Mixing mechanism and sample analyzer

Abstract

This invention provides a mixing mechanism and a sample analyzer. The mixing mechanism is used to mix biological samples in a sample container. The mixing mechanism includes a support base, a first motion component, a second motion component, and a drive component. The support base supports the sample container. The first motion component is connected to a first position on the side wall of the support base. The second motion component is connected to a second position on the side wall of the support base. The drive component, connected to the first motion component, drives the first motion component to rotate, thereby causing the first motion component to move the support base. A height difference is formed between the first and second positions, and the movement of the support base further drives the second motion component to move within a preset range. This mixing mechanism and sample analyzer can effectively mix biological samples through a reasonable structural design.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of biological sample analysis technology, and in particular to a mixing mechanism and a sample analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] Blood sample testing requires the collection of a certain amount of sample from the patient. Blood is composed of blood cells and plasma. Due to the difference in specific gravity between blood cells and plasma, blood samples will separate into layers after being left for a period of time. If the sample is directly sampled and measured, the measurement results will be significantly biased. Therefore, designing a mixing mechanism to thoroughly mix blood samples before measurement is one of the technical problems that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a mixing mechanism and a sample analyzer to achieve effective mixing of biological samples through a reasonable structural design.

[0004] This invention provides a mixing mechanism for mixing biological samples in a sample container, the mixing mechanism comprising:

[0005] A support base for supporting the sample container;

[0006] The first motion component is connected to a first position on the side wall of the support seat;

[0007] The second motion component is connected to a second position on the side wall of the support seat;

[0008] A drive component, connected to the first motion component, is used to drive the first motion component to rotate, so that the first motion component drives the support seat to move;

[0009] A height difference is formed between the first position and the second position, and the movement of the support seat drives the second motion component to move within a preset range.

[0010] This invention provides a sample analyzer, comprising:

[0011] The sample delivery mechanism is used to transport the sample container;

[0012] The mixing mechanism described above is used to mix the biological sample in the sample container.

[0013] A sampling mechanism for collecting a mixed biological sample from the sample container;

[0014] The reaction measurement mechanism, wherein the sampling mechanism injects the collected biological sample into the reaction detection mechanism.

[0015] The mixing mechanism and sample analyzer provided by this invention have a reasonable structural design. The first motion component and the second motion component are respectively connected to the first position and the second position of the support seat, forming a height difference between the first position and the second position. When the driving component drives the first motion component to rotate, the first motion component drives the support seat to move. The movement of the support seat can drive the second motion component to move within a preset range. Through the multi-level linkage and cooperation of the driving component, the first motion component, the support seat and the second motion component, the sample in the sample container supported on the support seat is effectively mixed, and the mixing effect is excellent.

[0016] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit the disclosure of the embodiments of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1(A) is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 1(B) is a partial schematic diagram of a sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 1(C) is a partial structural schematic diagram of a sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present invention, showing a conventional sample injection mechanism and an emergency sample injection mechanism;

[0021] Figure 1(D) is a partial structural schematic diagram of an emergency sample delivery mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 1(E) is a partial schematic diagram of a sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 1(F) is a partial structural schematic diagram of a sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 1(G) is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second mixing mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2(A) is a schematic diagram of a transfer mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2(B) is a schematic diagram of the working principle of a claw opening assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2(C) is a schematic diagram of the working principle of a claw opening assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2(D) is an exploded view of a transfer mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2(E) is a schematic diagram of a transfer mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 3(A) is a schematic diagram of a mixing mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 3(B) is a structural schematic diagram of a support base and sample container provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3(C) is a schematic diagram of a mixing mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3(D) is a structural schematic diagram of a support base and sample container provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3(E) is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0036] 10. Sample injection mechanism; 11. Conventional sample injection mechanism; 111. Conventional sample injection position; 112. Loading assembly; 113. Unloading assembly; 114. Sample injection assembly; 12. Emergency sample injection mechanism; 121. Emergency sample injection position; 122. Emergency sample rack; 1221. Container placement hole; 101. Conventional sample container; 102. Emergency sample container; 103. Conventional sample rack; 104. Second path;

[0037] 20. Transfer mechanism; 21. Gripper frame; 22. Gripper assembly; 221. First gripper; 222. Second gripper; 23. Gripper elastic element; 24. Gripper opening assembly; 241. Support base; 242. Guide wheel; 243. Gripper motor; 25. Position sensor; 26. First moving assembly; 261. First moving support frame; 262. First guide element; 263. First moving drive element; 264. First transmission element; 27. Second moving assembly; 271. Second moving support frame; 272. Second guide element; 273. Second moving drive element; 274. Second transmission element;

[0038] 30. Mixing mechanism; 301. First mixing mechanism; 31. Support seat; 311. First position; 312. Second position; 313. Receiving groove; 32. First motion component; 33. Second motion component; 34. Drive component; 35. Slide groove; 36. First connecting shaft; 37. Second connecting shaft;

[0039] 302, Second mixing mechanism; 3021, Loading seat; 3022, Mixing driver; 303, First mixing position; 304, Second mixing position;

[0040] 400. Measuring device; 40. Transfer mechanism; 401. Transfer position; 402. Sampling position; 403. First path; 404. Cap removal position;

[0041] 50. Sampling mechanism; 60. Reaction measurement mechanism; 611. Reaction cell; 70. Cap removal mechanism; 81. Chassis; 82. Container type detection device; 821. Detection position; 90. Reagent refrigeration mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0043] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0044] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0045] It should also be further understood that the term "and / or" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0046] This invention provides a sample analyzer for analyzing samples. The sample analyzer may include at least one of a blood analyzer, a specific protein analyzer, or a hemoglobin analyzer. Samples may include biological samples such as blood, urine, gynecological secretions, ascites, cerebrospinal fluid, or pleural effusion.

[0047] Referring to Figure 1(A), the sample analyzer includes a sample injection mechanism 10, a transfer mechanism 20, a mixing mechanism 30, and a measuring device 400. The sample injection mechanism 10 is used to store the sample container. The transfer mechanism 20 is used to transport the sample container to the mixing mechanism 30 or the measuring device 400. The mixing mechanism 30 is used to mix the sample within the sample container. The measuring device 400 is used to perform measurement operations.

