Sample basket transport system

Abstract

This invention discloses a sample basket transport system, comprising: a transport device, which includes n parallel transport tracks and a track conversion component. The i-th transport track has an insertion station, and the j-th transport track has an exit station. The track conversion component is capable of transporting the sample basket between at least the i-th and j-th transport tracks. At least the i-th and j-th transport tracks and the track conversion component together form a closed-loop transport trajectory for the sample basket, enabling the sample basket to circulate along the closed-loop transport trajectory. This invention enables the cyclic transport and utilization of sample baskets.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of in vitro diagnostic technology, and more specifically to a sample basket transport system for sample analysis equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In a slide staining machine, slide baskets are needed to collect stained blood smears and transport them to a designated location. Therefore, a slide basket conveying system is required to transport empty slide baskets to the slide loading position, complete the slide collection process, and then transport the slide baskets containing blood smears to a location that is convenient for the user to retrieve.

[0003] Existing slide basket conveying systems can deliver slide baskets to the slide loading position in an orderly manner and complete the corresponding work tasks, but they occupy a large space, cannot realize the circular transportation and utilization of slide baskets in the track, require operators to manually assist the rotation of slide baskets, and have low work efficiency.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a new sample basket delivery system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a sample basket transport system designed to enable the cyclical transport and utilization of sample baskets.

[0006] On one hand, embodiments of the present invention provide a sample basket transport system, including: a transport device, the transport device including n parallel transport tracks and a track conversion component, wherein the i-th transport track has an insertion station and the j-th transport track has an exit station, and the track conversion component is capable of transporting the sample basket between at least the i-th transport track and the j-th transport track, wherein at least the i-th transport track, the j-th transport track and the track conversion component can jointly form a closed-loop transport trajectory for the sample basket, so that the sample basket can circulate along the closed-loop transport trajectory.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there are two conveying tracks, namely a first track and a second track arranged in parallel. The first track has a placement station and a sample insertion station on its conveying path. The second track has a conveying direction opposite to that of the first track. The second track has an output track changing station and a removal station on its conveying path. The track conversion assembly includes a first lateral movement assembly and a second lateral movement assembly. The first lateral movement assembly can convey the sample basket from the first track to the output track changing station, and the second lateral movement assembly can convey the sample basket from the removal station to the placement station.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, the second track extends in the same direction as the first track, the distance between the first track and the second track is less than the width of the sample basket, the first track has a first center line along its own extending direction, the second track has a second center line along its own extending direction, and the distance between the first center line and the second center line is greater than the width of the sample basket.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, both the first lateral movement assembly and the second lateral movement assembly include a lateral movement pusher for pushing the sample basket and a first transmission mechanism for driving the lateral movement pusher to reciprocate between the first track and the second track.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, both the first track and the second track include two conveyor belts that extend in the same direction and are spaced apart in a first plane, and the distance between the two conveyor belts is less than the width of the sample basket.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, both the first lateral movement assembly and the second lateral movement assembly further include a lateral movement pad assembly. The lateral movement pad assembly includes a lateral movement pad disposed between the two conveyor belts of the first track, between the first track and the second track, and between the two conveyor belts of the second track. In a first direction perpendicular to the first plane, the top of the lateral movement pad protrudes upward from the first track and the second track to be able to lift the sample basket upward.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, the bottom surface of the sample basket is provided with a clearance groove for avoiding the transverse moving blocks. The clearance groove divides the bottom of the sample basket into a first foot and a second foot. During the process of the transverse moving pusher pushing the sample basket between the first track and the second track, the first foot and the second foot of the sample basket are simultaneously lifted off the conveyor belt and simultaneously lowered onto the conveyor belt by the two adjacent transverse moving blocks.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, the system further includes: a basket detection module, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the location of at least one of the placement station, removal station, insert station, and output track changing station; and a control module, which is capable of controlling the operation of the conveying track and track conversion assembly based on the detection result of the basket detection module.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, a lifting assembly is installed at the insertion station. The lifting assembly is used to lift the sample basket that has arrived at the insertion station upwards so that the sample basket is removed from the first track. A basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the insertion station. A control module controls whether the lifting assembly lifts the sample basket upwards according to the detection result of the basket detection module. The device also includes a positioning mechanism for cooperating with a positioning member on the sample basket to position the sample basket that has been lifted to a preset insertion position. The positioning mechanism is disposed at the insertion station.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, the sample basket is further comprising: a sample detection module for detecting the presence or absence of a sample in a sample basket at the location of at least one of the placement station and the removal station; and a blocking component for blocking the sample basket from being further conveyed downstream.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, the sample detection module includes a first sample detector for detecting whether there is a sample in a sample basket arriving at the placement station, and the blocking component includes a first blocking member having a first position that allows the sample basket at the placement station to move downstream and a second position that blocks the sample basket from moving downstream from the placement station, and the control module controls the first blocking member to be located at the first position or the second position according to the detection result of the first sample detector.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, a insert detection station is further provided on the conveying path of the first track, the insert detection station being adjacent to and upstream of the insert station; the sample detection module includes a second sample detector for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket arriving at the insert detection station; the blocking component includes a first blocking pull-back component, the first blocking pull-back component having a release state that allows the sample basket at the insert detection station to move towards the insert station and a blocking state that blocks the sample basket from moving downstream from the insert detection station; the control module controls the first blocking pull-back component to be in the release state or the blocking state according to the detection result of the second sample detector.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present invention, the blocking assembly further includes a second blocking pull-back assembly, the second blocking pull-back assembly having a release state that allows a sample basket located upstream of the removal station to move to the removal station and a blocking state that blocks the sample basket upstream of the removal station. The basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the removal station. The control module controls the second blocking pull-back assembly to be in the release state or the blocking state according to the operating state of the second traverse assembly and the detection result of the basket detection module.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, both the first blocking pull-back assembly and the second blocking pull-back assembly include a blocking arm and a second transmission mechanism for driving the blocking arm to reciprocate. The blocking arm includes a blocking part, which is provided with a clearance notch that allows only its top end to contact the sample basket. The blocking part has a third position located below the conveying track and a fourth position located above the conveying track. When the blocking part is located in the fourth position, the top end of the blocking part abuts against the bottom of the sample basket.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, the sample detection module further includes a third sample detector for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket arriving at the removal station; the basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the placement station and the removal station; and the control module controls whether the second traverse component transfers the sample basket from the removal station to the placement station based on the detection results of the basket detection module and the third sample detector.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, an input buffer station is further provided on the conveying path of the first track, the input buffer station being located between the placement station and the insert station; and / or an output buffer station is further provided on the conveying path of the second track, the output buffer station being located between the output track changing station and the removal station.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention, a drying station is further provided on the conveying path of the first track. The drying station is located downstream of the insert station, and the sample in the sample basket is used to dry at the drying station. Preferably, the first transverse component is used to convey the sample basket from the drying station to the output track changing station. The basket detection module is also used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the drying station.

