Automated analysis device

Abstract

The present application aims to provide an automatic analysis device that suppresses upsizing and cost increase, and that is highly reliable by reliably bringing an appropriate amount of cleaning liquid into contact with a dispensing probe. To this end, the automatic analysis device of the present application is provided with: a dispensing mechanism including a dispensing probe; a liquid amount changing unit that changes the amount of cleaning liquid; a cleaning liquid detection unit provided to the dispensing mechanism; and a control section that, when cleaning the dispensing probe, discharges a reference liquid amount of cleaning liquid while the height of the tip of the dispensing probe is set to a first position, thereby bringing the cleaning liquid into contact with the outer surface of the dispensing probe in a state where the dispensing probe is in a second position above the first position, and that, when adjusting the amount of cleaning liquid, changes the amount of cleaning liquid by the liquid amount changing unit while the height of the tip of the dispensing probe is set to the second position or higher, and updates the reference liquid amount as an adjusted liquid amount using the amount of cleaning liquid detected by the cleaning liquid detection unit when the cleaning liquid is detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automated analysis device. Background Technology

[0002] In automated analytical devices, such as automated biochemical analyzers, the composition of biological samples (hereinafter referred to as samples) such as serum and urine is analyzed. In such automated biochemical analyzers, a dispensing probe is typically used to dispense the sample and reagents into a reaction vessel for reaction. Changes in color and turbidity in the reaction solution are then optically measured using a spectrophotometer or other photometric unit. Therefore, contamination of the probe can affect the accuracy of dispensing, which in turn affects the reliability of the automated analyzer. Therefore, after dispensing the sample, a cleaning solution is used in a cleaning tank to clean the sample and other materials adhering to the outer and inner surfaces of the probe.

[0003] However, the volume of cleaning fluid supplied to the probe's outer surface can change due to factors such as declining performance over time or blockage in the flow path from the pump to the fluid outlet. In cases of insufficient fluid volume, the probe may not be adequately cleaned, leaving residue. Conversely, in cases of excessive fluid volume, water droplets may remain at the probe's tip. To address these variations in fluid volume, operators typically perform periodic adjustments, but these manual adjustments are time-consuming and prone to errors.

[0004] Here, as a technique for automatically adjusting the cleaning fluid volume, for example, Patent Document 1 is known. Patent Document 1 discloses the following: "An automatic analysis device comprising: a cleaning fluid supply unit that supplies cleaning fluid used in cleaning a probe; a cleaning tank that stores the supplied cleaning fluid; a liquid level detection unit that detects the liquid level of the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning tank; a cleaning fluid volume calculation unit that calculates the cleaning fluid volume based on the result of the liquid level detected by the liquid level detection unit; a cleaning fluid volume determination unit that determines whether the calculated cleaning fluid volume converges within a predetermined range; and a cleaning fluid volume adjustment unit that, if the cleaning fluid volume determination unit determines that the calculated cleaning fluid volume has not converged within the predetermined range, adjusts the cleaning fluid volume supplied from the cleaning fluid supply unit to converge within the predetermined range" (Technical Solution 1).

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-194301 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 requires the installation of a pool for storing the cleaning fluid and a valve for discharging the cleaning fluid stored in the pool, which may lead to the device becoming larger and more expensive.

[0010] Furthermore, the method described in Patent Document 1 cannot guarantee that the cleaning fluid will contact the probe along the intended trajectory. Additionally, if residual water exists in the tank before the cleaning fluid is supplied, or if no water remains in the tank due to valve malfunction, the cleaning fluid volume may be read incorrectly.

[0011] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide an automated analysis device that suppresses large-scale and high-cost operation and achieves high reliability by reliably contacting an appropriate amount of cleaning fluid with the dispensing probe.

[0012] Methods for solving problems

[0013] To address the aforementioned issues, the automatic analysis apparatus of the present invention comprises: a dispensing mechanism including a dispensing probe for dispensing a sample or reagent into a reaction vessel; a discharge port for discharging cleaning fluid to the outer surface of the dispensing probe; a volume change unit for changing the volume of cleaning fluid supplied to the discharge port; a cleaning fluid detection unit disposed in the dispensing mechanism; and a control unit for controlling the dispensing probe, the volume change unit, and the cleaning fluid detection unit. When cleaning the dispensing probe, the control unit performs the following control: with the height of the tip of the dispensing probe set to a first position, a reference volume of cleaning fluid is discharged from the discharge port, thereby bringing the cleaning fluid into contact with the outer surface of the dispensing probe at a second position above the first position. When adjusting the cleaning fluid volume, the control unit performs the following control: with the height of the tip of the dispensing probe set to a position above the second position, the volume change unit changes the cleaning fluid volume, and the volume of cleaning fluid detected by the cleaning fluid detection unit is used as the adjusted volume to update the reference volume.

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to the present invention, an automated analysis device can be provided that suppresses large-scale and high-cost operation and ensures high reliability by reliably contacting an appropriate amount of cleaning fluid with the dispensing probe. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic analysis device.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the supply path of the cleaning fluid in the automatic analysis device of Example 1.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for adjusting the liquid volume in Example 1.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the reference cleaning position (first position) and the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position (second position).

[0020] Figure 5 This is a graph showing the trajectory of the cleaning fluid as the volume is adjusted (when it is discharged downwards).

[0021] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the trajectory of the cleaning fluid as the volume is adjusted (when it is discharged upwards).

[0022] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for adjusting the liquid volume in Example 2.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the structure of the sample dispensing mechanism in Example 3.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the cleaning fluid volume adjustment unit of the sample dispensing probe in Example 3.

[0025] Figure 10 The diagrams shown are examples of the descent position of the sample dispensing probe in Example 3. (a) is a diagram showing the flow state when the sample is dispensed at the reference volume, and (b) is a diagram showing the flow state when the sample volume is lower than the reference volume.

[0026] Figure 11 It is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of cleaning fluid discharged from the cleaning nozzle within a fixed time and the probe descent distance from the reference position to the top of the detected cleaning fluid.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a control block used for probe cleaning and adjusting the probe cleaning fluid volume.

[0028] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the cleaning fluid volume adjustment unit when confirming the cleaning fluid volume.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a flowchart showing the liquid volume adjustment action of the proportional valve 215.

[0030] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the action of detecting the volume of cleaning fluid.

[0031] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing an example of a proportional valve control table.

[0032] Figure 17This is a diagram illustrating an example of a liquid level detection signal in the liquid flow detection process.

[0033] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the flow state of the cleaning fluid at a high flow rate and the descent position of the sample dispensing probe.

