Sample handling system and sample handling method

Abstract

The sample handling system of the present invention includes: multiple detection points, each composed of magnetic poles (207), for detecting the position of a magnetic body (203); and multiple handling lines disposed above the multiple detection points to cover them. Among the multiple handling lines, the detection range (301A, 301B, 301C) of a first detection point constituting a first handling line is different from the detection range (301A, 301B, 301C) of a second detection point constituting a second handling line different from the first handling line. Thus, a sample handling system and method are provided that can handle handling methods using electromagnetic actuators, and can handle samples more quickly and stably compared to conventional methods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a sample analysis apparatus for analyzing biological samples (hereinafter referred to as samples) such as blood, plasma, serum, urine or other bodily fluids, or to a sample handling system and method in a sample and processing apparatus for pretreatment required for analysis. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of a highly flexible laboratory sample delivery system and corresponding operating method with high handling performance, Patent Document 1 describes a system comprising multiple container carriers, a transport plane, and multiple electromagnetic actuators, wherein each container carrier has at least one magnetically active device, preferably at least one permanent magnet, and is suitable for transporting sample containers; the transport plane is suitable for transporting the container carriers; and the electromagnetic actuators are stationary below the transport plane and are suitable for moving the container carriers on the transport plane by applying magnetic force to the container carriers.

[0003] Furthermore, as an example of a test chamber sample dispensing system capable of identifying the position on the transfer surface, Patent Document 2 describes a system comprising a transfer surface, multiple sample container carriers, a drive unit configured to move the sample container carriers on the transfer surface, and a control device configured to control the movement of the sample container carriers on the transfer surface by driving the drive unit, thereby moving the sample container carriers along a corresponding transfer path. The transfer surface is provided with multiple geometric shapes that can be identified optically, each geometric shape representing a specific area on the transfer surface.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-77971

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-119962 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] As a sample processing system used for the automatic analysis of biological samples such as blood and urine, there are sample preprocessing systems that perform sample placement, centrifugation, dispensing, and labeling, and automatic analysis systems that analyze samples processed by such sample preprocessing systems.

[0010] Conventional sample pretreatment systems or automated analysis systems include sample transport lines using conveyor belts or similar devices to move samples to designated processing or analysis facilities. By incorporating multiple such transport lines into a sample transport system, samples can be moved to the designated facilities.

[0011] On the other hand, Patent Document 1 discloses a laboratory sample delivery system that is highly flexible and has excellent handling performance.

[0012] As an example of a sample handling method, there is the technology described in Patent Document 2. Patent Document 2 describes a method that has a position sensor for detecting the position of a permanent magnet, which is installed on a tray carrying a sample container containing the sample. Based on the position information detected by the position sensor, the tray is moved by energizing a corresponding electromagnetic actuator in the desired handling direction, thereby moving the sample to the desired position.

[0013] In a sample handling system using electromagnetic actuators, as described in Patent Document 2 above, after detecting the position information of the sample, the electromagnetic actuator located in the next desired handling direction is energized to move the tray. This operation is repeated to move the tray to the designated position.

[0014] Therefore, any delay in location information detection could slow down the movement of the tray.

[0015] In addition, when transporting items in areas where the brackets are close together, if accurate location information is not detected, the brackets may collide with each other, or an adjacent bracket may be mistakenly detected.

[0016] In response, the inventors discovered through research that although the technology described in Patent Document 2 uses a position sensor to detect the position information of the sample, it does not consider the detection range of the position sensor. When it is necessary to achieve faster and more accurate sample handling, it is necessary to improve the detection accuracy of the tray.

[0017] Therefore, the present invention provides a sample handling system and sample handling method that can handle handling methods using electromagnetic actuators and can handle samples faster and more stably than in the past.

[0018] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0019] This invention includes various technical means for solving the above-mentioned technical problems. As one example, it provides a sample handling system that transports samples carried on a sample holder by causing a magnetic body and an electromagnet disposed on a sample holder to interact and slide along a handling path. The system is characterized by comprising: multiple detection points, each composed of the electromagnet, for detecting the position of the magnetic body; and multiple handling paths disposed above the multiple detection points to cover them. In the multiple handling paths, the detection range of a first detection point constituting a first handling path is different from the detection range of a second detection point constituting a second handling path different from the first handling path.

