Automatic analysis system and sample dispensing method

Abstract

An automatic analysis system includes a plurality of automatic analysis devices, a conveyer line connected to the plurality of automatic analysis devices, and a computer that controls the conveyer line to distribute specimens to the plurality of automatic analysis devices. The plurality of automatic analysis devices include a first component that is used all the time and a second component that is used intermittently. The computer compares a use time of the first component of each automatic analysis device with a set time, and in a case where the use time of the first component of any one of the plurality of automatic analysis devices exceeds the set time, selects an automatic analysis device whose use time of the first component exceeds the set time as a priority device, and controls the conveyer line in a manner that conveys a specimen that uses the second component in analysis to the priority device in preference to other automatic analysis devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automated analysis system with multiple automated analysis devices and a sample dispensing method. Background Technology

[0002] In an automated analysis system equipped with multiple automated analysis devices, multiple samples can be processed in a short time by performing analysis in parallel by the multiple automated analysis devices. Patent Document 1 discloses a method for determining the distribution of samples to each automated analysis device based on the load status and reagent remaining of each automated analysis device.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-177136 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In automated analysis systems, various components such as light sources and reaction units are used in each automated analysis device. These components require regular or timely maintenance, including cleaning, repair, and replacement. Such maintenance not only becomes a burden for the user but also requires stopping the automated analysis device each time, reducing the efficiency of sample analysis.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automatic analysis system and a sample distribution method that can reduce the downtime of the automatic analysis device that requires maintenance, reduce the burden on users, and improve the processing efficiency of sample analysis.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an automated analysis system comprising: a plurality of automated analysis devices; a conveyor line connected to the plurality of automated analysis devices; and a computer that controls the conveyor line to distribute samples to the plurality of automated analysis devices. The plurality of automated analysis devices are configured to each include a first component that is used continuously during operation and a second component that is used intermittently. The computer compares the usage time of the first component of each automated analysis device with a set time. If the usage time of the first component of any of the plurality of automated analysis devices exceeds the set time, the automated analysis device whose first component usage time exceeds the set time is selected as a priority device. The conveyor line is controlled such that samples using the second component in the analysis are conveyed to the priority device with priority over other automated analysis devices.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the present invention, the frequency of downtime of the automatic analysis device that requires maintenance can be reduced, the burden on users can be alleviated, and the processing efficiency of sample analysis can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an automatic analysis system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 It is extraction Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the main components of the automatic analysis devices in an automatic analysis system.

[0015] Figure 3 It is extraction Figure 2 A schematic diagram representing the reaction disk and related elements of an automated analysis device.

[0016] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 The functional block diagram of the main computer functions of the automatic analysis system.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing sequence for determining whether a reaction unit needs to be replaced in a unit blank determination.

[0018] Figure 6 It is a graph that uses a timeline to represent the date and time of the replacement of reaction units.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the utilization rate of the reaction unit.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the rules for maintenance items of managed object components.

[0021] Figure 9 This is an example image showing the usage progress of a managed object component.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a flowchart showing the steps of a computer distributing samples to multiple automated analysis devices.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps a computer performs to allocate samples from multiple automated analysis devices when the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is ineffective. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The embodiments of the present invention are described below using the accompanying drawings.

[0025] -Automatic Analysis System-

[0026] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of an automatic analysis system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The automatic analysis system shown in the figure is configured to include a conveyor line 100, multiple automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, and a computer 400. In this embodiment, an automatic analysis system having two automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B is described as an example, but the invention can also be applied to automatic analysis systems having three or more automatic analysis devices.

[0027] The transfer line 100 is a unit connected to both automated analyzers 300A and 300B, transporting samples to or from these analyzers. The transfer line 100 is configured to include a sampling unit 101 and a transport unit 102. The sampling unit 101 is a unit that allows samples to enter and exit relative to the automated analysis system, and it houses multiple sample holders 2 containing multiple sample containers 1 filled with patient samples, and transfers the sample holders 2 between the sampling unit 101 and the transport unit 102. The sample containers 1 contain patient samples (biological samples) such as blood and urine. Sometimes, some sample containers 1 contain standard solutions for preparing calibration curves or samples for accuracy management. The transfer unit 102 selectively supplies the samples from the sampling unit 101 to the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, or puts the sample container 1 (sample rack 2) recovered from the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B into the sampling unit 101.

[0028] The automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are units that perform predetermined analyses (e.g., biochemical analysis, ISE analysis, etc.) on the sample containing the sample container 1. In addition to the main body 301, they are configured to include a buffer unit 302, a control device 303, etc. The main body 301 (described later) is the mechanical part that performs the analysis of the sample. The buffer unit 302 is a unit that transfers the sample holder 2 between itself and the transfer unit 102, and also temporarily keeps the sample holder 2 in standby mode; it is located adjacent to the main body 301. The control device 303 is a computer with a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc., which controls the main body 301 and the buffer unit 302 based on signals from the computer 400, which serves as a higher-level control device.

[0029] The computer 400 controls the sampling unit 101, the transfer unit 102, and the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B based on data input by a user (operator, etc.) through the operating device 401 and a predetermined program. For example, the sampling unit 101 and the transfer unit 102, controlled by the computer 400 based on the commissioned analysis items and analysis sequence data, distribute (distribute) the sample container 1, which is placed into the automatic analysis system, to the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B. Furthermore, based on input data from the computer 400, the respective control devices 303 control the analysis device bodies 301 of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, performing the analysis of the sample in parallel within each analysis device body 301. After the sample analysis is completed, the sample container 1 is transferred to the transfer unit 102 and then returned to the sampling unit 101 via the transfer unit 102 controlled by the computer 400.

