Sample unloading device and full-automatic fluorescence instrument

Abstract

This application relates to the field of sample processing and detection, and in particular to a sample unloading device and a fully automated fluorescence analyzer, including a pushing mechanism, a gripping mechanism, and a driving mechanism. The driving mechanism drives the pushing mechanism to reciprocate, and the pushing mechanism acts on the gripping mechanism to continuously grip samples. The gripping mechanism includes a push rod and an angle adjustment component. The push rod is connected to the pushing mechanism through the angle adjustment component and can rotate to extend or retract. When the push rod extends into the unloading platform, it engages with the bottom of the sample. This structure simplifies the sample unloading device structure, ensures efficient operation even with a miniaturized design, reduces costs, further improves unloading efficiency, and meets the requirements for high-efficiency detection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of sample processing and detection, and in particular to a sample unloading device and a fully automated fluorescence analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of biological sample testing, the automation level of in vitro quantitative testing instruments is constantly improving. Automated in vitro diagnostic equipment plays a crucial role in modern medical testing, enabling rapid and accurate analysis of biological samples and providing strong support for disease diagnosis and treatment. Its testing efficiency and space utilization directly determine the timeliness and resource cost of clinical diagnosis. Sample detection and identification, as key components of the equipment, not only affect the processing time of a single sample but also determine whether the equipment can achieve efficient operation under a miniaturized design. Currently, the commonly used technical means for sample unloading is to use a dual-power drive module to drive a vertical lifting mechanism and a horizontal translation mechanism to complete the sample unloading work in coordination. The vertical lifting mechanism usually uses a motor-driven lead screw or synchronous belt to first move the pushing component up and down, adjusting the height of the pushing component to meet the sample, and then pushing the sample placed in the completed testing area of ​​the sample testing platform to the horizontal translation mechanism. The horizontal translation mechanism, driven by a motor and a synchronous belt or rack and pinion, moves the pushing component along the feed end to the discharge end of the horizontal translation mechanism to the unloading area of ​​the testing platform, completing the unloading of a single sample. Afterward, the pushing component returns to the feed end of the horizontal translation mechanism to push the next sample. In addition, some manufacturers have custom-designed robotic arms for gripping and transferring samples to the unloading area. However, existing sample unloading methods have significant drawbacks. Firstly, the sample unloading structure is complex. Whether it's a dual-motor driven lifting and translation mechanism or a robotic arm, it increases hardware costs and control algorithm complexity, and also leads to higher maintenance costs. Secondly, the sample unloading process requires four steps: "descend-translate-rise-translate." The switching between dual power sources requires a time buffer, resulting in a longer unloading cycle time for a single sample, lower work efficiency, and an inability to meet the growing demand for high-efficiency testing. Furthermore, for some biochemical analyzer applications with large test tube racks, the existing vertical lifting mechanism for sample unloading has a limited lifting range, failing to achieve wide-range obstacle avoidance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To simplify the structure of the sample unloading device, ensure efficient operation even with a miniaturized design, reduce costs, further improve unloading efficiency, and meet the high-efficiency detection requirements, this application provides a sample unloading device and a fully automated fluorescence analyzer.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides a sample unloading device, including a pushing mechanism, a gripping mechanism, and a driving mechanism. The driving mechanism drives the pushing mechanism to reciprocate, and the pushing mechanism acts on the gripping mechanism to continuously grip samples. The gripping mechanism includes a push rod and an angle adjustment component. The push rod is connected to the pushing mechanism through the angle adjustment component and can rotate to extend or retract. When the push rod extends into the unloading platform, it rotates to a vertical position and engages with the bottom of the sample. By adopting the above technical solution, the driving mechanism drives the pushing mechanism to reciprocate, and the pushing mechanism acts on the gripping mechanism, allowing the push rod in the gripping mechanism to be connected to and rotated through the angle adjustment component. During sample unloading, when the push rod rotates and extends into the unloading platform, it can engage with the bottom of the sample, thus realizing the gripping action of the sample. The reciprocating movement of the pushing mechanism and the rotatable design of the push rod allow the push rod to freely grip or detach from the sample, and as the pushing mechanism moves, the gripping mechanism can continuously grip samples.

