Monitoring method, monitoring program, and monitoring device

Abstract

The invention discloses a monitoring method, a monitoring program, and a monitoring device. A monitoring method for monitoring an analysis device for observing an object includes: acquiring self-diagnostic data of the analysis device outside an observation period of the object by the analysis device; diagnosing the state of the analysis device on the basis of the self-diagnosis data; and outputting a diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a monitoring method, a monitoring program, and a monitoring device for an analysis device. Background Art

[0002] As described in Patent Document 1, a system is known in which information of an analysis device is uploaded and stored as shared data.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-344422

[0004] There is a demand not only for sharing information of the analysis device but also for flexibly using it to maintain the state of the analysis device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a monitoring method, a monitoring program, and a monitoring device that can easily maintain the state of an analysis device.

[0006] (1) A monitoring method according to several embodiments is a method for monitoring an analysis device of an object to be observed. The monitoring method includes the following steps: acquiring self-diagnosis data of the analysis device during a period in which the analysis device is in a state where the object is not being observed, that is, a self-diagnosis period; diagnosing the state of the analysis device based on the self-diagnosis data; and outputting a diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device.

[0007] By acquiring self-diagnosis data during a period in which the analysis device is in a state where the object is not being observed, the influence on the observation result of the object is reduced. In addition, by outputting a diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device, the state of the analysis device can be easily grasped as compared with the case where the state of the analysis device is grasped only based on the self-diagnosis data. As a result, the state of the analysis device can be easily maintained.

[0008] (2) Based on the monitoring method described in (1) above, the self-diagnosis period may include a period in which an observation mode is not set for the analysis device.

[0009] (3) Based on the monitoring method described in (1) or (2) above, when the analysis device operates in a mode of continuously observing the object, that is, a continuous observation mode, the self-diagnosis period may include a period before the analysis device starts operating in the continuous observation mode or a period after the analysis device ends operating in the continuous observation mode.

[0010] (4) Based on the monitoring method described in (1) or (2) above, when the analysis device operates in a mode of intermittently observing the object, that is, the delay mode, the self-diagnosis period may include at least a part of the period before a series of actions started by the analysis device during a period of operating in the delay mode, or at least a part of the period after the analysis device finishes the series of actions.

[0011] (5) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of (1) to (4) above, the self-diagnosis data may be acquired just after the start of the self-diagnosis period or just before the end of the self-diagnosis period. Thus, a situation where the acquisition of the self-diagnosis data starts unexpectedly to the user can be avoided. As a result, the user can perform operations safely.

[0012] (6) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of (1) to (5) above, it further includes the following step, that is, accepting an input for setting by the user of the analysis device the timing for acquiring the self-diagnosis data. The self-diagnosis data may be acquired after the timing set by the user of the analysis device and within the self-diagnosis period. By setting the timing for acquiring the self-diagnosis data by the user, the user can confirm without forgetting the state of the analysis device. As a result, the state of the analysis device can be easily maintained.

[0013] (7) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of (1) to (6) above, it further includes the following step, that is, acquiring, as the self-diagnosis data, data that can be measured by setting a template in the analysis device.

[0014] (8) Based on the monitoring method described in (7) above, the template may have an opening. The opening may be configured in such a way that when the analysis device has a camera, the opening is photographed by the camera, and thus noise included in an image generated by the camera or dirt or grime attached to the camera can be analyzed.

[0015] (9) Based on the monitoring method described in (7) or (8) above, the template may have a pattern portion for displaying a specific pattern. The pattern portion may be configured in such a way that when the analysis device has a camera and a stage configured to be able to place the object, the template is placed on the stage and the stage is moved to multiple positions, and the specific pattern of the pattern portion is photographed by the camera when the stage moves to each position, and thus an image for confirming the movement accuracy of the stage can be generated.

[0016] (10) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (7) to (9), the template may have a holding member. The holding member may be configured such that when the analyzing device achieves the function of autofocus, the analyzing device can be configured to acquire a sample of the optical signal for autofocus.

[0017] By acquiring data using the template, the diagnostic accuracy of the state of the analyzing device can be improved. As a result, the state of the analyzing device can be easily maintained.

[0018] (11) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (1) to (10), the self-diagnostic data may include data measured by sensors possessed by the analyzing device.

[0019] (12) Based on the monitoring method described in the above (11), the sensors may include at least one of a luminance sensor that measures the intensity of the laser used for the analyzing device to observe the object, a temperature sensor that measures the temperature in the chamber where the object is disposed, or a gas sensor that measures the gas concentration in the chamber.

[0020] When acquiring data measured by sensors possessed by the analyzing device as self-diagnostic data, the self-diagnostic data is acquired without using the template. By acquiring the self-diagnostic data without using the template, the self-diagnostic data can be acquired in a short time. As a result, the state of the analyzing device can be easily maintained.

[0021] (13) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (1) to (12), it may further include the step of notifying, outside the network connected to the analyzing device, the result of analyzing the state of the analyzing device in the diagnostic result.

[0022] (14) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (1) to (13), it may further include the step of notifying, outside the network connected to the analyzing device, the diagnostic result.

[0023] (15) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (1) to (14), it may further include the step of notifying the user of the analyzing device of the diagnostic result by displaying the diagnostic result.

[0024] (16) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (1) to (15), it may further include the step of notifying the user of the analyzing device of the result of analyzing the state of the analyzing device in the diagnostic result.

[0025] By notifying the state of the analysis device, the user of the analysis device or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the diagnostic result without operating the devices connected to the network connected to the analysis device. As a result, the state of the analysis device can be maintained simply.

[0026] (17) Based on the monitoring method described in any one of the above (1) to (16), the following steps may further be included: obtaining a log that records the operation of the analysis device during the period when the analysis device observes the object; and outputting the log. By the control device obtaining the log from the analysis device and outputting it, the user of the analysis device or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the operation state of the analysis device without operating the control device or the analysis device.

[0027] (18) Based on the monitoring method described in the above (17), the following steps may further be included, that is, when at least one item included in the log deviates from the log monitoring standard, notifying the analysis result of the log outside the network connected to the analysis device. Thus, the user of the analysis device or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the abnormality included in the log of the analysis device without connecting to the network connected to the analysis device. As a result, the state of the analysis device can be maintained simply.

