Sample transportation device and control method of sample transportation device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of medical examination, in particular to a sample transportation device and a control method of the sample transportation device. The sample transportation device comprises a main rail, the main rail comprises a first rail and a second rail, the first rail and the second rail can be used for allowing a carrier to independently move in the same direction, and the carrier can be used for bearing samples; the plurality of first transfer assemblies are arranged between the first track and the second track, and each first transfer assembly is configured to transfer a first carrier carrying a preferential sample on the first track from the first track to the second track in a preferential scheduling mode, and transfer the preferential sample on the second track from the first track to the second track in a preferential scheduling mode; and prohibiting the transfer of the second vehicle carrying the conventional sample from the first track to the second track. By the adoption of the sample conveying device, preferential conveying of preferential samples can be achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of medical testing technology, and in particular to a sample transport device and a control method for the sample transport device. Background Art

[0002] In the sample analysis pipeline of medical testing, the transportation of samples is a key link, especially when using the sample analysis pipeline. The sample analysis pipeline usually connects various analysis devices and processing devices through rails or other automated transmission systems to achieve efficient and accurate transmission of samples.

[0003] Test samples can be divided into outpatient samples and emergency samples, and emergency samples usually need to be processed first. Some sample analysis equipment sets a buffer module on the track. When emergency samples need to be transported, all untested routine samples on the track are moved to the buffer module, and all routine samples on the main track are cleared to achieve rapid emergency transportation and priority processing. However, this method reduces the detection efficiency of routine samples. Summary of the invention

[0004] Based on this, it is necessary to provide a sample transport device and a control method for the sample transport device that can preferentially transport priority samples in order to address the above technical issues.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a sample transport device, comprising:

[0006] A main track, the main track comprising a first track and a second track, the first track and the second track can be used for the carrier to move independently in the same direction, and the carrier can be used to carry a sample;

[0007] A plurality of first transfer components are arranged between the first track and the second track, and each of the first transfer components is configured to, in a priority scheduling mode, transfer a first carrier carrying a priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibit a second carrier carrying a regular sample from changing the track from the first track to the second track.

[0008] In one embodiment, each of the first transfer components is configured to, in the priority scheduling mode, if the first track is in a congested state, change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibit the second carrier carrying the regular sample from changing the track from the first track to the second track.

[0009] In one of the embodiments, when the carrying capacity of vehicles on the first track is greater than a threshold, the first track is in a congested state.

[0010] In one embodiment, the sample transport device further comprises:

[0011] A first functional module, the first functional module is connected to the first track, and at least one of the first functional modules is arranged between two adjacent first transfer components; the first functional module includes at least one of a pre-processing module, a detection module and a post-processing module;

[0012] Each of the first transfer components is also configured such that if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component changes the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0013] In one embodiment, each of the first transfer components is further configured to pass the first carrier directly on the first track if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that reaches the first transfer component on the first track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing.

[0014] In one embodiment, each of the first transfer components is further configured to change the first carrier on the second track to the first track if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the second track is only used to transport the first carrier transferred from the first track via the first transfer assembly.

[0016] In one embodiment, the priority samples include emergency samples and / or routine samples that have been running on the track of the sample transport device for more than a preset time.

[0017] In one embodiment, the sample transport device switches to a priority scheduling mode when the first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the main track.

[0018] In one embodiment, the pre-processing module includes a sample input and output module. When it is obtained that the priority sample is loaded into the carrier or the priority sample is bound to the carrier in the sample input and output module, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode.

[0019] In one embodiment, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode when the priority sample is detected, or the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, or the carrier carrying the priority sample is not transported on the track of the sample transport device.

[0020] In one embodiment, it also includes:

[0021] A plurality of first sensing components are arranged on the first track, and at least one first sensing component is arranged upstream of each first transfer component to sense information of a carrier arriving upstream of the first transfer component;

[0022] A controller is electrically connected to the first sensing component and the first transfer component, and is used to obtain information about the carrier sensed by the first sensing component. In the priority scheduling mode, when it is obtained that the first carrier reaches the first transfer component on the first track, a track change instruction is sent to the first transfer component; the track change instruction is used to instruct the first transfer component to change the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0023] In a second aspect, the present application provides a control method for a sample transport device, which is applied to the sample transport device as described above, and the method comprises:

[0024] determining an operating mode of the sample transport device;

[0025] After the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode, the first transfer component is controlled to change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and the first transfer component is prohibited from changing the second carrier carrying the regular sample from the first track to the second track.