[0005] Specifically, the push rod initially moves in a non-vertical, tilted position. The tilt angle is designed to avoid obstruction from the unloading platform. When the drive mechanism moves the pushing mechanism forward from its starting position, the push rod rotates to a vertical position to engage the sample. During this rotation, the push rod and the unloading platform are positioned to ensure the push rod can reach into the unloading platform and engage the sample. As the pushing mechanism continues forward to its endpoint, it completely moves the sample onto the unloading platform, completing the unloading of a single sample. Then, the drive mechanism reverses direction, driving the pushing mechanism backward. The push rod rotates along its original path, returning to the tilted position to detach from the sample. It then returns to its original starting position, preparing for the unloading of the next sample. Compared to existing dual-power drive modules that coordinate the vertical lifting and horizontal translation mechanisms to unload samples, this method avoids complex lifting and translation structures, reduces hardware costs and control algorithm complexity, and lowers maintenance costs. Meanwhile, it avoids the existing four-step unloading process of "descent-translation-ascent-translation" and the time buffer required for dual-power switching, shortening the unloading cycle time of a single sample and effectively improving the working efficiency of the sample unloading process. This meets the growing demand for high-efficiency detection. In addition, it eliminates the need to move the sample vertically, further improving the stability during sample unloading. Preferably, the angle adjustment component includes a connecting rod, a push-pull component, and a damping component. The connecting rod is rotatably connected to the middle of the push rod and the push-pull component, respectively. The push-pull component is connected to the output end of the pushing mechanism. The damping component is slidably disposed, and the bottom of the push rod is connected to the damping component. When the pushing mechanism is activated, the push rod can be driven to rotate through the linkage between the push-pull component, the connecting rod, and the damping component. By adopting the above technical solution, the drive mechanism drives the pushing mechanism to move, and the output end of the pushing mechanism drives the push-pull component to move. Since the connecting rod is rotatably connected to the middle of the push rod and the push-pull component respectively, and the bottom of the push rod is connected to a slidably set damping component, the push rod can be driven to rotate when the push-pull component moves through the linkage between the push-pull component, the connecting rod, and the damping component. This design allows the push rod to rotatably extend into or retract from the unloading platform. When the push rod extends into the unloading platform, it can engage with the bottom of the sample to grasp the sample, avoiding the problems of complex structure, high cost, and low work efficiency caused by the traditional dual-power drive module driving the vertical lifting mechanism and the horizontal translation mechanism to work together. It simplifies the sample unloading action steps, shortens the unloading cycle time of a single sample, improves the work efficiency of the sample unloading process, and also solves the problem that the existing sample unloading vertical lifting mechanism has a limited lifting range and cannot achieve a large-scale avoidance. Preferably, the pushing mechanism includes a pushing component and a sliding component. The pushing component is connected to the sliding component, the drive mechanism drives the pushing component to reciprocate, and the pushing component is fixedly connected to the push-pull component.By adopting the above technical solution, the drive mechanism can drive the pusher to reciprocate. Since the pusher is connected to the slider, the slider guides and supports the movement of the pusher, making its movement more stable. Furthermore, because the pusher is fixedly connected to the push-pull component, the pusher's reciprocating movement drives the push-pull component to move synchronously. The movement of the push-pull component, through the linkage of the angle adjustment component, drives the push rod to rotate, allowing the push rod to extend into or retract from the unloading platform to grab samples, thus achieving continuous sample grabbing. This effectively improves the efficiency of sample unloading, and the structure is simpler than existing technologies, reducing hardware costs and control algorithm complexity, and decreasing maintenance costs. Preferably, the slider includes a slide rail and a slider. The slide rail is disposed on the drive mechanism, the slider is slidably disposed on the slide rail, and the pusher is connected to the slider. By adopting the above technical solution, with the slide rail disposed on the drive mechanism, the slider slidably disposed on the slide rail, and the pusher connected to the slider, when the drive mechanism drives the pusher to move, the slider slides on the slide rail. The slide rail provides a stable sliding path for the slider, ensuring the linearity and stability of the slider's movement, thus enabling the pusher connected to the slider to move smoothly back and forth. The smooth movement of the pusher facilitates its action on the gripping mechanism, allowing the gripping mechanism to grip samples more accurately and stably, avoiding sample gripping failures or inaccurate gripping positions due to unstable pusher movement, thereby improving the efficiency and reliability of the sample unloading device. Preferably, the damping element is slidably mounted on the slide rail. By adopting the above technical solution, the damping element is slidably mounted on the slide rail, so that when the drive mechanism drives the pusher mechanism to move back and forth, the pusher mechanism drives the angle adjustment component to