Automatic analysis device

Abstract

This invention provides an automated analysis device capable of replenishing consumables without sample loss or interruption of analysis. The automated analysis device (100) has two states: a prohibited replenishment state (prohibiting replenishment of consumables (reaction vessel (8), sample dispensing needle (10a), and external reagent containers (21a, 21b, 21c))) and a permitted replenishment state (allowing replenishment of consumables). In the prohibited replenishment state, the sample dispensing mechanism (10) dispenses samples, and the detection units (18a, 18b) perform analysis. In the permitted replenishment state, the sample dispensing mechanism (10) does not dispense samples, and the detection units (18a, 18b) perform analysis. If the remaining amount or quantity of consumables predicted by the consumable remaining amount prediction unit (119b) is below a predetermined value, the device state control unit (119d) switches the automated analysis device (100) to the permitted replenishment state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an automatic analysis device. Background Technology

[0002] The automated analysis device performs qualitative and / or quantitative analysis by adding reagents that specifically react with certain components contained in biological samples such as blood or urine (hereinafter referred to as specimens), causing the reaction, and measuring the absorbance and luminescence of the reaction solution.

[0003] Because automated analytical devices can perform numerous analyses, they typically have a storage library to pre-store the reagents required for the tests. Additionally, external reagents and detergents are also pre-stored in the device. In a typical testing room, the device manager pre-checks the reagents and detergents already loaded on the device, only compiling the amount needed for one day's analysis and loading it in advance. In case of reagent or detergent shortages during analysis, the analysis must be interrupted to replenish reagents and detergents. In this situation, the minimum required amount of reagents and detergents must be quickly replenished.

[0004] In large-scale automated analytical apparatuses, due to high processing capacity, a large number of consumables are consumed daily. Therefore, for reagents or detergents, a structure is often used where multiple containers holding the same type of reagent or detergent are connected. In this case, the user cannot replace the container currently supplying reagents or detergents, but can replace the container that is not currently supplying reagents or detergents. This allows for rapid replacement of reagents or detergents without stopping analysis, thus preventing a decrease in analytical throughput.

[0005] On the other hand, in small automated analytical devices, from a space-saving perspective, consumables used in the device are stored in quantities limited to the minimum required amount. The same applies to reagents or detergents; to achieve the required minimum, it is preferable not to connect multiple containers holding the same type of reagent or detergent. In such a device, in case of shortage, it is necessary to replenish the required minimum amount of consumables without stopping the analysis.

[0006] As prior art, an automated analysis device is known that can replace reagent containers of the same type as those mounted on the device without stopping the analysis (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0007] Existing technical documents

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-203114 Summary of the Invention

[0010] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0011] However, in the prior art, when there is no remaining amount or quantity of consumables (system reagents, reaction vessels, sample dispensing needles, etc.) held by the consumables holding unit, although testing and analysis can continue even when the consumables are insufficient, the consumables cannot be replaced if the analysis is not stopped. Therefore, there is a problem that if the user needs to replace the consumables and restart the analysis, it takes a very long time.

[0012] Moreover, in this case, there is a problem for tests that cannot be analyzed further: the samples that have been dispensed become useless, resulting in sample loss.

[0013] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an automatic analysis device that, by predicting the remaining amount or quantity of consumables, sets a state that can stop dispensing samples and replenish consumables when it is determined that the remaining amount or quantity is below a predetermined value, thereby enabling the replenishment of consumables without sample loss and without stopping the analysis.

[0014] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0015] An example of the automated analysis apparatus involved in this disclosure includes:

[0016] A specimen dispensing section for dispensing specimens;

[0017] An analytical unit for analyzing the components contained in the specimen;

[0018] A consumable holding section for holding consumables used to analyze the sample;

[0019] A consumable quantity prediction unit that predicts the remaining amount or quantity of consumables held by the consumable holding unit; and

[0020] A device state control unit that controls the state of the automatic analysis device.

[0021] The states of the automatic analysis device include a prohibited replenishment state (prohibiting replenishment of the consumables) and a permitted replenishment state (allowing replenishment of the consumables).

[0022] In the prohibited replenishment state, the sample dispensing unit dispenses the sample, and the analysis unit performs analysis.

[0023] In the permitted replenishment state, the sample dispensing unit does not dispense the sample, while the analysis unit performs analysis.

[0024] If the remaining amount or quantity of consumables predicted by the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit is below a specified value, the device status control unit switches the automatic analysis device to the replenishment-allowed state.

[0025] This specification contains the disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-044117, which forms the basis of the priority of this application.

