Sample analyzer and reaction cup control method and device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of medical electronic equipment, and discloses a sample analyzer and a reaction cup control method and device. The sample analyzer comprises a cup adding assembly, a sample assembly, a reagent assembly, a reaction assembly, a detection assembly and a controller, wherein the controller is connected with the cup adding assembly, the sample assembly, the reagent assembly, the reaction assembly and the detection assembly, and is used for obtaining a cup screening control instruction of the reaction cup; controlling a reaction cup rotating disc to rotate along a first rotating direction based on the cup screening control instruction, so that the reaction cups on the reaction cup rotating disc fall into preset cup falling positions; obtaining cup falling time when the reaction cup falls into the cup falling position; and based on a first duration from the cup falling time, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to rotate along a second rotation direction, and the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction. By implementing the technical scheme, the cup falling time and position of the reaction cup can be accurately controlled, so that the operation efficiency and accuracy are improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of medical electronic equipment, and in particular to a sample analyzer, a reaction cup control method and device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the background of instrument automation and accurate testing, the automatic and orderly feeding of reaction cups and the accurate sample adding are crucial. The design of the automatic cup feeding assembly aims to free the user from the operation of manually loading the reaction cup. It can screen and arrange the multiple disordered reaction cups in the cup bin into an ordered state, and then automatically deliver them to the downstream for sample adding. With the improvement of the sample processing speed of the instrument, the screening efficiency of the automatic cup feeding assembly must also be improved to meet the demand for ordered reaction cups.

[0003] However, the current automatic cup feeding assembly has the problems of easy cup jamming, abnormal cup screening and the like, cannot normally drop the cups, needs manual adjustment of the cup bin, and has a low cup screening efficiency. SUMMARY

[0004] Therefore, the present application provides a sample analyzer, a reaction cup control method and device to reduce manual intervention and system false alarms, thereby improving the cup screening efficiency.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a sample analyzer, comprising: a cup feeding assembly comprising a reaction cup turntable and a cup dropping position, configured to make the reaction cup drop into the cup dropping position via the reaction cup turntable and enter a scheduling assembly of the sample analyzer; a sample assembly configured to deliver a to-be-tested sample into the reaction cup of the scheduling assembly; a reagent assembly configured to add a reagent into the reaction cup; a reaction assembly configured to perform incubation reaction on the to-be-tested liquid in the reaction cup; a detection assembly configured to detect the to-be-tested liquid to obtain a detection result of the to-be-tested sample; and a controller connected with the cup feeding assembly, the sample assembly, the reagent assembly, the reaction assembly and the detection assembly, the controller being configured to acquire a cup screening control instruction, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along a first rotation direction based on the cup screening control instruction, so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable drops into a preset cup dropping position, acquire a cup dropping time when the reaction cup drops into the cup dropping position, and control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along a second rotation direction based on a first continuous time length from the cup dropping time, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0006] The sample analyzer provided by the embodiment of the present application realizes the full-automatic process from cup adding to detection through cooperation of the cup adding assembly, the sample assembly, the reagent assembly, the reaction assembly and the detection assembly, and improves work efficiency and accuracy. The design of reverse rotation allows the system to dynamically adjust the arrangement state of the reaction cups, optimizes the cup screening process, reduces jamming, and improves the adaptability and stability of the system. The first duration from the cup dropping time is controlled, which can efficiently screen and position the reaction cups, and ensure accurate processing and transmission of each cup.

[0007] In a second aspect, the present application provides a reaction cup control method, comprising: obtaining a cup screening control instruction of a reaction cup; controlling a reaction cup turntable to rotate along a first rotation direction based on the cup screening control instruction, so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into a preset cup dropping position; obtaining a cup dropping time of the reaction cup falling into the cup dropping position; and controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate along a second rotation direction based on a first duration from the cup dropping time, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0008] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the present application can effectively improve the screening speed and accuracy of the reaction cup, and reduce the queuing waiting time, by optimizing the rotation direction of the reaction cup turntable and controlling the cup dropping time of the reaction cup. The reverse rotation is used to break the balance of the original reaction cup arrangement, reduce jamming, and improve the accuracy of screening and transmission, so as to realize more efficient operation. Without adding additional motors or complex mechanisms, the control scheme of the existing turntable type cup adding system is optimized, and the complexity and maintenance difficulty of the system are reduced.

[0009] In an optional implementation, the control of the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction based on the first duration from the cup dropping time comprises: when the first duration is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction.

[0010] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the present application can actively adjust the rotation direction of the turntable when the first duration reaches or exceeds the preset threshold, so as to better adapt to the current operation demand and improve the efficiency of sample processing. The rotation direction is adjusted according to the actual cup-free time, so that different operation states can be more flexibly coped with, and the processing and transmission process of the sample is optimized.

[0011] In an optional implementation, when the first duration is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, before the control of the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction, the method further comprises: obtaining a preset minimum cumulative value, the minimum cumulative value being a minimum time increment of time stepping; and adding the minimum cumulative value from the cup dropping time to obtain the first duration.

