Automated analysis device

Abstract

An automated analytical apparatus includes a reagent container for holding reagents, an aspiration nozzle for drawing the reagents, an analytical unit for adding the reagents drawn from the reagent container via the aspiration nozzle to a sample and performing analysis, an ultraviolet source for sterilizing the reagents by ultraviolet irradiation, and an electrode or circuit board for supplying power to the ultraviolet source. The apparatus is configured such that the ultraviolet source and the electrode or circuit board are separated from the reagents in the aspiration nozzle by a heat-insulating portion, or the ultraviolet source and the electrode or circuit board are isolated from the reagents in the aspiration nozzle. This allows for both sterilization of the reagents and suppression of changes in reagent properties.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Automated analytical apparatus includes devices that add reagents to a sample (hereinafter referred to as "sample") to perform analysis and generate analytical results. Reagents are not limited to those that react with the sample; they also include diluents, detergents, buffer solutions, or surfactants that activate the interface between the analyte and the reagent.

[0003] Typically, reagents are provided to the user in their container. The user places the container inside or near the automated analyzer, attaching a suction nozzle to the container's opening. The automated analyzer draws the reagent from the container through the nozzle and adds it to the sample, determining the concentration of the analyte in the sample.

[0004] When the reagent container is empty, the user removes the aspiration nozzle from the container and washes or cleans it as needed. Then, the user replaces the empty container with a new one filled with reagent, attaches the aspiration nozzle to the opening of the new container, and begins the analysis again.

[0005] Therefore, during reagent container replacement operations, there is a possibility that contaminating bacteria may enter the reagent and multiply. Furthermore, there is also a possibility that contaminating bacteria may enter the reagent through the suction nozzle and multiply. In the event of bacterial proliferation, there is a possibility that the properties of the reagent may change, and the shelf life of the reagent may be limited. Patent Document 1 describes a sterilization container that can kill microorganisms contained in the liquid by irradiating the liquid inside the container with ultraviolet light.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-75257 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] When irradiating reagents with ultraviolet light, since the wavelengths that cause each reagent to easily decompose or undergo other changes are different, it is necessary to select an ultraviolet light wavelength that can achieve a bactericidal effect and is unlikely to cause changes in the reagent.

[0011] When the ultraviolet source is integrated with the sterilization container, as described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to transfer the reagent from the reagent container to the sterilization container. This carries the risk of contamination of the new reagent with residual reagent during the transfer process, the risk of contamination by airborne microorganisms during the transfer, and the possibility of changes in reagent properties. Therefore, a configuration that allows the ultraviolet source to be installed and removed from the reagent container is considered suitable.

[0012] Furthermore, when the suction nozzle installed on the reagent container is adjacent to the ultraviolet source and its surrounding components, there is a concern that the ultraviolet source, which is also a heat source, may heat the reagent inside the suction nozzle. Here, the surrounding components refer to parts or integrated components of the ultraviolet source, including electrodes or circuit boards that supply power to the ultraviolet source, a heat-generating section, and a glass or other housing. While there is no particular problem when the sterilization target is water, as described in Patent Document 1, when the sterilization target is reagents, the operating temperature range of each reagent is fixed. If the reagent temperature exceeds the operating range due to heating, there is a possibility that the reagent properties may change and the shelf life of the reagent may be limited.

[0013] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an automated analysis device having a reagent sterilization mechanism that does not alter the properties of the reagent.

[0014] Methods for solving problems

[0015] This application includes various methods for solving the above-mentioned problems. One example includes a reagent container for holding reagents, an aspiration nozzle for drawing the reagents held in the reagent container, an analytical unit for adding the reagents drawn from the reagent container via the aspiration nozzle to a sample and performing analysis, a sterilization mechanism having an ultraviolet source for sterilizing reagents by ultraviolet irradiation and an electrode or circuit board serving as a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultraviolet source, a first heat-insulating structure disposed between the sterilization structure and the reagents in the aspiration nozzle, and a structure disposed between the sterilization structure and the reagent container. The first heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization structure and the reagent in the aspiration nozzle to insulate the sterilization structure from the reagent in the aspiration nozzle, or an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization structure from the reagent in the aspiration nozzle; the second heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization structure and the reagent in the reagent container to insulate the sterilization structure from the reagent container, or an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization structure from the reagent in the reagent container.

[0016] Invention Effects

[0017] According to the present invention, an automated analytical apparatus having a reagent sterilization mechanism that does not alter the properties of the reagent can be provided.

[0018] The following description of the embodiments clarifies the configurations and effects other than those described above. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 A graph showing the wavelength-dependent bactericidal effect spectrum of the light according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a graph showing an example of the absorption spectrum of the reagent involved in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 A graph showing the result obtained by dividing the bactericidal effect spectrum according to the first embodiment by the absorption spectrum of the reagent.

[0022] Figure 4A A diagram illustrating the configuration of the automatic analysis device according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 4B for Figure 4D Cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of line B4 in the middle.

[0024] Figure 4C for Figure 4D Cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of line C4 in the middle.

[0025] Figure 4D This is an enlarged longitudinal section view of the periphery D4 of a reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0026] Figure 5A A diagram is provided to illustrate the configuration of the automatic analysis device according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 5B for Figure 5D Cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of line B5 in the middle.

[0028] Figure 5C for Figure 5D Cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of line C5 in the middle.

[0029] Figure 5D This is an enlarged longitudinal section view of the periphery D5 of a reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0030] Figure 6A A diagram is provided to illustrate the configuration of the automatic analysis apparatus according to the third embodiment.

[0031] Figure 6B for Figure 6AEnlarged ZX cross-sectional view of the periphery B6 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0032] Figure 7A A diagram is provided to illustrate the configuration of the automatic analysis device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7B for Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B7 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0034] Figure 7C for Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B7 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0035] Figure 7D for Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B7 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0036] Figure 7E for Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B7 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0037] Figure 8A A diagram illustrating the configuration of the automatic analysis apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

[0038] Figure 8B for Figure 8A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B8 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0039] Figure 9A A diagram is provided to illustrate the configuration of the automatic analysis apparatus according to the sixth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 9B for Figure 9A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B9 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0041] Figure 9C for Figure 9A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B9 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0042] Figure 9D for Figure 9A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B9 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0043] Figure 9E for Figure 9A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B9 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0044] Figure 10 A diagram illustrating the configuration of the automatic analysis apparatus according to the seventh embodiment.

[0045] Figure 11 This diagram provides a summary view of the configuration surrounding the reagent tray in the automatic analysis apparatus according to the eighth embodiment.

[0046] Figure 12A A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0047] Figure 12B A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0048] Figure 13A A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0049] Figure 13B A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0050] Figure 14A A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another further example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0051] Figure 14B A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another further example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0052] Figure 14C A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another further example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment.

[0053] Figure 14D A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another further example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED according to the ninth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of its technical concept.

[0055] In this instruction manual, the terms "sterilization" or "elimination of microorganisms" not only mean "killing microorganisms," but also "detoxifying microorganisms" or "inactivating microorganisms." Furthermore, these terms not only mean "killing all fungi and microorganisms," but also "reducing the number of fungi and microorganisms."

[0056] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] (1) First implementation method

[0058] Reference Figures 1-3 and Figures 4A to 4D The first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0059] (1-1) Wavelength selection

[0060] The wavelength of the ultraviolet light used in this embodiment will be explained.

[0061] Figure 1 To display the wavelength-dependent bactericidal effect spectrum of light, the horizontal axis represents the wavelength of light, and the vertical axis represents the relative value of the bactericidal effect.

[0062] The wavelength of ultraviolet light used to sterilize reagents is preferred because it has a good sterilization effect and is unlikely to cause decomposition or other changes in the reagents.

[0063] Figure 1 The image above, as an example, demonstrates the bactericidal effect of light on a certain microorganism. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the bactericidal effect induced by light is highly correlated with the light absorption spectrum of the DNA of the target microorganism, exhibiting wavelength dependence. The bactericidal effect is best near a wavelength with high absorption of 260 nm, and the bactericidal effect decreases relatively with increasing distance from this wavelength. Ultraviolet light has a high bactericidal effect on microorganisms when its wavelength is between 200 nm and 300 nm.

[0064] It should be noted that even wavelengths shorter than 200nm and longer than 300nm do not have zero bactericidal effect. For example, although the bactericidal effect at a wavelength of 340nm is about 1 / 1000th of the peak effect near a wavelength of 260nm, it still has a bactericidal effect. Sometimes, by increasing the ultraviolet power and extending the irradiation time, practical sterilization can be achieved. Therefore, from the perspective of bactericidal effect, ultraviolet light with wavelengths of 180nm to 350nm is selected.

[0065] On the other hand, the ease with which reagents undergo decomposition or other changes due to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is related to the reagent's light absorption spectrum. Reagents with high UV absorption are more prone to UV-induced decomposition or other changes.

[0066] Figure 2 This is a graph showing an example of the absorption spectrum of a reagent, with the horizontal axis representing wavelength and the vertical axis representing absorbance.

[0067] For example, in having Figure 2When the reagent with the absorption spectrum shown is the target for sterilization, the absorption is greater on the side with a wavelength shorter than 240 nm. Therefore, selecting ultraviolet light with a wavelength longer than 240 nm is preferred. When selecting the wavelength with the largest ratio of ultraviolet sterilization rate to the rate of change such as reagent decomposition, the target can be obtained from the wavelength dependence of the ratio of ultraviolet sterilization effect to the ultraviolet absorption of the reagent.

[0068] Figure 3 For display purposes Figure 1 The bactericidal spectrum divided by Figure 2 The result is a graph obtained from the absorption spectrum.

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, the ratio of ultraviolet (UV) sterilization effect to reagent absorption is high near 300 nm, and low below 240 nm, above 340 nm, and near 280 nm. Therefore, using UV light with a wavelength of 300 nm, the ratio of UV sterilization rate to reagent decomposition and other changes is likely to be maximized. Conversely, using UV light with wavelengths below 240 nm and near 280 nm, reagent decomposition and other changes are likely to occur more rapidly.

[0070] For example, ultraviolet lamps have fixed wavelengths of 185nm and 254nm, which are considered the light rays of mercury, and are therefore considered unsuitable as ultraviolet sources for sterilization with various reagents in most cases. On the other hand, ultraviolet LEDs, whose emission wavelength can be changed by controlling the semiconductor crystal composition, are considered suitable as ultraviolet sources for reagent sterilization.