[0026] Invention Effects

[0027] According to this disclosure, even when the amount of consumables is below a predetermined quantity, a state is generated where sample dispensing can be stopped without interrupting the analysis, and the user can replenish the consumables. Therefore, after the user replenishes the consumables, dispensing can be quickly resumed, and sample waste can be eliminated. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an automatic analysis device.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the peripheral portion of an external reagent container used in an automated analytical apparatus.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a diagram used to illustrate the function of the control device used in the automatic analysis device.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of predicting when the remaining quantity or amount of consumables used in an automated analysis device is below a specified value.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of calculating the remaining amount or predicted quantity of consumables used in the analysis process of an automated analysis device.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the relationship between usage process A and usage process B, taking the detection process as an example, in relation to the calculation of the predicted amount of remaining or remaining quantity of consumables used in the automatic analysis device.

[0034] Figure 7 It is a diagram used to illustrate the change in the state of the device when the remaining amount or quantity of consumables used in the automatic analysis device is below a specified value. Detailed Implementation

[0035] [Example 1]

[0036] The following uses Figures 1 to 7The structure and operation of an automated analysis apparatus 100, as one embodiment of this disclosure, are described. The automated analysis apparatus 100 performs various types of analyses, such as biochemical and immunological analyses, within a single system. Additionally, the same reference numerals are sometimes assigned to the same parts.

[0037] First, use Figure 1 and Figure 2 To illustrate the overall structure of the automatic analysis device 100. Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the automatic analysis device 100, viewed from above.

[0038] The automatic analysis device 100 includes a sample container support 2, a support conveyor line 3 for conveying the sample container support 2, a reagent cold storage 5, an incubator (reaction tray) 9, a sample dispensing mechanism 10, a reagent dispensing mechanism 11, a replenishment reaction container and sample dispensing needle storage section 12, a reaction container and sample dispensing needle supply section 13, a reaction container stirring mechanism 14, a waste port 15, a conveying mechanism 16, nozzles 17a and 17b, detection units 18a and 18b, a control device 19, and a front cover 26.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the automatic analyzer 100 with its front cover 26 open, and from the front direction (i.e., from...). Figure 1 (See the diagram below the paper) When viewing the automatic analysis device 100. The front cover 26 is configured such that, for example, it rotates forward while opening and closing, with the left end as an axis.

[0040] The automated analysis device 100 includes external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c (reagent containers) for storing different reagents. Corresponding to the external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c, the automated analysis device 100 also includes external reagent holders 6a, 6b, and 6c, tube lifters 22a, 22b, and 22c, first indicator switches 23a, 23b, and 23c, and second indicator switches 24a, 24b, and 24c.

[0041] Furthermore, the structure disclosed in this application is not limited to the automatic analysis device 100. For example, other structures may be used as automatic analysis devices having a structure that can provide one external reagent container for each type. In addition, the liquid contained in the external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c may be a liquid other than a reagent (e.g., detergent, diluent, or other liquid that can be carried on the device).

[0042] The specimen container holder 2 holds multiple specimen containers 1. Each specimen container 1 holds a specimen. The holder conveyor line 3 transports the specimen container holder 2.

[0043] The reagent cold storage 5 is covered by the reagent cold storage lid 7. The reagent cold storage 5 holds multiple reagent containers 4 at a constant temperature. Various reagents used for analyzing samples are stored in the reagent containers 4.

[0044] Furthermore, the reagent cold storage 5 may also be equipped with a reagent container opening mechanism (not shown) for opening the reagent container 4. This allows the lid of the reagent container 4 to be opened and closed within the reagent cold storage 5, thus suppressing reagent deterioration. The reagent cold storage 5 is not limited to a tray type; it can be a serial arrangement where the reagent containers 4 are configured in one or more columns.

[0045] In incubator 9, multiple container holding holes are arranged circumferentially. Reaction containers 8 can be individually housed within these holding holes. Reaction containers 8 are used for mixing samples and reagents. Incubator 9 is intermittently driven to rotate, positioning reaction containers 8 to designated positions according to the progress of the analysis. When incubator 9 is stopped, the necessary processes for sample or reagent dispensing, stirring, and analysis are performed.

[0046] The sample dispensing mechanism 10 functions as a sample dispensing section, dispensing the sample into the reaction vessel 8. The sample dispensing mechanism 10 has a rotating and vertically driven arm, and a nozzle for aspirating and dispensing the sample. A sample dispensing needle 10a can be installed and removed at the front end of the nozzle. The support conveyor 3 transports the sample container 1 to the sample dispensing position, where the nozzle descends relative to the sample container 1 and aspirates a predetermined amount of sample. Furthermore, the arm rotates, and the nozzle dispenses the sample into the reaction vessel 8, which is positioned at a predetermined location in the incubator 9.

[0047] The reagent dispensing mechanism 11 has a nozzle for drawing and dispensing reagents. A reagent cold storage cover opening 7a is provided on the reagent cold storage cover 7. Through the reagent cold storage cover opening 7a, the reagent dispensing mechanism 11 dispenses a predetermined amount of reagent drawn from the reagent container 4 into the reaction container 8 located at a predetermined position in the incubator 9 by means of horizontal drive, vertical drive, suction action and discharge action.