move. Because the damping element can slide on the slide rail, it can better coordinate with the linkage of various components in the angle adjustment component. When the pusher mechanism moves, it drives the push rod to rotate through the push-pull component and connecting rod. The sliding of the damping element provides stable support and guidance for the rotation of the push rod, ensuring that the push rod can accurately rotate to extend into or retract from the unloading platform and engage with the bottom of the sample, realizing the function of continuous sample gripping. Meanwhile, this configuration makes the material gripping mechanism more stable during operation, reducing shaking and deviation, improving the accuracy and reliability of material gripping, and thus improving the working efficiency and stability of the sample unloading device. Preferably, the material gripping mechanism further includes a locking component, which includes an abutment member located between the pusher member and the connecting rod. The abutment member is rotatably connected to the bottom of the push rod, and the bottom of the abutment member is connected to the damping member. The bottom of the connecting rod is rotatably abutting against the abutment member. When the bottom of the connecting rod rotates to abut against the abutment member, the push rod rotates to a vertical position. By adopting the above technical solution, when the sample unloading device is working, the drive mechanism drives the pusher mechanism to move, the output end of the pusher mechanism drives the push-pull member to move, and the push-pull member drives the push rod to rotate through the connecting rod.Because the abutment is located between the pusher and the connecting rod, and is rotatably connected to the bottom of the push rod and connected to the damping component, when the bottom of the connecting rod rotates and abuts against the abutment, it creates a limiting effect on the push rod. This limiting effect allows the push rod to be accurately locked in a vertical state during rotation. When the push rod is in a vertical state, it can better engage with the bottom of the sample, ensuring the stability and reliability of the sample gripping mechanism. This allows the entire sample unloading device to complete the continuous gripping and unloading of samples more efficiently and stably. Preferably, there are two gripping mechanisms arranged symmetrically, and a connecting component is provided between the two gripping mechanisms. The connecting component includes a first connecting member and a second connecting member arranged in parallel. The two ends of the first connecting member are connected to the tops of the two connecting rods, and the two ends of the second connecting member are connected to the bottoms of the two connecting rods. By adopting the above technical solution, the gripping mechanism is set to two symmetrically distributed mechanisms, which can simultaneously grip more samples or grip larger sample structures during sample unloading, greatly improving the efficiency and stability of sample gripping. A connecting component is provided, wherein the first connecting member is connected to the top of the two connecting rods at both ends, and the second connecting member is connected to the bottom of the two connecting rods at both ends, thus forming a stable linkage between the two gripping mechanisms. When the drive mechanism drives the pushing mechanism, the two gripping mechanisms can move synchronously through the connection of the connecting component, ensuring coordination and consistency when gripping samples. This synchronous movement avoids sample gripping errors or instability caused by asynchronous movements of the two gripping mechanisms, further improving the success rate and stability of sample gripping, thereby enhancing the working efficiency and reliability of the entire sample unloading device. Preferably, the abutting member is provided with an abutting groove, and the second connecting member can rotatably abut against the abutting groove. By adopting the above technical solution, the abutting member is provided with an abutting groove, and when the second connecting member rotates, it can abut against the abutting groove. This structural design makes the cooperation between the second connecting member and the abutting member more stable and reliable during the movement of the gripping mechanism. The abutment groove provides accurate positioning and abutment position for the second connecting member, ensuring that the connecting rod can move along a predetermined trajectory and angle during rotation. This ensures that the push rod can accurately rotate to a vertical state, achieving stable engagement with the bottom of the sample. This improves the accuracy and stability of the sample gripping mechanism, facilitating continuous and efficient sample gripping by the sample unloading device, and enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability of the sample unloading process. Preferably, the driving mechanism includes a base and a driving component and a conveying component disposed on the base. The slide rail is disposed on the base, the output end of the driving component is connected to the conveying component, and the conveying component is connected to the pusher to drive the pusher to move.By adopting the above technical solution, since the pushing component is fixedly connected to the push-pull component of the material gripping mechanism, the movement of the pushing component is driven by the linkage between the push-pull component, connecting rod, and damping component, which drives the push rod to rotate, so that the push rod can extend into or retract from the through hole of the unloading platform to engage the bottom of the sample and complete the sample gripping. Moreover, the driving component, conveying component, pushing component, and other components are reasonably arranged on the base, making the device structure compact and the layout reasonable, reducing hardware costs and control algorithm complexity.

