Sample rack scheduling device, sample analyzer and scheduling method

Abstract

The invention relates to a sample rack scheduling device which comprises a sample introduction area, a buffer area, a recovery area, a sampling area, a conveying mechanism and a scheduling mechanism, the cache region is used for caching sample racks before sampling and samples after sampling; the scheduling mechanism is used for transporting the sample frame to be sampled in the cache region and the sample frame needing to be remeasured after sampling to the sampling region for sampling, and transporting the sample frame after sampling to the cache region; the conveying mechanism is used for driving the sample frame to move between the sample introduction area and the buffer area and moving the sample frame after sampling in the buffer area to the recovery area for recovery. According to the invention, the cache region is arranged, and when the sample needs to be remeasured, the conveying mechanism dispatches the cached sample from the cache region for sampling and remeasuring; only samples which do not need to be remeasured can be moved to the recovery area to be recovered. The low-cost re-measurement function of the sample can be realized without a large number of reaction cups; the use amount of the reaction cups is saved, the use cost of a user is reduced, and the use amount of samples is saved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of in vitro diagnosis, and in particular relates to a sample rack scheduling device, a sample analyzer and a scheduling method. Background Art

[0002] Sample analyzers (such as biochemical analyzers and coagulation analyzers) are widely used testing instruments in the field of in vitro diagnostic technology. They can obtain clinical diagnostic information by testing samples such as human blood and body fluids, providing a basis for disease diagnosis and body function judgment.

[0003] During clinical testing, the test results of test items may be uncertain. For example, it is not possible to directly determine whether the test results of the test items are positive or negative. Retesting is required to confirm in order to ensure the reliability of the test results. Taking the coagulation analyzer as an example, the current methods for retesting test items are: all samples need to be prepared in two reaction cups, one for normal testing and the other as a spare. The spare samples are first stored in the sample analyzer, and the samples for normal testing are used for testing. When the samples for normal testing are tested and do not need to be retested, the spare samples are taken out of the sample analyzer; when the samples for normal testing are tested and it is determined that they need to be retested, the spare samples in the sample analyzer are dispatched for retesting. Not only does it require a large number of reaction cups, but it also requires an increase in the amount of samples used. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention overcomes the deficiencies in the prior art and provides a sample rack scheduling device, a sample analyzer and a scheduling method, which not only saves the amount of reaction cups and reduces the user's use cost, but also saves the amount of samples used.

[0005] The specific technical solutions of the present invention are as follows: A sample rack scheduling device comprises: a sample feeding area, a buffer area, a recovery area, a sampling area, a conveying mechanism and a scheduling mechanism; The buffer area is used to cache the sample rack before sampling and the samples after sampling; The dispatching mechanism is used to move the sample racks to be sampled in the buffer area and the sample racks that need to be retested after sampling to the sampling area for sampling, and to move the sample racks after sampling to the buffer area; The conveying mechanism is used to drive the sample rack to move between the sampling area and the buffer area, and to move the sample rack after sampling in the buffer area to the recovery area for recovery.

[0006] Preferably, the sample introduction area, the buffer area, and the recovery area are arranged in sequence, and a track mechanism is provided through the sample introduction area, the buffer area, and the recovery area for the sample rack to slide on.

[0007] Preferably, the track mechanism is provided with a first notch; The dispatching mechanism comprises a first base, a first replacement bracket and a first movable bracket arranged on the first base; In the first state, the first movable bracket is located in the first notch, so that the sample rack can pass through the first notch and move along the track mechanism; In the second state, the first replacement bracket slides along the first base and drives the first movable bracket to disengage from the first notch, so that the first replacement bracket is located in the first notch, so as to move the sample rack out of the track mechanism and move it along the first base to the sampling area.

[0008] Preferably, the first movable bracket is rotatably connected to one end of the first base, and can be moved out of the first gap by being pushed by the first replacement bracket.

[0009] Preferably, a first reset mechanism is provided on the first movable bracket, one end of which is connected to the first base, and the other end of which is connected to the first movable bracket, for resetting the first movable bracket into the first notch when the first replacement bracket moves out of the first notch.

[0010] Preferably, a first driving mechanism is provided on the first base, and the first driving mechanism includes a first driving unit, a first synchronous wheel and a first synchronous belt. The first synchronous wheel is rotatably connected to the first base, the first synchronous belt is wound around the first synchronous wheel, and the first substitute bracket is connected to the first synchronous belt. The first driving unit drives the first synchronous wheel to rotate, and then drives the first synchronous belt to move to drive the first substitute bracket to slide along the length direction of the first base.

[0011] Preferably, the first driving mechanism further includes a first guide rail, the first guide rail extends along the length direction of the first base, and the first replacement bracket is slidably connected to the first guide rail.

[0012] Preferably, a first protrusion cooperating with the track mechanism is provided on the top of the first movable bracket so that the conveyed object can pass through the gap; and a second protrusion is provided on the top of the first replacement bracket for driving the conveyed object to slide along the first base.

[0013] Preferably, a first roller is provided on a side of the first movable bracket close to the first replacement bracket.

[0014] Preferably, a first chamfer is provided at the bottom end of the first replacement bracket on a side close to the first movable bracket.

[0015] The sample rack scheduling device provided by the present invention also includes a temporary storage area, in which a temporary storage mechanism is provided. The temporary storage mechanism is used to move the sample racks to be processed in the buffer area to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and to transport the sample racks in the temporary storage area back to the buffer area.

[0016] Preferably, the track mechanism is provided with a second notch; The temporary storage mechanism includes a second base and a second replacement bracket and a second movable bracket arranged on the second base; In the first state, the second movable bracket is located in the second notch, so that the sample rack can pass through the second notch and move along the track mechanism; In the second state, the second replacement bracket slides along the second base and drives the second movable bracket to disengage from the second notch, so that the second replacement bracket is located in the second notch, so as to move the sample rack out of the track mechanism and move it along the second base to the temporary storage area.

