Sample rack transport device and sample analyzer

Abstract

A sample rack transport device and a sample analyzer are provided. The sample rack transport device includes an injection channel, an injection mechanism, and a positioning mechanism. The positioning mechanism includes a positioning structure movably disposed on the injection channel, the positioning structure being used to position the sample rack within the injection channel between a first position and a second position along the width of the sample rack. Because the positioning mechanism is provided on the sample channel, the positioning mechanism is used to position the sample rack within the injection channel between the first position and the second position along the width of the sample rack, so that the sample rack can be positioned and transported to the sample aspiration position, and the sample dispensing device can then accurately extend into the sample tube at the sample aspiration position to aspirate the sample, thereby avoiding collision between the sample dispensing device and the sample tube, thereby ensuring detection accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sample feeding device, in particular to a sample rack transporting device and a sample analyzer. Background Art

[0002] Some sample analyzers use front-end track sampling. During the sampling process, the front-end track transports the sample rack to the sample aspiration position through the transmission belt. The sampling needle moves to the sample aspiration position and extends into the sample tube of the sample rack to aspirate the sample. After the sampling needle has completed the aspiration, it leaves the sample aspiration position, and the front-end track transports the sample rack after aspiration to the recovery area.

[0003] In traditional sample analyzers, the front track does not accurately position the sample rack when transporting it, so the sampling needle is likely to hit the wall of the sample tube during the sample aspiration process, resulting in inaccurate sample aspiration by the sampling needle, affecting the accuracy of the test results and also affecting the service life of the sampling needle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a sample rack transport device is provided, comprising:

[0005] An injection channel, wherein a first position and a second position are provided on the injection channel, and a sample aspirating position for a sample dispensing device to aspirate a sample is provided on the injection channel, and the sample aspirating position is located between the first position and the second position;

[0006] The sample introduction mechanism includes a sample introduction drive structure and a conveying structure, wherein the sample introduction drive structure is in driving connection with the conveying structure and is used to drive the conveying structure to move so that the conveying structure conveys the sample rack along the sample introduction channel; and

[0007] The positioning mechanism comprises a positioning structure movably arranged on the injection channel, wherein the positioning structure is used to position the sample rack in the injection channel along the width direction of the sample rack between the first position and the second position.

[0008] In one embodiment, the positioning structure includes a first positioning structure and a second positioning structure, at least one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure is a movable structure, the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are respectively located on both sides of the injection channel, and the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are used to clamp the sample rack.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second positioning structure includes a clamping arm and an elastic positioning member, one end of the clamping arm is rotatably arranged relative to the injection channel, the other end of the clamping arm is a free end, the elastic positioning member is connected to the clamping arm, the elastic positioning member is used to reset the clamping arm, and the elastic positioning member is used to provide pressure to the free end of the clamping arm toward the first positioning structure;

[0010] The positioning mechanism further includes a separator, which is used to drive the clamping arm to rotate so that the free end of the clamping arm is away from the first positioning structure. Two separators are provided, and the two separators are respectively arranged at the first position and the second position.

[0011] In one embodiment, the separator is a wedge-shaped block.

[0012] In one embodiment, the clamping arm includes a swing arm and a pressure block, one end of the swing arm is rotatably arranged relative to the injection channel, and the other end of the swing arm is rotatably connected to the pressure block, the elastic positioning member is connected to the swing arm, and the pressure block is used to abut against the sample rack to clamp the sample rack with the first positioning structure.

[0013] In one embodiment, the positioning mechanism further includes a driving member, which is transmission-connected to at least one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure, and the driving member is used to drive at least one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure to move so that the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure move closer to or farther away from each other.

[0014] In one embodiment, the positioning structure includes a first magnetic member and a second magnetic member, the first magnetic member is movably arranged on the injection channel, the second magnetic member is used to be arranged on the sample rack, and the first magnetic member is used to absorb or release the second magnetic member.