[0023] On the other hand, embodiments of the present invention provide a sample analysis device, including a sample basket transport system as described in any of the preceding claims; the sample analysis device further includes a smear preparation device for preparing sample slides and a staining pool for staining the sample slides, wherein the smear preparation device and the staining pool are disposed on the same side of the transport device.

[0024] The sample basket conveying system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a conveying device, which comprises n parallel conveying tracks and a track conversion component. The i-th conveying track has an insertion station, and the j-th conveying track has an exit station. The track conversion component can transport the sample basket between at least the i-th and j-th conveying tracks. At least the i-th and j-th conveying tracks and the track conversion component together form a closed-loop conveying trajectory for the sample basket. By forming a closed-loop conveying trajectory for the sample basket through the parallel conveying tracks and the track conversion component, the sample basket can circulate along the closed-loop trajectory, realizing the cyclical transport and utilization of the sample basket. Since no manual assistance from operators is required for the cyclical transport of the sample basket, the automation level of the sample basket conveying and the system's working efficiency can be improved. Furthermore, the parallel arrangement of the conveying tracks occupies less space.

[0025] The sample analysis device provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a sample basket conveying system, a smear preparation device for preparing sample slides, and a staining pool for staining sample slides. The smear preparation device and the staining pool are located on the same side of the conveying device, which can reduce the size of the device and make it convenient for users to put in and take out sample baskets in the same position. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar features, and the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sample basket transport system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a top view of a sample basket transport system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second transverse moving components of a sample basket conveying system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figures 4 to 6 A schematic diagram showing the different positions of the sample basket during its cross-track movement;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting assembly of a sample basket conveying system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 8 This is another structural schematic diagram of the lifting assembly of the sample basket conveying system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second blocking pull-back components of a sample basket conveying system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 10 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the structure of the blocking pullback assembly in the release state;

[0035] Figure 11 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the structure of the blocking and pull-back assembly in the blocking state. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The features and exemplary embodiments of various aspects of the present invention will now be described in detail. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only configured to explain the present invention and are not configured to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, the present invention can be practiced without some of these specific details. The following description of the embodiments is merely intended to provide a better understanding of the present invention by illustrating examples of the invention.

[0037] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0038] Various modifications and variations can be made to this invention without departing from its spirit or scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this invention is intended to cover modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims (the claimed technical solutions) and their equivalents. It should be noted that the embodiments provided in this invention can be combined with each other without contradiction.

[0039] To better understand this invention, the following is combined with... Figures 1 to 10 A detailed description is provided of the sample basket transport system and sample analysis device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] This invention provides a sample basket transport system, including a transport device. The transport device includes n transport tracks arranged in parallel and a track conversion component. The transport tracks are capable of transporting sample baskets. The i-th transport track has an insertion station, and the j-th transport track has an removal station. The track conversion component is capable of transporting the sample basket between at least the i-th and j-th transport tracks. At least the i-th and j-th transport tracks and the track conversion component can jointly form a closed-loop transport trajectory for the sample basket.

[0041] When it is necessary to collect sample slides using a sample basket, an empty sample basket can be placed on the conveyor track at the placement station. After the sample basket completes the collection of sample slides along the closed-loop conveyor track, it is then conveyed to the removal station to facilitate the removal of sample slides. Once the sample slides are removed, the sample basket is then conveyed back to the placement station along the closed-loop conveyor track, thus realizing the closed-loop cycle of the sample basket.

[0042] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the sample basket conveying system forms a closed-loop conveying trajectory for the sample basket by a plurality of conveying tracks arranged in parallel and track conversion components, so that the sample basket can circulate along the closed-loop conveying trajectory, realizing the cyclic transportation and utilization of the sample basket. Since no manual assistance is required for the cyclic transportation of the sample basket, the automation level of the sample basket conveying and the working efficiency of the system can be improved; in addition, the parallel arrangement of the conveying tracks occupies less space.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sample basket transport system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a top view of a sample basket transport system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] In some optional embodiments, there may be two transport tracks. For ease of description, the two transport tracks may be referred to as the first track 110 and the second track 120, respectively. That is, the transport device includes the first track 110 and the second track 120 in parallel. In order to realize the closed-loop transport trajectory of the sample basket, the track conversion component may include the first lateral movement component 210 and the second lateral movement component 220.

[0045] The first track 110 has a placement station 111 and a sample insertion station 114 on its conveying path. The second track 120 has a conveying direction opposite to that of the first track 110. The second track 120 has an output track changing station 121 and a removal station 123 on its conveying path. The first transverse component 210 can transfer the sample basket from the first track 110 to the output track changing station 121 on the second track 120. The second transverse component 220 can transfer the sample basket from the removal station 123 to the placement station 111 on the first track 110.

[0046] When it is necessary to collect sample slides using a sample basket, an empty sample basket can be placed on the first track 110 by the placement station 111. The sample basket is then conveyed along the first track 110 to the slide insertion station 114, where it awaits the insertion of the sample slides. After the sample slides are collected, the sample basket is conveyed to the output track changing station 121 by the first transverse component 210. Then, the sample basket is conveyed along the second track 120 to the removal station 123, where it awaits the user to remove the sample slides. After the sample slides are removed, the sample basket is conveyed back to the placement station 111 on the first track 110 by the second transverse component 220, thus realizing the cyclical transport of the sample basket.

[0047] It is understood that the sample basket conveying system provided in this embodiment of the invention can also be used to convey sample slides to be stained and to collect the sample slides after staining. This simplifies the structure of the slide-pushing staining machine, reduces the space occupied by the equipment, and improves the utilization efficiency of the sample basket conveying system. Specifically, the sample slides to be stained can be placed in the sample basket, and the sample basket containing the sample slides can be placed on the first track 110 by the placement station 111. Then, the sample basket is conveyed along the first track 110 to the slide insertion station 114. The sample slides are taken out from the slide insertion station 114 for staining, and after staining, they are inserted back into the sample basket. Then, they are conveyed to the second track 120 by the first transverse component 210 and conveyed along the second track 120 to the removal station 123, where the sample slides are waiting to be picked up by the user.

[0048] Optionally, a robotic arm can be used to remove the sample slides from the slide insertion station 114 and transfer them to the staining pool for staining, and then insert the stained sample slides back into the sample basket.

[0049] In some optional embodiments, in the sample basket conveying system provided by this invention, the second track 120 and the first track 110 can extend in the same direction. The first track 110 has a first center line along its own extending direction, and the second track 120 has a second center line along its own extending direction. The distance between the first track 110 and the second track 120 can be less than the width of the sample basket, and the distance from the first center line to the second center line can be greater than the width of the sample basket. This reduces the space occupied by the conveying device and ensures that the sample baskets conveyed on the first track 110 and the second track 120 do not interfere with each other. It should be noted that when the conveying track conveys the sample basket, the width direction of the sample basket is consistent with the width direction of the conveying track.

