BF cleaning device, BF cleaning method, BF cleaning program, and analysis device

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing a BF cleaning device, a BF cleaning method, a BF cleaning program, and an analysis device capable of improving magnetic collection efficiency. The solution is that the BF cleaning device is provided with a conveying part and a magnetic collecting part. The transport unit transports, along a transport path, a reaction container containing a reaction liquid in which a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject are dispensed. When the reaction container is located at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, the magnetic collection unit causes the magnet having a shape along the outer periphery of the reaction container to approach the reaction container and collects magnetic particles present inside the reaction container, and when the reaction container is located at a position other than the magnetic collection position, the magnetic collection unit causes the magnet to move away from the magnetic collection position.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a BF washing device, a BF washing method, a BF washing program, and an analysis device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the past, in an immunoassay device that is one type of automatic analysis device, there has been a technique in which an antigen or an antibody that reacts with a target substance in a sample is bound to a magnetic particle, and the magnetic particle to which the target substance is bound is subjected to magnetic collection by a magnet, that is, so-called BF (Bound-Free) washing. For example, in Patent Literature 1, BF washing is performed by transporting a reaction container containing a sample and a magnetic particle to between two magnets fixed at opposing positions.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent No. 6472973 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] However, in the related art, the reaction container needs to be made not to contact the magnets when the reaction container is being transported, and therefore the distance between the two magnets must be wider than the width of the transport path. Therefore, in the case where the reaction container is cylindrical, the reaction container and the magnets become linear contact, and therefore it cannot be said that the magnetic collection efficiency is high. In addition, assuming that the shape of the magnets is made to coincide with the shape of the reaction container to be cylindrical, in order to make the magnets not to enter the transport path, the magnets need to be separated from the transport path as a whole, and therefore the distance between the magnets and the reaction container becomes far, and the magnetic collection efficiency decreases.

[0008] Therefore, in the present disclosure, a BF washing device, a BF washing method, a BF washing program, and an analysis device that can improve the magnetic collection efficiency are proposed.

[0009] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0010] In order to solve the above problems, a BF washing device according to the present disclosure includes a transport unit and a magnetic collection unit. The transport unit transports a reaction container in which a reaction solution is accommodated along a transport path, the reaction solution being dividedly injected with a reagent containing a magnetic particle and a sample. The magnetic collection unit approaches a magnet along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction container to the reaction container when the reaction container is located at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, and performs magnetic collection of the magnetic particle present inside the reaction container, and separates the magnet from the magnetic collection position when the reaction container is located at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

[0011] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0012] Further, the BF cleaning device according to the present disclosure is provided with a cleaning section. The cleaning section injects a cleaning liquid after discarding the liquid of the reaction vessel in the state after the magnetic collection.

[0013] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0014] Further, the BF cleaning device according to the present disclosure is provided with a stirring section. The stirring section stirs by eccentric rotation after the reaction vessel to which the cleaning liquid is injected is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport section.

[0015] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the reaction vessel cleaning efficiency because the magnetic particles are uniformly dispersed.

[0016] Further, the magnet of the present disclosure surrounds the outer periphery of the reaction vessel by a plurality of magnet members.

[0017] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0018] Further, the magnet of the present disclosure sandwiches the reaction vessel from the side by two magnet members arranged in opposition.

[0019] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0020] Further, the transport section of the present disclosure moves the magnet away from the magnetic collection position using a pressing force as the reaction vessel approaches the magnetic collection position along the transport path, and releases the pressing force to move the magnet close to the magnetic collection position when the reaction vessel reaches the magnetic collection position.

[0021] Thus, the BF cleaning device can reduce product costs.

[0022] Further, the transport section of the present disclosure has a cam that moves in conjunction with the transport of the reaction vessel and a follower that is linked to the magnet. The transport section moves the magnet away from the magnetic collection position by the cam pressing the follower when the reaction vessel approaches the magnetic collection position, thereby generating the pressing force, and moves the magnet close to the magnetic collection position by releasing the pressing force when the reaction vessel reaches the magnetic collection position.

[0023] Thus, the BF cleaning device can reduce product costs.

[0024] Further, the cam of the present disclosure has: an end portion of a tapered shape that presses the follower; and a recess portion that is provided at a rear side with respect to the end portion and in which the follower is fitted when the reaction vessel is positioned at the magnetic collection position.

[0025] Thus, the BF cleaning device can suppress variation in the sharp pressing force (pressing amount) from the cam to the follower by making the end portion tapered. Further, the magnet can be brought into contact with the reaction vessel by releasing the pressing force using the recess portion.

[0026] Further, the cam of the present disclosure has: both end portions of a tapered shape that press the follower; and a recess portion that is provided at a vicinity of a center with respect to the both end portions and in which the follower is fitted when the reaction vessel is positioned at the magnetic collection position.

[0027] Thus, the BF cleaning device can suppress variation in the sharp pressing force (pressing amount) from the cam to the follower by making the both end portions tapered. Further, the magnet can be brought into contact with the reaction vessel by releasing the pressing force using the recess portion.

[0028] Further, the transport portion of the present disclosure has: a container stage of a disc shape that arranges and places the reaction vessels around a rotation axis center; a rotation drive portion that intermittently rotates the container stage around the rotation axis center to transport the reaction vessels; and an agitation portion that eccentrically rotates the container stage to agitate the reaction vessels.

[0029] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0030] Further, the cleaning portion of the present disclosure has a suction nozzle and a discharge nozzle. The suction nozzle is inserted into the reaction vessel and sucks liquid in the reaction vessel in a state in which the magnetic particles are collected at the magnetic collection position. The discharge nozzle discharges the cleaning liquid after the suction nozzle sucks the liquid in the reaction vessel.

[0031] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the cleaning efficiency of the reaction vessel.

[0032] Further, the agitation portion of the present disclosure eccentrically rotates the container stage in a state in which the suction nozzle is inserted into the cleaning chamber when the reaction vessel is positioned at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

[0033] Thus, the BF cleaning device can prevent contamination caused by reaction liquid adhering to the suction nozzle.

[0034] Further, the present disclosure relates to a magnetic collection unit configured in the transport path, and the magnetic collection unit is configured to perform pre-magnetic collection in which the magnetic particles are not uniformly dispersed by the stirring unit and the liquid is not sucked by the suction nozzle, and to perform the magnetic collection of the magnetic particles.

[0035] Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0036] Further, the present disclosure relates to a BF cleaning method performed by a computer, including a transport process and a magnetic collection process. In the transport process, a reaction container containing a reaction solution in which a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject are dispensed is transported along a transport path. In the magnetic collection process, a magnet along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction container is brought close to the reaction container when the reaction container is positioned at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, and the magnetic collection of the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container is performed, and the magnet is brought away from the magnetic collection position when the reaction container is positioned at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

[0037] Thus, the BF cleaning method can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0038] Further, the present disclosure relates to a BF cleaning method, including a cleaning process. In the cleaning process, after the liquid of the reaction container in the state after the magnetic collection is discarded, a cleaning liquid is dispensed.

