Automatic analysis device and dispensing unit

Abstract

The invention provides an automatic analysis device and a dispensing unit. The present invention addresses the problem of ensuring the accuracy of position control of a dispensing probe during dispensing. [Solution] An automatic analysis device according to an embodiment is provided with a dispensing arm and an assist unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe for dispensing a liquid, and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position. The auxiliary unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position, and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving in the vertical direction.

Description

[0001] Related Application:

[0002] This application is based on and claims the priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-010064 filed on January 26, 2024, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments described herein generally relate to an automatic analysis device and a dispensing unit. Background Art

[0004] In an automatic analysis device for clinical examinations, a biological sample such as blood or urine (hereinafter referred to as "sample") is mixed with a reagent in a certain amount and allowed to react, and light is irradiated onto the mixture, and the amount of transmitted light and / or scattered light is measured to determine the concentration of the substance to be measured. When dispensing the sample or reagent into a reaction vessel, the dispensing probe is transported to a dispensing position such as a suction position or a ejection position by the rotational movement of a dispensing arm having a dispensing probe fixed to its tip.

[0005] In such an automatic analysis device, if the operating radius of the dispensing arm is increased, or multiple rotation axes are provided for the dispensing arm to achieve multi-axis operation, or the dispensing operation is made faster, there is a problem that the tip of the dispensing probe vibrates and the dispensing cannot be normally performed. Therefore, it is desired to ensure the accuracy of position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing.

[0006] Prior Art Documents:

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 61-88157 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Problems to be Solved by the Invention:

[0009] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings is to ensure the accuracy of position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings are not limited to the above problems. It is also possible to define as other problems the problems corresponding to the respective effects of the respective configurations shown in the embodiments described later.

[0010] The automatic analysis device according to the embodiment includes a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe for dispensing a liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position. The auxiliary unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving in the vertical direction.

[0011] Advantages of the Invention:

[0012] The object of the invention is to ensure the accuracy of the position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing. Description of the Drawings

[0013] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of the automatic analysis device according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the dispensing unit according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 It is a flowchart exemplifying the processing procedure of the dispensing process performed by the automatic analysis device according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the state where the dispensing probe has moved to the suction position.

[0018] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing the Figure 5 situation where the dispensing probe descends from the state shown.

[0019] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the Figure 6 situation where the dispensing probe ascends from the state shown.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the Figure 7 situation where the dispensing probe moves from the state shown to the ejection position.

[0021] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing the Figure 8 situation where the dispensing probe descends from the state shown.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing the Figure 9 situation where the dispensing probe ascends from the state shown.

[0023] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the dispensing unit according to the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 13 It is a flowchart exemplifying the processing procedure of the dispensing process performed by the automatic analysis device according to the second embodiment.

[0026] Figure 14This is a diagram showing the state where the dispensing probe has moved to the ejection position.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the situation where the dispensing probe separates from the Figure 14 state shown.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the situation where the dispensing probe descends from the Figure 15 state shown.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals:

[0030] 1…Automatic analysis device

[0031] 2…Analysis mechanism

[0032] 3…Analysis circuit

[0033] 4…Drive mechanism

[0034] 5…Input interface

[0035] 6…Output interface

[0036] 7…Communication interface

[0037] 8…Storage circuit

[0038] 9…Control circuit

[0039] 91…System control function

[0040] 100…Specimen container

[0041] 101…Reagent container

[0042] 201…Reaction plate

[0043] 2011…Reaction tube

[0044] 202…Thermostatic section

[0045] 203…Carrier sampler

[0046] 2031…Specimen carrier

[0047] 204…Reagent library

[0048] 205…Reagent library

[0049] 206…Specimen dispensing arm

[0050] 2061…Base

[0051] 2062…Rotating shaft

[0052] 2063…Arm part

[0053] 2064…Rotating shaft

[0054] 207…Sample dispensing probe

[0055] 2071…Cable

[0056] 207a…Washing tank

[0057] 207b…Detergent storage container

[0058] 208…Reagent dispensing arm

[0059] 209…Reagent dispensing probe

[0060] 209a…Washing tank

[0061] 210…Reagent dispensing arm

[0062] 211…Reagent dispensing probe

[0063] 211a…Washing tank

[0064] 212…Electrode unit

[0065] 213…Light measurement unit

[0066] 214…Washing unit

[0067] 215…Vertical movement unit

[0068] 2151…Base

[0069] 2152…Supporting part

[0070] 2153…Fixing part

[0071] 216…Probe storage part

[0072] 300…Reader Detailed implementation mode

[0073] The automatic analysis device according to the implementation mode includes a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe for dispensing liquid and transports the dispensing probe to the dispensing position. The auxiliary unit fixes the dispensing probe removably above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving in the vertical direction.

[0074] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the implementation modes of the measurement conveyor belt and the automatic analysis device will be described in detail. In the following description, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components having substantially the same functions and configurations, and repeated descriptions will be made only when necessary.

[0075] (The first implementation mode)

[0076] Figure 1This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the automatic analysis device 1 according to the first embodiment. As Figure 1 shown, the automatic analysis device 1 includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control circuit 9. In addition, the control circuit may also be referred to as a processing circuit.

[0077] The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample with reagents used in various inspection items set for the sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent. For example, it generates standard data and test data associated with absorbance. In addition, the analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent. For example, it generates standard data and test data associated with electrode potential.

[0078] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data, analysis data, etc. by analyzing the generated standard data and test data. The analysis circuit 3 reads an operation program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data, analysis data, etc. according to the read operation program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data representing the relationship between the standard data and the standard value preset for the standard sample based on the standard data. In addition, the analysis circuit 3 generates analysis data based on the test data and the calibration data of the inspection item corresponding to the test data. Among the analysis data, there are data in which a concentration value is associated with an enzyme activity value, and data in which the concentration of a desired ion in the sample is recorded in time series, etc. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analysis data, etc. to the control circuit 9.

