Sample analysis device

Abstract

A sample analysis device comprises a reagent mixing device, a reagent collecting device and a control device. The reagent mixing device is used for mixing magnetic bead reagents in a magnetic bead liquid container. The reagent collecting device is used for collecting the mixed magnetic bead reagents and transferring them to a reaction container. The reagent mixing device and the reagent collecting device are both in signal connection with the control device. The control device controls the operation of the reagent mixing device and the reagent collecting device. The reagent mixing device comprises a mixing starting assembly and a mixing assembly. The mixing starting assembly is mainly used for driving the magnetic beads deposited in the magnetic bead reagents to separate from the deposition position of the magnetic bead liquid container. The mixing assembly is mainly used for driving the magnetic beads to make dispersion movement, so that the magnetic beads can be uniformly dispersed in the magnetic bead reagents. The cooperation of the mixing starting assembly and the mixing assembly not only eliminates the manual mixing operation of the user, improves the mixing efficiency, but also can obtain better mixing effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a sample analysis device. Background Technology

[0002] Magnetic bead reagents are widely used in sample analysis. These reagents typically consist of magnetic beads, their labels, and a buffer solution. During use, the magnetic beads are drawn up using a corresponding reagent aspiration device and transferred to the appropriate reaction vessel. Because magnetic beads are prone to sedimentation and clumping during storage, after a period of time, the beads will settle to the bottom of the container, separating from the buffer solution. The magnetic beads can also exhibit non-specific adsorption to the bottom of the container, making mixing difficult. Therefore, the magnetic bead reagent must be thoroughly mixed before aspiration to ensure the accuracy of the test results.

[0003] To eliminate the problem of magnetic bead deposition, some testing equipment manufacturers require users to manually mix the magnetic bead reagents before loading the reagents. However, manual mixing is inefficient, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, which seriously affects the user's work efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a novel sample analysis device to provide a new method for mixing magnetic bead reagents.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, one embodiment of this application provides a sample analysis device, including a reagent mixing device, a reagent collection device, and a control device. The reagent mixing device is used to mix magnetic bead reagents in a magnetic bead liquid container. The reagent collection device is used to collect the mixed magnetic bead reagents and transfer them to a reaction vessel. Both the reagent mixing device and the reagent collection device are signal-connected to the control device, and the control device controls the operation of the reagent mixing device and the reagent collection device. The reagent mixing device includes: A mixing assembly for driving the magnetic beads deposited in the magnetic bead reagent to detach from the deposition site in the magnetic bead liquid container; And a mixing component, which drives the magnetic beads to perform a dispersive motion to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0006] In one embodiment, the mixing component includes a magnetic element for generating a magnetic field, which is used to attract magnetic beads in the magnetic bead container to detach them from the deposition site.

[0007] In one embodiment, the mixing component includes an ultrasonic module that generates ultrasonic vibrations that act on the magnetic beads, causing the magnetic beads to detach from the deposition location.

[0008] In one embodiment, the mixing assembly includes an ultrasonic module for generating ultrasonic vibrations that act on the magnetic bead reagent to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0009] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic module includes an ultrasonic transducer, a transmission element, and a moving mechanism. The ultrasonic transducer generates ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission element has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission element is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the outer diameter of the second end of the transmission element is smaller than the inner diameter of the magnetic bead liquid container. The moving mechanism is connected to the ultrasonic transducer and drives the ultrasonic transducer and the transmission element to move relative to the magnetic bead liquid container. The second end of the transmission element can be inserted into the magnetic bead reagent in the magnetic bead liquid container to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the magnetic bead reagent.

[0010] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic module includes an ultrasonic transducer and a transmission element. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission element has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission element is connected to the ultrasonic transducer. The second end of the transmission element is used to abut against the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the magnetic bead reagent.

[0011] In one embodiment, the mixing assembly includes a stirring mechanism, the stirring mechanism includes a stirring element, and the control device controls the stirring element to move relative to the magnetic bead liquid container, so that the stirring element is placed in the magnetic bead liquid container and stirs the magnetic bead reagent to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0012] In one embodiment, the stirring mechanism includes a stirring drive, which is connected to the stirring element to drive the stirring element to be inserted into the magnetic bead liquid container and stir the magnetic bead reagent.

[0013] In one embodiment, the sample analysis device further includes a reagent container storage assembly, which has a mounting portion for placing a magnetic bead liquid container. The mixing assembly is used for transmission connection with the reagent container storage assembly or the magnetic bead liquid container. The control device controls the mixing assembly to drive the magnetic bead liquid container to move, so as to mix the magnetic beads in the magnetic bead liquid container.

[0014] In one embodiment, the control device controls the mixing component to switch between a working state and a non-working state. When the mixing component is in the working state, it can act on the magnetic beads in the corresponding magnetic bead reagent, causing the magnetic beads to leave the deposition position. When the mixing component is in the non-working state, the magnetic beads are detached from the action of the mixing component.