[0034] Figure 19 It is a graph showing the relationship between the operating quantity of the proportional valve and the change in flow rate. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the automatic analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. The automatic analysis apparatus 100 is a device for analyzing the composition of a reaction liquid that has undergone a chemical reaction in a reaction vessel 102. As its main structure, the automatic analysis apparatus 100 includes a reaction plate 101, a cleaning mechanism 103, a spectrophotometer 104, a stirring mechanism 105, a cleaning tank 106, a first reagent dispensing mechanism 107, a second reagent dispensing mechanism 107a, a cleaning tank 108, a reagent plate 109, a first sample dispensing mechanism 111, a second sample dispensing mechanism 111a, a cleaning tank 113, a sample conveying mechanism 117, and a controller 118. Furthermore, the first reagent dispensing mechanism 107, the second reagent dispensing mechanism 107a, the first sample dispensing mechanism 111, and the second sample dispensing mechanism 111a have liquid level detection functions.

[0036] Reaction containers 102 are arranged in a circumferential pattern on the reaction plate 101. The reaction containers 102 are containers used to hold the mixture formed by mixing the sample and reagents, and multiple reaction containers 102 are arranged on the reaction plate 101. Near the reaction plate 101, a sample conveying mechanism 117 is arranged to convey the sample rack 116 carrying the sample container 115.

[0037] A first sample dispensing mechanism 111 and a second sample dispensing mechanism 111a, capable of rotation and vertical movement, are disposed between the reaction plate 101 and the sample conveying mechanism 117, each equipped with a sample dispensing probe 111b. A sample syringe 122 is connected to each sample dispensing probe 111b. The sample dispensing probe 111b moves horizontally and vertically while tracing an arc around its rotation axis, dispensing the sample from the sample container 115 to the reaction container 102.

[0038] The reagent tray 109 is a storage container capable of holding multiple reagent bottles 110, detergent bottles 112, etc., containing reagents on its circumference. The reagent tray 109 is kept cold.

[0039] A first reagent dispensing mechanism 107 and a second reagent dispensing mechanism 107a, capable of rotation and vertical movement, are provided between the reaction plate 101 and the reagent plate 109, each equipped with a reagent dispensing probe 120. The reagent dispensing probe 120 moves vertically and horizontally via the first reagent dispensing mechanism 107 or the second reagent dispensing mechanism 107a. A reagent syringe 121 is connected to each reagent dispensing probe 120. Through the reagent syringe 121 and via the reagent dispensing probe 120, reagents, detergents, diluents, pretreatment reagents, etc., drawn from the reagent bottle 110, detergent bottle 112, diluent bottle, and pretreatment reagent bottle are dispensed into the reaction vessel 102.

[0040] The reaction dish 101 is surrounded by a cleaning mechanism 103 for cleaning the inside of the reaction container 102, a spectrophotometer 104 for measuring the absorbance of light passing through the mixture in the reaction container 102, and a stirring mechanism 105 for mixing the sample dispensed into the reaction container 102 with the reagent.

[0041] In addition, a cleaning tank 108 for the reagent dispensing probe 120 is provided in the operating range of the first reagent dispensing mechanism 107 and the second reagent dispensing mechanism 107a; a cleaning tank 113 for the sample dispensing probe 111b is provided in the operating range of the first sample dispensing mechanism 111 and the second sample dispensing mechanism 111a; and a cleaning tank 106 for the stirring mechanism 105 is provided in the operating range of the stirring mechanism 105.

[0042] Each mechanism is connected to the controller 118, which controls the operation of each mechanism. The controller 118, which is the control unit, is composed of a computer or the like, and controls the operation of the aforementioned mechanisms in the automatic analysis device, and performs calculations to determine the concentration of predetermined components in liquid samples such as blood and urine.

[0043] The analysis of the test sample performed by the automated analysis device 100 described above is carried out in the following sequence: First, the sample in the test container 115 placed on the test sample holder 116 is dispensed into the reaction container 102 on the reaction tray 101 by the test sample dispensing probe 111b of the first test sample dispensing mechanism 111 and the second test sample dispensing mechanism 111a. The test sample holder 116 is moved to the vicinity of the reaction tray 101 by the test sample conveying mechanism 117. Next, the reagents used in the analysis are dispensed from the reagent bottle 110 on the reagent tray 109 into the reaction container 102, which has already been dispensed with the test sample, by the first reagent dispensing mechanism 107 or the second reagent dispensing mechanism 107a. Then, the mixture of test sample and reagent in the reaction container 102 is stirred by the stirring mechanism 105.

[0044] Then, light generated from the light source is passed through a reaction vessel 102 containing the mixed liquid, and the luminosity of the transmitted light is measured by a spectrophotometer 104. The luminosity measured by the spectrophotometer 104 is sent to a controller 118 via an A / D converter and an interface. The controller 118 then performs calculations to determine the concentration of a predetermined component in a liquid sample such as blood or urine, and displays the result on a display unit (not shown). Furthermore, while an automated analysis device that uses a spectrophotometer 104 to determine the concentration of a predetermined component is described as an example, the technology disclosed in the following embodiments can also be used in automated immunoassay devices and automated coagulation analysis devices that use other photometers to measure samples.

[0045] Example 1

[0046] Next, refer to Figure 2 The general structure of the cleaning fluid supply path in the automatic analysis device 100 of Example 1 will be described. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the sample dispensing probe 111b, which constitutes the sample dispensing mechanism, is connected to the tube 201 forming the dispensing flow path via a connector 203. Furthermore, the upstream end of the dispensing flow path is connected to a sample syringe 122 for attracting and dispensing the sample. A pressure sensor 204 is installed midway along the dispensing flow path from the sample syringe 122 to the sample dispensing probe 111b to detect the pressure within the flow path. Additionally, a liquid level detector 210 is connected to the sample dispensing mechanism to detect the electrostatic capacitance of the sample dispensing probe 111b. When the sample, cleaning fluid, or the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b comes into contact, the detector detects this based on changes in electrostatic capacitance.

[0047] Furthermore, the automatic analysis apparatus of this embodiment includes a cleaning tank 113 for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 111b and a cleaning fluid supply pump 208 for supplying cleaning fluid from a tank (not shown). The cleaning tank 113 includes: an upper opening 205 for the sample dispensing probe 111b to pass through when it approaches for cleaning; a cleaning fluid outlet 207 for discharging cleaning fluid toward the outer surface of the approaching sample dispensing probe 111b; and a lower opening 206 for discharging the discharged cleaning fluid. Additionally, the downstream branch of the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 has two paths: an inner cleaning path for cleaning the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b, and an outer cleaning path for cleaning the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b.

