Automatic analysis device and sample storage device

Abstract

An automatic analysis device includes: a conveyer line (102) that conveys a sample rack (203) provided with a sample to an analysis section (107); a refrigerator (104) that cools a plurality of racks provided with a sample for which measurement by the analysis section (107) is completed; a conveyer control section (121a) that performs control of movement into the refrigerator (104) from the conveyer line (102) and control of movement out of the refrigerator (104) to the conveyer line (102); an antechamber (103) that is disposed between the refrigerator (104) and the conveyer line (102), the inside of the antechamber being shielded from the outside; and a temperature / humidity control section (121b) that controls the temperature in the antechamber (103) between the outside of the refrigerator (104) and the inside of the refrigerator (104).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automated analytical apparatus for qualitative and quantitative analysis of samples from various types of organisms, such as blood, urine, and bone marrow, and a sample storage device suitable for such an automated analytical apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of an automatic analysis device capable of preventing a decrease in the accuracy of sample dispensing, Patent Document 1 describes the following: It includes: a supply unit that supplies heat generated by the automatic analysis device to the sampler unit; a conveying mechanism unit that conveys a sample container held in a sample holder to the conveying unit; and a first temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the sample in the sample container. The conveying mechanism unit conveys a sample container containing a sample whose temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is above the lower limit temperature to a dispensing position for sample dispensing, and conveys a sample container containing a sample whose temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is below the lower limit temperature to a standby position in the sampler unit.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-158537 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In automated analytical devices that add reagents to samples and use a spectrophotometer to measure color changes in the reaction solution for qualitative and quantitative analysis of target components in samples, improved reproducibility and rapid measurement can be achieved. For these reasons, this technology is being introduced primarily in large hospitals and clinical testing centers.

[0008] In addition, there is a device that addresses the increased demand for measurement processing capacity and the diversification of measurement items by setting up a device structure that connects multiple analysis modules via a sample conveying line.

[0009] Here, the sample, after being measured by the automatic analysis device, is stored in a cold storage for a certain period of time to prevent evaporation and for re-measurement, and then removed from the device.

[0010] However, the temperature of the sample taken from the cold storage is low during retesting. If the temperature drops, the viscosity increases. Therefore, even if the retest is performed directly using an automated analysis device, the dispensing accuracy will decrease, and thus accurate analysis results may not be obtained.

[0011] As an example of an automated analysis device that prevents a decrease in dispensing accuracy due to the high viscosity of such samples, there is the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0012] However, in the technology for preventing the reduction of dispensing accuracy described in the aforementioned Patent Document 1, although it is possible to heat the low-temperature sample to a preset temperature, it does not take into account the situation where condensation occurs in the container containing the sample due to the temperature difference. Moreover, when condensation occurs, the sample becomes dilute, which has the problem of affecting the analysis results. Through the research of the inventors, it is known that there is room for further improvement.

[0013] The problem of sample dilution caused by condensation has become particularly problematic in micro-volume dispensing in recent years and awaits a solution.

[0014] The present invention was made in view of the problems of the prior art mentioned above, and provides an automatic analysis device and a sample storage device that can suppress condensation in a container containing a sample.

[0015] Methods for solving problems

[0016] The present invention includes several means for solving the above-mentioned problems. One example is characterized by comprising: an analysis unit; a conveyor line for moving samples from the analysis unit onto and off shelves; a cold storage unit for keeping multiple shelves containing samples that have been measured by the analysis unit cold; a control unit for controlling the movement of samples from the conveyor line to the cold storage unit and controlling the movement of samples from the cold storage unit to the conveyor line; an anteroom disposed between the cold storage unit and the conveyor line, the interior space of the anteroom being shielded from the outside; and a temperature control unit for controlling the temperature inside the anteroom between the outside and the interior of the cold storage unit.