[0048] The reaction vessel stirring mechanism 14 stirs the reaction liquid contained in the reaction vessel 8 taken out from the incubator 9.

[0049] The reaction vessel and sample dispensing needle supply section 13 can respectively store multiple unused reaction vessels 8 and unused sample dispensing needles 10a. The reaction vessel and sample dispensing needle storage section 12 is prepared for their replenishment.

[0050] The sample dispensing needle 10a is installed on the nozzle tip of the sample dispensing mechanism 10. After aspirating the sample from the sample container, the used sample dispensing needle 10a is discarded through the waste port 15. The used reaction vessel 8, after analysis, is also discarded through the waste port 15. The discarded sample dispensing needle 10a and reaction vessel 8 are stored in a waste bin (not shown), and the remaining capacity (disposable quantity) of the waste bin is managed by the automatic analysis device 100.

[0051] The transfer mechanism 16 has a gripper portion for holding the sample dispensing needle 10a and the reaction container 8 housed in the reaction container and sample dispensing needle supply section 13; and a drive portion for transferring the gripper portion along the XYZ axes. Specifically, the transfer mechanism 16 is configured to move in the X, Y, and Z axis directions (not shown). The transfer mechanism 16 can transfer the reaction container 8 housed in the reaction container and sample dispensing needle supply section 13 to the incubator 9, can discard used reaction containers 8 into the waste hole 15, and can transfer unused sample dispensing needles 10a to the needle mounting position 16a.

[0052] Nozzles 17a and 17b draw in the mixed reaction liquid in the reaction vessel 8 of the incubator 9 via rotational and vertical drives, and respectively convey it to detection units 18a and 18b. Detection units 18a and 18b analyze the components contained in the sample by performing detection processing on the reaction liquid drawn in and conveyed by nozzles 17a and 17b and detecting specific components. That is, detection units 18a and 18b function as analytical units.

[0053] The control device 19 controls the operation of the entire automatic analysis device 100. The control device 19 includes a control unit 19a, a display unit 19b, an input unit 19c, and a storage unit 19d. (The rest will refer to...) Figure 5 Describe in detail the operation of the control device 19.

[0054] In this structure, Figure 2 The tube lifters 22a, 22b, and 22c shown can be manually moved up and down. For example, regarding tube lifter 22a, with tube lifter 22a pulled upwards, the external reagent container 21a is placed on the external reagent holder 6a, and then a tube is inserted from the opening of the external reagent container 21a toward its interior. In this state, reagent is supplied from the external reagent container 21a into the flow path by pulling out or pressing the reagent syringe (not shown). The above description also applies to tube lifters 22b and 22c.

[0055] When the user begins reagent replacement, they can press the first indicator switches 23a, 23b, and 23c. The indicators of the first indicator switches 23a, 23b, and 23c are, for example, lights (LEDs, etc.) capable of displaying a yellow on, flashing, or off state. The status of the reagent replacement process is indicated by the indicators of the first indicator switches 23a, 23b, and 23c. The form in which the status of the reagent replacement process is displayed can be appropriately designed by those skilled in the art, and the correspondence between various states and indicator states can also be appropriately designed by those skilled in the art.

[0056] When the user finishes changing the reagent, they can press the second indicator switch. The indicator on the second indicator switches 24a, 24b, and 24c is, for example, a light (LED, etc.) capable of displaying a green on, flashing, or off state. The status of the reagent container is indicated by the indicators on the second indicator switches 24a, 24b, and 24c. The form in which the status of the reagent container is displayed can be appropriately designed by those skilled in the art, and the correspondence between various statuses and indicator states can also be appropriately designed by those skilled in the art.

[0057] In addition, this embodiment uses hardware with a structure that combines an indicator and a switch, but this is just an example and could be a hardware structure that separates the indicator and the switch.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first indicator switches 23a, 23b, and 23c are used as triggers to initiate reagent replacement, and the second indicator switches 24a, 24b, and 24c are used as triggers to indicate completion of reagent replacement. That is, the indicator switches 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, and 24c function as indication receivers receiving instructions from the user. These switches can be configured as follows: Figure 1 A portion of the input section 19c and / or the display section 19b.

[0059] Furthermore, the indicator receiving unit is not limited to the structure described above, and can be any structure that receives the trigger for the start of reagent replacement and / or the trigger for the completion of reagent replacement. For example, the trigger for the start of reagent replacement can be a sensor capable of detecting the pull-up tube lifters 22a, 22b, and 22c, and the trigger for the completion of reagent replacement can be a sensor capable of detecting the press-down tube lifters 22a, 22b, and 22c.