[0017] Preferably, the second movable bracket is rotatably connected to one end of the second base, and can be moved to the outside of the second gap by being pushed by the second replacement bracket.

[0018] Preferably, a second reset mechanism is provided on the second movable bracket, one end of the second reset mechanism is connected to the second base, and the other end is connected to the second movable bracket, and is used for resetting the second movable bracket into the second notch when the second replacement bracket moves out of the second notch.

[0019] Preferably, a second driving mechanism is provided on the second base, and the second driving mechanism includes a second driving unit, a second synchronous wheel and a second synchronous belt. The second synchronous wheel is rotatably connected to the second base, the second synchronous belt is wound around the second synchronous wheel, and the second substitute bracket is connected to the second synchronous belt. The second driving unit drives the second synchronous belt to move, thereby driving the second substitute bracket to slide along the length direction of the second base.

[0020] Preferably, the second driving mechanism further includes a second guide rail, the second guide rail extends along the length direction of the second base, and the second replacement bracket is slidably connected to the second guide rail.

[0021] Preferably, a third protrusion cooperating with the track mechanism is provided on the top of the second movable bracket so that the conveyed object can pass through the gap; and a fourth protrusion is provided on the top of the second replacement bracket for driving the conveyed object to slide along the second base.

[0022] Preferably, a second roller is provided on a side of the second movable bracket close to the second replacement bracket.

[0023] Preferably, a second chamfer is provided at the bottom end of the second replacement bracket on the side close to the second movable bracket.

[0024] Preferably, an emergency area is provided at one end of the sample introduction area away from the buffer area, and a pushing mechanism is provided in the emergency area for pushing the sample rack in the emergency area into the sample introduction area.

[0025] The present invention also relates to a sample analyzer, comprising the sample rack scheduling device mentioned above.

[0026] A scheduling method for a sample rack scheduling device comprises the following steps: Move the sample rack in the injection area to the buffer area; Move the sample racks to be sampled in the buffer area and the sample racks that need to be retested after sampling to the sampling area for sampling; After sampling, the sample rack is moved to the buffer area for buffering.

[0027] Preferably, when it is necessary to schedule one of the sample racks in the sample rack group in the buffer area to enter the sampling area for sampling, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack to be sampled is at a preset position, the sample rack to be sampled is moved to the sampling area for sampling, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed back into the buffer area.

[0028] Preferably, the sample injection area, buffer area, and recovery area are arranged in sequence, and the temporary storage area is located on one side of the buffer area; When all samples on a sample rack in the sample rack group in the buffer area have been sampled and do not need to be retested, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack that does not need to be retested is located at a preset position, the sample rack that does not need to be retested is moved to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, the remaining sample rack groups are pushed to the sample injection area, the sample rack in the temporary storage area is transported back to the buffer area, the sample rack is pushed from the buffer area to the recovery area for recovery, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed from the sample injection area to the buffer area for cache.

[0029] Preferably, the sample injection area, buffer area, and recovery area are arranged in sequence, and the temporary storage area is located on one side of the buffer area; When a sample in a sample rack of the sample rack group in the buffer area needs to be retested after sampling, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack that needs to be retested is located at the preset position, and then the sample rack that needs to be retested is moved to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed to the end of the buffer area close to the recovery area, and the sample rack that needs to be retested in the temporary storage area is transported back to the buffer area. After the sample rack that needs to be retested is pushed to the preset position, it is moved to the sampling area for sampling, and the sample rack that needs to be retested after sampling is completed is moved to the buffer area for cache.

[0030] The present invention is provided with a buffer area, which is not only used to buffer the sample rack before sampling, but also used to buffer the samples after sampling. When the sample needs to be retested, the conveying mechanism dispatches the buffered sample from the buffer area, and the dispatching mechanism moves the sample rack to the sampling area for sampling and retesting; only the samples that do not need to be retested will be moved to the recovery area for recycling. The low-cost retesting function of the sample can be realized without a large number of reaction cups; it not only saves the amount of reaction cups and reduces the user's use cost, but also saves the amount of sample used. When the dispatching mechanism drives the sample rack to move to the sampling area for sampling, the conveying mechanism can still independently complete the dispatching work of the on-track sample rack in the sampling area, the buffer area, and the recovery area, and perform it synchronously, saving time and improving the working efficiency of the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of the sample analyzer of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A top view of Figure 3 It is a structural schematic diagram of the conveying mechanism of the present invention; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of the spline slider and the sample rack lever; Figure 5 It is a structural schematic diagram of the dispatching mechanism of the present invention; Figure 6 It is a structural schematic diagram of the temporary storage mechanism of the present invention.

[0032] Wherein: 1: conveying mechanism, 1-1: bracket, 1-2: second synchronous belt, 1-3: first driving unit, 1-4: second driving unit, 1-5: first synchronous belt, 1-6: first driven wheel, 1-7: spline slider, 1-8: connecting piece, 1-9: lever mechanism, 1-10: spline shaft, 1-11: linear guide rail, 1-12: second synchronous wheel, 1-13: connecting part, 1-14: working part, 1-15: second end of connecting piece, 1-16: groove, 1-17: first end of connecting piece, 1-18: first driving wheel, 2: injection area, 3: sample rack, 4: buffer area, 5: recovery area, 6: workbench, 7: track mechanism, 8: sampling area, 8a: rotating code scanning mechanism, 9: scheduling mechanism, 9-1: first guide rail, 9-2: first synchronous belt , 9-3: first replacement bracket, 9-4: second protrusion, 9-5: first roller, 9-6: first rotating shaft, 9-7: first base, 9-8: first movable bracket, 9-9: first elastic member, 9-10: first protrusion, 9-11: first chamfer, 9-12: first synchronous wheel, 10: emergency position, 11: temporary storage mechanism, 11-1: second guide rail, 11-2: second synchronous belt, 11-3: second replacement bracket, 11-4: fourth protrusion, 11-5: second roller, 11-6: second rotating shaft, 11-7: second base, 11-8: second movable bracket, 11-9: second elastic member, 11-10: third protrusion, 11-11: second chamfer, 11-12: second synchronous wheel, 20: in-position detection mechanism, 21: full position detection mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the present invention clearer, the technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the specific embodiments of the present invention and the corresponding drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention, and the parts not mentioned in the present invention are all prior art. The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below in conjunction with the drawings.