[0028] (19) The monitoring program related to several embodiments causes the processor to monitor the analysis device that observes the object. The monitoring program includes the following processes: causing the processor to obtain the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device outside the period when the analysis device observes the object; causing the processor to diagnose the state of the analysis device based on the self-diagnosis data; and causing the processor to output the diagnostic result of the state of the analysis device.

[0029] (20) The monitoring device related to several embodiments monitors the analysis device that observes the object. The monitoring device can obtain the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device during the period when the analysis device is in a state where it has not performed the observation of the object, that is, the self-diagnosis period, diagnose the state of the analysis device based on the self-diagnosis data, and output the diagnostic result of the state of the analysis device.

[0030] Effects of the Invention

[0031] According to the monitoring method, monitoring program, and monitoring device related to the present invention, the state of the analysis device can be maintained simply. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 It is a block diagram showing a structural example of a monitoring system related to a comparative example.

[0033] Figure 2A It is a block diagram showing a structural example of a monitoring system related to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2B is a block diagram showing a structural example of a server control unit.

[0035] Figure 2C is a block diagram showing a structural example of a sensor.

[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of a jig.

[0037] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing a process example of a monitoring method according to one embodiment. Detailed Embodiment

[0038] (Comparative Example)

[0039] As Figure 1 shown, the monitoring system 9 according to the comparative example includes an analysis device 91 and a database 92. The analysis device 91 and the database 92 are connected so as to be able to communicate via a network 93.

[0040] The analysis device 91 is configured to be able to observe an object with a microscope. The analysis device 91 uploads data indicating its own state during the period of performing the action of observing the object to the database 92. The database 92 stores the data indicating the state of the analysis device 91. The user of the analysis device 91 manages the consumables of the analysis device 91 or manages the maintenance timing of the analysis device 91 based on the data stored in the database 92.

[0041] However, the information stored in the database 92 is only shared and, specifically, is not an object of analysis or parsing.

[0042] Therefore, the monitoring system 1 according to the present invention (refer to Figure 2A ) achieves a simple maintenance of the state of the analysis device 10 by making flexible use of the data indicating the state of the analysis device 10 (refer to Figure 2A ). Hereinafter, the monitoring system 1 and the monitoring method according to the present invention will be described.

[0043] (Structural Example of the Monitoring System 1 According to the Present Invention)

[0044] As Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2CAs shown, a monitoring system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an analysis device 10, a control device 20, and a server 30. The control device 20 controls the analysis device 10. The control device 20 and the analysis device 10 may be integrated. That is, the analysis device 10 may incorporate the control device 20. At least a part of the control device 20 or at least a part of the server 30 is also referred to as a monitoring device. That is, the monitoring device may be configured to include at least a part of the control device 20 or at least a part of the server 30.

[0045] The control device 20 and the server 30 are connected so as to be able to communicate via the network 40 in a wired or wireless manner. When the control device 20 is incorporated in the analysis device 10, the analysis device 10 and the server 30 are connected so as to be able to communicate via the network 40 in a wired or wireless manner. The network 40 may be the Internet. The network 40 may also be a closed local area network using a dedicated line separate from the Internet. When the network 40 is the Internet, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) may be used to ensure the security of the communication between the control device 20 and the server 30.

[0046] In the monitoring system 1, the analysis device 10 analyzes an image of an object to obtain data related to the object. The analysis device 10 may be, for example, an HCA (High Content Analysis) device. The object may be, for example, a living cell. The analysis device 10 may be configured to be able to observe the change of living cells over time, or may be configured to be able to observe while culturing living cells. The object analyzed by the analysis device 10 is not limited to living cells, and may be various other objects.

[0047] The control device 20 controls the analysis device 10 to obtain data related to the object, and also obtains data indicating the state of the analysis device 10. The data indicating the state of the analysis device 10 is data for diagnosing the analysis device 10, and is also referred to as self-diagnosis data. The control device 20 sends the self-diagnosis data to the server 30.

[0048] The server 30 diagnoses the state of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnosis data and outputs a diagnosis result. A user such as a manager or operator of the analysis device 10 can refer to the diagnosis result to confirm the reproducibility of the data related to the object obtained by using the analysis device 10. When the object is a living cell, the user of the analysis device 10 can refer to the diagnosis result to confirm the stability of the environment for culturing living cells. That is, the user of the analysis device 10 can confirm the quality of the data related to the object obtained by using the analysis device 10 based on the diagnosis result.

[0049] The server 30 can automatically perform maintenance of the analysis device 10 based on the diagnostic results. For example, the server 30 can instruct the control device 20 to replace components or consumables of the analysis device 10, thereby performing maintenance of the analysis device 10.

[0050] The analysis device 10 is sometimes monitored by practitioners who have received a maintenance commission. In this case, the person in charge of the practitioners who have received the maintenance commission can use the server 30 to confirm the diagnostic results of each of the multiple analysis devices 10 to be maintained, determine whether maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required based on the diagnostic results, and perform maintenance of the analysis device 10.

[0051] By automating or outsourcing the maintenance of the analysis device 10, the user of the analysis device 10 can use the analysis device 10 with confidence while ensuring the quality of data related to the object. In addition, when managing the analysis device 10 by referring to the diagnostic results obtained from the self-diagnostic data, the state of the analysis device 10 can be maintained more simply than when managing the analysis device 10 only by referring to the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10.

[0052] Next, specific examples of each structural part of the monitoring system 1 will be described.

[0053] <Analysis device 10>

[0054] As Figure 2A shown, the analysis device 10 includes a microscope 11, a stage 14, a camera 12, and a sensor 13.

[0055] The microscope 11 has an optical system that forms an image of the object on the imaging surface of the camera 12. The optical system includes an objective lens on the object side. The microscope 11 can be configured to be able to change the magnification when imaging the object. The microscope 11 can be configured to be able to adjust the focus of the optical system for imaging the object. The microscope 11 can have an autofocus function that can automatically adjust the focus of the optical system.

[0056] In the present invention, the microscope 11 is a fluorescence microscope using a laser. When the microscope 11 is a fluorescence microscope using a laser, the microscope 11 has a light source that emits a laser. The microscope 11 is not limited to a fluorescence microscope using a laser and can be configured in various other ways.

