Automated analysis device

Abstract

The present application aims to provide an automatic analysis device which removes condensation water generated on the inner wall of a reagent storage library and is excellent in workability. To this end, the automatic analysis device of the present application is provided with a reagent storage library which stores a plurality of reagent containers, the reagent storage library having: a reagent sleeve which holds the reagent containers in a sleeve and rotates; a frame which houses the reagent sleeve; and a cover portion which covers the upper portion of the frame and is formed with a dispensing hole for dispensing the reagent in the reagent containers, wherein a sliding contact mechanism which can switch between a state of contacting the inner wall surface of the frame and a state of being away from the inner wall surface of the frame is provided in the reagent sleeve.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Automated analytical apparatus for analyzing samples (blood, urine, etc.) includes a reagent storage chamber for storing reagents used to examine the samples. The reagent storage chamber cools the reagents by cooling its inner walls, utilizing heat transfer to cool the internal air. However, condensation occurs due to the temperature difference between the internal air and the inner wall. Over time, mold and other contaminants can grow on the condensed inner wall of the reagent storage chamber, and if these contaminants mix with the reagents, the accuracy of the analysis may deteriorate. Therefore, manually wiping away the condensation has historically been time-consuming and labor-intensive. Patent Document 1 discloses an automated analytical apparatus equipped with an elastic component that contacts the inner wall of the reagent storage chamber to remove condensation.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5953140 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the automatic analysis device described in Patent Document 1, since the elastic component is always in contact with the inner wall of the reagent storage compartment, the elastic component wears out quickly, and it is possible to frequently replace the elastic component.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated analysis device that removes condensation from the inner wall of a reagent storage tank and has excellent operability.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] To address the aforementioned issues, the automatic analysis apparatus of the present invention includes a reagent storage container for storing multiple reagent containers. The reagent storage container comprises: a reagent sleeve that holds and rotates the reagent container sleeve; a frame that houses the reagent sleeve; and a cover that covers the top of the frame and has a dispensing hole for dispensing reagents from the reagent containers. A sliding contact mechanism is provided in the reagent sleeve, which is capable of switching between a state of contact with the inner wall surface of the frame and a state of being away from the inner wall surface of the frame.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the present invention, an automated analytical apparatus is provided that can remove condensation formed on the inner wall of a reagent storage tank and has excellent operability. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the automatic analysis device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the reagent storage facility according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 3 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 1. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0016] Figure 4 The diagram shows the open state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 1. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0017] Figure 5 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 2. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0018] Figure 6 The diagram shows the open state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 2. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0019] Figure 7 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 3. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0020] Figure 8 The diagram shows the open state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 3. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0021] Figure 9 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 4. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0022] Figure 10 The diagram shows the open state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 4. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part.

[0023] Figure 11 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism in Embodiment 5. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side.

[0024] Figure 12The diagram shows the state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 5 with the switch open. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side.

[0025] Figure 13 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 6. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side.

[0026] Figure 14 The diagram shows the state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 6 with the switch open. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side.

[0027] Figure 15 The diagram shows the switch-on state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 7. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the vicinity of the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side.

[0028] Figure 16 The diagram shows the state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 7 in the open state. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a vertical main section view showing the open state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 8.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a view of the scraper of the sliding contact mechanism in Embodiment 8 from above.

[0031] Figure 19 This is a vertical main section view showing the open state of the sliding contact mechanism of Embodiment 9. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the automatic analysis device according to this embodiment. Figure 1As shown, the automatic analysis device 1 of this embodiment includes: a reagent storage compartment 2 for keeping reagents cold; a sample placement unit 3 for placing samples; a dispensing mechanism 4 for dispensing reagents and samples; a reaction unit 5 for promoting a reaction by mixing reagents and samples and imparting optical or thermodynamic energy; a detection unit 6 for detecting changes such as fluorescence obtained from the mixture; a control unit 7 for controlling the above-mentioned components; and an operation unit 8 for user settings, etc.

