Sample analyzer and sample analysis method

Abstract

A sample analyzer (1) and a sample analyzer method, the sample analyzer (1) comprising: a sample container accommodating device (90) configured to accommodate a sample container (91, 92, 93) loaded with a sample (100); a capacitance sensor (7) configured to detect a sample amount or a sample position of the sample (100) in the sample container (91, 92, 93) in a non-contact manner with the sample (100); a sample processing device (50) configured to process the sample (100) in the sample container (91, 92, 93); and a control device (30) communicatively connected with the capacitance sensor (7) and the sample processing device (50) and configured to: acquire sample information of the sample container (91, 92, 93) from the capacitance sensor (7), the sample information comprising at least one of sample amount information and sample position information, and control a processing action of the sample processing device (50) or determine whether the sample processing device (50) implements the processing action according to the sample information. Thus, the sample container type or the sample type can be reliably identified according to the capacitance sensor (7), and the subsequent processing action of the sample (100) in the sample container (91, 92, 93) is determined, thereby improving the safety of sample analysis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of sample detection, and in particular to a sample analyzer and a sample analyzer method. Background Technology

[0002] In the testing of blood samples (hereinafter referred to as blood samples) by a blood analyzer, a certain amount of blood needs to be collected from the subject. Blood analyzers usually pre-determine the required blood volume. Currently, there are two methods of blood collection: venous blood collection and capillary blood collection. For venous blood collection, a larger sample is usually collected, typically no less than 1 mL, which is suitable for adult subjects. However, for infants, children, or critically ill patients, it is sometimes difficult to collect venous blood. In such cases, capillary blood is often collected, but the amount collected is much smaller, usually no more than 200 μL.

[0003] To prevent blood clotting, blood collection tubes containing anticoagulants are typically used to hold blood samples. Blood consists of blood cells and plasma. Due to the difference in specific gravity between blood cells and plasma, blood in anticoagulant collection tubes will separate into layers after standing for a period of time. Therefore, the blood sample must be thoroughly mixed before measurement; otherwise, the measurement results will be significantly inaccurate. Currently, the main method for mixing blood samples is by repeatedly inverting the test tube. This mixing method is often only suitable for mixing venous blood samples. This is because capillary blood samples have a small volume and poor fluidity. If the inverting method is used for mixing, the capillary blood will often adhere to the tube wall, wasting the already limited amount of blood sample.

[0004] In addition, the distance between the bottom of the inner cavity of venous blood sample containers and the bottom of the test tube is usually different. When inserting the sampling needle into the sample container, it needs to be adjusted to match the height of the bottom of the inner cavity of the sample container; otherwise, the sampling needle may puncture the bottom of the inner cavity of the capillary blood sample container or result in no blood sample being drawn from the venous blood sample. The former will damage the sampling needle to some extent or shorten its service life. Furthermore, if the bottom of the inner cavity of the capillary blood sample container is punctured, blood sample leakage will occur, causing biological contamination on the one hand, and requiring a second blood draw from the subject on the other hand due to blood sample loss. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To at least partially solve the above-mentioned technical problems, embodiments of the present invention provide an improved sample analyzer and an improved sample analyzer method, which can not only realize automatic batch measurement of venous blood samples and capillary blood samples simultaneously, but also prevent sample leakage and damage to the instrument's sampling needle, thereby improving the operational reliability and safety of the sample analyzer.

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides a sample analyzer, comprising: a sample container holding device configured to hold a sample container for loading a sample; a sample volume detection device configured to detect the sample volume or sample position of the sample in the sample container in a non-contact manner; a sample processing device configured to process the sample in the sample container; and a control device communicatively connected to the sample volume detection device and the sample processing device, and configured to: acquire sample information of the sample container from the sample volume detection device, the sample information including at least one of sample volume information and sample position information, and control the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determine whether the sample processing device performs the processing action based on the sample information.

[0007] In one embodiment of the sample analyzer of the first aspect of the present invention, the sample volume detection device is a capacitive sensor.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention provides a sample analyzer, comprising: a sample rack configured to load a plurality of sample containers, each sample container being used to load a sample; a sample rack transport device configured to transport the sample rack in a sample analysis area; a sample processing device configured to process samples in the sample containers on the sample rack in the sample analysis area; a sample rack identification device configured to identify the type of the sample rack; a sample identification device configured to identify the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container; and a control device configured to: if the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container, control the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container; and if the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container, control the sample processing device not to process the sample in the sample container.

[0009] A third aspect of the present invention provides a sample analyzer, comprising: a sample rack configured to load a plurality of sample containers, each sample container being used to load a sample; a sample rack transport device configured to transport the sample rack in a sample analysis area; a sample processing device configured to process samples in the sample containers on the sample rack in the sample analysis area; a sample identification device configured to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container and configured to be located outside the sample analysis area; a sample container handling device configured to remove the sample container on the sample rack from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the sample identification device; and a control device configured to control the processing action of the sample processing device according to the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container, and / or determine whether the sample processing device performs a processing action.

[0010] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a sample analysis method, comprising:

[0011] The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, the sample rack containing the sample container loaded with the sample;

[0012] The sample quantity or sample location in the sample container is detected using a sample quantity detection device in a non-contact manner.

[0013] The control device obtains sample information of the sample container from the sample volume detection device, the sample information including at least one of sample volume information and sample location information;

[0014] The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on the sample information.

[0015] The fifth aspect of this invention provides a sample analysis method, comprising:

[0016] The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, the sample rack containing the sample container loaded with the sample;

[0017] The type of the sample rack is identified using a sample rack identification device;

[0018] The sample identification device is used to identify the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container.

[0019] If the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container, the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container;

[0020] If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container, the control device controls the sample processing device not to process the sample in the sample container.

[0021] The sixth aspect of this invention provides a sample analysis method, comprising:

[0022] The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, the sample rack containing the sample container loaded with the sample;

[0023] The control device controls the sample container handling device to lift the sample container from the sample rack and move it to the detection range of the sample identification device located outside the sample analysis area;

[0024] The sample identification device is used to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container;

[0025] The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container.

[0026] The solutions provided by the present invention can reliably distinguish between different sample containers or different samples, reduce the possibility of damaging sample containers and sample analyzers, especially their aspiration needles, and improve the safety of sample analysis. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first type of sample container provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figures 2 to 4 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the second type of sample container provided in this invention.

[0029] Figures 5 to 7 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the second type of sample container provided in this invention;

[0030] Figures 8 to 10 This is a schematic diagram of the sample analyzer provided in the first aspect of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view of the sampling device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the setting device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 13 A schematic perspective view of the first mixing component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 14 and 15 A schematic perspective view of the second mixing component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 16 A graph showing the output signal of the sensor of the second mixing component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 17 and 18 A cross-sectional view of the second mixing component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 19 and 20 This is a schematic diagram of the sample holder provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 21 and 22 This is a schematic diagram of the sample rack transport device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 23 and 24 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sample container rotating component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 25 and 26 Schematic diagrams of different arrangements of the sample volume detection device provided in embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 27 A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the sample volume detection device and the first type of sample container when detecting the sample volume, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 28 A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the sample volume detection device and the second type of sample container when detecting the sample volume, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 29 A schematic flowchart illustrating the static detection method of the sample volume detection device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram of the sample quantity detection device provided in an embodiment of the present invention when dynamically detecting the sample quantity or sample position of a first type of sample container.

[0045] Figure 31 for Figure 30 A graph of the output signal of the sample size detection device;

[0046] Figure 32 This is a schematic diagram of the sample quantity detection device provided in an embodiment of the present invention when dynamically detecting the sample quantity or sample position of a second type of sample container.

[0047] Figure 33 for Figure 32 A graph of the output signal of the sample size detection device;

[0048] Figures 34 to 36 Schematic flowcharts illustrating different dynamic detection methods of the sample volume detection device provided in embodiments of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 37 This is a schematic diagram of a sample volume detection device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 38 A schematic diagram of the control device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 39This is a schematic diagram of the sample analyzer provided in the second aspect of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 40 A schematic diagram of the sample identification device of the sample analyzer provided in the second aspect of the present invention when identifying a second type of sample container;

[0053] Figure 41 A schematic diagram of the sample identification device of the sample analyzer provided in the second aspect of the present invention when identifying a first type of sample container;

[0054] Figures 42 to 44 A schematic flowchart illustrating different embodiments of the sample analysis method provided in the fourth aspect of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 45 and 46 A schematic flowchart illustrating different embodiments of the sample analysis method provided in the fifth aspect of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 47 A schematic flowchart of the sample analysis method provided in the sixth aspect of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0058] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise specified, the terminology used herein should be understood as having the meaning commonly used in the art. Therefore, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In the event of any conflict, this specification shall prevail.

[0059] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present invention, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only the elements expressly stated, but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to implementing the method or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other related elements (e.g., steps in the method or units in the apparatus, where a unit may be a portion of circuitry, a portion of a processor, a portion of a program or software, etc.) in the method or apparatus that includes that element.

[0060] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," and "third" used in the embodiments of this invention are merely to distinguish similar objects and do not represent a specific order of objects. It is understood that "first," "second," and "third" can be interchanged in a specific order or sequence where permissible. It should be understood that the objects distinguished by "first," "second," and "third" can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in an order other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0061] Currently, different types of sample containers are commonly used to hold venous blood samples and capillary blood samples, such as Figures 1 to 7 As shown.

[0062] Figure 1 A first-type sample container 91 is shown, comprising a tube 911 and a cap 912. The tube 911 has an inner cavity for receiving samples, and the distance d1 from the bottom 911a of the inner cavity to the bottom of the tube 911 is the wall thickness of the tube 911. At least the central region of the cap 912 is made of rubber material. A sampling needle must pierce the cap 912 to enter the inner cavity of the first-type sample container 91 and aspirate the sample. Because the bottom of the inner cavity of the first-type sample container 91 is close to the bottom of the sample container, this first-type sample container can also be referred to as a low-bottom sample container.

[0063] Figure 2 An embodiment of a second type of sample container is shown. The second type of sample container 92 includes a tube 921. The tube 921 has an inner cavity for receiving samples. The distance d2 from the bottom 921a of the inner cavity to the bottom end of the tube 921 is much greater than the tube wall thickness, typically d2 is greater than one-fifth of the tube length. A semi-open cavity 921b, also called a recess, is formed below the inner cavity of the tube 921 of the second type of sample container 92.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, the second type of sample container 92 may further include a cap 925. At least the central region of the cap 925 is made of rubber material. Furthermore, the central region of the cap 925, made of rubber material, has a through-cut cross slit 925a, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the sampling needle can easily enter the inner cavity of the second type of sample container 92 through the through cross-shaped slit 925a to aspirate the sample without piercing the cap 925.

[0065] Figure 5 This illustrates another embodiment of the second type of sample container. The second type of sample container 93 includes an outer tube 931 and an inner tube 932. The inner tube 932 is fitted inside the outer tube 931, such as... Figure 6As shown. The inner tube 932 and the outer tube 931 can be connected and fixed together by interference fit, threaded fit, bonding or other means. The inner tube 932 has an inner cavity for receiving samples. The distance d3 from the bottom 932a of the inner cavity of the inner tube 932 to the bottom of the outer tube 931 is much greater than the wall thickness of the outer tube 931. Usually, d3 is greater than one-fifth of the length of the outer tube. The second type of sample container 93 forms a fully enclosed cavity 933 under the inner cavity of the inner tube 932.

[0066] like Figure 7 As shown, the second type of sample container 93 may also include a cap 935. The structure and material of the cap 935 may be the same as those of the cap 925 of the second type of sample container 92, and will not be repeated here.

