Sample processing system

Abstract

The invention provides a sample processing system capable of performing processing efficiently. As a technical means for this purpose, a sample processing system is used which comprises: an input / collection unit that includes an input mechanism for storing a plurality of glass slides on which samples to be subjected to dyeing processing, dehydration processing, sealing processing, or scanning processing are placed, and a collection mechanism for storing the processed glass slides; a dyeing unit that performs a dyeing process on the sample placed on the slide; a post-processing unit that performs a dehydration process, a sealing process, or a scanning process on the sample placed on the slide; and a transport unit capable of transporting the slide between the staining unit and the input / recovery unit and between the input / recovery unit and the post-processing unit, the staining unit, the input / recovery unit, and the post-processing unit being arranged in this order.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sample processing system, and particularly to a sample processing system capable of automatically processing biological samples. Background Art

[0002] In pathological examinations, biological samples such as tissues or blood are processed to produce glass slides for microscopic observation. The tissues on the glass slides are stained, and then observed under a microscope for examination.

[0003] In recent years, automation has been developing in various processes such as tissue staining, sealing of cover glasses onto stained glass slides, and digital image acquisition (scanning) of tissue glass slides. There is a demand for further automating the entire process without manual intervention.

[0004] As a system for automating the entire process, an automatic processing system is proposed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-141287). Prior Art Documents Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-141287 Summary of the Invention Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In an automatic processing system implemented by combining multiple functional modules as in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to determine the processing required for each glass slide and decide which module to transfer the glass slide to for efficient automation. However, although Patent Document 1 discloses which functional modules are used to constitute the automatic processing system, it does not specifically disclose how to configure each processing module and how to perform processing to transfer glass slides between the processing modules.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a system that can optimize the configuration of each processing module and efficiently perform overall processing in a biological processing system for pathological examinations composed of multiple processing modules.

[0008] Other objects and novel features will become clear from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. Technical Means for Solving the Technical Problem

[0009] A sample processing system in one embodiment includes: a loading and unloading section including a loading mechanism for storing a plurality of slides on which samples before dyeing treatment, dehydration treatment, sealing treatment, or scanning treatment are placed, and an unloading mechanism for storing the slides after the treatment; a dyeing section for performing the dyeing treatment on the samples placed on the slides; a post-treatment section for performing the dehydration treatment, the sealing treatment, or the scanning treatment on the samples placed on the slides; and a transfer section capable of transferring the slides between the dyeing section and the loading and unloading section, and between the loading and unloading section and the post-treatment section, wherein the dyeing section, the loading and unloading section, and the post-treatment section are arranged in sequence. Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to one embodiment, a sample processing system capable of efficiently performing processing is provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 It is a top view and a block diagram showing the outline of the sample processing system in the embodiment. Figure 2 It is a side view showing the outline of the sample processing system in the embodiment. Figure 3 It is a top view of a tray for placing the slides in the embodiment. Figure 4 It is a top view of the transfer section of the slides in the embodiment. Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the transfer mechanism of the slides in the embodiment. Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the loading and unloading section of the slides in the embodiment. Figure 7 It is a perspective view of an example of the loading and unloading section of the slides in the embodiment. Figure 8 It is a flowchart showing the transfer process of the slides in the embodiment. Figure 9 It is a flowchart specifically showing the transfer process of the slides in the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, in all the drawings for explaining the embodiments, the same reference numerals are given to the components having the same functions, and repeated explanations are omitted. In the following embodiments, unless otherwise particularly required, the descriptions of the same or similar parts are not repeated in principle.

[0013] In addition, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction described in this application intersect and are orthogonal to each other. In this application, the X1 direction in the X direction is set as the right direction, the X2 direction in the X direction is set as the left direction, the Y1 direction in the Y direction is set as the front direction, the Y2 direction in the Y direction is set as the back direction, the Z1 direction in the Z direction is set as the upper direction, and the Z2 direction in the Z direction is set as the lower direction, and explanations are given accordingly.

[0014] (Embodiment) <Structure 1 of Sample Processing System> Hereinafter, Figures 1 to 8 is used to illustrate the sample processing system 100 in this embodiment. In addition, a sample is placed on the slide 1 used in this embodiment. The above sample is, for example, a sample used in pathological examinations, and is a biological sample such as tissue or blood. The sample processing system 100 forms a part of an inspection device such as a pathological staining device.

