Automatic analyzer analysis sample scheduling system and scheduling method

Abstract

The application discloses an automatic analyzer sample analysis scheduling system and a scheduling method, wherein the scheduling system comprises a sample feeding buffer track, a sample feeding transfer track with at least a first sample feeding port and a second sample feeding port, a code scanning device arranged on the sample feeding transfer track and used for scanning and identifying samples and registering to an upper computer to determine sample priorities, an emergency transfer track, when a sample is fed into the emergency transfer track, the first sample feeding port stops feeding the sample, a detection buffer track, a buffer transfer unit used for selecting a sample with a low priority or a sample with a high priority according to the priority determined by the upper computer, a circulating transfer track used for transferring a sample with a highest priority to a detection unit for detection and analysis, and a sample returning unit. The application realizes the purpose of grading sample detection according to different priorities, can detect samples requiring emergency detection preferentially, optimizes the overall detection sequence, and improves the test flux.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of sample analysis technology, and in particular to an automatic analyzer sample scheduling system and scheduling method. Background Technology

[0002] In automated analytical devices used for clinical examinations, blood, plasma, serum, urine, and other bodily fluids are automatically analyzed for indicated analytical items. During the analysis, a transport line positions and moves the sample holder, which contains the sample container, to the sample aspiration position in the analytical section.

[0003] Typically, test specimen racks are transported and analyzed on the transport line in the order they are brought in from the rack supply department. Therefore, it is impossible to prioritize the transport of urgent test specimens with expedited analysis to the analysis unit. As a result, it cannot meet the transfer requirements of sample containers and test specimen racks with different priority levels, delaying the testing time of expedited analysis. Furthermore, the lack of overall planning function makes it difficult to increase the test throughput. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In order to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this invention is to provide an automatic analyzer sample scheduling system and scheduling method, which has the advantage of being able to meet the needs of graded detection of analytical samples with different priorities.

[0005] The objective of this invention is achieved through the following technical solution: According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an automated analyzer sample scheduling system is provided, comprising: Sample delivery buffer track, used for transferring and buffering samples to be tested; The sample transfer track has at least a first sample inlet and a second sample inlet. The first sample inlet is connected to the discharge end of the sample buffer track and is used to receive and transfer the sample to be tested. The sample transfer track is equipped with a barcode scanning device for scanning and identifying the sample barcode and registering it to the host computer to determine the sample priority. An emergency transfer track is connected to the second inlet for transferring emergency samples. When a sample is sent into the emergency transfer track, the first inlet stops receiving samples. A detection buffer track, which is connected to the sample delivery track, is used to temporarily store samples in preparation for delivery to the detection unit for detection. The buffer transfer unit is connected to the detection buffer track and is used to select a low-priority sample to buffer or transfer a high-priority sample according to the priority determined by the host computer. A circulating transfer track, connected to the buffer transfer unit, is used to carry the sample with the highest current priority. This circulating transfer track is also connected to the detection unit to transfer the sample with the highest current priority to the detection unit for detection and analysis. The sample return unit is used to return samples that have completed testing.

[0006] To achieve the above technical solution, samples to be analyzed are normally fed from the sample delivery buffer track into the sample transfer track via the first sample inlet. Samples can be transferred and buffered in the sample delivery buffer track to ensure continuous sample delivery. In the sample transfer track, a barcode scanner identifies the barcode on the sample and registers it on the host computer. The host computer determines the sample's priority based on the scanned barcode information. The sample is then transferred from the sample transfer track to the detection buffer track for temporary storage, awaiting reception by the buffer transfer unit. The buffer transfer unit selects to temporarily buffer lower-priority samples or transfer higher-priority samples to the circulation transfer track based on the sample's priority. Thus, the sample on the circulation transfer track is the highest-priority sample. The detection unit sequentially retrieves samples from the circulation transfer track according to the detection order. The system performs testing and analysis, and after testing, the samples are returned to the circulation transfer track. Finally, the sample return unit sends out the tested samples, allowing the testing process to continue. Samples requiring urgent testing are sent in through the emergency transfer track. When a sample is sent into the emergency transfer track, the input of samples from the first inlet is stopped, and samples from the emergency transfer track are prioritized to be sent into the sample transfer track through the second inlet. Since the host computer also determines that the current sample has the highest priority, the buffer transfer unit will also prioritize sending the sample into the circulation transfer track, and then the testing unit will prioritize testing and analysis. Through the above process, the purpose of testing samples according to different priorities is achieved, and samples requiring urgent testing can be tested first, optimizing the overall testing sequence and improving the testing throughput.