[0017] Invention Effects

[0018] According to the present invention, condensation inside a container holding a sample can be suppressed. Other issues, structures, and effects beyond those described above will become clear through the following description of embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of the automatic analysis device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the analysis unit of the automatic analysis device in an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the software structure of the buffer-related portion of the automatic analysis apparatus in an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating the process of moving the isotropic buffer from the analysis unit into the shelf in the automatic analysis apparatus of an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of moving a rack from a buffer to the analysis unit, etc., in the automatic analysis apparatus of an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the update process of the pre-chamber slot state in the automatic analysis device of an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control flow of temperature management in the automatic analysis device of the embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating the control flow of humidity management in the automatic analysis device of an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The embodiments of the automatic analysis apparatus and sample storage apparatus of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, in the drawings used in this specification, the same or corresponding components are labeled with the same or similar reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of these components are sometimes omitted.

[0028] Furthermore, the constituent elements (including element steps, etc.) described in the following embodiments are not necessarily essential, except where specifically stated or where they are clearly considered essential in principle.

[0029] First, use Figures 1 to 3 The overall structure and the structure of each part of the automatic analysis device and sample storage device are described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of the automatic analysis device in this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the analysis unit. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the software structure related to the buffer.

[0030] Figure 1 The automatic analysis device (1) shown consists of a conveyor line (106), an analysis unit (107), a buffer (101), and an operation unit PC (121). Figure 1 In the automatic analysis device (1) shown, the buffer (101) and the analysis unit (107) are connected by a conveyor line (105) to move the sample rack (203) which is equipped with one or more sample containers for holding the sample in and out.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure within the analysis section (107).

[0032] In the automatic analysis device (1), the sample (202) that is the object of calibration measurement, precision management sample measurement, and patient sample measurement can be loaded by the user (201) onto the sample rack (203) which carries multiple sample containers containing the sample.

[0033] A sample holder (203) carrying a sample container is placed by the user at the sample loading section (204). The placed sample holder (203) is sequentially moved into the conveyor line (205) and transported to one or more analytical units (206) for sample analysis. Figure 2 The example shown has three analysis units (206), but the number of analysis units (206) is not particularly limited and can be more than one.

[0034] The analysis unit (206) is a device that identifies the sample holder (203) and the sample and performs necessary analyses on the sample. It has a reagent tray (208) for storing multiple reagents (207) used for the analysis. The reagents required for the analysis are pre-set in the reagent tray (208) by the user before the analysis. The sample holder (203) that has undergone the necessary analysis is moved to the buffer (101) and the sample storage section (209).

[0035] The sample loading unit (204), the analysis unit (206), and the sample storage unit (209) are connected to the operation unit PC (121) via a network cable through a hub (120).

[0036] Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the analytical items in the analytical unit (206), and the structure of known analytical units for analyzing biochemistry and immunology can be adopted. Moreover, when multiple analytical units are set up, they can be of the same or different specifications, without particular limitation.

[0037] Return to Figure 1 The conveyor line (106) is a device used to transport sample racks (203) from the sample input section (204) of the analysis section (107) to each analysis unit (206). It is composed of, for example, a conveyor belt, an electric motor, etc., but its structure is only required to be able to transport sample racks (203) and is not particularly limited.

[0038] The buffer (101) consists of a conveyor line (102), an anteroom (103), a cold storage (104), an external thermometer (111) of the buffer, an external hygrometer (112) of the buffer, a shelf in / out line (108), a conveyor line (109), and a partition plate (110).

[0039] The sample storage device of the present invention consists of a cold storage (104), a front chamber (103), and a temperature / humidity control unit (121b) of the operation unit PC (121) described later.

[0040] The transport line (102) is used to transport the sample holder (203) with the sample set in it from the analysis unit (107) or the buffer (101). It has the same structure as the transport line (106), and its detailed description is omitted.

[0041] The anteroom (103) is located between the cold storage (104) and the conveyor line (102) to shield the interior space from the exterior for temperature and humidity management.

[0042] The antechamber (103) includes multiple antechamber slots (302) each having a heater (103a), a cooling fan (103b), and a humidity control unit (103c). Furthermore, the antechamber slots (302) need not be multiple; there can be one or more.

[0043] For one anterior chamber slot (302), one sample holder (203) can be used. The sample holder (203) moved from the cold storage (104) uses the anterior chamber slot (302) in the anterior chamber (103).

