Reaction vessel in-place detection method, detection device, and sample analysis apparatus

Abstract

The application provides a reaction container in-place detection method, a detection device and a sample analysis equipment. The method comprises the following steps: continuously acquiring a target parameter of a disc belt conveying mechanism conveying a reaction container; judging whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold value within a target detection time length; if yes, determining that the reaction container is in an in-place state of abutting against a conveying positioning table, making the disc belt conveying mechanism pause and output an in-place signal; otherwise, determining that the reaction container on the conveying belt of the disc belt conveying mechanism and the push block at the end of the conveying belt are both stripped, making the disc belt conveying mechanism pause and output a warning signal. Based on the technical scheme of the application, the acquisition of the related parameters is utilized, and the analysis of the parameters is utilized to detect whether the reaction container is in place and whether the reaction container disc needs to be replaced. Compared with the conventional detection means using optical or other sensors, the sensors do not need to be arranged, which is beneficial to cost control, and the detection result is more stable and reliable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of reaction vessel delivery and detection technology, and particularly to a method, detection device, and sample analysis equipment for detecting the arrival of a reaction vessel. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in the field of automated conveying, it is necessary to detect whether the conveyed workpieces are in place. Conventional methods for detection rely on direct sensor detection, such as installing optical sensors or other sensing components at the workstation to detect the presence of workpieces. While this method can directly reflect whether the workpiece is in place, its application scenarios are limited. For example, in the field of sample analysis, samples are often transported using reaction vessels as carriers. These reaction vessels are generally small in size and typically made of colorless and transparent plastic, making it difficult for optical sensors to accurately detect their placement. Furthermore, given the current conveyor belt systems used for transporting reaction vessels, the accuracy of traditional optical sensors for placement detection is unpredictable.

[0003] Specifically, in a belt conveyor system, the reaction containers are detachably mounted on the conveyor belt using methods such as bonding or snap-fitting. The conveying principle is that the subsequent reaction container that is not detached from the conveyor belt pushes the preceding reaction container that has been detached. Because the conveyor belt is wound, the reaction container at the center of the winding structure at the end of the conveyor belt will be compressed. Therefore, to prevent excessive compression and damage to the reaction container, a pusher block is usually detachably installed at the very end of the conveyor belt to absorb the compression on behalf of the reaction container. Furthermore, the pusher block pushes the preceding reaction container that has been detached from the conveyor belt forward when it is not detached from the conveyor belt.

[0004] However, since the pusher block will eventually detach from the conveyor belt, and the position or timing of its detachment is uncontrollable and random, for example, when the pusher block detaches from the conveyor belt and falls, the foremost reaction container may just trigger the positioning sensor. But at this time, since the last pusher block on the conveyor belt has already detached, there are no other components on the conveyor belt that can push the reaction container in front to move further. Therefore, no matter how the disc conveyor mechanism operates, it cannot move the foremost reaction container further into position. Inaccurate positioning affects the gripper of the sample analyzer in grasping the reaction container.

[0005] While the above problems can be addressed by adding more sensors or other power components to further propel the reaction vessel, this would complicate the overall detection mechanism and incur additional costs. Therefore, this invention proposes a reaction vessel positioning detection method, detection device, and sample analysis equipment to overcome the limitations and inaccuracies of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the limitations and inaccuracies of existing detection schemes for reaction vessel positioning, this invention proposes a reaction vessel positioning detection method, detection device, and sample analysis equipment.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting the position of a reaction vessel, comprising:

[0008] Continuously acquire the target parameters of the belt conveyor mechanism for transporting the reaction vessel;

[0009] Determine whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold within the target detection time;

[0010] If so, then determine that the reaction vessel is in the position of abutting the conveyor positioning table, and cause the belt conveyor mechanism to pause and output a position signal;

[0011] Otherwise, if it is determined that the reaction vessel on the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor mechanism and the pusher block at the end of the conveyor belt have been detached, the disc conveyor mechanism will be paused and a warning signal will be output.

[0012] In one implementation, it further includes:

[0013] When the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the belt conveyor is paused and then reversed for a first preset time to reduce the degree of compression between the reaction vessel and the conveyor positioning table in the position.