[0057] The camera 12 captures an object imaged by the microscope 11 and outputs a captured image. The camera 12 may be configured to include an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device Image Sensor) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor. The imaging surface of the microscope 11 for imaging the object may be the light-receiving surface of the imaging element.

[0058] To reduce the noise included in the captured image, the camera 12 may be cooled. The camera 12 may be configured to include a cooling unit such as air cooling or water cooling. The camera 12 may be configured to be able to measure the temperature of the camera 12 itself. The camera 12 may be configured to be able to control the temperature of the camera 12 itself.

[0059] The camera 12 may be configured to include an optical system for imaging the object. The camera 12 may be configured to be able to adjust the focus of the optical system. The camera 12 may have an autofocus function capable of automatically adjusting the focus of the optical system.

[0060] The stage 14 is configured to be able to place the object. The stage 14 may be included in the microscope 11. It may be configured that the stage 14 moves relative to the microscope 11 and the camera 12. Conversely, it may also be configured that the microscope 11 and the camera 12 move relative to the stage 14. It may also be configured that both the stage 14 and the microscope 11 and the camera 12 are able to move.

[0061] The stage 14 may be configured to be able to place a container for housing the object. The stage 14 may be configured to be able to place a specimen 50 (see Figure 3 ) for obtaining self-diagnostic data.

[0062] As Figure 3 shown, the specimen 50 has a holding member 51, an opening 52, and a pattern portion 53 that displays a specific pattern. The specimen 50 may also not have at least one of the holding member 51, the opening 52, or the pattern portion 53.

[0063] The holding member 51 is configured to be able to place a 35 mm dish or the like for housing cells as the object. When the 35 mm dish is placed on the holding member 51, the 35 mm dish may be filled only with water. The stage 14 is moved to the position of the holding member 51 so that the 35 mm dish filled only with water can be observed by the objective lens of the microscope 11, and autofocus is performed on the 35 mm dish filled only with water, thereby obtaining an optical signal for autofocus. The holding member 51 is configured to be able to place a sample for the analysis device 10 to obtain an optical signal for autofocus.

[0064] The opening 52 is configured such that the camera 12 can capture an image of a space where there is no substance. The image obtained by the camera 12 capturing the opening 52 includes the noise of the imaging element of the camera 12, or dirt or grime attached to the microscope 11 or the camera 12. That is, by moving the stage 14 to the position of the opening 52 for imaging, information on the noise, dirt, or grime superimposed on the captured image is obtained. The opening 52 is configured to be able to analyze the noise included in the image generated by the camera 12, or the dirt or grime attached to the camera 12, by using the camera 12 to capture the opening 52.

[0065] The pattern portion 53 displays a specific pattern. The specific pattern can include, for example, a grid pattern. The pattern portion 53 is larger than the field of view of the objective lens of the microscope 11. By moving the stage 14 and capturing the pattern portion 53 divided into multiple fields of view, an image for confirming the movement accuracy of the stage 14 is obtained. The movement accuracy of the stage 14 is confirmed based on the association with the specific pattern of the image captured in each field of view. The pattern portion 53 is configured to generate an image for confirming the movement accuracy of the stage 14 by arranging the template 50 on the stage 14, moving the stage 14 to multiple positions, and using the camera 12 to capture the pattern portion 53 when the stage 14 moves to each position.

[0066] The stage 14 can include a chamber that can control the temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, etc. required for culturing or maintaining the state of cells when the object is a cell.

[0067] The sensor 13 measures a physical quantity representing the state of each part of the analysis device 10 and outputs the measurement result as self-diagnostic data. As Figure 2C shown, the sensor 13 includes a brightness sensor 131, a temperature sensor 132, and a gas sensor 133.

[0068] The brightness sensor 131 is configured to measure the intensity of the laser emitted from the light source when the microscope 11 is a fluorescence microscope using a laser. The brightness sensor 131 can be located on the stage 14. When the brightness sensor 131 is located on the stage 14, the stage 14 can be controlled in such a way that the brightness sensor 131 moves to the laser irradiation position.

[0069] The temperature sensor 132 is configured to measure the temperature of the stage 14 or the chamber where the object is placed.

[0070] The gas sensor 133 is configured to measure the gas concentration such as the carbon dioxide concentration of the stage 14 where the object is placed.

[0071] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a brightness sensor 131, a temperature sensor 132, or a gas sensor 133. Conversely, the sensor 13 may also not include at least one of the brightness sensor 131, the temperature sensor 132, or the gas sensor 133. The sensor 13 is not limited to the above examples and may also be configured to be able to measure various other physical quantities.

[0072] <Control device 20>

[0073] The control device 20 includes a processor 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit 23.

[0074] The processor 21 may be configured to include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like. The processor 21 can implement various functions of the control device 20 by executing a prescribed program. Specifically, the processor 21 can control the microscope 11 or the stage 14 and the camera 12 of the analysis device 10 to acquire an image of any part of the object. The processor 21 can control the stage 14 to measure the intensity of the laser using the brightness sensor 131.

[0075] The storage unit 22 can store various information for the operation of the control device 20, or programs for implementing the functions of the control device 20, etc. The storage unit 22 can act as a working memory for the processor 21. The storage unit 22 can be configured to include an electromagnetic storage medium such as a magnetic disk, or can also be configured to include a memory such as a semiconductor memory or a magnetic memory. The storage unit 22 can be integrated with the processor 21. The storage unit 22 can be configured as a storage device separate from the control device 20.

[0076] The communication unit 23 is configured to include a communication device capable of being connected to communicate with the analysis device 10 and the server 30 in a wired or wireless manner. The communication device can be configured to communicate, for example, based on the communication standard of a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication device can also be configured to communicate, for example, based on mobile communication standards such as 4G (4th Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution), or 5G (5th Generation). The communication device is not limited to the above examples and can also be configured to communicate based on various communication standards.

[0077] The control device 20 can be configured as a PC (Personal Computer). The control device 20 can also be configured in various other ways.

[0078] The control device 20 may have a display device for notifying the user of the analysis device 10 of information. The display device may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display). The display device may include, for example, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display or an inorganic EL display. The display device is not limited to the above displays and may also include displays in various other forms. The display device may include a light-emitting device such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode).

