Test tube supply device comprising test tube supply module and test tube supply method using same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a test tube supply apparatus including a test tube supply module and a test tube supply method using the same. A test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a control unit; the module mounting part is electrically connected with the control part and comprises a plurality of slots; the plurality of test tube supply modules comprise accommodating spaces for accommodating test tubes and are detachably mounted in the slots, and the plurality of test tube supply modules have test tube information determined according to the test tubes accommodated by the test tube supply modules; the control part identifies identification information of the slot in which the test tube supply module is installed among the plurality of slots through an electric signal, and test tube information of each slot can be confirmed on the basis of the identification information and test tube information of the installed test tube supply module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a test tube supply device comprising a test tube supply module and a test tube supply method using the same. Background Art

[0002] Hospitals and other medical institutions use test tubes containing samples (e.g., blood) required for various tests. In order to improve the efficiency of the test work, information about the sample contained in the test tube can be displayed on the surface of the test tube. For example, the date and time of blood collection and the personal information of the examinee can be displayed on the surface of the test tube by a barcode or the like.

[0003] In order to display the sample information on the surface of the test tube, an automatic test tube supply device can be used to affix a label printed with text information or electronic information such as a barcode.

[0004] The test tube supply device may include: a test tube supply module for inserting the test tube into the labeling device; a labeling device for attaching a label to the test tube discharged by the test tube supply module; and a label printing device for supplying the label to the labeling device. The test tube supply module may discharge the test tube from the discharge port and supply the test tube to the labeling device in a state where a plurality of test tubes are contained therein. Summary of the invention

[0005] The test tube supply device may include a predetermined number of test tube supply modules. However, if a plurality of test tubes of undifferentiated types are mixed and accommodated in the test tube supply module, the test tubes need to be classified, and thus it may not be easy to print and attach labels corresponding to the test tubes discharged from the test tube supply module.

[0006] Even if each test tube supply module distinguishes and accommodates the type of the test tube, the number of spaces in which the test tube supply modules can be installed is limited, so that it may be difficult to accommodate a new type of test tube.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a test tube supply device may include: a control unit; a module installation unit, which is electrically connected to the control unit and includes a plurality of slots; and a plurality of test tube supply modules, which include a accommodating space for accommodating test tubes and are detachably installed in the slots, wherein the plurality of test tube supply modules have test tube information determined according to the test tubes accommodated by each of the test tube supply modules, and the control unit identifies the identification information of the slots in which the test tube supply modules are installed among the plurality of slots through electrical signals, and confirms the test tube information of each of the slots based on the identification information and the test tube information of the installed test tube supply modules.

[0008] A test tube supply method using a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: receiving a test tube supply request; confirming a slot accommodating the test tube requested to be supplied based on test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device; and discharging the test tube from a test tube supply module installed in the confirmed slot. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Regarding the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0010] Figure 1 and Figure 2 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a detailed structural diagram of a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a method for confirming test tube information using a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a test tube supply method using a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a process of discharging test tubes by a test tube supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 7 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a test tube supply method using a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a test tube supply method using a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Fig. 9 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] 100: Test tube supply device 110: Test tube supply module

[0019] 120: module installation unit 130: label printing device

[0020] 140: Labeling device 150: Pallet placement unit

[0021] 160: Auxiliary input / output device DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] It should be understood that an embodiment of this document and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to a specific embodiment, but include various modifications, equivalents or substitutes of the embodiment.

[0023] With respect to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. Unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise, a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items.

[0024] As used herein, the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "or at least one of B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of B or C" may each include any one of the items listed with the phrase, or any possible combination thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another, and these components are not limited in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0025] Figure 1 and Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state in which a plurality of test tube supply modules 110 are installed on the test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a state diagram of a test tube supply module 110 installed on a test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0027] When describing the test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the length direction of the test tube supply device 100 may refer to the x-axis direction, the width direction of the test tube supply device 100 may refer to the y-axis direction, and the height direction of the test tube supply device 100 may refer to the z-axis direction.

[0028] The test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a test tube supply module 110 , a module installation portion 120 , a label printing device 130 , a labeling device 140 , a tray placement portion 150 and / or an auxiliary input / output device 160 .

[0029] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may be a device for supplying labeled test tubes.

[0030] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 may be a module including a receiving space 115 for receiving test tubes. The test tube supply module 110 may receive test tubes supplied to the labeling device 140. The test tubes received by the test tube supply module 110 may be test tubes containing samples.

[0031] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may include a plurality of test tube supply modules 110 .

[0032] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may include a plurality of module mounting portions 120 on which the test tube supply modules 110 may be mounted. The plurality of test tube supply modules 110 may be disposed on the module mounting portions 120 along a length direction of the test tube supply device 100 (eg, an x-axis direction).

[0033] In one embodiment, the module mounting portion 120 may include a plurality of slots (e.g., 121 and 122). For example, the module mounting portion 120 may include a first slot 121, a second slot 122, a third slot 123, a fourth slot 124, a fifth slot 125, a sixth slot 126, and / or a seventh slot 127. The test tube supply module 110 may be disposed in each slot.