[0048] The internal washing path also includes a pump with a higher pressure than the cleaning fluid supply pump 208, namely a liquid delivery pump 211. Downstream of the liquid delivery pump 211, there is an internal washing solenoid valve 212 that opens and closes the flow path connecting the liquid delivery pump 211 and the sample syringe 122.

[0049] On the other hand, an external washing solenoid valve 209 is provided in the external washing path to open and close the flow path connecting the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 to the cleaning fluid discharge port 207. The internal washing solenoid valve 212 and the external washing solenoid valve 209 can be opened, closed, and have their opening degree changed according to the electrical signal input from the controller 118. For example, if a predetermined current is applied to the external washing solenoid valve 209, the external washing solenoid valve 209 will be at a predetermined opening degree, and a predetermined amount of cleaning fluid will be supplied to the downstream side.

[0050] In the case of dispensing the sample, the dispensing flow path is filled with system water (pure water). The system water in the dispensing flow path is discharged or aspirated by actuating the syringe 122. The success of dispensing at this time is determined using pressure data detected by pressure sensor 204. In addition, in the case of dispensing the sample, the internal washing solenoid valve 212 is closed.

[0051] Next, while cleaning the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b, the cleaning fluid is supplied to the delivery pump 211 by activating the cleaning fluid supply pump 208. The delivery pump 211 pressurizes the cleaning fluid and delivers it downstream, where it is used as system water to clean the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b through the dispensing flow path, and discharged from the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b into the cleaning tank 113.

[0052] On the other hand, when cleaning the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b, the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 is activated, and the external cleaning solenoid valve 209 is opened, so that the cleaning fluid is discharged from the cleaning fluid outlet 207 to the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b.

[0053] Regarding the volume of cleaning fluid discharged from the cleaning fluid outlet 207, even with a fixed opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209, the target volume may not be achieved due to factors such as the deterioration of the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 over the years or blockages in the external washing path. Therefore, it is important to periodically adjust the volume of cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning fluid outlet 207. The method for adjusting the volume during maintenance mode will be explained below. Here, adjusting the cleaning fluid volume refers to adjusting the volume discharged per unit time from the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b.

[0054] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the liquid volume adjustment method in Example 1. First, when the button for performing maintenance to adjust the cleaning liquid volume of the sample dispensing probe 111b is pressed by the operation unit of the controller 118, the system transitions to maintenance mode (step S301).

[0055] Therefore, the controller 118 activates the first sample dispensing mechanism 111, causing the sample dispensing probe 111b to move into the cleaning tank 113. And, as... Figure 4 As shown in (a), the controller 118 maintains the height of the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b at the reference cleaning position (first position) 401, and performs cleaning of the outer and inner surfaces of the sample dispensing probe 111b (step S302). This reference cleaning position refers to the height that serves as a reference when cleaning the sample dispensing probe 111b, and the normal cleaning operation is performed at this position. Furthermore, step S302 is a step to reset the position of the sample dispensing probe 111b, therefore cleaning of the outer and inner surfaces of the sample dispensing probe 111b is not necessary. Additionally, the cleaning fluid after cleaning the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b and the system water after cleaning the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b are removed by vacuum suction.

[0056] Next, in preparation for adjusting the cleaning fluid volume, the controller 118 fully closes the external washing solenoid valve 209 (step S303). This completes the cleaning of the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b. The cleaning of the inner surface within this time interval also ends. Alternatively, a solenoid valve (not shown) connected in series, different from the external washing solenoid valve 209, can be used to complete the cleaning of the outer surface. In this case, step S303 can be performed after step S304, which will be described later. In short, it is acceptable as long as the external washing solenoid valve is fully closed before step S305, which will be described later.

[0057] After that, as Figure 4 As shown in (b), the controller 118 raises the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b to the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403 (step S304). In this embodiment, the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403 is the same as the highest position (second position) in the target cleaning range 402 when the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b is at the reference cleaning position and the reference volume of cleaning fluid is discharged from the cleaning fluid outlet 207.

[0058] Then, the controller 118 begins supplying cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 (step S305). Furthermore, the controller 118 gradually increases the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 (step S306). The opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 can be increased continuously or in stages. This increase in the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 continues until the liquid level detector 210, which is part of the cleaning fluid detection unit, is turned on (step S307).

[0059] Then, if cleaning fluid is detected at the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b, the liquid level detector 210 is turned on, and the controller 118 fully closes the external washing solenoid valve 209 to complete the liquid volume adjustment (step S308). The controller 118 stores the opening degree of the external washing solenoid valve 209 when the liquid level detector 210 is turned on, specifically the current value applied to the external washing solenoid valve 209 at this time, in its memory. Afterwards, the controller 118 returns the height of the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b to the reference cleaning position 401 (step S309), and moves the sample dispensing mechanism to the standby state (step S310).

[0060] Figure 5 This is a graph showing the trajectory change of the cleaning fluid when the controller 118 holds the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b at the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403 and adjusts the cleaning fluid volume. In step S306 above, the controller 118 slightly opens the external washing solenoid valve 209 from a fully closed state. Figure 5 (a) further increases the opening to bring the cleaning fluid into contact with the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b. Figure 5 (b) By increasing the opening, the volume of cleaning fluid discharged from the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b increases per unit time, and the discharge direction of the cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid outlet 207 is as follows. Figure 5 The change is as shown in (b). Thus, if the cleaning fluid can be detected when the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b is at the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403, then even when the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b is at the reference cleaning position 401, it can be ensured that the cleaning water contacts the highest position in the target cleaning range 402. Furthermore, if the external washing solenoid valve 209 is gradually increased from a fully closed state, and the storage liquid level detector 210 begins to detect the opening at the time point of the cleaning fluid change, and subsequent cleaning operations are performed at this opening, then cleaning can be performed with the necessary minimum volume of fluid. That is, by adjusting the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 to the necessary minimum, and updating the reference fluid volume based on the adjusted opening volume as the adjusted fluid volume, the effect of suppressing water droplet residue at the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b is achieved.

[0061] Furthermore, by connecting the external washing solenoid valve 209 for adjusting the amount of cleaning fluid and the solenoid valve for closing the washing cycle in series, the solenoid valve for closing the cycle can be turned on to supply cleaning fluid when the adjusted opening position is reached. This prevents waste of cleaning fluid flowing from the external washing solenoid valve 209 from being fully closed to reaching the adjusted opening position.

