Sample mixing device and sample mixing method

Abstract

A sample mixing apparatus (100) and a sample mixing method. The sample mixing device (100) comprises a supporting module (1), a mixing module (2) and a blocking module (3), wherein the mixing module (2) and the blocking module (3) are arranged on the supporting module (1); the mixing module (2) is configured to drive a closed container (10) containing a sample to rotate; the blocking module (3) is configured to block the removal of the closed container (10) from the mixing module (2) during rotation. The closed container (10) is driven by the mixing module (2) to rotate, so that the sample mixing efficiency and mixing effect are improved, and the closed container (10) is not easy to generate sample cross contamination; the blocking module (3) is arranged, so that the closed container (10) is prevented from accidentally falling off from the mixing module (2) in the rotary mixing process, and the safety of uniform mixing is improved.

Description

Sample mixing device and sample mixing method Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of sample mixing, and in particular to a sample mixing device and a sample mixing method. Background Art

[0002] Before conducting biochemical reactions in the fields of biology, medicine, and chemical engineering, samples usually need to be mixed. Currently, sample mixing is usually performed by suction and exhalation, mainly by sucking in and then exhaling the sample or air through an air pump or liquid pump, or by blowing air into the sample through an external gas cylinder and an air circuit control pump, thereby achieving sample mixing.

[0003] However, the above-mentioned aspiration and exhalation method is not effective for sample mixing, and cross contamination is easily caused during the mixing process.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, in order to solve at least one of the above technical problems, it is necessary to propose a sample mixing device and a sample mixing method.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a sample mixing device, comprising: a support module, and a mixing module and a blocking module arranged on the support module, wherein the mixing module is configured to drive a sealed container containing a sample to rotate; and the blocking module is configured to prevent the container from escaping from the mixing module during the rotation process.

[0007] In some possible embodiments, the blocking module includes: a mounting plate provided on the supporting module, a blocking driving member provided on the mounting plate, and a blocking arm provided on the blocking driving member, wherein the blocking arm is configured to move to above the container on the mixing module under the drive of the blocking driving member so that the blocking arm is in a blocking state; or, the blocking arm is configured to move away from above the container on the mixing module under the drive of the blocking driving member so that the blocking arm is in a non-blocking state.

[0008] In some possible embodiments, the blocking arm includes a connecting end connected to the blocking drive member and a free end arranged opposite to the connecting end, and the free end is configured to move toward or away from the container located on the mixing module under the drive of the blocking drive member.

[0009] In some possible embodiments, a blocking member is provided at the free end, and the blocking member is used to block or leave the container located on the mixing module.

[0010] In some possible embodiments, the blocking member includes a sleeve arranged through the free end, and the sleeve has a slot at one end close to the mixing module, and a ball is movably embedded in the slot, and the ball is used to block or leave the container located on the mixing module.

[0011] In some possible embodiments, the blocking module further includes a sensing component, which includes: a baffle and a sensor, wherein the baffle is provided on the output shaft of the blocking drive member, and the baffle includes a blocking portion and a notch portion connected in sequence along the circumferential direction; the sensor is provided on the mounting plate and corresponding to the baffle, wherein when the blocking arm is in the blocking state, the blocking portion rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor; when the blocking arm is in the non-blocking state, the notch portion rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor.

[0012] In some possible embodiments, the blocking module also includes a limiting assembly, and the limiting assembly includes: a limiting column and two blocking rods. The limiting column is provided on the output shaft of the blocking driving member, and the limiting column extends in a direction away from the output shaft of the blocking driving member; two blocking rods are provided on the mounting plate, and the two blocking rods are located at both ends of the moving path of the limiting column.

[0013] In some possible embodiments, the range of the movement path is 0° to 65°.

[0014] In some possible embodiments, the mixing module is configured to provide a rotational force along a first direction and / or a second direction to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction, where the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

[0015] In some possible embodiments, the mixing module includes: a mixing drive and a rotating assembly, the mixing drive is provided on the support module, and the mixing drive is configured to provide a rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction; the rotating assembly is provided on the output shaft of the mixing drive, and the rotating assembly has a placement slot for placing the container, and the rotating assembly is configured to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction under the drive of the mixing drive.

[0016] In some possible embodiments, the hybrid drive is configured to provide a linear rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction, and the rotation assembly is configured to convert the linear rotational force into an eccentric rotational force to drive the container to perform eccentric rotational motion along the first direction and / or the second direction.

[0017] In some possible embodiments, the rotation assembly includes: a sample rotation part, a first connecting part, a second connecting part and a drive shaft, the placement slot is formed on the sample rotation part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are movably connected to the two ends of the sample rotation part respectively, the first connecting part is connected to the support module, the second connecting part is connected to the drive shaft, the drive shaft is connected to the hybrid drive component, and the axis of the drive shaft is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the hybrid drive component.

[0018] In some possible embodiments, the mixing module further includes a rotation limiting assembly, the rotation limiting assembly including: a stopper and a limiting component, the stopper being provided on the supporting module outside the sample rotating component, the stopper having a track groove; the limiting component including a first end and a second end relatively arranged, the first end being provided on the side wall of the sample rotating component, the second end being movably clamped in the track groove, wherein the limiting component moves along the track groove under the drive of the sample rotating component, and the radial movement path of the sample rotating component is limited by the track groove.

