Biological particle sorting apparatus, biological particle sorting system, and information processing apparatus

Abstract

The main object of the present disclosure is to provide a biological particle sorting apparatus which is easy to use or operate for both of two different types of users. The present disclosure provides a biological particle sorting apparatus which operates in a first display mode or a second display mode based on identification information, the apparatus comprising: a first display mode for receiving an input of operation control data related to a biological particle sorting process; and a second display mode for displaying a process execution operation screen. In the first display mode, a process condition setting screen related to the biological particle sorting process is displayed, and the biological particle sorting apparatus can receive an input of the operation control data via the process condition setting screen.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a biological particle sorting apparatus, a biological particle sorting system, and an information processing apparatus. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a biological particle sorting apparatus, a biological particle sorting system, and an information processing apparatus that displays and controls and / or performs biological particle sorting processes. Background Technology

[0002] In flow cytometry, light originating from various fluorescent dyes is analyzed in a multidimensional manner. For analysis, graphs and / or tables of numerous statistical values ​​are displayed on a screen of an information processing device, and gates are set or adjusted, for example. Furthermore, the results of the analysis are used to sort desired biological particles. The device that performs this sorting is also called a cell sorter. In addition, in recent years, a device for sorting biological particles in a closed space has been proposed, and this device is also called a closed sorter.

[0003] To date, several suggestions have been made for closed-loop sorting devices. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a particle sorting device comprising: a determination unit that determines whether to sort particles based on light generated by irradiation; particles flowing in a channel, wherein the determination unit performs a primary sorting determination based on the properties of light to determine whether a particle belongs to any one of two or more different particle groups, and then performs a secondary sorting determination based on a particle structure ratio specified for the two or more different particle groups to determine whether particles determined to belong to any one of the particle groups in the primary sorting determination are sorted.

[0004] Reference List

[0005] Patent Document 1: JP2020-076736A. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0007] For sorting processes using microparticle sorting devices, sorting conditions such as gate settings are set. As mentioned above, these settings are made using various data displayed on a screen. Performing these settings typically requires a high level of specialized knowledge (e.g., knowledge about microparticles and knowledge about the sorting device). In currently commercially available devices such as flow cytometers and cell sorters, the user interface is designed based on the assumption that the user possesses this specialized knowledge.

[0008] However, in order to sort a large number of desired cells using a bioparticle sorting device (e.g., for the production of cell therapy agents), it is assumed that the sorting conditions are set by users accustomed to using various types of data (e.g., researchers or developers with highly specialized scientific knowledge), while the actual sorting operation is performed by users who are not accustomed to using various types of data compared to the device users (e.g., workers or operators in a cell therapy agent production plant).

[0009] Therefore, the main objective of this disclosure is to provide a biological particle sorting device that is easy to use or operate for both types of users.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] This is publicly available.

[0012] A bioparticle sorting device, operating in a first display mode or a second display mode based on identification information, includes:

[0013] A first display mode is used to receive input of operational control data related to the sorting and processing of biological microparticles; and

[0014] The second display mode displays the screen where the processing and execution operations are performed.

[0015] In addition, this disclosure provides:

[0016] Information processing device for controlling the sorting and processing of biological particles;

[0017] The information processing device is designed to receive input of operation control data related to the biological particle sorting process via a processing condition setting screen related to the biological particle sorting process, and to transmit the operation control data to the information processing device of the biological particle sorting device or the operation sorting device that performs the sorting process; wherein,

[0018] Operational control data includes processing conditions used by the microparticle sorting device.

[0019] In addition, this disclosure provides:

[0020] Information processing equipment used to perform biological particle sorting;

[0021] The information processing equipment is designed to receive operational control data related to the sorting and processing of biological particles and to display a processing execution screen generated based on the operational control data; and

[0022] The microparticle sorting device performs sorting processing according to instructions input by the operator via the processing and execution screen; wherein,

[0023] Operational control data includes phylogenetic information specifying the biological particles being sorted during processing; and

[0024] Adjustments are made to at least a portion of the gate information in the processing and execution operation screen.

[0025] In addition, this disclosure provides:

[0026] Biological particle sorting system, including:

[0027] A first microparticle sorting device or information processing device, operating in a first display mode, is used to receive input of operation control data related to microparticle sorting and processing; and

[0028] The second biological particle sorting device or information processing device operates in the second display mode and is used to display the processing execution operation screen. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of operating a biological particle sorting device.

[0030] Figure 2A This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of the biosample analyzer of this disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2B This is an example of a block diagram of the biological particle sorting device disclosed herein.

[0032] Figure 3 This is an example of a flowchart of a process performed using the biological particle sorting apparatus disclosed herein.

[0033] Figure 4 This is an illustration showing an example of a mode selection screen.

[0034] Figure 5 This is an illustration showing an example of a recognition information input screen.

[0035] Figure 6 This is an illustration showing an example of a screen for setting processing conditions.

[0036] Figure 7 This is an illustration showing an example of a screen for setting processing conditions.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of the first display area.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing an example of a second display area.

[0039] Figure 10A It is a diagram used to illustrate the marked area.

[0040] Figure 10B It is a diagram used to illustrate the marked area.

[0041] Figure 10C It is a diagram used to illustrate the marked area.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow in the first display mode.

[0043] Figure 12 This is an illustration showing an instance of a screen displaying processing conditions.

[0044] Figure 13 This is an illustration showing an example of a screen for setting processing conditions.

[0045] Figure 14 This is an illustration showing an example of a settings information display area.

[0046] Figure 15A This is an illustration showing an example of a window displayed by selecting the matrix display button.

[0047] Figure 15B This is a diagram illustrating an example of the adjustment state of each correction coefficient in the correction matrix.

[0048] Figure 16 This is an illustration showing an example of a window displayed by selecting the door tree display button.

[0049] Figure 17 This is an illustration showing an example of a toolbox that appears when the workbook toolbox is selected by clicking the Workbook Toolbox Show button.

[0050] Figure 18 This is an illustration showing an instance of the toolbox displayed by selecting the Drawing Toolbox Display button;

[0051] Figure 19 This is an example of a toolbox that appears when the Door Toolbox Display button is selected.

[0052] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen used to control the sorting process.

[0053] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing an instance of a template property area.

[0054] Figure 22 This is an example diagram showing a screen displaying the sample setting area.

[0055] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing an example of an operator-oriented instruction data input area.

[0056] Figure 24 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for processing and executing operations.

[0057] Figure 25This is a diagram showing an example of the fourth display area.

[0058] Figure 26 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for processing and executing operations.

[0059] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for processing and executing operations.

[0060] Figure 28A This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for processing and executing operations.

[0061] Figure 28B This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for processing and executing operations.

[0062] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for processing and executing operations.

[0063] Figure 30 This is a diagram showing an example of the window displayed when acquiring a sample.

[0064] Figure 31 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the biological particle sorting system of this disclosure.

[0065] Figure 32A This is a diagram showing an example of a control panel.

[0066] Figure 32B This is a diagram showing an example of a control panel.

[0067] Figure 33A This is a diagram showing an example of a slider.

[0068] Figure 33B This is a diagram showing an example of a slider.

[0069] Figure 33C This is a diagram showing an example of a slider.

[0070] Figure 33D This is a diagram showing an example of a slider.

[0071] Figure 34A This is a diagram used to illustrate the magnified image displayed during door adjustment.

[0072] Figure 34B This is a diagram used to illustrate the magnified image displayed during door adjustment. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Preferred embodiments for carrying out this disclosure will now be described. It should be noted that the embodiments described below illustrate representative embodiments of this disclosure, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. It should be noted that this disclosure will be described in the following order.

[0074] 1. Basic Concepts of this Disclosure

[0075] 2. The first embodiment of the present invention (biological particle sorting device)

[0076] (1) Example device configuration

[0077] (2) Processing instances

[0078] (2-1) Display Mode Selection

[0079] (2-2) First display mode

[0080] (2-2-1) Example configuration of the screen displayed in the first display mode

[0081] (2-2-2) Example of processing in the first display mode

[0082] (2-3) Second display mode

[0083] (2-3-1) Example configuration of the screen displayed in the second display mode

[0084] (2-3-2) Example of processing in the second display mode

[0085] (3) Variations

[0086] 3. The second embodiment of this disclosure (biological particle sorting system)

[0087] 1. Basic Concepts of this Disclosure

[0088] As mentioned above, the sorting conditions for the biological particle sorting device are set via various data displayed on the screen, and setting these conditions typically requires a high level of specialized knowledge. Therefore, users such as the aforementioned staff or operators find it difficult to properly use traditional user interfaces. Thus, it is desirable to provide a user interface that is easy for users to use and operate.

[0089] It is also conceivable that staff or operators would operate a microparticle sorting device while referring to a work procedure manual created by researchers or developers. However, microparticle samples, such as those containing cells, have different particle compositions for each sample, and the sorting conditions for each sample need to be adjusted. Furthermore, creating work procedure manuals is cumbersome for researchers or developers, and referring to them is also a burden for staff or operators. Additionally, in environments such as cleanrooms, it is generally considered difficult to perform operations while referring to the operating procedure manual because staff or operators wear cleanroom protective gear or laboratory gloves.

[0090] Furthermore, for example, research, development, and manufacturing related to cell therapy agents are conducted in cleanrooms to avoid contamination. Therefore, in cases where bioparticle sorting devices, such as closed-loop sorters, are used in cleanrooms, for example, as... Figure 1 As shown, suppose user U operates the bioparticle sorting device A while wearing cleanroom work clothes and gloves. The gloves are, for example, laboratory gloves made of materials such as latex. With such gloves on, it is often difficult to perform delicate operations. For example, regarding touch panels, it is difficult to perform delicate operations while wearing gloves. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a user interface that is easy to use or operate even in this situation.

[0091] This disclosure provides a biological particle sorting device, comprising: a first display mode for receiving input of operation control data related to biological particle sorting processing; and a second display mode for displaying a processing execution operation screen. In embodiments of this disclosure, the biological particle sorting device may be designed to operate based on identification information in the first display mode or the second display mode.

[0092] Because the microparticle sorting device according to this disclosure has two display modes as described above, for example, researchers or developers can use the first display mode to input operation control data, and then staff or operators can perform sorting processing with the microparticle sorting device via a processing execution screen in the second display mode. Therefore, different user interfaces can be presented to researchers or developers and to operators, and, for example, a working environment suitable for each use can be provided.

[0093] For example, in a first display mode, researchers or developers input operational control data (e.g., work process information) related to the sorting operation to be performed by workers or operators via a processing condition setting screen. Then, in a second display mode, a processing execution screen generated based on the operational control data is presented to the operator. Therefore, researchers or developers can easily create instructions for operators for each type of sorting operation, such as correct operating procedures and / or warning prompts. Operators can then perform the appropriate sorting operation according to the instructions displayed on the processing execution screen, referring to the warning prompts, and following the specified work procedures.

[0094] In this specification, the user operating the bioparticle sorting device in the first display mode is also referred to as the "first user," and the user operating the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode is also referred to as the "second user."

[0095] The first user can be the user who designs and / or develops the sorting process to be performed in the second display mode. The first user is, for example, the researcher or developer mentioned above.

[0096] The second user is a user who operates the microparticle sorting device to perform sorting processing according to instructions entered in the first display mode. The second user is, for example, the operator or staff mentioned above.

[0097] In the following sections, firstly, an example configuration of the apparatus will be described, and then an example of the operation of the biological particle sorting apparatus according to this disclosure will be described.

[0098] 2. The first embodiment of the present invention (biological particle sorting device)

[0099] (1) Instance configuration of the device

[0100] The biological particle sorting device according to this disclosure can be designed as a biological sample analyzer as described below.

[0101] Figure 2A An example configuration of the biological sample analyzer of this disclosure is shown. Figure 2A The biosample analyzer 6100 shown includes: an illumination unit 6101 for illuminating a biological sample S flowing in a flow channel C; a detection unit 6102 for detecting the light generated by illuminating the biological sample S; and an information processing unit 6103 for processing information about the light detected by the detection unit. For example, the biosample analyzer 6100 is a flow cytometer or an imaging cytometer. The biosample analyzer 6100 may include a sorting unit 6104 for sorting specific biological particles P from the biological sample. A biosample analyzer 6100 including a sorting unit is, for example, a cell sorter.

[0102] (Biological sample)

[0103] Biological sample S can be a liquid sample containing biological microparticles. Biological microparticles can be, for example, cells or non-cellular biological microparticles. Cells can be living cells, and more specific examples include blood cells (such as red blood cells and white blood cells) and germ cells (such as semen and fertilized eggs). Furthermore, cells can be those collected directly from a sample such as whole blood, or can be cultured cells obtained after culturing. Non-cellular biological microparticles are, for example, extracellular vesicles, or specifically, exogenous bodies and microvesicles. Biological microparticles can be labeled with one or more labeling substances (such as dyes (specifically, fluorescent dyes) and antibodies labeled with fluorescent dyes). It should be noted that microparticles other than biological microparticles can be analyzed using the biological sample analyzer of this disclosure, and beads, etc., can be analyzed for calibration, etc.

[0104] (flow channel)

[0105] The flow channel C is designed to facilitate the flow forming the biological sample S. Specifically, the flow channel C can be designed to ensure that the biological particles contained within the biological sample are substantially aligned in a single row. The flow channel structure including the flow channel C can be designed to form laminar flow. Specifically, the flow channel structure is designed to form laminar flow in which the flow of the biological sample (sample flow) is surrounded by a flow of sheath fluid. The design of the flow channel structure can be suitably chosen by those skilled in the art, or a known design can be employed. The flow channel C can be formed as a flow channel structure such as a microchip (a chip with micron-scale flow paths) or a flow cell. The width of the flow channel C is less than 1 mm, specifically, it can be more than 10 μm but less than 1 mm. The flow into C and the flow channel structure including the flow channel C can be made of materials such as plastic or glass.