[0034] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 A sample analyzer includes a workbench 6, on which a sample rack scheduling device is provided, the sample rack scheduling device includes a sample injection area 2, a buffer area 4, a recovery area 5, a sampling area 8, a scheduling mechanism 9 and a conveying mechanism 1, the sample injection area 2, the buffer area 4 and the recovery area 5 are arranged in sequence along the length direction of the workbench 6; a track mechanism 7 is provided through the sample injection area 2, the buffer area 4 and the recovery area 5 for the sample rack to slide on it.

[0035] The buffer area is used to cache the sample racks before sampling and the sample racks after sampling. The conveying mechanism 1 is arranged at the bottom of the workbench 6, and is used to drive the sample rack 3 on the workbench 6 to move between the sampling area 2 and the buffer area 4, and move the sample racks in the buffer area after sampling to the recovery area for recovery. The scheduling mechanism 9 is used to move the sample racks to be sampled in the buffer area 4 and the sample racks that need to be retested after sampling to the sampling area 8 for sampling. The sampled samples are subsequently processed and then tested by the detection mechanism (not shown in the figure). The sample racks after sampling are moved by the scheduling mechanism 9 to the track mechanism 7, and the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample racks to the buffer area 4 for cache; the sample racks in the buffer area 4 after sampling are moved by the conveying mechanism 1 to the recovery area 5 for recovery.

[0036] A rotating code scanning mechanism 8a is provided on one side of the buffer area 4 for scanning the sample rack in the buffer area 4. When the scheduling mechanism 9 moves the sample rack to the sampling area 8 for sampling, the code scanning mechanism 8a is rotated and aligned with the sample rack on the scheduling mechanism 9 to identify and scan the sample identification code on the sample rack.

[0037] The sample injection area 2 may use a detachable tray (not shown in the figure). When sample injection is required, the tray is taken down and the sample rack is placed in the tray, and then the tray is placed in the sample injection area 2.

[0038] The conveying mechanism used in the present invention can be any one as long as it can convey the sample rack to move, and a common conveying mechanism in the art can be used. Figure 3 As shown, it includes a support 1-1, a lever mechanism 1-9, a first driving mechanism and a second driving mechanism, wherein the first driving mechanism is used to drive the lever mechanism 1-9 to move to one side of the sample rack 3, and the second driving mechanism is used to drive the lever mechanism 1-9 to drive the sample rack 3 to move. The first driving mechanism drives the lever mechanism 1-9 to move to one side of the sample rack 3 on the workbench 6, and the second driving mechanism drives the lever mechanism 1-9 to move along the length direction of the support 1-1 to drive the sample rack to move along the length direction of the support 1-1, so that the sample rack can be transported in both directions on the workbench 6. Only one power system is needed to realize the bidirectional transportation of the sample rack, so the overall structure is simple and the cost is low.

[0039] Furthermore, the first driving mechanism includes a first driving unit 1-3, a spline shaft 1-10 and a spline slider 1-7, and the first driving unit 1-3 is preferably a motor. The lever mechanism 1-9 is sleeved on the spline shaft 1-10 through the spline slider 1-7, and the spline shaft 1-10 is transmission-connected with the first driving unit 1-3, and the first driving unit 1-3 drives the spline shaft 1-10 to rotate, thereby driving the lever mechanism 1-9 to move to one side of the sample rack. The spline shaft 1-10 guides the sliding of the spline slider 1-7. After adopting the above structure, it can not only be moved to one side of the sample rack on the workbench 6, but also has a simple structure and low cost.

[0040] Furthermore, the first driving mechanism also includes a first driving wheel 1-18, a first driven wheel 1-6 and a first synchronous belt 1-5. The first driving wheel 1-18 is rotatably connected to the bracket 1-1, the first driven wheel 1-6 is sleeved on the spline shaft 1-10, and the first synchronous belt 1-5 is wound around the first driving wheel 1-18 and the first driven wheel 1-6. The first driving unit 1-3 drives the first driving wheel 1-18 to rotate, and then drives the first synchronous belt 1-5 to move to drive the spline shaft 1-10 to rotate, so that the lever mechanism 1-9 moves to one side of the sample rack.

[0041] Further, the second driving mechanism includes a second driving unit 1-4, a connecting member 1-8, a second synchronous wheel 1-12 and a second synchronous belt 1-2, and the second driving unit 1-4 is preferably a motor. The second synchronous wheel 1-12 is rotatably connected to the bracket 1-1, the second synchronous belt 1-2 is wound around the second synchronous wheel 1-12, the spline slider 1-7 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 1-8, the first end 1-17 of the connecting member is fixedly connected to the second synchronous belt 1-2, and the second driving unit 1-4 drives the connecting member 1-8 to move, thereby driving the lever mechanism 1-9 to move.