[0034] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of slots (eg, 121 and 122) may have identification information (eg, a serial number) determined for each slot. Figure 3 ) can identify each slot (e.g., 121 and 122).

[0035] In one embodiment, the label printing device 130 is disposed at the lower portion of the test tube supply module 110 (e.g., in the negative z-axis direction relative to the test tube supply module 110), and can be used to print patient information related to the sample contained in the test tube on a label attached to the test tube.

[0036] In one embodiment, the label printing device 130 can print patient information, such as patient ID, examination items, test tube type, and blood collection volume, on a label supplied by a supply roll (not shown) wound with the label.

[0037] In one embodiment, the labeling device 140 is disposed on one side of the label printing device 130 (for example, in the negative direction of the x-axis relative to the label printing device 130 ), and can be used to attach labels supplied by the label printing device 130 to the test tubes supplied by the test tube supply module 110 .

[0038] In one embodiment, the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module 110 may be placed on the labeling device 140 for labeling. The label printed by the label printing device 130 may be delivered to the labeling device 140 in a state where the release paper attached to the back of the label is separated. The labeling device 140 may be used to attach the label supplied from the label printing device 130 to the test tube supplied from the test tube supply module 110.

[0039] In one embodiment, a tray placement portion 150 may be formed at the lower portion of the labeling device 140 (eg, in the negative z-axis direction relative to the labeling device 140 ), which includes a space for placing a tray 151 for accommodating test tubes discharged by the labeling device 140 .

[0040] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may include an auxiliary input / output device 160 disposed on one side of the test tube supply module 110 (e.g., in the negative direction of the x-axis relative to the test tube supply module 110). The user of the test tube supply device 100 may use the auxiliary input / output device 160 to input additional information required for label printing. Alternatively, the user of the test tube supply device 100 may use the auxiliary input / output device 160 to input or output patient information separately from the label attached to the test tube.

[0041] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 may be detachably disposed on the test tube supply device 100. For example, the test tube supply module 110 may be combined with or separated from the test tube supply device 100.

[0042] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 may include a memory. The test tube supply module 110 may store the test tube information contained in the test tube supply module 110 in the memory.

[0043] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 can be installed in the module installation portion 120 of the test tube supply device 100. For example, see Figure 2 , the test tube supply module 110 can be installed on the module installation portion 120 along the installation direction E.

[0044] In one embodiment, each test tube supply module 110 may include a support surface 112 extending along the height direction of the test tube supply module 110. In one embodiment, the accommodating space 115 may be a space surrounded by the support surface 112. In one embodiment, the height direction of the test tube supply module 110 may refer to the z-axis direction.

[0045] In one embodiment, the test tube inserted into the test tube supply module 110 may be supported by the support surface 112. A plurality of test tubes are supported by the support surface 112 and may be placed in the accommodation space 115.

[0046] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 may include a driving unit 114. The driving unit 114 may include a motor that generates a rotational force. The rotational force generated by the driving unit 114 may be transmitted to the rotating member 113 (see Fig. 6A ).

[0047] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 may include a detection sensor 117. The detection sensor 117 may be used to detect the rotating member 113 (see Fig. 6A) and / or test tube T (see Fig. 6A ) movement.

[0048] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 , seven test tube supply modules 110 are shown installed in the test tube supply device 100, however, this is only an example for description, and the number of test tube supply modules 110 installed in the test tube supply device 100 may not be limited thereto.

[0049] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 may include a first test tube supply module 110-1, a second test tube supply module 110-2, a third test tube supply module 110-3, a fourth test tube supply module 110-4, a fifth test tube supply module 110-5, a sixth test tube supply module 110-6 and / or a seventh test tube supply module 110-7.

[0050] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of test tube supply modules 110 may accommodate a predetermined type of test tube. For example, one test tube supply module 110 (eg, the first test tube supply module 110-1) may accommodate a plurality of test tubes of substantially the same type.

[0051] In one embodiment, the types of test tubes contained in each test tube supply module 110 may be different from each other. For example, each of the multiple test tubes contained in the first test tube supply module 110-1 may be a test tube containing a first sample. Each of the multiple test tubes contained in the second test tube supply module 110-2 may be a test tube containing a second sample. The first sample and the second sample may be different types of samples.

[0052] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a detailed structural diagram of a test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] The test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a control unit 105 , a test tube supply module 110 , a module installation unit 120 , a label printing device 130 , a labeling device 140 , a tray placement unit 150 and / or an auxiliary input / output device 160 .

[0054] In one embodiment, the control unit 105 may be electrically connected to the module installation unit 120. For example, the control unit 105 may be electrically connected to the slots (eg, the first slot 121 and the second slot 122) of the module installation unit 120, respectively.

[0055] In one embodiment, the control unit 105 may be used to control the operation of the test tube supply device 100 .

[0056] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 , under the control of the control unit 105 , can recognize that the test tube supply module 110 has been installed on the test tube supply device 100 .

[0057] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 , under the control of the control unit 105 , can identify identification information of the slots (eg, 121 and 122 ) in which the test tube supply modules 110 are installed.