[0106] The biosample analyzer of this disclosure is designed to illuminate a biological sample flowing in a flow channel C, or specifically, biological particles within the biological sample, with light from an illumination unit 6101. The biosample analyzer of this disclosure can be designed such that the light irradiation point on the biological sample is located within the flow channel structure in which the flow channel C is formed, or it can be designed such that the light irradiation point is located outside the flow channel structure. An example of the former could be a configuration where light is emitted onto the flow channel C in a microchip or flow cell. In the latter case, biological particles exiting the flow channel structure (specifically, its nozzle portion) can be illuminated with light, and, for example, an air-jet type flow cytometer can be used.

[0107] (Lighting unit)

[0108] The illumination unit 6101 includes a light source unit that emits light and a light-guiding optical system that directs light to an illumination point. The light source unit includes one or more light sources. The type of light source is, for example, a laser light source or an LED. The wavelength of the light emitted from each light source can be any wavelength of ultraviolet, visible, and infrared light. For example, the light-guiding optical system includes optical components such as beam splitters, mirrors, or optical fibers. Furthermore, the light-guiding optical system may also include a lens group for focusing the light and includes, for example, an objective lens. There may be one or more illumination points where the biological sample and the light intersect. The illumination unit 6101 can be designed to collect light emitted from one or more light sources to one illumination point.

[0109] (Detection unit)

[0110] Detection unit 6102 includes at least one photodetector for detecting light generated by emitting light onto biological particles. For example, the light to be detected can be fluorescence or scattered light (such as one or more of the following: forward-scattered light, back-scattered light, and side-scattered light). For example, each photodetector includes one or more light-receiving elements and has an array of light-receiving elements. Each photodetector may include one or more photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) and / or photodiodes such as APDs and MPPCs as light-receiving elements. For example, each photodetector includes a PMT array in which multiple PMTs are arranged in a one-dimensional direction. Detection unit 6102 may also include an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS. Through the image sensor, detection unit 6102 can acquire images of the biological particles (e.g., bright-field images, dark-field images, or fluorescence images).

[0111] The detection unit 6102 includes a detection optical system that directs light of a predetermined detection wavelength to a corresponding photodetector. The detection optical system includes a beam-splitting unit such as a prism or diffraction grating, or a wavelength-separating unit such as a dichroic mirror or filter. For example, the detection optical system is designed to disperse light generated by light irradiation onto biological particles and to detect the dispersed light using a photodetector that is larger than the number of fluorescent dyes labeling the biological particles. Flow cytometers that include such detection optical systems are called spectroscopic flow cytometers. Furthermore, for example, the detection optical system is designed to separate light corresponding to a specific fluorescent dye's fluorescence wavelength band from the light generated by light irradiation onto biological particles and to detect the separated light using a corresponding photodetector.

[0112] The detection unit 6102 may further include a signal processing unit that converts the electrical signal obtained by the photodetector into a digital signal. The signal processing unit may include an A / D converter as a means of performing the conversion. The digital signal obtained by the conversion performed by the signal processing unit may be sent to the information processing unit 6103. The signal processing unit 6103 may process the digital signal into light-related data (hereinafter also referred to as "light data"). For example, the light data may be light data including fluorescence data. More specifically, the light data may be light intensity data, and the light intensity may be light intensity data including fluorescence (the light intensity data may include characteristic quantities such as area, height, and width).

[0113] (Information Processing Unit)

[0114] For example, the information processing unit 6103 includes a processing unit that performs processing on various types of data (e.g., light data) and a storage unit that stores various types of data. When the processing unit acquires light data corresponding to a fluorescent dye from the detection unit 6102, the processing unit can perform fluorescence leakage correction (compensation processing) on ​​the light intensity data. In the case of a spectroscopic flow cytometer, the processing unit also performs fluorescence separation processing on the light data and acquires light intensity data corresponding to the fluorescent dye. For example, fluorescence separation processing can be performed using the unmixing method disclosed in JP 2011-232259 A. When the detection unit 6102 includes an image sensor, the processing unit can acquire morphological information about biological particles based on the image acquired by the image sensor. The storage unit can be designed to store the acquired light data. The storage unit can also be designed to further store spectral reference data used in the unmixing processing.

[0115] In the case where the biological sample analyzer 6100 includes the sorting unit 6104 described later, the information processing unit 6103 can determine whether to sort the biological particles based on optical data and / or morphological information. Then, the information processing unit 6103 controls the sorting unit 6104 based on the determination result, and the biological particles can be sorted by the sorting unit 6104.

[0116] The information processing unit 6103 may be designed to output various types of data (e.g., light data and images). For example, the information processing unit 6103 may output various data generated based on light data (e.g., two-dimensional curves or spectral curves). The information processing unit 6103 may also be designed to accept various types of data input and to accept gating processes performed by the user on the drawing. The information processing unit 6103 may include output units (e.g., a display) or input units (e.g., a keyboard) for performing outputs or inputs.

[0117] The information processing unit 6103 can be designed as a general-purpose computer and can be designed as an information processing device including, for example, a CPU, RAM, and ROM. The information processing unit 6103 can be included in a housing including the illumination unit 6101 and the detection unit 6102, or it can be located outside the housing. Furthermore, various processes or functions to be performed by the information processing unit 6103 can be implemented via a server computer or the cloud connected to a network.

[0118] (Sorting Unit)

[0119] The sorting unit 6104 sorts the bioparticles based on the determination result made by the information processing unit 6103. The sorting method may involve generating droplets containing bioparticles through vibration, applying charge to the droplets to be sorted, and controlling the direction of droplet movement via electrodes. The sorting method may also be used to sort bioparticles by controlling the direction of travel of the bioparticles in a flow channel structure. For example, the flow channel structure may have a control mechanism based on pressure (injection or aspiration) or charge. An example of a flow channel structure may be a chip (e.g., the chip disclosed in JP2020-76736A) having a flow channel structure in which the flow channel C branches into a recovery flow channel and a waste flow channel on the downstream side, and specific bioparticles are collected in the recovery flow channel.

[0120] (2) Processing instances

[0121] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the microparticle sorting apparatus according to this disclosure may have a display unit D capable of touch input. As shown, the display unit can be arranged on any surface of the apparatus housing, specifically on a side surface, and for example, the screen of the display unit can be positioned at a location where a user standing (or sitting) near the apparatus can perform touch input. Processing condition setting screens or processing execution operation screens, described later, can also be displayed on the display unit. Furthermore, as shown, the microparticle sorting apparatus according to this disclosure may have an introduction section I for introducing a sample containing microparticles into the apparatus. For example, a container holding the sample is placed into the apparatus from the introduction section, and the container is connected to a predetermined sample line. Then, after connection, various processes described below can be performed.

[0122] Note that in this specification, touch operations can include, but are not limited to, tapping (single click), long tap, double click, etc. Touch operations can also include, for example, dragging, swiping, pinching in, or pinching out. The type of touch operation can be appropriately selected by those skilled in the art.

[0123] The following will refer to Figure 2B and Figure 3 Examples of processes performed by the biological particle sorting apparatus according to this disclosure are described. Figure 2B This is an example of a block diagram of a biological particle sorting device. As shown in the figure, the biological particle sorting device 100 according to this disclosure includes a display unit 101 and an information processing unit 102. Figure 3 This is an example of a flowchart of a process performed using a biological microparticle sorting device.

[0124] Display unit 101 outputs a screen according to the present disclosure. The screen may be based on data sent from information processing unit 102. Display unit 101 may include display devices known in the art. For example, display unit 101 includes a display device having a rectangular screen (specifically, a rectangular-shaped screen, and more specifically, a rectangular-shaped screen with a longer horizontal dimension). For example, the screen size may be 10 inches or larger, preferably 11 inches or larger, and more preferably 12 inches or larger. An upper limit for the screen size is not required to be specifically set, but may be, for example, 30 inches or smaller, 25 inches or smaller, 22 inches or smaller, or 20 inches or smaller. Such a screen size is suitable for displaying the screen in each of the modes described below.

[0125] According to this disclosure, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to display a screen. The information processing unit 102 is designed to output data for displaying the screen. The information processing unit 102 may be the information processing unit 6103 described in (1) above, but may be a separately prepared information processing unit. In addition, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may include, in addition to the display unit 101 and the information processing unit 102, the illumination unit 6101, the detection unit 6102, and the sorting unit 6104 described in (1) above.

[0126] In the following (2-1) to (2-3), the screen displayed by the biological particle sorting device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0127] (2-1) Display Mode Selection

[0128] In step S10, the biological particle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit 102) begins processing.

[0129] In step S11, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to output a mode selection screen prompting the user to select a mode. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, the mode selection screen includes a button for selecting a first display mode (first display mode button) and a button for selecting a second display mode (second display mode button). The mode selection screen may also include a button for displaying the next processing screen after mode selection (next button).

[0130] More specific mode names can be displayed on each button on the mode selection screen. For example, as the first display mode, it can display the sorting processing condition setting mode, or it can display setting mode, processing development mode, PD mode, etc. In addition, as the second display mode, it can display the processing execution operation mode, or it can display operation mode, operation mode, OP mode, etc.

[0131] As shown in the figure, the mode selection screen can further display a button (administrator button) for selecting administrator mode. In administrator mode, for example, the information processing unit 102 can set or change the user's permission information.

[0132] In step S12, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to output a screen prompting the user to input identification information. The identification information may include a user ID (or username) and may also include a password. For example, ... Figure 5 As shown, the screen includes a user ID input field and a password input field. Users enter identification information in these fields.

[0133] The information processing unit 102 refers to the input identification information and determines whether the identification information allows the device to operate in the selected mode. If allowed, the information processing unit 102 proceeds the processing to step S13. If not allowed, for example, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to display a screen indicating disallowment, and returns the processing to step S11 or S12.

[0134] In step S13, the processing in the selected mode is performed. The processing in each mode will be described below in (2-2) and (2-3).

[0135] In this disclosure, steps S12 and S13 can be omitted. In this case, the selection of any mode in step S11 can be used as identification information. Alternatively, step S11 can be omitted and only step S12 can be performed. That is, the information processing unit 102 can cause the display unit 101 to display a screen for receiving the identification information, and then switch to the first display mode or the second display mode according to the input identification information.

[0136] (2-2) First display mode

[0137] In the first display mode, the microparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit 102) receives input of operation control data related to the microparticle sorting process. To receive the operation control data input, the display unit 101 may be capable of touch input. The display unit 101 displays a processing condition setting screen that receives input of operation control data related to the sorting process of samples containing microparticles. The operation control data may be data for performing the sorting process in the second display mode, and specifically includes data for generating a processing execution operation screen in the second display mode.

[0138] In the first display mode, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to display a processing condition setting screen related to the sorting and processing of biological particles. The information processing unit 102 receives input of operation control data via the processing condition setting screen.

[0139] Note that the processing condition setting screen can be displayed on another display device, rather than on the display unit 101 in the microparticle sorting device 100. For example, the microparticle sorting device 100 can display the screen on a display device or information processing device that is connected to the microparticle sorting device 100 via a network in a wired or wireless manner.

[0140] (2-2-1) Example configuration of the screen displayed in the first display mode

[0141] (Processing condition setting screen)

[0142] Figure 6 An example configuration of a processing condition setting screen displayed on a display unit 101 via a bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, an information processing unit 102) is shown. As shown in the figure, Figure 7 The processing condition setting screen 200 shown includes: a setting operation flow display area (hereinafter also referred to as the "first display area") 201, for displaying the operation flow for setting the processing conditions for sorting processing; and a measurement data display area (hereinafter also referred to as the "second display area") 251, for displaying measurement data related to the sample containing biological particles.

[0143] As shown in the figure, the first display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen.

[0144] In addition, the first display area is located on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is located on the left side of the processing condition setting screen.

[0145] In the first display mode, detailed sorting conditions typically need to be set, thus requiring confirmation of detailed measurement data or display of a large amount of plotting data on a single screen. Furthermore, it is also necessary to display the work progress status or required actions next to the first user. Therefore, as described above, by arranging two areas on the left and right, a larger second display area can be ensured, allowing the first user to easily confirm measurement data and verify the work status through the display of the operation flow.

[0146] To improve operability, the first display area can be positioned to contact the left end of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area can be positioned to contact the right end of the processing condition setting screen, with the first display area positioned to the left and the second display area positioned to the right.

[0147] Conversely, when the first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, the first display area is arranged to contact the right end of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged to contact the left end of the processing condition setting screen.

[0148] The arrangement of the first and second display areas can be variable. For example, the microparticle sorting device can be designed to change the display from a state where the first area is arranged on the right and the second on the left to a state where the first area is arranged on the left and the second on the right. Furthermore, the display can be designed to be adjustable to accommodate the user's preferred hand or convenience, thus improving operability.

[0149] (First display area)

[0150] Figure 8 An example of a first display area is shown. As shown, the first display area includes a process button area 202 and a setting information display area 203.

[0151] In the process button area, multiple processing buttons included in the operation flow are arranged in the order of processing.

[0152] In the diagram, a first display area is located at the left end of the processing condition setting screen, and a process button area is located at the left end of the first display area. Additionally, a process button area is located to the left of the first display area, and a setting information display area is located to the right of the first display area.

[0153] Alternatively, the first display area can be arranged at the right end of the processing condition setting screen, and the process button area can be arranged at the right end of the first display area. Furthermore, the process button area is located to the right of the first display area, and the setting information display area is located to the left of the first display area.

[0154] Therefore, the first user can easily find each button in the workflow. In addition, since the process button area is located at the end of the processing condition setting screen (specifically the left end), the likelihood of touching other buttons is reduced when a processing button is touched, thus reducing accidental operation caused by touching unwanted parts.

[0155] It is generally assumed that the user interface of a conventional biological particle sorting device is operated via the monitor of a desktop or laptop computer. In this case, for example, a cursor is operated via a mouse, and frequently selected tool buttons are arranged at the top of the screen, as in a typical software window.

[0156] However, as mentioned above Figure 1As shown, when a user operates a touch panel, if frequently selected tool buttons are located at the top of the screen, they become difficult to reach. Furthermore, the likelihood of touching other buttons increases when a finger moves towards a tool button.