[0042] Furthermore, the second driving mechanism also includes a linear guide rail 1-11 extending along the length direction of the bracket 1-1, the second end portion 1-15 of the connecting member is slidably connected to the linear guide rail 1-11, and the second driving unit 1-4 drives the connecting member 1-8 to move, thereby driving the lever mechanism 1-9 to slide along the linear guide rail 1-11. The linear guide rail 1-11 guides the movement of the connecting member 1-8, and the second synchronous belt 1-2 is used to drive the connecting member 1-8 to slide along the linear guide rail 1-11, so that the sliding is more stable.

[0043] See also Figure 4 Furthermore, a groove 1-16 is provided on the outer circumference of the spline slider 1-7, and the connecting member 1-8 is installed in the groove 1-16, and the spline slider 1-7 can rotate relative to the connecting member 1-8. After adopting the above structure, the connecting member 1-8 can drive the lever mechanism 1-9 to move when sliding, and the structure is simple and the operation is stable.

[0044] Further, the lever mechanism 1-9 includes a working portion 1-14 and a connecting portion 1-13. The working portion 1-14 is used to move to one side of the sample rack. One free end of the working portion 1-14 is connected to the connecting portion 1-13, and the connecting portion 1-13 is fixed on the spline slider 1-7. Preferably, the working portion 1-14 is in a U shape, and the opening of the U-shaped working portion faces the bracket 1-1; this facilitates the lever mechanism 1-9 to move to one side of the sample rack.

[0045] During operation, if it is necessary to transport the sample rack to the left, the second driving unit 1-4 drives the connecting member 1-8 to drive the lever mechanism 1-9 to slide rightward along the linear guide rail 1-11 until the lever mechanism 1-9 is located on the right side of the sample rack. The first driving unit 1-3 drives the spline shaft 1-10 to rotate, thereby driving the lever mechanism 1-9 to rotate in the vertical direction. The lever mechanism 1-9 moves to one side of the sample rack. The second driving unit 1-4 drives the connecting member 1-8 to drive the lever mechanism 1-9 to slide leftward along the linear guide rail 1-11. The lever mechanism 1-9 abuts against the right side of the sample rack and drives the sample rack to move leftward. When there are other sample racks on the left side of this sample rack, the lever mechanism 1-9 drives this sample rack and simultaneously drives the sample racks on its left side to move leftward together; similarly, the sample rack can also be transported to the right. This sample rack lever mechanism can not only complete the leftward or rightward transportation of one sample rack, but also simultaneously complete the leftward or rightward transportation of multiple sample racks.

[0046] See Figure 5 , the track mechanism 7 is provided with a first notch (not shown in the figure). The scheduling mechanism 9 provided by the present invention includes a first base 9-7 and a first displacement bracket 9-3 and a first movable bracket 9-8 provided on the first base 9-7. In the first state, the first movable bracket 9-8 is located in the first notch, so that the conveying object can pass through the first notch and move along the track mechanism 7. In the second state, the first displacement bracket 9-3 slides along the first base 9-7 and drives the first movable bracket 9-8 to disengage from the first notch, so that the first displacement bracket 9-3 is located in the first notch, so as to move the sample rack 3 out of the track mechanism 7 and move along the first base 9-7 to the sampling area.

[0047] Through the cooperation of the first replacement bracket 9-3 and the first movable bracket 9-8, the sample rack can be transported between the track mechanism 7 and the scheduling mechanism 9. When sampling, the sample rack is transported to the sampling area for sampling. The sampled samples are subsequently processed and then tested by the detection mechanism. When sampling, the sample rack with samples can be recovered. The transportation actions of sampling and sampling are basically the same, which simplifies the transportation process and the action of the replacement bracket, improves the smoothness of the transportation action, reduces the control difficulty, and reduces the occupied space. In addition, the replacement bracket can be carried out simultaneously with other operations without affecting the movement of other units, saving time and improving the work efficiency of the system.

[0048] In the present invention, the first movable bracket 9-8 can be driven to disengage from the first gap in a manner commonly used in the art, such as: the first movable bracket 9-8 can be disengaged from the first gap in a sliding manner. Preferably, the following manner is adopted: the first movable bracket 9-8 is rotatably connected to one end of the first base 9-7, and the first replacement bracket 9-3 pushes the first movable bracket 9-8 to rotate when sliding along the first base 9-7, until the first movable bracket 9-8 rotates to the bottom of the first replacement bracket 9-3, at which time the first movable bracket 9-8 disengages from the first gap, and the first replacement bracket 9-3 is located in the first gap. The above structure can be used to move the sample rack on the track mechanism 7 to the sampling area 8 for sampling. Not only is the structure simple, but it also occupies less space, reducing the assembly and positioning requirements between components.

[0049] Furthermore, the first movable bracket 9-8 is provided with a first reset mechanism, and after adopting the first reset mechanism, the first movable bracket 9-8 can be reset without a power device, and the structure is simple and the cost is low. The reset mechanism is preferably a first spring 9-9, one end of the first spring 9-9 is connected to the first base 9-7, and the other end is connected to the first movable bracket 9-8, and is used to reset the first movable bracket 9-8 to the first notch when the first replacement bracket 9-3 moves out of the first notch.

[0050] Furthermore, a first driving mechanism is provided on the first base 9-7, and the first driving mechanism includes a first driving unit (not shown in the figure), a first synchronous wheel 9-12 and a first synchronous belt 9-2. The first synchronous wheel 9-12 is rotatably connected to the first base 9-7, the first synchronous belt 9-2 is wound around the first synchronous wheel 9-12, and the first substitute bracket 9-3 is connected to the first synchronous belt 9-2. The first driving unit is preferably a motor, and the first driving unit drives the first synchronous wheel 9-12 to rotate, and then drives the first synchronous belt 9-2 to move to drive the first substitute bracket 9-3 to slide along the length direction of the first base 9-7.

[0051] Furthermore, the first driving mechanism also includes a first guide rail 9-1, which extends along the length direction of the first base 9-7, and the first replacement bracket 9-3 is slidably connected to the first guide rail 9-1; the first guide rail is used to guide the replacement bracket to slide along the first base.

