Medical specimen conditioning apparatus and delivery device

Abstract

The application discloses a medical specimen standardization device and a sending device. The standardization device comprises a specimen receiving part configured to receive a specimen; a specimen lifting part configured to upwardly transport the received specimen to a target position in a horizontal posture, and the specimen falls downwardly at the target position; and a specimen storage part comprising a storage space for storing a plurality of specimens, the specimen storage part being configured to receive the specimen falling from the target position, arrange the specimens one by one in the storage space along a first direction, and outwardly transport the arranged specimens one by one. The medical specimen standardization device in the application can automatically complete the whole process of specimen receiving, lifting, arranging and transporting, replace the traditional manual repetitive labor, and reduce the work intensity of medical staff in the specimen standardization process. Meanwhile, the individual differences in manual operation are avoided, the standardization of different batches and different types of specimens is ensured, and support is provided for the standardization and large-scale operation of hospital specimen processing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of pneumatic pipeline logistics transmission technology, and more specifically, to a medical specimen preparation device and delivery equipment. Background Technology

[0002] A specimen transport system refers to a system that uses pressurized air to transport a single test tube at high speed in a closed pipeline. In recent years, it has developed rapidly in hospitals. The transport of specimens after collection is an important part of the entire specimen testing process. Most specimen transport devices adopt a one-to-one single tube transport method and are designed for use between major blood collection points and laboratories in hospitals. The destination stations of the receiving end are all gathered in the laboratory and cannot automatically select the destination station as needed.

[0003] In related technologies, specimen preparation mainly relies on manual operation or simple mechanical auxiliary equipment, which has many limitations. In manual preparation scenarios, staff need to manually receive specimens, adjust their posture, and then send them via a sending device. This method is not only inefficient and difficult to adapt to the continuous processing needs of large batches of specimens, but it is also prone to inconsistent specimen orientation and posture deviation due to human error, and may even cause specimen collisions, tipping, and other damage. At the same time, direct manual contact with specimens may also cause specimen contamination or cross-contamination, which does not comply with industry standards such as biosafety, medical sterility, and industrial cleanliness, thus limiting its applicability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this application is to provide a medical specimen preparation device to solve the problem of low specimen preparation efficiency in related technologies, which makes it difficult to meet the continuous processing needs of large batches of specimens.

[0005] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of this application.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this application, a medical specimen preparation device is provided, comprising: frame; A specimen receiving unit is fixed to the frame and configured to receive specimens; The specimen lifting unit is located on the frame and configured to lift and transport the received specimen upward in a horizontal posture to the target position, where the specimen falls downward. The specimen storage unit is located on the rack and includes a storage space for storing multiple specimens. The specimen storage unit is configured to receive specimens falling from the target location, arrange the specimens one by one in the storage space along a first direction, and transport the arranged specimens outward one by one.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen storage section includes a sample storage slide, the sample storage space is located within the sample storage slide, the sample storage slide includes an upper opening and a lower opening, the upper opening is used to receive specimens falling from the target location, and the lower opening is used to transport specimens outward.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the sample storage slide is inclined downward along a first direction so that the specimen entering the sample storage slide through the upper opening slides downward by gravity.

[0009] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the upper opening extends through a first direction, the width of the upper opening is smaller than the diameter of the specimen cap, and the projection of the axis of the specimen at the target location onto the horizontal plane lies within the projection of the upper opening onto the horizontal plane.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen receiving part includes a receiving compartment, the upper part of which is provided with a receiving port, and the lower part of which has a downwardly inclined receiving slope. The specimen lifting part is configured to move at least a portion upwardly below the receiving slope to receive the specimen located below the receiving slope and lift the specimen to the target position.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen lifting section includes a lifting frame, a lifting transmission belt, a transmission wheel, a lifting driver, and multiple trays. The transmission wheel is disposed at the upper and lower ends of the lifting frame, and the lifting transmission belt is sleeved on the transmission wheels at both ends. At least one end of the transmission wheel is connected to the lifting driver. The trays are fixed laterally on the lifting transmission belt, and the multiple trays are spaced apart along the length of the lifting transmission belt. The transmission wheel drives the lifting transmission belt to move and drives the trays to perform vertical and horizontal movements. The tray is configured to move upward below the receiving slope and receive the specimen located at the lower part of the receiving slope. In response to the tray changing from vertical movement to horizontal movement to the target position, the specimen is discharged downward from the tray and falls into the sample storage space.