[0015] In one embodiment, the positioning structure has an injection end and a sample output end, and the sample rack enters and exits the positioning structure through the injection end and the sample output end respectively. The positioning mechanism also includes a blocking structure movably arranged at the sample output end, and the blocking structure is used to block the sample rack between the first position and the second position. When the positioning structure is in the second position, the blocking structure can move relative to the positioning structure to avoid the sample rack.

[0016] In one embodiment, the blocking structure includes a blocking arm, an elastic reset member and a limit member, one end of the blocking arm is rotatably arranged on the positioning structure, the other end of the blocking arm is a free blocking end, the elastic reset member is connected to the positioning structure and the blocking arm, and the elastic reset member is used to drive the blocking end of the blocking arm to reset into the injection channel; the limit member is provided on the positioning structure, the limit member is located on the rotation trajectory of the blocking arm, and the limit member is used to limit the rotation of the blocking arm driven by the elastic reset member;

[0017] The positioning mechanism further includes a toggle member, which is disposed on the injection channel and close to the second position. The toggle member is used to drive the blocking arm to rotate out of the injection channel to avoid the sample rack.

[0018] In one embodiment, the positioning mechanism further includes a moving drive structure, the moving drive structure being in transmission connection with the positioning structure, and the moving drive structure being configured to drive the positioning structure to reciprocate between the first position and the second position;

[0019] The injection drive structure is used to drive the transport structure to transport the sample rack to the positioning structure at the first position, and is used to drive the transport structure to transport the sample rack out of the positioning structure at the second position.

[0020] In one embodiment, the positioning structure includes a carrier for carrying a sample rack, the mobile driving structure is transmission-connected to the carrier, the conveying structure extends along the injection channel and passes through the positioning structure, and the conveying structure is located above the carrier.

[0021] In one embodiment, the positioning mechanism further includes an in-place detection device, which is disposed on the positioning structure. The in-place detection device is used to detect whether the sample rack has entered the positioning structure. If so, an in-place signal is generated. The in-place signal is used to trigger the mobile drive structure so that the mobile drive structure drives the positioning structure to move from the first position to the second position.

[0022] In one embodiment, a sample analyzer is provided, comprising:

[0023] The sample rack transport device mentioned above;

[0024] a sample dispensing device for aspirating the sample on the sample aspirating position and injecting the aspirated sample into the holding cup;

[0025] A reagent carrying device, used for carrying reagents;

[0026] a reagent dispensing device for sucking the reagent from the reagent carrying device and injecting the sucked reagent into the containing cup;

[0027] A reaction device, used to provide an incubation location for a reaction solution formed by mixing the sample and the reagent in the holding cup; and

[0028] The measuring device is used to measure the reaction solution.

[0029] According to the sample rack transport device and sample analyzer of the above-mentioned embodiment, since a positioning mechanism is provided on the sample channel, the positioning mechanism is used to position the sample rack in the sample injection channel between the first position and the second position of the sample injection channel along the width direction of the sample rack, so that the sample rack can be positioned and transported to the sample aspiration position, and then the sample dispensing device can accurately extend into the sample tube on the sample aspiration position to aspirate the sample, which can avoid collision between the sample dispensing device and the sample tube, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the detection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a sample rack transport device in one embodiment;

[0031] Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a sample injection mechanism in one embodiment;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of a positioning mechanism in an embodiment;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of a bearing member and a positioning structure in an embodiment;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the second positioning structure in one embodiment;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram of a positioning mechanism for positioning and transporting a sample rack in one embodiment;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram of a positioning mechanism in an embodiment;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of a positioning mechanism in an embodiment;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a structural diagram of a positioning mechanism in an embodiment;

[0039] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a sample analyzer in an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] 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 portion 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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).

[0043] In one embodiment, a sample rack transport device is provided. The sample rack transport device is used to be installed at the sample inlet end of the analyzer to transport the sample rack carrying sample tubes to the sample aspiration position for the sample dispensing device of the analyzer to aspirate the sample.

[0044] Please refer to Figure 1 The sample transport device of this embodiment mainly includes a sample injection channel 10 , a sample injection mechanism 20 and a positioning mechanism 30 .