[0015] In one embodiment, after the mixing component switches to the non-working state, the control device controls the mixing component to drive the magnetic beads to perform a dispersive motion in order to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0016] In one embodiment, the mixing component includes a permanent magnet, and the reagent mixing device includes a state switching drive, which is connected to the permanent magnet. The state switching drive can drive the permanent magnet to move back and forth between a position where it can attract the magnetic beads and a position where it can release the magnetic beads, so that the permanent magnet switches between a working state and a non-working state.

[0017] In one embodiment, the mixing component includes an electromagnet, and the control device controls the electromagnet to switch between an operating state and a non-operating state.

[0018] In one embodiment, the sample analysis device further includes a reagent container storage component for holding magnetic bead reagents, the mixing component and the mixing unit are both used to act on the magnetic bead reagents on the reagent container storage component, and the reagent dispensing device is used to draw magnetic bead reagents from the reagent container storage component.

[0019] In one embodiment, the sample analysis device further includes a reagent container storage assembly, an intermediate storage mechanism, and a reagent transfer mechanism. The mixing assembly is used to act on the magnetic bead reagent on the intermediate storage mechanism. The reagent transfer mechanism is used to transfer the magnetic bead reagent from the intermediate storage mechanism to the reagent container storage assembly. The mixing assembly is used to act on the magnetic bead reagent on the reagent container storage assembly. The reagent dispensing device is used to draw magnetic bead reagent from the reagent container storage assembly.

[0020] The sample analysis device according to the above embodiment mixes magnetic beads through a combination of two actions: initiation and mixing. The initiation component is mainly used to drive the magnetic beads deposited in the magnetic bead reagent to detach from their deposition positions in the magnetic bead liquid container. The mixing component is mainly used to drive the magnetic beads to disperse, so that the magnetic beads can be uniformly dispersed in the magnetic bead reagent. The combination of the initiation component and the mixing component not only eliminates the need for manual mixing by the user and improves mixing efficiency, but also achieves better mixing results. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a structure in one embodiment of the present application for mixing by combining a magnetic component and a stirring mechanism; Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the structure for mixing the magnetic component and the ultrasonic module in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3This is a simplified schematic diagram of the structure of the ultrasonic module and the stirring mechanism combined for mixing in one embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the structure for mixing magnetic components with ribs inside a magnetic bead liquid container in one embodiment of this application. Figure 5 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the structure for mixing the ultrasonic module with the ribs inside the magnetic bead liquid container in one embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic bead liquid container being attracted by a magnetic component in one embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electromagnet and the reagent container storage assembly in one embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the permanent magnet and the reagent container storage assembly in one embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the state switching drive and the magnetic component in one embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mixing component driving the reagent container storage component and the magnetic bead liquid container to move in one embodiment of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a contact ultrasound device in one embodiment of this application; Figure 12 This is a structural view of the transfer element in one embodiment of this application; Figure 13 This is a structural view of the transfer element in one embodiment of this application; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of ultrasonic mixing in one embodiment of this application; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a non-contact ultrasonic device in one embodiment of this application; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a non-contact ultrasonic device in one embodiment of this application; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the reagent mixing device when it is used as a reagent tray in one embodiment of this application; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the reagent mixing device and the reagent tray when they are set up independently in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Similar elements in different embodiments are referred to by associated similar element reference numerals. In the following embodiments, many details are described to facilitate a better understanding of this application. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that some features may be omitted in different situations, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, certain operations related to this application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid obscuring the core parts of this application with excessive description. For those skilled in the art, detailed description of these related operations is not necessary; they can fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and general technical knowledge in the art.

[0023] Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification can be combined in any suitable manner to form various embodiments. At the same time, the steps or actions in the method description can be rearranged or adjusted in a manner obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various orders in the specification and drawings are only for the clear description of a particular embodiment and do not imply a necessary order, unless otherwise stated that a particular order must be followed.

[0024] The serial numbers assigned to components in this document, such as "first" and "second," are used only to distinguish the described objects and have no sequential or technical meaning. The terms "connection" and "linkage" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (linkages).

[0025] This application provides a sample analysis device capable of detecting and analyzing one or more samples from the human body. These samples may be (but are not limited to) blood, urine, semen, or sweat. For example, the sample analyzer may be a biochemical analyzer, an immunoassay analyzer, or other types of sample analyzers.

[0026] During sample processing and testing, sample reagents are typically added to the samples to prepare them for subsequent detection. Magnetic bead reagents are a commonly used sample reagent in immunoassay analyzers and need to be collected when the magnetic beads are evenly distributed to ensure accurate test results. Therefore, it is necessary to mix the magnetic bead reagents before they are collected and transferred to the reaction vessel.

