Automatic analysis system and information inheritance method in automatic analysis system

Abstract

The biochemical analysis device (110) and the immunological analysis device (210) each have unique identification information and cumulative information associated with the unique identification information, and perform analysis of a sample. A control device (300) controls the operation of the biochemical analysis device (110) and the immunological analysis device (210), and manages the unique identification information and the cumulative information of each of the biochemical analysis device (110) and the immunological analysis device (210). When the biochemical analysis device (110) and the immunological analysis device (210) are reorganized in the system, the control device (300) inherits the cumulative information of the newly introduced biochemical analysis device (110) and the immunological analysis device (210) in the system before reorganization based on the unique identification information, and manages the cumulative information in the new system based on the inherited cumulative information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automated analysis system for quantitative and qualitative analysis of biological samples (hereinafter referred to as specimens) such as blood or plasma, serum, urine, and other bodily fluids, as well as a method for information inheritance in such an automated analysis system. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of a method to shorten the time from when the medium containing the device database fails until the user can perform analysis again, and to simplify the recovery of the database before the failure even without performing the registration and calibration of reagent balances, and to confirm the integrity of the recovered database, Patent Document 1 describes configuring a backup of the database on a sub-operation unit and configuring a symbol for confirming the integrity of the recovered database on the analysis and measurement module.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-90369 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Automated analysis devices for quantitative and qualitative analysis of samples are used in many medical institutions, primarily in hospitals and clinical testing centers that need to process multiple patient samples in a short period of time.

[0008] As such automated analysis devices, various automated analysis devices of small, medium and large sizes have been developed to meet the sample processing capabilities required by various medical institutions.

[0009] As a software element supporting the automatic analysis device, it includes software for the operation unit and the control unit. For items or settings requested by the user through the operation unit, the control unit activates various mechanisms within the device according to these items or settings, thereby performing analysis.

[0010] Regarding the technology for obtaining accumulated information from such an automated analysis device, Patent Document 1 describes the following: using an external storage medium to build a backup of a database containing device-specific information such as calibration curve information and reagent balance information, and restoring the database in the event of a failure of the storage medium held by the device.

[0011] By obtaining the accumulated information from the automatic analysis device, especially the accumulated information such as device adjustment values, device start-up time, and lamp operation time, it is possible to determine the number of parts to be replaced and whether maintenance is required.

[0012] In addition, in an automatic analysis device, there is a combined device (hereinafter referred to as an automatic analysis system) that combines a group of devices consisting of one analysis device and a device that performs the pre-analysis operation of the analysis device into one device, and improves processing capacity by combining multiple analysis devices.

[0013] In recent years, the analytical devices connected to automated analysis systems have diversified beyond the same type. For example, there are biochemical analyzers for measuring cholesterol in blood and immunoassays for detecting infectious diseases, as well as devices that connect multiple of these different or similar types of analyzers. This has transformed the process from measuring only large quantities of samples to performing measurements on multiple items.

[0014] In recent years, the increasing complexity of analytical devices has led to a continuous expansion of the range of measurements. Furthermore, improvements in the durability of analytical devices have resulted in longer product lifespans. Under these circumstances, when users replace their devices, the following demands arise: the need to repair and maintain the recovered automated analytical devices, including updating components and replacing consumables, to provide them to new users or emerging markets.

[0015] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 does not take into account the need for improvement in order to obtain / inherit accumulated information for maintenance in the event of changes in the device configuration of the automatic analysis system.

[0016] For example, without accumulated information, for repairs and maintenance like the one described above, the operating time and number of component operations are unknown, and for such reasons, confirmation can only be made visually. However, during such visual confirmation, unnecessary component replacements are sometimes performed, adding the cost of the replacement parts to the product cost. Similarly, sometimes deteriorated components that should be replaced are left unreplaced, for fear of causing initial defects.

[0017] Furthermore, among users who own multiple automated analysis systems that combine multiple analysis devices, there is a need to reorganize the device configuration layout to match the environment due to changes in the inspection room layout, etc. In such cases, as with resale, the accumulated information of each device must continue to accumulate even after the layout of the device configuration has been changed, but such a structure does not exist in the past, and technology for proper management is needed.

[0018] This invention provides an automatic analysis system that can accurately perform maintenance at the appropriate time even if the system configuration changes, as well as a method for information inheritance in the automatic analysis system.

[0019] Methods for solving problems

[0020] The present invention includes several means for solving the above-mentioned problems. One example includes: two or more analysis devices having inherent identification information and accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information, and performing analysis of a sample; and a control device that controls the operation of the analysis devices and manages the inherent identification information and accumulated information of each analysis device. When reorganizing the analysis devices within a system, the control device inherits the accumulated information of a newly imported analysis device from the system before reorganization based on the inherent identification information, and manages the accumulated information in the new system based on the inherited accumulated information.

[0021] Invention Effects

[0022] According to the present invention, even if the system configuration changes, maintenance can be performed accurately and at the appropriate time. The issues, structures, and effects beyond those described above become clear through the following description of embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a top view showing the general structure of the automatic analysis system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is the front view of the automatic analysis system in Example 1.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a front view of an automated analysis system according to another embodiment of Example 1.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a functional block diagram of the automatic analysis system in Example 1.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of the overall view displayed in the automatic analysis system of Example 1.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the settings screen displayed in the automatic analysis system of Example 1.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a summary of the device configuration screen displayed in the automatic analysis system of Embodiment 1.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another way in which the device configuration screen is displayed in the automatic analysis system of Embodiment 1.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the system settings screen displayed in the automatic analysis system of Example 1.

[0032] Figure 10This is a diagram illustrating the summary of the cumulative information setting screen displayed in the automatic analysis system of Example 1.

[0033] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of the operation when moving the analysis device from system 1 to system 2 in the automatic analysis system of embodiment 1.

[0034] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 The flowchart shows the process of a user interacting with the accumulated information screen of System 1.

[0035] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The flowchart shows the write process to the selected external medium in the workflow.