[0019] In some possible embodiments, the mixing module further includes a detector, which is disposed on the supporting module and corresponds to the rotating assembly, and is used to detect a rotation state of the rotating assembly.

[0020] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a sample mixing method applied to the sample mixing device as described above, comprising the following steps: placing a sealed container containing a sample in a placement slot of a mixing module; controlling a blocking arm in a blocking module to move above the container so that the blocking arm is in a blocking state; generating a rotational force through the mixing module to drive the mixing module and the container to rotate so as to mix the sample in the container; and, after the sample mixing is completed, controlling the blocking arm to move and leave the top of the container so that the blocking arm is in a non-blocking state.

[0021] In some possible embodiments, the step of generating a rotational force through the mixing module to drive the mixing module and the container to rotate includes: generating a rotational force along a first direction and / or a second direction through the mixing module to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction.

[0022] In some possible embodiments, the step of generating a rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction by the mixing module to drive the container to perform rotational motion along the first direction and / or the second direction includes: generating a linear rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction by a mixing drive member in the mixing module; and converting the linear rotational force into an eccentric rotational force by a rotating component in the mixing module to drive the container to perform eccentric rotational motion along the first direction and / or the second direction.

[0023] In some possible embodiments, the rotation assembly includes a drive shaft connected to the hybrid drive element, wherein the axis of the drive shaft is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the hybrid drive element, so that the drive shaft converts the linear rotation force of the hybrid drive element into an eccentric rotation force.

[0024] The sample mixing device provided by the embodiment of the present application can realize closed-loop drive control through the mixing module, and can ensure high precision of control at high speed. The mixing module realizes eccentric rotation and oscillation of the container through centrifugal force, which can mix the sample more evenly, with high mixing efficiency, and can effectively reduce the risk of the sample adhering to the side wall of the container, so as to further improve the mixing effect. By setting a blocking module, the risk of the container accidentally escaping from the placement slot during the rotation and oscillation process can be effectively reduced, and the damage of the container and the problem of sample cross contamination can be prevented; moreover, the blocking module can realize automatic control, automatically completing the switching of the blocking arm between the blocking state and the non-blocking state without manual participation, with a high degree of automation, which can further improve the mixing efficiency. The container is a sealed container, which effectively avoids problems such as sample cross contamination and mixing during the mixing and oscillation process; moreover, the sample mixing device has strong adaptability and can use conventional reagent bottles, reagent tubes, and centrifuge tubes, without the need to design and develop a separate container, thus saving production costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a sample mixing device provided in one embodiment of the present application.

[0026] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of the sample mixing device shown in FIG1 with a container placed therein and in a blocking state.

[0027] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of the sample mixing device shown in FIG1 with a container placed therein and in a non-blocking state.

[0028] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the mixing module in FIG1 .

[0029] FIG5 is a partially cutaway schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the mixing module in FIG4 .

[0030] FIG6 is a cross-sectional view along line VI-VI of FIG4 .

[0031] FIG7 is a cross-sectional view of the mixing module shown in FIG6 with the container placed therein.

[0032] FIG8 is a schematic structural diagram of the drive shaft in FIG7 .

[0033] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the blocking module in FIG1 .

[0034] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the blocking module shown in FIG. 9 .

[0035] FIG11 is a flow chart of a sample mixing method provided in one embodiment of the present application.

[0036] Description of main component symbols

[0037] Sample mixing device 100

[0038] Support module 1

[0039] Base 11

[0040] Support frame 12

[0041] Mounting Block 13

[0042] Drive component mounting seat 14

[0043] Rotating mount 15

[0044] Rotating mounting plate 16

[0045] Hybrid Module 2

[0046] Hybrid drive 21

[0047] Rotating assembly 22

[0048] Sample rotating component 221

[0049] First connecting member 222

[0050] Circlip 223

[0051] Second connecting member 224

[0052] Drive shaft 225

[0053] Drive shaft body 2251

[0054] Block 2252

[0055] Gap 2253

[0056] Deep groove ball bearing 226

[0057] Detector 23

[0058] Placement slot 24

[0059] Rotation limit assembly 25

[0060] Limiting component 251

[0061] First end A

[0062] Second end B

[0063] Block 252

[0064] Limiting plate 253

[0065] Blocking Module 3

[0066] Mounting plate 31

[0067] Blocking drive 32

[0068] Shaft 33

[0069] Blocking arm 34

[0070] Connection terminal 341

[0071] Free end 342

[0072] Stopper 35

[0073] Card sleeve 351

[0074] Card slot 352

[0075] Ball 353

[0076] Sensing component 36

[0077] Sensor 361

[0078] Blocking piece 362

[0079] Blocking portion 363

[0080] Notch 364

[0081] Limiting component 37

[0082] Limit column 371

[0083] Bar 372

[0084] Rotation center lines a1, a2

[0085] First direction X

[0086] Second direction Y

[0087] Moving path L

[0088] Plane c

[0089] The following specific implementation methods will further illustrate the present application in conjunction with the above-mentioned drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application in combination with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments.