[0007] In some exemplary embodiments, the sample feeding buffer track is provided with two or more sets, including: a sample feeding area for feeding new samples and a buffer area for buffering the fed samples.

[0008] To achieve the above technical solution, the sample introduction area transports new samples forward, while the buffer area buffers the incoming samples, thereby ensuring that the detection process can continue.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments, a first sample inlet sensor is provided at the junction of the sample inlet transfer track and each of the sample delivery buffer tracks. Each sample delivery buffer track corresponding to the first sample inlet sensor has a different priority and is stored in the host computer. The host computer allows the sample to enter the sample inlet transfer track in sequence according to a predetermined priority order.

[0010] To achieve the above technical solution, multiple sets of sample delivery buffer tracks can be set up to transfer and buffer samples of different priorities. Each first sample injection sensor detects whether there are samples to be delivered to each sample delivery buffer track. Since the host computer stores the different priority sequences of the sample delivery buffer tracks corresponding to each first sample injection sensor, samples can be allowed to be delivered into the sample delivery track in sequence according to different priority sequences, thereby realizing sample supply according to priority and thus meeting the requirements of detection according to different priorities.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments, the sample is contained in a test tube, and several test tubes are loaded in a test tube rack for transfer. The sample barcode includes a test tube barcode and a test tube rack barcode. The scanning device includes a tube barcode scanner for scanning the test tube barcode and a rack barcode scanner for scanning the test tube rack barcode.

[0012] The above technical solution enables the scanning and acquisition of management codes and rack codes.

[0013] In some exemplary embodiments, a second sample inlet sensor is provided at the inlet of the emergency transfer track. When the second sample inlet sensor detects a sample inlet signal, the sample transfer track stops receiving samples from the sample delivery buffer track and prioritizes receiving samples from the emergency transfer track.

[0014] The above technical solution enables the second sample inlet sensor to determine whether a sample has been fed into the emergency transfer track. When the second sample inlet sensor detects the sample inlet signal, it stops receiving samples from the sample buffer track, thus achieving priority reception and detection of samples on the emergency transfer track.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments, the buffer transfer unit includes: a connection area opposite to the detection buffer track, a transfer track opposite to the connection area, and a buffer module corresponding to the transfer track, wherein the transfer track is opposite to the cyclic transfer track; If the sample in the connection area is determined to have the highest priority, it is directly transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track. If it is determined that there is a higher priority sample outside the connection area, the sample in the connection area is transferred to the buffer module through the transfer track. If the priority of the sample in the connection area is determined to be lower than or equal to the priority of the sample in the buffer module, the sample in the buffer module is transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track.

[0016] To achieve the above technical solution, the connecting area is used for sample transfer, the transfer track is used to realize the flow of samples between the connecting area, the buffer module and the circulating transfer track, and the buffer module can buffer low-priority samples during the transfer process to ensure that high-priority samples can enter the circulating transfer track first for the detection unit to detect and analyze first.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments, the sample return unit includes a first sample return track, a second sample return track, and an unloading track that are sequentially docked. The first sample return track is docked with the circulating transfer track or with the transfer track through the connecting area.

[0018] The above technical solution enables the orderly transfer of tested samples, ensuring the orderly conduct of the testing process.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an automatic analyzer sample scheduling method is provided, the method being implemented based on the system described in the first aspect, comprising: The sample injection detection signal is acquired in real time to initially determine the priority of the sample, and the sample with the highest priority is transferred to the sample injection transfer track. The barcode information of the sample is scanned and identified to determine the priority of the sample for a second time, so that the buffer transfer unit can select to buffer low-priority samples or transfer high-priority samples to the circulating transfer track. The samples on the circular transfer track are periodically sent to the detection unit for detection and analysis, and returned to the sample return unit after the detection is completed.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments, the initial determination of the sample priority specifically includes: The host computer determines the priority order of the samples based on the priority order of the sample delivery buffer tracks corresponding to each of the first sample injection sensors, or determines that the sample has the highest priority when the detection signal of the second sample injection sensor is detected.