[0006] Secondly, this application also provides a fully automated fluorescence analyzer, including the sample unloading device, unloading platform, conveying device, detection and identification device, clamping and mixing device, and control system. The unloading platform is horizontally arranged above the conveying device, and the unloading platform is located above the sample unloading device. A through hole is provided at the starting position of the unloading platform, and the push rod can rotate to extend into or retract from the through hole. By adopting the above technical solution, the driving mechanism in the sample unloading device can drive the pushing mechanism to move back and forth. The pushing mechanism acts on the grasping mechanism, and the push rod of the grasping mechanism can be connected to the pushing mechanism through an angle adjustment component and rotate to extend into or retract from the through hole of the unloading platform. When the push rod extends into the through hole, it can engage with the bottom of the sample, thereby realizing continuous sample grasping. This device is not limited by the lifting range of the vertical lifting mechanism, and can also achieve a wide range of avoidance for large test tube rack samples, such as those in a biochemical analyzer. Furthermore, by installing a sample unloading device at the discharge end of the clamping and mixing device, combined with the conveying device, detection and identification device, clamping and mixing device, and control system, the entire process of sample conveying, detection and identification, mixing, and unloading can be automated, further improving the efficiency and accuracy of the entire testing process.

[0007] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:

[0008] 1. This application adopts a drive mechanism to drive the pushing mechanism and the gripping mechanism. Compared with the existing technology of dual independent motors driving the lifting and translation mechanism or using a robot, it reduces the power components and complex mechanical structure, thus simplifying the sample unloading structure, thereby reducing hardware costs and control algorithm complexity. At the same time, due to the simplified structure, the number of failure points is reduced, which also reduces the failure maintenance cost.

[0009] 2. The push rod of the material grabbing mechanism can rotate to extend or retract, so that when unloading samples, it is not necessary to perform the four-step operation of "descending-translating-rising-translating" as in the existing technology. This avoids the switching of dual power and eliminates the time buffer required for the switching of dual power, thus shortening the unloading cycle time of a single sample and improving the work efficiency of the sample unloading process.

[0010] 3. The material gripping mechanism achieves the rotation of the push rod through the angle adjustment component. The linkage, push-pull component and damping component in the angle adjustment component work together to drive the push rod to rotate, so that the push rod can flexibly change its position, thereby avoiding the detection platform. It can also achieve a wide range of avoidance for large test tube racks. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a sample unloading device according to Embodiment 1;

[0012] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a sample unloading device according to Embodiment 1;

[0013] Figure 3 This is a bottom structural diagram of the pushing mechanism and the gripping mechanism of a sample unloading device according to Embodiment 1;

[0014] Figure 4 This is a side view of a sample unloading device according to Embodiment 1;

[0015] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the sample unloading device installation for a fully automated fluorescence instrument, as shown in Example 2.

[0016] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Drive mechanism; 2. Pushing mechanism; 3. Gripping mechanism; 11. Base; 12. Drive component; 13. Conveying component; 14. Mounting bracket; 15. Belt pressure plate; 131. Belt; 132. Pulley; 21. Pushing component; 22. Sliding component; 23. Photoelectric sensing structure; 221. Slide rail; 222. Slider; 31. Push rod; 32. Angle adjustment assembly; 33. Locking assembly; 34. Connecting assembly; 321. Connecting rod; 322. Push-pull component; 323. Damping component; 331. Abutment component; 332. Pin; 331a. Abutment groove; 341. First connecting component; 342. Second connecting component; 4. Unloading platform; 5. Sample; 6. Conveying device; 41. Through hole. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-5 This application will be described in further detail.

[0018] Example 1

[0019] This application provides a sample unloading device, referring to... Figure 1 and Figure 2The device includes a drive mechanism 1, a pushing mechanism 2, and a gripping mechanism 3. The drive mechanism 1 drives the pushing mechanism 2 to move linearly back and forth between the starting position and the final position of the unloading platform 4. The pushing mechanism 2 acts on the gripping mechanism 3, which continuously grips the sample 5 at the starting position of the unloading platform 4. The pushing mechanism 2 pushes the gripping mechanism 3, thereby moving the sample 5 from the starting position to the final position of the unloading platform 4. After the gripping mechanism 3 releases the sample 5, it returns along the original path to the starting position to perform the unloading action of the next sample 5. This device achieves the effect of continuously gripping the sample 5 under the action of a single drive mechanism 1. This is because the drive mechanism 1 provides power to the entire device, pushing the pushing mechanism 2 to move, which in turn drives the gripping mechanism 3 to complete the gripping action, thus realizing the effective transmission and utilization of power.

[0020] Specifically, the drive mechanism 1 in this embodiment includes a base 11 and a drive member 12 and a transmission member 13 disposed on the base 11. The output end of the drive member 12 is connected to the transmission member 13, and the transmission member 13 is connected to the pusher 21 to drive the pusher 21 to move.