[0071] Furthermore, UV LEDs exhibit a spectral half-width of approximately 15 nm with a central emission wavelength fluctuation of about ±5 nm. Therefore, considering these factors, selecting the central emission wavelength of the UV LED as the UV source is preferable. Additionally, the efficiency of reagent decomposition due to UV absorption varies significantly depending on the wavelength. Therefore, the ratio of UV sterilization rate to the rate of reagent decomposition can be determined through experiments using UV LEDs. Besides evaluating the time-dependent changes in reagent concentration caused by UV irradiation through chromatography and mass analysis, the rate of reagent decomposition can also be evaluated by the time-dependent changes in absorption spectra when byproducts generated due to decomposition have absorption spectra different from the original reagents.

[0072] (1-1.1) Effect of wavelength selection

[0073] By using an ultraviolet source with a wavelength that has a high ratio of ultraviolet sterilization effect to ultraviolet absorption of the reagent, or a high ratio of ultraviolet sterilization rate to the rate of change such as reagent decomposition, it is possible to sterilize the reagent while suppressing changes such as reagent decomposition caused by ultraviolet irradiation.

[0074] (1-2) Device Composition

[0075] Figure 4A A diagram is provided to provide a summary view of the configuration of the automated analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figure 4D This is an enlarged longitudinal section view of the periphery D4 of a reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism. Figure 4B for Figure 4D ZX plane cross-section of line B4 in the middle. Figure 4C for Figure 4D Cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of line C4 in the middle.

[0076] In this embodiment, in the automatic analysis device 100, the door of the reagent container storage chamber of the main body of the device is opened, the reagent container 101 provided by the supplier is placed in the storage chamber, the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 1 are installed, the door is closed, and the device is used. At this time, the user removes the cap installed during the arrangement from the opening of the reagent container 101 (the opening for entering the reagent container 101, hereinafter simply referred to as the opening), and inserts the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 1 into the exposed opening. It should be noted that... Figure 4A In the example, the reagent container 101 is shown with a circular opening (a cylindrical shape with the central axis pointing in the up-down direction).

[0077] The sterilization mechanism 1 comprises a cylindrical outer electrode 104 and a cylindrical inner electrode 105, both equipped with an ultraviolet LED 103 serving as an ultraviolet source, and a fixing part 108. The ultraviolet LED 103 is disposed within the reagent container 101. An electrical insulation part 106 is provided between the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105. For example, by connecting the cathode of the ultraviolet LED 103 to the outer electrode 104 and the anode of the ultraviolet LED 103 to the inner electrode 105, and supplying power through the wiring 113 connected to the electrodes, the ultraviolet LED 103 irradiates ultraviolet light. The suction nozzle 102 penetrates the inner electrode 105 without contacting it, and a heat insulation part 107, serving as a heat insulation structure, is provided between the inner electrode 105 and the suction nozzle 102. Furthermore, the ultraviolet LED 103 does not contact the suction nozzle 102.

[0078] The suction nozzle 102 and the outer electrode 104 are fixed to the fixing part 108. The inner electrode 105 can be fixed to the fixing part 108, or even if it is not fixed to the fixing part 108, it will be fixed to the outer electrode via the ultraviolet LED 103. The fixing part 108 does not electrically connect the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105. In addition, the fixing part 108 insulates the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105 from the suction nozzle 102.

[0079] Alternatively, the fixing part 108 can be formed of a highly conductive metal, which is electrically connected to one of the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105, while electrically insulating the other, thereby replacing a portion of the wiring 113 used for power supply with the fixing part 108. Furthermore, the fixing part 108 can also function as a heat dissipation part, releasing heat generated when ultraviolet light is irradiated from the ultraviolet LED 103 via the fixed electrodes.

[0080] like Figures 4B to 4D As shown, in this embodiment, the fixing portion 108 is formed of a metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity, replacing a portion of the heat dissipation portion and wiring 113. When both the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105 are fixed to the fixing portion 108, an insulating portion is provided at the point of contact with one electrode. Here, the outer electrode 104 is electrically connected to the fixing portion 108, and an insulating portion 109 is provided between the inner electrode 105 and the fixing portion 108 for insulation. This insulating portion 109 preferably has high thermal conductivity. If the inner electrode 105 is not fixed to the fixing portion 108, the insulating portion 109 is not required. The power supply to the ultraviolet LED 103 is provided through wiring 113 connected to the outer and inner electrodes, and a portion of wiring 113 is replaced by the fixing portion 108. Furthermore, by providing a heat-insulating portion 110 at the point of contact between the suction nozzle 102 and the fixing portion 108, the suction nozzle 102 is insulated from the fixing portion 108, which functions as a heat dissipation portion.

[0081] In this embodiment, most of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 is released into the air via the outer electrode 104, the inner electrode 105, and the fixing part 108. The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the outer electrode 104, the inner electrode 105, and the fixing part 108, the higher the heat dissipation performance. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105 within the range that can pass through the opening of the reagent container 101, and to increase the size of the fixing part 108, which has a heat dissipation function, within the range that can be placed in the reagent container storage chamber. Furthermore, a heat sink structure can be used in the fixing part 108.

[0082] By attaching the fixing part 108 to the opening of the reagent container 101, the reagent container 101 is once again sealed. However, when the suction nozzle 102 draws in the reagent, there is a gap where air can enter the reagent container 101. It should be noted that the fixing part 108 is freely detachable from the opening of the reagent container 101.

[0083] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent even when the fixing part 108 is fixed to the replaced reagent container 101, i.e., when the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 101 is at its highest position. Therefore, the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105 that supply power to the ultraviolet LED 103 are also fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent. Therefore, the ultraviolet LED 103 irradiates ultraviolet light toward the inner wall surface of the reagent container 101 and the liquid level of the reagent.

[0084] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103, outer electrode 104, and inner electrode 105 to be waterproof. However, if the reagent container 101 is vibrated while the reagent is inside the container and the sterilization mechanism 1 is inside the container, there is a possibility that the reagent may come into contact with the UV LED 103, outer electrode 104, and inner electrode 105. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103, outer electrode 104, and inner electrode 105 to be waterproof. As a method of waterproofing, there are methods such as covering the entire container with a quartz glass shell with high UV transmittance, coating it with a fluoropolymer resin with high UV transmittance, and coating the area outside the UV irradiation part of the UV LED 103 with a rubber or resin with low UV transmittance.

[0085] The number, configuration, and tilt angle of the UV LEDs relative to the horizontal plane are determined by considering the shape and size of the reagent container, the positional relationship between the UV LEDs and the aspiration nozzle, and the entry pathway of microorganisms.

[0086] The reagent drawn from the suction nozzle 102 is sent to the analysis unit 111 for use in the analysis. The known components and processing functions of the analysis unit 111 are omitted from description. A function unique to this embodiment is the ability to notify the control unit 112 of the residual reagent volume.

[0087] Wiring 113 is connected to the outer electrode 104 via fixing part 108, and also to the inner electrode 105. Control unit 112 supplies power to ultraviolet LED 103 via wiring 113 and controls the irradiation amount. The irradiation and extinguishing of ultraviolet LED 103 are controlled by switching on and off power supply, and the energy of ultraviolet light is controlled by the amount of power supplied.

[0088] Wiring 113 includes not only wiring for powering and controlling the ultraviolet LED 103, but also signal lines for temperature sensors such as thermistors, and signal lines for informing the control unit 112 of the status of the ultraviolet LED 103. Furthermore, the automatic analysis device 100 has a display unit 114 that notifies the user whether appropriate reagent sterilization has been performed or if an abnormality has been detected. The user can view the status of the reagents and sterilization mechanism on the screen displayed on the display unit 114. It should be noted that the display unit 114 can also display the interface used in the operation and control of the automatic analysis device 100, analysis results, and device status. Notification content may include, for example, whether appropriate sterilization has been performed or if an abnormality has been detected.

[0089] The control unit 112 controls any one or a combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value based on the amount of residual reagent notified by the analysis unit 111. Here, the control unit 112 controls any one or a combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time in such a way that the less residual reagent there is, the less ultraviolet light is emitted.

[0090] The higher the current and voltage values, the greater the amount of ultraviolet radiation per unit time. Furthermore, the longer the energizing time, the greater the amount of ultraviolet radiation. The ultraviolet LED 103 can also be pulse-driven, and the irradiation amount can be controlled by making the pulse width corresponding to the energizing time variable.

[0091] The current, voltage, and energizing time are controlled to ensure that the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation generated is above the amount required for sterilization per unit volume of the reagent, and below the upper limit of the permissible range corresponding to changes in reagent properties. The amount of UV radiation required for sterilization per unit volume varies depending on the type of reagent being sterilized and the wavelength of the UV light used, and is therefore determined through prior measurement or calculation. Furthermore, the amount of UV radiation required to keep reagent properties within the permissible range also varies depending on the reagent composition, particularly the type of chemical bonds in the reagent, and the combination of the wavelengths of the UV light used, and is therefore determined through prior measurement or calculation. The storage unit 112A of the control unit 112 also stores the relationship between these relationships and the amount of residual reagent (table). Of course, the relationship between these relationships and the amount of residual reagent is also determined through prior measurement or calculation.

[0092] The analysis unit 111 calculates the amount of residual reagent in reagent container 101 based on the number of analyses (or measurements). The amount of reagent used in one analysis (or measurement) is known beforehand; therefore, by multiplying this value by the number of analyses (or measurements), the amount used after replacing reagent container 101 can be calculated. Furthermore, the amount of reagent filled into the new reagent container 101 is also known; therefore, the amount of residual reagent can be calculated by subtracting the calculated amount used from the known amount. It should be noted that the amount of residual reagent can also be determined using a liquid level detection mechanism. Since the liquid level detection mechanism is known, a detailed description is omitted.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 112 also controls the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value based on the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102. Here, the control unit 112 controls the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value in such a way that the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 does not exceed the upper limit of the operating temperature determined by the reagent specifications. The reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 is insulated from the ultraviolet LED 103, the outer electrode 104, the inner electrode 105, and the fixing part 108 by the heat insulation parts 107 and 110. However, as the ultraviolet irradiation time increases, the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 slowly rises and saturates compared to the case without heat insulation. The temperature rise is particularly large near the inner electrode 105. Therefore, the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 near the inner electrode 105 is measured using a temperature sensor such as a thermistor. Alternatively, the reagent temperature can be measured indirectly by measuring the temperature of the suction nozzle 102 located near the inner electrode 105, instead of directly measuring the reagent temperature. The measurement result from the temperature sensor is then transmitted to the control unit 112 via wiring.

