Sample analysis system and method

Abstract

The invention provides a sample analysis system and method. The sample analysis system comprises a first sample analyzer for detection of a first type of detection items, a second sample analyzer for detection of a second type of detection items and a sample transport device, and the second type of detection items comprise ion detection items. When the to-be-detected item information of the sample of the target sample tube comprises a first detection item and a second detection item, a bearing unit bearing the target sample tube is conveyed to a first sample analyzer and a second sample analyzer through a sample conveying device; and before the first sampling needle of the first sample analyzer sucks the sample from the target sample tube, a cleaning module of the first sample analyzer is used for cleaning the ground sampling needle with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence. According to the mode, the influence of the cleaning solution of the first sample analyzer on the detection result of the second sample analyzer is avoided, and the cross contamination between the analyzers is reduced, so that the overall detection precision of the sample analysis system is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of sample analysis, and specifically to a sample analysis system and method. Background Art

[0002] With the rapid development of medical technology, sample analyzers, as the main equipment for medical diagnosis, are increasingly widely used. In order to improve the efficiency of sample detection and improve the test process, multiple sample analyzers of different categories can be spliced ​​and cascaded into a sample analysis system. However, when using the sample analysis system to detect the same target sample tube, cross contamination will occur, thereby affecting the detection accuracy of the sample analysis system. Therefore, how to reduce the cross contamination between different sample analyzers in the sample analyzer system and improve the detection accuracy of the sample analysis system has become an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present application provides a sample analysis system and method. Various aspects involved in the embodiments of the present application are introduced below.

[0004] In a first aspect, a sample analysis system is provided, comprising: a first sample analyzer, comprising a first sampling needle and a first cleaning module, the first sample analyzer being used to perform a first type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the first sampling needle, and the first cleaning module being used to clean the first sampling needle; a second sample analyzer, comprising a second sampling needle, the second sample analyzer being used to perform a second type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle, the second type of detection item being different from the first type of detection item, the second type of detection item including an ion detection item; a sample transport device being used to transport a sample carrying unit having a sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer or / and the second sample analyzer, the sample tube having a sample therein; when the information on the items to be detected of the target sample tube includes the first type of detection item and the second type of detection item, the sample transport device being used to transport the sample carrying unit having the target sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, wherein before the first sampling needle draws the sample in the target sample tube, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle using a cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence.

[0005] In a second aspect, a sample analysis method is applied to a sample analysis system, the sample analysis system comprising: a first sample analyzer comprising a first sampling needle and a first cleaning module, the first sample analyzer being used to perform a first type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the first sampling needle, and the first cleaning module being used to clean the first sampling needle; a second sample analyzer comprising a second sampling needle, the second sample analyzer being used to perform a second type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle, the second type of detection item being different from the first type of detection item, the second type of detection item including an ion detection item; a sample transport device being used to transport a sample carrying unit having a sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer or / and the second sample analyzer, the sample tube having a sample therein; the method comprising: determining information of items to be detected of a target sample tube; in response to the information of items to be detected of the target sample tube including the first type of detection item and the second type of detection item, transporting the sample carrying unit having the target sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer by using the sample transport device, and before the first sampling needle draws the sample in the target sample tube, cleaning the first sampling needle by using the first cleaning module in sequence with a cleaning liquid and deionized water.

[0006] The sample analysis system provided by the embodiment of the present application can use the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer online, wherein the first sample analyzer is used to detect the first type of detection items, and the second sample analyzer is used to detect the second type of detection items, and the second type of detection items include ion detection items. When the information of the items to be detected of the sample of the target sample tube of the sample analysis system includes the first type of detection items and the second type of detection items, the carrying unit carrying the target sample tube is transported to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer by the sample transport device, and before the first sampling needle of the first sample analyzer draws the sample from the target sample tube, the first sampling needle is cleaned with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence by using the cleaning module of the first sample analyzer. This prevents the cleaning liquid of the first sample analyzer from affecting the detection results of the second sample analyzer, reduces the cross contamination between the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, and thus improves the overall detection accuracy of the sample analysis system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the drawings required for use in the embodiments are briefly introduced below.

[0008] It should be understood that the following drawings only illustrate certain embodiments of the present application and should not be viewed as limiting the scope.

[0009] It should also be understood that the same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings to represent the same or similar elements.

[0010] It should also be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and that the sizes and proportions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily accurate.

[0011] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a sample analysis system provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0012] Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a first sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0013] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a second sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0014] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning pool provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0015] Figure 5 For along Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure with AA section view.

[0016] Figure 6 For along Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure with BB in section.

[0017] Figure 7 For along Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure with a cross-section of CC in FIG.

[0018] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a partial liquid path structure of a first sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a flow chart of a sample analysis method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 1: sample analysis system 100, first sample analyzer 110, first sampling needle 111, first cleaning module 112, cleaning tank 113, deionized water injection port 114, first needle washing chamber 115, second needle washing chamber 116, air blowing port 117, first air blowing port 1171 and second air blowing port 1172, reaction cup buffer tray 118, first detection module 119, first gripper 141, second gripper 142, third gripper 143, reagent bottle 144, first incubation tray 145, first reagent dispensing arm 146, second reagent dispensing arm 147, first magnetic separation module 148, second magnetic separation module Block 149, air pump 151, overflow valve 152, positive pressure actuator 153, air blowing pipeline 154, negative pressure actuator 155, pump 156, deionized water pipeline 157, deionized water bucket 158, second sample analyzer 120, second sampling needle 121, second incubation tray 122, second detection module 123, colorimetric cup 124, reagent box 125, reagent compartment 126, mixing module 127, third reagent dispensing arm 128 and second cleaning module 129, sample transport device 130, sample recovery module 131, transmission track 132, sample carrying unit 133, sample tube 134, target sample tube X. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following is an exemplary description of the embodiments of the present application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that there may be many implementations of the present application, and it should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described here, which are only for a more thorough and clear understanding of the present application.