[0079] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, gears, stepping motors, belt conveyors, lead screws, etc. For example, the drive mechanism 4 rotates a reaction disk 201 described later by a specified rotation angle. The specified rotation angle is, for example, the angle of rotation in one cycle.

[0080] The input interface 5 accepts, for example, settings of analysis parameters, etc. for each inspection item of a sample entrusted for measurement via the hospital internal network NW according to the operation of an operator. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad that inputs instructions by touching an operation surface, etc. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts the operation instruction input from the operator into an electrical signal, and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 9.

[0081] In addition, in this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to an interface having physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the input interface 5 may also be a processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analysis device 1 and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 9.

[0082] The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs the signal supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is implemented by, for example, a display circuit, a printing circuit, a sound device, etc.

[0083] The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, etc. In addition, the display circuit may also be a processing circuit that converts data representing a display object into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. The printing circuit includes, for example, a printer, etc. In addition, the printing circuit may also be an output circuit that outputs data representing a printing object to the outside. The sound device includes, for example, a speaker, etc. In addition, the sound device may also be an output circuit that outputs a sound signal to the outside.

[0084] The communication interface 7 is connected to the in-hospital network NW, for example. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with the HIS (Hospital Information System) via the in-hospital network NW. In addition, the communication interface 7 may also perform data communication with the HIS via the inspection department system connected to the in-hospital network NW.

[0085] The storage circuit 8 stores programs executed by the control circuit 9, various data used in the processing of the control circuit 9, etc. As the program, for example, a program that is pre-installed in a computer from a network or a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium and enables the computer to implement the various functions of the control circuit 9 is used. In addition, various data processed in this specification are typically digital data. The storage circuit 8 is an example of a storage mechanism.

[0086] In addition, the storage circuit 8 stores inspection orders input by an operator, or inspection orders received via the in-hospital network NW by the communication interface 7, etc. The order information includes a specimen ID, inspection items to be performed on the specimen as a measurement object, and the measurement order related to the inspection. In addition, the storage circuit 8 stores various set values for performing a series of operations of each part of the automatic analyzer 1 in one cycle.

[0087] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the center of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 9 executes the system control function 91 by executing the program read out from the storage circuit 8. The control circuit 9 performs overall control of each part in the automatic analyzer 1 based on the input information input from the input interface 5 through the system control function 91. For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 drives the drive mechanism 4 to perform measurements corresponding to the inspection items, and controls the analysis circuit 3 to analyze the standard data and the measured data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The control circuit 9 for implementing the system control function 91 is an example of a control unit.

[0088] The term "processor" used in the above description means, for example, a circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), or a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). For example, when the processor is a CPU, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 8. On the other hand, when the processor is an ASIC, instead of storing the program in the storage circuit 8, the function is directly assembled as a logic circuit inside the circuit of the processor. In addition, each processor in the present embodiment is not limited to the case where it is configured as a single circuit for each processor, and multiple independent circuits may be combined to form one processor and realize its functions. Furthermore, multiple constituent elements in Figure 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize its functions. The above description of the "processor" is the same in each of the following embodiments and modification examples.

[0089] In addition, in the present embodiment, it is described that each function is realized by a single processor, but it is not limited thereto. For example, multiple independent processors may be combined to form a control circuit, and each function may be realized by each processor executing a program. In addition, the system control function 91 may also be referred to as a system control circuit and may be installed as an individual hardware circuit. The above description of each function executed by the control circuit 9 is the same in each of the following embodiments and modification examples. In addition, the control circuit 9 may include a storage area for storing at least a part of the data stored in the storage circuit 8. The control circuit 9 may also be referred to as a control unit or a processing circuit.

[0090] Next, the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 will be described in detail.

[0091] Figure 2 is a diagram showing Figure 1 an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Figure 2As shown, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a reaction plate 201, a thermostat unit 202, a carrier sampler 203, a first reagent reservoir 204, and a second reagent reservoir 205. Additionally, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a cleaning tank 207a, a detergent storage container 207b, a first reagent dispensing arm 208, a first reagent dispensing probe 209, a cleaning tank 209a, a second reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, a cleaning tank 211a, an electrode unit 212, a photometric unit 213, and a cleaning unit 214.

[0092] In addition, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a dispensing unit composed of a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe for dispensing liquid and transports the dispensing probe to the dispensing position. The auxiliary unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and moves the fixed dispensing probe in the vertical direction. The liquid is, for example, a sample, a reagent, pure water, a detergent, or a standard sample. The dispensing position is, for example, the suction position or the ejection position of the liquid.

[0093] In the present embodiment, the case where the liquid is a sample and the dispensing position is the ejection position of the sample (hereinafter referred to as the sample ejection position) will be described. In the present embodiment, the sample dispensing arm 206 corresponds to the dispensing arm, the sample dispensing probe 207 corresponds to the dispensing probe, and the vertical movement unit 215 corresponds to the auxiliary unit. The detailed configuration of the dispensing unit will be described later.

[0094] First, the reaction plate 201, the thermostat unit 202, the carrier sampler 203, the first reagent reservoir 204, and the second reagent reservoir 205 will be described.

[0095] The reaction plate 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 2011 arranged in a ring. The reaction plate 201 is rotated and stopped alternately at a predetermined time interval (hereinafter referred to as one cycle), for example, 4.5 seconds, by a drive mechanism 4. The reaction tubes 2011 are formed of, for example, glass, polypropylene (PP), or acrylic. In addition, the reaction tubes 2011 may also be referred to as reaction vessels or units. Additionally, the operation of the reaction plate 201 during inspection may also be referred to as a cyclic operation.