[0021] In some exemplary embodiments, the buffer transfer unit's selection of buffering low-priority samples or transferring high-priority samples to the cyclic transfer track specifically includes: If the sample in the connection area is determined to have the highest priority, it is directly transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track. If it is determined that there is a higher priority sample outside the connection area, the sample in the connection area is transferred to the buffer module through the transfer track. If the priority of the sample in the connection area is determined to be lower than or equal to the priority of the sample in the buffer module, the sample in the buffer module is transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track.

[0022] In summary, compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: This invention provides an automated analyzer sample scheduling system and method. Samples awaiting analysis are fed from the sample buffer track via the first sample inlet into the sample transfer track. Samples can be transferred and buffered in the sample buffer track to ensure continuous sample delivery. In the sample transfer track, a barcode scanner identifies the barcode on the sample and registers it with the host computer. The host computer determines the sample's priority based on the scanned barcode information. The sample is then transferred from the sample transfer track to the detection buffer track for temporary storage, awaiting reception by the buffer transfer unit. The buffer transfer unit selects to temporarily buffer lower-priority samples or transfer higher-priority samples to the circulation transfer track based on their priority. The sample on the circulation transfer track is the highest-priority sample at that time. The detection unit then sequentially transfers samples from the circulation transfer track according to the detection order. Samples are retrieved from the circular transfer track for testing and analysis, and then returned to the circular transfer track after testing. Finally, the sample return unit sends out the tested samples, allowing the testing process to continue continuously. Samples requiring urgent testing are sent in through the emergency transfer track. When a sample is being sent into the emergency transfer track, the input of samples from the first inlet is stopped, and samples from the emergency transfer track are prioritized to be sent into the sample transfer track through the second inlet. Since the host computer also determines that the current sample has the highest priority, the buffer transfer unit will also prioritize sending the sample into the circular transfer track, and then the testing unit will prioritize testing and analysis. Through the above process, the purpose of testing samples according to different priorities is achieved, allowing samples requiring urgent testing to be tested first, optimizing the overall testing sequence, and improving the testing throughput. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a system layout diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the sample delivery buffer track, sample transfer track, and emergency transfer track in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the detection cache track, cache transfer unit, and loop transfer track in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] The numbers and letters in the diagram represent the names of the corresponding components: 101. First unloading track; 1011. First unloading hook; 102. Second unloading track; 1021. Second unloading hook; 103. Emergency transfer track; 1031. Second sample injection sensor; 104. Second sample ejection track; 105. Sample injection transfer track; 1051. Sample injection pusher; 1052. First sample injection sensor; 106. Rack barcode scanner; 107. Tube barcode scanner; 108. Second buffer area; 1081. Second buffer pusher; 109. First buffer area; 1091. First buffer pusher; 110 11. Second sample inlet area; 1101. Second sample delivery push arm; 111. First sample inlet area; 1111. First sample delivery push arm; 21. Buffer module; 22. Hook; 23. Connecting area; 24. Detection buffer track; 25. First sample ejection track; 251. Sample ejection end position; 26. Transfer track; 261. Guide rod mechanism; 27. Clamping gripper; 28. Circulating transfer track; 281. Transfer entrance; 282. Transfer sample inlet section; 283. Transfer sample ejection section; 284. Transfer push arm; 30. Detection unit; 31. Detection transfer track. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, a first aspect of the present invention provides an automatic analyzer sample scheduling system, comprising: a sample delivery buffer track for transferring and buffering samples to be tested; a sample inlet transfer track 105 having at least a first inlet and a second inlet, the first inlet being connected to the outlet end of the sample delivery buffer track for receiving and transferring samples to be tested, and the sample inlet transfer track 105 being equipped with a barcode scanning device for scanning and identifying sample barcodes and registering them to a host computer to determine sample priority; and an emergency transfer track 103 connected to the second inlet for transferring samples awaiting emergency treatment, wherein when a sample is delivered into the emergency transfer track 103, the first inlet stops receiving samples. The system includes: a sample loading track; a detection buffer track 24, connected to the sample loading transfer track 105, used to temporarily store samples for transfer to the detection unit 30 for detection; a buffer transfer unit, connected to the detection buffer track 24, used to select and buffer low-priority samples or transfer high-priority samples according to the priority determined by the host computer; a circulation transfer track 28, connected to the buffer transfer unit, used to carry the sample with the highest current priority, and the circulation transfer track 28 is used to connect to the detection unit 30 to transfer the sample with the highest current priority to the detection unit 30 for detection and analysis; and a sample return unit, used to return samples that have completed detection.