[0020] Invention Effects

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to handle transport methods using electromagnetic actuators, and samples can be transported faster and more stably than in the past. The technical problems, structures, and effects beyond those described above become clearer through the following description of embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a simplified plan view showing the overall structure of the sample handling system involved in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the transport device constituting the sample transport system according to Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a graph showing an example of the current change curve obtained by the conveying device according to Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a simplified diagram illustrating an example of a method for setting the detection range in the conveying device of Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a simplified diagram illustrating an example of a method for setting the detection range in the conveying device of Embodiment 1.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a simplified diagram illustrating an example of a method for setting the detection range in the conveying device of Embodiment 1.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the shape of a portion of the upper surface of the conveying device involved in Embodiment 1.

[0029] Figure 8 This is an example diagram illustrating an outline of the detection range setting of the transport device constituting the sample transport system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 9This is an example diagram illustrating an outline of the detection range setting of the transport device constituting the sample transport system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps for setting the detection range of the conveying device involved in Embodiment 3.

[0032] Figure 11 This is an example diagram illustrating an outline of the detection range setting of the transport device constituting the sample transport system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 12 This is an example diagram illustrating an outline of the detection range setting of the conveying device involved in Embodiment 4.

[0034] Figure 13 This is an example diagram illustrating an outline of the detection range setting of the conveying device involved in Embodiment 4.

[0035] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps for setting the detection range of the conveying device involved in Embodiment 4. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the sample handling system and sample handling method of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] <Example 1>

[0038] use Figures 1 to 7 Example 1 illustrates the sample handling system and sample handling method of the present invention.

[0039] First, using Figure 1 Describe the overall structure of the sample handling system. Figure 1 This is a plan view showing the overall structure of the sample handling system involved in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 1 The sample handling system 100 shown in this embodiment 1 is a system equipped with an analytical device that automatically analyzes the components of samples such as blood and urine.

[0041] The main components of the sample handling system 100 are multiple handling devices 102. Figure 1 There are 12 in the middle), and multiple analysis devices 103 ( Figure 1 The system includes four sample handling devices (4 in total) and a control computer 101 for comprehensively managing the sample handling system 100. Multiple handling devices 102 are used to handle sample containers 201 (refer to...) containing samples such as blood and urine. Figure 2 bracket 202 (refer to) Figure 2 (or empty brackets.)

[0042] The analytical device 103 is a unit used for qualitative or quantitative analysis of the components of samples transported by the transport device 102. The analytical items performed by this unit are not particularly limited, and the structure of a known automated analytical device for analyzing biochemical or immunological items can be adopted. Furthermore, if multiple units are installed, they can be of the same or different specifications, without particular limitation.

[0043] Each conveying device 102 uses a magnetic body 203 (see reference) mounted on the bracket 202 to... Figure 2 ) and magnetic pole 207 (reference) Figure 2 The device, which uses interaction to slide along the transport path, thereby transports the sample mounted on tray 202 to its destination. Specific details will be provided using... Figure 2 The accompanying diagrams will be described in detail below.

[0044] The control computer 101 controls the operation of the entire system, including the conveying device 102 and the analysis device 103. It is a computer equipped with a display device such as a liquid crystal display, input devices, a storage device, a CPU, a memory, etc. The control computer 102 controls the operation of each device based on various programs recorded in the storage device.

[0045] The control processing of the actions performed by the control computer 101 can be summarized in one program, or it can be divided into multiple programs, or it can be a combination of them. In addition, part or all of the program can be implemented by dedicated hardware, or it can be modularized.

[0046] In this embodiment, the control computer 101 determines the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C of multiple detection points according to the setting of transporting the device from the bracket 202 to the analysis device 103. Details will be explained later.

[0047] The above Figure 1 The text describes a scenario with four analytical devices 103, but the number of analytical devices is not particularly limited and can be more than one. Similarly, the number of conveying devices 102 is not particularly limited and can be more than one.

[0048] In addition, the sample handling system 100 may also include various sample pre-processing / post-processing units for pre-processing or post-processing samples. The detailed structure of the sample pre-processing / post-processing unit is not particularly limited, and the structure of a known pre-processing device can be adopted.