[0091] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "mounted on" another component, it may be directly on the other component or there may be a central component. When a component is referred to as being "disposed on" another component, it may be directly on the other component or there may be a central component. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes all and any combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0092] It should be noted that, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be performed in an order different from that in the flowchart. The method disclosed in the embodiments of the present application includes one or more steps or actions for implementing the method. The method steps and / or actions may be interchangeable with each other without departing from the scope of the claims. Unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0093] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, one embodiment of the present application provides a sample mixing device 100. The sample mixing device 100 can be used to mix samples. These samples can be, for example, biological samples required for biochemical analysis (biological samples can be human blood samples, tissue samples, or saliva samples, etc.), liquid samples such as reagents used in biochemical analysis, sample carriers (such as magnetic beads) that carry biological samples in sequencing library construction, or mixed liquids such as biological samples, reagents, and sample carriers, but are not limited to these. For example, the sample mixing device 100 can be used in various scenarios requiring mixing, such as mixing biological samples that precipitate during biochemical analysis, mixing biological samples with reagents, or mixing multiple reagents. The sample mixing device 100 includes: a support module 1, a mixing module 2, and a blocking module 3 disposed on the support module 1. The mixing module 2 is configured to drive a sealed container 10 containing a sample to rotate. The blocking module 3 is configured to prevent the container 10 from escaping from the mixing module 2 during the rotation process. The container 10 can be a container with an opening. When in the mixing state, the container 10 is sealed by adding a sealing cover at the opening. Specifically, the container 10 can be a reagent bottle with a cover, a test tube, a centrifuge tube, a sample tube, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0094] Among them, the mixing module 2 can generate a rotational force in a single direction, thereby driving the container 10 to perform rotational motion in a single direction. By driving the container 10 to perform rotational motion through the mixing module 2, the mixing efficiency and mixing effect can be effectively improved compared to the traditional suction-and-spit mixing method. Moreover, the container 10 is airtight during the mixing process, which effectively reduces the risk of cross-contamination of samples. It is understandable that the mixing module 2 can also generate rotational forces in both positive and negative directions, thereby driving the container 10 to perform rotational motion in both positive and negative directions, further improving the mixing efficiency and mixing effect. In order to reduce the risk of the container 10 accidentally escaping from the mixing module 2 during rotation, the embodiment of the present application is provided with a blocking module 3, thereby improving the safety of mixing and avoiding problems such as cross-contamination and mixing of samples.

[0095] The supporting module 1 includes a base 11 , a supporting frame 12 provided on the base 11 , and a mounting base 13 provided on the supporting frame 12 . The mixing module 2 and the blocking module 3 are both mounted on the mounting base 13 .

[0096] In some embodiments, the mounting base 13 includes a driving member mounting base 14 , a rotating mounting base 15 disposed on the driving member mounting base 14 , and a rotating mounting plate 16 disposed on the rotating mounting base 15 .

[0097] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5 together. The mixing module 2 includes: a mixing drive 21 provided on the support module 1, a rotating assembly 22 provided on the support module 1 and connected to the mixing drive 21, and a detector 23. The rotating assembly 22 has a placement slot 24 for placing the container 10. Specifically, the mixing drive 21 is mounted on the drive mounting seat 14. The rotating assembly 22 is mounted on the rotating mounting seat 15 and connected to the mixing drive 21. The placement slot 24 on the rotating assembly 22 passes through the rotating mounting plate 16 to facilitate the placement of the container 10. The detector 23 is mounted on the rotating mounting seat 15 and is arranged corresponding to the rotating assembly 22. In some embodiments, the mixing drive 21 can be a driving motor, the driving mount 14 can be a motor seat, the driving motor is mounted on the motor seat, and the rotating assembly 22 is connected to the output shaft of the driving motor.

[0098] The mixing drive 21 is configured to generate a rotational force, thereby driving the rotation assembly 22 to rotate, further driving the container 10 located on the placement slot 24 to rotate, thereby mixing the sample within the container 10. Specifically, the mixing drive 21 can drive the rotation assembly 22 to rotate in a single direction. For example, the mixing drive 21 can generate a rotational force along a first direction X or a second direction Y, thereby driving the container 10 to rotate in the first direction X or the second direction Y. The mixing drive 21 can also drive the rotation assembly 22 to rotate in both positive and negative directions. For example, the mixing drive 21 can sequentially generate a rotational force along a first direction X and a second direction Y, thereby driving the container 10 to rotate in the first direction X and the second direction Y, respectively, with the second direction Y being opposite to the first direction X. The detector 23 can detect the rotational state of the rotation assembly 22 and transmit a signal to a controller (not shown) to control the resetting of the mixing drive 21. Specifically, the mixing drive 21 needs to be reset before the sample mixing device 100 is operated or when an abnormality occurs.

[0099] In some embodiments, the hybrid drive 21 can provide a linear rotational force along the first direction X and / or the second direction Y, and the rotation assembly 22 can convert the linear rotational force into an eccentric rotational force, and then convert the linear rotational motion into an eccentric rotational motion, so as to drive the container 10 to perform an eccentric rotational motion along the first direction X and / or the second direction Y.

[0100] In some embodiments, the hybrid drive element 21 may be a motor, which employs closed-loop control to achieve high-speed, high-precision control. It is understood that other drive forms, such as a stepper motor or a combination of a stepper motor and a synchronous belt, may also be employed to achieve closed-loop control.