[0029] Specifically, the sample delivery buffer track is provided in two or more sets. In this embodiment, two sets are provided, including a first sample delivery buffer track and a second sample delivery buffer track. Each sample delivery buffer track includes: a sample inlet area for feeding new samples and a buffer area for buffering the fed samples. The sample enters the sample delivery transfer track 105 from the buffer area, which is the outlet end of the sample delivery buffer track. That is, in this embodiment, the first sample delivery buffer track includes a first sample inlet area 111 and a first buffer area 109. The first sample inlet area 111 is provided with a first sample delivery pusher 1111, which is used to push the sample forward on the first sample inlet area 111. The first buffer area 109 is provided with a first buffer pusher 1091. The claw 1091 is used to push the sample forward on the first buffer area 109. The second sample feeding buffer track includes a second sample inlet area 110 and a second buffer area 108. The second sample inlet area 110 is provided with a second sample feeding push arm 1101, which is used to push the sample forward on the second sample inlet area 110. The second buffer area 108 is provided with a second buffer push claw 1081, which is used to push the sample forward on the second buffer area 108. The first sample feeding push arm 1111, the first buffer push claw 1091, the second sample feeding push arm 1101, and the second buffer push claw 1081 can all adopt existing pushing structures, such as electric push rods, lead screw pushing structures, or belt pushing structures. The sample inlet area transports the new sample forward, while the buffer area buffers the fed sample, thereby ensuring that the detection process can continue.

[0030] A first sample introduction sensor 1052 is installed at the junction of the sample delivery track 105 and each sample buffer track. Each sample buffer track corresponding to the first sample introduction sensor 1052 has a different priority, which is stored in the host computer. The host computer allows samples to enter the sample delivery track 105 sequentially according to a predetermined priority order. The first sample introduction sensor 1052 can be, for example, a photoelectric sensor. By setting multiple sets of sample buffer tracks, samples of different priorities can be transferred and buffered respectively. Each first sample introduction sensor 1052 detects whether there is a sample to be delivered to each sample buffer track. Since the host computer stores different priority sequences of the sample delivery buffer tracks corresponding to each first sample injection sensor 1052, it can allow samples to be delivered into the sample delivery transfer track 105 in sequence according to different priority sequences, thereby realizing sample supply according to priority and thus meeting the requirement of detection according to different priorities; that is, different sample delivery buffer tracks have different priorities, and this priority sequence is stored on the host computer. When the first sample injection sensor 1052 detects a sample, the host computer determines the priority of its corresponding sample delivery buffer track and then allows the sample to be delivered into the sample delivery buffer track with the highest priority.

[0031] During the transfer process, the sample is placed in a test tube, and several test tubes are loaded into a test tube rack for transfer. The sample barcode includes the test tube barcode and the test tube rack barcode. The scanning device includes a tube barcode scanner 107 for scanning the test tube barcode and a rack barcode scanner 106 for scanning the test tube rack barcode, thereby realizing the scanning and acquisition of the tube barcode and rack barcode. The priority is usually determined based on the rack barcode.

[0032] A second sample introduction sensor 1031 is installed at the inlet of the emergency transfer track 103. This second sample introduction sensor 1031 can also be a photoelectric sensor or similar device. When the second sample introduction sensor 1031 detects a sample introduction signal, the sample transfer track 105 stops receiving samples from the sample buffer track and prioritizes receiving samples from the emergency transfer track 103. The second sample introduction sensor 1031 can determine whether a sample has been introduced into the emergency transfer track 103. When the second sample introduction sensor 1031 detects a sample introduction signal, it stops receiving samples from the sample buffer track, thus prioritizing the reception and detection of samples from the emergency transfer track 103.

[0033] The buffer transfer unit includes: a connection area 23 connected to the detection buffer track 24, a transfer track 26 connected to the connection area 23, and a buffer module 21 corresponding to the transfer track 26. The transfer track 26 is connected to the loop transfer track 28. The transfer sequence of the buffer transfer unit is as follows: If the sample in the connection zone 23 is determined to have the highest priority, it will be directly transferred to the circulation transfer track 28 via the transfer track 26. If it is determined that there is a higher priority sample outside the connection area 23, the sample in the connection area 23 is transferred to the buffer module 21 through the transfer track 26. If the priority of the sample in the connection area 23 is determined to be lower than or equal to the priority of the sample in the buffer module 21, the sample in the buffer module 21 is transferred to the circulation transfer track 28 via the transfer track 26.