[0094] Furthermore, the control unit 112 also controls the current, voltage, and on-time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103, or a combination thereof, to appropriate values ​​based on the bonding temperature of the ultraviolet LED 103. Here, the control unit 112 controls the current, voltage, and on-time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103, or a combination thereof, to appropriate values ​​in a manner that ensures the bonding temperature of the ultraviolet LED 103 does not exceed the upper limit of the bonding temperature determined by the specifications of the ultraviolet LED 103. Directly measuring the bonding temperature of the ultraviolet LED 103 is difficult; therefore, a temperature sensor such as a thermistor is placed near the ultraviolet LED 103 to indirectly measure the temperature of the solder joint, thereby calculating and estimating the bonding temperature of the ultraviolet LED 103. When there are multiple ultraviolet LEDs 103, multiple temperature sensors can be set up in a 1:1 ratio, or a single temperature sensor can be used as a representative. The measurement results of the temperature sensors are communicated to the control unit 112 via wiring.

[0095] The duration and timing of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation are determined based on the shelf life of the reagent after the container is opened, the UV irradiation dose necessary for reagent sterilization, the UV irradiation dose corresponding to the upper limit of the permissible range for reagent characteristic changes, and the time of reagent aspiration. For example, if continuous UV irradiation within the shelf life of the reagent after the container is opened would exceed the UV irradiation dose necessary for reagent sterilization and fall below the UV irradiation dose corresponding to the upper limit of the permissible range for reagent characteristic changes, continuous irradiation can be set as continuous irradiation. On the other hand, if continuous irradiation exceeds the UV irradiation dose necessary for reagent sterilization but falls below the UV irradiation dose corresponding to the upper limit of the permissible range for reagent characteristic changes, intermittent operation can be performed within the range exceeding the UV irradiation dose necessary for reagent sterilization. Furthermore, if continuous irradiation exceeds the UV irradiation dose necessary for reagent sterilization but falls above the UV irradiation dose corresponding to the upper limit of the permissible range for reagent characteristic changes, intermittent operation is performed in a manner that is above the UV irradiation dose necessary for reagent sterilization and below the UV irradiation dose corresponding to the upper limit of the permissible range for reagent characteristic changes. When performing intermittent operation, if the ultraviolet irradiation necessary for reagent sterilization can be performed during the interval when the aspiration nozzle 102 aspirates the reagent, the aspirated reagent can be sterilized efficiently by performing the ultraviolet irradiation necessary for reagent sterilization before the aspiration nozzle 102 starts aspirating the reagent, and extinguishing the ultraviolet irradiation after the start of reagent aspiration or after the end of reagent aspiration.

[0096] In order to cope with the situation where reagents are irradiated with ultraviolet light when the automatic analysis device is turned off, a part of the analysis unit 111 and the control unit 112 related to ultraviolet light irradiation can use a power supply for reagent cold storage that is powered even when the automatic analysis device is turned off.

[0097] Ultraviolet light, which has a bactericidal effect, is also harmful to the human body. Therefore, in order to prevent users from being exposed to ultraviolet light, the automatic analysis device can be equipped with an interlock mechanism that turns off the ultraviolet LED 103 if the door of the reagent container storage room is opened.

[0098] It is preferable that the outer electrode 104 and the inner electrode 105 are formed of metals such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them, which have high electrical and thermal conductivity. The insulating part 106 uses a material with low electrical conductivity such as resin, rubber, oxides, nitrides, or air. The heat-insulating part 107 is provided as a space such as air or a vacuum, or is made of a material with low thermal conductivity such as resin or rubber. When the fixing part 108 functions as a heat-dissipating part and can be electrically connected, it is preferable that it is formed of metals such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them, which have high electrical and thermal conductivity. The insulating part 109 is preferably an oxide or nitride with low electrical conductivity and high thermal conductivity; resin or rubber may also be used. The heat-insulating part 110 uses a material with low thermal conductivity such as resin or rubber.

[0099] In this embodiment, the opening of the reagent container 101 is circular, but other shapes are also acceptable. For example, if the opening is square, the electrode can be a cylindrical shape that allows passage through the opening, or it can be a prismatic shape that allows passage through the opening. If high exothermic performance is desired, in order to increase the volume and surface area within the area that allows passage through the opening, the outer electrode can be a square-hole prismatic shape, and the inner electrode can be a round-hole prismatic shape.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the suction nozzle 102 passes through the center of the electrode, but it is not necessary if it is not at the center.

[0101] (1-3) Effects of this implementation method

[0102] If the automatic analysis device 100 of this embodiment is configured as described above, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its surrounding components (i.e., the outer electrode 104, the inner electrode 105, and the fixing part 108, which also functions as a heat-generating part) do not contact the suction nozzle 102. A heat-insulating part 107 is provided between the inner electrode 105 and the suction nozzle 102, and a heat-insulating part 110 is provided between the fixing part 108 and the suction nozzle 102. Therefore, the effect of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 on heating the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 can be suppressed. As a result, changes in the properties of the reagent caused by heating inside the nozzle, which is a problem when performing ultraviolet sterilization of reagents, can be prevented.

[0103] Furthermore, the UV LED 103, its peripheral components (outer electrode 104, inner electrode 105, and fixing part 108) are not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent in the reagent container 101 is not directly heated. Thus, changes in properties caused by heating the reagent in the reagent container 101 can also be prevented.

[0104] Furthermore, the automatic analysis device 100 according to this embodiment appropriately controls the amount of ultraviolet light used for sterilization of the reagent based on the amount of reagent remaining in the reagent container 101. Specifically, the control unit 112 can reduce the amount of ultraviolet light as the amount of remaining reagent decreases.

[0105] Furthermore, by adopting this control method, it is possible to suppress the proliferation of bacteria in the reagent caused by insufficient irradiation and the changes in reagent composition caused by excessive irradiation, thus balancing the sterilization and maintenance of reagent properties, and enabling the reagent to be used for a longer period of time.

[0106] Furthermore, in the automatic analysis device 100 according to this embodiment, the sterilization mechanism 1 is freely installed and removed from the reagent container 101 provided by the supplier, so there is no need for reagent transfer when replacing reagents. In addition, there are no concerns about residual reagents or contamination of bacteria when replacing reagents. Furthermore, since the ultraviolet LED 103, the outer electrode 104, the inner electrode 105, and the fixing part 108, which are its peripheral components, are not immersed in reagents, it is not necessary to wash or clean the ultraviolet LED 103 and its peripheral components when replacing the reagent container 101. It is only necessary to pull out the sterilization mechanism 1 and put it into the new reagent container 101, which is easy to maintain.

[0107] (2) Second implementation method

[0108] Reference Figures 5A to 5D The second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0109] First implementation method (refer to) Figures 4A to 4D In the sterilization mechanism 1, the ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to two cylindrical electrodes and the cylindrical electrodes are fixed to the fixing part 108. However, in this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED is mounted on a circuit board, which is a different mounting method from the method of mounting the ultraviolet LED 103 by using a conductive structure as a power supply electrode.

[0110] Figure 5A A diagram is provided to provide a summary view of the configuration of the automated analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figure 5D This is an enlarged longitudinal section view of the periphery D5 of a reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism. Figure 5B for Figure 5D ZX plane cross-section of line B5 in the middle. Figure 5C for Figure 5D Cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of line C5 in the middle.

[0111] Figure 5A In this embodiment, the sterilization mechanism 2 comprises an ultraviolet LED 103 as an ultraviolet source, a circuit board 115 with an opening in the center, a metal cylinder 116, and a fixing part 108. The ultraviolet LED 103 is disposed inside the reagent container 101. The ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to the circuit board 115. Figure 5AIn this example, four ultraviolet LEDs 103 are connected in parallel. The circuit board 115 is a printed circuit board, also known as a heat-dissipating circuit board or metal-based circuit board, on which a thermally conductive insulating layer is stacked on a metal substrate with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or copper, and wiring made of copper foil is printed on it. Above the wiring layer is an insulating layer. In the portions where the wiring connects to the anode and cathode of the ultraviolet LEDs 103, and in the portions where power is supplied, the wiring layer is exposed as an electrode pad. Heat from the ultraviolet LEDs 103 connected to the electrode pads is rapidly conducted to the metal substrate.

[0112] The circuit board 115 contains electrode pads 117 for supplying power to the ultraviolet LED 103, which is supplied via wiring 113. The suction nozzle 102 passes through the circuit board 115 without contacting it, and a heat insulation portion 107 is provided between the circuit board 115 and the suction nozzle 102. Furthermore, a heat insulation portion 107 is also provided between the metal cylinder 116 and the suction nozzle 102. The inner side (i.e., the metal substrate side) of the circuit board 115 is mounted on the metal cylinder 116, and the metal cylinder 116 is fixed to the fixing portion 108.

[0113] Alternatively, the fixing part 108 can be formed of a highly conductive metal, and the fixing part 108 can be electrically connected to the metal cylinder 116, replacing a portion of the wiring 113 with the fixing part 108 and the metal cylinder 116. In addition, the fixing part 108 can also function as a heat dissipation part, releasing the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 when irradiated with ultraviolet light through the fixed metal cylinder 116 and the circuit board 115.

[0114] like Figures 5B to 5D As shown, in this embodiment, the fixing part 108 is formed of a metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity, replacing a portion of the heat dissipation part and the wiring 113. A heat insulation part 110 is provided at the portion of the suction nozzle 102 that contacts the fixing part 108. Power is supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 via wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads 117 on the circuit board 215 for power supply; a portion of the wiring 113 is replaced by the fixing part 108 and the metal cylinder 116.

[0115] Most of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 is released into the air through the circuit board 115, the metal cylinder 116, and the fixing part 108. The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the metal cylinder 116 and the fixing part 108, the higher the heat dissipation. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the metal cylinder 116 within the range that can pass through the opening of the reagent container.

[0116] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent, even when the fixing part 108 is fixed to the replaced reagent container 101, i.e., when the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 101 is at its highest position. Similarly, the circuit board 115 and the metal cylinder 116 are also fixed in positions that do not come into contact with the reagent.

[0117] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103, circuit board 115, and metal cylinder 116 to be waterproof. However, if the reagent container 101 is vibrated while the reagent is inside and the sterilization mechanism 2 is inside, there is a possibility that the reagent may come into contact with the UV LED 103, circuit board 115, and metal cylinder 116. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103, circuit board 115, and metal cylinder 116 to be waterproof.

[0118] The control unit 112 controls the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value based on the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102. Here, the control unit 112 controls the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value such that the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 does not exceed the upper limit of the operating temperature determined by the reagent specifications. The reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 is insulated from the ultraviolet LED 103, circuit board 115, metal cylinder 116, and fixing part 108 by the heat insulation parts 107 and 110. However, as the ultraviolet irradiation time increases, the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 slowly rises and saturates compared to the case without heat insulation. The temperature rise is particularly large near the circuit board 115. Therefore, a temperature sensor such as a thermistor is used to measure the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 near the circuit board 115. Alternatively, the reagent temperature can be measured indirectly by measuring the temperature of the suction nozzle 102 near the circuit board 115, rather than directly measuring the reagent temperature. The temperature sensor readings are transmitted to the control unit 112 via wiring.