[0096] The thermostat unit 202 is a container that stores water (constant temperature water) maintained at a specified temperature (usually 37°C). The constant temperature water contains additives, for example, for antibacterial purposes. The thermostat unit 202 warms the liquid (e.g., the mixed liquid) stored in the reaction tubes 2011 by immersing the reaction tubes 2011 in the stored constant temperature water and maintains it at a constant temperature.

[0097] The carrier sampler 203 supports the sample carrier 2031 so as to be movable, and the sample carrier 2031 can hold a plurality of sample containers 100 for storing the samples to be measured on commission.Figure 2 In the illustrated example, a specimen holder 2031 is shown that can hold five specimen containers 100 in parallel.

[0098] The holder sampler 203 is provided with a reader 300. The reader 300 is arranged, for example, at a position where an optical mark attached to the specimen container 100 can be read. The optical mark is a mark encoded with identification information of the specimen stored in the specimen container 100, such as a barcode, a one-dimensional pixel code, and a two-dimensional pixel code. The reader 300 starts reading the optical mark on the basis of an instruction from the control circuit 9 to start reading the ID. When the specimen container 100 reaches a position where the optical mark can be read, the reader 300 reads the identification information of the specimen from the optical mark. The reader 300 supplies the read identification information to the control circuit 9. In addition, the reader 300 may be replaced by other sensors using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or the like.

[0099] In the holder sampler 203, a conveyance area is provided, in which the specimen holder 2031 is conveyed from a loading position where the specimen holder 2031 is loaded to a recovery position where the specimen holder 2031 with the measurement completed is recovered. In the conveyance area, a plurality of specimen holders 2031 arranged in a row along the short side direction are moved in the direction D1 by a drive mechanism 4.

[0100] In addition, in the holder sampler 203, in order to move the specimen container 100 held by the specimen holder 2031 to a specified sample suction position, a pulling-in area is provided for pulling the specimen holder 2031 into the conveyance area. The sample suction position is arranged, for example, at a position where the rotation locus of a specimen dispensing probe 207 described later intersects with the movement locus of the opening of the specimen container supported by the holder sampler 203 and held by the specimen holder 2031. In the pulling-in area, the conveyed specimen holder 2031 is moved in the direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4. In addition, at a position in the pulling-in area where the optical mark can be read, the reader 300 reads the optical mark on the specimen container held by the specimen holder 2031 after moving in the direction D2.

[0101] In addition, in the holder sampler 203, a return area is provided for returning the specimen holder 2031 holding the specimen container with the specimen sucked to the conveyance area. In the return area, the specimen holder 2031 is moved in the direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0102] The first reagent reservoir 204 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 101 storing a first reagent, which reacts with a specified component contained in a standard specimen or a specified component contained in a test specimen. Figure 2Not shown in the figure, the first reagent reservoir 204 is covered with a reagent cover that can be disassembled and assembled freely. Inside the first reagent reservoir 204, a reagent carrier is provided in a rotatable manner. The reagent carrier arranges and holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 in a circular ring. The reagent carrier is rotated by a drive mechanism 4.

[0103] A first reagent suction position is set at a specified position on the first reagent reservoir 204. The first reagent suction position is set, for example, at a position where the rotation locus of a first reagent dispensing probe 209 described later intersects with the movement locus of the openings of the reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular ring on the reagent carrier.

[0104] The second reagent reservoir 205, for example, keeps cool a plurality of reagent containers 101 storing a second reagent, and the second reagent forms a pair with the first reagent to constitute a double reagent type. Figure 2 Not shown in the figure, the second reagent reservoir 205 is covered with a reagent cover that can be disassembled and assembled freely. Inside the second reagent reservoir 205, a reagent carrier is provided in a rotatable manner. The reagent carrier arranges and holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 in a circular ring. In addition, the second reagent kept cool by the second reagent reservoir 205 and the first reagent kept cool by the first reagent reservoir 204 can also be reagents of the same component and the same concentration.

[0105] A second reagent suction position is set at a specified position on the second reagent reservoir 205. The second reagent suction position is set, for example, at a position where the rotation locus of a second reagent dispensing probe 211 intersects with the movement locus of the openings of the reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular ring on the reagent carrier.

[0106] Next, the specimen dispensing arm 206, the specimen dispensing probe 207, the cleaning tank 207a, the detergent storage container 207b, the first reagent dispensing arm 208, the first reagent dispensing probe 209, the cleaning tank 209a, the second reagent dispensing arm 210, the second reagent dispensing probe 211, the cleaning tank 211a, the electrode unit 212, the photometry unit 213, and the cleaning unit 214 will be described.

[0107] The specimen dispensing arm 206 holds the specimen dispensing probe 207 for dispensing a specimen and transports the specimen dispensing probe 207 to the dispensing position. The specimen dispensing arm 206 is provided near the reaction plate 201 and the carrier sampler 203. The specimen dispensing arm 206 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and movable horizontally by a drive mechanism 4. The specimen dispensing arm 206 holds the specimen dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0108] The sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the sample. The sample dispensing probe 207 moves within the moving range of the sample dispensing arm 206 along with the horizontal drive of the sample dispensing arm 206. The opening of the sample container held by the sample holder 2031 on the carriage sampler 203 is located within this moving range.

[0109] In addition, within the moving range of the sample dispensing probe 207, there is a sample ejection position for ejecting the sample attracted by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction tube 2011. The sample ejection position is located on the moving track of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction plate 201.

