Blood sampling device

Abstract

The invention provides a blood sampling device which can adjust the direction of a blood sampling tube around a central axis, reduce work related to blood sampling, and stably and efficiently perform blood sampling on the blood sampling tube. A blood collection device (1) is provided with: a holder (110) on which a blood collection tube (100) is provided; a blood collection unit for collecting blood from a person to be collected to the blood collection tube (100); and a direction adjustment mechanism (21) for adjusting the direction of the blood collection tube in the holder (110), the blood collection tube (100) having a closed-end cylindrical main body part with an opening at the upper part and a protruding part formed by protruding a part of the opening in the circumferential direction upward, and the direction adjustment mechanism (21) adjusting the direction of the blood collection tube (100) around the central axis. The position of the protrusion with respect to the central axis of the blood collection tube (100) is within a predetermined range.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a blood sampling device for automatically sampling blood from a subject. Background Art

[0002] In general hospitals and other hospitals, a large number of blood draws are performed daily as part of pre-examination checkups. Medical staff involved in blood collection not only need to draw blood but also handle the associated tasks and duties, such as preparing and verifying blood collection tubes. Blood collection involves a wide variety of complex tasks and is a significant burden for practitioners, leading to a desire to automate blood collection as much as possible.

[0003] Previously, automated blood collection devices have been developed. Typically, automated blood collection devices require manual installation of blood collection tubes for collecting blood from a subject. Patent Document 1 discloses a blood collection device equipped with a blood collection tube module. Patent Document 2 discloses a blood collection tube preparation device equipped with a direction detection unit for detecting the direction of the blood collection tube. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-109441 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 4662193 Summary of the Invention Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0005] As blood collection tubes, Figure 3 As shown, a protrusion is formed at the upper opening. The protrusion is formed by a portion of the opening protruding upward. The protrusion forms a receiving groove around the opening. This protrusion is primarily used in micro-blood collection tubes. When performing delicate operations, the protrusion serves as a receiving surface for blood, or as a guide for instruments such as pipettes.

[0006] In automated blood collection devices, such protrusions are used to efficiently draw blood from the patient's puncture site to the blood collection tube. However, when using the protrusions for blood collection, the protrusions must be aligned with the puncture site when the blood collection tube is placed in the blood collection device. The orientation of the blood collection tube around its central axis must be adjusted so that the protrusion's position in the circumferential direction of the tube opening is within a specified range relative to the tube's central axis.

[0007] When blood is collected, it is necessary to confirm the type of blood collection tube. Furthermore, when multiple blood collection tubes are used, multiple tubes must be installed in the blood collection device. Manually adjusting the orientation of the tubes around their central axis while they are installed in the blood collection device is time-consuming. This increases the burden on the blood collection operator, prolonging the blood collection process, affecting blood quality, and leading to increased human error.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a blood collection device that can reduce the work related to blood collection by adjusting the direction of a blood collection tube provided for blood collection around a central axis, and can stably and efficiently collect blood from the blood collection tube. Technical solutions to technical problems

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the blood collection device involved in the present disclosure includes: a bracket, which is provided with a blood collection tube; a blood collection part, which collects blood from the person being blooded into the blood collection tube; and a direction adjustment mechanism, which adjusts the direction of the blood collection tube in the bracket, the blood collection tube having a bottomed cylindrical main body with an upper opening, and a protrusion formed by a part of the circumference of the opening protruding upward, and the direction adjustment mechanism adjusts the direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis so that the position of the protrusion relative to the central axis of the blood collection tube is within a predetermined range set in advance. Effects of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, a blood collection device can be provided that can reduce the work associated with blood collection by adjusting the direction of a blood collection tube provided for blood collection around a central axis, and can stably and efficiently collect blood from the blood collection tube. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 This is an external view of a blood collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a diagram schematically showing an example of the main parts of the blood sampling device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a blood collection tube that can be used in the blood collection device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration related to control of a blood sampling apparatus. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a preparatory operation for electrically controlling the direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis. Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a position sensor for detecting the position of a protrusion of a blood sampling tube. Figure 71 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a position sensor for detecting the position of a protrusion of a blood sampling tube. Figure 8 1 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a position sensor for detecting the position of a protrusion of a blood sampling tube. Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a position sensor for detecting the position of a protrusion of a blood sampling tube. Figure 10 This is a diagram schematically showing an example of the main parts of the blood sampling device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is an enlarged view showing the periphery of the blood collection position of the blood collection device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the periphery of a blood collection position of a blood collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above. Figure 13 This is a diagram explaining a method of mechanically adjusting the direction of a blood collection tube around its central axis. Figure 14 This is a diagram explaining a method of mechanically adjusting the direction of a blood collection tube around its central axis. Figure 15 This is a diagram explaining a method of mechanically adjusting the direction of a blood collection tube around its central axis. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Hereinafter, a blood collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following figures, the same reference numerals are given to common structures, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0013] Figure 1 This is an external view of a blood collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 , a finger lancing device for automatically lancing blood from a person's finger is shown as an example of a lancing device. Figure 1 The reference numeral P in the figure is an enlarged partial view showing the surrounding area of the finger placement portion of the blood collection device as viewed from below.

[0014] like Figure 1 As shown, the blood collection device 1 involved in this embodiment includes: a shell 10, a turntable 11, a plurality of brackets 110 as a setting place for blood collection tubes, a plurality of modules 120, a cuff mechanism 130, a rotation drive mechanism (not shown) for rotating the turntable 11, a lifting drive mechanism (not shown) for raising and lowering the bracket 110 and the module 120, a pressure adjustment mechanism (not shown) for driving the cuff mechanism 130, etc.