[0119] It is preferred that the metal cylinder 116 be formed of metals such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them, which have high electrical and thermal conductivity.

[0120] In this embodiment, the opening of the reagent container 101 is circular, but any other shape is acceptable. For example, if the opening is square, to increase the exothermic effect, the circuit board 115 can be square with an opening at the center, and the metal cylinder 116 can be replaced with a prism-shaped metal with a circular hole. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the suction nozzle 102 passes through the center of the circuit board 115 and the metal cylinder 116, but it is not necessary to pass through the center.

[0121] The other components, controls, actions, materials, etc., are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0122] The same effect as the first embodiment can be achieved in this embodiment as in the above-described configuration.

[0123] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its surrounding components (i.e., the circuit board 115, the metal cylinder 116, and the fixing part 108, which also functions as a heat-dissipating part) do not contact the suction nozzle 102. A heat insulation part 107 is provided between the circuit board 115, the metal cylinder 116 and the suction nozzle 102, and a heat insulation part 110 is provided between the fixing part 108 and the suction nozzle 102. Therefore, the effect of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 on heating the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 can be suppressed. In addition, the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 115, the metal cylinder 116, and the fixing part 108 are not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent inside the reagent container 101 is not directly heated. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, a problem that arises when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0124] (3) Third implementation method

[0125] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6B The third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0126] In the first and second embodiments, the ultraviolet LED, which serves as the ultraviolet source, is arranged inside the container containing the reagent container to be sterilized. However, this embodiment shows a situation where, depending on the size and shape of the reagent container, it is impossible to arrange the ultraviolet LED and its surrounding components inside the reagent container, for example, reagent container 201 (see reference 201). Figure 6A A sterilization mechanism for situations where the inlet is small, the suction nozzle 102 cannot pass through the inlet, or the ultraviolet LED 103 cannot be placed inside the reagent container 201.

[0127] Figure 6A A diagram is provided to provide a summary view of the configuration of the automated analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figure 6B for Figure 6A Enlarged ZX cross-sectional view of the periphery B6 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0128] In the automatic analysis device 100 of this embodiment, the door of the reagent container storage chamber of the main body of the device is opened, the reagent container 201 provided by the supplier is placed in the storage chamber, the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 3 are installed, the door is closed, and the device is used. At this time, the user removes the cap installed during the arrangement from the opening of the reagent container 101, inserts the suction nozzle 102 into the exposed opening, and installs the sterilization mechanism 3 on the opening.

[0129] The sterilization mechanism 3 consists of an ultraviolet LED 103 as an ultraviolet source, a circuit board 215, and a fixing part 208. The ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to the circuit board 215. The circuit board 215 is a printed circuit board, also known as a heat-dissipating circuit board or a metal-based circuit board. The surface of the circuit board 215 has electrode pads for supplying power to the ultraviolet LED 103. Power is supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 through wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The description of the electrode pads is omitted. The circuit board 215 is fixed to the fixing part 208, and the circuit board 215 is not adjacent to the suction nozzle 102. The fixing part 208 functions as a heat dissipation part, releasing the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 during ultraviolet irradiation into the air via the circuit board 215. The fixing part 208 is formed of a component with high thermal conductivity, and the portion of the suction nozzle 102 in contact with the fixing part 208 is provided with a heat insulation part 110. Power is supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 via wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads on the surface of the circuit board 215 for power supply. Alternatively, the fixing part 208 can be formed of a component with high thermal and electrical conductivity, replacing a portion of the wiring 113.

[0130] The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the fixing part, the higher its heat dissipation. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the fixing part 208 within the range that it can be placed in the reagent container storage chamber. In addition, a heat sink structure can be used in the fixing part 208.

[0131] By installing the fixing part 208 onto the opening of the reagent container 201, the reagent container 201 is formed into a sealed state. However, when the suction nozzle 102 draws in the reagent, there is a gap where air can enter the reagent container 201. It should be noted that the fixing part 208 is freely detachable from the opening of the reagent container 201.

[0132] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed to the outside of the reagent container 201, so it never comes into contact with the reagent, regardless of the amount of reagent inside the container. Similarly, the circuit board 215 that supplies power to the ultraviolet LED 103 is also fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent.

[0133] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103 and circuit board 215 to be waterproof. However, when the reagent container 201 is vibrated while the sterilization mechanism 3 is installed inside, there is a possibility that the UV LED 103 and circuit board 215 may come into contact with the reagent. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103 and circuit board 215 to be waterproof.

[0134] The control unit 112 controls the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value based on the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102. Here, the control unit 112 controls the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value such that the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 does not exceed the upper limit of the operating temperature determined by the reagent specifications. The reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 is insulated from the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 215, and the fixing part 208 by the heat insulation part 110. However, as the ultraviolet irradiation time increases, the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 slowly rises and saturates compared to the case without heat insulation. The temperature rise is particularly large near the circuit board 215. Therefore, a temperature sensor such as a thermistor is used to measure the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle 102 near the circuit board 215. Alternatively, the reagent temperature can be measured indirectly by measuring the temperature of the suction nozzle 102 near the circuit board 215, rather than directly measuring the reagent temperature. The measurement results of the temperature sensor are communicated to the control unit 112 via wiring.

[0135] It is preferable that the fixing part 208 is made of a metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing these metals. If there is no electrical connection with the fixing part 208, oxides or nitrides may also be used.

[0136] The other components, controls, actions, materials, etc., are the same as in the first and second embodiments.

[0137] The same effects as the first and second embodiments can be achieved in this embodiment configured as described above.

[0138] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its surrounding components (i.e., the circuit board 215 and the fixing part 208, which also functions as a heat dissipation part) do not contact the suction nozzle 102. A heat insulation part 110 is provided between the fixing part 208 and the suction nozzle 102, thus suppressing the effect of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 on heating the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102. In addition, the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 215, and the fixing part 208 are not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent inside the reagent container 201 is not directly heated. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, a problem that arises when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0139] (4) Fourth Implementation

[0140] Reference Figures 7A to 7E The fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0141] The first to third embodiments provide configuration examples when the reagent container has one opening. In this embodiment, the reagent container is configured to have two or more openings, consisting of an opening for inserting the suction nozzle and an opening for installing the sterilization mechanism.

[0142] Figure 7A A diagram is provided to provide a summary view of the configuration of the automated analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figures 7B to 7D for Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B7 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0143] like Figure 7A As shown, the reagent container 301 of this embodiment has two openings at the top.

[0144] In the automatic analysis device 100 of this embodiment, the door of the reagent container storage chamber of the main body of the device is opened, the reagent container 301 provided by the supplier is placed in the storage chamber, the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 4 are installed, the door is closed, and the device is used. At this time, the user removes the two caps installed during the arrangement from the two openings of the reagent container 301, inserts the suction nozzle 102 into one of the exposed openings, and inserts the sterilization mechanism 4 into the other opening.

[0145] The sterilization mechanism 4 consists of an ultraviolet LED 103 as an ultraviolet source, a circuit board 315, a metal cylinder 216, and a fixing part 308A. The ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to the circuit board 315. The circuit board 315 is a printed circuit board, also known as a heat-dissipating circuit board or a metal-based circuit board. The surface of the circuit board 315 has electrode pads 117 for supplying power to the ultraviolet LED 103, and the power to the ultraviolet LED 103 is supplied through wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads 117. In addition, the circuit board 315 has through holes through which the wiring 113 can pass. The inside of the circuit board 315 is mounted to the metal cylinder 216, and the metal cylinder 216 is fixed to the fixing part 308A.

[0146] The fixing part 308A can be formed of a highly conductive metal, and the fixing part 308A and the metal cylinder 216 can be electrically connected, with the fixing part 308A and the metal cylinder 216 replacing a part of the wiring 113. Alternatively, the fixing part 308A can function as a heat dissipation part, releasing the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 when irradiated with ultraviolet light through the fixed metal cylinder 216 and the circuit board 315.

[0147] In this embodiment, the case where the fixing part 308A is formed of a metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity, replacing a portion of the heat dissipation part and the wiring 113, will be described. By forming the fixing part 308A with a component of high thermal conductivity, most of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 is released into the air via the circuit board 315, the metal cylinder 216, and the fixing part 308A. Figures 7B to 7D As shown, one of the two wires connected to the two electrode pads 117 passes through a through-hole in the circuit board 315 and the interior of the metal cylinder 216, while the other is electrically connected to the metal cylinder 216. The fixing part 308A is electrically connected to the metal cylinder 216, so the fixing part 308A and the metal cylinder 216 function as part of the wiring 113.

[0148] The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the metal cylinder 216 and the fixing part 308A, the higher the heat dissipation. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the metal cylinder 216 within the range that can pass through the opening of the reagent container, and it is preferable to increase the size of the fixing part 308A within the range that can be placed in the storage chamber of the reagent container. In addition, a heat sink structure can be used in the fixing part 308A.

[0149] The suction nozzle 102 is fixed by the fixing part 308B. By installing the fixing parts 308A and 308B onto the openings of their respective reagent containers 301, the reagent containers 301 are formed into a sealed state. However, when the suction nozzle 102 draws in reagents, there is a gap where air can enter the reagent container 301. It should be noted that the fixing parts 308A and 308B are freely detachable from the openings of the reagent container 301.

[0150] In order to simultaneously insert the sterilization mechanism 4 and the suction nozzle 102 into the reagent container 301, the fixing part 308A and the fixing part 308B can be integrated. In the case of integration, the fixing part 308B also functions as a heat-releasing part. Therefore, by providing a heat-insulating part at the part where the suction nozzle 102 contacts the fixing part, the suction nozzle 102 is insulated from the fixing part which has the function of a heat-releasing part.

[0151] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent when the fixing part 308A is fixed to the replaced reagent container 301, that is, when the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 301 is at its highest position. Similarly, the circuit board 315 and the metal cylinder 216 are also fixed in positions that do not come into contact with the reagent.

[0152] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103, circuit board 315, and metal cylinder 216 to be waterproof. However, when the reagent container 301 is vibrated while the sterilization mechanism 4 is placed inside, there is a possibility that the reagent may come into contact with the UV LED 103, circuit board 315, and metal cylinder 216. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103, circuit board 315, and metal cylinder 216 to be waterproof.

[0153] Without integrating the fixing parts 308A and 308B, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 will not heat the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102. Therefore, the control unit 112 does not need to control any one or a combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 based on the temperature of the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102.