[0014] In one implementation, it further includes:

[0015] The first preset time is not less than the target relaxation time, which is the minimum time required for the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor mechanism to relax from the tensioned state when the reaction vessel is in place to the relaxed state.

[0016] In one implementation, it further includes:

[0017] When the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the belt conveyor is paused for a second preset time and then reversed for a first preset time.

[0018] In one implementation, it further includes:

[0019] Determine whether the disc conveyor mechanism is operating for the first time after the reaction vessel disc has been replaced;

[0020] If so, the first detection duration shall be used as the target detection duration;

[0021] Otherwise, the second detection duration is used as the target detection duration, where the second detection duration is less than the first detection duration.

[0022] In one embodiment, when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold, the belt conveyor is paused and then reversed for a first preset time, and the first preset time is kept less than the second detection time.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first preset duration is less than the critical duration, the critical duration is less than the second detection duration, and the critical duration satisfies that its sum with the arrival duration is not greater than the second detection duration; the arrival duration is the time required for the next reaction container to be pushed forward by the belt conveyor mechanism from the beginning until it is transported to the arrival state after the previous reaction container in the arrival state is taken away.

[0024] In one embodiment, during the process of the reaction vessel or the pusher being detached from the conveyor belt, the value of the target parameter has a predetermined fluctuation range, and the preset threshold is outside the predetermined fluctuation range.

[0025] In one embodiment, the target parameters include the real-time rotational speed, real-time voltage, real-time current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor.

[0026] In one embodiment, when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the maximum output force of the drive motor of the belt conveyor is less than the smaller of the safe extrusion pressure of the reaction vessel and the safe tension of the conveyor belt.

[0027] In one embodiment, the disc conveyor mechanism includes a reaction vessel disc and a drive motor. The reaction vessel disc includes a disc body, a conveyor belt, and a traction wheel. The drive motor is connected to and drives the traction wheel to pull the conveyor belt. The reaction vessel is detachably fixed to the conveyor belt, and the pusher block is adhered to the conveyor belt.

[0028] In one embodiment, the belt conveyor mechanism has a corresponding feed trough, and the reaction vessel stripped by the conveyor belt can enter the feed trough sequentially and move along the feed trough under the push of the unstripped reaction vessel or the pusher block. A conveying positioning platform is provided at the end of the feed trough.

[0029] Secondly, the present invention provides a reaction vessel positioning detection device, comprising:

[0030] The parameter acquisition module is used to continuously acquire the target parameters of the belt conveyor mechanism that transports the reaction vessel.

[0031] The parameter judgment module is used to determine whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold within the target detection time.

[0032] The first execution module is used to determine that the reaction vessel is in the position of abutting the conveyor positioning table when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold, thereby pausing the belt conveyor mechanism and outputting a positioning signal; and

[0033] The second execution module is used to determine that the reaction vessel on the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor mechanism and the pusher block at the end of the conveyor belt have been stripped off when the value of the target parameter has not increased or decreased to the corresponding preset threshold, so that the disc conveyor mechanism is paused and a warning signal is output.

[0034] Thirdly, the present invention provides a sample analysis device that applies the above-mentioned reaction vessel placement detection method.

[0035] The above-mentioned technical features can be combined in various suitable ways or replaced by equivalent technical features, as long as the purpose of the present invention can be achieved.

[0036] The reaction vessel positioning detection method, detection device, and sample analysis equipment provided by this invention have at least the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0037] The present invention discloses a reaction vessel positioning detection method, detection device, and sample analysis equipment. By acquiring relevant parameters of the conveying mechanism and analyzing the parameters, the method detects whether the reaction vessel is in position and whether the reaction vessel tray needs to be replaced. Compared with conventional detection methods that use optical or other sensors, this method eliminates the need for sensors, which is beneficial for cost control, and the detection results are more stable and reliable. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 The main flowchart of the detection method of the present invention is shown;

[0040] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the belt conveyor mechanism used in the detection method of the present invention is shown.

[0041] Figure 3 Showing Figure 2 The diagram shown is a side view of the structure of the belt conveyor mechanism.

[0042] Figure 4 Showing Figure 2 A partial structural diagram of the conveyor belt and feed trough at the bottom center;

[0043] Figure 5 Showing Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the reaction vessel disk section.