[0022] With the rapid development of medical technology, sample analyzers, as the main equipment for medical diagnosis, are increasingly widely used. Sample analyzers can also be called in vitro diagnostic instruments. Sample analyzers can be used to test samples such as blood (whole blood, plasma or serum), urine, body fluids or tissues. For example, a sample analyzer can be a hematology analyzer, a biochemistry analyzer, an immunoassay analyzer, a urine analyzer or a coagulation analyzer. Different types of sample analyzers detect different types of items.

[0023] In order to improve the efficiency of sample detection and improve the test process, multiple sample analyzers of different categories can be spliced ​​and cascaded into a sample analysis system (or sample analysis pipeline) to achieve the detection of multiple types of detection items for some samples to be detected at the same time. For example, the sample analysis system can be a biochemical immunoassay system, a blood analysis system, etc. In some cases, the samples to be detected can be samples in different sample tubes, that is, at least two sample analyzers in the sample analysis system draw samples from different sample tubes respectively. In other cases, the samples to be detected can be samples in a sample tube, that is, at least two sample analyzers in the sample analysis system need to draw samples from the same sample tube one after another. By using at least two sample analyzers to detect samples in the same sample tube, it is possible to avoid collecting multiple tubes of samples from the same patient, which can greatly reduce the patient's pain.

[0024] Generally speaking, a sample analyzer uses a sampling needle to absorb the sample in the sample tube and discharge it into a reaction cup or reaction pool inside the sample analyzer for testing. In order to prevent the sample attached to the sampling needle from affecting the test result of the next sample, the sampling needle is cleaned after each sample discharge.

[0025] For the above sampling and analysis system, each sample analyzer has its own separate sampling needle and cleaning module. Different sample analyzers use their own sampling needles for sampling, and use their own cleaning modules to clean the sampling needles after each sampling. In order to meet the carryover contamination rate requirements, some sample analyzers need to use cleaning fluid to clean the sampling needles.

[0026] The inventor of the present application has found through research that: when at least two sample analyzers in a sample analysis system need to detect samples in the same sample tube (hereinafter referred to as online same-tube detection), if one of the sample analyzers (i.e., the first sample analyzer) uses a cleaning solution to clean the sampling needle, and the detection items of the other sample analyzer (i.e., the second sample analyzer) include ion detection items, then the ion item detection results of the second sample analyzer are inaccurate. The reason is that the cleaning solution used by the first sample analyzer contains ion components, and the ion concentration of the cleaning solution is relatively high. After the first sample analyzer uses the cleaning solution to clean the sampling needle, the cleaning solution attached to the sampling needle of the first sample analyzer will be mixed into the sample tube, causing the deviation of the ion item detection results of the second sample analyzer to exceed the acceptable range, thereby affecting the ion item detection results of the second sample analyzer and causing instrument cross contamination. For example, if the sample tube is first transported to the first sample analyzer for sample aspiration and then transported to the second sample analyzer for sample aspiration, the cleaning fluid attached to the sampling needle of the first sample analyzer will be mixed into the sample tube, which will affect the initial detection result of the ion item of the sample by the second sample analyzer; or if the sample tube is first transported to the second sample analyzer for sample aspiration and then transported to the first sample analyzer for sample aspiration, if the second sample analyzer is required to aspirate the sample from the sample tube again to retest the sample, the cleaning fluid mixed in the sample tube will affect the subsequent retest result of the ion item of the sample by the second sample analyzer, causing the deviation of the initial or retest result of the second sample analyzer to exceed the acceptable range, resulting in cross-contamination between instruments in the sample analysis system.

[0027] In view of the above problems, one possible implementation method is to set the sampling needle of the first sample analyzer to use a disposable TIP head, thereby avoiding the cleaning process and also avoiding the influence of the cleaning solution. However, this method is not only not environmentally friendly but also very costly. Another possible implementation method is to avoid using multiple sample detectors to detect the same sample tube, that is, to collect several more samples from the same patient, and then several online sample analyzers detect their respective sample tubes respectively, but this method will increase the patient's pain. As another possible implementation method, a pre-processing module can be added to the sample analysis system, and the pre-processing module can divide the same tube sample into two tube samples, thereby avoiding the situation where different sample analyzers subsequently detect the same tube sample, but this method requires the addition of a pre-processing module for sample separation, which not only increases the cost of the sample analysis system but also increases the complexity of the workflow of the sample analysis system.

[0028] In summary, during online same-tube testing, how to prevent the cleaning solution of the first sampling needle of the first sample analyzer from affecting the test results of the second sample analyzer including the ion detection project while reducing costs has become a technical problem that needs to be solved urgently.

[0029] In view of this, an embodiment of the present application provides a sample analysis system, which includes a first sample analyzer, a second sample analyzer and a sample transport device, the first sample analyzer includes a first sampling needle and a first cleaning module, the first sample analyzer is used to perform a first type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the first sampling needle, and the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle; the second sample analyzer includes a second sampling needle, and the second sample analyzer is used to perform a second type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle, the second type of detection item is different from the first type of detection item, and the second type of detection item includes ion detection items; the sample transport device is used to transport a sample carrying unit with a sample tube placed thereon to the first sample analyzer or / and the second sample analyzer, wherein the sample tube has a sample; when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube includes the first type of detection item and the second type of detection item, the sample transport device is used to transport the sample carrying unit with the target sample tube placed thereon to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, wherein before the first sampling needle draws the sample in the target sample tube, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle with a cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence. This method avoids the mixing of cleaning liquid into the target sample tube, thereby avoiding the influence of the cleaning liquid used to clean the first sampling needle on the ion item detection results of the second sample analyzer when the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer are used to detect the sample in the same target sample tube, reducing cross contamination between sample analyzers and improving the detection accuracy of the sample analysis system. At the same time, this method has low cost.