[0012] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the application can refine time measurement by using minimum cumulative values for time step accumulation, so that the calculation of the first duration is more accurate. This helps to make the judgment of the cup falling time more accurate. By refining the time increment, the reaction cup falling situation can be more sensitively responded to, the adaptability to different situations is improved, and the reaction cup carousel is ensured to make direction adjustment at the right time. The refined time increment makes the reaction cup carousel control more smooth, avoiding the problem of unstable control caused by too large time step. The application of the minimum cumulative value can reduce errors in time measurement and control, making the judgment of the duration more reliable, thereby improving the accuracy of the whole screening cup operation.

[0013] In an optional embodiment, the control of the reaction cup carousel rotating in the second rotation direction further includes: obtaining a reverse mode corresponding to the reaction cup carousel and a preset angle; and controlling the reaction cup carousel to rotate in the second rotation direction according to the reverse mode by the preset angle.

[0014] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the application can refine time measurement by using minimum cumulative values for time step accumulation, so that the calculation of the first duration is more accurate. This helps to make the judgment of the cup falling time more accurate. By refining the time increment, the reaction cup falling situation can be more sensitively responded to, the adaptability to different situations is improved, and the reaction cup carousel is ensured to make direction adjustment at the right time. The refined time increment makes the reaction cup carousel control more smooth, avoiding the problem of unstable control caused by too large time step. The application of the minimum cumulative value can reduce errors in time measurement and control, making the judgment of the duration more reliable, thereby improving the accuracy of the whole screening cup operation.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the reaction cup carousel is provided with a plurality of grooves, and a guide block is arranged between the reaction cup carousel and the cup falling position; in the rotation process of the reaction cup carousel, the reaction cup loaded on the groove falls into the cup falling position under the guidance of the guide block; and the preset angle of the reaction cup rotating in the second rotation direction is not more than the across angle of three reaction cups in the grooves of the reaction cup carousel.

[0016] In an optional embodiment, the control of the reaction cup carousel rotating in the second rotation direction according to the reverse mode by the preset angle includes: obtaining a pause time of the reaction cup carousel in the process of rotating by the preset angle; and controlling the reaction cup carousel to rotate in the second rotation direction according to the reverse mode by the preset angle intermittently based on the pause time.

[0017] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the present application can ensure that the reaction cup turntable stays at an accurate position by precisely controlling the rotation angle and the pause time, thereby increasing the operation accuracy. The pause time can effectively reduce the error in the rotation of the turntable, thereby making the operation more stable. The pause introduced in the rotation process can reduce the vibration and instability caused by the change of the rotation speed.

[0018] In an optional embodiment, after the reaction cup turntable is controlled to rotate in the reverse mode by a preset angle along the second rotation direction, the method further comprises: controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the first rotation direction, and acquiring a second duration of the reaction cup turntable along the first rotation direction; when the second duration is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to rotate again in the reverse mode by a preset angle along the second rotation direction.

[0019] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the present application can ensure that the reaction cup turntable stays at an accurate position by precisely controlling the rotation angle and the pause time, thereby increasing the operation accuracy. The pause time can effectively reduce the error in the rotation of the turntable, thereby making the operation more stable. The pause introduced in the rotation process can reduce the vibration and instability caused by the change of the rotation speed.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, the number of reverse operations of the reaction cup turntable is counted, and the reverse operation is the operation of rotating the reaction cup turntable by a preset angle along the second rotation direction; when the number is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to stop running; and an alarm information is sent, and the alarm information is used to prompt that the number of reaction cups in the hopper is insufficient or has been used up.

[0021] The reaction cup control method provided by the embodiment of the present application can prevent the operation problem caused by the insufficient number of reaction cups in the hopper by sending the warning information in time. The early warning can give the operator enough time to supplement and prepare, thereby avoiding the delay caused by the shortage of materials and improving the operation efficiency of the equipment.

[0022] In a third aspect, the present application provides a reaction cup control device, comprising: a first acquisition module configured to acquire a sieve cup control instruction of a reaction cup; a first control module configured to control a reaction cup turntable to rotate along a first rotation direction based on the sieve cup control instruction, so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into a preset cup falling position; a second acquisition module configured to acquire a cup falling time when the reaction cup falls into the cup falling position; and a second control module configured to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along a second rotation direction based on a first duration of the cup falling time, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of a sample analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a reaction cup control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a cup-adding assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another cup-adding component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of yet another cup-adding component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of another reaction cup control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of another reaction cup control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the transverse angle β in the groove of the sieve cup plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a structural block diagram of a reaction cup control device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the controller according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] In the field of in vitro diagnostic equipment, automation and accurate testing are crucial for the orderly dispensing of reaction cups. Automated cup dispensing systems can quickly and accurately sort and deliver disordered reaction cups downstream, achieving automated sample dispensing. As sample processing speeds increase, the cup-sorting efficiency of automated cup dispensing systems must be improved accordingly.

[0036] However, current automatic cup-filling components are prone to inaccurate cup recognition and positioning, leading to missed or incorrect cups being sieved, thus affecting the accuracy and efficiency of the sieve process. Secondly, manual adjustment of the cup compartments not only increases operational complexity but also raises labor costs. Furthermore, frequent false alarms disrupt normal operation and may cause downtime, further reducing overall cup-sieving efficiency.