[0154] On the other hand, when the fixing part 308A and the fixing part 308B are integrated, although the part of the suction nozzle 102 that contacts the fixing part is provided with a heat insulation part, the temperature of the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 rises and saturates as the ultraviolet irradiation time increases. The following countermeasures are taken: increasing the thickness of the heat insulation part in a way that keeps the temperature rise within an allowable range, making the fixing part 308B side with a component with low exothermicity, and providing a heat insulation part between the fixing part 308A and the fixing part 308B, etc.

[0155] If, even with countermeasures, the temperature rise within the aspiration nozzle 102 exceeds the allowable range, the control unit 112 controls any one or a combination of the current, voltage, and on-time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value, ensuring that the temperature within the aspiration nozzle 102 does not exceed the upper limit of the operating temperature determined by the reagent specifications. The reagent temperature within the aspiration nozzle 102, located near the fixing unit, is measured using a temperature sensor such as a thermistor. Alternatively, the reagent temperature may be measured indirectly by measuring the temperature of the aspiration nozzle 102, located near the fixing unit. The temperature sensor measurement results are communicated to the control unit 112 via wiring.

[0156] It is preferable that the metal cylinder 216 is made of a metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them. When the heat-dissipating part and a portion of the wiring 113 are replaced by a fixing part 308A, it is preferable that it is made of a metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them. If there is no electrical connection with the fixing part 308A, oxides or nitrides with high thermal conductivity can also be used.

[0157] When fixing part 308A and fixing part 308B are integrated, heat dissipation can be improved by making fixing part 308A of the same material. In this case, the heat insulation part provided at the part of the suction nozzle 102 that contacts the fixing part is formed of a material with low thermal conductivity, such as resin or rubber. If the temperature rise of the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 would exceed the allowable range even if the thickness of the heat insulation part is increased, fixing part 308B can be formed of resin and integrated with fixing part 308A, which is formed of metal, oxide, or nitride.

[0158] The other components, controls, actions, materials, etc., are the same as in the first to third embodiments.

[0159] The same effects as the first to third embodiments can be achieved in this embodiment configured as described above.

[0160] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its peripheral components (i.e., the circuit board 315 and the fixing part 308A, which also functions as a heat-dissipating part) are all isolated from the reagent in the suction nozzle 102 by an insulating part that serves as a heat-insulating structure. Therefore, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 does not heat the reagent in the suction nozzle 102. Furthermore, even if the fixing part 308A and the fixing part 308B are integrated, the heat insulation part between the fixing part and the suction nozzle 102 can suppress the effect of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 heating the reagent in the suction nozzle 102. Moreover, the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 315, and the fixing part 308A are not immersed in the reagent. Furthermore, even if the fixing part 308A and the fixing part 308B are integrated, the fixing part is not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent in the reagent container 301 is not directly heated. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, which is a problem when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0161] (5) Fifth Implementation

[0162] Reference Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0163] In the fourth embodiment, an aspiration nozzle is inserted into one port of a reagent container with two ports at the top, and a sterilization mechanism is inserted into the other port. However, this embodiment shows a sterilization mechanism when the port of the reagent container 401 is too small to accommodate the ultraviolet LED 103 inside the reagent container 401.

[0164] Figure 8A A diagram is provided to provide a summary view of the configuration of the automated analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figure 8B for Figure 8A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B8 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0165] In this embodiment, in the automatic analysis device 100, the door of the reagent container storage chamber of the main body of the device is opened, the reagent container 401 provided by the supplier is placed in the storage chamber, the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 5 are installed, the door is closed, and the device is used. Therefore, the user removes the two caps installed during the arrangement from the two openings of the reagent container 401, inserts the suction nozzle 102 into one of the exposed openings, and installs the sterilization mechanism 5 into the other opening.

[0166] The sterilization mechanism 5 consists of an ultraviolet LED 103 as an ultraviolet source, a circuit board 415, and a fixing part 408A. The ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to the circuit board 415. The circuit board 415 is a printed circuit board, also known as a heat-dissipating circuit board or a metal-based circuit board. The surface of the circuit board 415 has electrode pads for supplying power to the ultraviolet LED 103. Power is supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 through wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The description of the electrode pads is omitted. The circuit board 415 is fixed to the fixing part 408A.

[0167] The fixing part 408A can be formed of a highly conductive metal, and the fixing part 408A can replace a part of the wiring 113. In addition, the fixing part 408A can also function as a heat dissipation part, releasing the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 when irradiated with ultraviolet light through the fixed circuit board 415.

[0168] In this embodiment, the case where the fixing part 408A is formed of a metal with high thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity will be described. By forming the fixing part 408A with a component with high thermal conductivity, most of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 is released into the air via the circuit board 415 and the fixing part 408A. Furthermore, the fixing part 408A can be used to replace a portion of the wiring 113.

[0169] The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the fixing part 408A, the higher its heat dissipation. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the fixing part 408A within the range that it can be placed in the reagent container storage compartment. In addition, a heat sink structure can be used in the fixing part 408A.

[0170] The suction nozzle 102 is fixed by the fixing part 408B. By installing the fixing parts 408A and 408B onto the openings of their respective reagent containers 401, the reagent containers 401 are formed into a sealed state. However, when the suction nozzle 102 draws in reagents, air may enter the gaps within the reagent container 401. It should be noted that the fixing parts 408A and 408B are freely detachable from the openings of the reagent container 401.

[0171] In order to simultaneously insert the sterilization mechanism 5 and the suction nozzle 102 into the reagent container 401, the fixing part 408A and the fixing part 408B can be integrated. In the case of integration, the fixing part 408B also functions as a heat-releasing part. Therefore, by providing a heat-insulating part at the part where the suction nozzle 102 contacts the fixing part, the suction nozzle 102 is insulated from the fixing part which has the function of a heat-releasing part.

[0172] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed to the outside of the reagent container 401, so it never comes into contact with the reagent regardless of the amount of reagent inside the container 401. Similarly, the circuit board 415 that supplies power to the ultraviolet LED 103 is also fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent.

[0173] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103 and circuit board 415 to be waterproof. However, if the reagent container 401 is vibrated while the sterilization mechanism 5 is installed, there is a possibility that the UV LED 103 and circuit board 415 may come into contact with the reagent. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103 and circuit board 415 to be waterproof.

[0174] Without integrating the fixing parts 408A and 408B, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 will not heat the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102. Therefore, the control unit 112 does not need to control any one or a combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 based on the temperature of the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102.

[0175] On the other hand, when the fixing part 408A and fixing part 408B are integrated, although an insulating part is provided at the part where the suction nozzle 102 contacts the fixing part, the temperature of the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 rises and saturates as the ultraviolet irradiation time increases. The following countermeasures are taken: increasing the thickness of the insulating part in a manner that keeps the temperature rise within an allowable range; constructing the fixing part 408B side with a component with low exothermic properties; and providing an insulating part between the fixing part 408A and fixing part 408B, etc.

[0176] If, even with countermeasures, the temperature rise within the aspiration nozzle 102 exceeds the allowable range, the control unit 112 controls any one or a combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 to an appropriate value, ensuring that the temperature within the aspiration nozzle 102 does not exceed the upper limit of the operating temperature determined by the reagent specifications. The reagent temperature within the aspiration nozzle 102, located near the fixing unit, is measured using a temperature sensor such as a thermistor. Alternatively, the reagent temperature may be measured indirectly by measuring the temperature of the aspiration nozzle 102, located near the fixing unit. The temperature sensor measurement results are communicated to the control unit 112 via wiring.

[0177] When the heat-dissipating part and part of the wiring 113 are replaced by the fixing part 408A, it is preferable to form it with a metal such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them, which have high electrical and thermal conductivity. If there is no electrical connection with the fixing part 408A, oxides or nitrides with high thermal conductivity can also be used.

[0178] When fixing part 408A and fixing part 408B are integrated, heat dissipation can be improved by using the same material as fixing part 408A. In this case, the heat insulation part provided at the part of the suction nozzle 102 that contacts the fixing part is formed of a material with low thermal conductivity, such as resin or rubber. If the temperature rise of the reagent inside the suction nozzle 102 would exceed the allowable range even if the thickness of the heat insulation part is increased, fixing part 408B can be formed of resin and integrated with fixing part 408A formed of metal, oxide, or nitride.

[0179] The other components, controls, actions, materials, etc., are the same as in the fourth embodiment.

[0180] The same effect as the fourth embodiment can be achieved in this embodiment as in the above-described configuration.

[0181] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its peripheral components (i.e., the circuit board 415 and the fixing part 408A, which also functions as a heat-dissipating part) are all isolated from the reagent in the suction nozzle 102 by an insulating part that serves as a heat-insulating structure. Therefore, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 does not heat the reagent in the suction nozzle 102. Furthermore, even if the fixing part 408A and the fixing part 408B are integrated, the heat insulation part between the fixing part and the suction nozzle 102 can suppress the effect of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 heating the reagent in the suction nozzle 102. Moreover, the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 415, and the fixing part 408A are not immersed in the reagent. Furthermore, even if the fixing part 408A and the fixing part 408B are integrated, the fixing part is not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent in the reagent container 401 is not directly heated. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, which is a problem when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0182] (6) Sixth Implementation Method

[0183] Reference Figures 9A to 9E The sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0184] The first to fifth embodiments show the configuration when the outlet for removing the reagent is located at the top of the reagent container, while this embodiment shows the configuration of the sterilization mechanism when the outlet for removing the reagent is located at the bottom of the reagent container.

[0185] Figure 9A A diagram is provided to provide a summary view of the configuration of the automated analysis apparatus according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figures 9B to 9D for Figure 9A Enlarged cross-sectional view of the ZX plane of the periphery B9 of the reagent container equipped with a sterilization mechanism.

[0186] like Figure 9A As shown, in the reagent container 501 of this embodiment, the port for taking out the reagent is located at the bottom, and the port for allowing air to enter is located at the top.

[0187] In the automatic analysis device 100 of this embodiment, the door of the reagent container storage chamber of the device body is opened, the reagent container 501 provided by the supplier is placed in the storage chamber, the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 6 are installed, the door is closed, and the device is used. The reagent container 501 has one opening at the top and one at the bottom, each fitted with a lid. The bottom opening is for removing the reagent; by removing the lid and installing it with the opening facing down on the device body, the reagent can be removed from the suction nozzle 102. The top opening is for allowing air to enter the reagent container 501 when the reagent is removed from the reagent container 501 via the suction nozzle 102. When using the device without ultraviolet sterilization of the reagent, the top opening is opened for use. In this case, the user removes the two lids installed during the arrangement from the two openings of the reagent container 501, installs the reagent container 501 on the device body, and installs the sterilization mechanism 6 on the exposed top opening.