[0015] Figure 1 is a schematic top view and block diagram showing the sample processing system of this embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the sample processing system of this embodiment. Figure 2 is from Figure 1 the lower side of Figure 1 the structure of Figure 1 to obtain a side view, that is, a side view obtained by observing the structure of Figure 1 in the Y2 direction. In Figure 2 it is considered that the components constituting the sample processing system are sealed in a container, but here the internal structure is shown through the sealing container. Figure 1 In

[0016] For ease of understanding the drawings, a shadow is added to the slide 1. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the sample processing system 100 includes an input and recovery unit (input and storage module) 10, a plurality of transfer mechanisms (clamp units) 30, a staining unit (staining module) 40, a dehydration unit (dehydration module) 51, a sealing unit (sealing module) 52, a scanning unit (scanning module) 53, and a transfer unit (transfer line) 60. The dehydration unit 51, the sealing unit 52, and the scanning unit 53 constitute the post-processing unit 50.

[0017] The staining unit 40 includes a tray, a reagent supply unit, etc., and is provided for performing a staining process on a sample placed on the slide 1. The slide 1 is placed on the above-mentioned tray in the staining unit 40, and the sample placed on the slide 1 is stained with a reagent provided from the above-mentioned reagent supply unit. In addition, as the staining method used in the staining unit 40, for example, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, or in situ hybridization (ISH) staining can be applied.

[0018] In this embodiment, a case where two staining units 40 are arranged side by side in the sample processing system 100 is illustrated. In contrast, the number of staining units 40 arranged on the right side (X1 direction side) of the loading and unloading unit 10 can be one or three or more. In addition, multiple side-by-side staining units 40 can perform staining processes by different staining methods respectively.

[0019] The loading and unloading unit 10 includes a loading mechanism 11, a unloading mechanism 12, and a plurality of trays (sliding trays) 13. The loading mechanism 11 is provided to store the slide 1 before performing a staining process, a dehydration process, a sealing process, or a photographing (imaging, scanning) process. The unloading mechanism 12 is provided to store the slide 1 after performing a photographing process.

[0020] Trays 13 are provided in the loading mechanism 11 and the unloading mechanism 12 in a vertically stacked and overlapping manner in the vertical direction (Z direction). The plurality of trays 13 overlapping in the Z direction can move in the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction by a moving mechanism provided in the loading and unloading unit 10.

[0021] As Figure 3 shown, a plurality of slides 1 are placed on the tray 13. The tray 13 has a gripping portion (handle) at the end in the Y1 direction. Although not shown, each slide 1 is placed on one placement table on the tray 13. Each slide 1 is affixed with a label or the like, and the label is provided with an identification code 1a indicating information of each sample. Although not shown here, the loading and unloading unit 10 is provided with an identification code reader (reading unit), and the information contained in the identification code 1a of each slide 1 is read by the above-mentioned identification code reader. As the identification code 1a, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) can be applied. The identification code 1a is not limited to this, and as long as it can store the information of the slide 1, it can also be other styles of identification.

[0022] The dehydration unit 51 is provided so that a process of replacing the water contained in the sample with an organic solvent (such as xylene) (dehydration process) can be performed, thereby enabling the storage of the slide 1. That is, in the dehydration unit 51, the sample placed on the slide 1 is dehydrated.

[0023] The sealing unit 52 is a cover glass sealing unit. The slide 1 that has undergone the staining process and the dehydration process is conveyed to the sealing unit 52. Thereafter, in the sealing unit 52, a cover glass (cover plate glass) is placed (sealing process) on the slide 1 to cover the stained sample. That is, in the sealing unit 52, the sample placed on the slide 1 is subjected to a sealing process.

[0024] A scanning unit 53 is provided to observe or photograph (image) the stained sample on the slide 1 that has undergone the staining process, the dehydration process, and the sealing process through a microscope. That is, in the scanning unit 53, the sample is observed through a microscope, or a digital image is obtained by a slide scanner, and the obtained image is used to observe the sample, or both observation processes are performed. In this application, observing the sample through a microscope and photographing the sample are collectively referred to as scanning (scanning process). That is, in the scanning unit 53, the sample placed on the slide 1 is subjected to a scanning process.

[0025] As Figure 1 and Figure 4 shown, the sample processing system 100 includes a conveying unit 60 for conveying the slide 1. The conveying unit 60 has a first conveying line 61 and a second conveying line 62. The first conveying line 61 and the second conveying line 62 extend in the X direction along the staining unit 40, the loading / unloading unit 10, and the post-processing unit 50. The first conveying line 61 and the second conveying line 62 are respectively equipped with carriers 20. Here, the carriers 20 on the first conveying line 61 and the second conveying line 62 can convey the slide 1 placed on the carrier 20 by moving (sliding) in the Y direction.