[0060] The automatic analysis device 100 is equipped with a reading device (not shown). When the external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c are placed in the external reagent holders 6a, 6b, and 6c, the reading device reads the individual identification mark (not shown, but in this embodiment, it is an RFID tag) attached to the back of the external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c, and transmits the identification information to the control unit 19a of the control device 19.

[0061] As another example of individual identification markings for external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c, barcode labels or the like can be used. Identification information recorded in the individual identification markings includes, for example, a reagent identification number (identification code) for identifying the reagents contained in the external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c, the name of the inspection item corresponding to the contained reagent, batch number, and serial number, etc.

[0062] In this embodiment, the consumables for analyzing the sample include the sample dispensing needle 10a, the reaction container 8, the waste container, the external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c, and the liquid (reagent, etc.) contained therein. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the consumable holding unit for holding the consumables includes the reaction container and the sample dispensing needle supply unit 13, the waste container, and the external reagent holders 6a, 6b, and 6c.

[0063] Furthermore, the consumable holding section may include a buffer area. In this embodiment, the reaction container and sample dispensing needle receiving section 12 is a buffer area. The buffer area refers to the area pre-filled with the consumables.

[0064] In a configuration where a buffer area (e.g., a reaction container and sample dispensing needle storage area 12) is provided for a certain consumable holding section (e.g., a reaction container and sample dispensing needle supply section 13), when the consumable holding section is replaced during the analysis operation, the automatic analysis device 100 changes the consumable supply source from the consumable holding section to the buffer area according to the operator's instructions.

[0065] Therefore, the buffer area up to this point (reaction container and sample dispensing needle storage section 12) temporarily functions as a consumable storage section, and consumables are no longer supplied from the consumable storage section up to this point (reaction container and sample dispensing needle supply section 13). In this state, the consumables in the consumable storage section up to this point can be replaced.

[0066] Buffer areas can be provided for other consumable storage parts, and buffer areas can also be provided for external reagent containers 21a, 21b, and 21c.

[0067] Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram of the control device 19 used in the automatic analysis device 100. Figure 3 This describes the function of the control device 19 used in the automatic analysis device 100. The control device 19 controls the operation of the entire automatic analysis device 100.

[0068] The control device 19 operates based on a pre-set program and user instructions input by the input unit 19c, etc. The control device 19 controls sample analysis, consumable replacement, equipment maintenance, detection of remaining consumable quantities, and prediction of remaining consumable quantities. Furthermore, the control device 19 controls analysis scheduling. Analysis scheduling refers to, for example, pre-confirming that each step of the analysis can be performed and managing when to perform each step.

[0069] The control device 19 includes a control unit 19a, a display unit 19b, an input unit 19c, and a storage unit 19d.

[0070] The control unit 19a controls the operation of the automatic analysis device 100, processes the analysis results, and manages the information.

[0071] Display unit 19b displays settings input screens related to analysis, analysis results screens, screens showing content when an anomaly is detected, and message screens prompting the replacement of reagents or consumables.

[0072] The input unit 19c functions as an instruction receiving unit that receives instructions from the user. The input unit 19c accepts inputs such as information about the sample, information about the analysis items, instructions to interrupt the analysis, and instructions to restart the analysis, and sends the information to the control unit 19a as needed.

[0073] The storage unit 19d stores information about the analysis settings, information about the sample, information about the reagents, information about the analysis results, information indicating the remaining amount or quantity of consumables, information related to the prediction of the remaining amount or quantity of consumables, and procedures specifying the operation of the automatic analysis device 100.

[0074] The control unit 19a includes an analysis and planning unit 119a, a consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b, a consumable remaining quantity detection unit 119c, and a device status control unit 119d.

[0075] Analysis planning unit 119a is a functional block that controls a series of analysis plans, namely, confirming in advance during the analysis process whether the next test can be scheduled, and if it can be scheduled, registering the result in the device's analysis process scheduler.

[0076] Specifically, the analysis and planning department 119a conducts advance checks from the perspectives of whether there is interference between the actions of various agencies, and whether there is a shortage of the remaining quantity or amount of consumables.

[0077] The analysis planning unit 119a performs processing in units of a specified cycle (for example, defining a cycle as 30 seconds).

[0078] The analysis planning unit 119a obtains analysis planning information from the storage unit 19d, and based on this analysis planning information, schedules each process of the test (the process required for a test arranged on the timeline is called a test sequence) to the current cycle. Based on the scheduling results, the analysis planning unit 119a confirms whether there is interference between the actions of each mechanism, whether the remaining amount or quantity of consumables is insufficient, etc.

[0079] At this time, the analysis planning unit 119a obtains information related to the remaining quantity or amount of consumables from the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b (e.g., information indicating whether consumables are insufficient). When it is determined that all confirmed items are in order, the analysis planning unit 119a registers the test sequence as the target in the record of the target period of the analysis planning information, and notifies the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b that the test sequence as the target can be scheduled.