[0036] Figure 14 yes Figure 11 The flowchart shows the process of a user interacting with the accumulated information screen of System 2.

[0037] Figure 15 yes Figure 11 The flowchart shows the process of reading from the selected external medium. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic analysis system and the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the drawings used in this specification, the same or corresponding constituent elements are labeled with the same or similar reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of these constituent elements are sometimes omitted.

[0039] <Example 1>

[0040] use Figures 1 to 15 Embodiment 1 of the automatic analysis system and the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of the present invention will be described.

[0041] First, use Figures 1 to 3 The overall structure of the automatic analysis system in this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of the automatic analysis system in this embodiment. Figure 1 This indicates an approximate view when viewed from above. Figure 2 This indicates a general overview when viewed from the front. Figure 3 This diagram shows the overall structure of the automated analysis system of this embodiment, which is connected to three or more analysis devices. It is a schematic diagram when viewed from the front.

[0042] exist Figure 1 The automatic analysis system 1 of this embodiment, shown as an example, generally consists of the following components: multiple (in Figure 1The system includes two biochemical analysis devices 110 and two immunoassay devices 210; a sampling device 101 for transporting a sample rack with one or more sample containers, the sample containers containing the samples to be analyzed from the biochemical analysis devices 110 and the immunoassay devices 210; and a control device 300 for controlling the overall operation of the automated analysis system 1.

[0043] Here, one or more specimen containers are mounted on the specimen rack, which contain specimens that will be used for qualitative / quantitative analysis in the biochemical analysis device 110 and the immunoassay device 210.

[0044] There are at least two types of specimen racks: a specimen rack (hereinafter referred to as specimen rack 102) that houses a specimen container containing a specimen to be analyzed with normal priority (normal specimen); and a specimen rack (hereinafter referred to as emergency specimen rack 102a, in particular when distinguished from specimen rack 102) that houses a specimen container containing an emergency specimen whose urgency for analysis is higher than that of specimen rack 102.

[0045] Figure 1 The sampling device 101 is a device that transports the specimen rack 102 to be put into the automated analysis system 1 between the biochemical analysis device 110 and the immunoassay device 210. It includes a specimen rack supply unit 103, an emergency specimen rack input unit 108, a conveyor line 105, an emergency specimen rack standby area 109, a specimen identification device 106, a rack rotator 107, and a specimen rack storage unit 104.

[0046] The conveyor line 105 is a conveying mechanism, such as a belt conveyor, that reciprocates to transport the specimen rack 102 and the emergency specimen rack 102a.

[0047] The emergency specimen rack loading section 108 is positioned adjacent to the conveyor line 105 and is the area for loading the emergency specimen rack 102a.

[0048] The specimen rack supply section 103 is provided adjacent to the conveyor line 105 at one end relative to the emergency specimen rack input section 108 and is the area for supplying the specimen rack 102 for normal specimens.

[0049] The specimen rack storage section 104 is provided adjacent to the conveyor line 105 on one end of the specimen rack supply section 103 near the conveyor line 105, and is an area for storing the specimen rack 102.

[0050] The emergency specimen holder standby area 109 is provided on the conveyor line 105 on the other end of the specimen holder storage section 104, near the conveyor line 105, and is an area for temporarily activating the emergency specimen holder 102a.

[0051] The specimen identification device 106 is a mechanism for identifying specimens by reading identification media such as RFID and barcodes (not shown) set on the specimen rack 102 and specimen container to query analysis commission information related to the specimens contained in the specimen containers mounted on the specimen rack 102 being transported on the conveyor line 105.

[0052] A rack rotator 107 is disposed at one end of the conveyor line 105. The rack rotator 107 has one or more slots 107a and 107b capable of carrying specimen racks 102, etc., and is a mechanism for receiving and sending specimen racks 102, etc., between one end of the conveyor line 105 and one end of the dispensing lines 112 and 212 of the biochemical analysis device 110 and the immunoassay device 210, respectively.

[0053] For example, the rack rotator 107 is constructed to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise. By appropriately controlling its rotation, processing can begin according to the order in which the specimen racks 102 are put in, or, if a high-priority specimen rack 102 is put in, processing can begin before the previously put in specimen racks 102.

[0054] The biochemical analysis device 110 and the immunoassay device 210 are units for qualitative / quantitative analysis of samples (dispensing) stored in the sample container mounted on the sample holder 102. They respectively include dispensing lines 112 and 212, sample identification devices 113 and 213, reaction plates 116 and 216, sample dispensing mechanisms 111 and 211, reagent plates 114 and 214, reagent dispensing mechanisms 115 and 215, and a measuring unit (not shown).

[0055] The dispensing lines 112 and 212 employ a reciprocating conveying mechanism capable of introducing specimen holders 102 from the sampling device 101 to the biochemical analysis device 110 and the immunoassay device 210, and delivering specimen holders 102 from the biochemical analysis device 110 and the immunoassay device 210 back to the sampling device 101. For example, it is a belt conveyor type mechanism.

[0056] Furthermore, while the example shown is a conveyor mechanism of the belt conveyor type used for dispensing lines 112 and 212, a structure can also be used where a protruding structure driven along dispensing lines 112 and 212 engages with a recess pre-installed in the specimen holder 102 for conveying. The same structure is used in conveyor line 105.

[0057] The specimen identification devices 113 and 213 are positioned adjacent to the other end of the dispensing lines 112 and 212. They are mechanisms for identifying specimens stored in the specimen rack 102 that are sent into the dispensing lines 112 and 212 by reading identification media such as RFID and barcodes (not shown) set on the specimen rack 102 and the specimen container to query the analysis entrustment information of the specimens.

[0058] The sample dispensing mechanisms 111 and 211 are mechanisms for dispensing samples from the sample containers of the sample rack 102 at the dispensing positions on the dispensing lines 112 and 212 to the reaction containers of the reaction plates 116 and 216.

[0059] The reagent dispensing mechanisms 115 and 215 are mechanisms that dispense the reagents stored in the reagent containers of reagent trays 114 and 214 into the reaction containers of reaction trays 116 and 216.

