Cascade sample analyzer and sample injection control device, sample injection control method and medium thereof

Abstract

This invention provides a cascaded sample analyzer and its sample introduction control device, method, and medium. The method includes a sample rack feeding process, comprising: determining whether a sample rack is already mounted on the feed track of the conveying component; if a sample rack is already mounted, obtaining the current position of the sample rack; if the current position of the sample rack meets the specified position requirements, controlling the feed track to reset and loading another sample rack containing the sample to be tested into the feed track; a conveying process, comprising: controlling the conveying component to drive the sample rack to move synchronously; a scanning process, comprising: obtaining the sample identifiers identified by the scanning component scanning the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position; and a sample allocation process, comprising: obtaining a sample allocation request; and according to the sampling point position corresponding to the sample allocation request and the sample identifiers identified by the currently performed scan, transferring the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point position according to a preset allocation strategy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a cascaded sample analyzer and its sample injection control device, sample injection control method, and medium. Background Technology

[0002] An autosampler is an intelligent and automated sample introduction instrument. Simply set the injection parameters, place the sample to be tested into the test tube, and a conveyor belt will automatically transport the sample into the instrument, completing the automated sample introduction process. Autosamplers significantly reduce manual operation and improve testing efficiency, and are widely used in the field of medical testing.

[0003] For application scenarios with large sample sizes, a single testing instrument is usually insufficient to meet the testing speed requirements. Increasing the number of testing instruments requires considering a larger placement space for multiple instruments, which is also costly. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the existing technical problems, this invention provides a cascaded sample analyzer and its sample injection control device, sample injection control method, and medium that can optimize the sample injection scheme to improve detection efficiency while reducing space occupation and lowering costs.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this invention is implemented as follows:

[0006] An injection control method, comprising:

[0007] The sample rack feeding process includes: determining whether a sample rack is already being carried on the feed track of the conveying component; if a sample rack is already being carried, obtaining the current position of the sample rack; if the current position of the sample rack meets the specified position requirements, controlling the feed track to reset, and loading another sample rack containing the sample to be tested into the feed track.

[0008] The transmission process includes: controlling the transmission component to drive the sample rack to move synchronously;

[0009] The scanning process includes: acquiring the sample identifier obtained by the scanning component scanning and identifying the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed through the scanning position;

[0010] The sample allocation process includes: obtaining a sample allocation request; and, based on the sampling point location corresponding to the sample allocation request and the sample identifier currently identified by the scan, transmitting the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point location according to a preset allocation strategy.

[0011] Prior to executing the sample allocation process, the procedure also includes:

[0012] Record the scanning address currently corresponding to the scanned position;

[0013] After executing the sample allocation process, the following is also included:

[0014] Determine whether the scanning of the samples to be tested in the multiple sample holders has been completed;

[0015] If the scan is not completed, the scan recovery process is executed, including: controlling the transmission component to move back to the position corresponding to the scan address and the barcode position, and returning to the step of obtaining the sample identifier of the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the barcode position by the scanning component.

[0016] Prior to executing the scan recovery process, the procedure also includes:

[0017] Determine if there are any new sample allocation requests.

[0018] If a new sample allocation request exists, the sample allocation process is returned;

[0019] If no new sample allocation request is received, the scan recovery process is executed.

[0020] The scanning process also includes:

[0021] Obtain a sample holder feed request, interrupt the scanning process according to the sample holder feed request, and return to the sample holder feed process;

[0022] After the sample holder feeding process is completed, the scan recovery process is executed.

[0023] The scanning process also includes:

[0024] Obtain a sample rack unloading request, interrupt the scanning process according to the sample rack unloading request, and execute the sample rack unloading process, including: determining whether the current sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position; if the sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position, controlling the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track; if the sample rack to be unloaded has not reached the unloading position, controlling the conveying component to transport it to the unloading position according to the current position of the sample rack to be unloaded, and controlling the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track.

[0025] After the sample rack unloading process is completed, the scan recovery process is executed.

[0026] The sample holder feeding process further includes:

[0027] When no sample holder is being carried, the feed track is controlled to reset, and a sample holder carrying the sample to be tested is loaded into the feed track.

[0028] The sample holder feeding process further includes:

[0029] When it is determined that the current position of the sample rack does not meet the requirements of the specified position, the conveying component is controlled to transport the sample rack to the specified position based on its current position.

[0030] Prior to the sample holder feeding process, the following steps are also included:

[0031] Obtain sample feed trigger information, and determine whether a sample rack feed request has been received based on the sample feed trigger information;

[0032] The sample feeding trigger information includes at least one of the following: an identification signal of a sample rack containing the sample to be tested in the loading area; the number of remaining samples to be tested in the prior sample rack on the feeding track is less than or equal to a preset value; or the sample to be tested at a specified sample position in the prior sample rack on the feeding track is being transferred to the corresponding sampling point position.

[0033] The scanning process further includes:

[0034] Determine whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position in the sample rack has been successfully obtained;

[0035] If a sample identifier is not obtained in one of the sample positions, then there is no sample to be tested in that sample position. The corresponding sample identifier is determined to be the default value, and it is determined whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested is successfully obtained in the next sample position.

[0036] Establish the correspondence between the obtained sample identifier and its corresponding sample bit address information.

[0037] In the sample allocation process, the step of transmitting the target sample to the corresponding sampling point location according to the preset allocation strategy includes:

[0038] When there are multiple sample allocation requests, determine whether the sample identifier identified by the currently performed scan satisfies the current sample allocation request;

[0039] When the conditions are met, the target samples to be tested are sequentially transmitted to the sampling point positions corresponding to the sample allocation requests, according to the order in which the sample allocation requests were sent.

[0040] If the conditions are not met, the target sample to be tested corresponding to the sample identifier currently identified by the scan will be transmitted to the relatively nearby sampling point location.

[0041] The step of transmitting the target sample to the corresponding sampling point location according to a preset allocation strategy further includes:

[0042] Determine whether the sample allocation request is a request for a specified sample type issued by a specified measurement unit;

[0043] If so, then the target sample to be tested that matches the request of the specified sample type is determined based on the sample identifier identified by the currently performed scan, and the target sample to be tested is transmitted to the sampling point location corresponding to the specified measurement unit.

[0044] The injection control method further includes:

[0045] If no sample matching the specified sample type is found based on the sample identifier identified in the currently performed scan, information about the sample to be tested is not obtained.

[0046] If no information is obtained for the sample to be tested, the sample allocation process is interrupted and a scan recovery process is executed, including: controlling the transmission component to move back to the position corresponding to the scanning address and the scanning position, and returning to the step of obtaining the sample identifier of the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position.

[0047] The injection control method further includes:

[0048] Obtain a re-inspection request and determine whether there is an idle measurement unit currently;

[0049] When an idle measurement unit exists, the sample to be retested is transmitted to the sampling point location corresponding to the idle measurement unit according to the retest request.

[0050] A sample injection control device includes a processor and a memory. The memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the processor. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the sample injection control method described in any embodiment of this application.

[0051] A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the sample injection control method described in any embodiment of this application.