[0050] There are various types of conveyor tracks capable of transporting sample baskets. In some alternative embodiments, sample baskets can be transported smoothly and reliably using conveyor belts. Optionally, the first track 110 and the second track 120 may each include two conveyor belts 101 extending in the same direction and spaced apart within a first plane, with the distance between the two conveyor belts 101 being less than the width of the sample basket, so as to be able to support the sample basket.

[0051] It is understood that the conveying device may also include a base frame, on which the conveying rails and rail conversion components are mounted. Optionally, the base frame may include a guard plate assembly, which includes a first side guard plate, a second side guard plate, and a middle guide plate. The middle guide plate is disposed between the first rail 110 and the second rail 120. The first side guard plate is disposed on the side of the first rail 110 opposite to the second rail 120, and the second side guard plate is disposed on the side of the second rail 120 opposite to the first rail 110. When the first rail 110 conveys the sample basket, the movement direction of the sample basket can be restricted by the first side guard plate and the middle guide plate to prevent the sample basket from deviating from the first rail 110. When the second rail 120 conveys the sample basket, the movement direction of the sample basket can be restricted by the second side guard plate and the middle guide plate to prevent the sample basket from deviating from the second rail 120.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second transverse moving components of a sample basket conveying system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 4 to 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the different positions of the sample basket during its cross-track movement.

[0053] There are various structures for the first lateral movement component 210 and the second lateral movement component 220. In some optional embodiments, both the first lateral movement component 210 and the second lateral movement component 220 include a lateral movement pusher 201 and a first transmission mechanism. The first transmission mechanism can drive the lateral movement pusher 201 to reciprocate between the first track 110 and the second track 120. The lateral movement pusher 201 can push the sample basket 000, thereby realizing the cross-track movement of the sample basket 000.

[0054] In some optional embodiments, both the first lateral movement assembly 210 and the second lateral movement assembly 220 further include a lateral movement pad assembly. The lateral movement pad assembly includes a lateral movement pad 202 disposed between the two conveyor belts 101 of the first track 110, between the first track 110 and the second track 120, and between the two conveyor belts 101 of the second track 120. In a first direction perpendicular to the plane of the conveyor track, the top of the lateral movement pad 202 protrudes upward from the first track 110 and the second track 120.

[0055] During the cross-track movement of the sample basket 000, the sample basket 000 will pass through each transverse pad 202 in sequence. The transverse pad 202 protruding from the track can lift the sample basket 000 upward, so that the sample basket 000 is separated from the conveyor belt 101, so that the sample basket 000 will not interfere with the conveyor belt 101 when it moves across the track.

[0056] To prevent the transverse pad 202 from interfering with the transport of the sample basket 000 along the conveyor track, a clearance groove is provided on the bottom surface of the sample basket 000. The clearance groove divides the bottom of the sample basket 000 into a first foot 001 and a second foot 002. When the sample basket 000 is transported along the conveyor track, the first foot 001 is supported by one conveyor belt 101 of the conveyor track, and the second foot 002 is supported by another conveyor belt 101. When the sample basket 000 passes the transverse pad 202, it avoids the transverse pad 202 through the clearance groove.

[0057] Understandably, in order to effectively avoid the transverse pad 202, the dimension of the avoidance groove in the width direction of the sample basket 000 is larger than the dimension of the transverse pad 202, and the depth of the avoidance groove is greater than the height of the top of the transverse pad 202 protruding from the conveyor track.

[0058] To achieve smooth lateral movement of the sample basket 000, optionally, the tops of each lateral movement pad 202 protrude from the conveyor track at the same height. During the process of the lateral movement pusher 201 pushing the sample basket 000 between the first track 110 and the second track 120, the first foot 001 and the second foot 002 of the sample basket 000 can be simultaneously lifted off the conveyor belt 101 and simultaneously lowered onto the conveyor belt 101 by the lateral movement pad 202.

[0059] Optionally, guide angles can be provided on both sides of the top of the transverse pad 202. The guide angles are used to guide the lifting and falling of the sample basket 000, so that the sample basket 000 can be smoothly lifted onto the transverse pad 202 or smoothly detached from the transverse pad 202.

[0060] The following example illustrates the lateral movement of the sample basket 000, using the lateral pusher 201 to move it from the first track 110 to the second track 120. For ease of understanding and explanation, the lateral movement pad 202 positioned between the two conveyor belts 101 on the first track 110 can be designated as the first lateral movement pad 202a, the lateral movement pad 202 positioned between the first track 110 and the second track 120 as the second lateral movement pad 202b, and the lateral movement pad 202 positioned between the two conveyor belts 101 on the second track 120 as the third lateral movement pad 202c.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, in the initial state, the sample basket 000 is supported by two conveyor belts 101 of the first track 110. The sample basket 000 is located directly above the first transverse pad 202a, and the top of the first transverse pad 202a extends into the clearance groove of the sample basket 000.

[0062] like Figure 5As shown, after the lateral pusher 201 pushes the sample basket 000 to move a preset distance from the first track 110 to the second track 120, the first foot 001 of the sample basket 000 contacts the first lateral pad 202a, and at the same time the second foot 002 contacts the second lateral pad 202b. When the lateral pusher 201 pushes the sample basket 000 to continue moving, the first foot 001 and the second foot 002 of the sample basket 000 will be lifted to the height of the lateral pad 202 at the same time, so that the sample basket 000 is lifted away from the conveyor belt 101 and the sample basket 000 is supported by the lateral pad 202.

[0063] Under the pushing action of the lateral pusher 201, the sample basket 000 continues to move laterally, as... Figure 6 As shown, after the sample basket 000 moves laterally a preset distance, the first foot 001 of the sample basket 000 disengages from the first lateral movement pad 202a, and at the same time, the second foot 002 disengages from the second lateral movement pad 202b, so that the first foot 001 and the second foot 002 of the sample basket 000 simultaneously descend to the height of the conveyor belt 101, and the sample basket 000 is supported by the first track 110 and the second track 120.

[0064] Then repeat the above two motion processes until the sample basket 000 is completely moved onto the second track 120, realizing the cross-track movement of the sample basket 000.

[0065] Understandably, in the initial state, the lateral pusher 201 of the first lateral component 210 is located on the side of the first track 110 away from the second track 120; when the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the position on the first track 110 corresponding to the first lateral component 210, the first transmission mechanism of the first lateral component 210 drives the lateral pusher 201 to push the sample basket 000 from the first track 110 to the output track changing station 121 of the second track 120; after the sample basket 000 is moved away from the output track changing station 121 along the second track 120, the lateral pusher 201 of the first lateral component 210 returns to the side of the first track 110 away from the second track 120.

[0066] The second transverse component 220 is used to transfer the sample basket 000 from the second track 120 to the first track 110. The working steps of the second transverse component 220 are the same as those of the first transverse component 210, and will not be described in detail here.