[0080] Here, when the consumable quantity prediction unit 119b notifies the unit that the remaining quantity or quantity of consumables is insufficient, the analysis planning unit 119a notifies the device status control unit 119d that because the remaining quantity or quantity of consumables is below a specified amount, target testing cannot be scheduled, and the test sequence designated as target is not registered in the analysis planning information. Even if it is determined that there is a problem in other verification items, the analysis planning unit 119a notifies the device status control unit 119d that target testing cannot be scheduled, and the test sequence designated as target is not registered in the analysis planning information.

[0081] Based on the schedule, it is determined in which cycle each step of the object test sequence will be implemented. In each cycle, when performing analysis actions, the analysis steps to be implemented in that cycle are determined and actually executed based on the analysis plan information.

[0082] The consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b is a functional block for predicting the remaining quantity or amount of consumables held by the consumables holding unit. The consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b receives instructions and test sequence information from the analysis and planning unit 119a. The test sequence information is information related to a test sequence to be scheduled to a specified period, and includes information indicating the specified period and information about each process.

[0083] Furthermore, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b obtains the current predicted amount of remaining quantity or remaining quantity from the storage unit 19d. Then, based on the current predicted amount of remaining quantity or remaining quantity, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b obtains the updated remaining quantity or remaining quantity after the scheduling object test sequence.

[0084] Therefore, the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b calculates the predicted quantity or remaining amount of each consumable (hereinafter referred to as...). Figure 6(Relevantly describes the specific calculation process for the predicted amount or quantity of remaining consumables). The "predicted amount or quantity of remaining consumables" calculated here refers to, for example, the amount or quantity of currently unused consumables that is specifically not recorded in the analysis plan information.

[0085] The consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b determines whether the predicted remaining quantity or quantity of each consumable is below the specified quantity and notifies the analysis planning unit 119a of the result.

[0086] When the analysis planning unit 119a finally determines that the target test sequence can be scheduled to the specified period, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b, based on the instruction from the analysis planning unit 119a, notifies the storage unit 19d and stores the remaining quantity or the predicted quantity of each consumable (the updated predicted quantity in the case of scheduling the target test sequence).

[0087] Furthermore, the consumable quantity detection unit 119c can notify the consumable quantity prediction unit 119b that an update of the remaining quantity or quantity of each consumable has occurred via hardware. Upon receiving such notification, the consumable quantity prediction unit 119b reflects this result in the predicted amount of the remaining quantity or quantity of each consumable and stores the result in the storage unit 19d.

[0088] The consumable quantity detection unit 119c is a functional block for managing the remaining quantity or remaining amount of each consumable. The consumable quantity detection unit 119c also reflects the detection results of changes in the remaining quantity or remaining amount obtained from hardware such as sensors in the remaining quantity or remaining amount information. Information related to the remaining quantity or remaining amount of consumables managed by the consumable quantity detection unit 119c is displayed on the screen via the display unit 19b. When a change in the remaining quantity or remaining amount of consumables is detected by hardware such as sensors, the consumable quantity detection unit 119c also notifies the consumable quantity prediction unit 119b of the result.

[0089] The device status control unit 119d is a function block that controls the status of the automatic analysis device 100 based on the operation of the control unit 19a. The status of the automatic analysis device 100 includes an analysis in progress state and an analysis stopped state. The detection units 18a and 18b perform analysis operations in the analysis in progress state, but not in the analysis stopped state. In addition, the sample dispensing mechanism 10 does not perform dispensing operations in the analysis stopped state.

[0090] Furthermore, the analysis of the execution status includes a prohibited replenishment status (prohibiting replenishment of consumables) and a permitted replenishment status (allowing replenishment of consumables). Here, the specific action of "replenishment" can be arbitrarily designed, but it can be, for example, the action of adding unused consumables, or the action of replacing used consumables with unused consumables.

[0091] In the replenishment-allowed state, the sample dispensing mechanism 10 does not dispense samples. This prevents the sample dispensing mechanism 10 from operating and failing to dispense samples properly during replenishment operations performed by the user. Furthermore, as described above, the replenishment-allowed state is one of the states in which analysis is being performed, and the detection units 18a and 18b perform the analysis.

[0092] In the state where replenishment is prohibited, the sample dispensing mechanism 10 dispenses samples according to the operation of the automatic analysis device 100. In this state, since replenishment operations performed by the user are prohibited, it prevents situations where the user performs replenishment operations during the operation of the sample dispensing mechanism 10, thereby hindering its operation. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the state where replenishment is prohibited is also a state in which analysis is being performed, and the detection units 18a and 18b perform the analysis.

[0093] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the process in this embodiment when the remaining amount or quantity of consumables is predicted to be below a specified value. The automatic analysis device 100 is assumed to be performing an analysis operation in a state where replenishment is prohibited.

