the mixing position 102;

[0140] The mixing device is controlled to mix the reaction liquid in the containing cup 103 so that the sample S and the reagent R can react fully.

[0141] Please refer to Figure 15 Specifically, the mixing operation also includes the following sub-steps:

[0142] S1031: Obtain test item parameters;

[0143] The controller 60 obtains the test item input or selected by the doctor and obtains the test item parameters corresponding to the test item;

[0144] Different test items include different test item parameters, which are used to match different mixing modes. Test item parameters include numbers, letters, or a combination of the two. For example, the test item parameter for the TNI (troponin) item is 2, and the test item parameters for the E2 (estradiol) item include 0 and 1.

[0145] S1032: Matching mixing mode;

[0146] The controller 60 pre-stores project test parameters corresponding to different test projects, each project test parameter corresponds to a mixing mode, and the controller 60 matches a mixing mode from multiple mixing modes according to the acquired project test parameters.

[0147] Different mixing modes have different mixing mechanisms, different mixing intensities or different mixing times, wherein the mixing mechanism uses the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 alone to perform ultrasonic mixing, or uses the vortex mixing mechanism 200 alone to perform vortex mixing, or uses a combination of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 to perform mixing. The mixing intensity is controlled by the input power, and can be set to at least three mixing intensities including strong, medium and weak, and can be set to at least two mixing times including 1s and 2s.

[0148] The mixing modes include at least the following:

[0149] In the first mixing mode, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is used to perform ultrasonic mixing, with a weak mixing intensity and a mixing time of 1 second.

[0150] The second mixing mode uses the vortex mixing mechanism 200 to perform ultrasonic mixing operation, with a weak mixing intensity and a mixing time of 2 seconds;

[0151] The third mixing mode uses the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 to perform ultrasonic mixing operations, with a medium mixing intensity and a mixing time of 1 second.

[0152] In the fourth mixing mode, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are used to perform the mixing operation simultaneously. The mixing intensity of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is weak, the mixing time of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is 2 seconds, and the mixing intensity of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is medium, and the mixing time of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is 2 seconds.

[0153] In the fifth mixing mode, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are used to perform mixing operations in sequence. The mixing intensity of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is strong, and the mixing time of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is 1s. The mixing intensity of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is weak, and the mixing time of the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is 2s.

[0154] S1033: Control the mixing mechanism to perform a mixing operation.

[0155] If the test item parameter 0 corresponds to the first mixing mode, when the test item parameter obtained by the controller 60 is 0, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is driven to perform vortex mixing with a weak intensity and a time of 1s on the reaction liquid; the test item parameter 1 corresponds to the second mixing mode, when the test item parameter obtained by the controller 60 is 1, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 is driven to perform vortex mixing with a weak intensity and a time of 2s on the reaction liquid; the test item parameter 2 corresponds to the third mixing mode, when the test item parameter obtained by the controller 60 is operation 2, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is driven to perform ultrasonic mixing with a medium intensity and a time of 1s on the reaction liquid.

[0156] Among them, the ultrasonic mixing operation of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is divided into three steps: the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 first moves the transmission member 12 to the reaction liquid on the mixing position 102; the transmission member 12 transmits ultrasonic waves into the reaction liquid to perform ultrasonic mixing; after the mixing is completed, the transmission member 12 leaves the mixing position 102 and returns to the initial position.

[0157] The vortex mixing mechanism 200 directly drives the cup holder 205 to rotate eccentrically, and the cup holder 205 drives the containing cup 103 and the reaction liquid inside thereof to rotate eccentrically, so as to achieve a vortex mixing operation on the reaction liquid.

[0158] In one embodiment, for other test items, the controller 60 can also control the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 to perform mixing operations on the reaction liquid on the mixing position 102 sequentially or simultaneously. When the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 simultaneously perform mixing operations on the reaction liquid in the receiving cup 103, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 adopts a contact ultrasonic mixing mechanism, and the transmission member 12 of the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 is located in the middle of the receiving cup 103 to prevent the transmission member 12 from colliding with the eccentrically rotating receiving cup 103. The range of the middle position is determined by the inner diameter of the receiving cup 103 and the radius of the eccentric rotation of the receiving cup 103.

[0159] S104: incubation;

[0160] After the mixing is completed, the second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the mixed reaction solution from the mixing position 102 back to the inner circle of the reaction mechanism 40 for incubation for a preset time.

[0161] S105: magnetic separation;

[0162] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the incubated reaction solution from the reaction mechanism 40 to the magnetic separation mechanism 50;

[0163] The cleaning liquid dispensing structure of the magnetic separation mechanism 50 injects the cleaning liquid into the receiving cup 103 containing the reaction liquid;

[0164] The magnetic attraction structure absorbs the reaction complex with magnetic beads in the holding cup 103 through a magnetic field;

[0165] The liquid absorbing structure discharges other substances and liquids except the adsorbed reaction complex from the receiving cup 103 .