[0037] In view of this, the technical solution of the present invention improves the efficiency of the sieving cup by optimizing the motion control scheme of the rotary cup adding mechanism. To achieve the efficiency improvement, the technical solution of the present invention does not increase the motor sieving cup speed without increasing the number of motors or the complexity of the mechanism. Specifically, the occlusion time of the photocoupler at the cup dropping position is monitored to determine whether the reaction cup has fallen. If the occlusion time of the photocoupler exceeds a set value, the sieving cup motor will be controlled to rotate in the opposite direction by a fixed angle. This reversing action breaks the force balance of the reaction cup, causing the reaction cup to enter a new unbalanced state, so that it falls smoothly into the preset groove under the action of the sieving cup plate and is conveyed to the area to be dropped.

[0038] This embodiment provides a sample analyzer, such as Figure 1 As shown, the sample analyzer includes: a cupping assembly 1, a sample assembly 2, a reagent assembly 3, a reaction assembly 4, a detection assembly 5, and a controller 6.

[0039] The cup-adding assembly 1 includes a reaction cup turntable and a cup-dropping position, which is used to allow the reaction cup to fall from the reaction cup turntable into the cup-dropping position and enter the scheduling component of the sample analyzer.

[0040] The cup-addition assembly 1 is used to accurately deliver the reaction cups to the preset drop position, preparing them for subsequent sample analysis steps. Specifically, the reaction cup turntable is a rotating platform used for placing and moving the reaction cups. Through the rotation of the turntable, the reaction cups can be moved from one position to another. The drop position is a specific receiving position where the reaction cup stops as it moves on the turntable; this position is used to receive samples or reagents for subsequent operations.

[0041] Sample component 2 is used to deliver the sample to be tested to the reaction cup of the scheduling component.

[0042] Sample component 2 is used to deliver the sample to be tested into the pre-placed reaction vessel. Specifically, this includes the sample extraction, transfer, and dispensing processes to ensure that the sample can enter the reaction vessel for further analysis.

[0043] Reagent component 3 is used to add reagents to the reaction vessel.

[0044] Reagent component 3 is used to add the required reagents to the reaction vessel. Reagent addition is a crucial step in the analytical process, as it induces a reaction between the sample and the reagents, resulting in the changes required for the detection results.

[0045] Reaction component 4 is used to incubate the test solution in the reaction vessel.

[0046] Reaction assembly 4 is used to incubate the test solution in the reaction vessel. Specifically, the incubation process may include heating, stirring, or other treatment steps to ensure that the sample and reagents undergo a sufficient chemical reaction for detection.

[0047] Detection component 5 is used to detect the test liquid and obtain the test result of the test sample.

[0048] The detection component 5 is used to detect the test solution and obtain the detection results of the sample. Specifically, it may include using various sensors or analytical instruments to measure characteristic changes in the reaction solution and converting the results into data output.

[0049] The controller 6 is connected to the cup-adding assembly 1, the sample assembly 2, the reagent assembly 3, the reaction assembly 4, and the detection assembly 5. The controller 6 is used to acquire the sieve cup control command of the reaction cup; control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the first rotation direction based on the sieve cup control command so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into the preset cup-falling position; acquire the cup-falling time of the reaction cup falling into the cup-falling position; and control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction based on the first duration of the time from the cup-falling position, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0050] Controller 6 controls the entire sample analysis process, ensuring that all components work collaboratively according to a predetermined procedure. Specifically, controller 6 receives instructions on how to handle the reaction cups. Controller 6 rotates the reaction cup turntable in the first direction of the instruction, moving the reaction cups to the drop position and recording the time it takes for the reaction cups to reach the drop position. If the time since the last drop exceeds a preset first duration, controller 6 instructs the reaction cup turntable to reverse.

[0051] The sample analyzer provided in this invention, through the coordination of a cup-addition assembly, a sample assembly, a reagent assembly, a reaction assembly, and a detection assembly, achieves a fully automated process from sample addition to detection, improving work efficiency and accuracy. The reverse rotation design allows the system to dynamically adjust the arrangement of the reaction cups, optimizing the cup-sieving process, reducing jamming, and improving the system's adaptability and stability. Control based on a first duration of time from the cup drop time enables efficient screening and positioning of reaction cups, ensuring accurate processing and delivery of each cup.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a reaction cup control method embodiment is provided. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0053] This embodiment provides a reaction cup control method, which can be used in the above-mentioned sample analyzer. The sample analyzer can be one or more of the following: a blood cell analyzer, an immunoassay analyzer, a coagulation analyzer, a biochemical analyzer, etc. Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a reaction cup control method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the process includes the following steps:

[0054] Step S101: Obtain the sieve cup control command for the reaction vessel.

[0055] The sieve cup control commands guide the operation of the cup-adding assembly, defining how to operate the reaction cup turntable and motor to ensure that the reaction cups are screened and processed according to the set procedure. Specifically, the sieve cup control commands are generated and transmitted by the human-machine interface (such as a software interface) on the controller, through which the user inputs or selects the corresponding sieve cup control commands.