[0049] Next, using Figures 2-7 The specific structure of the conveying device 102 in this embodiment will be explained. Figure 2 This is a structural diagram showing the outline of the conveying device 102. Figure 3This is a diagram showing an example of the current change curve obtained by the conveying device. Figures 4-6 This is a simplified diagram illustrating an example of a method for setting the detection range of a conveying device. Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the shape of a portion of the upper surface of the conveying device.

[0050] Figure 2 In the conveying device 102, multiple trays 202 are provided, and sample containers 201 for holding samples are mounted on the trays 202. A magnetic body 303 is provided on the bottom surface of each of the multiple trays 202.

[0051] The magnetic body 203 is made of permanent magnets such as rubidium and ferrite, but it can also be made of other magnets and soft magnetic bodies, and they can be combined appropriately.

[0052] Although it is not necessary to provide a magnetic body 203 on the lower surface of the bracket 202, it is desirable to provide a magnetic body on its lower surface from the viewpoint of effectively utilizing the transport force of electromagnetic transport.

[0053] A bracket 202 with a magnetic body 203 slides above a transport surface 204. To generate the transport force, a plurality of magnetic poles 207 are provided on the lower part of the transport surface 204. Each magnetic pole 207 consists of a cylindrical core 205 and a winding 206 wound around the outer periphery of the core 205. The magnetic poles 207 respectively constitute a plurality of detection points for detecting the position of the magnetic body 203. A plurality of transport lines covering the magnetic poles 207 are also provided above them.

[0054] In the transport device 102 of this embodiment, multiple magnetic poles 207 disposed inside it are responsible for the position detection of the magnetic body 203, and also for the transport of the magnetic body 203, i.e., the transport of the sample.

[0055] In addition, in this embodiment, the specifications of the magnetic poles 207 in the transport device 102 are the same for all magnetic poles 207, but they do not necessarily have to be the same.

[0056] Magnetic pole 207 is connected to drive unit 208, and a predetermined current flows through winding 206 by applying a predetermined voltage to magnetic pole 207. Magnetic pole 207, energized by drive unit 208, functions as an electromagnet, attracting the magnetic body 203 of bracket 202 located on transport surface 204. After magnetic pole 207 attracts bracket 202, drive unit 208 stops applying voltage to magnetic pole 207. Adjacent magnetic poles 207 are similarly energized by drive unit 208, causing adjacent magnetic poles 207 to attract the magnetic body 203 of bracket 202.

[0057] By repeating the above steps on all the magnetic poles 207 that constitute the transport line, the sample contained in the sample container 201 held by the tray 202 with the magnetic body 203 is transported to the destination.

[0058] During this transport process, the current flowing through the winding 206 of the magnetic pole 207 is detected by the current detection unit 209. The current flowing through the winding 206 of the magnetic pole 207 detected by the current detection unit 209 is sent to the arithmetic unit 210 for numerical processing to obtain... Figure 3 The current change curve 211, which depends on the position of the sample holder, is shown. By obtaining this current change curve 211, which depends on the position of the holder 202, the position of the holder 202 can be detected.

[0059] In the arithmetic unit 201, the position of the sample is determined based on the current change curve 211 according to the instructions from the control computer 101. The position detection process can be performed by the arithmetic unit 210 or by the control computer 101, but in this embodiment, the control computer 101 determines the various settings for position detection, and the arithmetic unit 210 performs the execution.

[0060] In addition, the arithmetic unit 210 uses various information such as the position, speed, and weight information of the bracket 202 to calculate the current flowing through each winding 206 and outputs a command signal to the respective drive unit 208. Based on the command signal, the drive unit 208 applies a voltage to the corresponding winding 206.

[0061] Next, using Figures 4-7 This is an example illustrating the setting of the location detection range.

[0062] In this embodiment, the thresholds 302A, 302B, and 302C used to calculate the position of the magnetic body 203 based on the current change curve 211 obtained from the current value detected by the current detection unit 209 are different on each transport line, so that the position determination range of the bracket 202 is different on each transport line.