[0094] The analysis and planning unit 119a determines, through the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b, whether the remaining quantity or quantity of consumables is related to a specified quantity, and determines whether the target test can be scheduled. In other words, it determines whether the predicted quantity is below a specified value (step S40). When it is determined that the predicted quantity is below the specified value, the analysis and planning unit 119a notifies the device status control unit 119d of this information.

[0095] Upon receiving this information, the device status control unit 119d temporarily interrupts the sample dispensing process of the automatic analysis device 100. That is, when the remaining quantity or amount of consumables predicted by the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b is below a predetermined value, the device status control unit 119d switches the automatic analysis device 100 to a replenishment-allowed state (step S41), thereby stopping the dispensing process performed by the sample dispensing mechanism 10 (step S42).

[0096] Subsequently, the automatic analysis device 100 continues its analysis operation while in a replenishment-permitted state. That is, it is controlled to continue the already completed sample dispensing test, while simultaneously replenishing the various consumables.

[0097] At this time, the automatic analysis device 100 can output information indicating the remaining quantity of consumables or a shortage of consumables, and / or information indicating the type of consumables that are in short supply. This output is made, for example, on the display unit 19b (including indicator switches 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, 24c). The user can recognize this information and replenish the insufficient consumables.

[0098] After replenishing consumables, the user inputs an instruction indicating that replenishment is complete (replenishment completion instruction) and an instruction indicating that dispensing will resume (restart dispensing instruction). The replenishment completion instruction is not limited to user-inputted instructions; it can also be information detected by sensors or the like. Furthermore, the replenishment completion instruction and the restart dispensing instruction can be input via, for example, the operation input unit 19c (including indicator switches 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, and 24c).

[0099] After the automatic analysis device 100 switches to the replenishment-allowed state, if a first predetermined time elapses without replenishing consumables (step S43: "Yes"), the device status control unit 119d switches the automatic analysis device 100 to the analysis stop state (step S44), ending the process. This process prevents the automatic analysis device 100 from continuing to operate without adequately replenishing consumables, thus preventing inappropriate analysis processing.

[0100] On the other hand, if consumables are replenished before the first specified time has elapsed (step S45: Yes), the device status control unit 119d waits for a restart dispensing instruction from the user.

[0101] If, after replenishing consumables, no instruction to restart dispensing is input and the second predetermined time has elapsed directly (step S46: "Yes"), the device status control unit 119d switches the automatic analysis device 100 to the analysis stop state (step S44), ending the process. This process prevents the automatic analysis device 100 from continuing to operate and performing inappropriate analysis without proper user intervention.

[0102] On the other hand, if a restart dispensing instruction is input before the second predetermined time has elapsed (step S47: Yes), the automatic analysis device 100 is switched from a refill-allowed state to a refill-prohibited state according to the restart dispensing instruction (step S48). Thus, the dispensing of the sample dispensing mechanism 10 is restarted (step S49).

[0103] Figure 5 It is a flowchart representing the process of calculating the remaining quantity or predicted quantity of consumables. Figure 6This is a graph showing the relationship between usage process A and usage process B, using the inspection process as an example, related to the calculation of the remaining quantity or predicted quantity of consumables. Figure 5 and Figure 6 This describes the calculation of the remaining quantity or predicted quantity of consumables during the analysis process of the automatic analysis device 100. This process is performed for each test sequence.

[0104] As described above, during the analysis process, the analysis planning unit 119a obtains analysis planning information from the storage unit 19d and confirms, based on the analysis planning information, whether the test sequence to be targeted can be scheduled to the current cycle (i.e., whether the test sequence to be targeted can be registered in the analysis planning information).

[0105] At this time, the analysis and planning unit 119a checks whether the predicted amount of remaining consumables or the remaining quantity in the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b is below the specified quantity. Based on this check, the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b performs... Figure 6 The processing shown.

[0106] exist Figure 6 In the example, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b first obtains an object test sequence from the analysis planning unit 119a, which includes multiple processes representing the operation of the automatic analysis device 100. Then, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b extracts the process of using any one consumable from the object test sequence (step S50). Here, let's say that the process A using a specific consumable is extracted.

[0107] After extracting usage step A, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b reflects the consumption amount of consumables in usage step A into the predicted amount of remaining quantity or remaining quantity of the consumables being targeted (step S51). For example, this process is performed by subtracting the consumption amount in usage step A from the current remaining quantity or remaining quantity of the consumables. When there are multiple usage steps A, the total amount of consumption is subtracted.

[0108] Here, information indicating the consumption of consumables in each process (e.g., using process A) can be pre-stored in the storage unit 19d according to the type of each process.

[0109] Therefore, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b predicts the remaining quantity or quantity of consumables based on the type and quantity of processes that use consumables (process A in this example). Thus, it can consider the remaining quantity or quantity of consumables that are planned for future consumption, rather than the existing remaining quantity or quantity of consumables.