[0058] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 , under the control of the control unit 105 , can identify the test tube information of the test tube supply module 110 installed in the slot (eg, 121 and 122 ).

[0059] In one embodiment, under the control of the control unit 105, the test tube supply device 100 can confirm the test tube information of each slot based on the identification information of the slot (e.g., 121 and 122) where the test tube supply module 110 is installed and the test tube information of the installed test tube supply module 110.

[0060] In one embodiment, under the control of the control unit 105 , the test tube supply device 100 can use the label printing device 130 to print a label based on the test tube information of the test tube supply module 110 .

[0061] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 , under the control of the control unit 105 , can attach a label printed by the labeling device 140 to the test tube.

[0062] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a test tube information confirmation method 400 using the test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] In one embodiment, the test tube information confirmation method 400, for example, can be based on Figure 4 The flowchart shown in the figure is used for execution. Figure 4 The flowchart shown is only a flowchart according to an embodiment of the test tube information confirmation method 400, so the order of each operation can be changed or performed simultaneously.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a test tube information confirmation method 400 using a test tube supply device 100 may include: confirming the identification information of a slot in which a test tube supply module 110 is installed (S410); identifying the test tube information of the installed test tube supply module 110 (S420); and / or confirming the test tube information of each slot based on the identification information of the slot and the test tube information of the installed test tube supply module 110 (S430).

[0065] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100, under the control of the control unit 105, can confirm the identification information of the slot where the test tube supply module 110 is installed by confirming the identification information of the slot where the test tube supply module 110 is installed (S410). For example, the test tube supply module 110 can be installed in one of the slots (e.g., 121 and 122) of the module installation unit 120. The test tube supply device 100 can confirm which of the multiple slots (e.g., the first slot 121 and the second slot 122) the test tube supply module 110 is installed in through the identification information of the slot. For example, when the test tube supply module 110 confirms the identification information of the first slot 121, the test tube supply device 100 can identify the position where the test tube supply module 110 is placed through the first slot 121.

[0066] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of test tube supply modules 110 may store test tube information determined for each test tube supply module 110. In one embodiment, the test tube information may refer to information of the test tubes contained in the test tube supply module 110. The test tube information may include information of the sample contained in the test tube, inspection information related to the sample, and / or shape information of the test tube. If two test tube supply modules 110 have the same test tube information, the test tube type (e.g., the type of sample contained in the test tube) contained in each of the two test tube supply modules 110 may be substantially the same. If the two test tube supply modules 110 have different test tube information, the test tube type (e.g., the type of sample contained in the test tube) contained in each of the two test tube supply modules 110 may be substantially different.

[0067] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may identify the test tube information of the test tube supply module 110 installed in the test tube supply device 100 in identifying the test tube information of the test tube supply module 110 (S420) under the control of the control unit 105. When a plurality of test tube supply modules 110 are installed in the module installation unit 120, the test tube supply device 100 may identify the test tube information of each of the plurality of test tube supply modules 110.

[0068] In one embodiment, under the control of the control unit 105, the test tube supply device 100 can confirm the test tube information contained in the test tube supply module 110 for each slot where the test tube supply module 110 is installed, when confirming the test tube information of each slot based on the identification information and the test tube information (S430).

[0069] Figure 5 FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a test tube supply method 500 using the test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] In one embodiment, the test tube supply method 500, for example, can be based on Figure 5 The flowchart shown in the figure is used for execution. Figure 5The flowchart shown is only a flowchart according to an embodiment of the test tube supply method 500 , and thus the order of each operation can be changed or performed simultaneously.

[0071] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a test tube supply method 500 using a test tube supply device 100 may include: receiving a test tube supply request (S510); confirming a slot that accommodates the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot (S520); and / or discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot (S530).

[0072] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may receive a specific test tube supply request in receiving the test tube supply request (S510) under the control of the control unit 105. The specific test tube may be a test tube whose test tube information includes designated information.

[0073] In one embodiment, under the control of the control unit 105, the test tube supply device 100 can confirm which slot (for example, 121 and 122) of the test tube supply device 100 has the test tube supply module 110 installed therein accommodating the test tube requested for supply when confirming the slot accommodating the test tube requested for supply (S520).

[0074] In one embodiment, before confirming the slot for accommodating the test tube requested for supply (S520), or during the process of confirming the slot for accommodating the test tube requested for supply (S520), the test tube supply device 100 may perform Figure 4 The test tube information confirmation method 400 shown in the figure is used to confirm the test tube information contained in each slot. For example, before confirming the slot containing the test tube requested for supply (S520), the test tube supply device 100 performs Figure 4 The test tube information confirmation method 400 shown in the figure can confirm the test tube information contained in the test tube supply module 110 for each slot where the test tube supply module 110 is installed. In the process of confirming the slot containing the test tube requested for supply (S520), the test tube supply device 100 determines the test tube information contained in the test tube supply module 110 based on the information obtained through the test tube supply module 110. Figure 4 The test tube information confirmation method 400 confirms the test tube information of each slot and can confirm the slot where the test tube requested for supply is located.