[0030] Combine the following Figure 1-Figure 8 The sample analysis system 100 in the embodiment of the present application is described in detail. Figure 1 As shown, the sample analysis system 100 in the embodiment of the present application includes a first sample analyzer 110 , a second sample analyzer 120 and a sample transport device 130 .

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the first sample analyzer 110 includes a first sampling needle 111, a first cleaning module 112, a first detection module 119 and a first control module ( Figure 2 The first sampling needle 111 may also be referred to as a sample dispensing arm, and is used to draw samples from the sample tube 134. The first cleaning module 112 is used to clean the first sampling needle 111. In the embodiment of the present application, the first cleaning module 112 has a cleaning liquid cleaning function and a deionized water cleaning function. The first cleaning module 112 can use a cleaning liquid and / or deionized water to clean the first sampling needle 111 before the first sampling needle 111 draws the sample. The first control module is used to control the first sampling needle 111, the first cleaning module 112, and the first detection module 119.

[0032] The cleaning solution used by the first sample analyzer 110 generally includes sodium chloride and / or potassium chloride and / or a phosphate buffer system. As an implementation, the phosphate buffer system is one of a disodium hydrogen phosphate-potassium dihydrogen phosphate system, a sodium dihydrogen phosphate-dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, and a dipotassium hydrogen phosphate-potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer system. Based on this, the cleaning solution used by the first sample analyzer 110 generally contains ion components. Its ion components may include, but are not limited to, one or more of potassium ions, sodium ions, chloride ions, phosphate ions, hydrogen phosphate ions, and dihydrogen phosphate ions.

[0033] The first detection module 119 is used to perform a first type of detection item detection on the sample sucked by the first sampling needle 111 .

[0034] As an implementation, the first sample analyzer 110 may be a blood coagulation analyzer. A blood coagulation analyzer is also called a coagulation analyzer, which is used to evaluate the coagulation function of blood to help diagnose and monitor bleeding diseases, thrombosis tendency, and other coagulation-related diseases. In this case, the first category of test items is a test item related to the coagulation function of blood.

[0035] As another implementation, the first sample analyzer 110 may be an immunoanalyzer. An immunoanalyzer may also be called a chemiluminescent immunoanalyzer (or a chemiluminescent instrument). An immunoanalyzer is used to perform qualitative or quantitative detection of analytes in serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, etc. At this time, the first category of detection items includes hormones, tumor-associated antigens, infectious diseases, allergen-related items, etc.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, the second sample analyzer 120 includes a second sampling needle 121, a second detection module 123 and a second control module ( Figure 2 (not shown). The second sampling needle 121 is used to draw samples from the sample tube 134. The second detection module 123 is used to detect the second category of detection items on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle 121. Among them, the second sample analyzer 120 is different from the first sample analyzer 110, the second category of detection items are different from the first category of detection items and the second category of detection items include ion detection items. In other words, the second sample analyzer 120 is a sample analyzer that can perform ion detection. The second control module is used to control the second sampling needle 121 and the second detection module 123 and the second cleaning module 129 described later.

[0037] As an implementation, the second sample analyzer 120 is a biochemical analyzer or an electrolyte analyzer or a biochemical analyzer with an electrolyte analysis module. The second sample analyzer 120 is used to detect the electrolyte level and / or clinical biochemical indexes of the sample.

[0038] like Figure 1As shown, the sample transport device 130 includes a sample injection recovery module 131 and a transfer track 132. The sample injection recovery module 131 is used to place the sample carrying unit 133 to transfer to the transfer track 132 and to recover the sample carrying unit 133 from the transfer track 132. The transfer track 132 is used to transport the sample carrying unit 133. The number of the sample carrying unit 133 can be at least one, and a single sample carrying unit 133 can carry at least one sample tube 134, and the sample tube 134 has a sample. The sample carrying unit 133 can be a sample rack. In an embodiment of the present application, the sample in the sample tube 134 can be serum, plasma or urine. The sample transport device 130 is used to transport the sample carrying unit 133 with the sample tube 134 placed therein to the first sample analyzer 110 and / or the second sample analyzer 120.

[0039] In the embodiment of the present application, the sample analysis system 100 further includes a third control module ( Figure 2 (not shown), the third control module is in communication with the sample transport device 130. When the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube X includes the first category of test items and the second category of test items, the third control module is used to control the sample transport device 130 to transport the sample carrying unit 133 with the target sample tube X to the first sample analyzer 110 and the second sample analyzer 120.

[0040] The target sample tube X is one of the multiple sample tubes 134 carried by the sample carrying unit 133, and the label on the target sample tube X can indicate that the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes both the first category of detection items and the second category of detection items. As an implementation, the sample analysis system 100 further includes an information acquisition module, which is used to identify the label of the target sample tube X to obtain the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X.

[0041] When the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes the first category of detection items and the second category of detection items, before the first sampling needle 111 absorbs the sample in the target sample tube X, the first control module is used to control the first cleaning module 112 to sequentially use the cleaning liquid and deionized water to clean the first sampling needle 111. In other words, when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes the first category of detection items and the second category of detection items, before the first sampling needle 111 absorbs the sample in the target sample tube X, the first control module is used to control the first cleaning module 112 to first use the cleaning liquid to clean the first sampling needle 111, and then use the deionized water to clean the first sampling needle 111.

