Management method, management device, sample analysis system, and program

Abstract

The invention provides a management method, a management device, a sample analysis system, and a program which can flexibly respond to requests of users related to predicted replacement time of consumables. A management method for managing the replacement time of consumables in a sample analyzer, the management method storing the actual usage status of consumables, receiving an input of a desired period desired by a user among a plurality of periods including a period longer than a day and a period shorter than the day, and storing the received desired period. The user is notified of information relating to the predicted replacement time of the consumable in the desired period on the basis of the actual use condition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a management method, a management device, a sample analysis system and a program. Background Art

[0002] Currently, in sample analyzers, operators and other users analyze samples using consumable reagents installed in the analyzer. If the remaining amount of reagents installed in the analyzer is insufficient, the analysis of the sample is interrupted. Therefore, users need to replace the reagents installed in the analyzer as needed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 below describes a method for replenishing reagents for the same day or the next day. This method proposes comparing the planned daily reagent demand with the current remaining reagent quantity, subtracting the current remaining reagent quantity from the current required quantity, and displaying the reagent replenishment details. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 below describes a sample analyzer that receives a time period (nighttime and holiday settings) during which the user will operate the sample analyzer after handover. If there is a possibility of reagent shortage during this time period, the device displays a message indicating the possibility of reagent shortage.

[0004] Prior art literature Patent Literature Patent Document 1: Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 115343489 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-89129 Summary of the Invention Problems to be solved by the invention The above-mentioned method can notify the user of the consumables replenishment schedule for the same day or the next day, or can notify the user before the handover that consumables may be insufficient during the nighttime period after the handover. However, requests for replacing consumables can vary depending on the user's individual goals. Each user wants to know the predicted replacement time for consumables that suits their own goals. However, the above-mentioned method cannot flexibly respond to such individual user requests.

[0005] In view of this problem, an object of the present invention is to provide a management method, a management device, a sample analysis system, and a program that can flexibly respond to requests from individual users regarding the estimated replacement time of consumables.

[0006] Technical solutions to solve problems The present invention relates to a management method for managing the replacement period of consumables in a sample analyzer (3, 4, 5). In the management method of the present invention, the actual usage status (312) of the consumables is stored (S212), an input of a desired period desired by a user among a plurality of periods including periods longer than a day and periods shorter than a day or a day is received (S233), and information related to a predicted replacement period of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status is notified to the user (S236).

[0007] For example, the operator of the sample analyzer wants to know at which time the consumables will reach replacement time in a shorter period such as today and tomorrow, based on the relationship between himself and the person who is taking over. On the other hand, the manager who orders consumables wants to know at which time the consumables will reach replacement time in a longer period such as a week or a month, taking into account the inventory status of consumables in his own facility or the delivery cycle from the ordering of consumables to their arrival. In this way, the period during which each user wants to know the replacement time of the consumables is different. According to the management method of the present invention, it is possible to receive input of the expected period desired by each user, and to notify the user at which time the replacement period is likely to arrive in the expected period. Therefore, it is possible to flexibly respond to requests from each user related to the predicted replacement period of consumables.

[0008] The present invention relates to a management device (2) for managing the replacement period of consumables in a sample analysis device (3, 4, 5). The management device (2) of the present invention comprises a control unit (301), a storage unit (310), and interfaces (302, 303) for inputting and outputting information. The control unit (301) stores the actual usage status (312) of the consumables in the storage unit (310), receives input of a desired period desired by the user from a plurality of periods including periods longer than a day and periods shorter than a day or a day via the interface (303), and notifies information related to the predicted replacement period of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status (312) via the interface (302).

[0009] The management device of the present invention can receive input of a desired period from each user and notify the user of when the replacement period is likely to occur within the desired period.

[0010] The sample analysis system (1) of the present invention comprises a plurality of sample analysis devices (3, 4, 5) and a management device (2) for managing the replacement period of consumables in each sample analysis device (3, 4, 5). The management device (2) comprises a control unit (301), a storage unit (310), and interfaces (302, 303) for inputting and outputting information. The control unit (301) obtains the actual usage status (312) of the consumables from each sample analysis device (3, 4, 5) and stores it in the storage unit (310), receives input of a desired period desired by the user from a plurality of periods including periods longer than a day and periods shorter than a day or a day through the interface (303), and notifies information related to the predicted replacement period of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status (312) through the interface (302).

[0011] The sample analysis system of the present invention can receive input of a desired period from each user and notify the user of when the replacement period is likely to occur within the desired period, thereby flexibly responding to individual user requests regarding the predicted replacement period of consumables.

[0012] The present invention relates to a program (315) that causes a computer (2) to execute processing for managing the replacement period of consumables in a sample analyzer (3, 4, 5). The program (315) of the present invention stores actual usage status (312) of consumables, receives input of a desired period desired by a user from among a plurality of periods including periods longer than a day and periods shorter than a day or a day, and notifies the user of information related to the predicted replacement period of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status (312).

[0013] The program of the present invention enables a computer to receive input of a desired period from each user and notify the user of the timing of the expected replacement period. This allows flexible response to individual user requests regarding the predicted replacement period for consumables.

[0014] Effects of the Invention According to the present invention, it is possible to flexibly respond to requests from individual users regarding the estimated replacement time of consumables. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a sample analysis system according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the blood cell analyzer according to the embodiment when viewed from the front.

[0017] Figure 3It is a perspective view schematically showing the structure of a reagent container used for measurement in a measurement device according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the management device according to the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the blood cell counting device according to the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the smear sample preparation device and the feeding device according to the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a first reagent usage database related to the amount of reagent used by the measurement device when measuring a sample according to the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a second reagent usage database related to the reagent amount used when the measuring device is started, a third reagent usage database related to the reagent amount used when the measuring device is automatically cleaned, and a fourth reagent usage database related to the reagent amount used when the measuring device is shut down, in an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of an operation log of a measurement device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a reagent database related to reagents installed in a measurement device according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the reagent usage pattern information of the measurement device according to the embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the reagent usage pattern information of the measurement device according to the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13 It is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a reagent management screen displayed on the display input unit of the control device according to the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 It is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a setting screen according to the embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of display conditions set in the display condition setting area according to the embodiment.

[0030] Figure 16This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen when the month display is selected on the setting screen according to the embodiment.

[0031] Figure 17 It is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen when the weekly display is selected on the setting screen according to the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 18 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the predicted replacement time display screen when day display is selected on the setting screen according to the embodiment.

[0033] Figure 19 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the predicted replacement time display screen when day display is selected on the setting screen according to the embodiment.

[0034] Figure 20 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the predicted replacement time display screen when hour display is selected on the setting screen and four hours are set as the time interval according to the embodiment.

[0035] Figure 21 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the predicted replacement time display screen when hour display is selected on the setting screen and four hours are set as the time interval according to the embodiment.

[0036] Figure 22 This is a flowchart showing a reagent container replacement process according to the embodiment.

[0037] Figure 23 This is a flowchart showing the updating process of the reagent remaining amount according to the embodiment.

[0038] Figure 24 This is a flowchart showing a process for updating reagent usage pattern information by the management device according to the embodiment.

[0039] Figure 25 This is a flowchart showing a notification process of a predicted replacement time by the management device according to the embodiment.

[0040] Figure 26 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the emphasis display setting screen according to Modification Example 1.

[0041] Figure 27 This is a diagram schematically showing a state in which the predicted replacement time according to Modification Example 1 is highlighted.

[0042] Figure 28 This is a flowchart showing the acceptance process for highlight display by the management device according to Modification Example 1.

[0043] Figure 29 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a non-business day and time setting screen according to Modification Example 2.

[0044] Figure 30 This is a flowchart showing the process of moving the estimated replacement time by the management device according to Modification Example 2.

[0045] Figure 31 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen when normal settings and customized settings are performed on the non-business day and time setting screen according to Modification Example 2.

[0046] Figure 32 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a reagent database related to reagents provided in the measurement device according to Modification Example 3.

[0047] Figure 33 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a waiting period setting screen according to Modification Example 3.

[0048] Figure 34 This is a flowchart showing the processing of accepting a waiting period by the management device according to Modification Example 3.

[0049] Figure 35 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen when the waiting period is set on the waiting period setting screen according to Modification Example 3.

[0050] Figure 36 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen when the month display is selected on the setting screen according to Modification Example 4.

[0051] Figure 37 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a setting screen according to Modification Example 5.

[0052] Figure 38 This is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen when the month display is selected on the setting screen and the start date and time and the end date and time are set according to Modification Example 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The following embodiments apply the present invention to a management method, a management device, a sample analysis system, and a program. The management method manages the replacement schedule of consumables in the sample analysis device, and the program causes a computer to execute processing for managing the replacement schedule of consumables in the sample analysis device. Consumables are products whose remaining quantity decreases with use, or products that become unusable with use. In this embodiment, consumables are reagents, but are not limited to these. They may also include colorimetric tubes, pipette tips, paper, ribbons, and the like.

[0054] Figure 1 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the sample analysis system 1 .

[0055] The sample analysis system 1 measures a sample and analyzes the sample based on the measurement results. The sample analysis system 1 includes a management device 2, a blood cell analyzer 3, a blood coagulation analyzer 4, and an immune analyzer 5. The sample analysis system 1 is installed in a facility such as a hospital.

[0056] The blood cell analyzer 3 includes a blood cell counting device 11, a smear sample preparation device 12, and a transport controller 13. The blood cell counting device 11 includes a control device 110 and two measuring devices 120. The specimen to be analyzed by the blood cell analyzer 3 is whole blood collected from a subject. A reagent container containing reagents for measurement is connected to the measuring device 120. The measuring device 120 measures a measurement sample mixed with the specimen and the reagent, and the control device 110 analyzes the measurement data of the measuring device 120 to generate analysis results of the specimen for various items related to blood cells such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A reagent container containing reagents for preparing a smear sample is connected to the smear sample preparation device 12, and the smear sample preparation device 12 prepares a smear sample of the specimen. The transport controller 13 controls the transport of the specimen in the blood cell analyzer 3.

[0057] The blood coagulation analyzer 4 includes a control device 4a and a measuring device 4b. The sample to be analyzed by the blood coagulation analyzer 4 is plasma or serum collected from a subject. A reagent container containing reagents for measurement is connected to the measuring device 4b. The measuring device 4b measures a measurement sample mixed with the sample and reagents based on, for example, a coagulation method, a synthetic matrix method, an immunoturbidimetric method, or an agglutination method. The control device 4a analyzes the measurement data from the measuring device 4b to generate analysis results for the sample regarding various items related to blood coagulation.

[0058] The immunoanalyzer 5 includes a control device 5a and a measuring device 5b. The sample analyzed by the immunoanalyzer 5 is whole blood, plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or the like collected from a subject. A reagent container containing the reagents used for the measurement is connected to the measuring device 5b. The measuring device 5b measures a measurement sample containing a mixture of the sample and the reagents. The control device 5a analyzes the measurement data from the measuring device 5b to generate analysis results for various items of the sample, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tumor markers, thyroid hormones, and dementia markers.