[0026] The first conveying line 61 is used when conveying the slide 1 before the staining process from the loading mechanism 11 to the staining unit 40, or when conveying the slide 1 after the scanning process from the scanning unit 53 to the unloading mechanism 12. That is, the first conveying line 61 only conveys the slide 1 in the right direction (X1 direction) during Figure 1 and Figure 4 .

[0027] The second conveying line 62 is used when conveying the slide 1 after the staining process from the staining unit 40 to the dehydration unit 51 of the post-processing unit 50. That is, the second conveying line 62 only conveys the slide 1 in the left direction (X2 direction) during Figure 1 and Figure 4 . As Figure 4 shown, a plurality of guide pins 23 are provided on the upper surface of the carrier 20. The first conveying line 61 is provided with a guide member 61a, and the second conveying line 62 is provided with a guide member 62a. In addition, actuators 64 are respectively provided on the first conveying line 61 and the second conveying line 62.

[0028] ​Accordingly, through the transfer unit 60, the glass slide 1 can be transferred between the staining unit 40 and the loading / unloading unit 10, and between the loading / unloading unit 10 and the post-processing unit 50.

[0029] The carrier 20 on which the glass slide 1 is placed can move in the X1 direction or the X2 direction along the guide 61a or the guide 62a by the control unit 70 and the actuator 64, and move to the vicinity of the loading / unloading unit 10, the staining unit 40, the dehydration unit 51, or the scanning unit 53. In addition, by setting the long side of the carrier 20 to be parallel to the extending direction of each of the first transfer line 61 and the second transfer line 62, the dedicated areas of the first transfer line 61 and the second transfer line 62 can be reduced.

[0030] In addition, a plurality of carriers 20 can be mounted on the first transfer line 61 and the second transfer line 62 respectively. In addition, the case where the transfer unit 60 has separate first transfer line 61 and second transfer line 62 is illustrated here, but the transfer unit 60 may also be configured to serve as both the first transfer line 61 and the second transfer line 62 with only one line.

[0031] The transfer of the glass slide 1 from the dehydration unit 51 to the sealing unit 52 is performed by Figure 1 the third transfer line 63 shown. In addition, the transfer of the glass slide 1 from the sealing unit 52 to the scanning unit 53 is performed by the third transfer line 63. The third transfer line 63 has the same structure as the second transfer line 62, and only transfers the glass slide 1 in the left direction (X2 direction) of Figure 1 and Figure 4 .

[0032] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the sample processing system 100 includes a plurality of transfer mechanisms 30. At least one transfer mechanism 30 is provided in each of the loading / unloading unit 10, the staining unit 40, the dehydration unit 51, and the scanning unit 53.

[0033] That is, the transfer of the glass slide 1 from the loading / unloading unit 10 (loading mechanism 11) to the carrier 20 of the transfer unit 60 (first transfer line 61 or second transfer line 62), and the transfer of the glass slide 1 from the carrier 20 of the transfer unit 60 (second transfer line 62) to the loading / unloading unit 10 (recovery mechanism 12) are performed by the transfer mechanism 30 of the loading / unloading unit 10. The transfer of the glass slide 1 from the carrier 20 of the transfer unit 60 (first transfer line 61) to the staining unit 40, and the transfer of the glass slide 1 from the staining unit 40 to the carrier 20 of the transfer unit 60 (second transfer line 62) are performed by the transfer mechanism 30 of the staining unit 40. The transfer of the glass slide 1 from the carrier 20 of the transfer unit 60 (second transfer line 62) to the dehydration unit 51 is performed by the transfer mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51. The transfer of the glass slide 1 from the scanning unit 53 to the carrier 20 of the transfer unit 60 (first transfer line 61) is performed by the transfer mechanism 30 of the scanning unit 53.

[0034] The main feature of the sample processing system 100 of this embodiment is that the staining unit 40 and the post-processing unit 50 are arranged and configured to sandwich the loading and unloading unit 10. More specifically, in the X direction, the staining unit 40, the loading and unloading unit 10, the dehydration unit 51, the sealing unit 52, and the scanning unit 53 are arranged in sequence.