[0060] The assay section is the facility that measures and performs qualitative / quantitative analysis on the mixture (reaction solution) of the sample and reagent dispensed into the reaction vessel.

[0061] In addition, in this embodiment, the biochemical analysis device 110 is assumed to be a device for biochemical examination, and the immunoassay device 210 is assumed to be a device for immunoassay, but it is not limited to this case and can be set to be used for the same examination items.

[0062] In addition, in this embodiment, these biochemical analysis devices 110 and immunoassay devices 210 define inherent identification information, represented by device serial numbers of each analysis device, and accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information. This inherent identification information and accumulated information are set up on a unit basis (biochemical analysis device 110, immunoassay device 210). Details of the inherent identification information and accumulated information will be described later.

[0063] In addition, a measurement unit for electrolyte concentration measurement can be installed in the biochemical analysis device 110, or a measurement unit for blood coagulation analysis can be appropriately configured in each device according to the specifications and environment.

[0064] Moreover, such as Figure 3 As shown, it is possible to configure multiple analytical devices to be identical analytical devices when the purpose (inspection item) is the same, and to maintain the same processing capacity. Alternatively, it is possible to connect multiple different analytical devices when only the purpose differs.

[0065] The control device 300 is a device that controls the operation of the entire automated analysis system 1, including the biochemical analysis device 110, the immunoassay device 210, and the sampling device 101. It is a computer equipped with a CPU, memory, etc.

[0066] The control device 300 consists of a display unit 303, an input unit 304, a storage unit 302, a control unit 301, and an output unit 305.

[0067] The display unit 303 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display that displays various information from the automated analysis system 1, including input screens showing various parameters or settings, analytical test data from initial or retest checks, measurement results, reagent information, and various information related to the maintenance of the biochemical analysis device 110, the immunoassay device 210, and the sampling device 101. Alternatively, it may be a touch panel type display unit 303 that also serves as the input unit 304 described later.

[0068] The input unit 304 consists of a keyboard and a mouse for inputting various data such as parameters, settings, analysis commission information, and analysis start instructions.

[0069] The storage unit 302 is a recording medium such as a flash memory or a hard disk such as an HDD that records the measurement results of the samples inserted into the automated analysis system 1 and the analysis request information of the samples stored in the sample containers mounted on each sample holder. The storage unit 302 also records various parameters and set values ​​for controlling the operation of each device in the automated analysis system 1, various computer programs for performing various processes described later, and the inherent identification information and accumulated information of each biochemical analysis device 110 and immunoassay device 210.

[0070] The control unit 301 is the part that controls the operation of the entire automatic analysis system 1, which includes the control device 300, the biochemical analysis device 110, the immunoassay device 210, and the sampling device 101, and is the CPU mentioned above.

[0071] The output unit 305 is for connecting an external medium 10 (see reference). Figure 4 It consists of connectors, LAN ports, and other output terminals that connect to external systems other than the automatic analysis system 1 via wireless or wired connections.

[0072] The above describes the structure of the automatic analysis system 1.

[0073] The analysis and processing of the specimens performed by the automated analysis system 1 described above are generally carried out in the following order.

[0074] The user uses the display unit 303 and the input unit 304 to give analysis instructions to the automatic analysis system 1. The analysis instructions are stored in the storage unit 302 and sent via the control device 300 to the target analysis devices in the sampling device 101, the biochemical analysis device 110, and the immunoassay device 210. The target devices perform analysis operations according to the received analysis instructions as follows.

[0075] The sampling device 101 feeds the specimen racks 102, which are located in the specimen rack supply section 103, one by one onto the conveyor line 105 and into the rack rotator 107.

[0076] According to the test items commissioned by the control device 300, the specimen rack 102, which is transported to the rack rotator 107, is transported to the dispensing line 112 of the biochemical analysis device 110 or the dispensing line 212 of the immunoassay device 210.

[0077] When the specimen rack 102 reaches the dispensing lines 112 and 212, the specimen dispensing mechanism 111 and 211 dispenses each specimen mounted on the specimen rack 102.

[0078] When the test item is a biochemical test, the sample dispensing mechanism 111 dispenses the attracted sample into a reaction container located on the reaction plate 116. Then, reagents attracted from the reagent plate 114 by the reagent dispensing mechanism 115 are added to the reaction container, and the mixture is stirred. Then, the absorbance, etc., is measured by the measuring unit, and the measurement results are sent to the control unit 301 of the control device 300.

[0079] The reaction vessel used in the analysis was cleaned by water, alkaline detergent, and acidic detergent dispensed from a cleaning unit (not shown) for subsequent analysis.

[0080] In addition, when the test item is an immunization test, the reagent drawn from the reagent tray 214 is discharged into the reaction container on the reaction tray 216 by the reagent dispensing mechanism 215. The sample is further added to the reaction container by the sample dispensing mechanism 211 and stirred. Afterwards, after processing such as magnetic separation as needed, the test unit performs the measurement and sends the measurement result to the control unit 301 of the control device 300.

[0081] The control unit 301 performs the following processing: based on the sent measurement results, it calculates the concentration of a specific component in the sample through calculation and displays the results on the display unit 303, or stores them in the storage unit 302, etc.

[0082] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, a display unit 303 is provided on the upper surface of the sampling device 101. The sampling device 101 includes a device for reading barcodes, namely a barcode reader 131.

[0083] Furthermore, a top cover 121 is provided on the upper part of the biochemical analysis device 110, and a top cover 221 is provided on the upper part of the immunoassay device 210. The top covers 121 and 221 can be opened and closed; the top view of the device with the covers open is as follows. Figure 1In addition, the analysis device is equipped with opening and closing detectors 122 and 222 for detecting the opening and closing of the top cover 121 and 221.

[0084] Furthermore, the automated analysis system 1 is not limited to Figure 1 As shown. Figure 3 As shown, the automated analysis system 1A can be composed of multiple biochemical analysis devices 110 and immunoassay devices 210.