[0048] Understandably, for certain samples, some components of this embodiment may be omitted or unnecessary. For example, for samples such as urine, mixing is usually unnecessary before measurement, and therefore the mixing mechanism 30 is not required. The measuring device 400 can perform measurements on unmixed samples, such as a five-part differential white blood cell test. For samples that do not require mixing with the mixing mechanism 30, the sample container can be used without a cap.

[0049] For samples such as venous blood, the samples usually need to be mixed before measurement. The measuring device 400 performs the measurement operation on the mixed samples. For samples that need to be mixed using the mixing mechanism 30, the sample container is usually equipped with a container cap to prevent the sample from overflowing during mixing.

[0050] Referring to Figure 1(B), in some embodiments, the sample introduction mechanism 10 includes a conventional sample introduction mechanism 11 and an emergency sample introduction mechanism 12. The conventional sample introduction mechanism 11 has a conventional sample introduction position 111. The conventional sample introduction mechanism 11 is used to transport a conventional sample container 101 in a first direction, the conventional sample container 101 containing a conventional sample. The emergency sample introduction mechanism 12 has an emergency sample introduction position 121, the emergency sample introduction mechanism 12 is used to store an emergency sample container 102 (see Figure 3), the emergency sample container 102 containing an emergency sample. A transfer mechanism 20 is used to transport the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102 in a second direction. A mixing mechanism 30 is used to perform a mixing operation on the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102. A measuring device 400 is used to perform a reaction measurement operation on the samples in the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102. The transfer mechanism 20 transfers conventional sample container 101 and / or emergency sample container 102 between the emergency sample injection station 121, the conventional sample injection station 111, and the mixing mechanism 30. The emergency sample injection station 121, the conventional sample injection station 111, and the mixing mechanism 30 are arranged at intervals along a first straight line in a second direction, and the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal.

[0051] The sample analyzer of the above embodiment has a reasonable overall layout. The emergency sample injection station 121, the regular sample injection station 111, and the mixing mechanism 30 are arranged on the first straight line. The transfer mechanism 20 can transport the regular sample container 101 of the regular sample injection station 111 to the mixing mechanism 30 for mixing, and it can also transport the emergency sample container 102 of the emergency sample injection station 121 to the mixing mechanism 30 for mixing. The measuring device 400 can perform reaction measurement operations on the samples in the regular sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102. Therefore, the sample analyzer can mix and sample the emergency samples in the emergency sample injection station 121. Before the emergency sample container 102 is placed in the emergency sample injection station 121, there is no need to mix and resample the emergency samples in the emergency sample container 102 in advance. The emergency sample detection is convenient, realizes the automated detection of emergency samples, and improves the efficiency of emergency sample detection. In addition, the emergency sample injection station 121, the regular sample injection station 111 and the mixing mechanism 30 are set on the first straight line. By increasing the depth and reducing the lateral diameter, not only is the stroke of the transfer mechanism 20 shortened to ensure speed, but the lateral size is also reduced, which reduces the lateral space occupied by the laboratory. This is conducive to the linear placement of more instruments and equipment, and is more in line with the market demand for automated production lines or full laboratory space.

[0052] For example, the first direction is shown as the X direction in FIG1(B), and the second direction is shown as the Y direction in FIG1(B).

[0053] Referring to Figure 1(C), in some embodiments, the conventional sample introduction mechanism 11 includes a loading assembly 112, an unloading assembly 113, and a sample introduction assembly 114. The loading assembly 112 is used to deliver a conventional sample holder 103 to the sample introduction assembly 114. The conventional sample holder 103 is used to carry a conventional sample container 101. The sample introduction assembly 114 is used to deliver the conventional sample holder 103 to the conventional sample introduction position 111 and to the unloading assembly 113. The unloading assembly 113 is used to store the conventional sample holder 103.

[0054] Exemplarily, loading assembly 112 is used to carry conventional sample holder 103 and push conventional sample holder 103 in a second direction to sample injection assembly 114. Sample injection assembly 114 is used to transport conventional sample holder 103 in a first direction to deliver conventional sample holder 103 to conventional sample injection position 111 and unloading assembly 113.

[0055] Understandably, when the transfer mechanism 20 delivers the emergency sample container 102 to the mixing mechanism 30 for mixing, the conventional sample rack 103 will not interfere with the movement of the transfer mechanism 20.

[0056] Referring to Figures 1(B) and 1(D), in some embodiments, the emergency sample delivery mechanism 12 is used to deliver the emergency sample container 102 along a second direction. The emergency sample delivery mechanism 12 includes an emergency sample holder 122 and an emergency drive (not shown). The emergency drive is connected to the emergency sample holder 122 and is used to drive the emergency sample holder 122 to move along the second direction to deliver the emergency sample container 102. Exemplarily, the emergency drive is used to drive the emergency sample holder 122 to move along the second direction between a manual loading position and an emergency sample delivery position 121. An operator can place the emergency sample container 102 onto the emergency sample holder 122 at the manual loading position. It is understood that the manual loading position is located on the side of the emergency sample delivery position 121 away from the conventional sample delivery position 111, facilitating the operator's handling of the emergency sample container 102.

[0057] Referring to Figure 1(D), the emergency sample rack 122 is provided with at least one container placement hole 1221. An operator can manually place the emergency sample container 102 into the container placement hole 1221. Exemplarily, the emergency sample rack 122 is provided with two container placement holes 1221. One container placement hole 1221 is for accommodating micro-volume containers (such as capillary blood containers), and the other container placement hole 1221 is for accommodating ordinary containers (such as venous blood containers). Exemplarily, the two container placement holes 1221 are spaced apart circumferentially along the emergency sample rack 122. The emergency sample rack 122 can be rotated by a rotary motor so that the container placement hole 1221 containing the required emergency sample container 102 aligns with the emergency sample inlet position 121, ensuring that the transfer mechanism 20 can transfer the emergency sample container 102 from the emergency sample inlet position 121. It is understood that the two container placement holes 1221 can also be arranged in other ways, such as front-to-back arrangement along a second direction.

[0058] For example, the emergency drive includes an emergency motor, such as a lead screw motor or a stepper motor. Understandably, in some embodiments, the emergency drive may be omitted.

[0059] For example, in the process of continuous injection through loading component 112, injection component 114 and unloading component 113, if an emergency occurs, the continuous injection through loading component 112, injection component 114 and unloading component 113 can be suspended, and temporary injection can be achieved through emergency injection mechanism 12.