[0026] The above-mentioned sample transport device and the control method of the sample transport device use a main rail transport carrier including a first track and a second track, and set a plurality of first transfer components between the first track and the second track. The first transfer component is configured to change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track in the priority scheduling mode, so as to ensure that the priority sample can be transported preferentially on the second track, thereby reducing the transportation time of the priority sample on the track, so that the priority sample can be processed preferentially in the sample transport device. At the same time, in the priority adjustment mode, it is prohibited to change the second carrier carrying the conventional sample from the first track to the second track, so as to avoid the interference with the transportation of the priority sample caused by the conventional sample changing lanes to the second track as the overtaking lane in the priority scheduling mode, so that the priority sample can be processed preferentially. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 is an overall schematic diagram of a sample transport device in one embodiment;

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a first transfer assembly being moved to a first track in one embodiment;

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the connection between the first functional module and the main rail in an embodiment;

[0030] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a first transfer assembly being transferred to a second track in one embodiment;

[0031] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a first sensing component of a sample transport device in one embodiment;

[0032] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the first transfer assembly being transferred to the second track;

[0033] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of a flow chart of a control method of a sample transport device in one embodiment.

[0034] The above drawings include the following reference numerals:

[0035] The sample transport device 102 , the first transfer component 104 , the first track 106 , the second track 108 , the first functional module 300 , the connecting track 302 of the first functional module, the transfer turntable 304 , the first carrier 306 , the carrier 502 , and the first sensing component 504 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the present application more clearly understood, the present application is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present application and are not used to limit the present application.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, an embodiment of the present application provides a sample transport device. The sample transport device 102 includes a main track and a plurality of first transfer components 104. The main track includes a first track 106 and a second track 108, and both the first track 106 and the second track 108 can be used for the carrier to move independently in the same direction, and the carrier can be used to carry samples. The plurality of first transfer components 104 are arranged between the first track 106 and the second track 108, and each first transfer component 104 is configured to transfer the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track 106 from the first track 106 to the second track 108 in the priority scheduling mode, and prohibit the second carrier carrying the conventional sample from changing the track from the first track 106 to the second track 108.

[0038] The second track 108 is located inside the first track 106. Both the first track 106 and the second track 108 are closed loop tracks. Priority samples refer to samples that need to be transported first. Priority levels of priority samples are higher than regular samples.

[0039] In one embodiment, the first transfer assembly 104 is a lever, and the first transfer assembly 104 allows the first track 106 and the second track 108 to be transferred. Figure 2 As shown, when the first transfer component 104 is configured in the priority scheduling mode, the first transfer component 104 is moved onto the first track 106 to block the first track 106, and the track change port between the first track 106 and the second track 108 is opened, so that the first carrier carrying the priority sample cannot continue to pass directly on the first track, thereby changing the track of the first carrier carrying the priority sample from the first track 106 to the second track 108.

[0040] Further, the first transfer component that changes the first carrier from the first track to the second track is the first first transfer component downstream of the first carrier. In the sample analyzer pipeline system, there are various types of components, functional modules and other objects, so the concepts of "upstream" and "downstream" are relative. For a specific object, in the sample analyzer pipeline system, the upstream refers to the part before the current position of the object in the conveying direction, and the downstream refers to the part after the current position of the object in the conveying direction. For example, for the first carrier object, in the sample analyzer pipeline system, the upstream refers to the part that the first carrier passes through before running to the current position in the conveying direction, and the downstream refers to the part to be reached after the first carrier leaves the current position in the conveying direction. Further, when each first transfer component is configured to be in the priority scheduling mode, the first transfer component is configured to prohibit the second carrier carrying a conventional sample from changing the track from the first track to the second track. That is, regular samples running on the first track are not allowed to change lanes from the first track to the second track, so as to avoid interference with the transportation of priority samples caused by regular samples changing lanes to the second track as an overtaking lane in the priority scheduling mode. It is prohibited to change the second carrier carrying regular samples from the first track to the second track, so that the second carrier carrying regular samples can run on the original track, and it is not excluded that the second carrier carrying regular samples can be allowed to change tracks from the second track to the first track. For example, the second carrier carrying regular samples originally runs on the second track, and when each first transfer component is configured so that in the priority scheduling mode, the second carrier carrying regular samples can still run on the second track.

[0041] In summary, in the priority scheduling mode, the second track serves as the overtaking lane for priority samples. The first transfer component changes the first carrier carrying the priority samples on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibits the second carrier carrying the regular samples from changing the track from the first track to the second track, thereby achieving rapid overtaking passage of priority samples on the second track.