[0027] Specifically, the sample analysis device includes a reagent mixing device, a reagent collection device, and a control device. The reagent mixing device mixes the magnetic beads in the container, and the reagent collection device collects the mixed magnetic beads and transfers them to a reaction vessel (such as a container cup). Both the reagent mixing device and the reagent collection device are connected to the control device, which controls their operation. This control device can employ various structures capable of data transmission, reception, and processing, such as controllers with processors and memory, or other structures. Of course, the sample analysis device may also include other necessary components, such as a reaction mechanism, depending on functional requirements; these components can be referenced from existing sample analysis equipment.

[0028] The reagent mixing device includes a mixing initiation component and a mixing component. The mixing initiation component is used to drive the magnetic beads deposited in the magnetic bead reagent to detach from their deposition positions in the magnetic bead liquid container. Typically, in unequally mixed magnetic bead reagent, more magnetic beads aggregate and deposit at the bottom of the magnetic bead liquid container. The mixing component is used to drive the magnetic beads to disperse and mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0029] In this embodiment, the mixing component can operate simultaneously with the mixing component acting on the magnetic bead reagent, or it can act on the magnetic bead reagent after the mixing component has finished acting on it. After the magnetic beads detach from their deposition sites, they are easier to mix. The mixing component is mainly used to drive the magnetic beads deposited in the magnetic bead reagent to detach from their deposition sites in the magnetic bead liquid container. The mixing component is mainly used to drive the detached magnetic beads to disperse, so that the magnetic beads can be uniformly dispersed in the magnetic bead reagent. The combination of the mixing component and the mixing component not only eliminates the need for manual mixing by the user and improves mixing efficiency, but also achieves better mixing results.

[0030] Furthermore, during the process of driving the deposited magnetic beads to detach from the cavity wall of the magnetic bead liquid container, the mixing component will also disperse some magnetic beads to a certain extent, thus playing a role in homogenization. This effect, combined with the homogenization effect of the mixing component, can further make the magnetic bead reagent more uniformly mixed.

[0031] The primary function of the mixing component is to detach the deposited magnetic beads from the magnetic bead liquid container. Therefore, various structures capable of achieving this purpose can be employed, such as magnetic suction structures, ultrasonic structures, and stirring structures. The homogenizing component, on the other hand, is primarily used to disperse magnetic beads aggregated in a group, enabling them to move in a dispersed manner. Various structures capable of dispersing and driving the movement of the magnetic beads can be employed, such as ultrasonic structures, stirring structures, and the dispersing structure of the magnetic bead liquid container itself.

[0032] In some embodiments, the mixing component and / or the blending component are movably arranged so that when mixing and blending operations are required, the mixing component and / or the blending component are driven to the position of the corresponding magnetic bead reagent to perform the corresponding operation on the magnetic bead reagent. For example, the reagent mixing device has a mounting part for placing the magnetic bead reagent, and the mixing component and / or the blending component can move relative to the mounting part to act on the corresponding magnetic bead reagent.

[0033] In other embodiments, the mixing component and / or the homogenizing component may remain stationary. When mixing or homogenizing operations are required, the magnetic bead reagent is driven to move to a position corresponding to the mixing component and / or homogenizing component to achieve the mixing or homogenizing purpose. For example, when the mixing component is a permanent magnet, when mixing is required, the magnetic bead reagent can be moved into the magnetic field of the permanent magnet. The permanent magnet adsorbs the deposited magnetic beads, causing them to detach from their deposition position. After the mixing effect is achieved, the magnetic bead reagent is moved to a position outside the magnetic field of the permanent magnet. In this embodiment, the reagent homogenizing device may have a mounting part for placing the magnetic bead reagent and a related driving structure to drive the mounting part to move the magnetic bead reagent relative to the mixing component and / or homogenizing component.

[0034] Please refer to Figure 6 The magnetic bead liquid container 410 mentioned here refers only to the tube itself used to contain the magnetic bead reagent. It can exist alone or be combined with other tubes to form reagent assembly 400, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the reagent assembly 400 includes not only a magnetic bead liquid container 410, but also a reagent support 420 on which the magnetic bead liquid container 410 is mounted. The reagent support 420 is also provided with a reagent compartment 440 for holding other reagent components.

[0035] For details, please refer to Figure 1 In one embodiment, Figure 1 The images, from left to right, show the initial mixing of the magnetic beads, the initial mixing of the magnetic beads, and the final mixing of the magnetic beads.

[0036] In this embodiment, the mixing assembly includes a magnetic element 3121, which generates a magnetic field to attract magnetic beads 411 within the magnetic bead liquid container 410, thereby causing the magnetic beads 411 to detach from their deposition positions. The magnetic element 3121 can be an electromagnet or a permanent magnet. For example, as... Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic element 3121 includes one or more electromagnets 3121a. For example... Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, the magnetic element 3121 includes one or more permanent magnets 3121b.

[0037] For an example of using magnetic components for mixing, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 7 and 8In some embodiments, the sample analysis device includes a reagent container storage assembly 311, which includes a reagent holder 3112. The reagent holder 3112 is a circular reagent tray, and a mounting portion 3111 is provided on the reagent holder 3112. The mounting portion 3111 is arranged in a ring around the rotation center line of the reagent holder 3112, and a magnetic element 3121 is provided in the enclosed area of ​​the mounting portion 3111.