[0021] The base 11, welded from metal sheets, supports the entire drive mechanism 1 and has a rectangular frame structure. The drive component 12 uses a motor, such as a stepper motor, to precisely control the rotation angle and speed. The transmission component 13 is a belt drive device, consisting of a belt 131 and pulleys 132. Specifically, the pulley 132 includes a driving pulley and a driven pulley, both horizontally positioned. The motor drives the driving pulley to rotate, and the belt 131 is fitted onto the driving and driven pulleys to achieve cyclic rotation, ensuring smooth power transmission. When the drive component 12 operates, it transmits power to the pusher 21 via the transmission component 13, causing the pusher 21 to reciprocate. For example, when the stepper motor starts, it drives the pulley 132 to rotate, causing the belt 131 to rotate accordingly, thereby driving the pusher 21 connected to the belt 131 to reciprocate.

[0022] Specifically, the pushing mechanism 2 in this embodiment includes a pushing member 21 and a sliding member 22.

[0023] In this embodiment, the pusher 21 is a push plate, shaped like a rectangular plate, which transmits the power of the drive mechanism 1. The pusher 21 is connected to the slider 22, which includes a slide rail 221 and an undamped slider 222. The slide rail 221 is made of steel, with a finely machined surface, exhibiting good flatness and wear resistance, and is elongated in shape. The slider 222 is slidably mounted on the slide rail 221 and is made of metal. Specifically, a convex-concave structure is provided between the slide rail 221 and the slider 222 to form a sliding fit. The bottom of the pusher 21 is connected to the slider 222, and the drive mechanism 1 drives the pusher 21 to reciprocate. The pusher 21 is fixedly connected to the gripping mechanism 3. When the drive mechanism 1 provides power, the pusher 21 reciprocates along the slide rail 221 under the drive of the slider 222. Since the pusher 21 is fixedly connected to the gripping mechanism 3, it drives the gripping mechanism 3 to move, thereby achieving the drive of the gripping mechanism 3. Specifically, the bottom of the push plate is connected to the belt 131 via a mounting bracket 14 and a belt pressure plate 15 for conveying. Specifically, the bottom of the mounting bracket 14 abuts against the belt 131, and the belt pressure plate 15 abuts against the lower surface of the belt 131. The bottom of the mounting bracket 14 and the belt pressure plate 15 are connected by bolts, and the top of the mounting bracket 14 is connected to the push plate by bolts. In this embodiment, the mounting bracket 14 has a "U" shaped structure. In other embodiments, it can also be other shapes, as long as it can ensure a stable connection between the push plate and the belt 131.

[0024] Specifically, the material gripping mechanism 3 in this embodiment includes a push rod 31, an angle adjustment component 32, and a locking component 33.

[0025] The push rod 31 is connected to the pushing mechanism 2 via the angle adjustment component 32, and can rotate to extend or retract. The push rod 31 is made of metal, has a certain strength and corrosion resistance, and is rod-shaped with the top designed to easily engage with the bottom of the sample 5.

[0026] The angle adjustment assembly 32 includes a connecting rod 321, a push-pull component 322, and a damping component 323. The connecting rod 321 is a straight metal rod with rotating shaft holes at both ends for rotatable connection to other components. The connecting rod 321 is rotatably connected to the middle of the push rod 31 and the push-pull component 322, respectively. The connection can be via bearings to ensure the flexibility of the connecting rod 321 during rotation. The push-pull component 322 is a long, strip-shaped push-pull rod arranged along the pushing direction, made of metal, with one end connected to the push plate.

[0027] The damping element 323 is slidably mounted on the slide rail 221. The damping element 323 is a magnetic damper, which can provide more precise damping force and ensure rotational stability. The damped slider 222 and the undamped slider 222 are arranged sequentially along the unloading conveying direction.

[0028] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3 The locking component 33 includes an abutment 331 and a pin 332. The abutment 331 is made of metal, plate-shaped, and has a smooth surface. It is located between the pusher 21 and the connecting rod 321, and is rotatably connected to the bottom of the push rod 31 via the pin 332, ensuring flexible rotation. The bottom of the abutment 331 is fixedly connected to the damping slider 222, and the bottom of the connecting rod 321 can move and abut against the abutment 331. Due to the presence of the damping slider 222, when the bottom of the connecting rod 321 moves to abut against the abutment 331, the push rod 31 rotates to a vertical position. This design ensures that the push rod 31 is in a stable vertical position when grasping the sample 5, improving the reliability of the grasp. For example, when push rod 31 rotates to a certain angle, the bottom of connecting rod 321 abuts against the abutment 331. At this time, the abutment 331 stabilizes push rod 31 in a vertical state through its connection with damping member 323 and its own rotational connection with the bottom of push rod 31. The rotational connection between the top of connecting rod 321 and push rod 31 will cause push rod 31 to rotate around the point of rotational connection with connecting rod 321 as push-pull member 322 moves, thereby causing push rod 31 to rotate from an inclined state to a vertical state, thus making push rod 31 more firmly engaged with the bottom of sample 5.