[0052] A cascaded sample analyzer includes multiple measurement units arranged in parallel and a sample introduction mechanism matched with the multiple measurement units. Each measurement unit includes a sampling point position for capturing the sample to be tested. The sample introduction mechanism includes the sample introduction control device described in any embodiment of this application.

[0053] The sample introduction mechanism further includes a loading area, an unloading area, a conveying component, and a barcode scanning component for identifying the sample to be tested. The conveying component includes, along its conveying direction, a loading position corresponding to the loading area, multiple sampling positions corresponding to the sampling point positions, an unloading position corresponding to the unloading area, and a buffer section set near the loading area and / or the unloading area.

[0054] The buffer section includes a first buffer section located near the loading area, wherein the interval between the end of the first buffer section and the adjacent sampling point location is greater than or equal to the sum of the lengths of the plurality of sample holders; and / or,

[0055] The buffer section includes a second buffer section located near the unloading area, wherein the distance between the end of the second buffer section and the adjacent sampling point location is greater than or equal to the sum of the lengths of the plurality of sample racks.

[0056] The cascaded sample analyzer and its sample introduction control device, sample introduction control method, and computer-readable storage medium provided in the above embodiments, wherein, in the sample rack feeding process, it is determined whether a sample rack is already loaded on the feed track of the conveying component. If a sample rack is already loaded, the current position of the sample rack is obtained. When it is determined that the current position of the sample rack meets the specified position requirements, the feed track is controlled to reset, and another sample rack loaded with the sample to be tested is loaded into the feed track. Multiple sample racks can be fed continuously, and multiple sample racks can be loaded onto the feed track adjacently, realizing the synchronous transmission of multiple sample racks. This facilitates simultaneous sampling and testing of multiple sampling point positions of the cascaded sample analyzer. By using a shared sample introduction mechanism when the cascaded sample analyzer completes parallel testing of the sample to be tested, not only can the testing efficiency be improved, but the overall size can also be reduced and the cost lowered compared to setting up multiple independent testing instruments. Attached Figure Description

[0057] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an injection control method in one embodiment;

[0058] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the injection control method in another embodiment;

[0059] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the injection control method in another embodiment;

[0060] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the injection control method in another embodiment;

[0061] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the injection control method in one optional specific example;

[0062] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the sample injection control device in one embodiment;

[0063] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cascaded sample analyzer in one embodiment;

[0064] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the buffer section of the sample introduction mechanism in one embodiment of a cascaded sample analyzer;

[0065] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing the buffer section of the sample introduction mechanism of a cascaded sample analyzer in another embodiment;

[0066] Figure 10 A schematic diagram illustrating the buffer section of the sample introduction mechanism in another embodiment of a cascaded sample analyzer. Detailed Implementation

[0067] The technical solution of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0068] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the specification of this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the ways in which the invention may be implemented. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0069] In the following description, the expression “some embodiments” is used, which describes a subset of possible embodiments. However, it should be understood that “some embodiments” can be the same subset or different subsets of all possible embodiments and can be combined with each other without conflict.

[0070] Please see Figure 1 This application provides a sample injection control method, including the following steps:

[0071] S101, the sample rack feeding process includes: determining whether a sample rack is already being carried on the feed track of the conveying component; if a sample rack is already being carried, obtaining the current position of the sample rack; when determining that the current position of the sample rack meets the specified position requirements, controlling the feed track to reset, and loading another sample rack containing the sample to be tested into the feed track.

[0072] The conveying component includes a feed track and a motor that drives the feed track to rotate. The feed track can be a single conveyor belt, used to receive sample racks at the loading position. The motor rotates, driving the conveyor belt to rotate, thus transporting the sample racks from the loading position. After being loaded, the sample racks follow the conveyor belt's movement, sequentially performing scanning, allocation, and unloading to complete the sample introduction process. A sample rack is a shelf used to hold samples to be tested. Taking blood samples required for medical testing and analysis as an example, blood samples are usually contained in test tubes, and the corresponding sample rack is a test tube rack that can sequentially hold multiple test tubes. During the sample rack feeding process, the sample introduction control device determines whether a sample rack is already loaded on the feed track of the conveying component. If a sample rack is already loaded, it obtains the current position of the sample rack. If the current position of the previously loaded sample rack meets the specified position requirements, it controls the feed track to reset and loads another sample rack containing the sample to be tested onto the feed track. This allows for the continuous feeding of multiple sample racks and ensures that multiple sample racks loaded onto the feed track can be adjacent, achieving synchronous transmission of multiple sample racks.

[0073] The resetting of the feed track refers to aligning a set of positioning structures on the feed track with the loading position. The feed track has multiple sets of positioning structures, each corresponding to a sample holder. The number of positioning structures is greater than the number of sample holders that move synchronously along the feed track. During the sample holder feeding process, when the feed track includes a previously loaded sample holder, the current position of that previously loaded sample holder is first determined to meet the specified position requirements before the feed track is reset. This avoids the need to reverse the feed track and prevents the synchronous transport of multiple sample holders from being hindered by misaligned relative positions. Optimizing the sample holder feeding process avoids reciprocating transport of the conveying components, improving sample loading efficiency and thus enhancing the overall detection efficiency of the cascaded sample analyzer.

[0074] The sample injection control device refers to the logical entity that controls the cascaded sample analyzer. The sample injection control device may include one or more physically separate processors or controllers. For example, the sample injection mechanism of the cascaded sample analyzer includes a first controller that controls the movement of the sample rack by the transfer component and a second controller that controls the loading area to load the sample rack with the sample to be tested. The sample injection control device includes the first controller and the second controller. Alternatively, the cascaded sample analyzer may include a control console that provides unified control of the transfer component, loading area, etc. in the sample injection mechanism. The sample injection control device is the control console.

[0075] S103, the transmission process includes: controlling the transmission component to drive the sample rack to move synchronously.

[0076] After the sample rack is loaded onto the feed rail from the loading position, the sample feeding control device controls the motor to drive the feed rail to move, which in turn drives the sample racks supported on the feed rail to move synchronously. After multiple sample racks are continuously loaded through the sample rack feeding process, the motor drives the feed rail to move, which in turn drives the multiple sample racks loaded on it to move synchronously. In this embodiment, after the first sample rack is loaded onto the feed track, the motor drives the feed track forward, causing the feed track to move together with the first sample rack towards the scanning position. During this process, when it is determined that the next sample rack needs to be loaded onto the feed track, it is determined whether the current position of the first sample rack meets the specified position requirements. Meeting the specified position requirements means that the feed track can maintain its current position and be in a reset state, or that controlling the feed track to move forward a certain distance with the first sample rack can put the feed track in a reset state. In this reset state, when another sample rack containing the sample to be tested is loaded onto the feed track, the relative position between the second sample rack and the first sample rack meets the set interval requirements, so as to ensure that the multiple sample racks can maintain synchronous movement under the drive of the feed track.

[0077] S105, Scanning process, including: obtaining the sample identifier obtained by the scanning component scanning and identifying the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed through the scanning position.