[0042] The sample analysis system 100 provided in the embodiment of the present application can not only realize the online operation of the first sample analyzer 110 and the second sample analyzer 120 to detect the sample in the same target sample tube X, but also use the first cleaning module 112 to first use a cleaning liquid to clean the first sampling needle 111 of the first sample analyzer 110 during the online same-tube detection, so that the carryover contamination rate of the first sampling needle 111 meets the requirements, and then use deionized water to clean the first sampling needle 111 of the first sample analyzer 110, which can prevent the cleaning liquid in the first sample analyzer 110 from mixing into the target sample tube X, thereby preventing the cleaning liquid used to clean the first sampling needle 111 from affecting the detection result of the second sample analyzer 120 when performing ion detection on the sample in the target sample tube X, thereby reducing cross contamination between instruments in the sample analysis system and improving the detection accuracy of the sample analysis system 100.

[0043] The embodiments of the present application do not specifically limit the specific detection items included in the ion detection project, as long as it includes the detection of ion components. Specifically, the ion detection project includes one or more of potassium, sodium, chlorine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and the like ions.

[0044] In view of this, in some embodiments, when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes first-category detection items and ion detection items, and the ion detection items include one or more of potassium ion, sodium ion, chloride ion, calcium ion, magnesium ion and phosphorus ion detection items, the first cleaning module 112 is used to clean the first sampling needle 111 with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence before the first sampling needle 111 absorbs the sample in the target sample tube X.

[0045] After further research, the inventor found that although the ion components in the cleaning solution used by the first sample analyzer 110 will affect the detection results of the ion detection items in the second sample analyzer 120, the effects of different ion components in the cleaning solution on the detection results of the ion detection items are different. For example, when the ion detection items are sodium ions and / or chloride ions, since the content of sodium ions and chloride ions in the sample (that is, the sample in the target sample tube X) is high, the cleaning solution used by the first sample analyzer 110 may have an effect on the result, but the effect is acceptable. For another example, when the ion detection items are potassium ions and / or phosphorus ions, since the content of potassium ions and / or phosphorus ions in the sample is low, the potassium ions and / or phosphorus ions in the cleaning solution used by the first sample analyzer 110 will have a prominent effect on the detection results of potassium ions and / or phosphorus ions of the second sample analyzer 120, and the effect is not acceptable.

[0046] In view of this, in some embodiments, when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes first-category detection items and ion detection items, and the ion detection items include potassium ion and / or phosphorus ion detection items, the first cleaning module 112 is used to clean the first sampling needle 111 with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence before the first sampling needle 111 absorbs the sample in the target sample tube X. In this way, deionized water can be saved and costs can be reduced.

[0047] Preferably, in some embodiments, when the first sample analyzer 110 is Figure 2 When the immunoassay analyzer is connected to the second sample analyzer 120 capable of ion detection to detect the sample of the same target sample tube X, the sample transport device 130 is used to sequentially transport the sample carrying unit 133 on which the target sample tube X is placed to the first sample analyzer 110 and the second sample analyzer 120. That is, when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes the first category of detection items and the second category of detection items and the first sample analyzer 110 is an immunoassay analyzer, the sample transport device 130 will first transport the sample carrying unit 133 on which the target sample tube X is placed to the immunoassay analyzer, so that the first sampling needle 111 performs sampling to perform the detection of the first category of detection items, and then the sample transport device 130 will transport the carrying unit to the second sample analyzer 120, so that the second sampling needle 121 performs sampling to perform the detection of the second category of detection items.

[0048] Through this setting, the problem of cross contamination in the online scenario between the immunoanalyzer and the second sample analyzer 120 can be reduced. This is because, although the immunoanalyzer and the second sample analyzer 120 will respectively clean the first sampling needle 111 and the second sampling needle 121 based on their respective cleaning modules (i.e., the first cleaning module 112 and the second cleaning module 129) when drawing samples from the target sample tube X, the carryover contamination rate requirement of the immunoanalyzer is higher than that of the second sample analyzer 120. If the target sample tube X is first transported to the second sample analyzer 120 during the online same-tube detection, the carryover contamination rate of the target sample tube X will be increased because the cleaning requirements of the second sample analyzer 120 cannot meet the carryover contamination rate requirements of the immunoanalyzer, resulting in serious cross contamination between the two instruments, causing the detection results of the immunoanalyzer to be inaccurate. Therefore, when the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube X includes first-category test items and second-category test items and the first sample analyzer 110 is an immunoassay analyzer, the sample transport device 130 is used to transport the sample carrying unit 133 on which the target sample tube X is placed to the first sample analyzer 110 and the second sample analyzer 120 in sequence, which can reduce the problem of cross-contamination between the immunoassay analyzer and the second sample analyzer 120 in an online scenario.

[0049] In some embodiments, when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X includes the first category of detection items, and the first category of detection items is multiple, the first sampling needle 111 is used to draw the sample in the target sample tube X multiple times. Between the first sampling needle 111 drawing the sample in the target sample tube X multiple times, the first control module is used to control the first cleaning module 112 to use only deionized water to clean the first sampling needle 111. For example, when the first sample analyzer 110 is an immunoassay analyzer, if the information of the items to be detected of the sample in the target sample tube X includes 8 preoperative immunoassays, the first sampling needle 111 is required to draw 8 samples from the target sample tube X.

[0050] When the items to be detected in the target sample tube X include multiple first-category detection items, by using only deionized water to clean the first sampling needle 111 between multiple aspirations of samples in the target sample tube X by the first sampling needle 111, it is possible to save cleaning fluid and improve the working efficiency of the first sample analyzer 110 without affecting the detection results of the first sample analyzer 110.

[0051] In some embodiments, when the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube X only includes the first category of detection items, the first control module can control the first cleaning module 112 to only use the cleaning solution to clean the first sampling needle 111 before the first sampling needle 111 draws the sample from the target sample tube X. Through this setting, the working efficiency of the first sample analyzer 110 can be improved without affecting the detection result of the first sample analyzer 110.