[0042] In the above-mentioned sample transport device, by using a main rail transport carrier including a first track and a second track, and arranging a plurality of first transfer components between the first track and the second track, the first transfer component is configured to change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track in the priority scheduling mode, so as to ensure that the priority sample can be transported preferentially on the second track, thereby reducing the transportation time of the priority sample on the track, so that the priority sample can be processed preferentially in the sample transport device. At the same time, in the priority adjustment mode, it is prohibited to change the second carrier carrying the conventional sample from the first track to the second track, so as to avoid interference with the transportation of the priority sample caused by the conventional sample changing lanes to the second track as the overtaking lane in the priority scheduling mode, so that the priority sample can be processed preferentially.

[0043] In one embodiment, each first transfer component is configured to, in a priority scheduling mode, if the first track is in a congested state, change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibit the second carrier carrying the regular sample from changing the track from the first track to the second track.

[0044] The congestion state is a state in which the number of vehicles on the first track is too large, causing the track transportation speed to slow down. The congestion can be determined based on the running speed of the vehicle or the number of vehicles on the track.

[0045] In this embodiment, each first transfer component is configured to trigger the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track to change from the first track to the second track if the first track is congested in the priority scheduling mode, and prohibit the second carrier carrying the regular sample from changing from the first track to the second track. This avoids the situation in which the priority sample cannot be processed in time due to track congestion in the congested state.

[0046] Correspondingly, when the first track is in a non-congested state, the track change operation of the priority sample may not be triggered. Because, when the first track is in a non-congested state, even if the priority sample is transported on the first track (without overtaking to the second track), it will not affect the transportation efficiency of the priority sample. Therefore, by setting it in the priority scheduling mode, the priority sample changes track and overtakes when the first track is congested, which can avoid unnecessary track change operations in a non-congested state that affect the transportation efficiency.

[0047] In one embodiment, the congestion state refers to the number of carriers on the first track exceeding a preset threshold. The threshold can be set according to the track circumference of the main track and / or the size of the carrier. Since the first carrier carrying the priority sample will pile up on the first track when the first track is in a congested state, the operation time of the priority sample in the sample transport device will be prolonged, making it impossible for the priority sample to be processed in time. Therefore, it is necessary to change the track of the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and at the same time, it is prohibited to change the track of the second carrier carrying the conventional sample from the first track to the second track, so as to ensure that the priority sample is preferentially transported in the second track.

[0048] Furthermore, whether the first track is in a congested state can be determined by the number of scanned radio frequency signals. The radio frequency signal can be obtained by scanning the radio frequency identification tag on the sample through the sensing component on the first track. After obtaining a radio frequency signal, the sample transport device will first match the radio frequency signal with the radio frequency signal that has been scanned in the past to confirm whether the radio frequency signal is the same as one of the radio frequency signals that have been scanned in the past. If they are the same, the counter remains unchanged. If they are not the same, it is determined to be a new carrier, and the counter is increased by 1. The final value of the counter is the number of carriers currently carried on the first track.

[0049] Furthermore, when each first transfer component is configured in the priority scheduling mode and the first track is in a congested state, the sample transport device also allows the second carrier carrying conventional samples to run on the original track and allows the second carrier carrying conventional samples to change track from the second track to the first track.

[0050] In this embodiment, by configuring each first transfer component to be in the priority scheduling mode, if the first track is in a congested state, the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track is changed from the first track to the second track, so that in a congested state, the priority sample can be transported on the second track with priority, thereby reducing the waiting time of the priority sample on the track, so that the priority sample can be processed in time in the sample transport device. At the same time, in the priority adjustment mode, it is prohibited to change the second carrier carrying the conventional sample from the first track to the second track, so as to avoid the interference with the transportation of the priority sample caused by the conventional sample changing lanes to the second track as the overtaking lane in the priority scheduling mode, thereby further enabling the priority sample to be processed in time.

[0051] In one embodiment, when the carrying capacity of vehicles on the first track is greater than a threshold, the first track is in a congested state.

[0052] The carrying capacity of the carrier on the first track refers to the total number of empty carriers and carriers carrying samples on the first track. The carriers carrying samples include the first carrier carrying the priority sample and the second carrier carrying the regular sample, and the empty carrier refers to the carrier not carrying the sample.

[0053] The carrying capacity of the carriers on the first track is greater than the threshold value, which means that the total number of empty carriers and carriers carrying samples is greater than the threshold value. For example, the number of empty carriers currently transported on the first track is 5, the number of carriers carrying samples is 96, the preset threshold value is 100, and 96+5=101, 101 is greater than 100. At this time, the carrying capacity of the carriers on the first track is greater than the threshold value, indicating that it is in a congested state.

[0054] In this embodiment, when the carrying capacity of the carrier on the first track is greater than a threshold value, the first track is determined to be in a congested state. Therefore, when congestion occurs on the first track, the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track can be promptly transferred to the second track to achieve priority transportation of the second carrier carrying the priority sample in a congested state, so that the priority sample can be processed in a timely manner.