[0038] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the mixing component employs a stirring mechanism. The stirring mechanism includes a stirring element 20, and a control device (not shown in the figure) controls the relative movement of the stirring element 20 and the magnetic bead liquid container 410, so that the stirring element 20 is placed inside the magnetic bead liquid container 410, and stirs and disperses the magnetic beads 411 to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0039] The relative motion between the stirring element 20 and the magnetic bead liquid container 410 can be achieved by driving either the stirring element 20 or the magnetic bead liquid container 410 (or both simultaneously). For example, in one embodiment, the stirring mechanism includes a stirring drive (not shown in the figure), which is connected to the stirring element 20 to drive the stirring element 20 to insert into the magnetic bead liquid container 410 and stir the magnetic beads 411, for example, by driving the stirring element 20 to rotate in both directions. The stirring drive can use various power sources (such as motors, cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, electromagnets, etc.) as the driving force.

[0040] Specifically, the stirring drive can first drive the stirring element 20 to be inserted into the magnetic bead liquid container 410, and then drive the stirring element 20 to rotate or move in other directions to disperse the magnetic beads 411. After mixing is completed, the stirring element 20 drive can drive the stirring element 20 to be retracted from the magnetic bead liquid container 410.

[0041] Please refer to Figure 2 In another embodiment, Figure 2 The images shown, from left to right, represent the mixing magnetic bead 411, the blending magnetic bead 411, and the state of the magnetic bead 411 after it has been blended.

[0042] In this embodiment, the mixing component includes a magnetic element 3121, which generates a magnetic field to attract magnetic beads 411 in the magnetic bead liquid container 410, so that the magnetic beads 411 are removed from the deposition position.

[0043] The mixing component includes an ultrasonic module 10, which generates ultrasonic vibrations. These vibrations act on the magnetic bead reagent, causing the magnetic beads 411 to be dispersed and thus mixing the reagent. The transducer in the ultrasonic module 10 vibrates ultrasonically, and these vibrations are transmitted to the liquid in the magnetic bead liquid container 410, forming an ultrasonic sound field. The ultrasonic vibrations drive the liquid flow to achieve mixing. Furthermore, when the ultrasonic sound field reaches a certain value, ultrasonic cavitation occurs in the liquid. This ultrasonic cavitation forms bubbles that burst in the liquid, which can disperse tightly aggregated substances in the liquid, achieving uniform liquid dispersion. Ultrasonic mixing also prevents liquid from splashing out.

[0044] Please refer to Figure 3 In another embodiment, Figure 3 The images shown, from left to right, represent the mixing magnetic bead 411, the blending magnetic bead 411, and the state of the magnetic bead 411 after it has been blended.

[0045] In this embodiment, the mixing assembly includes an ultrasonic module 10, which generates ultrasonic vibrations. These vibrations act on the magnetic beads 411, causing them to detach from their deposition locations. The ultrasonic module 10 can be used with... Figure 2 The ultrasound module 10 in the illustrated embodiments may have the same or different structures.

[0046] The mixing component employs a stirring mechanism. The stirring mechanism includes a stirring element 20, and a control device controls the relative movement of the stirring element 20 and the magnetic bead liquid container 410, so that the stirring element 20 is placed inside the magnetic bead liquid container 410, and stirs and disperses the magnetic beads 411 to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

[0047] Please refer to Figure 4 In another embodiment, Figure 4 The images shown, from left to right, represent the mixing magnetic bead 411, the blending magnetic bead 411, and the state of the magnetic bead 411 after it has been blended.

[0048] In this embodiment, the mixing component includes a magnetic element 3121, which generates a magnetic field to attract magnetic beads 411 in the magnetic bead liquid container 410 so as to remove them from the deposition position.

[0049] Unlike the embodiments described above, in this embodiment, the mixing component mixes the magnetic beads 411 by directly driving the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to move. Specifically, the sample analysis device also includes a reagent container storage component ( Figure 4 Not shown in the image, but Figure 7 and 8 An example of a reagent container storage assembly 311 is shown. The reagent container storage assembly has a mounting portion 3111 for holding a magnetic bead liquid container 410 (see [reference]). Figure 7 and 8The magnetic bead container 410 is placed on these mounting parts 3111. The cavity of the magnetic bead container 410 has a raised structure 412, such as a rib. The mixing assembly is connected to the reagent container storage assembly or the magnetic bead container 410 via a transmission connection. The control device controls the mixing assembly to drive the magnetic bead container 410 to move. During the movement, the raised structure 412 impacts the magnetic beads 411 inside the magnetic bead container 410, thereby breaking up the magnetic beads 411. The mixing assembly can use various power sources (e.g., motors, cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, electromagnets, etc.) as the driving force. In other embodiments, the ribs inside the magnetic bead container 410 can be omitted; by driving the magnetic bead container to rotate, such as by rotation, revolution, or oscillation, the same purpose of mixing the magnetic bead reagent can be achieved.