[0059] The management device 2 is communicatively connected to the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5. The management device 2 receives the device type or reagent type, along with a time period input from the user, and notifies the user of information regarding the time when the target reagent will be used up within the received time period (hereinafter referred to as the "estimated replacement period"). Upon receiving this notification, the user removes the specified reagent containers installed in the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 at an appropriate time and replaces them with new reagent containers. The following describes the notification process related to this estimated replacement period, referring to the structure and processing of the management device 2 and the blood cell analyzer 3.

[0060] Note that the notification processing related to the blood coagulation analyzer 4 and the immune analyzer 5 is substantially the same as that of the blood cell analyzer 3 , and therefore, only the notification processing related to the blood cell analyzer 3 will be described below.

[0061] Figure 2 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the blood cell analyzer 3 as viewed from the front.

[0062] The blood cell analyzer 3 includes a blood cell counting device 11, a smear sample preparation device 12, a transport controller 13, an input device 21, a pre-processing device 22, two transport devices 23, a transport device 24, and a recovery device 25. In addition, the blood cell analyzer 3 includes storage units 31, 32, 34, 35 and two storage units 33. The storage units 31 to 35 are carts that can store items inside. Figure 2 , for convenience, the smear sample preparation device 12 is omitted from the illustration, and only the transport device 24 and a portion of the storage unit 34 are shown.

[0063] The blood cell counting device 11 includes a control device 110 and two measuring devices 120. The control device 110 includes a main body 110a, a display input unit 113 comprising a touch-panel display, and a handheld barcode reader 115. A user can input instructions to the main body 110a by operating the display input unit 113. The main body 110a is housed in a storage unit 31, and the display input unit 113 is located above the storage unit 31. The measuring devices 120 are located above the storage unit 33.

[0064] Smear sample preparation device 12 (refer to Figure 1 ) is arranged in the upper part of the storage portion 34.

[0065] The transport controller 13 includes a main body 13a and a display input unit 13b comprising a touch-panel display. A user can input instructions to the main body 13a by operating the display input unit 13b. The main body 13a is housed in a storage unit 35, and the display input unit 13b is located above the storage unit 35.

[0066] The loading device 21 is disposed above the storage section 31, the pre-processing device 22 is disposed above the storage section 32, the conveying device 23 is disposed above the storage section 33, the conveying device 24 is disposed above the storage section 34, and the recovery device 25 is disposed above the storage section 35. The recovery device 25, the loading device 21, the pre-processing device 22, the two conveying devices 23, and the conveying device 24 are arranged adjacent to each other in the left direction.

[0067] The measuring device 120 contains reagent containers 201 to 205 used for measurements in the measuring device 120. The lower storage section 33 of the measuring device 120 contains reagent containers 211 to 216 used for measurements in the measuring device 120. The reagent containers 211 to 216 are connected to the measuring device 120 via tubes. Similarly, the lower storage section 34 of the smear sample preparation device 12 contains reagent containers used for preparing smear samples in the smear sample preparation device 12. The reagent containers in the storage section 34 are connected to the smear sample preparation device 12 via tubes.

[0068] The sample containers 101 contain samples, and the sample rack 100 is configured to hold multiple sample containers 101. When a user places a sample rack 100 holding a sample container 101 on the loading device 21, the sample rack 100 is transported leftward by the loading device 21 and the pre-processing device 22. The sample rack 100 is then appropriately transported to the measuring device 120 and the smear sample preparation device 12 by the transport devices 23 and 24, and the samples in the sample containers 101 are appropriately supplied to the measuring device 120 and the smear sample preparation device 12. The sample rack 100 is then transported to the collection device 25 and removed from the collection device 25 by the user. This completes the measurement of the samples in the sample containers 101 held by the sample rack 100.

[0069] Figure 3 It is a perspective view schematically showing the structure of reagent containers 201 and 216 used for measurement in the measurement device 120.

[0070] like Figure 3As shown in the upper portion of the figure, the reagent container 201 includes a main body 201a that holds the reagent, a barcode label B1, and an RFID label T1. The barcode label B1 and the RFID label T1 are attached to the side of the main body 201a. Barcode label B1 contains a barcode indicating reagent information, including the lot number, expiration date, reagent name (reagent type), reagent container capacity (amount of reagent in a new reagent container), and a serial number. The RFID label T1 also contains the same reagent information as the barcode label B1.

[0071] It should be noted that the other reagent containers 202 to 205 are also configured similarly to the reagent container 201 , and have barcode labels B1 and RFID tags T1 affixed thereto.

[0072] In the embodiment, for example, reagent containers 201 to 205 contain dye solutions (hereinafter referred to as dye solutions A, B, D, E, and C, respectively). The dye solutions contained in reagent containers 201 to 205 are, for example, Fluorocell (registered trademark) WNR, Fluorocell (registered trademark) WDF, Fluorocell (registered trademark) RET, Fluorocell (registered trademark) PLT, and Fluorocell (registered trademark) WPC manufactured by Sysmex Corporation.

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown in the lower section of FIG, the reagent container 216 includes a main body 216a for containing the reagent and a barcode label B2. The barcode label B2 is affixed to the side or top surface of the main body 216a. Printed on the barcode label B2 is a barcode indicating reagent information related to the reagent contained in the reagent container 216, including the lot number, expiration date, reagent name (reagent type), reagent container capacity (amount of reagent in a new reagent container), and serial number.

[0074] It should be noted that the other reagent containers 211 to 215 are slightly different in shape and size, but are configured similarly to the reagent container 216 and have barcode labels B2 affixed thereto.

[0075] In this embodiment, for example, reagent containers 211 and 213 contain diluents (hereinafter referred to as diluents A and B, respectively), and reagent containers 212, 214, 215, and 216 contain hemolytic agents (hereinafter referred to as hemolytic agents A, D, B, and C, respectively). The diluents contained in reagent containers 211 and 213 are, for example, cellpack (registered trademark) DCL and cellpack (registered trademark) DFL manufactured by Sysmex Corporation. The staining solutions contained in reagent containers 212, 214, 215, and 216 are, for example, sulfolyser (registered trademark), lysercell (registered trademark) WPC, lysercell (registered trademark) WNR, and lysercell (registered trademark) WDF II manufactured by Sysmex Corporation.

[0076] Figure 4 It is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the management device 2.

[0077] The management device 2 includes a control unit 301 , a storage unit 310 , a display unit 302 , an input unit 303 , and a communication unit 304 .

[0078] The control unit 301 is comprised of, for example, a CPU. The control unit 301 performs various processes by executing a program 315 stored in the storage unit 310. The program 315 is a computer program. The storage unit 310 is comprised of, for example, an SSD or HDD. The storage unit 310 stores a reagent usage database 311, an operation log 312, a reagent database 313, reagent usage pattern information 314, and a program 315.

[0079] Here, the right measuring device 120, the left measuring device 120, the smear sample preparation device 12, the measuring device 4b of the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the measuring device 5b of the immunoassay analyzer 5 are respectively referred to as processing modules.

[0080] The reagent usage database 311 includes a plurality of reagent usage databases that store the reagent amounts used for various processes for each processing module. The action log 312 includes a plurality of action logs that store the action contents of each processing module for each processing module. The reagent database 313 includes a plurality of reagent databases that store information related to the reagents set for each processing module. The reagent usage pattern information 314 includes a plurality of reagent usage pattern information that stores the pattern of using the reagents for each processing module. Figures 7-12 The reagent usage amount database 311 , the operation log 312 , the reagent database 313 , and the reagent usage amount pattern information 314 will be described.

[0081] The display unit 302 is comprised of, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The input unit 303 is comprised of, for example, a mouse and keyboard. It should be noted that the display unit 302 and input unit 303 may also be integrally formed, as in the case of a touch panel display. The communication unit 304 is comprised of a connection terminal compliant with the Ethernet standard. The communication unit 304 is connected to the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 via a communication network such as a LAN.

[0082] Figure 5 1 is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the blood cell counting device 11. Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , for convenience, only one measuring device 120 is shown. However, the two measuring devices 120 have the same structure and are connected to the control device 110 in the same manner.

[0083] The control device 110 includes a control unit 111, a storage unit 112, a display input unit 113, a communication unit 114, and a barcode reader 115. The control unit 111, the storage unit 112, and the communication unit 114 are housed in the main body 110a (see Figure 2 ).

[0084] The control unit 111 is composed of, for example, a CPU. The control unit 111 executes various processes by executing computer programs stored in the storage unit 112, and controls the two measurement devices 120. The storage unit 112 is composed of, for example, an SSD or HDD. The display and input unit 113 is composed of, for example, a touch panel display. The display and input unit 113 can also be divided into a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and an input unit such as a mouse or a keyboard.

[0085] The communication unit 114 is composed of connection terminals based on the Ethernet standard and connection terminals based on the USB standard. The communication unit 114 and the line hub 14 are connected via an Ethernet cable. The line hub 14 is, for example, a network hub. The line hub 14 is connected to the management device 2 via a communication network such as a LAN. The communication unit 114 and the barcode reader 115 are connected via a USB cable. The communication unit 114 and the communication units 126 of the two measurement devices 120 are also connected via USB cables.

[0086] The measurement device 120 includes an RFID antenna 121 , an aspiration unit 122 , a sample preparation unit 123 , an air bubble sensor 124 , a measurement unit 125 , and a communication unit 126 .

[0087] The RFID antenna 121 reads reagent information from the RFID tags T1 of the reagent containers 201 to 205 set in the measuring device 120. In this embodiment, when the reagent containers 201 to 205 are set in the measuring device 120, the reagent information read by the RFID antenna 121 is used to determine whether the reagent containers are properly set.

[0088] The aspirating unit 122 includes a sample aspirating nozzle, a plurality of reagent aspirating nozzles, and a plurality of tubes, and a sample container 101 (see FIG. Figure 2 ), aspirates the sample from the reagent containers 201 to 205 via multiple reagent aspiration nozzles, and aspirates the reagent from the reagent containers 211 to 216 via multiple tubes. The sample preparation unit 123 includes multiple chambers for mixing the sample and reagent. The sample and reagent are mixed in each chamber to prepare the measurement sample. A bubble sensor 124 is provided in each tube connecting the reagent containers 211 to 216 to the measurement device 120. The bubble sensor 124 is a prism sensor that detects bubbles contained in the tube.

[0089] The measurement unit 125 measures blood cells in the measurement sample prepared by the sample preparation unit 123 using the sheath flow DC detection method, the SLS-hemoglobin method, and flow cytometry. The communication unit 126 comprises a connection terminal compliant with the USB standard. Reagent information acquired by the RFID antenna 121, detection signals from the bubble sensor 124, and measurement data acquired by the measurement unit 125 are transmitted to the control device 110 via the communication unit 126. The control unit 111 of the control device 110 performs various processes based on the reagent information and detection signals, analyzes the sample based on the measurement data, and generates analysis results.

[0090] Figure 6 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the smear sample preparation device 12 and the feeding device 21 .

[0091] The smear sample preparation device 12 includes a control unit 131 , a storage unit 132 , a display input unit 133 , an aspirating unit 134 , a preparation unit 135 , and a communication unit 136 .

[0092] The control unit 131 is composed of, for example, a CPU. The control unit 131 executes various processes by executing computer programs stored in the storage unit 132. The storage unit 132 is composed of, for example, an SSD or an HDD. The display input unit 133 is composed of, for example, a touch panel display.