[0052] Furthermore, the first base 9 - 7 is perpendicular to the track mechanism 7 , so as to facilitate the transport of the sample rack 3 on the track mechanism 7 to the sampling area 8 for sampling.

[0053] For further information, see Figure 5 The top of the first movable bracket 9-8 is provided with a first protrusion 9-10 that cooperates with the track mechanism 7, so that the transported object can pass through the first gap, and the bottom of the sample rack 3 is provided with a groove (not shown in the figure) that is compatible with the first protrusion 9-10; the combination of the first protrusion and the groove not only has a simple structure but also low cost.

[0054] Furthermore, a second protrusion 9-4 is provided on the top of the first replacement bracket 9-3, which is used to drive the conveying object to slide along the first base 9-7, and a groove (not shown in the figure) matched with the second protrusion 9-4 is provided at the bottom of the sample rack 3; the combination of the second protrusion and the groove not only has a simple structure, but also the sample rack 3 will not shake when moving on the first replacement bracket 9-3, and the operation is more stable.

[0055] Furthermore, a first roller 9-5 is provided on the side of the first movable bracket 9-8 close to the first substitute bracket 9-3. When the first substitute bracket 9-3 moves along the length direction of the first base 9-7 to push the first movable bracket 9-8 to rotate, the first roller 9-5 is used to achieve rolling friction to reduce the friction loss of the first substitute bracket 9-3 and extend its service life.

[0056] Furthermore, a first chamfer 9-11 is provided at the bottom end of the first substitute bracket 9-3 close to the first movable bracket 9-8, which is beneficial for the first substitute bracket 9-3 to push the first movable bracket 9-8 to rotate, and at the same time ensures the smooth movement of the first substitute bracket 9-3 when switching the first movable bracket 9-8.

[0057] During sample introduction, the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample rack 3 on the track mechanism 7 from the sample introduction area 2 to the buffer area 4, and the rotating code scanning mechanism 8a rotates to the direction of the buffer area 4, aligns with the identification code in front of the sample rack in the buffer area 4 to scan the code and obtain the sample rack information. When it is necessary to sample the sample rack in the buffer area 4, the driving unit (not shown in the figure) drives the first substitute bracket 9-3 to move along the length direction of the first base 9-7 to push the first movable bracket 9-8 to rotate until the first movable bracket 9-8 rotates to the bottom of the first substitute bracket 9-3. At this time, the first spring 9-9 is stretched and the first movable bracket 9-8 is disengaged from the first notch, so that the first substitute bracket 9-3 is located in the first notch, and the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample rack to be sampled toward the scheduling mechanism 9. When the sample rack to be sampled moves to the first substitute bracket 9-3, the driving mechanism drives the first substitute bracket 9-3 to drive the sample rack to be sampled to move along the first base 9-7 away from the track mechanism 7, and moves the sample rack 3 to the sampling area 8 for sampling. During the transportation process, the scanning mechanism 8a is rotated and aligned with the sample identification code on the sample rack to be sampled on the first substitute bracket 9-3 for identification and scanning. When the first replacement bracket 9-3 leaves the first movable bracket 9-8, the stretched first spring 9-9 retracts and the first movable bracket 9-8 returns to its original position in the first state in the first notch. After the sampling of the sample rack is completed, the first replacement bracket 9-3 drives the sample rack to slide along the first base 9-7 according to the above method, and drives the first movable bracket 9-8 to leave the first notch, so that the first replacement bracket 9-3 is located in the first notch, and the conveying mechanism 1 is used to move the sample rack on the first replacement bracket 9-3 that has been sampled to the buffer area 4 for buffering, completing the sampling process of the sample rack.

[0058] The sample rack scheduling device provided by the present invention also includes a temporary storage area (not shown in the figure), in which a temporary storage mechanism 11 is provided, and the temporary storage mechanism 11 is used to move the sample rack to be processed in the buffer area 4 to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and to transport the sample rack in the temporary storage area back to the buffer area 4. The sample rack to be processed can be a sample rack that needs to be retested, or a sample rack on which all samples have been sampled and does not need to be retested. The temporary storage mechanism 11 is arranged opposite to the scheduling mechanism 9, and the distance between the temporary storage mechanism 11 and the scheduling mechanism 9 is greater than the width of the working part 1-14 of the lever mechanism 1-9.

[0059] See also Figure 6In the conveying track provided by the present invention, the track mechanism 7 is provided with a second gap (not shown in the figure); the temporary storage mechanism 11 includes a second base 11-7 and a second substitute bracket 11-3 and a second movable bracket 11-8 arranged on the second base 11-7; in the first state, the second movable bracket 11-8 is located in the second gap so that the conveyed object can pass through the second gap and move along the track mechanism 7; in the second state, the second substitute bracket 11-3 slides along the second base 11-7 and drives the second movable bracket 11-8 to disengage from the second gap, so that the second substitute bracket 11-3 is located in the second gap, so as to move the conveyed object out of the track mechanism 7 and move it along the second base 11-7 to the temporary storage area.

[0060] In the present invention, the second movable bracket 11-8 can be driven to disengage from the second gap in a manner commonly used in the art, such as: the second movable bracket 11-8 can be disengaged from the second gap in a sliding manner. Preferably, the following manner is adopted: the second movable bracket 11-8 is rotatably connected to one end of the second base 11-7, and the second replacement bracket 11-3 pushes the second movable bracket 11-8 to rotate when sliding along the second base 11-7, until the second movable bracket 11-8 rotates to the bottom of the second replacement bracket 11-3, at which time the second movable bracket 11-8 disengages from the second gap, and the second replacement bracket 11-3 is located in the second gap. The above structure can be used to move the sample rack on the track mechanism 7 to the temporary storage area cache, which is not only simple in structure, but also occupies less space, reducing the assembly and positioning requirements between components.