[0052] The embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the structure of the first cleaning module 112 , as long as the structure of the first cleaning module 112 enables the first cleaning module 112 to have a cleaning liquid cleaning function and a deionized water cleaning function.

[0053] As an implementation, the first cleaning module 112 includes a cleaning liquid supply assembly (not shown in the figure) and a cleaning tank 113. The cleaning liquid supply assembly is connected to the first sampling needle 111 to provide cleaning liquid to the first sampling needle 111. The cleaning liquid supply assembly may include a cleaning pipeline, a cleaning liquid storage tank, a pipeline control valve, and a cleaning liquid drive mechanism for supplying the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid storage tank to the first sampling needle 111 through the cleaning pipeline. The cleaning liquid supply assembly is used to provide cleaning liquid to the first sampling needle 111 located in the cleaning tank 113, and the inner wall and outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 can be cleaned. The cleaning tank 113 is provided with a deionized water injection port 114, and the first cleaning module 112 can inject deionized water into the cleaning tank 113 through the deionized water injection port 114 to clean the first sampling needle 111 located in the cleaning tank 113.

[0054] The present application embodiment does not specifically limit the structure of the cleaning pool 113. As an implementation method, Figure 4-Figure 7 As shown, the cleaning pool 113 includes a first needle washing chamber 115 and a second needle washing chamber 116. The first needle washing chamber 115 is located in the second needle washing chamber 116, and the first needle washing chamber 115 is used to accommodate the cleaning liquid provided by the cleaning liquid supply assembly. A deionized water injection port 114 is provided on the side wall of the second needle washing chamber 116, and the deionized water injection port 114 is used to transport deionized water to the first sampling needle 111 coming out of the first needle washing chamber 115, so as to rinse the cleaning liquid on the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111.

[0055] For the above-mentioned online same-tube detection scenario, the first cleaning module 112 can first start the cleaning function of the cleaning solution, and the first sample analyzer 110 controls the first sampling needle 111 to move to the first needle washing chamber 115 and then performs the first cleaning based on the cleaning solution. After the first cleaning is completed, the first sample analyzer 110 controls the first sampling needle 111 to move outward from the outlet of the first needle washing chamber 115 (that is, from the outlet of the first needle washing chamber 115). Figure 7 The upper opening of the first needle washing chamber 115 shown in the figure is lifted), and after the first sampling needle 111 is completely separated from the cleaning liquid in the first needle washing chamber 115, the first cleaning module 112 can start the deionized water cleaning function to control the deionized water to be transported from the deionized water injection port 114 to the first sampling needle 111 located in the second needle washing chamber 116 for a second cleaning.

[0056] In order to prevent the liquid on the first sampling needle 111 from affecting the sampling accuracy of the first sampling needle 111, in some embodiments, the first cleaning module 112 also has a blowing function. Figure 4-Figure 6 As shown, the cleaning pool 113 is further provided with an air blowing port 117, and the air blowing port 117 is used to blow air onto the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 that has been cleaned.

[0057] As a way to achieve this, Figure 5-Figure 6 As shown, the air blowing port 117 is located on the side wall of the second needle washing chamber 116, and the air blowing channel is used to blow air onto the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 located in the second needle washing chamber 116, so as to reduce the liquid hanging on the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 and improve the sampling accuracy of the first sampling needle 111. Specifically, the first cleaning module 112 can control the air blowing port 117 to blow air onto the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 after the first sampling needle 111 completes the second cleaning.

[0058] Alternatively, if Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the air outlet 117 extends at an angle inclined downward. Specifically, the air outlet 117 includes a first air outlet 1171 and a second air outlet 1172, and the first air outlet 1171 and the second air outlet 1172 are symmetrically distributed at a certain angle on the side wall of the second needle washing chamber 116. By symmetrically arranging two air outlets 117 on the side wall of the second needle washing chamber 116, air can be blown to the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 from multiple angles, avoiding the existence of a dead angle for blowing, thereby further reducing the liquid hanging on the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111.

[0059] Alternatively, if Figure 6 As shown, the deionized water injection port 114 may be located below the air blowing port 117 , thereby ensuring that the first sampling needle 111 can be rinsed with deionized water and blown with liquid on the outer wall simultaneously when located in the second needle washing chamber 116 .

[0060] As a way to achieve this, use Figure 4 The cleaning method of the cleaning pool 113 for the first sampling needle 111 in the online same-tube test scenario can specifically include: moving the first sampling needle 111 to the first needle washing chamber 115, opening the cleaning liquid supply component to provide the first sampling needle 111 with cleaning liquid, so that the cleaning liquid is injected into the first needle washing chamber 115 through the first sampling needle 111, immersing the front end of the first sampling needle 111 into the first needle washing chamber 115, and cleaning the inner wall and the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 in the first needle washing chamber 115; after the cleaning liquid cleaning is completed, controlling the first sampling needle 111 to move from the first needle washing chamber 115 The chamber 115 is quickly raised vertically for a distance to the first position, and then the deionized water cleaning function is turned on. At the same time, the first sampling needle 111 is horizontally moved from the first position to the second position, and is rinsed with deionized water at the second position; then the first sampling needle 111 is controlled to move vertically from the second position at a uniform speed for a distance. During this movement stage, the front of the first sampling needle 111 is rinsed with deionized water, and the air outlet 117 above blows off the liquid hanging on the needle wall. After the needle tip of the first sampling needle 111 moves to leave the blowing area, the first sampling needle 111 is controlled to quickly reset vertically. It should be noted that the movement trajectory of the first sampling needle 111 can be as follows: Figure 7 The dotted line in the figure shows the trajectory. This cleaning method ensures that the design purpose can be achieved while avoiding the increase in needle washing time due to the addition of the air blowing function.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first sampling needle 111 that has been cleaned is used to pass through the blowing area of ​​the blowing port 117 by vertical movement, and when the needle tip of the first sampling needle 111 is about to leave the blowing area, the first sampling needle 111 is used to inhale air to form an air segment in the first sampling needle 111. Specifically, when the needle tip of the first sampling needle 111 is located at the intersection of the axis of the first sampling needle 111 and the axis of the blowing port 117, it is considered that the needle tip of the first sampling needle 111 is about to leave the blowing area.