[0034] The sample is transferred through the connecting area 23. The transfer track 26 is used to realize the flow of samples between the connecting area 23, the buffer module 21 and the circulating transfer track 28. The buffer module 21 can buffer low-priority samples during the transfer process, ensuring that high-priority samples can enter the circulating transfer track 28 first for the detection unit 30 to detect and analyze first.

[0035] The connecting area 23 is typically configured as a transfer rail with a gripper, and a clamping gripper 27 is provided between the connecting area 23 and the detection buffer rail 24 to grip the sample from the detection buffer rail 24 to the connecting area 23. A hook 22 is provided between the transfer rail 26 and the buffer module 21 to realize the transfer of the sample between the buffer module 21 and the transfer rail 26. A guide rod mechanism 261 is provided between the transfer rail 26 and the circulating transfer rail 28 to realize the transfer of the sample between the transfer rail and the circulating transfer rail 28. The side of the circulating transfer rail 28 closest to the transfer rail 26 is the transfer inlet 281. The circulating transfer rail 28 is divided into a transfer sample inlet section 282 and a transfer sample outlet section 283 to temporarily store the sample to be tested and the sample after testing, respectively. A transfer push arm 284 is also provided on the circulating transfer rail 28 to realize the transfer of the sample on the circulating transfer rail 28.

[0036] The detection unit 30 has a detection transfer track 31, and the detection unit 30 can be equipped with a three-axis robot, a clamping and transfer mechanism or a pushing structure, etc., to grab the sample from the transfer sample entry section 282 of the circulation transfer track 28 to the detection transfer track 31 for detection and transfer, or to grab the sample after detection from the detection transfer track 31 to the transfer sample removal section 283 of the circulation transfer track 28 for removal.

[0037] The sample return unit includes a first sample return track 25, a second sample return track 104, and an unloading track that are connected in sequence. The first sample return track 25 is connected to the circulation transfer track 28 or to the transfer track 26 through the connecting area 23, so that the tested samples can be transferred out in an orderly manner, ensuring that the testing process is carried out in an orderly manner.

[0038] Specifically, the end of the first sample ejection track 25 connects with the second sample ejection track 104, which extends to the unloading track. In this embodiment, two sets of unloading tracks are preferably provided, namely, a first unloading track 101 and a second unloading track 102. A first unloading hook 1011 is provided on the first unloading track 101 for pushing and moving the sample on the first unloading track 101, and a second unloading hook 1021 is provided on the second unloading track 102 for pushing and moving the sample on the second unloading track 102. In order to detect the position of the sample on the second sample ejection track 104, the second sample ejection track 104 is connected to the second sample ejection track 104. 4. Sample dispensing sensors are respectively provided at the first unloading track 101 and the second unloading track 102. The sample dispensing sensors can also be photoelectric sensors or the like. In some embodiments, in order to make the overall layout more compact and reduce space occupation, the unloading track can be set side by side with the sample delivery buffer track and there is a certain height difference with the emergency transfer track 103. For example, the unloading track is set below the emergency transfer track 103, and the second sample dispensing track 104 can be set to be raised and lowered to connect with the first sample dispensing track 25. Alternatively, an inclined transfer section can be set on the second sample dispensing track 104 to connect with the first sample dispensing track 25.

[0039] In this invention, samples to be analyzed are fed from the sample delivery buffer track into the sample transfer track 105 via the first sample inlet. Samples can be transferred and buffered in the sample delivery buffer track to ensure continuous sample delivery. In the sample transfer track 105, a barcode scanner identifies the barcode on the sample and registers it on the host computer. The host computer determines the sample's priority based on the scanned barcode information. The sample is then transferred from the sample transfer track 105 to the detection buffer track 24 for temporary storage, awaiting reception by the buffer transfer unit. The buffer transfer unit selects to temporarily buffer low-priority samples or transfer high-priority samples to the circulation transfer track 28 based on the sample's priority. Thus, the sample on the circulation transfer track 28 is the highest priority sample. The detection unit 30 sequentially retrieves samples from the circulation transfer track 28 according to the detection order. The samples are analyzed and then returned to the circulation transfer track 28 after testing. Finally, the sample return unit sends out the tested samples, allowing the testing process to continue. Samples requiring urgent testing are sent in from the emergency transfer track 103. When a sample is sent into the emergency transfer track 103, the input of samples from the first inlet is stopped, and the samples on the emergency transfer track 103 are sent into the sample transfer track 105 from the second inlet. Since the host computer will also determine that the current sample has the highest priority, the buffer transfer unit will also send the sample into the circulation transfer track 28 first, and then the testing unit 30 will prioritize the testing and analysis of the sample. Through the above process, the purpose of testing samples according to different priorities is achieved, and samples requiring urgent testing can be tested first, optimizing the overall testing sequence and improving the testing throughput.

