Transport scanning structure, transport method, sample analyzer, and troubleshooting method

Abstract

The application provides a conveying scanning structure, a conveying method, a sample analyzer and a troubleshooting method. The conveying scanning structure comprises a conveying unit and at least two code scanners. The conveying unit is used for conveying a sample rack. The track of the sample rack conveyed by the conveying unit comprises a first translation path for translation along a first direction. The first translation path is a path for the sample rack to enter the conveying unit from a previous unit or to enter a subsequent unit from the conveying unit. The side wall of the sample rack comprises two opposite sample rack sides. A first code on each sample tube of the sample rack is exposed on one sample rack side. The code scanners are distributed on both sides of the first translation path, and each code scanner faces the first translation path. In the application, the code scanners are arranged on both sides of the first translation path of the sample rack. No matter which sample rack side the first code on the sample tube is exposed on, the code scanner can scan the first code, and the sample rack can be loaded in disorder.

Description

[0001] This invention claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202210918758.8, filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on August 2, 2022, entitled “Transportation Scanning Structure, Transportation Method, Sample Analyzer and Troubleshooting Method”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention pertains to medical devices, and in particular relates to a method for transporting a scanning structure, a sample analyzer, a sample holder, and a method for troubleshooting the sample analyzer. Background Technology

[0003] During the transport of the sample rack from the sample storage unit to the testing location, it is necessary to identify the barcode on the outer wall of the sample tube in order to associate the sample information, such as the subsequent test results, with the corresponding barcode.

[0004] In current sample analysis, to ensure that the barcodes on the outer walls of each sample tube on the sample rack are scanned during transport, the operator needs to load samples in an orderly manner. This means that when placing the sample rack in the storage unit, the operator must ensure that the barcodes on the outer walls of each sample tube are facing a specific side. If the sample rack is loaded randomly, and the barcodes on the outer walls of the sample tubes are not facing this specific side, the scanner will fail to scan the barcodes on the sample tubes. In this case, the sample rack needs to be sent to the turning unit to turn the rack so that the barcodes on the outer walls of the sample tubes are facing the specific side, and then it needs to be returned to the scanning unit. If the scanner still fails to scan the barcodes after rescanning, it is impossible to determine whether the problem lies with the turning unit, the scanner, or a missing barcode on the sample tube. The only solution is to stop the machine and check each location one by one, which is not intelligent enough. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art described above, the purpose of this invention is to provide a method for transporting a scanning structure, a sample analyzer, a sample rack, and a method for troubleshooting the sample analyzer, so as to achieve unordered sample loading from the sample rack.

[0006] To achieve the above and other related objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: The transport scanning structure includes: The sample rack has two back-to-back sample rack sides, and the first barcode on each sample tube on the sample rack is exposed on one of the sample rack sides; A transport unit for transporting sample racks, wherein the trajectory of the sample racks transported by the transport unit includes a first translation path along a first direction, the first translation path being either the path of the sample rack entering the transport unit from a previous unit or the path of the sample rack leaving the transport unit and entering a subsequent unit; and At least two barcode scanners are distributed on both sides of the first translation path, and each barcode scanner faces the first translation path. When the sample rack containing the sample tubes passes through the first translation path, each of the sample tubes is distributed on the sample rack along the first direction, and the barcode scanner on one side scans the first barcode exposed on the side of the corresponding sample rack. The barcode scanner includes at least a first barcode scanner and a second barcode scanner, and the scanning results of the first barcode scanner and the second barcode scanner are used at least to determine the current orientation of the first barcode.

[0007] In the transport scanning structure of the present invention, since barcode scanners are provided on both sides of the first translation path of the sample rack, the barcode scanners can scan the first barcode regardless of which side of the sample rack the first barcode is exposed on during sample loading, thus enabling unordered sample loading of the sample rack.

[0008] Optionally, the transport unit includes: A support structure used to carry the transported sample rack; The driving component is capable of moving the sample holder along the first direction on the carrier; The barcode scanner is mounted on the carrier.

[0009] This sample rack scanning structure is equivalent to integrating the barcode scanner onto the rack unit. The wiring of the drive components and the barcode scanner can be partially integrated, which helps to reduce the messiness of the wiring.