[0044] The cooling fan (103b) in the anterior chamber (302) blows cold air into the cold storage (104) and is a structure that lowers the temperature inside the anterior chamber (103). The heater (103a) is any mechanism that heats the air inside the anterior chamber (302), and its structure is not particularly limited; it can be an electric heating wire, etc. The humidity control unit (103c) is also not particularly limited, and various known structures such as dehumidification and humidification methods using hollow fiber membranes can be adopted.

[0045] An anterior chamber thermometer (103d) measures the temperature inside the anterior chamber tank (302) and outputs it to the operation unit PC (121), and an anterior chamber hygrometer (103e) measures the humidity inside the anterior chamber tank (302) and outputs it to the operation unit PC (121). These anterior chamber thermometers (103d) and anterior chamber hygrometers (103e) can adopt known structures.

[0046] The cold storage (104) is a mechanism for storing multiple sample racks (203) containing samples that have been measured in the analysis unit (107), and a cold storage tank (304) with multiple sample racks (203) and low temperature control to prevent sample evaporation (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0047] The cold storage thermometer (104a) measures the temperature inside the cold storage (104) and outputs it to the operation unit PC (121), and the cold storage hygrometer (104b) measures the humidity inside the cold storage (104) and outputs it to the operation unit PC (121). These cold storage thermometers (104a) and cold storage hygrometers (104b) can also be configured with known structures, similar to the front chamber thermometers (103d) and front chamber hygrometers (103e).

[0048] The conveyor line (109) is used to move the sample rack (203) in and out between the cold storage (104) and the anteroom (103), and can be configured with the same structure as the conveyor line (106).

[0049] The rack in / out line (108) is located between the anteroom (103) and the cold storage (104) and is used for moving the sample rack (203) into and out of the cold storage (104). The rack in / out line (108) can be configured with the same structure as the conveyor line (106), such as the conveyor line (109).

[0050] In addition, the shelf loading and unloading line (108) is separated from the conveyor line (102) by a partition plate (110). The partition plate (110) is made of a deformable material such as rubber or resin and is formed into the shape of a curtain to separate it from the outside and to control the temperature in a way that is equal to the temperature inside the cold storage (104).

[0051] In this embodiment, the sample rack (203) taken out from the analysis unit (107) does not pass through the anteroom (103), but passes through the conveyor line (102), the conveyor line (109) in the buffer (101), and the rack in / out line (108) in sequence, and is directly stored in the cold storage (104). In contrast, the sample rack (203) taken out from the cold storage (104) waits in the anteroom (103) for a certain period of time via the rack in / out line (108) and the conveyor line (109), and is then moved into the analysis unit (107) via the conveyor line (102).

[0052] The external thermometer (111) measures the temperature outside the buffer (101) and outputs it to the operation unit PC (121), and the external hygrometer (112) measures the humidity outside the buffer (101) and outputs it to the operation unit PC (121). These external thermometers (111) and external hygrometers (112) can adopt known structures.

[0053] The operation unit PC (121) is connected to the conveyor line (106), the analysis unit (107), and the buffer (101) via a hub (120) through a wired or wireless network line. It is responsible for providing overall information and controlling the operation of the automatic analysis device (1). From the point of view of system structure and operability, it is best to have a screen interface on the operation unit PC (121).

[0054] The operation unit PC (121) can be implemented using a general-purpose computer or as a function of a program executed on a computer. Furthermore, this processing can be stored as program code in a storage unit such as memory, and executed by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Alternatively, the operation unit PC (121) can also be constructed from dedicated hardware such as a circuit board.

[0055] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the operation unit PC (121) specifically has a conveying control unit (121a) and a temperature / humidity control unit (121b) as the part that controls the operation within the buffer (101).

[0056] The transport control unit (121a) performs motion control of moving the sample rack (203) from the transport line (102) into the cold storage (104) and moving it out of the cold storage (104) from the transport line (102). In this transport control unit (121a), it controls the sample rack (203) to remain in the anteroom (103) for a pre-set standby time when it is removed from the cold storage (104), and prevents the sample rack (203) from being moved into the anteroom (302) when the temperature and humidity in the empty anteroom slot (302) where the sample rack (203) is not in standby mode are not controlled within a specified range. Further details are available using [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 The following diagrams will provide explanations.