[0079] The control device 20 may have a voice output device such as a speaker for notifying the user of the analysis device 10 of information. The server 30 may also have other output devices.

[0080] The control device 20 may have an input device for receiving operations from the user of the analysis device 10 or input of data, etc. The input device may include, for example, a keyboard or physical keys, and may also include a touch panel or touch sensor or a pointing device such as a mouse. The input device is not limited to the above examples and may also include various other devices.

[0081] <Server 30>

[0082] The server 30 has a server control unit 31, a server storage unit 32, a server communication unit 33, and a display unit 34.

[0083] The server control unit 31 may be configured to include a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The server control unit 31 can implement various functions of the server 30 by executing a prescribed program. As Figure 2B shown, the server control unit 31 has an image analysis unit 310, a waveform analysis unit 311, a numerical value analysis unit 312, a report creation unit 313, and a log analysis unit 314. The operations of each part will be described later. The server control unit 31 may not have at least one of the image analysis unit 310, the waveform analysis unit 311, the numerical value analysis unit 312, the report creation unit 313, or the log analysis unit 314.

[0084] The server storage unit 32 can store various information for the operation of the server 30, or programs for implementing the functions of the server 30, etc. The server storage unit 32 can act as a working memory for the server control unit 31. The server storage unit 32 may be configured to include an electromagnetic storage medium such as a disk, and may also be configured to include a memory such as a semiconductor memory or a magnetic memory. The server storage unit 32 may be integrated with the server control unit 31. The server storage unit 32 may also be configured as a storage device separate from the server 30.

[0085] The server communication unit 33 is configured to include a communication device that is connected to be able to communicate with the control device 20 or the analysis device 10 by wire or wirelessly. The communication device can be configured to communicate, for example, based on the communication standard of LAN. The communication device can be configured to communicate, for example, based on mobile communication standards such as 4G or LTE or 5G. The communication device is not limited to the above examples and can also be configured to communicate based on various communication standards.

[0086] The display unit 34 is configured to notify information to the user of the analysis device 10 or the maintenance person in charge. The display unit 34 can include, for example, a liquid crystal display, and can also include an organic EL display or an inorganic EL display. The display unit 34 is not limited to the above displays and can also include displays in other various forms.

[0087] The server 30 can include an input device that accepts input of data, etc. from the user of the analysis device 10 or the maintenance person in charge. The input device can include, for example, a keyboard or physical keys, and can also include a touch panel or a touch sensor or a pointing device such as a mouse. The input device is not limited to the above examples and can also include other various devices.

[0088] The server 30 can be configured as a PC or can be configured as at least one server device. The server 30 can be implemented by a cloud computing system.

[0089] (Example of monitoring operation of the state of the analysis device 10)

[0090] The monitoring system 1 monitors the state of the analysis device 10. In the monitoring system 1, the control device 20 uses sensors 13, etc. of the analysis device 10 to obtain self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10 during the self-diagnosis period. The self-diagnosis period is the period during which the control device 20 can obtain the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10. In the present invention, the self-diagnosis period is set as the period when the analysis device 10 is not performing the observation of the object. By obtaining the self-diagnosis data when the analysis device 10 is not performing the observation of the object, the influence of the self-diagnosis data acquisition operation on the data related to the object obtained by the analysis device 10 performing the observation of the object is reduced.

[0091] The analysis device 10 can perform operations in either a continuous observation mode or a delay mode when performing the observation of the object.

[0092] The continuous observation mode is a mode in which the analysis device 10 continuously performs the observation of the object. The continuous observation can include, for example, photographing the object at a specified frame rate such as 60 frames per second. The continuous observation can include driving the motor of the microscope to continuously photograph.

[0093] The time-lapse mode is a mode in which the analysis device 10 intermittently observes the object. The intermittent observation is equivalent to photographing the object at a time interval longer than the time interval for photographing the object in the continuous observation mode. The time interval for photographing the object in the time-lapse mode can be set, for example, in units of 1 minute or 1 hour, but is not limited thereto and can be set as appropriate.

[0094] The state in which the analysis device 10 operates in either the continuous observation mode or the time-lapse mode corresponds to the state in which the analysis device 10 performs the action of observing the object. Conversely, the state in which the analysis device 10 does not perform the action of observing the object corresponds to the state in which the analysis device 10 does not operate in any of the continuous observation mode and the time-lapse mode.

[0095] In the present invention, the continuous observation mode and the time-lapse mode are collectively referred to as the observation mode. The analysis device 10 can perform the observation of the object by operating in the set observation mode. Conversely, the period during which no observation mode is set for the analysis device 10 is the period during which the analysis device 10 does not perform the action of observing the object. The self-diagnosis period can include the period during which no observation mode is set for the analysis device 10.

[0096] When the analysis device 10 operates in the continuous observation mode, the self-diagnosis period can include at least a part of the period before the analysis device 10 starts the operation in the continuous observation mode, or at least a part of the period after the analysis device 10 ends the operation in the continuous observation mode.

[0097] When the analysis device 10 operates in the time-lapse mode, the self-diagnosis period can include at least a part of the period before the analysis device 10 starts a series of actions executed in an interval during the period of operating in the time-lapse mode, or at least a part of the period after the analysis device 10 ends a series of actions executed in an interval during the period of operating in the time-lapse mode. An interval during the period of operating in the time-lapse mode is the period during which the analysis device 10 performs one observation starting intermittently at a set time interval. The series of actions in an interval for ending the operation in the time-lapse mode means entering a waiting state until the start of the operation in the next interval. That is, when the analysis device 10 operates in the time-lapse mode, the self-diagnosis period can include the period of temporary suspension during the period when the analysis device 10 intermittently observes the object. The period of temporary suspension during the period when the analysis device 10 intermittently observes the object is also referred to as the suspension period.

[0098] In addition, when the analysis device 10 operates in the delay mode, the self-diagnosis period may include at least a part of the period before the analysis device 10 starts the operation in the delay mode, or at least a part of the period after the operation in the delay mode ends. That is, when the analysis device 10 operates in the delay mode, the self-diagnosis period may not include the rest period.