[0010] Optionally, the side wall of the sample rack also includes two sample rack end faces, and a second barcode is provided on the side wall of the sample rack. The barcode scanner is tilted toward the first translation path of the sample rack. When the sample rack passes through the first translation path along the first direction, each of the sample tubes is distributed on the sample rack along the first direction, the side of the sample rack passes through the viewing range of the corresponding side barcode scanner, and one of the end faces of the sample rack passes through the viewing range of the barcode scanner.

[0011] Optionally, the second barcode is set on the end face of the sample holder.

[0012] Optionally, the second barcode is located on the side of the sample holder.

[0013] Optionally, the second barcode portion is disposed on the end face of the sample holder.

[0014] Optionally, the sidewall of the sample holder also includes a transition surface located between the end face of the sample holder and the side face of the sample holder, and the second barcode is disposed on the transition surface.

[0015] Optionally, the barcode scanner is disposed on the transport unit, and the barcode scanner is tilted towards the preceding unit. When the first translation path is the path for the sample rack to enter the transport unit from the preceding unit, the two sample rack end faces are respectively the first sample rack end face that enters the transport unit first and the second sample rack end face that enters the transport unit later. When the transport unit is located at a part of the translation path, the barcode scanner is tilted towards the first sample rack end face.

[0016] Optionally, the barcode scanner is disposed on the transport unit, and the barcode scanner is tilted towards the next unit. When the first translation path is the path for the sample rack to leave the transport unit and enter the next unit, the two sample rack end faces are respectively the first sample rack end face that leaves the transport unit first and the second sample rack end face that leaves the transport unit later. When the transport unit is located at a part of the translation path, the barcode scanner is tilted towards the second sample rack end face.

[0017] Optionally, the sample rack is provided with multiple sample tube receiving cavities, and a barcode scanning port for exposing the first barcode is provided on the side of the sample rack. A third barcode corresponding to one of the sample tube receiving cavities is provided between two adjacent sample tube receiving cavities, and the third barcode is provided on the side of the sample rack.

[0018] Optionally, the barcode scanner includes: barcode scanner body; A scanning window is provided on the main body of the barcode scanner; The scanning window is tilted toward the first translation path, so that when the sample holder passes through the first translation path, the scanning window is tilted toward the side of the sample holder.

[0019] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a sample analyzer, comprising: Sample rack storage unit, used to store sample racks; The transport scanning structure is any of the transport scanning structures described above, and the transport unit is used to transport the sample rack on the sample rack storage unit to the target location.

[0020] In the sample analyzer of the present invention, since barcode scanners are provided on both sides of the first translation path of the sample rack, the barcode scanners can scan the first barcode regardless of which side of the sample rack the first barcode is exposed on during sample loading, thus enabling unordered sample loading from the sample rack.

[0021] Optionally, among the barcode scanners, one side of the barcode scanner is the first barcode scanner, and the other side of the barcode scanner is the second barcode scanner. The sample analyzer also includes: A steering unit is used to rotate a sample rack that has been transported by the transport unit, with the target position located on the steering unit; The controller is used to acquire the target orientation, determine the current orientation of the first barcode based on the scanning results of the first and second barcode scanners, and determine whether the steering unit should rotate the sample holder based on the current orientation of the first barcode and the target orientation.

[0022] In this sample analyzer, the orientation of the first barcode on the sample rack can be determined based on which side's scanner detected it. Compared to the current method of setting up scanners on only one side, the sample rack in this sample analyzer does not need to be re-scanned, which helps to speed up the working efficiency of the sample analyzer. In addition, when the steering unit fails to rotate the current sample rack to make the first barcode face the target direction, it is only necessary to turn the orientation of the current sample rack around and make the sample rack pass through the first movement trajectory again for re-scanning. This allows it to be determined whether the problem is with the scanner or the steering unit, which is beneficial for efficient troubleshooting.

[0023] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a sample rack transportation method, wherein the sample rack is transported using any of the above-described transportation scanning structures, the transportation scanning structure further comprising a steering unit, and the transportation method comprising: Obtain the target orientation; The current orientation of the first barcode is determined based on the scanning results of the first and second barcode scanners; The current orientation and target orientation of the first barcode determine whether the steering unit rotates the sample holder.