[0093] The aspirating unit 134 takes the sample container 101 (see Figure 2) and aspirates reagents from a reagent container connected to the smear sample preparation device 12. Preparation unit 135 prepares a smear sample on a glass slide based on the sample aspirated by pipetting unit 134. Communication unit 136 is comprised of, for example, an Ethernet-compliant connection terminal. Communication unit 136 and line hub 14 are connected via an Ethernet-compliant cable.

[0094] The input device 21 includes a control unit 141 , a storage unit 142 , a transport unit 143 , a start button 144 , an end button 145 , and a communication unit 146 .

[0095] The control unit 141 is composed of, for example, a CPU. The control unit 141 executes various processes by executing computer programs stored in the storage unit 142. The storage unit 142 is composed of, for example, an SSD or an HDD. The transport unit 143 carries out the specimen rack 100 placed by the user in the loading device 21 to the pre-processing device 22 (see Figure 2 ), and unload the sample rack 100 carried in from the pre-processing device 22 to the recovery device 25 (refer to Figure 2 ).

[0096] A start button 144 and an end button 145 are provided on the front end of the loading device 21. When the start button 144 is pressed by the user, the control unit 141 transmits a start instruction to the transport controller 13 to start each device of the blood cell analyzer 3, and the transport controller 13 transmits the start instruction to each device of the blood cell analyzer 3. The start instruction may be, for example, a packet based on Wake-on-LAN. This activates each device of the blood cell analyzer 3. Furthermore, when the end button 145 is pressed by the user, the control unit 141 transmits a stop instruction to the transport controller 13 to shut down each device of the blood cell analyzer 3, and the transport controller 13 transmits the stop instruction to each device of the blood cell analyzer 3. This shuts down each device of the blood cell analyzer 3.

[0097] The communication unit 146 is composed of, for example, a connection terminal conforming to the Ethernet standard. The communication unit 146 and the hub device 14 are connected via a cable conforming to the Ethernet standard.

[0098] It should be noted that the pre-processing device 22, the transporting devices 23, 24 and the recovery device 25 are also configured in the same manner as the input device 21 except for the start button 144 and the end button 145. The transport controller 13 is also connected to the control device 110 (see Figure 5 The pre-processing device 22, the transport devices 23 and 24, the recovery device 25, and the transport controller 13 are also connected to the hub device 14 via Ethernet-compliant cables.

[0099] Next, the structures of the reagent usage amount database 311 , the operation log 312 , the reagent database 313 , and the reagent usage amount pattern information 314 will be described.

[0100] As described above, the reagent usage database 311 includes a reagent usage database for each processing module, the action log 312 includes an action log for each processing module, the reagent database 313 includes a reagent database for each processing module, and the reagent usage pattern information 314 includes reagent usage pattern information for each processing module. The reagent usage database for each processing module is composed of first to fourth reagent usage databases as shown below.

[0101] The following description focuses solely on the first through fourth reagent usage databases, operation logs, reagent databases, and reagent usage pattern information associated with the measurement device 120. It should be noted that the first through fourth reagent usage databases, operation logs, reagent databases, and reagent usage pattern information for the other processing modules (the smear sample preparation device 12 and the measurement devices 4b and 5b) are similarly configured as for the measurement device 120. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, the description of these other processing modules will be omitted.

[0102] Figure 7 Schematically illustrates the structure of a first reagent usage database related to the amount of reagent used when measuring a sample by the measuring device 120. Since the two measuring devices 120 have the same structure, the first reagent usage database is shared by both measuring devices 120.

[0103] The first reagent volume database stores the reagent volumes used for each measurement mode (measurement item) in association with the reagent names. For example, when performing a CBC measurement, 29.1 mL of diluent A, 0.5 mL of hemolytic agent A, 1.5 mL of hemolytic agent B, and 20 μL of staining solution A are used. Based on the first reagent usage database, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 obtains the reagents used by the measurement device 120 during the measurement and the amounts used.

[0104] Figure 8 This diagram schematically illustrates the structure of a second reagent usage database related to the reagent volume used during startup of the measuring device 120, a third reagent usage database related to the reagent volume used during automatic cleaning of the measuring device 120, and a fourth reagent usage database related to the reagent volume used during shutdown of the measuring device 120. The second through fourth reagent usage databases are also shared by the two measuring devices 120.

[0105] like Figure 8As shown on the left side of the figure, the second reagent usage database stores the reagent volumes used by the measuring device 120 upon startup, associated with the reagent names. Upon startup, the measuring device 120 aspirates reagents from the various reagent containers to clean the aspirating unit 122, the sample preparation unit 123, and the measuring unit 125. Based on the second reagent usage database, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 obtains the type and amount of reagent used by the measuring device 120 upon startup.

[0106] like Figure 8 As shown in the center of the figure, the third reagent usage database stores the reagent volumes used by the measuring device 120 during automatic cleaning, associated with the reagent names. When the user inputs an automatic cleaning instruction, reagents are aspirated from the reagent containers to clean the aspirating unit 122, the sample preparation unit 123, and the measuring unit 125. Based on the third reagent usage database, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 obtains the type and amount of reagent used by the measuring device 120 during automatic cleaning.

[0107] like Figure 8 As shown on the right side of the , the fourth reagent usage database stores the reagent volumes used during shutdown of the measuring device 120, associated with the reagent names. Before shutting down the measuring device 120, the aspirating unit 122, sample preparation unit 123, and measuring unit 125 are cleaned, and diluent A is aspirated from the reagent container 201 to fill the tube connecting the reagent container 201 and the measuring device 120 with diluent A. Based on the fourth reagent usage database, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 obtains the type and amount of reagent used during shutdown by the measuring device 120.

[0108] Figure 9 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the operation log of the measurement device 120. Figure 9 The operation log of the measurement device 120 shown is stored separately for each measurement device 120 .

[0109] The action log stores the details of actions performed at that time, associated with the date and time. Whenever the measurement device 120 performs a predetermined action, the control unit 111 of the control device 110 transmits the details of the action performed by the measurement device 120 to the management device 2. The control unit 301 of the management device 2 updates the action log based on the received details.

[0110] Figure 10 Schematically shows the structure of a reagent database related to reagents provided in the measurement device 120 . Figure 10 The reagent database shown is stored separately for each assay device 120 .

[0111] The reagent database stores information such as the expiration date of the reagent, the capacity of the reagent container, and the amount of reagent remaining in the reagent container in association with the reagent name. In addition to the above information, the reagent database also stores a lot number or a serial number.

[0112] When a new reagent container is placed in the measuring device 120, the control unit 111 of the control device 110 transmits the reagent information read from the barcode labels B1 and B2 to the management device 2. The control unit 301 of the management device 2 updates the reagent database based on the received reagent information. Thus, the reagent type, expiration date, and container capacity contained in the reagent information are stored in the corresponding reagent record, and the reagent remaining amount is stored with a value equal to the container capacity as an initial value. Furthermore, when updating the action log based on the action details received from the control device 110, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 obtains the reagent usage from the first to fourth reagent usage databases and subtracts the usage from the reagent remaining amount in the reagent database.

[0113] Figure 11 、 12 Schematically shows the structure of the reagent usage pattern information of the measurement device 120 .

[0114] like Figure 11 、 12 As shown, reagent usage pattern information for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays is stored for each type of measurement device 120 and reagent. Each reagent usage pattern information includes data with time at a predetermined time interval (for example, two hours) as the horizontal axis and usage as the vertical axis. Figure 11 、 12 In the example shown, in the facility using the sample analysis system 1, the amount of reagent used is high on business days (Monday to Friday) and during business hours (8:00 to 18:00), and the amount of reagent used is low on non-business days and during non-business hours.

[0115] It should be noted that, for example, a hospital's business days refer to days when it accepts outpatients, while its non-business days refer to days when it only accepts emergency patients and does not. Similarly, a hospital's business hours refer to the hours when it accepts outpatients and the time periods before and after them, while its non-business hours refer to the hours when it only accepts emergency patients and does not accept outpatients.

[0116] The control unit 301 of the management device 2 creates a Figure 11 、 12When the user inputs a display instruction for the predicted replacement time, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the predicted replacement time of the target reagent on the display unit 302.

[0117] Figure 13 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a reagent management screen 400 displayed on the display input unit 113 of the control device 110 .

[0118] The control unit 111 of the control device 110 displays the reagent management screen 400 on the display input unit 113 in response to a user instruction input via the display input unit 113 , and performs various processes based on the reagent management screen 400 .

[0119] The reagent management screen 400 includes two device information areas 410 and two reagent windows 420 displayed corresponding to the two device information areas 410 .

[0120] Two device information areas 410 are arranged side by side on the reagent management screen 400, and correspond to two actually arranged measuring devices 120. The device information area 410 includes a button 411 for displaying / hiding the reagent window 420.

[0121] When the user operates button 411, a reagent window 420 showing the reagents placed in the measuring device 120 appears above the corresponding device information area 410. Reagent window 420 includes five reagent information areas 421 and six reagent information areas 422. The five reagent information areas 421 correspond to the staining solutions in the five reagent containers 201 to 205 contained within the measuring device 120, respectively. The six reagent information areas 422 correspond to the diluent and hemolytic agent in the six reagent containers 211 to 216 contained within the storage section 33, respectively. The reagent information areas 421 and 422 display the name, expiration date, lot number, and remaining number of uses of the corresponding reagent.

[0122] In addition, an icon 423 is displayed in the reagent information area 421, 422. The icon 423 indicates that the corresponding reagent container needs to be replaced when the reagent is used up. When the icon 423 is displayed, the user removes the corresponding reagent container and replaces the new reagent container, and uses the barcode reader 115 to read the barcode label B1 or the barcode label B2. Figure 10 ) is updated based on the reagent information of the new reagent container.

[0123] Next, refer to Figures 14-21 A description will be given of a screen for displaying a predicted replacement time indicating when the reagent in the reagent container will run out.

[0124] The control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the display unit 302 in response to the user's instruction input via the input unit 303. Figures 14-21 The screens shown are displayed, and various processes are performed based on these screens.

[0125] Figure 14 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the setting screen 500 .

[0126] The setting screen 500 includes a display period setting area 510 , a display condition setting area 520 , and a display button 501 .

[0127] Display period setting area 510 is used to set the duration of the display of the predicted replacement period. Display period setting area 510 includes area 511 containing radio buttons for selecting one of the following: month display, week display, day display, and hour display. When the radio button for hour display is selected in area 511, a drop-down menu 511a for setting the time interval becomes available. Drop-down menu 511a is configured to allow selection of values ​​such as 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72. It should be noted that the user can also directly enter a desired value into drop-down menu 511a.

[0128] Display condition setting area 520 is used to select the type of reagent for which the replacement period is expected to be displayed. Display condition setting area 520 includes area 521 and area 522. Area 521 includes radio buttons for selecting any of the fields, modules, and reagents. Area 521 displays check boxes corresponding to the reagents specified in area 521.

[0129] Figure 15 5 is a diagram showing an example of display conditions set in the display condition setting area 520 .