[0110] Subsequently, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b obtains the analysis plan information X for each consumable through the storage unit 19d (step S52). Next, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b generates new analysis plan information by adding the usage process A to the specified period (specified by the analysis plan unit 119a) of the analysis plan information X (step S53). Here, this new analysis plan information is set as analysis plan information Y.

[0111] The consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b extracts the processes affected by the current scheduling status from the analysis plan information Y (step S54). Here, those skilled in the art can appropriately design specific methods and processing content for determining the processes affected by the current scheduling status based on known techniques. Here, the process extracted in step S54 is designated as the usage process B.

[0112] When one or more processes affected by the scheduling status are extracted in step S54 (using process B) (step S55; Yes), the scheduling of process B is changed for analysis plan information Y, and analysis plan information Z is generated (step S56).

[0113] Here, use Figure 6 Further explanation of the relationship between using process A and using process B. In this example, a process can be any of the following: an idle process (i.e., a process with no scheduled cycle), a preparation process, and an inspection process. Let's say that the inspection process is equivalent to using process A, and the preparation process is equivalent to using process B. The inspection process is the primary process, and the preparation process performs the necessary preparations for performing the inspection process. Using process B can be a process that uses the same consumables as using process A.

[0114] In the analysis plan information X prior to scheduling a new test sequence, preparation procedures are scheduled from cycle 44 to cycle 48, and detection procedures are scheduled in cycles 49 and 50.

[0115] Since the preparation process is only an auxiliary process to the inspection process, the inspection process can be newly scheduled during the cycle in which the preparation process is scheduled. Therefore, in Figure 6 In the analysis plan information Y, the inspection process was newly scheduled in the 47th cycle.

[0116] In this embodiment, the rule is set as follows: when a new inspection process is scheduled, the five cycles immediately preceding that inspection process must be preparation processes. When determining whether the analysis plan information Y conforms to this rule, since the inspection process is covered in the 47th cycle, there are insufficient preparation processes.

[0117] Therefore, to ensure the analysis plan information conforms to the rules, based on the inspection process entering cycle 47, the idle processes in cycles 42 and 43 need to be rescheduled as preparation processes. Consequently, the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit 119b generates new analysis plan information (in... Figure 6 The example shows the analysis plan information (Z).

[0118] As mentioned above, if the scheduling status of process A changes, the scheduling status of process B will also change accordingly.

[0119] The consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b extracts the difference between the analysis plan information Y and the analysis plan information Z, and reflects the difference in the predicted quantity or quantity of consumables (step S57).

[0120] On the other hand, if there is no process affected by the scheduling status (using process B) (step S55: no), steps S56 and S57 are not performed.

[0121] As described above, the consumable quantity prediction unit 119b calculates the predicted quantity or remaining amount of each consumable. Then, the consumable quantity prediction unit 119b determines whether the calculated predicted quantity or remaining amount of each consumable is below a specified amount, and notifies the analysis planning unit 119a of the result.

[0122] The analysis and planning unit 119a determines whether the final object test sequence can be scheduled to a specified period. When it is determined to be schedulable, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b receives an instruction from the analysis and planning unit 119a, updates the remaining quantity or predicted quantity of each consumable, and notifies the storage unit 19d to store it.

[0123] As described above, the consumable remaining quantity prediction unit 119b acquires analysis plan information indicating the planned use of consumables and updates the analysis plan information based on the type and quantity of processes using consumables. Therefore, it is possible to consider future consumption plans and processes affected by those plans, rather than simply considering the existing remaining quantity or quantity of consumables.

[0124] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the state transition of the automatic analysis device 100 when the remaining amount or quantity of consumables is determined to be below a predetermined value. It is equipped with a system, a first analysis unit, a second analysis unit, and a sample supply unit. The first and second analysis units can be respectively configured from the automatic analysis device 100 of Embodiment 1.

[0125] Assume that both the first and second analysis units are operating under a state where replenishment is prohibited. Here, we will explain the action taken by the second analysis unit when it determines that the remaining quantity of a certain consumable is below a specified value during the analysis process.

[0126] In the second analytical unit, for example, it is determined that the remaining amount of system reagent in the external vial is below a specified value. At this time, the second analytical unit notifies the system of this information. Upon receiving this notification, the system instructs the sample supply unit to stop sample supply, and the second analytical unit transitions from a state where replenishment is prohibited to a state where replenishment is permitted (i.e., a state awaiting consumable replenishment).

[0127] Then, the second analysis unit interrupts sample dispensing. While maintaining the sample container holder 2, the second analysis unit continues the analysis of the already dispensed sample, while awaiting replenishment of system reagents for the external vials. The sample supply unit stops supplying new sample container holders 2 and enters standby mode while maintaining other sample container holders 2. Meanwhile, the first analysis unit remains in a non-replenishment state and continues analysis as usual.