[0024] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a troubleshooting method for a sample analyzer, wherein the sample analyzer is any of the sample analyzers described above, and the number of barcode scanners in the transport scanning structure is two. The troubleshooting method includes: Obtain the number of sample tubes on the sample rack and the initial number of barcodes scanned by each barcode scanner; When the initial number of barcodes corresponding to each scanner is not equal to the number of sample tubes, the first barcode scanner to be verified is determined according to the initial number of barcodes scanned by each scanner, and the orientation of the sample rack is turned by the turning unit, and the sample rack is controlled to rescan through the first translation path to obtain the number of verification barcodes of the first barcode rescanned by each scanner. The initial number of barcodes corresponding to the first barcode scanner is not equal to zero, and the scanner on the other side is the second barcode scanner to be verified. If the number of verification barcodes corresponding to the second verified barcode scanner is zero, then the turning unit is determined to be faulty; If the number of verification barcodes corresponding to the second barcode scanner is equal to the number of sample tubes, then the first barcode scanner is determined to be faulty. If the number of verification barcodes corresponding to the second barcode scanner is equal to the number of initial barcodes scanned by the first barcode scanner, then it is determined that some sample tubes on the sample rack are missing the first barcode.

[0025] Optionally, the troubleshooting method further includes: When the number of initial barcodes corresponding to each of the scanners is not equal to the number of sample tubes, and before the steering unit turns the orientation of the sample rack, it first controls the sample rack to rescan at least once along the first translation path to obtain the first corrected barcode corresponding to each scanner. If the number of the first corrected barcodes corresponding to the first barcode scanner is equal to the number of sample tubes, then an occasional abnormality is indicated for the first barcode scanner. If the number of the first corrected barcodes corresponding to the first verified barcode scanner is still not equal to the number of sample tubes, the turning unit will then reverse the orientation of the sample rack.

[0026] This troubleshooting method can quickly determine whether the problem is with the barcode scanner, the turning unit, or some sample tubes that have not been labeled with barcodes, thus reducing the time required for troubleshooting. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is an exemplary structural diagram of the transport scanning structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is another exemplary structural diagram of the transport scanning structure of the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 1 or Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an exemplary three-dimensional structure of a sample holder; Figure 4 for Figure 1 or Figure 2 Another exemplary three-dimensional structural diagram of the sample holder; Figure 5 for Figure 1 or Figure 2 Another exemplary three-dimensional structural diagram of a sample holder; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the sample rack being transferred from the sample rack storage unit to the transport unit in the sample analyzer of the present invention; Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the state of the sample rack in the medium sample analyzer when it is transferred from the transport unit to the turning unit.

[0028] Part number explanation: Sample rack 100, sample rack side 101, sample rack end face 102, transition surface 103, barcode scanning port 104, second barcode 105, first sample rack end face 102b, second sample rack end face 102a; Transport unit 200; barcode scanner 300, barcode scanner body 310, scanning window 311, first barcode scanner 300a, second barcode scanner 300b; Steering unit 400; Sample rack storage unit 500; Sample tube 600, first barcode 601. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification.

[0030] See also Figures 1 to 5 The present invention provides a transport scanning structure including a sample rack 100, a transport unit 200, and at least two barcode scanners 300. The sample rack 100 has two back-to-back sample rack sides 101. A first barcode 601 on each sample tube 600 of the sample rack 100 is exposed on one of the sample rack sides 101. The transport unit 200 is used to transport the sample rack 100. The trajectory of the sample rack 100 includes a first translation path along a first direction, whereby the sample rack 100 moves from the previous unit... The path into the transport unit 200 or the path from the transport unit 200 into the next unit; each barcode scanner is distributed on both sides of the first translation path, and each barcode scanner faces the first translation path; when the sample rack 100 carrying sample tubes 600 passes through the first translation path, each sample tube 600 is distributed on the sample rack 100 along the first direction, and the barcode scanner on one side scans the first barcode 601 exposed on the side 101 of the corresponding sample rack.

[0031] For ease of understanding, see appendix Figure 1-2 In the middle, the first direction is attached. Figure 1 , Figure 2 In the middle, the direction on the paper from left to right or from right to left, for example, see Figure 6 When the sample rack enters the transport unit 200 from the sample rack storage unit 500 on the left side of the transport unit, the first direction on the paper is from left to right; when the sample rack enters the transport unit 200 from the sample rack storage unit 500 on the right side of the transport unit, the first direction on the paper is from right to left. Furthermore, the phrase "each of the aforementioned barcode scanners faces the first translation path" in the above description includes... Figure 1 , Figure 2The tilting direction towards the first translation path also includes the direction directly facing the first translation path (not shown in the figure).