[0015] The housing 10 is formed from multiple structural materials, decorative panels, and other components. The turntable 11, the rotation drive mechanism, the lift drive mechanism, the pressure adjustment mechanism, and other components are integrated within the housing 10. The upper surface of the housing 10 includes a hand rest for the patient's hand and a circular opening adjacent to the hand rest. The turntable 11 is positioned below the opening.

[0016] A cuff mechanism 130 and a finger rest 131 are positioned on the opening side of the hand rest. The cuff mechanism 130 is mounted above the finger rest 131 to enclose the subject's finger 134 placed in the finger rest 131. As shown in detail in FIG. P, a disposable finger rest 132 is attached to the finger rest 131. A blood collection window 133, serving as a through hole, is formed in the center of the finger rest 132. The subject's finger 134 is placed on the blood collection window 133 of the finger rest 132.

[0017] The cuff mechanism 130 is used to tighten around the finger 134 of the patient being lanced. The cuff is placed at the finger placement area 131 to surround the placed finger 134. The cuff is, for example, in the form of a flexible bag and is connected to a valve or pump via a tube. The valve or pump constitutes the pressure adjustment mechanism for driving the cuff mechanism 130. The pressure applied to the patient's finger 134 is adjusted by controlling the internal pressure of the cuff with the valve or pump.

[0018] The turntable 11 is generally disk-shaped and supported within the housing 10 with its main surface facing vertically. The turntable 11 is provided with multiple locations for supporting the bracket 110. Furthermore, multiple retaining holes are provided that extend vertically through the turntable 11. The modules 120 are retained in the retaining holes by being inserted vertically therethrough. The locations for supporting the bracket 110 and the retaining holes are spaced apart and regularly arranged along the circumference of the turntable 11.

[0019] Holder 110 is where blood collection tubes are placed. A variety of blood collection tubes, such as those for routine blood tests and biochemical / immunological tests, are placed on it. Blood collection tubes of a specified size, or outer tubes to house them, can be placed on holder 110. The outer tubes are used to adjust the size of the objects placed relative to the blood collection tube placement location.

[0020] The module 120 is detachably mounted on the turntable 11. A flange-shaped portion having a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the holding hole of the turntable 11 is formed on the module 120. The module 120 is inserted into the holding hole, and the flange-shaped portion is supported from below, thereby holding the module 120 in a state where it can be raised and lowered within the holding hole.

[0021] As module 120, different types of modules such as a puncture module and a hemostasis module can be installed. The puncture device is installed on the puncture module. The puncture device has a built-in puncture needle (lancet). Gauze and a bandage are installed on the hemostasis module.

[0022] When the lancet is pressed against the patient's finger, the puncture needle protrudes and punctures the patient. The gauze is pressed against the patient's puncture site, absorbing blood flowing out of the puncture site and stopping bleeding. The bandage is pressed and applied to the patient's puncture site, sealing the puncture site and stopping bleeding. The bandage is attached to the module with the adhesive side facing up.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a diagram schematically showing an example of the main parts of the blood sampling device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Schematically shows an example of the structure around the turntable 11 provided inside the blood collection device 1. like Figure 2 As shown, in the blood collection device 1, the turntable 11, the shaft 12, the rotation drive mechanism 13, the movable support member 14, the lifting drive mechanism 15, etc. are built into the lower part of the opening of the housing 10. The rotation drive mechanism 13, the movable support member 14, and the lifting drive mechanism 15 are supported at predetermined positions by support members (not shown).

[0024] A shaft 12 is connected to the center of the turntable 11. The other end of the shaft 12 is rotatably supported by a rotation drive mechanism 13. The rotation drive mechanism 13 consists of a motor 13a and a power transmission mechanism 13b. The power transmission mechanism 13b connects the output shaft of the motor 13a and the shaft 12 via a predetermined mechanical mechanism. The rotational motion of the motor 13a is transmitted to the shaft 12 via the power transmission mechanism 13b. The rotation drive mechanism 13 rotates the turntable 11 through this mechanism.

[0025] The turntable 11 is rotated clockwise and counterclockwise about an axis of rotation passing through the center of its main surface by a rotary drive mechanism 13. The turntable 11 is controlled to rotate in predetermined increments according to the blood collection or treatment procedure. The rotation of the turntable 11 transports the carriage 110 and module 120 to respective blood collection positions, each of which is provided with a finger rest 131.

[0026] At the blood collection site, the puncture module uses a puncture needle, the hemostasis module uses gauze to stop bleeding, and the hemostasis module applies a bandage. After the cuff mechanism 130 compresses the patient's finger 134, the puncture module inserts the puncture needle. Blood flowing from the puncture site is collected into a blood collection tube that has been moved to the blood collection site on the turntable 11.

[0027] The movable support member 14 is positioned below the blood sampling location. The movable support member 14 is supported by a lifting drive mechanism 15 so that it can be freely raised and lowered. The lifting drive mechanism 15 is composed of a motor 15a and a power transmission mechanism 15b. The power transmission mechanism 15b connects the output shaft of the motor 15a and the movable support member 14 via a predetermined mechanical mechanism. The rotational motion of the motor 15a is converted into linear motion in the vertical direction by the power transmission mechanism 15b. The lifting drive mechanism 15 uses this mechanism to lift the movable support member 14 up and down.

[0028] When the turntable 11 rotates and moves the bracket 110 and module 120 to the blood collection position, the movable support member 14 rises to push upward from below, or descends to pull downward, thereby driving vertical movement relative to the finger rest 131. This movement presses the blood collection tube against the puncture site, causing the puncture needle to puncture the finger 134 of the person being blood collected, or presses gauze or a bandage against the puncture site.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a blood collection tube that can be used in the blood collection device according to the embodiment of the present invention. like Figure 3 As shown, as a blood collection tube for collecting blood from a subject, there is a blood collection tube 100 having a protrusion 102 formed at the upper opening. In the above-mentioned blood collection device 1, a protrusion 102 may be used. Figure 3 Blood collection tube 100 having protrusion 102 shown.