[0063] For example Figure 4 As shown, for in Figure 7 In the conveying device 102 shown, the detection range 301A of the magnetic pole 207 positioned at position a constituting the conveying line A has a detection discrimination threshold 302A set lower than the detection discrimination thresholds 302B and 302C described later. By reducing the detection discrimination threshold 302A in this way, the distance A'-A” between the intersection point of the current change curve 211 and the straight line of the detection discrimination threshold 302A becomes longer, and the detection range 301A can be set to be larger than the detection ranges 301B and 301C described later.

[0064] In addition, such as Figure 5As shown, for in Figure 7 In the conveying device 102 shown, the detection range 301B of the magnetic pole 207 positioned at position b constituting the conveying line B has a detection discrimination threshold 302B set to a value higher than the detection discrimination threshold 302A and lower than the detection discrimination threshold 302C. Consequently, the distance B'-B” between the intersection point of the current change curve 211 and the straight line of the detection discrimination threshold 302B is shorter than the distance A'-A” between the intersection point of the current change curve 211 and the straight line of the detection discrimination threshold 302A. This allows the detection range 301B to be set smaller than the detection range 301A of the magnetic pole 207 belonging to the conveying line A but larger than the detection range 301C of the magnetic pole 207 belonging to the conveying line C.

[0065] For example Figure 6 As shown, for in Figure 7 In the conveying device 102 shown, the detection range 301C of the magnetic pole 207 positioned at position c constituting the conveying line C is, similar to the case described above, set to a detection discrimination threshold 302C that is higher than the detection discrimination thresholds 302A and 302B. Consequently, the distance C'-C” between the intersection points of the current change curve 211 and the straight line of the detection discrimination threshold 302C is shorter than the intersection distances A'-A” and B'-B”, allowing the detection range 301C to be set smaller than the detection range 301A of the magnetic pole 207 belonging to conveying line A and the detection range 301B of the magnetic pole 207 belonging to conveying line B.

[0066] With such a setting, such as Figure 7 As shown, in Figure 7 In a transport device 102, where a plurality of magnetic poles 207 serving as position detection points are arranged in a grid pattern on the lower part of the transport surface 204, the position of the bracket 202 is determined within any of the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C of the plurality of magnetic poles 207.

[0067] The detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C are preferably overlapping with other detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C. Therefore, when the bracket 202 is located in the gap of the transport range, the loss of the bracket 202 can be minimized, and more stable transport can be achieved.

[0068] In addition, the detection range 301A at location a, the detection range 301B at location b, and the detection range 301C at location c do not necessarily have to be fixed during the sample handling process. Even at the same location, they can be arbitrarily changed according to the handling conditions.

[0069] For example, changes to detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C can be made to each magnetic pole 207 based on the handling settings of the bracket 202, or more specifically, based on the handling speed or handling density. This enables stable speed control and avoids false detections or collisions of the bracket 202.

[0070] When the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C are changed respectively, the values ​​of the detection discrimination thresholds 301A, 302B, and 302C can be realized according to the setting change instruction signal from the control computer 101.

[0071] Figure 3 The document describes three scenarios for setting the detection range: large, medium, and small. However, there must be at least two or more detection ranges, or even four or more.

[0072] When setting two detection ranges or more than four detection ranges, it is also similar to Figures 4-6 Similarly, by changing the value of the detection discrimination threshold within their respective detection ranges, two or more detection range settings can be achieved within the sample handling system 100 or the handling device 102.

[0073] The above method illustrates how the detection range can be changed by altering the detection discrimination thresholds 302A, 302B, and 302C. However, the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C can also be varied on each transport line by changing the period of the position detection pulse voltage applied by the drive unit 208 to the magnetic pole 207. In this case, the period of the applied pulse voltage is lengthened when it is desired to expand the detection range, and the period is shortened when it is desired to shrink the detection range.

[0074] The change in the period of the pulse voltage applied to the magnetic pole 207 is the same as the setting of the detection and discrimination thresholds 302A, 302B, and 302C, and can be achieved according to the instruction signal for setting change from the control computer 101.

[0075] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be explained.

[0076] The sample handling system 100 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention includes: multiple detection points formed by magnetic poles 207 for detecting the position of magnetic body 203; and multiple handling lines A, B, and C arranged above the multiple detection points to cover the multiple detection points. Among the multiple handling lines A, B, and C, the detection range of the first detection point constituting the first handling line is different from the detection range of the second detection point constituting the second handling line which is different from the first handling line.