[0029] Specifically, when the pushing mechanism 2 is activated, the push rod 31 can be driven to rotate through the linkage between the push-pull member 322, the connecting rod 321, and the damping member 323. When the push-pull member 322 moves under the drive of the pushing mechanism 2, the connecting rod 321 will rotate along with the movement of the push-pull member 322. Since the connecting rod 321 is connected to the middle of the push rod 31, and the bottom of the push rod 31 is connected to the damping member 323, the sliding of the damping member 323 restricts the movement of the bottom of the push rod 31, thereby causing the push rod 31 to rotate around the connection point with the connecting rod 321, realizing the action of extending or retracting. For example, when the drive mechanism 1 drives the push mechanism 2 to move forward, the push-pull component 322 is pushed forward, and the connecting rod 321 rotates accordingly. Under the action of the damping component 323, the bottom of the push rod 31 moves along a certain trajectory, causing the push rod 31 to gradually rotate and extend into the unloading platform 4. When the barbed structure at the bottom of the push rod 31 engages with the bottom of the sample 5, the drive mechanism 1 reverses its action, driving the push mechanism 2 to move backward, thereby grabbing and unloading the sample 5.

[0030] Specifically, in this embodiment, there are two material gripping mechanisms 3, which are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the pusher 21, and a connecting component 34 is provided between the two material gripping mechanisms 3.

[0031] The connecting assembly 34 includes a first connecting member 341 and a second connecting member 342 arranged in parallel. Both the first connecting member 341 and the second connecting member 342 are metal rods in the shape of straight rods. The two ends of the first connecting member 341 are connected to the tops of the two connecting rods 321, and the two ends of the second connecting member 342 are connected to the bottoms of the two connecting rods 321, respectively. A receiving cavity for accommodating the abutting member 331 is formed between the second connecting member 342 and the push plate. The abutting member 331 is provided with an abutting groove 331a. The second connecting member 342 can rotatably abut against the abutting groove 331a. When the second connecting member 342 abuts against the abutting groove 331a, the connection stability between the two gripping mechanisms 3 is further enhanced. For example, when the drive mechanism 1 drives the push mechanism 2 to move, the push rods 31 of the two gripping mechanisms 3 will rotate simultaneously. The first connector 341 and the second connector 342 ensure that the connecting rods 321 of the two gripping mechanisms 3 move in a coordinated manner. When the second connector 342 abuts in the abutting groove 331a, it further restricts the relative displacement between the two gripping mechanisms 3, so that the two gripping mechanisms 3 can grip the sample 5 more stably at the same time.

[0032] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 4 In particular, the pushing mechanism 2 in this embodiment is also provided with a photoelectric sensing structure 23. Specifically, a photoelectric plate is provided on one side of the push plate and moves synchronously with the push plate. A photoelectric sensor is provided on the base. When in the initial position, the photoelectric plate and the photoelectric sensor cooperate to monitor whether the push plate is reset to the starting position of the unloading platform.

[0033] The implementation principle of this embodiment is as follows: taking a driving mechanism 1 as the core, the unloading of sample 5 is achieved through the orderly linkage between various components. The specific process is as follows:

[0034] Power start-up and transmission: The motor in the drive mechanism 1 starts, which drives the drive wheel of the belt drive device to rotate. The belt 131, which is sleeved on the drive wheel and the driven wheel, rotates in a cycle, and smoothly transmits the power to the pusher 21 connected to the belt 131.

[0035] The pushing mechanism 2 moves as follows: Driven by power, the pushing component 21 moves reciprocatingly along the slide rail 221 under the guidance of the slide rail 221 and the slider 222. Under the limiting action of the damping slider 222, it helps the push rod 31 to rotate to the vertical position and locks it, ensuring the timely retraction of the push rod 31. The bottom of the push plate is stably connected to the belt 131 through the mounting bracket 14 and the belt pressure plate 15, ensuring reliable power transmission.

[0036] Material gripping mechanism 3 linkage preparation: The push plate moves, driving the push-pull component 322, which is fixedly connected to it, to move. The push-pull component 322 is rotatably connected to one end of the connecting rod 321, and the other end of the connecting rod 321 is rotatably connected to the middle of the push rod 31. At the same time, the bottom of the push rod 31 is connected to the damping slider 222, which is slidably set on the slide rail 221. Push rod 31 rotation and sample 5 gripping: When the push-pull component 322 moves forward with the push plate, the connecting rod 321 rotates accordingly. Because the bottom of the push rod 31 is restricted by the sliding of the damping component 323, the push rod 31 rotates around the connection point with the connecting rod 321 and gradually extends into the unloading platform 4. The top of the push rod 31 is designed to easily engage with the bottom of the sample 5. When it rotates to a suitable angle, the push rod 31 engages with the bottom of the sample 5, completing the gripping of the sample 5. At this time, the locking component 33 comes into play, and the bottom of the connecting rod 321 moves to abut against the abutment 331. Since the abutment 331 is located between the pusher 21 and the connecting rod 321, it is rotatably connected to the bottom of the push rod 31, and the bottom is fixedly connected to the damping slider 222. Under the action of the damping slider 222, the push rod 31 is locked in a vertical state to ensure the reliability of the gripping.