[0030] The operating device 401 is configured to include input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel, and display devices such as a monitor.

[0031] -Automatic Analysis Device-

[0032] Figure 2 It is extraction Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the main components of the various automatic analysis devices within an automatic analysis system. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram representing the reaction disk and related elements of an automated analysis device. Figure 2 The illustration of buffer unit 302 is omitted here. Instead, it is used... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure of the automatic analyzer 300A is explained here, but the automatic analyzer 300B has the same structure as the automatic analyzer 300A. The measurement principles of the analytical items and the components used by the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B are similar.

[0033] The main body 301 of the automatic analysis device 300A includes a reaction plate 311, a sample dispensing mechanism 312, a reagent plate 313, a reagent dispensing mechanism 314, and a biochemical analyzer 315.

[0034] The reaction disk 311 is a disc-shaped device that rotates about a vertical axis. Multiple reaction units 321 made of a light-transmitting material are arranged in a ring around the outer periphery of the reaction disk 311. Each reaction unit is a single-use container made of drug-resistant resin with an open top and narrow sides. The reaction disk 311 is conditioned to a set temperature (e.g., around 37°C) by a thermostat (not shown), and rotates intermittently during operation of the automatic analysis device 300A, moving predetermined reaction units 321 to predetermined positions (such as the position for dispensing samples).

[0035] The sample dispensing mechanism 312 is a mechanism for dispensing samples, etc., from the sample container 1 to the reaction unit 321, located between the reaction plate 311 and the aspiration position. Figure 2 The sample dispensing mechanism 312 is located between the sample holder 2 and the sample container 2. It has a movable arm and a pipette nozzle (probe) mounted on the movable arm, configured to rotate horizontally and move horizontally in the up-down direction. With this structure, the sample dispensing mechanism 312 inserts the pipette nozzle into the target sample container 1 of the sample holder 2, which has moved to the suction position, to draw in a predetermined amount of sample, and then dispenses the sample into a predetermined reaction unit 321, which has moved to a predetermined position by the rotation of the reaction plate 311. The sample dispensing operation of the sample dispensing mechanism 312 is performed while detecting the liquid level inside the sample container 1 and the reaction unit 321 using a liquid level detector 322. Although not specifically illustrated, a cleaning tank for cleaning the pipette nozzle of the sample dispensing mechanism 312 is provided along the movement path of the pipette nozzle, allowing the pipette nozzle of the sample dispensing mechanism 312 to be cleaned in the cleaning tank.

[0036] The reagent tray 313 is a disc-shaped device that rotates around a vertical axis. Multiple reagent containers 323 are arranged in a ring around the outer periphery of the reagent tray 313. The reagent tray 313 functions as a reagent storage container, providing a cooling function for the stored reagent solutions. Each reagent container 323 is affixed with a label displaying reagent identification information (e.g., a barcode) and contains reagent solutions for various analytical tests. A reagent ID reader 324 is located on the outer periphery of the reagent tray 313. This reader reads the reagent identification information affixed to the reagent container 323 and outputs the read reagent solution data along with the location data of the corresponding reagent container 323 within the reagent tray 313 to the control device 303. This data input to the control device 303 is then registered in the memory 331 of the control device 303.

[0037] The reagent dispensing mechanism 314 is used to dispense reagent solution from the reagent container 323 to the reaction unit 321. The reagent dispensing mechanism 314 is also located between the reaction plate 311 and the reagent plate 313, and like the sample dispensing mechanism 312, it has a movable arm and a pipette nozzle (probe) mounted on the movable arm. The reagent dispensing mechanism 314 inserts the pipette nozzle into the target reagent container 323, which is moved to the aspiration position by the rotation of the reagent plate 313, aspirates a predetermined amount of reagent solution, and dispenses the reagent solution into the predetermined reaction unit 321, which is moved to the predetermined position by the rotation of the reaction plate 311. The reagent dispensing operation of the reagent dispensing mechanism 314 is also performed while the liquid level is detected by the liquid level detector 325. Although not specifically illustrated, a cleaning tank for cleaning the pipette nozzle of the reagent dispensing mechanism 314 is provided along the movement path of the pipette nozzle, allowing the pipette nozzle of the reagent dispensing mechanism 314 to be cleaned in the cleaning tank.

[0038] The biochemical analyzer 315 is a device for analyzing the biochemical components of a sample, and is configured to be close to the reaction unit 321 located on the reaction plate 311. The biochemical analyzer 315 consists of a light source lamp 326 (…). Figure 3 The system comprises a light source lamp 326, a photometer 327, etc. The light source lamp 326 is positioned inside the annular array of reaction units 321, and the photometer 327 is positioned outside the annular array of reaction units 321. The examination light emitted from the light source lamp 326 passes through the reaction unit 321 containing the sample, and the transmitted or scattered light transmitted through the reaction unit 321 is measured by the photometer 327. During the operation of the automatic analysis device 300A, the light source lamp 326 is always powered on. The sample and reagent solution inside each reaction unit 321 are measured each time they cross between the light source lamp 326 and the photometer 327. The analog signal output from the photometer 327 accompanying the measurement is input to the control device 303, converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 332, and recorded in the memory 331. After the measurement, the reaction unit 321 is cleaned internally by a reaction unit cleaning mechanism (not shown) located near the reaction plate 311, allowing for repeated use.