[0078] During the synchronous movement of the sample rack by controlling the feed track, the sample rack moves forward from the loading position and first passes the barcode scanning position. The scanning component scans the sample rack that has passed the barcode scanning position, obtains the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position of the sample rack, and reports the sample identifier and its corresponding sample position address to the sample injection control device.

[0079] S107, Sample allocation process, including: obtaining a sample allocation request, and according to the sampling point location corresponding to the sample allocation request and the sample identifier currently identified by the scan, transmitting the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point location according to a preset allocation strategy.

[0080] The sample allocation request is issued by the measurement unit. The cascaded sample analyzer includes multiple measurement units arranged in parallel. Each measurement unit can report a sample allocation request to the sample control device when it is idle, depending on its own working status. The measurement unit can be the same measurement unit that performs the same detection process on the sample to be tested, or it can be different measurement units that perform different detection processes on the sample to be tested. Multiple measurement units share a single sample introduction mechanism. The sample introduction mechanism synchronously transfers multiple sample racks through a transfer component to simultaneously meet the sample introduction needs of multiple measurement units. This effectively reduces the overall size of the cascaded sample analyzer and facilitates the addition or reduction of the number of measurement units according to different usage scenarios with varying sample sizes. The shared sample introduction mechanism can easily meet the sample introduction efficiency requirements of the cascaded sample analyzer in different usage scenarios. The multiple measurement units performing the same detection process on the sample to be tested can be: multiple measurement units are all identical and each includes the same detection process; or multiple measurement units are identical, including more than one identical detection process, and in certain application scenarios, all select the same detection process to complete the detection of the sample to be tested. Multiple measurement units can refer to different measurement units that perform different detection processes on the sample to be tested. This can mean that multiple measurement units are different and each includes a different detection process; or multiple measurement units are the same and include more than one identical detection process. In some application scenarios, two measurement units may select different detection processes to complete the detection of the sample to be tested.

[0081] A preset allocation strategy can refer to a pre-set allocation strategy that assigns the sample to be tested to a specific sampling point among multiple sampling point positions of the cascaded sample analyzer. The conditions considered in determining the allocation strategy may include: the detection mode of the measurement unit in the cascaded sample analyzer, the type, identifier, and quantity of the sample to be tested, the current working status of the multiple sampling point positions in the cascaded sample analyzer, and the distance between the sample to be assigned and the multiple sampling point positions. After receiving the sample allocation request sent by the measurement unit, the sample control device determines the target sample to be tested that matches the current sample allocation request based on the sampling point position corresponding to the sample allocation request and the sample identifier currently identified by the scan, and transmits it to the corresponding sampling point position.

[0082] The sample feeding control method provided in the above embodiments determines whether a sample rack is already loaded on the feed track of the conveying component during the sample rack feeding process. If a sample rack is already loaded, the current position of the sample rack is obtained. When the current position of the sample rack meets the specified position requirements, the feed track is controlled to reset, and another sample rack loaded with the sample to be tested is loaded into the feed track. Multiple sample racks can be fed continuously, and multiple sample racks can be loaded onto the feed track adjacently, realizing the synchronous transmission of multiple sample racks. This facilitates simultaneous sampling and testing of multiple sampling points of the cascaded sample analyzer. By using a shared sample feeding mechanism when the cascaded sample analyzer completes parallel testing of the sample to be tested, testing efficiency can be improved, and the overall size and cost can be reduced compared to setting up multiple independent testing instruments.

[0083] In some alternative embodiments, please refer to Figure 2 Before executing the sample allocation process, the following steps are also included:

[0084] S106, Record the scanning address currently corresponding to the scanning position;

[0085] After executing the sample allocation process, the following is also included:

[0086] S1081, determine whether the scanning of the sample to be tested in the plurality of sample holders has been completed;

[0087] If the scan is not completed, S1083, execute the scan recovery process, including: controlling the transmission component to move back to the position corresponding to the scan address and the barcode position, and returning to the step of obtaining the sample identifier of the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the barcode position by the scanning component.

[0088] If the scan is confirmed to be complete, wait for the next sample allocation request, and return to execute the sample allocation process according to the next sample allocation request.

[0089] The scanning address corresponding to the current scanning position refers to the sample position in the sample rack that is directly opposite the scanning position. After receiving a sample allocation request, the sample control device records the sample position currently at the scanning position on the sample rack before transmitting the target sample to the corresponding sampling point position according to the sample allocation request. Taking the sample rack containing the 1st, 2nd, ... nth sample positions from left to right as an example, if the sample control device determines that the sample to be tested in the 1st sample position is the target sample to be tested according to the sample allocation request, and the 3rd sample position is at the scanning position, the sample control device records the 3rd sample position before controlling the transmission component to transmit the target sample to be tested in the 1st sample position to the corresponding sampling point position.

[0090] After the sample control device completes the sample allocation process according to the sample allocation request, it determines whether the scanning of all samples to be tested in multiple sample racks has been completed. If the scanning is not completed, it controls the transmission component to execute the scan recovery process, and moves back to the position before the target sample to be tested was transmitted to the corresponding sampling point position according to the previously recorded scan address, so as to continue to execute the step of scanning the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position.

[0091] In the above embodiments, the sample allocation process has a higher priority than the scanning process. After the scanning component scans the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position to obtain the sample identifier, it allocates the sample to the measurement unit that needs sample testing. If the sample to be tested on the sample rack is not completely scanned when allocating the sample, the sample injection mechanism is controlled to pause the scanning process and respond to the sample allocation first. After the sample allocation is completed, the sample injection mechanism is controlled to return to the position before responding to the sample allocation request, and the sample injection mechanism continues to scan the remaining unscanned sample to be tested. In this way, the process compactness of one sample injection mechanism meeting the sample injection needs of multiple measurement units in the cascaded sample analyzer can be improved, the working time of multiple measurement units can be fully utilized, the control process can be simplified, and the detection efficiency can be improved.

[0092] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 Before executing the scan recovery process, step S1083 further includes:

[0093] In step S1082, it is determined whether there is a new sample allocation request;

[0094] If a new sample allocation request exists, return to step S107, the sample allocation process continues;

[0095] If no new sample allocation request is received, then execute step S1083 to resume the scan recovery process.

[0096] After the sample control device completes the sample allocation process in response to one or more sample allocation requests, it controls the transmission component to execute a scan recovery process based on the incomplete scanning of the samples to be tested in multiple sample racks. This involves restoring the transmission component to the position it was in before transmitting the target sample to the corresponding sampling point, based on the previously recorded scan address, to continue the scanning component's step of scanning and identifying the samples to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position. Before executing the scan recovery process, the sample control device determines whether there is a new sample allocation request. If there is an unanswered new sample allocation request, it responds to the new request and executes the sample allocation process; otherwise, it executes the scan recovery process. A new sample allocation request can refer to a sample allocation request formed within the time period between the start time (start time) of interrupting the scan process based on a previous sample allocation request and the end time (end time) of restoring the transmission component to the position it was in when the scan process was interrupted after responding to the previous sample allocation request.