[0075] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may discharge the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 that accommodates the test tube requested for supply, in discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 (S530) under the control of the control unit 105. For example, in S520, the test tube supply device 100 may confirm the slot where the test tube requested for supply is located, and discharge the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot.

[0076] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a process of discharging a test tube T by the test tube supply module 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Fig. 6A This is a state diagram of a test tube T being placed in the test tube supply module 110 . Figure 6B This is a state diagram of the rotating member 113 with the test tube T placed thereon rotating 90 degrees around the rotation center M. Figure 6C For the rotating member 113 based on Figure 6B The state diagram with the states shown rotated 180 degrees.

[0078] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Can be cut in the direction perpendicular to the Y axis Figure 2 sectional view of the test tube supply module 110.

[0079] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the test tube supply module 110 may include a support surface 112, a rotating member 113, a driving unit 114 (see Figure 1 ), the accommodation space 115, the discharge opening 116, and / or the detection sensor 117 (see Figure 1 ).

[0080] See also Fig. 6A , the test tube T may be inserted into the accommodation space 115 of the test tube supply module 110 . The test tube T inserted into the accommodation space 115 of the test tube supply module 110 may be placed on the rotating member 113 .

[0081] In one embodiment, the rotating member 113 may include a test tube placement portion 1131 for placing the test tube T. The test tube placement portion 1131 may be formed in a concave shape toward the rotation center M. The test tube T may be placed in the test tube placement portion 1131 .

[0082] In one embodiment, the driving unit 114 (see Figure 1 ) may include a motor that generates a rotating force. The drive unit 114 (see Figure 1 ) can be transmitted to the rotating member 113.

[0083] See also Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C The rotating member 113 can rotate around the rotation center M. The rotating member 113 can receive the driving part 114 (see Figure 1 ) rotates due to the rotational force generated.

[0084] See also Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6CAfter the test tube T is placed on the test tube placement portion 1131 of the rotating member 113, its position can be moved according to the rotation of the rotating member 113. For example, see Figure 6B ,and Fig. 6A Compared with the state of , when the rotating member 113 rotates 90 degrees around the rotation center M, the test tube T can also be placed in a position rotated 90 degrees around the rotation center M. For example, see Figure 6C ,and Fig. 6A Compared with the state of, when the rotating member 113 rotates 180 degrees around the rotation center M, the test tube T can also be placed in a position rotated 180 degrees around the rotation center M.

[0085] exist Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C In the embodiment, the rotating member 113 is shown to rotate clockwise around the rotation center M, but this is only an example, and the rotation direction of the rotating member 113 may not be limited thereto. For example, the rotating member 113 may also rotate counterclockwise around the rotation center M.

[0086] See also Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C ,exist Fig. 6A In the state, the test tube T can be supported by the rotating member 113. For example, the test tube T is placed on the test tube placement portion 1131 of the rotating member 113 and supported along the height direction (for example, the z-axis direction) of the test tube supply module 110 to prevent it from escaping from the outside of the test tube supply module 110. Figure 6C In the state of , the test tube T can be discharged to the outside of the test tube supply module 110. Figure 6C In the state, since the test tube T is not supported by the rotating member 113, it can be discharged (OUT) to the outside of the test tube supply module 110 through the discharge opening 116.

[0087] In one embodiment, the first state of the test tube supply module 110 may refer to Fig. 6A For example, the first state of the test tube supply module 110 may refer to a state in which the test tube T inserted (IN) into the test tube supply module 110 is placed on the test tube placement portion 1131 of the rotating member 113 and is located in the positive direction of the z-axis around the rotation center M.

[0088] In one embodiment, the second state of the test tube supply module 110 may refer to Figure 6C For example, the second state of the test tube supply module 110 may refer to a state in which the test tube T inserted into the test tube supply module 110 is located in the negative direction of the z-axis around the rotation center M and is discharged to the outside of the test tube supply module 110 .

[0089] In one embodiment, when the rotating member 113 and the test tube T placed on the rotating member 113 rotate around the rotation center M, the detection sensor 117 (see Figure 1 ) can detect the movement of the rotating member 113 and / or the test tube T. The detection sensor 117 (see Figure 1 ) can detect that the test tube supply module 110 is Fig. 6A The first state changes to Figure 6C The second state.

[0090] In one embodiment, the normal working state of the rotating member 113 may refer to a state in which the rotating member 113 rotates within a predetermined standard speed range and the rotation of the rotating member 113 is not interrupted. If the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state, the test tube T inserted into the test tube supply module 110 may be delayed in being discharged to the outside of the test tube supply module 110. For example, if a plurality of test tubes T are placed around the rotating member 113 to interfere with the rotation of the rotating member 113 and cause the rotating member 113 to stop rotating, or the rotating member 113 rotates at a specified standard speed or lower, the rotating member 113 may not be in a normal working state.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the stuck phenomenon of the test tube T in the test tube supply module 110 may refer to a phenomenon in which the test tube T is stuck in at least a portion of the inside of the test tube supply module 110 during the process of being discharged to the outside of the test tube supply module 110, resulting in a delayed discharge. If the stuck phenomenon of the test tube T occurs in the test tube supply module 110, the rotating member 113 may not be in a normal working state.