[0039] Thus, the BF cleaning method can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0040] Further, the present disclosure relates to a BF cleaning method, including a stirring process. In the stirring process, after the reaction container in which the cleaning liquid is dispensed is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport unit, stirring is performed by eccentric rotation.

[0041] Thus, the BF cleaning method uniformly disperses the magnetic particles, and thus can improve the cleaning efficiency of the reaction container.

[0042] Further, the present disclosure relates to a BF cleaning program for causing a computer to perform a BF cleaning method, including a transport process and a magnetic collection process. In the transport process, a reaction container containing a reaction solution in which a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject are dispensed is transported along a transport path. In the magnetic collection process, a magnet along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction container is brought close to the reaction container when the reaction container is positioned at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, and the magnetic collection of the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container is performed, and the magnet is brought away from the magnetic collection position when the reaction container is positioned at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

[0043] Thus, the BF cleaning program can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0044] Further, the BF cleaning program according to the present disclosure includes a cleaning process. In the cleaning process, after the liquid of the reaction vessel in the state after the magnetic collection is discarded, a cleaning liquid is dispensed.

[0045] Thus, the BF cleaning program can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0046] Further, the BF cleaning program according to the present disclosure includes a stirring process. In the stirring process, after the reaction vessel in which the cleaning liquid is dispensed is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport unit, stirring is performed by eccentric rotation.

[0047] Thus, the BF cleaning program uniformly disperses the magnetic particles, and thus can improve the cleaning efficiency of the reaction vessel.

[0048] Further, the analysis device according to the present disclosure includes a transport unit and a magnetic collection unit. The transport unit transports a reaction vessel in which a reaction liquid is accommodated along a transport path, the reaction liquid having a reagent including magnetic particles and a subject dispensed therein. The magnetic collection unit approaches a magnet along a shape of an outer periphery of the reaction vessel to the reaction vessel when the reaction vessel is positioned at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, collects the magnetic particles present inside the reaction vessel, and separates the magnet from the magnetic collection position when the reaction vessel is positioned at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

[0049] Thus, the analysis device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0050] Further, the analysis device according to the present disclosure includes a cleaning unit. The cleaning unit dispenses a cleaning liquid after discarding the liquid of the reaction vessel in the state after the magnetic collection.

[0051] Thus, the analysis device can improve the magnetic collection efficiency.

[0052] Further, the analysis device according to the present disclosure includes a stirring unit. The stirring unit performs stirring by eccentric rotation after the reaction vessel in which the cleaning liquid is dispensed is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport unit.

[0053] Thus, the analysis device uniformly disperses the magnetic particles, and thus can improve the cleaning efficiency of the reaction vessel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0054] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall structure of an analysis device according to an embodiment.

[0055] Figure 2is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the BF cleaning section.

[0056] Figure 3 is a plan view showing the internal structure of the BF cleaning section.

[0057] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the BF cleaning section.

[0058] Figure 5 is a view showing the intermittent rotation of the container stage.

[0059] Figure 6 is a view showing the detailed structure of the magnet.

[0060] Figure 7 is a view showing the positional relationship between the magnet and the transport path.

[0061] Figure 8 is a view showing the cam mechanism of the transport section and the magnetic collection section. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail based on the drawings. Furthermore, in each of the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same parts, and thus the repeated description will be omitted.

[0063] First, the use of the analysis device of the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 The overall structure of the analysis device of the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a view showing the overall structure of the analysis device 1 of the embodiment. Furthermore, in Figure 1 , the overall structure of the outline of the analysis device 1 is shown, and the illustration of a part of the structure is omitted for convenience of explanation.

[0064] Figure 1 The analysis device 1 shown in the figure binds the measurement target substance to the marker substance by the antigen-antibody reaction of the target substance (antigen, antibody, etc.) contained in the subject (serum, plasma, urine, etc.) due to the immune reaction, and performs the quantification and the qualification of the substance based on the signal such as luminescence, etc. obtained from the marker substance. As shown in Figure 1As shown, the analysis device 1 has a subject processing device 2 and an information processing device 3. The subject processing device 2 obtains a reaction solution by causing a serum, a plasma, urine, or the like, which is a subject, to react with a reagent, and measures a signal of luminescence or the like of the reaction solution. Specifically, the subject processing device 2 performs a high-sensitivity measurement with a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA: Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay), for example. The CLEIA has, as main processes, a reaction process of causing a target substance (an antigen or an antibody) in a subject to react with a reagent in a reaction container, a separation process (BF washing or BF separation) of separating a reaction product (bound) from an unreacted substance (free) in the reaction container, and a photometry process of measuring an amount of luminescence generated by a reaction of an immune complex generated by a reaction of each reagent with the target substance in the subject and a chemiluminescent substrate.

[0065] The information processing device 3 calculates an amount of a component contained in a protein or the like, which is a subject, on the basis of the luminescence measured by the subject processing device 2. That is, the analysis device 1 analyzes the subject on the basis of the signal of luminescence or the like.

[0066] The information processing device 3 has a control section, a storage section, a display section, an operation section, and the like (none of which is shown). The control section has a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory), for example. The information processing device 3 is communicably connected to the subject processing device 2. The information processing device 3 can be constituted by a personal computer, for example.

[0067] The subject processing device 2 has a housing 10, a subject reservoir 11, a reagent reservoir 12, a first reaction tank 13, a subject dispensing section 14, reagent dispensing sections 15, 16, and 17, a stirring device 18, a measurement section 19, a second reaction tank 20, a control section 21, a BF washing section (BF washing device) 50, and the like.

[0068] The subject reservoir 11 has a rotating body 31 that is substantially circular in plan view. The rotating body 31 is supported to the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center axis O1 in the up-down direction of the housing 10. The rotating body 31 is rotated about the rotation center axis O1 by a not-shown drive mechanism. The rotating body 31 can hold a plurality of subject containers 32. The plurality of subject containers 32 are arranged about the rotation center axis O1 and provided to the rotating body 31 so as to rotate integrally with the rotating body 31. In addition, in the present embodiment, a part of the plurality of subject containers 32 is shown. In addition, the subject reservoir 11 can have a plurality of rotating support sections that are independently rotatable about the rotation center axis O1. Figure 1 The subject reservoir 11 has a rotating body 31 that is substantially circular in plan view. The rotating body 31 is supported to the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center axis O1 in the up-down direction of the housing 10. The rotating body 31 is rotated about the rotation center axis O1 by a not-shown drive mechanism. The rotating body 31 can hold a plurality of subject containers 32. The plurality of subject containers 32 are arranged about the rotation center axis O1 and provided to the rotating body 31 so as to rotate integrally with the rotating body 31. In addition, in the present embodiment, a part of the plurality of subject containers 32 is shown. In addition, the subject reservoir 11 can have a plurality of rotating support sections that are independently rotatable about the rotation center axis O1.