[0101] Referring to Figures 6 and 7 , the rotation assembly 22 may include a sample rotation component 221, a first connecting component 222, a second connecting component 224, and a drive shaft 225. The sample rotation component 221 has a hollow cavity in its center, which forms a placement slot 24 for accommodating the aforementioned container 10. The first connecting component 222 and the second connecting component 224 are respectively disposed at opposite ends of the sample rotation component 221. The first connecting component 222 is mounted on the support module 1. Specifically, the first connecting component 222 may be mounted on the rotation mounting seat 15 (e.g., a bearing seat) of the support module 1. The second connecting component 224 is connected to the drive shaft 225, which is connected to the output shaft of the hybrid drive 21. The axis of the drive shaft 225 is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the hybrid drive 21. The rotating assembly 22 also includes a bearing (e.g., a deep groove ball bearing 226) for securing the drive shaft 225. The drive shaft 225 extends through the deep groove ball bearing 226 and is secured by a shoulder. The deep groove ball bearing 226 is mounted on the driver mounting base 14. The sample rotating component 221 is also provided with a retaining spring 223. The retaining spring 223 is located at one end of the first connecting component 222 near the second connecting component 224. The sample rotating component 221 is rotationally limited by the first connecting component 222, the second connecting component 224, and the retaining spring 223. In some embodiments, the sample rotating component 221 may be a sample rotating shaft, and the first connecting component 222 and the second connecting component 224 may both be spherical plain bearings.

[0102] Specifically, the first connecting part 222 and the second connecting part 224 both include a rotating part (or rotor) and a fixed part (or stator) that are movably connected. The axis of the sample rotating part 221 coincides with the axis of the rotating part of the first connecting part 222 and the axis of the rotating part of the second connecting part 224. The axis of the fixed part of the first connecting part 222 coincides with the axis of the mixing drive 21. The axis of the fixed part of the second connecting part 224 coincides with the axis of the drive shaft 225. The axis of the placement slot 24 coincides with the axis of the sample rotating part 221. In this way, the axis of the container 10 located in the placement slot 24 can roughly coincide with the axis of the sample rotating part 221. As shown in FIG8 , the drive shaft 225 can be an eccentric rotating shaft. The axis of the drive shaft 225 is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the mixing drive member 21. At this time, the drive shaft 225 has two rotation center lines a1 and a2. There is a certain spacing A1 between the two rotation center lines a1 and a2. The spacing A1 can determine the deflection amplitude of the sample rotating component 221. The drive shaft 225 with a large eccentric spacing A1 can be determined based on the actual required oscillation amplitude of the container 10. In this way, the linear drive of the mixing drive 21 can drive the drive shaft 225 to rotate eccentrically. When the drive shaft 225 drives the sample rotating component 221 to rotate, because the axis of the drive shaft 225 is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the mixing drive 21, the sample rotating component 221 will be offset by a certain angle α under the drive shaft 225. This will generate an eccentric force, thereby causing the container 10 located in the placement groove 24 to undergo eccentric rotation under the action of the eccentric force. The sample in the container 10 will form a mixing oscillation under the action of the eccentric force, which can effectively improve the mixing effect. In particular, it is beneficial for the sample to be condensed on the side wall of the container 10 to fall off the side wall, thereby achieving uniform mixing between samples. In addition, the frequency of the mixing oscillation can be controlled by the rotation speed of the mixing drive 21, and then the appropriate mixing oscillation frequency can be selected to achieve a better mixing effect and higher mixing efficiency. It can be understood that any mechanical structure that can achieve eccentric rotation can be used as the aforementioned rotating component in the embodiments of the present application, and is not limited to the specific structure of the aforementioned rotating component 22.

[0103] The mixing module 2 also includes a rotation limiting assembly 25, which includes a limiting component 251 and a stopper 252. The stopper 252 is fixed to the support module 1 outside the rotation assembly 22, specifically disposed on the upper surface of the rotation mounting plate 16 and located to the side of the sample rotation component 221. The limiting component 251 includes a first end A and a second end B that are oppositely disposed. The first end A is fixed to the rotation assembly 22, and the second end B is movably engaged in a track groove (e.g., a U-shaped track groove) of the stopper 252. Specifically, the first end A of the limiting component 251 is fixed to the side wall of the sample rotation component 221. As the drive shaft 225 drives the sample rotating component 221 to rotate, it also drives the limiting component 251 to move synchronously. After being radially limited by the stopper 252, the limiting component 251 can only swing up and down within the U-shaped track groove, thereby restricting the rotational path of the sample rotating component 221. This allows the sample rotating component 221 to form an offset angle of ±α, thereby driving the container 10 to form a rotational swing of ±α. By providing the rotation limiting assembly 25, the rotational path of the sample rotating component 221 can be restricted, achieving an appropriate range of eccentric rotation, thereby achieving better mixing effect and higher mixing efficiency.

[0104] In some embodiments, the first end A of the limiting component 251 is passed through the side wall of the sample rotating component 221 to connect the limiting component 251 and the sample rotating component 221. In addition, the first end A can be slightly extended into the interior of the sample rotating component 221 according to the length requirement of the limiting component 251 to adjust the fitting length between the limiting component 251 and the stop block 252.

[0105] In some embodiments, the limiting component 251 may be a cam follower.