[0045] The injection channel 10 is a straight channel, and includes a common injection channel and an emergency injection channel. Each injection channel 10 is provided with an injection mechanism 20 and a positioning mechanism 30 .

[0046] In this embodiment, the injection channel 10 is provided with a first position A, a second position B, and a sample aspiration position C, wherein the sample aspiration position C is located in the middle between the first position A and the second position B. The first position A is closer to the injection end, and during the injection process, the sample rack 40 passes through the first position A, the sample aspiration position C, and the second position B in sequence.

[0047] Limiting plates 11 are provided on either side of the injection channel 10, with the spacing between the plates 11 being greater than the width of the sample rack 40. Limiting plates 11 are not provided in the area between the first position A and the second position B, or in the front and rear areas of the first position A and the second position B. The front and rear areas of the first position A and the second position B extend forward and backward from the area between the first position A and the second position B, respectively. The areas without limiting plates 11 are used to mount a positioning mechanism 30, which reciprocates within the area without limiting plates 11 and is used to position the sample rack 40 along its width (perpendicular to the direction of transport of the sample rack 40).

[0048] Please refer to Figure 2 The sample introduction mechanism 20 includes a sample introduction drive mechanism 21 and a conveyor structure 22. The sample introduction drive mechanism 21 includes a motor and a transmission wheel. The transmission structure 22 is a conveyor belt mounted on the transmission wheel. The motor is connected to the transmission wheel and drives the transmission belt. The transmission belt is used to carry and transport the sample rack 40.

[0049] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the positioning mechanism 30 includes a positioning structure 31, a carrier 32, and a movable drive structure 33. The movable drive structure 33 includes a motor 331, a pulley 332, a synchronous belt 333, and a linear guide 334. The motor 331 is connected to the pulley 332, and the synchronous belt 333 is mounted on the pulley 332. The linear guide 334 and the synchronous belt 333 are arranged below the injection channel 10 and parallel to the injection channel, and are located in the area of ​​the first position A and the second position B. The carrier 32 is a carrier platform. The lower end of the carrier 32 is slidably connected to the linear guide 334. The carrier 32 is fixedly connected to the pulley 332 via a connecting rod. The carrier 32 is located below the conveying structure 22, and the pulley 332 drives the carrier 32 to reciprocate along the linear guide 334.

[0050] The positioning structure 31 is mounted on the carrier 32 , and the moving driving structure 33 drives the carrier 32 and the positioning structure 31 to move back and forth between a first position A and a second position B of the injection channel 10 .

[0051] Please refer to Figure 4The positioning structure 31 includes a first positioning structure 311 and a second positioning structure 312. The first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 are mounted on the carrier 32 and are located on either side of the injection channel 10. The first positioning structure 311 is a fixed structure and serves as a positioning plate. The positioning plate is vertically fixed to the carrier 32 and has a vertical positioning surface facing the second positioning structure 312. The positioning surface is used to position the sample rack 40 against the side surface of the second positioning structure 312. The second positioning structure 312 is a movable structure used to push the sample rack 40 against the positioning surface of the second positioning structure 312 for clamping and positioning.

[0052] In one embodiment, both the first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 are movable structures. The first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 actively abut against two sides of the sample rack 40 to position the sample rack 40 at a predetermined width. The first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 are each provided with a driving member, or the first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 share a driving member, which simultaneously drives the first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 to move toward or away from each other to clamp and release the sample rack 40.

[0053] Please refer to Figure 5 In this embodiment, the second positioning structure 312 includes a clamping arm 3121 and an elastic positioning member 3122. The clamping arm 3121 includes a swing arm 31211 and a pressure block 31212. The pressure block 31212 is connected to one end of the swing arm 31211 via a first rotating shaft 31213. The end of the swing arm 31211 away from the pressure block 31212 is mounted on the supporting member 32 via a second rotating shaft 3123. The end of the swing arm 31211 where the pressure block 31212 is mounted is a free end, and the end of the swing arm 31211 connected to the second rotating shaft 3123 is a rotating end. The first rotating shaft 31213 and the second rotating shaft 3123 are both vertically arranged, while the swing arm 31211 is horizontal. The elastic positioning member 3122 is a torsion spring. The elastic positioning member 3122 is sleeved on the second rotating shaft 3123. The two ends of the elastic positioning member 3122 are respectively connected to the supporting member 32 and the swing arm 31211. The elastic positioning member 3122 always provides a pressure to the free end of the swing arm 31211 toward the first positioning structure 311. The pressure provided by the elastic positioning member 3122 drives the free end of the swing arm 31211 and the positioning surface of the first positioning structure 311 to clamp the two sides of the sample rack 40, thereby clamping and positioning the sample rack 40 in the width direction.