[0110] In addition, within the moving range of the sample dispensing probe 207, at a position different from the sample attraction position and the sample ejection position, there is a cleaning position for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 207. At the cleaning position, there is a cleaning tank 207a for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0111] In addition, within the moving range of the sample dispensing probe 207, at a position different from the sample attraction position, the sample ejection position, and the cleaning position, there may be a detergent attraction position for the sample dispensing probe 207 to attract the detergent. At the detergent attraction position, there may also be a detergent storage container 207b for storing the detergent for cleaning the electrode unit described below.

[0112] By driving the sample dispensing arm 206 by the drive mechanism 4, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves in the vertical direction above the opening of the sample container held by the sample holder 2031 on the carriage sampler 203, at the sample ejection position, the cleaning position, or the detergent attraction position.

[0113] In addition, the sample dispensing probe 207 attracts the sample from the opening of the sample container according to the control of the control circuit 9. In addition, the sample dispensing probe 207 ejects the attracted sample into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample ejection position according to the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of dispensing operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0114] In addition, the sample dispensing probe 207 sucks the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 207a directly below the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 under the control of the control circuit 9. The cleaning liquid is, for example, pure water, an alkaline detergent for probe cleaning, or an acidic detergent for probe cleaning. The sample dispensing probe 207 sprays the sucked cleaning liquid onto the reaction tube 2011 directly below the sample ejection position under the control of the control circuit 9. Thus, the sample dispensing probe 207 and the reaction tube 2011 directly below the sample ejection position are cleaned. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of cleaning operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0115] In addition, when the automatic analyzer 1 is equipped with the detergent storage container 207b, the sample dispensing probe 207 sucks the detergent from the detergent storage container 207b directly below the detergent suction position on the rotation trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 under the control of the control circuit 9. In addition, the sample dispensing probe 207 sprays the sucked detergent onto the reaction tube 2011 directly below the sample ejection position under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of dispensing operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0116] The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the first reagent reservoir 204. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is arranged to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 holds the first reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0117] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation trajectory as the first reagent dispensing arm 208 rotates. A first reagent suction position is provided on this rotation trajectory. In addition, on the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209, a first reagent ejection position for ejecting the reagent sucked by the first reagent dispensing probe 209 onto the reaction tube 2011 is set. The first reagent ejection position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201. Furthermore, at a position on the rotation trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 different from the first reagent suction position and the first reagent ejection position, a cleaning position for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is provided. A cleaning tank 209a for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is provided at the cleaning position.

[0118] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the first reagent suction position, the first reagent ejection position, or the cleaning position on the rotation trajectory.

[0119] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the first reagent from a reagent container located directly below the first reagent aspiration position under the control of the control circuit 9. That is, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is an example of the reagent dispensing probe according to the present embodiment. In addition, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 ejects the aspirated first reagent into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the first reagent ejection position under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 performs this series of dispensing operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0120] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 209a located directly below the cleaning position on the rotation locus of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 ejects the aspirated cleaning liquid into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the first reagent ejection position under the control of the control circuit 9. Thereby, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the first reagent ejection position are cleaned. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 performs this series of cleaning operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0121] The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided between the reaction plate 201 and the second reagent reservoir 205. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is arranged to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 holds the second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end.

[0122] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation locus as the second reagent dispensing arm 210 rotates. A second reagent aspiration position is provided on this rotation locus.

[0123] In addition, on the rotation locus of the second reagent dispensing probe 211, a second reagent ejection position for ejecting the reagent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction tube 2011 is set. The second reagent ejection position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation locus of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement locus of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction plate 201.

[0124] In addition, on the rotation locus of the second reagent dispensing probe 211, a detergent ejection position for ejecting the detergent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction tube is set. The detergent ejection position corresponds to the intersection of the rotation locus of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement locus of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction plate 201, and is a position different from the second reagent ejection position.

[0125] In addition, at a position on the rotation locus of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 that is different from the second reagent suction position, the second reagent ejection position, and the detergent ejection position, there is a cleaning position where the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is cleaned. At the cleaning position, there is a cleaning tank 211a for cleaning the second reagent dispensing probe 211.

[0126] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves in the vertical direction at the second reagent suction position, the second reagent ejection position, the detergent ejection position, or the cleaning position on the rotation locus.

[0127] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the second reagent from the reagent container located directly below the second reagent suction position in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9. That is, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is an example of the reagent dispensing probe according to the present embodiment. In addition, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 ejects the sucked second reagent into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the second reagent ejection position in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of dispensing operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0128] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 sucks the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 211a located directly below the cleaning position on the rotation locus of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 ejects the sucked cleaning liquid into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the second reagent ejection position in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9. Thereby, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the second reagent ejection position are cleaned. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of cleaning operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0129] The electrode unit 212 measures the electrolyte concentration of the mixture of the sample and the reagent ejected into the reaction tube 2011. The electrode unit 212 has an ion selective electrode (ISE) and a reference electrode. The electrode unit 212 measures the potential between the ISE and the reference electrode for the mixture to be measured in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9, thereby detecting the electrolyte of the ions (such as sodium ions, potassium ions, and chloride ions) as the inspection items. The electrode unit 212 outputs the data obtained by measuring the potential to the analysis circuit 3 as standard data or test data.

[0130] The light measurement unit 213 detects the light emitted from the reaction tube 2011 through a photodetector.

[0131] Specifically, for example, the optical detector detects the light after passing through the mixture of the standard sample and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates standard data represented by absorbance or the like based on the intensity of the detected light. In addition, the optical detector detects the light after passing through the mixture of the test sample and the reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates test data represented by absorbance or the like based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometry unit 213 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0132] The cleaning unit 214 cleans the inside of the reaction tube 2011 that has completed the measurement of the mixture in the electrode unit 212 or the photometry unit 213. The cleaning unit 214 includes a cleaning liquid supply pump (not shown) for supplying a cleaning liquid for cleaning the reaction tube 2011. In addition, the cleaning unit 214 includes a cleaning nozzle (not shown) for spraying the cleaning liquid supplied from the cleaning liquid supply pump into the reaction tube 2011, or sucking each liquid of the mixture and the cleaning liquid in the reaction tube 2011.