[0055] In one embodiment, the sample transport device connects the sample pre-processing, analysis and detection, and post-processing in series to form a sample analyzer assembly line system. Therefore, the samples running on the sample transport device need to enter the above-mentioned processing device for processing. Specifically, the sample transport device connects the functional modules on the sample analysis assembly line, the first track of the main track is used as the sample loading track, and the tracks of the main track connect the various processing devices on the sample analysis assembly line.

[0056] Specifically, Figure 3 As shown, the sample transport device also includes:

[0057] The first functional module 300 is connected to the first track, and at least one first functional module is arranged between two adjacent first transfer components. The first functional module includes at least one of a pre-processing module, a detection module, and a post-processing module. Among them, at least one first functional module is arranged between two adjacent first transfer components, which means that there is at least one first functional module between two adjacent first transfer components.

[0058] Therefore, in the priority scheduling mode, if the priority samples on the first track need to enter the downstream processing device not far from the current position for processing, and this factor is not taken into consideration and the priority samples are changed to the second track that is not connected to the processing device, it may be counterproductive and the priority samples cannot be processed in time.

[0059] To address this issue, in this embodiment, each first transfer component is also configured so that if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component will change the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0060] Among them, Figure 3 As shown, the first functional module 300 has a connecting track 302 , and the connecting track 302 of the first functional module is connected to the first track 106 via a transfer turntable 304 .

[0061] In one embodiment, in the priority scheduling mode, the conditions for the priority sample to change track and overtake include: the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing. That is, if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component changes the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0062] In one embodiment, in the priority scheduling mode, the conditions for the priority sample to change track and overtake include: the track is congested and the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing. That is, when the priority sample carried by the first carrier does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, if the first track is congested, the first transfer component is moved to the first track to block the first track, so that the first carrier changes track from the first track to the second track.

[0063] In this way, in the priority scheduling mode, if the priority sample on the first track needs to enter the downstream processing device not far from the current position for processing, it does not need to change lanes and overtake, but can continue to be transported on the first track and sent to the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, so that the priority sample can be processed in time.

[0064] The first functional module includes at least one of a pre-processing module, a detection module and a post-processing module. The pre-processing module includes, but is not limited to, a centrifugation module for centrifuging samples, a start-up module for opening the cover of samples, a quality inspection module for quality inspection of centrifuged samples, and an in-and-out sample module for entering and exiting samples. The detection module refers to a module for detecting samples. The detection module includes, but is not limited to, a biochemical analysis module, an immunological analysis module, a molecular biology analysis module, a hematological analysis and detection module, and a microbial detection module. The post-processing module can be used to perform a series of operations after the sample detection is completed. The post-processing module includes, but is not limited to, a sample storage module and a waste treatment module. Among them, the sample storage module is used to store samples for a long time, such as serum, plasma or cell suspension; the waste treatment module is used to sterilize waste samples at high temperature and high pressure to disinfect infectious substances that may be contained in the samples.

[0065] Whether the priority sample carried by the first carrier needs to enter the first functional module for processing can be determined according to one or more of the type, state, detection requirements, and function of the first functional module of the priority sample. For example, if the current state of the priority sample is centrifuged, and the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream is a centrifugal module, the priority sample does not need to enter the centrifugal module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, and the first transfer component can be used to change lanes to the second track for overtaking, so that the priority sample is processed first.

[0066] The type, status, detection requirements, and laboratory workflow of the priority samples are stored in the sample transport device, so that the sample transport device determines whether the priority sample carried by the first carrier arriving at the first transfer component needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing based on one or more of the stored type, status, detection requirements, and laboratory workflow of the priority samples.

[0067] In this embodiment, when the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component changes the first carrier from the first track to the second track, thereby speeding up the transportation of the priority sample.

[0068] In one embodiment, each first transfer component is also configured to pass the first carrier directly on the first track if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing.

[0069] The first transfer component directly passes the first carrier on the first track, which means that the first transfer component controls the first carrier to continue to be transported on the first track.

[0070] Furthermore, when the first track is in a congested state, each first transfer component is also configured to, if a regular sample carried by the second carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component will pass the second carrier directly on the first track so that it can smoothly enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream.

[0071] In the present embodiment, when the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component directly passes the first carrier on the first track, so that the priority sample can enter the first functional module in time, reducing unnecessary track change operations of the priority sample, thereby realizing the processing of the priority sample.

[0072] In one embodiment, each first transfer component is further configured to change the first carrier of the second track to the first track if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing.