[0157] According to this disclosure, the process button area is arranged on the left (or right) side of the screen, specifically at the left (or right) end, making the buttons in the process button area easily accessible and reducing the likelihood of other buttons being touched. Therefore, a screen that is easy for the first user to use and operate can be provided.

[0158] This diagram shows an example of the first display area when the first display area is located on the left side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is located on the right side of the processing condition setting screen.

[0159] Alternatively, if the first display area is located on the right side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is located on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, the first display area can be arranged to contact the right end of the processing condition setting screen, and the process button area can be arranged on the right side of the first display area, specifically on the right end of the processing condition setting screen.

[0160] The process button area 202 includes multiple processing buttons 204a to 204e, each button representing each of the multiple processes executed from the start of the creation of operation control data to the completion of the process. As shown, multiple processing buttons can be arranged from top to bottom of the screen. This arrangement of multiple processing buttons in one direction allows for easy monitoring of the sequence of steps and the progress of the job. Between two processing buttons, markers 205 (e.g., downward triangles, arrows, etc., as shown in the figure) can be arranged to indicate the sequence of these steps.

[0161] Among multiple processing buttons, the button indicating an ongoing process may have a different color or shape than another button. For example, as shown in the figure, processing button 204a indicating an ongoing process may be shown in gray, while processing buttons 204b to 204e indicating other processes may be shown in white. Therefore, it is easy to specify the ongoing process.

[0162] The multiple processing buttons can be polygonal (e.g., rectangular) or circular. For example, the size and spacing of the buttons can be configured such that two or more buttons are not selected when touched with a fingertip. When each button is rectangular, the longer side (or side) can be, for example, 0.3 cm or longer, preferably 0.5 cm or longer. Furthermore, this longer side (or side) can be, for example, 5 cm or shorter, and preferably 3 cm or shorter. When each button is circular, the diameter (or main axis) can be, for example, 0.3 cm or longer, preferably 0.5 cm or longer. Furthermore, the diameter (or main axis) can be, for example, 5 cm or shorter, and preferably 3 cm or shorter.

[0163] In the setting information display area 203, content corresponding to the process selected by each process button is displayed. More specifically, the setting information display area 203 displays setting information corresponding to any process button based on the touch of the process button. An example of the displayed content will be described later.

[0164] (Second display area)

[0165] In the second display area 251, such as Figure 9 The measurement data is displayed. The second display area can be designed to display one or more plots, and can include multiple plot data, for example, as shown in the figure. Multiple plot data can be arranged in a grid shape. Furthermore, the display format of the multiple plot data can be changed to a list format (e.g., arranged from top to bottom). A gate can be set for each plot data. That is, the second display area can be designed to receive input specifying gate information for the biological particles sorted in a touch-operated process.

[0166] In the second display area, one or more operation buttons may be displayed, and one or more operation buttons for displaying data associated with one or more plots may be displayed.

[0167] For example, the associated data is fluorescence correction matrix data. As an example of an operation button for displaying fluorescence correction matrix data, matrix display button 206 is shown in the accompanying drawing. The matrix display button (matrix button) is a button used to display and / or adjust a window for generating a fluorescence correction matrix that produces plotted data to be displayed in the measurement data area.

[0168] Furthermore, the associated data can be, for example, return data used to generate a plot. For instance, the return data could include statistics for each door. As an example of an operation button for displaying statistics, a door tree display button 207 is shown in the figure. The door tree display button (door tree button) is a button used to display a window that shows the door tree of the plotted data displayed in the measurement data area.

[0169] As shown in the figure, these operation buttons can be arranged in the measurement data display area, specifically in the right-hand portion (specifically, the lower right portion) of the second display area. Therefore, they are easily accessible to the user's fingers.

[0170] Note that when the second display area is located on the left side of the screen, these operation buttons can be placed on the left side of the second display area (specifically, the lower left side). Alternatively, these buttons can be placed in the operation button area described below.

[0171] The details of the windows displayed by touching these operation buttons will be described later.

[0172] The second display area may also include an operation button area 208. Additionally, the second display area may also include a label area 209.

[0173] The operation buttons are located on the right side of the second display area, specifically at the right end of the second display area. Therefore, the first user can easily locate each operation button.

[0174] In addition, since an operation button area is arranged at the end (right end) of the processing condition setting screen 200, the possibility of touching other buttons is reduced when an operation button is touched, thus reducing accidental operation caused by touching an unwanted part.

[0175] As mentioned above, when a user operates a touch panel, if frequently selected tool buttons are located at the top of the screen, they become difficult to reach. Furthermore, the likelihood of touching other buttons increases when a finger moves towards a tool button.

[0176] According to this disclosure, the operation button area is arranged on the right (or left) side of the screen, specifically, at the right (or left) end, making the buttons in the operation button area easily accessible and reducing the likelihood of other buttons being touched. Therefore, a screen that is easy for the first user to use and operate can be provided.

[0177] This diagram shows an example of a second display area where the first display area is located on the left side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is located on the right side of the processing condition setting screen.

[0178] In addition, when the first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, the second display area is arranged to contact the left end of the processing condition setting screen, and the operation button area is arranged on the left side of the set second display area, specifically on the left end of the processing condition setting screen.

[0179] In the operation button area 208, multiple operation buttons 210a to 210h are displayed. Each operation button is used to operate the measurement data displayed on the screen. As shown, multiple operation buttons can be arranged in a row from top to bottom of the screen, but for example, they can be arranged in two or more rows.

[0180] Note that in the accompanying drawings, operation buttons 210a to 210h are arranged in the operation button area, but one or more of these operation buttons may be arranged in the measurement data display area.

[0181] The multiple operation buttons can be polygonal (e.g., rectangular) or circular. For example, the size and spacing of the buttons can be configured such that two or more buttons cannot be selected when touched with a fingertip. When each button is rectangular (rectangular or square), the longer side (or side) can be, for example, 0.3 cm or longer, preferably 0.5 cm or longer. Furthermore, this longer side (or side) can be, for example, 5 cm or shorter, and preferably 3 cm or shorter. When each button is circular, the diameter (or main axis) can be, for example, 0.3 cm or longer, preferably 0.5 cm or longer. Furthermore, the diameter (or main axis) can be, for example, 5 cm or shorter, and preferably 3 cm or shorter.

[0182] Multiple operation buttons may include, for example, an undo button 210a and a redo button 210b. The former is used to cancel an operation on the data on the screen. The latter is used to re-operate on the data on the screen or to re-execute the canceled operation.

[0183] Multiple action buttons may include one or more toolbox display buttons. Examples of toolbox display buttons include the workbook toolbox display button 210c (workbook button), the drawing toolbox display button 210d (drawing button), and the door toolbox display button 210e (door button). Multiple action buttons may include one, two, or all three of them.

[0184] The Workbook Toolbox button is used to display a toolbox that includes multiple buttons for controlling the display format of plotting data shown in the measurement data area.

[0185] The drawing toolbox display button is a button used to display a toolbox containing multiple buttons for adjusting the content of each drawing data.

[0186] The Door Toolbox Display Button is used to display a toolbox that includes multiple buttons for adjusting the set of door information for each piece of drawing data.

[0187] The details of these toolboxes will be described later.

[0188] The operation buttons may also include buttons for changing the display magnification of the drawing data displayed in the second display area. For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the multiple operation buttons may include multiple buttons 210f to 210h for displaying each piece of plot data at a predetermined magnification. Furthermore, the multiple operation buttons may include buttons for increasing the magnification and / or buttons for decreasing the magnification.

[0189] Tab area 209 is a region where one or more tabs from multiple open workbooks are displayed in the second display area. By selecting a tab, that tab is activated, and the workbook associated with that tab is displayed in the second display area. Workbooks associated with inactive tabs are not displayed. Figure 9 In the diagram, workbook A's tab is active, and the plotting data set included in workbook A is displayed. In the accompanying figure, the same experimental document also includes workbook B, but worksheet B is inactive, and the plotting data set included in worksheet B is not displayed.

[0190] In this paper, the workbook associated with the activation label (also called the activation workbook) can represent the workbook undergoing sorting processing. The bioparticle sorting device can perform bioparticle sorting processing based on the gate information in the activation workbook.

[0191] In addition, inactive labels are labels associated with workbooks other than the active workbook. The workbook associated with an inactive label is also referred to as an inactive workbook. The active workbook can be, for example, a workbook from a previously performed sorting process and / or a reference workbook. Inactive labels may be grouped and displayed at the ends of label area 209 (e.g., the right or left end).

[0192] Preferably, the display position of the active label in the label area is fixed. For example, the label area can be displayed such that the label selected by the first user is located at the left (or right) end of the label area. In this case, the inactive label group is arranged at the right (or left) end.

[0193] The size of the label can be constant, but preferably dynamically changed. For example, the information processing unit 102 displays the selected label in a horizontal direction (the direction of character arrangement) with a size larger than the unselected label in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the selected label can be emphasized and presented to the user. For example, as... Figure 10A As shown, the size of the activated label 211 in the horizontal direction is larger than the size of the inactive label 212.

[0194] The size of a label can change depending on its position, or it can change independently of its position, depending on whether the label is selected.

[0195] Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 can change the size of the label so that the full name of the workbook with the active label is displayed in the label. Therefore, the selected label can be emphasized and presented to the user. For example, in Figure 10A In the context of activation tag 211, the full filename "Workbook_123456789" is displayed. On the other hand, in... Figure 10B In the text, label 211 is inactive, and therefore, a portion of the filename "Workbook_123" and an ellipsis "..." are displayed in label 211.

[0196] For example, the information processing unit 102 can display an active label and one or two other labels along with at least a portion of the workbook name in the label area. One or more other labels can be designed to be displayed via a dropdown menu, for example, by touching or selecting a predetermined button. Therefore, it is intuitive to understand which workbook is active (specifically, the workbook being measured). Furthermore, even when a large number of workbooks are open on a narrow screen, the name of the workbook to be compared or referenced can be easily identified, and workbooks can be switched with a single touch or click.

[0197] For example, by Figure 10A and Figure 10B The drop-down button indicated by reference numeral 213 can be displayed in the label area. For example, as... Figure 10C As shown, selecting the drop-down button displays a drop-down menu. The drop-down menu lists workbooks not displayed in the tab area. Note that the drop-down button is set... Figure 10A and Figure 10B The label can be set in the active label area, but it can also be set in the inactive label area or in another location within the label area. As described above, the information processing unit 102 can display a drop-down button in the label area for displaying a list of workbooks that are not displayed via drop-down.

[0198] (2-2-2) Example of processing in the first display mode

[0199] Figure 11 An example flowchart is shown illustrating a case where the processing in the first display mode is performed in step S13 of (2-1) above. An example of the processing performed by the bioparticle sorting device in the first display mode will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, specifically the screen displayed during the processing.

[0200] (File opening process S101)

[0201] When the processing in step S13 begins, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to display. Figure 12The processing condition setting screen is shown. At the start of processing, as shown in the figure, you can select the processing button (shown as the experiment button) 204a in the first display area (specifically the process button area) to create a new experimental file or open an existing experimental file.

[0202] When the experiment button is selected, as shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 displays the file opening area 214 (open / new experiment area) and the characteristics area 215 (experiment characteristics area) in the setting information display area. The file opening area 214 displays the button for creating a new experiment file and the button for opening an existing experiment file, and the characteristics area 215 displays the characteristics of the experiment file.

[0203] Based on the first user's selection of the button to create a new experimental file in the file open area (shown as the "new" button in the accompanying drawing), the information processing unit 102 clears the title box (represented as the title box) and the label box (represented as the label box) in the characteristics area, and also clears the second display area. The title box is a field for inputting the name data of the experimental file. The label box is a field for inputting tags (keywords) used to search for experimental files.

[0204] The first user enters title and label data in the characteristics area. The entered title and label data can be included in the operation control data.

[0205] Based on the first user's selection of the button for opening an existing experimental file (represented as the open button in the figure), the information processing unit 102 displays a screen allowing the first user to select an existing experimental file. According to the first user's selection of an existing experimental file on the screen, the information processing unit 102 outputs the title data and label data included in the existing experimental file to the title box and label box, respectively.

[0206] For example, in Figure 6 The processing condition settings screen shows that "Experiment A" is output as the experiment file name, and "Food, Bar, Bartz" is output as the label.

[0207] As shown in the figure, other characteristic data related to the operation control data can be displayed in the characteristics area. These other characteristic data may include, for example, the creation date and last update date of the operation control data. Other characteristic data can also be included within the operation control data itself.

[0208] As shown in the figure, the setting information display area can also display an export button (shown as the export button in the attached figure) for exporting the opened operation control data and / or a save button (shown as the save button in the attached figure) for saving the operation control data.

[0209] For example, after entering characteristic data in the characteristics area when creating a new experimental file or confirming the characteristic data in the characteristics area when opening an existing experimental file, the first user selects the "Get" button in the process button area to obtain data about the sample containing biological particles.

[0210] (Data acquisition and processing S102)

[0211] Based on the selection of the get button, the information processing unit 102 changes the color of the button in the first display area (specifically, the process button area) to indicate the state of the selected get button.

[0212] Based on the selection of the acquisition button, the information processing unit 102 displays the following in the set information display area: Figure 13 The screen shown is used to control the acquisition of data (optical data, specifically, scattered light data and / or fluorescence data) about biological particles in a sample containing biological particles. In the above state, the information processing unit 102 displays the flow control area 216 (flow control area) and the recording control area 217 (recording control area) in the set information display area, as shown in the figure.

[0213] The flow control area, as shown in the figure, displays a set of buttons for controlling the flow of samples containing biological particles through a sorting channel, along with data indicating the operational status. The button group includes: a Start button to begin the sample flow (or restart a paused operation); a Pause button to pause the operation; a Stop button to terminate the operation; and a Restart button to restart the terminated operation. Additionally, the flow control area can display the elapsed time of the operation, the number of events detected during the operation, the detection rate (the number of events detected per unit time), and other data.