[0106] In some embodiments, the rotation limiting assembly 25 further includes a limiting plate 253, which is disposed on the rotation assembly 22 and located at an edge of the placement slot 24. Specifically, the limiting plate 253 is disposed on the outer wall of the sample rotating component 221. When a container 10 with a flip cover is placed in the placement slot 24, the limiting plate 253 can be used to support the opened flip cover of the container.

[0107] In some embodiments, the detector 23 may be a photoelectric switch. The drive shaft 225 includes a drive shaft body 2251 and a baffle 2252 disposed on the drive shaft body 2251. The baffle 2252 has a notch 2253. When the drive shaft 225 rotates and the baffle 2252 reaches the sensing area of ​​the detector 23, the detector 23 generates a sensing signal. The detector 23 transmits the sensing signal to the controller, which further controls the rotation of the hybrid drive 21, thereby driving the drive shaft 225. As shown in FIG8 , because the axis of the drive shaft 225 is parallel to and non-coincident with the axis of the hybrid drive 21, the distance A1 between the two rotational centerlines a1 and a2 of the drive shaft 225 during rotation can cause the sample rotating component 221 to deflect, placing the sample rotating component 221 in an eccentric position. When the notch 2253 in the baffle 2252 reaches the sensing area of ​​the detector 23, the detector 23 no longer senses a signal, and the hybrid drive 21 resets. The sample rotating component 221 can be reset by the cooperation between the detector 23 and the blocking piece 2252 on the driving shaft 225. The reset process of the mixing driving component 21 is usually performed before the mixing operation or when an abnormality occurs.

[0108] Referring to Figures 9 and 10 , the blocking module 3 includes a mounting plate 31 disposed on the support module 1, a blocking driver 32 disposed on the mounting plate 31, and a blocking arm 34 disposed on the blocking driver 32. The blocking arm 34 is configured to move under the drive of the blocking driver 32 between a blocking state and a non-blocking state. In the blocking state, the blocking arm 34 is driven by the blocking driver 32 to move above the container 10 on the mixing module 2; and in the non-blocking state, the blocking arm 34 is driven by the blocking driver 32 to move away from the container 10 on the mixing module 2. Specifically, the blocking arm 34 includes a connecting end 341 connected to the blocking driver 32 and a free end 342 disposed opposite the connecting end 341. In the blocking state, the free end 342 of the blocking arm 34 moves above the placement slot 24 of the mixing module 2, while in the non-blocking state, the free end 342 of the blocking arm 34 moves away from the placement slot 24. That is, when the blocking arm 34 is driven by the blocking driver 32 to move above the placement slot 24, it can block the container 10 in the placement slot 24, preventing the container 10 from falling out of the placement slot 24 during the mixing process, causing damage to the container 10, sample loss, and sample cross-contamination. When the mixing is completed, the blocking arm 34 is driven by the blocking driver 32 to move away from the placement slot 24, at which time the container 10 in the placement slot 24 can be removed.

[0109] In some embodiments, the output end of the blocking drive 32 is provided with a rotating shaft 33, and the connecting end 341 of the blocking arm 34 is fixed to the rotating shaft 33. The blocking drive 32 drives the blocking arm 34 to rotate to achieve switching between the blocking state and the non-blocking state. It is understood that the blocking module 3 can also adopt other motion forms, such as linear motion, to achieve switching between the blocking state and the non-blocking state of the blocking arm 34, thereby achieving the purpose of blocking the container 10.

[0110] In some embodiments, a blocking member 35 is provided on the free end 342 of the blocking arm 34. The blocking member 35 is used to block or remove the container 10 from the placement slot 24. Specifically, when the blocking arm 34 rotates to the blocking position, the blocking member 35 blocks the end of the container 10. After mixing is completed, the blocking drive 32 drives the rotating shaft 33, which in turn drives the blocking arm 34 to rotate to the non-blocking position, thereby removing the blocking member 35 from the container 10, facilitating removal of the container 10 from the placement slot 24. It will be appreciated that the blocking member 35 can be in a non-contact state or in a contact state with the end of the container 10.

[0111] In some embodiments, the blocking member 35 includes a sleeve 351 extending through the end of the blocking arm 34 away from the rotating shaft 33. The sleeve 351 has a slot 352 at its end near the placement slot 24. A ball 353 is movably embedded in the slot 352. The ball 353 is used to block or remove the container 10 from the placement slot 24. During the mixing process of the container 10, the blocking member 35 blocks the end of the container 10, and the ball 353 does not contact the end of the container 10, which can reduce friction between the blocking member 35 and the container 10 during high-speed rotation.

[0112] It is understood that in other embodiments, the ball 353 may also contact the end of the container 10 and exhibit elastic rolling friction. In this way, the scratches caused by dry friction between the blocking member 35 and the container 10 can also be reduced during high-speed rotation. When the ball 353 can abut the end of the container 10, the blocking member 35 can be a ball spring, and the spring is provided in the retaining groove 352, which can cooperate with the ball 353 to achieve the retraction and ejection of the ball 353. In this way, when the blocking arm 34 moves to the edge of the container 10, the top of the container 10 will push the ball 353 back into the retaining groove 352, causing the ball 353 to abut the end of the container 10. When the blocking arm 34 moves away from the container 10, the ball 353 automatically ejects, achieving the purpose of automatic locking and automatic release.