[0030] Figure 3 Blood collection tube 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a bottomed, cylindrical main body 101 with an open top, and a protrusion 102 protruding upward. An opening 103 is formed in the upper portion of main body 101. Opening 103 is circular in a plan view of blood collection tube 100 and extends into the interior of main body 101. Protrusion 102 is provided in the upper portion of main body 101, with a portion of the circumference of opening 103 protruding upward from main body 101.

[0031] Protrusion 102 has a surface that continues from the inner circumference of main body 101 and is curved with the same curvature as the inner circumference of main body 101. Protrusion 102 has a receiving-shaped groove formed around opening 103. When blood collection tube 100 is tilted so that protrusion 102 is located on the lower side, protrusion 102 forms a receiving-shaped groove that easily receives droplets of liquid. Protrusion 102 can function as a receiving surface for blood collected in blood collection tube 100 or as a receiving surface / guide for instruments such as pipettes.

[0032] In the above-mentioned blood collection device 1, the following is used: Figure 3In the case of the blood collection tube 100 shown, it is desirable to align the direction of the protrusion 102 with the direction of the puncture site of the patient. To reduce the burden on blood collection workers and improve the efficiency of collecting blood into the blood collection tube 100, even when the blood collection tube 100 is placed on the holder 110 in any orientation, when the blood collection tube 100 is moved to the blood collection position by the rotation of the turntable 11, the protrusion 102 is preferably oriented in a predetermined direction.

[0033] Therefore, in the blood sampling device 1 according to the present embodiment, control is performed to adjust the direction of the blood sampling tube 100 around the central axis so that the protrusion 102 is oriented relative to the central axis ( Figure 3 The relative position of protrusion 102 relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is adjusted by adjusting the orientation of protrusion 102 around the central axis of blood sampling tube 100, thereby adjusting the circumferential position of protrusion 102 relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 in the opening 103. In other words, the orientation of protrusion 102 relative to the central axis is adjusted.

[0034] The orientation of blood sampling tube 100 about its central axis is adjusted so that the relative position of protrusion 102 at the blood sampling position on turntable 11 is within the target range. This orientation is adjusted during the preparatory process before the blood sampling operation begins. The blood sampling operation involves puncturing the subject with a puncture needle and collecting blood from the subject into the blood sampling tube.

[0035] The orientation of blood sampling tube 100 around its central axis can be adjusted to any desired direction. The relative position of protrusion 102 relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 can be adjusted to fall within any desired target range. When using blood sampling device 1, a target range can be pre-set. The target range can be adjusted to any desired width, depending on, for example, the lateral width of protrusion 102.

[0036] When looking down at blood sampling tube 100 that has been moved to the blood sampling position on turntable 11, the target range for the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 can be set to, for example, a partially annular region roughly shaped like an arc of any length along the circumference of opening 103 of blood sampling tube 100. Control is performed to adjust the orientation of blood sampling tube 100 about the central axis so that both side ends of protrusion 102 converge within the aforementioned region.

[0037] The target range for the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood collection tube 100 is preferably set to the half region located closer to the center of turntable 11 than the central axis of blood collection tube 100, or the half region located outside turntable 11 than the central axis of blood collection tube 100. In other words, the target range is preferably set to the half region closer to the patient's puncture site relative to the central axis of blood collection tube 100, or the half region farther from the patient's puncture site relative to the central axis of blood collection tube 100.

[0038] For example, the blood collection device 1 may have a function that tilts the blood collection tube moved to the blood collection position radially along the turntable 11. In this case, from the perspective of forming a receiving interface, the orientation of the protrusion 102 at the blood collection position is preferably in the same direction or opposite direction as the tilt of the blood collection tube. If the target area is the half area located toward the center or outside of the turntable 11, blood can be efficiently collected by transferring blood to the protrusion 102.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, the blood collection tube 100 is placed on a bracket 110. Figure 2 In the embodiment, blood collection tube 100 is placed on holder 110 in a state where it is housed in outer tube 200. In this case, the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood collection tube 100 can be adjusted by changing the direction of outer tube 200 around the central axis.

[0040] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, bracket 110 is configured with a partially open outer surface. Bracket 110 is configured so that the side surfaces of the objects are open to the outside. This structure allows the orientation of the objects mounted on bracket 110 to be adjusted from the outside. Bracket 110 can be configured in an appropriate configuration, depending on the method used to adjust the orientation of blood collection tube 100 about its central axis.

[0041] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, position sensor 20 is provided on the side of the blood sampling position. Position sensor 20 is used to detect the position of protrusion 102 of blood sampling tube 100. Position sensor 20 detects the position of protrusion 102 of blood sampling tube 100 that has been moved to the blood sampling position on turntable 11, for example, the position of the side end of protrusion 102. The detection results of position sensor 20 can be used to control the orientation of blood sampling tube 100 around its central axis.

[0042] Position sensor 20 can be an optical sensor, a camera sensor, or the like. Position sensor 20 can be installed at a fixed point, such as a side surface of protrusion 102, so that the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 can be monitored within a target range at the blood sampling position on turntable 11. Position sensor 20 can be provided as a single sensor or as a plurality of sensors.

[0043] The optical sensor consists of a light source (light emitting unit) for emitting laser light or the like, and an optical sensor (light receiving unit) for detecting reflected or scattered light from the emitting light. By irradiating an area at the blood collection location within a target range, at the height of protrusion 102 and relative to the central axis of blood collection tube 100, with laser light or the like, and measuring the intensity of the reflected and scattered light, the position of the side end of protrusion 102 can be detected. The light source and optical sensor that comprise the optical sensor can be integrated and positioned at the same location, or separately at different locations.