[0054] In this embodiment, a rotatable pressure block 31212 is connected to the free end of the swing arm 31211. Two abutment portions are provided at each end of the side of the pressure block 31212 facing the first positioning structure 311. These abutment portions are configured to abut the sides of the sample rack 40, forming a two-point contact. The provision of the rotatable pressure block 31212 ensures that, during the rotation of the swing arm 31211, the pressure block 31212 consistently applies a force perpendicular to the sides of the sample rack 40, clamping the sample rack 40 and improving the accuracy of positioning the sample rack 40.

[0055] In one embodiment, the clamping arm 3121 only includes a swing arm 31211, and the free end of the swing arm 31211 is set to a hemispherical surface facing the side of the first positioning structure 311. It contacts the sample rack 40 through point contact, which can also reduce the component force in the width direction and ensure positioning accuracy.

[0056] Please refer to Figure 6 In this embodiment, the positioning mechanism 30 further includes two spacers 34, one positioned at a first position A and the other at a second position B. The spacers 34 are wedge-shaped blocks with inclined guide surfaces. The two spacers 34 are symmetrically arranged, with their tips facing each other. In the width direction of the sample rack 40, the spacers 34 are located between the sample rack 40 and the pressure block 31212. The inclined guide surfaces of the spacers 34 guide the pressure block 31212 away from or toward the sample rack 40. As the pressure guide block 31212 moves away from or toward the sample rack 40, the swing arm 31211 rotates accordingly.

[0057] During the sample injection process, the two partitions 34 serve different functions. Initially, the pressure block 31212 is pushed open by the partition 34 at the first position A. After the sample rack 40 enters the positioning structure 31, the positioning mechanism 30 moves in the injection direction. During this movement, under the action of the elastic positioning member 3122, the swing arm 31211 drives the pressure block 31212 along the guide surface of the partition 34 toward the side of the sample rack 40, clamping the sample rack 40 in place. When the positioning mechanism 30 moves in the injection direction to the second position B, the pressure block 31212 is pushed open by the partition 34 at the second position B. The pressure block 31212 disengages from the sample rack 40, releasing the sample rack 40 from its clamped position, allowing the conveying mechanism 22 to transfer the sample rack 40 out of the positioning structure 31.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the positioning mechanism 30 also includes a blocking structure 35. The carrier 32 has a sample inlet end and a sample outlet end. The blocking structure 35 is installed on the sample outlet end of the carrier 32. The blocking structure 35 is used to prevent the sample rack 40 from stopping between the positioning structures 31.

[0059] The blocking structure 35 includes a blocking arm 351, an elastic return member 352, and a stopper 353. One end of the blocking arm 351 is horizontally rotatably mounted on the carrier 32 via a third rotating shaft 354. The end of the blocking arm 351, away from the third rotating shaft 354, is a free blocking end. This blocking end of the blocking arm 351 is used to rotate into the injection channel 10 to block the sample rack 40. The elastic return member 352 is a torsion spring, which is mounted on the third rotating shaft 354. Its two ends are connected to the carrier 32 and the blocking arm 351, respectively. The elastic return member 352 always applies elastic force to the blocking end of the blocking arm 351, which rotates toward the injection channel 10. The stopper 353 is a stopper pin, which is vertically mounted on the carrier 32 and moves along the rotational trajectory of the blocking arm 351. The stopper 353 is used to limit the blocking end of the blocking arm 351 to remain within the injection channel 10.