[0060] For example, when the sample introduction mechanism 10 is used for sample introduction in a hospital, multiple conventional sample containers 101 are typically placed on the same conventional sample rack 103. Automatic batch introduction of the conventional sample containers 101 is achieved through the loading component 112, the sample introduction component 114, and the unloading component 113. During continuous sample introduction via the loading component 112, the sample introduction component 114, and the unloading component 113, if an emergency patient's sample needs to be temporarily inserted, the continuous sample introduction via the loading component 112, the sample introduction component 114, and the unloading component 113 can be paused. The emergency sample container 102 containing the emergency patient's sample is placed on the emergency sample rack 122 at the manual loading position. The emergency sample rack 122 is then moved from the manual loading position to the emergency sample introduction position 121 by the emergency drive component to achieve temporary sample introduction.

[0061] Referring to Figure 1(E), in some embodiments, the measuring device 400 includes a transfer mechanism 40, a sampling mechanism 50, and a reaction measuring mechanism 60. The transfer mechanism 40 is provided with a transfer position 401 and a sampling position 402. The transfer mechanism 40 is used to receive a regular sample container 101 and / or an emergency sample container 102 at the transfer position 401, and to transfer the regular sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102 to the sampling position 402 along a first direction. The sampling mechanism 50 is used to collect regular samples and / or emergency samples at the sampling position 402. The reaction measuring mechanism 60 is used to receive the regular samples and / or emergency samples distributed by the sampling mechanism 50, and to perform reaction measuring operations on the regular samples and / or emergency samples. The transfer mechanism 20 transfers the regular sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102 between the emergency sample injection position 121, the regular sample injection position 111, the transfer position 401, and the mixing mechanism 30. The emergency sample injection station 121, the regular sample injection station 111, the transport station 401, and the mixing mechanism 30 are arranged at intervals along the second direction on the first straight line, and the first and second directions are orthogonal. In this way, the overall structure of the sample analyzer is reasonable and compact, and it can mix and sample emergency samples from the emergency sample injection station 121 for testing.

[0062] Referring to Figure 1(E), in some embodiments, the transport mechanism 40 transports the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102 via a first path 403. The conventional sample introduction mechanism 11 transports the conventional sample container 101 via a second path 104. The first path 403 and the second path 104 are parallel, allowing multiple sample containers to operate in parallel across different mechanisms, thus improving sample detection speed. Exemplarily, the direction of movement of the transport mechanism 40 when transporting the sample container from the transport position 401 to the sampling position 402 is opposite to the direction in which the conventional sample holder 103 moves along the first direction.

[0063] Referring to Figure 1(F), in some embodiments, the sample analyzer also includes a chassis 81. The emergency sample introduction mechanism 12, the regular sample introduction mechanism 11, and the second path 104 are located outside the chassis 81. The mixing mechanism 30, the transfer mechanism 40, the sampling mechanism 50, the reaction measurement mechanism 60, and the first path 403 are located inside the chassis 81 to avoid the influence of the external environment on the test results.

[0064] In some embodiments, the transfer position 401 and the sampling position 402 are spaced apart along a first direction, and the transfer mechanism 40 is used to transfer the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102 from the transfer position 401 to the sampling position 402 along the first direction. Of course, the transfer position 401 and the sampling position 402 can also be at the same location, in which case the transfer mechanism 40 can be omitted.

[0065] Referring to Figure 1(E), in some embodiments, the mixing mechanism 30 includes a first mixing mechanism 301 and a second mixing mechanism 302. The first mixing mechanism 301 is used to mix peripheral blood samples. The second mixing mechanism 302 is used to mix venous blood samples. The transfer position 401, the first mixing mechanism 301, and the second mixing mechanism 302 are arranged at intervals on a first straight line. Thus, the mixing mechanism 30 can satisfy the mixing of both peripheral blood samples and venous blood samples. Exemplarily, the first mixing mechanism 301 can be any mixing mechanism 30 of a suitable embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Referring to Figure 1(G), in some embodiments, the second mixing mechanism 302 includes a loading seat 3021 and a mixing driver 3022. The loading seat 3021 is used to hold the sample container. The mixing driver 3022 is connected to the loading seat 3021. The mixing driver 3022 is used to drive the loading seat 3021 to swing, thereby causing the sample container to swing.

[0067] For example, the mixing driver 3022 includes a power motor. The mixing driver 3022 is used to drive the loading seat 3021 to move alternately clockwise and / or counterclockwise about the shaft of the power motor, thereby causing the loading seat 3021 to oscillate to achieve sample mixing.

[0068] For example, when the sample container is carried on the loading seat 3021, the rotation axis of the loading seat 3021 is the rotation axis of the sample container or the sample contained in the sample container.

[0069] For example, the loading seat 3021 is directly fixed to the shaft of the power motor, which results in a more compact structure, uses fewer parts, and facilitates miniaturization and cost reduction. In other embodiments, the loading seat 3021 may also be rotatably connected to the shaft of the power motor via a gear set, timing belt, or the like.

[0070] Referring to Figure 1(E), exemplarily, the first mixing mechanism 301 is located at the first mixing position 303, and the second mixing mechanism 302 is located at the second mixing position 304. The emergency injection position 121, the regular injection position 111, the first mixing position 303, and the second mixing position 304 are spaced apart on a first straight line. It is understood that the relative positions of the first mixing position 303 and the second mixing position 304 can also be interchanged, and their relative positional relationship is not limited to the relative positional relationship shown in Figure 1(E).

[0071] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism 40 is further provided with a cap removal position and / or a capping position. A cap removal mechanism (not shown) and / or a capping mechanism (not shown) are also provided around the cap removal position and / or capping position. The cap removal mechanism is used to remove the cap from the mixed conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102, and / or the capping mechanism is used to cap the collected conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102.

[0072] In some implementations, the transfer position 401 is located between the cap removal position and the sampling position 402, or the transfer position 401 is located between the capping position and the sampling position 402, which makes the spatial layout more reasonable.

[0073] Please refer to Figure 1(E). In some embodiments, the transfer position 401 is located between the cap removal position 404 and the sampling position 402, which makes the spatial layout more reasonable.