[0061] Furthermore, the second movable bracket 11-8 is provided with a second reset mechanism, and after adopting the second reset mechanism, the second movable bracket 11-8 can be reset without a power device, and the structure is simple and the cost is low. The reset mechanism is preferably a second spring 11-9, one end of which is connected to the second base 11-7 and the other end of which is connected to the second movable bracket 11-8, and is used to reset the second movable bracket 11-8 into the gap when the second replacement bracket 11-3 moves out of the gap.

[0062] Furthermore, a second driving mechanism is provided on the second base 11-7, and the second driving mechanism includes a second driving unit (not shown in the figure), a second synchronous wheel 11-12 and a second synchronous belt 11-2. The second synchronous wheel 11-12 is rotatably connected to the second base 11-7, the second synchronous belt 11-2 is wound around the second synchronous wheel 11-12, and the second substitute bracket 11-3 is connected to the second synchronous belt 11-2. The second driving unit is preferably a motor, and the second driving unit drives the second synchronous wheel 11-12 to rotate, thereby driving the second synchronous belt 11-2 to move to drive the second substitute bracket 11-3 to slide along the length direction of the second base 11-7.

[0063] Furthermore, the second driving mechanism also includes a second guide rail 11-1, which extends along the length direction of the second base 11-7, and the second replacement bracket 11-3 is slidably connected to the second guide rail 11-1; the second guide rail is used to guide the second replacement bracket to slide along the second base.

[0064] Furthermore, the second base 11 - 7 is perpendicular to the track mechanism 7 , so as to facilitate the transfer of the sample rack 3 on the track mechanism 7 to the temporary storage area for temporary storage.

[0065] Furthermore, a third protrusion 11-10 cooperating with the track mechanism 7 is provided on the top of the second movable bracket 11-8 so that the transported object can pass through the second gap, and a groove (not shown in the figure) matching with the third protrusion 11-10 is provided on the bottom of the sample rack 3; the combination of the third protrusion and the groove not only has a simple structure but also has low cost.

[0066] Furthermore, a fourth protrusion 11-4 is provided on the top of the second replacement bracket 11-3, which is used to drive the conveyed object to slide along the second base 11-7, and a groove (not shown in the figure) matched with the fourth protrusion 11-4 is provided at the bottom of the sample rack 3; the combination of the fourth protrusion and the groove not only has a simple structure, but also the sample rack 3 will not shake when moving on the second replacement bracket 11-3, and the operation is more stable.

[0067] Furthermore, a second roller 11-5 is provided on the side of the second movable bracket 11-8 close to the second substitute bracket 11-3. When the second substitute bracket 11-3 moves along the length direction of the second base 11-7 to push the second movable bracket 11-8 to rotate, the second roller 11-5 is used to achieve rolling friction to reduce the friction loss of the second substitute bracket 11-3 and extend its service life.

[0068] Furthermore, a second chamfer 11-11 is provided at the bottom end of the second substitute bracket 11-3 close to the second movable bracket 11-8, which is beneficial for the second substitute bracket 11-3 to push the second movable bracket 11-8 to rotate, and at the same time ensures the smooth movement of the second substitute bracket 11-3 when switching the second movable bracket 11-8.

[0069] The working principle of the temporary storage mechanism 11 provided by the present invention is the same as that of the scheduling mechanism 9, which will not be described in detail here. In the present invention, the temporary storage mechanism 11 is arranged in parallel with the scheduling mechanism 9. Preferably, the temporary storage mechanism 11 and the scheduling mechanism 9 are both arranged between the sample feeding area 2 and the buffer area 4, so as to facilitate the sample rack in the buffer area 4 to be moved to the sampling area 8 for sampling.

[0070] In the present invention, an emergency position 10 is provided at one end of the sample injection area 2 away from the buffer area 4 , and a pushing mechanism 11 a is provided in the emergency position 10 for pushing the sample rack in the emergency position 10 into the sample injection area 2 .

[0071] When there are emergency samples in the emergency position 10, the emergency samples need to be tested first, and the pushing mechanism 11a pushes the emergency sample rack in the emergency position 10 into the sample injection area 2. The conveying mechanism 1 moves the emergency sample rack in the sample injection area 2 to the buffer area 4 for code scanning, and drives the first replacement bracket 9-3 to slide along the first base 9-7 using the aforementioned method, and drives the first movable bracket 9-8 to disengage from the first gap, so that the first replacement bracket 9-3 is located in the first gap. After the code scanning is completed, the conveying mechanism 1 moves the emergency sample rack to the first replacement bracket 9-3, and the first replacement bracket 9-3 moves the emergency sample rack to the sampling area 8 for sampling. During the transportation process, the code scanning mechanism 8a is rotated and aligned with the sample identification code on the emergency sample rack on the first replacement bracket 9-3 for identification and code scanning. After the sampling, the emergency sample is subsequently processed and then tested by the detection mechanism (not shown in the figure). After the sampling of the emergency sample rack is completed, the first replacement bracket 9-3 drives the emergency sample rack to slide along the first base 9-7 according to the aforementioned method, and drives the first movable bracket 9-8 to disengage from the first gap, so that the first replacement bracket 9-3 is located in the first gap, and the conveying mechanism 1 moves the emergency sample rack that has been sampled on the first replacement bracket 9-3 to the buffer area 4. If the emergency sample rack does not need to be re-measured, the conveying mechanism 1 moves it from the buffer area 4 to the recycling area 5 for recycling. When the first replacement bracket 9-3 drives the emergency sample rack to move to the sampling area 8 for sampling, the conveying mechanism 1 can move the sample rack on the track mechanism 7 for scheduling. Even if the scheduling mechanism 9 is processing the sampling work of the emergency sample rack, the track mechanism 7 can still independently complete the scheduling work of the sample rack on the track, and perform it synchronously, saving time and improving the working efficiency of the system.