[0214] The recording control area, as shown in the figure, displays a group of buttons used to control the recording of sorting results based on set gates and data indicating the recording status. As shown, the button group includes a start button (record button) for starting recording (or resuming a paused recording), a pause button (pause button) for pausing recording, and an end button (stop button) for ending recording. Additionally, the recording control area can display the elapsed time of the recording operation, the number of events to be analyzed, etc.

[0215] Furthermore, when the "Acquire" button is selected, the bioparticle sorting device 100 can display an area 218 in the setting information display area for setting gain and / or threshold. The bioparticle sorting device 100 can be designed to set gain and / or threshold in the detection units within this area. Using these settings, the type or range of events to be analyzed can be controlled. Note that in the accompanying drawings, this area is closed. The area used for performing settings is expanded depending on the area selected by the user.

[0216] The first user enters settings related to gain and / or threshold in this area. The input setting data related to gain and / or threshold may be included as part of the operation control data, specifically, it may be processed as part of "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0217] After acquiring a predetermined number of light detection data events, the first user selects the analysis button 204c in the process button area. Optionally, when a preset number of event data events are acquired, the information processing unit 102 can automatically switch to the state of selecting the analysis button 204c.

[0218] (Analysis and processing S103)

[0219] Based on the selection of the analysis button, the information processing unit 102 changes the color of the button in the first display area (specifically, the process button area) to indicate the state of the selected analysis button.

[0220] Based on the selection of the analysis button, the information processing unit 102 displays the following information in the designated information display area: Figure 14 The screen shown is used to set the gate for sorting target biological particles based on optical data acquired during data acquisition and processing. When the analysis button is selected, the biological particle sorting device 100 displays the flow control area 219 and the fluorescence correction setting area 220 (shown as the compensation control area in the figure) in the setting information display area.

[0221] The flow control area 219 is the same as the flow control area 216 described above with respect to the acquisition steps, and displays a group of buttons for controlling the operation of the flow channel containing the biological microparticle sample through which the sorting process is performed, and a group of buttons for indicating the operation status.

[0222] In the fluorescence correction setting area 220, as shown in the figure, checkboxes are displayed for selecting whether to apply fluorescence correction (shown as "Apply Compensation" in the figure) and one or more correction coefficient input boxes are displayed for adjusting the correction coefficients included in the read correction matrix (in the figure, the value 10.0 is entered). The correction matrix is ​​adjusted by entering the values ​​into the correction alphanumeric input boxes.

[0223] In addition, this area can display the name of the correction matrix to be applied (shown in the figure as the default matrix for the four lasers), a button for reading the correction matrix (load button), and a button for saving the adjusted correction matrix if the read correction matrix is ​​adjusted (save button).

[0224] In this area, the first user inputs settings related to the correction matrix (correction coefficients, etc.). The input setting data related to the correction matrix may be included in the operation control data, and specifically, may be included as part of "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0225] With the analysis button selected, the first user performs door setting and inputs door information in the second display area. The input door information may be included in the operation control data, and specifically, may be included as part of "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0226] The setting of gate information can be performed appropriately by the first user. For example, drawing data is generated based on acquired optical data, gates are set for the generated drawing data, gates are developed to further generate drawing data, and then gates are set for the drawing data again. By appropriately repeating the operations of drawing data generation, gate setting, and development in this way, gate information for sorting target biological particles is generated. The generated drawing data can be two-dimensional or one-dimensional, and the type of drawing data can be appropriately selected by the first user. Furthermore, the scattered light / fluorescence channel and the scale of the axis used as the axis for each drawing data can be appropriately selected by the first user.

[0227] The information processing unit 102 displays one or more pieces of drawing data generated for setting the aforementioned door information in the second display area. The generated one or more pieces of drawing data may be included in the operation control data. For example, any one or more image data of the generated one or more pieces of drawing data may be included in the operation control data. Specifically, it may be included as part of the "operator-oriented instruction data for the operator of the processing device in the second mode" in (c) above, and more specifically, it may be included as data to be referenced by the second user.

[0228] During the generation of door information, you can refer to the windows displayed by selecting the matrix display button and / or the door tree display button. These will be described below.

[0229] (Matrix display button)

[0230] Figure 15AA window displayed by selecting the matrix display button is shown. As shown, window 221 includes a calibration matrix 222 applied to the displayed measurement data. The size of the window can be smaller than the size of the second display area. For example, the area of ​​the window can be, for example, 60% or less of the area of ​​the second display area, preferably 50% or less. Furthermore, the area of ​​the window can be, for example, 20% or more of the area of ​​the second display area, preferably 30% or more. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the parameters in the calibration matrix while checking the measurement data displayed in the second display area.

[0231] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the window may include a filename display field (marked as file name in the figure) for displaying the filename of the correction matrix, a read button (load button) for reading the correction matrix, and a save button (save button) for saving the adjusted correction matrix.

[0232] As shown in the figure, the window may also include checkboxes for selecting whether to apply corrections, checkboxes for selecting whether to manually adjust the plot, calculation buttons for calculating matrices from the acquired data, and checkboxes for selecting whether to utilize negative values.

[0233] Based on the correction coefficient selected by the first user in the correction matrix, the information processing device 102 can perform image processing to highlight the selected correction coefficient, such as displaying a crosshair indicator 223 to highlight the selected correction coefficient. Therefore, the first user can easily confirm the correction coefficient selected by the first user.

[0234] The information processing unit 102 can be designed to receive adjustments for each correction coefficient in the correction matrix. Figure 15B The adjustment process is illustrated in the figure. As shown, when the first user selects the correction coefficient to be adjusted with their finger, the information processing unit 102 displays a slider 224 near the selected position. Therefore, the information processing unit 102 can perform image processing to emphasize the slider, such as adding gray to the window 221 as shown.

[0235] As shown in the figure, the slider can be an indicator that can move in the vertical direction, or it can be an indicator that can move in the horizontal direction or any other two directions.

[0236] The information processing unit 102 can display a slider movement button 225 for moving the slider near the slider. The slider can be moved according to the button selection.

[0237] The information processing unit 102 can magnify and display the selected correction coefficient in a box 226 near the slider. Therefore, the first user can easily confirm the correction coefficient value selected by the first user. The information processing unit 102 changes the value of the correction coefficient in the box based on slider movement or button touch.

[0238] The first user can adjust the calibration matrix through the operation window. After adjustment, if the first user selects the save button, the information processing unit 102 saves the adjusted calibration matrix data. The adjusted calibration matrix data can be included in the operation control data, and specifically, can be included as part of "(a) Processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0239] Preferably, the display of a window can be switched between being displayed and not displayed by touching a matrix display button; that is, the matrix display button can be a toggle button. Upon the user touching the matrix display button, the information processing unit 102 displays the window on the processing condition setting screen, and thereafter, in response to the user further touching the matrix display button, the information processing unit 102 closes the displayed window.

[0240] Although it is assumed that the window is frequently acknowledged by the first user, it becomes difficult to confirm the plotted data in the measurement data display area if the window is always displayed. Therefore, by using a matrix display button as a toggle button as described above, the convenience of the window can be improved while making it easier to confirm the plotted data.

[0241] The matrix display buttons are preferably located at the end of the processing condition setting screen, particularly at the end of the second display area. This makes it easier for the user to touch the matrix display buttons. Figure 9 In the second display area, the matrix display button 206 is arranged in the measurement data display area, but the button can be arranged in the operation button area.

[0242] (Door tree display button)

[0243] Figure 16 An example of a window displayed by selecting the door tree display button is shown. Window 227 shown in the figure indicates the statistics of the displayed measurement data set. The size of the window can be smaller than the size of the second display area. For example, the area of ​​the window can be, for example, 60% or less of the area of ​​the second display area, preferably 50% or less. Furthermore, the area of ​​the window can be, for example, 20% or more of the area of ​​the second display area, preferably 30% or more. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the parameters in the calibration matrix while checking the measurement data displayed in the second display area.

[0244] The statistics include the name of each door. Additionally, the statistics may include one, two, or all three of the following: the number of events included in each door, the ratio between the number of events included in each door and the number of events displayed in a specific plot, and the ratio of the number of events included in each door to the total number of events. In the statistics shown in the figure, the name of each door includes the number of events corresponding to that door and the aforementioned ratios for both types.

[0245] The information processing unit 102 can be designed to change the statistical data according to the adjustment of each gate. Because the statistical data is frequently checked in the biological particle sorting process, the first user can effectively check the effect of the gate adjustment by changing the statistical data in conjunction with the gate adjustment.

[0246] Preferably, the display of the window can be toggled by touching the door tree display button, i.e., the door tree display button can be a toggle button. The information processing unit 102 displays the window in the processing condition setting screen based on the user touching the door tree display button, and then closes the displayed window in response to the user further touching the door tree display button.

[0247] Although it is assumed that the window is frequently acknowledged by the first user, it is difficult to confirm the plotted data in the measurement data display area if the window is always displayed. Therefore, by using a door tree display button as a toggle button as described above, the convenience of the window can be improved while making it easier to confirm the plotted data.

[0248] The aforementioned door-tree display button is preferably located at the end of the processing condition setting screen, particularly at the end of the second display area. This makes it easier for the user to touch the door-tree display button. Figure 9 In this case, the door tree display button 207 is arranged in the measurement data display area of ​​the second display area, but the button can be arranged in the operation button area.

[0249] To generate door information, you can utilize the toolbox groups that can be displayed by selecting the Workbook Toolbox Show button, the Drawing Toolbox Show button, and the Door Toolbox Show button. These will be described below.

[0250] (Workbook Toolbox)

[0251] Figure 17 The figure shows an example of a toolbox displayed by selecting the Workbook Toolbox Display button. The toolbox 228 shown in the figure includes a group of buttons for adjusting settings applied to or performing processing on the entire workbook.

[0252] For example, as shown in the figure, the toolbox may include one, two, or three of areas 229, 230, and 231, with area 229 including one or more buttons for adjusting the number of events to be displayed on the workbook, area 230 including one or more buttons for adjusting the display format of drawing data in the workbook, and area 231 including one or more buttons for exporting the workbook.

[0253] The first user uses the toolbox to set up the workbook. As a result, workbook setup data is generated. That is, the workbook setup data includes any one or more pieces of data entered via the toolbox described above. Data entered in this way can be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of "(b) Display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode". For example, the display control data in (b) above may include event quantity data (data entered via area 229) specifying the number of events to be displayed, display format data (data entered via area 230) specifying the display format of the drawing data, or both. It should be noted that this data can be processed to include in "(a) Processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0254] (Drawing Toolbox)

[0255] Figure 18 An example of a toolbox displayed by selecting the drawing toolbox display button is shown. The toolbox 232 shown in the figure includes a group of buttons for adjusting settings applied to or manipulating each piece of drawing data.

[0256] For example, as shown in the figure, the toolbox may include one, two, or three of areas 233, 234, and 235. Area 233 includes one or more buttons for manipulating plot data (e.g., a new plot creation button, a plot format change button, a plot data copy button, a plot data paste button (for overlap analysis), etc.), area 234 includes one or more buttons for adjusting the axes of the plot data (e.g., a scale setting (logarithmic or linear) change button for each axis, an auto-adjustment button for two axes, an axis copy / paste button, an axis adjustment tool button, etc.), and area 235 includes one or more buttons for exporting the workbook.

[0257] The first user uses the toolbox to set up each drawing. This generates drawing setup data. That is, the drawing setup data includes any one or more data segments input via the aforementioned toolbox. Data input in this manner can be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of "(b) Display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode". For example, the display control data in (b) above may include axis specification data (data input via area 234) specifying the display format of the axes of the drawing data. It should be noted that this data can be processed and included in "(a) Processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0258] (Door Toolbox)

[0259] Figure 19 An example of a toolbox displayed by selecting the Door Toolbox Display button is shown. The toolbox 236 shown in the figure includes a group of buttons for setting doors for each piece of drawing data.

[0260] For example, as shown in the figure, the toolbox may include one, two, or three of areas 237, 238, and 239. Area 237 includes one or more buttons for operating each door (e.g., a new door creation button, a door format change button, a door data copy button, a door paste button, a door delete button, etc.). Area 238 includes one or more buttons for changing the display format of each door (e.g., a button for defining the color change of the door's lines, a button for changing the line width, a button for changing the front-to-back relationship of overlapping door groups, a button for changing the settings of statistical processing of events in each door, etc.). Area 239 includes buttons for outputting data (statistical data, etc.) related to each door.

[0261] The first user uses the toolbox to configure each door. As a result, door configuration data is generated. That is, the door configuration data includes any one or more data segments input via the aforementioned toolbox. Data input in this manner can be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of "(b) Display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode". For example, generated door configuration data specifying the door (data input via area 237), generated data specifying the display format of the door (data input via area 238), or both can be included in the display control data of (b) above. It should be noted that this data can be processed to be included in "(a) Processing condition data adopted by the processing device performing processing in the second mode".

[0262] (The operation panel displayed near the drawing area)

[0263] In a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the information processing unit 102 displays an operation panel for operating the drawing near the touch location based on a touch on any drawing in the second display area. Figure 32A and Figure 32B An example of the operation panel is shown in the image.

[0264] like Figure 32A As shown, multiple drawings are displayed in the second display area. Assume a first user's finger F touches one of the drawings. Based on the touched drawing, the information processing unit 102 displays an operation panel 260 near the drawing, such as... Figure 32B As shown. More specifically, the location of the control panel can be close to the touch position.

[0265] For example, the information processing unit 102 can display the operation panel 260 within 5 cm of the touch position, preferably within 4 cm, more preferably within 3 cm, and even more preferably within 2 cm. This distance can refer to the distance between the touch position and the point closest to the touch position in the operation panel area.