[0097] In the above embodiments, the sample allocation process has a higher priority than the scanning process. After the scanning component scans the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position to obtain the sample identifier, it allocates the sample to the measurement unit that needs sample testing. If the sample to be tested on the sample rack is not completely scanned when allocating the sample, the sample injection mechanism is controlled to interrupt the scanning process and respond to the sample allocation first. After the sample allocation is completed, it is determined again whether there is a new sample testing requirement. If there is, the sample allocation is performed again with priority. If not, the sample injection mechanism is controlled to return to the position before responding to the sample allocation request, and the sample injection mechanism continues to scan the remaining unscanned sample to be tested. In this way, the process compactness of one sample injection mechanism meeting the sample injection requirements of multiple measurement units in the cascaded sample analyzer can be improved, the working time of multiple measurement units can be fully utilized, the control process can be simplified, and the detection efficiency can be improved.

[0098] In some embodiments, the scanning process further includes:

[0099] Obtain a sample holder feed request, interrupt the scanning process according to the sample holder feed request, and return to the sample holder feed process;

[0100] After the sample holder feeding process is completed, the scan recovery process is executed.

[0101] Here, a sample rack feed request refers to a request from the sample feeding mechanism, after initiating automatic sample feeding, to load a new sample rack containing samples to be tested into the feeding mechanism based on one or more preset conditions. Optionally, the conditions for issuing a sample rack feed request may include at least one of the following: when the number of samples to be tested remaining in the previously loaded sample racks is less than or equal to a preset value; when the number of sample racks currently loaded on the feeding mechanism is less than a load threshold; or when the number of sample racks currently loaded on the feeding mechanism is less than a load threshold and the loading area includes a sample rack containing samples to be tested.

[0102] In the above embodiments, the sample rack feeding process has a higher priority than the scanning process. After the sample rack is loaded into the feeding track, it moves from the loading position to the scanning position through the feeding track. The scanning component scans the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position to obtain the sample identifier. When a new sample rack feeding request is received, if the sample to be tested on the sample rack has not been scanned, the sample feeding mechanism is controlled to interrupt the scanning process and respond to the sample rack feeding request first. After the sample rack is loaded, the sample feeding mechanism is controlled to return directly to the position before responding to the sample rack feeding request, and the sample feeding mechanism continues to scan the remaining unscanned sample to be tested. In this way, the process compactness of one sample feeding mechanism to meet the sample feeding needs of multiple measurement units in the cascaded sample analyzer can be improved, ensuring the timeliness and continuity of sample rack feeding, and making full use of the working time of multiple measurement units, simplifying the control process and improving detection efficiency.

[0103] In some embodiments, the scanning process further includes:

[0104] Obtain a sample rack unloading request, interrupt the scanning process according to the sample rack unloading request, and execute the sample rack unloading process, including: determining whether the current sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position; if the sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position, controlling the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track; if the sample rack to be unloaded has not reached the unloading position, controlling the conveying component to transport it to the unloading position according to the current position of the sample rack to be unloaded, and controlling the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track.

[0105] After the sample rack unloading process is completed, the scan recovery process is executed.

[0106] The sample rack unloading request refers to the request from the sample introduction mechanism, after initiating automatic sample introduction, to remove a sample rack that meets the unloading conditions from the feed track. Optionally, the conditions for issuing a sample rack unloading request may include at least one of the following: all samples to be tested in the sample rack have completed sampling and allocation; the samples to be tested in the specified sample rack do not match the sample allocation request of the measurement unit; or the specified sample rack needs to be replaced according to the current detection requirements. Sample rack unloading involves moving a sample rack that meets the unloading conditions out of the feed track, which may include two parts: first, moving the sample rack to be unloaded to the unloading position, which requires the cooperation of the feed track; and second, pushing the sample rack out of the feed track. When there are multiple rows of sample racks on the feed track, if a sample rack is being scanned and one of the sample racks meets the unloading conditions, the sample rack unloading process will also interrupt the scanning. Scanning will continue after unloading is completed. The unloading area may be equipped with an optocoupler to detect whether the unloading area is full. If the unloading area is full, a signal can be reported to the sample control device, disallowing the unloading action.

[0107] In the above embodiments, the sample rack unloading process has a higher priority than the scanning process. After the sample rack is loaded into the feed track, it moves from the loading position to the scanning position through the feed track. The scanning component scans the samples to be tested in the sample rack that have passed the scanning position to obtain sample identification. According to the sample allocation request, the identified samples to be tested are allocated to the designated sampling point positions. When an unloading request is received for one of the multiple sample racks, and the samples to be tested on another sample rack have not been scanned, the sample feeding mechanism can be controlled to interrupt the scanning process and respond to the sample rack unloading request first. After the sample rack is unloaded, the sample feeding mechanism is controlled to return directly to the position before responding to the sample rack feeding request. The sample feeding mechanism continues to scan the remaining unscanned samples to be tested. In this way, the sample rack that meets the unloading conditions is removed from the sample feeding mechanism in a timely manner, so as to provide space for subsequent sample racks to be loaded into the feed track in a timely manner. This can improve the process compactness of a single sample feeding mechanism to meet the feeding needs of multiple measurement units in a cascaded sample analyzer, ensure the timeliness and continuity of sample rack feeding, make full use of the working time of multiple measurement units, simplify the control process, and improve detection efficiency.

[0108] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 S101, the sample rack feeding process, also includes:

[0109] S1012, when there is no sample holder, control the feed track to reset and load a sample holder carrying the sample to be tested into the feed track.

[0110] When the feed track is not carrying a sample rack, it can be considered as the first loading. During the sample rack feeding process, the feed track is reset during the first loading. The reset of the feed track aligns a set of positioning mechanisms with the loading position. At this time, the sample rack with the sample to be tested can be pushed to the loading position, allowing the sample rack with the sample to be tested to be successfully loaded into the feed track. In an optional specific example, the loading area has a loading motor and a loading return motor, and the sample rack has an identification optocoupler and a loading position identification optocoupler. During the first loading, the identification optocoupler detects that there is a sample rack in the loading area, and loading can be started. During loading, the feed track needs to be reset first. The feed track has an evenly divided segment aligned with the loading area, and the loading return motor is in a state of no interference with the loading progress. If the loading position identification optocoupler in the loading area is triggered, the loading can be confirmed as successful. The loading return motor starts and removes other sample racks outside the feed track from the feed track to avoid interfering with the feeding movement.

[0111] In the above embodiments, after the sample injection mechanism starts automatic sample injection, the feed track is reset during the first loading. By setting the reset operation to control the feed track reset, it is ensured that the sample rack can be loaded efficiently and accurately, and the sample injection continuity is maintained.

[0112] Optionally, the sample holder feeding process further includes:

[0113] When it is determined that the current position of the sample rack does not meet the requirements of the specified position, the conveying component is controlled to transport the sample rack to the specified position based on its current position.