[0067] The difference between the second type of sample containers 92 and 93 is that the inner cavity of sample container 92 forms a semi-open cavity 921b, while the inner cavity of sample container 93 forms a fully enclosed cavity 933.

[0068] Since the bottom of the inner cavity of the second type of sample containers 92 and 93 is far from the bottom of the sample container, they can be called high-bottom type sample containers.

[0069] The first type of sample container 91 has a larger internal volume and is usually used to hold venous blood samples with a large sample volume; it can also be called a constant blood sample container. The second type of sample containers 92 and 93 have a smaller internal volume and are usually used to hold peripheral blood samples with a smaller sample volume; they can also be called micro-blood sample containers.

[0070] As mentioned at the beginning, due to the different distances between the bottom of the inner cavity and the bottom of the container in constant and micro-volume blood sample containers, and the different characteristics of venous blood samples and capillary blood samples, different methods are often required for sample aspiration and mixing to avoid damage to the aspiration needle and sample container, failure to aspirate, and deviations in test results. To identify the type of sample container before processing it, different sample racks are currently used to hold different types of containers. This requires users to ensure that the sample container is placed on the correct rack before testing, which is demanding and prone to errors. Furthermore, existing technologies determine the type of sample container by identifying the presence of a recess at the bottom (e.g., the recess in the second type of sample container 92). However, this method cannot distinguish between the second type of sample container 93 and the first type of sample container 91, limiting its applicability.

[0071] Therefore, to distinguish between sample containers holding different samples or sample volumes, the first aspect of this invention proposes a sample analyzer that identifies the type of sample contained in a sample container by detecting the sample volume or the sample position within the container. This makes it applicable to various sample containers without imposing special requirements on the container's structure. Even when using identical sample containers to hold venous and capillary blood, the sample analyzer according to the first aspect of this invention can reliably distinguish between venous and capillary blood. In other words, the sample analyzer according to the first aspect of this invention distinguishes between venous and capillary blood samples by detecting the sample volume or sample position within the container, rather than by detecting any special structure or markings on the container itself.

[0072] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the sample analyzer 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a sample container holding device 90, a sample volume detection device 7, a sample processing device 50, and a control device 30. The sample container holding device 90 is configured to hold sample containers 91, 92, and 93 containing samples. The sample volume detection device 7 is configured to detect the sample volume or sample position of the sample 100 in the sample containers in a non-contact manner. The sample processing device 50 is configured to process the samples in the sample containers. The control device 30 is configured to be communicatively connected to the sample volume detection device 7 and the sample processing device 50 and is configured to: acquire sample information of the sample containers from the sample volume detection device 7, the sample information including at least one of sample volume information and sample position information; and control the processing action of the sample processing device 50 or determine whether the sample processing device 50 performs a processing action based on the sample information.

[0073] The sample analyzer 1 according to the present invention may be, for example, a blood sample analyzer for routine blood tests or a smear preparation apparatus for preparing blood smears. Here, a blood smear is a glass slide coated with a blood sample.

[0074] In this embodiment of the invention, "sample position of sample 100" can be understood as the height of the liquid level of sample 100 in the sample container from the bottom of the sample container holding device 90 when sample containers 91, 92, and 93 are placed in the sample container holding device 90, such as... Figure 20 As shown, s1 and s2.

[0075] In some embodiments, to prevent damage to the sample analyzer and sample containers and to improve the accuracy of test results, different processing methods are required for different samples or different quantities of samples. Therefore, the control device 30 may be further configured to perform the following steps when controlling the processing actions of the sample processing device 50 based on sample information:

[0076] If the sample information indicates that the sample container 91 contains a first type of sample, then the sample processing device 50 is controlled to process the sample in the sample container 91 using the first processing conditions.

[0077] If the sample information indicates that the sample containers 92 and 93 contain a second type of sample, the sample processing device 50 is controlled to process the samples in the sample containers 92 and 93 with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample lies in at least one of the following: sample quantity and sample location.

[0078] In the context of this invention, the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample can lie in the sample quantity. Specifically, sample container 91 contains a first quantity of the first type of sample, or sample containers 92 and 93 contain a second quantity of the second type of sample, where the second quantity is different from, for example, less than, the first quantity. Alternatively, the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample can also lie in the position of the sample within the sample container. Specifically, the first type of sample is located at position s1 in sample container 91, and the second type of sample is located at position s2 in sample container 91, where s2 is different from, for example, greater than, s1. Of course, the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample can also lie in both the sample quantity and the sample position; that is, both the sample quantity and the sample position of the first type of sample and the second type of sample are different.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first type of sample is a venous blood sample or a normal blood sample, and the second type of sample is a peripheral blood sample or a trace blood sample.

[0080] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus 50 may include a suction device 6 having a suction needle 61. Accordingly, when the amount of the first type of sample is greater than the amount of the second type of sample, for example, when sample container 91 (a normal blood sample container) is loaded with the first amount of sample, while sample containers 92 and 93 (micro blood sample containers) are loaded with the second amount of sample, the first processing condition includes lowering the suction needle 61 by a first distance (e.g., ...). Figure 20 As shown, from A to C) to collect a sample from a sample container, such as a constant blood sample container 91, the second processing condition includes lowering the aspiration needle 61 a second distance (e.g., from A to C) to collect a sample from the sample container, such as a constant blood sample container 91. Figure 20 As shown, from A to B) to collect samples in sample containers, such as micro-blood sample containers 92 and 93, where the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, the first processing condition includes drawing a first sample volume from the sample container 91 using the sampling needle 61, and the second processing condition includes drawing a second sample volume from the sample containers 92 and 93 using the sampling needle 61, wherein the first sample volume is greater than the second sample volume.

[0082] An embodiment of the sampling device 6 is as follows: Figure 11 As shown, the sampling device 6 also includes motors 62 and 63. The sampling needle 61 can move along the Y1 and Y2 directions under the drive of motor 62 and along the Z1 and Z2 directions under the drive of motor 63. The sampling needle 61 moves along the Y1 and Y2 directions to above the sample container in the sample container receiving device 90, and then moves along the Z1 and Z2 directions to insert into the inner cavity of the sample container 91 to aspirate the sample.

[0083] Furthermore, the sample analyzer 1 may also include a storage component (not shown) for storing descent height information associated with the sample type or sample container type. The control device 50 controls the aspiration needle 61 to descend into the cavity of the sample container based on the detection result of the sample volume detection device 7 and the descent height information stored in the storage component. This storage component is, for example, integrated into the control device 50. Additionally, the sample analyzer 1 may include a setting component (not shown) for setting or changing the descent height information in the storage component. The control device stores the descent height information changed via the setting component into the storage component. This setting component may be a component of the display screen 2 of the sample analyzer 1. For example, the display screen 2 may provide... Figure 12 The settings interface shown allows you to set the needle height for the first sample and the needle height for the second sample.

[0084] Of course, sample analyzer 1 may not have a separate component, but instead provide a receiving component to receive configuration parameters for the needle insertion height from another device other than sample analyzer 1. This other device could be, for example, a PC, which sends the configuration parameters for the needle insertion height to sample analyzer 1 via a communication interface.

[0085] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus 50 may include a mixing device comprising a first mixing component 4 and a second mixing component 5, which are independent of each other. Accordingly, a first processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the first mixing component 4, and a second processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the second mixing component 5. For example, the first mixing component 4 is configured to invert and mix the sample in the sample container by oscillation, while the second mixing component 5 rotates and mixes the sample in the sample container by rotation. In other words, when the control device 30 determines, based on the sample information detected by the sample quantity detection device 7, that the sample in the sample container (e.g., constant blood sample container 91) is a first type of sample, such as venous blood (i.e., a large blood volume), it controls the first mixing component 4 to invert and mix the venous blood in the sample container by swinging. When the control device 30 determines, based on the sample information detected by the sample quantity detection device 7, that the sample in the sample container (e.g., micro-blood sample containers 92, 93) is a second type of sample, such as peripheral blood (i.e., a small blood volume), it controls the second mixing component 5 to rotate and mix the peripheral blood in the sample container.

[0086] One embodiment of the first mixing component 4 is, for example... Figure 13 As shown, the first mixing component 4 includes a gripper 41 and three motors 42, 43, and 44. The gripper 41 can move along the Z1 or Z2 direction driven by motor 42, along the Y1 or Y2 direction driven by motor 43, and swing around an axis along the R1 or R2 direction driven by motor 44. Therefore, driven by motors 42 and 43, the gripper 41 moves along the Y1, Y2, and Z1, Z2 directions to a sample container, such as a first-type sample container 91, located in the sample container receiving device 90 and removes the sample container from the sample container receiving device 90. Then, it performs inverted mixing of the sample in the first-type sample container 91 by swinging along the R1, R2 directions. After mixing, driven by motors 42 and 43, the gripper 41 returns the mixed sample container to the sample container receiving device 90.

[0087] One embodiment of the second mixing component 5 is, for example... Figures 14 to 18 As shown, the second mixing component 5 includes a bracket 51, a mounting base 52, and a motor 53. The bracket 51 is used to fix the motor 53. The motor 53, such as a stepper motor, serves as a power source and can drive the mounting base 52 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The mounting base 52 is rotatably connected to the stepper motor 53 and can be directly fixed to the shaft of the motor 53.

[0088] like Figure 15 As shown, the top of the fixing base 52 is provided with a receiving cavity 521, which can be used to place a second type of sample container 92 or 93 containing a sample.

[0089] Furthermore, the second mixing component 5 also includes a sensor 54 fixed on the bracket 51. The sensor 54 is used to detect whether the fixed base 52 rotates and to detect the rotational speed of the fixed base 52. A sensor sensing part 524 and a notch 525 are provided below the fixed base 52. When the fixed base 52 rotates, the sensor sensing part 524 and the notch 525 alternately enter the sensing area of ​​the sensor 54. The sensing area of ​​the sensor 54 alternates between an obscured state and an unobscured state, and the output terminal of the sensor 54 outputs accordingly. Figure 15 The pulses shown in (a) or (b). Whether the fixed base 52 rotates can be determined by detecting whether the sensor 54 outputs a pulse signal. The number of pulse signals output by the sensor 54 can be determined to determine whether the number of rotations of the fixed base 52 meets expectations. In other words, the rotation can be determined by detecting... Figure 15 The period T of the pulse signal shown is used to determine whether the rotational speed of the fixed base 52 meets the expectations.

[0090] The internal structure of the fixing seat 52 is as follows Figure 17 As shown. The diameter of the inlet of the accommodating cavity 521 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the second type of sample container 92 or 93. An abutment part 522 is provided below the accommodating cavity 521, and a fixing hole 523 is provided at the bottom of the fixing base 52. The fixing hole 523 is used to connect with the rotating shaft of the motor 53. The axis A1 of the fixing hole 523 is the rotation axis of the fixing base 52. Figure 17 As shown, the axis A1 of the fixing hole 523 and the central axis A2 of the accommodating cavity 521 may not coincide, that is, the accommodating cavity 521 may be eccentrically set relative to the rotating shaft of the fixing seat 52, and the eccentricity d4 may be in the range of 0mm to 5mm, preferably in the range of 1mm to 2mm.

[0091] The function of the abutment portion 522 is to keep the sample container, such as the second type of sample container 92 or 93, placed in the receiving cavity 521 at an angle. Figure 18 As shown. At this time, the rotation axis A1 of the fixed seat 52 intersects the central axis A3 of the second type of sample container 92 or 93. The angle between axis A1 and axis A3 is α, and the value of α can be 0 < α ≤ 45°, preferably in the range of 2° to 10°. The intersection point Q of axis A1 and axis A3 is located above the bottom of the cavity of the sample container. When the fixed seat 52 rotates around axis A1, the blood sample 100 in the sample container is thrown away from the rotation axis A1 of the fixed seat 52 under the action of centrifugal force and rises along the inner wall of the cavity of the sample container 92 or 93.