[0266] The operation panel may include one or more operation tool selection buttons. For example, the operation tool selection buttons may include one or more tool buttons that the user frequently uses. Preferably, the operation tool selection buttons included in the operation panel may be designed to be changeable by the user. These operation tool selection buttons include, for example, any one or more buttons included in a drawing toolbox and / or any one or more buttons included in a door toolbox. Figure 32B The operation panel 260 shown includes a new drawing button, a change drawing format button, a copy drawing data button, and a paste drawing data button among the buttons mentioned in the drawing toolbox, and also includes a new door button among the buttons mentioned in the door toolbox.

[0267] Furthermore, depending on the touch drawing portion, different operation panels can be displayed near the touch location. For example, based on a touch on the X-axis portion of the drawing, the information processing unit 102 can display an operation panel (toolbox) for performing X-axis adjustments near the touch location. Similarly, based on a touch on the Y-axis portion of the drawing, the information processing unit 102 can also display an operation panel (toolbox) for performing Y-axis adjustments near the touch location. Furthermore, based on a touch inside the door frame, the information processing unit 102 can display an operation panel (toolbox) for door adjustments near the touch location.

[0268] (Axis operation slider)

[0269] In a preferred embodiment, the information processing unit 102 displays a slider for changing the display format of any axis of the plot in the second display area based on the touched axis. The slider is used to adjust the numerical range or scale of each axis. The axes (X-axis and Y-axis) of each plot data can be axes of any format, such as bi-exponential, linear, or logarithmic.

[0270] For example, for a dual-index axis setup, display three sliders. (See reference...) Figures 33A to 33D This describes an example of a slider displayed for setting up a dual exponential axis.

[0271] like Figure 33A As shown, the first user touches any axis portion of the drawing data. Based on the axis portion touched by the user's finger F, such as... Figure 33B As shown, the information processing unit 102 displays three sliders 270A, 270B, and 270C next to the axes of the plotting data. Slider 270A is used to adjust the maximum value of the axis, slider 270B is used to adjust the width of the axis near 0, and slider 270C is used to adjust the minimum value of the axis. The information processing unit 102 changes the plotting data (axis display and event data) based on the dragging operation of the knob on each slider. Note that even if the dragging operation moves up or down beyond the display range of the slider, the plotting data can continue to be changed. Therefore, for example, even when the plotting data is displayed at a small size, the axis is easy to adjust. Although in Figure 33B The above three types of sliders are displayed, but the information processing unit 102 can display any one or two of these three types.

[0272] Note that the information processing unit 102 deletes the slider based on the area other than the touched slider.

[0273] like Figure 33C As shown, the first user touches a slider. Based on the slider touched by the user's finger F, the information processing unit 102 changes the display format of the slider's knob 271, such as... Figure 33D As shown. Figure 33C and Figure 33D As shown, preferably, the knob 271B after contact is larger than the knob 271A before contact, and / or the shape of the knob 271B after contact is different from the shape of the knob 271A before contact.

[0274] In addition, a slider can be displayed for setting the linear axis or the log axis. The information processing unit 102 can change the numerical range of the axis by moving the knob of a slider.

[0275] By employing the slider described above, the operability of the axis operation via touch can be improved.

[0276] (Enlarged image display)

[0277] The information processing unit 102 can display a magnified image of the touched portion based on a touch of any data display portion of the drawing in the second display area. Preferably, if the user touches any door (specifically, a process set within a door) set in the drawing data, the information processing unit 102 displays a magnified image of the touch location near that location. (Referring below...) Figure 34A and Figure 34B Describes the display of a magnified image.

[0278] exist Figure 34A The drawing data shown includes a door 280. Additionally, multiple processes 281 (represented by squares) are pre-defined on the door 280. When the user's finger F touches one of these processes, the touch response is determined according to the process. Figure 34B As shown, the information processing unit 102 displays a magnified image 282 centered on the processing location near the touch location or near the drawing data. Furthermore, along with the display of the magnified image 282, the information processing unit 102 displays the touched processing at a large size, as shown in reference numeral 283.

[0279] Furthermore, the entire door is selected by touch on a part of the door 280 other than the processing area (the line defining the door or its inner side), and the information processing unit 102 moves the entire door by, for example, a drag operation.

[0280] Each touch can be polygonal (specifically, rectangular), circular, or other shapes. The size of each touch (the long side of a rectangle or one side of a square, or the diameter of a circle) can be, for example, 5 to 25 dots in the non-touch state, preferably 10 to 20 dots, and in the touch state (as shown in the larger state above), for example, 30 to 60 dots, preferably 40 to 55 dots. Furthermore, the size of the touch touch state can be 1.5 to 5 times the size of the touch touch state, preferably 2 to 4 times. By displaying the touched touch at a larger size in this way, the user can easily identify the touched touch.

[0281] Because the content displayed on the processing condition setting screen is diverse, the size of the area displaying the plotting data is also limited, so most plotting data are displayed relatively small. On the other hand, it is necessary to precisely adjust the gate settings in the plotting data. By displaying a magnified image as described above, fine-grained gate adjustments can be performed even when the plotting data is displayed in a small size.

[0282] (Sorting Processing S104)

[0283] For example, based on the first user's selection of the sorting button after the sorting gate information is set in the analysis step, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the button color to indicate the state of the selected sorting button in the first display area (specifically, the process button area).

[0284] Based on the first user's selection of the sorting button, the biological particle sorting device 100 displays a screen controlling the sorting process in the setting information display area, such as... Figure 20 As shown. When the sorting button is selected, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays the flow control area 240, the recording control area 241, and the sorting control area 242 in the setting information display area.

[0285] The flow control region and the recording control region are the same as those described above regarding the acquisition steps.

[0286] As shown in the figure, the sorting control area includes a start button (Start Button) for initiating sorting, a pause button (Pause Button) for pausing sorting, and an end button (Stop Button) for resuming sorting. Additionally, the sorting control area can display the elapsed time of the sorting operation and the number of sorting operations performed (gating event count), among other things.

[0287] (Template generation process S105)

[0288] Based on the user's selection of template button 204g at any time, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the button's color to indicate the status of the selected template button in the first display area (specifically, the process button area). Figure 11 In the diagram, the template creation process S105 is shown as being executed, for example, after the process in the sorting process S104, but the template creation process S105 may be executed after any other process (S101, S102, S103 or S105).

[0289] Based on the user's selection of the template button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays the template characteristic area 242 in the set information display area, such as... Figure 21 As shown. The template-specific area includes a template name input field (template name field) and an input field for describing the template (description field). Additionally, the template-specific area may display, for example, the number of revisions and / or the creation date of the template.

[0290] The first user enters template-specific data (template name and / or a description related to the template) in the template-specific area. As a result, template-specific data is generated. That is, the template-specific data includes any one or more pieces of data entered via the aforementioned template-specific area. This entered data can also be included in the operation control data, specifically, as part of "(c) Operator-oriented instruction data for the operator of the operation processing device in the second mode." For example, template specification data including the template name and / or a description related to the template can be included in the operator-oriented instruction data in (c) above. Furthermore, the template specification data may also include the number of template revisions and / or the creation date.

[0291] Additionally, as shown in the figure, a sample setting button 243 is also displayed in the setting information display area. By selecting this button, the sample setting area (described later) in the setting information display area is expanded. The sample setting area can also be pre-expanded in the setting information display area.

[0292] In this specification, an aliquot (sample) refers to a sample (specifically, a sample containing bioparticles) that has been sorted until the sorting process is temporarily stopped at a predetermined time during the sorting process. The sample portion is analyzed using, for example, a device or analytical kit different from the bioparticle sorting device 100, or by a device or analytical kit attached to the bioparticle sorting device 100. As a result of the analysis, if the sample meets predetermined conditions, the sorting process is restarted. By acquiring and analyzing the aliquot, it can be confirmed whether the bioparticles obtained through the sorting process meet the predetermined conditions, and it can be determined whether to continue the sorting process or adjust the sorting conditions. Furthermore, unnecessary sorting processes can be avoided.

[0293] Figure 22 An example of a screen showing the sample setup area is provided. The sample setup area 259 shown in the figure includes: an input field for the operator to instruct the acquisition of samples; and a timing setting field for setting the timing of sample acquisition. The timing setting field includes fields for selecting whether to acquire samples at a specific time point or acquire samples with a specific number of samples, and fields for specifying the time point or the number of samples.

[0294] The first user inputs sample setting data into the sample setting area (e.g., sample acquisition instruction data, including instructions for the operator to acquire samples, and / or timing setting data for setting timing). This generates sample setting data. That is, the sample setting data includes any one or more data input through the sample setting area described above. This input data can be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device operating in the second mode" or "(c) operator-oriented instruction data for the operator operating the processing device in the second mode." For example, sample acquisition instruction data can also be included in the operator instruction data in (c) above. Additionally, timing setting data can also be included in the processing condition data in (a) above.

[0295] When the template button is selected, a grid display button 245 for arranging multiple measurement data (specifically plotted data) in a grid mode and a list display button 246 for arranging multiple measurement data in a list mode are displayed in the second display area. Note that when the template button is selected, either the grid display button or the list display button can be selected by default.

[0296] Based on the user's selection of the grid display button, such as Figure 21 As shown, the microparticle sorting device 100 displays a sequence specification field 247 near each measurement data point to specify the adjustment order in a second display mode. As indicated, the sequence specification field can be displayed in contact with each measurement data point. The order of the plotting data operated by the second user in the second display mode can be controlled by the sequence data entered in the sequence specification field, and the second user can perform gate adjustments in the appropriate order.

[0297] The order specification field can be designed such that, for example, any positive integer can be selected, or it can be designed such that any positive integer can be entered. Positive integers correspond to the order of adjustment. For example, in the attached diagram, in the three plot data entries in the first row, "1" is selected for the left plot data and "2" is selected for the center plot data.

[0298] Furthermore, there are situations where measurement data does not need to be displayed in the second display mode. To address this, for example, the sequence specification field can be designed to allow selection of options indicating which data does not need to be displayed, such as "-" or "Do not display". Figure 21 For example, in the first row of three plot data, select "-" to indicate that it should not be displayed for the plot data on the right. Note that the order specification field can be designed to allow selection of options indicating whether display is necessary.

[0299] The first user inputs or selects to adjust the order of the measurement data (plotting data) displayed in the sequence indicator bar of each measurement data (plotting data) in the second display area, or inputs or selects the necessity of display (specifically, whether display is not required). Thus, measurement display setting data is generated. That is, the measurement display setting data includes data input in this way through the sequence-specified fields, and includes, for example, adjustment order data or display necessity data. The generated measurement display setting data can be included as part of the operation control data, and specifically, as part of "(b) display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode". Additionally, the measurement display setting data can be processed into "(c) operator-oriented instruction data for the operator operating the processing device in the second mode". Such measurement display setting data is useful for accurately informing the user in the second display mode of instructions related to the sorting process.

[0300] In addition, the sequence specification field may specify measurement data for adjusting the order, or specify measurement data to be displayed as needed, or both may be included as part of the operation control data. Alternatively, image data of the measurement data may be included as part of the operation control data.

[0301] Button 246 is displayed in the list based on user selection, such as Figure 23 As shown, the information processing unit 102 displays one or more operator-oriented instruction data input automatic 248, including a measurement data and various instruction data input fields related to the measurement data.

[0302] Alternatively, the sequence specification field 249, used to specify the adjustment order of the second display mode for the measurement data contained in each area, can be displayed in the operator instruction data input field. The sequence specification field is similar to that described above.

[0303] Operator-oriented instruction data input automatically includes a memo input field (prompt field) for entering an operator-specific memo (specifically, instruction memo) and / or a selection area 250 for selecting the data the operator wants to refer to.

[0304] When the measurement data is displayed in the second display mode, the memo entered in the memo input field is displayed in association with the measurement data. This allows the second user to confirm instructions from the first user.

[0305] The first user enters a memo for the second user in the memo input field. As a result, memo data is generated. This generated data can be included in the operation control data, and specifically, can be included as part of "(c) Operator-oriented instruction data for the operator operating the processing device in the second mode". The memo data display setting data is useful for accurately conveying the instructions of the user in the first display mode to the user in the second display mode.

[0306] When a reference measurement data (hereinafter also referred to as reference measurement data) is selected in the selection area, the reference measurement data is displayed in association with the measurement data when the measurement data is displayed in the second display mode. As a result, the second user can adjust the sorting conditions by referring to the reference measurement data.

[0307] The selection area can include one, two, three, or all four of the following: "Data without reference", "Gate list", "Ideal measurement data", and "Other measurement data (soil data)".

[0308] The first user selects reference measurement data in the selection area. As a result, reference measurement data is generated. This reference measurement data may be included as part of the operation control data, and specifically, as part of "(c) operator-oriented instruction data for the operator operating the processing device in the second mode". The reference measurement data can be used to adjust the processing conditions in the sorting process in the second display mode.

[0309] In each operator-oriented instruction data input auto-process, the selected reference data (reference chart field) can be displayed in the selection area. Additionally, in the selection auto-process, a list box can be displayed (showing the chart field in the attached diagram). Figure 6 The box is a list box, which is used to select the reference data (specifically, ideal measurement data or other measurement data) to be selected in the selection field.

[0310] Furthermore, the data that can be input into the operator-oriented instruction data input auto-input system is not limited to the data described above. For example, the operator-oriented instruction data input auto-input system may include an area for specifying door operations that a second user can perform. Examples of door operations include moving the door's position, changing the door's size (enlarging or shrinking the door), and changing the door's shape. More specific examples of door shape changes include changes in door tilt; changes in door diameter or axis (e.g., changes in the diameter of a circular door or changes in the length of the major and / or minor axes of an elliptical door); changes in the ratio of door diameter or axis (e.g., changes from a circular door to an elliptical door or vice versa, or changes in the ratio of the major and minor axes of an elliptical door); and changes in door eccentricity or flatness. For example, when a first user specifies a door operation in the auto-input system, the information processing unit 102 generates door operation restriction data. In the second display mode, the information processing unit 102 restricts a portion of the second user's door operation based on the door operation restriction data. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary door adjustments from being performed in the second display mode.