[0067] Optionally, the lateral pusher 201 can be moved by a synchronous belt. The first transmission mechanism may include a first base 203, a first motor 204, a pulley, an idler pulley, and a belt 205. The first motor 204 is fixed on the first base 203 and can be a stepper motor to precisely control the rotation angle of the pulley, thereby controlling the movement distance of the belt 205 and the lateral pusher 201. The pulley is driven by the first motor 204, and the extension direction of the belt 205 can be perpendicular to the extension direction of the conveyor track. The lateral pusher 201 can be connected to the belt 205 through a pusher connecting plate 206. When the stepper motor drives the pulley to rotate, the belt 205 drives the lateral pusher 201 to move, realizing cross-track movement from the first track 110 to the second track 120, or from the second track 120 to the first track 110.

[0068] Optionally, the guide component can also be configured as a movement guide for the transverse pusher 201. The guide component may include a slide rail 207 and a slider that are slidably connected. The slide rail 207 is disposed on the first base 203, and the extension direction of the slide rail 207 is parallel to the extension direction of the belt 205. The slider is disposed on the transverse pusher 201.

[0069] Optionally, to ensure accurate resetting of the lateral pusher 201, the first lateral pusher assembly 210 and the second lateral pusher assembly 220 may further include a pusher resetting detection assembly. The pusher resetting detection assembly may include a slotted photoelectric sensor and a baffle, one of which is disposed on the lateral pusher 201, and the other may be disposed on the first base 203. When the lateral pusher 201 of the first lateral pusher assembly 210 is located on the side of the first track 110 away from the second track 120, the baffle of the first lateral pusher assembly 210 blocks the optical path of the slotted photoelectric sensor; when the lateral pusher 201 of the second lateral pusher assembly 220 is located on the side of the second track 120 away from the first track 110, the baffle of the second lateral pusher assembly 220 blocks the optical path of the slotted photoelectric sensor.

[0070] Of course, the specific structure of the first transverse component 210 and the second transverse component 220 is not limited to this. For example, the cross-track movement of the sample basket 000 can also be achieved by the conveyor belt 101 or the robotic arm, which is also within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0071] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting assembly of a sample basket conveying system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is another structural schematic diagram of the lifting component of a sample basket conveying system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] In some alternative embodiments, a lifting assembly 310 may be installed at the insertion station 114 of the first track 110. The lifting assembly 310 is used to lift the sample basket 000 that has reached the insertion station 114 upward so that the sample basket 000 is removed from the first track 110.

[0073] After the first track 110 transports the sample basket 000 to the insertion station 114, the lifting component 310 lifts the sample basket 000 upwards, causing it to leave the transport track. Then, the insertion operation is carried out. In this way, the insertion operation will not affect the operation of the first track 110. The first track 110 can run continuously after the sample basket 000 transport system is started, which can improve the transport efficiency of the sample basket 000. In addition, the continuous operation of the first track 110 will not affect the positioning of the sample basket 000, so that the subsequent insertion operation can be carried out stably.

[0074] Optionally, the lifting assembly 310 may be positioned between the two conveyor belts 101 of the first track 110.

[0075] Optionally, the lifting assembly 310 may include a base, a lifting plate 311 for supporting the sample basket 000, and a drive mechanism 312 for driving the lifting plate 311 to reciprocate relative to the base in a first direction. When the first track 110 transports the sample basket 000 to the inserting station 114, the lifting plate 311 is located below the sample basket 000. At this time, when the drive mechanism 312 drives the lifting plate 311 to move upward, it can drive the sample basket 000 to move upward, so that the sample basket 000 is removed from the transport track.

[0076] Optionally, a positioning mechanism 320 may also be provided at the inserting station 114 of the first track 110. The positioning mechanism 320 is used to cooperate with the positioning component 020 on the sample basket 000. After the sample basket 000 is transported to the inserting station 114, the lifting component 310 lifts the sample basket 000 upward. When the sample basket 000 is lifted to the preset inserting position, the positioning mechanism 320 cooperates with the positioning component 020 to fix the position of the sample basket 000.

[0077] Optionally, to facilitate the fixing of the positioning mechanism 320, the positioning mechanism 320 can be set on the base frame and positioned above the conveyor belt 101.

[0078] To improve the positioning effect, two positioning elements 020 can be provided on the sample basket 000. The two positioning elements 020 can be provided on both sides of the bottom of the sample basket 000 and spaced apart in the width direction of the sample basket 000. Correspondingly, the positioning mechanism 320 can include two positioning blocks. The two positioning blocks are spaced apart in the width direction of the transport track, and the two positioning blocks correspond to and cooperate with the two positioning elements 020 on the sample basket 000.

[0079] There are various ways for the positioning element 020 and the positioning block to cooperate. In some optional embodiments, a protrusion can be provided on the positioning element 020, and a groove can be provided on the positioning block. As the sample basket 000 moves upward, the protrusion gradually engages with the groove, that is, the positioning element 020 and the positioning block gradually fit together. When the sample basket 000 is raised to the preset insert position, the protrusion is completely engaged with the groove, and the positioning element 020 and the positioning block are completely fitted together. Optionally, a toothed structure can be provided on the positioning element 020 and the positioning block to form a protrusion and a groove, and the number of protrusions and grooves can be multiple. Of course, it is also possible to provide a groove on the positioning element 020 and a protrusion on the positioning block, which is also within the protection scope of this invention.

[0080] In some alternative embodiments, for ease of connection, the lifting plate 311 can be connected to the drive mechanism 312 via a lifting connecting plate 313. The lifting connecting plate 313 may include a first connecting plate parallel to the first plane, which is used to connect to the lifting plate 311.

[0081] Optionally, the lifting connecting plate 313 may further include a second connecting plate disposed along the first direction, with a first end of the second connecting plate connected to the first connecting plate and a second end of the second connecting plate used for connection to the drive mechanism 312. It is understood that the first connecting plate and the second connecting plate may be an integral structure.

[0082] Optionally, the lifting device may further include a flexible connection mechanism to achieve a flexible connection between the lifting plate 311 and the lifting connecting plate 313. The flexible connection mechanism may include a guide shaft 314 and an elastic element 315. The guide shaft 314 extends along a first direction, with its first end fixedly connected to the lifting plate 311 and its second end penetrating through the first connecting plate and slidably connected to it. The elastic element 315 is sleeved around the guide shaft 314 and disposed between the lifting plate 311 and the first connecting plate.

[0083] When the drive mechanism 312 drives the first connecting plate to move up and down, the elastic element 315 drives the lifting plate 311 to move synchronously. When the sample basket 000 is supported by the lifting plate 311, the elastic element 315 is compressed, and the guide shaft 314 slides downward relative to the first connecting plate. The flexible force of the elastic element 315 supports the sample basket 000, which can reduce the damage to the sample and the instrument when there is a positional deviation or malfunction in the insertion operation.

[0084] Optionally, the elastic element 315 can be a spring; the inner diameter of the spring can match the outer diameter of the guide shaft 314.