[0092] The sample container containing the sample 100 is rotated by the fixing seat 52, generating mixing force for the sample 100. When the fixing seat 52 rotates, the sample 100 rotates and rises along the inner wall of the sample container cavity; when the fixing seat 52 stops rotating, the previously risen sample flows back to the bottom of the sample container. The mixing of the sample 100 is achieved through the rotational movement, rising movement, and reflux movement of the sample 100 in the sample container. In particular, by setting the abutment part 522, the sample container is kept tilted when placed in the fixing seat 52, and the intersection point Q of the rotation axis A1 of the fixing seat 52 and the axis A3 of the sample container is located above the bottom of the sample container cavity. This not only prevents sample spillage but also reduces the loss of the sample 100 adhering to the inner wall of the container during mixing. This is extremely important for cases with small blood collection volumes (capillary blood), as excessive wall-adhesion loss will affect the reliability of sample aspiration after mixing.

[0093] Furthermore, the sample analyzer 1 may also be equipped with a sample container transport device, configured to transport the sample container from the sample container receiving device 90 when the sample needs to be mixed by the second mixing component 5, and then move it to the sample container fixing hole 521 of the fixing seat 52 of the second mixing component, and then transport the sample container back to the sample container receiving device 90 after mixing is completed. Preferably, the first mixing component 4 can be used as the sample container transport device.

[0094] In some alternative embodiments, the mixing device may also include a single mixing component that mixes different samples under different mixing conditions. These different mixing conditions may, for example, include different mixing times. For instance, the single mixing component may perform a first mixing time on a sample container containing venous blood, and a second mixing time on a sample container containing capillary blood, the second time being longer than the first time.

[0095] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus 50 further includes a sample preparation component (not shown) for preparing a test sample by mixing reagents with a sample in a sample container. Accordingly, a first processing condition includes mixing the sample and reagents in a first ratio using the sample preparation component, and a second processing condition includes mixing the sample and reagents in a second ratio using the sample preparation component, wherein the reagents constitute a larger proportion than the first ratio.

[0096] Additional or alternative processing conditions include diluting the test sample with the sample preparation components at a first ratio, and diluting the test sample with the sample preparation components at a second ratio greater than the first ratio.

[0097] Further optional, the first processing condition includes using the sample preparation component to allow the reagent and sample to react for a first time, and the second processing condition includes using the sample preparation component to allow the reagent and sample to react for a second time longer than the first time, i.e., a shorter reaction time for venous blood and a longer reaction time for peripheral blood.

[0098] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus 50 includes a detection component (not shown) configured to detect particles in the test sample. Accordingly, a first processing condition includes detecting a first detection amount of the test sample using the detection component, and a second processing condition includes detecting a second detection amount of the test sample, greater than the first detection amount, using the detection component. This is because venous blood samples have a smaller dilution ratio, a higher proportion of blood cells in the sample, and a shorter measurement and statistical time, thus requiring a smaller sample volume; while peripheral blood samples have a larger dilution ratio, a lower proportion of blood cells in the sample, and a longer measurement and statistical time, thus requiring a larger sample volume.

[0099] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus 50 includes an analysis component for analyzing detection data measured by the detection component. A first processing condition includes analyzing the detection data by the analysis component according to a first analysis condition, and a second processing condition includes analyzing the detection data by the analysis component according to a second analysis condition different from the first analysis condition. The analysis component may, for example, be integrated into the control device 30.

[0100] In this embodiment of the invention, the sample container holding device is configured as a sample rack 90 capable of accommodating multiple sample containers. For example, a sample rack 90 can be used to accommodate only a first-type sample container 91 for loading first-type samples or a second-type sample container 92, 93 for loading second-type samples, or it can be used to accommodate a mixture of first-type sample containers 91 and second-type sample containers 92, 93, as shown below. Figure 20 As shown. That is, the sample rack 90 is configured to accommodate at least one of a first type of sample container and a second type of sample container, which are used to load different types of samples or to load different quantities of samples, respectively.

[0101] like Figure 19 As shown, the sample rack 90 has multiple fixing holes 901, each corresponding to an opening 902. The opening 902 serves as a scanning window for scanning the identification information of the sample containers. The sample rack 90 also has a label setting area 903 for setting sample rack labels, where barcode labels, QR code labels, RFID tags, etc., can be affixed. The fixing holes 901 can be used to fix the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample containers 92 and 93, such as... Figure 20 As shown. From Figure 20It can be seen that in the sample rack 90, the sample position (liquid level) s2 in the second type of sample containers 92 and 93 (i.e., high-bottom sample containers) is higher than the sample position (liquid level) s1 in the first type of sample container 91 (i.e., low-bottom sample container).

[0102] In addition, the sample analyzer also includes a sample analysis area P with a sample volume detection position (sampling position) P3, a mixing position P1, and a sampling position P2, such as Figure 21 As shown. The sample analyzer 1 also includes a sample rack transport device 3, which is communicatively connected to the control device 30. This device is configured to transport the sample rack 90 within the sample analysis area P, so that each sample container on the sample rack 90 sequentially reaches the sample volume detection position P3, the mixing position P1, and the aspiration position P2. The sample volume detection device 7 is configured to detect the sample information of the sample container on the sample rack 90 at the sample volume detection position P3. The mixing devices 4 and 5 are configured to mix the sample in the sample container on the sample rack 90 at the mixing position P1. The aspiration device 6 is configured to aspirate the sample from the sample container on the sample rack 90 at the aspiration position P2.

[0103] like Figure 21 and 22 As shown, the sample rack transport device 3 includes a sample rack support component 31, a sample rack feeding component 32, a sample rack bidirectional transport component 33, and a sample rack delivery component 34.

[0104] The sample rack support component 31 includes a pre-analytical sample rack storage area 311 for placing and fixing sample racks 90 containing pre-analytical samples, a post-analytical sample rack storage area 312 for placing a plurality of sample racks 90 containing post-analytical samples, and a sample analysis area 313(P) located between the pre-analytical sample rack storage area 311 and the post-analytical sample rack storage area 312. The pre-analytical sample rack storage area 311 has a sample rack feeding turning area 311a, and the post-analytical sample rack storage area 312 has a sample rack discharging turning area 312a.

[0105] The sample rack feeding component 32 can transport the sample rack 90 along the Y2 direction, the sample rack bidirectional transport component 33 can transport the sample rack 90 in the sample analysis area 313(P) along both the X1 and X2 directions, and the sample rack sending component 34 can transport the sample rack 90 along the Y1 direction.

[0106] When the automatic sample injection measurement of the sample analyzer 1 is started, the sample rack feeding component 32 first pushes the sample racks 90 stored in the pre-analysis sample rack storage area 311 one by one along the Y2 direction to the sample rack feeding turning area 311a. The sample racks 90 entering the sample rack feeding turning area 311a are then transported along the X1 direction by the sample rack bidirectional transport component 33. The sample rack bidirectional transport component 33 transports each sample container in the sample rack 90 sequentially to the sample volume detection position P3 in the sample analysis area 313(P) for sample information detection, then to the mixing position P1 for mixing, and then to the sampling position P2 for sampling. After the sample rack 90 is transported by the sample rack bidirectional transport component 33 to the sample rack exit turning area 312a, the sample rack exit component 34 pushes the sample rack 90 to the post-analysis sample rack storage area 312.

[0107] In some embodiments, the sample size detection position P3 can be located upstream of the mixing position P2 along the X1 direction, or it can coincide with the mixing position P2. Preferably, the sample size detection position P3 coincides with the mixing position P2. Alternatively, the sample size detection position P3 can be located downstream of the mixing position P2 along the X1 direction.

[0108] Furthermore, such as Figure 9 As shown, the sample analyzer 1 may also include a barcode scanning component 9, configured to acquire one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode information affixed to the sample container. Correspondingly, the sample analysis area P may have a scanning position P4. Before the sample container is transported to the sample quantity detection position P3 or the mixing position P2, it may be scanned at the barcode scanning position P4 by the barcode scanning component 9. The barcode scanning component 9 is configured corresponding to the barcode scanning position P4.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, the sample analyzer 1 may also include a sample container rotating component 8. The sample container rotating component 8 is also set corresponding to the barcode scanning position P4. For example... Figure 23 and 24 As shown, the pair of clamping rollers 81 of the sample container rotating component 8 can move along the Y1 and Y2 directions under the drive of the motor 82, and the rotating wheel 83 can rotate around its axis under the drive of the motor 84. When a sample container is located at the scanning position P4, the motor 82 drives the pair of clamping rollers 81 to move along the Y1 direction, pushing the sample container towards the rotating wheel 83, so that the sample container is pressed tightly against the outer ring of the rotating wheel 83. Then, the motor 84 drives the rotating wheel 83 to rotate, and under the action of friction, the sample container follows the rotating wheel 83 to rotate. When the barcode label information 101 affixed to the surface of the sample container rotates to face the scanning component 9, the motor 84 stops rotating, and the motor 82 drives the clamping rollers 81 to retract along the Y2 direction. The outer ring of the rotating wheel 83 can be made of rubber material to increase the friction between it and the sample container.

[0110] As described above, during the detection and analysis process of sample analyzer 1, the sample generally undergoes operations such as insertion, barcode scanning, sample volume detection, mixing, aspiration, dilution, reaction, detection, and delivery. After the sample volume detection operation, the sample is determined to be a first-volume sample (e.g., a venous blood sample) or a second-volume sample smaller than the first volume (e.g., a capillary blood sample). For the first-volume sample, at least one of the following treatments is performed: the sample is mixed using the first mixing component 4; the aspiration device 6 is lowered to a first height to aspirate the sample and aspirate a first aspirated amount of sample; the sample preparation component dilutes the sample according to a first dilution ratio, and / or mixes the sample and reagents according to a first proportion, and / or allows the sample and reagents to react for a first time; the detection component detects a first-volume test sample; and the analysis component analyzes the detection data measured by the detection component according to the first analysis conditions. For the second sample quantity, at least one of the following treatments is performed: the sample is mixed using the second mixing component 5; the sample aspiration device 6 is lowered to a second height less than the first height to aspirate the sample and aspirates a second aspiration amount less than the first aspiration amount; the sample preparation component dilutes the sample according to a second dilution ratio greater than the first dilution ratio, and / or mixes the sample and reagent according to a second ratio, in which the reagent proportion is greater than the first ratio, and / or allows the sample and reagent to react for a second time longer than the first time; the detection component detects a second sample quantity greater than the first detection amount; and the analysis component analyzes the detection data measured by the detection component according to a second analysis condition different from the first analysis condition.

[0111] In this embodiment of the invention, the sample quantity detection device 7 can be a sensor that can detect the sample quantity or sample position in the sample container.

[0112] like Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the sample volume detection device 7 can be fixed to the sample rack transport device 3, for example, fixed in the sample analysis area 313(P) of the sample rack support member 31. For example, the sample volume detection device 7 can be set corresponding to the sample volume detection position P3, so that the sample volume detection device 7 can detect the sample volume or sample position of the sample containers 91, 92, 93 that are fixed to the sample rack 90 and transported to the sample volume detection position P3 by the sample rack transport device 3.