[0113] The blocking module 3 also includes a sensing component 36, which can realize the detection function of the position of the blocking drive member 32 and the origin reset detection function. The sensing component 36 includes: a sensor 361 and a baffle 362. Among them, the baffle 362 is arranged on the output shaft of the blocking drive member 32, specifically sleeved on the rotating shaft 33. The baffle 362 includes a blocking portion 363 and a notch portion 364 connected in sequence along the circumferential direction. The sensor 361 is arranged on the mounting plate 31 and corresponds to the baffle 362. When the baffle 362 rotates, the blocking portion 363 rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor 361. At this time, the sensor 361 senses the blocking signal of the blocking portion 363. At this time, the blocking arm 34 is in the blocking state, and mixing can be started. When the baffle 362 rotates, the notch portion 364 rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor 361. At this time, the sensor 361 does not sense the blocking signal. At this time, the blocking arm 34 is in the non-blocking state, and the container 10 located in the placement slot 24 can be removed.

[0114] In some embodiments, the blocking piece 362 is a circular sheet-like structure, with the central axis of the blocking piece 362 coinciding with the central axis of the rotating shaft 33. The blocking piece 362 has a radial notch formed therein, which constitutes a notch portion 364. The portions on either side of the notch portion 364 constitute the blocking portion 363. The size of the notch portion 364 on the blocking piece 362 can be designed based on the required rotation angles of the blocking arm 34 when in the blocking and non-blocking states.

[0115] In some embodiments, the sensor 361 may be a photoelectric switch.

[0116] The blocking module 3 also includes a limiting assembly 37, which comprises a limiting post 371 and two blocking rods 372. The limiting post 371 is sleeved onto the output shaft of the blocking driver 32. Specifically, the limiting post 371 is mounted on the rotating shaft 33 and extends perpendicular to the central axis of the rotating shaft 33. Rotation of the rotating shaft 33 drives the limiting post 371 to rotate. The two blocking rods 372 are mounted on the mounting plate 31 and are located at either end of the travel path L of the limiting post 371, thereby limiting the rotation range of the limiting post 371 and limiting the rotation range of the blocking arm 34.

[0117] Assuming that the starting position of a certain point on the rotating shaft 33 is the 0° position, and the position after rotating to an angle β is the β position, then the range of 0° to β is the rotation range of the rotating shaft 33, which is also the moving path L of the limiting post 371. In some embodiments, one blocking rod 372 is roughly set at the aforementioned 0° position of the rotating shaft 33, and the other blocking rod 372 is roughly set at the position after the rotating shaft 33 rotates to 65°. That is, the moving path L of the limiting post 371 is within the range of 0° to 65°, and the rotating shaft 33 can drive the limiting post 371 to rotate back and forth within the range of 0° to 65° to achieve the switching of the blocking arm 34 between the blocking state and the non-blocking state. By limiting the rotation range of the blocking arm 34 by the limiting assembly 37, the blocking arm 34 can minimize the moving path of the blocking arm 34 while being able to switch between the blocking state and the non-blocking state, which is conducive to reducing the volume of the overall mixing device.

[0118] In some embodiments, the blocking driving member 32 may be a driving motor, or a rotating electromagnet or a rotating cylinder.

[0119] During operation, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, a container 10 containing a sample is placed in the placement slot 24 of the mixing module 2. The blocking driver 32 is activated, which rotates the baffle 362 and the blocking arm 34 fixed to the rotating shaft 33. The baffle 362 is restricted by the limiting post 371. At this time, the angle γ between the plane c of the central axis of the mixing module 2 and the blocking arm 34 is approximately 5° to 10°, and the blocking arm 34 is directly above the container 10. After the sensor 361 detects the blocking signal of the baffle 362, the blocking arm 34 is now in a blocked state (also known as a closed state). Afterwards, the sensor 361 transmits the blocking signal to the controller, which then controls the mixing driver 21 to start, driving the drive shaft 225 to rotate, causing the sample rotating component 221 to form a certain angle of rotation and float, thereby driving the container 10 to achieve mechanical oscillation mixing. In addition, the frequency of the mixing oscillation can be adjusted by controlling the rotation speed of the mixing driver 21 to achieve a better mixing effect and higher mixing efficiency.

[0120] As shown in Figure 3, after mixing is completed, the blocking drive member 32 rotates to drive the blocking piece 362 and the blocking arm 34 fixed to the rotating shaft 33. Limited by the limiting column 371, the angle γ between the plane c of the central axis of the mixing module 2 and the blocking arm 34 is approximately 55° to 60°. The notch 364 of the blocking piece 362 rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor 361. The sensor 361 cannot detect the blocking signal. At this time, the blocking arm 34 is in a non-blocking state (also called an open state). When the blocking arm 34 is in the open state, the container 10 can be removed from the placement slot 24, completing the entire mixing process.

[0121] The sample mixing device 100 provided in the embodiment of the present application has the following beneficial effects:

[0122] (1) Closed-loop drive control can be achieved through the mixing module 2, and high-precision control can be guaranteed at high speeds. The mixing module 2 can improve the mixing efficiency and mixing effect of the sample through rotational motion. In particular, the mixing module 2 uses centrifugal force to achieve eccentric rotational oscillation of the container 10, which can mix the sample more evenly and with higher mixing efficiency. It can also effectively reduce the risk of sample agglomeration on the side wall of the container 10, thereby further improving the mixing effect. It is particularly suitable for mixing magnetic beads and solves the problem of magnetic beads agglomerating on the side wall.