[0050] Please refer to Figure 5 In another embodiment, Figure 5 The images shown, from left to right, represent the mixing magnetic bead 411, the blending magnetic bead 411, and the state of the magnetic bead 411 after it has been blended.

[0051] In this embodiment, the mixing component includes an ultrasonic module 10, which generates ultrasonic vibrations. These vibrations act on the magnetic bead reagent, causing the magnetic beads 411 to detach from their deposition positions. In this embodiment, the mixing component employs a method similar to... Figure 4 In the same manner as the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic beads 411 are mixed by driving the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to move itself.

[0052] Further, please refer to Figure 10 In a more specific embodiment, in order to drive the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to move, the mixing assembly includes a driving member 3131 and a reagent seat transfer member. The driving member 3131 is connected to the reagent seat 3112 through the reagent seat transfer member to drive the reagent seat 3112 to rotate.

[0053] The reagent holder transfer component includes a first gear disk 3132 coaxially arranged and fixedly connected to the reagent holder 3112. The mixing assembly also includes a second gear disk 3133. The second gear disk 3133 is fixedly arranged and located within the enclosed area of ​​the mounting portion 3111. The driving member 3131 is drively connected to the first gear disk 3132 to drive the first gear disk 3132 and the reagent holder 3112 to rotate coaxially, causing the mounting portion 3111 to revolve around the magnetic member 3121. The teeth of the second gear disk 3133 extend into the mounting area of ​​the magnetic bead liquid container 410 corresponding to the mounting portion 3111. Figure 6As shown, the magnetic bead container 410 may have a gear 430 that meshes with the second gear disk 3133. The teeth of the second gear disk 3133 can mesh with the gear 430 on the magnetic bead container 410, so that when the reagent holder 3112 rotates, the second gear disk 3133 can drive the magnetic bead container 410 to rotate. The magnetic component 3121 is fixedly installed and can be installed on the second gear disk 3133 or other components. The reagent holder 3112 can rotate and drive the magnetic bead container 410 it carries to rotate, for rotating the magnetic bead container 410 to a specific position, such as the position where the reagent is drawn up by the reagent dispensing device. Of course, in addition to this disc-shaped structure, the reagent holder 3112 can also be a structure in which the mounting parts 3111 are arranged linearly, such as a linear reagent disk.

[0054] In other embodiments, a separate drive structure can be provided to drive the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to rotate. When the ultrasonic module 10 acts on the magnetic bead reagent, the drive structure can simultaneously drive the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to rotate, thereby achieving simultaneous mixing and homogenization.

[0055] Furthermore, the aforementioned ultrasonic module 10 (whether as a mixing component or a homogenizing component) can be either a contact ultrasonic homogenizing method by directly inserting the ultrasonic module 10 into the liquid or a non-contact ultrasonic homogenizing method by transmitting ultrasonic vibrations through contact between the ultrasonic module 10 and the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container 410.

[0056] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic module 10 includes an ultrasonic transducer, a transmission element, and a moving mechanism. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission element has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission element is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the outer diameter of the second end of the transmission element is smaller than the inner diameter of the magnetic bead liquid container 410. The moving mechanism is connected to the ultrasonic transducer and is used to drive the ultrasonic transducer and the transmission element to move relative to the magnetic bead liquid container 410. The second end of the transmission element can be inserted into the magnetic bead reagent in the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the magnetic bead reagent.

[0057] Please refer to Figure 11-13 Specifically, the ultrasonic module 10 in this embodiment is a contact ultrasonic module. The ultrasonic module 10 includes an ultrasonic transducer 11, a transmission element 12, and a moving device 13. The ultrasonic transducer 11 includes a backing layer, a piezoelectric layer, and a matching layer connected in sequence. The piezoelectric layer is a piezoelectric crystal. Under the action of a driving electrical signal, the piezoelectric crystal generates compression and expansion in the thickness direction through the inverse piezoelectric effect. The frequency of this deformation reaches the ultrasonic frequency, forming ultrasonic vibration. The ultrasonic transducer 11 is connected to a control device, which is used to control the output power and output duration of the ultrasonic transducer 11 to achieve multiple ultrasonic mixing modes with different ultrasonic intensities and durations.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The transmission element 12 is a solid rod-shaped structure with a first end and a second end, the first end being the upper end and the second end being the lower end. The first end of the transmission element 12 has an external thread, and the lower end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 has an internal thread. The transmission element 12 is installed at the lower end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 by a threaded connection. The transmission element 12 can also be connected to the ultrasonic transducer 11 by snap-fit ​​or other methods. The transmission element 12 is a resonant rod and is connected to the matching layer of the ultrasonic transducer 11. The transmission element 12 is used to transmit ultrasonic vibrations. Compared with a hollow structure transmission element 12, a solid transmission element 12 is more conducive to the propagation of axial vibration. Furthermore, when the outer diameter of the transmission element 12 decreases along the direction of ultrasonic vibration transmission, a solid transmission element 12 is more conducive to energy convergence, thereby achieving a better ultrasonic mixing effect.