[0113] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 25 As shown, the sample volume detection device 7 can be located outside the sample analyzer area P. In this case, the sample analyzer 2 also includes a movable sample container handling device, configured to remove the sample container at the sample volume detection position P3 on the sample rack 90 from the sample rack 90 and move it within the detection range of the sample volume detection device 7, so that the sample volume detection device 7 can detect the sample volume or sample position of the sample in the sample container. Further, as... Figure 26As shown, the sample container transport device is also configured to be swingable. The sample container transport device grips the sample container fixed on the sample rack 90 and lifts it along the Z1 direction, then drives the sample container to swing at a specific angle (the specific angle ≤ 75°), so that the sample container enters the detection range of the sample volume detection device 7, thereby detecting the sample volume or sample position in the sample container by the sample volume detection device 7. Here, the sample container transport device can be the first mixing component 4. That is, the first mixing component 4 can be used simultaneously as a device for mixing the sample (venous blood sample) or the first type of sample in the first type of sample container, and as a device for transporting the sample container at the sample volume detection position P3 on the sample rack to the detection range of the sample volume detection device 7. It can also be used as a device for transporting the second type of sample container 92 or 93 on the sample rack to the second mixing component 5, thereby saving space and cost of the sample analyzer 1.

[0114] Preferably, the sample volume detection position P3 coincides with the mixing position P1, thereby combining the sample volume detection process with the sample mixing process and improving the speed of the sample analyzer. That is, when the sample volume detection position P3 and the mixing position P1 are located at the same position and the first mixing component 4 is used as a sample container transport device, the control device 30 can be further configured to:

[0115] The sample rack transport device 3 transports the sample rack 90 so that each sample container on the sample rack 90 arrives at the mixing position P1 (or the sample volume detection position P3) in sequence.

[0116] The first mixing component 4 is controlled to remove the sample container at the mixing position P1 on the sample rack 90 from the sample rack 90 and move it to the detection range of the sample volume detection device 7;

[0117] Obtain sample information from the sample container from the sample volume detection device 7;

[0118] The action of the first mixing component 4 or the second mixing component 5 is controlled based on the sample information.

[0119] Furthermore, the control device 30 may be configured to perform the following steps when controlling the operation of the first mixing component 4 or the second mixing component 5 based on sample information:

[0120] If the sample information indicates that the sample container at the mixing position P1 on the sample rack 90 contains a first type of sample, then the first mixing component 4 is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container.

[0121] If the sample information indicates that the sample container at the mixing position P1 on the sample rack 90 contains a second type of sample, then the first mixing component 4 is controlled to move the sample container into the second mixing component 5, and then the second mixing component 5 is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container.

[0122] After mixing is complete, the control device 30 then controls the first mixing component 4 to transport the sample container back into the sample holder 90.

[0123] It is understandable that a sample container handling device can be set up independently of the first mixing component 4.

[0124] In a preferred embodiment, the sample size detection device 7 is a capacitive sensor.

[0125] The detection principle of a capacitive sensor is as follows: when a target object approaches the sensor, a changing capacitance value ΔC is generated. The effective capacitance of the sensor is C = C0 + ΔC, where C0 is the initial capacitance value of the sensor, and ΔC depends on the distance between the target object and the sensor electrodes, the dielectric constant of the target object's material, and the volume of the target object. When the distance between the target object and the sensor electrodes and the dielectric constant of the target object's material are relatively fixed, ΔC is only affected by the volume of the target object. By detecting the magnitude of ΔC, the volume of the target object can be detected.

[0126] The tubes of sample containers 91-93 are typically made of glass or plastic. At room temperature, the relative permittivity of glass and plastic is between 1 and 5, while the relative permittivity of water is around 80. Since water makes up approximately 90% of blood, even if barcode labels are affixed to the surface of sample containers 91-93, the relative permittivity of the barcode label itself is also between 1 and 5. Therefore, the relative permittivity of the sample within sample containers 91-93 is much greater than that of the sample containers themselves (a higher permittivity corresponds to a higher capacitance).

[0127] like Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, Figure 27 The distance m1 from the central axis of the first type of sample container 91 to the detection surface 71 of the capacitive sensor 7 is... Figure 28The distance m2 from the central axis of the second type sample container 92 to the detection surface 71 of the capacitive sensor 7 is approximately equal. Since the dielectric constant of the sample container's tube material is much smaller than that of blood, the change in ΔC of the capacitive sensor mainly depends on the amount of sample in the first type sample container 91 or the second type sample container 92 (or 93). Therefore, the amount of sample in the first type sample container 91 or the second type sample container 92 (or 93) can be detected by the change in ΔC of the capacitive sensor. For example, the first type sample container 91 is a constant-volume blood sample container, typically containing at least 1 ml of blood, while the second type sample container 92 or 93 is a micro-volume blood sample container, typically containing no more than 200 μL of blood. If the capacitive sensor 7 detects a change in capacitance of ΔC1 caused by the first type sample container 91 and a change in capacitance of ΔC2 caused by the second type sample container 92 or 93, then clearly ΔC1 is much larger than ΔC2.

[0128] In order to minimize the influence of metal parts, especially movable metal parts, that may exist in the sample analyzer 1, the capacitive sensor 7 is fixedly installed in the sample analyzer 1 in such a way that the metal parts of the sample analyzer 1 do not interfere with the detection of the capacitive sensor 7, or that the metal parts of the sample analyzer 1 are not within the detection range of the capacitive sensor 7.

[0129] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor 7 may be a capacitive sensor with analog output or a capacitive proximity switch with digital output, wherein a capacitive proximity switch with digital output is preferred.

[0130] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor 7 can be a threshold-adjustable capacitive sensor, particularly a capacitive proximity switch with a threshold-adjustable digital output. By setting the detection threshold of the capacitive sensor 7 for ΔC, the detection threshold of the capacitive sensor 7 for the sample volume in the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 or 93 can be indirectly set. For example, the detection threshold of the capacitive sensor 7 can be set to ΔCa, where ΔCa is the capacitance value corresponding to a sample volume V1 contained in the sample container, and the sample volume V1 is located between the specified sample volume contained in the first type of sample container 91 and the specified sample volume contained in the second type of sample container 92 (or 93). For example, the sample volume V1 can be the midpoint between the specified sample volume contained in the first type of sample container 91 and the specified sample volume contained in the second type of sample container 92 (or 93), such as V1 being in the range of 0.5 mL to 0.7 mL.

[0131] For capacitive sensors with analog output, the detection threshold can be set to ΔCa using a detection algorithm; for capacitive proximity switches with digital output and non-adjustable threshold, the detection threshold can be set to ΔCa by adjusting the distance between the capacitive proximity switch and the sample container; for capacitive proximity switches with digital output and adjustable threshold, the detection threshold can be set to ΔCa by adjusting a knob.

[0132] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor 7 is fixedly disposed in the sample analysis area P such that the detection surface 71 of the capacitive sensor 7 faces the sample container on the sample holder 90 at the sample quantity detection position P3 and can detect the sample information of the sample container.

[0133] In some alternative embodiments, as described above, to allow for more flexible placement of the capacitive sensor 7 and to reduce interference from metal components, especially movable metal components, in its detection, the capacitive sensor 7 is preferably located outside the sample analysis area P. This particularly helps to avoid interference from metal components (e.g., possibly RFID) on the sample holder 90 with the capacitive sensor 7.

[0134] Furthermore, the capacitive sensor 7 can be designed to have a detection range of at least 10 mm and is fixedly disposed in the sample analysis area P such that during the detection of the capacitive sensor 7, the minimum distance between the wall of the sample container and the detection surface 71 of the capacitive sensor 7 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 2 mm to 5 mm. This allows for reliable detection of the sample volume in the sample container. For example, the capacitive sensor 7 is disposed in the sample analysis area P such that the minimum distance between the wall of the sample container at the sample container detection position P3 on the sample holder and the detection surface of the capacitive sensor 7 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 2 mm to 5 mm.

[0135] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor 7 detects the sample volume in the sample container in a static manner, that is, there is no relative movement between the capacitive sensor and the sample container during the detection of the sample volume. For example, when the sample container on the sample rack 90 reaches the sample volume detection position P3, the capacitive sensor 7 can detect the sample volume in the sample container without removing the sample container from the sample rack 90.

[0136] For example, if a static detection method is used to detect the sample quantity in a sample container, in order to distinguish between different sample quantities, the capacitive sensor 7 is arranged in the sample analyzer area P such that when the sample container at the sample container detection position P3 on the sample rack 90 is a first type of sample container (containing a specified first quantity of sample), the capacitive sensor 7 detects a first value, and when the sample container at the sample container detection position P3 on the sample rack 90 is a second type of sample container (containing a specified second quantity of sample), the capacitive sensor 7 detects a second value, and the first value is significantly different from the second value.

[0137] The process of capacitive sensor 7 detecting the amount of sample contained in the sample container in a static detection manner is as follows: Figure 29 As shown.

[0138] In step S101, the capacitance sensor 7 detects the capacitance change ΔC caused by the sample in the sample container located at the sample quantity detection position P3;

[0139] In step S102, the capacitance change value ΔC is compared with a preset threshold ΔCa. If ΔC ≥ ΔCa, it means that the sample volume contained in the sample container is ≥ V1, and then the process jumps to step S103 to determine that the sample container contains the first quantity of sample (e.g., a constant sample or a venous blood sample). If ΔC < ΔCa, it means that the sample volume contained in the sample container is < V1, and the process jumps to step S104 to determine that the sample container contains the second quantity of sample (e.g., a trace sample or a peripheral blood sample) that is smaller than the first quantity.

[0140] For analog output capacitive sensors, the comparison between ΔC and ΔCa is achieved through the control device 30; for digital output capacitive proximity switches, the comparison between ΔC and ΔCa is completed inside the sensor, and the control device 30 only needs to acquire the output level signal of the digital output capacitive proximity switch and convert it into the corresponding detection result.

[0141] Figure 29 The procedure shown is applicable whether the sample size detection location P3 coincides with or does not coincide with the mixing location P1.

[0142] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor 7 can also detect the sample quantity or sample position in the sample container in a dynamic detection manner. That is, during the detection of the sample quantity or sample position, the capacitive sensor 7 is fixed, while the sample container moves relative to the capacitive sensor 7, and the sample quantity or sample position is detected by the dynamic change of the signal of the capacitive sensor 7.

[0143] For example, a capacitance sensor 7 is fixedly installed in the sample analysis area P, corresponding to the sample volume detection position P3. The sample analyzer 1 includes the sample container handling device 4, which is communicatively connected to the control device 30. The capacitance sensor 7 has a first detection state and a second detection state. In the first detection state, the capacitance change value detected by the capacitance sensor 7 is greater than or equal to a preset capacitance change threshold. In the second detection state, the capacitance change value detected by the capacitance sensor 7 is less than the preset capacitance change threshold. The capacitance sensor 7 is fixedly installed in the sample analysis area P such that during the process of the sample container handling device 4 removing the sample container at the sample volume detection position P3 from the sample rack 90, the capacitance sensor 7 changes from the first detection state to the second detection state at least once. At this time, the sample information includes the duration of the first detection state and / or the time of change from the first detection state to the second detection state.

[0144] The dynamic detection method is particularly suitable for situations where the sample volume detection position P3 coincides with the mixing position P1, and the first mixing component 4 is used as a sample container transport device. This allows the detection process of the capacitance sensor 7 to be combined with the mixing process of the mixing device, thus accelerating the sample analysis speed.