[0099] Whether the self-diagnosis period includes the rest period can be determined by appropriately obtaining self-diagnosis data at a frequency according to the time interval at which the analysis device 10 takes pictures of the object in the delay mode.

[0100] The control device 20 uploads the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10 obtained during the self-diagnosis period to the server 30. The server 30 diagnoses the state of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnosis data. The server 30 outputs the diagnosis result in a manner that can be confirmed by the user or the person in charge of maintenance.

[0101] Next, an example of the operation in which the control device 20 and the server 30 monitor the state of the analysis device 10 in the monitoring system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0102] <Example of the operation of the control device 20>

[0103] The control device 20 controls the analysis device 10 and monitors the state of the analysis device 10.

[0104] The operation of the control device 20 for controlling the analysis device 10 is realized by the processor 21 of the control device 20 executing control software. As an operation of the control software, the processor 21 acquires the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10 by using the communication unit 23 and stores the self-diagnosis data in the storage unit 22.

[0105] The operation of the control device 20 for monitoring the analysis device 10 is realized by the processor 21 executing monitoring software. When the monitoring software is executed, the control device 20 constitutes at least a part of the monitoring device. As an operation of the monitoring software, the processor 21 detects that the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10 is stored in the storage unit 22, and uploads the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10 to the server 30 via the network 40. The network 40 used for uploading the self-diagnosis data may be a closed local area network.

[0106] The processor 21 may be configured such that one CPU or the like executes both the control software and the monitoring software. The processor 21 may be configured to execute the control software and the monitoring software by using different CPUs or the like. The control software and the monitoring software may be realized as one software.

[0107] The server 30 uses the server communication unit 33 to receive the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 uploaded from the control device 20. The server control unit 31 uses the image analysis unit 310, the waveform analysis unit 311, or the numerical analysis unit 312 (refer to Figure 2B ) to analyze the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10. The server control unit 31 can store the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 in the server storage unit 32 and analyze the self-diagnostic data.

[0108] The server control unit 31 uses the report creation unit 313 (refer to Figure 2B ) to generate the diagnostic result of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnostic data. The server control unit 31 can create the diagnostic result as a file in a specified format such as pdf. The server control unit 31 can create the diagnostic result as web page content in a specified format such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language).

[0109] The server control unit 31 can display the diagnostic result on the display unit 34. The server control unit 31 can store the diagnostic result in the server storage unit 32, and display information such as the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) that determines the location where the diagnostic result is stored on the display unit 34 in a manner that allows the user to view the diagnostic result using the terminal device. The user of the analysis device 10 can confirm the diagnostic result without reaching the control device 20 or the installation location of the analysis device 10.

[0110] In the case where the maintenance of the analysis device 10 is entrusted, the person in charge of the practitioner who accepts the maintenance entrustment can confirm the diagnostic result without reaching the control device 20 or the installation location of the analysis device 10. In the case where the maintenance entrustment of multiple analysis devices 10 is accepted, the person in charge of the maintenance can summarize the diagnostic results of each of the multiple analysis devices 10 and confirm them using the display unit 34. It is possible to confirm the diagnostic results without reaching the installation locations of the multiple analysis devices 10, as long as one reaches the analysis device 10 that requires maintenance. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be maintained simply.

[0111] The server control unit 31 can send the diagnostic result from the server communication unit 33 to the control device 20 via the network 40. The network 40 used when sending the diagnostic result to the control device 20 can be a closed local area network. The processor 21 of the control device 20 can obtain the diagnostic result and output it using the control device 20 or the analysis device 10. The control device 20 or the analysis device 10 can display the diagnostic result if it has a display device. The user of the analysis device 10 can confirm the diagnostic result using the control device 20 or the analysis device 10. That is, there is no need to prepare an external device for confirming the diagnostic result. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be maintained simply.

[0112] The server control unit 31 can send the diagnostic result from the server communication unit 33 to an external device such as a terminal device of the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance. The user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the diagnostic result without arriving at the installation location of the analysis device 10. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be easily maintained.

[0113] In the case where it is determined based on the diagnostic result that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required, the server control unit 31 can notify an external device such as a terminal device of the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required. That is, the server control unit 31 can notify outside the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10 that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required. Thus, the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required without connecting to the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be easily maintained.

[0114] The server control unit 31 can determine that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required when the diagnostic result contains an error. The error in the diagnostic result can include at least one item abnormality indicating the state of the analysis device 10. In other words, the error in the diagnostic result can include at least one item indicating the state of the analysis device 10 deviating from the monitoring reference. When the measurement result of an item indicating the state of the analysis device 10 is obtained as a numerical value, the monitoring reference for this item can be set as a numerical range. When the measurement result of an item indicating the state of the analysis device 10 is obtained as an image or waveform, the monitoring reference for this item can be set as a reference image or reference waveform. The reference image or reference waveform is an image or waveform used as a reference for monitoring the state of the analysis device 10. The server control unit 31 can generate a machine learning or deep learning model using the reference image or reference waveform, and determine whether at least one item indicating the state of the analysis device 10 deviates from the monitoring reference using the generated model.

[0115] The server control unit 31 can notify the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required by sending an email or a message. The server control unit 31 can add a file such as a pdf generated as the diagnostic result when notifying that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required. Since the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance is notified that maintenance of the analysis device 10 is required, they do not need to confirm all the diagnostic results. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be easily maintained.

[0116] The server control unit 31 can analyze the state of the analysis device 10 based on the diagnostic result and notify the analysis result of the state of the analysis device 10 to the outside of the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10. The server control unit 31 can notify the diagnostic result to the outside of the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10 regardless of whether at least one item indicating the state of the analysis device 10 in the diagnostic result deviates from the monitoring reference. The server control unit 31 can notify the diagnostic result to the outside of the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10 when at least one item indicating the state of the analysis device 10 in the diagnostic result deviates from the monitoring reference. Thereby, the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the diagnostic result without operating the device connected to the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be simply maintained.

[0117] As described above, the server control unit 31 diagnoses the state of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10, thereby monitoring the state of the analysis device 10. The server 30 constitutes at least a part of the monitoring device.

[0118] <Examples of self-diagnostic data>

[0119] As described above, the state of the analysis device 10 can be simply maintained by outputting the diagnostic result based on the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10. Examples of the self-diagnostic data for diagnosing the state of the analysis device 10 will be described below.