[0085] In some optional embodiments, in order to enable the guide shaft 314 and the lifting plate 311 to move stably and smoothly relative to the first connection, the flexible connection mechanism may further include a guide sleeve 316 extending along the first direction. The guide sleeve 316 is installed on the first connecting plate and sleeved on the outside of the guide shaft 314. An elastic element 315 is disposed between the lifting plate 311 and the guide sleeve 316. The guide sleeve 316 can guide the movement of the guide shaft 314 on the one hand, and prevent the guide shaft 314 from getting stuck when sliding relative to the first connecting plate on the other hand.

[0086] Optionally, the outer diameter of the guide shaft 314 can gradually increase from the first end to the second end along its own length, and the inner diameter of the guide sleeve 316 can gradually increase from the first end to the second end along its own length. The outer diameter of the first end of the guide shaft 314 is smaller than the inner diameter of the first end of the guide sleeve 316, and the outer diameter of the second end of the guide shaft 314 is not smaller than the outer diameter of the second end of the guide sleeve 316. When assembling the lifting device, the guide sleeve 316 is installed on the first connecting plate, and the first end of the guide sleeve 316 is located above its second end. The guide shaft 314 is inserted into the guide sleeve 316 from the second end of the guide sleeve 316, and the first end of the guide shaft 314 is fixedly connected to the lifting plate 311 after passing through the first end of the guide sleeve 316.

[0087] When the drive mechanism 312 drives the first connecting plate to move up and down, the elastic element 315 drives the lifting plate 311 to move synchronously. When the sample basket 000 is supported by the lifting plate 311, the elastic element 315 is compressed, and the guide shaft 314 slides down a certain distance relative to the guide sleeve 316. There is a certain gap between the guide shaft 314 and the guide sleeve 316. During the insertion operation, even if the position of the insertion robot deviates and causes the sample to collide with the slot of the sample basket 000, the flexible force provided by the elastic element 315 will cause the sample basket 000 to tilt at a certain angle in accordance with the direction of sample insertion, so that the sample can still be inserted into the sample basket 000.

[0088] Of course, bearings, guide rails, etc. can also be used to replace the guide shaft 314 as a guide component, which is also within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0089] In some optional embodiments, two or more flexible connecting mechanisms may be provided between the lifting plate 311 and the first connecting plate to prevent the lifting plate 311 from rotating when it moves up and down.

[0090] In some alternative embodiments, a drying station 115 may also be provided on the transport path of the first track 110, the drying station 115 being located downstream of the slide insertion station 114; after the stained sample slide is inserted into the sample basket 000 located at the slide insertion station 114, the sample basket 000 is transported to the drying station 115 via the first track 110, and the stained sample slide is dried at the drying station 115.

[0091] Optionally, after the sample slides loaded in the sample basket 000 are dried at the drying station 115, they can be transferred from the drying station 115 to the output track-changing station 121 on the second track 120 via the first transverse component 210. Of course, after the sample slides are dried at the drying station 115, they can also be transferred downstream along the first track 110 before being transferred to the output track-changing station 121 on the second track 120 via the first transverse component 210, which is also within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0092] It is understandable that, in order to improve collection efficiency, multiple sample baskets 000 can be placed on the conveying device when collecting sample slides. After the sample baskets 000 are conveyed to the slide insertion station 114, they need to stay at the slide insertion station 114 for a preset time in order to facilitate the insertion of sample slides.

[0093] To reduce operator waiting time, in some alternative embodiments, an input buffer station 112 may be provided on the transport path of the first track 110. The input buffer station 112 is located between the placement station 111 and the insert station 114. The input buffer station 112 is preferably capable of storing multiple sample baskets 000.

[0094] After the sample basket 000 is placed on the first track 110 from the placement station 111, it is first transported to the input buffer station 112 for queuing and buffering, and then transported one by one to the insert station 114, so that the operator can place multiple sample baskets 000 from the placement station 111 onto the first track 110 in sequence.

[0095] Understandably, after the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the removal station 123, it needs to stay at the removal station 123 for a preset time to facilitate the removal of the sample slides. To improve collection efficiency, optionally, an output buffer station 122 can also be set on the conveying path of the second track 120. The output buffer station 122 is located between the output track changing station 121 and the removal station 123, and the output buffer station 122 is preferably capable of storing multiple sample baskets 000.

[0096] After the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the output track changing station 121 by the first transverse component 210, it is first transported to the output buffer station 122 for queuing and buffering, and then transported one by one to the removal station 123, so that the first transverse component 210 can operate continuously.

[0097] In some optional embodiments, to achieve automatic cyclic transport of the sample basket 000, the sample basket transport system provided in this embodiment of the invention may further include a control module and a basket detection module 400, which may be mounted on a base frame. The basket detection module 400 is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at at least one station on the transport track. The basket detection module 400 is connected to the control module, which can control the operation of the transport track and track conversion components based on the detection results of the basket detection module 400.

[0098] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 can detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at each station position on the first track 110 and the second track 120. That is, the basket detection module 400 can simultaneously detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the positions of the placement station 111, input buffer station 112, insert station 114, drying station 115, output track changing station 121, output buffer station 122, and removal station 123.

[0099] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may include multiple basket detectors, each basket detector corresponding to the detection of whether a sample basket 000 is present at a specific workstation. Optionally, each basket detector can be mounted on a base frame and positioned on one side of the corresponding detection workstation.

[0100] In some optional embodiments, the basket detection module 400 may include a first basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the placement station 111. After the sample basket 000 is placed onto the first track 110 by the placement station 111, the sample basket 000 is detected by the first basket detector, and the control module controls the first track 110 to start running, and the first track 110 conveys the sample basket 000 towards the insertion station 114.

[0101] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may include a second basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the insertion station 114. When the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the insertion station 114 along the first track 110, the sample basket 000 is detected by the second basket detector. The control module controls the lifting assembly 310 to lift the sample basket 000 upward, so that the sample basket 000 is removed from the conveying track. After the lifting assembly 310 lifts the sample basket 000 upward to the insertion station 114, the control module controls the robot arm module to perform the insertion operation.

[0102] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may include a third basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the drying station 115. When the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the drying station 115 along the first track 110, the sample basket 000 is detected by the third basket detector, and the control module controls the drying device on one side of the drying station 115 to perform drying operations on the sample slides in the sample basket 000; after the drying operation is completed, the control module controls the first transverse component 210 to convey the sample basket 000 to the output track changing station 121 on the second track 120.

[0103] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may include a fourth basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the output track changing station 121. When the first traverse component 210 conveys the sample basket 000 to the output track changing station 121, the sample basket 000 is detected by the fourth basket detector. The second track 120 then conveys the sample basket 000 from the output track changing station 121 to the removal station 123. When the fourth basket detector does not detect the sample basket 000, it indicates that the sample basket 000 has been removed from the output track changing station 121. At this time, the control module controls the traverse pusher 201 of the first traverse component 210 to reset.

[0104] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may include a fifth basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the removal station 123. When the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the removal station 123 along the second track 120, the sample basket 000 is detected by the fifth basket detector. At this time, the operator can be reminded to take the sample by the reminder device. When the sample in the sample basket 000 is taken out and the first basket detector does not detect that there is a sample basket 000 stored at the placement station 111, the control module controls the second transverse component 220 to convey the sample basket 000 to the placement station 111 on the first track 110.