[0166] S106: adding substrate;

[0167] The substrate dispensing mechanism of the magnetic separation mechanism 50 adds substrate A into the holding cup 103 after the liquid is aspirated, and the substrate A performs luminescence labeling on the reaction complex in the reaction solution.

[0168] S107: incubation;

[0169] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the reaction solution injected with substrate A from the magnetic separation mechanism 50 back to the outer circle of the reaction mechanism 40 for incubation.

[0170] S108: Light measurement;

[0171] The reaction mechanism 40 transfers the holding cup 103 of the incubated reaction solution to the detection position;

[0172] The measuring mechanism 90 detects the luminescent reaction complex in the holding cup 103;

[0173] After the optical measurement is completed, the waste liquid suction mechanism sucks away the reaction liquid from the holding cup 103;

[0174] The first transfer mechanism 81 transfers the receiving cup 103 from which the reaction liquid has been discharged from the reaction mechanism 40 to the cup throwing position 72 .

[0175] The sample analysis method of this embodiment can perform mixing operations according to the test item parameters of different test items and the corresponding mixing modes. Compared with a single mixing mode, the present application can effectively mix the reaction liquids of different test items, so that the samples and reagents can be fully reacted, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the test items.

[0176] In one embodiment, the sample loading station 101 is disposed within the reaction mechanism 40. In step 101, the first transfer mechanism 81 transfers a new receiving cup 103 from the cup loading mechanism 71 to the sample loading station 101 within the reaction mechanism 40, and the sample dispensing mechanism 22 injects the sample into the receiving cup 103 on the sample loading station 101 within the reaction mechanism 40, thereby also achieving sample loading.

[0177] In one embodiment, the mixing position 102 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are arranged in the reaction mechanism 40. In step 103, the reaction mechanism 40 rotates the holding cup 103 containing the reaction liquid to the mixing position 102, or the reagent adding position and the mixing position 102 are located at the same position. After the reagent dispensing mechanism 32 adds the reagent, the vortex mixing mechanism 200 performs a vortex mixing operation. In step 105, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 transmits ultrasonic waves into the reaction liquid incubated on the mixing position 102 in the reaction mechanism 40, and performs an ultrasonic mixing operation on the reaction liquid. Vortex mixing and ultrasonic mixing operations can also be achieved.

[0178] In one embodiment, the mixing station 102 and the vortex mixing mechanism 200 are disposed within the magnetic separation mechanism 50. In step 103, the second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the reaction solution to the mixing station 102 within the magnetic separation mechanism 50. In step 105, the ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 transmits ultrasonic waves into the reaction solution incubated at the mixing station 102 within the magnetic separation mechanism 50, performing an ultrasonic mixing operation on the reaction solution. Ultrasonic mixing can also be achieved.

[0179] In one embodiment, a second transfer mechanism 82 is used for cup throwing, and the cup throwing position 72 is set within the travel range of the second transfer mechanism 82. In step 108, the second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the receiving cup 103 that has discharged the reaction liquid from the reaction mechanism 40 to the cup throwing position 72. The cup throwing operation can also be achieved.

[0180] One embodiment provides a sample analysis method. This sample analysis method differs from the sample analysis method in the above embodiment in that it includes a step of mixing the reaction solution after adding the substrate. This sample analysis method is performed by a sample analyzer having two mixing positions 102. For ease of description, the two mixing positions 102 are defined as a first mixing position 102 and a second mixing position 102.

[0181] Please refer to Figure 16 The sample analysis method of this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0182] S201: Add sample;

[0183] The first transfer mechanism 81 transfers the new receiving cup 103 on the cup loading mechanism 71 to the sample loading position 101;

[0184] The sample dispensing mechanism 22 sucks the sample S from the sample carrying mechanism 21 and injects the sucked sample S into the receiving cup 103 on the sample injecting position 101 .

[0185] S202: Add reagents;

[0186] The first transfer mechanism 81 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the mixed sample S from the sample adding position 101 to the outer ring of the reaction mechanism 40; the reaction mechanism 40 transfers the holding cup 103 to which the reagent R needs to be added to the reagent adding position;

[0187] The reagent dispensing mechanism 32 draws the reagent R from the reagent carrying mechanism 31 and injects the drawn reagent into the receiving cup 103 at the sample reagent adding position in the reaction mechanism 40 . The sample S and the reagent R in the receiving cup 103 are mixed to form a reaction solution.

[0188] S203: Mixing;

[0189] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the reaction solution to the first mixing position 102;

[0190] The mixing device is controlled to mix the reaction liquid in the receiving cup 103 on the first mixing position 102 so that the sample S and the reagent R can react fully.