[0085] Figure 3 The automated analysis system 1A consists of two biochemical analysis devices 110, two immunoassay devices 210, one sampling device 150, four rack storage units 151, and a control device 300 that controls the overall operation of the automated analysis system 1A.

[0086] In Figure 3 In the sampling device 150, there is a device for reading barcodes, namely a barcode reader 152.

[0087] Next, use Figure 4 The following figures will describe in detail the characteristic control of the automatic analysis system 1 of this embodiment.

[0088] First, use Figure 4 A functional block diagram related to the control of the characteristics of the automatic analysis system 1 is described. Figure 4 This is a functional block diagram of an automated analysis system. Additionally, in... Figure 4 Examples are shown below. Figure 11 That is, the case where the analysis unit 1012 is moved from the automatic analysis system 100A of system 1 to the automatic analysis system 100B of system 2.

[0089] like Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 301, storage unit 302, display unit 303, input unit 304, and output unit 305 of the control device 300A in the automatic analysis system 100A of system 1, which is composed of analysis unit 1011 and analysis unit 1012 that is to be relocated, are related to the control unit 301, storage unit 302, display unit 303, input unit 304, and output unit 305 of the control device 300B in the automatic analysis system 100A of system 2, which is composed of analysis unit 1013 and is the relocation destination of analysis unit 1012. The output unit 305 of the automatic analysis system 100A and the output unit 305 of the automatic analysis system 100B can be connected to an external medium 10.

[0090] External media 10 can be USB media, CD media, DVD media, external HHD, external SSD, etc., and can be set to any one or more.

[0091] In this structure, the control device 300 of this embodiment performs the following control: when the analysis unit 1012, which is the target of relocation and is composed of either the biochemical analysis device 110 or the immunoassay device 210, is reassembled from the automatic analysis system 100A to the automatic analysis system 100B, the accumulated information in the newly imported analysis unit 1012 before reassembly in the automatic analysis system 100A is inherited based on the inherent identification information, and the accumulated information in the new automatic analysis system 100B is managed based on the inherited accumulated information.

[0092] Here, the "cumulative information" in this invention includes, for example, adjustment values, unit blank measurement results, component replacement / maintenance information, alarm generation records, operating time, etc., which will be described later. Figure 10 The information displayed in the cumulative information selection checkboxes 806 on the cumulative information setting screen 800.

[0093] Additionally, the control device 300 causes the display unit 303 to display device configuration screens 600 and 650 (refer to respectively) for setting inherent identification information. Figure 7 , Figure 8 The cumulative information setting screen 800 (refer to) can read and write cumulative information. Figure 10 ).

[0094] Furthermore, the control device 300 can write and read inherent identification information and accumulated information to the external medium 10. The writing and reading of this inherent identification information and accumulated information can be performed on a per-analysis-device basis; therefore, it is preferable to number them using a unique serial number that determines the system and the analysis device. This ensures that the inherent identification information and accumulated information, composed of the serial numbers of the system and the analysis device, do not overlap when the same device is used across systems, enabling more stable inheritance of accumulated information.

[0095] Next, use Figure 5 The accompanying drawings and subsequent figures will describe in detail the display control of the screen displayed on the display unit 303. First, using Figures 5 to 10 The detailed contents of the overall screen 400, device configuration screen 600, device configuration screen 650, and cumulative information setting screen 800 of the automatic analysis system 1, 1A displayed on the display unit 303 are explained.

[0096] Figure 5 The overall screen 400 is displayed on the display unit 303 of the automatic analysis system 1. Figure 5The overall screen 400 shown consists of a status area 401 that displays the system status, the ID of the user currently using the system, the current time, etc.; a global area 403A that is configured with buttons that can display various operation screens; and a local area 403B that displays the screen selected in the global area 403A.

[0097] Within the overall screen 400, a local area 403B displays the screen corresponding to the button selected in the global area 403A. Figure 5 In the example, selecting menu button 402 displays menu screen 404. Additionally, selecting the panorama button displays a panorama screen (illustration omitted); selecting the maintenance button displays a maintenance screen (illustration omitted); selecting the alarm button displays an alarm screen (illustration omitted); selecting the ticket button displays a ticket screen (illustration omitted); selecting the stop button displays a stop selection screen (illustration omitted); and selecting the start button displays a start screen (illustration omitted).

[0098] Menu screen 404 includes multiple buttons for displaying various screens for operating the automated analysis system 1. The analysis area includes buttons for assigning tasks, measuring results, control, and calibration; selecting these buttons displays the corresponding screens. The reagent area includes buttons for status and consumables. The standards area includes buttons for assigning tasks, results, setting, and installation. The control area includes buttons for assigning tasks, results, setting, and installation. The setting area includes buttons for system, parameters, cleaning avoidance, and settings. Additionally, menu screen 404 is closed when the close button 407 is selected.

[0099] In addition, in the overall screen 400, when the system button 405 is selected, the following is displayed: Figure 9 The system settings screen 700 shown displays the following when the settings button 406 is selected: Figure 6 The settings screen shown is 500.

[0100] Figure 6 This is an example of a settings screen. Figure 6 The settings screen shown 500 allows you to select... Figure 5 The settings button 406 is displayed within the menu screen 404 of the overall screen 400 shown.

[0101] like Figure 6As shown, the settings screen 500 displays an item assignment button 501, a device power button 502, a device configuration button 503, and a close button 504. When the item assignment button 501 is selected, the item assignment screen (illustration omitted) is displayed, allowing you to assign which analytical item to which analytical device. When the device power button 502 is selected, the device power screen (illustration omitted) is displayed, allowing you to switch the power on and off of each device. When the close button 504 is selected, the settings screen 500 is closed, returning to the menu screen 404.

[0102] When device configuration button 503 is selected, the device configuration is... Figure 2 In the case of such an automated analysis system 1, the display Figure 7 The device shown constitutes screen 600. Furthermore, the device structure is... Figure 3 In the case of such an automated analysis system 1A, the display Figure 8 The device shown constitutes screen 650. It is configured to suit the screen layout of each product.