[0037] Sample 5 unloading and push rod 31 reset: The drive mechanism 1 reverses its movement, causing the push mechanism 2 to move backward. The push-pull component 322 moves backward accordingly, and the connecting rod 321 rotates in the opposite direction. Under the action of the connecting rod 321 and the damping component 323, the push rod 31 gradually retracts out of the unloading platform 4, unloading sample 5. Afterward, the gripping mechanism 3 releases its grip on sample 5 and returns to the starting position along the original path, preparing for the next sample 5 unloading action.

[0038] The dual gripping mechanisms 3 work in tandem: This device is equipped with two symmetrical gripping mechanisms 3, which are connected to the top and bottom of two connecting rods 321 through parallel first connecting member 341 and second connecting member 342, respectively, to achieve synchronous action. The abutment member 331 is provided with an abutment groove 331a, and the second connecting member 342 can rotatably abut against it, enhancing the connection stability of the two gripping mechanisms 3, ensuring that the sample 5 is gripped stably at the same time, and improving unloading efficiency.

[0039] Example 2

[0040] This application provides an embodiment of a fully automated fluorescence analyzer, referring to... Figure 5 The system includes the aforementioned sample unloading device, and also includes, in sequence, a conveying device 6, a detection and identification device, a clamping and mixing device, and a control system. Sample 5 is a test tube rack containing several test tubes.

[0041] In this embodiment, the sample unloading device is located at the discharge end of the clamping and mixing device. The conveying device 6 is equipped with an unloading platform 4, which is horizontally installed on the conveying device 6 and located above the sample unloading device. The unloading platform 4 has two through holes 41 at its starting position, arranged symmetrically. The through holes 41 are elongated strips in shape, and the push rod 31 can rotate to extend into or retract from these through holes 41. After the sample 5 is detected by the detection and identification device and mixed by the clamping and mixing device, it reaches the feeding end of the unloading platform 4. At this time, the drive mechanism 1 drives the pushing mechanism 2, which acts on the gripping mechanism 3, causing the push rod 31 to rotate and extend into the unloading platform 4, engaging with the bottom of the sample 5. Then, the drive mechanism 1 moves the pushing mechanism 2 to unload the sample 5 from the unloading platform 4. The conveying direction of the conveying device 6 is perpendicular to the feeding direction of the unloading device.

[0042] Specifically, the conveying device 6 in this embodiment is equipped with a pusher rod, which conveys the test tube rack being conveyed on the conveying device 6 to the feeding end of the unloading platform 4, and then pushes out the sample 5 so that the bottom of the test tube rack can correspond to the through hole 41 on the unloading platform 4, so as to facilitate the unloading of the sample by the sample unloading device. The conveying device 6 conveys the sample 5 in a straight conveying manner. The common conveying device 6 can be a conveyor belt, made of rubber or plastic, and its surface can be provided with anti-slip texture to ensure the stability of the sample 5 during the conveying process.

[0043] The detection and identification device can be an optical detection device, such as a fluorescence detector, which identifies information about sample 5 by detecting the fluorescence signal emitted by sample 5. An alternative feature could be an electrochemical detection device, suitable for detecting specific chemical components in sample 5; or a mass spectrometer, which can provide more precise information about the composition of sample 5. For example, a fluorescence detector identifies relevant information about sample 5 by emitting light of a specific wavelength to excite fluorescent substances in sample 5 and then detecting the fluorescence signal emitted by sample 5. If it is necessary to detect specific chemical components in sample 5, an electrochemical detection device can be selected, which detects chemical components in sample 5 by generating an electrical signal through a chemical reaction.

[0044] The clamping and mixing device is used to clamp sample 5 and perform mixing operations. A common clamping method is a mechanical gripper made of metal, which is driven by a motor to clamp and release. The mixing method is rotational mixing, in which the motor drives sample 5 to rotate, allowing sample 5 to be fully mixed under the action of centrifugal force.