[0044] The camera sensor captures images of the height of protrusion 102 at the blood collection location and the area surrounding the target range of the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood collection tube 100. By performing image processing on the captured images, the position of protrusion 102 can be detected. The camera sensor may comprise multiple cameras or a stereo camera.

[0045] From the perspective of ensuring the correct mounting position and simplifying the detection process, an optical sensor, preferably a reflective optical sensor, is preferably used as position sensor 20. The optical sensor detects when the side end of protrusion 102 passes through a target range, thereby determining the circumferential position of protrusion 102 relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 in opening 103.

[0046] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, an electrically driven direction adjustment mechanism 21 for adjusting the orientation of the blood sampling tube 100 in the holder 110 is located below the blood sampling position. The direction adjustment mechanism 21 comprises a motor 21a and a direction adjustment unit 21b. The direction adjustment unit 21b is connected to the output shaft of the motor 21a. The motor 21a rotates the direction adjustment unit 21b at a predetermined step angle. The direction control mechanism 21 rotates the object mounted on the holder 110 by operating the direction adjustment unit 21b via the motor 21a.

[0047] The motor 21a can be formed of a stepping motor, a servo motor, or the like. The direction adjustment unit 21b is arranged to contact the outer peripheral surface of an object mounted on the bracket 110, the object of which the direction adjustment is to be made. The direction adjustment unit 21b can be formed of a material that has a high frictional resistance against the object mounted on the bracket 110. By operating the direction adjustment unit 21b using the motor 21a, the direction of the object mounted on the bracket 110 about the central axis can be changed by the frictional force of the direction adjustment unit 21b.

[0048] As the direction adjustment unit 21b, for example, a roller-shaped pad formed of a material with high friction resistance can be used. By rotating the roller-shaped pad using the motor 21a, the direction of the object placed on the bracket 110 around the central axis can be changed by utilizing the friction force generated by the rotation of the roller-shaped pad.

[0049] As direction adjustment unit 21b, in addition to roller-shaped washers, belt-shaped washers made of materials with high frictional resistance, plate-shaped washers made of materials with high frictional resistance, and the like can also be used. Furthermore, in addition to methods that press the washers against the side of the object, methods such as robotic arms can also be used. Direction adjustment mechanism 21b can be driven by an appropriate mechanical mechanism depending on the type of direction adjustment unit 21b and the surrounding structure of blood collection tube 100.

[0050] Any suitable material can be used as the material of the direction adjusting unit 21b, as long as the frictional resistance of the surface of the direction adjusting unit 21b in contact with the object mounted on the bracket 110 is greater than the frictional resistance of the surface of the bracket 110 in contact with the object. Examples of the material of the direction adjusting unit 21b include elastic bodies such as rubber, porous materials such as sponge, and napped cloth.

[0051] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration related to control of a blood sampling apparatus. Figure 4 3 shows an example of a structure related to the control of main components involved in the operation of the above-mentioned blood collection device 1. like Figure 4 As shown, the blood collection device 1 includes an input unit 210, a control unit 220, a storage unit (not shown) for storing programs and data, a display unit for displaying information related to blood collection, etc. The direction control mechanism 21 can be controlled by the control unit 220 according to a predetermined program.

[0052] The input unit 210 receives input from the user of the blood collection device 1. The input unit 210 is composed of, for example, a touch panel, various switches, etc. Various data, commands, etc. can be input to the blood collection device 1 through the input unit 210 or an external device.

[0053] The control unit 220 performs processing corresponding to the program, reads the program and data, and controls the main components related to the operation of the blood collection device 1. The control unit 220 is composed of a computing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a storage device such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0054] The blood collection device 1 includes, as main components related to the operation of the blood collection device 1, a rotation drive mechanism 13 for rotating the turntable 11, a lift drive mechanism 15 for raising and lowering the bracket 110 and module 120, a position sensor 20, a direction adjustment mechanism 21, a blood collection volume sensor 25, and a pressure adjustment mechanism 26 for driving the cuff mechanism 130. These components are controlled by a control unit 220.

[0055] The rotation drive mechanism 13 is connected to the control unit 220 via the motor controller 251. The lifting drive mechanism 15 is connected to the control unit 220 via the motor controller 252. The position sensor 20 is connected to the control unit 220 via the A / D converter 253.

[0056] The direction control mechanism 21 is connected to the control unit 220 via the motor controller 254. The blood sampling volume sensor 25 is connected to the control unit 220 via the A / D converter 255. The pressure adjustment mechanism 26 is connected to the control unit 220 via the pressure adjustment controller 256.

[0057] The blood sampling volume sensor 25 is used to measure the amount of blood collected from the patient into the blood sampling tube. The blood sampling volume sensor 25 is located on the side of the blood sampling tube, which is placed on the turntable 11. The blood sampling volume sensor 25 can be composed of a light source that irradiates light into the blood sampling tube and an optical sensor that detects reflected and scattered light from the irradiated light.

[0058] The blood sampling volume sensor 25 measures the intensity of reflected and scattered light from the blood collected in the blood sampling tube, and also measures the blood level in the blood sampling tube. The blood volume collected in the blood sampling tube can be calculated based on the blood level measurement result, the tube's inner diameter, and other factors.

[0059] The pressure adjustment mechanism 26 is comprised of a valve or pump connected to the cuff of the cuff mechanism 130. By opening and closing the valve or adjusting the pump pressure, the internal pressure of the cuff is controlled, thereby adjusting the constriction pressure on the subject's finger 134. The pressure adjustment mechanism 26 can be built into the housing 10 of the blood collection device 1.

[0060] The control unit 220 can be configured as a system controller and sets control target values for the rotation drive mechanism 13, the lift drive mechanism 15, the direction adjustment mechanism 21, and the pressure adjustment mechanism 26 based on a program and detection results from various sensors. Furthermore, the control unit 220 performs sequence control between the components. Control signals for the target values are transmitted from the control unit 220 to the motor controllers 251, 252, and 254 and the pressure adjustment controller 256.