[0133] In addition, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a stirring unit (not shown). The stirring unit is disposed near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The stirring unit has a stirring member, and the sample and the first reagent stored in the reaction tube 2011 at the stirring position on the reaction disk 201, or the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent stored in the reaction tube 2011 are stirred by the stirring member.

[0134] The vertical movement unit 215 detachably fixes the sample dispensing probe 207 above the sample ejection position and assists the fixed sample dispensing probe 207 in moving in the vertical direction. At this time, the vertical movement unit 215 functions as a guide for ensuring the accuracy of the position control of the sample dispensing probe 207. The vertical movement unit 215 can be driven actively or passively in the vertical direction. For example, both the drive mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206 and the drive mechanism 4 of the vertical movement unit 215 are used to move the sample dispensing probe 207. In this case, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 together with (cooperates with) the sample dispensing probe 207. In addition, the sample dispensing probe 207 can also be moved only by using the drive mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0135] The vertical movement unit 215 is supported near the sample ejection position at a position different from that of the sample dispensing probe 207. In this embodiment, the vertical movement unit 215 is located inside the reaction disk 201. Therefore, the reaction disk 201 and the sample holder 2031 are located between the vertical movement unit 215 and the sample dispensing arm 206. The vertical movement unit 215 can be located near the sample ejection position or outside the reaction disk 201, between the reaction disk 201 and the sample holder 2031. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the vertical movement unit 215 secures the sample dispensing probe 207 held at the tip of the sample dispensing arm 206 and assists in controlling the position of the sample dispensing arm 206 during sample ejection. In this embodiment, while the sample dispensing probe 207 is secured to the sample dispensing arm 206 during sample ejection, the vertical movement unit 215, together with the sample dispensing arm 206, moves the sample dispensing probe 207 vertically.

[0136] As a method of securing the sample dispensing probe 207 to the vertical movement unit 215, for example, a method of attaching a magnet to the sample dispensing probe 207 for attracting the sample dispensing probe 207 can be cited. Alternatively, a gripping mechanism for gripping the sample dispensing probe 207 can be provided on the vertical movement unit 215.

[0137] Next, the configuration of the dispensing unit of this embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 3 This figure shows an example of the structure of a dispensing unit. The dispensing unit includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, and a vertical movement unit 215. Here, a structure is described in which a magnet is provided on the vertical movement unit 215, and the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 using the magnet. Furthermore, the sample dispensing probe 207 is formed to be attracted to the magnet. For example, a metal material that attracts the magnet can be attached to the inside or outside of the sample dispensing probe 207, or the sample dispensing probe 207 can be formed from a metal material that attracts the magnet.

[0138] The sample dispensing arm 206 includes a base 2061, a first rotation axis 2062, and an arm 2063. At the distal end of the arm 2063, a sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed.

[0139] The base 2061 is fixed to the opposite side of the reaction disk 201 with the carrier sampler 203 interposed therebetween. The base 2061 supports the first rotation shaft 2062 , the arm 2063 , and the sample dispensing probe 207 .

[0140] The lower end of the first rotating shaft 2062 is supported by the base 2061, and the first rotating shaft 2062 extends along the vertical direction. An arm portion 2063 is fixed to the first rotating shaft 2062. The arm portion 2063 extends in the horizontal direction. The first rotating shaft 2062 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 to move up and down relative to the base 2061 and rotate in the horizontal direction. If the first rotating shaft 2062 moves up and down, the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 move up and down together with the first rotating shaft 2062. If the first rotating shaft 2062 rotates relative to the base 2061, the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 rotate in the horizontal direction with the first rotating shaft 2062 as the rotation axis.

[0141] In addition, the arm portion 2063 includes a second rotating shaft 2064 that extends along the vertical direction. The arm portion 2063 is configured to be able to rotate in the horizontal direction about the second rotating shaft 2064. The arm portion 2063 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 to rotate in the horizontal direction about the second rotating shaft 2064.

[0142] The control circuit 9 controls the driving of the first rotating shaft 2062 and the second rotating shaft 2064 individually, and by combining the rotation, bending, and extension movements of the arm portion 2063, moves the sample dispensing probe 207 mounted on the front end portion of the sample dispensing arm 206 to a desired position. In addition, inside the sample dispensing arm 206, a cable for supplying power to drive the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided. The control circuit 9 controls the driving of the sample dispensing probe 207 via this cable, thereby controlling the dispensing operation of the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0143] The vertical movement unit 215 includes a base 2151, a support portion 2152, and a fixing portion 2153.

[0144] The base 2151 is disposed near the sample ejection position. In the present embodiment, the base 2151 is provided inside the reaction plate 201. The base 2061 supports the support portion 2152.

[0145] The lower end of the support portion 2152 is supported by the base 2151. The support portion 2152 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 to move up and down relative to the base 2151.

[0146] The support portion 2152 supports the fixing portion 2153. The fixing portion 2153 extends toward the sample ejection position. On the fixing portion 2153, when the sample is ejected, the sample dispensing probe 207 that has moved by the drive of the sample dispensing arm 206 is fixed. Inside the fixing portion 2153, a magnet is installed. In addition, on the sample dispensing probe 207, a magnet having a polarity opposite to that of the magnet provided on the fixing portion 2153 is installed. If the sample dispensing probe 207 comes into contact with the fixing portion 2153, due to the attractive force between the magnets, the sample dispensing probe 207 is adsorbed and fixed to the fixing portion 2153.