[0130] exist Figure 15 In Example 1 shown on the left, "Field" is selected in area 521. Consequently, "Hematology," "Coagulation," and "Immunology" are displayed in area 522. When the checkbox corresponding to "Hematology" is selected, all reagents installed in the blood cell analyzer 3 are displayed with their predicted replacement times. When the checkbox corresponding to "Coagulation" is selected, all reagents installed in the blood coagulation analyzer 4 are displayed with their predicted replacement times. When the checkbox corresponding to "Immunology" is selected, all reagents installed in the immunoassay analyzer 5 are displayed with their predicted replacement times.

[0131] exist Figure 15In Example 2 shown in the center, "Module" is selected in area 521. As a result, all processing modules included in the sample analysis system 1 (the measuring device 120 on the right, the measuring device 120 on the left, the smear sample preparation device 12, the measuring device 4b, and the measuring device 5b) are displayed in area 522. Figure 15 In Example 2, modules A, B, C, ... correspond to the respective processing modules. When a check box corresponding to a processing module is selected, all reagents corresponding to the processing module become the objects for display of the estimated replacement time.

[0132] exist Figure 15 In Example 3 shown on the right side of FIG, "reagent" is selected in area 521. As a result, all reagents installed in the sample analysis system 1 are displayed in area 522. When the check box corresponding to a reagent in area 522 is selected, the estimated replacement time of that reagent is displayed.

[0133] It should be noted that the check boxes displayed in area 522 are not limited to only one check box being selected, and multiple check boxes may be selected. Figure 15 In the area 522 on the left side of , when the check boxes of all areas are selected, all reagents installed in the sample analyzers in all areas become the display objects of the predicted replacement period. Figure 15 In the central area 522 of the display, when the check boxes of all the processing modules are selected, all the reagents placed in all the processing modules become the display objects of the predicted replacement period. Figure 15 In the area 522 on the right side of , when the check boxes of all reagents are selected, all reagents become the objects to be displayed with the estimated replacement time.

[0134] Return to Figure 14 After the user selects the display period and the reagent to be displayed in the display period setting area 510 and the display condition setting area 520, he / she operates the display button 501. Figures 16-21 The predicted replacement time display screen 600 shown is displayed on the display unit 302 .

[0135] Figure 16 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the month display is selected on the setting screen 500 .

[0136] The estimated replacement time display screen 600 includes a period unit display area 601 , a period setting area 602 , a setting button 603 , and a calendar area 610 .

[0137] exist Figure 16In the example shown, because monthly display is selected on setting screen 500, "Monthly Display" is displayed in period unit display area 601. Furthermore, because the current date is February 5, 2024, "2024 / 02" is displayed in period setting area 602 as the Gregorian calendar and month to be displayed.

[0138] Calendar area 610 displays a calendar for February 2024, including the current date. The number "5" corresponding to the current date is outlined in a bold outline, indicating the current date. Within each date frame in calendar area 610 are displayed the time the reagent will run out (estimated replacement date) and the name of the used reagent. "AM" indicates morning, "PM" indicates afternoon, and the number represents the time in a 24-hour format.

[0139] If a day contains four or more predicted replacement dates, an icon 611 is displayed within the frame of that date. For example, since February 9th contains five predicted replacement dates, three of them are displayed in order within the frame of February 9th, and icon 611 is displayed in place of the other predicted replacement dates. When icon 611 is clicked, all predicted replacement dates for that day are displayed in a pull-up menu, for example.

[0140] In addition, a left arrow button and a right arrow button are provided in the period setting area 602 for moving the month to be displayed in the calendar area 610 forward and backward (past and future) month by month. Figure 16 In the example shown, when the left arrow button is pressed, the calendar for January 2024 is displayed in calendar area 610, and when the right arrow button is pressed, the calendar for March 2024 is displayed in calendar area 610. The user can display the calendar for the desired month by repeatedly pressing the left and right arrow buttons.

[0141] In addition, Figure 16 In the example shown, since the current date is February 5, 2024, the display of the predicted replacement dates and reagent names before February 4, 2024, is omitted. It should be noted that past predicted replacement dates and reagent names may also be displayed together in calendar area 610. In this case, the text indicating the past predicted replacement dates and reagent names is preferably displayed in a light color or in a small size.

[0142] When the setting button 603 is pressed, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 closes the estimated replacement time display screen 600 and displays the setting screen 500 again on the display unit 302. By pressing the setting button 603, the user can re-set the reagent to be displayed.

[0143] Figure 171 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the weekly display is selected on the setting screen 500 .

[0144] exist Figure 17 In the example shown, since weekly display is selected on setting screen 500, "Weekly Display" is displayed in period unit display area 601. Furthermore, since the current date is February 5, 2024, "2024 / 02 / 05 - 2024 / 02 / 11" is displayed as the week (date range) to be displayed in period setting area 602.

[0145] A calendar for one week including the current date is displayed in the calendar area 610. A thick-line frame is placed around "5Mon" corresponding to the current date, indicating that it is the current date. The frame below each date in the calendar area 610 displays the time when the reagent will run out on that date (estimated replacement period) and the name of the reagent that has run out. Figure 17 In, with Figure 16 In the case of , all the predicted replacement dates and reagent names are displayed on February 9.

[0146] In this case, the user can also operate the left arrow button and the right arrow button of the period setting area 602 to move the week to be displayed in the calendar area 610 forward and backward (past and future) one week at a time to display the calendar of the desired week.

[0147] It should be noted that, in the calendar area 610 when displaying the week, the week including the current date may also be displayed from Sunday to Saturday, similar to the month display.

[0148] Figure 18 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the day display is selected on the setting screen 500 .

[0149] exist Figure 18 In the example shown, since day display is selected on setting screen 500, "Day display" is displayed in period unit display area 601. Also, since the current date is February 5, 2024, "2024 / 02 / 05" is displayed in period setting area 602 as the day to be displayed.

[0150] Calendar area 610 displays the current date in four-hour intervals. A bold outline is placed around the 24-hour period of the current date, indicating the current date. The box below calendar area 610 displays the time (estimated replacement date) when the reagent will run out within the corresponding time period and the name of the used reagent.

[0151] In this case, the user can also operate the left arrow button and the right arrow button of the period setting area 602 to move the day to be displayed in the calendar area 610 forward or backward (past and future) day by day to display the calendar of the desired day. Figure 19 Indicates from Figure 18 By operating the period setting area 602, the display object is changed to February 9, 2024. In this case, because dates other than the current date are displayed, the 24-hour range of the date in the calendar area 610 is not marked with a bold frame. In this way, by operating the period setting area 602, the predicted replacement time of the desired day can be displayed.

[0152] It should be noted that the initial state of the calendar area 610 when displaying the day is as follows: Figure 18 The example shows the start time from a time period including 0 o'clock, but is not limited thereto and may also start from a time period including the current time.

[0153] Figure 20 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the hour display is selected on the setting screen 500 and four hours are set as the time interval.

[0154] exist Figure 20 In the example shown, because hour display is selected on setting screen 500, "Hour Display" is displayed in period unit display area 601. Furthermore, because the current date and time is 8:00 on February 5, 2024, "2024 / 02 / 05 8:00 - (Every 4 hours) - 2024 / 02 / 06 12:00" is displayed as the time period to be displayed in period setting area 602.

[0155] Calendar area 610 displays multiple time periods at four-hour intervals starting from the current date and time. The current date and time range is outlined with a bold frame, indicating the current date and time. The frame below calendar area 610 displays the time at which the reagent will run out (estimated replacement period) for each four-hour interval and the name of the used reagent.

[0156] In this case, the user can also operate the left arrow button and the right arrow button of the period setting area 602 to move the time period to be displayed in the calendar area 610 forward or backward (past and future) by 1 hour to display the calendar of the desired hour. Figure 21 Indicates from Figure 20By operating the period setting area 602 in the current state, the display object is changed to 8:00 on February 9, 2024. In this case, because dates other than the current date are displayed, the date and time range in the calendar area 610 is not outlined with a bold frame. In this way, by operating the period setting area 602, the expected replacement time of the desired date and time can be displayed.

[0157] Next, refer to Figures 22-25 The flowchart shown explains the processing related to the reagent performed in the sample analysis system 1 .

[0158] In the following flowchart, the processing performed by the control unit 301 of the management device 2 is performed by the control unit 301 executing the program 315 (see Figure 4 ), and the processing performed by the control unit 111 of the control device 110 is performed by the control unit 111 executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 112.

[0159] The following flowchart illustrates, as an example, processing related to the reagents in the reagent containers 201 to 205 and 211 to 216 provided in the measuring device 120. Note that the other processing modules (the smear sample preparation device 12 and the measuring devices 4 b and 5 b) also perform processing related to the reagents in the reagent containers provided in the measuring device 120 in a similar manner. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, description of the processing related to the reagents in the other processing modules will be omitted.

[0160] Figure 22 This is a flowchart showing the reagent container replacement process.

[0161] In step S101, the control unit 111 of the control device 110 determines whether the reagent container containing the reagent has been used up by aspirating the reagent from the reagent container. If the reagent has been used up (step S101: YES), in step S102, the control unit 111 records the reagent information area 421 or 422 (refer to Figure 13 ) displays icon 423, indicating that the reagent container containing the reagent needs to be replaced.

[0162] The user confirms icon 423, connects a new reagent container to the measuring device 120, and reads the barcode on the barcode label B1 or B2 of the reagent container using the barcode reader 115. After the barcode is read (step S103: YES), in step S104, the control unit 111 transmits the reagent information obtained from the barcode to the management device 2.

[0163] On the other hand, after receiving the reagent information from the control device 110 (step S201: YES), the control unit 301 of the management device 2 updates the reagent database based on the received reagent information in step S202 (see Figure 10 ).

[0164] Figure 23 This is a flowchart showing the process of updating the remaining amount of the reagent.

[0165] When the sample container 101 is positioned at the measuring device 120 by transporting the sample rack 100, the control unit 111 of the control device 110 sends a measurement instruction to the measuring device 120 to measure the sample contained in the sample container 101. In addition, when the user inputs an automatic cleaning instruction to the control device 110, the control unit 111 sends an automatic cleaning instruction to the measuring device 120 to perform automatic cleaning in the target measuring device 120. In addition, if the start button 144 (see Figure 6 ) is pressed by the user, the control unit 111 sends a start instruction to the two measuring devices 120 to enable the measuring devices 120 to be in a state where they can measure. Figure 6 ) is pressed by the user, the control unit 111 sends a shutdown instruction to the two measuring devices 120 to turn off the measuring devices 120.

[0166] After the control unit 111 of the control device 110 transmits the aforementioned measurement instruction, automatic cleaning instruction, startup instruction, or shutdown instruction (step S111: YES), it waits in step S112 until the action corresponding to the instruction transmitted by the measurement device 120 is completed. After the corresponding action is completed (step S112: YES), in step S113, the control unit 111 transmits the action details of the completed action to the management device 2. For example, if the measurement action is completed, the action details indicating the measurement mode (measurement item) are transmitted; if the automatic cleaning action is completed, the action details indicating automatic cleaning are transmitted; if the startup action is completed, the action details indicating that the device is started are transmitted; and if the shutdown action is completed, the action details indicating that the device is shut down are transmitted.