[0105] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may further include a sixth basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the input buffer station 112. The input buffer station 112 can store multiple sample baskets 000, and can be divided into multiple partitions with the length of the sample baskets 000 as the interval. Correspondingly, multiple fifth basket detectors can be set, and each sixth basket detector is responsible for detecting whether there is a sample basket 000 in one partition. When each sixth basket detector detects a sample basket 000, it means that the input buffer station 112 can no longer buffer more sample baskets 000. At this time, the operator can be reminded to stop putting sample baskets 000 into the first track 110.

[0106] Optionally, the basket detection module 400 may also include a seventh basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the output buffer station 122.

[0107] It is understood that in the sample basket conveying system provided in the embodiments of the present invention, since multiple sample baskets 000 are often conveyed together, sample baskets 000 are often close together, which affects the cross-track movement of sample baskets 000 or the lifting of sample baskets 000 at the insert station 114.

[0108] In some alternative embodiments, the sample basket conveying system provided by the present invention may further include a blocking component for preventing the sample basket 000 from continuing to be conveyed downstream.

[0109] Optionally, the blocking component may include a first blocking pull-back component 610, which has a release state that allows the sample basket 000 located upstream of the insertion station 114 to move to the insertion station 114 and a blocking state that blocks the sample basket 000 upstream of the insertion station 114; the control module can control the first blocking pull-back component 610 to be in the release state or the blocking state according to the detection structure of the second basket detector.

[0110] When the second basket detector does not detect the sample basket 000, it means that the insertion station 114 does not contain the sample basket 000. At this time, the control module can control the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 to be in the release state so that the sample basket 000 can be conveyed from upstream to the insertion station 114. When the second basket detector detects the sample basket 000, it means that the insertion station 114 contains the sample basket 000. At this time, the control module can control the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 to be in the blocking state.

[0111] Optionally, when the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 changes from the release state to the blocking state, the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 can pull back the sample basket 000 located upstream of the insertion station 114 a certain distance in the opposite direction. This can separate and block the sample basket 000 that is in close contact with the sample basket 000 at the insertion station 114, ensuring that the sample basket 000 located upstream of the insertion station 114 will not affect the lifting of the sample basket 000 at the insertion station 114.

[0112] It is understood that the blocking component may include a second blocking pull-back component 620. The second blocking pull-back component 620 has a release state that allows the sample basket 000 located upstream of the removal station 123 to move to the removal station 123, and a blocking state that blocks the sample basket 000 upstream of the removal station 123. The basket detection module 400 is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the removal station 123. The control module can control the second blocking pull-back component 620 to be in the release state or the blocking state according to the operating state of the second traverse component 220 and the detection result of the basket detection module 400.

[0113] When the fifth basket detector does not detect the sample basket 000, it means that the removal station 123 does not contain the sample basket 000. At this time, the control module can control the second blocking pull-back assembly 620 to be in the release state so that the sample basket 000 can be transported from upstream to the removal station 123. When the fifth basket detector detects the sample basket 000, it means that the removal station 123 contains the sample basket 000. At this time, the control module can control the second blocking pull-back assembly 620 to be in the blocking state.

[0114] Optionally, when the second blocking pull-back assembly 620 changes from the release state to the blocking state, the second blocking pull-back assembly 620 can pull back the sample basket 000 located upstream of the removal station 123 a certain distance in the opposite direction. This can separate and block the sample basket 000 that is in close contact with the sample basket 000 at the removal station 123, ensuring that the sample basket 000 located upstream of the removal station 123 will not affect the cross-track movement of the sample basket 000 at the removal station 123.

[0115] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second blocking pull-back components of a sample basket conveying system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the structure of the blocking pullback assembly in the release state; Figure 11 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the structure of the blocking and pull-back assembly in the blocking state.

[0116] It is understood that the specific structures of the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 and the second blocking pull-back assembly 620 are varied, and this application does not impose specific limitations on them. In some optional embodiments, both the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 and the second blocking pull-back assembly 620 may include a blocking arm 601 and a second transmission mechanism for driving the blocking arm 601 to reciprocate. The blocking arm 601 includes a blocking part, which is provided with a clearance notch 602 that only allows its top end to contact the sample basket 000. The blocking part has a third position located below the conveyor track and a fourth position located above the conveyor track. When the blocking part is in the third position, the blocking pull-back assembly is in the releasing state. When the blocking part is in the fourth position, the top end of the blocking part abuts against the bottom of the sample basket 000, and the blocking pull-back assembly is in the blocking state. By providing the clearance notch 602 in the blocking part, when the blocking arm 601 pulls back the sample basket 000 in the reverse direction, only the top end of the blocking part contacts the sample basket 000. This reduces the risk of the blocking arm 601 tilting the sample basket 000 upwards when blocking the pulling back of the sample basket 000.

[0117] There are various types of second transmission mechanisms. Optionally, the second transmission mechanism may include a second base 603, a second motor 604, and a connecting rod 605. The second motor 604 is fixed on the second base 603. The middle part of the blocking arm 601 can be hinged to the second base 603, and the end of the blocking arm 601 away from the blocking part can be provided with a sliding groove. The first end of the connecting rod 605 is connected to the motor shaft of the second motor 604, and the second end is rotatably slidably connected to the sliding groove. When the second motor 604 is started, it drives the connecting rod 605 to swing around the motor shaft. Since the second end of the swing rod is rotatably slidably connected to the sliding groove on the blocking arm 601, and the middle part of the blocking arm 601 is hinged to the second base 603, the second end of the connecting rod 605 will drive the blocking arm 601 to swing back and forth around the hinge axis, thereby causing the blocking part to switch between the third position and the fourth position.

[0118] In some optional embodiments, the sample basket conveying system provided by the present invention may further include a sample detection module, which is connected to the control module. The sample detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample in the sample basket 000 at the location of at least one of the placement station 111 and the removal station 123.

[0119] Optionally, the sample detection module includes a first sample detector 510 for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket 000 at the placement station 111. The blocking component may also include a first blocking member 630, which has a first position that allows the sample basket 000 at the placement station 111 to move downstream and a second position that blocks the sample basket 000 from moving downstream from the placement station 111. The control module can control the first blocking member 630 to be in the first position or the second position according to the detection result of the first sample detector 510.

[0120] Understandably, when a sample basket 000 is needed to collect a sample, an empty sample basket 000 needs to be placed in the placement station 111. Initially, the first blocking member 630 can be located in the first position; when the first basket detector detects the sample basket 000 at the placement station 111, the first sample detector 510 detects whether there is a sample slide in the sample basket 000. When the first sample detector 510 detects a sample slide, the control module controls the first blocking member 630 to move to the second position, preventing the sample basket 000 containing the sample slide from being transported downstream, thus avoiding the occurrence of slide insertion accidents.