[0032] It should be noted that when the operator places the sample tubes 600 on the sample rack 100, they will follow the operating procedures to ensure that the first barcode 601 of each sample tube 600 is exposed on the same side of the sample rack 101. In actual implementation, to achieve the above-mentioned "the first barcode 601 on each sample tube 600 on the sample rack 100 is exposed on one side of the sample rack 101", a barcode scanning port 104 can be set on one side of the sample rack 101; alternatively, the upper part of the sample tube 600 can extend out of the sample rack 100, and the first barcode 601 can be placed on the upper part of the sample tube 600, so that the first barcode 601 on the upper part of the sample tube 600 faces the same side. If this method is used, the corresponding sample rack side should be provided with an orientation indicator for the first barcode to avoid the first barcode facing the wrong direction. It should also be noted that when the sample tubes 600 enter the testing station with the sample rack 100, each sample tube 100 needs to enter the testing station in a specific order, for example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 In this process, each sample tube 600 needs to enter the testing station in the order of serial numbers 1-10, in conjunction with [reference needed]. Figure 6 , Figure 7 If the sample racks 100 are placed out of order and no turning unit 400 is provided, each sample tube 600 may enter the detection station in either the order of serial number 1-10 or the order of serial number 10-1. Therefore, the sample analyzer with this sample transport and scanning structure is equipped with a turning unit 400. When the sample racks 100 are not facing the specified direction, they can be reversed through the turning unit 400. The reversal here refers to the orientation of the two sample rack sides of the sample rack 100 being swapped, and the turning unit 400 is rotated 180°.

[0033] When transporting and scanning the sample rack 100 using the rack scanning structure of the present invention, when the sample tube 600 has been loaded onto the sample rack 100 and the first barcode 601 of the sample rack 100 is exposed on the same specific sample rack side 101 of the sample rack 100, since there are barcode scanners 300 on both sides of the first translation path of the sample rack 100, regardless of whether the sample rack 100 is facing correctly when loading the sample, one side of the barcode scanner 300 will be able to scan the first barcode 601, thus enabling disordered loading of the sample rack 100.

[0034] It should be emphasized that the transport scanning structure of the above or the following embodiments can be applied to the sample analyzer. The transport scanning structure of the present invention can be applied not only to the sample analyzer, but also to any scenario in which the sample holder 100 is translated in a certain direction and the sample tubes 600 are distributed on the sample holder 100 along the first direction when the sample holder 100 is translated in the first direction.

[0035] See also Figures 1 to 7 In an exemplary sample analyzer, the sample analyzer includes a sample rack storage unit 500 and a transport scanning structure. The sample rack storage unit 500 is used to store sample racks 100. The transport scanning structure is any of the transport scanning structures described above. The transport unit 200 is used to transport the sample racks 100 on the sample rack storage unit 500 to a target location. For ease of understanding, the first direction is... Figure 6 , Figure 7 The X direction is shown in the diagram.

[0036] In the sample analyzer of the present invention, since barcode scanners 300 are provided on both sides of the first translation path of the sample rack 100, the barcode scanners 300 can scan the first barcode 601 on either side of the sample rack 101 where the first barcode 601 on the sample tube 600 is exposed during sample loading, thus enabling unordered sample loading of the sample rack 100.

[0037] For ease of understanding, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 6 , Figure 7 The sample rack storage unit 500 has multiple sample racks 100 arranged along a second direction (Y-direction, perpendicular to the first direction). For a sample rack 100 on the sample rack storage unit 500 to reach a target position, it first needs to be translated from the sample rack storage unit 500 along the first direction to the rack delivery unit. Once the rack transport unit 200 moves along the second direction to the target position, the sample rack 100 then translates from the rack delivery unit along the first direction to the target position. This target position can be a detection position, or an intermediate position passed along the way to the detection position. Correspondingly, the first translation path can represent the translation path of the sample rack 100 from the sample rack storage unit 500 to the turning unit 400; it can also represent the translation path of the sample rack 100 from the rack delivery unit to the turning unit 400. In this case, the barcode scanner 300 can be installed on the rack transport unit 200 or on other components beside the first translation path.