[0062] In addition, this embodiment is described using a structure in which the cleaning fluid outlet 207 is located at the upper part of the cleaning tank 113, and the cleaning fluid is discharged from above and diagonally downwards. However, as... Figure 6 As shown, even with a structure where the cleaning fluid outlet 213 is located at the lower part of the cleaning tank 214 and the cleaning fluid is discharged from below to the upper side, the amount of cleaning fluid can be adjusted using the same method.

[0063] Example 2

[0064] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the liquid volume adjustment method in Example 2. In Example 1 described above, a liquid level detector 210 was used as the cleaning fluid detection unit, but in this example, a pressure sensor 204 is used instead.

[0065] First, when the button for performing maintenance to adjust the cleaning fluid volume is pressed, the system switches to maintenance mode (step S701).

[0066] Therefore, the controller 118 maintains the height of the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b at the reference cleaning position (first position) 401 and performs cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 111b (step S702).

[0067] Next, the controller 118 fully closes the external washing solenoid valve 209 (step S703). Alternatively, step S703 can be placed after S704, which will be described later. Since the description is the same as in Example 1, detailed explanation is omitted.

[0068] The controller 118 raises the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b to the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position (second position) 403 (step S704).

[0069] Then, cleaning fluid is supplied from the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 (step S705). Furthermore, the controller 118 gradually increases the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 (step S706) and performs syringe suction (step S707) to obtain pressure data. The syringe suction can be intermittent, but a continuous method is preferred as it shortens the adjustment time. The opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 is increased until the pressure sensor 204, which is the cleaning fluid detection unit, detects the change (increase) in pressure data (step S708).

[0070] Then, if cleaning fluid is detected at the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b, and the pressure sensor 204 is activated, the controller 118 fully closes the external washing solenoid valve 209 and stops the syringe suction, completing the fluid volume adjustment (step S709). Afterwards, the controller 118 returns the height of the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b to the reference cleaning position 401 (step S710), transferring the sample dispensing mechanism to standby mode (step S711).

[0071] According to Embodiments 1 and 2, by using the liquid level detector 210 and pressure sensor 204 already present in the dispensing mechanism, the liquid volume can be adjusted even without using special devices. Furthermore, by setting the cleaning liquid volume confirmation position to a height above the second position, the liquid volume can be adjusted to reliably contact the outer surface from the tip of the sample dispensing probe 111b to the desired height, suppressing the reduction in dispensing accuracy caused by insufficient cleaning. Moreover, by gradually increasing the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209, updating the reference opening as the opening at the time when cleaning liquid is first detected, and performing subsequent cleaning operations with this reference opening, cleaning can be performed with the minimum necessary liquid volume.

[0072] Furthermore, if the cleaning fluid detection unit fails to detect cleaning fluid even when the cleaning fluid volume reaches the predetermined upper limit, or if the cleaning fluid detection unit detects cleaning fluid before the cleaning fluid volume reaches the predetermined lower limit, it is assumed that there are problems with the operation of the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 or the height of the sample dispensing probe 111b. Therefore, if the cleaning fluid is not detected even when the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 reaches the predetermined upper limit, or if cleaning fluid is detected before the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 reaches the predetermined lower limit, the fluid volume adjustment maintenance mode can be retested. In addition, in such cases, the controller 118 can also issue an alarm to urge the operator to check the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 and the sample dispensing probe 111b.

[0073] Furthermore, while the adjustment of the cleaning fluid volume for the sample dispensing probe 111b was described in Examples 1 and 2 above, this method can also be applied to adjusting the cleaning fluid volume for the reagent dispensing probe 120. Additionally, while the adjustment of the cleaning fluid volume was described as a maintenance mode of the automatic analysis device 100 in Examples 1 and 2 above, it can also be performed as initialization before analysis or when starting the device. Furthermore, while the cleaning fluid volume was adjusted by the opening of the external washing solenoid valve 209 in Examples 1 and 2 above, it can also be adjusted by the rotational speed of the cleaning fluid supply pump 208. Increasing the rotational speed increases the amount of cleaning fluid discharged per unit time, while decreasing the rotational speed decreases the amount discharged. In this case, the same effect can be achieved by gradually changing the rotational speed from a low state to a high state. Thus, the adjustment of the cleaning fluid volume also includes water pressure adjustment based on changes in the rotational speed of the cleaning fluid supply pump 208. In addition, other methods can also be used, as long as the amount of liquid discharged from the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b per unit time can be adjusted.

[0074] Furthermore, the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403 does not need to be exactly the same as the second position. For example, the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403 can be slightly higher than the second position. This is because even at a position higher than the second position, as long as the cleaning fluid can be confirmed to have reached the second position, the amount of cleaning fluid can be ensured to be sufficient. However, if there is too much cleaning fluid, there may be residual cleaning fluid at the tip of the dispensing probe. Therefore, the cleaning fluid volume confirmation position 403 should preferably not be too high relative to the second position.

[0075] Example 3

[0076] Next, use Figure 8 The structure of the sample dispensing mechanism in Example 3 will be described. Furthermore, Figure 8 The structure of the first sample dispensing mechanism 111 is shown, but the second sample dispensing mechanism 111a has the same structure. Figure 8As shown, the sample dispensing mechanism comprises a sample dispensing arm 111c with a sample dispensing probe 111b at its front end, a horizontal moving mechanism 111d that moves the sample dispensing arm 111c horizontally, a vertical moving mechanism 111e that moves the sample dispensing arm 111c vertically (Z direction), and a rotary moving mechanism (not shown) that rotates the sample dispensing arm 111c. Through these moving mechanisms, the sample dispensing mechanism moves the sample dispensing probe 111b to an attraction position where it draws samples from the sample container 115, a discharge position where it discharges the drawn samples to the reaction container 102, and a cleaning position where it cleans the front end of the sample dispensing probe 111b in the cleaning tank 113. Furthermore, at the attraction position, discharge position, and cleaning position, the sample dispensing mechanism lowers the sample dispensing probe 111b (Z direction) at the same height as the sample container 115, the reaction container 102, and the cleaning tank 113.

[0077] Furthermore, while this embodiment uses the cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 111b as an example, the same principle applies to reagent dispensing probes. Additionally, it can also be applied to devices that dispense samples and reagents using a single probe.

[0078] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the cleaning fluid volume adjustment unit of the sample dispensing probe 111b. (See diagram for example.) Figure 9 As shown, the cleaning fluid volume adjustment unit includes: a cleaning fluid supply pump 208, which supplies cleaning fluid from a pure water device (not shown); a proportional valve 215, which can change its open / closed state by controlling the current; a branch pipe 216; solenoid valves 217a and 217b, which can connect / disconnect the fluid supply by opening / closing control; adjusting valves 218a and 218b, which can adjust the flow rate by opening / closing operation (by manually turning the valve screw); cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b, which discharge the cleaning fluid; a waste liquid tank 220, which stores the waste liquid of the cleaning tank 113; and a flow path 219, which connects the various components. Additionally, a liquid level detector 210 (e.g., an electrostatic capacitance sensor) is mounted inside the sample dispensing arm 111c of the sample dispensing mechanism.