[0147] The magnet can be installed outside the sample dispensing probe 207 or can be disposed inside the sample dispensing probe 207. In addition, instead of the magnet, a metal material adsorbed to the magnet can be installed on the sample dispensing probe 207. In addition, the sample dispensing probe 207 can be formed of a metal material adsorbed to the magnet.

[0148] Next, the operation of the automatic analysis device 1 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0149] Figure 4 It is a flowchart showing an example of a process (hereinafter referred to as a sample dispensing process) executed by the automatic analysis device 1 when dispensing a sample using the sample dispensing probe 207. Each process described below is executed by driving each drive mechanism 4 in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9, but the description thereof is omitted. In addition, the process in each process described below is merely an example, and each process can be appropriately changed as much as possible. In addition, for the process described below, steps can be appropriately omitted, replaced, and added in accordance with the embodiment. The above description of the process in each process is the same in the following embodiments and modification examples.

[0150] (Sample dispensing process)

[0151] (Step S101)

[0152] When dispensing a sample, first, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 to the sample suction position on the tray sampler 203. Figure 5 It is a diagram showing a state where the sample dispensing probe 207 has moved to the sample suction position.

[0153] (Step S102)

[0154] If the sample dispensing probe 207 moves to the sample suction position, a sample suction operation is performed. At this time, as Figure 5 shown, by driving downward through the first rotation shaft 2062, the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 fixed to the front end of the arm portion 2063 are lowered together.Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the state after the sample dispensing probe 207 has descended. The sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates a sample from the opening of the sample container stored in the bracket sampler 203. Subsequently, it is driven upward by the first rotating shaft 2062, so that as Figure 7 shown, the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 supported by the arm portion 2063 rise together.

[0155] (Step S103)

[0156] If a series of sample aspiration operations are completed, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 to the sample ejection position on the reaction plate 201. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the state where the sample dispensing probe 207 has moved to the sample ejection position.

[0157] (Step S104)

[0158] At the sample ejection position, there is a fixed portion 2153 of the vertical movement unit 215. If the sample dispensing probe 207 moves to the sample ejection position, the sample dispensing probe 207 is adsorbed to the fixed portion 2153 by the adsorption force of the magnet disposed inside the fixed portion 2153. Thus, the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215.

[0159] (Step S105)

[0160] If the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215, the sample dispensing arm 206 or the vertical movement unit 215 causes the sample dispensing probe 207 to descend toward the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample ejection position. At this time, as Figure 9 shown, by driving downward together with the support portion 2152 by the first rotating shaft 2062, the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 descend together.

[0161] (Step S106)

[0162] The sample dispensing probe 207 ejects the sample toward the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample ejection position. Since the sample dispensing probe 207 descends while being fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 provided near the sample ejection position, it can move precisely above the reaction tube 2011 and can eject the sample precisely.

[0163] (Step S107)

[0164] If the ejection of the sample is completed, the sample dispensing arm 206 or the vertical movement unit 215 is as Figure 10Raise the sample dispensing probe 207 as shown. At this time, it is driven upward together with the support portion 2152 by the first rotating shaft 2062, so that the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 are raised together.

[0165] In addition, when lowering and raising the sample dispensing probe 207, the driving mechanisms 4 of both the sample dispensing arm 206 and the vertical movement unit 215 can be driven simultaneously, or only one of the driving mechanisms 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206 and the vertical movement unit 215 can be driven. When moving the sample dispensing probe 207 up and down only using the driving mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206, the driving mechanism 4 may not be provided for the vertical movement unit 215.

[0166] As described above, through a series of processes of steps S101 - S107, the sample dispensing operation is performed by the sample dispensing probe 207. The sample dispensing probe 207, for example, performs the above - mentioned series of dispensing operations once during one cycle and performs a cleaning operation after the dispensing operation. In the cleaning operation, after the sample dispensing probe 207 moves to the cleaning position and sucks the cleaning liquid, it moves again to the sample ejection position and ejects the sucked cleaning liquid to the reaction tube 2011 that has completed measurement. Thereby, the sample dispensing probe 207 and the reaction tube 2011 are cleaned.

[0167] The automatic analysis device of the present embodiment includes a dispensing unit including a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe for dispensing liquid and transports the dispensing probe to the dispensing position. The auxiliary unit fixes the dispensing probe in a detachable manner above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving in the vertical direction. The liquid is a sample, a reagent, pure water, a detergent, or a standard sample. The dispensing position is the suction position or the ejection position of the liquid. By fixing the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and providing an auxiliary unit that moves up and down together with the dispensing probe when the dispensing operation is performed, the dispensing operation can be made stable.

[0168] For example, the automatic analysis device 1 of the present embodiment includes the sample dispensing arm 206 as the dispensing arm and includes the vertical movement unit 215 as the auxiliary unit. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207. The vertical movement unit 215 fixes the sample dispensing probe 207 in a detachable manner near the sample ejection position and moves the fixed sample dispensing probe 207 in the vertical direction. The vertical movement unit 215 is provided at a position different from the position where the sample dispensing arm 206 is provided near the sample ejection position. When the sample is ejected, with the sample dispensing probe 207 fixed to the sample dispensing arm 206, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 in the vertical direction.

[0169] With the above configuration, by sharing the functions of the dispensing arm, it is possible to ensure the accuracy of position control during dispensing. For example, in the automatic analysis device 1 according to the present embodiment, a vertical movement unit 215 is provided. The vertical movement unit 215 is disposed near the sample ejection position, and the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed (clamped) above the sample ejection position and moved vertically while the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed. Thus, it is possible to suppress the position deviation or vibration of the sample dispensing probe 207 during dispensing, suppress the splashing of the sample during ejection, stabilize the dispensing operation, and improve the accuracy of position control during dispensing.