[0038] In some embodiments, see reference Figures 1 to 7In each barcode scanner, one side of the barcode scanner is the first barcode scanner, and the other side of the barcode scanner is the second barcode scanner. The sample analyzer also includes a steering unit 400 and a controller (not shown). The steering unit 400 is used to rotate the sample rack 100 that has been transported by the transport unit 200. At this time, the target position is located on the steering unit 400. The controller is used to obtain the target orientation, determine the current orientation of the first barcode 601 based on the scanning results of the first barcode scanner and the second barcode scanner, and determine whether the steering unit 400 should rotate the sample rack 100 based on the current orientation of the first barcode 601 and the target orientation.

[0039] Specifically, for example, if the first barcode scanner 300a scans the first barcode 601 but the second barcode scanner 300b does not scan the first barcode 601, it means that the first barcode 601 is facing the target direction, and in this case, the sample rack 100 does not rotate; if the first barcode scanner 300a does not scan the first barcode 601 but the second barcode scanner 300b scans the first barcode 601, it means that the first barcode 601 is not facing the target direction, and in this case, the steering unit 400 needs to be controlled to rotate the sample rack 100.

[0040] It should be noted that the target direction is determined by subsequent processes, such as testing. In this type of sample analyzer, the target direction has only two directions. Figure 6 , Figure 7 The center refers to the direction the paper faces up or down.

[0041] In this sample analyzer, the orientation of the first barcode 601 on the sample rack 100 can be determined based on which side's barcode scanner 300 scanned it. Compared to current sample analyzers with barcode scanners on only one side, which often require the sample rack to return for scanning, the sample analyzer of this invention does not experience scanning failures as long as the equipment is functioning properly. The sample rack 100 does not need to be re-scanned, which helps to speed up the working efficiency of the sample analyzer. In addition, when the turning unit 400 fails to rotate the current sample rack 100 to face the first barcode 601 towards the target direction, it is only necessary to reverse the orientation of the current sample rack 100 so that the sample rack 100 passes through the first movement trajectory again for re-scanning. This allows it to determine whether the barcode scanner 300 or the turning unit 400 is faulty, providing a device basis for rapid fault diagnosis. For specific fault diagnosis methods, please refer to the description below.

[0042] In some embodiments, the transport unit 200 includes a support member and a drive assembly. Figures 1 to 2 In the diagram, only the load-bearing components are visible in the transport unit 200 (labeled 200); the drive components are not shown. (See also...) Figure 1The carrier is used to carry the sample rack 100 being transported, and the drive assembly is able to drive the sample rack 100 to translate along the first direction on the carrier; wherein, the barcode scanner is disposed on the carrier.

[0043] This sample rack scanning structure integrates the barcode scanner 300 onto the transport unit 200. The wiring of the drive assembly and the barcode scanner 300 can be partially integrated, reducing wiring clutter. Furthermore, when the corresponding sample analyzer includes the aforementioned steering unit 400, placing the barcode scanner 300 on the carrier helps prevent interference between the barcode scanner 300 and the steering unit 400. See also... Figure 2 Of course, the barcode scanner 300 and the transport unit 200 can also be set up separately.

[0044] It should also be noted that in the aforementioned sample analyzer and transport scanning structure, the first translation path that the driving component can use to move the sample holder 100 along the first direction can be a fixed path or a variable path. However, this first translation path is a relatively definite path relative to the carrier component. For example, Figure 6 , Figure 7 In the sample rack storage unit 500, the first translation paths of each sample rack 100 do not overlap in the second direction Y, but are consistent in the first direction X.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sidewall of the sample rack 100 further includes two sample rack end faces 102, and a second barcode 105 is provided on the sidewall of the sample rack 100. The barcode scanner 300 is tilted toward the first translation path of the sample rack 100. When the sample rack 100 passes through the first translation path along the first direction, each of the sample tubes 600 is distributed on the sample rack 100 along the first direction, the sidewall 101 of the sample rack passes through the viewing angle range of the corresponding side barcode scanner, and one of the sample rack end faces 102 passes through the viewing angle range of the barcode scanner.