[0114] In this process, when a sample rack is already loaded on the feed track, the sample rack feeding procedure determines whether loading the next sample rack is appropriate based on whether the current position of the previously loaded sample rack meets the specified position requirements. If the current position of the previously loaded sample rack does not meet the specified position requirements, the conveying component is controlled to transport it to the specified position based on the current position of the previously loaded sample rack, and then the feed track is reset to load the next sample rack. In an optional specific example, the loading of the second row of sample racks can be initiated when the number of samples to be tested in the first row of sample racks is less than or equal to one, to achieve the connection of sample racks and the continuity of sample testing. The timing of initiating the loading of the second row of sample racks can also be advanced. Similarly, before the loading of the second row of sample racks, the conveying component needs to be reset so that a positioning mechanism on the feed track is aligned with the loading area. However, due to the uncertainty of the stopping position of the first row of sample racks when loading is initiated, directly resetting the feed track may result in the relative positions of the two rows of sample racks after loading not being adjacent, or may cause the first row of sample racks to be reset to be aligned with the loading position. Therefore, by obtaining the current position of the first row of sample racks, the system can choose to reset directly or move the first row of sample racks to a designated position before resetting. This ensures that the two rows of sample racks are adjacent on the feed track, so that they can maintain synchronous movement without interference during the subsequent sample injection process.

[0115] In the above embodiments, after the sample introduction mechanism starts automatic sample introduction, when loading the sample rack that is loaded later among multiple sample racks, it first controls the conveying component to transport the previously loaded sample rack to the designated position according to the current position of the previously loaded sample rack, and then controls the feed track to reset. By determining whether the current position of the previously loaded sample rack meets the requirements of the designated position, it is used as a condition to judge whether the timing of loading the next sample rack is reasonable, so as to ensure that the two rows of loaded sample racks are adjacent on the feed track, so as to support the synchronous movement without interference during the process of following the feed track to complete the subsequent sample introduction process, ensuring that the sample rack loading can be completed efficiently and accurately, and maintaining the continuity of sample introduction.

[0116] In some embodiments, prior to the sample rack feeding process, the following steps are also included:

[0117] Obtain sample feed trigger information, and determine whether a sample rack feed request has been received based on the sample feed trigger information;

[0118] The sample feeding trigger information includes at least one of the following: an identification signal of a sample rack containing the sample to be tested in the loading area; the number of remaining samples to be tested in the prior sample rack on the feeding track is less than or equal to a preset value; or the sample to be tested at a specified sample position in the prior sample rack on the feeding track is being transferred to the corresponding sampling point position.

[0119] Sample feed triggering information refers to one or more conditions used to determine whether a request exists to load a new sample rack containing samples to be tested into the feed mechanism. When an identification signal indicating that a sample rack containing samples to be tested is received within the loading area is obtained, it indicates that a sample rack is ready to be loaded onto the feed track. When the number of samples to be tested remaining in the prior sample racks on the feed track is less than or equal to a preset value, it indicates that the number of samples to be tested in the sample racks already loaded onto the feed track cannot meet the sample allocation requirements of the measurement unit within the next preset time, and timely replenishment is needed to meet the requirement of continuous sample feeding. When the sample to be tested at the designated sample position in the prior sample rack on the feed track is at the position to be transferred to the corresponding sampling point, it indicates that the number of sample racks currently loaded on the feed track is less than the carrying threshold, and at this time, a set of positioning mechanisms on the feed track is aligned with the loading position, facilitating the direct loading of the next sample rack.

[0120] In the above embodiments, the sample feeding control device acquires sample feeding trigger information in real time and determines whether there is a request to load a new sample rack containing the sample to be tested into the feeding mechanism based on the sample feeding trigger information, so as to ensure the continuity of automatic sample feeding. In this way, the compactness of the process of one sample feeding mechanism meeting the sample feeding needs of multiple measurement units in the cascaded sample analyzer can be improved, ensuring the timeliness and continuity of automatic sample rack feeding, and making full use of the working time of multiple measurement units, simplifying the control process and improving detection efficiency.

[0121] In some embodiments, the scanning process further includes:

[0122] Determine whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position in the sample rack has been successfully obtained;

[0123] If a sample identifier is not obtained in one of the sample positions, then there is no sample to be tested in that sample position. The corresponding sample identifier is determined to be the default value, and it is determined whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested is successfully obtained in the next sample position.

[0124] Establish the correspondence between the obtained sample identifier and its corresponding sample bit address information.

[0125] After the sample rack is loaded onto the feed track, it moves with the track to the scanning position for scanning. The scanning component identifies the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position in the sample rack. Based on whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position is successfully identified, the presence or absence of the sample to be tested at each sample position, the category of the sample to be tested, and the address information of the sample position to which each sample to be tested belongs in the sample rack can be determined. By determining whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position in the sample rack is successfully obtained, if no sample identifier is obtained at one sample position, it can be determined that there is no sample to be tested at the corresponding sample position. The corresponding sample identifier is set as a default value. By assigning a default value to indicate that there is no sample to be tested at the corresponding sample position, the sample allocation process can be executed by the sample injection control device, avoiding errors in the sample allocation process. When the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position is successfully obtained, a correspondence is established between the obtained sample identifier and the address information of the sample position to which it belongs. This allows the sample injection control device to quickly obtain the sample to be tested from the correct sample position address information and accurately transmit it to the corresponding sampling point position when executing the sample allocation process, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of sample injection control.

[0126] In the above embodiments, after the sample rack is loaded, it can be moved to the scanning area for scanning. The scanning component can identify the presence or absence of the sample to be tested and the category of the sample. The barcodes of the sample to be tested and the sample rack are scanned first, followed by the sample to be tested. Barcode scanning is performed on sample positions where a sample to be tested is detected; if no sample to be tested is detected, the current sample position is skipped, and the presence or absence of the sample to be tested is determined at the next sample position. If either the sample rack or the sample to be tested fails to scan, a default value is automatically assigned. When the information of a sample to be tested is scanned, it is reported to the sample injection control device. After receiving the sample identifier, the sample injection control device allocates the sample to the measurement unit requiring sample testing, improving the efficiency and accuracy of sample injection control.

[0127] In some embodiments, in the sample allocation process, the step of transmitting the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point location according to a preset allocation strategy includes:

[0128] When there are multiple sample allocation requests, determine whether the sample identifier identified by the currently performed scan satisfies the current sample allocation request;

[0129] When the conditions are met, the target samples to be tested are sequentially transmitted to the sampling point positions corresponding to the sample allocation requests, according to the order in which the sample allocation requests were sent.

[0130] If the conditions are not met, the target sample to be tested corresponding to the sample identifier currently identified by the scan will be transmitted to the relatively nearby sampling point location.

[0131] A cascaded sample analyzer includes one or more measurement units arranged in parallel. Sample allocation requests can be generated based on the detection task of the cascaded sample analyzer and whether the measurement units are idle. Multiple sample allocation requests may be generated within a single moment or response period. In the sample allocation process, which allocates the sample to be tested to the corresponding measurement unit for detection according to the sample allocation request, the preset allocation strategy may refer to the following: when there are multiple sample allocation requests, it is determined whether the sample identifier currently identified by the scan meets the current sample allocation request. If it does, the target sample to be tested is sequentially transferred to the sampling point location corresponding to the sample allocation request according to the order in which the sample allocation requests were issued; if it does not meet the requirement, the target sample to be tested corresponding to the sample identifier currently identified by the scan is transferred to the relatively nearest sampling point location.