[0045] The control system can be a programmable logic controller (PLC) capable of precisely controlling all components of the fluorescence analyzer. The PLC controls the motors of drive mechanism 1, the conveyor belt motor of conveying device 6, the detection actions of the detection and identification device, the gripper actions of the clamping and mixing device, and the mixing motor through programming, ensuring coordinated operation of all components. If cost is a primary concern, a microcontroller-based control system can be chosen, which is less expensive but has relatively simpler control functions. For more complex control functions, such as data processing and remote monitoring, an industrial computer control system can be selected.

[0046] The implementation principle of this embodiment is as follows: The fully automated fluorometer combines the sample unloading device with the transport device 6, the detection and identification device, the clamping and mixing device, and the control system to achieve automatic transport, detection, mixing, and unloading of sample 5. The simplified structure and efficient operation of the sample unloading device improve the overall sample processing efficiency of the fluorometer and shorten the detection cycle. Simultaneously, the coordinated operation between the various devices ensures the accuracy and reliability of sample 5 detection. The precise control of the control system enables the entire fluorometer to operate stably, meeting the demands of modern medical testing for high efficiency and accuracy.

[0047] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A sample unloading device, characterized in that, The device includes a drive mechanism (1), a push mechanism (2), and a gripping mechanism (3). The drive mechanism (1) drives the push mechanism (2) to reciprocate. The push mechanism (2) acts on the gripping mechanism (3) to continuously grip the test tube rack. The gripping mechanism (3) includes a push rod (31) and an angle adjustment component (32). The push rod (31) is connected to the push mechanism (2) through the angle adjustment component (32) and can rotate to extend or retract. When the push rod (31) extends into the unloading platform (4), the push rod (31) engages with the bottom of the test tube rack. The angle adjustment component (32) includes a connecting rod (321), a push-pull component (322), and a damping component (323). The connecting rod (321) is rotatably connected to the middle of the push rod (31) and the push-pull component (322). The push-pull component (322) is connected to the output end of the push mechanism (2). The damping component (323) is rotatably connected to the middle of the push rod (31) and the push-pull component (322). 323) The push rod (31) is slidably connected to the damping member (323) at the bottom. When the push mechanism (2) is activated, the push rod (31) can be driven to rotate through the linkage between the push-pull member (322), the connecting rod (321) and the damping member (323). The gripping mechanism (3) also includes a locking component (33). The locking component (33) includes an abutment (331). The abutment (331) is located between the push member (21) and the connecting rod (321). The abutment (331) is rotatably connected to the bottom of the push rod (31). The bottom of the abutment (331) is connected to the damping member (323). The bottom of the connecting rod (321) can rotate to abut against the abutment (331). When the bottom of the connecting rod (321) rotates to abut against the abutment (331), the push rod (31) rotates to a vertical state.

2. The sample unloading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism (2) includes a pushing member (21) and a sliding member (22). The pushing member (21) is connected to the sliding member (22). The driving mechanism (1) drives the pushing member (21) to move back and forth. The pushing member (21) is fixedly connected to the push-pull member (322).

3. The sample unloading device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The slider (22) includes a slide rail (221) and a slider (222). The slide rail (221) is disposed on the drive mechanism (1), and the slider (222) is slidably disposed on the slide rail (221). The pusher (21) is connected to the slider (222).

4. The sample unloading device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The damping element (323) is slidably disposed on the slide rail (221).

5. The sample unloading device according to claim 2, characterized in that, There are two gripping mechanisms (3) arranged symmetrically. A connecting component (34) is provided between the two gripping mechanisms (3). The connecting component (34) includes a first connecting member (341) and a second connecting member (342) arranged in parallel. The two ends of the first connecting member (341) are respectively connected to the top of the two connecting rods (321), and the two ends of the second connecting member (342) are respectively connected to the bottom of the two connecting rods (321).

6. The sample unloading device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The abutting member (331) is provided with an abutting groove (331a), and the second connecting member (342) can be rotatably abutted in the abutting groove (331a).

7. The sample unloading device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (1) includes a base (11) and a drive member (12) and a transmission member (13) disposed on the base (11). The slide rail (221) is disposed on the base (11). The output end of the drive member (12) is connected to the transmission member (13). The transmission member (13) is connected to the push member (21) to drive the push member (21) to move.

8. A fully automatic fluorescence analyzer, characterized in that, The sample unloading device as described in any one of claims 1-7 further includes, in sequence, an unloading platform (4), a conveying device (6), a detection and identification device, a clamping and mixing device, and a control system. The unloading platform (4) is horizontally arranged above the conveying device (6). The unloading platform (4) is located above the sample unloading device. A through hole (41) is provided at the starting position of the unloading platform (4). The push rod (31) can rotate to extend into or retract from the through hole (41).

Images