[0167] On the other hand, after receiving the action content from the control device 110 (step S211: YES), the control unit 301 of the management device 2 stores the received action content in the action log (see Figure 9 Then, in step S213, the control unit 301 calculates the usage amount of the first to fourth reagents based on the database (refer to Figure 7 、 8) and the action content received in step S211, the reagent volume of the reagent used in the action. For example, when the action content includes CBC as a measurement mode (measurement item), the control unit 301 obtains the reagent volume of the reagent used in the action. Figure 7 The used amounts of diluent A, hemolytic agent A, hemolytic agent B, and staining solution A are acquired from the first reagent usage database shown.

[0168] Next, in step S214 , the control unit 301 subtracts the reagent amount acquired in step S213 from the reagent remaining amount of the corresponding reagent in the reagent database, and updates the reagent remaining amount of the corresponding reagent in the reagent database.

[0169] Figure 24 This is a flowchart showing the updating process of the reagent usage pattern information by the management device 2 .

[0170] In step S221, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 determines the reagent usage pattern information (see Figure 11 、 12 The update timing may be, for example, the timing when the user presses the start button 144 of the input device 21, the timing when the user presses the end button 145 of the input device 21, or a predetermined date or time specified by the user to the management device 2.

[0171] When the reagent usage pattern information update timing arrives (step S221: YES), steps S222 to S224 are performed on all reagents installed in all processing modules (the right-hand measuring device 120, the left-hand measuring device 120, the smear preparation device 12, and the measuring devices 4b and 5b), and the reagent usage pattern information is updated. For convenience, the following description will focus on the processing for one processing module.

[0172] In step S222, the control unit 301 obtains the number of measurements, automatic cleaning, startups, and shutdowns within a target period (e.g., one month to six months) from the target processing module's action log. More specifically, the control unit 301 divides each day into predetermined time intervals (e.g., two hours) for each type of day included in the target period (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays), and obtains the number of measurements, automatic cleaning, startups, and shutdowns within each time interval for each type of day included in the target period.

[0173] In step S223, the control unit 301 stores the first to fourth reagent usage databases (for example, referring to Figure 7 、 8) by the number of times acquired in step S222 to calculate the reagent usage amount during the target period. More specifically, control unit 301 calculates the total value of the reagent usage amount during each time span for each type of day included in the target period (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays).

[0174] In step S224, the control unit 301 updates the reagent usage pattern information for each reagent based on the reagent usage acquired in step S223. More specifically, the control unit 301 calculates the average reagent usage by dividing the total value of the reagent usage for each time width calculated for each type of day included in the target period by the number of days in the target period. Then, based on the calculated average value, a reagent usage pattern is created. Figure 11 、 12 The reagent usage pattern information for each reagent is shown. For example, based on the reagent usage pattern information related to the measurement device 120 on the right, it is possible to know the trend of how much diluent A is used in the time range of 8:00 to 10:00 on Monday.

[0175] It should be noted that the reagent usage amount for each type of day and each time width calculated in step S224 is not limited to being calculated based on the average value, and may be other calculated values ​​such as the median value, for example.

[0176] Figure 25 1 is a flowchart showing a notification process of the management device 2 regarding the estimated replacement time.

[0177] In step S231, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 determines whether the user has input an instruction to display the estimated replacement period. If the instruction to display the estimated replacement period is input (step S231: YES), in step S232, the control unit 301 displays the setting screen 500 on the display unit 302 (see Figure 14 ). In step S233, the control unit 301 receives the display period and the display condition via the setting screen 500. Then, in step S234, the control unit 301 determines whether the display button 501 is operated by the user.

[0178] When the user presses the display button 501 (step S234: YES), in step S235, the control unit 301 obtains the estimated replacement time for each target reagent specified on the setting screen 500 based on the reagent usage pattern information and the reagent remaining amount and expiration date stored in the reagent database. Specifically, the control unit 301 first obtains the estimated replacement time based on the reagent usage pattern information and the reagent remaining amount.

[0179] More specifically, the control unit 301 obtains the reagent usage for the day and time span corresponding to the date and time when the display button 501 was pressed based on the reagent usage pattern information, and subtracts the reagent usage from the remaining reagent amount stored in the reagent database. If the remaining reagent amount is below zero, a time within that time span is set as the estimated replacement period. If the remaining reagent amount is not below zero, the control unit 301 obtains the reagent usage for the next time span and subtracts the remaining reagent amount from the remaining reagent amount after subtracting the reagent usage. The control unit 301 repeats this process until the remaining reagent amount is below zero, and obtains a time within the time span when the reagent remaining amount becomes below zero as the estimated replacement period. It should be noted that the time within the time span can be the beginning, middle, or end of the time span, or can be determined by how much the result of subtracting the reagent usage from the remaining reagent amount is less than zero. If the estimated replacement period is after the expiration date, the control unit 301 sets the estimated replacement period to a predetermined time (e.g., 6:00 PM) on the day of the expiration date.

[0180] In step S236, the control unit 301 sets the display period of the display to Figure 16 、 17 The predicted replacement time display screen 600 shown in FIG. 18 or FIG. 20 is displayed on the display unit 302 , and the predicted replacement time is displayed in the calendar area 610 .

[0181] In step S236, the character string indicating the date and time of the estimated replacement period and the character string indicating the reagent name displayed in calendar area 610 are information related to the estimated replacement period generated based on the estimated replacement period acquired in step S235. In the embodiment, such information related to the estimated replacement period is a character string, and the information related to the estimated replacement period is notified by displaying the character string on display unit 302.

[0182] Note that the information on the predicted replacement time is an alarm sound corresponding to the character string, and the information on the predicted replacement time may be notified by outputting the alarm sound from a speaker provided in the management device 2 .

[0183] <Effects of the Management Method, Management Device, Sample Analysis System, and Program of the Embodiment> In a management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) in a blood cell analyzer 3, a blood coagulation analyzer 4, and an immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzer), an operation log (actual usage status) of the reagents (consumables) is stored ( Figure 23 Step S212), as Figure 14As shown, an input of a desired period desired by the user among a plurality of periods including a period longer than a day and a period shorter than a day or a day is received ( Figure 25 Step S233), as Figure 16 、 17 , 18, and 20, the user is notified of information related to the predicted replacement period of the reagent (consumables) within the desired period based on the action log (actual usage status). Figure 25 Step S236).

[0184] For example, the operator of the sample analyzer wants to know at which time in a shorter period, such as today or tomorrow, the consumables will reach the replacement time, based on the relationship between himself and the handover person. On the other hand, the manager who orders consumables wants to know at which time in a longer period, such as a week or a month, the consumables will reach the replacement time, considering the inventory status of consumables in his own facilities or the delivery cycle from the ordering of consumables to their arrival. In this way, the period during which the consumables are to be replaced is different for each user. According to the above method, it is possible to receive input of the expected period desired by each user, and to notify the user at which time in the expected period the replacement period is likely to arrive. Therefore, it is possible to flexibly respond to requests from each user related to the predicted replacement period of consumables.

[0185] The management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) also includes: Figure 14 As shown in the display period setting area 510, multiple periods are prompted to the user ( Figure 25 In step S232, in the process of receiving input ( Figure 25 In step S233 ), a selection of a desired period is received from the plurality of periods presented.

[0186] According to this method, the user can input the desired period simply by selecting the desired period from a plurality of presented periods, thereby improving user convenience.

[0187] like Figure 14 As shown in the display period setting area 510, a period longer than a day is a week or a period longer than a week.

[0188] In this case, a week or a period longer than a week can be entered as the desired period. This allows managers who order consumables to understand when the consumables are due for replacement during a longer period, such as a week or month. This allows them to manage consumable inventory while taking into account, for example, the lead time from ordering to delivery of the consumables.

[0189] like Figure 14 As shown in the display period setting area 510, the multiple periods include months, weeks, days and time periods.

[0190] In this case, the user can select a desired period from a plurality of periods simply by selecting a desired period among the month, week, day, and time period, thereby improving user convenience.

[0191] The expected period is a period including the moment when the input of the expected period is received. Specifically, Figure 16 、 17 As shown in Figures 18 and 20, when the estimated replacement time display screen 600 is displayed, the calendar area 610 is displayed so as to include the current time.

[0192] In this case, the user can learn information about the predicted replacement time after the current time.

[0193] Notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236) in response to receiving the input of the desired period ( Figure 25 Steps S233 and S234) are executed.

[0194] According to this method, the user can quickly grasp information related to the estimated replacement time by inputting the desired period.

[0195] The management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) further includes: obtaining the predicted replacement period of reagents (consumables) based on the action log (actual usage status) ( Figure 25 In step S235 ), information related to the predicted replacement period is generated based on the predicted replacement period.

[0196] According to this method, a character string indicating the estimated replacement time and displayed in calendar area 610 or an alarm sound corresponding to the character string (information related to the estimated replacement time) can be smoothly generated.

[0197] If the estimated replacement time is within the desired period, the information related to the estimated replacement time includes timing information indicating when within the desired period the reagent (consumables) needs to be replaced. The timing information is, for example, information indicating a date and time displayed in calendar area 610 .

[0198] In this case, the user can understand in more detail the timing when consumables need to be replaced.

[0199] In the notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236), as Figure 16 、 17 As shown in the calendar area 610 of 18 and 20, the desired period is displayed in calendar format, and the timing information is superimposed on the display of the desired period in calendar format.

[0200] According to this method, the user can easily and accurately understand at which timing in the calendar corresponding to the period designated by the user the replacement period is likely to occur.

[0201] The obtained process ( Figure 25 Step S235) includes: generating based on the action log (actual usage status) Figure 11 、 12 The reagent usage pattern information (usage pattern information) shown here represents the usage pattern of the reagent (consumables) in time series, and the predicted replacement time is acquired based on the reagent usage pattern information (usage pattern information).

[0202] According to this method, the future usage amount of consumables can be predicted, and therefore the predicted replacement time can be smoothly acquired.

[0203] Consumables are reagents.

[0204] In this case, the user can understand the estimated replacement time for the reagent.

[0205] The management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) also includes: storing the reagents (consumables) in use and the expiration date ( Figure 22 In step S202 ), the information related to the predicted replacement period is based on the action log 312 (actual usage status) and the information on the expiration date.

[0206] According to this method, even if the replacement time predicted based on actual usage conditions is not within the user's desired period, if the expiration date is within the period, the expiration date is notified as the replacement time. This allows the user to be notified of the replacement time more accurately.

[0207] In a management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables), a blood cell analyzer 3, a blood coagulation analyzer 4, and an immunoassay analyzer 5 (a plurality of sample analyzers) of different analysis types (e.g., hematology, coagulation, immunology, etc.) are further received. Figure 15 In the display condition setting area 520 shown on the left side of the display condition setting area 520, the input of which analysis category is the target of the notification is performed. Figure 25 Step S233), in the notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236 ), information on the estimated replacement period of the reagent (consumables) of the sample analyzer corresponding to the input analysis type is notified.

[0208] According to this method, a user can grasp the replacement schedule of consumables for each of the various sample analyzers installed in their facility. In addition, the user can grasp the replacement schedule of consumables for the sample analyzers of the analysis category for which the user wishes to grasp the replacement schedule.