[0060] In one embodiment, the elastic return member 352 is other elastic structures, such as the elastic return member 352 is a straight spring or a spring sheet, and the two ends of the straight spring or spring sheet are respectively connected to the supporting member 32 and the blocking end of the blocking arm 351. The straight spring or spring sheet can also provide the blocking end of the blocking arm 351 with elastic force to turn toward the injection channel 10.

[0061] In one embodiment, the limiting member 353 and the supporting member 32 are an integrated structure. The limiting member 353 is a protrusion on the supporting member 32 and can also limit the blocking end of the blocking arm 351 .

[0062] Please refer to Figure 6 In this embodiment, the positioning mechanism 30 further includes a toggle member 36 , which is installed in the injection channel 10 and is disposed near the second position B. The toggle member 36 blocks the moving trajectory of the blocking arm 351 . When the blocking arm 351 moves to contact the toggle member 36 , the toggle member 36 can toggle the blocking arm 351 out of the injection channel 10 , so that the transport structure 22 can transport the sample rack 40 out of the positioning structure 31 .

[0063] In one embodiment, the toggle member 36 is an end portion of the limiting plate 11 , that is, the toggle member 36 and the limiting plate 11 are an integrated structure, and can also play the role of toggling the blocking arm 351 .

[0064] Please refer to Figure 6In this embodiment, the positioning mechanism 30 further includes a position detection device 37, which is a photoelectric switch. The position detection device 37 is mounted on the carrier 32, with its detection end facing the injection channel 10. The position detection device 37 is used to detect whether the sample rack 40 has entered between the positioning structures 31. When the sample rack 40 enters between the positioning structures 31, the position detection device 37 generates a position signal, which serves as a trigger signal. The position signal is used to trigger the controller to control the movement drive structure 33 to drive the positioning structure 31 toward the injection direction.

[0065] The working principle and steps of the sample rack transport device of this embodiment are as follows:

[0066] In the initial state, the positioning mechanism 30 is located at the first position A, and the pressing block 31212 is located at the highest point of the partition 34 at the first position A. At this time, the distance between the pressing block 31212 and the positioning surface of the first positioning structure 311 is greater than the width of the sample rack 40; the blocking end of the blocking arm 351 blocks the injection channel.

[0067] When the sample is injected, the injection drive mechanism 21 drives the conveying structure 22 to move the sample rack 40 to the first position A. The sample rack 40 moves between the first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312 until the front end of the sample rack 40 is blocked by the blocking end of the blocking arm 351. The sample rack 40 is intercepted between the first positioning structure 311 and the second positioning structure 312. After the sample rack 40 is intercepted, the conveying structure 22 remains in the conveying state, and the conveying structure 22 can also stop conveying.

[0068] The arrival detection device 37 detects that the sample rack 40 enters between the positioning structures 31 and generates an arrival signal. The arrival signal triggers the controller to control the moving drive structure 33 to drive the positioning structure 31 to move in the injection direction.

[0069] After the positioning mechanism 30 moves in the injection direction, the pressing block 31212 slides along the guide surface of the partition 34 toward the side of the sample rack 40. Under the action of the elastic positioning member 3122, the pressing block 31212 pushes the sample rack 40 along the width direction to the positioning surface of the first positioning structure 311. The pressing block 31212 and the positioning surface of the first positioning structure 311 form a clamping position for the sample rack 40.

[0070] The moving driving structure 33 drives the first positioning structure 311 to continue to move, and the first positioning structure 311 drives the sample tubes on the sample rack 40 to move to the sample aspiration position C in sequence;

[0071] After the sample dispensing device completes aspirating the sample from the sample rack 40, the moving drive structure 33 drives the first positioning structure 311 to move to the second position B. The partition member 34 at the second position B separates the pressing block 31212 from the sample rack 40, thereby releasing the width restriction of the sample rack 40. Simultaneously, the toggle member 36 moves the blocking end of the blocking arm 351 away from the injection channel 10, thereby releasing the restriction on the injection direction of the sample rack 40.