[0123] (2) By setting up the blocking module 3, the risk of the container 10 accidentally falling out of the placement slot 24 during the rotation and oscillation process can be effectively reduced, thereby preventing damage to the container 10 and problems such as cross-contamination of samples. Moreover, the blocking module 3 can realize automatic control and automatically complete the switching of the blocking arm 34 between the blocking state and the non-blocking state without manual intervention. The degree of automation is high, which can further improve the mixing efficiency.

[0124] (3) The container 10 is a sealed container, which effectively avoids problems such as sample cross-contamination and mixing during the mixing and shaking process; moreover, the sample mixing device 100 is highly adaptable and can use conventional reagent bottles, reagent tubes, centrifuge tubes, sample tubes, etc., without the need for separate design and development of the container 10, thus saving production costs.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 11 , together with FIG. 2 to FIG. 4 , an embodiment of the present application further provides a sample mixing method that can be applied to the sample mixing device 100 . The order of the steps in the method can be changed, and some steps can be omitted or combined, depending on different needs. The sample mixing method includes the following steps:

[0126] In step S1 , the sealed container 10 containing the sample is placed in the placement slot 24 of the mixing module 2 .

[0127] Specifically, taking magnetic bead mixing as an example, the magnetic beads are added to a container 10 (such as a reagent bottle) that has been pre-filled with a biological sample and the lid is closed. There is no need to design a separate container 10, and a conventional reagent bottle or reagent tube can be used.

[0128] Before the container 10 is placed in the placement groove 24 , the blocking arm 34 of the blocking module 3 is in a non-blocking state (or an open state).

[0129] Step S2 , controlling the blocking arm 34 in the blocking module 3 to move to above the container 10 , so that the blocking arm 34 is in a blocking state.

[0130] Specifically, in combination with Figure 2, the blocking drive member 32 is started to rotate, thereby driving the blocking piece 362 and the blocking arm 34 fixed on the rotating shaft 33 to rotate. When the blocking arm 34 rotates to approximately above the container 10, it is restricted by the limiting column 371 and the blocking arm 34 moves into place. At this time, the blocking arm 34 and the plane c of the central axis of the mixing module 2 form an angle of approximately 5° to 10°. At this time, the blocking arm 34 is in a blocking state, and the blocking member 35 on the free end 342 of the blocking arm 34 blocks the top of the screw cap of the container 10.

[0131] In step S3 , the mixing module 2 generates a rotational force to drive the container 10 in the placement slot 24 to rotate so as to mix the sample in the container 10 .

[0132] Specifically, as shown in conjunction with Figures 2 and 6, when the blocking arm 34 is in the blocking state (or closed state), the sensor 361 detects the blocking signal of the blocking piece 362. Thereafter, the sensor 361 transmits the blocking signal to the controller, and the controller controls the hybrid drive member 21 to start. At this time, the hybrid drive member 21 can drive the rotating assembly 22 to rotate in a single direction or in both forward and reverse directions. In this embodiment, the hybrid drive member 21 can generate a driving force along the first direction X and the second direction Y, thereby driving the rotating assembly 22 to rotate along the first direction X and the second direction Y. The mixing drive member 21 drives the driving shaft 225 to rotate, which further drives the sample rotating component 221 to rotate. Since the axis of the driving shaft 225 is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the mixing drive member 21, the driving shaft 225 acts as an eccentric shaft, causing the sample rotating component 221 to rotate eccentrically. Through the cooperation of the rotation limit assembly 25, the sample rotating component 221 can be made to rotate and float along the first direction X and the second direction Y within a certain range, thereby driving the container 10 to achieve mechanical oscillation mixing to mix the magnetic beads and biological sample in the container 10.

[0133] In addition, the frequency of the mixing oscillation can be adjusted by adjusting the rotational speed of the mixing drive 21 to achieve a better mixing effect and a higher mixing efficiency.

[0134] In some embodiments, before the sample mixing begins, the method further includes: controlling the mixing module 2 to reset. Specifically, the mixing drive 21 can be reset by the cooperation between the detector 23 and the baffle 2252 on the driving shaft 225.

[0135] Step S4: After the sample mixing is completed, the blocking arm 34 in the blocking module 3 is controlled to move and leave the top of the container 10, so that the blocking arm 34 is in a non-blocking state.

[0136] As shown in FIG4 , the controller controls the rotation of the blocking drive 32, thereby driving the blocking piece 362 and the blocking arm 34 on the rotating shaft 33 to rotate, causing the free end 342 of the blocking arm 34 to move away from the top of the container 10. The blocking arm 34 is in a non-blocking state (or open state), restricted by the limiting post 371. At this time, the blocking arm 34 forms an angle of approximately 55° to 60° between the plane C passing through the central axis of the mixing module 2. When the blocking arm 34 is in the open state, the container 10 can be removed from the placement slot 24, completing the entire mixing process.

[0137] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that the technical solutions of the present application may be modified or replaced by equivalents without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present application.

Claims

1. A sample mixing device, characterized in that: include: A supporting module, and a mixing module and a blocking module provided on the supporting module, The mixing module is configured to drive the closed container containing the sample to rotate; The blocking module is configured to block the container from escaping from the mixing module during the rotation process.