[0040] The specific sample injection and detection process of this invention is as follows: The first priority is to determine whether the second sample inlet sensor 1031 at the emergency transfer track 103 has been triggered. If it has been triggered, the sample rack on the emergency transfer track 103 will be transported first. When the emergency transfer track 103 is transported to the sample inlet transfer track 105, it must be approved by the sample inlet transfer track 105, that is, there cannot be a sample rack being transported on the sample inlet transfer track 105.

[0041] The second priority pusher pushes the first buffer pusher 1091 to the last position, causing the sample racks on the first buffer area 109 to enter the sample transfer track 105, and so on until there are no sample racks on the first buffer area 109. When the first buffer area 109 is sent to the sample transfer track 105, it must be approved by the sample transfer track 105, that is, there cannot be any sample racks to be transported on the sample transfer track 105.

[0042] The third priority pusher pushes the second buffer pusher 1081 to the last position, causing the sample racks on the second buffer area 108 to enter the sample transfer track 105, and so on until there are no sample racks on the second buffer area 108. When the second buffer area 108 is sent to the sample transfer track 105, it must be approved by the sample transfer track 105, that is, there cannot be any sample racks being transported on the sample transfer track 105.

[0043] Then push the first sample delivery pusher 1111 and the second sample delivery pusher 1101 to the end position respectively, and continue to push the sample racks on the first buffer area 109 and the second buffer area 108 in sequence according to the above process until all sample racks to be injected have entered the sample transfer track 105.

[0044] After the sample rack enters the sample transfer track 105, it is sequentially hooked and transported by the sample pusher arm 1051 to the rack code scanning position and the five sample tube code scanning positions, and registered with the host computer. The host computer determines the priority according to the different rack codes. After the scanning is completed, the sample transfer track 105 needs to wait for the sample entry permission of the detection buffer track 24. After receiving the permission, the sample pusher arm 1051 continues to move and delivers the sample rack to the detection buffer track 24.

[0045] When the sample holder enters the detection buffer track 24, it is necessary to determine whether there are at least 2 empty spaces in the buffer module 21. If there are at least 2 empty spaces, the detection buffer track 24 requests the clamping gripper 27 to be in place. Otherwise, it is necessary to wait for the sample to be ejected again. After the clamping gripper 27 is in place, the detection buffer track 24 will transport the sample holder to the clamping position on the detection buffer track 24.

[0046] The gripper 27 transports the sample rack to the transfer track 26 and requests the hook 22 to be in place.

[0047] After the hook 22 is in place, it hooks the sample rack onto the hook bracket on the transfer track 26. At this time, the hook 22 will move the sample rack to different positions according to the sample rack priority and the sample loading status of the transfer track 26. That is, if the transfer track 26 allows sample loading and the sample rack being transported by the hook 22 has the highest priority, then the hook 22 moves to the transfer track 26; if sample loading is not allowed or the sample rack being transported by the hook 22 does not have the highest priority, then the hook 22 transfers the sample rack to the buffer module 21. The sample rack positions and priorities stored in the buffer module 21 are stored one by one by the computer. If it is determined that there is a vacancy in the test tube rack position, then according to the priority, the hook 22 moves to the position of the highest priority test tube rack, takes out the sample rack, and transmits it to the detection unit 30 through the transfer track 26.

[0048] After the sample holder is sent into the transfer track 26 by the hook 22, the guide rod mechanism 261 on the transfer track 26 pushes the sample holder into the circulation transfer track 28. The circulation transfer track 28 requests the push structure of the detection unit 30 to act. After the push structure of the detection unit 30 is in place, the circulation transfer track 28 sends the sample holder to the transfer sample feeding section 282 of the circulation transfer track 28.

[0049] The push structure of the detection unit 30 moves the sample rack to the detection transfer track 31, and then the push arm structure on the detection transfer track 31 pushes the sample rack according to the current sampling cycle of the sample.

[0050] This is the entire process of sample injection into the host unit.