[0072] The sample rack 40 is completely released from the restraint, and driven by the conveying structure 22, the sample rack 40 leaves the positioning structure 31, completing the sample injection;

[0073] After the sample rack 40 leaves the positioning structure 31, the movable drive structure 33 drives the positioning structure 31 from the second position B back to the first position A, returning it to its initial state and proceeding to the next injection step. In this step, other sensors on the injection channel 10 detect that the sample rack 40 has left the positioning structure 31 and trigger the movable drive structure 33 to drive the positioning structure 31 back to its initial state. In one embodiment, after the in-position detection device 37 detects that the sample rack 40 has left the positioning structure 31, it triggers the movable drive structure 33 to drive the positioning structure 31 back to its initial state.

[0074] In one embodiment, the in-place detection device 37 is installed at a fixed position on the injection channel 10, such as a position close to the first position A and the second position B. The in-place detection device 37 is used to detect whether the sample rack 40 enters the positioning structure 31 or leaves the positioning structure 31.

[0075] In one embodiment, the partition 34 and the toggle member 36 located at the second position B can successively release the limits on the sample rack 40 , and can also release the limits on the width direction and the injection direction of the sample rack 40 .

[0076] In the sample rack transport device of this embodiment, a positioning mechanism 30 is provided on the sample injection channel 10. The positioning mechanism 30 positions the sample rack 40 in the sample injection channel 10 along the width direction of the sample rack 40 between the first position A and the second position B of the sample injection channel 10. Under the guidance of the linear guide 334, the positioning mechanism 30 drives the sample rack 40 along the sample injection channel 10 during the linear injection process. The posture of the sample rack 40 remains unchanged, so that the sample rack 40 is accurately positioned and transported to the sample aspiration position C, and then the sample dispensing device can accurately extend into the sample tube on the sample aspiration position to aspirate the sample, which can avoid the collision between the sample dispensing device and the sample tube, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the detection.

[0077] Please refer to Figure 7In one embodiment, the elastic positioning member 3122 is another elastic structure, such as a straight spring, the ends of which are respectively connected to the support member 32 and the free end of the swing arm 31211. The straight spring is always in a compressed or stretched state and can also provide a force for the free end of the swing arm 31211 to move toward the first positioning structure 311. The elastic positioning member 3122 can also be a spring.

[0078] Please refer to Figure 8 In one embodiment, the second positioning structure 312 includes a push rod 3124 and a reciprocating member 3125. The reciprocating member 3125 is a linear motor or a pneumatic cylinder. The reciprocating member 3125 is mounted on the carrier 32. The push rod 3124 is connected to the output end of the reciprocating member 3125. The push rod 3124 is arranged along the width of the sample rack 40. The reciprocating member 3125 is used to drive the push rod 3124 to abut against the sample rack 40 or to move away from the sample rack 40. In this embodiment, the linear reciprocating movement of the push rod 3124 can also limit the width of the sample rack 40 and actively release the limit on the sample rack 40.

[0079] Please refer to Figure 9 In one embodiment, the positioning structure 31 includes a first magnetic member 313 and a second magnetic member 314. The first magnetic member 313 is an electromagnet and is mounted on the carrier 32. The first magnetic member 313 is located on one side of the injection channel 10. The second magnetic member 314 is a magnetically attracted metal block, such as an iron block or an alloy. The second magnetic member 314 is mounted on the side of the sample holder 40. The first magnetic member 313 and the second magnetic member 314 are located on the same side of the injection channel 10 and are highly aligned.

[0080] Two first magnetic members 313 and two second magnetic members 314 are respectively provided, and the two correspond to the front and rear ends of the same side of the sample rack 40 to improve the stability of the sample rack 40 in limiting the position.

[0081] When the sample rack 40 enters the first position A, the first magnetic member 313 and the second magnetic member 314 are aligned, and the first magnetic member 313 is powered on to attract the second magnetic member 314. The magnetic attraction force formed between the first magnetic member 313 and the second magnetic member 314 limits the freedom of the sample rack 40 in the width direction; when the sample rack 40 enters the second position B, the first magnetic member 313 is powered off, and the magnetic attraction force between the first magnetic member 313 and the second magnetic member 314 is lost, thereby releasing the limitation of the sample rack 40 in the width direction.