[0035] <Structure of the Transfer Mechanism> As Figure 5 shown, the transfer mechanism 30 has a transfer driving unit (clamping unit) 31, a finger driving unit (clamping mechanism) 32, and a plurality of finger parts 33. The transfer driving unit 31 and the finger driving unit 32 are controlled by the control unit 70 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0036] The transfer driving unit 31 includes an X transfer shaft 31x, a Y transfer shaft 31y, and a Z transfer shaft 31z. Through the X transfer shaft 31x, the finger driving unit 32 and the plurality of finger parts 33 can move in the X1 direction and the X2 direction. Through the Y transfer shaft 31y, the finger driving unit 32 and the plurality of finger parts 33 can move in the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction. Through the Z transfer shaft 31z, the finger driving unit 32 and the plurality of finger parts 33 can move in the Z1 direction and the Z2 direction. In addition, in order for the plurality of finger parts 33 to hold the glass slide 1, at least the Z transfer shaft 31z is required.

[0037] The finger driving unit 32 performs the holding action of the plurality of finger parts 33. In this embodiment, for example, 4 finger parts 33 are provided.

[0038] In addition, the glass slide 1 has a polygonal shape when viewed from above, and here, it has a rectangular shape when viewed from above. During the transfer of the glass slide 1, two side surfaces on the short side of the glass slide 1 are held by the transfer mechanism 30. The thickness of the glass slide 1 in the Z direction is, for example, 1.0 mm or more and 1.1 mm or less.

[0039] <Structure of the Loading and Unloading Unit> Hereinafter, Figure 6 is used to describe the loading and unloading unit 10 of the glass slide 1 in this embodiment.

[0040] The loading mechanism 11 and the unloading mechanism 12 are adjacent to each other and integrated in terms of direction. A plurality of glass slides 1 are placed on the tray 13 so as to be adjacent to each other in the Y direction.

[0041] The loading mechanism 11 can carry a plurality of trays 13 so that the plurality of trays 13 are stacked in the vertical direction (Z direction). In addition, the loading mechanism 11 is provided with an identification code reader 14.

[0042] As Figure 6As shown, each of the plurality of slides 1 is provided with an identification code 1a. The identification code reader 14 can read the information contained in the identification code 1a of each of the plurality of slides 1. In addition, the identification code reader 14 can be moved in the Z direction by a moving mechanism (not shown) provided in the input mechanism 11. Therefore, for example, when the tray 13 is introduced from the outside of the input recovery unit 10 to a predetermined layer of the input mechanism 11, the identification code reader 14 can move to the predetermined layer and read the information of the plurality of slides 1 placed on the introduced tray 13.

[0043] The collecting mechanism 12 can carry a plurality of trays 13 so that the plurality of trays 13 are stacked in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0044] The identification code reader 24 can read the information included in the identification code 1a of each of the plurality of slide glasses 1. In addition, the identification code reader 24 can be moved in the Z direction by a moving mechanism (not shown) provided in the recovery mechanism 12. Therefore, for example, when the tray 13 conveyed by the moving mechanism TM2 described later is introduced into a predetermined layer of the recovery mechanism 12, the identification code reader 14 can move to the predetermined layer and read the information of the plurality of slide glasses 1 placed on the introduced tray 13.

[0045] In addition, the input and recovery unit 10 further includes: a moving mechanism TM1 for independently moving the plurality of trays 13 mounted on the input mechanism 11 in the Y direction; and a moving mechanism TM2 for independently moving the plurality of trays 13 mounted on the recovery mechanism 12 in the Y direction. In the present embodiment, the plurality of trays 13 are moved by independently moving the plurality of installation units each carrying the trays 13 in the Y direction by the moving mechanism TM1 or the moving mechanism TM2.

[0046] Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 In the present invention, as a method for storing a plurality of slide glasses 1 for input or recovery, a method of stacking trays 13 capable of placing a plurality of slide glasses 1 in the horizontal direction (Y direction) in the vertical direction (Z direction) is described. Figure 7 As shown in the figure, a container 15 can be used in which the slide glass 1 can be inserted and placed in the horizontal direction (Y direction) and the slide glass 1 can be stacked and placed in the vertical direction (Z direction). The container 15 is also called a basket. The slide glass 1 is taken out of the container 15 and the slide glass 1 is inserted into the container 15 by a dedicated conveying mechanism. The container 15 is equipped with a rod 16, which is rotatably mounted relative to the container 15 and prevents the slide glass 1 from flying out.

[0047] <Sample processing system configuration 2> like Figure 1As shown, the sample processing system 100 is connected to a control unit (CPU) 70, a storage unit 80, and an operation unit 90. Specifically, the sample processing system 100 is connected to the control unit 70, and the control unit 70 is respectively connected to the storage unit 80 and the operation unit 90. In addition, although not shown, the operation unit 90 may also include a display unit (monitor).