[0033] Next, the reagent storage room 2 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of reagent storage room 2. (For example...) Figure 2 As shown, the reagent storage container 2 includes: a vessel-shaped frame 9 that forms the outer contour of the container; reagent racks 12 that hold multiple reagent containers 21; a reagent sleeve 11 that houses the frame 9 and holds the multiple reagent racks 12; a lid 19 that covers the top of the frame 9; and a base 20 that supports the container. An insulating material 17 for heat preservation is provided on the outside of the frame 9, and a temperature control unit 10 for adjusting the temperature inside the container is provided below the frame 9. Furthermore, although not shown, the reagent storage container 2 of this embodiment also includes a sensor for measuring the temperature inside the container and a temperature control unit for controlling the temperature control unit 10. In addition to reagents, samples may also be stored in the reagent storage container 2.

[0034] Here, the reagent sleeve 11 is connected to the rotating shaft 13 via the sleeve receiving portion 16, so that when the rotating shaft 13 rotates via the pulley and belt 14 under the driving force of the motor 15, the reagent sleeve 11 rotates integrally with the rotating shaft 13. Furthermore, a plurality of dispensing holes 18 are formed in the cover portion 19. Then, the control unit 7 controls the motor 15 to rotate the reagent sleeve 11 so that any reagent container 21 and the dispensing holes 18 are arranged vertically, and the dispensing mechanism 4 dispenses the reagent from the reagent container 21 through the dispensing holes 18.

[0035] Hereinafter, based on various embodiments, the sliding contact mechanism 22, which is provided on the reagent sleeve 11 and is capable of switching between a state in contact with the inner wall surface of the frame 9 and a state away from the inner wall surface of the frame 9, will be described.

[0036] Example 1

[0037] use Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 1 will be described. The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the side wall of the frame 9, and is provided on the reagent sleeve 11. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is manually switched on and off.

[0038] The sliding contact mechanism 22 consists of a scraper 24 (sliding contact portion), a hinge 25, a scraper plate 26, a movable portion 27, a switch 28, and a spring 29. The scraper 24, made of an elastic material, is connected to the scraper plate 26 via the hinge 25. The scraper plate 26 is connected to one end of the movable portion 27. The other end of the movable portion 27 is connected to the switch 28, and the bent portion of the movable portion 27 moves within a moving portion 31 formed on the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve 11 according to the state of the switch 28. Furthermore, a slit 30 is formed on the side wall of the reagent sleeve 11, through which the scraper 24, hinge 25, and scraper plate 26 enter and exit radially.

[0039] Figure 3 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall surface of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. In this embodiment, the switch 28 operates and is turned on when manually pressed. At this time, as... Figure 3 As shown, the curved portion of the movable part 27 moves outwards within the moving part 31, causing the scraper plate 26 to protrude outwards from the slit 30. When the scraper plate 26 protrudes, the scraper 24 folds inwards via the hinge 25, and the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the outer diameter sidewall in the reagent sleeve 11. That is, when the switch 28 is activated, the scraper 24 does not contact the sidewall of the frame 9.

[0040] Figure 4 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the side wall of the frame 9 facing the outer diameter of the reagent sleeve 11. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. When the switch 28 is manually released and disconnected, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the other end of the movable part 27 moves upward due to the elastic force of the spring 29, so the curved part of the movable part 27 moves towards the inner diameter side within the moving part 31, and the scraper plate 26 is pulled into the slit 30. When the scraper plate 26 is pulled in, the scraper 24 moves by pushing against the outer diameter side through the hinge 25, and the scraper 24 contacts the side wall of the frame 9.

[0041] The removal of condensation occurs after switch 28 is open and scraper 24 is in contact with the side wall of frame 9. At this time, the reagent storage chamber 2 rotates via the rotation of rotating shaft 13, which, in conjunction with the sleeve receiving part 16, causes reagent sleeve 11 to rotate. This causes scraper 24 to rotate while in contact with the side wall of frame 9, removing the condensation adhering to the side wall. Furthermore, since scraper 24 only contacts the inner wall of frame 9 when switch 28 is open, wear on scraper 24 can be suppressed, reducing replacement work by extending the life of scraper 24. Moreover, the power to rotate scraper 24 is derived from the rotation of reagent sleeve 11, thus providing the advantage of removing condensation even without installing a new rotating mechanism.

[0042] Furthermore, the sliding contact mechanism 22 can be configured to contact the inner diameter sidewall of the frame 9, or it can be used in conjunction with a structure that can contact the outer diameter sidewall of the frame 9. When used in conjunction, the operation of both sliding contact mechanisms 22 can be switched using a single switch 28, or the operation can be switched using individual switches 28. However, when configured to contact the outer diameter sidewall of the frame 9, the area of ​​the sidewall contacted by the sliding contact mechanism 22 is larger, thus removing more condensate and making it more efficient.