[0059] The outer diameter of the transmission element 12 gradually decreases or decreases in a stepwise manner from the first end to the second end. The transmission element 12 has the function of concentrating energy. When the ultrasonic vibration is transmitted from the first end to the second end, the axial cross-sectional area of ​​the second end is smaller than that of the first end. The ultrasonic vibration is more concentrated at the second end relative to the first end, which amplifies the amplitude of the emitted ultrasonic vibration at the second end of the transmission element 12 relative to the first end, thereby increasing the emitted ultrasonic energy.

[0060] Specifically, the transfer member 12 includes a first end 121, an intermediate section 122, and a second end 123. The first end 121 is a threaded connection end, and the second end 123 is a needle-shaped structure. The outer diameter of the second end 123 is smaller than the inner diameter of the magnetic bead liquid container 410, allowing the second end 123 of the transfer member 12 to be inserted into the magnetic bead liquid container 410. The intermediate section 122 has a trumpet-shaped structure. The end of the intermediate section 122 connected to the first end 121 is the large end of the trumpet, and the end of the intermediate section 122 connected to the second end 123 is the small end of the trumpet. The axial diameter of the intermediate section 122 gradually decreases from the large end to the small end of the trumpet.

[0061] The intermediate section 122 can also be composed of one or a conical rod, or any combination of both. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 13 The intermediate section 122 of structure a includes two cylindrical rods of different diameters; the intermediate section 122 of structure b includes four cylindrical rods of different diameters; the intermediate section 122 of structure c includes one conical rod; and the intermediate section 122 of structure d includes two cylindrical rods of different diameters and one conical rod. All five structures of the transmission component 12 described above are structures that gradually decrease in size or decrease in a stepped manner from the first end to the second end, which can amplify the amplitude.

[0062] In another embodiment, the ultrasonic module 10 includes an ultrasonic transducer and a transmission element. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations, and the transmission element has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission element is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the second end of the transmission element is used to abut against the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container 410 to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the magnetic bead reagent.

[0063] Please refer to Figure 14-16 Specifically, in one embodiment, the ultrasonic module 10 is a non-contact ultrasonic mixing module. The ultrasonic module 10 is in contact with the magnetic bead liquid container 410, and the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic module 10 are transmitted to the reaction liquid inside the magnetic bead liquid container 410 through the magnetic bead liquid container 410.

[0064] Please refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 The ultrasonic module 10 includes an ultrasonic transducer 11 and a transmission element 12. During ultrasonic mixing, the second end of the transmission element 12 rests against the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container 410, transmitting ultrasonic vibrations to the magnetic bead reagent through the container 410. Since the transmission element 12 does not need to be inserted into the magnetic bead liquid container 410, its axial length is shorter than that of a contact-type transmission element, but it also has the characteristic of gradually decreasing or stepwise decreasing from the first end to the second end to amplify the amplitude.

[0065] During ultrasonic mixing, the second end face of the transfer member 12 in this embodiment abuts against the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container 410. The portion of the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container 410 that contacts the transfer member 12 surrounds the magnetic bead reagent, thereby transmitting the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic transducer 11 to the liquid in the magnetic bead liquid container 410. The portion of the magnetic bead liquid container 410 that surrounds the magnetic bead reagent is the bottom of the magnetic bead liquid container 410 and the lower end sidewall connected to the bottom. Therefore, the ultrasonic vibration can be transmitted to the liquid in the magnetic bead liquid container 410 at any position where the second end of the transfer member 12 abuts against the bottom of the magnetic bead liquid container 410 and the lower end sidewall connected to the bottom.

[0066] In this embodiment, the ultrasonic module 10 is a movable structure. The ultrasonic module 10 also includes a moving device, which includes a mounting base and a horizontal moving component. The horizontal moving component is mounted on the mounting base, and the ultrasonic transducer is mounted on the horizontal moving component. The horizontal moving component is a cylinder or a linear motor. The horizontal moving component is used to drive the second end of the transmission member 12 to abut against or move away from the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container 410.

[0067] On the other hand, in one embodiment, the control device controls the mixing component to switch between a working state and a non-working state. When the mixing component is in a working state, the mixing component can act on the magnetic beads 411 in the corresponding magnetic bead reagent, causing the magnetic beads 411 to leave the deposition position. When the mixing component is in a non-working state, the magnetic beads 411 are detached from the action of the mixing component.

[0068] Typically, to avoid interference between the mixing component and the homogenizing component, in one embodiment, after the mixing component switches to a non-working state, the control device controls the homogenizing component to disperse the magnetic beads 411 and drive the magnetic beads 411 to disperse and move, so as to homogenize the magnetic bead reagent.