[0046] For barcode scanners, if the scanner is directly facing the barcode to be scanned, the emitted light of the scanning laser will be reflected along its original path, resulting in high noise in the scanned signal and easily leading to scan failure. For some types of sample racks, due to limited space on the side 101 of the sample rack, the second barcode 105 cannot be attached. Even if the second barcode is forcibly attached to the side of the sample rack, the signal noise caused by reflection may still cause scan failure. This structure of the barcode scanner 300 tilted towards the first translation path can more effectively scan the barcodes on the side of the sample rack. Whether the second barcode 105 is located on the side 101 of the sample rack on the outer wall of the sample rack 100 or on the end face 102 of the sample rack, the second barcode 105 can enter the scanning field of view of the barcode scanner 300, achieving effective scanning. Furthermore, one barcode scanner 300 can scan both the first barcode 601 and the second barcode 105. Compared to setting separate barcode scanners for the barcodes on the sample tube 600 and the barcodes on the sample rack 100, the present invention requires fewer barcode scanners, which helps to reduce costs.

[0047] In some embodiments, see Figure 4 The second barcode 105 is disposed on the end face 102 of the sample holder. In other embodiments, see... Figure 5 A transition surface 103 is provided between adjacent sample rack side surfaces 101 and sample rack end faces 102, and the second barcode 105 is disposed on the transition surface 103. In some other embodiments, see... Figure 3 The second barcode 105 is disposed on the side 101 of the sample rack. In actual implementation, the second barcode 105 can also be disposed on both the end face 102 and the side face 101 of the sample rack.

[0048] The phrase "one of the sample holder end faces 102 passes within the viewing range of the barcode scanner 300" described above can be implemented in two ways. See also Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 If the two sample rack end faces 102 on the sample rack 100 are defined as the first sample rack end face 102b and the second sample rack end face 102a respectively, along the feeding direction of the sample rack 100, the first sample rack end face 102b is located in front of the second sample rack end face 102a.

[0049] In some embodiments, when the first translation path is the path by which the sample holder 100 enters the transport unit 200 from the previous unit, for example, see... Figure 6When the sample rack 100 enters the transport unit 200 from the sample rack storage unit 500, the two sample rack end faces 102 are respectively the first sample rack end face 102b relative to the transport unit 200 that enters first and the second sample rack end face 102a relative to the transport unit that enters later. When the transport unit is located at a part of the translation path, the barcode scanner 300 is tilted towards the first sample rack end face 102b and can scan the second barcode 105. When the second barcode is scanned, along the direction in which the sample rack 100 enters the transport unit 200 from the sample rack storage unit 500, the barcode scanner 300 is spaced in front of the sample rack 100, and the spacing distance is M (see [reference]). Figure 6 This causes the barcode scanner 300 to tilt toward the end face 102b of the first sample holder.

[0050] In other embodiments, the barcode scanner 300 is disposed on the transport unit 200, and the barcode scanner 300 is tilted towards the next unit, when the first translational path is the path for the sample rack 100 to leave the transport unit 200 and enter the next unit, for example, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 When the sample rack leaves the transport unit 200 and enters the turning unit 400, the two sample rack end faces 102 are respectively the first sample rack end face 102b relative to the first sample rack end face 102b leaving the transport unit 200 and the second sample rack end face 102a relative to the last sample rack end face 102a leaving the transport unit 200. The barcode scanner 300 is tilted towards the second sample rack end face 102a. When the transport unit 200 is located at a part of the translation path, the sample rack can scan the second barcode 105. That is, along the direction in which the sample rack leaves the transport unit 200 and enters the turning unit 400, when the second barcode is scanned, the barcode scanner 300 is positioned behind the sample rack 100 at intervals of N (see [reference]). Figure 7 The barcode scanner 300 is tilted toward the end face 102a of the second sample holder.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sample rack 100 is provided with multiple sample tube receiving cavities. Each sample rack side 101 has a barcode scanning port 104 for exposing the first barcode 601. A third barcode (not shown) corresponding to one of the sample tube receiving cavities is provided between adjacent sample tube receiving cavities, and the third barcode is located on the sample rack side 101. Here, the third barcode associates each sample tube 600 with its corresponding sample tube receiving cavity. If specific processing of the sample in a particular sample tube 600 is required, the specific position of that sample tube 600 on the sample rack 100 can be determined based on the third barcode. Typically, if the sample rack side 101 has the third barcode, the second barcode 105 cannot be provided on the sample rack side 101. In this case, the second barcode 105 can be provided on the sample rack end face 102 or transition surface 103. Of course, in actual implementation, the third barcode may not be provided.