[0043] Furthermore, the height area where the scraper 24 contacts the sidewall is preferably at least above the upper end of the rotation shaft 13. This allows the scraper 24 to contact the vicinity of the dispensing hole 18 where condensation easily occurs, and also allows the condensation collected by the scraper 24 at a higher position on the sidewall to fall due to gravity, while the condensation at a lower position on the sidewall can also be expected to flow down together.

[0044] Example 2

[0045] use Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 2 will be described. In this embodiment, the sliding contact mechanism 22 is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the side wall of the frame 9. It is installed on the partition 23 of the reagent sleeve 11. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is switched on when the reagent rack 12 is mounted on the reagent sleeve 11. Furthermore, the basic structure of the sliding contact mechanism 22 in this embodiment is the same as in Embodiment 1; therefore, only the differences from Embodiment 1 will be described below.

[0046] Multiple partitions 23 are radially formed inside the reagent sleeve 11, which divide the areas where multiple reagent racks 12 are mounted. In this embodiment, a sliding contact mechanism 22 is provided inside the partition 23. Moreover, the reagent racks 12 can be mounted at predetermined positions held by the partitions 23 or removed from the reagent storage compartment 2 via the opening (not shown) formed in the cover 19 of the reagent storage compartment 2.

[0047] Figure 5 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, when the reagent rack 12 is mounted on the reagent sleeve 11, the switch 28 is activated and turned on, and the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the side wall on the outer diameter side of the reagent sleeve 11.

[0048] Figure 6 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the side wall of the frame 9 facing the outer diameter of the reagent sleeve 11. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. Figure 6 As shown, when reagent rack 12 is removed, switch 28 is released and disconnected, and scraper 24 contacts the side wall of frame 9. In this state, when scraper 24 rotates together with reagent sleeve 11, condensation adhering to the side wall of frame 9 is removed.

[0049] According to this embodiment, the switch 28 is automatically switched on when the reagent rack 12 is installed, thus further improving workability. In addition, since the sliding contact mechanism 22 is disposed inside the partition 23, space for installing the reagent rack 12 is easily secured on the reagent sleeve 11, and the number of reagent racks 12 that can be installed can also be increased.

[0050] Example 3

[0051] use Figure 7 and Figure 8 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 3 will be described. In this embodiment, the sliding contact mechanism 22 is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the side wall of the frame 9. It is located in the hole-closing portion 32 of the reagent sleeve 11. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is manually switched on and off. Furthermore, the basic structure of the sliding contact mechanism 22 in this embodiment is the same as in Embodiment 1; therefore, only the differences from Embodiment 1 will be described below.

[0052] A hole-closing portion 32 is provided on the reagent sleeve 11. A plurality of protrusions 36 formed on the hole-closing portion 32 are located vertically below the dispensing hole 18 of the cover portion 19 and block the dispensing hole 18. Moreover, in this embodiment, the sliding contact mechanism 22 is installed on the reagent sleeve 11 using the space inside the hole-closing portion 32.

[0053] Figure 7 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. Figure 7As shown, in this embodiment, when the switch 28 is turned on manually, the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the sidewall on the outer diameter side of the reagent sleeve 11.

[0054] Figure 8 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open, and the sliding contact mechanism is in contact with the side wall of the frame 9 facing the outer diameter of the reagent sleeve 11. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. Figure 8 As shown, when switch 28 is manually released and disconnected, scraper 24 contacts the side wall of frame 9. In this state, when scraper 24 rotates together with reagent sleeve 11, the condensation adhering to the side wall of frame 9 is removed.

[0055] In this embodiment, by providing the sliding contact mechanism 22 to the hole blocking part 32, the width dimension of the partition 23 can be reduced, thus increasing the spacing between adjacent partitions 23 and providing the advantage of expanding the space for mounting the reagent rack 12.

[0056] Example 4

[0057] use Figure 9 and Figure 10 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 4 will be described. The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment is provided in the hole-closing part 32 of the reagent sleeve 11 in the same way as in Embodiment 3. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is switched on when the reagent rack 12 is placed on the reagent sleeve 11, just like in Embodiment 2.