[0132] For example, a cascaded sample analyzer includes a first measurement unit and a second measurement unit. Within a response time period, the first and second measurement units respectively issue sample allocation requests. Based on the sample identifiers identified by the currently executed scans, if it is determined that the number of samples to be scanned after completion is greater than the number of samples requested for allocation (i.e., the number of samples available for allocation meets the number of samples requested for allocation), then the samples to be scanned can be sequentially transferred to the corresponding sampling point positions according to the order in which the sample allocation requests were issued. For example, if the sample rack contains samples to be scanned sequentially from left to right (samples 1, 2, ... n), and based on the sample identifiers identified by the currently executed scans, it is determined that the samples to be scanned after completion include samples 1 and 2, then samples 1 and 2 are transferred to the sampling point positions corresponding to the first and second measurement units, respectively. If, based on the sample identifiers identified by the currently executed scans, it is determined that the samples to be scanned after completion include only sample 1, then sample 1 is transferred to the sampling point position closest to the current location of sample 1.

[0133] In the above embodiments, during sample allocation, the sample control device transmits the target sample to the corresponding sampling point according to a preset allocation strategy. By optimizing the preset allocation strategy, the cascaded sample analyzer can support sample testing from multiple measurement units. For example, there are certain allocation rules for requested sample allocation. When multiple measurement units in the cascaded sample analyzer can simultaneously allocate samples that have already been scanned, the principle of "first come, first served" is adopted. If multiple measurement units request sample allocation without scanning to obtain sample information, the principle of proximity is adopted, allocating the sample to the measurement unit closest to the current sample rack position first, thus improving the efficiency of sample introduction control.

[0134] The step of transmitting the target sample to the corresponding sampling point location according to a preset allocation strategy further includes:

[0135] Determine whether the sample allocation request is a request for a specified sample type issued by a specified measurement unit;

[0136] If so, then the target sample to be tested that matches the request of the specified sample type is determined based on the sample identifier identified by the currently performed scan, and the target sample to be tested is transmitted to the sampling point location corresponding to the specified measurement unit.

[0137] The cascaded sample analyzer includes multiple measurement units arranged in parallel. These measurement units can be the same unit performing the same detection process on the sample to be tested, or they can be different measurement units performing different detection processes on the sample to be tested. When the measurement units are different units performing different detection processes on the sample to be tested, the sample allocation requests issued by different measurement units require different sample types. Upon receiving a sample allocation request, the analyzer determines the specified sample type corresponding to the sample allocation request based on the identification information of the measurement unit carried in the sample allocation request, and then finds the matching target sample to be tested based on the sample identification identified by the currently performed scan to complete the allocation. In this way, the cascaded sample analyzer can assemble multiple measurement units to perform the same detection process or multiple measurement units to perform different detection processes according to detection needs, so as to meet the sample detection needs in more application scenarios.

[0138] In the above embodiments, the cascaded sample analyzer can be configured with multiple measurement units of the same detection process according to different detection task requirements, and the sample introduction mechanism can carry multiple sample racks of the same type of test sample for synchronous movement. Alternatively, the cascaded sample analyzer can be configured with multiple measurement units of different detection processes according to different detection task requirements, and the sample introduction mechanism can carry multiple sample racks of different types of test sample for synchronous movement, so as to meet the sample detection needs in more application scenarios.

[0139] In some embodiments, the injection control method further includes:

[0140] If no sample matching the specified sample type is found based on the sample identifier identified in the currently performed scan, information about the sample to be tested is not obtained.

[0141] If no information is obtained for the sample to be tested, the sample allocation process is interrupted and a scan recovery process is executed, including: controlling the transmission component to move back to the position corresponding to the scanning address and the scanning position, and returning to the step of obtaining the sample identifier of the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position.

[0142] A preset allocation strategy can refer to a pre-set allocation strategy that assigns the sample to be tested to a specific sampling point among multiple sampling point positions of the cascaded sample analyzer. During the sample allocation process, upon receiving a sample allocation request, if no sample matching the specified sample type is found based on the sample identifier identified by the currently performed scan, it indicates that the currently available sample for allocation does not match or cannot satisfy the sample allocation request, thus generating a "sample not acquired" information. Based on this "sample not acquired" information, the sample allocation process is interrupted, and a scan recovery process is executed to continue scanning the remaining samples in the sample rack to replenish the available samples for allocation before proceeding with the sample allocation.

[0143] In the above embodiments, after receiving a sample allocation request, if the sample identification identified by the currently performed scan does not find a sample to be tested that matches the request for the specified sample type, it indicates that the sample to be tested currently available for allocation does not match the sample allocation request or cannot satisfy the sample allocation request. At this time, the sample allocation process, which has a higher priority than the scanning process, is interrupted, and the scan recovery process is executed to continue scanning the remaining samples to be tested in the sample rack. After replenishing the samples to be tested that can be allocated, the sample allocation is carried out to ensure the sustainability and continuity of the automatic sample injection process and to maximize the sample injection efficiency.

[0144] In some embodiments, the injection control method further includes:

[0145] Obtain a re-inspection request and determine whether there is an idle measurement unit currently;

[0146] When an idle measurement unit exists, the sample to be retested is transmitted to the sampling point location corresponding to the idle measurement unit according to the retest request.

[0147] The retest request can be generated when, after sampling and testing by the measurement unit, an error is found in the test result of a certain sample to be tested. Before unloading and removing the sample rack, it can be determined whether a retest request exists and whether there is an idle measurement unit. If there is an idle measurement unit, the sample to be retested is transferred to the sampling point location corresponding to the idle measurement unit according to the retest request, thus completing the retest of the corresponding sample.

[0148] In the above embodiments, for a sample to be retested, when any measurement unit that supports the retesting of the sample is available, the sample can be assigned to that measurement unit for retesting to ensure the accuracy of automatic sample injection and detection, and to maximize the sample injection efficiency.

[0149] To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the injection control method provided in the embodiments of this application, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 5 The following example uses blood samples as the test sample and test tube racks as the sample rack to illustrate the sample injection control method of this application. The sample injection control method includes the following steps:

[0150] S11, start automatic sample injection;

[0151] S12, determine whether there is a test tube rack loaded with the sample to be tested in the loading area; if there is, execute S13; if not, return to execute S12.

[0152] S13, determine if there is a test tube rack on the feed track; if yes, execute S131, S132; if no, execute S14.

[0153] S131, obtain the current position of the previously loaded test tube rack on the feed track, and determine whether the current position of the previously loaded test tube rack is at the specified position;

[0154] S132, if not, move the previously loaded test tube rack to the designated position according to the current position;

[0155] S14, reset the feed track and load the next test tube rack into the feed track; wherein, loading the test tube rack into the feed track includes controlling the loading return motor to descend, starting the loading of the test tube rack, and controlling the loading return motor to return to the initial position when the test tube rack is loaded into place;

[0156] S15, the feed rail carries multiple test tube racks to move synchronously. When each test tube position of the test tube rack passes the scanning position, the scanning component scans and identifies the test tube mark.