[0121] Optionally, a sample insertion detection station 113 may be provided on the conveying path of the first track 110. The sample insertion detection station 113 is adjacent to and upstream of the sample insertion station 114. The basket detection module 400 may also include an eighth basket detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample basket 000 at the sample insertion detection station 113. The sample detection module may include a second sample detector 520 for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket 000 that arrives at the sample insertion detection station 113. The control module can control the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 to be in a release state or a blocking state according to the detection result of the second sample detector 520.

[0122] When sample basket 000 is needed to collect samples, when the eighth basket detector detects sample basket 000 at slide detection station 113, the second sample detector 520 checks whether there is a sample slide in sample basket 000. When the first sample detector 510 does not detect a sample slide, the control module controls the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 to be in the release state. When the second sample detector 520 detects a sample slide, the control module controls the first blocking pull-back assembly 610 to be in the blocking state. Performing dual detection of whether there is a sample slide in sample basket 000 before slide insertion further prevents slide insertion accidents.

[0123] In some optional embodiments, the sample detection module may further include a third sample detector, which is used to detect whether there is a sample in the sample basket 000 at the removal station 123. When the sample basket 000 loaded with sample slides is conveyed to the removal station 123 along the second track 120, the sample basket 000 is detected by the fifth basket detector. The control module controls the third sample detector to continuously detect whether the sample basket 000 is loaded with sample slides. When the third sample detector does not detect sample slides and the first basket detector does not detect sample basket 000, it indicates that the sample in the sample basket 000 has been completely removed and there is no sample basket 000 stored at the placement station 111. At this time, the control module controls the second transverse component 220 to convey the sample basket 000 to the placement station 111 on the first track 110.

[0124] It is understood that the sample basket transport system provided in this embodiment of the invention may include a sample basket circulation mode and a sample slide transport mode. When the sample basket transport system is in sample basket circulation mode, the sample basket 000 can be used to collect stained sample slides; when the sample basket transport system is in sample slide transport mode, the sample basket 000 loaded with sample slides to be stained can be transported, and the sample slides can be collected after staining, thus realizing the automatic staining and collection of manually prepared sample slides.

[0125] Understandably, when the sample basket conveying system is in sample basket circulation mode, only the first track 110 is allowed to convey empty sample baskets 000 to the slide insertion station 114. At this time, the control module can be set to control the first blocking component 630 to be in the first position when the first sample detector 510 does not detect a sample slide, and to be in the second position when the first sample detector 510 detects a sample slide. The first blocking pull-back component 610 can be controlled to be in the release state when the second sample detector 520 does not detect a sample slide, and to be in the blocking state when the second sample detector 520 detects a sample slide.

[0126] When the sample basket conveying system is in the sample slide conveying mode, only the first track 110 is allowed to convey the sample basket 000 carrying the sample slide to the slide insertion station 114. At this time, the control module can be set to control the first blocking component 630 to be in the first position when the first sample detector 510 detects the sample slide and to be in the second position when the first sample detector 510 does not detect the sample slide. The first blocking pull-back component 610 is also controlled to be in the release state when the second sample detector 520 detects the sample slide and to be in the blocking state when the second sample detector 520 does not detect the sample slide.

[0127] The following is a detailed explanation of the cyclic process of sample basket 000 when the sample basket transport system is in sample basket circulation mode and sample slide transport mode, respectively.

[0128] When sample basket 000 is needed to collect sample slides, the sample basket conveying system is set to sample basket circulation mode, and the sample basket 000 is placed on the first track 110 by the placement station 111. After the first basket detector detects the sample basket 000 at the placement station 111, the first sample detector 510 checks whether there is a sample slide in the sample basket 000. If a sample slide is detected, an alarm device will sound to remind the operator to remove the sample basket 000. At the same time, the first blocking member 630 will prevent the sample basket 000 from being conveyed downstream. When the detector 510 does not detect a sample slide, the first blocking member 630 is in the release state, and the sample basket 000 is conveyed downstream along the first track 110 to the input buffer station 112, where it queues up and waits. Then, the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the slide detection station 113, where it is blocked by the first blocking pull-back member. At the same time, the second sample detector 520 detects whether there is a sample slide in the sample basket 000. If a sample slide is detected, an alarm is triggered; if no sample slide is detected, the first blocking pull-back member is controlled to release the slide. When the sample basket 000 is conveyed to the slide insertion station 114, the sample basket 000 is lifted upwards to the slide insertion position by the lifting component 310, waiting for the robotic arm module to insert the sample slide into the sample basket 000; after the slide insertion is completed, the lifting component 310 drives the sample basket 000 down to the first track 110, and the sample basket 000 is conveyed along the first track 110 to the drying station 115 for the sample slide drying operation; after the drying operation is completed, the first transverse component 210 conveys the sample basket 000 to the output track changing station 12 on the second track 120. 1. The sample basket 000 completes its cross-track movement; then the sample basket 000 is transported along the second track 120 to the output buffer station 122 and blocked by the second blocking pull-back member. When the sample slide in the sample basket 000 placed at the removal station 123 is removed, the second blocking pull-back member releases the sample basket 000 and it is transported to the removal station 123. When the sample slide in the sample basket 000 is removed, the second transverse component 220 transports the sample basket 000 to the placement station 111 on the first track 110, realizing the cyclic transportation of the sample basket 000.

[0129] When single staining of sample slides is required, the sample basket conveying system is set to sample slide conveying mode, and the sample basket 000 containing sample slides is placed on the first track 110 by the placement station 111. After the first basket detector detects the sample basket 000 at the placement station 111, the first sample detector 510 checks whether there is a sample slide in the sample basket 000. If no sample slide is detected, an alarm device will sound to remind the operator to remove the sample basket 000, and the first blocking member 630 will prevent the sample basket 000 from being conveyed downstream. If the first sample detector 510 detects a sample slide, the first blocking member 630 is in the release state, and the sample basket 000 is conveyed downstream along the first track 110 to the input buffer station 112, where it queues up and waits. Then the sample basket 000 is transferred... The sample basket 000 is sent to the slide insertion station 113. At this time, the sample basket 000 is blocked by the first blocking pull-back resistor. At the same time, the second sample detector 520 detects whether there is a sample slide in the sample basket 000. If no sample slide is detected, an alarm is triggered. If a sample slide is detected, the first blocking pull-back resistor is controlled to release the slide. When the sample basket 000 is transferred to the slide insertion station 114, the sample basket 000 is lifted to the slide insertion position by the lifting component 310. It waits for the robot arm module to remove the sample slide from the sample basket 000 and move it to the staining pool for staining. After the sample slide is stained, it is inserted back into the sample basket 000 by the robot arm module. After the slide insertion is completed, the lifting component 310 drives the sample basket 000 to descend onto the first track 110. The subsequent movement process of the sample basket 000 is the same as that of the sample basket 000 in the sample basket circulation mode, and will not be described in detail here.

[0130] In addition, embodiments of the present invention also provide a sample analysis device, including the sample basket transport system as described above.