[0103] Figure 7 The device shown constitutes screen 600. Figure 2 In the case of such an automatic analysis system 1, the layout consists of multiple screens. The system name field 601 is the area for entering the system name of the automatic analysis system 1, and the system serial number field 602 is the area for entering the system serial number.

[0104] When the immunoassay device connection radio button 603 is connected to the immunoassay analyzer 210 in the system structure, select "Connect"; otherwise, select "None". Similarly, when the biochemical device connection radio button 607 is connected to the biochemical analyzer 110 in the system structure, select "Connect"; otherwise, select "None".

[0105] Regarding the device serial number entered in the device configuration screen 600 or the device configuration screen 650 described later, there is a method for service personnel to enter it using the input unit 304. Alternatively, there is a method where the inherent identification information is written as a barcode in the control device 300, the device serial number is barcoded, the inherent identification information is managed using barcode readers 131 and 152, and stored in the corresponding device serial number.

[0106] In addition, regarding these device serial numbers, it is preferable to pre-compile numbers that do not conflict with other systems / devices on the system manufacturer's side, and input the numbers that do not conflict.

[0107] exist Figure 7When an immunoassay analyzer 210 is connected, the device name 604 and the abbreviated name 605 can be displayed, and the device serial number 606 can be set. When a biochemical analyzer 110 is connected, the device name 608 and the abbreviated name 609 can be displayed, and the device serial number 610 can be set. Select the "Register" button 611 when input or setting is complete, and select the "Cancel" button 612 when discarding.

[0108] Figure 8 The device shown constitutes screen 650. Figure 3 In the case of such an automatic analysis system 1A, the layout consists of multiple screens. The system name field 651 is the area for entering the system name of the automatic analysis system 1A, and the system serial number field 652 is the area for entering the system serial number.

[0109] ISE device information area 653 has a device name input field and a device abbreviation input field, where the device serial number is entered into ISE device serial number 657. Similarly, sampling device information area 654 has a device name input field and a device abbreviation input field, where the device serial number can be entered into sampling device serial number 658; biochemistry device information area 655 has a device name input field and a device abbreviation input field, where the device serial number can be entered into biochemistry device serial number 659; and immunology device information area 656 has a device name input field and a device abbreviation input field, where the device serial number can be entered into immunology device serial number 660. After input or setting is complete, select the register button 661, or select the cancel button 662 to discard and close.

[0110] Figure 9 This is displayed on the system settings screen 700 when the system button 405 on the menu screen 404 is selected. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the system settings button area 701 and the service settings button area 703 are displayed in the system settings screen 700.

[0111] The system settings button area 701 is equipped with screen display buttons 702 for displaying screens that can change various system settings.

[0112] The screen display buttons 702 set in each system are configured with user ID registration button, rack range button, barcode button, host button, project button, analysis button, maintenance button, unified maintenance button, special reagent button, reagent upper limit button, standard / control button, ISE button, display button, ticket button, alarm button, USB registration button, etc.

[0113] The service setting button area 703 is equipped with screen display buttons 705 for each service setting that can be configured by the person in charge of the service level. Each service setting screen display button 705 includes an accumulated information button 704, a special button, a mode switch button, and an automatic maintenance button. When the close button 706 is selected, it returns to... Figure 5 The menu screen shown is 404.

[0114] Figure 10 The accumulated information setting screen 800 shown is a screen for writing and reading accumulated information from the device. By selecting... Figure 9 The cumulative information button 704 on the system settings screen 700 is used to display this information.

[0115] When the serial number of the device to be targeted is selected in the device serial number selection field 801, for the selected device, the information read / write selection field 802 can be used to select whether to write the accumulated information from the device to the external medium 10 or read it from the external medium 10 or the device.

[0116] The information storage location selection field 803 is used to select where to perform the reading or writing process of the accumulated information selected in the information read / write selection field 802. The information storage path input field 804 is used to select the path to store the external medium 10 selected in the information storage location selection field 803.

[0117] The device's cumulative information area 805 is an area where checkboxes 806 are selected to be turned on or off for each cumulative information item. When checked, it is set to be used as the object for reading and writing cumulative information; when checked, it is set not to be used as the object for reading and writing cumulative information.

[0118] When the device serial number selection bar 801, information read / write selection bar 802, information storage location selection bar 803, information storage path input box 804, and various cumulative information selection checkboxes 806 are set in the cumulative information setting screen 800, select the execute button 807. If no read / write is performed, select the cancel button 808.

[0119] Next, use Figures 11 to 15 Specific examples of inheritance processing will be provided. Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the process when the analysis unit 1012, which will be the object of relocation, is moved from system 1 to system 2. Figure 11 The system-side execution entity for all subsequent flowcharts is the control unit 301 of the control device 300.

[0120] like Figure 11As shown, initially, the screen operation of System 1 displayed on the display unit 303 is performed through the input unit 304 of the control device 300A of the automatic analysis system 100A of System 1 (step S1001).

[0121] In step S1001, firstly, the system serial number 652, the ISE device serial number 657 (which serves as the device serial number for each analytical device), the sampling device serial number 658, the biochemical device serial number 659, the immunoassay device serial number 660, and other device serial numbers are entered in the device configuration screen 650 (step S1002).

[0122] Next, in the cumulative information setting screen 800, the settings and selections for each item are performed (step S1003), and the set cumulative information is written (step S1004). In addition, in the case of step S1002, if it is the device configuration screen 600, the system serial number field 602, the immunoassay device serial number 606 which serves as the device serial number of each analysis device, and the biochemical device serial number 610 are entered.

[0123] Next, the analysis unit 1012 is removed from the automatic analysis system 100A of system 1, which consists of analysis units 1011, 1012 and control device 300A (step S1005), and the removed analysis unit 1012 is connected to the automatic analysis system 100B of system 2, which consists of analysis unit 1013 and control device 300B (step S1006).

[0124] After step S1006 is completed, the system 2 screen operation displayed on the display unit 303 is performed through the input unit 304 of the control device 300B of the automatic analysis system 100B of system 2 (step S1010).