[0061] The rotation drive mechanism 13, the lifting drive mechanism 15, the direction adjustment mechanism 21, and the pressure adjustment mechanism 26 are controlled by motor controllers 251, 252, and 254, and a pressure adjustment controller 256, respectively, so that they operate at set target control values according to the blood collection and treatment operations. These components can be configured to sense the control values as needed. Feedback control of the control values can also be performed by sensing the control values.

[0062] Position sensor 20 detects the position of protrusion 102 of blood sampling tube 100 mounted on holder 110 and inputs an analog detection signal representing the detection result to A / D converter 253. A / D converter 253 converts the analog detection signal into a digital detection signal. The digital detection signal is amplified as needed and then input to control unit 220. Similar processing is performed by blood sampling volume sensor 25 and A / D converter 255.

[0063] Control unit 220 compares the position of protrusion 102 detected by position sensor 20 with a pre-set target range. Control unit 220 reads data representing the target range from a storage device and compares it with the detection results of position sensor 20 to determine the deviation between the current detected position and the pre-set target position. Based on this deviation, a control amount for changing the orientation of blood collection tube 100 about its central axis can be set.

[0064] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a preparatory operation for electrically adjusting the direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis. Figure 5 1 shows the flow of the preparatory operation performed when the blood collection apparatus 1 is started, and also shows the flow when the direction of the blood collection tube 100 around the central axis is adjusted by the electric direction adjustment mechanism 21. like Figure 5 As shown, when the blood collection device 1 is started, the direction of the blood collection tube 100 around the central axis can be detected, that is, the position of the protrusion 102 of the blood collection tube 100 can be detected, and the direction of the blood collection tube 100 around the central axis can be adjusted.

[0065] Before blood sampling, data indicating a target range for the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 may be pre-stored in the storage unit of blood sampling device 1. For example, when an optical sensor is used as position sensor 20, a light intensity threshold for identifying the presence of protrusion 102 in the monitoring area may be prepared as data indicating the target range for the relative position of protrusion 102. When a camera sensor is used as position sensor 20, a reference image for identifying the presence of protrusion 102 in the monitoring area may be prepared.

[0066] When blood collection is performed using the blood collection device 1, the power of the blood collection device 1 is first turned on (step S101). The user of the blood collection device 1 starts the blood collection device 1 by pressing a power button or the like.

[0067] Next, the operation of the drive mechanisms, including the rotation drive mechanism 13, the lifting drive mechanism 15, and the direction adjustment mechanism 21, is checked (step S102). If there is an abnormality in the operation of the drive mechanism (step S103: No), the preparatory operation is terminated. On the other hand, if there is no abnormality in the operation of the drive mechanism (step S103: Yes), the process proceeds to step S104.

[0068] Next, a blood collection tube or module is placed on the turntable 11 of the blood collection device 1 (step S104). The user of the blood collection device 1 confirms, via a display, that the drive mechanism is operating normally, and then places the designated blood collection tube 100 on the holder 110. Furthermore, the puncture module and the hemostasis module are placed in the retaining holes of the turntable 11.

[0069] Next, the confirmation operation of blood sampling apparatus 1 is activated (step S105). After setting blood sampling cartridge 100 or module, the user of blood sampling apparatus 1 starts the confirmation operation of blood sampling cartridge 100 or module set on holder 110 by pressing a predetermined button or the like.

[0070] Next, the blood collection tube 100 and the module are checked (step S106). If the blood collection tube 100 or the module is not correctly installed (step S107: No), the preparation operation is terminated. On the other hand, if the blood collection tube 100 or the module is correctly installed (step S107: Yes), the process proceeds to step S108.

[0071] Next, the orientation of blood sampling tube 100 around the central axis is detected (step S108). Position sensor 20, mounted on the side of protrusion 102 of blood sampling tube 100, detects the position of protrusion 102 in the circumferential direction of opening 103 relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100. When multiple blood sampling tubes 100 are placed on turntable 11, each blood sampling tube 100 can be inspected sequentially by rotating turntable 11.

[0072] Next, the orientation of blood sampling tube 100 about its central axis is adjusted (step S109). The electrically driven orientation adjustment mechanism 21, located below the blood sampling position, adjusts the orientation of blood sampling tube 100 about its central axis so that the relative position of protrusion 102 relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is within a pre-set target range. If multiple blood sampling tubes 100 are placed on turntable 11, this adjustment can be performed for each test.

[0073] After adjusting the orientation of blood collection tube 100 about its central axis, blood collection conditions can be input or read. After setting the blood collection conditions as needed, the subject's finger 134 can be placed on finger rest 131, the puncture needle can be used to puncture the subject's finger 134, blood can be collected into blood collection tube 100, and hemostasis can be performed at the puncture site. Blood collection conditions include the time elapsed since puncture by the puncture needle, the time between compression and expansion of cuff mechanism 130, and the number of repetitions.

[0074] The blood collection device described above includes a position sensor 20 and an electrically driven direction adjustment mechanism 21. Therefore, the direction of the blood collection tube 100 about its central axis can be accurately and actively controlled based on the sensor's detection results. Based on the current position detected by the sensor, the relative position of the protrusion 102 relative to the central axis of the blood collection tube 100 can be adjusted to within a specified target range. Furthermore, there is no need for blood collection personnel to confirm the direction of the protrusion 102, and the adjusted protrusion 102 can be used as a blood receiving surface or a receiving surface / guide for an instrument. Therefore, the direction of a blood collection tube set for blood collection about its central axis can be adjusted through precise and reliable automatic control, reducing the work associated with blood collection and enabling stable and efficient blood collection from the blood collection tube.