[0188] The sterilization mechanism 6 comprises an ultraviolet LED 103 as an ultraviolet source, a circuit board 515, a metal cylinder 316, and a fixing part 508. The ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to the circuit board 515. The circuit board 515 is a printed circuit board, also known as a heat-dissipating circuit board or a metal-based circuit board. The surface of the circuit board 515 has electrode pads 117 for supplying power to the ultraviolet LED 103, and power is supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 through wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads 117. Furthermore, the circuit board 515 has through holes through which the wiring 113 can pass. The inside of the circuit board 515 is mounted to the metal cylinder 316, and the metal cylinder 316 is fixed to the fixing part 508.

[0189] Alternatively, the fixing part 508 can be formed of a highly conductive metal, electrically connecting the fixing part 508 and the metal cylinder 316, thus replacing a portion of the wiring 113 with the fixing part 508 and the metal cylinder 316. Furthermore, the fixing part 508 can function as a heat dissipation part, releasing the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 during ultraviolet irradiation via the fixed metal cylinder 316 and the circuit board 515.

[0190] In this embodiment, the case where the fixing part 508 is formed of a metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity, replacing a portion of the heat dissipation part and the wiring 113, will be described. By forming the fixing part 508 with a component of high thermal conductivity, most of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 is released into the air via the circuit board 515, the metal cylinder 316, and the fixing part 508. Figures 9B to 9EAs shown, one of the two wires connected to the two electrode pads 117 passes through a through-hole in the circuit board 515 and the interior of the metal cylinder 316, while the other is electrically connected to the metal cylinder 316. The fixing part 508 is electrically connected to the metal cylinder 316, so the fixing part 508 and the metal cylinder 316 function as part of the wiring 113.

[0191] The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the metal cylinder 316 and the fixing part 508, the higher the heat dissipation. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the metal cylinder 316 within the range that can pass through the opening of the reagent container, and it is preferable to increase the size of the fixing part 508 within the range that enters the storage chamber of the reagent container. In addition, a heat sink structure can be used in the fixing part 508.

[0192] By installing the reagent container 501 onto the main body of the device and attaching the fixing part 508 to the opening at the top of the reagent container 501, the reagent container 501 is formed into a sealed state. However, when the suction nozzle 102 draws in the reagent, there is a gap where air can enter the reagent container 501. It should be noted that the fixing part 508 is freely detachable from the opening at the top of the reagent container 501.

[0193] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent, even when the fixing part 508 is fixed to the replaced reagent container 501, i.e., when the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 501 is at its highest position. Similarly, the circuit board 515 and the metal cylinder 316 are also fixed in positions that do not come into contact with the reagent.

[0194] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103, circuit board 515, and metal cylinder 316 to be waterproof. However, when the reagent container 501 is vibrated while the sterilization mechanism 6 is inside, there is a possibility that the reagent may come into contact with the UV LED 103, circuit board 515, and metal cylinder 316. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103, circuit board 515, and metal cylinder 316 to be waterproof.

[0195] The heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 does not heat the reagent inside the aspiration nozzle 102. Therefore, the control unit 112 does not need to control any or any combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 based on the temperature of the reagent inside the aspiration nozzle 102.

[0196] It is preferable that the metal cylinder 316 is made of a metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them. When the heat-dissipating part and a portion of the wiring 113 are replaced by a fixing part 508, it is preferable that it is made of a metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them. If there is no electrical connection with the fixing part 508, oxides or nitrides with high thermal conductivity can also be used.

[0197] The other components, controls, actions, materials, etc., are the same as in the second embodiment.

[0198] The same effect as the second embodiment can be obtained in this embodiment as in the above-described configuration.

[0199] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its surrounding components (i.e., the circuit board 515 and the fixing part 508, which also functions as a heat-dissipating part) are all isolated from the reagent in the suction nozzle 102 by an isolation part that serves as a heat-insulating structure. Therefore, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 will not heat the reagent in the suction nozzle 102. In addition, the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 515, and the fixing part 508 are not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent in the reagent container 501 is not directly heated. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, which is a problem when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0200] (7) Seventh Implementation

[0201] Reference Figure 10 The seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0202] The sixth embodiment is configured as a reagent container with the outlet for removing the reagent located at the bottom and the outlet for allowing air to enter located at the top, while this embodiment shows a configuration where there is no outlet for allowing air to enter and instead a small hole.

[0203] Figure 10 A diagram is provided to illustrate the configuration of the automatic analysis apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0204] like Figure 10 As shown, in the reagent container 601 of this embodiment, the port for removing the reagent is located at the bottom, and the air hole 118 for allowing air to enter is located at the top. In the automatic analysis device 100, the door of the reagent container storage chamber of the device body is opened, the reagent container 601 provided by the supplier is placed in the storage chamber, the suction nozzle 102 and the sterilization mechanism 7 are installed, the door is closed, and the device is used. The reagent container 601 has an air hole 118 at the top and an opening at the bottom, and a lid is installed. The lower opening is for removing the reagent; by removing the lid and installing it with the opening facing down on the device body, the reagent can be removed from the suction nozzle 102. The upper air hole 118 is a hole for allowing air to enter the reagent container 601 when the reagent is removed from the reagent container 601 via the suction nozzle 102. Therefore, in the arrangement, the installed lid is removed from the opening of the reagent container 601, the reagent container 601 is installed on the device body, and the sterilization mechanism 7 is installed above the air hole, that is, on the outside of the reagent container 601.

[0205] The sterilization mechanism 7 consists of an ultraviolet LED 103 as an ultraviolet source, a circuit board 615, and a fixing part 608. The ultraviolet LED 103 is connected to the circuit board 615. The circuit board 615 is a printed circuit board, also known as a heat-dissipating circuit board or a metal-based circuit board. The surface of the circuit board 615 has electrode pads for supplying power to the ultraviolet LED 103. Power is supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 through wiring 113 connected to the electrode pads. Figure 10 The description of the electrode pads is omitted. The circuit board 615 is fixed to the fixing part 608.

[0206] Alternatively, the fixing part 608 can be formed of a highly conductive metal, replacing a portion of the wiring 113. Furthermore, the fixing part 608 can function as a heat dissipation part, releasing the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 when irradiated with ultraviolet light via the fixed circuit board 615.

[0207] In this embodiment, the case where the fixing part 608 is formed of a metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity, replacing a portion of the heat dissipation part and the wiring 113, will be described. By forming the fixing part 608 with a component with high thermal conductivity, most of the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 is released into the air via the circuit board 615 and the fixing part 608. The fixing part 608 can also replace a portion of the wiring 113.

[0208] The larger the volume and surface area of ​​the fixing part 608, the higher its heat dissipation. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the size of the fixing part 608 within the range that it can be placed in the reagent container storage compartment. In addition, a heat sink structure can be used in the fixing part 608.

[0209] By installing the reagent container 601 onto the main body of the device and attaching the fixing part 608 to the opening at the top of the reagent container 601, the reagent container 601 is formed into a sealed state. However, when the suction nozzle 102 draws in the reagent, there is a gap where air can enter the reagent container 601. It should be noted that the fixing part 608 is freely detachable from the opening at the top of the reagent container 601.

[0210] The ultraviolet LED 103 is fixed to the outside of the reagent container 601, so it never comes into contact with the reagent regardless of the amount of reagent inside the container. Similarly, the circuit board 615 that supplies power to the ultraviolet LED 103 is also fixed in a position that does not come into contact with the reagent.

[0211] It is not necessary for the UV LED 103 and circuit board 615 to be waterproof. However, when the reagent container 601 is vibrated while the sterilization mechanism 5 is installed inside, there is a possibility that the reagent may come into contact with the UV LED 103 and circuit board 615. Therefore, it is also possible for the UV LED 103 and circuit board 615 to be waterproof.

[0212] The heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 does not heat the reagent inside the aspiration nozzle 102. Therefore, the control unit 112 does not need to control any or any combination of the current, voltage, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet LED 103 based on the temperature of the reagent inside the aspiration nozzle 102.

[0213] When the fixing part 608 is used instead of the heat dissipation part and part of the wiring 113, it is preferable to form it with a metal such as aluminum, copper, or alloys containing them, which have high electrical and thermal conductivity. If there is no electrical connection with the fixing part 608, oxides or nitrides with high thermal conductivity can also be used.

[0214] The other components, controls, operations, and materials are the same as in the second embodiment.

[0215] The same effect as the second embodiment can be obtained in this embodiment as in the above-described configuration.

[0216] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ultraviolet LED 103, which serves as the ultraviolet source, and its peripheral components (i.e., the circuit board 615 and the fixing part 608, which also functions as a heat-dissipating part) are all isolated from the reagent in the suction nozzle 102 by an isolation part that serves as a heat-insulating structure. Therefore, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED 103 does not heat the reagent in the suction nozzle 102. In addition, the ultraviolet LED 103, the circuit board 615, and the fixing part 608 are not immersed in the reagent. Therefore, the reagent in the reagent container 601 is not directly heated. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, which is a problem when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0217] (8) Eighth Implementation

[0218] Reference Figure 11 The eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0219] In the first to seventh embodiments, the reagent container is fixed inside the device, and the suction nozzle is also fixed relative to the reagent container. This embodiment, however, shows a configuration where the reagent container is arranged on a rotating disk in a reagent tray with multiple reagent containers arranged side-by-side. In this configuration, the suction nozzle is inserted into the opening of the reagent container only when each reagent is used to draw the reagent, for example, to discharge the reagent into a reaction vessel where the analyte reacts with the reagent.

[0220] Figure 11 This diagram is a summary illustration of the configuration of the reagent tray periphery in the automatic analysis apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0221] Here, in this embodiment, the reagent tray is capable of arranging multiple reagent containers side by side on a circuit board, and has a mechanism for rotating and moving the tray so that any reagent container is positioned at a predetermined reagent aspiration position.

[0222] In the automatic analysis device 100 of this embodiment, the cover covering the main body of the device is opened, and the reagent container 701 provided by the supplier is placed in the reagent storage section 119 of the main body of the device for use. Therefore, the user removes the lid installed during the arrangement from the opening of the reagent container 701 and places it in the reagent tray.

[0223] The reagent is drawn and discharged using a reagent dispensing mechanism 120 equipped with a drawing nozzle 202. The reagent dispensing mechanism 120 discharges the drawn reagent into the reaction vessel. Figure 11 The description of the reaction vessel is omitted.