[0039] In addition, although detailed descriptions are omitted, the automatic analysis device 300A also includes a stirring mechanism (e.g., an ultrasonic stirring mechanism) for stirring the sample and reagent solution dispensed into the reaction unit 321, and an ISE analyzer for measuring the electrolyte concentration in the sample using an ion-selective electrode.

[0040] -computer-

[0041] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 The functional block diagram of the main computer functions possessed by the automated analysis system. Figure 4In this paper, the control functions of computer 400 on conveyor line 100 are extracted and represented, while the control functions of automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are omitted. Figure 4 The computer 400 shown includes a memory (storage device) 410, an arithmetic unit (CPU, etc.) 420, a timer 430, etc. The computer 400 can be configured to be directly connected to the conveyor line 100 and the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B via wired or wireless means, or it can be configured to be connected to the conveyor line 100 and the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B via a network.

[0042] The memory 410 stores current data 411 and maintenance history 412 of the components used by the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B.

[0043] Current data 411 is, for example, a data table recording the usage status of the managed components currently in use in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, categorized by product type. Managed components refer to components included in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, whose usage status is subject to management, including consumables. Managed components are broadly divided into first components that are used continuously during operation and second components that are used intermittently. In this embodiment, the analysis principle and managed components (first and second components) of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are also common. For the first component, usage time is recorded as the usage status; for the second component, the number of uses is recorded as the usage status. The usage status data (usage time or number of uses) recorded in current data 411 are continuously added to and updated in the usage record 421 (described later) of the calculation device 420.

[0044] The phrase "always in use" as used above means that the first component is always used in a fixed state during the operation of the automatic analysis device 300A or 300B. A representative example of the first component is the light source 326, which emits inspection light that illuminates the reaction unit 321. The light source 326 is always powered on and continuously illuminates during the operation of the automatic analysis device 300A or 300B, which is equipped with it. Furthermore, the thermostat bath that maintains the reaction pan 311 at a suitable temperature is also an example of the first component.

[0045] Furthermore, "intermittent use" of the second component means that it is used repeatedly at predetermined intervals. A representative example of the second component is the reaction unit 321 for dispensing the sample. The reaction unit 321 is repeatedly used in a series of cycles, including receiving the sample and reagent solution, determining the analytical items, discharging the mixture of sample and reagent solution, and washing. In addition, a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used for the aspiration and dispensing of the sample or reagent solution and washing solution is also an example of a second component.

[0046] Maintenance history 412 is a data table, for example, that records the maintenance history for each type of managed object component used in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B. Maintenance history 412 records history data such as the replacement date and time of managed object components, such as the reaction unit 321 of the automatic analysis device 300A. Examples of this history data can be cited, for example, as structures input by the user from the operating device 401.

[0047] The arithmetic unit 420 has the execution functions of each process, including usage record 421, usage count calculation 422, usage progress rate calculation 423, and transport control 424.

[0048] Usage record 421 is a process for recording the usage status of the first component and the second component. In the processing of usage record 421, computer 400 measures the usage time (e.g., the cumulative usage time of the light source 326) of the first component used in automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B respectively. Additionally, computer 400 counts the number of uses (e.g., the cumulative number of uses of reaction unit 321) of the second component used in automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B respectively.

[0049] The usage time of the first component currently in use can be determined by timing the operation time of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B after replacement (after assembly into the automatic analysis device 300A or 300B) using timer 430. In this case, the start date of the usage time of the first component can be determined based on the data of the replacement date of the first component recorded in the maintenance log 412.

[0050] The number of times the second component is currently in use can be counted based on the number of times the analytical items of the sample are measured by signals from the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B (or signals sent to the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B), such as the number of times the liquid level is detected by the liquid level detectors 322 or 325. In this case, the start time of the period for counting the number of times the second component is used can be determined based on the replacement date and time of the second component recorded in the maintenance log 412. In addition, the number of times the second component is used can also be determined by counting the number of dispensing actions (action commands to the syringe) of the sample or reagent solution and the number of cleaning actions (action commands to the reaction plate 311) of the pipette nozzle based on data from the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B. The usage status of the first and second components currently in use, as measured in the usage record 421, is recorded as current data 411 in the memory 410.

[0051] The usability count calculation 422 is a process that calculates a predetermined number of usability counts for the second component based on the maintenance history 412 of the second component read from the memory 410. Taking the reaction unit 321 as an example, the reaction unit 321 performs a measurement called cell blank at predetermined intervals during the operation of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B respectively. Figure 5 The test is used to determine whether replacement is needed. Therefore, the actual number of times the second component is used before the replacement of the reaction unit 321 may increase or decrease. Therefore, in the processing of the usable count calculation 422, the calculation device 420 first counts the maintenance interval (replacement interval) of the reaction unit 321 based on the maintenance history 412 recorded in the memory 410. Then, based on the expected usage period of the reaction unit 321 derived from the statistics, the number of times the currently used reaction unit 321 has been used from assembly to replacement is estimated, and this is calculated as the usable count of the reaction unit 321. This is an example of the reaction unit 321, but in the case of the second component where the rule of simply replacing it after a fixed number of uses without testing is applied, the usable count is set to a set value (fixed value).

[0052] Usage progress calculation 423 is a process that calculates the usage progress rate (usage count or usable time utilization rate) of the first and second components currently in use in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B. In the case of the first component undergoing maintenance (e.g., replacement) after a pre-set usable time, the usage progress calculation 423 calculates the ratio of the current usage time to the usable time. Figure 9 In the case of the second component, during the processing of the progress rate calculation 423, the ratio of the current number of uses of the calculation response unit 321 to the number of available uses ( Figure 9 ).