[0048] The control unit 70 is electrically connected to the loading and unloading unit 10, multiple transfer mechanisms 30, a staining unit 40, a dehydration unit 51, a sealing unit 52, a scanning unit 53, and a transfer unit 60, and uniformly controls them. For example, Figure 5 the movement of the moving mechanisms TM1 and TM2 shown, the movement of the identification code reader 14, the reading of the information of the identification code 1a, Figure 4 the movement of the finger driving unit 32 shown, and the supply of reagents by the reagent supply unit and other processes are controlled by the control unit 70.

[0049] The storage unit 80 stores information on the location (transfer destination) where the slide 1 is to be transferred, corresponding to various information obtained by reading the identification code 1a of the slide 1. The operator can operate the operation unit 90 to change the information stored in the storage unit 80 or the operation of the control unit 70.

[0050] <Actions of the Sample Processing System> The following refers to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The flowcharts of to describe the actions (slide transfer process) of the sample processing system in the embodiment. As the processing performed in the sample processing system 100, the following four modes can be considered. That is, the first mode of performing staining processing, dehydration processing, sealing processing, and scanning processing; the second mode of performing dehydration processing, sealing processing, and scanning processing; the third mode of performing sealing processing and scanning processing; and the fourth mode of only performing scanning processing.

[0051] The second mode is, for example, the following situation: In the sample processing system 100, only post-processing is performed on the slide 1 that has been subjected to staining processing outside the sample processing system 100. The third mode is, for example, the following situation: In the sample processing system 100, only sealing processing and scanning processing are performed on the slide 1 that has been subjected to staining processing and dehydration processing outside the sample processing system 100. The fourth mode is, for example, the following situation: In the sample processing system 100, only scanning processing is performed on the slide 1 that has been subjected to staining processing, dehydration processing, and sealing processing outside the sample processing system 100.

[0052] Figure 8 shows a flowchart summarizing all four modes. Here, first, the slide 1 is transferred into the sample processing system 100, and the reading operation of the identification code 1a of each slide 1 is performed ( Figure 8Step S1). That is, a specified tray 13 on which a plurality of slides 1 are placed is placed on the setting part of the input mechanism 11 ( Figure 6 the overlapping part of the trays 13 in the setting part). The tray 13 is fixed to the setting part of the input mechanism 11 by means of a ball clamp or magnetic attraction or other devices ( Figure 1 the position of the tray 13 shown). Then, the situation where the tray 13 is set at the specified position is detected by a sensor (not shown), or an operator presses a specified switch, so that the tray 13 moves in the Y2 direction. That is, the tray 13 on which the slides 1 are placed moves into the interior of the sample processing system 100 (from Figure 1 the position of the tray 13 shown in the Y2 direction).

[0053] At this time, through the Figure 6 shown identification code reader 14, the Figure 3 and Figure 6 shown identification code 1a is read. That is, during the movement of the plurality of slides 1, the identification code 1a of each slide 1 is read in sequence.

[0054] Next, according to the information of the slide 1 obtained through the above reading operation, the control unit 70 refers to the information of the transfer destination stored in the storage unit 80 to determine (judge) the transfer destination of the slide 1 ( Figure 8 Step S2).

[0055] Next, according to the transfer destination determined by the control unit 70, the slide 1 is transferred to the staining unit 40 or the post-processing unit 50 ( Figure 8 Step S3).

[0056] Next, any one of the above first to fourth modes is performed on the slide 1 ( Figure 8 Step S4). Thus, all the processes for the slide 1 performed in the sample processing system 100 are completed.

[0057] Next, the slide 1 is transferred from the post-processing unit 50 (specifically, the scanning unit 53) to the recovery mechanism 12 of the input and recovery unit 10 ( Figure 8 Step S5). Specifically, the slide 1 is placed on the carrier 20 of the first transfer line 61 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the scanning unit 53, and then moves in the X1 direction through the first transfer line 61, thereby moving to the input and recovery unit 10. After that, the slide 1 is transferred by the transfer mechanism 30 of the input and recovery unit 10 and placed on the tray 13 of the recovery mechanism 12. At this time, the identification code 1a on the transferred slide 1 is read by the identification code reader 24.

[0058] As described above, the operation of the sample processing system (the transfer process of the slide) is completed.