[0069] The subject container 32 accommodates a subject. In addition, a bar code, not shown, indicating identification information of the subject container 32 is attached to the subject container 32, and the bar code is read by a bar code reader, not shown, disposed in a position facing the subject container 32 in the subject library 11.

[0070] Further, in the present disclosure, the analysis device 1 is shown to have the structure of the subject library 11, but for example, the subject container in which the subject is accommodated can be supplied through an external transport line.

[0071] The reagent library 12 has a substantially circular rotating body 33 in plan view. The rotating body 33 is supported to the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center axis O2 in the up-down direction of the housing 10. The rotating body 33 is rotated about the rotation center axis O2 by a drive mechanism, not shown. The rotating body 33 can hold a plurality of reagent containers 34. The plurality of reagent containers 34 are arranged about the rotation center axis O2 and provided to the rotating body 33, and rotate integrally with the rotating body 33. In addition, in the present embodiment, a part of the plurality of reagent containers 34 is shown. Further, the reagent library 12 can have a plurality of rotating support portions that can be independently rotated about the rotation center axis O2. Figure 1

[0072] The reagent container 34 accommodates a reagent. In addition, a bar code, not shown, indicating identification information of the reagent container 34 is attached to the reagent container 34, and the bar code is read by a bar code reader, not shown, disposed in a position facing the reagent container 34 in the reagent library 12.

[0073] The first reaction tank 13 has a substantially circular rotating body 35 in plan view. The rotating body 35 is supported to the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center axis O3 in the up-down direction of the housing 10. The rotating body 35 is rotated about the rotation center axis O3 by a drive mechanism, not shown. A plurality of reaction containers 36 having light-transmitting properties are provided to the rotating body 35. The plurality of reaction containers 36 are arranged about the rotation center axis O3 and rotate integrally with the rotating body 35. In addition, in the present embodiment, a part of the plurality of reaction containers 36 is shown. The reaction container 36 can be constituted by, for example, a cylindrical test tube. The subject and the reagent are dispensed into the reaction container 36. The subject and the reagent react in the reaction container 36 to become a reaction liquid. The temperature in the first reaction tank 13 is maintained to be suitable for the reaction of the subject and the reagent. Figure 1

[0074] ​​The subject body dispensing section 14 has a pipette 37 and a driving mechanism 38. The pipette 37 is rotated by the driving mechanism 38 between a position above the subject body reservoir 11 and a position above the first reaction tank 13 about a rotation center axis Ax4 along the up-and-down direction of the housing 10. In addition, the pipette 37 is moved by the driving mechanism 38 along the up-and-down direction of the housing 10. In addition, an attraction and discharge mechanism that performs attraction and discharge of the subject body is connected to the pipette 37. The subject body dispensing section 14 can insert the pipette 37 into the reaction container 36 after attracting the subject body in the subject body container 32 by the pipette 37 inserted into the subject body container 32, and discharge (dispense) the subject body from the pipette 37 into the reaction container 36.

[0075] The reagent dispensing sections 15, 16, 17 have pipettes 39, 40, 41 and driving mechanisms 42, 43, 44, respectively. The pipettes 39, 40, 41 are rotated by the driving mechanisms 42, 43, 44, respectively, between a position above the reagent reservoir 12 and positions above the first reaction tank 13 and the second reaction tank 20 about rotation center axes Ax5, Ax6, Ax7 along the up-and-down direction of the housing 10. In addition, the pipettes 39, 40, 41 are moved by the driving mechanisms 42, 43, 44 along the up-and-down direction of the housing 10. In addition, an attraction and discharge mechanism that performs attraction and discharge of the reagent is connected to the pipettes 39, 40, 41. The reagent dispensing sections 15, 16, 17 can insert the pipettes 39, 40, 41 into the reaction container 36 after attracting the reagent in the reagent container 34 by the pipettes 39, 40, 41 inserted into the reagent container 34, and discharge (dispense) the reagent from the pipettes 39, 40, 41 into the reaction container 36.

[0076] The stirring device 18 has an unillustrated stirring section that does not contact the liquid in the reaction container 36. The measurement section 19 is a light measurement section that has a photomultiplier tube (PMT) 45 as a detector, and measures the amount of luminescence generated by the reaction of the immune complex and the chemiluminescent substrate.

[0077] The second reaction tank 20 has a rotation body 46 that is substantially circular in plan view. The rotation body 46 is supported to the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center axis O5 along the up-and-down direction of the housing 10. The rotation body 46 is rotated about the rotation center axis O5 by an unillustrated driving mechanism. A plurality of reaction containers 36 are provided to the rotation body 46 and transported by an unillustrated transport mechanism. In addition, the reaction containers 36 are sequentially transported to the first reaction tank 13, the BF cleaning section 50, and the second reaction tank 20. The plurality of reaction containers 36 are arranged about the rotation center axis O5 and rotate integrally with the rotation body 46. In addition, the reaction containers 36 are transported to the first reaction tank 13, the BF cleaning section 50, and the second reaction tank 20 in the order of the first reaction tank 13, the BF cleaning section 50, and the second reaction tank 20. Figure 1In the drawing, a part of the plurality of reaction containers 36 is shown. The reaction containers 36 can be constituted by, for example, test tubes of a cylindrical shape. Reagents are dispensed into the reaction containers 36. The reagents react in the reaction containers 36 to become reaction liquids. The second reaction tank 20 is maintained at a temperature suitable for causing the reaction liquids to react.

[0078] The control section 21 has, for example, a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The control section 21 performs various kinds of arithmetic operations and controls of the sections of the subject processing apparatus 2. For example, the control section 21 performs the BF cleaning method by acting in accordance with a BF cleaning program.

[0079] The BF cleaning section 50 performs BF cleaning of the reaction liquids (Rl reagent + subject, and Rl reagent + subject + R2 reagent) dispensed into the reaction containers 36. The BF cleaning section 50 is provided with a conveying section 51, a magnetic collecting section 52, a cleaning section 53, and a stirring section 54. The conveying section 51 has a rotating body 511 that is substantially circular in plan view. The rotating body 511 is supported to the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center axis O4 in the up-down direction of the housing 10. The rotating body 511 is intermittently rotated about the rotation center axis O4 by a rotation drive section 512 (refer to Figure 4 ) described later, and the details of the intermittent rotation are described later. The rotating body 511 can hold a plurality of reaction containers 36. The plurality of reaction containers 36 are sequentially conveyed from the first reaction tank 13 by a conveying mechanism not shown, arranged and placed about the rotation center axis O4 on the rotating body 511, and rotated integrally with the rotating body 511, whereby conveyed along a conveying path P50. In addition, the reaction containers 36 are sequentially conveyed to the first reaction tank 13 or the second reaction tank 20 by the conveying mechanism not shown after BF cleaning by the BF cleaning section 50. In addition, the rotating body 511 is sometimes referred to as a container stage 511 hereinafter.

[0080] The magnetic collecting section 52 is provided with a magnet 521 in the shape along the outer periphery of the reaction container 36. That is, the magnet 521 is in the shape of surrounding at least a part of the outer periphery of the reaction container 36. The magnet 521 is, for example, a neodymium magnet.