[0079] During the cleaning of the sample dispensing probe 111b, the cleaning fluid supplied by the cleaning fluid supply pump 208 is discharged from the cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b by opening the solenoid valves 217a and 217b. The fluid flow from the cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b contacts the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b, thereby removing the dirt attached to the outer surface of the sample dispensing probe 111b.

[0080] In this embodiment, an example is shown where the cleaning fluid volume from two cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b is adjusted using a single proportional valve 215. However, the fluid volume from three or more cleaning nozzles can also be adjusted using a single proportional valve 215. Alternatively, a separate proportional valve can be connected to each cleaning nozzle for control. When adjusting the fluid volume from multiple cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b using a single proportional valve 215, it is preferable to pre-adjust using adjusting valves 218a and 218b to ensure that the fluid volume from each cleaning nozzle 202a and 202b is equal.

[0081] Because the outlets at the front ends of the cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b are open, air sometimes enters the cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b side of the flow path 219, and water sometimes splashes, after the discharge of the cleaning fluid has just begun. Therefore, in order to avoid false detection by the liquid level detector 210, it is preferable to set the sequence of descent of the sample dispensing probe 111b to begin after the discharge of the cleaning fluid from the cleaning nozzles 202a and 202b has started.

[0082] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of the descent position of the sample dispensing probe 111b in Example 3. Additionally, Figure 10 (a) also indicates the fluid flow state when the reference fluid volume is discharged at the time of cleaning the sample dispensing probe 111b. Figure 10 (b) also indicates the flow state when the liquid volume is lower than the reference liquid volume. Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the diagram, cleaning position 301 indicates the horizontal position of the sample dispensing probe 111b when cleaning, and liquid volume confirmation position 302 indicates the horizontal position of the sample dispensing probe 111b when confirming the liquid volume of the cleaning solution.

[0083] like Figure 10 As shown, when the control unit confirms the volume of the cleaning fluid, compared to when cleaning the sample dispensing probe 111b, the horizontal position of the sample dispensing probe 111b is positioned downstream of the cleaning nozzle 202. That is, when confirming the volume, compared to during cleaning (analysis), the control unit lowers the sample dispensing probe 111b to a position farther from the outlet of the cleaning nozzle 202. Furthermore, in the following description, one volume confirmation position 302 will be used as an example, but two or more volume confirmation positions 302 may be provided. Additionally, the horizontal distance between the volume confirmation position 302 and the cleaning position 301 is preferably at least five times the diameter of the cleaning nozzle 202.

[0084] The liquid flow discharged obliquely from the cleaning nozzle 202 shows minimal change in the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow 300 on the side closest to the cleaning nozzle 202. The difference in detection height of the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow at cleaning position 301 between the reference liquid volume (303a) and the liquid volume decrease (303b) is small. However, at positions farther from the cleaning nozzle 202, the change in the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow 300 is larger. The difference in detection height of the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow at liquid volume confirmation position 302 between the reference liquid volume (304a) and the liquid volume decrease (304b) is large. Therefore, detecting the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow at liquid volume confirmation position 302, which is farther from the cleaning nozzle 202, allows for easy detection of changes in the cleaning water volume, resulting in higher detection sensitivity. Furthermore, regarding the direction of the cleaning liquid discharged from the cleaning nozzle 202, even when discharged obliquely from bottom to top, the liquid flow follows a parabola due to gravity, thus it is not necessarily in line with... Figure 10 Same orientation.

[0085] Figure 11 This is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of cleaning fluid discharged from the cleaning nozzle within a fixed time and the probe descent distance from the reference position to the top of the cleaning fluid detection point. (Example) Figure 11 As shown, the difference between the probe descent distance at the reference liquid volume and the probe descent distance at the liquid volume decrease is greater at the liquid volume confirmation position 302 than at the value at the cleaning position 301.

[0086] Here, the closer to the downstream side of the cleaning fluid flow, the more unstable the fluid flow shape becomes, and the more likely it is to cause splashing (scattering) of the cleaning fluid. Therefore, the deviation of the descent distance (detection position) of the sample dispensing probe 111b sometimes becomes larger. Therefore, in this embodiment, the control unit lowers the sample dispensing probe 111b at a slower speed when confirming the cleaning fluid volume than it does during cleaning. By making the descent speed of the sample dispensing probe 111b slower than during cleaning, the possibility of the liquid level detector 210 falsely detecting contact detection signals with the cleaning fluid can be reduced, and the deviation of the detection position can be suppressed.

[0087] In a typical automated analytical apparatus, there is an analytical action for component analysis and a reset action (or maintenance action) to initialize the apparatus before the analytical action. In this embodiment, a cleaning position 301 is used in both the analytical and reset actions, while a liquid volume confirmation position 302 is used only in the reset action. The analytical action requires processing multiple samples in a short time; therefore, it is preferable to clean the sample dispensing probe 111b in a short time as well, ensuring that the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow does not deviate. Therefore, during the analytical action, cleaning is performed at the cleaning position 301, where the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow changes less. During the reset action, when adjusting the cleaning liquid volume for measurement, the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow is measured at the liquid volume confirmation position 302, where the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow changes more significantly. This suppresses deviations in the cleaning range during cleaning and allows for easy detection of changes in the cleaning liquid volume during volume confirmation.

[0088] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates a structural example of a control block used for probe cleaning and probe cleaning fluid volume adjustment. The automatic analysis device control unit 501 is a central processing unit for controlling the entire device, receiving instructions such as inspection commands from the user via the GUI 502. The dispensing mechanism positions the dispensing probe according to instructions from the dispensing arm control unit 503 to the dispensing arm horizontal movement unit 504 and the dispensing arm vertical movement unit 505.

[0089] During analysis, the dispensing probe is moved to the cleaning position 301 for cleaning according to the instructions from the probe cleaning control unit 506. During cleaning fluid volume adjustment, the dispensing probe is moved to the volume confirmation position 302 for volume detection according to the instructions from the volume detection / adjustment control unit 507. Furthermore, since high-speed processing is required during analysis, the dispensing arm up-and-down movement unit 505 switches its speed between high-speed movement during analysis and low-speed movement during cleaning fluid volume adjustment (detected by the liquid level detector at the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow). Switching between analysis and volume adjustment is performed by the normal cleaning mode / volume detection / adjustment mode switching unit 508.