[0170] Generally speaking, if the operating radius of the dispensing arm is increased, or if multiple rotating shafts are provided on the dispensing arm, the rigidity of the dispensing arm becomes low and the dispensing operation becomes unstable. In addition, if the operation of the dispensing arm is made high-speed, the dispensing operation becomes unstable. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, by providing an auxiliary unit, the dispensing position accuracy can be ensured, so that the operating radius of the dispensing arm can be increased and it can be disposed at a position separated from the dispensing position. Thus, an excellent layout that does not depend on the operating radius of the dispensing arm can be achieved. In addition, by providing an auxiliary unit, the dispensing position accuracy can be ensured, so that the operation of the dispensing arm can be made high-speed and the throughput can be increased. In this case, the moving speed can be ensured on the dispensing arm side and the position accuracy can be ensured on the auxiliary unit side. In addition, by providing an auxiliary unit, the dispensing position accuracy can be ensured, so that the dispensing arm can be made multi-axis and the degree of freedom of the moving range of the dispensing probe can be increased. Furthermore, as long as one or more rotating shafts are provided on the dispensing arm, three or more can also be provided. By increasing the number of rotating shafts, the degree of freedom of the moving range of the dispensing probe fixed to the dispensing arm can be increased. In addition, even when the rigidity of the dispensing arm is low, the dispensing position accuracy can be ensured by the auxiliary unit, so that the manufacturing cost of the dispensing arm can be reduced.

[0171] In the present embodiment, the case where the auxiliary unit is provided at the sample ejection position has been described, but the auxiliary unit can also be provided near the sample suction position to assist the sample suction operation performed by the sample dispensing probe 207. In addition, the auxiliary unit can also be provided near the reagent suction position or ejection position to assist the dispensing operation performed by the reagent dispensing probe. In addition, when a dispensing probe for dispensing pure water, detergent, or standard sample is provided, the auxiliary unit can also be provided near these dispensing positions to assist the dispensing operation performed by the dispensing probe. In addition, the auxiliary unit can also be provided at multiple or all of the above-mentioned dispensing positions.

[0172] Alternatively, an elastic member for suppressing the impact when the dispensing arm contacts the contact surface may be installed on the magnet. In this case, the magnet and the elastic member are provided inside the auxiliary unit, and an elastic member such as a spring is disposed between the contact surface that contacts the dispensing probe and the magnet provided inside. If the dispensing probe contacts, the magnet is pulled toward the dispensing probe side, and thus the magnet moves toward the dispensing probe side while the spring contracts. After the dispensing probe contacts the contact surface, the magnet approaches the dispensing probe, so that the speed when the dispensing probe contacts the contact surface can be suppressed, the impact when the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit can be suppressed, and clamping can be performed by soft contact.

[0173] Alternatively, it may be configured such that inside the auxiliary unit, the magnet is fixed so as to be movable in the vertical direction, and the dispensing probe slides on the contact surface of the auxiliary unit following the movement of the magnet.

[0174] Alternatively, an electromagnetic electromagnet may be used, and the attachment / detachment of the dispensing probe to / from the auxiliary unit may be switched by switching the on / off of the magnetic force of the electromagnet.

[0175] Alternatively, the polarity of the electromagnet of the auxiliary unit may be switched at the timing of fixing the dispensing probe, thereby suppressing the impact when the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit. For example, when the dispensing probe contacts the contact surface of the auxiliary unit, control is performed so that the polarity of the magnet of the dispensing probe is opposite to the polarity of the electromagnet of the auxiliary unit, and after the dispensing probe contacts the auxiliary unit, the polarity of the electromagnet of the auxiliary unit is switched to be the same as the polarity of the magnet of the dispensing probe. Thereby, clamping can be performed smoothly.

[0176] Alternatively, when the dispensing probe moves horizontally and contacts the auxiliary unit above the ejection position, the dispensing probe may be slightly lowered simultaneously with the horizontal movement. Thereby, a part of the liquid splashing from the tip of the dispensing probe when the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit can be guided into the container provided directly below the dispensing position, and liquid splashing to positions other than the target position can be suppressed.

[0177] In addition, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit using a magnet has been described, but other means capable of fixing the dispensing probe to the auxiliary unit may also be used. For example, a gripping mechanism capable of gripping and holding the dispensing probe may be provided to the auxiliary unit.

[0178] (Second Embodiment)

[0179] Describe the second embodiment. The configuration of the first embodiment is modified as follows. The description of the same configuration, operation, and effects as those of the first embodiment is omitted. In this embodiment, a single dispensing arm is used to distribute the dispensing probes to the auxiliary units respectively provided at multiple dispensing positions. Specifically, the dispensing arm holds the dispensing probe in a detachable manner, and separates the dispensing probe from the dispensing arm based on the fact that the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit. The auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe in the vertical direction in a state where the dispensing probe is separated from the dispensing arm. After separating the dispensing probe, the dispensing arm holds another dispensing probe and transports the dispensing probe to a specified dispensing position.

[0180] Figure 11 FIG. is an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 of this embodiment. As Figure 11 shown, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a plurality of vertically moving units 215. In Figure 11 , two vertically moving units 215 are shown, but three or more vertically moving units 215 may be provided.

[0181] The analysis mechanism 2 further includes a probe storage unit 216. In the probe storage unit 216, a plurality of sample dispensing probes 207 are stored. The probe storage unit 216 is arranged within the moving range of the front end of the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0182] Figure 12 FIG. is an example of the configuration of the dispensing unit of this embodiment. In this embodiment, the sample dispensing probe 207 can be separated from the sample dispensing arm 206, and the sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207 in a detachable manner. For example, the sample dispensing arm 206 includes a gripping mechanism for gripping the sample dispensing probe 207 as the drive mechanism 4, and disassembles and assembles the sample dispensing probe 207 according to the control of the control circuit 9.