[0074] For example, the transfer mechanism 20 transports the sample container, which has been mixed by the mixing mechanism 30, to the transfer station 401. The transfer mechanism 40 transports the sample container on the transfer station 401 to the sampling station 402. The sampling mechanism 50 collects the sample from the sample container located at the sampling station 402 and injects the collected sample into the reaction measurement mechanism 60.

[0075] For example, the transfer mechanism 20 transports the sample container, after being mixed by the mixing mechanism 30, to the transfer station 401. The transfer mechanism 40 transports the sample container from the transfer station 401 to the decapping station or decapping station 404. The decapping mechanism 70 decapsulates the sample container located at the decapping station or decapping station 404. Then, the transfer mechanism 40 transports the decapped sample container from the transfer station 401 to the sampling station 402. The sampling mechanism 50 collects the sample from the decapped sample container located at the sampling station 402 and injects the collected sample into the reaction measurement mechanism 60. After the sampling mechanism 50 completes the sample collection operation, the transfer mechanism 40 transports the decapped sample container from the sampling station 402 to the capping station or decapping station 404. The decapping mechanism 70 caps the sample container located at the capping station or decapping station 404.

[0076] Referring to Figure 1(E), in some embodiments, the reaction measurement mechanism 60 includes multiple reaction chambers 611 for receiving routine and / or emergency samples dispensed by the sampling mechanism 50. The multiple reaction chambers 611 and sampling positions 402 are spaced apart along a second straight line in a second direction. The sampling mechanism 50 can inject a preset dose of sample into each reaction chamber 611, such as a WDF / RET chamber, a WBC / RBC chamber, etc. A preset dose of a corresponding reagent, such as a specific protein detection reagent, a fluorescent reagent, a sheath fluid reagent, etc., is introduced into each reaction chamber 611 via a reagent needle, syringe, metering pump, etc. The sample and the corresponding reagent are mixed and / or react in the reaction chambers 611 of the reaction measurement mechanism 60 to form a reaction solution, and then the detection results are obtained through the measurement module of the reaction measurement mechanism 60, such as a sheath flow impedance detection module.

[0077] For example, multiple reaction tanks 611 are located behind the transfer mechanism 40.

[0078] Referring to Figure 1(E), in some embodiments, the sample analyzer further includes a reagent refrigeration mechanism 90. The sampling position 402, the reagent refrigeration mechanism 90, and the reaction measurement mechanism 60 are spaced apart along a second straight line in a second direction. Exemplarily, the sampling mechanism 50 is also used to draw the refrigerated reagent from the reagent refrigeration mechanism 90 and add it to the reaction chamber 611 to prepare the reaction solution. No additional reagent drawing arrangement is needed to draw the refrigerated reagent, simplifying the sampling and dispensing path of the sampling mechanism 50. In other embodiments, the refrigerated reagent from the reagent refrigeration mechanism 90 can also be drawn using a syringe or reagent needle and added to the reaction chamber 611 to prepare the reaction solution.

[0079] In some implementations, the first and second straight lines are parallel. This results in a reasonable and simple overall structure, ensuring that the actions of the transfer mechanism 20 and the sampling mechanism 50 do not interfere with each other.

[0080] Referring to Figure 1(E), in some embodiments, the sample analyzer further includes a container type detection device 82. The container type detection device 82 is used to detect the middle or bottom of the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102 to determine the container type of the conventional sample container 101 and / or the emergency sample container 102. Container types include capillary blood containers and venous blood containers. Understandably, capillary blood containers typically have a sample in the middle and no sample at the bottom. Venous blood containers typically have no sample in the middle and a sample at the bottom. The container type detection device 82 is used to detect the middle or bottom of the sample container to determine the container type of the conventional sample container.

[0081] In some embodiments, the container type detection device 82 is provided with a detection position 821 (not shown), which is located on a first straight line and between the mixing mechanism 30 and the regular sample injection position 111, so that the container type detection device 82 can detect the type of the regular sample container 101 and the emergency sample container 102.

[0082] In other embodiments, the detection position 821 may also be located in other suitable positions, such as on the transport path of the conventional sample injection mechanism 11 in the first direction. The number of container type detection devices 82 may be designed as one, two, three or more, depending on actual needs, and is not limited here.

[0083] In some embodiments, the container type detection device 82 includes at least one of a capacitive sensor, an optocoupler sensor, an inductive sensor, and a pressure sensor.

[0084] Understandably, a capacitive sensor is used to detect voltage changes in the middle of the sample container to determine its type. An optocoupler sensor is used to determine the type of sample container by detecting whether the generated light path is blocked by the sample in the middle of the container. An inductive sensor is used to detect inductance changes in the middle of the sample container to determine its type. A pressure sensor is used to detect the elastic force output by a spring connected to the pressure sensor to determine the type of sample container. The detection principle for determining the container type by detecting the bottom of the sample container is similar and will not be elaborated here.

[0085] In some embodiments, a buffer position (not shown) is further provided on the first straight line for buffering sample containers. Exemplarily, the transfer mechanism 20 can transport the emergency sample container 102 and / or the regular sample container 101 to the buffer position for buffering. The transfer mechanism 20 can directly transport the emergency sample container 102 and / or the regular sample container 101 to the position corresponding to a preset operation (e.g., at the mixing mechanism 30 or the transfer position 401) to perform the corresponding operation (e.g., mixing operation or sampling measurement operation), or it can buffer them in the buffer position and transport them to the position corresponding to the preset operation when needed.

[0086] This invention also provides a method for transporting a sample container, comprising the following steps:

[0087] In emergency testing mode, the transfer mechanism 20 transfers the emergency sample container 102 located at the emergency sample injection position 121 to the mixing mechanism 30, and in routine testing mode, it transfers the routine sample container 101 located at the routine sample injection position 111 to the mixing mechanism 30.

[0088] The transfer mechanism 20 transports the sample container that has completed the mixing operation to the transfer station 401;

[0089] The transfer mechanism 40 transports the sample container from the transfer position 401 to the sampling position 402, so that the sampling mechanism 50 can collect the sample from the sample container.

[0090] The sample container delivery method of the above embodiment allows the transfer mechanism 20 and the transport mechanism 40 to perform parallel operations on multiple sample containers, thereby improving the sample detection speed.