[0209] like Figure 1 As shown, the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzer) include two measuring devices 120, a smear sample preparation device 12, and measuring devices 4b and 5b (multiple processing modules). In the management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables), the user further receives the information in the form of a smear sample preparation device 12. Figure 15 In the display condition setting area 520 shown in the center, the input of which processing module is the object of notification is performed. Figure 25 Step S233), in the notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236 ), information on the input estimated replacement time of the reagent (consumables) of the processing module is notified.

[0210] According to this method, the user can grasp the replacement period of consumables for each of the various processing modules installed in the user's facility. In addition, the user can grasp the replacement period of consumables for the processing module whose replacement period the user wants to grasp among these processing modules.

[0211] A plurality of different types of reagents (consumables) are provided in the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzer). In the management method for managing the replacement period of the reagents (consumables), the user further receives the information in the Figure 15 In the display condition setting area 520 shown on the right side of the display condition setting area 520, the input of which reagent (consumables) is the target of notification is performed. Figure 25 Step S233), in the notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236 ), information on the input estimated replacement time of the reagent (consumables) is notified.

[0212] According to this method, the user can grasp the replacement time of each of the consumables provided in the sample analyzer, and can also grasp the replacement time of the consumables whose replacement time the user wants to grasp.

[0213] The management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) also includes: storing the remaining amount of reagents (consumables) in use ( Figure 23 In step S214 ), the information related to the predicted replacement period is based on the action log 312 (actual usage status) and the remaining amount information.

[0214] According to this method, the remaining amount of the reagent can be accurately grasped.

[0215] The management device 2, which manages the replacement schedules of reagents (consumables) in the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzers), includes a control unit 301, a storage unit 310, and a display unit 302 and an input unit 303 (interface) for inputting and outputting information. The control unit 301 stores a reagent (consumables) operation log (actual usage status) in the storage unit 310, receives input of a desired period from a user, including periods longer than a day and periods shorter than or equal to a day, via the input unit 303 (interface), and notifies the user, via the display unit 302 (interface), of information regarding the estimated replacement schedules for the reagents (consumables) within the desired period based on the operation log (actual usage status).

[0216] As described above, each user may have a different desired replacement period for consumables. In contrast, the configuration of the management device 2 allows each user to input a desired replacement period and notify the user of the timing within the desired replacement period at which the replacement period is likely to occur. This allows for flexible responses to individual user requests regarding the predicted replacement period for consumables.

[0217] The sample analysis system 1 includes a blood cell analyzer 3, a blood coagulation analyzer 4, and an immunoassay analyzer 5 (multiple sample analyzers), and a management device 2 that manages the replacement schedules of reagents (consumables) in each sample analyzer. The management device 2 includes a control unit 301, a storage unit 310, a display unit 302, and an input unit 303 (interface) for inputting and outputting information. The control unit 301 obtains the operation logs (actual usage status) of the reagents (consumables) from each sample analyzer and stores them in the storage unit 310. The control unit 301 receives, via the input unit 303 (interface), user input of a desired period from among multiple periods, including periods longer than a day and periods shorter than a day. The control unit 301 then notifies the user of information regarding the estimated replacement schedules of the reagents (consumables) within the desired period based on the operation logs (actual usage status) via the display unit 302 (interface).

[0218] As described above, each user may have a different desired replacement period for consumables. In contrast, the structure of the sample analysis system 1 can receive input from each user regarding a desired replacement period and notify the user of the timing within the desired period at which the replacement period is likely to occur. This allows for flexible responses to individual user requests regarding the predicted replacement period for consumables.

[0219] Program 315 causes management device 2 (computer) to execute processing for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) in blood cell analyzer 3, blood coagulation analyzer 4, and immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzer). Program 315 stores an action log (actual usage status) of the reagents (consumables), receives input of a desired period desired by the user from among multiple periods including periods longer than days and periods shorter than days, and notifies information related to the predicted replacement period of the reagents (consumables) within the desired period based on action log 312 (actual usage status).

[0220] As described above, each user may have a different desired replacement period for consumables. In contrast, the configuration of program 315 can provide the computer with functionality to receive input from each user regarding a desired replacement period and notify the user of the timing within the desired period at which the replacement period is likely to occur. This allows for flexible responses to individual user requests regarding the predicted replacement period for consumables.

[0221] <Change Example 1> In the above embodiment, the display of the predicted replacement time in the calendar area 610 is performed similarly for each reagent, but the display of the predicted replacement time related to a specific reagent may be different from that of other reagents. Figures 26-28 The structure and control of this modification example will be described. Other structures and controls of this modification example are the same as those of the above embodiment.

[0222] Figure 26 700 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the emphasis display setting screen 700 .

[0223] The control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the emphasis display setting screen 700 on the display unit 302 in response to a user instruction input via the input unit 303 , and performs various processes based on the emphasis display setting screen 700 .

[0224] The highlighted display setting screen 700 includes a setting area 701 and an OK button 702 .

[0225] The setting area 701 is for the reagent database of each processing module (refer to Figure 10 ) contains fields for each reagent stored in the device. The "Effective" field contains a checkbox indicating whether the setting for highlighting the predicted replacement period is valid. By clicking this checkbox, the user can toggle the setting for highlighting the predicted replacement period to valid or invalid. The "Highlight Type" field contains radio buttons for setting the display format of the predicted replacement period to bold, flashing, or flipped.

[0226] The user sets the presence or absence and type of highlight display in the setting area 701 and then operates the OK button 702. As a result, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 stores the contents set on the highlight display setting screen 700 in the storage unit 310.

[0227] Figure 27 FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a state where the predicted replacement time is highlighted.

[0228] Figure 27 FIG. 6 shows a part of the calendar area 610 of the month displayed on the estimated replacement period display screen 600. Figure 27 In the examples shown in the upper, middle, and lower sections of FIG, the predicted replacement time for diluent A is emphasized by bold, blinking, and flipping, respectively.

[0229] Figure 28 This is a flowchart showing the acceptance process of the management device 2 for highlight display.

[0230] Figure 28 The processing shown in the flowchart is performed by the control unit 301 of the management device 2 executing the program 315 (see Figure 4 ) is carried out.

[0231] In step S241, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 determines whether the user has input an instruction to display the highlight display setting screen 700. If the instruction to display the highlight display setting screen 700 has been input (step S241: YES), in step S242, the control unit 301 displays the highlight display setting screen 700 on the display unit 302. In step S243, the control unit 301 receives the setting for highlight display of each reagent via the highlight display setting screen 700. In step S244, the control unit 301 determines whether the user has pressed the OK button 702.

[0232] When the user operates the OK button 702 (step S244 : YES), in step S245 , the control unit 301 stores the highlighted display information set on the highlighted display setting screen 700 in the storage unit 310 .

[0233] Thus, after the highlighted information is stored, Figure 25 In step S236, the control unit 301 sets the estimated replacement time of the reagent to be highlighted on the estimated replacement time display screen 600. Figure 27 The predicted replacement time of the reagents that are not highlighted is set as shown in the following table: Figure 27 Reagents other than dilutions A are normally displayed as shown.

[0234] It should be noted that when using an alarm sound to notify information related to the predicted replacement period, the alarm sound for the predicted replacement period of a specified reagent may be output from the speaker in an emphasized state (e.g., loud volume), while the alarm sounds for the predicted replacement periods of other reagents may be output from the speaker in a normal state (e.g., quiet volume). In this case, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 also receives from the user in advance the specified reagent for which the alarm sound is set to emphasized. Then, upon receiving the instruction to notify the predicted replacement period, the control unit 301 outputs the alarm sound for the predicted replacement period of the specified reagent in an emphasized state from the speaker, while the alarm sounds for the predicted replacement periods of other reagents may be output from the speaker in a normal state.

[0235] <Effects of the Management Method, Management Device, Sample Analysis System, and Program of Modification Example 1> The blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzer) are provided with a plurality of reagents (consumables) of different types. Figure 25 In step S236 ), the notification method for a predetermined type of reagent (consumables) is made different from the notification method for other types of reagents (consumables).

[0236] According to this method, by specifying in advance the consumables that require attention, it is possible to accurately grasp that the replacement time of the consumables has arrived.

[0237] The management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables) further includes receiving, from the user, a designation of a predetermined type of reagent (consumables) for which a notification method is different ( Figure 28 Step S243).

[0238] According to this method, since consumables for which notification methods differ can be individually specified, the user can reliably grasp notifications of consumables that require his or her attention.

[0239] In the notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236), the information related to the predicted replacement period is notified by display, and the display items of the prescribed types of reagents (consumables) with different notification methods are as follows: Figure 27 The displayed app is highlighted.

[0240] According to this method, the user can visually and accurately grasp that a predetermined consumable product designated in advance has reached its replacement time.

[0241] <Change Example 2> Operation of the sample analysis system 1 does not necessarily have to be performed by a user accustomed to its operation. For example, during off-hours at the facility where the sample analysis system 1 is installed (e.g., weekday evenings, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays), there are cases where a user with little experience in operating the sample analysis system 1 may be responsible for conducting an inspection, or a user specialized in other types of inspections may be responsible for an inspection outside of their area of ​​expertise. If reagent replacement is anticipated during off-hours, it is preferable to preemptively replace the reagents during the preceding operating hours by a user accustomed to operating the sample analysis system 1.

[0242] In contrast, in this modified example, if the original estimated replacement period, determined based on the reagent usage pattern information, the remaining reagent level, and the expiration date, falls on a non-business day, the new estimated replacement period is set to the business day immediately preceding the non-business day. Furthermore, if the original estimated replacement period falls within a non-business hour, the new estimated replacement period is set to the business hour immediately preceding the business hour.

[0243] Below, refer to Figures 29-31 The structure and control of this modification example will be described. Other structures and controls of this modification example are the same as those of the above embodiment.

[0244] Figure 29 2 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the non-business day and time setting screen 710 .

[0245] The control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the non-business date and time setting screen 710 on the display unit 302 in response to a user instruction input via the input unit 303 , and performs various processes based on the non-business date and time setting screen 710 .

[0246] The non-business day and time setting screen 710 includes a general settings area 711, a detailed settings area 712, and an OK button 713. The general settings area 711 includes a calendar acquisition button 711a, a non-business day setting area 711b, and a non-business time period setting area 711c. The detailed settings area 712 includes a period setting area 712a, a calendar area 712b, and a selected day setting area 712c.

[0247] When the calendar acquisition button 711a is pressed, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 acquires calendar information from a specified server. The specified server may be a server within the facility where the sample analysis system 1 is installed, or a server on the Internet. The calendar information includes the dates of each month for a specified period (e.g., from the present to one year from now), as well as the days of the week and holidays corresponding to those dates. Based on the dates of each month in the acquired calendar information, the control unit 301 displays the calendar in the calendar area 712b.

[0248] The non-business day setting area 711b has check boxes for setting Monday to Sunday and holidays in the calendar area 712b as non-business days. Figure 29 As illustrated, when Saturday, Sunday, and holidays are selected, black circles are marked on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays in the calendar area 712b, and these days are set as non-business days as a normal setting.

[0249] The non-business time setting area 711c includes two text boxes for setting the start time and end time of the non-business time, respectively. The times entered in the two text boxes of the non-business time setting area 711c are set as the start time and end time of the non-business time as normal settings.