[0077] Therefore, in a transport method using an electromagnetic actuator where the carrier 202 slides on the transport line through the interaction of the magnetic body 203 and the magnetic pole 207, the detection range can be different depending on, for example, the transport state, so that there is no need to set up a mechanism for detecting the carrier 202 on the transport surface 204, and the position of the carrier 202 can be determined more quickly and stably than before.

[0078] Therefore, compared with the past, a high-speed and stable sample handling system and sample handling method can be realized, which suppresses the delay or false detection of the position detection of the bracket 202.

[0079] In addition, based on the sample handling settings, the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C of the first and second detection points are different. Therefore, it is possible to set the detection range to suit the handling that corresponds to the sample analysis status or plan, and to achieve faster and more stable sample handling.

[0080] Furthermore, by utilizing the differences in transport density or transport speed of the trays 202 to make the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C different, transport failures such as contact between the trays 202 can be suppressed compared to the past, thus enabling more stable sample transport.

[0081] In addition, it also includes an analysis device 103 for analyzing samples and a control computer 101 for controlling the operation of the detection points and the analysis device 103. The control computer 101 determines the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C of multiple detection points according to the setting of transporting the sample from the carrier 202 to the analysis device 103. Thus, even during the sample analysis process, the detection range suitable for transporting the sample according to the analysis status or plan can be set, so that the sample can be transported more stably.

[0082] In addition, a current detection unit 209 is included for detecting the current value flowing through the magnetic poles 207 of each of the multiple detection points. By making the threshold values ​​302A, 302B, and 302C for calculating the position of the magnetic body 203 based on the current value detected by the current detection unit 209 different at the first detection point and the second detection point, the detection range can be changed without changing the setting of the driving pulse voltage or the position detection pulse voltage. Therefore, more stable sample handling can be achieved.

[0083] In addition, it also includes a drive unit 208 that applies voltage to the magnetic pole 207. By making the period of the pulse voltage applied to the magnetic pole 207 by the drive unit 208 different at the first detection point and the second detection point, the detection range can be changed without changing the setting of the drive pulse voltage, and more stable sample handling can be achieved.

[0084] Furthermore, the control computer 101 changes the detection range of the first detection point or the detection range of the second detection point according to the handling situation, thereby also having the following effect: it can flexibly respond to situations where the handling situation needs to be changed according to the progress of the analysis or the necessary situation of the analysis results, such as when an urgent sample is placed or the analysis is concentrated on a specific analysis device 103.

[0085] <Example 2>

[0086] use Figure 8 This invention describes the sample handling system and method of Embodiment 2. Figure 8 This is a simplified diagram illustrating an example of how the detection range is changed based on the transport part of the transport device 102 in this embodiment.

[0087] Structures identical to those in Example 1 are labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. The same applies to the following examples.

[0088] In the sample handling system and sample handling method of this embodiment, the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C take different ranges according to the positional differences of the first handling line or the second handling line.

[0089] More specifically, such as Figure 8 As shown, at locations where the tray 202 is likely to stop or is predicted to stop at the inlet / outlet, sample placement, or sample standby position of the analysis device 103 within the sample handling system 100, the detection range of the detection point is narrowed. For example, the detection discrimination threshold 302C or the position detection pulse voltage is set as described in Example 1, such as the detection range 301C.

[0090] By narrowing the detection range in this way, the detection sensitivity of each detection point is increased, enabling the detection of minute positional changes in the bracket 202. Therefore, more reliable handling is achieved, preventing malfunctions such as contact issues with the bracket 202, resulting in more stable sample handling.

[0091] On the other hand, in locations such as emergency sample handling lines where the tray 202 is considered to be moving at high speed, it is strongly required to detect the high-speed moving tray 202 as early as possible. Therefore, the detection range of the detection point is expanded, and the detection discrimination threshold 302A or the position detection pulse voltage is set, for example, as described in Example 1, the detection range 301A.

[0092] By expanding the detection range in this way, it is possible to quickly detect when the bracket 202 approaches the detection point and rapidly switch to applying voltage to the magnetic pole 207 used to transport the bracket 202. This allows for more accurate and faster transport speeds.