[0081] The magnetic collecting section 52 is provided with a plurality of (five in Figure 1 ) at a prescribed interval along the conveying path P50. The magnetic collecting section 52 brings the magnet 521 close to the reaction container 36 when the reaction container 36 is conveyed, whereby collects magnetic particles present inside the reaction container 36. In other words, the position of the magnetic collecting section 52 in the conveying path P50 is a magnetic collecting position at which the magnetic particles of the reaction container 36 are collected. In addition, the reaction container 36 is inserted into the attraction nozzle 41 in a state in which the magnetic particles are collected at the magnetic collecting position. Figure 2The nozzle 531 shown is connected to a suction and discharge mechanism that performs suction and discharge actions. The suction nozzle is inserted into the reaction vessel 36, and after suctioning the reaction liquid in the reaction vessel 36, it discharges (waste) the reaction liquid into a waste container (not shown).

[0082] The conveying unit 51 moves the magnet 521 in conjunction with the conveying of the reaction container 36. Specifically, the conveying unit 51 moves the magnet 521 closer to the magnetizing position when the reaction container 36 is in the magnetizing position, and moves the magnet 521 away from the magnetizing position when the reaction container 36 is in a position other than the magnetizing position. Thus, when the reaction container 36 is conveyed from the magnetizing position to a position other than the magnetizing position, the magnet 521 can be moved to a position deviating from the conveying path of the reaction container 36, and when the reaction container 36 is in the magnetizing position, the magnet 521 can be moved closer to the reaction container 36. That is, the BF cleaning unit 50 of this disclosure can move the magnet 521 in conjunction with the conveying of the reaction container 36, thereby making the shape of the magnet 521 conform to the outer periphery of the reaction container 36, and maximizing the proximity of the magnet 521 to the reaction container 36 without contact during conveying, thus improving the magnetizing efficiency.

[0083] Next, we will refer to Figures 2 to 4 The structure of the BF cleaning unit 50 is described in detail. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the BF cleaning section 50. Figure 3 This is a top view showing the internal structure of the BF cleaning unit 50. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the BF cleaning section 50. Furthermore, in... Figure 4 In the middle, it is shown that the omission is... Figure 2 The diagram shows the container platform 511.

[0084] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the BF cleaning unit 50 includes a conveying unit 51, a magnetic collecting unit 52, a cleaning unit 53, and a stirring unit 54. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The container platform 511 of the conveying unit 51 shown has multiple supports 511a for placing the reaction vessel 36 and a through hole 511b for cleaning the nozzle. The multiple supports 511a are arranged at predetermined intervals around the rotation center axis O4 in the conveying path P50. Figure 3In the example shown, in the case where the container table 511 is assumed to be a clock face, the plurality of holders 511a are respectively located at the positions of 1 o'clock, 3 o'clock, 5 o'clock, 7 o'clock, 9 o'clock, and 11 o'clock, and the through holes 511b for nozzle cleaning are respectively located at the positions of 0 o'clock, 2 o'clock, 4 o'clock, 6 o'clock, 8 o'clock, and 10 o'clock. Further, in the case where the container table 511 is assumed to be a clock face, the plurality of holders 511a and the through holes 511b are moved clockwise (intermittent forward and reverse rotation) in units of one hour, and details thereof will be described later in Figure 5 .

[0085] As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , a plurality of the magnetic collecting portions 52 (52a to 52e) are arranged along the outer periphery of the container table 511. Specifically, in the case where the container table 511 is assumed to be a clock face, the magnetic collecting portion 52a is arranged at the position of 7 o'clock, the magnetic collecting portion 52b is arranged at the position of 9 o'clock, the magnetic collecting portion 52c is arranged at the position of 11 o'clock, the magnetic collecting portion 52d is arranged at the position of 1 o'clock, and the magnetic collecting portion 52e is arranged at the position of 3 o'clock. In addition, each of the magnetic collecting portions 52a to 52e collects the magnetic particles of the reaction container 36 at the respective positions. That is, in Figure 3 , the positions of the magnetic collecting portions 52a to 52e become the magnetic collecting positions.

[0086] Further, the reaction container 36 sequentially passes through the magnetic collecting portion 52a, the magnetic collecting portion 52b, the magnetic collecting portion 52c, the magnetic collecting portion 52d, and the magnetic collecting portion 52e, and details thereof will be described later. The magnetic collecting portion 52a at the initial magnetic collecting position collects the reaction container 36. The pre-collection is a process of collecting the magnetic particles without uniform dispersion (stirring) of the magnetic particles by the stirring portion 54 and the suction of the reaction solution by the above-described suction nozzle (nozzle 531). That is, the magnetic collecting portion 52a can further improve the magnetic collecting efficiency in the formal collection of the magnetic collecting portion 52b by bringing the magnet 521 close to the reaction container 36 to cause the magnetic particles in the reaction container 36 to be close to the magnet 521 side.

[0087] The magnetic collecting portions 52b to 52e collect the reaction container 36 formally. The formal collection is a process of collecting the magnetic particles after the above-described nozzle discharges the cleaning liquid and stirring, and the suction of the reaction solution by the above-described nozzle. Only the magnetic particles combined with the subject after the antigen-antibody reaction, or the magnetic particles combined with the subject, the Rl reagent, and the R2 reagent after the antigen-antibody reaction are present in the inside of the reaction container 36 after the collection, and in this state, the reaction container 36 is transported to the first reaction tank 13 and the second reaction tank 20, respectively.

[0088] The cleaning section 53 injects a cleaning liquid after the liquid of the reaction vessel 36 in the state after the magnetic collection. Specifically, the cleaning section 53 sucks and discharges (discards) the liquid of the reaction vessel 36 through the nozzle 531, and discharges the cleaning liquid to the reaction vessel 36 through the nozzle 531. Further, an example is shown in which the nozzle 531 functions as both a suction nozzle for discarding the liquid of the reaction vessel 36 and a discharge nozzle for discharging the cleaning liquid to the reaction vessel 36, but a suction nozzle and a discharge nozzle can be separately provided.

[0089] Further, as shown in Figure 4 , the magnet 521 of the magnetic collection section 52 sandwiches the reaction vessel 36 from the side by the two magnet members 521a, 521b arranged in opposition. That is, the magnetic particles in the reaction vessel 36 can be collected by the magnet member 521a of the two magnet members 521a, 521b closer to the magnetic particles, so the magnetic collection efficiency can be improved.

[0090] Further, in Figure 4 , an example is shown in which the magnet 521 is composed of two magnet members 521a, 521b arranged in opposition, but the reaction vessel 36 can be surrounded by three or more magnet members 521a, 521b. Thereby, the magnetic collection efficiency can be improved.

[0091] Alternatively, the magnet 521 can be composed of either of the two magnet members 521a, 521b. Even in this case, the magnet 521 becomes in contact with the reaction vessel 36 along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction vessel 36 (becomes in contact with the face of the reaction vessel 36), so the magnetic collection efficiency can be improved, for example, compared to a cuboid-shaped magnet (compared to the case of being in contact with the line of the reaction vessel 36).