[0062] This is because during the blowing process, the gas blows the liquid on the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111 downward to the needle tip, and the liquid will fall due to gravity, but there is still a little liquid in a semicircular structure at the needle tip (liquid hanging on the needle tip) that cannot fall. After the needle tip of the first sampling needle 111 leaves the blowing area, it may be disturbed by the gas, causing the liquid hanging on the needle tip to move upward to the outer wall of the first sampling needle 111, thereby affecting the subsequent sampling accuracy. Therefore, it is necessary to make the first sampling needle 111 suck back air to form an air segment at the end of the blowing, which can reduce the liquid hanging on the needle tip of the first sampling needle 111 and improve the blowing effect.

[0063] The embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the gas source for providing gas to the air blowing port in the first sample analyzer. As an implementation method, an independent gas source can be added to be dedicated to providing gas from the air blowing port to the second needle washing chamber.

[0064] As another implementation, the gas source may be a gas pressure supply component in the reused first sample analyzer, thereby reducing costs compared to independently adding a gas source, while having a simple and reliable structure and not requiring additional electronic components for control.

[0065] As an example, Figure 8 As shown, the first sample analyzer 110 also includes an air pump 151, an overflow valve 152 and a positive pressure actuator 153. The air pump 151 is connected to the positive pressure actuator 153 through the overflow valve 152 and the air pump 151 is used to provide positive pressure for the positive pressure actuator 153. The air pump 151 can be, for example, a vacuum pump. The positive pressure actuator 153 can be, for example, a pneumatic clamp with a cylinder, etc. The overflow end of the overflow valve 152 can be connected to the air blowing port of the cleaning tank through an air blowing pipeline, and the overflow valve 152 is used to supply the overflowed gas to the cleaning tank 113 through the air blowing pipeline 154. The overflow valve 152 is used to maintain the air pressure in the positive pressure pipeline stable. Optionally, the air pump 151 can also be connected to the negative pressure actuator 155 to provide negative pressure for the negative pressure actuator 155. The negative pressure actuator 155 can be, for example, a magnetic separation waste liquid pump.

[0066] The present application embodiment does not specifically limit the supply structure of the first sample analyzer for providing deionized water to the deionized water injection port. As an implementation method, Figure 8As shown, the deionized water supply structure includes a pump 156, a deionized water pipeline 157 and a deionized water bucket 158. The deionized water bucket 158 ​​contains deionized water. The deionized water pipeline 157 connects the pump 156 to the deionized water bucket 158 ​​and the cleaning tank respectively, so that the deionized water in the deionized water bucket 158 ​​is supplied from the deionized water injection port to the cleaning tank of the first sample analyzer through the pump 156.

[0067] The embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the structure and detection method of the immunoassay analyzer. In addition to the first sampling needle and the cleaning module, the immunoassay analyzer may also include other structures.

[0068] As an example, Figure 2 As shown, the immunoassay analyzer 110 includes, in addition to the first sampling needle 111, the first cleaning module 112, the first detection module 119 and the first control module, a reaction cup buffer tray 118, a first gripper 141, a second gripper 142, a third gripper 143, a reagent tray, a first incubation tray 145, a first reagent dispensing arm 146, a second reagent dispensing arm 147, a first magnetic separation module 148, and a second magnetic separation module 149. The first control module is used to control the operation of these mechanisms.

[0069] The working process of the above-mentioned immunoassay analyzer is as follows: the first sampling needle 111 (sample needle) absorbs the sample in the sample tube 134 on the sample carrying unit 133 and discharges it into the disposable empty reaction cup on the buffer disk 118, the first reagent dispensing arm 146 absorbs the first reagent from the reagent bottle 144 on the reagent disk and discharges it into the reaction cup, the first gripper 141 transfers the reaction cup containing the sample and the first reagent to the hole position of the first incubation disk 145, the first incubation disk 145 rotates to drive the reaction cup to the gripping position of the second gripper 142, the second gripper 142 grabs the reaction cup to the first magnetic separation module 148 for the first cleaning, and the second gripper 142 grabs the reaction cup that has completed the first cleaning to the second reagent filling Position Y, the second reagent dispensing arm 147 absorbs the second reagent from the reagent bottle 144 on the reagent tray and discharges it into the reaction cup; the second gripper 142 then grabs the reaction cup back to the hole position of the first incubation tray 145, the first incubation tray 145 rotates to drive the reaction cup to the third gripper 143, the third gripper 143 grabs the reaction cup to the second magnetic separation module 149 for a second cleaning, the third gripper 143 grabs the reaction cup that has completed the second cleaning to the first incubation tray 145, the first incubation tray 145 rotates to bring the reaction cup to the first gripper 141, the first gripper 141 grabs the reaction cup to the detection tray, the first detection module 119 on the detection tray detects the mixed liquid in the reaction cup to obtain the detection result.

[0070] Immunoanalyzers can have a variety of detection methods. As an example, an immunoanalyzer combines chemiluminescence technology and immune reaction, specifically a chemiluminescence immunoanalyzer (or chemiluminescence instrument). The sample types detected by the immunoanalyzer include serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid or other body fluids.