[0044] In the accompanying drawings, the same parts use the same reference numerals. The drawings are not to scale.

[0045] Figure label:

[0046] 1-Plate conveyor mechanism, 11-Reaction vessel plate, 111-Plate body, 112-Traction wheel, 113-Conveyor belt, 12-Drive motor, 2-Reaction vessel, 3-Push block, 4-Feed chute, 5-Conveying positioning platform, 6-Guide wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Specifically, in the field of fully automated coagulation analysis, a disc-type conveyor mechanism is used, where the reaction containers are fixed on the conveyor belt and coiled into a disc structure. During transport, the disc structure formed by the conveyor belt unfolds to transport the reaction containers. For two adjacent reaction containers on the conveyor belt, the first reaction container will completely detach from the conveyor belt at a fixed position, while the second reaction container will not detach from the conveyor belt or will not detach completely. In this case, the second reaction container will push the first reaction container under the action of the conveyor belt.

[0048] The invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Example 1

[0050] Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for detecting the position of a reaction vessel, mainly applied to a belt conveyor mechanism, as shown in the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 The method includes:

[0051] Step S100: Continuously acquire the target parameters of the conveyor belt 1 of the conveyor container 2. The target parameters include the real-time speed, real-time voltage, real-time current of the drive motor 14 of the conveyor belt 1, or the tension of the conveyor belt 11 of the conveyor belt 1.

[0052] As shown in the attached figure Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in the figure, the belt conveyor mechanism 1 used in this embodiment includes a reaction vessel tray 11 and a drive motor 12. The reaction vessel tray 11 includes a tray body 111, a conveyor belt 113, and a traction wheel 112. The drive motor 12 is connected to and drives the traction wheel 112 to pull the conveyor belt 113. The reaction vessel 2 is detachably fixed to the conveyor belt 113, and the pusher block 3 is adhered to the conveyor belt 113. Furthermore, the reaction vessel tray 11 is a replaceable structure relative to the belt conveyor mechanism 1 as a whole, as shown in the attached figure. Figure 2As shown, the disc conveyor 1 has a fixed back plate, and the reaction vessel disc 11 is detachably mounted on the back plate. After the reaction vessel 2 on the conveyor belt 113 in the reaction vessel disc 11 is conveyed, a new reaction vessel disc 11 can be replaced.

[0053] In addition, the belt conveyor 1 is equipped with a feed trough 4. The reaction container 2 stripped by the conveyor belt 113 can enter the feed trough 4 in sequence and move along the feed trough 4 under the push of the unstripped reaction container 2 or the pusher block 3. A conveying positioning platform 5 is provided at the end of the feed trough 4.

[0054] Specifically, the structure of the belt conveyor 1 is shown in the attached figure. Figure 1 As shown, multiple reaction vessels 2 are detachably connected to the conveyor belt 113 in sequence, and then wound into a disc-shaped structure. At the center of the disc-shaped structure, i.e., at the end of the conveyor belt 113, a pusher block 3 is set. The pusher block 3 mainly serves two functions: First, it protects the reaction vessels 2 at the end of the conveyor belt 113. Because the space at the center of the wound spiral structure is small, the reaction vessels 2 may be crushed. Therefore, the rigid pusher block 3 bears the compressive force and protects the reaction vessels 2 at the end. Second, during conveying, the conveyor belt 113 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1 serves as a driving component, a storage component, and a feeding component. (See attached figure) Figure 3 In the structure shown, there is no conveying power in the feed trough 4 below the conveyor belt 113 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1. When the reaction vessel 2 enters the feed trough 4 after being separated from the conveyor belt 113, it moves forward by the thrust of the reaction vessels 2 behind it that have not yet been separated from the conveyor belt 113. Therefore, for the reaction vessel 2 at the end of the conveyor belt 113, there are no other reaction vessels 2 behind it, so it is pushed forward by the pusher block 3. When the reaction vessel 2 moves along the feed trough 4 to the predetermined station, it abuts against the conveyor positioning table 5, and is then removed by the scheduling mechanism (such as the reaction vessel 2 gripper). The reaction vessels 2 behind it then move further to the predetermined station, and this process is repeated.