[0056] Among them, such as Figures 3 to 5As shown, the cup-adding assembly achieves efficient processing of reaction cups through the coordinated operation of the reaction cup turntable (screening cup disc), motor, and other components. The screening cup disc is mounted on the base via an idler wheel shaft assembly and can rotate around its center. Its edge has grooves that match the shape of the reaction cups. The screening cup motor drives the screening cup disc to rotate, moving the reaction cups in the grooves of the screening cup disc. After being randomly picked up from the hopper, the reaction cups are guided by the action of the screening cup disc and guide blocks to a vertical hollow channel formed by the combination of the left and right drop cup slides. Finally, the reaction cups fall into the transverse slide, and are detected by a drop cup detection photocoupler to ensure that they have reached the drop cup position. Then, the reaction cups are moved from the drop cup position to the final processing position by the transverse slide. The final processing position is equipped with a transverse push cup position detection photocoupler to detect whether the reaction cups have been correctly transversely moved to the final processing position. It is understood that the reaction cup control provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied to various cup-adding components that use a rotating turntable to screen the cups. The specific structure of the above-mentioned cup-adding components does not constitute a limitation on the reaction cup control method of this application. For example, the vertical hollow slide and the transverse slide can also be inclined slides according to actual design requirements.

[0057] Step S102: Based on the sieve cup control command, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the first rotation direction so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into the preset drop position.

[0058] The sieve control command specifies the operating parameters of the reaction cup turntable, including the rotation direction and speed. The goal of the sieve control command is to ensure that the reaction cup turntable rotates in the set manner, thereby achieving precise processing of the reaction cups. The first rotation direction is preset according to the design and operational requirements of the cup feeding assembly, aiming to ensure that the reaction cup turntable rotates in the correct direction, such as clockwise. Specifically, the rotation of the motor drives the reaction cup turntable to rotate synchronously. The groove design on the reaction cup turntable allows it to contact the reaction cups in the hopper during rotation. As the reaction cup turntable rotates, the grooves attract the disordered reaction cups at the bottom and bring them to the guide block at the top. The rotation of the reaction cup turntable guides the reaction cups one by one to the position of the guide block. The guide block receives the reaction cups brought out by the reaction cup turntable and, through a specific design and tilt angle, guides the reaction cups to the transverse slide. The reaction cups fall from the guide block into the transverse slide assembly. The transverse slide is responsible for further pushing the reaction cups to the cup dropping position of the cup feeding assembly. Optionally, the cup dropping position can also be the position where the reaction cups fall into the transverse slide assembly.

[0059] Step S103: Obtain the time when the reaction vessel falls into the drop position.

[0060] The drop time refers to the specific point in time when the reaction cup successfully reaches the preset drop position. Specifically, the drop detection optocoupler (referred to as "optocoupler") is located at the drop position. When the reaction cup falls into the drop position, the optocoupler detects this change. The optocoupler continuously records the cumulative time without a cup at the drop position, that is, the time when no reaction cup is at this position. This record is continuously updated until a cup falls into the position. When the reaction cup falls into the drop position, the optocoupler detects a change in light obstruction or reflection, and the state changes from "no cup" to "cup present". The optocoupler immediately records the time of this state change as the drop time.

[0061] For example, at a certain moment, there is no reaction cup at the drop position. The optocoupler continuously records this blank state, with the time incrementing. For instance, the optocoupler has recorded 15 seconds of cupless time. At this point, the reaction cup moves from the turntable to the drop position, and the optocoupler detects that the reaction cup is blocking the light, thus changing the state from cupless to cup present. The optocoupler immediately records the specific time of this state change, for example, 9:30, which is the drop time.

[0062] Step S104: Based on the first duration of the time from the drop cup, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0063] The first duration is the interval from the last time the reaction vessel fell to the current time. It can be understood that the first duration is the duration during which no reaction vessel falling is detected. Specifically, the interval from the last time the reaction vessel fell to the current time is calculated, and based on the size of the time interval, it is determined whether the reaction vessel turntable needs to be controlled to rotate along the second rotation direction. When the first duration meets the condition, the reaction vessel turntable is controlled to rotate in the opposite direction to the first rotation direction.

[0064] The reaction cup control method provided in this invention effectively improves the screening speed and accuracy of reaction cups and reduces queuing time by optimizing the rotation direction of the reaction cup turntable and controlling the cup drop time. Reverse rotation breaks the original balanced arrangement of reaction cups, reducing jamming and improving the accuracy of screening and conveying, thus achieving more efficient operation. It optimizes the control scheme of existing turntable cup-adding systems without requiring additional motors or complex mechanisms, reducing system complexity and maintenance difficulty. Adjusting motor rotation based on the duration of the drop time helps to more accurately capture and process each reaction cup, improving screening efficiency.

[0065] This embodiment provides a reaction cup control method, which can be used in the sample analyzer described above. Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a reaction cup control method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the process includes the following steps:

[0066] Step S201: Obtain the sieve control command for the reaction vessel. For details, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 Step S101 of the illustrated embodiment will not be described again here.

[0067] Step S202: Based on the sieve cup control command, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to rotate along the first rotation direction, so that the reaction cups on the turntable fall into the preset drop position. For details, please refer to [link to details]. Figure 2 Step S102 of the illustrated embodiment will not be described again here.

[0068] Step S203: Obtain the time it takes for the reaction vessel to fall into the designated drop position. For details, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 Step S103 of the illustrated embodiment will not be described again here.

[0069] Step S204: Based on a first duration of time from the time the cup falls, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along a second rotation direction, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0070] Specifically, step S204 includes:

[0071] Step S2041: Obtain the preset minimum cumulative value, where the minimum cumulative value is the minimum time increment of the time step.