[0125] In step S1010, firstly, the system serial number field 652 of the device configuration screen 650, the ISE device serial number 657 (which serves as the device serial number for each analytical device), the sampling device serial number 658, the biochemical device serial number 659, and the immunoassay device serial number 660 are entered (step S1007). In step S1007, when the device configuration screen 600 is active, the system serial number field 602, the immunoassay device serial number 606 (which serves as the device serial number for each analytical device), and the biochemical device serial number 610 are entered.

[0126] Next, in the cumulative information setting screen 800, the settings and selections of each item are performed (step S1008). If the information entered in step S1007 is consistent with the cumulative information set in step S1008, it is read in (step S1009), and the setting of system 2 is completed.

[0127] After the data is read in, in the automatic analysis system 100B of system 2, the accumulated information about the analysis unit 1012 is managed based on the accumulated information inherited from the automatic analysis system 100A of system 1 in the above order.

[0128] Figure 12 Is Figure 11 The flowchart for step S1003, which involves setting the cumulative information setting screen 800.

[0129] First, select the Accumulated Information button in the System Settings screen 700 to display the Accumulated Information Settings screen 800 (step S1101).

[0130] Next, in the device serial number selection field 801, select which analysis device of the analysis units 1011 and 1012 of system 1 to obtain the accumulated information from (step S1102). After that, in order to obtain the accumulated information from the device, select write in the information read / write selection field 802 (step S1103), and then select in the information storage location selection field 803 which external medium 10 to store the accumulated information (step S1104).

[0131] Next, in order to determine the output path of the external medium 10 that specifies the accumulated information, the path is entered in the information storage path input box 804 (step S1105), and check boxes 806 are selected from each accumulated information to select the accumulated information that is to be written to the external medium 10 (step S1106).

[0132] Finally, when the execute button 807 is pressed, the operation is completed in the cumulative information setting screen 800, and the writing process to the external medium 10 begins (step S1107).

[0133] Figure 13 Indicates in Figure 12 The internal processing flow executed after step S1107.

[0134] exist Figure 13 First, when it is detected that the Execute button 807 is selected in the Accumulated Information Setting Screen 800 (step S1201), in order to write the accumulated information to the external medium 10 selected in the Information Storage Location Selection Bar 803, it is confirmed whether the external medium 10 is inserted into the output unit 305 (step S1202).

[0135] If the external medium 10 is not inserted, an error screen (illustration omitted) is displayed (step S1207), and the process returns to step S1201. Conversely, if the external medium 10 is inserted, the process proceeds to step S1203.

[0136] Next, check if any of the accumulated information selection checkboxes 806 are selected as objects to be written (step S1203). If none are selected, display an error screen (step S1208) and return the process to step S1201. Conversely, if an object to be written is selected, proceed to step S1204.

[0137] Next, when writing the accumulated information to the external medium 10, it is confirmed whether the path entered in the information storage path input box 804 exists (step S1204). If the folder with the path does not exist, a folder with the path specified is generated (step S1209), and the process proceeds to step S1205 in the same way as if the folder with the path exists.

[0138] Then, the serial number selected in device serial number 801 is obtained as the keyword information (step S1205), and writing is performed on the external medium 10 (step S1206).

[0139] Figure 14 It is used in Figure 11 The flowchart for step S1008, which involves setting the cumulative information setting screen 800.

[0140] First, connect analysis unit 1012 and analysis unit 1013 on the automatic analysis system 100B side of system 2 (step S1301).

[0141] Then, select the Accumulated Information button in the System Settings screen 700 to display the Accumulated Information Settings screen 800 (step S1302).

[0142] Next, in the device serial number selection field 801, select whether to read the accumulated information into the device of the analysis unit 1013 of system 2 (step S1303). Then, in order to read the accumulated information from the external medium 10 into the device, select read in the information read / write selection field 802 (step S1304), and then select from which external medium 10 to read the accumulated information in the information storage location selection field 803 (step S1305).

[0143] Next, in order to determine in detail the path of the external medium 10 that specifies the accumulated information, the path is entered into the information storage path input box 804 (step S1306). The accumulated information is selected from the accumulated information selection check boxes 806 as the objects to be read from the external medium 10 (step S1307). When the execute button 807 is pressed, the operation is completed in the accumulated information setting screen 800, and the reading process from the external medium 10 begins (step S1308).

[0144] Figure 15 It is a cumulative screen loading process, which is what was executed. Figure 14 The processing flow after step S1308.

[0145] like Figure 15 As shown, when the execution button 807 is selected in the cumulative information setting screen 800 (step S1401), in order to read the cumulative information from the external medium 10 selected in the information storage location selection bar 803, it is confirmed whether the external medium 10 is inserted into the output unit 305 (step S1402).

[0146] If the external medium 10 is not inserted, an error screen is displayed (step S1408), and the process returns to step S1401. Conversely, if the external medium 10 is inserted, the process proceeds to step S1403.

[0147] Next, check if any of the accumulated information selection checkboxes 806 are checked (step S1403). If none are checked, display an error screen (step S1409) and return the process to step S1401. Conversely, if any are checked, proceed to step S1404.

[0148] Next, when writing the accumulated information to the external medium 10, it is checked whether the path entered in the information storage path input box 804 exists (step S1404). If there is no folder with a path, an error screen is displayed (step S1410), and the process returns to step S1401. On the other hand, if a folder with a path exists, the process proceeds to step S1405.

[0149] Next, it is checked whether the accumulated information file exists on the external medium 10 (step S1405). If it does not exist, an error screen is displayed (step S1411), and the process returns to step S1401. Conversely, if it exists, the process proceeds to step S1406.

[0150] Next, it is confirmed whether the serial number selected in the device serial number selection field 801 matches the serial number of the keyword information in the accumulated information (step S1406). If they do not match, an error screen is displayed (step S1412), and the process returns to step S1401. Conversely, if they match, the process proceeds to step S1407, and reading from the external medium 10 begins (step S1407).

[0151] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be explained.