[0057] The temperature / humidity control unit (121b) controls the temperature within each of the pre-chamber slots (302) of the pre-chamber (103) to be between the outside and inside of the cold storage (104), particularly between the outside and inside of the cold storage (104). Furthermore, in this embodiment, "intermediate" does not need to be strictly intermediate; it can have a certain degree of likelihood. For example, a range of ± a few degrees of °C from the intermediate value can be treated as "intermediate."

[0058] Furthermore, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) controls the humidity inside each of the pre-chamber slots (302) of the pre-chamber (103). At this time, it is preferable to control the humidity inside the pre-chamber slots (302) between the outside and inside of the cold storage (104), particularly between the outside and inside of the cold storage (104). Also, the "middle" in humidity does not need to be strictly defined; a certain degree of likelihood is acceptable. For example, a range of ±% of the middle value can be treated as the "middle".

[0059] Furthermore, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) periodically controls the temperature and humidity of the antechamber slot (302) inside the antechamber (103).

[0060] Details of these controls are available using Figure 4 The following diagrams will provide explanations.

[0061] Furthermore, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) controls the temperature and humidity inside the cold storage tank (304) of the cold storage (104).

[0062] In addition, Figure 3 For ease of illustration, the hub (120) has been omitted.

[0063] The above is the overall structure of the automatic analysis device (1) in this embodiment.

[0064] The analysis and processing of the specimen by the automatic analysis device (1) of this embodiment as described above is generally performed in the following order.

[0065] In the automatic analysis device (1) of this embodiment, analysis requests (measurement requests) for each sample are made from the operation unit PC (121), the sample to be analyzed is placed on the sample holder (203) and set in the sample input unit (204). The information of the requested analysis is sent to the analysis unit via the network, and the results analyzed by the analysis unit are sent to the operation unit PC (121).

[0066] The following uses Figures 4 to 8 The structure, operation, and details of the characteristic buffer (101) of the present invention will be described.

[0067] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of moving buffers from the analysis department and other components onto the shelf. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of moving shelves from the buffer to the analysis department, etc. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of updating the state of the anterior chamber slot. Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process for temperature management. Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process for humidity management.

[0068] First, use Figure 4 The process of moving the sample holder (203) from the analysis section (107) to the buffer (101) is described.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, when the sample holder (203) is moved from the analysis unit (107) to the transfer line (102), the transfer control unit (121a) obtains information on whether there is an empty compartment in the cold storage compartment (304) in the cold storage compartment (104) (step S401).

[0070] Next, the transport control unit (121a) determines, based on the information obtained in step S401, whether there is even one "idle" in the slot state (step S402). If it is determined that there is no "idle", the process proceeds to step S403, and the transport control unit (121a) performs standby processing on the sample holder (203) (step S403). In this standby processing, the sample holder (203) is kept in standby on the transport line (102) or other lines, in the sample storage section (209) in the analysis unit (107), or in the front chamber slot (302) of the front chamber (103) until the slot state of the front chamber (103) becomes "idle", and the slot state information acquisition process (step S401) and the slot state determination process (step S402) of the front chamber (103) are repeatedly performed.

[0071] In contrast, when the status determination process in step S402 determines that even one "idle" refrigeration slot exists, the transport control unit 121a updates the slot status information of the idle refrigeration slot (304) of the scheduled refrigeration warehouse (104) from "idle" to "reserved" (step S404). Furthermore, if there are multiple idle refrigeration slots (304), one of them is updated to "reserved".

[0072] Afterwards, the transfer control unit (121a) transfers the sample rack (203) to the "reserved" cold storage tank (304) (step S405).

[0073] Finally, the transfer control unit (121a) updates the status information of the cold storage tank (304) after the sample rack (203) is put into storage to "in use" (step S406), completing the process of moving the sample rack (203) from the analysis unit (107) to the buffer (101).

[0074] Next, use Figure 5 The process of moving the sample holder (203) from the buffer (101) to the analysis unit (107) is described.

[0075] When removing the sample rack (203) from the cold storage tank (304), firstly, as Figure 5As shown, the transport control unit (121a) obtains information on whether there is an empty slot in the antechamber slot (302) of the antechamber (103) (step S501).