[0250] The Gregorian calendar and the month to be displayed in the calendar area 712b are displayed in the period setting area 712a. In addition, the period setting area 712a is provided with a left arrow button and a right arrow button for moving the month to be displayed in the calendar area 712b forward or backward (past or future) month by month.

[0251] The selected day setting area 712c includes three radio buttons and two text boxes for changing the settings of the date selected and enclosed by a dotted line in the calendar area 712b. When a date is selected in the calendar area 712b, if the radio buttons corresponding to business days and non-business days in the selected day setting area 712c are selected, the date is set as a business day and a non-business day, respectively. In addition, when a date is selected in the calendar area 712b, if the radio button corresponding to the non-business time period is selected, the time entered in the two text boxes for the non-business time period is set as the start and end time of the non-business time period on that date. If custom settings are made in the selected day setting area 712c, the corresponding date in the calendar area 712b is marked with a double circle mark indicating that the custom setting has been made.

[0252] After the user sets the non-business date and time on the non-business date and time setting screen 710, he or she presses the OK button 713. As a result, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 stores the content set on the non-business date and time setting screen 710 in the storage unit 310.

[0253] Figure 30 1 is a flowchart showing the process of moving the estimated replacement time by the management device 2 .

[0254] Figure 30 The processing shown in the flowchart is performed by the control unit 301 of the management device 2 executing the program 315 (see Figure 4 ) is carried out.

[0255] In step S251, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 determines whether the user has input an instruction to display the non-business date and time setting screen 710. If the user has input an instruction to display the non-business date and time setting screen 710 (step S251: YES), in step S252, the control unit 301 displays the non-business date and time setting screen 710 on the display unit 302. In step S253, the control unit 301 receives the non-business date and time via the non-business date and time setting screen 710.

[0256] Furthermore, in step S253, control unit 301 obtains calendar information from a predetermined server in response to an operation of calendar acquisition button 711a. Based on the holiday information (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) included in the calendar information and the settings in non-business day setting area 711b, control unit 301 sets non-business days in calendar area 712b. Then, in step S254, control unit 301 determines whether the user has operated OK button 713.

[0257] When the user operates the OK button 713 (step S254 : YES), in step S255 , the control unit 301 stores the information of the non-business date and time set on the non-business date and time setting screen 710 in the storage unit 310 .

[0258] In this way, after the information of non-business date and time is stored, Figure 25 In step S236, the control unit 301 displays the information related to the original predicted replacement time on the predicted replacement time display screen 600. Figure 31 Move as shown.

[0259] Figure 31 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when normal settings and customized settings are performed on the non-business day and time setting screen 710 .

[0260] exist Figure 31 In the example shown, Figure 29 On the non-business date and time setting screen 710, the non-business time period is set to 18:00 to 8:00 the next day, and Saturday, Sunday, holidays, February 14 and February 21 are set as non-business days. Figure 31 As shown, the information related to the original predicted replacement period on February 14 is moved to the previous business day, February 13, the information related to the original predicted replacement period at 20:00 on February 19 is moved to the previous business time period, February 19 at 17:00, and the information related to the original predicted replacement period on February 23 and February 25 is moved to the previous business day, February 22.

[0261] The information related to the original predicted replacement time is surrounded by a dotted line, and the predicted replacement time after the shift is surrounded by a bold frame. In this way, since the display method of the information before and after the shift is different, the user can understand both the date and time before the shift and the date and time after the shift.

[0262] It should be noted that in Figure 31 In the example, the original predicted replacement time is also displayed in the calendar area 610, but the display of the original predicted replacement time may be omitted.

[0263] <Effects of the Management Method, Management Device, Sample Analysis System, and Program of Modification Example 2> In a management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables), a setting of at least one of non-business days and non-business hours of a facility where a blood cell analyzer 3, a blood coagulation analyzer 4, and an immune analyzer 5 (sample analyzer) are installed is received ( Figure 30 Step S253). Figure 31 As shown, when the predicted replacement period is included in at least one of a non-business day and a non-business time period within the expected period, the information related to the predicted replacement period includes information indicating that the reagent (consumables) needs to be replaced on the business day before the non-business day or during the business time period before the non-business time period.

[0264] According to this method, even if the replacement time for consumables falls on a non-business day or during non-business hours, the replacement time can be notified in advance on a normal business day or during business hours. As a result, experienced users of the facility who work on business days or during business hours can smoothly and appropriately replace consumables.

[0265] In the step of receiving the setting of at least one of a non-business day and a non-business time period ( Figure 30 In step S253), holiday information is obtained.

[0266] According to this method, there is no need to input non-business days one by one, and thus user convenience can be improved.

[0267] <Change Example 3> In this modification example, when notifying information related to the estimated replacement period ( Figure 25 In step S236), the waiting period (delivery period) from the ordering of the reagent to its arrival is also notified. Figures 32-34 The structure and control of this modification example will be described. Other structures and controls of this modification example are the same as those of the above embodiment.

[0268] Figure 32 Schematically shows the structure of a reagent database related to reagents provided in the measurement device 120 .

[0269] and Figure 10 Compared to the embodiment shown, the reagent database of this modification further stores the waiting period in association with the reagent name.

[0270] Figure 33 7 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the waiting period setting screen 720.

[0271] The control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the waiting period setting screen 720 on the display unit 302 in accordance with a user instruction input via the input unit 303 , and performs various processes based on the waiting period setting screen 720 .

[0272] The waiting period setting screen 720 includes a setting area 721 and an OK button 722 .

[0273] In the setting area 721, a text box for entering a waiting period is provided, associated with the reagent name. The waiting period is set in days, for example. The user enters the waiting period for each reagent and presses the OK button 722. The control unit 301 of the management device 2 then stores the information set on the waiting period setting screen 720 in the reagent database of the storage unit 310.

[0274] Figure 34 This is a flowchart showing the acceptance process of the management device 2 during the waiting period.

[0275] Figure 34 The processing shown in the flowchart is performed by the control unit 301 of the management device 2 executing the program 315 (see Figure 4 ) is carried out.

[0276] In step S261, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 determines whether the user has input an instruction to display the waiting period setting screen 720. If the instruction to display the waiting period setting screen 720 has been input (step S261: YES), in step S262, the control unit 301 displays the waiting period setting screen 720 on the display unit 302. In step S263, the control unit 301 receives the waiting period via the waiting period setting screen 720. In step S264, the control unit 301 determines whether the user has pressed the OK button 722.

[0277] When the OK button 722 is pressed by the user (step S264 : YES), in step S265 , the control unit 301 stores the information of the waiting period set on the waiting period setting screen 720 in the reagent database of the storage unit 310 .

[0278] In this way, after the information during the waiting period is stored, Figure 25In step S236 , the control unit 301 displays the waiting period together with the estimated replacement time on the estimated replacement time display screen 600 .

[0279] Figure 35 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the waiting period is set on the waiting period setting screen 720 .

[0280] Figure 35 The example shown is in Figure 33 The waiting period setting screen 720 for the diluent A is set, and the user selects information related to the predicted replacement period of the diluent A on the predicted replacement period display screen 600. In this case, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the evaluation area 612 for the information related to the selected predicted replacement period. In the evaluation area 612, the corresponding reagent name is displayed under the reagent name item, and the corresponding information related to the waiting period item is displayed under the waiting period item. Figure 32 The waiting period corresponding to the reagent name stored in the reagent database is displayed under the order deadline item, which is the date obtained by subtracting the waiting period from the estimated replacement period. Under the description item, it is displayed that the order must be completed before the order deadline.

[0281] Note that a sound corresponding to the character string of the evaluation area 612 may be output from the speaker of the management device 2 .

[0282] <Effects of the Management Method, Management Device, Sample Analysis System, and Program of Modification Example 3> In a management method for managing the replacement period of reagents (consumables), input of a waiting period required from ordering the reagents (consumables) to receiving the reagents (consumables) is received ( Figure 34 Step S263), the notification process ( Figure 25 In step S236 ), the waiting period of the reagent (consumables) is further notified.

[0283] Users of the sample analysis system 1 include managers who manage the inventory status of reagents in the facility where the sample analysis system 1 is installed and who place orders for the reagents. These managers need to pre-order new reagents so that they can smoothly install the new reagents when the replacement period arrives. According to the above method, when replacing consumables within the replacement period, users can determine how far in advance they should place orders for the consumables.

[0284] <Change Example 4> In the above embodiment, if Figure 16 As shown, the month corresponding to the current date is displayed in the calendar area 610 for month display (in Figure 16In the case of , a calendar for February) is displayed, but the present invention is not limited thereto and a calendar showing a date one month after the current date may be displayed.

[0285] Figure 36 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the month display is selected on the setting screen 500 .

[0286] In this modification, the calendar area 610 is configured to always display six weeks, and is configured to display the current date at the top. Therefore, the date from the current date to the date one month later is displayed in a manner that is reliably included in the calendar area 610. Figure 36 In the example shown, the current date, February 5, 2024, and March 5, 2024, one month later, are displayed in a manner incorporated into the calendar area 610 .

[0287] According to this modification, when the month display is set on the setting screen 500, Figure 36 As shown, the dates from the current date to one month later are displayed at a glance, so the user can smoothly grasp the predicted replacement periods from the current date to one month later without operating the buttons in the period setting area 602 .

[0288] <Change Example 5> In the above embodiment, when display button 501 is pressed on setting screen 500, calendar area 610 including the current date and time is displayed on estimated replacement period display screen 600. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Setting screen 500 may be configured to receive a display period and display calendar area 610 based on the received display period.

[0289] Figure 37 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the setting screen 500 .

[0290] and Figure 14 Compared to the setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 1 , the setting screen 500 of Modification 5 adds an area 512 for setting the display period within the display period setting area 510. The user operates the text boxes in the display period setting area 510 to enter the start date and end date. When the display button 501 is operated, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 displays the estimated replacement period display screen 600 on the display unit 302 based on the various information set on the setting screen 500.

[0291] Figure 38 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 when the month display is selected on the setting screen 500 and the start date and time and the end date and time are set.

[0292] In this case, in the calendar area 610, according to Figure 37 The settings entered in area 512 are used to display information from the start date and time (8:00 on February 8, 2024) to the end date and time (3:00 on February 20, 2024).

[0293] According to this modification, when the start date and end date are set on the setting screen 500, information from the start date to the end date is displayed in the calendar area 610, so the user can smoothly grasp information related to the expected replacement period of the desired period.

[0294] Other changes In the above embodiment, Figure 25 Regardless of the display period received in step S233, the control unit 301 of the management device 2 Figure 25 The predicted replacement period for the target reagent is obtained in step S235. However, the control unit 301 may also obtain only the predicted replacement period within the received display period. For example, the control unit 301 may accumulate the predicted usage of the reagent from the start date to the end date of the received display period, and not obtain the predicted replacement period for reagents whose predicted remaining amount is not zero and whose expiration date has not yet expired within the display period. This eliminates the need to obtain the predicted replacement period for all target reagents, thereby reducing the processing load on the control unit 301.

[0295] In the above embodiment, the date and time of the predicted replacement time is displayed as the information related to the predicted replacement time. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Information indicating that the predicted replacement time is included or information indicating that the predicted replacement time is not included may be displayed during a display period specified by the user.