[0071] The chemiluminescent immunoassay instrument consists of two parts, namely the immunoreaction system and the chemiluminescent analysis system. The chemiluminescent analysis system uses the chemiluminescent substance to form an excited intermediate through the catalysis of the catalyst and the oxidation of the oxidant. When this excited intermediate returns to the stable ground state, it emits photons (hM) at the same time, and the light quantum yield is measured using a luminescent signal measuring instrument. The immunoreaction system directly labels the luminescent substance (generating an excited intermediate under the excitation of the reactant) on the antigen (chemiluminescent immunoassay) or antibody (immunochemiluminescent analysis).

[0072] Chemiluminescent immunoassay methods can be divided into three categories according to the different markers, namely direct chemiluminescent immunoassay, enzymatic chemiluminescent immunoassay and electrochemiluminescent immunoassay. Direct chemiluminescent method is used for detection, specifically the direct chemiluminescent method based on acridinium ester, used together with the matching detection reagents, and is clinically used for qualitative or quantitative detection of analytes in common clinical samples such as serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid from the human body, including hormones, tumor-related antigens, infectious diseases, allergen-related projects, etc.

[0073] The embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the structure and detection method of the biochemical analyzer. In addition to the second sampling needle and the second cleaning module 129 , the biochemical analyzer may also include other structures.

[0074] As an example, Figure 3 As shown, the biochemical analyzer 120 may include a second incubation tray 122, a cuvette 124, a reagent kit 125, a reagent compartment 126, a mixing module 127, a third reagent dispensing arm 128, a second cleaning module 129, and a second control module for controlling the operation of these mechanisms in addition to the second sampling needle 121 and the second detection module 123. The second incubation tray 122 is used to provide a constant temperature environment so that the reaction detection of the sample and the reagent is carried out at 37°C, which is close to the human body temperature.

[0075] The working process of the above-mentioned biochemical analyzer is as follows: the second sampling needle 121 absorbs the sample in the sample tube 134 on the sample carrying unit 133, and discharges it into the cuvette 124 on the second incubation tray 122; the second incubation tray 122 rotates the cuvette 124 to the reagent adding position, and the reagent needle on the third reagent dispensing arm 128 absorbs the reagent from the reagent reagent box 125 in the reagent compartment 126 (the reagent compartment 126 and the outer second incubation tray 122 can rotate independently) and discharges it into the cuvette 124; the second incubation tray 122 rotates the cuvette 124 to the mixing position, and the mixing module 127 mixes the sample and reagent in the cuvette 124; after mixing, the cuvette 124 is incubated in the second incubation tray 122 for a period of time and then reaches the detection position; the second detection module 123 detects the liquid in the cuvette 124 to obtain the detection result of one detection item.

[0076] Biochemical analyzer, also commonly known as biochemical analyzer, is an instrument used to measure certain chemical components in serum, plasma and body fluids. It is a detection device that completes some or all of the steps of biochemical analysis, such as sampling, adding reagents, removing interferences, mixing, heat preservation, colorimetry, result calculation, and cleaning, by instruments that imitate manual operations. The sample types detected by biochemical analyzers include serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, etc.

[0077] The biochemical analyzer mainly provides clinical biochemistry, clinical hematology, clinical immunology and other test items for laboratory medicine. It is used to test clinical biochemical indicators such as liver function, kidney function, blood lipids, diabetes, infection, rheumatism and immunology, and thus provides important scientific basis for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases. It is an essential monitoring equipment in hospitals.

[0078] The embodiments of the present application do not specifically limit the electrolyte analyzer or electrolyte analysis module. The electrolyte analyzer or electrolyte analysis module can also be called an ion selective electrode (ISE) module. The ISE analysis module uses an ion selective electrode method to detect ions in a sample. The ions that can be detected by the ISE module include sodium ions, potassium ions, and chloride ions. The samples of the ISE module are generally serum and urine.

[0079] In some embodiments, when the biochemical analyzer is online, the ISE module can perform detection independently, that is, it is an electrolyte analyzer. At this time, the ISE module can be placed outside the biochemical analyzer and set up next to the biochemical analyzer as an electrolyte analyzer. In this case, the ISE module has its own separate sampling needle, but shares a power supply with the biochemical analyzer.

[0080] In other embodiments, when the bio-immunoassay is online, the ISE module can also be incorporated into the biochemical analyzer and share a sampling needle with the biochemical detection module. The sampling needle of the biochemical analyzer draws the sample from the sample tube and discharges it into the colorimetric cup of the incubation tray or / and the reaction pool of the ISE module.

[0081] Combination of the above Figure 1-Figure 8 The sample analysis system provided by the embodiment of the present application is described in detail. Fig. 9 The sample analysis method provided in the embodiment of the present application is introduced in detail. It should be understood that the method is applied to the sample analysis system described above, so the parts not described can be referred to the above, and will not be repeated here.

[0082] As mentioned above, the sample analysis system includes: a first sample analyzer, including a first sampling needle and a first cleaning module, the first sample analyzer is used to perform a first type of detection item on the sample drawn by the first sampling needle, and the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle; a second sample analyzer, including a second sampling needle, the second sample analyzer is used to perform a second type of detection item on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle, the second type of detection item is different from the first type of detection item, and the second type of detection item includes ion detection items; a sample transport device, used to transport a sample carrying unit with a sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer or / and the second sample analyzer, the sample tube having a sample.

[0083] like Fig. 9 As shown, the sample analysis method provided in the embodiment of the present application includes steps S910-S920.

[0084] In step S910, the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube is determined.

[0085] In step S920, in response to the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube including first category test items and second category test items, the sample carrying unit with the target sample tube is transported to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer by a sample transport device, and before the first sampling needle absorbs the sample in the target sample tube, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence.

[0086] Optionally, step S920 may specifically include: in response to the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube including the first category of detection items and the ion detection items, using a sample transport device to transport the sample carrying unit with the target sample tube to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, and before the first sampling needle absorbs the sample in the target sample tube, using a first cleaning module to clean the first sampling needle with cleaning liquid, deionized water and gas in sequence.