[0145] In one embodiment of dynamic detection, the capacitive sensor 7 is a capacitive proximity switch with an adjustable digital output threshold. The detection threshold of the capacitive sensor 7 is set to ΔCb, where ΔCb is the capacitance value corresponding to a sample volume V2 in the sample container, where V2 is less than the specified sample volume in the second type of sample container 92 (or 93), for example, V2 is 40 μL. Then, when the sample volume V in the sample container is greater than or equal to V2, the capacitive proximity switch outputs a first level L1; when the sample volume V < V2, the capacitive proximity switch outputs a second level L2, different from the first level L1. Assume L1 is low and L2 is high. When the gripper 41 of the first mixing component 4 grasps the sample container fixed on the sample holder 90 and rises along the Z1 direction, the capacitive sensor 7 detects the sample volume or sample position in the sample container.

[0146] like Figure 30 As shown, when the gripper 41 grasps the first type of sample container 91 and rises along the Z1 direction, the capacitive sensor 7 will generate a signal as shown in the diagram. Figure 31 The signal is shown in (a) or (b). Figure 32 As shown, when the gripper 41 grasps the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) and rises along the Z1 direction, the capacitive sensor 7 will generate a signal as shown in the diagram. Figure 33The signal is shown in (a) or (b). Wherein, t0 is the starting time when the gripper 41 grasps the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) and rises along the Z1 direction, t2 is the ending time when the gripper 41 grasps the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) and rises along the Z1 direction, and t1 is the moment when the effective volume of the sample in the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) in the detection area of ​​the capacitive sensor 7 begins to be less than V2. Figure 31 (a) shows that at the beginning of the gripper 41 grasping the first type of sample container 91 and rising along the Z1 direction, the sample in the first type of sample container 91 is not within the detection range of the capacitive sensor 7. Figure 31 (b) shows the starting moment when the gripper 41 grasps the first type of sample container 91 and rises along the Z1 direction, at which point some of the samples in the first type of sample container 91 are already within the detection range of the capacitive sensor 7. Figure 33 (a) shows the starting moment when the gripper 41 grasps the second type sample container 92 (or 93) and rises along the Z1 direction, at which time the sample in the second type sample container 92 (or 93) is not within the detection range of the capacitive sensor 7. Figure 33 (b) shows the starting moment when the gripper 41 grasps the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) and rises along the Z1 direction, at which point some of the samples in the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) are already within the detection range of the capacitive sensor 7.

[0147] The first type of sample container 91 is a constant-volume blood sample container, typically containing no less than 1 ml of blood sample. The blood sample has a relatively high distribution height along the Z1 and Z2 directions within the first type of sample container 91. The second type of sample container 92 (or 93) is a micro-volume blood sample container, typically containing no more than 200 μL of blood sample. The blood sample has a relatively low distribution height along the Z1 and Z2 directions within the second type of sample container 92 (or 93). Therefore, the duration Δt1 for the capacitive sensor 7 to output the L1 level during the upward movement of the first type of sample container 91 by the gripper 41 along the Z1 direction is longer than the duration Δt2 for the capacitive sensor 7 to output the L1 level during the upward movement of the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) along the Z1 direction; that is, Δt1 > Δt2.

[0148] Therefore, the threshold can be selected based on the above t0, t1, t2, Δt1, and Δt2, and then... Figure 34 , Figure 35 or Figure 36 The procedure shown is used to detect the amount of sample contained in the sample container.

[0149] like Figure 34As shown, in step S201, the gripper 41 of the first mixing device component 4 grips the sample container and rises along the Z1 direction. During the upward movement of the gripper, the control device 30 calculates the duration Δt of the L1 level output by the capacitance sensor 7. The L1 level output by the capacitance sensor 7 indicates that the capacitance sensor has detected a sample in the sample container. In step S202, the control device 30 determines whether the gripper 42 has reached the top along the Z1 direction. If the determination result is no, it means that the upward movement of the gripper 41 gripping the sample container along the Z1 direction has not ended and needs to continue rising; if the determination result is yes, it means that the upward movement of the gripper 41 gripping the sample container along the Z1 direction has been completed, and the process jumps to step S203. In step S203, the control device 30 determines whether Δt is greater than or equal to the threshold Ta (Ta is, for example, the average of Δt1 and Δt2). If the determination result is yes, it means that the sample in the sample container is distributed at a relatively high height along the Z1 and Z2 directions, and then jumps to step S204 to determine that the sample container contains the first amount of sample (constant sample or venous blood). If the determination result is no, it means that the sample in the sample container is distributed at a relatively low height along the Z1 and Z2 directions, and then jumps to step S205 to determine that the sample container contains the second amount of sample (micro sample or peripheral blood) which is smaller than the first amount.

[0150] like Figure 35 As shown, in step S301, the gripper 41 of the first mixing device component 4 grasps the sample container and rises along the Z1 direction. The control device 30 records the start time t0 of the gripper 41 moving in the Z1 direction, where t0 can be zero. In step S302, the control device 30 monitors the time t2 when the output level of the capacitive proximity switch changes from L1 to L2. The change in the output level of the capacitive proximity switch from L1 to L2 indicates that the sample volume V in the detection area of ​​the capacitive proximity switch changes from ≥V2 to <V2, meaning that the sample in the detection area of ​​the capacitive proximity switch is about to leave the detection area. In step S303, the control device 30 calculates Δt = t1 - t0. The larger Δt is, the closer the sample is to the bottom of the sample container. In step S304, the control device 30 determines whether Δt is greater than or equal to the threshold Tb. If the determination result is yes, it means that the sample is close to the bottom of the sample container, and then jumps to step S305 to determine that the sample container contains the first type of sample. If the determination result is no, it means that the sample is far from the bottom of the sample container, and then jumps to step S306 to determine that the sample container contains the second type of sample, wherein the first type of sample is a constant sample or venous blood, and the second type of sample is a trace sample or peripheral blood.

[0151] like Figure 36As shown, in step S401, the gripper 41 of the first mixing device component 4 grips the sample container and rises along the Z1 direction. The control device 30 records the initial position s0 of the gripper 41 moving in the Z1 direction. In step S402, the control device 30 monitors the position s1 of the gripper when the output level of the capacitive proximity switch changes from L1 to L2. The change in the output level of the capacitive proximity switch from L1 to L2 indicates that the sample volume V in the detection area of ​​the capacitive proximity switch changes from ≥V2 to <V2, meaning that the sample in the detection area of ​​the capacitive proximity switch is about to leave the detection area. In step S403, the control device 30 calculates Δs = s1 - s0. The larger Δs is, the closer the sample is to the bottom of the sample container. In step S404, the control device 30 determines whether Δs is greater than or equal to the threshold Sb. If the determination result is yes, it means that the sample is close to the bottom of the sample container, and then jumps to step S405 to determine that the sample container contains the first type of sample. If the determination result is no, it means that the sample is far from the bottom of the sample container, and then jumps to step S406 to determine that the sample container contains the second type of sample, wherein the first type of sample is a constant sample or venous blood, and the second type of sample is a trace sample or peripheral blood.

[0152] In some alternative embodiments, the sample size detection device 7 may be a pair of through-beam photoelectric sensors 7a and 7b, such as Figure 37 As shown. Since the first type of sample container 91 and the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) are made of transparent glass or plastic, in areas of the sample container without blood sample, the light emitted by the light-emitting diode of the through-beam photoelectric sensor can pass through the sample container and be received by the receiving diode of the through-beam photoelectric sensor. However, in areas of the sample container with blood sample, the light emitted by the light-emitting diode is blocked by the blood sample and cannot be received by the receiving diode. During the process of the gripper 41 grasping the sample container and rising along Z1, similar phenomena can occur. Figure 31 , Figure 33 The signal shown. However, a disadvantage of using a through-beam photoelectric sensor is that when a barcode label is affixed to the surface of the sample container, the light from the through-beam photoelectric sensor has difficulty penetrating the label.

[0153] In some alternative embodiments, the sample quantity detection device 7 can be an image sensor, such as a grayscale image sensor or a color image sensor, preferably a color image sensor. By taking a picture of the sample container with the image sensor and performing algorithmic recognition on the picture, the amount of sample in the sample container can be obtained. By setting a reasonable threshold, the samples contained in the sample container can be distinguished into a first quantity sample and a second quantity sample. However, similarly, the use of an image sensor is affected by barcode labels affixed to the surface of the sample container. When barcode labels are affixed to the surface of the sample container, the image sensor will not be able to capture the sample in the container.

[0154] In some embodiments, the sample rack 90 can be configured to accommodate only sample containers for loading first-type samples (e.g., first-type sample container 91) or sample containers for loading second-type samples (e.g., second-type sample containers 92 or 93). Therefore, different sample racks can be used to distinguish between venous blood samples and capillary blood samples, thereby determining the subsequent processing method. However, in this case, there is a risk if the user places the sample on the wrong sample rack (e.g., placing a venous blood sample on a capillary blood sample rack or vice versa). Therefore, the sample volume detection device 7 detects the type of sample in each sample container on the sample rack 90 to confirm that the sample containers on the sample rack 90 are not misplaced, improving the safety of the sample analyzer.

[0155] Therefore, in the above embodiments, in order to distinguish different sample racks, the sample analyzer 1 also includes a sample rack identification device 9 for identifying the type of sample rack, which is communicatively connected to the control device 30. The control device 30 is further configured to acquire sample rack identification information from the sample rack identification device 9, and control the operation of the sample processing device 50, for example, controlling the operation of the mixing devices 4 and 5, based on the sample information measured by the sample quantity detection device 7 and the sample rack identification information.

[0156] Specifically, the control device 30 may be configured to perform the following steps when controlling the processing action of the sample processing device 50 based on the sample information measured by the sample quantity detection device 7 and / or determining whether the sample processing device 50 performs a processing action:

[0157] Obtain sample rack identification information from sample rack identification device 9;

[0158] If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample (first type of sample container 91), then the sample processing device 50 is controlled to process the sample in the sample container using the first processing conditions.

[0159] If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample (second type sample containers 92, 93), then the sample processing device 50 is controlled to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition.

[0160] If the sample information does not match the sample rack identification information, the sample processing device 50 is controlled not to process the sample in the sample container.

[0161] Understandably, "Sample information matches sample rack identification information" means that, based on the sample information, the current sample container contains a first-type sample (or a second-type sample), and based on the sample rack identification information, the sample rack containing the current sample container is a sample rack used to accommodate sample containers containing first-type samples (or second-type samples). "Sample information does not match sample rack identification information" means that, based on the sample information, the current sample container contains a first-type sample (or a second-type sample), and based on the sample rack identification information, the sample rack containing the current sample container is a sample rack used to accommodate sample containers containing second-type samples (or first-type samples).

[0162] As is understandable, the first and second processing conditions have been described in detail above and will not be repeated here.

[0163] For example, the control device 30 may be further configured to perform the following steps when controlling the operation of the mixing devices 4 and 5 based on the sample information measured by the sample volume detection device 7:

[0164] Obtain sample rack identification information from sample rack identification device 9;

[0165] If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the first mixing component 4 is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container.

[0166] If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the first mixing component 4 is controlled to move the sample container into the second mixing component 5, and then the second mixing component 5 is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container.

[0167] If the sample information does not match the sample rack identification information, the first mixing component 4 is controlled to directly transport the sample container back to the sample rack 90, without mixing the sample in the sample container again.

[0168] Here, the sample rack that holds the first type of sample container 91 or the first type of sample (venous blood sample) is referred to as the first type of sample rack, and the sample rack that holds the second type of sample container 92 (or 93) or the second type of sample (peripheral blood sample) is referred to as the second type of sample rack.

[0169] The first and second types of sample racks can be distinguished in appearance, for example, in terms of shape, color, and label.