[0152] The automated analysis system 1 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention described above includes: two or more biochemical analysis devices 110 and immunoanalytical devices 210, each having inherent identification information and accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information, for analyzing samples; and a control device 300, which controls the operation of the biochemical analysis devices 110 and immunoanalytical devices 210, and manages the inherent identification information and accumulated information of each biochemical analysis device 110 and immunoanalytical device 210. When the control device 300 recombines the biochemical analysis devices 110 and immunoanalytical devices 210 in the system, it inherits the accumulated information in the newly introduced biochemical analysis devices 110 and immunoanalytical devices 210 before recombination based on the inherent identification information, and manages the accumulated information in the new system based on the inherited accumulated information.

[0153] Therefore, even when the analysis device is moved to a different system, it can be inherited, and in the newly constructed analysis system, it can continue to manage operating time, maintenance, and adjustment values ​​of various actuators from the analysis system before the reorganization. Thus, the device status can be accurately and reliably monitored, allowing for timely and accurate repair and maintenance. Consequently, it can more appropriately address new demands such as the resale of automated analysis systems when new needs arise, or the reuse of some analysis devices when the device's structural layout changes.

[0154] The automatic analysis system 1 and the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of this embodiment are very suitable for dealing with the currently operating system through software updates.

[0155] In addition, it also has a display unit 303 that displays information from the automatic analysis system 1. The control device 300 causes the display unit 303 to display device configuration screens 600 and 650 for setting inherent identification information, so setting and confirming the inherent identification information becomes very easy.

[0156] Furthermore, by displaying an accumulation information setting screen 800 on the display unit 303, which allows for the reading and writing of accumulation information, the control device 300 makes the operator's work easier during the inheritance operation, enabling more accurate and reliable inheritance.

[0157] In addition, the control device 300 can write and read the inherent identification information and the accumulated information to the external medium 10, thereby making it easy to back up the inherent identification information and the associated accumulated information, and also making it easy to perform the operation during inheritance.

[0158] Furthermore, it also has a storage unit 302. The control device 300 records the device serial number as inherent identification information in the storage unit 302, which can basically use the serial number of the system and can be easily applied to existing systems / devices.

[0159] In addition, it also includes barcode readers 131 and 152. The control device 300 can write out the inherent identification information as a barcode. By managing the barcode-based inherent identification information read by the barcode readers 131 and 152, compared with the situation where service personnel or others manually input the information, it can eliminate the possibility of input errors and further reduce the possibility of errors in the inheritance process.

[0160] Furthermore, the external medium 10 can be any one or more of a USB medium, a CD medium, or a DVD medium, thereby enabling proper backup and making the succession process easier.

[0161] <Example 2>

[0162] The automatic analysis system of Embodiment 2 of the present invention and the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system will be described below.

[0163] The automatic analysis system and the information inheritance method in this embodiment differ from the method in Embodiment 1, which uses software updates to properly apply to the currently operating system. This method is suitable for future manufacturing and shipping.

[0164] When reorganizing the analysis device within the system, in order to more accurately inherit the accumulated information from the system before reorganization, it is desirable to set inherent identification information that does not overlap with other automatic analysis systems and analysis devices.

[0165] Therefore, in Figure 8 The device configuration screen 650 shown includes input fields for ISE device serial number 657, sampling device serial number 658, biochemical device serial number 659, and immunoassay device serial number 660. Each device's unique serial number can be entered. However, in future manufacturing and shipping systems, serial numbers are managed separately from those of other systems and devices during shipment. The compiled device serial numbers are then used as unique identification information for establishing association with accumulated information.

[0166] The other structures and operations are largely the same as those of the automatic analysis system in Embodiment 1 described above, as well as the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0167] In the automatic analysis system and information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of Embodiment 2 of the present invention, the same effects as those in the automatic analysis system and information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of Embodiment 1 described above can also be obtained.

[0168] <Example 3>

[0169] The automatic analysis system of Embodiment 3 of the present invention and the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system will be described below.

[0170] In Embodiment 1, the external medium 10 was exemplified as the location that can be selected in the information storage location selection bar 803 of the cumulative information setting screen 800. However, in this embodiment, the control device 300 is configured to send cumulative information to the recording medium of the host computer connected to the automatic analysis system 1 via the network instead of the external medium 10, and manage the cumulative information in the recording medium of the host computer.

[0171] More specifically, the host system can be selected in the information storage location selection bar 803 of the cumulative information setting screen 800. When the execute button 807 is selected, the inherent identification information and cumulative information entered in the cumulative information setting screen 800 will be sent to the host computer for management on the host system side.

[0172] Based on this, when the control device 300 performs a request to read, it requests confirmation from the recording medium side of the host computer, and if there is accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information on the host system side, it receives the corresponding accumulated information.

[0173] The other structures and operations are largely the same as those of the automatic analysis system in Embodiment 1 described above, as well as the information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0174] In the automatic analysis system and information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of Embodiment 3 of the present invention, the same effects as those in the automatic analysis system and information inheritance method in the automatic analysis system of Embodiment 1 described above can also be obtained.

[0175] Furthermore, the control device 300 is configured to send accumulated information to the recording medium of the host computer connected to the automatic analysis system 1 via a network, and manage the accumulated information in the recording medium of the host computer. As a result, there is no possibility of loss of accumulated information due to possible loss in external media 10, etc., and the information can be inherited more reliably.

[0176] Furthermore, the control device 300 sends the inherent identification information input in the cumulative information setting screen 800 to the host computer. If there is cumulative information associated with the inherent identification information in the recording medium of the host computer, the inheritance can be reliably achieved by receiving the corresponding cumulative information.

[0177] <Other>

[0178] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes various modifications. The embodiments described above are detailed examples for the purpose of readily understanding and illustrating the present invention, and are not limited to having all the structures described.

[0179] Alternatively, a portion of the structure of one embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment. Furthermore, structures from other embodiments can be added to the structure of one embodiment. Additionally, portions of the structure of each embodiment can be added to, deleted from, or replaced with other structures.