[0072] The minimum cumulative value (Δt) is the minimum time increment for each time step, used for time accumulation and control operations. Specifically, the minimum cumulative value determines the controller's response frequency to time changes. The smaller the minimum cumulative value, the more frequent and timely the response to time changes. This means the controller can detect the actual position change of the reaction cup more quickly and take corresponding actions. If the minimum cumulative value is small, the controller will read whether the reaction cup has fallen into the optocoupler detection area more quickly. This avoids the reaction cup arriving in the detection area before detection, causing detection delay. A smaller minimum cumulative value can improve the accuracy of the cup-adding component operation and reduce operational errors caused by time delays. For example, if the minimum cumulative value is large, it may not be detected immediately even after the reaction cup has fallen into the detection area, resulting in operational lag. For example, if the minimum cumulative value is 1 second, it means that the time detection is updated every 1 second. If the reaction cup has fallen into the optocoupler detection area, but the computer equipment needs 1 second to detect this change, this means that the turntable may continue to rotate, pushing subsequent reaction cups into the cup-dropping channel, thus increasing the risk of cup jamming.

[0073] Specifically, the time required from detecting a position change to taking action can be measured by actually testing the equipment. Ensure that the value of Δt is set small enough to reduce these delays. Alternatively, experiments can be conducted starting with a small Δt, gradually adjusting its value while observing the system's performance and operational effects. Record the results after each adjustment to determine the optimal Δt; no specific limit is set here. After determining the value of Δt, it is manually entered into the controller's control program by the operator or engineer.

[0074] Step S2042: Starting from the time the cup falls, accumulate the minimum cumulative value to obtain the first duration.

[0075] Starting from the time the cup falls, the increment is added every time the minimum cumulative value is reached, resulting in the first duration. For example, if Δt is 0.1 seconds, starting from the time t1 when the cup falls, the first increment might be 0.1 seconds, the second might be 0.2 seconds, and so on. If the increment is n times, then the first duration is (Δt × n) seconds.

[0076] Step S2043: When the first duration is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction.

[0077] The first preset threshold is a preset time value used as a comparison benchmark. For example, if the first preset threshold is 1 second, then the condition is met when the first duration is equal to or greater than 1 second. Specifically, when the first duration is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, the controller will instruct the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction.

[0078] The reaction cup control method provided in this invention uses a minimum cumulative value for time step accumulation to refine time measurement, making the calculation of the first duration more accurate. This helps to more accurately judge the cup drop time. By refining the time increment, the system can react more sensitively to the cup drop situation, improving adaptability to different situations and ensuring that the reaction cup turntable adjusts its direction at the correct time. The refined time increment makes the reaction cup turntable control smoother, avoiding control instability caused by excessively large time steps. The application of the minimum cumulative value can reduce errors in time measurement and control, making the judgment of duration more reliable, thereby improving the overall accuracy of the cup sieving operation. When the first duration reaches or exceeds a preset threshold, the system can actively adjust the rotation direction of the turntable to better adapt to the current operational needs and improve the efficiency of sample processing. Adjusting the rotation direction according to the actual cup-free time allows for more flexible responses to different operational states, optimizing the sample processing and transfer process.

[0079] This embodiment provides a reaction cup control method, which can be used in the sample analyzer described above. Figure 7This is a flowchart of a reaction cup control method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the process includes the following steps:

[0080] Step S301: Obtain the sieve control command for the reaction vessel. For details, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 6 Step S201 of the illustrated embodiment will not be described again here.

[0081] Step S302: Based on the sieve cup control command, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to rotate along the first rotation direction, so that the reaction cups on the turntable fall into the preset drop position. For details, please refer to... Figure 6 Step S202 of the illustrated embodiment will not be described again here.

[0082] Step S303: Obtain the landing time of the reaction vessel as it falls into the landing position. For details, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 6 Step S203 of the illustrated embodiment will not be described again here.

[0083] Step S304: Based on the first duration of the time from the drop cup, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction.

[0084] Specifically, step S304 includes:

[0085] Step S3041: Obtain the reverse mode and preset angle corresponding to the reaction cup turntable.

[0086] Reversal mode refers to the operating method of the reaction vessel turntable when it is reversed, including continuous reversal mode and intermittent reversal mode. Specifically, the operator needs to determine which reversal mode is suitable for the current operation. Based on the judgment, the operator selects which reversal mode to control the reaction vessel turntable to reverse in the controller's control program.

[0087] The reaction cup turntable has multiple grooves, and a guide block is provided between the reaction cup turntable and the cup dropping position. The reaction cup in the cup compartment enters the groove of the reaction cup turntable under the action of gravity. As the reaction cup turntable rotates, the reaction cup loaded on the groove falls into the cup dropping position under the guidance of the guide block.

[0088] The preset angle is the angle at which the reaction vessel turntable needs to be reversed. This angle is related to the transverse angle of the reaction vessel within the groove of the turntable. The preset angle is set to ensure that reversing the turntable allows the reaction vessel to move from one position to another. Specifically, as shown... Figure 8 As shown, the transverse angle of the reaction cup in the groove of the reaction cup turntable is β. The preset angle does not exceed three times the transverse angle of the reaction cup in the groove of the reaction cup turntable, that is, the preset angle is less than or equal to three times the transverse angle β, to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of the operation. Understandably, after determining the preset angle, it is manually entered into the control program of the reaction cup turntable by the operator or engineer.