[0191] The mixing operation of the reaction liquid is the same as that in the above embodiment. Different mixing modes are matched to different test items to effectively mix the reaction liquid.

[0192] S204: incubation;

[0193] After the mixing is completed, the second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the mixed reaction solution from the mixing position 102 back to the inner circle of the reaction mechanism 40 for incubation for a preset time.

[0194] S205: magnetic separation;

[0195] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the incubated reaction solution from the reaction mechanism 40 to the magnetic separation mechanism 50;

[0196] The cleaning liquid dispensing structure of the magnetic separation mechanism 50 injects the cleaning liquid into the receiving cup 103 containing the reaction liquid;

[0197] The magnetic attraction structure absorbs the reaction complex with magnetic beads in the holding cup 103 through a magnetic field;

[0198] The liquid absorbing structure discharges other substances and liquids except the adsorbed reaction complex from the receiving cup 103 .

[0199] S206: Add substrate;

[0200] The substrate dispensing mechanism of the magnetic separation mechanism 50 adds substrate A into the holding cup 103 after the liquid is aspirated, and the substrate A performs luminescence labeling on the reaction complex in the reaction solution.

[0201] S207: Mixing;

[0202] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the reaction solution injected with substrate A from the magnetic separation mechanism 50 to the second mixing position 102 .

[0203] The mixing device is controlled to mix the reaction solution containing substrate A injected into the holding cup 103 on the second mixing position 102, so that the substrate A in the reaction solution can fully label the reaction complex.

[0204] The mixing operation of the reaction solution injected with substrate A is the same as that in the above embodiment. Different ultrasonic modes are matched to different test items to effectively mix the reaction solution.

[0205] The ultrasonic mixing mechanism 10 alternately moves between the first mixing position 102 and the second mixing position 102 , and performs ultrasonic mixing operations on the reaction liquids on the first mixing position 102 and the second mixing position 102 in sequence.

[0206] S208: incubation;

[0207] The second transfer mechanism 82 transfers the holding cup 103 containing the reaction solution injected with substrate A from the magnetic separation mechanism 50 back to the outer circle of the reaction mechanism 40 for incubation.

[0208] S209: Light measurement;

[0209] The reaction mechanism 40 transfers the holding cup 103 of the incubated reaction solution to the detection position;

[0210] The measuring mechanism 90 detects the luminescent reaction complex in the holding cup 103;

[0211] After the optical measurement is completed, the waste liquid suction mechanism sucks away the reaction liquid from the holding cup 103;

[0212] The first transfer mechanism 81 transfers the receiving cup 103 from which the reaction liquid has been discharged from the reaction mechanism 40 to the cup throwing position 72 .

[0213] The sample analysis method of this embodiment utilizes two mixing positions 102 to respectively perform mixing operations on the reaction liquid and the reaction liquid injected into the substrate, which can not only effectively mix the reaction liquid and the reaction liquid injected into the substrate respectively, but also ensure the efficiency of the whole machine test.

[0214] The above examples are used to illustrate the present invention, which are only used to help understand the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make several simple deductions, modifications or substitutions based on the concept of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer, characterized in that: include: Mixing position, used to place the holding cup; A mixing device, configured to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed placed in the receiving cup at the mixing position, wherein the mixing device comprises at least two different mixing mechanisms; as well as A controller is connected to the mixing device, the controller is used to obtain test item parameters, match one or at least two mixing modes according to the test item parameters, and control the corresponding mixing mechanism of at least two mixing mechanisms to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup according to the matched mixing mode, wherein at least two different item parameters correspond to different mixing modes, and at least two different mixing modes correspond to different mixing mechanisms.

2. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, wherein The at least two mixing mechanisms include an ultrasonic mixing mechanism, which is used to emit ultrasonic waves into the liquid to be mixed in the containing cup.

3. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, wherein: The ultrasonic mixing mechanism includes an ultrasonic transducer, a transmission member, and a moving device. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission member is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the outer diameter of the second end of the transmission member is smaller than the inner diameter of the holding cup. The moving device is connected to the ultrasonic transducer and is used to drive the ultrasonic transducer and the transmission member to move relative to the holding cup. The second end of the transmission member can be inserted into the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup.

4. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, wherein: The ultrasonic mixing mechanism includes an ultrasonic transducer and a transmission member. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission member is connected to the ultrasonic transducer; the second end of the transmission member is used to abut against the outer wall of the containing cup. The part of the outer wall of the containing cup that contacts the transmission member is the part surrounding the liquid to be mixed, so as to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the liquid to be mixed in the containing cup.

5. The sample analyzer according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The transmission member is a solid structure, and the outer diameter of the transmission member decreases gradually or in a step-like manner from the first end to the second end.

6. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, wherein: The at least two mixing mechanisms further include a vortex mixing mechanism, and the vortex mixing mechanism is used to drive the containing cup to rotate eccentrically.

7. The sample analyzer according to claim 6, wherein: A cup holder for placing the holding cup is installed on the vortex mixing mechanism, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism and the vortex mixing mechanism perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup on the cup holder separately or together.

8. The sample analyzer according to claim 7, wherein: There are multiple vortex mixing mechanisms, and the ultrasonic mixing mechanism is a movable structure. The ultrasonic mixing mechanism can move between the multiple vortex mixing mechanisms to perform ultrasonic mixing operations on the liquid to be mixed in the receiving cup on the cup base of each vortex mixing mechanism.

9. The sample analyzer according to claim 6, wherein: It includes at least three mixing modes, wherein one mixing mode uses the ultrasonic mixing mechanism to perform mixing operations, one mixing mode uses the vortex mixing mechanism to perform mixing operations, and another mixing mode uses the ultrasonic mixing mechanism and the vortex mixing mechanism to perform mixing operations.

10. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, wherein: It also includes a sample carrying mechanism, a sample dispensing mechanism, a reagent carrying mechanism, a reagent dispensing mechanism, a reaction mechanism and a measuring mechanism. The sample carrying mechanism is used to carry samples, the sample dispensing mechanism is used to absorb samples and discharge the samples into the holding cup, the reagent carrying mechanism is used to carry reagents, the reagent dispensing mechanism is used to absorb reagents and discharge the reagents into the holding cup, the mixing device is used to perform a mixing operation on the reaction liquid formed by the mixture of the reagent and the sample in the holding cup, the reaction mechanism is used to provide an incubation place for the reaction liquid in the holding cup, and the measuring mechanism is used to measure the reaction liquid.

11. The sample analyzer according to claim 10, wherein: It also includes a transfer mechanism, the mixing position is arranged outside the reaction mechanism, and the transfer mechanism is used to transfer the receiving cup between the reaction mechanism and the mixing position.

12. A sample analysis method, applied to a sample analyzer, characterized in that: The sample analysis method comprises the following steps: placing the holding cup on the mixing position of the sample analyzer; Get test project parameters; According to one or at least two mixing modes matched with the test item parameters, corresponding mixing mechanisms of at least two different mixing mechanisms in the sample analyzer are controlled according to the matched mixing modes to perform a mixing operation on the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup, the mixing modes corresponding to at least two different item parameters are different, and the mixing mechanisms corresponding to at least two different mixing modes are different.

13. The sample analysis method according to claim 12, wherein: The invention comprises at least three mixing modes, wherein one mixing mode adopts an ultrasonic mixing mechanism to perform the mixing operation, one mixing mode adopts a vortex mixing mechanism to perform the mixing operation, and another mixing mode adopts the ultrasonic mixing mechanism and the vortex mixing mechanism to perform the mixing operation; the ultrasonic mixing mode is used to emit ultrasonic waves into the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup, and the vortex mixing mode is used to mix the liquid to be mixed in the holding cup by eccentric rotation.

14. The sample analysis method according to claim 13, wherein: The mixing mode includes multiple ultrasonic mixing modes, and the multiple ultrasonic mixing modes respectively have different ultrasonic intensities and / or ultrasonic action times.

15. The sample analysis method according to claim 13, wherein: The mixing mode includes multiple vortex mixing modes, and the multiple vortex mixing modes have different mixing durations.

16. The sample analysis method according to claim 12, wherein: The liquid to be mixed in the containing cup includes a reaction liquid formed by a sample and a reagent.

17. The sample analysis method according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein: Before performing the mixing operation, the following steps are also included: Controlling the sample dispensing mechanism and the reagent dispensing mechanism in the sample analyzer to respectively inject the sample and the reagent into the holding cup to form a reaction solution; After performing the mixing operation, the following steps are also included: Controlling the transfer mechanism in the sample analyzer to transfer the holding cup after the mixing operation into the reaction mechanism in the sample analyzer, and incubating the reaction liquid on the reaction mechanism; Controlling the transfer mechanism to transfer the holding cup to the magnetic separation mechanism in the sample analyzer, and controlling the magnetic separation mechanism to perform a magnetic separation operation on the incubated reaction solution; controlling the magnetic separation mechanism to inject the substrate into the reaction solution after magnetic separation; Controlling the transfer mechanism to transfer the holding cup into the reaction mechanism, and injecting the reaction solution containing the substrate to incubate on the reaction mechanism; The reaction mechanism is controlled to transfer the holding cup to a detection position, so that the determination mechanism in the sample analyzer performs optical detection on the reaction liquid.

Images