[0076] Next, the transport control unit (121a) determines, based on the information obtained in step S501, whether there is even one "idle" in the tank state (step S502). If it is determined that there is no "idle", the process proceeds to step S503, and the transport control unit (121a) performs standby processing on the sample holder (203) (step S503). In this standby processing, the sample holder (203) is kept in standby in the cold storage tank (304) until the tank state of the front chamber (103) becomes "idle", and the tank state information acquisition process of the front chamber (103) (step S501) and the tank state determination process (step S502) are repeatedly performed.

[0077] In contrast, if the status determination process in step S502 determines that even one of the slots is "idle," the transfer control unit (121a) performs a slot status information update process (step S504) to update the status information of the pre-reserved storage chamber slot (302) from "idle" to "reserved," and then performs the transfer of the sample rack (203) from the cold storage (104) to the "reserved" chamber slot (302) (step S505). Furthermore, if there are multiple idle chamber slots (302), it is sufficient to update only one of them to "reserved."

[0078] After the sample rack (203) is moved in, the transport control unit (121a) updates the tank status information of the front chamber tank (302) to "in use" (step S506) and updates the tank status information of the cold storage tank (304) that is moved out to "idle" (step S507).

[0079] Afterwards, the transport control unit (121a) starts counting (timer) the standby time of the sample holder (203) in the front chamber slot (302) after the sample holder (203) has been transported (step S508).

[0080] Here, when the sample rack (203) is moved from the cold storage tank (304) to the analysis unit (107), in other words, when the sample rack (203) is moved from the low-temperature cold storage (104) to the area of ​​external temperature, the sample and the sample container containing the sample are cooled due to cold preservation. If it is moved directly into the area of ​​external temperature, condensation will occur in the container containing the sample due to the temperature difference. Therefore, it will wait in the front chamber tank (302) for about 1 minute.

[0081] To determine whether the sample holder (203) has been idle for the specified time, the transport control unit (121a) determines whether the idle time has elapsed (step S509). If it is determined in step S509 that the specified idle time has not elapsed, the process of step S509 is repeated until the specified time has elapsed.

[0082] In contrast, when it is determined in step S509 that the standby time has been specified, the transport control unit (121a) transports the sample holder (203) from the front chamber groove (302) to the transport line (102) (step S510), and directly transports the sample holder (203) from the transport line (102) to the transport line (105) connecting the buffer (101) and the analysis unit (107) (step S511).

[0083] Subsequently, the transfer control unit (121a) updates the slot status of the outgoing anteroom slot (302) from "in use" to "used" (step S512), thus transferring the processing to the next stage. Figure 6 after.

[0084] Next, use Figure 6 Appropriately Figure 5 The process of updating the tank status information of the anterior chamber (103) after step S512 will be explained.

[0085] First, the transport control unit (121a) obtains the slot status information of each pre-chamber slot (302) of the pre-chamber (103) (step S601), and determines whether there is a "used" slot in the slot status information of each pre-chamber slot (302) based on the obtained information (step S602). If it is determined in step S602 that there is a "used" slot, the process proceeds to step S803; if it is determined that there is no "used" slot, the process ends.

[0086] Next, the transport control unit (121a) determines whether the temperature / humidity of the "used" forecourt tank (302) has been adjusted (step S603). This step S603 is determined, for example, by processing whether the above-described process has been completed. Figure 7 The temperature information in the tank status information becomes "adjusted" and whether it has passed the completion process. Figure 8 The humidity information in the tank status information is then processed and becomes "adjusted".

[0087] When it is determined in step S603 that the temperature / humidity has been adjusted, the transport control unit (121a) updates the tank status information of the corresponding front chamber tank (302) from "used" to "idle" (step S604) to complete the process.

[0088] exist Figure 5When the sample rack (203) is moved from the buffer (101) to the analysis unit (107), the slot status information of the used front chamber (103) is set to "used". This is because when the sample rack (203) continuously enters and exits the same front chamber (103), the temperature / humidity inside the front chamber (103) may gradually approach the outside temperature. As shown in steps S512, S601 to S604, the temperature / humidity inside the front chamber (103) is controlled between the outside and the cold storage (104) in a way that makes it impossible to use continuously. When the sample rack (203) can be in a standby state in the front chamber (103), it is preferable to update the slot status information to "idle".