[0053] The conveyor control 424 determines the allocation of samples to the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B and controls the processing of the conveyor line 100 based on the operation signal from the operating device 401 and the usage progress rate of the first and second components. Figure 10 , Figure 11 ).

[0054] -Unit Blank Determination-

[0055] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the steps involved in determining whether a reaction unit needs to be replaced, specifically a unit blank measurement.

[0056] (Step S51)

[0057] As described above, in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, a test called unit blank determination is performed to determine whether the reaction unit 321 needs to be replaced at predetermined intervals (e.g., every predetermined time period or every predetermined number of sample analyses) during the intervals between sample analysis operations. During the operation of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, the control device 303 or computer 400 determines, for example, whether a predetermined measurement period has arrived (step S51) based on operating time or the number of analysis executions. If the measurement period has not arrived, the control device 303 or computer 400 instructs the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B to continue the analysis operation, returning the step to step S51. If the measurement period has arrived, the control device 303 or computer 400 instructs the analysis operation to be interrupted, transferring the step to step S52 (unit blank determination). Hereinafter, the processing after step S52 will be explained using the case where the measurement period for the reaction unit 321 in the automatic analysis device 300A has arrived as an example.

[0058] (Step S52)

[0059] In the unit blank test, a liquid with a known measurement value (in this case, water) is dispensed into all reaction units 321 and illuminated with a test light, and the absorbance of each reaction unit 321 is measured. The dispensing of water into each reaction unit 321 can be achieved, for example, by dispensing water prepared in a predetermined reagent container 323 or sample container 1 into each reaction unit 321 via a reagent dispensing mechanism 314 or a sample dispensing mechanism 312. Furthermore, if water is used for cleaning the pipette nozzle, a structure can be designed to dispense water used in the cleaning mechanism into each reaction unit 321.

[0060] (Steps S53, S54)

[0061] In the next step S53, the control device 303 or computer 400 compares the absorbance obtained by unit blank measurement for each reaction unit 321 with a preset reference range (upper and lower limits) stored in the memory to determine whether there are any values ​​deviating from the reference range. In this determination, if the absorbance values ​​of all reaction units 321 converge to the reference values ​​(above the upper limit and below the lower limit), the control device 303 or computer 400 instructs the automatic analysis device 300A to restart the analysis, returning the step to step S51. Conversely, if any absorbance value deviates from the reference range (below the lower limit or above the upper limit), the control device 303 or computer 400 moves the step to step S54 to count the number of reaction units 321 whose absorbance values ​​deviate from the reference range.

[0062] (Steps S55, S56)

[0063] In the next step S55, the control device 303 or computer 400 determines whether there are multiple absorbance values ​​deviating from the reference range. If only one absorbance value deviates from the reference range, the control device 303 or computer 400 instructs the automatic analysis device 300A to restart the analysis operation, returning the step to step S51. Conversely, if multiple absorbance values ​​deviate from the reference range, the control device 303 or computer 400 proceeds to step S56, outputting an alarm recommending simultaneous replacement of the reaction unit 321 to an output device (e.g., the monitor of the operating device 401), thus ending the process. Figure 5 The process is as follows. In this embodiment, considering errors such as the absorbance measurement value, if one or fewer reaction units deviate from the reference range, the control device 303 or computer 400 determines that the reaction unit 321 does not need to be replaced. However, the number of defective reaction units used as the judgment criterion for alarm output in step S55 can be set and changed.

[0064] If all reaction units 321 are replaced according to the alarm, and a signal indicating the completion of the replacement of reaction units 321 is transmitted through a predetermined operation input, then the replacement date and time of the reaction units 321 are recorded in the maintenance log 412. Furthermore, after replacing the reaction units 321, the automatic analysis device 300A restarts its analysis operation, and the automatic analysis device 300A is re-executed. Figure 5 The process.

[0065] -Estimation of the duration of use of the reaction unit-

[0066] Figure 6This is a graph showing the replacement dates and times of the reaction unit using a timeline. The replacement history of the reaction unit 321 shown in this graph is the replacement history of the automatic analysis device 300A, but the following description is also applicable to the automatic analysis device 300B. In the computer 400, as described above, the replacement date and time of the reaction unit 321 are registered in the maintenance history 412 and stored in the memory 410. In the processing of the usability count calculation 422 performed by the arithmetic unit 420, based on the maintenance history 412 read from the memory 410, the usability count of the reaction unit 321 (the currently used second component) newly assembled in the automatic analysis device 300A through replacement is calculated. Specifically, for example, in the automatic analysis device 300A, firstly, based on the replacement date and time of the reaction unit 321, the actual values ​​I1, I2, ... In of the replacement interval of the reaction unit 321 for the most recent predetermined number of times n are calculated. These actual values ​​I1, I2, ... In are statistically analyzed (e.g., averaged) by the arithmetic unit 420, and the expected usage period In+1 of the newly assembled reaction unit 321 in the automatic analysis device 300A is calculated. In the usage count calculation 422 performed by the arithmetic unit 420, the number of times the new reaction unit 321 can be used is further calculated based on the expected usage period In+1. The number of usable times is calculated, for example, by calculating the actual value of the number of analysis executions per unit time in the most recent predetermined period in the automatic analysis device 300A based on the stored data in the memory 410, and calculating the number of analyses performed at the same rate as the actual value during the expected usage period In+1.