[0120] <<Self-diagnostic data obtained without using the template 50>>

[0121] The self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 includes data obtained without using the template 50. Hereinafter, examples of the self-diagnostic data obtained without using the template 50 will be shown.

[0122] When the analysis device 10 observes an object using a laser, the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include the result of measuring the intensity of the laser using the luminance sensor 131. The control device 20 controls the analysis device 10 to irradiate the object with the laser when observing the object, but controls the analysis device 10 to irradiate the luminance sensor 131 when measuring the intensity of the laser. Specifically, the control device 20 can move the light source of the laser to the position of the luminance sensor 131. The control device 20 can also move the luminance sensor 131 to the laser irradiation position.

[0123] When the analysis device 10 controls the temperature of the chamber to culture or maintain the state of living cells, the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include the result of measuring the temperature of the chamber using the temperature sensor 132. The temperature sensor 132 can be provided in the chamber.

[0124] When the analysis device 10 controls the carbon dioxide concentration in the chamber, the self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include the result of measuring the carbon dioxide concentration in the chamber using the gas sensor 133. The gas sensor 133 may be disposed in the chamber.

[0125] The self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include the measurement result of the temperature of the camera 12. The control device 20 may obtain the measurement result of the temperature of the camera 12 from the camera 12 using the API (Application Programming Interface) of the camera 12.

[0126] The server 30 uses the numerical analysis unit 312 of the server control unit 31 to analyze the measurement results such as the intensity of the laser, the temperature of the chamber, the carbon dioxide concentration, or the temperature of the camera 12, and generates a diagnostic result of the analysis device 10. The numerical analysis unit 312 may generate a situation where the numerical values obtained as the measurement results of each item converge within a specified range as the diagnostic result of the analysis device 10.

[0127] When obtaining the data measured by the sensor 13 provided in the analysis device 10 as self-diagnostic data, the self-diagnostic data is obtained without using the template 50. By obtaining the self-diagnostic data without using the template 50, the self-diagnostic data can be obtained in a short time. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be easily maintained.

[0128] <<Self-diagnostic data obtained using the template 50>>

[0129] The self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include the data obtained using the template 50. Hereinafter, the self-diagnostic data obtained using the template 50 will be exemplified.

[0130] The self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include information such as noise superimposed on the image obtained by the camera 12 photographing the object, or garbage or dirt reflected in the image. The information such as noise or garbage or dirt is obtained by photographing the opening 52 of the template 50 using the camera 12. The control device 20 may prompt the user to set the template 50 in the analysis device 10 in such a manner that the camera 12 can photograph the opening 52 in the analysis device 10, or may control the analysis device 10 in such a manner that the template 50 is automatically set.

[0131] The self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include images for confirming the movement accuracy of the stage 14. When photographing an object in the field of view of an objective lens not accommodated in the microscope 11 by dividing it into a plurality of fields of view using the camera 12 and generating an image of the object by correlating the images of the plurality of fields of view, the movement accuracy of the stage 14 affects the accuracy of the image of the object. The image for confirming the movement accuracy of the stage 14 is obtained by photographing the pattern portion 53 while dividing it into a plurality of fields of view while moving the stage 14. The control device 20 can prompt the user to set the template 50 in the analysis device 10 in a manner that enables the camera 12 to photograph the pattern portion 53, or can control the analysis device 10 to automatically set the template 50.

[0132] The self-diagnostic data of the analysis device 10 may include an optical signal for autofocus. The optical signal for autofocus is obtained by performing autofocus on a 35 mm dish filled only with water. The 35 mm dish is provided on the holder 51 of the template 50. The control device 20 can prompt the user to set the template 50 in the analysis device 10 in a manner that enables autofocus on the 35 mm dish, or can control the analysis device 10 to automatically set the template 50.

[0133] The server 30 uses the image analysis unit 310 of the server control unit 31 to analyze an image obtained by photographing the opening 52, an image obtained by photographing the pattern portion 53, etc., and generates a diagnosis result of the analysis device 10. The image analysis unit 310 can generate a situation where the image obtained by photographing the opening 52 contains noise, garbage, dirt, etc. as a diagnosis result of the analysis device 10. The image analysis unit 310 can generate a situation where the deviation of the grid pattern in the image obtained by photographing the pattern portion 53 converges within a specified range as a diagnosis result of the analysis device 10. The server 30 uses the waveform analysis unit 311 of the server control unit 31 to analyze the waveform of the optical signal for autofocus, etc., and generates a diagnosis result of the analysis device 10. The waveform analysis unit 311 can generate a situation where the waveform of the optical signal for autofocus is normal as a diagnosis result of the analysis device 10.

[0134] The data that can be obtained using the template 50 is data that cannot be obtained in a state where the analysis device 10 performs normal observation operations. By obtaining data using the template 50, the diagnostic accuracy of the state of the analysis device 10 is improved. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be easily maintained.

[0135] <Timing of obtaining self-diagnostic data>

[0136] As described above, the control device 20 acquires the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10 during the self-diagnosable period of the analysis device 10. The timing of acquiring the self-diagnosis data can be appropriately set within the self-diagnosable period of the analysis device 10.

[0137] The control device 20 can accept an input for setting the timing of acquiring the self-diagnosis data by the user. The control device 20 can acquire the self-diagnosis data at the timing set by the user when the timing set by the user is within the self-diagnosable period. The control device 20 can also acquire the self-diagnosis data when the timing set by the user becomes the self-diagnosable period after the timing set by the user is outside the self-diagnosable period. That is, the self-diagnosis data can be acquired after the timing set by the user and within the self-diagnosable period. The control device 20 can acquire both the data that can be acquired without using the template 50 and the data that can be acquired using the template 50. The control device 20 can acquire only the data that can be acquired without using the template 50 at the timing set by the user. The user sets the timing of acquiring the self-diagnosis data, so that the user can confirm without forgetting the state of the analysis device 10. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be easily maintained.