[0224] The sterilization mechanism 8, equipped with an ultraviolet irradiation unit 121, can irradiate ultraviolet light towards the opening of the reagent container 701 without being installed on the reagent container 701. The ultraviolet light source is an ultraviolet LED, and the wavelength of the ultraviolet light is selected, for example, as in Embodiment 1. When there are multiple types of reagents that need to be sterilized and different suitable wavelengths, multiple ultraviolet LEDs with different wavelengths are installed.

[0225] When the ultraviolet irradiation unit 121 irradiates ultraviolet light towards the opening of the reagent container 701A containing the reagent to be sterilized, the front end of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 121 is fixed above the opening of the reagent container 701A and in a non-inserted position. The reagent tray can rotate or remain stationary during ultraviolet irradiation. When irradiating ultraviolet light while rotating, the ultraviolet light is irradiated as it passes below the ultraviolet irradiation unit 121. Therefore, when irradiating multiple reagents with different suitable wavelengths with ultraviolet light while the reagent tray rotates, multiple ultraviolet LEDs with different wavelengths can be switched to irradiate ultraviolet light with wavelengths suitable for each reagent.

[0226] While ultraviolet light has a bactericidal effect, it is also harmful to the human body. Therefore, to prevent users from being exposed to ultraviolet light, the automatic analysis device can have an interlocking mechanism that turns off the ultraviolet LEDs if the cover of the main body of the device is opened. It should be noted that the cover is made of resin, metal, or other materials that shield ultraviolet light.

[0227] According to this embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiation section 121, which is composed of an ultraviolet LED as an ultraviolet source, is isolated from the reagent dispensing mechanism 120, which has an aspiration nozzle 202, by an insulating section. Therefore, the heat generated by the ultraviolet LED constituting the sterilization mechanism 8 and its surrounding components does not have the effect of heating the reagent in the aspiration nozzle 202. Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiation section 121 is not immersed in the reagent. As a result, changes in reagent characteristics due to heating, which is a problem when performing ultraviolet sterilization on reagents, can be prevented.

[0228] (9) Ninth Implementation

[0229] Reference Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figures 14A to 14D The ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0230] In the first to eighth embodiments, ultraviolet LEDs were used as the ultraviolet source to sterilize the reagents in the reagent container using ultraviolet light. In this embodiment, considering that ultraviolet LEDs have higher directionality of ultraviolet irradiation compared to ultraviolet lamps, the number, arrangement, and tilt angle relative to the horizontal plane of ultraviolet LEDs are determined by taking into account the shape and size of the reagent container, the positional relationship between the ultraviolet LEDs and the aspiration nozzle, and the entry pathway of microorganisms.

[0231] Of particular importance in the shape and size of reagent containers is whether the upper part of the container has an opening for inserting a sterilization mechanism and the location thereof.

[0232] When the reagent container is fixed to the main body of the device as in the first, second, fourth and sixth embodiments, if there is an opening at the top of the reagent container into which the sterilization mechanism can be inserted, a good sterilization effect can be obtained in a shorter irradiation time by placing the sterilization mechanism into the reagent container.

[0233] On the other hand, when the opening at the top of the reagent container is too small to insert the sterilization mechanism, as in the third, fifth, seventh, and eighth embodiments, or when there is no opening at the top but an air hole, irradiation is performed from outside the reagent container when using the reagent tray. In this case, the ultraviolet irradiation range inside the reagent container is determined by the size of the opening or hole and the distance between the opening and the ultraviolet source. Furthermore, compared to irradiation from inside the reagent container, the amount of ultraviolet light directly incident on the reagent is reduced, therefore a longer irradiation time is required to achieve a sterilization effect.

[0234] Figure 12A and Figure 12B A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED involved in this embodiment.

[0235] use Figure 12A and Figure 12B There is an opening in the center of the upper part of the reagent container. The irradiation range when the UV LED is placed inside the reagent container is compared with the irradiation range when the UV LED is placed outside the reagent container for the same reagent container. Here, the suction nozzle and the surrounding parts of the UV source are omitted.

[0236] Figure 12A In this embodiment, reagent container 801 is filled with reagent to a height 122. Ultraviolet LED 103 is positioned inside the reagent container, above the height 122. The vertical line 123 (or orientation) of the surface of ultraviolet LED 103 points directly downwards. In this embodiment, the target of the irradiation range is defined using a pointing half-value angle. The ultraviolet light intensity of ultraviolet LED 103 is strongest in the direction of the vertical line 123, and decreases as the angle with the vertical line 123 increases, reaching half intensity at ±60°. In this embodiment, the irradiation range is defined as ultraviolet light 124 with half intensity and the inner wall of the reagent container 801. Figure 12B In this configuration, the ultraviolet LED 103 is positioned outside the reagent container 801. The reagent height 122 and... Figure 12A The same applies. Ultraviolet light 124 at half intensity irradiates the inner wall of the opening. The figure shows ultraviolet light 125 incident from below the protrusion of the opening. In this case, the space enclosed by ultraviolet light 124, ultraviolet light 125, and the inner wall of the reagent container 701 constitutes the irradiation range. The larger the opening and the closer the outer ultraviolet LED 103 is to the reagent container 801, the wider the irradiation range for the reagent.

[0237] Figure 12A and Figure 12B In this process, reagents located outside the irradiation range are difficult to sterilize with ultraviolet light. However, they are not completely unsterilized by ultraviolet light. For reagents located outside the irradiation range, ultraviolet light with an intensity less than half that in the direction of the vertical line 123 is incident on and reflected from the inner wall of the reagent container 801, and the scattered ultraviolet light also enters outside the irradiation range. Therefore, there is a possibility that practical ultraviolet sterilization can be performed.

[0238] When the UV irradiation dose is above the amount necessary for sterilization of reagents within the irradiation range, but below the amount necessary for sterilization of some reagents outside the irradiation range, the number, configuration, and tilt angle of the UV LEDs relative to the horizontal plane are changed.

[0239] Figure 13A and Figure 13B A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED involved in this embodiment.

[0240] Figure 13A and Figure 13B What is shown is, with Figure 12A and Figure 12B In contrast, an example is presented where the number of UV LEDs is increased to two, and the orientation of the UV LEDs is adjusted to a non-directly downward angle to ensure that the entire reagent is within the irradiation range. The reagent container 801 has an opening at its upper center, and both UV LEDs 103A and 103B are disposed within the reagent container 801 and are positioned above the height 122 of the reagent. As a method for arranging multiple UV LEDs at different angles, the method shown in the second embodiment, which connects the UV LEDs to the cylindrical electrode, is suitable. The angle can be adjusted by creating a tilt angle at the location where the UV LEDs are mounted using machining.

[0241] When placing UV LEDs inside a reagent container to ensure that all reagents within the container are within the irradiation range and that the UV irradiation dose exceeds the necessary level for reagent sterilization, the required number and angle of UV LEDs are important in relation to the shape, size, orifice position, and suction nozzle position of the reagent container. For example, the orifice position from... Figure 13A The upper center of the reagent container shown is changed Figure 13B In the case shown on the upper right side, the tilt angle of UV LED103A relative to the horizontal plane will increase, while the angle of UV LED103B will decrease.

[0242] Figures 14A to 14D A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another further example of the positional relationship between the reagent container and the ultraviolet LED involved in this embodiment.

[0243] For the purpose of increasing the rigidity of reagent containers, improving operability, and enhancing identification, for example, ... Figure 14A As shown, the application of ultraviolet sterilization to a reagent container with a structure where the inner walls are joined by recesses from the surface and back of the container is explained. The reagent container 901 has a recess 126 near the center, and the opening is located on the upper right side. The reagent container 901, except for the recess 126, is similar to... Figure 13B The reagent container 801 is the same. It will be... Figure 14A The reagent container 901 and Figure 13B The structure also equipped with ultraviolet LEDs is shown in Figure 14B Due to the recess 126, a shadow area 127 is created where ultraviolet light does not directly irradiate. Reagents located within the shadow area 127 are difficult to sterilize with ultraviolet light. However, they are not completely unsterilized. Ultraviolet light incident on and reflected from the inner wall of the reagent container 901 also enters the shadow area, thus there is a possibility of practical ultraviolet sterilization. To increase the amount of ultraviolet light irradiated in the shadow area 127, examples include increasing the number of ultraviolet LEDs and adjusting the angle. An example of increasing the amount of ultraviolet light irradiated by adjusting the angle will be explained. Figure 14BIn the process, the strongest ultraviolet light emitted by the ultraviolet LED 103A is the ultraviolet light perpendicular to the surface 123A. Due to the recess 126, this ultraviolet light is incident on the inner wall and reflected and scattered. The ultraviolet light 128 generated by the reflection and scattering does not directly enter the shadow area 127. On the other hand, if as... Figure 14C That and Figure 14B Compared to increasing the tilt angle of the UV LED103A relative to the horizontal plane, so that the strongest UV light emitted by the UV LED103A enters the inner wall of the reagent container 801 near the shadow area 127, the UV light 128 generated by reflection and scattering enters the shadow area 127, thus increasing the amount of UV irradiation.

[0244] Not limited to irradiating shaded areas with ultraviolet light, utilizing reflected or scattered ultraviolet light in addition to directly incident ultraviolet light is also important. Methods to increase the intensity of reflected or scattered ultraviolet light within a reagent container include using a material with ultraviolet-reflective components for the container and surrounding the outside of the container with ultraviolet-reflective components. The former increases the reflectivity of the inner wall of the container, while the latter allows ultraviolet light that has passed through the container to return to the container. Fluorine-based resins and metals with high ultraviolet reflectivity are used as ultraviolet-reflective components. More specifically, PTFE and aluminum are examples.

[0245] Next, a method for configuring the ultraviolet LED considering the positional relationship between the ultraviolet LED and the suction nozzle will be described. In the configurations of the first to fifth embodiments where the suction nozzle is inserted into the reagent container, shadow areas caused by the suction nozzle sometimes form on the sides and bottom surfaces of the reagent container. On the other hand, in the configurations of the sixth and seventh embodiments where the suction nozzle is not inserted into the reagent container, shadow areas caused by the suction nozzle are not formed. When the ultraviolet LED is arranged around the suction nozzle in the configurations of the first and second embodiments where the suction nozzle is inserted into the reagent container, there may be no shadow areas except for the shadow area formed on the bottom surface of the reagent container. On the other hand, when the ultraviolet LED is not arranged around the suction nozzle in the third to fifth embodiments, the shadow areas on the sides and bottom surfaces of the reagent container cannot be eliminated. Reagents located in the shadow areas are difficult to be sterilized by ultraviolet light. However, they are not completely immune to ultraviolet sterilization. Ultraviolet light that penetrates the inner wall of the reagent container and is reflected and scattered also enters the shadow areas, thus making it possible to perform practical ultraviolet sterilization.