[0089] Next, use Figure 7 The control process for temperature management in the tank (302) of the anterior chamber (103) is described.

[0090] In addition, Figure 7 The control shown above Figure 6 The controls shown, described later Figure 8 The control shown is executed periodically during the operation of the automatic analysis device (1). In contrast, Figure 4 , Figure 5 The control shown is performed when there is a transport instruction for the sample holder (203).

[0091] First, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) obtains temperature information of the outside air (i.e., external air) from the external thermometer (111) of the buffer (101): X1 (step S701), and obtains temperature information of the cold storage (104) from the cold storage thermometer (104a): Y1 (step S702). In addition, the order of steps S701 and S702 is different.

[0092] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) calculates the intermediate temperature A = (X1 + Y1) / 2, which becomes the set temperature of the anterior chamber (302), based on the temperature information obtained in steps S701 and S702 (step S703).

[0093] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) obtains the temperature information of the anteroom (103) from the anteroom thermometer (103d): Z1 (step S704). Furthermore, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) obtains the operating status information (stopped / operating) of the heater (103a) (step S705) and the operating status information (stopped / operating) of the cooling fan (103b) (step S706). These steps S704 to S706 can be performed in a different order; any one of them can be performed first, or they can be performed simultaneously.

[0094] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines whether the temperature Z1 in the forecourt (302) is within the range of ±3°C (the value that makes the intermediate temperature have a likelihood) calculated in step S703 (whether the condition A-3°C≤Z1≤A+3°C is met) (step S707).

[0095] If the condition A-3℃≤Z1≤A+3℃ is satisfied in step S707, the process proceeds to step S708. The temperature / humidity control unit (121b) confirms the operation of the heater (103a) obtained in step S705 (step S708). If it is determined that the heater (103a) is "operating", the operation of the heater (103a) is stopped (step S709). Then the process proceeds to step S710. If it is determined that the heater is "stopped", step S709 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S710.

[0096] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) confirms the operation of the cooling fan (103b) obtained in step S706 (step S710). If it is determined to be "operating", the operation of the cooling fan (103b) is stopped (step S711), and the process ends. Alternatively, if it is determined to be "stopped", the process ends directly.

[0097] When it is determined in step S707 that the condition A-3℃≤Z1≤A+3℃ is not met, the process proceeds to step S712 as the next determination process. The temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines whether the temperature Z1 in the front chamber tank (302) is lower than A-3℃ (step S712).

[0098] When the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines in step S712 that Z1 is lower than A-3°C, the process proceeds to step S708A to confirm the operation of the heater (103a) obtained in step S705 (step S708A). If the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines that the heater (103a) is "operating", the operation of the heater (103a) continues (step S713), and the process returns to step S704. Conversely, if the temperature / humidity control unit determines that the operation of the heater (103a) is "stopped", the operation of the heater (103a) is started (step S714), and the process returns to step S704.

[0099] Additionally, if the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines in step S712 that Z1 is not lower than A-3°C, i.e., that Z1 is higher than A+3°C, the process proceeds to step S710A to confirm the operation of the cooling fan (103b) obtained in step S706 (step S710A). If the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines that the cooling fan (103b) is "operating", the cooling fan (103b) continues to operate (step S715), and the process returns to step S704. Conversely, if the temperature / humidity control unit determines that the operation of the cooling fan (103b) is "stopped", the cooling fan (103b) starts operating (step S716), and the process returns to step S704.

[0100] Next, use Figure 8 The control process for humidity management in the anteroom (103) tank (302) is described.

[0101] First, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) obtains humidity information of the outside air (outside air) from the external hygrometer (112) of the buffer (101): X2 (step S801), and obtains humidity information of the cold storage (104) from the cold storage hygrometer (104b): Y2 (step S802). In addition, the order of steps S801 and S802 is different.

[0102] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) calculates the intermediate humidity B = (X2 + Y2) / 2, which becomes the set humidity of the anterior chamber trough (302), based on the humidity information obtained in steps S801 and S802 (step S703).