[0138] The control device 20 can acquire the self-diagnosis data as an interruption operation before the analysis device 10 is about to start the operation of observing the object or after the analysis device 10 has just finished the operation of observing the object. That is, the self-diagnosis data can be acquired at the start timing or the end timing of the period during which the analysis device 10 performs the observation of the object. By acquiring the self-diagnosis data at the start or end of the observation period, the quality of the observation results obtained during the observation period is ensured. The self-diagnosis data can be acquired just after the start of the self-diagnosable period or just before the end of the self-diagnosable period. The control device 20 can acquire the self-diagnosis data before the analysis device 10 starts the operation of observing the object when it is determined that the analysis device 10 has started the operation of observing the object. In addition, the control device 20 can cause the analysis device 10 to start the operation of observing the object after acquiring the self-diagnosis data. Thus, the control device 20 can acquire the self-diagnosis data before the analysis device 10 is about to start the operation of observing the object.

[0139] Acquiring the self-diagnosis data at the start timing or the end timing of the period during which the analysis device 10 performs the observation of the object is equivalent to performing self-diagnosis corresponding to the original purpose action of the user performing the observation. By performing self-diagnosis when the user performs the operation of starting or ending the observation, it is possible to avoid a situation where the acquisition of the self-diagnosis data starts unexpectedly for the user. For example, it is possible to avoid a situation where the maintenance person suddenly moves unexpectedly when maintaining the analysis device 10. By not acquiring the self-diagnosis data unexpectedly for the user, the user can perform the operation safely.

[0140] <Flowchart example of the monitoring method>

[0141] The processor 21 of the control device 20 can execute a monitoring method that includes the processes exemplified in the flowchart of Figure 4 The processes exemplified in the flowchart of Figure 4 can be implemented as a monitoring program for the processor that constitutes the processor 21 to execute. The monitoring program can be stored in a non-temporary computer-readable medium such as an electromagnetic storage medium.

[0142] The processor 21 determines whether the timing for obtaining the self-diagnosis data is the timing set by the user (step S1). If it is not the timing set by the user (step S1: NO), the processor 21 ends Figure 4 the execution of the processes in the flowchart of

[0143] If it is the timing set by the user (step S1: YES), the processor 21 determines whether the current time is within the self-diagnosis period (step S2). Specifically, when the analysis device 10 is operating in the continuous observation mode or the delay mode, the processor 21 determines that the current time is outside the self-diagnosis period. Conversely, when the analysis device 10 is not operating in either the continuous observation mode or the delay mode, the processor 21 determines that the current time is within the self-diagnosis period.

[0144] If the current time is not within the self-diagnosis period (step S2: NO), the processor 21 repeatedly executes the determination process of step S2 until the state where the analysis device 10 does not perform the observation action, that is, until the analysis device 10 ends the observation action. When the current time is within the self-diagnosis period (step S2: YES), the processor 21 obtains the self-diagnosis data (step S3). After the process of step S3 is executed, the processor 21 ends Figure 4 the execution of the processes in the flowchart of

[0145] When the processor 21 obtains the self-diagnosis data, it uploads the self-diagnosis data to the server 30. The server control unit 31 of the server 30 diagnoses the state of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnosis data and outputs the diagnosis result.

[0146] The processor 21 can obtain the self-diagnosis data before any action during the period when the analysis device 10 is about to start the continuous observation mode or the delay mode action. The processor 21 can start the action of the analysis device 10 after obtaining the self-diagnosis data, thereby obtaining the self-diagnosis data before the analysis device 10 is about to start the action. The processor 21 can obtain the self-diagnosis data after any action during the period immediately after the analysis device 10 ends the continuous observation mode or the delay mode action.

[0147] <Summary>

[0148] As described above, according to the monitoring system 1, control device 20, and server 30 according to the present embodiment, the analysis device 10 acquires self-diagnosis data during the self-diagnosis period when it becomes in a state of not performing the action of observing the object. By acquiring the self-diagnosis data during the self-diagnosis period, the influence of the action of acquiring the self-diagnosis data on the observation result of the object can be reduced. In addition, the state of the analysis device 10 is diagnosed based on the self-diagnosis data, and the diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device 10 is output. By outputting the diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device 10, compared with the case of only using the self-diagnosis data to grasp the state of the analysis device 10, the state of the analysis device 10 can be grasped simply. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be maintained simply.

[0149] (Other Embodiments)

[0150] Next, other embodiments of the monitoring system 1 will be described.

[0151] <Output of Logs>

[0152] The analysis device 10 can generate a log that records the actions of the microscope 11, camera 12, or stage 14, etc. of the analysis device 10 during the period of observing the object to be executed. The analysis device 10 can generate an error log that records an error when an error occurs in the actions of the microscope 11, camera 12, or stage 14, etc. The control device 20 can acquire the log or error log from the analysis device 10 and upload it to the server 30. The control device 20 can upload the log or error log of the analysis device 10 to the server 30, for example, every 24 hours. The interval at which the control device 20 uploads the log or error log is not limited to 24 hours and can be set appropriately. By the control device 20 acquiring the log or error log from the analysis device 10 and uploading it to the server 30, the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the operation state of the analysis device 10 without operating the control device 20 or the analysis device 10.

[0153] The server control unit 31 of the server 30 can analyze the log or error log of the analysis device 10 using the log analysis unit 314. The log analysis unit 314 can determine whether at least one item included in the log of the analysis device 10 deviates from the log monitoring standard. The log monitoring standard can be set as the numerical range when each part of the analysis device 10 operates normally, for example, when the actions of each part of the analysis device 10 are recorded as numerical values. The log analysis unit 314 can determine that the analysis device 10 deviates from the log monitoring standard when an error log is acquired.

[0154] When at least one item included in the log of the analysis device 10 deviates from the log monitoring standard, the server control unit 31 can notify the analysis result of the log outside the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10. Thereby, the user of the analysis device 10 or the person in charge of maintenance can confirm the abnormality included in the log of the analysis device 10 without connecting to the network 40 connected to the analysis device 10. As a result, the state of the analysis device 10 can be simply maintained.

[0155] <Example of device structure>

[0156] As described above, in the monitoring system 1 according to the present invention, the server 30 processes the data of the analysis device 10. The control device 20 can be configured to execute the functions of the server 30. That is, the server 30 and the control device 20 can be configured as one body.