[0058] Figure 9 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. Figure 9 As shown, if the reagent rack 12 is mounted on the reagent sleeve 11, the switch 28 is turned on, and the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the side wall on the outer diameter side of the reagent sleeve 11.

[0059] Figure 10 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the side wall of the frame 9 facing the outer diameter of the reagent sleeve 11. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, and (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part. Figure 10 As shown, when reagent rack 12 is removed, switch 28 is released and disconnected, and scraper 24 contacts the side wall of frame 9. In this state, when scraper 24 rotates together with reagent sleeve 11, condensation adhering to the side wall of frame 9 is removed.

[0060] Example 5

[0061] use Figure 11 and Figure 12 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 5 will be described. The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the bottom wall of the frame 9. It is provided on the reagent sleeve 11. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is manually switched on and off.

[0062] The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment consists of a scraper 24 (sliding contact portion), a scraper plate 26, a movable portion 27, a switch 28, and a spring 29. The scraper 24 is connected to the scraper plate 26, and the scraper plate 26 is connected to one end of the movable portion 27. The other end of the movable portion 27 is connected to the switch 28, and the bent portion of the movable portion 27 moves within the moving portion 31 formed on the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve 11 according to the state of the switch 28. Furthermore, a slit 30 is formed on the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve 11, through which the scraper 24 and the scraper plate 26 enter and exit in the vertical direction.

[0063] Figure 11 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall surface of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side. In this embodiment, the switch 28 operates and is turned on when manually pressed. At this time, as... Figure 11 As shown, the curved portion of the movable part 27 moves radially to both ends within the moving part 31, thus pulling the scraper plate 26 upward within the slit 30. When the scraper plate 26 is pulled in, the scraper 24 folds upward via the hinge 25, and the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve 11. That is, when the switch 28 is activated, the scraper 24 does not contact the bottom wall of the frame 9.

[0064] Figure 12 This diagram shows the state where the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the bottom wall of the frame 9 when the switch 28 is open. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side. When the switch 28 is manually released and disconnected, as shown... Figure 12 As shown, the other end of the movable part 27 moves upward due to the elastic force of the spring 29, so the curved part of the movable part 27 moves towards the center within the moving part 31, and the scraper plate 26 protrudes downward within the slit 30. When the scraper plate 26 protrudes, the scraper 24 moves in a downward protruding manner, and the scraper 24 contacts the bottom wall of the frame 9. In this state, when the scraper 24 rotates together with the reagent sleeve 11, the condensation adhering to the bottom wall of the frame 9 facing the lower side of the reagent sleeve 11 is removed.

[0065] Example 6

[0066] use Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 6 will be described. In this embodiment, the sliding contact mechanism 22 is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the bottom wall of the frame 9. It is installed on the partition 23 of the reagent sleeve 11. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is switched on when the reagent rack 12 is mounted on the reagent sleeve 11. Furthermore, the basic structure of the sliding contact mechanism 22 in this embodiment is the same as that in Embodiment 5; therefore, only the differences from Embodiment 5 will be described below.

[0067] Figure 13 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side. Figure 13 As shown, when the reagent rack 12 is placed on the reagent sleeve 11, the switch 28 is turned on, and the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve 11.

[0068] Figure 14 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the bottom wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side. Figure 14 As shown, when reagent rack 12 is removed, switch 28 is released and disconnected, and scraper 24 contacts the bottom wall of frame 9. In this state, when scraper 24 rotates together with reagent sleeve 11, the condensation adhering to the bottom wall of frame 9 is removed.

[0069] Example 7

[0070] use Figure 15 and Figure 16 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 7 will be described. The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the bottom wall of the frame 9. It is provided on the hole-closing part 32 of the reagent sleeve 11. The switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is switched on when the reagent rack 12 is placed on the reagent sleeve 11.

[0071] Figure 15 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is away from the inner wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side. Figure 15 As shown, when the reagent rack 12 is placed on the reagent sleeve 11, the switch 28 is turned on, and the scraper 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve 11.

[0072] Figure 16 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open, and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the bottom wall of the frame 9. (a) is a horizontal sectional view, (b) is a vertical sectional view of the main part, and (c) is a sectional view of the area near the sliding contact mechanism viewed from the outer diameter side. Figure 16 As shown, when reagent rack 12 is removed, switch 28 is released and disconnected, and scraper 24 contacts the bottom wall of frame 9. In this state, when scraper 24 rotates together with reagent sleeve 11, the condensation adhering to the bottom wall of frame 9 is removed.