[0183] A cable 2071 for supplying power to drive the sample dispensing probe 207 is connected to the sample dispensing probe 207. In this embodiment, the cable 2071 is arranged outside the sample dispensing arm 206. The cable 2071 is connected to a pump (not shown) or the like for performing the dispensing operation of the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0184] The sample dispensing arm 206 disassembles the sample dispensing probe 207 according to the control of the control circuit 9 based on the fact that the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertically moving unit 215. If the sample dispensing probe 207 is disassembled, the sample dispensing arm 206 holds another sample dispensing probe 207 stored in the probe storage unit 216.

[0185] When the sample is ejected, with the sample dispensing probe 207 fixed to the sample dispensing arm 206, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 in the vertical direction.

[0186] Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0187] Figure 13 It is a flowchart showing an example of the process of the sample dispensing process performed by the automatic analyzer 1 of the present embodiment. Each process described below is executed by driving each drive mechanism 4 in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9, but the description thereof is omitted. The processes of steps S201 - S204 and steps S207 - S208 are the same as Figure 4 the processes of steps S101 - S104 and steps S106 - S107, so the description is omitted.

[0188] (Step S205)

[0189] Figure 14 It is a diagram showing the state where the sample dispensing probe 207 has moved to the sample ejection position. If the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 in step S204, the sample dispensing arm 206 is as Figure 15 shown and separates the sample dispensing probe 207 from the arm portion 2063.

[0190] (Step S206)

[0191] If the sample dispensing probe 207 is separated from the sample dispensing arm 206, the vertical movement unit 215 lowers the sample dispensing probe 207 toward the reaction tube 2011 directly below the sample ejection position. At this time, as Figure 16 shown, the support portion 2152 descends together with the sample dispensing probe 207. Thereafter, the sample is ejected from the sample dispensing probe 207. Since the sample dispensing probe 207 descends while being fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 provided near the sample ejection position, it can move precisely above the reaction tube 2011 and can eject the sample precisely.

[0192] If the sample dispensing probe 207 is disassembled, during the descent of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the ejection of the sample, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves the front end portion toward the probe storage portion 216 and holds the sample dispensing probe 207 stored in the probe storage portion 216. Thereafter, the sample dispensing arm 206 performs the processes of steps S201 - S205 again. After transporting the held sample dispensing probe 207 to the sample aspiration position, it is transported to the next sample ejection position. At the sample ejection position, another vertical movement unit 215 is provided. After the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 at the sample ejection position, it is separated from the sample dispensing arm 206, and the sample is ejected.

[0193] Hereinafter, the effects of the automatic analysis device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0194] In the present embodiment, the dispensing arm holds the dispensing probe in a detachable manner, and based on the situation that the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit, the dispensing probe is separated from the dispensing arm. The auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe in the vertical direction in a state where the dispensing probe is separated from the dispensing arm. After separating the dispensing probe, the dispensing arm holds another dispensing probe. For example, in the present embodiment, the sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207 in a detachable manner. Based on the situation that the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215, the sample dispensing probe 207 is separated from the sample dispensing arm 206. After separating the sample dispensing probe 207, another sample dispensing probe 207 is held. In the vertical movement unit 215, the sample dispensing probe 207 is moved in the vertical direction in a state where the sample dispensing probe 207 is separated from the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0195] With the above configuration, if the dispensing probe is clamped by the auxiliary unit, after separating the dispensing probe, the dispensing arm operates another dispensing probe. Thus, it is possible to use one dispensing arm to distribute the dispensing probe to the auxiliary units provided at multiple dispensing positions. Therefore, the dispensing operation can be stabilized by the auxiliary unit, and the throughput can be improved.

[0196] The auxiliary unit may also be provided near the aspiration position or the ejection position of the reagent to assist the dispensing operation of the reagent dispensing probe. In this case, the cable connected to the reagent dispensing probe may also be connected to the reagent tank storing the reagent. In this case, there is no need to perform the reagent aspiration operation, and the reagent tank supplies a certain amount of reagent to the dispensing probe via the cable at a predetermined timing.

[0197] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the accuracy of the position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing can be ensured.

[0198] The above describes several embodiments, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In fact, the novel embodiments described herein can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope or gist of the invention and are included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, wherein, Comprising: A dispensing arm that holds a dispensing probe for dispensing a liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position; and An auxiliary unit that detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving in the vertical direction.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The liquid is a sample, a reagent, pure water, a detergent, or a standard sample.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The dispensing position is a suction position or a ejection position of the liquid.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The auxiliary unit is provided near the dispensing position and at a position different from the dispensing arm.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The auxiliary unit includes a magnet, The dispensing probe is adsorbed to the magnet.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 5, wherein The magnet is provided inside the auxiliary unit, The auxiliary unit further includes a contact surface for the dispensing probe to contact, and an elastic member provided between the contact surface and the magnet.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The auxiliary unit includes a holding mechanism for holding the dispensing probe.

8. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The dispensing arm moves the dispensing probe in the vertical direction in a state where the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit.

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 8, wherein The auxiliary unit and the dispensing arm move the dispensing probe in the vertical direction together.

10. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The dispensing arm detachably holds the dispensing probe, and based on the fact that the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit, separates the dispensing probe from the dispensing arm, The auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe in the vertical direction in a state where the dispensing probe is separated from the dispensing arm.

11. The automatic analysis device according to claim 10, wherein After separating the dispensing probe, the dispensing arm holds another dispensing probe.

12. A dispensing unit, wherein, Comprising: A dispensing arm that holds a dispensing probe for dispensing a liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position; and An auxiliary unit that detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving in the vertical direction.

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