[0073] Furthermore, each first transfer component is also configured so that if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component will directly pass the first carrier on the second track.

[0074] Furthermore, each first transfer component is also configured so that if a regular sample carried by the second carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component will directly pass the second carrier on the second track.

[0075] Furthermore, each first transfer component is also configured so that if the conventional sample carried by the second carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component will transfer the second carrier on the second track to the first track so that the conventional sample carried by the second carrier can smoothly enter the first functional module. This method enables conventional samples to be transferred from the second track to the first track according to detection requirements in the priority scheduling mode. In this way, while the priority samples are processed first in the priority scheduling mode, the processing of conventional samples is not excessively sacrificed.

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, the first transfer component 104 is moved to the second track 108 to block the second track 108, so that the second carrier on the second track is transferred to the first track, so that the second carrier originally transported on the second track 108 can be transferred to the connecting track 302 of the first functional module through the transfer turntable 304, so that the conventional samples carried by the second carrier can be processed in the first functional module 300.

[0077] In this embodiment, when the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component changes the first carrier on the second track to the first track, so that the priority sample can enter the first functional module from the first track in time, thereby realizing the processing of the priority sample.

[0078] In one embodiment, the sample transport device connects the functional modules on the sample analysis pipeline, the first track of the main track is used as the sample loading track, and the first track of the main track connects the functional modules on the sample analysis pipeline. The second track is only used to transport the first carrier transferred from the first track by the first transfer component.

[0079] Furthermore, in the priority scheduling mode, the second track can also be used to transport carriers that are originally in the second track, wherein the carriers that are originally in the second track include the second carriers that carry the regular samples and the first carriers that carry the priority samples.

[0080] In this embodiment, the second track is limited to be used only for transporting the first carrier transferred from the first track via the first transfer assembly, thereby ensuring that the second track is in a cleared state and the carrier can overtake on the second track.

[0081] In one embodiment, priority samples include emergency samples, and / or routine samples that have been on the track of the sample transporter for more than a preset time.

[0082] Among them, emergency samples refer to samples that need to be processed first in emergency situations. For example, if sample A comes from a patient with a serious condition or life-threatening condition, sample A needs to be processed immediately to obtain a diagnosis result, then sample A is an emergency sample.

[0083] The run time refers to the time after the sample enters the orbit. The preset time refers to the time period from the sample entering the orbit to the final departure from the orbit. The preset time can be set by the operator in the sample transport device.

[0084] Furthermore, the priority samples may be only emergency samples, only routine samples that have been running on the track of the sample transport device for more than a preset time, or a combination of emergency samples and routine samples that have been running on the track of the sample transport device for more than a preset time.

[0085] In this embodiment, emergency samples and / or routine samples that have been running on the track of the sample transport device for more than a preset time are regarded as priority samples, which can ensure that emergency samples are transported first in the sample transport device, and at the same time ensure that routine samples that have been running on the track of the sample transport device for more than a preset time can also be transported first.

[0086] In one embodiment, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode when the first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the main track.

[0087] The first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the main track, which means that the first carrier carrying the priority sample enters the first track of the main track from any first functional module.

[0088] Further, when the current scheduling mode of the sample transport device is the priority scheduling mode, when the first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the first track of the main rail, the priority scheduling mode is kept unchanged, that is, the scheduling mode is not switched; when the current scheduling mode of the sample transport device is not the priority scheduling mode, when the first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the first track of the main rail, the scheduling mode of the sample transport device is switched to the priority scheduling mode.

[0089] In this embodiment, by switching the sample transport device to the priority scheduling mode when the first carrier carrying the priority samples is loaded onto the main rail, the priority samples can be transported along the most optimized path, reducing the waiting time of the priority samples during transportation and speeding up the circulation of the priority samples.

[0090] In one embodiment, the pre-processing module includes a sample input and output module. When it is obtained that the priority sample is loaded into the carrier or the priority sample is bound to the carrier in the sample input and output module, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode.

[0091] The sample loading and unloading module is used to load samples onto the track and unload samples that have completed testing.

[0092] Furthermore, the loading and unloading of samples can be realized by the robotic arm in the sample loading and unloading module. The robotic arm grabs the sample from the sample loading and unloading module and places it in the first track of the main track, so that the sample can be loaded, and the robotic arm grabs the sample that has been tested from the main track to the sample loading and unloading module, so that the sample can be unloaded.

[0093] Furthermore, a scanner is provided on the sample inlet and outlet module for scanning the information of the sample tube. When the priority sample is loaded into the carrier, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode, which means that when the sample tube is loaded into the carrier and bound to it in the first module, the scanner scans the information of the sample tube and determines that the loaded sample is a priority sample, and the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode. The first module can be a sample inlet and outlet module.