[0170] Preferably, the first type of sample rack and the second type of sample rack have a color difference; for example, the first type of sample rack is off-white, while the second type of sample rack is pink. The color difference can be an overall difference in color between the sample racks, or a difference in the color of a specific part of the sample rack (such as the top or side surface). The color of the sample rack can be achieved by mixing the color of the injection molding material, or by attaching colored labels to the sample racks.

[0171] Alternatively, the first and second types of sample racks can also be distinguished by transparency and color, for example, the first type of sample rack is off-white, while the second type of sample rack is transparent.

[0172] Alternatively, the first and second types of sample racks can also be distinguished by their shapes, for example, by having different heights.

[0173] Optionally, the sample rack identification device can be a color or color mark sensor, a vision sensor, or a photoelectric sensor. The sensor detects information such as the color and shape of the sample rack to distinguish whether the current sample rack is a first-type or second-type sample rack.

[0174] Optionally, the control device 30 may be further configured to output an alarm prompt, such as an audible alarm or vibration alarm, or display an alarm prompt on the display screen 2 of the sample analyzer 1, if the sample information does not match the sample rack identification information.

[0175] Furthermore, in addition to outputting alarm prompts, the control device 30 can be configured to control the sample rack transport device 3 to directly transport the sample rack 90 out of the sample analysis area P after controlling the first mixing component 4 to transport the sample container back to the sample rack 90. ​​That is, when the sample rack type and the sample type do not match, in addition to not processing the current sample, the entire row of sample racks can be pushed out without processing, but the measurement of the subsequent sample racks can continue; or the entire row of sample racks can be pushed out without processing, and the automatic sample loading can be terminated, that is, the subsequent sample racks will not be processed.

[0176] Furthermore, the first aspect of this invention is applicable not only to automated sample introduction detection processes but also to closed sample introduction (also known as manual sample introduction) detection processes. Unlike the closed sample introduction chambers in the prior art that require two fixed holes (one for placing a constant sample container and the other for placing a micro sample container), the sample container receiving device of this embodiment can have only one sample container receiving hole for receiving a manually inserted sample container. The sample container receiving device and the capacitive sensor are arranged in the sample analyzer 1 such that the detection surface of the capacitive sensor faces the sample container contained in the sample container receiving device and can detect the sample information of the sample container.

[0177] In one embodiment, such as Figure 38 As shown, the control device 30 includes at least a processing component 31, RAM 32, ROM 33, communication interface 34, memory 36, and I / O interface 35, wherein the processing component 31, RAM 32, ROM 33, communication interface 34, memory 36, and I / O interface 35 communicate via bus 17.

[0178] The processing component 31 can be a CPU, GPU, or other chip with computing power.

[0179] The memory 36 contains various computer programs, such as the operating system and application programs, which are executed by the processor component 31, as well as the data required to execute these computer programs. Additionally, during the control process, any data that needs to be stored locally can be stored in the memory 36.

[0180] The I / O interface 35 consists of serial interfaces such as USB, IEEE1394, or RS-232C; parallel interfaces such as SCSI, IDE, or IEEE1284; and analog signal interfaces composed of D / A converters and A / D converters. Input devices such as keyboards, mice, touchscreens, or other control buttons can be connected to the I / O interface 35, allowing users to directly input data into the control device 30. Additionally, a display with display capabilities, such as an LCD screen, touchscreen, or LED display, can be connected to the I / O interface 35, allowing the control device 30 to output processed data as image display data to the display for presentation.

[0181] The communication interface 34 can be any known communication protocol. The communication interface 34 communicates with the outside world via a network. The control device 30 can transmit data with any device connected to the network via the communication interface 34 using a specific communication protocol.

[0182] In addition, such as Figure 39 As shown, a second aspect of the present invention also provides another sample analyzer 1', including a sample rack, a sample rack transport device 3', a sample processing device, a sample rack identification device 9', a sample identification device 7', and a control device 30'. The sample rack is configured to hold multiple sample containers, each container for holding a sample. The sample rack transport device 3' is configured to transport the sample rack within a sample analysis area P'. The sample processing device is configured to process the samples in the sample containers on the sample rack within the sample analysis area P'. The sample rack identification device 9' is configured to identify the type of the sample rack. The sample identification device 7' is configured to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample contained in the sample container.

[0183] In the sample analyzer 1' provided in the second aspect of the invention, the control device 30' is configured for:

[0184] If the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample container or the type of sample loaded in the sample container, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container.

[0185] If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container or the type of sample loaded in the sample container, the sample processing device is controlled not to process the sample in the sample container.

[0186] In the sample analyzer 1' provided in the second aspect of the present invention, venous blood samples and capillary blood samples are distinguished by different sample racks. However, there is a risk that the user may place the sample in the wrong rack. Therefore, the instrument adds detection of sample container type or sample type to confirm whether the sample container placed on the rack is correct. The instrument determines whether to continue the subsequent operation process by judging whether the sample rack type matches the sample container type or sample type. When the sample rack type does not match the sample container type or sample type, it indicates that the user has placed the sample in the wrong rack. At this time, the instrument does not process the current sample and may optionally issue an alarm. This eliminates the risk caused by the user placing the sample in the wrong rack.

[0187] Understandably, "Sample rack type matches sample container type or sample type" means that the current sample rack is for accommodating first-type sample containers (or second-type sample containers), and the current sample container is a first-type sample container (or second-type sample container); or the current sample rack is for accommodating sample containers used to load first-type samples (or second-type samples), and the sample loaded in the current sample container is a first-type sample (or second-type sample). "Sample rack type does not match sample container type or sample type" means that the current sample rack is for accommodating first-type sample containers (or second-type sample containers), and the current sample container is a second-type sample container (or first-type sample container); or the current sample rack is for accommodating sample containers used to load first-type samples (or second-type samples), and the sample loaded in the current sample container is a second-type sample (or first-type sample).

[0188] Furthermore, the control device 30' can be configured to:

[0189] If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container or the type of sample loaded in the sample container, an alarm is output; and / or subsequent processing and testing of the sample container are skipped; and / or the sample rack transport device 3' is controlled to directly transport the sample rack out of the sample analysis area P'.

[0190] In some embodiments, the sample identification device 7' is arranged outside the sample analysis area P'. The sample analyzer also includes a sample container handling device 4', which is configured to remove sample containers from the sample rack and move them within the detection range of the sample identification device 7', so that the sample identification device 7' can identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample contained in the sample container.

[0191] In some embodiments, the sample identification device 7' is a capacitive sensor, a through-beam photoelectric sensor, or an image sensor, as described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0192] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figures 39 to 41 As shown, the sample identification device is a reflective photoelectric sensor and is arranged outside the sample analysis area P'. Preferably, the sample identification device can be a laser reflective sensor with a small light spot whose detection distance is adjustable. For example, the gripper 41' of the first mixing component 4' grips the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 fixed on the sample holder and rises along the Z1 direction. Then, the gripper 41' of the first mixing component 4' grips the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 and swings it at a certain angle along the R1 direction, so that the bottom of the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92 faces the reflective photoelectric sensor 7'.

[0193] like Figure 40 As shown, the laser beam emitted by the reflective photoelectric sensor 7', due to its small spot size, can enter a semi-open cavity 921b in the lower part of the second type of sample container 92, irradiate the top 921c of the cavity, and reflect the beam. The distance from the detection surface of the reflective photoelectric sensor 7' to the reflecting surface of the second type of sample container 92 is h2. Figure 41 As shown, the laser beam emitted by the reflective photoelectric sensor 7' illuminates the bottom 911c of the container and is reflected. The distance from the detection surface of the reflective photoelectric sensor 7' to the reflecting surface of the first type of sample container 91 is h1. Obviously, h1 < h2. Setting the detection distance of the reflective photoelectric sensor 7' as the average of h1 and h2, the reflective photoelectric sensor 7' can detect the first type of sample container 91 but cannot detect the second type of sample container 92. Thus, the reflective photoelectric sensor can distinguish whether a sample container is the first type of sample container 91 or the second type of sample container 92, and further distinguish whether the sample in the sample container is a first type of sample or a second type of sample. However, the limitation of this scheme is that it cannot distinguish between the first type of sample container 91 and the second type of sample container 93.

[0194] Other embodiments and advantages of the sample analyzer 1' provided in the second aspect of the present invention, including but not limited to other details of the sample rack transport device 3', sample processing device, sample rack identification device 9', sample identification device 7', first processing conditions, second processing conditions, etc., can be referred to the above description of the sample analyzer 1 provided in the first aspect of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0195] A third aspect of the present invention also provides another sample analyzer, including a sample rack, a sample rack transport device, a sample processing device, a sample identification device, a sample container handling device, and a control device. The sample rack is configured to hold multiple sample containers, each container holding a sample. The sample rack transport device is configured to transport the sample rack within a sample analysis area. The sample processing device is configured to process the samples in the sample containers on the sample rack within the sample analysis area. The sample identification device is configured to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample contained in the sample container and is located outside the sample analysis area. The sample container handling device is configured to remove the sample container from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the sample identification device. The control device is configured to control the processing action of the sample processing device on the sample container according to the type of the sample container or the type of sample contained in the sample container, and / or determine whether the sample processing device performs a processing action.

[0196] The sample identification device can be arranged more flexibly outside the sample analysis area, so that other parts of the sample analyzer will not interfere with the detection of the sample identification device.

[0197] In some embodiments, the sample identification device may be a capacitive sensor, a through-beam photoelectric sensor, a reflective photoelectric sensor, or an image sensor. Preferably, the sample identification device is a capacitive sensor, as described above in the first aspect of the invention.

[0198] Other embodiments and advantages of the sample analyzer provided in the third aspect of the present invention can be found in the above description of the sample analyzer provided in the first and second aspects of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0199] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a sample analysis method, which can be applied to the sample analyzer 1 provided in the first aspect of the present invention. For example... Figure 42 As shown, the sample analysis method 500 includes:

[0200] In step S510, the control device 30 controls the sample rack transport device 3 to transport the sample rack 90 in the sample analysis area P, wherein the sample rack 90 contains a sample container loaded with samples.

[0201] Step S520: The sample quantity detection device 7 is used to detect the sample quantity or sample position in the sample container in a non-contact manner.

[0202] In step S530, the control device 30 obtains sample information of the sample container from the sample quantity detection device 7, the sample information including at least one of sample quantity information and sample location information;

[0203] In step S540, the control device 30 controls the processing action of the sample processing device 50 or determines whether the sample processing device 50 performs a processing action based on the sample information.

[0204] Therefore, by detecting the sample quantity or sample location in the sample container, the sample container type or sample type can be reliably identified without designing a special structure for the sample container, and it can be adapted to various different sample containers.

[0205] In some embodiments, the sample volume detection device 7 is configured as a capacitive sensor 7, for example, referring to the above description of the sample analyzer 1 of the first aspect of the present invention. Further, the capacitive sensor is fixedly disposed in the sample analyzer such that the metal components of the sample analyzer do not interfere with the detection of the capacitive sensor, or that the metal components of the sample analyzer are outside the detection range of the capacitive sensor.

[0206] In some embodiments, such as Figure 43 As shown, step S540 includes:

[0207] Step S541a: If the sample information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then control the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container using the first processing conditions.

[0208] Step S542a: If the sample information indicates that the sample container contains a second type of sample, then control the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample is at least one of different sample quantity and different sample location.

[0209] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 44 As shown, prior to step S540, the method further includes:

[0210] Step S550: Use the sample rack identification device to identify the type of the sample rack to obtain sample rack identification information.

[0211] Accordingly, step S540 includes:

[0212] Step S541b: If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container using the first processing conditions.