[0073] Furthermore, the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 in this embodiment can also be manually switched on and off in the same way as in Embodiments 1, 3 and 5.

[0074] Example 8

[0075] use Figure 17 and Figure 18 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 8 will be described. The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the bottom wall of the frame 9, and a drain hole 33 for draining condensed water is formed on the bottom wall of the frame 9.

[0076] Figure 17 This diagram shows the state where the switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the bottom wall of the frame 9. Figure 18 This is a view of the scraper 24 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 from above. (See diagram.) Figure 18 As shown, in this embodiment, the scraper 24 has a concave surface 34 formed at a radial position corresponding to the drain hole 33 on the bottom wall of the frame 9. Therefore, when the scraper 24 rotates in the direction where the concave surface 34 is formed, the condensed water gradually gathers at the location of the drain hole 33, and the condensed water can be efficiently discharged outside the reagent storage room.

[0077] Example 9

[0078] use Figure 19 The sliding contact mechanism 22 of Embodiment 9 will be described. The sliding contact mechanism 22 of this embodiment is a mechanism for removing water droplets from the bottom wall of the frame 9, and a recess 35 is formed on the inner surface of the bottom wall of the frame 9.

[0079] Figure 19 This diagram shows the state where switch 28 of the sliding contact mechanism 22 is open and the sliding contact mechanism 22 is in contact with the bottom wall of the frame 9. (See diagram below.) Figure 19As shown, the temperature control unit 10 is located vertically below the recess 35 formed in the bottom wall of the frame 9. Therefore, condensation water is collected in the recess 35 by the rotation of the scraper 24, and the collected condensation water is efficiently heated by the temperature control unit 10 located below. The heated condensation water evaporates and diffuses into the automatic analysis device 1 outside the reagent storage compartment 2 via the dispensing holes 18, etc.

[0080] Furthermore, since the temperature control section 10 is located below the bottom wall of the frame 9 and has multiple sections arranged circumferentially, it is preferable that the recesses 35 of the frame 9 are formed in multiple positions corresponding to each temperature control section 10. Moreover, if the recesses 35 of the frame 9 are located near the lower part of the vertical projection of the dispensing hole 18, it also has the advantage of facilitating the outflow of moisture evaporated in the temperature control section 10 from the dispensing hole 18 to the outside of the reagent storage tank 2. Furthermore, the size and shape of the recesses 35 are not limited to... Figure 19 The size and shape shown need to be such that at least a portion of the vertical projection of the temperature regulating part 10 and the recess 35 overlap.

[0081] The embodiments described above are provided in detail for the purpose of readily understanding and illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation to all of the described structures. Furthermore, for a portion of the structure of an embodiment, other structures can be added, deleted, or replaced. Moreover, structures from other embodiments can be added to the structure of a particular embodiment.

[0082] Symbol Explanation

[0083] 1—Automatic analysis device; 2—Reagent storage room; 3—Specimen placement unit; 4—Dispensing mechanism; 5—Reaction unit; 6—Detection unit; 7—Control unit; 8—Operating unit; 9—Frame; 10—Temperature control unit; 11—Reagent sleeve; 12—Reagent rack; 13—Rotating shaft; 14—Belt; 15—Motor; 16—Sleeve receiving part; 17—Insulation material; 18—Dispensing hole; 19—Cover; 20—Base; 21—Reagent container; 22—Sliding contact mechanism; 23—Partition; 24—Scraper; 25—Hinge; 26—Scraper plate; 27—Movable part; 28—Switch; 29—Spring; 30—Slit; 31—Moving part; 32—Orifice closing part; 33—Drainage hole; 34—Concave surface; 35—Recess; 36—Protrusion.