[0055] Based on the conveying principle of the belt conveyor mechanism 1, the conveying process involves conditions such as the separation of the reaction vessel 2 from the conveyor belt 113 and the pushing between the reaction vessels 2. These conditions involve the interaction of forces between various components, which in turn affect relevant parameters of the belt conveyor mechanism 1. For example, the real-time speed, real-time voltage, and real-time current of the drive motor 12 of the belt conveyor mechanism, or the tension of the conveyor belt 113 of the belt conveyor mechanism 1, can all be used as target parameters. Of course, the types of target parameters listed above are only some common parameters. Based on the concept of this invention, other relevant parameters can also be used.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in the attached figure Figures 2 to 4As shown, guide wheels 6 are also provided between the conveyor belt 113 and the feed trough 4 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1. Preferably, two guide wheels 6 are provided in this embodiment, and the straight section connecting the two guide wheels 6 is parallel to the extending direction of the feed trough 4. The guide wheels 6 are used to change the direction of the conveyor belt 113. In this embodiment, the two guide wheels 6 achieve two effects by changing the direction of the conveyor belt 113:

[0057] Firstly, the first guide wheel 6 set in the traction direction of the conveyor belt 113 in this embodiment is mainly used to guide the forward direction of the conveyor belt 113 to be parallel to the feed trough 4, so that the reaction vessel 22 on the conveyor belt 113 can smoothly enter the feed trough 4, thus playing a guiding role in feeding.

[0058] Secondly, regarding the second guide wheel 6 provided in the traction direction of the conveyor belt 113 in this embodiment, it is used to redirect the forward direction of the conveyor belt 113 to be non-parallel to the feed trough 4. Since the conveyor belt 113 is a relatively flexible structure, it can change direction and continue forward with the guidance of the guide wheel 6. The reaction vessel 2 and the pusher block 3, after moving along the feed trough 4 to the second guide wheel 6, are blocked by the limiting structure at the top opening of the feed trough 4 and cannot detach from the feed trough 4 to continue forward with the conveyor belt 113, which has changed direction via the guide wheel 6. This achieves the separation of the two, effectively separating the reaction vessel 2 and the pusher block 3 from the conveyor belt 113. The separated reaction vessel 2 can continue forward along the feed trough 4 under the push of the unseparated reaction vessel 2 or the pusher block 3, while the pusher block 3 will fall to the bottom of the feed trough 4 at a non-fixed position at the second guide wheel 6, awaiting cleaning by personnel.

[0059] Step S200: Determine whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold within the target detection time;

[0060] Specifically, based on the aforementioned conveying principle of the belt conveyor mechanism 1, the reaction containers 2 sequentially enter the predetermined workstations. Therefore, the time it takes for one reaction container 2 to be taken from the previous one to the next is basically fixed; this is the arrival time. During this process, the target parameters of the belt conveyor mechanism 1 will change regularly. Therefore, a target detection time longer than the arrival time is set to accommodate the possible fluctuations in the arrival time. At the same time, the target detection time also specifies the duration for issuing idling warning information, detecting changes in the target parameters within the target detection time.

[0061] Specifically, before entering the designated station, the entire belt conveyor mechanism 1 operates stably, pushing the corresponding reaction vessel 2 towards the designated station. Thus, the target parameters of the belt conveyor mechanism 1 remain basically stable during this process. After the foremost reaction vessel 2 enters the designated station, due to the obstruction of the conveyor positioning platform 5 at the designated station, the entire conveying of the reaction vessel 2 cannot proceed further. However, because the reaction vessel 2 has a certain degree of elasticity, the conveying resistance increases and directly acts on the belt conveyor mechanism 1, causing a change in the value of the target parameter, i.e., an increase or decrease, depending on the type of target parameter. For example, regarding the tension of the conveyor belt 113 and the current and voltage of the drive motor 12, an increase in resistance means an increase in the tension of the conveyor belt 113 and an increase in the load on the drive motor 12, thus increasing the tension of the conveyor belt 113 and the current and voltage of the drive motor 12. Alternatively, the target parameter value may decrease; for example, regarding the speed of the drive motor 12, an increase in resistance means an increase in the load, thus decreasing the speed.