[0087] Optionally, step S920 can specifically be in response to the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube including the first category of detection items and ion detection items, and the ion detection items include one or more of potassium ion, sodium ion, chloride ion, calcium ion, magnesium ion and phosphorus ion detection items, using a sample transport device to transport the sample carrying unit with the target sample tube to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, and before the first sampling needle absorbs the sample in the target sample tube, using a first cleaning module to clean the first sampling needle with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence.

[0088] Optionally, the method may also include: in response to the information of the items to be tested in the target sample tube including first-category test items, and the first-category test items are multiple items, between the first sampling needle aspirating the sample in the target sample tube multiple times, using the first cleaning module to clean the first sampling needle using only deionized water.

[0089] Optionally, the method also includes: in response to the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube including the first category of test items and the second category of test items, and the first sample analyzer is an immunoassay analyzer, using the sample transport device to transport the sample carrying unit containing the target sample tube to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer in sequence.

[0090] Optionally, the method further comprises: controlling the first sampling needle to move vertically after cleaning to pass through the blowing area of ​​the blowing port, and when the needle tip of the first sampling needle is about to leave the blowing area, using the first sampling needle to inhale air to form an air segment in the first sampling needle.

[0091] It should be noted that the various elements described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. To avoid unnecessary repetition, this application will not further describe various possible combinations.

[0092] It should be understood that although the terms “first” or “second” etc. may be used in the present application to describe various elements, these elements are not defined by these terms, and these terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0093] The protection scope of this application is not limited to the above embodiments. Any changes or substitutions that can be imagined by any person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included in the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be based on the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A sample analysis system, characterized in that: include: A first sample analyzer, comprising a first sampling needle and a first cleaning module, wherein the first sample analyzer is used to perform a test of a first type of test item on a sample drawn by the first sampling needle, and the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle; A second sample analyzer, comprising a second sampling needle, the second sample analyzer is used to perform a second type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle, the second type of detection item is different from the first type of detection item, and the second type of detection item includes an ion detection item; A sample transport device, used to transport a sample carrying unit with a sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer or / and the second sample analyzer, wherein the sample tube contains a sample; When the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube includes the first category of test items and the second category of test items, the sample transport device is used to transport the sample carrying unit on which the target sample tube is placed to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, wherein, before the first sampling needle absorbs the sample in the target sample tube, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that When the information of the items to be detected of the target sample tube includes the first category of detection items and the ion detection items, before the first sampling needle absorbs the sample in the target sample tube, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence, wherein the ion detection items include one or more of potassium ion, sodium ion, chloride ion, calcium ion, magnesium ion and phosphorus ion detection items.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that When the information of the items to be tested in the target sample tube includes the first category of test items, and there are multiple items in the first category of test items, the first sampling needle is used to absorb the sample in the target sample tube multiple times, and between the first sampling needle aspirating the sample in the target sample tube multiple times, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle using only deionized water.

4. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The first cleaning module includes a cleaning liquid supply assembly and a cleaning pool. The cleaning liquid supply assembly is in communication with the first sampling needle to provide the cleaning liquid to the first sampling needle. A deionized water injection port is provided on the cleaning pool.

5. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that The cleaning pool is also provided with an air blowing port, and the air blowing port is used to blow air onto the outer wall of the first sampling needle that has been cleaned.

6. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that The first sample analyzer also includes an air pump, an overflow valve and a positive pressure actuator. The air pump is connected to the positive pressure actuator through the overflow valve, and the air pump is used to provide positive pressure for the positive pressure actuator; the overflow end of the overflow valve is connected to the air outlet of the cleaning pool, and the overflow valve is used to supply the overflowed gas to the cleaning pool.

7. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning solution contains ion components.

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that The cleaning solution includes one or more of potassium ions, sodium ions, chloride ions, phosphate ions, hydrogen phosphate ions and dihydrogen phosphate ions.

9. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The first sample analyzer is an immunoassay analyzer or a blood coagulation analyzer, and the second sample analyzer is a biochemical analyzer or an electrolyte analyzer or a biochemical analyzer with an electrolyte analysis module.

10. The system according to claim 9, characterized in that When the information on the items to be tested of the target sample tube includes the first category of test items and the second category of test items, and the first sample analyzer is an immunoassay analyzer, the sample transport device is used to transport the sample carrying unit containing the target sample tube to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer in sequence.

11. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The sample in the target sample tube is serum, plasma or urine.

12. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that The first sampling needle that has been cleaned is used to pass through the blowing area of ​​the blowing port through vertical movement. When the needle tip of the first sampling needle is about to leave the blowing area, the first sampling needle is used to inhale air to form an air segment in the first sampling needle.

13. A sample analysis method, characterized in that: The method is applied to a sample analysis system, and the sample analysis system comprises: A first sample analyzer, comprising a first sampling needle and a first cleaning module, wherein the first sample analyzer is used to perform a test of a first type of test item on a sample drawn by the first sampling needle, and the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle; A second sample analyzer, comprising a second sampling needle, the second sample analyzer is used to perform a second type of detection item detection on the sample drawn by the second sampling needle, the second type of detection item is different from the first type of detection item, and the second type of detection item includes an ion detection item; A sample transport device, used to transport a sample carrying unit with a sample tube placed therein to the first sample analyzer or / and the second sample analyzer, wherein the sample tube contains a sample; The method comprises: Determine the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube; In response to the information of the items to be tested of the target sample tube including the first category of test items and the second category of test items, the sample transport device is used to transport the sample carrying unit on which the target sample tube is placed to the first sample analyzer and the second sample analyzer, and before the first sampling needle absorbs the sample in the target sample tube, the first cleaning module is used to clean the first sampling needle with cleaning liquid and deionized water in sequence.

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