[0093] In the middle part connecting the high-speed transport part and the dwell part, in order to detect the approach of the bracket 202 as early as possible and with high sensitivity, the detection discrimination threshold 302B or the position detection pulse voltage is set, for example, as described in Example 1, such as the detection range 301B.

[0094] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the sample handling system and sample handling method in Embodiment 1 above, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0095] The sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 2 of the present invention can also achieve basically the same effect as the sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 1 above.

[0096] In addition, by differentiating the positions of the first or second transport line to make the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C different, faster and more stable sample transport can also be achieved.

[0097] In this embodiment, the detection range is not necessarily three types; it can be two or more types.

[0098] <Example 3>

[0099] use Figure 9 and Figure 10 This invention describes the sample handling system and method of Embodiment 3. Figure 9 This is a simplified top view of the conveying device 102 in this embodiment, which sets the detection range based on the moving distance. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for setting the detection range as the moving distance changes in this embodiment.

[0100] In the sample handling system and sample handling method of this embodiment, different detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C are set according to the difference in the continuous handling distance of the tray 202.

[0101] For example, Figure 9 In the middle, when the distance that the bracket 202 moves continuously, that is, the distance to the next forward standby position 701C, is less than the specified distance D, high-speed transportation is not required. Therefore, the detection range on the transportation line up to the forward standby position 701C is set to a smaller detection range 301C.

[0102] In addition, if the distance from the bracket 202 to the designated forward standby position 701B is greater than D but less than a designated value E that is larger than D, the detection range on the transport line to the forward standby position 701B is set to a medium-sized detection range 301B.

[0103] In addition, under conditions other than those mentioned above, i.e., when the distance from the bracket 202 to the front standby position 701A is greater than E, high-speed transport is often strongly required. Therefore, the detection range on the transport line up to the front standby position 701A is set to a larger detection range 301A.

[0104] Figure 9 The moving distances D and E recorded in the sample handling system can be set by the control computer 101, preferably by the manufacturer of the sample handling system 100.

[0105] Below, using Figure 10 This explains the process for the above testing scope.

[0106] First, the computer 101 starts searching for the transport path from a certain bracket 202 to the specified target position (step S601), and determines which position is the next forward standby position 701A, 701B, or 701C (step S602).

[0107] Next, the control computer 101 determines whether the distance traveled by the bracket 202 to the target position without stopping is less than the specified distance D (step S603).

[0108] If the transport distance is determined to be less than D, the process proceeds to step S604, and the control computer 101 sets the detection range on the transport path to detection range 301C (step S604).

[0109] The bracket 202, whose detection range is set to 301C on the transport path, is moved to a predetermined forward standby position under the action of electromagnetic force based on the transport drive signal of the magnetic pole 207 issued by the control computer 101 (step S605). When the bracket 202 is moved to the predetermined forward standby position, the setting of the detection range of the bracket 202 on the transport path ends, and the setting and operation of the transport line of the bracket 202 to the next forward standby position begins (step S606).

[0110] On the other hand, when it is determined in step S603 that the transport distance is above distance D, the control computer 101 determines whether the transport distance is above D but less than E (step S607).

[0111] If the transport distance is determined to be greater than D but less than E, the control computer 101 sets the detection range on the transport path to detection range 301B (step S608).

[0112] The bracket 202, whose detection range is set to 301B on the transport path, is transported to the designated forward standby position under the control of the control computer 101 (step S605). The setting of the detection range of the bracket 202 ends, and the transport path setting and operation from the bracket 202 to the next forward standby position begins (step S606).

[0113] On the other hand, if in step S607 it is determined that the transport distance of the bracket 202 is not greater than the specified distance D and less than E, the control computer 101 sets the detection range on the transport path to the detection range 301A (step S609).

[0114] The bracket 202, whose detection range 301A is set on the transport path, is transported to the designated forward standby position under the control of the control computer 101 (step S605). The setting of the detection range 301A of the bracket 202 ends, and the transport path setting and operation from the bracket 202 to the next forward standby position begins (step S606).

[0115] Figure 10 The document explains that the detection range of the bracket 202 can be set to three types: large, medium, and small. However, if there are two or more detection ranges, the detection range can also be set within the sample handling system 100 by determining the moving distance.