[0090] The opening and closing of the solenoid valve 217 for discharging the cleaning fluid is controlled by the solenoid valve control unit 509, discharging cleaning water at any time during probe cleaning and fluid volume detection / adjustment. As described above, during fluid volume detection, the dispensing probe descends from above at a low speed, and contact with the cleaning fluid is detected by the fluid level detector 210. The detection signal is stored in the fluid flow detection height meter 511 via the cleaning fluid contact determination unit 510 (processing details described later) and the fluid volume detection / adjustment control unit 507. Based on the information stored in the fluid flow detection height meter 511, the fluid volume detection / adjustment control unit 507 determines whether proportional valve 215 needs to be controlled and the control amount. The proportional valve 215 controls its opening and closing state based on the change in control current from the proportional valve control unit 512. The control current when controlling the proportional valve 215 and the fluid flow detection height measured at this time are managed by the proportional valve control table 513. By referring to this information during subsequent control of the proportional valve 215, the cleaning fluid volume can be adjusted to the target state with fewer operations.

[0091] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the cleaning fluid volume adjustment unit when confirming the cleaning fluid volume. Furthermore, although in Figure 13 The text has been omitted, but the action of the dispensing probe rising and returning to its original position after its descent is complete is described. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the actions to confirm the cleaning fluid volume include two processes: cleaning status confirmation process 601 and fluid volume adjustment confirmation process 602.

[0092] Here, the cleaning status confirmation process 601 will be explained. The cleaning status confirmation process 601 is performed by the cleaning position 301 used during the analysis operation. Regarding the cleaning position 301, as mentioned above, the change in the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow caused by the fluid flow change is small, so it is not used to adjust the fluid flow, but to confirm the descent control of the dispensing probe.

[0093] exist Figure 13 The diagram illustrates the process after the dispensing probe moves above the cleaning position 301. First, the dispensing of cleaning fluid begins by opening the solenoid valve 217 (S603). Then, the dispensing probe begins to descend (S604). This descent continues until a liquid level detection signal is detected (S605). After the liquid level detection signal is detected, the liquid flow detection height (height A) of the cleaning fluid flow is recorded in the liquid flow detection height table 511 (S606). Then, the solenoid valve 217 closes (S607).

[0094] The above steps confirm the required descent amount for cleaning the dispensing probe during the analysis. Since the dispensing probe is a periodically replaced component, the positional relationship between the replaced probe and the cleaning fluid flow may deviate. Therefore, it is preferable to confirm the cleaning range through the cleaning status confirmation process 601.

[0095] After replacing the dispensing probe, the descent of the dispensing probe is confirmed at the cleaning position 301 where the deviation is small. This confirms the variation in descent caused by individual differences in the dispensing probe. Using the confirmed difference in descent caused by individual differences in the dispensing probe, the values ​​of descent in the liquid flow detection height gauge 511 and the proportional valve control gauge 513 are corrected, thereby reducing the measurement deviation that may occur before and after the dispensing probe replacement.

[0096] Next, the confirmation process 602 regarding whether or not liquid volume adjustment has been performed will be explained. In this confirmation process 602, firstly, the machine moves from the cleaning position 301 to the liquid volume confirmation position 302 (S608). Then, the discharge of cleaning fluid begins by opening the solenoid valve 217 (S609). Then, the dispensing probe descends (S610). The descent speed of the dispensing probe at this time is slower than that of the dispensing probe during the cleaning operation in the analysis. By descending at a low speed, it is possible to suppress the liquid level detector 210 from falsely detecting the contact detection signal with the cleaning fluid, and to reduce the detection deviation of the upper position of the cleaning fluid. The descent of the dispensing probe continues until the liquid level detection signal is detected (S611). After the liquid level detection signal is detected, the liquid flow detection height (height B) of the cleaning fluid flow is recorded in the liquid flow detection height table 511 (S612). Then, the solenoid valve 217 is closed (S613).

[0097] If the recorded height A differs significantly from the design value, the position of the dispensing probe needs to be adjusted and the descent distance corrected. If the recorded height B differs significantly from the design value, it is determined that liquid volume adjustment is required. Alternatively, a process can be adopted that omits the confirmation process 601 for cleaning status and only performs the confirmation process 602 for whether liquid volume adjustment has occurred.

[0098] then, Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the liquid volume adjustment action of the proportional valve 215. Furthermore, in Figure 14 The process of raising the dispensing probe back to its original position after the descent is also omitted.

[0099] If confirmation is required in the liquid volume adjustment confirmation process 602, the proportional valve 215 is operated. Since the operation of the proportional valve 215 follows the liquid volume adjustment confirmation process 602, the dispensing probe is positioned at the liquid volume confirmation position 302. First, the discharge of cleaning fluid begins by opening the solenoid valve 217 (S621). Then, the current operating amount is extracted from the control table 513 of the proportional valve 215 (S622). Based on this current operating amount, the control current of the proportional valve 215 is changed (S623). When the control current of the proportional valve 215 changes, the liquid volume of the cleaning fluid changes. Therefore, to confirm the change in the liquid volume of the cleaning fluid, the dispensing probe first descends (S624). Next, when a liquid level detection signal is detected (S625), the descent height of the dispensing probe is recorded (S626). After operating the proportional valve 215, the number of operations (including counter accumulation processing) and the operating amount (current value) are recorded (S627). Then, the difference between the recorded height B and the design value is calculated (S628), and it is determined whether the difference is below the fixed value (S629). If the difference is greater than the fixed value, S622 to S628 are repeated to adjust the level of the cleaning fluid flow to within the fixed value of the design value. After adjustment, solenoid valve 217 is closed (S630). Furthermore, the counter value for the number of operations is reset, and the dispensing probe is moved back to its initial position.

[0100] The operation count counter is designed to prevent situations where the cleaning fluid flow cannot be adjusted to the design value even after a fixed number of operations. In actual operation, the counter value is checked, and the process exits the repetitive loop when it exceeds a fixed value. Furthermore, the operation amount of the proportional valve 215 is recorded by noting the change in the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow with each operation. This information is used as a reference for subsequent operations of the proportional valve 215, allowing for adjustment to the target fluid volume with fewer operations. Additionally, the recorded current value of the proportional valve 215 and the change in the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow can be input to a PID controller, which then controls the operation amount of the proportional valve 215.

[0101] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of detecting the cleaning fluid volume. The confirmation of the cleaning fluid volume and the volume detection during the operation of the proportional valve 215 are performed as follows.