[0311] Note that, in the absence of an automatic display for specifying door operations, the information processing unit 102 may have pre-existing door operation restriction data. For example, the door operation restriction data may be data used to restrict any door operations (e.g., changes in door size and / or door shape) in the second display mode. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the door operation restriction data may be operation restriction data used to restrict changes in door shape; for example, it may be data used to restrict changes in door shape but not changes in door size. Furthermore, for example, the door operation restriction data may be input in another area (such as the first display area).

[0312] As described above, the microparticle sorting device of this disclosure displays a screen for inputting measurement data (specifically, plotting data) obtained through a predetermined gate setting and operator-oriented instruction data related to the measurement data obtained through the gate setting. In this specification, the screen is also referred to as a template generation screen. The microparticle sorting device of this disclosure is designed to allow input of operation control data via a template generation screen, thus improving the convenience for a first user to generate instruction data for a second user. Furthermore, the microparticle sorting device of this disclosure displays a processing execution operation screen for a second user based on the operation control data in a second display mode, which will be described later. By displaying the processing execution operation screen based on the operation control data, the second user can easily perform adjustments or operations during sorting.

[0313] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, an area 244 including buttons for saving or previewing generated operation control data is displayed in the setting information display area. In this area, a save button (save button) for saving operation control data and a preview button (preview button) for previewing the screen generated based on the operation control data (specifically, the screen displayed in the second display mode) are displayed. The information processing unit 102 executes each of the above functions according to the selection of each button.

[0314] (S105 is closed)

[0315] For example, based on the user's selection of the close button after the sorting process is completed in the sorting step, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the button color to indicate the state of the close button selection in the first display area (specifically, the process button area).

[0316] Based on the user's selection of the close button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 will display a screen in the setting information display area indicating whether to end the sorting process or to end the first display mode. These screens may display buttons for closing open experimental files, exiting the first display mode, etc.

[0317] (Cell counter processing)

[0318] The processing in the first display mode may optionally include cell counter processing. Cell counter processing is used to adjust the settings of the device.

[0319] For example, based on the user's arbitrary selection of the cell counter button during processing in the first display mode, the microparticle sorting device 100 changes the button's color to indicate the state of the cell counter button selection in the first display area (specifically, the process button area). Based on the user's selection of the cell counter button, the microparticle sorting device 100 can display a screen in the setting information display area for adjusting device settings. The microparticle sorting device 100 can be designed to adjust settings via a screen receiving device.

[0320] (Correction Processing)

[0321] The processing in the first display mode may optionally include a correction process. The correction process is used to adjust the fluorescence correction conditions.

[0322] For example, based on an arbitrary timing selection of the compensation button by the user in the first display mode, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the button's color to indicate the state of the compensation button selection in the first display area (specifically, the process button area). Based on the user's selection of the compensation button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 can display a screen in the setting information display area for adjusting fluorescence correction settings. The bioparticle sorting device 100 can be designed to receive adjustments to the fluorescence correction settings via the screen.

[0323] Furthermore, while the above describes the execution order of steps according to the configuration of the operation button area, the user can freely choose the execution order of each step. For example, after completing a certain step, the user can return to any previous step, such as returning to the acquisition step after the sorting step. Additionally, by skipping one or more steps, such as entering the template step after the analysis step, the user can proceed to another step. Furthermore, one or more steps can be omitted, such as omitting the compensation step.

[0324] The first user inputs operation control data by performing the above-described steps. The information processing unit 102 stores the input operation control data. After saving, the bioparticle sorting device 100 can terminate operation in the first display mode.

[0325] (Operation control data)

[0326] The operation control data entered in the above step group is summarized as follows.

[0327] As described above, the operation control data may include one or more of the following:

[0328] (a) Processing condition data (hereinafter also referred to as "data (a)") used by the processing device performing processing in the second mode.

[0329] (b) Display control data (hereinafter also referred to as "data (b)") related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode, and

[0330] (c) Operator-oriented instruction data (hereinafter also referred to as "data (c)") for the operator operating the processing device in the second mode described above.

[0331] For example, the operation control data includes at least data (a), more preferably data (a) and data (b), or data (a) and data (c).

[0332] Alternatively, the operation control data may include at least data (b), more preferably data (b) and data (a), or data (b) and data (c).

[0333] Alternatively, the operation control data may include at least data (c), more preferably data (c) and data (a), or data (c) and data (b).

[0334] In a preferred embodiment, the operation control data may include data (a), data (b), and data (c).

[0335] By including such operational control data, more appropriate processing execution operation screens can be generated for users using the device in the second display mode.

[0336] Data (a) is processing condition data used in the sorting process of the bioparticle sorting device 100 in the second display mode. Data (a) may include, for example, instruction data for the bioparticle sorting device, such as gate settings.

[0337] Data (a) includes data for specifying the bioparticles to be sorted in the second display mode, and more specifically, includes gate information for specifying the bioparticles to be sorted in the sorting process. This data may, for example, specify the range of optical data generated from the bioparticles to be sorted. For example, processing condition data may include data defining the range of bioparticles to be sorted on one or more arsenic data. The processing condition data can be suitably set by someone skilled in the art and can be suitably set by a user (e.g., a researcher or developer) using the bioparticle sorting device 100 in the first display mode.

[0338] Data (a) may include data related to the device settings employed by the bioparticle sorting apparatus 100 in the sorting process. For example, it may include data related to the settings of the illumination unit, detection unit, and sorting unit. Data related to the illumination unit settings may be data specifying the type of light to be emitted. Data related to the detection unit settings may include data related to the operation settings of the detector and / or data related to the identification of the detector to be operated. Data related to the sorting unit settings may include data related to the pressure and / or charge applied to the sorting operation, or data related to the voltage applied to the sorting operation.

[0339] Data (a) may include one or more of the data that may be included (or processed) as data (a). For example, data (a) may include any one or more of the following: setting data related to gain and / or threshold, setting data related to the correction matrix, adjusted correction matrix data, gate information, and timing setting data.

[0340] Data (b) is display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode. For example, data (b) may include data related to controlling the display of fire and earth data displayed in the second display mode, and more specifically, may include one or more of the following: data related to the display position of the fire and earth data, data related to the adjustment order of the fire and earth data, and data related to the specifications of the drawing data to be displayed.

[0341] Data (b) may include one or more of the data that may be included (or processed) as data (b). For example, data (b) may include any one or more of workbook setting data, drawing setting data, gate setting data, gate operation restriction data, and measurement display setting data.

[0342] Preferably, data (b) includes data related to operational restrictions on the drawing data displayed in the second display mode. The data related to operational restrictions may include data related to prohibiting changes to the drawing data itself. For example, changes to the axes of the drawing and / or changes to the display range of the drawing can be prohibited by the prohibition-related data. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sorting process intended by the user in the first display mode from being prevented from being performed due to changes to the drawing data by the user in the second display mode.

[0343] Data (c) is operator-oriented instruction data for the operator operating the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode. This operator-oriented instruction data allows instructions from the user in the first display mode to be sent to the user in the second display mode.

[0344] For example, data can be entered for each processing step in the second display mode (c). As a result, the user can be notified in the second display mode of the work to be performed in each processing step.

[0345] For each plotting data, data (c) can be entered; more specifically, for each plotting data, a gate adjustment command can be entered. The gate adjustment command enables appropriate gate settings for each sample.

[0346] Data (c) may include reference data related to the confirmation and / or adjustment of processing condition data. Reference data may include, for example, (c1) specified data for indicating plotting data that has changed through adjustment, (c2) confirmed plotting data to be referenced by the operator, (c3) statistical data related to each gate, and (c4) image data related to processing condition data.

[0347] The specified data (c1) is, for example, data used to associate the plotting data to be adjusted with the plotting data changed according to the adjustment. Based on the adjustment of the plotting data to be adjusted, the bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit) can specify the plotting data changed according to the adjustment based on the specified data and adjust the plotting data. Therefore, the bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit) can, for example, perform plotting data adjustment in real time according to the adjustment in a second display mode.

[0348] The confirmation graphic data (c2) is, for example, reference graphic data that the operator refers to when adjusting the gate to set specific graphic data in the second display mode. The bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit) displays the reference graphic data, allowing the operator to confirm whether the sorted particles and data are as expected, specifically in the second display mode.

[0349] The statistics associated with each phylum (c3) are, for example, data relating to the number and / or ratio of events included in each phylum. The bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit) displays the statistics, allowing the operator to confirm whether the sorted particles and data are as expected, specifically in a second display mode.

[0350] The image data associated with the processing condition data (c4) can be, for example, data measured by another device or image data generated or processed as ideal data. Furthermore, the image data can be image data used to instruct the operator on countermeasures when abnormal data is acquired, and can be, for example, an image indicating which part of the bioparticle sorting device 100 should be checked and / or operated. Additionally, the image data associated with the processing condition data can also be image data used to instruct the operator. Using this image data, the bioparticle sorting device 100 can issue instructions to the operator, specifically in the second display mode.

[0351] Data (c) may include one or more of the data that can be included (or processed) as data (c). For example, data (c) may include any one or more of plotting data, template characteristic data, specimen acquisition instruction data, memo data, and reference measurement data.

[0352] (2-3) Second display mode

[0353] In the second display mode, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a processing execution operation screen. The processing execution operation screen is used to perform a process for sorting predetermined bioparticles. At least a portion of the processing execution operation screen can be generated based on operation control data input in the first display mode.

[0354] Preferably, the microparticle sorting device 100 controls the display of the processing execution operation screen in a second display mode based on operation control data. Therefore, the first user's intention regarding the sorting process is reflected in the sorting operation performed by the second user.

[0355] Preferably, in the second display mode, the operator can adjust the processing condition data according to operator-oriented instruction data. In the sorting of biological particles, each sample typically requires fine-tuning. Because the biological particle sorting device 100 can perform the above-mentioned adjustments, fine-tuning can be performed.

[0356] Preferably, in the second display mode, adjustments to at least some gate information are restricted. The sorting processing conditions set by the first user often include conditions that the second user does not need to adjust. Therefore, since adjustments can be restricted in this way, unwanted adjustments to the processing conditions by the second user can be prevented.

[0357] (2-3-1) Example configuration of the screen displayed in the second display mode

[0358] (Processing operation screen)

[0359] Figure 24 An example is shown where a processing execution operation screen is displayed on the display unit 101 via the bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit 102) in a second display mode. For example... Figure 25 As shown, Figure 24 The processing execution operation screen 300 shown includes: a third display area (also known as the processing operation flow display area) 301, for displaying the operation flow of the sorting process; and a fourth display area (also known as the operation content display area) 302, for displaying the operation content contained in each process in the processing operation flow.

[0360] As shown in the figure, the third display area can be arranged on the upper side of the processing and execution operation screen, and the fourth display area can be arranged on the lower side of the processing and execution operation screen.

[0361] Optionally, the third display area can be arranged below the processing and execution operation screen, and the fourth display area can also be arranged above the processing and execution operation screen.

[0362] In the processing condition setting screen of the first display mode, two areas (the first display area and the second display area) are displayed separately on the left and right sides. On the other hand, in the second display mode, as described above, two areas (the third display area and the fourth display area) are displayed separately on the top and bottom sides. As described above, in the first display mode, the two main areas are arranged separately on the left and right sides, and in the second display mode, the two main areas are arranged separately on the top and bottom sides, thereby allowing the user to clearly distinguish the operating modes of the bioparticle sorting device.

[0363] Furthermore, it is assumed that the second user has less knowledge about the processing conditions of the microparticle sorting device than the first user. Additionally, in the second display mode, to prevent confusion during the sorting operation, it is preferable to display only the information necessary for the sorting operation on the screen. Furthermore, to prevent erroneous sorting operations, it is preferable to display the information in a larger size. In the second display mode, as described above, by dividing the necessary information into upper and lower sections, it is possible to display only the necessary information in a larger size, which helps to prevent erroneous sorting operations.

[0364] The arrangement of the third and fourth display areas can be variable. For example, the bioparticle sorting device can be designed to change the display from a state where the previous area is arranged on the top and the next area on the bottom to a state where the previous area is arranged on the bottom and the next area on the top. Furthermore, the display can be designed to be adjustable, thus being relative to these areas.

[0365] (Third display area)

[0366] In the third display area 301, the steps performed in the second display mode (along with markers indicating the steps) are arranged side-by-side from left to right. Additionally, a marker (a solid gray circle) indicating the process currently being performed is used. As described above, in this disclosure, the steps performed in the second display mode are shown in the third display area displayed in the second display mode; however, these steps may be arranged in one direction. Furthermore, in the third display area, markers indicating the steps currently being performed may be displayed at the location of the steps.

[0367] (Fourth display area)

[0368] The content displayed in the fourth display area 302 can be changed for each step. The content includes, for example, explanatory data related to the operation to be performed by the second user in each step and / or data indicating the status of the operation. At least a portion of the content can be generated based on the operation control data entered in the first display mode.

[0369] (2-3-2) Example of processing in the second display mode

[0370] (Processing begins)

[0371] When processing in the second display mode begins, the bioparticle sorting device 100 (specifically, the information processing unit 102) causes the display unit 101 to display. Figure 26 The processing execution screen shown is 300.

[0372] In the figure, the operation start process is displayed as "New Experiment". The operation start process includes template selection processing (displayed as "Template Selection" in the figure). In the third display area, the information processing unit 102 displays an instruction mark (a gray solid circle mark) indicating the process performed by the bioparticle sorting device 100 at the location of the template selection processing. As described above, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays the instruction mark at the location indicating the process being performed in a series of processes in the second display mode.

[0373] In addition, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen related to the operation content in the template selection process in the fourth display area. For example, as shown in the figure, the template selection field 303 and the template description field 304, which describes the outline of the selected template, are displayed in the fourth display area.

[0374] The information processing unit 102 displays a list of selectable templates in the template selection field. In this field, for example, the template name can be displayed based on template characteristic data; specifically, it displays the template name entered into a specific area of ​​the template during the template selection process in the first display mode. In the figure, "Template A (granulocytes)" is selected.