[0092] As shown in Figure 4 , the magnet members 521a, 521b are opened and closed by the cam 513 and the follower 522. The cam 513 is arranged on the rotary body 514 in a disc shape. The rotary body 514 is arranged in parallel with the lower layer of the vessel stage 511, and is supported to the housing 10 in a manner that it can rotate around the rotation center axis O4 in the up-down direction of the housing 10. The rotary body 514 is intermittently rotated around the rotation center axis O4 by the rotation drive section 512. That is, the rotary body 514 is intermittently rotated in conjunction with the vessel stage 511.

[0093] The cam 513 is arranged at regular intervals in the rotating body 514 around the rotation center axis O4. The follower 522 is fixed in the magnet collecting portion 52 in a state connected to the magnet 521. The magnet collecting portion 52 generates a pressing force by the cam 513 pressing the follower 522 when the reaction vessel 36 approaches the magnet collecting position, and moves the magnet 521 away from the magnet collecting position, and releases the pressing force when the reaction vessel 36 reaches the magnet collecting position, and moves the magnet 521 to approach the magnet collecting position. Further, details of the movement of the magnet 521 by the cam 513 and the follower 522 will be described later in Figure 8 .

[0094] Thus, the magnet collecting portion 52 moves the magnet 521 by the physical force (pressing force) of the cam mechanism, and thus the movement of the magnet 521 does not require a high-cost structure (for example, motor drive, etc.). Therefore, the magnet collecting portion 52 can reduce the product cost.

[0095] Further, in the present disclosure, the cam mechanism is used to generate the pressing force to move the magnet 521, but as long as it is a mechanism that generates a pressing force (for example, a mechanism using a spring member, etc.), it is not limited to the cam mechanism. That is, as long as the magnet collecting portion 52 is a structure that moves the magnet 521 away from the magnet collecting position by a pressing force, and moves the magnet 521 to approach the magnet collecting position when the reaction vessel 36 reaches the magnet collecting position, any structure can be adopted.

[0096] In addition, as shown in Figure 4 , the conveying portion 51 has a rotation drive portion 512. The stirring portion 54 has a stirring drive portion 541 and a transmission belt 542. As described above, the rotation drive portion 512 intermittently rotates the container stage 511 and the rotating body 514 around the rotation center axis O4.

[0097] After the reaction vessel 36 to which the cleaning liquid is dispensed by the cleaning portion 53 is conveyed to a position other than the magnet collecting position by the conveying portion 51, the stirring portion 54 stirs by eccentric rotation. Specifically, the stirring portion 54 eccentrically rotates the container stage 511 by the stirring drive portion 541 to stir the reaction liquid accommodated in the reaction vessel 36. Specifically, the stirring drive portion 541 is arranged at a position of each apex of a triangle in a plan view centered on the rotation drive portion 512. Each of the stirring drive portions 541 is supported to the rotating body 514 in a manner that can rotate at a position where the rotation axis deviates from the center. In addition, any one of the three stirring drive portions 541 is connected to a motor not shown, and rotates by the rotation force of the motor, and thereby transmits the rotation force to the other two stirring drive portions 541 via the transmission belt 542 to rotate. Thus, the three stirring drive portions 541 eccentrically rotate, respectively. As a result, the container stage 511 eccentrically rotates, and the rotating body 514 does not rotate. That is, in a state where the rotating body 514 is fixed, only the container stage 511 eccentrically rotates, and thereby the reaction liquid of the reaction vessel 36 is stirred.

[0098] In addition, the reaction vessel 36 is located at a position other than the position where the magnetic flux is concentrated, and in this state, the vessel stage 511 is eccentrically rotated in a state where the suction nozzle (nozzle 531) is inserted into a cleaning tank (bath) not shown. Thus, the suction nozzle can be cleaned in the cleaning tank (bath), and therefore, contamination of the reaction solution adhering to the suction nozzle when the suction nozzle is inserted into another reaction vessel 36 in the next process can be prevented. In addition, thus, cleaning of the suction nozzle and stirring of the reaction vessel 36 can be performed simultaneously, and therefore, the throughput can be improved.

[0099] Next, the use of the reaction vessel 36 will be described. Figure 5 The intermittent rotation of the vessel stage 511 will be described. Figure 5 is a view for explaining the intermittent rotation of the vessel stage 511. Figure 5 The solid circles in the view indicate the presence of the reaction vessel 36, and the dashed circles indicate the presence of the through hole for cleaning the nozzle. In other words, the solid circles in the view shown in Figure 5 become the positions of the support 511a in the vessel stage 511.

[0100] Specifically, in the state 1, the support 511a is present at the position P7 of the 1st point, the position P9 of the 3rd point, the position P11 of the 5th point, the position PI of the 7th point, the position P3 of the 9th point, and the position P5 of the 11th point. In addition, in the state 2, the support 511a is present at the position P6 of the 0th point, the position P8 of the 2nd point, the position P10 of the 4th point, the position P12 of the 6th point, the position P2 of the 8th point, and the position P4 of the 10th point. In addition, in the state 3, the support 511a is present at the position P7 of the 1st point, the position P9 of the 3rd point, the position P11 of the 5th point, the position PI of the 7th point, the position P3 of the 9th point, and the position P5 of the 11th point. Figure 5 In the example of the view shown in Figure 5 is omitted.

[0101] The reaction vessel 36 is transported from the first reaction tank 13 to the position P12 (IN) in the state 2. The reaction vessel 36 is transported from the position P11 (OUT) to the first reaction tank 13 or the second reaction tank 20 in the state 1. The vessel stage 511 is intermittently rotated by the rotation driving section 512 as described above, and thus, the state 1 and the state 2 shown in Figure 5 are repeated. Specifically, in the case where the vessel stage 511 is assumed to be a clock face, the vessel stage 511 is intermittently rotated in such a manner that the reaction vessel 36 moves by 1 hour in the forward direction or the reverse direction each time the state (the state 1 and the state 2) changes.

[0102] In the case where the reaction vessel 36 is transported to the position P12 (IN) in the state 2, the reaction vessel 36 is transported to the position P12 (IN) in the state 2. Figure 5In the example shown, the reaction vessel 36, which was conveyed to position P12 in state 2, changes to state 1 through the intermittent rotation of the vessel platform 511, thereby moving to position P1. Furthermore, when changing from state 1 to state 2, the reaction vessel 36 at position P1 is located at position P2. Similarly, when the reaction vessel 36 moves to position P11 in state 1 by repeating state 1 and state 2 in both forward and reverse directions, it is conveyed from position P11 to either the first reaction tank 13 or the second reaction tank 20. As a result, the reaction vessel 36 is not present at position P12 in state 2, the support 511a becomes empty, and the reaction vessel 36 for the next process is conveyed from the first reaction tank 13.