[0296] In the above embodiment, the date and time are displayed in calendar format in the calendar area 610 of the estimated replacement time display screen 600 , but the present invention is not limited thereto and the date and time may be displayed in a list format arranged from top to bottom.

[0297] The area 521 of the setting screen 500 (see Figure 14 ) may also include radio buttons for selecting measurement items. When a measurement item is selected in area 521, check boxes for selecting measurement modes or measurement items executable by the sample analysis system 1 are displayed in area 522. For example, when the check box corresponding to CBC is selected, all reagents used for CBC are selected. This allows the user to easily understand the expected replacement period for reagents used in the target measurement mode or measurement item.

[0298] The sample analysis system 1 includes a blood cell analyzer 3, a blood coagulation analyzer 4, and an immunoassay analyzer 5 as multiple sample analyzers. However, other sample analyzers may be included in place of or in addition to these sample analyzers. Examples of other sample analyzers include biochemical analyzers and urine analyzers. Even when the sample analysis system 1 includes other sample analyzers, similar to the embodiment, it is possible to flexibly respond to user requests regarding the estimated replacement period for reagents installed in the other sample analyzers.

[0299] The sample analysis system 1 includes a plurality of sample analyzers, but may include only one sample analyzer. For example, the sample analysis system 1 may include only the blood cell analyzer 3 as the sample analyzer.

[0300] The reagent usage database 311, the operation log 312, the reagent database 313, and the reagent usage pattern information 314 are stored in the storage unit 310 of the management device 2. Management of the remaining reagent amount and notification of the estimated replacement period are performed by the management device 2. However, this is not limited to this, and the storage of this information, management of the remaining reagent amount, and notification of the estimated replacement period may also be performed by a device other than the management device 2, for example, by the control device 110 of the blood cell analyzer 3.

[0301] The devices of the sample analysis system 1 are located in a facility such as a hospital, but the management device 2 may be located elsewhere outside the facility. In this case, the management device 2 communicates with the blood cell analyzer 3, the blood coagulation analyzer 4, and the immune analyzer 5 via the Internet, for example.

[0302] The user operates the input unit 303 of the management device 2 to input instructions to the management device 2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and instructions may be sent to the management device 2 via a communication terminal such as a computer or tablet that is communicably connected to the management device 2. In this case, in the above-described embodiment, the screen displayed on the display unit 302 of the management device 2 is displayed on the display unit of the communication terminal.

[0303] The embodiments of the present invention can be variously modified as appropriate within the scope of the technical concept shown in the claims.

[0304] Description of Reference Numerals 1. Sample analysis system 2 Management Device 3. Blood cell analysis device (sample analysis device) 4 Blood coagulation analyzer (sample analyzer) 4b Measurement device (processing module) 5. Immunoassay device (sample analysis device) 5b Measurement device (processing module) 12. Smear sample preparation device (processing module) 120 Measurement device (processing module) 301 Control Department 302 Display unit (interface) 303 Input (Interface) 310 Storage Department 312 Action Log (Actual Usage) 314 Reagent usage mode information (usage mode information) 315 Program

Claims

1. A management method for managing the replacement period of consumables in a sample analyzer, characterized in that: storing the actual usage status of the consumables, receiving an input of a desired period desired by the user from among a plurality of periods including a period longer than a day and a period shorter than a day or a day, Information related to a predicted replacement time of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status is notified to the user.

2. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: Prompting the user with the plurality of periods, In the step of receiving the input, a selection of the desired period is received from among the plurality of presented periods.

3. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The period longer than a day is a week or a period longer than a week.

4. The management method according to claim 3, characterized in that: The multiple periods include months, weeks, days, and time periods.

5. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The desired period is a period including a time when an input of the desired period is received.

6. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The notifying step is performed in response to receiving the input of the desired period.

7. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: Based on the actual usage status, the predicted replacement period of the consumables is obtained; The information related to the predicted replacement time is generated based on the predicted replacement time.

8. The management method according to claim 7, characterized in that: When the predicted replacement time falls within the expected period, the information related to the predicted replacement time includes timing information indicating at which period within the expected period the consumables need to be replaced.

9. The management method according to claim 8, characterized in that: In the notification step, the desired period is displayed in a calendar format, and the timing information is superimposed on the display of the desired period in the calendar format.

10. The management method according to claim 7, characterized in that: The acquiring step includes generating usage pattern information that represents a usage pattern of the consumables in a time series based on the actual usage status, and acquiring the predicted replacement time based on the usage pattern information.

11. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The consumables are reagents.

12. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: The expiration date of the consumables in storage and use, The information related to the predicted replacement period is based on the actual usage status and the expiration date.

13. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample analysis device is a blood cell analysis device, a biochemical analysis device, a blood coagulation analysis device, an immunoassay analysis device, or a urine analysis device.

14. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: A plurality of sample analyzers having different analysis types are managed as consumables. further receiving an input of which analysis category is the subject of the notification, In the notification step, information on the estimated replacement time of the consumables of the sample analyzer corresponding to the input analysis type is notified.

15. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample analysis device includes multiple processing modules. further receiving an input of which processing module is the object of the notification, In the notification step, information related to the input predicted replacement time of the consumables of the process module is notified.

16. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample analyzer is provided with a plurality of consumables of different types. further receiving an input of which consumable product is the subject of the notification, In the notification step, information related to the input estimated replacement time of the consumables is notified.

17. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample analyzer is provided with a plurality of consumables of different types. In the notification step, a notification method for a predetermined type of consumables is different from a notification method for other types of consumables.

18. The management method according to claim 17, characterized in that: Also includes: A designation of the predetermined type of consumables is received from the user.

19. The management method according to claim 17, characterized in that: In the notification step, the information related to the estimated replacement time is notified by display, and emphasis is applied to the display items of the predetermined type of consumables.

20. The management method according to claim 7, characterized in that: receiving settings of at least one of non-business days and non-business hours for a facility where the sample analyzer is installed, When the predicted replacement period is included in at least one of the non-business day and the non-business time period within the expected period, the information related to the predicted replacement period includes information indicating that the consumable needs to be replaced on the business day before the non-business day or the business time period before the non-business time period.

21. The management method according to claim 20, characterized in that: In the step of receiving the setting of at least one of the non-business day and the non-business time period, holiday information is acquired.

22. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: receiving input of a waiting period required from ordering the consumables to receiving them, The notifying step further includes notifying the waiting period of the consumables.

23. The management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: storing the remaining quantity of the consumables in use, The information on the predicted replacement period is based on the actual usage status and the remaining quantity.

24. A management device for managing the replacement period of consumables in a sample analyzer, characterized in that: The management device comprises: Control Department; a storage unit; and Interface, which is used for input and output of information, As for the control unit, storing the actual usage status of the consumables in the storage unit, receiving, via the interface, an input of a desired period desired by the user from among a plurality of periods including a period longer than a day and a period shorter than a day or a day, Information related to a predicted replacement time of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status is notified via the interface.

25. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that As for the control unit, Prompting the user with the plurality of periods via the interface, In the step of receiving the input, a selection of the desired period is received from among the plurality of periods presented via the interface.

26. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The period longer than a day is a week or a period longer than a week.

27. The management device according to claim 26, characterized in that The multiple periods include months, weeks, days, and time periods.

28. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The desired period is a period including a time when an input of the desired period is received.

29. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The control unit executes the notifying step in response to receiving the input of the desired period.

30. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that As for the control unit, Based on the actual usage status, the predicted replacement period of the consumables is obtained; Based on the predicted replacement time, information related to the predicted replacement time is generated.

31. The management device according to claim 30, characterized in that When the predicted replacement time falls within the expected period, the information related to the predicted replacement time includes timing information indicating at which period within the expected period the consumables need to be replaced.

32. The management device according to claim 31, characterized in that In the notification step, the control unit displays the desired period in a calendar format via the interface, and displays the timing information superimposed on the display of the desired period in the calendar format.

33. The management device according to claim 30, characterized in that In the acquisition step, the control unit generates usage pattern information that represents a usage pattern of the consumables in a time series based on the actual usage status, and acquires the predicted replacement time based on the usage pattern information.

34. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The consumables are reagents.

35. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The control unit stores the expiration date of the consumables in use in the storage unit, The information related to the predicted replacement period is based on the actual usage status and the expiration date.

36. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The sample analysis device is a blood cell analysis device, a biochemical analysis device, a blood coagulation analysis device, an immunoassay analysis device, or a urine analysis device.

37. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that As for the control unit, A plurality of sample analyzers having different analysis types are managed as consumables. receiving, via the interface, an input of which analysis category is the target of the notification; In the notification step, information on the estimated replacement time of the consumables of the sample analyzer corresponding to the input analysis type is notified via the interface.

38. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The sample analysis device includes multiple processing modules. As for the control unit, receiving, via the interface, an input of which processing module is the target of the notification; In the notification step, information related to the input predicted replacement time of the consumables of the process module is notified via the interface.

39. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The sample analyzer is provided with a plurality of consumables of different types. As for the control unit, receiving, via the interface, an input of which of the consumables is the subject of the notification; In the notification step, information related to the input estimated replacement time of the consumables is notified via the interface.

40. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The sample analyzer is provided with a plurality of consumables of different types. In the notification step, the control unit may make a notification method for a predetermined type of consumables different from a notification method for other types of consumables.

41. The management device according to claim 40, characterized in that The control unit receives a designation of the predetermined type of consumables from the user via the interface.

42. The management device according to claim 40, characterized in that In the notification step, the control unit notifies information related to the estimated replacement time by displaying it via the interface, and applies highlighting to display items of the predetermined type of consumables.

43. The management device according to claim 30, characterized in that The control unit receives, via the interface, at least one of a setting of a non-business day and a non-business time period of a facility where the sample analyzer is installed, When the predicted replacement period is included in at least one of the non-business day and the non-business time period within the expected period, the information related to the predicted replacement period includes information indicating that the consumable needs to be replaced on the business day before the non-business day or the business time period before the non-business time period.

44. The management device according to claim 43, characterized in that In the step of receiving the setting of at least one of a non-business day and a non-business time period, the control unit acquires holiday information.

45. The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that As for the control unit, receiving, via the interface, an input of a waiting period required from ordering the consumables to receiving them, In the notification step, notification of the waiting period of the consumables is performed via the interface.

46. ​​The management device according to claim 24, characterized in that The control unit stores the remaining amount of the consumables in use in the storage unit, The information on the predicted replacement period is based on the actual usage status and the remaining quantity.

47. A sample analysis system, characterized in that: have: a plurality of sample analysis devices; and a management device for managing the replacement period of consumables in each of the sample analyzers; The management device comprises: Control Department; Storage Department; as well as Interface, which is used for input and output of information, As for the control unit, Acquire the actual usage status of the consumables from each sample analyzer and store it in the storage unit; receiving, via the interface, an input of a desired period desired by the user from among a plurality of periods including a period longer than a day and a period shorter than a day or a day, Information related to a predicted replacement time of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status is notified via the interface.

48. A program for causing a computer to execute processing for managing the replacement period of consumables in a sample analyzer, characterized in that: storing the actual usage status of the consumables, receiving an input of a desired period desired by the user from among a plurality of periods including a period longer than a day and a period shorter than a day or a day, Information related to a predicted replacement time of the consumables within the desired period based on the actual usage status is notified.

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