[0075] Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a position sensor for detecting the position of a protrusion of a blood sampling tube. Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 There is schematically shown an example of the configuration of the position sensor 20 when viewing from above the turntable 11 built into the blood collection device 1. In these figures, illustration of the detailed structure of the turntable 11, the bracket 110, and the outer tube 200 is omitted.

[0076] Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9Figure 2 shows blood sampling tube 100 stopped at the blood sampling position on turntable 11. The relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is adjusted to within a predetermined target stopping range. The target stopping range is set to the half area of blood sampling tube 100 located toward the center of turntable 11 relative to the central axis.

[0077] like Figure 6 As shown, the position sensor 20 can be located outside the turntable 11 when viewed from above. According to the above arrangement, a single sensor can detect movement of the side end of the protrusion 102 relative to the target stopping range at the height of the protrusion 102 of the blood sampling tube 100 stopped at the blood sampling position. Since detection can be performed by a single sensor outside the turntable 11, sensor placement and wiring are simplified.

[0078] like Figure 7 As shown, when viewing the turntable 11 from above, multiple position sensors 20 can be installed outside the turntable 11. This arrangement allows multiple sensors to independently detect movement of the side ends of the protrusion 102 relative to the target stopping range at the height of the protrusion 102 of the blood sampling tube 100 when it is stopped at the blood sampling position. Since detection can be performed outside the turntable 11, sensor placement and wiring are simplified. Furthermore, since multiple sensors can monitor multiple positions, determining the position of the protrusion 102 is simplified.

[0079] like Figure 8 As shown, the position sensor 20 can be installed on the turntable 11, closer to the center of the turntable 11 than the blood collection tube 100. This arrangement allows detection of the movement of the side end of the protrusion 102 relative to the target stop range at the height of the protrusion 102 on the turntable 11. This arrangement requires wiring through the shaft 12, the incorporation of flexible printed circuits (FPCs) for the sensor, and a torque release mechanism for rotation, making sensor placement and wiring difficult. However, since the position of the position sensor 20 relative to the blood collection tube 100 is fixed, monitoring can be performed from before the blood collection tube 100 is moved to the blood collection position without being affected by the accuracy of the turntable 11's movement.

[0080] like Figure 9 As shown, the position sensor 20 may also be provided on the turntable 11 and provided on a side of the turntable 11 in the circumferential direction closer to the blood collection tube 100. According to the above method, the movement of the side end of the protrusion 102 relative to the target stop range can be detected at the height of the protrusion 102 on the turntable 11. In this method, Figure 8However, since the relative position of the position sensor 20 with respect to the blood sampling tube 100 is fixed, monitoring can be performed from before the blood sampling tube 100 moves to the blood sampling position without being affected by the movement accuracy of the turntable 11.

[0081] Figure 10 This is a diagram schematically showing an example of the main parts of the blood sampling device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 Schematically shows another example of the structure around the turntable 11 provided inside the blood collection device 1. like Figure 10 As shown, in the blood collection device 1, the turntable 11, the shaft 12, the rotation drive mechanism 13, the movable support member 14, the lifting drive mechanism 15, etc. are built into the lower part of the opening of the housing 10. The rotation drive mechanism 13, the movable support member 14, and the lifting drive mechanism 15 are supported at predetermined positions by support members (not shown).

[0082] Figure 10 The blood collection device 1 shown is Figure 2 The blood collection device 1 shown is different in that it includes a mechanical direction adjustment mechanism 22 instead of the position sensor 20 and the electric direction adjustment mechanism 21. Figure 10 As shown, a mechanical direction adjustment mechanism 22 may be used as an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the direction of blood sampling tube 100 in holder 110 .

[0083] like Figure 10 As shown, the blood collection tube 100 is placed on a bracket 110. Figure 10 In the embodiment, blood collection tube 100 is placed on bracket 110 while being housed in outer tube 200. Bracket 110 is configured such that a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the bracket is open. However, bracket 110 may be configured in any suitable configuration as long as the orientation of the object around the central axis is not fixed.

[0084] exist Figure 10 In the embodiment, a mechanical direction adjustment mechanism 22 for adjusting the direction of the blood sampling tube 100 in the bracket 110 is provided on the side of the blood sampling position. The direction adjustment mechanism 22 is composed of a guide for moving the protrusion 102 of the blood sampling tube 100 to a predetermined position. Figure 11 As shown, the direction adjustment mechanism 22 has an inclined guide surface 221 for guiding the movement of the protrusion 102 .

[0085] The direction adjustment mechanism 22 is configured so that a guide surface 221, provided at the front end, is positioned along the vicinity of the target stopping range of the protrusion 102 at the blood collection position on the turntable 11. The direction adjustment mechanism 22 can be mounted, for example, on the inner surface of the housing 10 above the turntable 11. However, as long as the relative position of the guide surface 221 with respect to the target stopping range of the protrusion 102 is fixed, the direction adjustment mechanism 22 can be mounted at any suitable location.

[0086] The direction adjustment mechanism 22 can be formed of any suitable material. Examples of materials for the direction adjustment mechanism 22 include elastomers, plastics, and metals. From the perspective of reducing the impact on the protrusion 102, it is preferable to use an elastomer such as rubber as the material for the direction adjustment mechanism 22.

[0087] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view showing the periphery of the blood collection position of the blood collection device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the periphery of a blood collection position of a blood collection device according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above. Figure 11 The following table shows the configuration of Figure 10 The direction adjustment mechanism 22 is shown around the blood collection position. Figure 12 Shown in the figure as viewed from above Figure 11 The situation around the blood collection site is shown.

[0088] Figure 11 and Figure 12 Figure 2 shows blood collection tube 100 stopped at the blood collection position on turntable 11. The relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood collection tube 100 is adjusted to within a predetermined target stopping range. The target stopping range is set to the half of the area located toward the center of turntable 11 relative to the central axis of blood collection tube 100. Adjustment to the target stopping range is performed by direction adjustment mechanism 22.