[0094] Furthermore, the sample transport device is provided with a scanner and a sensing component, the sensing component is used to sense the information of the carrier, and the scanner is used to scan the information of the sample tube. When the priority sample is bound to the carrier, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode, which means that the priority sample is sampled from each first functional module and re-placed on the carrier, the sensing component senses the information of the carrier, binds the priority sample to the carrier, and switches to the priority scheduling mode. For example, when the priority sample enters the centrifugal module for centrifugal treatment, the priority scheduling mode of the sample transport device will be released. When the priority sample is sampled from the centrifugal module after centrifugation and is reloaded on the carrier, the sensing component senses the information of the carrier, binds the priority sample to the carrier, and the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode.

[0095] In this embodiment, when the priority sample is loaded into the carrier or the priority sample is bound to the carrier in the sample input and output module, the sample transport device is switched to the priority scheduling mode, so that priority transportation of the priority sample can be achieved in the priority scheduling mode, so that the priority sample can be processed quickly.

[0096] In one embodiment, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode when the priority sample completes detection, or the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, or when the carrier carrying the priority sample is not transported on the track of the sample transport device.

[0097] Among them, the priority sample completion test means that the priority sample has completed the test corresponding to the test item in the sample analyzer assembly line.

[0098] The priority sample is unbound from the carrier, which means that the first carrier carrying the priority sample is grabbed by the robot arm and separated from the carrier. For example, the first carrier carrying the priority sample is grabbed to the transfer turntable of the first functional module, at which time the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, and the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode.

[0099] The fact that no carrier carrying the priority sample is transported on the track of the sample transport device means that no carrier carrying the priority sample is transported on the first track and the second track of the sample transport device.

[0100] Further, when the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode. When the carrier loaded with the priority sample is not transported on the track of the sample transport device, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode. When the priority sample is completed, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode.

[0101] Furthermore, after the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode, when the first track is in a congested state, regular samples in the first track are allowed to change tracks to the second track.

[0102] In this embodiment, when the priority sample is tested, or the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, or the track of the sample transport device does not transport the carrier carrying the priority sample, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode. The setting of the exit mechanism of the priority scheduling mode can enable the sample transport device to switch to the regular scheduling mode in time, reducing the impact on the transportation of regular samples.

[0103] In one embodiment, the sample transport device further comprises:

[0104] A plurality of first sensing components are arranged on the first track, and at least one first sensing component is arranged upstream of each first transfer component for sensing information of a carrier arriving upstream of the first transfer component.

[0105] The controller is electrically connected to the first sensing component and the first transfer component, and is used to obtain information of the carrier sensed by the first sensing component, and in the priority scheduling mode, when it is obtained that the first carrier on the first track reaches the first transfer component, send a track change instruction to the first transfer component. The track change instruction is used to instruct the first transfer component to change the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0106] Among them, Figure 5As shown, when the carrier 502 carrying the sample arrives at the position of the first sensing component 504 upstream of the first transfer component 104, the first sensing component 504 senses the information of the arrived carrier 502 and sends it to the controller. The controller searches according to the carrier information (such as an RFID tag) and obtains the sample information bound to the carrier to determine whether to change the track of the carrier 502.

[0107] The sample information includes, but is not limited to, information about the first functional module that the bound sample should enter next and the radio frequency signal tag of the bound sample.

[0108] Further, when the track change instruction is used to instruct the first transfer assembly to change the first carrier from the first track to the second track, as Figure 2 As shown, the first transfer assembly 104 is moved to the first track 106 to transfer the first carrier carrying the priority sample from the first track 106 to the second track 108 .

[0109] Further, when the first track is in a congested state and it is detected that the first carrier on the first track has reached the first transfer component, the controller sends a track change instruction to the first transfer component to make the first carrier change track from the first track to the second track.

[0110] Furthermore, when the first track is in a congested state, and it is obtained that a first carrier has reached the first transfer component on the first track, and the priority samples carried by the first carrier need to enter the first functional module downstream of the first transfer component to be processed, the controller sends a direct-through instruction to the first transfer component, and the first transfer component does not operate, so that the first carrier passes directly in the first track, thereby allowing the priority samples carried by the first carrier to enter the first functional module in time.

[0111] Furthermore, when the first track is not in a congested state and it is detected that the first carrier has reached the first transfer component on the first track, the controller sends a straight-through instruction to the first transfer component, the first transfer component does not operate, and the first carrier passes straight through in the first track.