[0051] During the sample removal process: The sample holder is pushed by the push arm on the detection transfer track 31 at the detection unit 30 to the sample removal section of the detection transfer track 31. At this time, the detection transfer track 31 requests sample removal. If the circulation transfer track 28 and the transfer track 26 are not occupied, the push arm on the detection transfer track 31 moves the sample holder to the transfer and sample removal section 283 of the circulation transfer track 28.

[0052] After the sample rack is moved to the transfer and sample return section 283 of the circulation transfer track 28, the circulation transfer track 28 transports the sample rack in the opposite direction to the transfer entrance of the circulation transfer track 28, and then the push arm of the circulation transfer track 28 pushes the sample rack to the transfer track 26.

[0053] After the sample rack enters the transfer track 26 from the circulation transfer track 28, the transfer track 26 requests the hook 22 to be in place.

[0054] After the hook 22 is in place, it hooks the sample rack onto the hook bracket. At this point, based on the priority of the sample rack ejection code and whether the gripper transfer track 26 is occupied, the sample rack is transported to either the buffer module 21 or the gripper transfer track 26. When requesting the same mechanism to be in place, ejection takes priority over injection. If the gripper transfer track 26 is not occupied, the hook 22 moves the sample rack to the gripper transfer track 26 and requests the clamping gripper 27 to be in place. After the clamping gripper 27 is in place, the hook 22 hooks the sample rack onto the transfer track 26.

[0055] The gripper 27 clamps and requests the detection buffer track 24 to descend, and then the gripper 27 moves the sample rack to the first sample ejection track 25.

[0056] After the sample rack is moved to the first unloading track 25, the belt of the first unloading track 25 will transport the sample rack to the end of the first unloading track 25 and control the first unloading hook 1011 and the second unloading hook 1021 to be in place.

[0057] Based on the loading status of the sample racks on the first unloading track 101 and the second unloading track 102, the first unloading hook 1011 and the second unloading hook 1021 are respectively called into place. Among them, the first unloading track 101 is loaded first, the second unloading track 102 is loaded after the first unloading track 101 is full, the second unloading track 102 is loaded after the second unloading track 102 is full, the second unloading track 101 is loaded after the second unloading track 102 is full, and the second unloading track 102 is loaded last.

[0058] If the first unloading hook 1011 is in place, the first unloading track 25 conveyor belt will transport the sample rack to the second unloading track 104, the second unloading track 104 conveyor belt will transport the sample rack to its end, and the first unloading hook 1011 will hook the sample rack to the front section of the first unloading track 101 in segments.

[0059] Thus, the entire sample return process is complete.

[0060] A second aspect of this invention provides a method for scheduling analytical samples in an automated analyzer, the method being implemented based on the system described in the first aspect, comprising: S100: Real-time acquisition of sample injection detection signals to initially determine the priority of the sample, and receiving the sample with the highest priority onto the sample injection transfer track 105.

[0061] Specifically, the initial determination of sample priority includes: the host computer determining the sample priority order based on the pre-stored priority order of the sample delivery buffer tracks corresponding to each first sample injection sensor 1052, or determining the sample as the highest priority when the detection signal of the second sample injection sensor 1031 is detected; it can be understood that the sample injection priority is controlled according to the order of the sample detected by the second sample injection sensor 1031 and the sample detected by the first sample injection sensor 1052.

[0062] S200: Scan and identify the barcode information of the sample to determine the priority of the sample for a second time, so that the buffer transfer unit can select to buffer the low-priority sample or transfer the high-priority sample to the circulation transfer track 28.

[0063] Specifically, the buffer transfer unit selects to buffer low-priority samples or transfer high-priority samples to the circulation transfer track 28, which includes: If the sample in the connection zone 23 is determined to have the highest priority, it will be directly transferred to the circulation transfer track 28 via the transfer track 26. If it is determined that there is a higher priority sample outside the connection area 23, the sample in the connection area 23 is transferred to the buffer module through the transfer track 26. If the priority of the sample in the connection area 23 is determined to be lower than or equal to the priority of the sample in the buffer module, the sample in the buffer module is transferred to the circulation transfer track 28 via the transfer track 26.

[0064] S300: The sample on the cyclic transfer track 28 is periodically sent to the detection unit 30 for detection and analysis, and returned to the sample return unit after the detection is completed.

[0065] The above process achieves the goal of grading and testing samples according to different priorities, allowing samples that require urgent testing to be tested first, optimizing the overall testing sequence and increasing the testing throughput.