[0103] Furthermore, as mentioned above, formal magnetic focusing is performed at positions P3, P5, P7, and P9 respectively during state 1, while pre-magnetic focusing is performed at position P1 during state 1. That is, each reaction vessel 36 undergoes a total of five magnetic focusing processes, including one pre-magnetic focusing and four formal magnetic focusing processes.

[0104] Furthermore, the stirring drive unit 541 rotates eccentrically in state 2. That is, the reaction vessel 36 is stirred when it is located between the magnetic focusing position and the magnetic focusing position. This promotes the dispersion of unwanted components such as the analyte components or unbound labeled antibodies contained in the agglomerates of magnetic particles after magnetic focusing at the magnetic focusing position, thereby improving the BF separation efficiency in the formal magnetic focusing process of the next step.

[0105] Next, use Figure 6 The specific structure of magnet 521 will be explained. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the specific structure of magnet 521. (For example...) Figure 6 As shown, magnet 521 is inserted into reaction vessel 36 from the side via two opposing magnet components 521a and 521b. Furthermore, the two magnet components 521a and 521b are shaped along the outer periphery of reaction vessel 36. This allows the magnet components 521a and 521b to be positioned along the surface of reaction vessel 36, thus improving magnetization efficiency compared to the conventional method of using rectangular magnet components in line contact with the reaction vessel. Furthermore, by inserting two magnet components 521a and 521b into reaction vessel 36, the distance between magnetic particles within reaction vessel 36 and magnet components 521a and 521b is reduced, thereby improving magnetization efficiency.

[0106] Furthermore, the two magnet components 521a and 521b are arranged close to the reaction vessel 36 with opposite polarities. For example, magnet component 521a is arranged with its N pole facing the side closest to the reaction vessel 36, and magnet component 521b is arranged with its S pole facing the side closest to the reaction vessel 36.

[0107] Thus, the magnetic particles can be easily attracted to the magnet member 521a or 521b on the approach side. Thus, the magnetic collection efficiency can be improved.

[0108] Next, using Figure 7 The positional relationship of the magnet 521 and the transport path P50 will be described. Figure 7 is a view showing the positional relationship of the magnet 521 and the transport path P50. In Figure 7 , the positional relationship of the transport path P50, which corresponds to the diameter of the reaction vessel 36, and the two magnet members 521a and 521b is shown. Further, in the left view and the right view in Figure 7 , the reaction vessel 36 is shown at the magnetic collection position (the position of the magnet 521), but actually, the reaction vessel 36 in the left view is not at the magnetic collection position but at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

[0109] As shown in the left view of Figure 7 , the two magnet members 521a and 521b are at positions away from the magnetic collection position when the reaction vessel 36 is at a position other than the magnetic collection position. Specifically, the two magnet members 521a and 521b are moved away from the magnetic collection position in such a manner that the distance between them becomes farther. Thus, the two magnet members 521a and 521b are at positions not entering the transport path P50, and therefore, when the reaction vessel 36 is transported to the magnetic collection position, the reaction vessel 36 can be made not to contact the two magnet members 521a and 521b.

[0110] As shown in the right view of Figure 7 , the two magnet members 521a and 521b are at positions close to the magnetic collection position when the reaction vessel 36 is at the magnetic collection position. Specifically, the two magnet members 521a and 521b are moved close to the magnetic collection position in such a manner that the distance between them becomes closer. More specifically, the two magnet members 521a and 521b enter the transport path P50 and surround the reaction vessel 36. Thus, the distance between the two magnet members 521a and 521b and the reaction vessel 36 can be made to be the minimum, and therefore, the magnetic collection efficiency can be improved.

[0111] Next, using Figure 8 The cam mechanisms of the transport section 51 and the magnetic collection section 52 will be described. Figure 8 is a view showing the cam mechanisms of the transport section 51 and the magnetic collection section 52. As shown in Figure 8 , an example of a cam mechanism having a cam 513 and a follower 522 will be described. In addition, in Figure 8 , an example in which the reaction vessel 36 is rotated in the forward direction (right direction) is shown.

[0112] The cam 513 has an end portion 513a of a tapered shape at the front end and a recessed portion 513b provided at the rear with respect to the end portion 513a. The follower 522 is connected to the magnet 521 via a connecting portion 523. In Figure 8 In the example shown, the two connecting portions 523 and the follower 522 are connected to the two magnet members 521a, 521b independently. That is, one group of the follower 522, the connecting portion 523, and the magnet member 521a connected thereto and one group of the follower 522, the connecting portion 523, and the magnet member 521b connected thereto are provided at positions facing each other across the reaction vessel 36.

[0113] As shown in the upper drawing of Figure 8 , the end portion 513a of the cam 513 presses the follower 522 when the reaction vessel 36 approaches the position of the magnetic collection when the rotation is in the forward direction. As a result, the follower 522 moves away from the reaction vessel 36 together with the connecting portion 523 and the magnet 521 by the pressing force of the cam 513. Thus, as shown in the center drawing of Figure 8 , the distance between the magnets 521 is expanded, and the reaction vessel 36 can enter between the magnets 521 and be transported to the position of the magnetic collection.

[0114] In addition, the end portion 513a of the cam 513 presses the follower 522 by the tapered shape at the front end, whereby the pressing force on the follower 522 can be gradually increased, and thus the abrupt change (increase) in the force pressed from the cam 513 can be suppressed.

[0115] Next, as shown in the lower drawing of Figure 8 , the follower 522 is inserted into the recessed portion 513b of the cam 513 when the reaction vessel 36 is at the position of the magnetic collection. As a result, the pressing force of the cam 513 on the follower 522 is released, and the magnets 521 approach the reaction vessel 36.

[0116] In addition, as shown in Figure 8 , the end portion 513c of the cam 513 on the side opposite to the end portion 513a also has a tapered shape at the front end. That is, both the end portions 513a, 513c of the cam 513 have a tapered shape (both ends are tapered) at the front end. In addition, the recessed portion 513b described above is provided near the center with respect to both the end portions 513a, 513c.

[0117] With this structure, the end portion 513c of the cam 513 presses the follower 522 when the reaction vessel 36 approaches the position of the magnetic collection when the rotation is in the reverse direction. As a result, the follower 522 moves away from the reaction vessel 36 together with the connecting portion 523 and the magnet 521 by the pressing force of the cam 513. Thus, the distance between the magnets 521 is expanded, and the reaction vessel 36 can enter between the magnets 521 and be transported to the position of the magnetic collection.

[0118] Further, the end portion 513c of the cam 513 presses the follower 522 with a tapered shape at the front end, whereby the pressing force on the follower 522 can be gradually increased, and thus a sharp change (increase) in the force pressed by the cam 513 can be suppressed. As a result, a sharp change in the load torque in the drive source (e.g., a motor) that drives the container table 511 on which the reaction container 36 is placed can be alleviated.

[0119] In this way, the movement of the magnet 521 is performed by the physical force of the cam mechanism without using an actuator such as a motor, and thus the product cost can be reduced.