[0082] This embodiment can also achieve position limitation of the sample rack 40 in the width direction.

[0083] Please refer to Figure 10In one embodiment, a sample analyzer is provided, which includes the sample rack transport device 100 of the above embodiment, as well as a sample dispensing device 200, a reagent carrying device 300, a reagent dispensing device 400, a reaction device 500, a measuring device 600 and a machine base 700.

[0084] The sample rack transport device 100 is disposed outside the base 700 , and the sample dispensing device 200 , the reagent loading device 300 , the reagent dispensing device 400 , the reaction device 500 , and the measuring device 600 are disposed inside the base 700 .

[0085] The sample rack transport device 100 is used to transport the sample rack to the sample aspiration position;

[0086] The sample dispensing device 200 includes a sampling needle, a moving device, and a drive pump. The moving device drives the sampling needle between the sample aspiration position and the sample loading position, while the drive pump provides power to the sampling needle for sample aspiration and sample discharge. The sample dispensing device 200 is used to aspirate sample from the sample tube at the sample aspiration position and to dispense the aspirated sample into a cuvette at the sample loading position.

[0087] The reagent carrier 300 is used to carry reagents. In one embodiment, the reagent carrier 300 can be a reagent tray, which is a disc-shaped structure with multiple positions for carrying reagent containers. The reagent carrier 300 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 the position where the reagent is drawn by the reagent dispensing device 400. There can be one or more reagent carriers 300.

[0088] The reagent dispensing device 400 includes a reagent needle, a moving device, and a drive pump. The moving device is used to drive the reagent needle between the reagent carrier 300 and the reaction device 500, and the drive pump is used to provide power for the reagent needle to aspirate and discharge the reagent. The reagent dispensing device 400 is used to aspirate the reagent in the reagent tube on the reagent carrier 300 and to inject the aspirated reagent into the reaction cup containing the sample on the reaction device 500. The sample and reagent in the reaction cup mix and react to form a reaction solution.

[0089] The reaction device 500 is used to provide an incubation place for the reaction liquid. The reaction device 500 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.

[0090] The measuring device 600 is used to perform light measurement on the reaction solution after incubation to obtain sample reaction data. For example, the measuring device 600 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.

[0091] In this embodiment, the sample rack transport device 100 can accurately position the sample tube on the sample rack 40 and transport it to the sample aspiration position, so that the sampling needle of the sample dispensing device 200 can be accurately inserted into the sample tube for sample aspiration, avoiding collision between the sampling needle and the sample tube, while ensuring the accuracy of sample aspiration.

[0092] 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 rack transport device, characterized in that: include: An injection channel is provided with a first position and a second position spaced apart therefrom, and a sample aspirating position for a sample dispensing device to aspirate a sample, the sample aspirating position being located between the first position and the second position; limit plates are provided on both sides of the injection channel, the injection channel including an area where the limit plates are provided and an area where the limit plates are not provided, the first position, the sample aspirating position, and the second position being located in the area where the limit plates are not provided; The sample introduction mechanism includes a sample introduction drive structure and a conveying structure, wherein the sample introduction drive structure is in driving connection with the conveying structure and is used to drive the conveying structure to move so that the conveying structure conveys the sample rack along the sample introduction channel; as well as The positioning mechanism includes a positioning structure that is movably arranged in an area of ​​the injection channel where the limiting plate is not arranged. The positioning structure includes a first positioning structure and a second positioning structure. At least one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure is a movable structure. The first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are respectively located on both sides of the injection channel. The first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are used to clamp the sample rack. The first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are used to position the sample rack in the injection channel between the first position and the second position along the width direction of the sample rack.