[0052] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 , Figure 2 The barcode scanner 300 includes a barcode scanner body 310 and a scanning window 311, with the scanning window 311 disposed on the barcode scanner body 310; wherein, the scanning window 311 is tilted toward the first translation path, so that when the sample rack 100 passes through the first translation path, the scanning window 311 is tilted toward the side 101 of the sample rack.

[0053] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a sample rack transportation method, wherein the sample rack 100 is transported using any of the above-described transportation scanning structures, the transportation scanning structure further comprising a steering unit 400, and the transportation method comprising: Obtain the target orientation; The current orientation of the first barcode 601 is determined based on the scanning results of the first barcode scanner 300a and the second barcode scanner 300b. Determine whether the steering unit 400 rotates the sample holder 100 based on the current orientation and target orientation of the first barcode 601.

[0054] The sample collection and transport method can determine the orientation of the first barcode 601 on the sample rack 100 based on which side the barcode scanner 300 scanned the first barcode 601. Compared with the current method of setting the barcode scanner 300 on one side, the sample rack 100 in the sample analyzer of the present invention does not need to be re-scanned.

[0055] Specifically, for example, if the first barcode scanner 300a scans the first barcode 601 but the second barcode scanner 300b does not scan the first barcode 601, it means that the first barcode 601 is facing the target direction, and in this case, the sample rack 100 does not rotate; if the first barcode scanner 300a does not scan the first barcode 601 but the second barcode scanner 300b scans the first barcode 601, it means that the first barcode 601 is not facing the target direction, and in this case, the steering unit 400 needs to be controlled to rotate the sample rack 100.

[0056] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a troubleshooting method for a sample analyzer, wherein the sample analyzer is any of the sample analyzers described above, and the troubleshooting method includes: S100, obtain the number L of sample tubes 600 on the sample rack 100 and the initial number C of the first barcode scanned by each barcode scanner 300; S300. When the initial number of barcodes C corresponding to each barcode scanner 300 is not equal to the number of sample tubes L, the first barcode scanner to be checked is determined according to the initial number of barcodes C scanned by each barcode scanner. S600. When the initial number of barcodes C corresponding to each scanner 300 is not equal to the number of sample tubes L, the orientation of the sample rack 100 is reversed by the turning unit 400, and the sample rack 100 is controlled to rescan through the first translation path to obtain the number of verification barcodes rescanned to the first barcode by each scanner 300. The initial number of barcodes corresponding to the first barcode scanner is not equal to zero, and the scanner on the other side is the second barcode scanner. The number of verification barcodes corresponding to the first barcode scanner is defined as J1, and the number of verification barcodes corresponding to the second barcode scanner is defined as J2. S710. If the number of verification barcodes J2 corresponding to the second verified barcode scanner is zero, then the steering unit is determined to be faulty, and a steering unit fault warning signal is generated. S720. If the number of verification barcodes J2 corresponding to the second barcode scanner is equal to the number of sample tubes L, then the first barcode scanner is determined to be faulty, and a first barcode scanner fault warning signal is generated. S730. If the number of verification barcodes J2 corresponding to the second barcode scanner is equal to the number of initial barcodes C scanned by the first barcode scanner, then it is determined that some sample tubes 600 on the sample rack 100 are missing the first barcode 601, and a barcode missing warning signal is generated.

[0057] This troubleshooting method can automatically and quickly determine whether the malfunction is caused by the barcode scanner 300 or the steering unit 400, and can also issue a warning when the first barcode is missed. The entire troubleshooting process does not require machine downtime, requires less time, and is more intelligent.

[0058] In some embodiments, the troubleshooting method further includes: S400. When the number of initial barcodes corresponding to each of the scanners is not equal to the number of sample tubes, and before the turning unit turns the orientation of the sample rack, the sample rack is first controlled to rescan at least once along the first translation path to obtain the first corrected barcode corresponding to each scanner. S510. If the number of the first corrected barcodes corresponding to the first barcode scanner is equal to the number of sample tubes, then indicate that the first barcode scanner is experiencing an occasional abnormality. S520. If the number of the first corrected barcodes corresponding to the first verified barcode scanner is still not equal to the number of sample tubes, then the action of the turning unit in S600 to turn the orientation of the sample rack is executed again, that is, the turning unit turning signal is sent again.