[0066] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of the present invention, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concept of the present invention. These are all equivalent modifications and improvements made to the above embodiments based on the essential technology of the present invention, and all of these fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic analyzer sample scheduling system, characterized in that, include: Sample delivery buffer track, used for transferring and buffering samples to be tested; The sample transfer track has at least a first sample inlet and a second sample inlet. The first sample inlet is connected to the discharge end of the sample buffer track and is used to receive and transfer the sample to be tested. The sample transfer track is equipped with a barcode scanning device for scanning and identifying the sample barcode and registering it to the host computer to determine the sample priority. An emergency transfer track is connected to the second inlet for transferring emergency samples. When a sample is sent into the emergency transfer track, the first inlet stops receiving samples. A detection buffer track, which is connected to the sample delivery track, is used to temporarily store samples in preparation for delivery to the detection unit for detection. The buffer transfer unit is connected to the detection buffer track and is used to select a low-priority sample to buffer or transfer a high-priority sample according to the priority determined by the host computer. A circular transfer track, connected to the buffer transfer unit, is used to carry the sample with the highest current priority. The circular transfer track is also connected to the detection unit to transfer the sample with the highest current priority to the detection unit for detection and analysis. as well as, The sample return unit is used to return samples that have been tested. The buffer transfer unit includes: a connection area connected to the detection buffer track, a transfer track connected to the connection area, and a buffer module corresponding to the transfer track, wherein the transfer track is connected to the cyclic transfer track. If the sample in the connection area is determined to have the highest priority, it is directly transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track. If it is determined that there is a higher priority sample outside the connection area, the sample in the connection area is transferred to the buffer module through the transfer track. If the priority of the sample in the connection area is determined to be lower than or equal to the priority of the sample in the buffer module, the sample in the buffer module is transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track.

2. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample delivery buffer track is provided with two or more sets, including: a sample injection area for feeding new samples and a buffer area for buffering the fed samples.

3. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Each of the sample delivery tracks and the sample buffer tracks is equipped with a first sample delivery sensor. Each sample buffer track corresponding to the first sample delivery sensor has a different priority and is stored in the host computer. The host computer allows the sample to enter the sample delivery track in sequence according to a predetermined priority order.

4. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample is contained in a test tube, and several test tubes are loaded in a test tube rack for transfer. The sample barcode includes a test tube barcode and a test tube rack barcode. The scanning device includes a tube barcode scanner for scanning the test tube barcode and a rack barcode scanner for scanning the test tube rack barcode.

5. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling system according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, A second sample inlet sensor is provided at the entrance of the emergency transfer track. When the second sample inlet sensor detects a sample inlet signal, the sample transfer track stops receiving samples from the sample delivery buffer track and prioritizes receiving samples from the emergency transfer track.

6. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample return unit includes a first sample return track, a second sample return track, and an unloading track that are connected in sequence. The first sample return track is connected to the circulating transfer track or to the transfer track through the connecting area.

7. A method for scheduling analytical samples in an automatic analyzer, characterized in that, The method is implemented based on the system as described in any one of claims 1-6, and includes: The sample injection detection signal is acquired in real time to initially determine the priority of the sample, and the sample with the highest priority is transferred to the sample injection transfer track. The barcode information of the sample is scanned and identified to determine the priority of the sample for a second time, so that the buffer transfer unit can select to buffer low-priority samples or transfer high-priority samples to the circulating transfer track. The samples on the circular transfer track are periodically sent to the detection unit for detection and analysis, and returned to the sample return unit after the detection is completed.

8. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The initial priority assessment of the samples specifically includes: The host computer determines the priority order of the samples based on the priority order of the sample delivery buffer tracks corresponding to each of the pre-stored first sample delivery sensors, or determines that the sample has the highest priority when the detection signal of the second sample delivery sensor at the entrance of the emergency transfer track is detected.

9. The automatic analyzer sample scheduling method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The buffer transfer unit selects to buffer low-priority samples or transfer high-priority samples to the cyclic transfer track, specifically including: If the sample in the connection area is determined to have the highest priority, it is directly transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track. If it is determined that there is a higher priority sample outside the connection area, the sample in the connection area is transferred to the buffer module through the transfer track. If the priority of the sample in the connection area is determined to be lower than or equal to the priority of the sample in the buffer module, the sample in the buffer module is transferred to the circulation transfer track via the transfer track.

Images