[0092] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 can use the detection sensor 117 of the test tube supply module 110 to determine whether the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state. For example, the test tube supply device 100 can use the detection sensor 117 to detect the movement of the rotating member 113 and the test tube T to determine whether the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state.

[0093] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 can use a magnetic encoder (not shown) and a magnet (not shown) to determine whether the rotating member 213 is in a normal working state. For example, the test tube supply module 110 may include a magnetic encoder and a magnet. The magnet may be a component that rotates with the rotation of the rotating member 113. If the rotating member 113 stops rotating in a state of rotating in one direction, the rotation of the magnet will also stop. The magnetic encoder of the test tube supply module 110 can be used to confirm that the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state by confirming the change in the magnetic field caused by the magnet stopping rotating.

[0094] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 can determine whether the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state by measuring the current value of the driving unit 114, and adjust the rotation of the rotating member 113. For example, if the rotation of the rotating member 113 is disturbed by external factors, the driving unit 114 requires additional rotational force, causing the current value of the driving unit 114 to increase above a predetermined standard. When the current value of the driving unit 114 increases above a predetermined standard, the test tube supply device 100 can determine that the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state.

[0095] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 can determine whether the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state by measuring the rotation speed of the rotating member 113. For example, when the rotation speed of the rotating member 113 is lower than a predetermined standard speed, the test tube supply device 100 can determine that the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state.

[0096] In one embodiment, if it is determined that the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state, the test tube supply device 100 can rotate the rotating member 113 in a direction opposite to the existing rotation direction under the control of the control unit 105. The rotating member 113 rotates in the opposite direction again, which can prevent or reduce the delay in the discharge of the test tube T from the test tube supply module 110.

[0097] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a test tube supply method 700 using the test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] In one embodiment, the test tube supply method 700, for example, can be based on Figure 7 The flowchart shown in the figure is used for execution. Figure 7 The flowchart shown is only a flowchart according to an embodiment of the test tube supply method 700, so the order of each operation can be changed or performed simultaneously.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a test tube supply method 700 using a test tube supply device 100 may include: receiving a test tube supply request (S710); confirming a slot that accommodates the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot (S720); instructing the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot to discharge the test tube (S730); determining whether the rotating member is in a normal working state (S740); discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 (S750); and / or adjusting the rotation of the rotating member 113 (S760).

[0100] exist Figure 7 In the test tube supply method 700 of the present invention, receiving a test tube supply request (S710) and confirming a slot for accommodating the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot (S720) can be respectively performed in Figure 5The steps of receiving a test tube supply request (S510) and confirming a slot for accommodating the test tube requested for supply based on the test tube information of each slot (S520) are substantially the same. Figure 7 The test tube supply method 700 may be omitted with Figure 5 The test tube supply method 500 is substantially the same as described above.

[0101] In one embodiment, before confirming the slot for accommodating the test tube requested for supply (S720), or during the process of confirming the slot for accommodating the test tube requested for supply (S720), the test tube supply device 100 may perform Figure 4 The test tube information confirmation method 400 shown in the figure is used to confirm the test tube information contained in each slot. For example, before confirming the slot containing the test tube requested for supply (S720), the test tube supply device 100 performs Figure 4 The test tube information confirmation method 400 shown in the figure can confirm the test tube information contained in the test tube supply module 110 for each slot where the test tube supply module 110 is installed. In the process of confirming the slot containing the test tube requested for supply (S720), the test tube supply device 100 determines the test tube information contained in the test tube supply module 110 based on the information obtained through the test tube supply module 110. Figure 4 The test tube information confirmation method 400 confirms the test tube information of each slot and can confirm the slot where the test tube requested for supply is located.

[0102] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may instruct the test tube supply module 110 containing the test tube requested to be supplied to discharge the contained test tube in instructing the test tube supply module 110 to discharge the test tube (S730) under the control of the control unit 105. For example, in S720, the test tube supply device 100 may confirm the slot where the test tube requested to be supplied is located, and send an instruction to discharge the test tube contained in the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot.

[0103] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100, under the control of the control unit 105, can determine whether the rotating member 113 of the test tube supply module 110 is in a normal working state in determining whether the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state (S740). For example, under the control of the control unit 105, the test tube supply device 100 can determine whether the rotating member 113 rotates normally without being interfered by other components. In order to determine whether the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state, the test tube supply device 100 can use the detection sensor 117, the magnetic encoder and the magnet, the current value measurement value of the driving unit 114 and / or the rotation speed measurement value of the rotating member 113.

[0104] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100, under the control of the control unit 105, may discharge the test tubes contained in the test tube supply module 110 to the outside of the test tube supply module 110 in discharging the test tubes from the test tube supply module 110 (S750). For example, in discharging the test tubes (S750), the rotating member 113 of the test tube supply module 110 rotates in one direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise), and the test tubes contained in the test tube supply module 110 may be discharged to the outside of the test tube supply module 110.