[0069] Of course, when the mixing component and the blending component can coexist and promote each other, in some embodiments, the blending component does not necessarily have to perform blending when the mixing component is not in operation. The blending component can also be controlled to perform blending when the mixing component is in operation.

[0070] In one embodiment, the mixing component includes an electromagnet that is fixed in place, and a control device controls the mixing component to switch between a working state and a non-working state.

[0071] In another embodiment, the mixing component includes a permanent magnet. In order to achieve the switching between working and non-working states, the reagent mixing device includes a state switching drive, which is connected to the permanent magnet. The state switching drive can drive the permanent magnet to move back and forth between a position where the magnetic bead reagent can be applied and a position where the magnetic bead reagent can be released (not completely without adsorbing the magnetic bead reagent, but also including the case where it is only slightly affected by the magnetic field, the main purpose of which is that the magnetic field does not affect the movement of the mixing component driving the magnetic bead 411), so that the permanent magnet switches between working and non-working states.

[0072] For example, such as Figure 8 and 9 As shown, the magnetic component 3121 includes a permanent magnet 3121b. The magnetic field generating mechanism 312 includes a state switching drive. The state switching drive is driveably connected to the mounting portion 3111 and / or the permanent magnet 3121b, driving the mounting portion 3111 and the permanent magnet 3121b to move closer to each other along a first direction, so that at least a portion of the magnetic bead reagent on the mounting portion 3111 is located within the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 3121b (the permanent magnet 3121b is in the working state). The state switching drive is also used to drive the mounting portion 3111 and the permanent magnet 3121b to move further apart along the first direction, so that the permanent magnet 3121b moves to a position where it does not produce a magnetic attraction to the magnetic bead reagent or only produces a weak magnetic attraction, thereby releasing the magnetic beads 411 within the magnetic bead reagent (the permanent magnet 3121b is in the non-working state). The first direction referred to here is... Figure 8 The radial direction of the reagent holder 3112 shown.

[0073] In this embodiment, the state switching drive is specifically connected to the magnetic component 3121. The state switching drive can drive the magnetic component 3121 to move back and forth between a position where it can adsorb magnetic beads (working state) and a position where it can release magnetic beads (non-working state), so that the magnetic component 3121 switches between the working state and the non-working state. The state switching drive can use various power sources (such as motors, cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, electromagnets, etc.) as the driving force. Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, the state switching drive is exemplified by motor 3123.

[0074] Please refer to Figure 8 and 9 In this embodiment, the magnetic field generating mechanism 312 further includes a support base 3122, a mounting base 3128, and a transmission mechanism. The state switching drive is connected to the support base 3122, the permanent magnet 3121b is mounted on the mounting base 3128, and the state switching drive is connected to the mounting base 3128 via the transmission mechanism.

[0075] Please refer to Figure 9 In one embodiment, the transmission mechanism includes a rocker arm 3124, a connector 3125, an adapter 3126, and a connecting rod 3127. One end of the rocker arm 3124 is connected to the output end of the motor 3123, and the other end is connected to the connector 3125. The connector 3125 is movably mounted on the adapter 3126 and can slide or roll on the adapter 3126 to change their relative positions. The adapter 3126 may have an elongated hole (or a protrusion) perpendicular to the first direction to cooperate with the connector 3125. One end of the connecting rod 3127 is connected to the mounting base 3128, and the other end is mounted on the adapter 3126. The support base 3122 has a guide portion extending along the first direction. In this embodiment, the first direction is the radial direction of the disc-shaped reagent holder 3112, but when the reagent holder 3112 has other structures, the first direction may also be other directions. For example, when the reagent holder 3112 is a linear reagent tray, the first direction can be a direction perpendicular to or intersecting the linear reagent tray from the side. The adapter 3126 is slidably disposed on the guide portion, which can be a linear guide rail 3129 or other structures. The state switching drive is used to drive the swing arm 3124 and the connector 3125 to rotate. The connector 3125 drives the adapter 3126 to move along the guide portion, and then the adapter 3126 drives the connecting rod 3127, the mounting base 3128 and the permanent magnet 3121b to move along the first direction, that is, it drives the mounting base 3128 to move closer to and further away from the magnetic bead reagent in the radial direction of the reagent holder 3112, so as to realize the switching between the working state and the non-working state.

[0076] In one embodiment, such as Figure 17As shown, both the mixing component and the homogenizing component act on the magnetic bead reagent within the reagent container storage component 311, and the reagent dispensing device 32 is used to collect the homogenized magnetic bead reagent within the reagent container storage component 311. This embodiment can reduce the size of the sample analysis equipment. In another embodiment, such as Figure 18 As shown, in addition to the reagent container storage assembly 311, the sample analysis device also includes an intermediate storage mechanism 33 and a reagent transfer mechanism 34. The intermediate storage mechanism 33 is independent of the reagent container storage assembly 311. The mixing assembly is used to act on the magnetic bead reagent on the intermediate storage mechanism 33, the reagent transfer mechanism 34 is used to transfer the magnetic bead reagent on the intermediate storage mechanism 33 to the reagent container storage assembly 311, the mixing component is used to act on the magnetic bead reagent on the reagent container storage assembly 311, and the reagent dispensing device 32 is used to draw the mixed magnetic bead reagent from the reagent container storage assembly 311.