[0102] First, a signal from the liquid level detector 210 is received (S641), and it is determined whether the magnitude of the received signal is above a threshold (a level sufficient to determine contact with the liquid surface) (S642). If the magnitude of the received signal is less than the threshold, the counter is reset to zero (S643). If the magnitude of the received signal is above the threshold, the counter is incremented (S644). This counter is used to determine whether signals exceeding the threshold have been received consecutively, and records the number of counts or the duration of continuous detection. Then, based on the determination that the counter value exceeds the threshold (S645), the signal is repeatedly received until the counter value exceeds the threshold.

[0103] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the operating amount (current value) of the proportional valve 215 recorded in the proportional valve control table 513 and the change in the volume of the cleaning fluid (the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow). Based on the information obtained during the aforementioned cleaning fluid volume confirmation action and the volume adjustment action based on the proportional valve 215, the relationship between the operating amount of the proportional valve 215 and the fluid level position can be determined. Operating the proportional valve 215 based on this relationship allows for a quick adjustment from the pre-operation state 701 to the target state 702. Each time the fluid volume is confirmed, the proportional valve control table 513 is updated, thereby also updating the changes in the characteristics (relationship between operating amount and flow rate) based on the flow path state.

[0104] Figure 17 This diagram illustrates an example of the liquid level detection signal during the liquid flow detection process. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the sensor signal (voltage value) obtained from the liquid level detector 210. If the dispensing probe is close to the liquid flow, a signal exceeding the signal level threshold may sometimes occur due to signal noise. To prevent false detections caused by signal noise, a counter is provided in the liquid flow detection process of this embodiment to count the number of times (or the time) the signal level threshold is exceeded. By counting multiple times consecutively, it is determined that contact with the cleaning fluid has been detected. For example, if the threshold of the counter is set to 3, such as... Figure 17 As shown, by determining the liquid level detection at the point where the value 801 exceeds the threshold three times consecutively, false detections caused by signal noise can be prevented.

[0105] As described above, according to this embodiment, an automatic analysis device that suppresses deviations in the cleaning range during cleaning and detects changes in the cleaning fluid volume with high sensitivity during fluid volume confirmation can be realized, thereby improving the adjustment accuracy of the cleaning fluid volume.

[0106] Example 4

[0107] In order to reduce the deviation when detecting the upper position of the cleaning fluid, in Example 4, the shape of the cleaning fluid flow is stabilized by controlling the proportional valve 215 before detecting the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow.

[0108] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the flow state of the cleaning fluid at a relatively high flow rate and an example of the descent position of the sample dispensing probe 111b. Figure 19 This is a graph showing the relationship between the operating quantity (current) of the proportional valve 215 and the change in flow rate (the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow). The device structure of Example 4 is the same as that of Example 3, but the action for confirming the cleaning fluid volume is different.

[0109] Based on the shape and flow path design of the cleaning nozzle 202, the flow rate of the cleaning fluid is relatively fast, therefore... Figure 18 As shown, the flow pattern sometimes becomes unstable. When the flow pattern is unstable, the detection position may sometimes be lower than the average liquid level, depending on the timing of the drop-down probe's descent. When the cleaning nozzle 202 is tilted or the cleaning position 301 is far from the cleaning nozzle 202, the flow pattern follows a parabola, and the tendency for the flow to become concave (lower) is stronger than the reference point (the upper end of the stable cleaning fluid).

[0110] In this embodiment, the flow rate of the cleaning fluid is slowed down compared to the flow rate during cleaning, thereby stabilizing the flow pattern during volume confirmation. To slow down the flow rate, the control current of the proportional valve 215 is reduced by a fixed amount from the currently set operating amount (current value) during cleaning. With the flow rate of the cleaning fluid slowed down and the flow pattern stabilized, the upper position of the cleaning fluid flow is detected at the volume confirmation position 302, thereby suppressing false detections caused by unstable flow patterns.

[0111] The liquid level during cleaning can be estimated based on the change in current 901 (the difference between the setting 902 during cleaning and the setting 903 when confirming the liquid volume). In estimating the liquid level, it is preferable to prepare a table in advance that knows the change in liquid level relative to the operating amount of the proportional valve 215, but this table can also be made after the device leaves the factory by measuring the upper position of the cleaning liquid flow under multiple current conditions.

[0112] According to this embodiment, even in a fast-flowing cleaning fluid, the fluid flow state during cleaning can be maintained at a constant level regardless of the fluid flow shape. Furthermore, this embodiment can be used in combination with Embodiment 3. For example, after the flow rate adjustment in Embodiment 3 is completed, in order to confirm the adjusted fluid flow state, the fluid volume can be confirmed by reducing the current of the proportional valve 215 after the fluid volume adjustment by a fixed value.

[0113] Furthermore, in Examples 3 and 4, a liquid level detector 210 was used to detect the cleaning fluid volume, but it is not limited to this method as long as the cleaning fluid can be detected. For example, a pressure sensor connected to the flow path of the dispensing probe can also be used to detect the cleaning fluid.

[0114] Furthermore, in Examples 3 and 4, multiple liquid level measurements are performed, along with general signal processing such as averaging the measurement results (liquid level) and removing outliers (those with large differences from values ​​measured under previous and subsequent current states), thereby improving detection accuracy. Additionally, Examples 3 and 4 are independent of the number and direction of the dispensing arm's movable shafts; as long as a cleaning position is set upstream and a liquid volume confirmation position is set downstream along the axial direction of the cleaning fluid flow, the dispensing probe can be moved to each position.

[0115] The embodiments 1 to 4 described above are for the purpose of readily understanding and illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation to all of the described structures. Furthermore, a portion of the structure of one embodiment may be replaced with a structure of another embodiment; additionally, structures of other embodiments may be added to the structure of one embodiment. Furthermore, parts of the structures of each embodiment may be added to, deleted from, or replaced with other structures.