[0105] In one embodiment, in the test tube discharge (S750), it can be performed simultaneously with (S740) or sequentially. For example, in (S740), if it is determined that the rotating member 113 is in a normal working state, the rotating member 113 rotates in one direction, and the test tube can be discharged to the outside of the test tube supply module 110.

[0106] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100, under the control of the control unit 105, can make the rotating member 113 rotate in the opposite direction during the adjustment of the rotation of the rotating member 113 (S760). For example, in (S740), if it is determined that the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state, the test tube supply device 100, under the control of the control unit 105, can make the rotating member 113 rotate in the direction opposite to the existing rotation direction.

[0107] Figure 8 FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a test tube supply method 800 using the test tube supply device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] In one embodiment, the test tube supply method 800, for example, can be based on Figure 8 The flowchart shown in the figure is used for execution. Figure 8 The flowchart shown is only a flowchart according to an embodiment of the test tube supply method 800 , and thus the order of each operation can be changed or performed simultaneously.

[0109] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a test tube supply method 800 using a test tube supply device 100 may include: receiving a test tube supply request (S810); confirming a slot that accommodates the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot (S820); instructing the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot to discharge the test tube (S830); determining whether the rotating member is in a normal working state (S840); discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 (S850); adjusting the rotation of the rotating member 113 (S860); printing a label (S870); and / or attaching the printed label to the test tube (S880).

[0110] exist Figure 8The test tube supply method 800 of the present invention includes receiving a test tube supply request (S810), confirming a slot for accommodating the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot (S820), instructing the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot to discharge the test tube (S830), judging whether the rotating member is in a normal working state (S840), discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 (S850), and adjusting the rotation of the rotating member 113 (S860), which can be respectively connected with the test tube supply request (S810) of the present invention. Figure 7 The steps of receiving a test tube supply request (S710), confirming a slot for accommodating the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot (S720), instructing the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot to discharge the test tube (S730), judging whether the rotating member is in a normal working state (S740), discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 (S750), and adjusting the rotation of the rotating member 113 (S760) are substantially the same. Figure 8 The test tube supply method 800 can be omitted with Figure 7 The test tube supply method 700 is substantially the same as described above.

[0111] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may print a label based on the information of the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module 110 in the printing label (S870) under the control of the control unit 105. In one embodiment, the information of the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module 110 may correspond to the designated label printing information. The label printing device 130 of the test tube supply device 100 may print a label under the control of the control unit 105, the label displaying the label printing information corresponding to the information of the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module 110.

[0112] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 100 may attach the label printed by printing the label (S870) to the test tube in attaching the label (S880) under the control of the control unit 105. The labeling device 140 of the test tube supply device 100 may attach the label delivered by the label printing device 130 to the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module 110.

[0113] Fig. 9 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a test tube supply device 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Fig. 9 The test tube supply device 900 may refer to Figure 1 The test tube supply device 100 may include Figure 1 At least a portion of the components of the test tube supply device 100.

[0115] The test tube supply device 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a supply unit 910 , a light emitting unit 920 , a camera unit 930 and / or a control unit 940 .

[0116] In one embodiment, the supply unit 910 may refer to Figure 1 The test tube supply module 110 may include Figure 1 At least a portion of the components of the test tube supply module 110.

[0117] In one embodiment, the test tube T may be placed in the supply portion 910. After being placed in the supply portion 910, the test tube T may be discharged to the outside of the supply portion 910.

[0118] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit 920 may irradiate light toward the test tube T placed in the supply unit 930 .

[0119] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit 920 may include a laser diode. The light emitting unit 920 including a laser diode may radiate light in a direction. For example, see Fig. 9 The light emitting unit 920 can irradiate light toward the test tube T along the light irradiation direction LD.

[0120] In one embodiment, the imaging unit 930 may include a camera. In one embodiment, the imaging unit 930 may be used to capture the light emitted by the light emitting unit 920 and / or the light scattered by the test tube T using a camera.

[0121] exist Fig. 9 In the embodiment, although the supply unit 910, the light emitting unit 920 and the camera unit 930 are shown as separate configurations, this may be an example. The supply unit 910 according to an embodiment may also include the light emitting unit 920 and the camera unit 930. For example, the light emitting unit 920 and the camera unit 930 may be provided inside the supply unit 910.

[0122] In one embodiment, the control unit 940 may indicate Figure 3 The control unit 105 may include Figure 3 At least a portion of the components of the control unit 105.

[0123] In one embodiment, the control unit 940 may be used to control the light emitting unit 920 and the camera unit 930. The light emitting unit 920 may irradiate light in a direction under the control of the control unit 940. The camera unit 930 may capture light irradiated by the light emitting unit 920 and / or light scattered by the test tube T under the control of the control unit 940.

[0124] In one embodiment, the control unit 940 may control the camera unit 930 to capture only the light scattered by the test tube T. For example, the control unit 940 may control the camera unit 930 to capture only the light scattered by the test tube T, but not the light scattered by the end 910 a of the supply unit 910 .