[0091] For example, when the first sample container is on the transfer mechanism 40, the transfer mechanism 20 transports the second sample container to the mixing mechanism 30. In this way, multiple sample containers can perform parallel operations simultaneously in different mechanisms, improving the sample detection speed.

[0092] For example, the transfer mechanism 20, the transport mechanism 40, the mixing mechanism 30, and the sampling mechanism 50 can perform parallel operations on multiple sample containers simultaneously, thereby improving the sample detection speed.

[0093] In some embodiments, sampling position 402 and transfer position 401 are at the same location. In emergency testing mode, transfer mechanism 20 transfers the emergency sample container 102 located at emergency injection position 121 to mixing mechanism 30, and in routine testing mode, transfers the routine sample container 101 located at routine injection position 111 to mixing mechanism 30. Transfer mechanism 20 transfers the mixed sample container to sampling position 402 or transfer position 401 so that sampling mechanism 50 can collect the sample from the sample container.

[0094] The following embodiments detail the transfer mechanism 20 and the mixing mechanism 30.

[0095] Referring to Figure 2(A), in some embodiments, the transfer mechanism 20 includes a gripper frame 21, a gripper assembly 22, a gripper elastic member 23, and a gripper opening assembly 24. The gripper assembly 22 includes a first gripper 221 and a second gripper 222 connected to the gripper frame 21. The gripper elastic member 23 connects the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 to give the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 a tendency to converge. For example, when gripping a sample container S with the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222, the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 first separate, placing the sample container S between the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222, and then the gripper elastic member 23 drives the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 to converge to hold the sample container S.

[0096] As shown in Figures 2(B) and 2(C), these figures illustrate the working principle of the opening claw assembly 24 in one embodiment. Figure 2(B) shows the opening claw position, and Figure 2(C) shows the closing claw position. The opening claw assembly 24 is rotatably connected to the gripper frame 21 and has a major axis and a minor axis. When the opening claw assembly 24 rotates around the gripper frame 21 to the opening claw position, the end of the opening claw assembly 24 along the major axis moves the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 away from each other, allowing the sample container S to be placed between the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222. When the opening claw assembly 24 rotates around the gripper frame 21 to the closing claw position, the end of the opening claw assembly 24 along the minor axis corresponds to the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222, so that the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are brought together by the gripper elastic member 23, at which point the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 clamp the sample container S.

[0097] In traditional gripping mechanisms, two grippers need to open and close to hold the sample container S, thus requiring a cylinder to drive the two grippers to open and close. However, the transfer mechanism 20 in this embodiment does not require a cylinder. Instead, it uses a gripper opening assembly 24 and a gripper elastic member 23 in cooperation. Specifically, the gripper elastic member 23 applies an elastic force to bring the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 closer together. Then, the gripper opening assembly 24 rotates relative to the gripper frame 21, causing the two ends of the long axis of the gripper opening assembly 24 to abut against the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 respectively, thereby moving the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 apart. In other words, the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are opened up, allowing the sample container S to be placed between the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222. Then, by rotating the opening claw assembly 24 relative to the gripper frame 21, and causing the shaft of the opening claw assembly 24 to abut against the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 respectively, the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are pulled together by the gripper elastic member 23 to hold the sample container S. This overcomes the problems of large impact force, high working noise, high dependence on external air source, and inconvenience of use when using a cylinder.

[0098] The gripper elastic element 23 can be a straight spring, with its two ends connected to the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222, respectively. The two ends of the long axis of the opening gripper assembly 24 can simultaneously abut against the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222, and the two ends of the short axis of the opening gripper assembly 24 can also simultaneously abut against the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222. Alternatively, the gripper elastic element 23 can also be a torsion spring or other spring capable of providing elastic restoring force.

[0099] Referring to Figure 2(D), in some embodiments, the opening jaw assembly 24 includes a support base 241 and guide wheels 242 disposed on the support base 241. The support base 241 is rotatably connected to the gripper frame 21. The opening jaw assembly 24 having a long axis and a short axis specifically refers to the support base 241 having a long axis and a short axis. The long axis of the opening jaw assembly 24 is used to open the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222. The specific process of opening the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 can be that the two ends of the short axis of the opening jaw assembly 24 support the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222. When the support base 241 rotates relative to the gripper frame 21, the state in which the opening jaw assembly 24 supports the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 at both ends of the short axis of the support base 241 changes to the state in which the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are supported at both ends of the long axis of the support base 241. To facilitate the rotation process, a guide wheel 242 can be provided at each end of the long shaft of the support base 241, supporting the first gripper 221 and / or the second gripper 222. Specifically, when the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are supported at both ends of the short shaft of the support base 241, both guide wheels 242 on the support base 241 support both the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222; when the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are supported at both ends of the long shaft of the support base 241, one guide wheel 242 supports one of the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222, and the other guide wheel 242 supports the other of the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222. Of course, in other embodiments, four guide wheels 242 can also be provided, for example, one guide wheel 242 is provided at each end of the long shaft and one guide wheel 242 is provided at each end of the short shaft.

[0100] Referring to Figure 2(D), the opening claw assembly 24 also includes a gripper motor 243 that drives the support base 241 to rotate. The housing of the gripper motor 243 is connected to the gripper frame 21, and the rotation shaft of the gripper motor 243 is connected to the support base 241.

[0101] Referring to Figure 2(D), in one embodiment, a position sensor 25 is provided on the gripper holder 21 to detect whether the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are approaching or moving away. The position sensor 25 can be signal-connected to a controller, which in turn signals to the position sensor 25 and the gripper motor 243. For example, when the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 are moving away, the position sensor 25 can detect either the first gripper 221 or the second gripper 222. At this time, the position sensor 25 sends a signal to the controller, which then controls the gripper motor 243 to stop rotating. If it is necessary to bring the first gripper 221 and the second gripper 222 closer together, the controller controls the gripper motor 243 to rotate by a set angle. The controller can be mounted on the transfer mechanism 20 or integrated into the control element of the sample analyzer.