[0116] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the sample handling system and sample handling method in Embodiment 1 above, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0117] The sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 3 of the present invention can also achieve basically the same effect as the sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 1 above.

[0118] In addition, by varying the continuous transport distance of the tray 202 to make the detection ranges 301A, 301B, and 301C different, faster and more stable sample transport can be achieved.

[0119] <Example 4>

[0120] use Figures 11-14 The sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 4 of the present invention are described. Figures 11-13 This is a simplified top view of the conveying device 102 in this embodiment, which sets the detection range based on the conveying density. Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for setting the detection range as the transport density changes in this embodiment.

[0121] In this embodiment, the sample handling system and sample handling method will be described in terms of setting a detection range corresponding to the handling density of the tray 202.

[0122] like Figure 11 As shown, when there are more than a specified number F other brackets 202 on the adjacent transport path of the bracket 202 that is being transported, in order to reliably detect each bracket 202, the detection range of the detection point is narrowed. For example, the detection discrimination threshold 302C or the position detection pulse voltage is set as described in Example 1, such as the detection range 301C.

[0123] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, when there are more than G but less than F other brackets 202 on adjacent transport paths, the detection discrimination threshold 302B or the position detection pulse voltage is set, for example, as described in Example 1, in the detection range 301B.

[0124] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, in cases other than the two conditions mentioned above, since there are fewer other brackets 202 around, the transportation can be carried out at high speed. Therefore, the detection range of the detection point can be expanded, for example, the detection discrimination threshold 302A can be set or the position detection pulse voltage can be set as described in Example 1, such as the detection range 301A.

[0125] Below, using Figure 14 This explains the process for the above testing scope.

[0126] like Figure 14 As shown, firstly, the control computer 101 begins searching for the transport path from the carrier 202, which is the object to be transported, to the designated target position (forward standby position) (step S801), and then determines the next forward standby position (step S802).

[0127] Next, the control computer 101 determines whether there are a specified number F or more other trays 202 on the adjacent path of the transport path from the tray 202 to the specified forward standby position (step S803).

[0128] If it is determined that there are more than F other brackets 202, the process proceeds to step S804, and the control computer 101 sets the detection range on the transport path of the bracket 202 that is being transported as detection range 301C (step S804).

[0129] The bracket 202, whose detection range is set to 301C on the transport path, is moved to a predetermined forward standby position under the action of electromagnetic force based on the transport drive signal of the magnetic pole 207 issued by the control computer 101 (step S805). The bracket 202 is moved to the predetermined forward standby position, thereby ending the setting of the detection range of the bracket 202 on the transport path, and starting the setting and operation of the transport line from the bracket 202 to the next forward standby position (step S806).

[0130] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S803 that there are no other brackets 202 of a predetermined number F or more on the adjacent path of the transport path of the bracket 202 that is being transported, the control computer 101 then determines whether there are other brackets 202 of a predetermined number G or more but less than F on the adjacent path of the transport path of the bracket 202 that is being transported (step S807).

[0131] If it is determined that there are more than G but less than F other brackets 202, the detection range on the transport path of the bracket 202 that is being transported is set as detection range 301B (step S808).

[0132] The bracket 202, whose detection range is set to 301B on the transport path, is transported to the designated forward standby position (step S805). The setting of the detection range of the bracket 202 ends, and the setting and operation of the transport path from the bracket 202 to the next forward standby position begins (step S806).

[0133] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S807 that there are fewer than G other brackets 202, the control computer 101 sets the detection range on the transport path of the bracket 202 to the detection range 301A (step S809).

[0134] The bracket 202, whose detection range 301A is set on the transport path, is transported to the designated forward standby position under the control of the control computer 101 (step S805). The setting of the detection range 301A of the bracket 202 ends, and the transport path setting and operation of the bracket 202 to the next forward standby position begins (step S806).

[0135] Figure 14 The document explains that the detection range of the bracket 202 can be set to three types: large, medium, and small. However, if there are two or more detection ranges, the detection range can also be set to two or more detection ranges within the sample handling system 100 by determining the handling density of the bracket 202.