[0120] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the BF cleaning device (BF cleaning section 50) includes a conveying section 51 and a magnetic collecting section 52. The conveying section 51 conveys the reaction container 36 in which a reaction solution into which a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject are dispensed is accommodated along a conveying path P50. The magnetic collecting section 52 causes the magnet 521 along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction container 36 to approach the reaction container 36 when the reaction container 36 is located at a magnetic collecting position in the conveying path P50, collects the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container 36, and causes the magnet 521 to be away from the magnetic collecting position when the reaction container 36 is located at a position other than the magnetic collecting position. Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collecting efficiency.

[0121] Further, the BF cleaning device includes a cleaning section 53. The cleaning section 53 dispenses a cleaning solution after the reaction container 36 in the state after the magnetic collection is cleaned. Thus, the BF cleaning device can improve the magnetic collecting efficiency.

[0122] Further, the BF cleaning device includes a stirring section 54. The stirring section 54 stirs by eccentric rotation after the reaction container 36 in which the cleaning solution is dispensed is conveyed to a position other than the magnetic collecting position by the conveying section 51. Thus, the BF cleaning device uniformly disperses the magnetic particles, and thus can improve the cleaning efficiency of the reaction container 36.

[0123] Further, in each of the processes described in the above embodiments, all or a part of the processes described as automatically performed processes can be manually performed, or all or a part of the processes described as manually performed processes can be automatically performed by a known method. In addition, unless otherwise specified, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information illustrated.

[0124] In addition, each of the constituent elements of each of the illustrated apparatuses is a functional concept, and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. That is, the specific manner of dispersing / merging of each of the apparatuses is not limited to the illustrated manner, and all or a part thereof can be dispersed / merged in function or in the physical configuration in an arbitrary unit according to various loads, usage conditions, and the like.

[0125] In addition, the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. For example, a manner obtained by appropriately combining the above-described embodiments within a range where the processing contents do not contradict each other is also included in the technical scope of the present application. In addition, each of the procedures, processes, and the like illustrated in the above-described embodiments can be appropriately changed in order.

[0126] [Words]

[0127] Not all objects or effects / advantages can be achieved according to any specific embodiment described in this specification. Therefore, for example, if it is a person skilled in the art, it is conceivable that a specific embodiment does not necessarily achieve other objects or effects / advantages taught or implied in this specification, but can be configured to act in a manner to achieve or optimize one or more effects / advantages taught in this specification.

[0128] All of the processes described in this specification are implemented by software code modules executed by a computing system including one or more computers or processors, and can be fully automated. The code modules can be stored in any type of non-transitory computer-readable medium or other computer storage devices. Part or all of the methods can be implemented by dedicated computer hardware.

[0129] According to the present disclosure, there are many other modifications other than those described in this specification. For example, according to the embodiments, any specific action, event, or function in the algorithms described in this specification can be executed in a different timing, and can be added, merged, or completely excluded (for example, not all behaviors or phenomena described need to execute the algorithm). Furthermore, in a specific embodiment, the action or event can be executed not sequentially but in parallel, for example, via multi-thread processing, interrupt processing, or multiple processors or processor cores, or on other parallel architectures. Furthermore, different tasks or processes can also be executed by different machines and / or computing systems that can function together.

[0130] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or performed by a machine such as a processor. A processor can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, a processor can be a controller, microcontroller, or state machine, or other processing machine, or combination thereof. A processor can include electrical circuitry configured to process computer-executable instructions. In other embodiments, a processor includes an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable device that performs logic operations without processing computer-executable instructions. A processor can also be a combination of a processor and a DSP, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In the description below, a "processor" can refer to a single processor or a combination of processors, including a central processing unit (CPU) and a graphics processing unit (GPU). In this specification, the term "computer" is used to refer to a general-purpose computing device, but also can refer to a special-purpose computing device, such as a mobile computing device, a server, or a network appliance. A computing environment includes a computer system that can be based on a microprocessor or multiple microprocessors, as well as other components such as memory storage devices, and input / output devices.

[0131] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may," "e.g.," and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, are understood as

[0132] The optional language "at least one of X, Y, Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to mean that the item, term, etc. can be either X, Y, or Z individually, or any combination of X, Y, and Z. Thus, "at least one of X, Y, Z" is understood to mean X, or Y, or Z, or a combination of X, Y, and Z.

[0133] Any process descriptions or steps in flow diagrams described in this specification and / or depicted in the attached figures should be understood as potentially representing entities which can be instantiated as one or more software modules, segments or codes containing one or more executable commands or steps for implementing specific logic functions (or steps) in the process. Alternative implementations are included within the scope of the embodiments described in this specification in which, for example, functions can be deleted, replicated, combined, and / or performed by different or alternative components, in different orders, in different groupings, and / or in different manners, as will occur to those skilled in the art. Functions depicted as discrete can in fact be provided in integrated

[0134] The indefinite articles "a" and "an," as used herein in a claim, are each defined to mean one or more than one unless explicitly stated otherwise in the claim. The additional use of the terms "another," "at least one" and other similar phrases is also intended to convey the same meaning, unless explicitly stated otherwise in the claim.

[0135] Generally, the nomenclature used in this specification is intended to be interpreted according to the usual meaning of the terms used, as would be understood by those skilled in the art, unless explicitly stated otherwise in the specification. For example, the use of the term "comprising" (or "including") is intended to mean "including, but not limited to," to indicate that the list of elements or steps is not exhaustive. The use of the term "consisting of" is intended to mean "including and limited to," to indicate that the list of elements or steps is exhaustive.

[0136] For the purposes of this specification, the term "horizontal" should be interpreted broadly, to be coextensive with the plane or surface of the floor of the area in which the system being described is used, or the plane in which the method being described is implemented. The term "floor" can be replaced with the term "ground" or "water surface." The terms "vertical" and "upright" mean a direction perpendicular to the defined horizontal. The terms "upper," "lower," "below," "above," "on," "over," and "under," are defined with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0137] The terms "attach," "connect," "couple," and other related terms as used in this specification are to be construed as including a connection which is direct, and / or indirect, through intervening items which can or can not be mechanically coupled or related to the two components being connected, unless otherwise specifically stated in the specification. The connection can be fixed, releasable, adjustable, and / or removable, unless otherwise specifically stated in the specification.

[0138] As used in the specification, the terms "substantially", "approximately", and "about" preceding a recited quantity or range of values means that the quantity or range of values is within 10% of the recited quantity or range of values, unless otherwise indicated. As used in the specification, the features of the embodiments disclosed after the terms "substantially", "approximately", and "about" further indicate that the features have a number of variations that are within the scope of the desired function or result.

[0139] In the above-described embodiments, a plurality of modifications and variations can be added, and these elements should be understood as being in other examples that can be allowed. All of such modifications and variations are intended to be included in the scope of the present disclosure and protected by the following claims.