[0102] Figure 2(E) is a schematic diagram of the transfer mechanism 20 in one embodiment. Referring to Figure 2(E), the transfer mechanism 20 includes a first moving component 26. The first moving component 26 includes a first moving support frame 261, a first guide member 262, a first moving drive member 263, and a first transmission member 264. The first guide member 262 is disposed on the first moving support frame 261 and extends along a third direction. In Figure 2(E), the third direction can be a vertical direction. The first moving drive member 263 and the first transmission member 264 are both disposed on the first moving support frame 261. For example, the first moving drive member 263 can be a motor, and the first transmission member 264 can be a belt and pulleys. The housing of the motor is fixed to the first moving support frame 261, and the pulleys are rotatably connected to the first moving support frame 261. There can be two pulleys, and the belt is sleeved on the two pulleys. The first transmission member 264 connects the output end of the first moving drive member 263 and the gripper frame 21, that is, the pulleys are connected to the rotating shaft of the motor, and the belt is connected to the gripper frame 21. The first moving drive component 263 drives the gripper frame 21 to slide along a third direction and connect it to the first guide component 262 via the first transmission component 264. The first guide component 262 may be a guide rail.

[0103] Referring to Figure 2(E), in one embodiment, the transfer mechanism 20 includes a second moving component 27. The second moving component 27 includes a second moving support frame 271, a second guide member 272, a second moving drive member 273, and a second transmission member 274. The second guide member 272 is disposed on the second moving support frame 271. The second guide member 272 may be a guide rail, and it extends along a second direction, which forms an acute angle or a right angle with a third direction. Figure 3E In the illustrated embodiment, the second direction is the forward-backward direction. Both the second moving drive component 273 and the second transmission component 274 are mounted on the second moving support frame 271. For example, the second moving drive component 273 can be a motor, and the second transmission component 274 can be a belt and pulleys. The motor housing is fixed to the second moving support frame 271, and the pulleys are rotatably connected to the second moving support frame 271. There can be two pulleys, and the belt is fitted onto both pulleys. The second transmission component 274 connects the output end of the second moving drive component 273 to the first moving support frame 261; that is, the pulleys are connected to the rotating shaft of the motor, and the belt is connected to the first moving support frame 261. The second moving drive component 273, through the second transmission component 274, drives the first moving support frame 261 to slide along the second direction and connect to the second guide component 272.

[0104] Referring to Figures 3(A) and 3(B), an embodiment of the present invention provides a mixing mechanism 30, including a support 31, a first motion component 32, a second motion component 33, and a drive component 34. The support 31 is used to support a sample container S. The first motion component 32 is connected to a first position 311 on the side wall of the support 31. The second motion component 33 is connected to a second position 312 on the side wall of the support 31. The drive component 34 is connected to the first motion component 32 and is used to drive the first motion component 32 to rotate, thereby causing the first motion component 32 to move the support 31. A height difference is formed between the first position 311 and the second position 312, and the movement of the support 31 causes the second motion component 33 to move within a preset range.

[0105] In the mixing mechanism 30 of the above embodiment, the first motion component 32 and the second motion component 33 are respectively connected to the first position 311 and the second position 312 of the support base 31, forming a height difference between the first position 311 and the second position 312. When the drive component 34 drives the first motion component 32 to rotate, the first motion component 32 drives the support base 31 to move, and the movement of the support base 31 can drive the second motion component 33 to move within a preset range. Through the multi-level linkage of the drive component 34, the first motion component 32, the support base 31 and the second motion component 33, the sample in the sample container S supported on the support base 31 is effectively mixed, and the mixing effect is excellent. The structural design of the mixing mechanism 30 is reasonable and ingenious.

[0106] For example, the height difference formed between the first position 311 and the second position 312 is shown as △H in Figure 3(B).

[0107] Understandably, the mixing mechanism 30 can mix samples in sample containers S containing small amounts of samples (such as capillary blood containers) as well as samples in sample containers S containing larger amounts of samples. Therefore, the sample container S that the support 31 can support can be a capillary blood container containing a small amount of capillary blood (such as a micro-blood collection tube containing capillary blood), a venous blood container containing a larger amount of venous blood (such as a vacuum blood collection tube containing venous blood), or a sample container S containing urine, ascites, etc. However, for sample containers S containing small amounts of samples, the mixing mechanism 30 of this embodiment has significant advantages.

[0108] In some embodiments, the first position 311 of the support 31 is oscillated by the first motion component 32, and the second position 312 of the support 31 moves within a preset range so that the opening of the support 31 remains upward when the biological sample in the sample container S is mixed. In this way, the sample can be kept as close as possible to the lower middle or bottom of the sample container S during the mixing process, preventing the sample from overflowing from the sample container S.

[0109] In some implementations, the second position 312 moves along a straight line. This simplifies the movement trajectory of the support 31 at the second position 312, effectively reducing the power consumption of the drive component 34 while still meeting the sample mixing requirements.

[0110] In some embodiments, the second position 312 moves vertically. For example, the first motion component 32 can drive the first position 311 of the support 31 to swing, and the second position 312 of the support 31 moves vertically, so that the sample in the support 31 swings and moves vertically at the same time. This can avoid the problem of sample stratification caused by centrifugal force generated by the circular motion of the sample container S while ensuring that the sample is mixed.

[0111] In some embodiments, the carrier 31 moves to drive the second motion component 33 to reciprocate within a preset range to achieve thorough mixing and further improve the mixing effect. For example, the first motion component 32 can drive the carrier 31 to swing at its first position 311, and the movement of the carrier 31 drives the second motion component 33 to reciprocate vertically, causing the carrier 31 to reciprocate vertically at its second position 312. This avoids the problem of sample stratification caused by centrifugal force generated by the circular motion of the sample container S, and allows the lower and upper layers of liquid in the sample container S to switch and mix, causing the sample at the bottom of the sample container S to tumble, thus improving the mixing effect.

[0112] For example, the support 31 moves to drive the second motion component 33 to reciprocate between the first motion position and the second motion position. For example, the second motion component moves to the first motion position as shown in FIG3(A), and the second motion component 33 moves to the second motion position as shown in FIG3(C).

[0113] In some embodiments, the first motion component 32 rotates synchronously with the drive component 34. For example, when the drive component 34 rotates one revolution, the first motion component 32 rotates one revolution accordingly. When the first motion component 32 rotates one revolution, the support seat 31 oscillates back and forth for one cycle, and the second motion component 33 moves back and forth in the vertical direction for one cycle.

[0114] Understandably, if the rotation speed of the drive component 34 is too low, the sample mixing effect will be unsatisfactory; if the rotation speed of the drive component 34 is too high, the drive component 34 will need to operate at a relatively high operating frequency, which will lead to greater design difficulty and make it difficult to implement.