2. The sample mixing device according to claim 1, wherein The blocking module includes: a mounting plate provided on the supporting module, a blocking driving member provided on the mounting plate, and a blocking arm provided on the blocking driving member. The blocking arm is configured to move to above the container on the mixing module under the drive of the blocking drive member, so that the blocking arm is in a blocking state; or, the blocking arm is configured to move away from above the container on the mixing module under the drive of the blocking drive member, so that the blocking arm is in a non-blocking state.

3. The sample mixing device according to claim 2, wherein: The blocking arm includes a connection end connected to the blocking drive member and a free end opposite to the connection end, and the free end is configured to move toward or away from the container on the mixing module under the drive of the blocking drive member.

4. The sample mixing device according to claim 3, wherein: The free end is provided with a blocking member, and the blocking member is used to block or leave the container located on the mixing module.

5. The sample mixing device according to claim 4, wherein: The blocking member includes a sleeve arranged through the free end, and a slot is provided at one end of the sleeve close to the mixing module. A ball is movably embedded in the slot, and the ball is used to block or leave the container located on the mixing module.

6. The sample mixing device according to claim 2, wherein: The blocking module further includes a sensing component, which includes: a blocking piece, provided on the output shaft of the blocking driving member, the blocking piece comprising a blocking portion and a notch portion sequentially connected along the circumferential direction; and A sensor is provided on the mounting plate and corresponds to the baffle. Wherein, when the blocking arm is in the blocking state, the blocking portion rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor; when the blocking arm is in the non-blocking state, the notch portion rotates to the sensing area of ​​the sensor.

7. The sample mixing device according to claim 2, wherein: The blocking module further includes a limiting component, and the limiting component includes: a limiting post, provided on the output shaft of the blocking driving member, the limiting post extending in a direction away from the output shaft of the blocking driving member; and Two blocking rods are provided on the mounting plate, and the two blocking rods are located at two ends of the moving path of the limiting column.

8. The sample mixing device according to claim 7, wherein: The range of the movement path is from 0° to 65°.

9. The sample mixing device according to claim 1, wherein: The mixing module is configured to provide a rotational force along a first direction and / or a second direction to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

10. The sample mixing device according to claim 9, wherein: The mixing module comprises: a hybrid drive element, disposed on the support module, the hybrid drive element being configured to provide a rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction; and A rotating assembly is provided on the output shaft of the hybrid drive, and has a placement slot for placing the container. The rotating assembly is configured to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction under the drive of the hybrid drive.

11. The sample mixing device according to claim 10, wherein: The hybrid drive is configured to provide a linear rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction, and the rotation assembly is configured to convert the linear rotational force into an eccentric rotational force to drive the container to perform an eccentric rotational motion along the first direction and / or the second direction.

12. The sample mixing device according to claim 11, wherein: The rotating assembly includes: a sample rotating part, a first connecting part, a second connecting part and a driving shaft, the placement groove is formed on the sample rotating part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are movably connected to the two ends of the sample rotating part respectively, the first connecting part is connected to the supporting module, the second connecting part is connected to the driving shaft, the driving shaft is connected to the hybrid driving component, and the axis of the driving shaft is parallel to and does not overlap with the axis of the hybrid driving component.

13. The sample mixing device according to claim 12, wherein: The mixing module further includes a rotation limiting assembly, which includes: a stopper, provided on the supporting module outside the sample rotating component, the stopper having a track groove; and The limiting component includes a first end and a second end that are arranged opposite to each other, wherein the first end is arranged on the side wall of the sample rotating component, and the second end is movably clamped in the track groove. Wherein, the limiting component moves along the track groove under the drive of the sample rotating component, and defines the radial movement path of the sample rotating component through the track groove.

14. The sample mixing device according to claim 12, wherein: The mixing module further includes a detector, which is disposed on the supporting module and corresponds to the rotating assembly, and is used to detect a rotation state of the rotating assembly.

15. A sample mixing method, characterized in that: The steps include: Place the sealed container containing the sample in the placement slot of the mixing module; Controlling the blocking arm in the blocking module to move to above the container so that the blocking arm is in a blocking state; Generate a rotational force through the mixing module to drive the mixing module and the container to rotate, so as to mix the sample in the container; as well as After the sample mixing is completed, the blocking arm is controlled to move and leave the top of the container so that the blocking arm is in a non-blocking state.

16. The sample mixing method according to claim 15, wherein: The step of generating a rotational force by the mixing module to drive the mixing module and the container to rotate includes: The mixing module generates a rotational force along a first direction and / or a second direction to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

17. The sample mixing method according to claim 16, wherein: The step of generating a rotational force along the first direction and / or the second direction by the mixing module to drive the container to rotate along the first direction and / or the second direction includes: generating a linear rotational force in the first direction and / or the second direction by a hybrid drive member in the hybrid module; and The linear rotational force is converted into an eccentric rotational force by the rotation component in the mixing module, so as to drive the container to rotate eccentrically along the first direction and / or the second direction sports.

18. The sample mixing method according to claim 17, wherein: The rotation assembly includes a drive shaft connected to the hybrid drive, wherein the axis of the drive shaft is parallel to and does not coincide with the axis of the hybrid drive, so that the drive shaft converts the linear rotation force of the hybrid drive into an eccentric rotation force.

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