[0375] The information processing unit 102 displays a detailed description field 305 (displayed as a description in the figure) related to the selected template in the template description field, and a reference data field 306 (displayed as reference drawing data) showing an example of measurement data (plotting data) obtained when performing sorting processing according to the selected template.

[0376] The detailed description field displays a description of the selected template. For example, this field may display a description of the template entered in the template properties area during the template step in the first display mode. That is, the information processing unit 102 displays a description of the template in the detailed description field based on template property data. For example, as shown in the figure, a description such as "template for sorting granulocytes" is displayed in the detailed description field as a description of template A.

[0377] The information processing unit 102 displays instances of measurement data (plotting data) obtained during sorting processing according to the selected template in the reference data field. For example, instances of measurement data could be measurement data for which the adjustment order was specified in the template step of the first display mode, specifically, image data. In this way, the information processing unit 102 displays the measurement data in the reference data field based on operation control data (specifically, based on image data included in the operation control data). For example, as shown in the accompanying drawings, multiple plotting data sets can be displayed in the reference data field.

[0378] The bioparticle sorting device 100 advances the process to the next stage based on the selection buttons located in the lower right corner of the processing execution operation screen. It returns to the previous stage based on the selection of the return button also located in the lower right corner of the processing execution operation screen. These buttons can also be displayed on other screens. Note that the characters on each button can be appropriately changed to other characters or labels.

[0379] (Settings processing)

[0380] Based on the template selected in the operation initiation process, the bioparticle sorting device advances the process to a setup process. The setup process may include, for example, an attachment process for attaching microchips for bioparticle sorting to the bioparticle sorting device (in... Figure 24 The diagram shows the startup process (displayed as "SUD Setup") and the startup process inside the flow channel of the microchip (displayed as "Startup" in the diagram). Note that in the diagram, SUD is the name of the consumable kit (specifically, the sterilization kit) that includes the microchip, and other names may be used.

[0381] The settings, including the processes and the screens displayed in each process, can be appropriately changed depending on the type of microparticle sorting device and the type of microchip to be attached.

[0382] (Sample introduction and processing)

[0383] After completing the setup process, the microparticle sorting device advances the process to the sample introduction process. The sample introduction process may include, for example, a sample connection process (in which a container containing the biological sample to be sorted is connected to the microparticle sorting device). Figure 24 The optical adjustment steps (displayed as "sample connection") and the optical adjustment of the biological particle sorting device by using a portion of the biological sample for sorting operations (in...) Figure 24 (Displayed as "Optical Adjustment" in the image).

[0384] The processing included in the sample introduction process and the screen displayed in each process can be appropriately changed according to the type of biological particle sorting device.

[0385] The biological particle sorting device can perform these processes based on operational control data (specifically, based on processing condition data).

[0386] (Gating process)

[0387] After completing the sample introduction process, the microparticle sorting device advances the processing to gated processing. For example... Figure 27 As shown, the gating process includes, for example, gating adjustment processing that adjusts the gating settings of each plotting data relative to the measurement data in the first display mode (in... Figure 27 (Displayed as "Door Adjustment" in the text).

[0388] In the gate adjustment process, the bioparticle sorting device 100 can perform light irradiation and detection on a portion of the sample to obtain plotting data. The acquisition of plotting data is performed based on processing condition data input in the first display mode.

[0389] In door adjustment processing, such as Figure 27 As shown, the microparticle sorting device 100 displays instruction markers indicating the processes performed by the microparticle sorting device 100 at the gate adjustment processing position in the third display area. In this way, the second user can monitor the operation status by moving the instruction markers to the positions of each process.

[0390] Furthermore, in the third display area, completed processes can be displayed differently from incomplete processes. For example, in... Figure 27 In the image, completed processes are displayed in gray, while incomplete processes are displayed in white.

[0391] In addition, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen related to the operation content in the door adjustment process in the fourth display area. For example, as shown in the figure, the fourth display area may include an adjustment order display field 307 (displayed as "order" in the figure), an instruction field 308 for the second user, and a data display field 309.

[0392] As shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 displays a list of drawing data to be adjusted in the adjustment order display area based on the operation control data (specifically, measurement data display setting data, and more specifically, data related to the adjustment order) input in the first display mode. In this list, the names of the drawing data can be displayed according to the adjustment order.

[0393] As shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 displays the instructions for the second user in the instruction field of the second user based on the operation control data (specifically, the instruction data for the operator) input in the first display mode.

[0394] As shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 displays a group of plotted data generated by performing sorting processing on the samples in a data display field. The information processing unit 102 can specify the group of plotted data to be displayed based on the operation control data (specifically, display control data, and more specifically, measurement data display setting data) input in the first display mode. For example, the group of plotted data may include one or more plotted data corresponding to a list of plotted data to be adjusted. The group of plotted data may also include one or more plotted data that are not adjusted.

[0395] The second user confirms the drawing data group according to the instructions displayed in the instruction field. Next, the second user adjusts one or more gates in the drawing data according to the adjustment order. For adjustment, the second user selects the drawing data to be adjusted first from the drawing data list displayed in the adjustment order display area. Figure 28A The selected state is shown.

[0396] Information processing unit 102 draws according to the drawing data first adjusted by the second user. Figure 1 The selection is shown in the figure, displayed in data display field 310. Figure 1 The plotting data also displays gate A, which is set according to the processing condition data.

[0397] In response to the drawing data first adjusted by the second user Figure 1 The information processing unit 102 displays and draws the selection in the instruction field 311. Figure 1 The gate adjustment related instructions are shown in the figure. The bioparticle sorting device 100 can display instructions based on the operation control data (specifically, operator-oriented instruction data) entered in the first display mode, specifically, the memorandum (specifically, instruction memorandum) entered in the memorandum input field. The second user can accurately perform gate adjustments by referring to the instruction field.

[0398] Furthermore, in response to the selection of a second user to adjust the drawing data first... Figure 1 The biological particle sorting device 100 can display a gate operation button field 312 next to the data display field.

[0399] The door operation button field includes a "Default" button for returning the door to its state before the second user's adjustment, a "Restore" button for re-entering an operation performed on the door or re-performing a canceled operation, and a "Cancel" button for canceling an operation performed on the door. Additionally, the door operation button field may include a group of buttons for operating the door position and / or a group of buttons for changing the door's size or shape.

[0400] The bioparticle sorting device 100 can be designed to restrict a portion of door operations in a second display mode. For example, one or both of the door's size and shape can be designed so that it cannot be changed. The information processing unit 102 can restrict operations based on operation control data. In one embodiment, the information processing unit 102 restricts changes to the door's shape based on operation control data (specifically, display control data, and more specifically, door operation restriction data), but allows changes to the door's size. For example, the information processing unit 102 can change the size of door A based on a second user touching and dragging door A. For example, while the second user touches a specific location (e.g., displayed in door A or on the line defining door A, a size change mark displayed on the line defining door A, etc.), the information processing unit 102 can change the size of door A by dragging.

[0401] Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 can allow the position of the door to be changed based on operation control data. For example, the information processing unit 102 can change the position of the door A based on a second user touching and dragging the door A. For example, the information processing unit 102 can change the size of the door A based on dragging a specific position (e.g., a size change mark displayed in the door A or on the line defining the door A, or a size change mark displayed on the line defining the door A, etc.) while being touched by the second user.

[0402] When drawing Figure 1 After the gate adjustment is completed, the second user selects the next drawing to be adjusted from the drawing groups listed in the adjustment order display area, and then performs gate adjustment on the selected drawing. Similar to... Figure 1 It can perform door adjustments based on operator-oriented instructions included in the operation control data.

[0403] Figure 28B An example of a screen is shown on which additional plotting data to be adjusted is selected. In this figure, the plotting... Figure 3 Selected as plotting data to be adjusted.

[0404] According to the second user's drawing Figure 3 The information processing unit 102 displays the drawing in the data display area 310 upon selection. Figure 3 The plotting data is shown in the figure. The plotting data also displays the gate C, which is set according to the processing condition data.

[0405] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 can display confirmation graphic data (reference drawing), which will be referenced for adjusting gate C in the data display field 310. The information processing unit 102 can display the confirmation graphic data based on operation control data (specifically, operator-oriented instruction data, and more specifically, reference data). As shown, the confirmation graphic data may include an image of the drawing data acquired in the first display mode and gates set by the user for the drawing data in the first display mode. Outputting the confirmation graphic data to the screen is useful for the user in the second display mode to accurately perform gate adjustments in the drawing data.

[0406] In response to the completion of all gate adjustments for one or more drawings to be adjusted, the bioparticle sorting device 100 advances the process to the sorting process.

[0407] (Sorting process)

[0408] After completing the gate adjustment process, the bioparticle sorting device will proceed to the sorting process. For example... Figure 29 As shown, the sorting process may include, for example, a sorting process that performs biological particle sorting (shown as "Sorting" in the figure) and a result confirmation process that confirms the sorting results (shown as "Result Review").

[0409] Furthermore, the microparticle sorting device can perform a sample acquisition process based on operational control data (specifically, sample setting data) to confirm, during the sorting process, whether the sorted microparticles are the target microparticles. Through this confirmation in the sample acquisition step, a second user can verify whether the target microparticles have been sorted, and in the event that the target microparticles have not been sorted, valuable samples can be prevented from being wasted due to interruptions in the sorting process or adjustments to the processing conditions. For confirmation, analysis using another microparticle analyzer can be performed as described above.

[0410] During the sorting process, as shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen 313 indicating the sorting status in the fourth display area. As shown in the figure, the screen can display an area 314 showing the number of events and / or the event acquisition rate (eps) and the number of sorted particles and / or the sorting rate (eps).

[0411] The information processing unit 102 can display an image 315 (in the accompanying drawings, bars are shown as images) on the screen indicating the progress of the sorting operation. Additionally, an image 316 indicating the timing of the sample acquisition process can be attached to the bars. Therefore, the second user can know when the timing for the sample acquisition process has arrived and can perform tasks such as preparation based on that timing, thus improving the convenience for the second user. Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 can also display the timing image based on control data input in the first display mode, particularly based on sample setting data.

[0412] For example, when the timer for sample acquisition processing is reached, the bioparticle sorting device 100 temporarily stops the sorting process and displays an error message. Figure 30 Window 317 is shown. As shown, the window can display the sample verification method and / or the current sorting status. Additionally, buttons for proceeding to the next step of the process are displayed on the window.

[0413] Based on the button selection, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen prompting the second user to choose whether to continue the analysis process. This screen includes a "Continue" button for the information processing unit 102 to continue sorting and a "Stop" button for stopping the sorting process. Upon selection of the "Continue" button by the second user, the information processing unit 102 continues the sorting process. Upon selection of the "Stop" button by the second user, the bioparticle sorting device 100 stops the sorting process. Note that the screen may include a "Readjust" button for re-performing gate adjustment. Based on the second user's selection of the "Readjust" button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 returns the process to gate adjustment processing.

[0414] During the result confirmation process, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a screen indicating the sorting results in the fourth display area. The number of events and / or the number of sorted items can be displayed on the screen.

[0415] (Process terminated)

[0416] After completing the sorting process, the bioparticle sorting device 100 advances the process to the final stage. For example... Figure 24 As shown, the termination process may include, for example, a collection container removal process (shown as "disconnected" in the figure) to collect the container containing the sorted biological microparticles from the biological microparticle sorting device 100, and a chip removal process (shown as "SUD disconnected") to remove the microchips used for sorting from the biological microparticle sorting device 100. Those skilled in the art can appropriately select the screen displayed in the fourth display area for these processes.

[0417] The above process is used to perform sorting in the second display mode.

[0418] (3) Variations

[0419] In (1) and (2) above, a biological particle sorting apparatus has been described for performing sorting processing on biological particles contained in a biological sample flowing through a flow channel (specifically, biological particles flowing side-by-side in the flow channel). However, this disclosure can be applied to a biological particle sorting apparatus for performing sorting processing on biological particle groups existing in two or three dimensions. That is, the biological particle sorting apparatus of this disclosure can be designed to perform sorting processing on biological particle groups existing in two or three dimensions. Examples of biological particle sorting apparatuses configured as described above include: a biological particle sorting apparatus for performing sorting processing on biological particle groups existing in a trap arranged in two or three dimensions; a biological particle sorting apparatus for performing sorting processing on biological particle groups existing in two or three dimensions arranged on any support (e.g., a cell culture surface or a cell fixation surface); and a biological particle sorting apparatus for performing biological particle sorting processing on biological particle groups forming a three-dimensional structure (e.g., biological tissue).

[0420] As an example of a biological particle sorting device that performs sorting processing on a group of biological particles present in a trap, one may refer to a biological particle sorting device that performs biological particle sorting processing using a particle capture chip described in JP 2020-174598 A.

[0421] As an example of a bioparticle sorting device that performs sorting processing on a group of two-dimensional biological particles existing on an arbitrary surface, one may mention a bioparticle sorting device that sorts specific biological particles from a group of biological particles (cells) fixed by bioparticles (cells) that are degradable on a particular surface (e.g., photodegradable bioparticles).

[0422] These devices can be designed to use optical detectors, such as microscopes, to acquire fluorescence signals or images of biological particles, and to identify biological particles to be sorted based on the acquired fluorescence signals or images.

[0423] These devices can be designed to remove only biological microparticles identified in this way from the trap, or can be designed to release only the fixation of biological microparticles identified in this way (e.g., to cut the connectors that fix the biological microparticles).

[0424] These devices can be designed to include the first display mode and the second display mode described in (1) and (2) above. For example, in the first display mode, operational control data for specifying the microparticles to be sorted is input. Then, in the second display mode, the operation screen is processed based on the operational control data display.

[0425] 3. The second embodiment of this disclosure (biological particle sorting system)

[0426] This disclosure also provides a biological particle sorting system, comprising: a first information processing device, operating in a first display mode, for receiving input of operation control data related to biological particle sorting processing; and a second information processing device, operating in a second display mode, for displaying a processing execution operation screen.

[0427] The biological particle sorting system also includes a biological particle sorting device operated by a first information processing device or a second information processing device. The biological particle sorting device may have the configuration described in 2 above.