[0089] Step S3042: Based on the first duration of the time between the drop of the cup and the reaction cup, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate by a preset angle along the second rotation direction in reverse mode.

[0090] Based on the determined reversal mode, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to rotate by a preset angle along the second rotation direction in the reversal mode, ensuring that the rotation angle of the reaction cup turntable can accurately move other reaction cups to the drop position.

[0091] In continuous reverse mode, the reaction cup turntable can be controlled to rotate directly along the second rotation direction by a preset angle and then rotate along the first rotation direction.

[0092] In some optional implementations, when the intermittent reversal mode is used, step S3042 above includes:

[0093] Step a1: Obtain the pause time of the reaction cup turntable during the rotation of the preset angle.

[0094] The pause time is the length of time the reaction vessel turntable remains stationary at a certain position during its rotation. Specifically, the operator needs to determine the pause time based on actual requirements and input it into the controller's control program.

[0095] Step a2: Based on the pause time, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate intermittently by a preset angle along the second rotation direction in reverse mode.

[0096] Based on the preset pause time and preset pause angle, the controller is adjusted to make the turntable pause accordingly during the preset angle rotation in the opposite direction. For example, if the preset angle is 135 degrees, the pause angle is 45 degrees, and the pause time is 2 seconds, then the process of controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate the preset angle along the second rotation direction is to rotate the reaction cup turntable 45 degrees along the second rotation direction, pause for 2 seconds, and then continue to rotate 45 degrees.

[0097] Furthermore, after rotating to a preset pause angle, the reaction vessel turntable can be controlled to rotate back an angle in the first rotation direction, and then rotate in the second rotation direction. For example, the reaction vessel turntable can rotate 45 degrees in the second rotation direction, then rotate 5 degrees in the first rotation direction, and then rotate in the second rotation direction.

[0098] In the above embodiments, by precisely controlling the rotation angle and pause time, it can be ensured that the reaction vessel turntable stops at a precise position, increasing operational accuracy. Setting the pause time effectively reduces errors during turntable rotation, making operation more stable. By introducing pauses during rotation, vibrations and instabilities caused by changes in rotation speed can be reduced.

[0099] Step S3043: Control the reaction vessel turntable to rotate along the first rotation direction, and obtain the second duration of the reaction vessel turntable along the first rotation direction.

[0100] The second duration refers to the length of time the reaction vessel turntable rotates in the first rotation direction. It can be understood that the second duration is also the duration during which no reaction vessel drop is detected. Specifically, the reaction vessel turntable is controlled to rotate again along the first rotation direction. During this rotation, the duration of this process is calculated and recorded, which is the second duration. If a reaction vessel drop is detected within a second preset threshold, the operation of controlling the reaction vessel turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction based on the first preset duration from the drop time is re-executed.

[0101] Step S3044: When the second duration is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction by a preset angle again.

[0102] The second preset threshold sets the maximum allowable time range. When the second duration reaches or exceeds this value, it indicates that the reaction vessel turntable needs to be readjusted. Specifically, the second duration is monitored and recorded, and compared with the second preset threshold. When the second duration is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold, the reaction vessel turntable is controlled to rotate by a specified preset angle along the second rotation direction.

[0103] The second preset threshold and the first preset threshold mentioned above can be the same or different, and no limitation is made here.

[0104] Step S3045: Count the number of times the reaction cup turntable is reversed. The reverse operation is the operation of rotating the reaction cup turntable by a preset angle along the second rotation direction.

[0105] The reverse operation refers to each operation in which the reaction vessel turntable rotates by a preset angle along the second rotation direction. Specifically, each operation of rotating by a preset angle along the second rotation direction is recorded, and the value of the statistical counter is incremented each time a reverse operation is performed.

[0106] Step S3046: When the number of times is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold, control the reaction cup turntable to stop running; and issue an alarm message to indicate that the number of reaction cups in the silo is insufficient or has been used up.

[0107] The second preset threshold is a pre-defined value used to determine whether the reaction vessel turntable should stop operating. For example, the second preset threshold can be set to 10. Specifically, when the number of reverse operations reaches or exceeds this threshold, the control to stop the reaction vessel turntable is triggered.

[0108] Once the reaction vessel turntable has stopped operating, an alarm message or notification is sent to the user. Specifically, the purpose of the alarm message is to notify the operator that the number of reaction vessels in the hopper is insufficient or has been used up. The alarm message can be conveyed through a display screen, alarm, email notification, or other communication methods.

[0109] The reaction cup control method provided in this invention continuously times the reaction cup during forward rotation after a reverse rotation. If the cup fails to fall after a period of forward rotation, the reaction cup turntable is controlled to reverse in a second direction, preventing a situation where no cup falls after a single reverse operation. Timely warning messages can prevent operational problems caused by insufficient reaction cups in the hopper. Advance warnings allow operators sufficient time to replenish and prepare, avoiding delays due to material shortages and improving equipment operating efficiency.

[0110] This embodiment also provides a reaction cup control device for implementing the above embodiments and preferred embodiments; details already described will not be repeated. As used below, the term "module" can refer to a combination of software and / or hardware that performs a predetermined function. Although the devices described in the following embodiments are preferably implemented in software, hardware implementation, or a combination of software and hardware, is also possible and contemplated.