[0128] In the second analysis unit, if the system reagents in the external vial are replenished, the second analysis unit notifies the system of this information and enters a standby state until the supply of the sample container holder 2 is restarted. In this state, the system waits for a restart dispensing instruction from the user. If the user inputs a restart dispensing instruction via input unit 19c, the system sends an instruction to the sample supply unit to restart the supply of the sample container holder 2, and the sample supply unit receives the instruction and restarts sample dispensing.

[0129] As described above, the automatic analysis device 100 according to Embodiment 1 can quickly restart dispensing even when the consumables are below a specified quantity, after the user replenishes the consumables, and can avoid waste of the sample.

[0130] For example, it can effectively replenish the sample dispensing needle 10a, reaction container 8, waste box, external reagent containers 21a, 21b, 21c, and the liquids (reagents, etc.) contained in them.

[0131] Label Explanation

[0132] 1 specimen container

[0133] 2. Specimen container support

[0134] 3-bracket conveyor line

[0135] 4. Reagent containers

[0136] 5. Reagent Cold Storage

[0137] 6a, 6b, 6c External reagent holders (consumables storage units)

[0138] 7. Reagent cold storage cover

[0139] 7a Reagent Cold Storage Lid Opening

[0140] 8. Reaction Vessels (Consumables)

[0141] 9 Incubator

[0142] 10Sample dispensing mechanism (specimen dispensing department)

[0143] 10a Specimen Dispensing Needle (Consumable)

[0144] 11 Reagent Dispensing Mechanism

[0145] 12. Reaction vessel and sample dispensing needle storage section

[0146] 13. Reaction vessel and sample dispensing needle supply section (consumables storage section)

[0147] 14. Stirring mechanism of the reaction vessel

[0148] 15 abandoned holes

[0149] 16 transmission mechanisms

[0150] 16a needle installation position

[0151] 17a, 17b nozzles

[0152] Detection units 18a and 18b (analysis section)

[0153] 19 Control Devices

[0154] 19a Control Department

[0155] 19b Display Section

[0156] 19c Input Section (Instruction Receiving Section)

[0157] 19d storage section

[0158] 21a, 21b, 21c External reagent containers (consumables)

[0159] Models 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, and 24c are equipped with indicator switches (indicator receivers).

[0160] 26Front cover

[0161] 100 Automatic Analysis Device

[0162] 119a Analysis and Planning Department

[0163] 119b Consumables Remaining Quantity Forecasting Department

[0164] 119c Consumables Remaining Quantity Detection Department

[0165] 119d device status control unit

[0166] All publications, patents and patent applications cited in this specification are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that, include: A specimen dispensing section for dispensing specimens; An analytical unit for analyzing the components contained in the specimen; A consumable holding section for holding consumables used to analyze the sample; A consumable quantity prediction unit that predicts the remaining amount or quantity of consumables held by the consumable holding unit; and A device state control unit that controls the state of the automatic analysis device. The states of the automatic analysis device include a prohibited replenishment state (prohibiting replenishment of the consumables) and a permitted replenishment state (allowing replenishment of the consumables). In the prohibited replenishment state, the sample dispensing unit dispenses the sample, and the analysis unit performs analysis. In the permitted replenishment state, the sample dispensing unit does not dispense the sample, while the analysis unit performs analysis. If the remaining amount or quantity of consumables predicted by the consumables remaining quantity prediction unit is below a specified value, the device status control unit switches the automatic analysis device to the replenishment-allowed state.

2. The automatic analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device also includes an instruction receiving unit for receiving instructions from the user. After the consumables are replenished, the device status control unit switches the automatic analysis device to the replenishment-prohibited state based on the user's restart dispensing instruction.

3. The automatic analysis device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device also includes a stopped analysis state. In the stopped analysis state, the analysis unit does not perform analysis. After the device status control unit switches the automatic analysis device to the replenishment-allowed state, if a first predetermined time elapses without replenishing consumables, it switches the automatic analysis device to the stop-analysis state. If, after replenishing consumables, the device status control unit causes the automatic analysis device to switch to the stopped analysis state without inputting the restart dispensing instruction and directly after the second predetermined time has elapsed.

4. The automatic analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The consumables remaining quantity prediction unit acquires a test sequence, which includes multiple steps representing the operation of the automatic analysis device. Extracting the process of using consumables from the test sequence The remaining quantity or amount of consumables is predicted based on the type and quantity of the processes that use the consumables.

5. The automatic analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The consumables are reaction containers or sample dispensing needles.

6. The automatic analysis device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The consumables are reagent containers.

7. The automatic analysis device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The consumables remaining quantity prediction unit acquires analytical plan information indicating the planned use of consumables. The analysis plan information is updated based on the type and quantity of the processes that use consumables.

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