[0067] -Estimation of the rate of use of the reaction unit-

[0068] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the utilization rate of the reaction unit. Figure 7 The number on the horizontal axis of the graph represents the number of times a group of reaction units 321 currently in use in the automatic analysis device 300A is used, assuming that all reaction units 321 in the automatic analysis device 300A (and the same applies to the automatic analysis device 300B) are replaced as a group. In other words, the horizontal axis of the graph corresponds to the number of analysis executions performed in the automatic analysis device 300A using the currently used reaction units 321 (all in one group).

[0069] exist Figure 7In this context, assuming that the currently used reaction unit 321 has been used for the number of times Np has been calculated as described above, an alarm is output requesting the next replacement of reaction unit 321 during the unit blanking measurement. In this case, if the number of times the currently used reaction unit 321 has been used up to the present is set to N, then in the processing of the usage progress rate calculation 423 performed by the calculation device 420, the value of 100×N / Np is calculated as the estimated value of the usage progress rate R (%) of reaction unit 321. The next replacement of reaction unit 321 is envisioned when the usage progress rate R reaches 100%. Similarly, the number of times Np can be used and the number of times N can be used are not the individual usage counts of each reaction unit 321, but rather values ​​under the concept of considering all currently used reaction units 321 as a group.

[0070] -Usage progress rate of other managed object components-

[0071] In the usage progress rate calculation 423 performed by the computing device 420, not only the usage progress rate of the currently used reaction unit 321 is calculated, but also the usage progress rates of other managed object components are calculated. However, the calculation of the usage progress rate of each managed object component differs slightly depending on the management criteria.

[0072] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the rules for maintenance items of the managed components. In the example diagram, it is specified that the thermostat bath, which maintains the reaction pan 311 at a suitable temperature, is cleaned every A months (a predetermined period). The elapsed period since the last cleaning of the thermostat bath can be measured by a timer in the computer 400 or control device 303. Furthermore, regarding the light source lamp 326, it is specified that it should be replaced if its usage time reaches B time (usable time). The usage time of the light source lamp 326 corresponds to the operating time of the automatic analyzer 300A (or automatic analyzer 300B) installed after it. The usage time of the light source lamp 326 can also be measured by a timer in the computer 400 or control device 303. These thermostat baths and light source lamps 326 are the first components that are always used in the operation of the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B, and their maintenance period is managed by time. For these first components, in the processing of the usage schedule calculation 423, the usage schedule R is calculated as T / Tp×100 based on the fixed usable time Tp and the usage time T (the elapsed time since the most recent maintenance).

[0073] on the other hand, Figure 8The illustrated reaction unit 321 and pipette nozzle (sample probe) are second components used intermittently during the operation of the automated analyzers 300A and 300B, accompanying the analysis of the sample. Their maintenance period is managed by the number of uses. In the case of components like reaction unit 321, which are used to determine whether maintenance is required during unit blank testing, the actual number of uses before the next maintenance will deviate. Therefore, for second components like reaction unit 321, as described above, the usage time is estimated based on the maintenance history 412, and the ratio of the number of uses N to the number of usable uses Np estimated based on the usage time (N / Np×100) is calculated as the usage rate R.

[0074] Even for the same second component, the pipette nozzle is specified to be maintained (cleaned) after a specific number of uses (C times). This cleaning of the pipette nozzle is not the cleaning performed every time the sample is dispensed during the analysis, but rather a maintenance cleaning that increases the cleaning time or the number of times the cleaning fluid flows compared to that. For second components like the pipette nozzle, where the maintenance period is determined by a fixed number of uses, a fixed setpoint is set for the number of uses Np in the usage rate calculation 423. This differs from the previous method, where the value used for the number of uses Np is a fixed setpoint rather than a variable estimate; however, the usage rate R for the pipette nozzle, etc., is calculated as N / Np×100, just like in reaction unit 321.

[0075] The memory 410 of the computer 400 or the memory 331 of the control device 303 stores, for example, Figure 8 The criteria for determining the maintenance of the first and second components (usable time, number of uses, etc.) are specified in this document. Based on these criteria, the computer 400 or control device 303 will, for example, output an alarm requesting maintenance for the corresponding component to the operating device 401 when predetermined conditions are met. In the case of the first component, an alarm is output if the usage time reaches the usable time. For components in the second component that require maintenance as determined in tests such as reaction unit 321, an alarm is output if maintenance is determined to be required in a predetermined test (e.g., unit blank measurement). For components in the second component, such as pipette nozzles, where maintenance is simply determined by the number of uses, an alarm is output if the number of uses reaches the usable number.

[0076] -Example of the image-

[0077] Figure 9This diagram illustrates an example of a screen displaying the usage progress of a managed object component. The screen shown is, for example, a screen displayed on the monitor of the operating device 401 based on a display signal from the computer 400 corresponding to a predetermined operation of the operating device 401. This screen is displayed based on the usage progress of the managed object component calculated by the computing unit 420, and the data upon which that calculation is based. In the case where another computer (not shown) is connected to the computer 400 via a network, Figure 9 The screen can be displayed on a monitor of another computer. The screen in this diagram shows indicators 91 to 94 and switch 95.