[0111] This embodiment provides a reaction cup control device, such as... Figure 9 As shown, it includes:

[0112] The first acquisition module 401 is used to acquire the sieve cup control command of the reaction vessel;

[0113] The first control module 402 is used to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the first rotation direction based on the sieve cup control command, so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into the preset drop position;

[0114] The second acquisition module 403 is used to acquire the time when the reaction cup falls into the cup position;

[0115] The second control module 404 is used to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along a second rotation direction based on a first duration of time from the time the cup falls, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0116] In some alternative implementations, the second control module 404 includes:

[0117] The first control submodule is used to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate along the second rotation direction when the first duration is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold.

[0118] In some alternative implementations, the second control module 404 further includes:

[0119] The `get` submodule is used to obtain the preset minimum cumulative value, which is the minimum time increment of the time step.

[0120] The timing submodule is used to accumulate the first duration by incrementing the minimum increment value starting from the time the cup is dropped.

[0121] In some alternative implementations, the second control module 404 further includes:

[0122] The third acquisition module is used to acquire the reverse mode and preset angle corresponding to the reaction cup turntable;

[0123] The second control submodule is used to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate by a preset angle along the second rotation direction in reverse mode.

[0124] In some alternative implementations, the second control submodule includes:

[0125] The acquisition unit is used to acquire the pause time of the reaction cup turntable during the rotation of a preset angle;

[0126] The first control unit is used to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate intermittently by a preset angle along the second rotation direction in a reverse mode, based on the pause time.

[0127] In some alternative implementations, the second control module 404 further includes:

[0128] The second control submodule is used to control the reaction vessel turntable to rotate along the first rotation direction and to obtain the second duration of the reaction vessel turntable along the first rotation direction;

[0129] The third control submodule is used to control the reaction cup turntable to rotate by a preset angle along the second rotation direction again when the second duration is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold.

[0130] In some alternative implementations, the second control module 404 further includes:

[0131] The statistics submodule is used to count the number of times the reaction cup turntable reverses. The reverse operation is the operation of rotating the reaction cup turntable by a preset angle along the second rotation direction.

[0132] The fourth control submodule is used to stop the reaction cup turntable from running when the number of times is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold; and to issue an alarm message to indicate that the number of reaction cups in the silo is insufficient or has been used up.

[0133] Further functional descriptions of the above modules and units are the same as those in the corresponding embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0134] In this embodiment, the reaction cup control device is presented in the form of a functional unit. Here, a unit refers to an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) circuit, a processor and memory that execute one or more software or fixed programs, and / or other devices that can provide the above functions.

[0135] The reaction cup control device provided in this invention can effectively improve the screening speed and accuracy of reaction cups and reduce queuing time by optimizing the rotation direction of the reaction cup turntable and controlling the drop time of the reaction cups. Reverse rotation is used to break the original balanced arrangement of reaction cups, reducing jamming and improving the accuracy of screening and conveying, thereby achieving more efficient operation. It eliminates the need for additional motors or complex mechanisms, optimizing the control scheme of existing turntable-type cup-adding systems and reducing system complexity and maintenance difficulty.

[0136] This invention also provides a controller having the above-described features. Figure 9 The reaction cup control device shown.

[0137] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a controller provided in an optional embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the controller includes one or more processors 10, memory 20, and interfaces for connecting the components, including high-speed interfaces and low-speed interfaces. The components communicate with each other via different buses and can be mounted on a common motherboard or otherwise as required. The processors can process instructions executed within the controller, including instructions stored in or on memory to display graphical information of a GUI on external input / output devices (such as display devices coupled to the interfaces). In some alternative implementations, multiple processors and / or multiple buses can be used with multiple memories and multiple memory modules, if desired. Similarly, multiple controllers can be connected, each providing some of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server array, a group of blade servers, or a multiprocessor system). Figure 10 Take a processor 10 as an example.

[0138] Processor 10 may be a central processing unit, a network processor, or a combination thereof. Processor 10 may further include a hardware chip. The hardware chip may be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a combination thereof. The programmable logic device may be a complex programmable logic device (CAMP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a general-purpose array logic (GDA), or any combination thereof.

[0139] The memory 20 stores instructions executable by at least one processor 10 to cause the at least one processor 10 to perform the method shown in the above embodiments.

[0140] The memory 20 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the controller. Furthermore, the memory 20 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some alternative embodiments, the memory 20 may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the processor 10, and these remote memories may be connected to the controller via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, corporate intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0141] The memory 20 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory; the memory may also include non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, hard disk or solid-state drive; the memory 20 may also include a combination of the above types of memory.

[0142] The controller also includes an input device 30 and an output device 40. The processor 10, memory 20, input device 30, and output device 40 can be connected via a bus or other means. Figure 10 Taking the example of a connection between China and Israel via a bus.

[0143] Input device 30 can receive input numerical or character information, and generate key signal inputs related to user settings and function control of the controller, such as a touch screen, keypad, mouse, trackpad, touchpad, joystick, one or more mouse buttons, trackball, joystick, etc. Output device 40 may include display devices, auxiliary lighting devices (e.g., LEDs), and haptic feedback devices (e.g., vibration motors). The aforementioned display devices include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal displays, light-emitting diodes, displays, and plasma displays. In some alternative embodiments, the display device may be a touch screen.