[0180] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0181] 1, 1A, 100A, 100B: Automated Analysis System

[0182] 10: External Media (External Recording Media)

[0183] 101: Sampling device

[0184] 102: Specimen holder

[0185] 102a: Emergency Specimen Holder

[0186] 103: Specimen rack supply department

[0187] 104: Specimen rack storage section

[0188] 105: Conveyor Line

[0189] 106: Specimen Identification Device

[0190] 107: Rotating Frame

[0191] 107a, 107b: slots

[0192] 108: Emergency Specimen Storage Unit

[0193] 109: Emergency Specimen Standby Area

[0194] 110: Biochemical analysis apparatus (analytical device)

[0195] 111, 211: Specimen dispensing facility

[0196] 112, 212: betting line

[0197] 113, 213: Specimen identification device

[0198] 114, 214: Reagent trays

[0199] 115, 215: Reagent dispensing mechanism

[0200] 116, 216: Reaction discs

[0201] 121, 221: Top cover

[0202] 122, 222: Opening / closing detectors

[0203] 131, 152: Barcode reader (barcode scanner)

[0204] 150: Sampling device

[0205] 151: Shelf Storage Section

[0206] 210: Immunoassay analyzer (analytical device)

[0207] 300, 300A, 300B: Control devices

[0208] 301: Control Department

[0209] 302: Storage Unit (Internal Recording Media)

[0210] 303: Display Unit

[0211] 304: Input Section

[0212] 305: Output Section

[0213] 400: Overall view of the automatic analysis system

[0214] 401: Status Area

[0215] 402: Menu button

[0216] 403A: Global Area

[0217] 403B: Local area

[0218] 404: Menu screen

[0219] 405: System Button

[0220] 406: Settings button

[0221] 407: Close button

[0222] 500: Settings screen

[0223] 501: Project Assignment Button

[0224] 502: Device power button

[0225] 503: Device constitutes a button

[0226] 504: Close button

[0227] 600: Device Configuration Screen (Setup Screen)

[0228] 601: System Name Field

[0229] 602: System Serial Number Field

[0230] 603: Immune device connection radio button

[0231] 604: Name of the immunization device

[0232] 605: Name omitted for immunization device

[0233] 606: Immunization device serial number

[0234] 607: Biochemical device connection radio button

[0235] 608: Name of Biochemical Device

[0236] 609: Name omitted for biochemical apparatus

[0237] 610: Biochemical Device Serial Number

[0238] 611, 661: Registration button

[0239] 612, 662: Cancel button

[0240] 650: Device Configuration Screen (Setup Screen)

[0241] 651: System Name Field

[0242] 652: System Serial Number Field

[0243] 653: ISE device information area

[0244] 654: Sampling device information area

[0245] 655: Information area for biochemical devices

[0246] 656: Information area for immunization devices

[0247] 657: ISE device serial number

[0248] 658: Sampling device serial number

[0249] 659: Biochemical Device Serial Number

[0250] 660: Immune device serial number

[0251] 700: System Settings Screen

[0252] 701: System Settings Button Area

[0253] 702: Screen Display Button

[0254] 703: Service Settings Button Area

[0255] 704: Cumulative Information Button

[0256] 705: Screen Display Button

[0257] 706: Close button

[0258] 800: Accumulated Information Setting Screen (Read / Write Screen)

[0259] 801: Device Serial Number Selection Field

[0260] 802: Information read / write selection bar

[0261] 803: Information storage location selection bar

[0262] 804: Information storage path input box

[0263] 805: Device Accumulated Information Area

[0264] 806: Cumulative Information Selection Checkbox

[0265] 807: Execute button

[0266] 808: Cancel button

[0267] 1011: Analysis Unit of System 1

[0268] 1012: Analysis Unit for Migrated Objects

[0269] 1013: Analysis unit of system 2.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis system, characterized in that, have: The display unit shows information from the automatic analysis system; Internal recording medium; Two or more analytical devices, each having inherent identification information and accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information, perform analysis of the sample; as well as A control device that controls the operation of the analysis devices and manages the inherent identification information and accumulated information of each of the analysis devices. When the control device reorganizes the analysis device within the system, it inherits the accumulated information of the newly imported analysis device from the system before the reorganization based on the inherent identification information, and manages the accumulated information in the new system based on the inherited accumulated information. The control device causes the display unit to show a setting screen for setting the inherent identification information. The control device causes the display unit to display a read / write screen that allows the accumulated information to be read in and written. The control device is capable of writing to and reading from the external storage medium the inherent identification information and the accumulated information. The control device records the device serial number as the inherent identification information in the internal recording medium.

2. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automated analysis system also includes a barcode reader. The control device can write out the inherent identification information as a barcode and manage the barcode-encoded inherent identification information read by the barcode reader.

3. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The external storage medium is any one or more of the following: USB medium, CD medium, and DVD medium.

4. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device is configured to transmit the accumulated information to the recording medium of a host computer connected to the automated analysis system via a network. The accumulated information is managed in the recording medium of the host computer.

5. The automatic analysis system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control device sends the inherent identification information input in the read / write screen to the host computer; and If accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information exists in the recording medium of the host computer, the control device receives the corresponding accumulated information.

6. A method for inheriting information in an automatic analysis system, characterized in that, The automated analysis system has the following features: The display unit shows information from the automatic analysis system; Internal recording medium; Two or more analytical devices, each having inherent identification information and accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information, perform analysis of the sample; as well as A control device that controls the operation of the analysis devices and manages the inherent identification information and accumulated information of each of the analysis devices. When recombining two or more analytical devices for sample analysis, the system inherits accumulated information associated with the inherent identification information of the newly imported analytical device from the system prior to the recombination, based on the inherent identification information within the system. The accumulated information of the analytical device in the new system is then managed based on the inherited accumulated information. The control device causes the display unit to show a setting screen for setting the inherent identification information. The control device causes the display unit to display a read / write screen that allows the accumulated information to be read in and written. The control device is capable of writing to and reading from the external storage medium the inherent identification information and the accumulated information. The control device records the device serial number as the inherent identification information in the internal recording medium.

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