[0125] In one embodiment, the end of the test tube T placed in the supply part 910 may be open or closed. For example, the end of the test tube T may have an open shape or a closed shape. In one embodiment, the opening at the end of the test tube T may be closed with a separate stopper (not shown). In one embodiment, the test tube may include a transparent material.

[0126] See also Fig. 9 According to an embodiment, the test tube T may include a first end Ta and / or a second end Tb. The first end Ta may be an end having an open shape among the ends of the test tube T. The second end Tb may be an end having a closed shape among the ends of the test tube T. For example, the first end Ta may refer to an end having an open shape among the ends of the test tube T whose opening is not closed with a separate stopper (not shown).

[0127] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 900 may irradiate light toward the test tube T along the light irradiation direction LD using the light emitting unit 920 under the control of the control unit 940. The light irradiated by the light emitting unit 920 may be scattered by the test tube T. For example, the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 920 may be scattered by the first end Ta and / or the second end Tb of the test tube T.

[0128] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 900 may use the camera unit 930 to capture light scattered by the test tube T under the control of the control unit 940. For example, the test tube supply device 900 may use the camera unit 930 to capture light scattered by the first end Ta and / or the second end Tb of the test tube T under the control of the control unit 940. The test tube supply device 900 may use the camera unit 930 to confirm the color generated when the light is scattered under the control of the control unit 940.

[0129] The degree of light scattering may vary depending on the shape of the end of the test tube T. For example, the degree of light scattering may be different when the end of the test tube T has an open shape like the first end Ta and when the end of the test tube T has a closed shape like the second end Tb. The end having a closed shape (e.g., the second end Tb) may have a relatively higher degree of light scattering than the end having an open shape (e.g., the first end Ta). Since the end having a closed shape has a relatively higher degree of light scattering than the end having an open shape, the color produced when scattered may be different from the color of the end having an open shape.

[0130] In one embodiment, under the control of the control unit 940, the test tube supply device 900 can confirm the positions of the end with a closed shape (e.g., the second end Tb) and the end with an open shape (e.g., the first end Ta) of the test tube T based on the color produced when the light scattering is confirmed by the camera unit 930.

[0131] In one embodiment, the test tube supply device 900 can identify the position and direction of the test tube T placed in the supply portion 910 under the control of the control portion 940. For example, the test tube supply device 900 can identify the position and direction of the test tube T placed in the supply portion 910 based on the position of the end (e.g., the second end Tb) of the test tube T having a closed shape under the control of the control portion 940.

[0132] The test tube supply device 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a light emitting unit 920 and a camera unit 930, so that the supply unit 910 (for example, Figure 1 The position and direction of the test tube T placed in the test tube supply module 110).

[0133] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a test tube supply device 100 may include: a control unit 105; a module installation unit 120, which is electrically connected to the control unit 105 and includes a plurality of slots (for example, 121); and a plurality of test tube supply modules 110, which include a receiving space 115 for receiving a test tube T and are detachably installed in the slots, wherein the plurality of test tube supply modules 110 have test tube information determined according to the test tube T accommodated by each test tube supply module 110, and the control unit 105 identifies the identification information of the slots in which the test tube supply module 110 is installed among the plurality of slots through electrical signals, and based on the identification information and the test tube information of the installed test tube supply module 110, the test tube information of each slot can be confirmed.

[0134] In one embodiment, the test tube supply module 110 includes a support surface 112 extending along a height direction of the test tube supply device, and the accommodating space 115 may be surrounded by the support surface 112 .

[0135] In one embodiment, a plurality of test tube supply modules 119 may be disposed along the length direction of the test tube supply device 100 .

[0136] In one embodiment, the control unit 105 may control the test tube requested to be supplied to be discharged from the test tube supply module 110 based on the confirmed test tube information of each slot.

[0137] In one embodiment, the control unit 105 may control the printing of labels based on the test tube information of the test tube supply module 110 .

[0138] In one embodiment, the control unit 105 may control to attach labels to the test tubes discharged from the test tube supply module.

[0139] In one embodiment, each of the multiple test tube supply modules 110 may include a rotating member 113, which has test tubes placed on it and rotates in one direction to discharge the test tubes to the outside of the test tube supply module 110. If the control unit 105 determines that the rotating member 113 is not in a normal working state, the rotating member can be controlled to rotate in another direction opposite to the one direction.

[0140] In one embodiment, the test tube supply devices 100 and 900 may further include: a light emitting unit 920 for irradiating light to the test tubes T accommodated in the test tube supply module 110 ; and a camera unit 930 for photographing light scattered by the test tubes T.

[0141] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit 920 includes a laser diode, and the control unit 940 can use the laser diode to control the light to irradiate the test tube T in one direction.

[0142] In one embodiment, the control unit 940 may control and confirm the color generated by the light scattered by the test tube T, and recognize the position and direction where the test tube T is placed according to the confirmed color.

[0143] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a test tube supply method 500 using a test tube supply device may include: receiving a test tube supply request (S510); confirming a slot that accommodates the test tube requested to be supplied based on the test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device (S520); and discharging the test tube from the test tube supply module 110 installed in the confirmed slot (S530).