[0246] Next, the configuration method of the ultraviolet LED considering the entry pathway of microorganisms will be described, assuming the entry pathway is known. Possible pathways for microorganisms to enter the reagent container include: (Pathway 1) entering along with air through the container's opening or air vent; (Pathway 2) adhering to the surface of the suction nozzle and entering by placing the suction nozzle into the reagent container; (Pathway 3) entering counter-currently from within the suction nozzle. For (Pathway 1), such as... Figure 12A Irradiating the entire reagent container with ultraviolet light from the outside, including the opening of the air vent, is effective. For example... Figure 13A and Figure 13B That would also be effective in thoroughly irradiating the liquid surface of the reagent and the air surface above it with ultraviolet light. For (method 2), such as... Figures 4A to 4D and Figures 5A to 5D Such a configuration, arranging the UV LEDs around the suction nozzle, is effective. It is effective for irradiating the entire side of the suction nozzle, below the height of the nozzle immersed in the reagent, with UV light. For (pathway 3), such as... Figures 4A to 4D and Figures 5A to 5D Arranging the UV LEDs around the suction nozzle and irradiating the tip of the suction nozzle with UV light is effective.

[0247] It should be noted that the description used in this embodiment... Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figures 14A to 14D In this case, the refraction effect of ultraviolet light entering the reagent from the air is ignored.

[0248] (10) Tenth Implementation Method

[0249] In the first to ninth embodiments, the apparatus is configured without a mechanism for stirring the reagent in the reagent container. In this embodiment, however, the apparatus is configured to include a mechanism for stirring the reagent in the reagent container.

[0250] Without a stirring mechanism within the reagent container, the UV irradiation dose per unit time varies depending on the location within the container, taking into account factors such as the configuration of the UV source, its light distribution characteristics, the shape of the reagent container, and the positional relationship between the UV source and the suction nozzle. Therefore, it is necessary to set a UV irradiation dose that is at least sufficient for sterilization per unit volume of liquid at the location with the lowest UV irradiation dose, and below the upper limit of the allowable range corresponding to changes in reagent properties at the location with the highest UV irradiation dose. The sterilization time required at the location with the lowest UV irradiation dose is the bottleneck for reagent sterilization time.

[0251] On the other hand, when the reagent is stirred while being irradiated with ultraviolet light, it can be sterilized evenly. For example, even if... Figure 14B This creates a shaded area due to the bottle's shape, which, when stirred while exposed to ultraviolet light, can ensure even sterilization of the reagent. Furthermore, as... Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 10 Even when only a small portion of the reagent can be directly irradiated with ultraviolet light, irradiating with ultraviolet light while stirring can ensure uniform sterilization. Furthermore, compared to irradiating without stirring, sterilization can be achieved in a shorter time.

[0252] As a stirring mechanism, the following methods can be used: a magnetic stirrer is configured as a platform for the reagent container; a stir bar is placed in the reagent container; and the stir bar is rotated using magnetic force to stir the reagent. It should be noted that the stirring mechanism can be a stirring blade or a method that uses a suction nozzle to repeatedly draw and discharge the reagent. Preferably, the rotation speed, suction and discharge speed, and position of the sterilization mechanism are adjusted in a way that prevents the rippled surface of the reagent liquid caused by stirring from contacting the sterilization mechanism.

[0253] (11) Other implementation methods

[0254] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and also includes various modifications. For example, the embodiments described above are examples given in detail for the purpose of easily understanding the invention, and it is not necessary to include all the described components. Furthermore, a portion of one embodiment may be replaced with the configuration of another embodiment. Furthermore, the configuration of other embodiments may be added to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, a portion of the configuration of each embodiment may be removed.

[0255] Symbol Explanation

[0256] 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8: Sterilization mechanism; 100: Automatic analysis device; 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 701A, 801, 901: Reagent containers; 102, 202: Suction nozzles; 103, 103A, 103B: Ultraviolet LEDs; 104: Outer electrode; 105: Inner electrode; 106: Insulating part; 107: Heat insulation part; 108, 208, 308A, 308B, 408A, 408B, 508, 608: Fixing part; 109: Insulating part; 110: Heat insulation part; 111: Analysis part; 112: Control part; 112A: Storage part; 113: Wiring, 114: Display section, 115, 215, 315, 415, 515, 615: Circuit board, 116, 216, 316: Metal cylinder, 117: Electrode pad for power supply, 118: Air hole, 119: Reagent storage section, 120: Reagent dispensing mechanism, 121: Ultraviolet irradiation section, 122: Reagent height, 123, 123A, 123B: Vertical lines on the surface of the ultraviolet LED, 124, 124A, 124B: Ultraviolet light with an intensity of half the maximum value, 125: Ultraviolet light incident from the underside of the protrusion of the opening, 126: Recess of the reagent container, 127: Shaded area, 128: Ultraviolet light generated by reflection and scattering.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that, have: Reagent container for keeping reagents The suction nozzle draws the reagent held in the reagent container. The analytical unit adds reagent drawn from the reagent container via the suction nozzle to the sample and performs the analysis. A sterilization mechanism comprising an ultraviolet source for sterilizing reagents by ultraviolet irradiation and electrodes or circuit boards serving as a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultraviolet source. A first heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle. A second heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container. A control unit that can variably control the amount of ultraviolet radiation obtained from the ultraviolet source, and A reagent tray equipped with multiple reagent containers; The first heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle. The second heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent container, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the reagent container. The ultraviolet source consists of multiple ultraviolet LEDs that emit ultraviolet light of different wavelengths. The control unit selects one ultraviolet LED for each of the plurality of reagents to irradiate the reagent container with ultraviolet light from above the opening of the container. The amount of ultraviolet light irradiation is greater than or equal to the amount of ultraviolet light irradiation per unit volume of liquid necessary for reagent sterilization, and less than or equal to the upper limit of the allowable range corresponding to changes in reagent properties. The ultraviolet source irradiates ultraviolet light with wavelengths from 180nm to 350nm.

2. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that, have: Reagent container for keeping reagents The suction nozzle draws the reagent held in the reagent container. The analytical unit adds reagent drawn from the reagent container via the suction nozzle to the sample and performs the analysis. A sterilization mechanism comprising an ultraviolet source for sterilizing reagents by ultraviolet irradiation and electrodes or circuit boards serving as a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultraviolet source. A first heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle. A second heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container, and It has a control unit that can variably control the amount of ultraviolet irradiation obtained from the ultraviolet source; The first heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle. The second heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent container, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the reagent container. The control unit controls the amount of ultraviolet irradiation based on the reagent temperature inside the suction nozzle and by controlling any one or a combination of voltage, current, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet source. The amount of ultraviolet irradiation is greater than or equal to the amount of ultraviolet irradiation per unit volume of liquid necessary for reagent sterilization, and less than or equal to the upper limit of the allowable range corresponding to changes in reagent properties. The ultraviolet source irradiates ultraviolet light with wavelengths from 180nm to 350nm.

3. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that, have: Reagent container for keeping reagents The suction nozzle draws the reagent held in the reagent container. The analytical unit adds reagent drawn from the reagent container via the suction nozzle to the sample and performs the analysis. A sterilization mechanism comprising an ultraviolet source for sterilizing reagents by ultraviolet irradiation and electrodes or circuit boards serving as a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultraviolet source, wherein the ultraviolet source is an ultraviolet LED. A first heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle. A second heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container. A temperature sensor for measuring the junction temperature of the ultraviolet LED, and A control unit that can variably control the amount of ultraviolet irradiation obtained from the ultraviolet source; The first heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle. The second heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent container, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the reagent container. The control unit controls the amount of ultraviolet irradiation based on the junction temperature of the ultraviolet LED and by controlling any one or a combination of the voltage, current, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet source. The amount of ultraviolet irradiation is greater than or equal to the amount of ultraviolet irradiation per unit volume of liquid necessary for reagent sterilization, and less than or equal to the upper limit of the allowable range corresponding to changes in reagent properties. The ultraviolet source irradiates ultraviolet light with wavelengths from 180nm to 350nm.

4. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that, have: Reagent container for keeping reagents The suction nozzle draws the reagent held in the reagent container. The analytical unit adds reagent drawn from the reagent container via the suction nozzle to the sample and performs the analysis. A sterilization mechanism comprising an ultraviolet source for sterilizing reagents by ultraviolet irradiation and electrodes or circuit boards serving as a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultraviolet source. A first heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle. A second heat-insulating structure is disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container, and It has a control unit that can variably control the amount of ultraviolet irradiation obtained from the ultraviolet source; The first heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the suction nozzle to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the suction nozzle. The second heat-insulating structure is a heat-insulating part disposed between the sterilization mechanism and the reagent in the reagent container to insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent container, or it is an isolation part provided to isolate and insulate the sterilization mechanism from the reagent in the reagent container. The control unit determines the reagent volume based on the number of analyses performed by the analysis unit or the liquid level detected by the liquid level detection mechanism. The control unit controls the ultraviolet irradiation dose based on the residual reagent volume in the reagent container and by controlling any one or a combination of the voltage, current, and energizing time supplied to the ultraviolet source. The ultraviolet irradiation dose is greater than or equal to the ultraviolet irradiation dose per unit volume necessary for reagent sterilization, and less than or equal to the upper limit of the permissible range corresponding to changes in reagent characteristics. The ultraviolet source irradiates ultraviolet light with wavelengths from 180nm to 350nm.

5. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The sterilization mechanism is located in a position that is not immersed in the reagent.

6. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The sterilization mechanism is freely detachable and installable relative to the opening or air vent of the reagent container.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The ultraviolet source is disposed inside the reagent container, near the opening of the reagent container, and above the surface of the reagent liquid.

8. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It has a fixing part or a heat dissipation part connected to the power supply unit. The fixing part or the heat-releasing part is located in a position that is not immersed in the reagent. The heat insulation part is disposed between the fixing part and the suction nozzle or between the heat release part and the suction nozzle.

9. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The insulation part is space, resin, or rubber.

10. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The reagent container further includes a stirring mechanism inside.

11. The automatic analysis device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The ultraviolet source is configured to surround the absorption nozzle.

12. The automatic analysis device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The ultraviolet source and its surrounding components are integrated with the absorption nozzle.

13. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It has a control unit that displays whether appropriate sterilization has been performed or detects any abnormalities on the display section.

14. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The reagent container, except for its opening and air vent, is partially or entirely surrounded by ultraviolet-reflective components.

15. The automatic analysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The ultraviolet source consists of multiple ultraviolet LEDs, some or all of which are arranged at different angles relative to the horizontal plane.

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