Claims

1. An automated analysis device comprising a reagent storage compartment for storing multiple reagent containers, The reagent storage container includes: a reagent sleeve that holds and rotates the reagent container; a frame that houses the reagent sleeve; and a lid that covers the top of the frame and has a dispensing port for dispensing reagents from the reagent container. The automatic analysis device is characterized in that... The reagent sleeve is equipped with a sliding contact mechanism, which consists of a scraper, a hinge, a scraper plate, a movable part, a switch, and a spring. The scraper is connected to the scraper plate via the hinge. The scraper plate is connected to one end of the movable part, and the other end of the movable part is connected to the switch. The bent portion of the movable part moves within a movable part formed on the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve according to the state of the switch. A slit is formed on the side wall of the reagent sleeve, through which the scraper, the hinge, and the scraper plate enter and exit radially. The sliding contact mechanism can switch between a state of contact with the inner wall of the frame and a state of being away from the inner wall of the frame by turning the switch on and off. If a reagent rack carrying multiple reagent containers is suspended from the reagent sleeve, the switch is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism is moved away from the inner wall of the frame. If the reagent holder is removed from the reagent sleeve, the switch is turned off, and the sliding contact mechanism is in contact with the inner wall surface of the frame.

2. An automated analysis device, comprising a reagent storage compartment for storing multiple reagent containers, The reagent storage container includes: a reagent sleeve that holds and rotates the reagent container; a frame that houses the reagent sleeve; and a lid that covers the top of the frame and has a dispensing port for dispensing reagents from the reagent container. The automatic analysis device is characterized in that... A partition is formed inside the reagent kit to separate areas where multiple reagent racks are installed. A sliding contact mechanism is provided inside the partition. This mechanism consists of a scraper, a hinge, a scraper plate, a movable part, a switch, and a spring. The scraper is connected to the scraper plate via the hinge. The scraper plate is connected to one end of the movable part, and the other end of the movable part is connected to the switch. The bent part of the movable part moves within a movable portion formed on the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve according to the state of the switch. A slit is formed on the side wall of the reagent sleeve, through which the scraper, the hinge, and the scraper plate enter and exit radially. The sliding contact mechanism can switch between a state of contact with the inner wall of the frame and a state of being away from the inner wall of the frame by turning the switch on and off. If a reagent rack carrying multiple reagent containers is suspended from the reagent sleeve, the switch is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism is moved away from the inner wall of the frame. If the reagent holder is removed from the reagent sleeve, the switch is turned off, and the sliding contact mechanism is in contact with the inner wall surface of the frame.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sliding contact portion of the sliding contact mechanism contacts the side wall of the frame facing the outer diameter side of the reagent sleeve.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sliding contact part of the sliding contact mechanism contacts the bottom wall of the frame facing the lower side of the reagent sleeve.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 4, characterized in that, A drainage hole for discharging condensed water is formed on the bottom wall of the frame. The sliding contact portion of the sliding contact mechanism has a concave surface, which gathers the condensate towards the drain hole as the reagent sleeve rotates.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Below the bottom wall of the frame, there is a temperature control section for adjusting the temperature inside the reagent storage compartment. A recess is formed on the inner surface of the bottom wall of the frame. At least a portion of the vertical projection of the temperature regulating part and the recessed part overlaps.

7. An automated analysis apparatus comprising a reagent storage compartment for storing multiple reagent containers. The reagent storage container includes: a reagent sleeve that holds and rotates the reagent container; a frame that houses the reagent sleeve; and a lid that covers the top of the frame and has a dispensing port for dispensing reagents from the reagent container. The automatic analysis device is characterized in that... The reagent sleeve has a plugging portion that blocks the dispensing orifice. A sliding contact mechanism is disposed in the orifice-closing portion. This sliding contact mechanism consists of a scraper, a hinge, a scraper plate, a movable part, a switch, and a spring. The scraper is connected to the scraper plate via the hinge. The scraper plate is connected to one end of the movable part, and the other end of the movable part is connected to the switch. The bent portion of the movable part moves within a movable portion formed on the bottom wall of the reagent sleeve according to the state of the switch. A slit is formed on the side wall of the reagent sleeve, through which the scraper, the hinge, and the scraper plate enter and exit radially. The sliding contact mechanism can switch between a state of contact with the inner wall of the frame and a state of being away from the inner wall of the frame by turning the switch on and off. If a reagent rack carrying multiple reagent containers is suspended from the reagent sleeve, the switch is turned on, and the sliding contact mechanism is moved away from the inner wall of the frame. If the reagent holder is removed from the reagent sleeve, the switch is turned off, and the sliding contact mechanism is in contact with the inner wall surface of the frame.

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