[0115] In some embodiments, when the mixing mechanism 30 mixes the venous blood in the venous blood container, the rotational speed of the drive component 34 is 100 r / min to 300 r / min, such as 100 r / min, 200 r / min, 100 r / min, or any other suitable value between 100 r / min and 300 r / min. This balances effective mixing of the venous blood with feasibility. For example, when the mixing mechanism 30 mixes the venous blood in the venous blood container, the drive component 34 drives the first motion component 32 to rotate synchronously, causing the first motion component 32 to drive the support seat 31 to oscillate back and forth 100 times / min to 300 times / min. The movement of the support seat 31 drives the second motion component 33 to oscillate back and forth within a preset range 100 times / min to 300 times / min.

[0116] When the mixing mechanism 30 mixes the capillary blood in the capillary blood container, the rotational speed of the drive component 34 is 600 r / min-800 r / min, such as 600 r / min, 700 r / min, 800 r / min, or any other suitable vertical speed before 600 r / min-800 r / min. For example, when the mixing mechanism 30 mixes the capillary blood in the capillary blood container, the drive component 34 drives the first motion component 32 to rotate synchronously, so that the first motion component 32 drives the support seat 31 to oscillate back and forth 100 times / min-300 times / min. The movement of the support seat 31 drives the second motion component 33 to oscillate back and forth within a preset range 100 times / min-300 times / min.

[0117] In some embodiments, the first end of the first motion component 32 is connected to the first position 311 and rotates about the second end of the first motion component 32 as the rotation axis. This ensures that when the first motion component 32 rotates, it can drive the support 31 to swing, and the movement of the support 31 can drive the second motion component 33 to move within a preset range.

[0118] In some embodiments, the second end of the first motion component 32 is on the same plane as the movement path at the second position 312.

[0119] Referring to Figures 3(A) and 3(C), in some embodiments, the first position 311 and the second position 312 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the sidewall of the support 31, forming a height difference. Thus, the movements of the first motion component 32 and the second motion component 33 will not interfere with each other, ensuring sample homogenization.

[0120] Referring to Figures 3(A) and 3(C), in some embodiments, when the first position 311 is higher than the second position 312, the first motion component 32 drives the upper part of the support 31 to reciprocate. For example, when the first position 311 is higher than the second position 312, the first motion component 32 rotates synchronously with the drive component 34 to drive the upper part of the support 31 to reciprocate.

[0121] Referring to Figure 3(D), in some embodiments, when the first position 311 is lower than the second position 312, the first motion component 32 drives the lower part of the support 31 to reciprocate. For example, when the first position 311 is lower than the second position 312, the first motion component 32 rotates synchronously with the drive component 34 to drive the lower part of the support 31 to reciprocate.

[0122] For example, the first position 311 is higher than the second position 312.

[0123] Understandably, the height difference between the first position 311 and the second position 312 can be designed according to actual needs, and there are no restrictions here.

[0124] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 34 drives the first moving member to rotate forward and / or in the opposite direction, so that the first moving assembly 32 drives the support 31 to swing forward and / or in the opposite direction. In this way, the control of the drive assembly 34 is simple and easy to implement.

[0125] In other embodiments, the drive assembly 34 drives the first moving member to rotate alternately in the forward and reverse directions.

[0126] In some embodiments, the first motion component 32 drives the support seat 31 to swing at a maximum swing angle greater than or equal to 45° and less than or equal to 90°. This minimizes the amount of residual liquid adhering to the inner wall of the sample container S while still achieving the mixing requirements, thereby reducing sample loss and mitigating the problem of liquid level rise leading to sample overflow from the sample container S.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first motion component 32 includes an eccentric member. The eccentric member is fixedly connected to the drive component 34. The eccentric member is rotatably connected to the support base 31. During rotation, the eccentric member can cause the support base 31 to swing left and right while moving up and down in the vertical direction.

[0128] For example, the mixing mechanism 30 also includes a mixing support (not shown). A drive assembly 34 is disposed on the mixing support. The mixing support can be fixed inside the chassis 81 of the sample analyzer (see Figure 1(F)) to achieve the assembly of the mixing mechanism 30.

[0129] In some embodiments, the second motion component 33 includes a slider that slides along a groove 35. The cooperation between the slide rail and the slider guides the movement of the slider and enables it to move smoothly and stably back and forth. Furthermore, the two ends of the groove 35 also limit the movement of the slider. Exemplarily, the groove 35 is disposed on a mixing support.

[0130] For example, the axis of the drive component 34 is located on the movement path of the slider.

[0131] For example, a first connecting shaft 36 is provided at the first position 311. One end of the first connecting shaft 36 is rotatably connected to the first motion component 32, and the other end of the first connecting shaft 36 is fixedly connected to the first position 311 of the support 31. By connecting the first motion component 32 and the support 31 through the first connecting shaft 36, interference between the rotation of the first motion component 32 and the movement of the support 31 can be prevented, making the rotation of the first motion component 32 and the movement of the support 31 more stable and reliable.

[0132] For example, a second connecting shaft 37 is provided at the second position 312. One end of the second connecting shaft 37 is rotatably connected to the second motion component 33, and the other end of the second connecting shaft 37 is fixedly connected to the second position 312 of the support 31. By connecting the second motion component 33 and the support 31 through the second connecting shaft 37, interference between the rotation of the second motion component 33 and the movement of the support 31 can be prevented, making the rotation of the second motion component 33 and the movement of the support 31 more stable and reliable.

[0133] For example, the drive component 34 includes a mixing motor that can drive the first motion component 32 to move, thereby driving the support 31 to move.

[0134] Please refer to Figures 3(A) and 3(E). It can be understood that the support 31 is provided with a receiving groove 313 for accommodating the sample container S.

[0135] In some embodiments, the diameter of the receiving groove 313 is larger than the diameter of the sample container S. Thus, when the support 31 reciprocates laterally, the sample container S follows the support 31 in its reciprocating lateral movement, and the sample container S can repeatedly collide with the wall of the receiving groove 313, creating a repeated tapping motion. This simulates the mixing method of a medical professional flicking a test tube with their finger, and the mixing effect is comparable to, or even better than, the mixing method of a medical professional flicking a test tube with their finger, while eliminating the need for manual operation by medical personnel.