[0089] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, blood collection tube 100 can be placed on holder 110 while housed in outer tube 200. Protrusion 102 of blood collection tube 100 protrudes upward from body 101, outer tube 200, and holder 110. As long as protrusion 102 protrudes upward, the height relationship between blood collection tube 100, outer tube 200, and holder 110 on turntable 11 can be appropriately adjusted.

[0090] like Figure 11As shown, guide surface 221 of direction adjustment mechanism 22 is disposed above turntable 11 at a height where it can contact protrusion 102 of blood sampling tube 100, but is not in contact with body 101, outer tube 200, and bracket 110 of blood sampling tube 100. When the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is adjusted toward the center of turntable 11, direction adjustment mechanism 22 is disposed further outward of turntable 11 than protrusion 102.

[0091] like Figure 12 As shown, when looking down at the turntable 11, the guide surface 221 of the direction adjustment mechanism 22 is set relative to the tangent axis ( Figure 12 When the blood sampling tube 100 is moved to the blood sampling position by the rotation of the turntable 11, the guide surface 221 is set at a position that interferes with the protrusion 102 outside the target stopping range and is set at a position that does not interfere with the protrusion 102 within the target stopping range.

[0092] Guide surface 221 can be arranged to intersect opening 103 when viewing blood collection cartridge 100 stopped at the blood collection position on turntable 11. With this configuration, when blood collection cartridge 100 is moved to the blood collection position by rotation of turntable 11, protrusion 102 can contact guide surface 221 regardless of its relative position with respect to the central axis of blood collection cartridge 100. Consequently, guide surface 221 impedes the translational movement of protrusion 102, thereby changing the orientation of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood collection cartridge 100.

[0093] One end of the guide surface 221 on the inlet side of the protrusion 102 is positioned away from the tangential axis. Meanwhile, the other end of the guide surface 221 on the outlet side of the protrusion 102 is positioned closer to the tangential axis. When viewing the blood collection tube 100 stopped at the blood collection position on the turntable 11, the other end of the guide surface 221 and the side end of the target stopping range of the protrusion 102 can be positioned close to each other. This configuration allows the blood collection tube 100 to be rotated about its central axis, with the side end of the protrusion 102 positioned near the target stopping range.

[0094] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, a back support member 23 can be provided on the turntable 11. Back support member 23 is provided on the side of the blood collection tube 100 opposite the direction adjustment mechanism 22. Back support member 23 is used to support the blood collection tube 100 from the back side when the protrusion 102 is in contact with the direction adjustment mechanism 22. When the protrusion 102 is in contact with the direction adjustment mechanism 22, supporting the blood collection tube 100 from the back side allows for smooth rotation of the blood collection tube 100 about its central axis.

[0095] Back support member 23 may be provided on turntable 11 at a height such that it contacts body 101 of blood sampling cartridge 100 and outer tube 200 housing blood sampling cartridge 100, which are the objects of orientation adjustment, but does not contact protrusion 102 of blood sampling cartridge 100. When the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling cartridge 100 is adjusted toward the center of turntable 11, back support member 23 is provided closer to the center of turntable 11 than protrusion 102.

[0096] Back support member 23 has a support surface 231 that supports objects mounted on bracket 110, such as main body 101 of blood sampling cartridge 100 and outer tube 200 housing blood sampling cartridge 100, which are the subject of direction control. Support surface 231 is positioned along the back side of the target stopping range of protrusion 102, facing guide surface 221 across main body 101 of blood sampling cartridge 100 and outer tube 200 housing blood sampling cartridge 100.

[0097] exist Figure 12 In the embodiment, the support surface 231 is formed into a curved shape that protrudes outward from the turntable 11. This shape allows the support surface 231 to come into line contact with the object to be oriented. Since the frictional resistance experienced by the surface of the back support member 23 in contact with the object to be oriented is reduced, the object can be easily changed in direction about its central axis while supporting the back side of the object to be oriented.

[0098] The support surface 231 is preferably configured to be in point contact or line contact with the direction control object. The back support member 23 can be configured as a curved pad, a curved tube, or a freely rotatable roller.

[0099] The back support member 23 can be formed of any suitable material. Examples of the material for the back support member 23 include elastomers, plastics, and metals. From the perspective of reducing the impact on the direction control object, it is preferable to use an elastomer such as rubber as the material for the back support member 23.

[0100] It is preferable to configure the surface of direction control mechanism 2 that contacts protrusion 102 to experience greater frictional resistance than the surface of back support member 23 that contacts an object mounted on bracket 110, such as main body 101 of blood sampling tube 100 or outer tube 200 housing blood sampling tube 100, that is the target of direction control. This frictional resistance relationship allows the target to be easily changed about its central axis by utilizing the frictional force of direction control mechanism 22 while supporting the back side of the target.

[0101] Figure 13 、 Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a diagram for explaining a method of mechanically adjusting the direction of a blood collection tube around its central axis. Figure 13 、 Figure 14 and Figure 15 Shown in the figure as viewed from above Figure 11 In these figures, the detailed structure of the turntable 11, the bracket 110 and the outer tube 200 are omitted.

[0102] Figure 13 、 Figure 14 and Figure 15 1 shows the process of adjusting the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 by mechanical direction adjustment mechanism 22. The target range is set to the half area on the center side of turntable 11 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100. Figure 13 The state in which the blood sampling tube 100 is moved to the blood sampling position is shown. Figure 14 The state where the blood sampling tube 100 has entered the blood sampling position is shown. Figure 15 The state in which the blood sampling tube 100 has been moved to the blood sampling position is shown.