[0062] Since the values ​​of the target parameters change during the positioning of reaction vessel 2, the increase or decrease of the target parameter values ​​can only indicate that reaction vessel 2 has entered the predetermined position, but not necessarily that it is accurately positioned. In order to further reflect the accurate positioning of reaction vessel 2 and obtain the corresponding detection information, a corresponding preset threshold is set. When the value of the target parameter changes to the preset threshold within the target detection time, it indicates that it is accurately positioned.

[0063] Preferably, during the process of the reaction vessel 2 or the pusher block 3 being stripped from the conveyor belt 113, the value of the target parameter has a predetermined fluctuation range, and the preset threshold is outside the predetermined fluctuation range.

[0064] Specifically, as shown in the attached diagram, when the reaction vessel 2 or pusher block 3 is detached from the conveyor belt 113, the guide wheel 6 at the detachment position reverses the direction of the conveyor belt 113, and the limiting structure at the opening of the feed trough 4 blocks the reaction vessel 2 or pusher block 3. This overcomes the connection force between the reaction vessel 2 or pusher block 3 and the conveyor belt 113. This force also acts on the conveyor belt 113, causing a change in the value of the target parameter. This change is generally within a certain range and can be measured. Therefore, the selection of the preset threshold needs to be compatible with this situation, that is, the preset threshold should be outside the predetermined fluctuation range so that during the normal process of the reaction vessel 2 or pusher block 3 detaching from the conveyor belt 113, the change in the value of the target parameter will not mistakenly trigger the positioning state.

[0065] Step S210: Determine whether the belt conveyor 1 is the first operation after the reaction vessel tray 11 has been replaced;

[0066] Step S220: If so, then the first detection duration is used as the target detection duration;

[0067] Step S230: Otherwise, use the second detection duration as the target detection duration, where the second detection duration is less than the first detection duration;

[0068] Specifically, steps S210 to S230 are designed to accommodate special cases where the target detection time is not fully utilized. Specifically, during the initial operation of the belt conveyor 11 after replacing the reaction vessel tray 11, the feed trough 4 may not contain any reaction vessels 2 or may not be full. Furthermore, the front end of the conveyor belt 113 of the new reaction vessel tray 11 may have a blank section without a reaction vessel 2. The drive motor 12 will first pull out this blank section. During this process, the target parameters of the belt conveyor 1 remain relatively stable. This process typically takes longer than the time it takes for the previously placed reaction vessel 2 to be moved to the next predetermined station. For example, the first detection time is 30 seconds, and the second detection time is 5 seconds. Therefore, during the initial operation of the belt conveyor 1 after replacing the reaction vessel tray 11, the longer first detection time should be used as the target detection time to avoid accidentally triggering an idle warning when using the second detection time as the target detection time.

[0069] It should be noted that steps S210 to S230 are placed here only to correspond with step 200. In fact, they should be executed before step 200 or simultaneously with step S200.

[0070] Step S300: If yes, then determine that the reaction vessel 2 is in the position state of abutting the conveyor positioning table 5, so that the belt conveyor mechanism 1 is paused and outputs a position signal;

[0071] Specifically, when the value of the target parameter changes to a preset threshold, it indicates that the reaction vessel 2 has accurately reached its position. At this point, the conveyor belt mechanism 1 is paused, and it continues to transport the next reaction vessel 2 after the dispatching mechanism removes the reaction vessel 2 from its designated position. Compared to the direct detection by optical sensors used in existing technologies, the positioning status can be determined more accurately through data acquisition and analysis.

[0072] Preferably, to ensure the safe operation of the mechanism, when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the maximum output force of the drive motor 12 of the belt conveyor mechanism 1 is less than the smaller of the safe extrusion force of the reaction vessel 2 and the safe tension of the conveyor belt 113. The maximum output force of the drive motor 12 can be determined based on the torque and rotation radius of the drive motor 12. The safe extrusion force is the maximum force that prevents the reaction vessel 2 from being crushed, and the safe tension is the maximum force that prevents the conveyor belt 113 from being broken.

[0073] Step S310: When the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the belt conveyor 1 is paused and then reversed for a first preset time to reduce the degree of compression between the reaction container 2 and the conveying positioning table 5 in the position.