[0072] The present invention also relates to a scheduling method for a sample rack scheduling device, comprising the following steps: moving the sample rack in the sampling area 2 to the buffer area 4; moving the sample rack to be sampled in the buffer area 4 and the sample rack that needs to be retested after sampling to the sampling area 8 for sampling; and moving the sample rack after sampling to the buffer area 4 for caching.

[0073] When it is necessary to schedule one of the sample racks in the sample rack group in the buffer area 4 to enter the sampling area for sampling, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack to be sampled is at a preset position, the sample rack to be sampled is moved to the sampling area for sampling, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed back into the buffer area 4.

[0074] Specifically, the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample rack group in the sample feeding area 2 to the buffer area 4, and the rotating code scanning mechanism 8a rotates to the direction of the buffer area 4, and scans the identification code in front of the sample rack group in the buffer area 4 to obtain the sample rack information. When it is necessary to schedule a sample rack in the sample rack group in the buffer area 4 to enter the sampling area 8 for sampling, the above-mentioned method is used to make the first replacement bracket 9-3 slide along the first base 9-7, and drive the first movable bracket 9-8 to disengage from the first gap, so that the first replacement bracket 9-3 is located in the first gap, and the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the sample rack group to move in the direction of the scheduling mechanism 9 until the sample rack to be sampled is located on the first replacement bracket 9-3. The first replacement bracket 9-3 moves the sample rack to be sampled to the sampling area 8 for sampling. During the movement, the code scanning mechanism 8a is rotated and aligned with the sample identification code on the sample rack to be sampled on the first replacement bracket 9-3 for identification and scanning. The conveying mechanism 1 pushes the remaining sample rack groups back to the buffer area 4 for buffering. The sample rack after sampling is moved by the first replacement support 9 - 3 to the track mechanism 7 , and the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample rack after sampling to the buffer area 4 for buffering.

[0075] Furthermore, the sample introduction area 2, the buffer area 4, and the recovery area 5 are arranged in sequence, and the temporary storage area is located on one side of the buffer area 4; when all samples on a sample rack in the sample rack group in the buffer area 4 have been sampled and do not need to be retested, the sample rack group is pushed to the preset position until the sample rack that does not need to be retested is moved to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed to the sample introduction area 2, and the sample rack in the temporary storage area is transported back to the buffer area 4, and the sample rack is pushed from the buffer area 4 to the recovery area 5 for recovery, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed from the sample introduction area 2 to the buffer area 4 for cache.

[0076] Specifically, when all samples on a sample rack in the sample rack group in the buffer area 4 have been sampled and do not need to be retested, the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the sample rack group to the temporary storage mechanism 11 until the sample rack that does not need to be retested is located on the temporary storage mechanism 11, and the temporary storage mechanism 11 moves the sample rack that does not need to be retested to the temporary storage area (not shown in the figure) for temporary storage; the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the remaining sample rack groups to the sample injection area 2, and the sample racks in the temporary storage area are transported back to the track mechanism 7 by the temporary storage mechanism 11, and the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the sample rack that does not need to be retested to the recycling area 5 for recycling; the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the remaining sample rack groups from the sample injection area 2 to the buffer area 4 for caching. The movement process of the temporary storage mechanism 11 is the same as that of the scheduling mechanism 9, which will not be described in detail here.

[0077] Furthermore, the sample introduction area 2, the buffer area 4, and the recovery area 5 are arranged in sequence, and the temporary storage area is located on one side of the buffer area 4; when a sample in a sample rack in the sample rack group in the buffer area 4 needs to be retested after sampling, the sample rack group is pushed to the preset position of the sample rack to be retested, and the sample rack to be retested is moved to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed to the end of the buffer area close to the recovery area, and the sample rack to be retested in the temporary storage area is transported back to the buffer area 4. After pushing the sample rack to be retested to the preset position, the sample rack to be retested is moved to the sampling area 8 for sampling, and the sample rack to be retested after sampling is completed is moved to the buffer area 4 for cache.

[0078] Specifically, when a sample on a sample rack in the buffer area 4 needs to be retested after sampling, the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the sample rack group to move toward the temporary storage mechanism 11 until the sample rack that needs to be retested is located on the temporary storage mechanism 11, and the temporary storage mechanism 11 moves the sample rack to the temporary storage area for temporary storage (as long as the sample rack does not affect the movement of other sample racks on the track mechanism 7); the conveying mechanism 1 pushes the remaining sample rack groups to the end of the buffer area 4 close to the recovery area, and the sample rack that needs to be retested in the temporary storage area is moved from the temporary storage mechanism 11 to the track mechanism 7. The above method is adopted to make The first substitute bracket 9-3 drives the sample rack that needs to be re-measured to slide along the first base 9-7, and drives the first movable bracket 9-8 to disengage from the first gap, so that the first substitute bracket 9-3 is located in the first gap, and the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample rack that needs to be re-measured to the first substitute bracket 9-3, and the first substitute bracket 9-3 transports the sample rack that needs to be re-measured to the sampling area 8 for sampling. After the sampling is completed, the sample rack is transported by the first substitute bracket 9-3 to the track mechanism 7, and the conveying mechanism 1 moves the sample rack to the buffer area 4 for cache.

[0079] The present invention provides an in-place detection mechanism 20 in the buffer area 4, which is used to detect whether the leftmost sample rack in the buffer area has moved into place; the recovery area 5 is provided with a full position detection mechanism 21. When the full position detection mechanism 21 detects that the sample rack in the recovery area 5 is full, the sample rack in the recovery area 5 needs to be cleaned.