[0213] Step S542b: If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample is at least one of different sample quantity and different sample position.

[0214] In step S543b, if the sample information does not match the sample rack identification information, the control device controls the sample processing device not to process the sample in the sample container, and optionally outputs an alarm prompt.

[0215] Therefore, when using different sample racks to place different sample containers or different samples, the error of the user placing the wrong sample on the sample rack can be identified by comparing the information from the sample quantity detection device and the sample rack identification device, thereby reducing the risk of sample detection.

[0216] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus includes a first mixing component and a second mixing component that are independent of each other, the first processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the first mixing component, and the second processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the second mixing component.

[0217] Furthermore, the amount of the first type of sample is greater than the amount of the second type of sample, the first processing condition includes inverting and mixing the sample in the sample container using the first mixing component, and the second processing condition includes rotating and mixing the sample in the sample container using the second mixing component.

[0218] Alternatively or additionally, the sample processing apparatus includes a suction device with a suction needle, the first processing condition including lowering the suction needle a first distance to collect a sample from the sample container, and the second processing condition including lowering the suction needle a second distance to collect a sample from the sample container, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance when the amount of the first type of sample is greater than the amount of the second type of sample.

[0219] Additionally, alternatively or additionally, the first processing condition includes drawing a first sample volume from the sample container using the sampling needle, and the second processing condition includes drawing a second sample volume from the sample container using the sampling needle, wherein the first sample volume is greater than the second sample volume when the volume of the first type of sample is greater than the volume of the second type of sample.

[0220] In some embodiments, the sample volume detection device 7, in particular the capacitance sensor 7, is located outside the sample analysis area P. Step S520 includes: the control device controlling the sample container handling device to remove the sample container from the sample rack and move it to the detection range of the sample volume detection device 7, in particular the capacitance sensor 7, so that the capacitance sensor can detect the sample volume or sample position in the sample container.

[0221] In some embodiments, the sample processing apparatus includes a first mixing component and a second mixing component that are independent of each other. Step S520 includes: the control device controlling the first mixing component as a sample container transport device to remove a sample container from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the sample volume detection device 7, particularly the capacitance sensor 7. Correspondingly, step S540 includes: the control device controlling the operation of the first mixing component or the second mixing component based on the sample information.

[0222] Specifically, in some embodiments, the control device controls the operation of the first mixing component or the second mixing component based on the sample information, including:

[0223] Step S541c: If the sample information indicates that the sample container contains a first type of sample, the control device controls the first mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container.

[0224] In step S542c, if the sample information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, the control device controls the first mixing component to move the sample container into the second mixing component, and then controls the second mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container, wherein the first type of sample container and the second type of sample container are used to load different types of samples or to load different amounts of samples, respectively.

[0225] In some other embodiments, prior to step S540, the method further includes: S550, using a sample rack identification device to identify the type of the sample rack to obtain sample rack identification information.

[0226] Accordingly, step S540 includes:

[0227] Step S541d: If the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the control device controls the first mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container.

[0228] In step S542d, if the sample information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample container, the control device controls the first mixing component to move the sample container into the second mixing component, and then controls the second mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container, wherein the first type of sample container and the second type of sample container are used to load different types of samples or to load different amounts of samples, respectively.

[0229] In step S543d, if the sample information does not match the sample rack identification information, the control device controls the first mixing component to directly transport the sample container back to the sample rack, without mixing the sample in the sample container again.

[0230] Other details and advantages of the sample analysis method provided in the fourth aspect of the present invention can be found in the above description of the sample analyzer 1 provided in the first aspect of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0231] The fifth aspect of this invention provides another sample analysis method, which can be applied to the sample analyzer provided in the second aspect of this invention. For example... Figure 45 As shown, the sample analysis method 600 includes:

[0232] Step S610: The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, wherein the sample rack contains a sample container loaded with samples.

[0233] Step S620: Identify the type of the sample rack using the sample rack identification device;

[0234] Step S630: Use the sample identification device to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample contained in the sample container;

[0235] Step S640: If the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample container or the type of the sample loaded in the sample container, the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container.

[0236] In step S650, if the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container or the type of the sample loaded in the sample container, the control device controls the sample processing device not to process the sample in the sample container.

[0237] The sample analysis method 600 can prevent instrument malfunctions or incorrect output results caused by the user placing the sample container on the wrong type of sample rack.

[0238] Understandably, the order of steps S620 and S630 is not limited. For example, the sample rack type can be obtained by using the barcode scanning component 8 as a sample rack identification device. The barcode scanning component 8 is set to the barcode scanning position P4, and the sample identification device 7 is set to the sample quantity detection position P3. The sample quantity detection position P3 can be located after, before, or coincide with the barcode scanning position P4.

[0239] In sample analysis method 600, the control device determines whether the sample rack type matches the sample container type or sample type on the sample rack. Matching means that the first type sample rack 100 contains a first type sample container 91 or a first type sample, and the second type sample rack 101 contains a second type sample container 92 (93) or a second type sample. When the sample rack type does not match the sample container type or sample type on the sample rack, step S650 is executed, and the sample analyzer 1 reports an error and does not process the sample (e.g., skipping the sample but continuing to process subsequent samples); when the sample rack type matches the sample container type or sample type on the sample rack, step S640 is executed.

[0240] In step S640, the control device controls the mixing device, the aspiration device, the sample preparation component, the detection component, and the analysis component to process the sample on the sample rack according to the type defined by the sample rack.

[0241] An example process is as follows: Figure 46 As shown.

[0242] In step S710, it is determined whether the current sample rack is a first type of sample rack or a second type of sample rack. If it is a first type of sample rack, the process jumps to step S720; if it is a second type of sample rack, the process jumps to step S730.

[0243] In step S720, the samples on the sample holder are processed according to the first processing conditions. The first processing conditions may include one of the following:

[0244] The sample is mixed using the first mixing component 4;

[0245] The motor 63 of the sampling device 6 drives the sampling needle 61 to move downward and insert it into the sample container according to the first current. The first current is relatively large, which can provide a large driving force for the motor 63, so that the sampling needle 61 pierces the cap of the sample container and enters the inner cavity of the sample container.

[0246] The sampling needle 61 aspirates the first amount of sample.

[0247] The sample preparation component dilutes the sample according to a first dilution ratio, and / or mixes the sample and reagents according to a first ratio, and / or allows the sample and reagents to react for a first time to prepare the test sample;

[0248] The detection component detects the test sample for the first detection quantity;

[0249] The analysis component analyzes the detection data measured by the detection component according to the first analysis conditions.

[0250] In step S730, the samples on the sample holder are processed according to a second processing condition different from the first processing condition. The second processing condition may accordingly include one of the following:

[0251] The sample is mixed using the second mixing component 5;

[0252] The motor 63 of the sampling device 6 drives the sampling needle 61 downward to insert into the sample container with a second current less than the first current. The second current is small and can only provide a small driving force to the motor 63. Since the second type of sample container 92 or 93 is a container without a cap or has a cap but the cap has a through cross groove, the motor 63 does not need a large driving force to make the sampling needle 61 enter the inner cavity of the second type of sample container 92 or 93. When the sampling needle 61 moves downward to the bottom of the inner cavity of the second type of sample container 92 or 93, the sampling needle 61 is blocked. The small current can avoid damage to the sampling needle or the tube.

[0253] The sampling needle 61 aspirates a second sample amount, less than the first aspirate amount;

[0254] The sample preparation component dilutes the sample at a second dilution ratio greater than the first dilution ratio, and / or mixes the sample and reagents at a second ratio, wherein the reagents account for a greater proportion than the first ratio, and / or allows the sample and reagents to react for a second time longer than the first time;

[0255] The detection component detects a second detection quantity of test samples that exceeds the first detection quantity;

[0256] The analysis component analyzes the detection data measured by the detection component according to a second analysis condition different from the first analysis condition.

[0257] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the sample identification device is located outside the sample analysis area P. Step S630 includes:

[0258] The control device controls the sample container handling device to lift the sample container from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the sample identification device, so that the sample identification device can identify the type of the sample container.

[0259] Other details and advantages of the sample analysis method provided in the fifth aspect of the present invention can be found in the above description of the sample analyzer provided in the first and second aspects of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0260] The sixth aspect of this invention provides another sample analysis method, which can be applied to the sample analyzer provided in the third aspect of this invention. For example... Figure 47 As shown, the sample analysis method 800 includes:

[0261] Step S810: The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, wherein the sample rack contains a sample container loaded with samples.

[0262] In step S820, the control device controls the sample container handling device to lift the sample container on the sample rack from the sample rack and move it to the detection range of the sample identification device located outside the sample analysis area;

[0263] Step S830: Use the sample identification device to identify the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container;

[0264] In step S840, the control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container.

[0265] Other details and advantages of the sample analysis method provided in the fifth aspect of the present invention can be found in the above description of the sample analyzer provided in the first to third aspects of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0266] All features or combinations of features mentioned above in the specification, drawings, and claims, as long as they are meaningful within the scope of this invention and do not contradict each other, can be used in any combination or individually. The advantages and features described for the sample analyzer provided in the embodiments of this invention are correspondingly applied to the sample analysis method provided in the embodiments of this invention, and vice versa.

[0267] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, include: A sample container receiving device is provided for receiving a sample container for loading a sample; A sample container handling device, configured to remove a sample container from the sample container receiving device; A capacitive sensor is configured to detect the amount or location of a sample in the sample container without contacting the sample. A sample processing device is provided for processing samples in the sample container; A control device, communicatively connected to the capacitive sensor and the sample processing device, and configured to: At least one of sample quantity information and sample location information of the sample container is obtained from the capacitive sensor, and Control the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determine whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information; The control device is also communicatively connected to the sample container handling device and is further configured to: control the sample container handling device to remove a sample container from the sample container receiving device, causing the removed sample container to move relative to the capacitive sensor, and acquire dynamic changes in the signal of the capacitive sensor to detect the sample quantity or sample position of the removed sample container; wherein the control device is further configured to perform the following steps when controlling the processing action of the sample processing device based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample position information: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container with a first processing condition. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample lies in at least one of the sample quantity and the sample location.

2. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The capacitance sensor is fixedly installed in the sample analyzer, so that the metal parts of the sample analyzer do not interfere with the detection of the capacitance sensor, or so that the metal parts of the sample analyzer are not within the detection range of the capacitance sensor.

3. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The capacitive sensor is a capacitive proximity sensor.

4. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The capacitive sensor is a capacitive sensor with an adjustable threshold.

5. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample container holding device is configured as a sample rack capable of holding multiple sample containers for loading first type of samples or sample containers for loading second type of samples, wherein the difference between the first type of samples and the second type of samples lies in at least one of the following: sample quantity and sample position. The sample analyzer further includes a sample rack identification device for identifying the type of the sample rack, the sample rack identification device being communicatively connected to the control device; and The control device is further configured to perform the following steps when controlling the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determining whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information: Sample rack identification information is obtained from the sample rack identification device. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container using the first processing conditions. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information does not match the sample rack identification information, the sample processing device is controlled not to process the sample in the sample container.

6. The sample analyzer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control device is further configured to: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information does not match the sample rack identification information, an alarm prompt will be output.

7. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The first type of sample is venous blood sample, and the second type of sample is peripheral blood sample.

8. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The sample processing device includes a first mixing component and a second mixing component that are independent of each other. The first processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the first mixing component, and the second processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the second mixing component.

9. The sample analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, The amount of the first type of sample is greater than the amount of the second type of sample. The first mixing component is configured to mix the sample in the sample container by inverting it by oscillation, while the second mixing component is configured to mix the sample in the sample container by rotation.