[0112] Furthermore, a first sensing component may also be provided in the second track for sensing information of a carrier arriving at the upstream of the first transfer component. When it is obtained that a first carrier arrives at the first transfer component on the second track and a priority sample carried by the first carrier needs to enter the first functional module downstream of the first transfer component for processing, the controller sends a track change instruction to the first transfer component, such as Figure 6As shown, the track change instruction can control the first transfer component 104 to move toward the second track 108, blocking the second track 108, so that the first transfer component 104 changes the first carrier 306 from the second track 108 to the first track 106, thereby allowing the priority sample carried on the first carrier 306 to smoothly enter the first functional module 300 downstream of the first transfer component 104.

[0113] Furthermore, a first sensing component may also be provided in the second track for sensing information of a carrier arriving at the upstream of the first transfer component. When it is detected that a second carrier arrives at the first transfer component on the second track, the first track is in a congested state, and the conventional samples carried by the second carrier need to enter the first functional module downstream of the first transfer component for processing, the controller sends a track change instruction to the first transfer component so that the first transfer component changes the second carrier from the second track to the first track, thereby allowing the conventional samples carried by the second carrier to smoothly enter the first functional module downstream of the first transfer component from the first track.

[0114] In this embodiment, by arranging at least one first sensing component upstream of each first transfer component, information of the carrier arriving upstream of the first transfer component can be sensed; by sending a track change instruction to the first transfer component when it is obtained that the first carrier has reached the first transfer component on the first track in the priority scheduling mode, the first transfer component can change the track of the first carrier from the first track to the second track, thereby ensuring that the first carrier carrying the priority sample is transported first and the priority samples are processed first.

[0115] In one embodiment, Figure 7 As shown, a control method for a sample transport device is provided, and the method is applied to Figures 1 to 6 The sample transport device shown includes the following steps:

[0116] S702, determining the operation mode of the sample transport device.

[0117] The operation mode includes a priority scheduling mode. In the priority scheduling mode, a first carrier carrying a priority sample on a first track is allowed to change tracks from the first track to a second track.

[0118] S704, after the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode, controls the first transfer component to change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibits the first transfer component from changing the second carrier carrying the regular sample from the first track to the second track.

[0119] Furthermore, in the priority scheduling mode, the first transfer component is prohibited from changing the track of the second carrier carrying the regular samples from the first track to the second track, the first carrier carrying the priority samples is allowed to change the track from the first track to the second track, the second carrier carrying the regular samples is allowed to run on the original track, and the second carrier carrying the regular samples is allowed to change the track from the second track to the first track.

[0120] In this embodiment, by determining the operation mode of the sample transport device, and after the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode, controlling the first transfer component to change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, it can be ensured that the priority sample can be transported on the second track with priority, thereby reducing the transportation time of the priority sample on the track, so that the priority sample can be processed with priority in the sample transport device. At the same time, in the priority adjustment mode, it is prohibited to change the second carrier carrying the conventional sample from the first track to the second track, so as to avoid interference with the transportation of the priority sample caused by the conventional sample changing lanes to the second track as the overtaking lane in the priority scheduling mode, so that the priority sample can be processed with priority.

[0121] In one embodiment, in the priority scheduling mode, if the first track is in a congested state, the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track is moved from the first track to the second track, and the second carrier carrying the regular sample is prohibited from moving from the first track to the second track.

[0122] In one embodiment, when the carrying capacity of vehicles on the first track is greater than a threshold, the first track is in a congested state.

[0123] In one embodiment, if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component is controlled to change the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0124] In one embodiment, if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component is controlled to pass the first carrier directly on the first track.

[0125] In one embodiment, if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component is controlled to change the first carrier on the second track to the first track.

[0126] In one embodiment, the second track is used only for transporting the first carrier transferred from the first track via the first transfer assembly.

[0127] In one embodiment, priority samples include emergency samples, and / or routine samples that have been on the track of the sample transporter for more than a preset time.

[0128] In one embodiment, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode when the first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the main track.

[0129] In one embodiment, the pre-processing module includes a sample input and output module. When it is obtained that the priority sample is loaded into the carrier or the priority sample is bound to the carrier in the sample input and output module, the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode.

[0130] In one embodiment, the sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode when the priority sample completes detection, or the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, or when the carrier carrying the priority sample is not transported on the track of the sample transport device.

[0131] In one embodiment, the control method of the sample transport device further includes:

[0132] In the priority scheduling mode, when it is obtained that the first carrier on the first track reaches the first transfer component, a track change instruction is sent to the first transfer component. The track change instruction is used to instruct the first transfer component to change the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

[0133] It should be understood that, although the various steps in the flowcharts involved in the above-mentioned embodiments are displayed in sequence according to the indication of the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in sequence according to the order indicated by the arrows. Unless there is a clear explanation in this article, the execution of these steps does not have a strict order restriction, and these steps can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least a part of the steps in the flowcharts involved in the above-mentioned embodiments can include multiple steps or multiple stages, and these steps or stages are not necessarily executed at the same time, but can be executed at different times, and the execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily to be carried out in sequence, but can be executed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least a part of the steps or stages in other steps.