[0116] Symbol Explanation

[0117] 100 Automatic Analysis Device

[0118] 101 Reaction Plate

[0119] 102 Reaction Vessel

[0120] 103 Cleaning Agency

[0121] 104 Spectrophotometer

[0122] 105 Stirring Mechanism

[0123] 106 Cleaning tank (for stirring mechanism)

[0124] 107 First Reagent Dispensing Mechanism

[0125] 107a Second Reagent Dispensing Mechanism

[0126] 108 Cleaning tank (for reagent dispensing mechanism)

[0127] 109 Reagent Tray

[0128] 110 Reagent Bottle

[0129] 111 First Sample Dispensing Mechanism

[0130] 111a Second Sample Dispensing Mechanism

[0131] 111b Sample dispensing probe

[0132] 111c Sample dispensing arm

[0133] 111d Horizontal Moving Mechanism

[0134] 111e Vertical moving mechanism

[0135] 112 Detergent Bottle

[0136] 113 Cleaning tank (for sample dispensing mechanism)

[0137] 115 Sample container

[0138] 116 Sample holder

[0139] 117 Sample conveying mechanism

[0140] 118 Controller

[0141] 120 Reagent Dispensing Probe

[0142] 121 Reagent Syringe

[0143] 122 Syringe for Samples

[0144] 201 pipe

[0145] 202a, 202b Cleaning Nozzles

[0146] 203 connector

[0147] 204 Pressure Sensor

[0148] 205 Upper opening

[0149] 206 Lower opening

[0150] 207 Cleaning fluid outlet

[0151] 208 Cleaning fluid supply pump

[0152] 209 Solenoid valve for external washing

[0153] 210 Liquid Level Detector

[0154] 211 Liquid delivery pump

[0155] 212 Solenoid valve for internal washing

[0156] 213 Cleaning fluid outlet

[0157] 214 Cleaning tank (for sample dispensing mechanism)

[0158] 215 proportional valve

[0159] 216 branch pipe

[0160] 217a, 217b Solenoid Valves

[0161] 218a, 218b regulating valves

[0162] 219 flow path

[0163] 220 Waste Liquid Tank

[0164] 300a, 300b cleaning fluid flow

[0165] 301 Cleaning Location

[0166] 302 Liquid Quantity Confirmation Location

[0167] 401 Reference Cleaning Position

[0168] 402 Cleaning Scope

[0169] 403 Cleaning fluid volume confirmation location

[0170] 501 Automatic Analysis Device Control Unit

[0171] 502 GUI

[0172] 503 Injection Arm Control Unit

[0173] 504 Injection Arm Horizontal Moving Unit

[0174] 505 Injection Arm Up-Down Moving Unit

[0175] 506 Probe Cleaning Control Unit

[0176] 507 Liquid Quantity Detection / Adjustment Control Unit

[0177] 508 Normal Cleaning Mode / Liquid Detection / Adjustment Mode Switching Unit

[0178] 509 Solenoid Valve Control Unit

[0179] 510 Cleaning Fluid Contact Detection Unit

[0180] 511 Liquid Flow Detection Height Gauge

[0181] 512 Proportional Valve Control Unit

[0182] 513 Proportional Valve Control Table

[0183] 601 Cleaning Status Confirmation Process

[0184] 602 Confirmation of whether or not liquid volume adjustment is required.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, comprising: The dispensing mechanism includes a dispensing probe for dispensing samples or reagents into a reaction vessel; The outlet discharges cleaning fluid to the outer surface of the dispensing probe. A liquid volume adjustment unit that adjusts the amount of cleaning liquid supplied to the outlet. A cleaning fluid detection unit is disposed in the dispensing mechanism; as well as The control unit controls the dispensing probe, the liquid volume adjustment unit, and the cleaning fluid detection unit. During the cleaning of the dispensing probe, the control unit performs the following control: With the height of the tip of the dispensing probe set as a first position, serving as a reference cleaning position, a reference volume of cleaning fluid is discharged from the outlet. This allows the cleaning fluid to contact the outer surface of the dispensing probe at a second position, located above or between the first and second positions. Its features are, The second position is the highest point on the outer surface of the dispensing probe within the target cleaning range, assuming the reference liquid volume is discharged from the outlet when the height of the tip of the dispensing probe is at the first position. When adjusting the cleaning fluid volume, the control unit performs the following control: To stop the discharge of the cleaning fluid; Raise the height of the tip of the dispensing probe from the first position to above the second position; The discharge of the cleaning fluid begins, and the volume of the cleaning fluid is gradually increased by the volume change unit until the cleaning fluid detection unit detects the cleaning fluid, after which the discharge of the cleaning fluid is stopped. as well as The cleaning fluid volume when the cleaning fluid detection unit detects the cleaning fluid is used as the adjusted fluid volume to update the reference fluid volume.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid volume adjustment unit is a solenoid valve located midway through the flow path from the pump to the outlet. During the cleaning of the dispensing probe, the control unit controls the solenoid valve to a reference opening degree, allowing cleaning fluid to be discharged from the outlet. When adjusting the cleaning fluid volume, the control unit gradually increases the opening of the solenoid valve and updates the reference opening by using the opening of the solenoid valve when the cleaning fluid detection unit begins to detect the cleaning fluid as the adjusted opening.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cleaning fluid detection unit is a liquid level detector that detects the liquid level by detecting the electrostatic capacitance of the dispensing probe.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device has the following features: A syringe for drawing in and discharging the sample or reagent; and A pressure sensor, disposed in the flow path connecting the syringe and the dispensing probe, detects the pressure within the flow path. The cleaning fluid detection unit is the pressure sensor.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When adjusting the cleaning fluid volume, the control unit performs the following control: if the cleaning fluid detection unit does not detect the cleaning fluid even when the cleaning fluid volume reaches a predetermined upper limit, or if the cleaning fluid detection unit detects the cleaning fluid before the cleaning fluid volume reaches a predetermined lower limit, an alarm is issued.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device includes a cleaning nozzle that discharges cleaning fluid into the dispensing probe. The discharge port is located at the front end of the cleaning nozzle. When the control unit confirms the volume of the cleaning fluid, it lowers the dispensing probe at a position farther from the outlet of the cleaning nozzle compared to when the dispensing probe is cleaning.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The dispensing mechanism is equipped with a cleaning fluid detection unit. When the control unit confirms the volume of the cleaning fluid, it causes the dispensing probe to gradually descend, and confirms the volume of the cleaning fluid based on the height at which the cleaning fluid is detected by the cleaning fluid detection unit.

8. The automatic analysis device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control unit causes the dispensing probe to descend at a slower rate when confirming the volume of the cleaning fluid than it descends when cleaning the dispensing probe.

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the control unit confirms the volume of the cleaning fluid, it causes the dispensing probe to begin descending after the cleaning fluid begins to be discharged from the cleaning nozzle.

10. The automatic analysis device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device is equipped with a proportional valve that can adjust the volume of the cleaning fluid. The control unit changes the opening and closing state of the proportional valve based on the height of the cleaning fluid detected by the cleaning fluid detection unit.

11. The automatic analysis device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control unit ensures that the flow rate of the cleaning fluid discharged from the cleaning nozzle when confirming the volume of the cleaning fluid is slower than the flow rate of the cleaning fluid discharged from the cleaning nozzle when cleaning the dispensing probe.

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