[0080] The present invention adopts a linear guide rotary conveying mechanism and two sets of replacement track mechanisms, namely a dispatching mechanism and a temporary storage mechanism, to realize functions such as dispatching, emergency treatment, and caching of sample racks and samples. It has the following advantages: 1. The sample rack can be adjusted by the vertically rotating and linearly moving sample rack lever, saving space and cost.

[0081] 2. The scheduling mechanism and temporary storage mechanism ensure that when the sample rack being processed is working, other sample racks on the track can complete the scheduling work independently and synchronously, saving time and improving system work efficiency.

[0082] 3. The rotating scanning mechanism cleverly completes the scanning of the sample rack identification number and the scanning of the sample identification number at the same time.

[0083] 4. The present invention can realize the functions of automatic retesting of samples and emergency dispatching.

[0084] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, the present invention may have various modifications and variations. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sample rack scheduling device, characterized in that: include: Sampling area, buffer area, recovery area, sampling area, conveying mechanism and dispatching mechanism; The buffer area is used to cache the sample rack before sampling and the sample rack after sampling; The dispatching mechanism is used to move the sample racks to be sampled in the buffer area and the sample racks that need to be retested after sampling to the sampling area for sampling, and to move the sample racks after sampling to the buffer area; The conveying mechanism is used to drive the sample rack to move between the sampling area and the buffer area, and to move the sample rack after sampling in the buffer area to the recovery area for recovery.

2. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample introduction area, the buffer area, and the recovery area are arranged in sequence, and a track mechanism is provided through the sample introduction area, the buffer area, and the recovery area for the sample rack to slide on.

3. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The track mechanism is provided with a first notch; The dispatching mechanism comprises a first base, a first replacement bracket and a first movable bracket arranged on the first base; In the first state, the first movable bracket is located in the first notch, so that the sample rack can pass through the first notch and move along the track mechanism; In the second state, the first replacement bracket slides along the first base and drives the first movable bracket to disengage from the first notch, so that the first replacement bracket is located in the first notch, so as to move the sample rack out of the track mechanism and move it along the first base to the sampling area.

4. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first movable bracket is rotatably connected to one end of the first base, and can be moved out of the first gap by being pushed by the first replacement bracket.

5. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first movable bracket is provided with a first reset mechanism, one end of which is connected to the first base and the other end of which is connected to the first movable bracket, and is used to reset the first movable bracket into the first notch when the first replacement bracket moves out of the first notch.

6. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 2, characterized in that: It also includes a temporary storage area, in which a temporary storage mechanism is provided, and the temporary storage mechanism is used to move the sample racks to be processed in the buffer area to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and to transport the sample racks in the temporary storage area back to the buffer area.

7. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The track mechanism is provided with a second notch; The temporary storage mechanism includes a second base and a second replacement bracket and a second movable bracket arranged on the second base; In the first state, the second movable bracket is located in the second notch, so that the sample rack can pass through the second notch and move along the track mechanism; In the second state, the second replacement bracket slides along the second base and drives the second movable bracket to disengage from the second notch, so that the second replacement bracket is located in the second notch, so as to move the sample rack out of the track mechanism and move it along the second base to the temporary storage area.

8. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second movable bracket is rotatably connected to one end of the second base, and can be moved out of the second gap by being pushed by the second replacement bracket.

9. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second movable bracket is provided with a second reset mechanism, one end of which is connected to the second base and the other end of which is connected to the second movable bracket, and is used to reset the second movable bracket into the second notch when the second replacement bracket moves out of the second notch.

10. The sample rack scheduling device according to claim 2 or 6, characterized in that: An emergency area is arranged at one end of the sample introduction area away from the buffer area, and a pushing mechanism is arranged in the emergency area for pushing the sample rack in the emergency area into the sample introduction area.

11. A sample analyzer, characterized in that The sample rack scheduling device comprises the sample rack scheduling device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A scheduling method for a sample rack scheduling device, characterized in that The steps include: Move the sample rack in the injection area to the buffer area; Move the sample racks to be sampled in the buffer area and the sample racks that need to be retested after sampling to the sampling area for sampling; After sampling, the sample rack is moved to the buffer area for buffering.

13. The scheduling method according to claim 14, characterized in that: When it is necessary to dispatch one of the sample racks in the buffer area to enter the sampling area for sampling, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack to be sampled is at a preset position, the sample rack to be sampled is moved to the sampling area for sampling, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed back to the buffer area.

14. The scheduling method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that: The sample injection area, buffer area, and recovery area are arranged in sequence, and the temporary storage area is located on one side of the buffer area; When all samples on a sample rack in the sample rack group in the buffer area have been sampled and do not need to be retested, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack that does not need to be retested is located at a preset position, the sample rack that does not need to be retested is moved to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, the remaining sample rack groups are pushed to the sample injection area, the sample rack in the temporary storage area is transported back to the buffer area, the sample rack is pushed from the buffer area to the recovery area for recovery, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed from the sample injection area to the buffer area for cache.

15. The scheduling method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that: The sample injection area, buffer area, and recovery area are arranged in sequence, and the temporary storage area is located on one side of the buffer area; When a sample in a sample rack of the sample rack group in the buffer area needs to be retested after sampling, the sample rack group is pushed until the sample rack that needs to be retested is located at the preset position, and then the sample rack that needs to be retested is moved to the temporary storage area for temporary storage, and the remaining sample rack groups are pushed to the end of the buffer area close to the recovery area, and the sample rack that needs to be retested in the temporary storage area is transported back to the buffer area. After the sample rack that needs to be retested is pushed to the preset position, it is moved to the sampling area for sampling, and the sample rack that needs to be retested after sampling is completed is moved to the buffer area for cache.

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