[0103] like Figure 13 As shown, when turntable 11 is controlled in accordance with a blood sampling operation or procedure, blood sampling tube 100 moves to a blood sampling position on turntable 11 as turntable 11 rotates. While blood sampling tube 100 is moving to the blood sampling position, protrusion 102 can be oriented in any direction relative to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100. Since blood sampling personnel can place blood sampling tube 100 on holder 110 in any orientation, the burden of confirming the orientation can be reduced.

[0104] like Figure 14 As shown, when the blood sampling sequence arrives, the blood sampling tube 100 enters the blood sampling position on the turntable 11 as the turntable 11 rotates. A direction adjustment mechanism 22 having a guide surface 221 is provided at the blood sampling position. When the relative position of the protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of the blood sampling tube 100 is outside the target range, the protrusion 102, which moves with the rotation of the turntable 11, abuts against the guide surface 221.

[0105] like Figure 15 As shown, once the blood collection sequence arrives, the blood collection tube 100 moves to the blood collection position on the turntable 11 as the turntable 11 rotates and then stops. The direction adjustment mechanism 22 is positioned at a height that allows contact with the protrusion 102 but avoids contact with the main body 101 and other components. Therefore, while the main body 101 moves to the blood collection position as the turntable 11 rotates, the movement of the protrusion 102 along the circumference of the turntable 11 is hindered by the guide surface 221.

[0106] When the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is outside the target range, guide surface 221 contacts protrusion 102, causing protrusion 102 to move along an incline. Movement along guide surface 221 changes the orientation of blood sampling tube 100 about the central axis, and the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is guided within the target range.

[0107] On the other hand, when the relative position of protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of blood sampling tube 100 is within the target range, guide surface 221 does not contact protrusion 102, allowing protrusion 102 to move in the circumferential direction of turntable 11. A gap is provided between direction adjustment mechanism 22 and back support member 23, through which protrusion 102 can pass.

[0108] According to this blood collection device, since it includes a mechanical direction adjustment mechanism 22, the direction of the blood collection tube 100 about its central axis can be changed by rotating the turntable 11 without using an actuator or the like. The relative position of the protrusion 102 with respect to the central axis of the blood collection tube 100 can be adjusted within a predetermined target range without introducing an electric device or additional control. Furthermore, the blood collection operator is not required to confirm the direction of the protrusion 102, and the adjusted protrusion 102 can be used as a blood receiving surface or a receiving surface / guide for an instrument. Therefore, the direction of a blood collection tube set for blood collection about its central axis can be adjusted using a simple device structure, reducing the work involved in blood collection and enabling stable and efficient blood collection from the blood collection tube.

[0109] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the present invention is not limited to including all the structures of the aforementioned embodiments. A portion of the structure of a particular embodiment may be replaced with another structure, a portion of the structure of a particular embodiment may be added to another embodiment, or a portion of the structure of a particular embodiment may be omitted. Label Description

[0110] 10 shell 11 turntable 12 axes 13 Rotation drive mechanism 13a Electric motor 13b Power transmission mechanism 14 Movable supporting member 15 Lifting drive mechanism 15a Electric motor 15b Power transmission mechanism 20 position sensors 21 direction adjustment mechanism 21a Electric motor 21b Direction adjustment unit 22 direction adjustment mechanism 23 back support member 100 blood collection tubes 101 Main body 102 protrusion 103 opening 110 bracket 120 modules 130 cuff mechanism 131 Finger Placement 132 Finger rest parts 133 Blood Collection Window 134 The finger of the person whose blood is drawn 200 outer tube.

Claims

1. A blood collection device, characterized in that: include: a bracket, the bracket being provided with a blood collection tube; a blood collection unit for collecting blood from a subject into the blood collection tube; as well as A direction adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the direction of the blood collection tube in the bracket. The blood collection tube has a bottomed cylindrical main body with an upper opening, and a protrusion formed by protruding upward from a portion of the circumference of the opening. The direction adjustment mechanism adjusts the direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis so that the position of the protrusion relative to the central axis of the blood collection tube is within a predetermined range.

2. The blood collection device according to claim 1, wherein including a position sensor for detecting a position of the protrusion, The direction adjustment mechanism adjusts the direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis based on the detection result of the position sensor.

3. The blood collection device according to claim 1, wherein The direction adjustment mechanism includes a direction adjustment unit that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the blood sampling tube or the device that accommodates the blood sampling tube placed on the bracket, and a motor that activates the direction adjustment unit. The direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis is adjusted by the friction force generated by the operation of the direction adjustment unit.

4. The blood collection device according to claim 1, wherein The direction adjustment mechanism includes a roller-type spacer that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the blood collection tube or the device that accommodates the blood collection tube placed on the bracket, and a motor that rotates the spacer. The direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis is adjusted by the friction force generated by the rotation of the gasket.

5. The blood collection device according to claim 1, wherein include: a turntable configured to rotate freely; as well as a rotation drive mechanism that rotates the turntable, The bracket is supported on the turntable.

6. The blood collection device according to claim 1, wherein: include: A turntable configured to rotate freely; as well as a rotary drive mechanism for rotating the turntable, The bracket is supported on the turntable, The direction adjustment mechanism is a guide member provided above the turntable at a height that contacts the protrusion and does not contact the main body. The protrusion is moved along the guide member as the turntable rotates, thereby adjusting the direction of the blood collection tube around the central axis.

7. The blood collection device according to claim 6, wherein: A support member is provided on the side of the protrusion opposite to the direction adjustment mechanism, the support member supporting the blood sampling tube or the device for accommodating the blood sampling tube placed on the bracket from the side. The supporting member is provided above the turntable at a height that contacts the main body or an object that accommodates the blood sampling tube and does not contact the protrusion.

8. The blood collection device according to claim 7, wherein: The frictional resistance exerted on the surface of the direction adjustment mechanism in contact with the protrusion is greater than the frictional resistance exerted on the surface of the support member in contact with the main body or the object accommodating the blood sampling tube.

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