[0428] Furthermore, this disclosure also provides a first information processing device included in a microparticle sorting system. The first information processing device may include, for example, a touch input display unit that displays a processing condition setting screen, which receives input of operation control data related to the sorting processing of samples containing microparticles. The processing condition setting screen may also be applicable in this embodiment as described in section 2 above.

[0429] In addition, this disclosure also provides a second information processing device included in the biological particle sorting system.

[0430] The second information processing device may include, for example, a touch-sensitive input display unit that displays a processing execution operation screen. The processing execution operation screen may be as described in section 2 above, and this description also applies to this embodiment.

[0431] Reference Figure 31 Examples of a biological particle sorting system according to this disclosure are described. The accompanying drawings illustrate an exemplary configuration of the biological particle sorting system of this disclosure. The biological particle sorting system 400 shown in the figures includes a biological particle sorting device 401 that performs biological particle sorting processing and a plurality of information processing devices 402a to 402c configured to operate the biological particle sorting device. The number of information processing devices included in the system is not limited to the three shown, and may be one or more. The plurality of information processing devices are connected to the biological particle sorting device via, for example, a network 403.

[0432] In the following description, the information processing device 402a shown in the accompanying drawings will operate in the first display mode and the information processing device 402b will operate in the second display mode.

[0433] First, the information processing device 402a executes steps S10, S11, and S12 as described in section 2(2-1). Then, the information processing device 402a performs processing in the first display mode described in section 2(2-2). Operation control data is generated as described above.

[0434] More specifically, the information processing device 402a operates as the information processing unit 102 described in section 2(2-2). As described above, the information processing device 402a causes a display unit attached to or connected to the device to output the processing condition setting screen described in section 2(2-2), and receives input of operation control data via the screen. Furthermore, when generating operation control data, the sorting process of the bioparticle sorting device 401 can be performed.

[0435] The information processing device 402a transmits the generated operation control data to the biological particle sorting device 401.

[0436] Next, the information processing device 402b executes steps S10, S11, and S12 as described in section 2(2-1), as described above. Next, the information processing device 402b receives operation control data from the microparticle sorting device 401. Then, the information processing device 402b performs processing in the second display mode described in section 2(2-3). Based on the aforementioned operation control data, the microparticle sorting device 401 is caused to perform sorting processing.

[0437] More specifically, the information processing device 402b operates as the information processing unit 102 described in section 2 (2-3). As described above, the information processing device 402b causes a display unit attached to or connected to the device to output the processing execution operation screen described in section 2 (2-3). As described above, the bioparticle sorting device 401 performs sorting processing via the screen.

[0438] Biological particles are sorted through a series of procedures as described above.

[0439] It should be noted that this disclosure may also have the following configurations.

[0440] [1] A biological particle sorting device, operating in a first display mode or a second display mode based on identification information, the device comprising:

[0441] A first display mode is used to receive input of operational control data related to the sorting and processing of biological microparticles; and

[0442] The second display mode displays the screen where the processing and execution operations are performed.

[0443] [2] According to the microparticle sorting device of [1], wherein,

[0444] In the first display mode, a screen showing the processing condition settings related to the sorting of biological particles is displayed; and

[0445] The system receives operation control data input via the processing condition setting screen.

[0446] [3] According to the microparticle sorting device of [1] or [2], wherein,

[0447] Operational control data includes one or more of the following:

[0448] (a) Data on the processing conditions used in the sorting process of the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode;

[0449] (b) Display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second display mode; and

[0450] (c) Operator-oriented instruction data for operators operating the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode.

[0451] [4] The microparticle sorting device according to [3], wherein the processing condition data includes gate information, which is used to specify the microparticles to be sorted in the sorting process.

[0452] [5] According to the microparticle sorting device of [4], wherein,

[0453] In the first display mode, the door information is designed to be adjusted; and

[0454] Adjusting door information includes performing one or more of the following: moving the door's position, zooming in or out of the door, and changing the door's tilt.

[0455] [6] A biological particle sorting device according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the biological particle sorting device controls the display of the processing execution operation screen in a second display mode based on operation control data.

[0456] [7] The microparticle sorting device according to [3], wherein, in the second display mode, the operator is able to adjust the processing condition data according to the operator-oriented instruction data.

[0457] [8] The biological particle sorting device according to [4], wherein, in the second display mode, the adjustment of at least a portion of the gate information is restricted.

[0458] [9] According to the biological particle sorting device of [8], the shape of the gate in the gate information is restricted from changing.

[0459]

[10] A biological particle sorting device according to any one of [3] to [7], wherein the operator-oriented instruction data includes reference data relating to the confirmation and / or adjustment of processing condition data.

[0460]

[11] According to the microparticle sorting device of

[10] , wherein,

[0461] The reference data includes one or more of the following:

[0462] Specify data to indicate the plotting data that will be changed by the adjustment;

[0463] The operator needs to refer to and confirm the graphic data;

[0464] Statistics related to each door; and

[0465] Image data associated with processing condition data.

[0466]

[12] The biological particle sorting device according to [3], wherein the display control data includes data related to the display control of the drawing data displayed in the second display mode.

[0467]

[13] According to the biological particle sorting device of [3], the display control data includes adjustment order data for specifying the adjustment order of the drawing data in the second display mode and / or display necessity data for specifying the necessity of displaying the drawing data in the second display mode.

[0468]

[14] A bioparticle sorting apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein a first display mode is designed to enable the inclusion of sample acquisition instruction data relating to sample acquisition in the sorting process in the operation control data.

[0469]

[15] A biological particle sorting device according to any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein,

[0470] The processing execution screen displayed in the second display mode includes:

[0471] The third display area is used to display the sorting process workflow; and

[0472] The fourth display area is used to display the operation content of each process contained in the operation flow of the process.

[0473]

[16] According to the microparticle sorting device of

[15] , wherein,

[0474] The third display area is positioned above the processing and execution screen, and the fourth display area is positioned below the processing and execution screen; or

[0475] The third display area is located at the bottom of the processing and execution screen, and the fourth display area is located at the top of the processing and execution screen.

[0476]

[17] According to the microparticle sorting device of [2], wherein,

[0477] The processing condition setting screen displayed in the first display mode includes:

[0478] The first display area is used to display the operation flow for setting the processing conditions for sorting; and

[0479] The second display area is used to display measurement data related to samples containing biological particles.

[0480]

[18] According to the microparticle sorting device of

[17] , wherein,

[0481] The first display area is located on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is located on the right side of the processing condition setting screen; or

[0482] The first display area is located on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is located on the left side of the processing condition setting screen.

[0483]

[19] A biological microparticle sorting device according to any one of [1] to

[18] , wherein,

[0484] The biological particle sorting device includes a display device that displays a processing operation screen in a second display mode.

[0485]

[20] An information processing device for controlling the sorting and processing of biological particles

[0486] The information processing device is designed to receive input of operation control data related to the biological particle sorting process via a processing condition setting screen related to the biological particle sorting process, and to transmit the operation control data to the information processing device of the biological particle sorting device or the operation sorting device that performs the sorting process; wherein,

[0487] Operational control data includes processing conditions used by the microparticle sorting device.

[0488]

[21] An information processing apparatus for performing biological particle sorting processing.

[0489] The information processing device is designed to receive operational control data related to the sorting and processing of biological particles and to display a processing execution screen generated based on the operational control data; and

[0490] The microparticle sorting device performs sorting processing according to instructions input by the operator via the processing and execution screen; wherein,

[0491] Operational control data includes phylogenetic information specifying the biological particles to be sorted during processing; and

[0492] In the process execution screen, the adjustment of at least a portion of the door information is restricted.

[0493]

[22] A biological particle sorting system, comprising:

[0494] A first microparticle sorting device or information processing device, operating in a first display mode, is used to receive input of operation control data related to microparticle sorting and processing; and

[0495] The second biological particle sorting device or information processing device operates in the second display mode and is used to display the processing execution operation screen.

[0496] List of reference numerals

[0497] 100 Bioparticle Sorting Device

[0498] 101 Display Unit

[0499] 102 Information Processing Unit.

Claims

1. A biological particle sorting device, operating in a first display mode or a second display mode based on identification information, the device comprising: The first display mode is used to receive input of operation control data related to the sorting and processing of biological particles; as well as The second display mode displays the processing and execution operation screen; The first display mode is designed to include sample acquisition instruction data related to sample acquisition in the bioparticle sorting process in the operation control data. In this process, according to the sample acquisition instruction data, equally divided samples are used in the sample acquisition. The equally divided samples refer to samples that have been sorted until the biological particle sorting process is temporarily stopped at a predetermined time during the process. The biological particle sorting device analyzes the equally divided samples. As a result of the analysis, if the equally divided samples meet predetermined conditions, the biological particle sorting process is restarted. By acquiring and analyzing the equally divided samples, it is determined whether the biological particles obtained through the biological particle sorting process meet the predetermined conditions, and whether to continue the biological particle sorting process or adjust the sorting conditions. The biological particle sorting device controls the display of the processing execution operation screen in the second display mode based on the operation control data.

2. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 1, wherein, In the first display mode, a screen showing the processing conditions settings related to the biological particle sorting process is displayed; and The operation control data is received via the processing condition setting screen.

3. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 1, wherein, The operation control data includes one or more of the following: (a) Processing condition data of the bioparticle sorting device in the sorting process in the second display mode; (b) Display control data related to the display on the processing execution operation screen in the second display mode; as well as (c) Operator-oriented instruction data for an operator operating the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode.

4. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 3, wherein, The processing condition data includes gate information, which is used to specify the biological particles to be sorted in the sorting process.

5. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 4, wherein, The microparticle sorting device is designed to adjust the gate information in the first display mode; and Adjusting the door information includes performing one or more of the following: moving the position of the door, enlarging or shrinking the door, and changing the tilt of the door.

6. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 3, wherein, In the second display mode, the operator can adjust the processing condition data according to the operator-oriented instruction data.

7. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 4, wherein, In the second display mode, the adjustment of at least a portion of the door information is restricted.

8. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 7, wherein, Restrict changes to the shape of the door in the door information.

9. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 3, wherein, The operator-oriented instruction data includes reference data related to the confirmation and / or adjustment of the processing condition data.

10. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 9, wherein, The reference data includes one or more of the following: Specify data, used to specify the drawing data that will be changed by the adjustment; The operator needs to refer to the confirmed graphical data; Statistics related to each door; as well as Image data associated with the processing condition data.

11. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 3, wherein, The display control data includes data related to the display control of the drawing data displayed in the second display mode.

12. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 3, wherein, The display control data includes adjustment order data for specifying the adjustment order of the drawing data in the second display mode and / or display necessity data for specifying the necessity of displaying the drawing data in the second display mode.

13. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 1, wherein, The processing execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode includes: The third display area is used to display the operation process of the biological particle sorting and processing; and The fourth display area is used to display the operation content of each process included in the operation flow of the biological microparticle sorting process.

14. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 13, wherein, The third display area is arranged above the processing execution operation screen, and the fourth display area is arranged below the processing execution operation screen; or The third display area is arranged on the lower side of the processing execution operation screen, and the fourth display area is arranged on the upper side of the processing execution operation screen.

15. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 2, wherein, The processing condition setting screen displayed in the first display mode includes: The first display area is used to display the operation flow for setting the processing conditions for sorting; and The second display area is used to display measurement data related to samples containing biological particles.

16. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 15, wherein, The first display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen; or The first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen.

17. The biological particle sorting device according to claim 1, wherein, The biological particle sorting device includes a display device, which displays the processing execution operation screen shown in the second display mode.

18. An information processing device for controlling the sorting and processing of biological microparticles, The microparticle sorting process is designed to receive input of operation control data related to the microparticle sorting process via a processing condition setting screen associated with the microparticle sorting process, and to transmit the operation control data to the microparticle sorting device that performs the microparticle sorting process; wherein, The operation control data includes the processing conditions data used by the biological particle sorting device; The first display mode of the bioparticle sorting device is designed to include sample acquisition instruction data related to sample acquisition in the bioparticle sorting process in the operation control data. In this process, according to the sample acquisition instruction data, equally divided samples are used in the sample acquisition. The equally divided samples refer to samples that have been sorted until the biological particle sorting process is temporarily stopped at a predetermined time during the process. The biological particle sorting device analyzes the equally divided samples. As a result of the analysis, if the equally divided samples meet predetermined conditions, the biological particle sorting process is restarted. By acquiring and analyzing the equally divided samples, it is determined whether the biological particles obtained through the biological particle sorting process meet the predetermined conditions, and whether to continue the biological particle sorting process or adjust the sorting conditions. Based on the operation control data, the display of the control processing execution screen is displayed in the second display mode included in the biological particle sorting device.

19. An information processing apparatus for performing biological particle sorting processing, The microparticle sorting process is designed to receive operational control data related to microparticle sorting and display a processing execution screen generated based on the operational control data; and to cause the microparticle sorting device to perform the microparticle sorting process according to instructions input by the operator via the processing execution screen; wherein... The operation control data includes gate information for specifying the biological particles to be sorted in the microparticle sorting process; and The adjustment of at least a portion of the door information is restricted in the processing execution operation screen; The first display mode of the bioparticle sorting device is designed to include sample acquisition instruction data related to sample acquisition in the bioparticle sorting process in the operation control data. In this process, according to the sample acquisition instruction data, equally divided samples are used in the sample acquisition. The equally divided samples refer to samples that have been sorted until the biological particle sorting process is temporarily stopped at a predetermined time during the process. The biological particle sorting device analyzes the equally divided samples. As a result of the analysis, if the equally divided samples meet predetermined conditions, the biological particle sorting process is restarted. By acquiring and analyzing the equally divided samples, it is determined whether the biological particles obtained through the biological particle sorting process meet the predetermined conditions, and whether to continue the biological particle sorting process or adjust the sorting conditions. Specifically, based on the operation control data, the display of the processing execution operation screen is controlled in the second display mode included in the biological particle sorting device.

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