10. The sample analyzer according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sample processing device includes a sampling device with a sampling needle, the first processing condition includes having the sampling needle draw a first sample volume from the sample container, and the second processing condition includes having the sampling needle draw a second sample volume from the sample container, wherein the first sample volume is greater than the second sample volume.

11. The sample analyzer according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first processing condition includes lowering the sampling needle by a first distance to collect a sample from the sample container, and the second processing condition includes lowering the sampling needle by a second distance to collect a sample from the sample container, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

12. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The sample analyzer also includes a sample analysis area with a sample volume detection position and a mixing position, and the sample processing device includes a mixing device. The sample container holding device is configured as a sample rack that can hold multiple sample containers. The sample analyzer also includes a sample rack transport device that is communicatively connected to the control device. The sample rack transport device is configured to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, so that each sample container on the sample rack arrives at the sample volume detection position and the mixing position in sequence. The mixing device is configured to mix the sample in the sample container located at the mixing position on the sample rack. The capacitive sensor is fixedly installed in the sample analysis area, such that the detection surface of the capacitive sensor faces the sample container on the sample rack at the sample quantity detection position, and can detect at least one of the sample quantity information and sample position information of the sample container.

13. The sample analyzer according to claim 12, characterized in that, The sample analyzer also includes a sample container handling device that is communicatively connected to the control device. The sample container handling device is configured to remove the sample container located at the sample volume detection position from the sample rack. The capacitance sensor has a first detection state and a second detection state. In the first detection state, the capacitance change value detected by the capacitance sensor is greater than or equal to a preset capacitance change threshold. In the second detection state, the capacitance change value detected by the capacitance sensor is less than the preset capacitance change threshold. as well as The capacitive sensor is fixedly disposed in the sample analysis area, such that during the process of the sample container handling device removing the sample container at the sample volume detection position from the sample rack, the capacitive sensor changes from at least a first detection state to a second detection state, wherein at least one of the sample volume information and sample position information includes the duration of the first detection state and / or the time of change from the first detection state to the second detection state.

14. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The sample analyzer also includes a sample analysis area with a sample volume detection position and a mixing position, and the sample processing device includes a mixing device. The sample container holding device is configured as a sample rack that can hold multiple sample containers. The sample analyzer also includes a sample rack transport device that is communicatively connected to the control device. The sample rack transport device is configured to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, so that each sample container on the sample rack arrives at the sample volume detection position and the mixing position in sequence. The mixing device is configured to mix the sample in the sample container located at the mixing position on the sample rack. The capacitive sensor is located outside the sample analysis area.

15. The sample analyzer according to claim 14, characterized in that, The sample rack is constructed to accommodate at least one of a sample container for loading a first type of sample and a sample container for loading a second type of sample, wherein the first type of sample and the second type of sample differ in at least one of the following: sample quantity and sample position. The sample volume detection position and the mixing position are set at the same position. The mixing device includes a first mixing component and a second mixing component. The first mixing component is used to mix the first type of sample and also serves as the sample container handling device. The second mixing component is used to mix the second type of sample. The control device is further configured to: The sample rack transport device is controlled to transport the sample rack so that each sample container on the sample rack arrives at the mixing position sequentially. The first mixing component is controlled to remove the sample container at the mixing position from the sample holder and move it within the detection range of the capacitance sensor. At least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information of the sample container is obtained from the capacitive sensor. The operation of the mixing device is controlled based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information.

16. The sample analyzer according to claim 15, characterized in that, The control device is further configured to perform the following steps when controlling the operation of the mixing device based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container on the sample rack at the mixing position is loaded with a first type of sample, then the first mixing component is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container on the sample rack at the mixing position is loaded with a second type of sample, then the first mixing component is controlled to move the sample container into the second mixing component, and then the second mixing component is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container.

17. The sample analyzer according to claim 15, characterized in that, The sample analyzer further includes a sample rack identification device for identifying the type of the sample rack, the sample rack identification device being communicatively connected to the control device; and The control device is further configured to perform the following steps when controlling the operation of the mixing device based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information: Sample rack identification information is obtained from the sample rack identification device. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the first mixing component is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the first mixing component is controlled to move the sample container into the second mixing component, and then the second mixing component is controlled to mix the sample in the sample container. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information does not match the sample rack identification information, the first mixing component is controlled to stop mixing the sample in the sample container.

18. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The sample container receiving device has only one sample container receiving hole; The sample container holding device and the capacitive sensor are arranged in the sample analyzer such that the detection surface of the capacitive sensor faces the sample container contained in the sample container holding device and can detect at least one of the sample quantity information and sample position information of the sample container.

19. A sample analyzer, comprising: A sample rack is provided for loading multiple sample containers, each sample container being used to load a sample, and the sample rack is used to accommodate only sample containers loading a first type of sample or only sample containers loading a second type of sample; A sample rack transport device is provided for transporting the sample rack within the sample analysis area; A sample processing device is provided for processing samples in sample containers on sample racks in the sample analysis area; A sample rack identification device is configured to identify the type of the sample rack; A sample identification device is configured to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container; Control device, configured for: If the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample container, or if the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample in the sample container, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container. If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container, or if the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample in the sample container, the sample processing device is controlled not to process the sample in the sample container.

20. The sample analyzer according to claim 19, characterized in that, The control device is further configured to: If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container, or if the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample in the sample container, an alarm is output; and / or subsequent processing and testing of the sample container is skipped; and / or the sample rack transport device is controlled to directly transport the sample rack out of the sample analysis area.

21. The sample analyzer according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The sample identification device is a capacitive sensor, a through-beam photoelectric sensor, a reflective photoelectric sensor, or an image sensor.

22. The sample analyzer according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The sample identification device is arranged outside the sample analysis area; and The sample analyzer also includes a sample container handling device, which is configured to remove the sample container from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the sample identification device, so that the sample identification device can identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container.

23. A sample analyzer, comprising: A sample rack is designed to hold multiple sample containers, each container being used to hold a sample. A sample rack transport device is provided for transporting the sample rack within the sample analysis area; A sample processing device is provided for processing samples in sample containers on sample racks in the sample analysis area; A sample identification device is configured to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container and is located outside the sample analysis area. The sample identification device is a capacitive sensor configured to detect the sample quantity or sample location in the sample container in a non-contact manner. A sample container handling device is configured to lift sample containers from the sample rack and move them within the detection range of the sample identification device; A control device configured to control the processing actions of the sample processing device according to the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container, and / or determine whether the sample processing device performs a processing action.

24. A sample analysis method, comprising: The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, the sample rack containing the sample container loaded with the sample; The sample quantity or sample location in the sample container is detected using a capacitive sensor in a non-contact manner. The control device obtains at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information of the sample container from the capacitive sensor; The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information. The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, including: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container with a first processing condition. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the sample processing device is controlled to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample is at least one of different sample quantity and different sample location. The method of using a capacitive sensor to detect the sample quantity or position in the sample container without contact with the sample includes: The control device controls the sample container handling device to lift the sample container from the sample rack, causing the lifted sample container to move relative to the capacitive sensor, and acquires the dynamic changes in the signal of the capacitive sensor to detect the sample quantity or sample position of the lifted sample container.

25. The sample analysis method according to claim 24, characterized in that, Before the control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, the method further includes: The sample rack identification device is used to identify the type of the sample rack to obtain sample rack identification information; The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, including: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, then the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container using the first processing conditions. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container with a second processing condition different from the first processing condition, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample is at least one of different sample quantity and different sample location. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information does not match the sample rack identification information, the control device controls the sample processing device not to process the sample in the sample container.

26. The sample analysis method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The method further includes: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information does not match the sample rack identification information, an alarm prompt will be output.

27. The sample analysis method according to any one of claims 24 to 26, characterized in that, The sample processing device includes a first mixing component and a second mixing component that are independent of each other. The first processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the first mixing component, and the second processing condition includes mixing the sample in the sample container with the second mixing component.

28. The sample analysis method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The amount of the first type of sample is greater than the amount of the second type of sample. The first processing condition includes inverting and mixing the sample in the sample container using the first mixing component. The second processing condition includes rotating and mixing the sample in the sample container using the second mixing component.

29. The sample analysis method according to claim 28, characterized in that, The sample processing device includes a sampling device with a sampling needle, the first processing condition includes having the sampling needle draw a first sample volume from the sample container, and the second processing condition includes having the sampling needle draw a second sample volume from the sample container, wherein the first sample volume is greater than the second sample volume.

30. The sample analysis method according to any one of claims 24 to 26, characterized in that, The capacitive sensor is located outside the sample analysis area.

31. The sample analysis method according to claim 30, characterized in that, The sample processing device includes a first mixing component and a second mixing component that are independent of each other. The method of detecting the sample quantity or position in the sample container using a capacitive sensor in a non-contact manner includes: The control device controls the first mixing component to act as the sample container transport device to lift the sample container from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the capacitive sensor; The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, including: The control device controls the operation of the first mixing component or the second mixing component based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information.

32. The sample analysis method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The control device controls the operation of the first mixing component or the second mixing component based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, including: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a first type of sample, the control device controls the first mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information indicates that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, the control device controls the first mixing component to move the sample container into the second mixing component, and then controls the second mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container, wherein the difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample is at least one of different sample quantity and different sample location.

33. The sample analysis method according to claim 31, characterized in that, Before the control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, the method further includes: using a sample rack identification device to identify the type of the sample rack to obtain sample rack identification information; The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information, including: If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container contains a first type of sample, then the control device controls the first mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information matches the sample rack identification information and both indicate that the sample container is loaded with a second type of sample, then the control device controls the first mixing component to move the sample container into the second mixing component, and then controls the second mixing component to mix the sample in the sample container. The difference between the first type of sample and the second type of sample lies in at least one of the following: sample quantity and sample location. If at least one of the sample quantity information and sample location information does not match the sample rack identification information, the control device controls the first mixing component to stop mixing the sample in the sample container.

34. A sample analysis method, comprising: The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area. The sample rack can only hold sample containers containing first-type samples or only hold sample containers containing second-type samples. The type of the sample rack is identified using a sample rack identification device; The sample identification device is used to identify the type of the sample container or the type of the sample in the sample container. If the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample container, or if the type of the sample rack matches the type of the sample in the sample container, then the control device controls the sample processing device to process the sample in the sample container. If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container, or if the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample in the sample container, the control device controls the sample processing device not to process the sample in the sample container.

35. The sample analysis method according to claim 34, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample container, or if the type of the sample rack does not match the type of the sample in the sample container, an alarm will be output.

36. The sample analysis method according to claim 34 or 35, characterized in that, The sample identification device is located outside the sample analysis area; The step of using a sample identification device to identify the type of the sample container includes: The control device controls the sample container handling device to lift the sample container from the sample rack and move it within the detection range of the sample identification device, so that the sample identification device can identify the type of the sample container.

37. A sample analyzer method, comprising: The control device controls the sample rack transport device to transport the sample rack in the sample analysis area, the sample rack containing the sample container loaded with the sample; The control device controls the sample container handling device to lift the sample container from the sample rack and move it to the detection range of the sample identification device located outside the sample analysis area; The sample identification device is used to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container; The control device controls the processing action of the sample processing device and / or determines whether the sample processing device performs a processing action based on the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container. Wherein, the sample identification device is a capacitive sensor, and the step of using the sample identification device to identify the type of the sample container or the type of sample in the sample container includes: The capacitive sensor is used to detect the sample quantity or sample location in the sample container in a non-contact manner.

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