[0059] Next, use Figure 9 to classify the operation of the sample processing system (the slide transfer process) and explain it in detail. Figure 9 The step S1 of Figure 8 is the same as the step S1 of

[0060] Next, as an operation corresponding to the step S2 of Figure 8 the control unit 70 determines whether the slide 1 needs staining treatment based on the information of the slide 1 obtained through the reading operation ( Figure 9 step S21 of

[0061] In the case of the first mode that requires staining treatment, the slide 1 is transferred from the tray 13 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the loading / unloading unit 10 and placed on the carrier 20 of the first transfer line 61. Then, the slide 1 to be stained moves in the X1 direction through the first transfer line 61 and is transferred to the staining unit 40 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the staining unit 40 ( Figure 9 step S31 of

[0062] Next, the slide 1 is subjected to the processing in the first mode, that is, staining treatment, dehydration treatment, sealing treatment, and scanning treatment ( Figure 9 step S41 of

[0063] Specifically, the sample placed on the slide 1 is stained on the plate in the staining unit 40. Then, the slide 1 is placed on the carrier 20 of the second transfer line 62 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the staining unit 40. Then, the slide 1 moves in the X2 direction through the second transfer line 62 and is transferred to the dehydration unit 51 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51. Then, the sample placed on the slide 1 is dehydrated in the dehydration unit 51. Then, the slide 1 is placed on the carrier 20 of the third transfer line 63 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51. Then, the slide 1 moves in the X2 direction through the third transfer line 63 and the sealing treatment is performed by the sealing unit 52. Then, the slide 1 moves in the X2 direction through the third transfer line 63 and the scanning treatment (microscopic observation or photographing) is performed in the scanning unit 53. Figure 8 After that, in the same manner as the step S5 of Figure 9 the slide 1 is transferred from the scanning unit 53 to the recovery mechanism 12 of the loading / unloading unit 10 (

[0064] Figure 9 In step S21, when it is determined that staining treatment is not required, as an operation corresponding to the step S2 of Figure 8 the control unit 70 determines whether the slide 1 needs dehydration treatment based on the information of the slide 1 obtained through the reading operationFigure 9 Step S22).

[0065] In the case of the second mode that does not require staining treatment but requires dehydration treatment, the slide 1 is conveyed from the tray 13 by the conveying mechanism 30 of the loading and unloading unit 10 and placed on the carrier 20 of the second conveying line 62. Then, the slide 1 to be dehydrated moves in the X2 direction through the second conveying line 62 and is conveyed to the dehydration unit 51 by the conveying mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51( Figure 9 Step S32).

[0066] Then, the slide 1 is subjected to the second-mode processing, that is, dehydration processing, sealing processing, and scanning processing( Figure 9 Step S42). Specifically, the sample placed on the slide 1 is dehydrated in the dehydration unit 51. Then, the slide 1 is placed on the carrier 20 of the third conveying line 63 by the conveying mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51. Then, the slide 1 moves in the X2 direction through the third conveying line 63, and the sealing process is performed by the sealing unit 52. Then, the slide 1 moves in the X2 direction through the third conveying line 63 and is scanned in the scanning unit 53.

[0067] After that, similar to Figure 8 Step S5, the slide 1 is conveyed from the scanning unit 53 to the recovery mechanism 12 of the loading and unloading unit 10( Figure 9 Step S5). The above is the operation of the sample processing system 100 in the second mode.

[0068] Figure 9 In step S22, when it is determined that dehydration treatment is not required, as an operation corresponding to step S2, the control unit 70 determines whether the slide 1 needs sealing treatment based on the information of the slide 1 obtained through the reading operation Figure 8 Step S23). Figure 9

[0069] In the case of the third mode that does not require staining treatment and dehydration treatment but requires sealing treatment, the slide 1 is conveyed from the tray 13 by the conveying mechanism 30 of the loading and unloading unit 10 and placed on the carrier 20 of the second conveying line 62. Then, the slide 1 moves in the X2 direction through the second conveying line 62, is conveyed to the dehydration unit 51 by the conveying mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51, and then is placed on the carrier 20 of the third conveying line 63 by the conveying mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51, moves in the X2 direction through the third conveying line 63, and is conveyed to the sealing unit 52 Figure 9 Step S33).

[0070] Figure 9 Then, the slide 1 is subjected to the third-mode processing, that is, sealing processing and scanning processing Figure 9Step S43). Specifically, the slide 1 of the object to be sealed is sealed by the sealing portion 52. Then, the slide 1 is moved in the X2 direction by the third transfer line 63 and is scanned in the scanning portion 53.