[0074] Specifically, after the reaction container 2 reaches the predetermined station, it will be squeezed by the conveyor positioning table 5. This squeezing will be maintained by the tension of the conveyor belt 113, which may make it difficult for the dispatching mechanism to remove the reaction container 2 at the predetermined station. Therefore, by reversing the operation of the disc conveyor mechanism 1 (i.e., reversing the drive motor 12 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1) for a certain period of time, the conveyor belt 113 will be relaxed, thereby making the reaction container 2 at the predetermined station and the conveyor positioning table 5 separate from each other, so as to facilitate the removal of the reaction container 2.

[0075] Preferably, when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the belt conveyor 1 is paused for a second preset time and then reversed for a first preset time.

[0076] Specifically, when a motor suddenly switches from forward to reverse rotation, a large instantaneous current is generated inside the motor. While motor control allows for a sudden switch from forward to reverse rotation during the forward rotation process, considering the frequent switching between forward and reverse rotation in this application scenario, a stop action is designed to ensure the reliability of the motor. This allows the motor's operating current to stabilize and mitigates the risks of excessive current leading to overheating and reduced lifespan. Therefore, when the target parameter value increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the controller should first issue a motor stop signal to stop the drive motor 12 for a second preset duration, and then control the drive motor 12 to reverse, releasing the pressure on the reaction vessel 2 and facilitating its removal.

[0077] Preferably, the first preset time is not less than the target relaxation time, which is the minimum time required for the conveyor belt 113 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1 to relax from the tensioned state when the reaction vessel 2 is in place to the relaxed state.

[0078] Specifically, the increase or decrease of the target parameter corresponds to the continuous increase of the tension in the conveyor belt 113. In order to release the compressive pressure on the reaction vessel 2, that is, to relax the conveyor belt 113 from a taut state to a slack state, the reverse rotation time of the drive motor 12 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1 must be at least not less than the target relaxation time, preferably the two times are equal. The target relaxation time can be determined based on the minimum time required for the conveyor belt 113 to rotate from forward to tension and then reverse to relaxation at a certain speed of the drive motor 12 during actual operation. In other words, the target relaxation time can be obtained experimentally.

[0079] Preferably, when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold, the belt conveyor 1 is paused and then reversed for a first preset time, and the first preset time is kept less than the second detection time.

[0080] Furthermore, the first preset duration is less than the critical duration, the critical duration is less than the second detection duration, and the critical duration satisfies that its sum with the arrival duration is not greater than the second detection duration; the arrival duration is the time required for the next reaction container 2 to be pushed forward by the belt conveyor 1 from the beginning until it is transported to the arrival state after the previous reaction container 2 in the arrival state is taken away.

[0081] Specifically, as can be seen from the foregoing, the second detection duration set in this application is based on the idling warning and is also compatible with the detection duration for the reaction vessel 2 to arrive. That is, the normal arrival of the reaction vessel 2 occurs within the time period corresponding to the second detection duration. Therefore, the second detection duration is often set longer than the arrival duration. The reaction vessel 2 arrives sequentially during the transport process, so the arrival detection process is also repeated sequentially. In this embodiment, the moment when the drive motor 12 starts rotating forward is taken as the detection starting point, that is, as the starting point of the second detection duration (or the first detection duration during the first run after replacing the reaction vessel tray 11). Each time the drive motor 12 stops running after the reaction vessel 2 arrives, the timing is reset the next time it starts rotating forward.

[0082] When the drive motor 12 reverses to release the pressure on the positioned reaction container 2, it stops after a first preset time of reversal. At this point, the previously positioned reaction container 2 is removed, and the motor restarts in forward rotation until the next reaction container 2 is delivered. During the process of the motor restarting in forward rotation until the next reaction container 2 is delivered, two processes occur: first, the portion of the conveyor belt 113 that was retracted due to the reversal is pulled back out (the duration of this stage is determined by the reversal time); then, the normal delivery of the reaction container 2 to its position occurs (i.e., the stage corresponding to the delivery time, the duration of which can generally be determined through actual measurement). Therefore, the sum of the durations of the two stages cannot exceed the second detection time. Thus, simply limiting the first preset time to be less than the second detection time might theoretically meet the requirement, but it cannot completely guarantee that the sum of the durations of the two stages will not exceed the second detection time. Therefore, the first preset time needs to be further less than a critical time, and the critical time is also less than the second detection time. The critical time must be such that the sum of the critical time and the arrival time required for the normal delivery stage of the reaction vessel 2 is not greater than the second detection time, so as to ensure that no idling warning is triggered during the forward rotation after the reversal.