[0103] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) obtains the humidity information of the anteroom (103) from the anteroom hygrometer (103e): Z2 (step S804). Furthermore, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) obtains the operating status information (stopped / operating) of the humidity regulating unit (103c) (step S805). The order of steps S804 and S805 is different.

[0104] Next, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines whether the humidity Z2 in the forecourt (302) is within the range of ±5% of the likelihood of the intermediate humidity B calculated in step S803 (whether the condition B-5%≤Z2≤B+5% is met) (step S806).

[0105] If, in step S806, the condition B-5% ≤ Z2 ≤ B+5% is met, the process proceeds to step S807. The temperature / humidity control unit (121b) confirms the operation of the humidity adjustment unit (103c) obtained in step S805 (step S807). If the condition is determined to be "operating," the operation of the humidity adjustment unit (103c) is stopped (step S810), and the process ends. Alternatively, if the condition is determined to be "stopped," the process ends directly.

[0106] Furthermore, if in step S806 it is determined that the condition B-5% ≤ Z2 ≤ B+5% is not met, the process proceeds to step S807A as the next determination process. The temperature / humidity control unit (121b) confirms the operation of the humidity adjustment unit (103c) obtained in step S805 (step S807A). If the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) determines that the operation is "in operation", the humidity adjustment unit (103c) continues to operate (step S808) and returns the process to step S804. Conversely, if the operation of the humidity adjustment unit (103c) is determined to be "stopped", the operation of the humidity adjustment unit (103c) begins (step S809) and the process returns to step S804.

[0107] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be explained.

[0108] The automatic analysis apparatus (1) of this embodiment described above includes: an analysis unit (107); a transport line (102) for moving samples (203) placed on the analysis unit (107) in and out; a cold storage (104) for keeping the multiple samples (203) placed on the analysis unit (107) cold; a transport control unit (121a) for controlling the movement of samples from the transport line (102) to the cold storage (104) and from the cold storage (104) to the transport line (102); a front chamber (103) disposed between the cold storage (104) and the transport line (102), with its internal space shielded from the external environment; and a temperature / humidity control unit (121b) for controlling the temperature in the front chamber (103) between the external temperature of the cold storage (104) and the internal temperature of the cold storage (104).

[0109] This structure mitigates the temperature difference caused by the transition from a low-temperature environment to a higher-temperature environment, and suppresses condensation within the sample container compared to conventional devices. Therefore, it reduces sample fading due to condensation, minimizes sample loss and the need for repeat blood draws from patients, and reduces the burden on both patients and operators.

[0110] In addition, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) controls the temperature inside the front chamber (103) to be between the external temperature and the internal temperature of the cold storage (104). Therefore, the temperature change when entering the front chamber (103) from the cold storage (104) is approximately equal to the temperature difference when exiting the front chamber (103). This avoids the temperature difference between entering the front chamber (103) and exiting the front chamber (103) being larger than the other, and can more reliably suppress condensation in the sample container.

[0111] Furthermore, by having a temperature / humidity control unit (121b) that controls the internal humidity of the front chamber (103), condensation in the sample container can be suppressed with a higher probability.

[0112] In addition, the temperature / humidity control unit (121b) can increase the opportunity for the sample holder (203) to be stored in the front chamber (103) by periodically controlling the temperature and humidity in the front chamber (103), and can avoid the reduction in analytical throughput caused by waiting in the front chamber (103).

[0113] Moreover, since the anterior chamber (103) has a heater (103a), the temperature in the anterior chamber slot (302) of the anterior chamber (103) can be regulated efficiently with a simple structure.

[0114] In addition, the anteroom (103) has a cooling fan 103b that blows air to cool the cold storage (104), thereby eliminating the need for a separate cooling mechanism, simplifying the structure of the device, and enabling temperature regulation of the anteroom (103).

[0115] Furthermore, when the sample rack (203) is taken out of the cold storage (104), the transport control unit (121a) makes the sample rack standby in the anteroom (103) for a preset standby time, thereby enabling more reliable adjustment of the temperature of the sample, sample container, and air inside the container, and more effectively suppressing the generation of condensation.