[0144] In one embodiment, the test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device can be confirmed by a test tube information confirmation method, and the test tube information confirmation method 400 may include: confirming the identification information of the slot in which the test tube supply module is installed (S410); identifying the test tube information of the installed test tube supply module (S420); and confirming the test tube information of each slot based on the identification information and the test tube information (S430).

[0145] In one embodiment, after confirming the slot that accommodates the test tube requested for supply based on the test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device (S720), the test tube supply method 700 may also include: instructing the test tube supply module installed in the confirmed slot to discharge the test tube (S730); determining whether the rotating member is in a normal working state (S740); and adjusting the rotation of the rotating member (S760).

[0146] In one embodiment, after the test tube is discharged from the test tube supply module installed in the confirmed slot (S850), the test tube supply method 800 may further include: printing a label (S870); and attaching the printed label to the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module (S880).

[0147] In the test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention, since each test tube supply module accommodates a predetermined type of test tube, a separate work of classifying the test tubes is not required, so that labels corresponding to the test tubes discharged from the test tube supply module can be easily printed and attached.

[0148] Since the test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention identifies the installation position of each test tube supply module and the test tube information contained in the installed test tube supply module, labels corresponding to the test tubes discharged from the test tube supply module can be easily printed and attached.

[0149] In the test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the test tube supply module can be detachably installed, the test tube supply module with new test tube information can be installed without expanding the slot (eg, installation slot) of the test tube supply device.

[0150] When the test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention detects that a test tube discharged from the test tube supply module is stuck, the rotation of the rotating member can be adjusted to prevent the discharge of the test tube from being delayed.

[0151] The test tube supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a light emitting unit and a camera unit, so that the position and direction of the test tube placed in the test tube supply module can be easily identified.

[0152] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings are provided only as specific examples to facilitate easy explanation of the technical content according to the embodiments of the present invention and to help understand the embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein, the scope of an embodiment of the present invention also includes all changes or modifications derived from the technical ideas of an embodiment of the present invention.

Claims

1. A test tube supply device, comprising: Control Department; A module installation part, which is electrically connected to the control part and includes a plurality of slots; and A plurality of test tube supply modules, which include a receiving space for receiving the test tubes and are detachably mounted in the slots, wherein the plurality of test tube supply modules have test tube information determined according to the test tubes accommodated by each of the test tube supply modules, The control unit recognizes identification information of a slot in which the test tube supply module is installed among the plurality of slots through an electrical signal, and confirms test tube information of each of the slots based on the identification information and test tube information of the installed test tube supply module.

2. The test tube supply device according to claim 1, wherein: The test tube supply module comprises a support surface extending in a height direction of the test tube supply device, The accommodation space is surrounded by the supporting surface.

3. The test tube supply device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of test tube supply modules are arranged along the length direction of the test tube supply device.

4. The test tube supply device according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit controls the discharge of the test tube requested for supply from the test tube supply module based on the confirmed test tube information of each slot.

5. The test tube supply device according to claim 4, wherein: The control unit controls printing of labels based on the test tube information of the test tube supply module.

6. The test tube supply device according to claim 5, wherein: The control unit controls to attach the label to the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module.

7. The test tube supply device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of test tube supply modules includes a rotating member on which the test tube is placed and which rotates in a direction to discharge the test tube to the outside of the test tube supply module, If the control unit determines that the rotating member is not in a normal working state, the control unit controls the rotating member to rotate in another direction opposite to the one direction.

8. The test tube supply device according to claim 1, further comprising: a light emitting unit for irradiating light to the test tubes contained in the test tube supply module; and The imaging unit is used to capture light scattered by the test tube.

9. The test tube supply device according to claim 8, wherein: The light emitting unit includes a laser diode, The control unit uses the laser diode to control the light to be irradiated in one direction of the test tube.

10. The test tube supply device according to claim 9, wherein: The control unit controls to confirm the color generated by the light scattered by the test tube, and recognizes the position and direction in which the test tube is placed according to the confirmed color.

11. A test tube supply method using a test tube supply device, comprising: Receive requests for test tube supplies; confirming a slot accommodating a test tube requested for supply based on the test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device; as well as Eject the tubes from the tube supply module installed in the identified slots.

12. The test tube supply method according to claim 11, wherein: Confirm the test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device by a test tube information confirmation method, The test tube information confirmation method comprises: Confirm the identification information of the slot where the test tube supply module is installed; tube information identifying the installed tube supply module; and The test tube information of each slot is confirmed based on the identification information and the test tube information.

13. The test tube supply method according to claim 11, wherein: After confirming the slot accommodating the test tube requested for supply based on the test tube information of each slot of the test tube supply device, the method further includes: Instructing the test tube supply module installed in the confirmed slot to discharge the test tube; Determine whether the rotating parts are in normal working condition; and The rotation of the rotating member is adjusted.

14. The test tube supply method according to claim 13, wherein: After the test tube is discharged from the test tube supply module installed in the confirmed slot, it also includes: Print labels; and The printed label is attached to the test tube discharged from the test tube supply module.

Images