[0083] Step S400: Otherwise, if it is determined that the reaction vessel 2 on the conveyor belt 113 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1 and the pusher block 3 at the end of the conveyor belt 113 have been stripped off, the disc conveyor mechanism 1 is paused and a warning signal is output.

[0084] Specifically, if the target parameter value of the disc conveyor 1 does not meet the change characteristics of step S200, it indicates that the disc conveyor 1 is currently in an idling state, that is, all the reaction containers 2 on the conveyor belt 113 and the push block 3 at the end are detached from the conveyor belt 113, and the entire disc conveyor 1 loses the resistance for normal conveying of the reaction containers 2, so its target parameter has not changed much. At this time, it indicates that a new reaction container disc 11 of the disc conveyor 1 needs to be replaced.

[0085] Furthermore, when the target parameter is the real-time speed of the drive motor 12, the drive motor 12 is a DC brushless motor with built-in speed feedback. It is understood that a stepper motor with encoder speed feedback or other motors that can provide speed feedback can also be selected, or a speed detection mechanism can be designed to realize the speed feedback of the drive motor 12.

[0086] This embodiment eliminates the traditional sensor used to detect the position of the reaction vessel 2, and also eliminates the need to replace the detection sensor in the reaction vessel tray 11. By acquiring relevant parameters of the conveying mechanism and analyzing these parameters, it detects whether the reaction vessel 2 is in position and whether the reaction vessel tray 11 needs to be replaced. This greatly improves the reliability and stability of the detection of the reaction vessel 2, and significantly reduces design costs, hardware costs, and control costs.

[0087] Example 2

[0088] An embodiment of the present invention provides a reaction vessel 2 position detection device, comprising:

[0089] The parameter acquisition module is used to continuously acquire the target parameters of the belt conveyor 1 that transports the reaction vessel 2.

[0090] The parameter judgment module is used to determine whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to the corresponding preset threshold within the target detection time.

[0091] The first execution module is used to determine that the reaction vessel 2 is in the position of abutting the conveyor positioning table 5 when the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold, thereby pausing the belt conveyor mechanism 1 and outputting a positioning signal; and

[0092] The second execution module is used to determine that the reaction vessel 2 on the conveyor belt 113 of the disc conveyor mechanism 1 and the pusher block 3 at the end of the conveyor belt 113 have been stripped when the value of the target parameter has not increased or decreased to the corresponding preset threshold, so that the disc conveyor mechanism 1 is paused and a warning signal is output.

[0093] Example 3

[0094] An embodiment of the present invention provides a sample analysis device that applies the reaction vessel placement detection method of Embodiment 1.

[0095] The sample analysis equipment can employ two sets of disc conveyor mechanisms and corresponding feed trough components. Using the aforementioned arrival detection method, when one disc conveyor mechanism outputs a warning signal, the other disc conveyor mechanism is activated. Under normal circumstances, the two disc conveyor mechanisms operate alternately, with one in standby mode. The entire sample analysis equipment can be replaced without shutting down. When both disc conveyor mechanisms output warning signals, the sample analysis equipment is shut down.

[0096] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "bottom", "top", "front", "rear", "inner", "outer", "left", "right", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0097] While the invention has been described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely examples of the principles and applications of the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that many modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments, and other arrangements can be designed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It should be understood that different dependent claims and features described herein can be combined in ways different from those described in the original claims. It is also understood that features described in conjunction with individual embodiments can be used in other described embodiments.