[0078] Indicator 91 indicates the usage status of the light source 326 of the automatic analysis device 300A (represented as the first module in this figure). The overall length of indicator 91 corresponds to the aforementioned usable time Tp set for the light source 326, and indicator 91 visually displays the extent of the usage time T of the light source 326 within that usable time Tp. The usage time T of the light source 326 is also displayed in the item column 91a of indicator 91. The usage time T of indicator 91 and the value in item column 91a increase together with the operating time of automatic analysis device 300A. Figure 9 The example shown illustrates the display of data for light source 326, but data about other first components or multiple first components can also be displayed. Alternatively, data about any selected first component can also be displayed.

[0079] Indicator 92 indicates the usage status of reaction unit 321 in the automatic analysis device 300A. The overall length of indicator 92 corresponds to the estimated number of uses Np for reaction unit 321, and indicator 92 visually displays the extent to which reaction unit 321 has been used Np. The number of uses N for reaction unit 321 is also displayed in the item column 92a of indicator 92. Each time reaction unit 321 is used, the number of uses N on indicator 92 and the value in item column 92a increase. Figure 9 The example shows data displayed as a reference for the replacement period of reaction unit 321, but data regarding other second components or multiple second components could also be displayed. Alternatively, data regarding any selected second component could also be displayed.

[0080] Indicators 93 and 94 indicate the usage status of the light source 326 and reaction unit 321 of the automatic analysis device 300B (represented as the second module in this figure). Indicators 93 and 94 are identical to indicators 91 and 92, and like indicators 91 and 92, they also display values ​​in the item columns 93a and 94a.

[0081] Switch 95 is a switch that toggles the activation and deactivation of the maintenance opportunity suppression mode of the delivery control 424 based on the arithmetic unit 420. The maintenance opportunity suppression mode refers to a sample allocation function that selects a priority device for supplying samples based on the usage time of a first component, thereby suppressing the maintenance opportunity of the managed component. Regarding the sample allocation operation based on the maintenance opportunity suppression mode, [the following is used...] Figure 10 To be described later.

[0082] In this embodiment, an example is given of... Figure 9 The checkboxes displayed on the screen are for switch 95. If the checkbox is selected, the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is enabled; if it is deselected, the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is disabled. However, switch 95 is not limited to the method shown in this figure; it can also be replaced by buttons with other display methods, such as physical switches located on the operating device 401, the analysis device main body 301, etc.

[0083] -Specimen allocation action (maintaining opportunity suppression mode)-

[0084] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the sample distribution operation performed by the computer 400 on the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B. The steps shown in this flowchart are repeatedly executed during the analysis operation of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, according to... Figure 10 The steps shown specify which of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B will analyze the sample when the sample holder 2 is fed into the automatic analysis system.

[0085] Step S101

[0086] When automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are started, computer 400 begins... Figure 10 The process determines whether the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is effective (step S101). After passing through... Figure 9 If the switch 95 selects an invalid maintenance opportunity suppression mode, the computer 400 will proceed from step S101 to step S120. Conversely, if the switch 95 selects an valid maintenance opportunity suppression mode, the computer 400 will proceed from step S101 to step S102.

[0087] Steps S102-S107

[0088] After transferring to step S102, the computer 400 refers to the usage time Ta and Tb of the predetermined first component (in this example, the light source 326) currently in use of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, which is recorded in the memory 410. The usage time Ta and Tb of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are compared with a preset set time T0 (steps S103-S105). The set time T0 is a value set shorter than the usable time Tp of the light source 326, for example, about 2 / 3 of the usable time Tp. If the determination result of steps S103-S105 is that the usage time Ta and Tb of the light source 326 of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are both less than the set time T0, the computer 400 transfers to step S120. In contrast, if the usage time of any light source 326 in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B exceeds the set time T0, the computer 400 selects the automatic analysis device whose usage time exceeds the set time T0 as the priority device. For example, if only the usage time Ta exceeds the set time T0, the computer 400 moves to step S106, selects the automatic analysis device 300A as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 10 The steps are as follows. If the time Tb exceeds the set time T0, the computer 400 moves to step S107, selects the automatic analysis device 300B as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 10 The steps are as follows. If both the usage time Ta and Tb exceed the set time T0, the computer 400 will move the step to step S108.

[0089] Steps S108-S110

[0090] After moving to step S108, the computer 400 refers to the number of times (N1, N2) the predetermined second component (represented as reaction unit 321 in this example) currently in use in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B is used so far, as recorded in the memory 410. Moving to the next step S109, the computer 400 calculates the current usage progress rates R1, R2 of each reaction unit 321 in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, based on the number of times Np and N1, N2 of use of the reaction unit 321 calculated as described above. In the next step S110, the computer 400 compares the usage progress rates R1, R2 of the reaction unit 321 in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B. If the result of this comparison is that the usage progress rate R1 of the reaction unit 321 in the automatic analysis device 300A is higher (R1 > R2), then the computer 400 moves to step S106, selects the automatic analysis device 300A as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 10The steps are as follows. Conversely, if the utilization rate R2 of the reaction unit 321 of the automatic analysis device 300B is high (R1 < R2), the computer 400 transfers the steps to step S107, selects the automatic analysis device 300B as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 10 The steps are as follows. In the case that there are multiple automatic analysis devices whose predetermined first component usage time exceeds the set time T0, the computer 400 compares the predetermined number of times the second component is used among these multiple automatic analysis devices, and selects the automatic analysis device with the most times the second component is used as the priority device.