[0136] If the diameter of the receiving groove 313 is too large compared to the diameter of the sample container S, the sample container S may easily detach from the receiving groove 313, making it difficult to stably and reliably support it within the receiving groove 313 for mixing. If the diameter of the receiving groove 313 is too close to the diameter of the sample container S, the sample container S and the groove wall of the receiving groove 313 will not be able to form a reciprocating tapping motion during the reciprocating lateral movement of the support 31, resulting in poor mixing effect. For example, the diameter of the receiving groove 313 is 0.5mm-3mm larger than the diameter of the sample container S, such as 0.5mm, 1mm, 2mm, 3mm, and any other suitable value within the range of 0.5mm-3mm.

[0137] In some embodiments, the receiving groove 313 is configured with a variable diameter. One end of the receiving groove 313 is fitted with the sample container S, and the diameter of the other end of the receiving groove 313 is 0.5mm-3mm larger than the diameter of the sample container S. Thus, when the support seat 31 reciprocates laterally, one end of the receiving groove 313 can limit the corresponding position of the sample container S, and the other end of the sample container S follows the support seat 31 in reciprocating laterally. The other end of the sample container S can repeatedly collide with the groove wall of the receiving groove 313, forming a repeated tapping action, simulating the mixing method of medical staff flicking test tubes with their fingers. The mixing effect is comparable to, and even better than, the mixing method of medical staff flicking test tubes with their fingers, while eliminating the need for manual operation by medical staff.

[0138] For example, the upper end of the receiving groove 313 is fitted with the sample container S, and the diameter of the lower end of the receiving groove 313 is 0.5mm-3mm larger than the diameter of the sample container S. In this embodiment, a small amount of blood sample can be thoroughly mixed, with excellent mixing effect.

[0139] For example, the lower end of the receiving groove 313 is fitted with the sample container S, and the diameter of the upper end of the receiving groove 313 is 0.5mm-3mm larger than the diameter of the sample container S.

[0140] Referring to Figure 3(E), in some embodiments, the support 31 is provided with two receiving slots 313. Each receiving slot 313 is used to receive one sample container S. In this way, the samples in the two sample containers S can be mixed simultaneously, improving the mixing efficiency.

[0141] In some implementations, one of the two receiving slots 313 is used as a buffer for transferring the sample container S. Since the path between the mixing mechanism 30 and subsequent operating mechanisms (such as the second mixing mechanism 302 or the sampling mechanism 50) is smaller than the path between the sample injection point and subsequent operating mechanisms, using one of the two receiving slots 313 as a buffer for transferring the sample container S can improve the testing efficiency of the sample analyzer.

[0142] In some embodiments, the receiving groove 313 is provided with a shock absorber (not shown) between the groove wall of the receiving groove 313 and the sample container S, so as to reduce the sound generated by the receiving groove 313 striking the sample container S when the support 31 reciprocates laterally.

[0143] This invention also provides a sample analyzer including a sample introduction mechanism 10, a mixing mechanism 30, a sampling mechanism 50, and a reaction measurement mechanism 60. The sample introduction mechanism 10 is used to deliver a sample container. The mixing mechanism 30 is used to mix the biological sample within the sample container. The mixing mechanism 30 includes the mixing mechanism of any embodiment of this application. The sampling mechanism 50 is used to collect the mixed biological sample from the sample container and inject the collected biological sample into the reaction measurement mechanism 60.

[0144] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. They can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. They can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, and they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0145] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0146] The foregoing disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described above. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0147] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific method step, feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific method steps, features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0148] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A mixing mechanism for sample analysis, used to mix biological samples in a sample container, characterized in that, The mixing mechanism includes: A support base for supporting the sample container; The first motion component is connected to a first position on the side wall of the support seat; The second motion component is connected to a second position on the side wall of the support seat; A drive component, connected to the first motion component, is used to drive the first motion component to rotate, so that the first motion component drives the support seat to move; A height difference is formed between the first position and the second position, and the movement of the support seat thereby drives the second motion component to move within a preset range; The first position of the support seat is driven to swing by the first motion component, and the second position of the support seat moves within a preset range so that the opening of the support seat remains upward when the biological sample in the sample container is mixed; the second position moves in a straight line.

2. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second position moves vertically.

3. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first end of the first motion component is connected to the first position and rotates about the second end of the first motion component as the axis of rotation.

4. The mixing mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second end of the first motion component is on the same plane as the movement path at the second position.

5. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first position and the second position are respectively located on opposite sides of the sidewall of the support seat, forming a height difference.

6. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first motion component rotates synchronously with the drive component; for every one revolution of the first motion component, the support seat oscillates back and forth for one cycle, and the second motion component moves back and forth in the vertical direction for one cycle.

7. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first position is higher than the second position, the first motion component causes the upper part of the support to swing back and forth; when the first position is lower than the second position, the first motion component causes the lower part of the support to swing back and forth.

8. The mixing mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first position is higher than the second position.

9. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The carrier moves to drive the second motion component to reciprocate within a preset range.

10. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive component drives the first moving part to rotate in the forward and / or reverse direction, so that the first moving component causes the support seat to swing in the forward and / or reverse direction.

11. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive component drives the first moving part to rotate alternately in the forward and reverse directions.

12. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The maximum swing angle of the first motion component driving the support seat to swing is greater than or equal to 45° and less than or equal to 90°.

13. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the mixing mechanism mixes the venous blood in the venous blood container, the rotation speed of the driving component is 100 r / min-300 r / min; when the mixing mechanism mixes the peripheral blood in the peripheral blood container, the rotation speed of the driving component is 600 r / min-800 r / min.

14. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first motion component includes an eccentric member, which is fixedly connected to the drive component and rotatably connected to the support seat.

15. The mixing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second motion component includes a slider that slides along a groove.

16. The mixing mechanism according to claim 15, characterized in that, The drive component's axis is positioned on the slider's movement path.

17. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, include: The sample delivery mechanism is used to transport the sample container; The mixing mechanism according to any one of claims 1-16 is used to perform a mixing operation on the biological sample in the sample container; A sampling mechanism for collecting a mixed biological sample from the sample container; The reaction measurement mechanism, wherein the sampling mechanism injects the collected biological sample into the reaction detection mechanism.

Images