[0140] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0141] 1 analysis device

[0142] 2 subject processing device

[0143] 3 information processing device

[0144] 10 housing

[0145] 11 subject reservoir

[0146] 12 reagent reservoir

[0147] 13 first reaction tank

[0148] 14 subject dispensing section

[0149] 15, 16, 17 reagent dispensing section

[0150] 18 stirring device

[0151] 19 measurement section

[0152] 20 second reaction tank

[0153] 21 control section

[0154] 31, 33, 35, 46, 51 rotating body

[0155] 32 subject container

[0156] 34 reagent container

[0157] 36 reaction container

[0158] 37, 39, 40, 41 pipette

[0159] 38, 42, 43, 44 drive mechanism

[0160] 45 photomultiplier tube

[0161] 50 BF cleaning section

[0162] 51 conveying section

[0163] 52 magnetic collecting section

[0164] 53 cleaning section

[0165] 54 stirring section

[0166] 511 container stage

[0167] 511a support

[0168] 511b through hole

[0169] 512 rotation drive section

[0170] 513 cam

[0171] 513a, 513c end portion

[0172] 513b recessed portion

[0173] 521 magnet

[0174] 521a, 521b magnet member

[0175] 522 driven member

[0176] 523 connecting portion

[0177] 541 stirring drive section

[0178] 542 transmission belt

[0179] P50 conveying path

Claims

1. A BF cleaning device, wherein BF is binding separation, the BF cleaning device comprising: a conveying section that conveys a reaction container in which a liquid sample is accommodated along a conveying path, the liquid sample being injected with a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject; and a magnet collecting section that causes a magnet along a shape of an outer periphery of the reaction container to approach the reaction container when the reaction container is at a magnet collecting position in the conveying path, and collects the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container, and causes the magnet to be distanced from the magnet collecting position when the reaction container is at a position other than the magnet collecting position.

2. The BF cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising: a cleaning section that injects a cleaning liquid after discarding the liquid of the reaction container in the state after the magnet collecting.

3. The BF cleaning device according to claim 2, further comprising: a stirring section that stirs by eccentric rotation after the reaction container in which the cleaning liquid is injected is conveyed to a position other than the magnet collecting position by the conveying section.

4. The BF cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the magnet surrounds the outer periphery of the reaction container by a plurality of magnet members.

5. The BF cleaning device according to claim 4, the magnet sandwiches the reaction container from the side by two magnet members disposed in opposition.

6. The BF cleaning device according to claim 1, as the reaction container approaches the magnet collecting position along the conveying path, the conveying section distances the magnet from the magnet collecting position by pressing force, and when the reaction container reaches the magnet collecting position, the conveying section releases the pressing force to cause the magnet to approach the magnet collecting position.

7. The BF cleaning device according to claim 6, the conveying section has: a cam that moves in conjunction with the conveyance of the reaction container; and a follower that is linked to the magnet, by the cam, when the reaction container approaches the magnet collecting position, the cam presses the follower, thereby generating the pressing force to distance the magnet from the magnet collecting position, and when the reaction container reaches the magnet collecting position, the pressing force is released to cause the magnet to approach the magnet collecting position.

8. The BF cleaning device according to claim 7, the cam has: an end portion of a tapered shape that presses the follower; and a recess portion that is provided to the rear with respect to the end portion, and in which the follower is fitted when the reaction container is at the magnet collecting position.

9. The BF cleaning device according to claim 7, the cam has: both end portions of a tapered shape that press the follower; and a recess portion that is provided to the vicinity of the center with respect to the both end portions, and in which the follower is fitted when the reaction container is at the magnet collecting position.

10. The BF cleaning device according to claim 1, the conveying section has: a disc-shaped container stage that arranges and holds the reaction containers around a rotation axis center; a rotation drive section that intermittently rotates the container stage around the rotation axis center to convey the reaction containers; and a stirring section that eccentrically rotates the container stage to stir the reaction containers.

11. The BF cleaning device according to claim 3, the cleaning section has a suction nozzle and a discharge nozzle, the suction nozzle is inserted into the reaction container and sucks the liquid in the reaction container in a state where the magnetic particles are magnetically collected at the magnetic collection position, the discharge nozzle discharges the cleaning liquid after the liquid in the reaction container is sucked.

12. The BF cleaning device according to claim 11, when the reaction container is located at a position other than the magnetic collection position, the stirring section eccentrically rotates the container table in a cleaning state where the suction nozzle is inserted into the cleaning chamber.

13. The BF cleaning device according to claim 11, the magnetic collection section is provided in a plurality in the transport path, and pre-magnetic collection is performed at the first magnetic collection position in the transport path, in which the magnetic particles are magnetically collected without the uniform dispersion of the magnetic particles by the stirring section and the sucking of the liquid by the suction nozzle.

14. A BF cleaning method, which is a BF cleaning method executed by a computer, wherein BF is binding separation, the BF cleaning method comprising: a transport process of transporting a reaction container in which a reaction liquid is accommodated along a transport path, the reaction liquid being injected with a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject; and a magnetic collection process of causing a magnet along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction container to approach the reaction container when the reaction container is located at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, and magnetically collecting the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container, and causing the magnet to be distanced from the magnetic collection position when the reaction container is located at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

15. The BF cleaning method according to claim 14, comprising: a cleaning process of injecting a cleaning liquid after discarding the liquid of the reaction container in the state after the magnetic collection.

16. The BF cleaning method according to claim 15, comprising: a stirring process of stirring by eccentric rotation after the reaction container injected with the cleaning liquid is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport process.

17. A BF cleaning program, wherein BF is binding separation, the BF cleaning program causing a computer to execute: a transport process of transporting a reaction container in which a reaction liquid is accommodated along a transport path, the reaction liquid being injected with a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject; and a magnetic collection process of causing a magnet along the shape of the outer periphery of the reaction container to approach the reaction container when the reaction container is located at a magnetic collection position in the transport path, and magnetically collecting the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container, and causing the magnet to be distanced from the magnetic collection position when the reaction container is located at a position other than the magnetic collection position.

18. The BF cleaning program according to claim 17, causing a computer to execute: a cleaning process of injecting a cleaning liquid after discarding the liquid of the reaction container in the state after the magnetic collection.

19. The BF cleaning program according to claim 18, causing a computer to execute: The stirring is performed by eccentric rotation after the reaction container to which the washing liquid is dispensed is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport process. 20.An analysis device comprising: a transport section that transports a reaction container in which a reaction liquid is accommodated along a transport path, the reaction liquid having a reagent containing magnetic particles and a subject dispensed therein; and a magnetic collection section that causes a magnet along a shape of an outer periphery of the reaction container to approach the reaction container when the reaction container is positioned at a magnetic collection position in the transport path and collects the magnetic particles present inside the reaction container, and causes the magnet to be distanced from the magnetic collection position when the reaction container is positioned at a position other than the magnetic collection position. 21.The analysis device according to claim 20, comprising: a washing section that dispenses a washing liquid after the liquid of the reaction container in the state after the magnetic collection is discarded. 22.The analysis device according to claim 21, comprising: a stirring section that stirs by eccentric rotation after the reaction container to which the washing liquid is dispensed is transported to a position other than the magnetic collection position by the transport section.

Images