[0136] The other structures and operations are substantially the same as those of the sample handling system and sample handling method in Embodiment 1 above, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0137] The sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 4 of the present invention can also achieve basically the same effect as the sample handling system and sample handling method of Embodiment 1 above.

[0138] <Other>

[0139] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also includes various modifications. The above embodiments are detailed descriptions provided to facilitate understanding of the invention, and the invention is not intended to include all the structures described.

[0140] Furthermore, a portion of the structure of one embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment, and structures of other embodiments can be added to the structure of one embodiment. Additionally, for a portion of the structure of each embodiment, other structures can be added, deleted, or replaced.

[0141] Label Explanation

[0142] 100… Sample Handling System

[0143] 101... Control computer

[0144] 102……Transportation device

[0145] 103……Analytical device

[0146] 201……Sample Container

[0147] 202……Bracket

[0148] 203……Magnetic body

[0149] 204……Transportation Surface

[0150] 205...core

[0151] 206……winding

[0152] 207... Magnetic poles (electromagnets, individual detection points)

[0153] 208……Drive Department

[0154] 209... Current Detection Department

[0155] 210……Computational Department

[0156] 211……Curve of Current Change

[0157] 301A, 301B, 301C... Detection range

[0158] 302A, 302B, 302C... Detection and discrimination thresholds

[0159] 701A, 701B, 701C... Front standby position.

Claims

1. A sample handling system that transports a sample carried in a sample holder by causing a magnetic body disposed on a sample holder to slide along a transport path through interaction between a magnetic body disposed on the sample holder and a plurality of magnetic poles having the form of a plurality of electromagnets located on the lower part of a transport surface, characterized in that, include: Multiple detection points, each composed of one of the multiple electromagnets, are used to detect the position of the magnetic body. A current detection unit for detecting the current value flowing through the plurality of electromagnets at each of the plurality of detection points; as well as The calculation unit calculates the position of the magnetic body based on the current value detected by the current detection unit. The multiple magnetic poles form multiple transport lines, which are positioned above the multiple detection points to cover them. The threshold for calculating the position of the magnetic body based on the current value detected by the current detection unit is different at the first detection point and the second detection point. In the multiple transport lines, the detection range of the first detection point constituting the first transport line and the detection range of the second detection point constituting the second transport line different from the first transport line are different ranges.

2. The sample handling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the sample handling settings, the detection ranges of the first detection point and the second detection point are different.

3. The sample handling system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The detection range varies depending on the carrying density of the sample tray.

4. The sample handling system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The detection range varies depending on the location of the first or second transport line.

5. The sample handling system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The detection range varies depending on the difference in the continuous transport distance of the sample tray.

6. The sample handling system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The detection range varies depending on the transport speed of the sample tray.

7. The sample handling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An analytical apparatus for analyzing the sample; as well as A computer for controlling the operation of the detection points and the analysis device. The control computer determines the detection range of the multiple detection points according to the settings of the sample tray being transported to the analysis device.

8. The sample handling system as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The control computer changes the detection range of the first detection point or the detection range of the second detection point according to the handling situation.

9. The sample handling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a drive unit that applies voltage to the electromagnet. The period of the pulse voltage applied to the electromagnet by the driving unit is different at the first detection point and the second detection point.

10. A sample handling method, performed using the sample handling system as described in claim 1, for handling a sample mounted on a sample holder equipped with a magnetic body, characterized in that... Multiple magnetic poles, each in the form of an electromagnet, are provided at the lower part of the conveying surface. Multiple detection points, each composed of one of the plurality of electromagnets, are provided for detecting the position of the magnetic body. The current value flowing through the plurality of electromagnets at each of the plurality of detection points is detected by the current detection unit. The arithmetic unit calculates the position of the magnetic body based on the current value detected by the current detection unit. The plurality of magnetic poles, each having the form of a plurality of electromagnets, constitute a plurality of transport lines, which are arranged above the plurality of detection points to cover them. The threshold for calculating the position of the magnetic body based on the current value detected by the current detection unit is different at the first detection point and the second detection point. In the multiple transport lines, the detection range of the first detection point constituting the first transport line and the detection range of the second detection point constituting a second transport line different from the first transport line are different ranges. The sample holder slides on the transport line through the interaction of the magnetic body and the plurality of electromagnets, thereby transporting the sample.

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