[0059] The scanning structure of the barcode scanner may be affected by environmental factors (air humidity, temperature, light, etc.). In this way, when the initial number of barcodes is not equal to the number of sample tubes, the sample rack is not turned around and the scanner is re-scanned directly. This can detect the situation in time and obtain more accurate troubleshooting.

[0060] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Any person skilled in the art can modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed in the present invention should still be covered by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A transport scanning structure, characterized in that, include: The sample rack has two back-to-back sample rack sides, and the first barcode on each sample tube on the sample rack is exposed on one of the sample rack sides; A transport unit is used to transport a sample rack, the trajectory of which includes a first translation path along a first direction. The first translation path is the path by which the sample rack enters the transport unit from the previous unit or the path by which the sample rack leaves the transport unit and enters the next unit. and At least two barcode scanners are distributed on both sides of the first translation path, and each barcode scanner faces the first translation path. When the sample rack containing the sample tubes passes through the first translation path, each of the sample tubes is distributed on the sample rack along the first direction, and the barcode scanner on one side scans the first barcode exposed on the side of the corresponding sample rack. The barcode scanner includes at least a first barcode scanner and a second barcode scanner. The scanning results of the first barcode scanner and the second barcode scanner are used to determine the current orientation of the first barcode. The current orientation is used to determine whether the sample holder needs to be rotated. When the number of sample tubes on the sample rack and the number of initial barcodes scanned by each barcode scanner are not equal, it is determined that the orientation of the sample rack needs to be changed by the turning unit.

2. The transport scanning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transport unit includes: A support structure used to carry the transported sample rack; The driving component is capable of moving the sample holder along the first direction on the carrier; The barcode scanner is mounted on the carrier.

3. The transport scanning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The side wall of the sample rack also includes two sample rack end faces, and a second barcode is provided on the side wall of the sample rack. The barcode scanner is tilted toward the first translation path of the sample rack. When the sample rack passes through the first translation path along the first direction, each of the sample tubes is distributed on the sample rack along the first direction, the side of the sample rack passes through the viewing range of the corresponding side barcode scanner, and one of the end faces of the sample rack passes through the viewing range of the barcode scanner.

4. The transport scanning structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second barcode is affixed to the end face of the sample holder; or The second barcode is located on the side of the sample holder; or The second barcode portion is disposed on the end face of the sample holder; or The side wall of the sample holder also includes a transition surface located between the end face of the sample holder and the side face of the sample holder, and the second barcode is disposed on the transition surface.

5. The transport scanning structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The barcode scanner is mounted on the transport unit and is tilted towards the preceding unit. When the first translation path is the path for the sample rack to enter the transport unit from the preceding unit, the two sample rack end faces are respectively the first sample rack end face that enters the transport unit first and the second sample rack end face that enters the transport unit later. When the transport unit is located at a part of the translation path, the barcode scanner is tilted towards the first sample rack end face. or The barcode scanner is mounted on the transport unit and is tilted towards the next unit. When the first translation path is the path for the sample rack to leave the transport unit and enter the next unit, the two sample rack end faces are respectively the first sample rack end face that leaves the transport unit first and the second sample rack end face that leaves the transport unit later. When the transport unit is located at a part of the translation path, the barcode scanner is tilted towards the second sample rack end face.

6. The transport scanning structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The sample rack is provided with multiple sample tube receiving cavities. The side of the sample rack is provided with a barcode scanning port for exposing the first barcode. A third barcode corresponding to one of the sample tube receiving cavities is provided between two adjacent sample tube receiving cavities, and the third barcode is provided on the side of the sample rack.

7. The transport scanning structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The barcode scanner includes: barcode scanner body; A scanning window is provided on the main body of the barcode scanner; The scanning window is tilted toward the first translation path, so that when the sample holder passes through the first translation path, the scanning window is tilted toward the side of the sample holder.

8. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, include: Sample rack storage unit, used to store sample racks; A transport scanning structure, wherein the transport scanning structure is any one of claims 1-7, and the transport unit is used to transport the sample rack on the sample rack storage unit to the target location.

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