[0091] During the operation of the automatic analysis devices 300a and 300B, if the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is active, the computer 400 repeatedly executes steps S101-S110. When the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is active, during the transport control 424 processing performed by the computing unit 420 of the computer 400, a control signal is output to the transport line 100 according to the selection of the priority device in steps S101-S110. As a result, the priority device whose maintenance period for the first component in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B is approaching transports the sample used in the analysis reaction unit 321 (the predetermined second component) to the automatic analysis devices with priority over other automatic analysis devices.

[0092] - Specimen allocation action (throughput priority mode) -

[0093] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the computer 400's sample allocation operation to the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B when the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is ineffective. Figure 11 The flowchart shown is Figure 10 The detailed content of step S120 is an example of a throughput priority mode that prioritizes the selection of the device based on throughput. This throughput priority mode (step S120) is executed when the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is set to invalid by switching 95. Figure 10 Furthermore, even when the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is effective, the usage times Ta and Tb of the light source 326 of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B are both below the set time T0, and the system operates under scenarios where higher efficiency is expected than when the maintenance opportunity suppression mode is applied. Figure 10 ).

[0094] When step S120 begins, the computer 400 determines in step S121 which of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B is in a low-load state. The load state of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B can be evaluated, for example, by calculating an estimate of the total processing time for each sample currently allocated to the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B based on the sample allocation history recorded in the memory 410 and the analysis execution history of the two automatic analysis devices. If the determination results in automatic analysis device 300B being in a low-load state compared to automatic analysis device 300A, the computer 400 proceeds to step S125, selects automatic analysis device 300B as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 11 The steps will be returned to... Figure 10 Step S101.

[0095] Conversely, if the automatic analysis device 300A is under lower load than the automatic analysis device 300B, the computer 400 proceeds to step S122 to determine which buffer unit 302 of the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B has a smaller number of specimen containers 1. The number of specimens waiting for the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B can be calculated, for example, based on the specimen allocation history recorded in the memory 410 and the analysis execution history of the two automatic analysis devices. If the result of this determination is that the number of specimens waiting for the automatic analysis device 300B is less than that of the automatic analysis device 300A, the computer 400 proceeds to step S125, selects the automatic analysis device 300B as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 11 The steps will be returned to... Figure 10 Step S101.

[0096] Conversely, if the number of samples waiting for the automated analyzer 300A is less than that for the automated analyzer 300B, the computer 400 proceeds to step S123 to determine which of the automated analyzers 300A and 300B is closer to the sample rack placement position. This determination is made based on the known structural data of the automated analysis system. If the determination results in automated analyzer 300B being closer than automated analyzer 300A, the computer 400 proceeds to step S125, selecting automated analyzer 300B as the priority device, and the process ends. Figure 11 The steps will be returned to... Figure 10 Step S101. Conversely, if the automatic analysis device 300A is closer than the automatic analysis device 300B, the computer 400 proceeds to step S124, selecting the automatic analysis device 300A as the priority device, and ends the process. Figure 11 The steps will be returned to... Figure 10 Step S101.

[0097] If the load conditions of the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B are not considered, for example, simply distributing samples to the closer analyzer, there is a possibility that the load on the automatic analyzers 300A and 300B will become unbalanced, resulting in reduced throughput. In contrast, by... Figure 11 By allocating samples based on factors such as load conditions, load imbalances can be suppressed, thereby preventing a decrease in productivity.

[0098] -Effect-

[0099] (1) When replacing the light source lamp 326, prior work such as removing the reaction plate 311 from the main body 301 of the analyzer is required, and subsequent work such as installing the reaction plate 311 on the main body 301 of the analyzer is also required after replacing the light source lamp 326. The automatic analyzer must be stopped during these operations. When replacing the reaction unit 321, the reaction plate 311 is removed from the main body 301 of the analyzer, all used reaction units 321 are removed from the reaction plate 311, and the reaction plate 311 with the new reaction unit 321 is installed on the main body 301 of the analyzer. The automatic analyzer must also be stopped during this process. The automatic analyzer must also be stopped when maintaining other managed components. Therefore, the frequency of stopping the automatic analyzer increases when individual maintenance opportunities arise for each managed component.

[0100] At this time, the first components, such as the light source 326, are always in a fixed operating state in the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B, making it difficult to adjust the maintenance schedule. In contrast, the second components, such as the reaction unit 321, can adjust the timing of maintenance by controlling their usage. Therefore, in the automatic analysis system of this embodiment, the predetermined first components (in...) Figure 10 In the example, the automatic analysis device whose usage time T exceeds the set time T0 (light source 326) is selected as the priority device, and the sample is transported to the selected priority device before other automatic analysis devices. Therefore, the analysis of the sample is performed preferentially in the automatic analysis device whose maintenance period for the first component is approaching. Consequently, the analysis of the sample is performed preferentially in the second component (in the priority device) of the priority device. Figure 10 In the example, the number of uses of reaction unit 321 is increased earlier compared to other automatic analysis devices. As a result, the scheduled maintenance opportunity for the second component in the priority device is brought forward, and the scheduled use of the second component is carried out extensively when the scheduled maintenance opportunity for the first component in the priority device arrives. If the usage rate of the scheduled second component is fixed or higher, the maintenance of the second component can also be carried out at the same time as the scheduled maintenance opportunity for the first component.

[0101] By aggregating the maintenance opportunities of multiple managed components, the downtime of automatic analysis devices accompanying the maintenance of managed components can be reduced, alleviating the burden on users and improving the processing efficiency of sample analysis.

[0102] In particular, the reaction unit 321 and the light source 326 are common to the replacement operations such as loading and unloading of the reaction plate 311. Therefore, if both can be replaced in one maintenance session, the efficiency will be greatly improved.