Claims

1. A method for detecting the position of a reaction vessel, characterized in that, include: The target parameters of the belt conveyor for transporting the reaction vessel are continuously acquired. The target parameters include the real-time speed, real-time voltage, real-time current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor. Determine whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold within the target detection time; If, within the target detection time, the real-time voltage or real-time current of the drive motor of the disc conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the disc conveyor decreases to a preset threshold, then the reaction vessel is determined to be in the position of abutting the conveyor positioning table, and the disc conveyor is paused and a position signal is output. If, within the target detection time, the real-time voltage or current of the drive motor of the disc conveyor or the tension of the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor does not increase to a preset threshold, or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the disc conveyor does not decrease to a preset threshold, it is determined that the reaction vessel on the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor and the pusher at the end of the conveyor belt have been stripped off, causing the disc conveyor to pause and output a warning signal.

2. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When the real-time voltage or current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the belt conveyor decreases to a preset threshold, the belt conveyor is paused and then reversed for a first preset time to reduce the degree of compression between the reaction vessel in the position and the conveyor positioning table.

3. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: The first preset time is not less than the target relaxation time, which is the minimum time required for the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor mechanism to relax from the tensioned state when the reaction vessel is in place to the relaxed state.

4. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: When the real-time voltage or real-time current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the belt conveyor decreases to a preset threshold, the belt conveyor is paused for a second preset time and then reversed for a first preset time.

5. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Determine whether the disc conveyor mechanism is operating for the first time after the reaction vessel disc has been replaced; If so, the first detection duration shall be used as the target detection duration; Otherwise, the second detection duration is used as the target detection duration, where the second detection duration is less than the first detection duration.

6. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the real-time voltage or real-time current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the belt conveyor decreases to a preset threshold, the belt conveyor is paused and then reversed for a first preset time, and the first preset time is kept less than the second detection time.

7. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first preset duration is less than the critical duration, the critical duration is less than the second detection duration, and the critical duration satisfies that its sum with the arrival duration is not greater than the second detection duration; the arrival duration is the time required for the next reaction container to be pushed forward by the belt conveyor mechanism from the beginning until it is transported to the arrival state after the previous reaction container in the arrival state is taken away.

8. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the process of the reaction vessel or the pusher being detached from the conveyor belt, the value of the target parameter has a predetermined fluctuation range, and the preset threshold is outside the predetermined fluctuation range.

9. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, When the real-time voltage or real-time current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor increases to a preset threshold, or the real-time rotational speed of the drive motor of the belt conveyor decreases to a preset threshold, the maximum output force of the drive motor of the belt conveyor is less than the smaller of the safe extrusion pressure of the reaction vessel and the safe tension of the conveyor belt.

10. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The disc conveyor mechanism includes a reaction vessel disc and a drive motor. The reaction vessel disc includes a disc body, a conveyor belt, and a traction wheel. The drive motor is connected to and drives the traction wheel to pull the conveyor belt. The reaction vessel is detachably fixed to the conveyor belt, and the pusher block is attached to the conveyor belt.

11. The reaction vessel positioning detection method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The belt conveyor mechanism is equipped with a feeding trough. The reaction containers stripped from the conveyor belt can enter the feeding trough sequentially and move along the feeding trough under the push of the unstripped reaction containers or the pusher block. A conveying positioning platform is provided at the end of the feeding trough.

12. A reaction vessel positioning detection device, characterized in that, include: The parameter acquisition module is used to continuously acquire target parameters of the belt conveyor mechanism for transporting the reaction vessel; the target parameters include the real-time speed, real-time voltage, real-time current of the drive motor of the belt conveyor mechanism, or the tension of the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor mechanism. The parameter judgment module is used to determine whether the value of the target parameter increases or decreases to a corresponding preset threshold within the target detection time. The first execution module is used to determine that the reaction vessel is in the position of abutting the conveyor positioning table when the real-time voltage or real-time current of the drive motor of the disc conveyor increases to a preset threshold or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the disc conveyor decreases to a preset threshold within the target detection time, thereby pausing the disc conveyor and outputting a position signal. as well as The second execution module is used to determine that the reaction vessel on the conveyor belt and the pusher block at the end of the conveyor belt have been stripped off when the real-time voltage or real-time current of the drive motor of the disc conveyor or the tension of the conveyor belt of the disc conveyor does not increase to a preset threshold or the real-time speed of the drive motor of the disc conveyor does not decrease to a preset threshold within the target detection time. This causes the disc conveyor to pause and output a warning signal.

13. A sample analysis device, characterized in that, Its application is the reaction vessel positioning detection method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

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