[0116] In addition, the transport control unit (121a) does not put the sample rack (203) into storage during the period when the temperature in the idle front chamber (103) where the sample rack (203) is not on standby is not controlled within the specified range, thereby maximizing the efficiency of temperature control and more reliably suppressing the generation of condensation.

[0117] Furthermore, the anteroom (103) can minimize the size of the device by connecting it to the conveyor line (102).

[0118] In addition, the temperature is controlled by the partition between the anteroom (103) and the cold storage (104) and the outside, which can suppress condensation caused by temperature changes before entering the anteroom (103) and further reduce the danger of condensation.

[0119] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0120] 1…Automatic analysis device

[0121] 101… Buffer

[0122] 102… Conveyor Line

[0123] 103…front room

[0124] 103a… heater

[0125] 103b…Cooling Fan

[0126] 103c…humidity control unit

[0127] 103d…Anterior chamber thermometer

[0128] 103e…Cavity Hygrometer

[0129] 104… Cold Storage

[0130] 104a… Cold Storage Thermometer

[0131] 104b…Cold Storage Hygrometer

[0132] 105… Conveyor Line

[0133] 106… Conveyor Line

[0134] 107…Analysis Department

[0135] 108…Shelf moving in and out line

[0136] 109…Transport Line

[0137] 110…partition

[0138] 111… Buffer external thermometer

[0139] 112… Buffer external hygrometer

[0140] 120… hub

[0141] 121…Operations Department PC

[0142] 121a…Transportation Control Department (Control Department)

[0143] 121b…Temperature / Humidity Control Department (Temperature Control Department, Humidity Control Department)

[0144] 201…users

[0145] 202…sample

[0146] 203…sample holder

[0147] 204… Sample Input Section

[0148] 205… conveyor line

[0149] 206…Analysis Unit

[0150] 207… reagent

[0151] 208…Reagent tray

[0152] 209…Sample Storage Section

[0153] 302…Anterior Chamber Slot

[0154] 304… Cold storage compartment.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device includes: Analysis Department; A conveyor line for moving samples into and out of the analysis unit, where racks are equipped with samples. A cold storage room that keeps multiple shelves containing samples that have been measured by the analytical unit cold; The control unit performs the action control of moving the goods from the conveyor line into the cold storage and the action control of moving the goods from the cold storage to the conveyor line. An anteroom is located between the cold storage and the conveyor line, and the interior space of the anteroom is shielded from the outside. as well as The temperature control unit maintains the temperature inside the front chamber between the outside and inside of the cold storage room. The anterior chamber has multiple anterior chamber slots. The temperature control unit performs independent temperature control on the multiple pre-chamber slots.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device has a buffer. The buffer includes the conveyor line, the cold storage, and the anteroom. The temperature control unit controls the temperature inside the front chamber to be the average of the external temperature of the buffer and the internal temperature of the cold storage.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic analysis device also includes a humidity control unit for controlling the humidity inside the anteroom.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature control unit periodically controls the temperature inside the front chamber.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The humidity control unit periodically controls the humidity in the front room.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anterior chamber has a heater.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anteroom has a cooling fan that blows air to cool the cold storage.

8. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the control unit removes the shelf from the cold storage, it causes the shelf to standby in the front room for a preset standby time.

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The control unit prevents the shelf from being put into storage during periods when the temperature in the idle anteroom is not controlled within a specified range and the shelf is not in standby mode.

10. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anteroom is connected to the conveyor line.

11. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Temperature control is achieved by separating the anteroom and the cold storage from the outside through an external partition.

12. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the sample is moved out of the cold storage, the temperature control unit controls the temperature in the front chamber between the outside and inside of the cold storage.

13. A sample storage device for storing samples in an automated analytical apparatus, characterized in that, The sample storage device includes: A cold storage room that keeps multiple shelves containing samples that have been measured by an analysis unit cold, wherein the analysis unit performs the analysis of the samples; An anteroom is located between the exterior of the cold storage and the sample storage device, and the interior space of the anteroom is shielded from the exterior. as well as The temperature control unit maintains the temperature inside the front chamber between the outside and inside of the cold storage room. The anterior chamber has multiple anterior chamber slots. The temperature control unit performs independent temperature control on the multiple pre-chamber slots.

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