[0157] In addition, when the control device 20 is included in the analysis device 10, the analysis device 10 can be configured to execute the functions of the server 30. That is, the server 30 and the analysis device 10 can be configured as one body.

[0158] The control device 20 and the analysis device 10 can be connected in a one-to-one correspondence. That is, one control device 20 can be connected to one analysis device 10. The server 30 can be connected to the combinations of the control device 20 and the analysis device 10 respectively.

[0159] One control device 20 can be connected to a plurality of analysis devices 10. In this case, the server 30 can be connected to one control device 20 via the network 40. When the network 40 is a closed local area network, the number of devices connected to the closed local area network can be reduced by connecting the server 30 to one control device 20.

[0160] <Presumption of the state of the analysis device 10>

[0161] As described above, in the monitoring system 1 according to the present invention, the server 30 can diagnose the state of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10. The server 30 can presume the future state of the analysis device 10 based on the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10. For example, the server control unit 31 of the server 30 can presume the replacement timing of the light source of the laser based on the measurement result of the intensity of the laser and the operation time of the light source of the laser. In addition, the server control unit 31 can presume the maintenance timing of the stage 14 based on the movement accuracy of the stage 14.

[0162] The server control unit 31 can presume the maintenance timing of each part of the analysis device 10 based on the change over time of each item of the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device 10.

[0163] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and also includes various modifications within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0164] Description of Reference Numerals

[0165] 1 Monitoring System

[0166] 10 Analysis Device (11: Microscope, 12: Camera, 13: Sensor, 131: Light Sensor, 132: Temperature Sensor, 133: Gas Sensor, 14: Stage)

[0167] 20 Control Device (21: Processor, 22: Storage Unit, 23: Communication Unit)

[0168] 30 Server (31: Server Control Unit, 310: Image Analysis Unit, 311: Waveform Analysis Unit, 312: Numerical Analysis Unit, 313: Report Creation Unit, 314: Log Analysis Unit, 32: Server Storage Unit, 33: Server Communication Unit, 34: Display Unit)

[0169] 40 Network

[0170] 50 Specimen (51: Holder, 52: Opening, 53: Pattern Section)

Claims

1. A monitoring method for monitoring an analysis device for an object to be observed, wherein, the monitoring method includes the following steps: During the self-diagnosis period, that is, during the period when the analysis device is in a state where the observation of the object is not being performed, obtain the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device; Diagnose the state of the analysis device based on the self-diagnosis data; And Output the diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device.

2. The monitoring method according to claim 1, wherein, the self-diagnosis period includes a period during which no observation mode is set for the analysis device.

3. The monitoring method according to claim 1, wherein, When the analysis device operates in a mode of continuously performing the observation of the object, that is, a continuous observation mode, the self-diagnosis period includes the period before the analysis device starts the operation of the continuous observation mode or the period after the analysis device ends the operation of the continuous observation mode.

4. The monitoring method according to claim 1, wherein, When the analysis device operates in a mode of intermittently performing the observation of the object, that is, a delay mode, the self-diagnosis period includes at least a part of the period before the analysis device starts a series of operations performed during an interval in the period of operating in the delay mode or at least a part of the period after the analysis device ends the series of operations.

5. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the self-diagnosis data is obtained just after the start of the self-diagnosis period or just before the end of the self-diagnosis period.

6. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the following step, that is, accepting an input from the user of the analysis device to set the timing for obtaining the self-diagnosis data, and the self-diagnosis data is obtained after the timing set by the user of the analysis device and within the self-diagnosis period.

7. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the following step, that is, as the self-diagnosis data, obtain data that can be measured by setting a template in the analysis device.

8. The monitoring method according to claim 7, wherein, the template has an opening, and the opening is configured in such a way that when the analysis device has a camera, the camera takes a picture of the opening, thereby enabling the analysis of noise included in the image generated by the camera or garbage or dirt attached to the camera.

9. The monitoring method according to claim 7, wherein, the template has a pattern portion that displays a specific pattern, and the pattern portion is configured in such a way that when the analysis device has a camera and a stage configured to be able to place the object, the template is placed on the stage and the stage is moved to multiple positions, and the camera takes pictures of the specific pattern of the pattern portion when the stage moves to each position, thereby enabling the generation of an image for confirming the movement accuracy of the stage.

10. The monitoring method according to claim 7, wherein, the template has a holding member, the holding member is configured such that, when the automatic focusing function is achieved by the analysis device, the analysis device can be configured to acquire a sample of the optical signal for automatic focusing.

11. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the self-diagnosis data includes data measured by a sensor included in the analysis device.

12. The monitoring method according to claim 11, wherein, the sensor includes at least one of a brightness sensor that measures the intensity of the laser used to observe the object by the analysis device, a temperature sensor that measures the temperature in the chamber where the object is disposed, or a gas sensor that measures the gas concentration in the chamber.

13. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the step of notifying, outside the network connected to the analysis device, the result of analyzing the state of the analysis device in the diagnosis result.

14. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the step of notifying, outside the network connected to the analysis device, the diagnosis result.

15. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the step of notifying the user of the analysis device of the diagnosis result by displaying the diagnosis result.

16. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the step of notifying the user of the analysis device of the result of analyzing the state of the analysis device in the diagnosis result.

17. The monitoring method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the following steps: acquiring a log that records the operation of the analysis device during the period when the analysis device observes the object; and outputting the log.

18. The monitoring method according to claim 17, wherein, the monitoring method further includes the step of notifying, outside the network connected to the analysis device, the analysis result of the log when at least one item included in the log deviates from the log monitoring reference.

19. A monitoring program that causes a processor to monitor an analysis device for observing an object, wherein, the monitoring program includes the following processes: causing the processor to acquire self-diagnosis data of the analysis device outside the period when the analysis device observes the object; causing the processor to diagnose the state of the analysis device based on the self-diagnosis data; and causing the processor to output the diagnosis result of the state of the analysis device.

20. A monitoring device that monitors an analysis device for observing an object, wherein, the monitoring device can acquire the self-diagnosis data of the analysis device during the self-diagnosis period, that is, during the period when the analysis device is in a state where it does not perform the observation of the object, Diagnose the state of the parsing device based on the self-diagnosis data, Output the diagnosis result of the state of the parsing device.

Images