[0131] In some alternative embodiments, the sample analysis device may further include a smear preparation device and a staining pool. The smear preparation device can prepare sample slides (i.e., blood smears coated with blood films), and the staining pool can stain the sample slides.

[0132] Optionally, the smear preparation device and the staining pool can be located on the same side of the conveying device, which can reduce the size of the equipment.

[0133] Optionally, the conveying device includes a first track 110 and a second track 120 arranged in parallel. When the placement station 111 and the slide insertion station 114 are located on the conveying path of the first track 110 and the removal station 123 is located on the conveying path of the second track 120, the smear preparation device and the staining pool can be located on the side of the first track 110 away from the second track 120. This facilitates the transfer of sample slides and reduces the size of the equipment, allowing users to place and remove sample baskets 000 in the same location.

[0134] The embodiments of the present invention described above are not exhaustive, nor do they limit the invention to the specific embodiments described. Clearly, many modifications and variations can be made based on the above description. This specification selects and specifically describes these embodiments to better explain the principles and practical applications of the invention, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to effectively utilize the invention and its modifications. The invention is limited only by the claims and their full scope and equivalents.

Claims

1. A sample basket transport system, characterized in that, include: A conveying device includes n parallel conveying tracks and a track conversion component. The i-th conveying track has an insertion station, and the j-th conveying track has an exit station. The track conversion component is capable of transporting a sample basket between at least the i-th and j-th conveying tracks. At least the i-th and j-th conveying tracks and the track conversion component together form a closed-loop conveying trajectory for the sample basket, so that the sample basket can circulate along the closed-loop conveying trajectory. The number of conveying tracks is two, namely a first track and a second track running side by side. The first track has a placement station and a sample insertion station on its conveying path. The second track has a conveying direction opposite to that of the first track. The second track has an output track-changing station and a removal station on its conveying path. The track conversion component includes a first traverse component and a second traverse component. The first traverse component can convey the sample basket from the first track to the output track-changing station, and the second traverse component can convey the sample basket from the removal station to the placement station. Both the first track and the second track include two conveyor belts that extend in the same direction and are spaced apart within a first plane; Both the first lateral movement assembly and the second lateral movement assembly further include a lateral movement pad assembly. The lateral movement pad assembly includes a lateral movement pad disposed between the two conveyor belts of the first track, between the first track and the second track, and between the two conveyor belts of the second track. In a first direction perpendicular to the first plane, the top of the lateral movement pad protrudes upward from the first track and the second track to be able to lift the sample basket upward.

2. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second track extends in the same direction as the first track, the distance between the first track and the second track is less than the width of the sample basket, the first track has a first center line along its own extension direction, the second track has a second center line along its own extension direction, and the distance between the first center line and the second center line is greater than the width of the sample basket.

3. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Both the first lateral movement assembly and the second lateral movement assembly include a lateral movement pusher for pushing the sample basket and a first transmission mechanism for driving the lateral movement pusher to reciprocate between the first track and the second track.

4. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The distance between the two conveyor belts is less than the width of the sample basket.

5. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the sample basket is provided with a clearance groove for avoiding the transverse pad. The clearance groove divides the bottom of the sample basket into a first foot and a second foot. During the process of the transverse pusher propelling the sample basket between the first track and the second track, the first foot and the second foot of the sample basket are simultaneously lifted off the conveyor belt and lowered onto the conveyor belt by the two adjacent transverse pads.

6. The sample basket transport system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the location of at least one of the placement station, the removal station, the insert station, and the output track changing station. The control module is capable of controlling the operation of the conveyor track and the track conversion component based on the detection results of the basket detection module.

7. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The insertion station is equipped with a lifting assembly, which is used to lift the sample basket that arrives at the insertion station upwards so that the sample basket is removed from the first track. The basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the insertion station. The control module controls whether the lifting assembly lifts the sample basket upwards based on the detection result of the basket detection module.

8. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a positioning mechanism for cooperating with a positioning element on the sample basket to position the sample basket raised to a preset insert position, the positioning mechanism being disposed at the insert station.

9. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: A sample detection module is used to detect the presence or absence of a sample in the sample basket at the location of at least one of the placement station and the removal station. A blocking component for preventing the sample basket from continuing to be conveyed downstream.

10. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sample detection module includes a first sample detector for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket arriving at the placement station. The blocking component includes a first blocking member, which has a first position that allows the sample basket at the placement station to move downstream and a second position that blocks the sample basket from moving downstream from the placement station. The control module controls the first blocking member to be located at the first position or the second position according to the detection result of the first sample detector.

11. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first track also has a insert detection station on its conveying path. The insert detection station is adjacent to the insert station and is located upstream of the insert station. The sample detection module includes a second sample detector for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket at the insertion testing station. The blocking component includes a first blocking pull-back component, which has a release state that allows the sample basket at the insertion testing station to move towards the insertion station and a blocking state that blocks the sample basket from moving downstream from the insertion testing station. The control module controls the first blocking pull-back component to be in the release state or the blocking state according to the detection result of the second sample detector.

12. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The blocking assembly further includes a second blocking pull-back assembly, which has a release state that allows a sample basket located upstream of the removal station to move to the removal station and a blocking state that blocks the sample basket upstream of the removal station. The basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the removal station. The control module controls the second blocking pull-back assembly to be in the release state or the blocking state according to the operating state of the second traverse assembly and the detection result of the basket detection module.

13. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 12, characterized in that, Both the first and second blocking pull-back assemblies include a blocking arm and a second transmission mechanism for driving the blocking arm to swing back and forth. The blocking arm includes a blocking part, which is provided with a clearance notch that only allows its top end to contact the sample basket. The blocking part has a third position located below the conveying track and a fourth position located above the conveying track. When the blocking part is located in the fourth position, the top end of the blocking part abuts against the bottom of the sample basket.

14. The sample basket transfer system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sample detection module further includes a third sample detector for detecting whether there is a sample in the sample basket arriving at the removal station; the basket detection module is used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the placement station and the removal station; the control module controls whether the second traverse component transfers the sample basket from the removal station to the placement station based on the detection results of the basket detection module and the third sample detector.

15. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 6, characterized in that, An input buffer station is also provided on the conveying path of the first track, the input buffer station being located between the placement station and the insert station; and / or An output buffer station is also provided on the conveying path of the second track, and the output buffer station is located between the output track changing station and the removal station.

16. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 7, characterized in that, A drying station is also provided on the conveying path of the first track. The drying station is located downstream of the insert station, and the samples in the sample basket are used to dry at the drying station.

17. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first traverse component is used to transfer the sample basket from the drying station to the output track-changing station.

18. The sample basket conveying system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The basket detection module is also used to detect whether there is a sample basket at the drying station.

19. A sample analysis device, characterized in that, Includes the sample basket transport system as described in any one of claims 1 to 18; The sample analysis equipment also includes a smear preparation device for preparing sample slides and a staining pool for staining the sample slides, wherein the smear preparation device and the staining pool are located on the same side of the conveying device.

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