[0103] (2) In addition, such as in Figure 10 As explained in steps S108-S110, when there are multiple automatic analysis devices whose first component's usage time T exceeds a set time T0, a priority device is selected based on the number of times N of the second component is used among these multiple automatic analysis devices. Therefore, when there are multiple automatic analysis devices whose first component's maintenance period is approaching, the automatic analysis device that allows the second component's maintenance opportunity to arrive earlier is selected as the priority device. The maintenance period of the second component in the priority device is more likely to coincide with the maintenance period of the first component. Alternatively, for example, it is possible that after automatic analysis device 300A is selected as the priority device, before the maintenance period arrives, the usage time T of the light source lamp 326 in automatic analysis device 300B exceeds the set time T0. In this case, at the point when the usage time T of the light source lamp 326 in automatic analysis device 300B exceeds the set time T0, the number of times N of the reaction unit 321 in automatic analysis device 300B is used may also be more than that in automatic analysis device 300A. In such a scenario, the automatic analysis device 300B, which causes the maintenance period of the second component to arrive earlier, is reselected as the priority device, and the priority device is flexibly switched in response to changes in the situation.

[0104] (3) By making the first and second components interchangeable across multiple automated analyzers, common analyses of the same items can be performed in other automated analyzers even when one analyzer is down. Therefore, for example, even if automated analyzer 300A is stopped to replace reaction unit 321 and light source 326, biochemical analysis can continue using automated analyzer 300B during this period, thus preventing analysis processing stagnation. Furthermore, the interchangeability of components between automated analyzers reduces the number of different types of components, which is also advantageous for component management.

[0105] However, based on the effect of aligning the maintenance periods of the predetermined first component and the predetermined second component in the same automatic analysis device, the managed object component may not need to be interchangeable among multiple automatic analysis devices constituting the automatic analysis system.

[0106] (4) Since a switch 95 is provided to disable the maintenance opportunity suppression mode, the maintenance opportunity suppression mode can be disabled when it is desired to always allocate samples to the automatic analysis devices 300A and 300B in a throughput-priority mode. Regardless of the usage rate of the first component, it can flexibly respond to scenarios where the analysis process is to be carried out in a way that prioritizes throughput.

[0107] (5) For example, reaction unit 321 is a second component used intermittently, but as mentioned above, maintenance opportunities arise when it is determined to be necessary during unit blank testing. Therefore, the replacement period is not simply determined by the number of uses to date. Therefore, the usable time Tp is estimated based on the replacement interval of reaction unit 321 according to maintenance history statistics, and the estimated number of uses Np based on the usable time Tp is calculated. This roughly estimates the replacement period of the currently used reaction unit 321. The estimated value of the current number of uses N of the reaction unit 321 relative to this estimated number of uses Np, i.e., the usage rate R of the reaction unit 321, is as follows: Figure 9 As illustrated, this is displayed on indicators 92 and 94. Thus, the user can be informed of the replacement period of the reaction unit 321, which is typically notified suddenly through unit blank measurement. The replacement period of the reaction unit 321 is also easily perceived through visual display on the indicators.

[0108] Symbol Explanation

[0109] 95…Switch, 100…Conveyor line, 300A, 300B…Automatic analysis device, 321…Reaction unit (second component), 326…Light source (first component), 400…Computer, 410…Memory, 412…Maintenance history, N…Number of uses, Np…Number of usable uses, T…Usage time, T0…Set time.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis system, characterized in that, have: Multiple automated analysis devices; A conveyor line, which is connected to the plurality of automated analysis devices; and A computer controls the conveyor line to distribute samples to the plurality of automated analysis devices. The plurality of automated analysis devices are configured to include a first component that is used continuously during operation and a second component that is used intermittently. The computer compares the usage time of the first component of each automatic analysis device with a set time. If the usage time of the first component of any of the multiple automatic analysis devices exceeds the set time, the automatic analysis device whose usage time of the first component exceeds the set time is selected as a priority device. The computer then controls the transport line to transport the specimen using the second component in the analysis to the priority device in a manner that prioritizes other automatic analysis devices.

2. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, If there are multiple automatic analysis devices whose first component has been used for more than the set time, the computer compares the number of times the second component of these multiple automatic analysis devices has been used, and selects the automatic analysis device whose second component has been used the most times as the priority device.

3. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second component is the reaction unit that dispenses the sample. The first component is a light source that emits inspection light that illuminates the reaction unit.

4. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first component and the second component are common to the plurality of automated analysis devices.

5. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic analysis system includes a switch that toggles the activation and deactivation of the function of the priority device based on the usage time of the first component.

6. The automatic analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic analysis system includes a memory that stores the maintenance history of the multiple automatic analysis devices. The computer calculates the number of times the second component is currently in use based on the maintenance history read from the memory, and displays the ratio of the number of times the second component is currently in use to the number of times it is currently in use.

7. A sample dispensing method for dispensing samples to a plurality of automated analysis devices in an automated analysis system, the automated analysis system comprising the plurality of automated analysis devices, the plurality of automated analysis devices being configured to each include a first component that is used continuously during operation and a second component that is used intermittently, characterized in that, The method compares the usage time of the first component of each automated analysis device with a set time. If the usage time of the first component of any of the plurality of automated analysis devices exceeds the set time, the automated analysis device whose usage time of the first component exceeds the set time is selected as a priority device, so that the specimens using the second component in the analysis are assigned to the priority device with priority over other automated analysis devices.

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