[0071] After that, Figure 8 Similar to step S5, the slide 1 is transferred from the scanning portion 53 to the recovery mechanism 12 of the input / output unit 10 ( Figure 9 step S5). The above is the operation of the sample processing system 100 in the third mode.

[0072] Figure 9 In step S23, when it is determined that the sealing process is not required, that is, in the fourth mode where the staining process, dehydration process, and sealing process are not required but the scanning process is required, the slide 1 is transferred from the tray 13 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the input / output unit 10 and placed on the carrier 20 of the second transfer line 62. Then, the slide 1 is moved in the X2 direction by the second transfer line 62, transferred to the dehydration unit 51 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51, and then placed on the carrier 20 of the third transfer line 63 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the dehydration unit 51, moved in the X2 direction by the third transfer line 63, and transferred to the scanning portion 53 ( Figure 9 step S34). Here, after being transferred by the transfer mechanism 30 of the input / output unit 10 and placed on the carrier 20 of the second transfer line 62, the slide 1 can be transferred to the vicinity of the scanning portion 53 by the second transfer line 62 and transferred into the scanning portion 53 by the transfer mechanism 30 of the scanning portion 53.

[0073] Next, the slide 1 is processed in the fourth mode, that is, scanned ( Figure 9 step S44). Specifically, the slide 1 to be scanned is scanned in the scanning portion 53.

[0074] After that, Figure 8 Similar to step S5, the slide 1 is transferred from the scanning portion 53 to the recovery mechanism 12 of the input / output unit 10 ( Figure 9 step S5). The above is the operation of the sample processing system 100 in the fourth mode.

[0075] As described above, in this embodiment, the processing of each of the four modes can be automatically performed within the sample processing system 100.

[0076] <Effect of the Embodiment> In the case where a staining device for performing a staining process and a post-treatment device for performing post-treatment after staining, i.e., a dehydration process, a sealing process, and a scanning process, are separately prepared, the movement of the slide (tray) between these devices needs to be performed manually, resulting in poor efficiency of the overall processing of the slide. Therefore, if a sample processing system capable of automatically performing all of the staining process, the dehydration process, the sealing process, and the scanning process is used, the efficiency of the overall processing can be achieved.

[0077] However, not every one of the multiple slides inserted into the sample processing system requires the staining process, the dehydration process, the sealing process, and the scanning process. That is, each of the multiple slides requires any one of the above-described first to fourth modes of processing, and the processing performed in the sample processing system is not uniform. Therefore, in a sample processing system capable of performing the staining process, the dehydration process, the sealing process, and the scanning process, a design considering an efficient movement line is required in order to perform each of the first to fourth modes of processing.

[0078] For example, it is possible to consider arranging and disposing an input / output unit, a staining unit, a dehydration unit, a sealing unit, and a scanning unit in this order according to the order in which the staining process, the dehydration process, the sealing process, and the scanning process are performed to constitute a sample processing system. However, in such a sample processing system, it is necessary to convey a slide that only undergoes post-treatment to pass near the staining unit, which causes time loss.

[0079] Therefore, as Figure 1 shown, in the sample processing system 100 of the present embodiment, the staining unit 40 and the post-treatment unit 50 are arranged and disposed so as to sandwich the input / output unit 10. That is, the movement line for conveying from the input / output unit 10 to the staining unit 40 and the movement line for conveying to the post-treatment unit 50 are separated. Thus, whether it is the slide 1 that requires the staining process or the slide 1 that only undergoes post-treatment and does not require the staining process, it can be conveyed from the input / output unit 10 to the processing unit in a short time. Therefore, a sample processing system capable of efficiently performing processing can be provided.

[0080] Here, in the X direction, the staining unit 40, the input / output unit 10, the dehydration unit 51, the sealing unit 52, and the scanning unit 53 are arranged in this order. Thus, the slide 1 that requires any one of the first to fourth modes of processing can be conveyed and processed in a short time, and therefore, the processing of the sample processing system can be efficiently performed.

[0081] In addition, here, the conveying unit 60 is provided with a first conveying line 61 for conveying the slide 1 in the X1 direction and a second conveying line 62 for conveying the slide 1 in the X2 direction, respectively. Thus, by determining the moving direction of the slide 1 based on each conveying line (the first conveying line 61, the second conveying line 62) as one direction, efficient conveyance can be performed.