2. The sample rack transport device according to claim 1, wherein: The second positioning structure includes a clamping arm and an elastic positioning member, one end of the clamping arm is rotatably arranged relative to the injection channel, the other end of the clamping arm is a free end, the elastic positioning member is connected to the clamping arm, the elastic positioning member is used to reset the clamping arm, and the elastic positioning member is used to provide pressure to the free end of the clamping arm toward the first positioning structure; The positioning mechanism further includes a separator, which is used to drive the clamping arm to rotate so that the free end of the clamping arm is away from the first positioning structure. Two separators are provided, and the two separators are respectively arranged at the first position and the second position.

3. The sample rack transport device according to claim 2, wherein: The separator is a wedge-shaped block.

4. The sample rack transport device according to claim 2, wherein: The clamping arm includes a swing arm and a pressure block. One end of the swing arm is rotatably arranged relative to the injection channel, and the other end of the swing arm is rotatably connected to the pressure block. The elastic positioning member is connected to the swing arm, and the pressure block is used to abut against the sample rack to clamp the sample rack with the first positioning structure.

5. The sample rack transport device according to claim 1, wherein: The positioning mechanism also includes a driving member, which is in transmission connection with at least one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure, and is used to drive at least one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure to move so that the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are closer to or farther away from each other.

6. The sample rack transport device according to claim 1, wherein: The positioning structure includes a first magnetic member and a second magnetic member. The first magnetic member is movably arranged on the injection channel, and the second magnetic member is used to be arranged on the sample rack. The first magnetic member is used to absorb or release the second magnetic member.

7. The sample rack transport device according to claim 1, wherein: The positioning structure has an injection end and a sample outlet end, and the sample rack enters and exits the positioning structure through the injection end and the sample outlet end respectively. The positioning mechanism also includes a blocking structure movably arranged at the sample outlet end, and the blocking structure is used to block the sample rack between the first position and the second position. When the positioning structure is in the second position, the blocking structure can move relative to the positioning structure to avoid the sample rack.

8. The sample rack transport device according to claim 7, wherein: The blocking structure includes a blocking arm, an elastic reset member, and a limit member. One end of the blocking arm is rotatably arranged on the positioning structure, and the other end of the blocking arm is a free blocking end. The elastic reset member is connected to the positioning structure and the blocking arm, and the elastic reset member is used to drive the blocking end of the blocking arm to reset into the injection channel. The limit member is arranged on the positioning structure, the limit member is located on the rotation trajectory of the blocking arm, and the limit member is used to limit the rotation of the blocking arm driven by the elastic reset member. The positioning mechanism further includes a toggle member, which is disposed on the injection channel and close to the second position. The toggle member is used to drive the blocking arm to rotate out of the injection channel to avoid the sample rack.

9. The sample rack transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The positioning mechanism further includes a moving drive structure, the moving drive structure being in transmission connection with the positioning structure, the moving drive structure being used to drive the positioning structure to reciprocate between the first position and the second position; The injection drive structure is used to drive the transport structure to transport the sample rack to the positioning structure at the first position, and is used to drive the transport structure to transport the sample rack out of the positioning structure at the second position.

10. The sample rack transport device according to claim 9, wherein: The positioning structure includes a carrier for carrying a sample rack, the mobile driving structure is in transmission connection with the carrier, the conveying structure extends along the injection channel and passes through the positioning structure, and the conveying structure is located above the carrier.

11. The sample rack transport device according to claim 9, wherein: The positioning mechanism also includes an in-place detection device, which is arranged on the positioning structure. The in-place detection device is used to detect whether the sample rack enters the positioning structure. If so, an in-place signal is generated. The in-place signal is used to trigger the mobile drive structure so that the mobile drive structure drives the positioning structure to move from the first position to the second position.

12. A sample analyzer, characterized in that: include: The sample rack transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a sample dispensing device, for aspirating the sample on the sample aspirating position and injecting the aspirated sample into the holding cup; A reagent carrying device, used for carrying reagents; a reagent dispensing device for sucking the reagent from the reagent carrying device and injecting the sucked reagent into the containing cup; The reaction device is used to provide an incubation place for the reaction solution formed by mixing the sample and the reagent in the holding cup; as well as The measuring device is used to measure the reaction solution.

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