[0144] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The methods described above according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or firmware, or implemented as computer code that can be recorded on a storage medium, or implemented as computer code downloaded via a network and originally stored on a remote storage medium or a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and then stored on a local storage medium. Thus, the methods described herein can be processed by software stored on a storage medium using a general-purpose computer, a dedicated processor, or programmable or dedicated hardware. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive, etc.; further, the storage medium can also include combinations of the above types of memory. It is understood that computers, processors, microprocessor controllers, or programmable hardware include storage components capable of storing or receiving software or computer code, which, when accessed and executed by the computer, processor, or hardware, implements the methods shown in the above embodiments.

[0145] A portion of this invention can be applied as a computer program product, such as computer program instructions, which, when executed by a computer, can invoke or provide the methods and / or technical solutions according to the invention through the operation of the computer. Those skilled in the art will understand that the forms in which computer program instructions exist in a computer-readable medium include, but are not limited to, source files, executable files, installation package files, etc. Correspondingly, the ways in which computer program instructions are executed by a computer include, but are not limited to: the computer directly executing the instructions, or the computer compiling the instructions and then executing the corresponding compiled program, or the computer reading and executing the instructions, or the computer reading and installing the instructions and then executing the corresponding installed program. Here, the computer-readable medium can be any available computer-readable storage medium or communication medium accessible to a computer.

[0146] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer characterized by, The sample analyzer comprises: A cup adding assembly comprising a reaction cup turntable and a cup falling position, for making a reaction cup fall into the cup falling position via the reaction cup turntable and into a scheduling assembly of the sample analyzer; A sample assembly for delivering a sample to be tested into a reaction cup of the scheduling assembly; A reagent assembly for adding reagents into the reaction cup; A reaction assembly for incubating a liquid to be tested in the reaction cup; A detection assembly for detecting the liquid to be tested to obtain a detection result of the sample to be tested; A controller connected with the cup adding assembly, the sample assembly, the reagent assembly, the reaction assembly and the detection assembly, the controller being configured to acquire a cup screening control instruction of a reaction cup, control the reaction cup turntable to rotate in a first rotation direction based on the cup screening control instruction, so that a reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into a preset cup falling position, acquire a cup falling time when the reaction cup falls into the cup falling position, and control the reaction cup turntable to rotate in a second rotation direction based on a first duration from the cup falling time, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

2. A reaction cup control method characterized by, The method comprises: Acquiring a cup screening control instruction of a reaction cup; Controlling a reaction cup turntable to rotate in a first rotation direction based on the cup screening control instruction, so that a reaction cup on the reaction cup turntable falls into a preset cup falling position; Acquiring a cup falling time when the reaction cup falls into the cup falling position; Controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in a second rotation direction based on a first duration from the cup falling time, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in the second rotation direction based on the first duration from the cup falling time comprises: When the first duration is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in the second rotation direction.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, Before the controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in the second rotation direction when the first duration is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, the method further comprises: Acquiring a preset minimum cumulative value, the minimum cumulative value being a minimum time increment of time stepping; Accumulating from the cup falling time by the minimum cumulative value to obtain the first duration.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein, The controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in the second rotation direction further comprises: Acquiring a corresponding reverse mode of the reaction cup turntable and a preset angle; Controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in the second rotation direction by the preset angle according to the reverse mode.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The reaction cup turntable is provided with a plurality of grooves, and a guide block is arranged between the reaction cup turntable and the cup falling position; During rotation of the reaction cup turntable, a reaction cup loaded on the groove falls into the cup falling position under guidance of the guide block; The preset angle of the reaction cup rotating in the second rotation direction is not more than a transverse angle of three reaction cups in a groove of the reaction cup turntable.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein, The controlling the reaction cup turntable to rotate in the second rotation direction by the preset angle according to the reverse mode comprises: acquire a pause time of the reaction cup carousel during rotation of the preset angle; based on the pause time, control the reaction cup carousel to rotate intermittently in the reverse rotation mode along the second rotation direction by the preset angle.

8. The method of claim 5, wherein, After the control of the reaction cup carousel to rotate in the reverse rotation mode along the second rotation direction by the preset angle, the method further comprises: control the reaction cup carousel to rotate along the first rotation direction, and acquire a second duration of the reaction cup carousel along the first rotation direction; when the second duration is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, control the reaction cup carousel to rotate again along the second rotation direction by the preset angle.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The method further comprises: count the number of times of reverse rotation operation of the reaction cup carousel, the reverse rotation operation being the operation of the reaction cup carousel rotating along the second rotation direction by the preset angle; when the number of times is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, control the reaction cup carousel to stop running; and issue an alarm information, the alarm information being used to prompt that the number of reaction cups in the hopper is insufficient or has been used up.

10. A reaction cup control device characterized by comprising: The device comprises: a first acquisition module configured to acquire a sieve cup control instruction of a reaction cup; a first control module configured to control a reaction cup carousel to rotate along a first rotation direction based on the sieve cup control instruction, so that the reaction cup on the reaction cup carousel falls into a preset cup falling position; a second acquisition module configured to acquire a cup falling time of the reaction cup falling into the cup falling position; a second control module configured to control the reaction cup carousel to rotate along a second rotation direction based on a first duration from the cup falling time, wherein the second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction.

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