[0157] S16: Based on the scanned and identified test tube identifiers, determine whether there is a sample to be tested in each corresponding test tube position. If not, specify S161; if yes, execute S162.

[0158] S161, assign the default value to the scan result of the test tube position where the judgment result is no sample to be tested, and continue to judge whether there is a sample to be tested in the next test tube position;

[0159] S162, If the judgment result is that the test tube label has been successfully obtained, the obtained test tube label shall be reported.

[0160] S17, Is there a sample allocation request? If not, execute S175 to S177; if yes, interrupt the current scanning process and execute S171 to S174.

[0161] S171, Are there multiple sample allocation requests?

[0162] S172, Do the samples to be scanned that have been completed satisfy the current multiple sample allocation request?

[0163] S173, When multiple sample allocation requests cannot be satisfied, execute the scan recovery process;

[0164] S174, when multiple sample allocation requests can be satisfied, the sample to be tested is allocated to the sampling point location corresponding to the corresponding sample allocation request according to the principle of first-come-first-served or nearest;

[0165] S175, Is this a request from the m-th measurement unit for the n-th test tube, and is the number of samples currently scanned greater than or equal to n? If yes, proceed to S176; otherwise, proceed to S177.

[0166] S176, transport the nth test tube to the corresponding sampling point so that the mth measurement unit can complete the sampling and testing;

[0167] S177, After the sample allocation process is completed, determine whether there are any unscanned samples to be tested; if so, return to S15;

[0168] S18, Is there a sample rack feeding request? If so, interrupt the current scanning process and return to execute S13~S14;

[0169] S19, Is there a sample rack unloading request? If so, interrupt the current scanning process and execute S191;

[0170] S191, determine whether the current sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position. If the sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position, control the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track. If the sample rack to be unloaded has not reached the unloading position, control the conveying component to transport it to the unloading position according to the current position of the sample rack to be unloaded, and control the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track.

[0171] S20: After completing the loading of the sample rack, scanning, dispensing, sampling and testing of all test tubes, and unloading of the sample rack, the process ends.

[0172] In another aspect of the embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 6 Furthermore, a sample injection control device is provided, including a processor 201 and a memory 202. The memory 202 stores a computer program executable by the processor 201. When the computer program is executed by the processor 201, it implements the sample injection control method described in any embodiment of this application. Additionally, the sample injection control device and the sample injection control method embodiments provided above belong to the same concept, and their specific implementation process is detailed in the method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0173] In another aspect, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, such as a memory including an executable program, which is executed by a processor to complete the steps of the sample injection control method described in any embodiment of this application and achieve the same technical effect. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here. The computer-readable storage medium may include a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0174] In another aspect, this application also provides a cascaded sample analyzer, please refer to the following: Figure 7 to Figure 10The cascaded sample analyzer includes multiple measurement units arranged in parallel and a sample introduction mechanism 20 matched with the multiple measurement units. Each measurement unit includes a sampling point position for grasping the sample to be tested. The sample introduction mechanism 20 includes the sample introduction control device described in any embodiment of this application. The cascaded sample analyzer consists of multiple measurement units, and the same sample introduction mechanism 20 can simultaneously adapt to multiple sampling point positions of multiple measurement units in the cascaded sample analyzer for sampling and testing. For example, the measurement unit consists of a first measurement unit 11 and a second measurement unit 12. The first measurement unit 11 includes a first sampling point position 110, and the second measurement unit 12 includes a second sampling point position 120. When the cascaded sample analyzer completes parallel testing of the sample to be tested, it shares the sample introduction mechanism 20. The sample introduction mechanism 20 synchronously carries the first sample holder 31 and the second sample holder 32, which not only improves testing efficiency but also reduces the overall size and cost compared to setting up multiple independent testing instruments.

[0175] Optionally, the sample introduction mechanism 20 further includes a loading area 21, an unloading area 22, a conveying component, and a barcode scanning component 24 for identifying the sample to be tested. The conveying component includes, along its conveying direction, a loading position corresponding to the loading area 21, multiple sampling positions corresponding to the sampling point positions, an unloading position corresponding to the unloading area 22, and a buffer section 23 disposed near the loading area 21 and / or the unloading area 22. The same sample introduction mechanism 20 can simultaneously adapt to multiple sampling points of the cascaded sample analyzer for sampling and testing. When the cascaded sample analyzer completes parallel testing of the samples under test, it shares the sample introduction mechanism 20, which not only improves testing efficiency but also reduces the overall size and cost compared to setting up multiple independent testing instruments. The conveying component of the sample introduction mechanism 20 includes, along its conveying direction, a loading position corresponding to the loading area 21, multiple sampling positions corresponding to the multiple sampling points of the cascaded sample analyzer, an unloading position corresponding to the unloading area 22, and a buffer section 23 set near the loading area 21 and / or the unloading area 22. Due to the setting of the buffer section 23, when the sample rack is loaded into the conveying component at the loading position, there is no need to control the conveying component to reverse the conveying, and the conveying component can simultaneously convey multiple sample racks. By optimizing the structure, the control strategy of the sample introduction mechanism 20 is simplified, avoiding the reciprocating transport of the conveying component to achieve continuous loading of multiple sample racks, improving the sample introduction efficiency, and thus improving the overall detection efficiency of the cascaded sample analyzer.

[0176] Optionally, the buffer section 23 includes a first buffer section 231 disposed near the loading area 21, wherein the distance between the end of the first buffer section 231 and the adjacent sampling point position is greater than or equal to the sum of the lengths of the plurality of sample racks; and / or, the buffer section 23 includes a second buffer section 232 disposed near the unloading area 22, wherein the distance between the end of the second buffer section 232 and the adjacent sampling point position is greater than or equal to the sum of the lengths of the plurality of sample racks.

[0177] In the above embodiments, the buffer section 23 protrudes outward from the outer side of the measuring unit along its arrangement direction. The buffer section 23 may include only a first buffer section 231 located near the loading area 21, or only a second buffer section 232 located near the unloading area 22, or it may include both a first buffer section 231 located near the loading area 21 and a second buffer section 232 located near the unloading area 22. The buffer section 23 is used to provide accommodating space at the other end of the plurality of sample holders when the sample to be tested at one end moves to the sampling position on the corresponding side. The first buffer section 231 is configured so that when the sample rack containing the test samples in the loading area 21 is pushed to the loading position of the conveying component, and the sample rack first loaded into the conveying component moves with the conveying component, the buffer section 23 near the loading area 21 provides space for the sample rack. This allows the next sample rack to be loaded into the conveying component more quickly as the first sample rack moves forward, enabling the conveying component to simultaneously transport multiple sample racks. The increased number of test samples on these racks provides samples for multiple sample point locations of the cascaded sample analyzer. The second buffer section 232 increases the overall length of the conveying component and provides more space for the sample racks. This allows the next sample rack to be loaded into the conveying component when the first sample rack moves a distance greater than the length of the next sample rack towards the second buffer section 232 in the unloading area 22. This allows the conveying component to simultaneously transport multiple sample racks, providing samples for multiple sample point locations of the cascaded sample analyzer.