[0077] The above examples illustrate the present invention only to aid in understanding it and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art can make various simple deductions, modifications, or substitutions based on the principles of this invention.

Claims

1. A sample analysis device, characterized in that, The device includes a reagent mixing device, a reagent collection device, and a control device. The reagent mixing device is used to mix the magnetic bead reagent in a container. The reagent collection device is used to collect the mixed magnetic bead reagent and transfer it to a reaction vessel. Both the reagent mixing device and the reagent collection device are signal-connected to the control device, which controls their operation. The reagent mixing device includes: A mixing assembly for driving the magnetic beads deposited in the magnetic bead reagent to detach from the deposition site in the magnetic bead liquid container; And a mixing component, which drives the magnetic beads to perform a dispersive motion to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

2. The sample analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing assembly includes a magnetic element that generates a magnetic field to attract magnetic beads in the magnetic bead container and remove them from the deposition site.

3. The sample analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing component includes an ultrasonic module that generates ultrasonic vibrations, which act on the magnetic beads to cause the magnetic beads to detach from the deposition location.

4. The sample analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing component includes an ultrasonic module for generating ultrasonic vibrations, which act on the magnetic bead reagent to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

5. The sample analysis device as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The ultrasonic module includes an ultrasonic transducer, a transmission element, and a moving mechanism. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission element has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission element is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the outer diameter of the second end of the transmission element is smaller than the inner diameter of the magnetic bead liquid container. The moving mechanism is connected to the ultrasonic transducer and is used to drive the ultrasonic transducer and the transmission element to move relative to the magnetic bead liquid container. The second end of the transmission element can be inserted into the magnetic bead reagent in the magnetic bead liquid container to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the magnetic bead reagent.

6. The sample analysis device as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The ultrasonic module includes an ultrasonic transducer and a transmission element. The ultrasonic transducer is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transmission element has a first end and a second end. The first end of the transmission element is connected to the ultrasonic transducer. The second end of the transmission element is used to abut against the outer wall of the magnetic bead liquid container to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the magnetic bead reagent.

7. The sample analysis device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The mixing assembly includes a stirring mechanism, which includes a stirring element. The control device controls the stirring element to move relative to the magnetic bead liquid container, so that the stirring element is placed inside the magnetic bead liquid container and the magnetic bead reagent is stirred to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

8. The sample analysis device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The stirring mechanism includes a stirring drive component, which is connected to the stirring component to drive the stirring component to insert into the magnetic bead liquid container and stir the magnetic bead reagent.

9. The sample analysis device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The sample analysis device further includes a reagent container storage assembly, which has a mounting part for placing a magnetic bead liquid container. The mixing assembly is used for transmission connection with the reagent container storage assembly or the magnetic bead liquid container. The control device controls the mixing assembly to drive the magnetic bead liquid container to move, so as to mix the magnetic beads in the magnetic bead liquid container.

10. The sample analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control device controls the mixing component to switch between a working state and a non-working state. When the mixing component is in the working state, it can act on the magnetic beads in the corresponding magnetic bead reagent, causing the magnetic beads to leave the deposition position. When the mixing component is in the non-working state, the magnetic beads are no longer affected by the mixing component.

11. The sample analysis device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, After the mixing component switches to the non-working state, the control device controls the mixing component to drive the magnetic beads to perform a dispersing motion in order to mix the magnetic bead reagent.

12. The sample analysis device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The mixing component includes a permanent magnet, and the reagent mixing device includes a state switching drive. The state switching drive is connected to the permanent magnet and can drive the permanent magnet to move back and forth between a position that can attract the magnetic beads and a position that can release the magnetic beads, so that the permanent magnet switches between a working state and a non-working state.

13. The sample analysis device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The mixing assembly includes an electromagnet, and the control device controls the electromagnet to switch between a working state and a non-working state.

14. The sample analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sample analysis device further includes a reagent container storage component for holding magnetic bead reagents. The mixing component and the blending component are both used to act on the magnetic bead reagents on the reagent container storage component. The reagent dispensing device is used to draw magnetic bead reagents from the reagent container storage component.

15. The sample analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sample analysis device further includes a reagent container storage assembly, an intermediate storage mechanism, and a reagent transfer mechanism. The mixing assembly is used to act on the magnetic bead reagent on the intermediate storage mechanism. The reagent transfer mechanism is used to transfer the magnetic bead reagent from the intermediate storage mechanism to the reagent container storage assembly. The mixing assembly is used to act on the magnetic bead reagent on the reagent container storage assembly. The reagent dispensing device is used to draw magnetic bead reagent from the reagent container storage assembly.

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