[0134] Those skilled in the art can understand that all or part of the processes in the above-mentioned embodiment methods can be completed by instructing the relevant hardware through a computer program, and the computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When the computer program is executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above-mentioned methods. Among them, any reference to the memory, database or other medium used in the embodiments provided in the present application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. As an illustration and not limitation, RAM can be in various forms, such as static random access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The database involved in each embodiment provided in this application may include at least one of a relational database and a non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include distributed databases based on blockchains, etc., but are not limited to this. The processor involved in each embodiment provided in this application may be a general-purpose processor, a central processing unit, a graphics processor, a digital signal processor, a programmable logic device, a data processing logic device based on quantum computing, etc., but are not limited to this.

[0135] The technical features of the above embodiments may be combined arbitrarily. To make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0136] The above-described embodiments only express several implementation methods of the present application, and the descriptions thereof are relatively specific and detailed, but they cannot be construed as limiting the scope of the present application. It should be noted that, for a person of ordinary skill in the art, several modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concept of the present application, and these all belong to the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application shall be subject to the attached claims.

Claims

1. A sample transport device, characterized in that: include: A main track, the main track comprising a first track and a second track, the first track and the second track can be used for the carrier to move independently in the same direction, and the carrier can be used to carry a sample; A plurality of first transfer components are arranged between the first track and the second track, and each of the first transfer components is configured to, in a priority scheduling mode, transfer a first carrier carrying a priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibit a second carrier carrying a regular sample from changing the track from the first track to the second track.

2. The sample transport device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the first transfer components is configured to, in the priority scheduling mode, if the first track is in a congested state, change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and prohibit the second carrier carrying the regular sample from changing the track from the first track to the second track.

3. The sample transport device according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the carrying capacity of the vehicles on the first track is greater than a threshold, the first track is in a congested state.

4. The sample transport device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The sample transport device also includes: A first functional module, the first functional module is connected to the first track, and at least one of the first functional modules is arranged between two adjacent first transfer components; the first functional module includes at least one of a pre-processing module, a detection module and a post-processing module; Each of the first transfer components is also configured such that if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track does not need to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component changes the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

5. The sample transport device according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each of the first transfer components is also configured to pass the first carrier directly on the first track if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the first track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing.

6. The sample transport device according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each of the first transfer components is also configured such that if the priority sample carried by the first carrier that arrives at the first transfer component on the second track needs to enter the first functional module between the first transfer component and the next first transfer component downstream for processing, the first transfer component will change the track of the first carrier on the second track to the first track.

7. The sample transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The second track is used only for transporting the first carrier transferred from the first track via the first transfer assembly.

8. The sample transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The priority samples include emergency samples and / or routine samples that have been running on the track of the sample transport device for more than a preset time.

9. The sample transport device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample transport device switches to a priority scheduling mode when the first carrier carrying the priority sample is loaded onto the main track.

10. The sample transport device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The pre-processing module includes a sample input and output module. When it is obtained that the priority sample is loaded into the carrier or the priority sample is bound to the carrier in the sample input and output module, the sample transportation device switches to the priority scheduling mode.

11. The sample transport device according to claim 1 or 9, characterized in that: The sample transport device exits the priority scheduling mode when the priority sample has completed detection, or when the priority sample is unbound from the carrier, or when the carrier carrying the priority sample is not transported on the track of the sample transport device.

12. The sample transport device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: A plurality of first sensing components are arranged on the first track, and at least one first sensing component is arranged upstream of each first transfer component to sense information of a carrier arriving upstream of the first transfer component; A controller is electrically connected to the first sensing component and the first transfer component, and is used to obtain information about the carrier sensed by the first sensing component. In the priority scheduling mode, when it is obtained that the first carrier reaches the first transfer component on the first track, a track change instruction is sent to the first transfer component; the track change instruction is used to instruct the first transfer component to change the first carrier from the first track to the second track.

13. A control method for a sample transport device, characterized in that: Applied to the sample transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the method comprises: determining an operating mode of the sample transport device; After the sample transport device switches to the priority scheduling mode, the first transfer component is controlled to change the first carrier carrying the priority sample on the first track from the first track to the second track, and the first transfer component is prohibited from changing the second carrier carrying the regular sample from the first track to the second track.

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