[0178] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the cascaded sample analyzer adds buffer sections 23 at both ends of the transmission component. The first buffer section 231 and the second buffer section 232 can increase the width of both ends of the transmission component. When the sample to be tested moves to the corresponding sampling position on the corresponding side by moving synchronously to any end of the multiple sample racks on the feed track, the first buffer section 231 and the second buffer section 232 respectively provide a accommodating space to accommodate their other ends, so as to support the distribution of the sample to be tested from any position on the multiple sample racks to the corresponding sampling position without interference, so as to further ensure the continuity of sample introduction.

[0179] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0180] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present invention, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk) and includes several instructions to cause a terminal (which may be a computer, server, analyzer, sample introduction mechanism, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0181] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A sample injection control method, characterized in that, include: The sample rack feeding process includes: determining whether a sample rack is already being carried on the feed track of the conveying component; if a sample rack is already being carried, obtaining the current position of the sample rack; determining that the current position of the sample rack meets the specified position requirements; controlling the feed track to reset; and loading another sample rack containing the sample to be tested into the feed track, wherein controlling the feed track to reset indicates that a set of positioning structures controlling the feed track are aligned with the loading position; The transmission process includes: controlling the transmission component to drive the sample rack to move synchronously; The scanning process includes: acquiring the sample identifier obtained by the scanning component scanning and identifying the sample to be tested in the sample rack that has passed through the scanning position; The sample allocation process includes: obtaining a sample allocation request; and according to the sampling point location corresponding to the sample allocation request and the sample identifier currently identified by the scan, transmitting the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point location according to a preset allocation strategy. Determine whether the scanning of the samples to be tested in the multiple sample holders has been completed; If the scan is not completed, determine whether there is a new sample allocation request. If there is a new sample allocation request, return to the sample allocation process; if there is no new sample allocation request, execute the scan recovery process, control the sample injection mechanism to return to the position before responding to the sample allocation request, and control the sample injection mechanism to continue scanning the remaining unscanned test samples. In the sample allocation process, the step of transmitting the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point location according to the preset allocation strategy includes: when there are multiple sample allocation requests, determining whether the sample identifier currently identified by the scan meets the current sample allocation request; if it meets the request, transmitting the target sample to be tested to the sampling point location corresponding to the sample allocation request in sequence according to the order in which the sample allocation requests were sent; if it does not meet the request, transmitting the target sample to be tested corresponding to the sample identifier currently identified by the scan to the relatively nearest sampling point location; The step of transmitting the target sample to be tested to the corresponding sampling point location according to the preset allocation strategy further includes: determining whether the sample allocation request is a request for a specified sample type issued by a specified measurement unit; If so, then the target sample to be tested that matches the request of the specified sample type is determined based on the sample identifier identified by the currently performed scan, and the target sample to be tested is transmitted to the sampling point location corresponding to the specified measurement unit; The method further includes: If no matching sample for the specified sample type is found based on the currently scanned and identified sample identifier, a sample not acquired information is generated. Based on the sample not acquired information, the sample allocation process is interrupted, and a scan recovery process is executed. Before executing the sample allocation process, the process further includes: recording the scanning address currently corresponding to the scanning position. If the scan is not completed, the scan recovery process includes: controlling the transmission component to move back to the position corresponding to the scanning address, and returning to the step of obtaining the sample identifiers of the sample to be scanned and identified by the scanning component in the sample rack that has passed the scanning position.

2. The injection control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The scanning process also includes: Obtain a sample holder feed request, interrupt the scanning process according to the sample holder feed request, and return to the sample holder feed process; After the sample holder feeding process is completed, the scan recovery process is executed.

3. The injection control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The scanning process also includes: Obtain a sample rack unloading request, interrupt the scanning process according to the sample rack unloading request, and execute the sample rack unloading process, including: determining whether the current sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position; if the sample rack to be unloaded has reached the unloading position, controlling the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track; if the sample rack to be unloaded has not reached the unloading position, controlling the conveying component to transport it to the unloading position according to the current position of the sample rack to be unloaded, and controlling the unloading component to push the sample rack to be unloaded out of the feed track. After the sample rack unloading process is completed, the scan recovery process is executed.

4. The sample injection control method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The sample rack feeding process also includes: When no sample holder is being carried, the feed track is controlled to reset, and a sample holder carrying the sample to be tested is loaded into the feed track.

5. The injection control method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The sample rack feeding process also includes: When it is determined that the current position of the sample rack does not meet the requirements of the specified position, the conveying component is controlled to transport the sample rack to the specified position based on its current position.

6. The injection control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Before the sample rack feeding process, the following is also included: Acquire sample feed trigger information, and determine whether a sample rack feed request has been received based on the sample feed trigger information; The sample feeding trigger information includes at least one of the following: an identification signal of a sample rack containing the sample to be tested in the loading area; the number of remaining samples to be tested in the prior sample rack on the feeding track is less than or equal to a preset value; or the sample to be tested at a specified sample position in the prior sample rack on the feeding track is being transferred to the corresponding sampling point position.

7. The injection control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The scanning process also includes: Determine whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested at each sample position in the sample rack has been successfully obtained; If a sample identifier is not obtained in one of the sample positions, then there is no sample to be tested in that sample position. The corresponding sample identifier is determined to be the default value, and it is determined whether the sample identifier of the sample to be tested is successfully obtained in the next sample position. Establish the correspondence between the obtained sample identifier and its corresponding sample bit address information.

8. The injection control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Obtain a re-inspection request and determine if there is an idle measurement unit currently; When an idle measurement unit exists, the sample to be retested is transmitted to the sampling point location corresponding to the idle measurement unit according to the retest request.

9. A sample injection control device, characterized in that, It includes a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the processor, and the computer program, when executed by the processor, implements the sample injection control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, is used to implement the sample injection control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. A cascaded sample analyzer, characterized in that, The device includes multiple measurement units arranged in parallel and a sample introduction mechanism matched with the multiple measurement units. Each measurement unit includes a sampling point position for grasping the sample to be tested, and the sample introduction mechanism includes the sample introduction control device as described in claim 9.

12. The cascaded sample analyzer as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The sample introduction mechanism further includes a loading area, an unloading area, a conveying component, and a barcode scanning component for identifying the sample to be tested. The conveying component includes, along its conveying direction, a loading position corresponding to the loading area, multiple sampling positions corresponding to the sampling point positions, an unloading position corresponding to the unloading area, and a buffer section set near the loading area and / or the unloading area.

13. The cascaded sample analyzer as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The buffer section includes a first buffer section located near the loading area, wherein the interval between the end of the first buffer section and the adjacent sampling point location is greater than or equal to the sum of the lengths of the plurality of sample holders; and / or, The buffer section includes a second buffer section located near the unloading area, wherein the distance between the end of the second buffer section and the adjacent sampling point location is greater than or equal to the sum of the lengths of the plurality of sample racks.

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