[0082] As described above, the invention completed by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the above-described embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist thereof. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the transfer unit 60 is linear has been described, but the transfer unit 60 may be configured in an L-shape that is bent at a right angle, for example, near the loading / unloading unit 10 when viewed from above. In this case, the staining unit 40, the loading / unloading unit 10, and the post-treatment unit 50 are arranged in this order along the L-shape. At this time, the first transfer line 61 and the second transfer line 62 may be divided near the loading / unloading unit 10, respectively, and may be configured by two transfer lines that transfer the slide 1 in different directions that intersect each other when viewed from above. Industrial Applicability

[0083] The present invention can be widely used in a sample processing system. Reference Numeral Explanation

[0084] 1 Slide 1a Identification Code 10 Loading / Unloading Unit 11 Loading Mechanism 12 Recovery Mechanism 13 Tray 14, 24 Identification Code Reader 20 Carrier 30 Transfer Mechanism 40 Staining Unit 50 Post-Treatment Unit 51 Dehydration Unit 52 Sealing Unit 53 Scanning Unit 60 Transfer Unit 61 First Transfer Line 62 Second Transfer Line 63 Third Transfer Line 70 Control Unit 80 Storage Unit 90 Operation Unit 100 Sample Processing System.

Claims

1. A sample processing system, characterized in that, Comprising: An input and recovery unit, which includes an input mechanism for storing a plurality of slides on which samples before dyeing treatment, dehydration treatment, sealing treatment or scanning treatment are placed, and a recovery mechanism for storing the slides after the treatment; A dyeing unit, which performs the dyeing treatment on the samples placed on the slides; A post-treatment unit, which performs the dehydration treatment, the sealing treatment or the scanning treatment on the samples placed on the slides; And A transfer unit, which can transfer the slides between the dyeing unit and the input and recovery unit, and between the input and recovery unit and the post-treatment unit, The dyeing unit, the input and recovery unit and the post-treatment unit are arranged in sequence.

2. The sample processing system according to claim 1, wherein The transfer unit has a transfer line, which extends in a first direction along the dyeing unit, the input and recovery unit and the post-treatment unit.

3. The sample processing system according to claim 1, wherein The transfer unit includes: A first transfer line, which extends in a first direction along the input and recovery unit and the post-treatment unit, and transfers the slides in a direction from the input and recovery unit side to the dyeing unit side; and A second transfer line, which extends in the first direction along the dyeing unit, the input and recovery unit and the post-treatment unit, and transfers the slides in a direction from the dyeing unit side to the input and recovery unit side.

4. The sample processing system according to claim 1, wherein The post-treatment unit includes: A dehydration unit, which performs the dehydration treatment on the samples placed on the slides; A sealing unit, which performs the sealing treatment on the samples placed on the slides; and A scanning unit, which performs the scanning treatment on the samples placed on the slides, The dyeing unit, the input and recovery unit, the dehydration unit, the sealing unit and the scanning unit are arranged side by side in sequence.

5. The sample processing system according to claim 1, wherein The slides are processed according to any one of the following 4 modes, namely: A first mode of sequentially performing the dyeing treatment, the dehydration treatment, the sealing treatment and the scanning treatment; A second mode of not performing the dyeing treatment and sequentially performing the dehydration treatment, the sealing treatment and the scanning treatment; A third mode of not performing the dyeing treatment and the dehydration treatment and sequentially performing the sealing treatment and the scanning treatment; and A fourth mode of not performing the dyeing treatment, the dehydration treatment and the sealing treatment and performing the scanning treatment.

6. The sample processing system according to claim 1, wherein, It further includes: A reading unit, which reads the identification code of the slides placed on the input mechanism; A control unit, which is connected to the sample processing system; And A storage unit, which is connected to the control unit and stores the information of the treatment of the slides corresponding to various information obtained by reading the identification code of the slides. The control unit determines which of the staining unit and the post-processing unit to transfer the slide to based on the information obtained by reading the identification code of the slide using the reading unit and referring to the information on the processing stored in the storage unit.

7. The sample processing system according to claim 6, wherein: The control unit determines whether the staining process is required. When the staining process is required, the staining process, the dehydration process, and the scanning process are sequentially performed on the slide. When the staining process is not required, the control unit determines whether the dehydration process is required. When the dehydration process is required, the dehydration process, the sealing process, and the scanning process are sequentially performed on the slide. When the dehydration process is not required, the control unit determines whether the sealing process is required. When the sealing process is required, the dehydration process and the scanning process are sequentially performed on the slide. When the sealing process is not required, the scanning process is performed on the slide.

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