[0012] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a specimen lifting channel is further included. The specimen lifting channel is arranged vertically, with its upper end connected to the lower end of the receiving inclined surface. The tray moves upward through the specimen lifting channel, and the specimen enters the specimen lifting channel through the lower end of the receiving inclined surface and is lifted by the tray. The width of the specimen lifting channel is (1, 2) times the diameter of the specimen, and the depth of the specimen lifting channel is less than the distance between adjacent trays.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the lifting drive belt and the drive wheel are arranged in two parallel sets, the two sets of lifting drive belts are respectively sleeved on the two sets of drive wheels, the two ends of the support plate are respectively fixedly connected to the two sets of lifting drive belts, and the support plate is located between the two sets of lifting drive belts.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen receiving unit further includes a first sensor configured to detect whether the lower part of the receiving ramp passes over the specimen to be lifted, and the lifting driver is activated in response to the lower part of the receiving ramp passing over the specimen to be lifted.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, the upper end of the lifting frame is provided with a specimen transposition inlet, the specimen transposition inlet is located below the tray when the tray moves horizontally to the target position, and the projection of the center line of the specimen transposition inlet onto the horizontal plane is located within the projection of the upper opening onto the horizontal plane; The upper end of the lifting frame is also provided with an inlet front baffle and an inlet rear baffle. The inlet front baffle and the inlet rear baffle are located below the specimen transposition inlet. The inlet front baffle and the inlet rear baffle form a specimen transposition channel. The lower end of the specimen transposition channel is connected to the upper opening. The specimen enters the specimen transposition channel through the specimen transposition inlet by its own gravity and enters the sample storage space through the upper opening.

[0016] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the lifting frame is further provided with a specimen rejection plate, which is located below the upper drive wheel and close to the lifting side of the lifting drive belt. The specimen rejection plate is configured to block specimens in non-lifting postures from moving upward.

[0017] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the lifting frame is further provided with a retrieval guide plate, which is located between the two sides of the lifting transmission belt. The retrieval guide plate includes a vertical plate and an inclined plate. The vertical plate is located on one side of the specimen rejection plate and extends downward. The inclined plate is fixed to the lower end of the vertical plate. The upper end of the specimen lifting channel is connected to the lower end of the inclined plate. The inclined plate is configured to guide a portion of the specimen blocked by the specimen rejection plate to move downward into the specimen lifting channel.

[0018] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen storage unit further includes a second sensor configured to detect whether the number of specimens in the specimen storage chute has reached a preset number, and in response to the specimens reaching the preset number, the lifting driver stops.

[0019] According to a first aspect of this application, a specimen delivery device is provided, including the above-described medical specimen straightening apparatus and a delivery unit, wherein the delivery unit is configured to deliver the straightened specimen in a directional manner.

[0020] The exemplary embodiments of this application may have some or all of the following beneficial effects: (1) The specimen lifting section lifts and transports specimens horizontally, simplifying its structure and adapting to the transport needs of common liquid specimens in hospitals. The specimen storage section arranges fallen specimens one by one along the first direction, replacing manual sorting and placement, and solving problems such as confusion, misplacement, and omissions that easily occur when manually arranging specimens in large quantities. Furthermore, the orderly arrangement of specimens forms a standardized storage order, facilitating quick identification of specimen numbers, types, etc., while avoiding container deformation and label wear caused by specimen stacking. The specimen storage section's function of transporting arranged specimens one by one can directly connect to identification or sorting equipment, achieving seamless connection from specimen arrangement to testing, reducing the manual transfer of specimens; it not only improves the overall efficiency of hospital specimen processing but also reduces the frequency of direct contact between medical staff and specimens, reducing the biosafety risks caused by specimen contact. Therefore, the medical specimen preparation device in this application automates the entire process of specimen reception, lifting, arranging, and transport, replacing repetitive manual labor and reducing the workload of medical staff in the specimen preparation process. At the same time, it avoids individual differences caused by manual operation, ensuring that the preparation standards of different batches and types of specimens are consistent, and providing support for the standardization and large-scale operation of hospital specimen processing.

[0021] (2) By making the upper opening of the sample storage slide pass through in the first direction and making the width of the upper opening smaller than the diameter of the specimen cap, the projection of the axis of the specimen at the target position on the horizontal plane is located within the projection of the upper opening on the horizontal plane. This allows the specimen in a horizontal position to fall from the target position of the specimen lifting part and enter the sample storage space of the sample storage slide through the upper opening. The specimen cap is stuck outside the upper opening, so that the specimen is automatically adjusted from a horizontal state to an inclined state. This can significantly increase the number of specimens that can be stored in the sample storage space and improve the specimen processing efficiency.

[0022] (3) The coordination of the lifting conveyor belt and the pallet in the sizing device can size the messy specimens entering the receiving chamber into the expected posture and lift them upward to the specimen transfer inlet. Then, the specimens fall into the storage chute under their own weight and slide downward under their own weight. This process can be carried out continuously. The storage chute can pre-store the specimens, thus significantly shortening the interval between the lifting conveyor belt and the pallet coordinating the specimen sizing, effectively improving the specimen delivery efficiency. Furthermore, since multiple specimens can be stored in the storage chute along the first direction, the specimen at the end slides into the specimen moving unit under its own weight after being identified by the identification unit, and the next specimen slides to the end under its own weight. By pre-storing multiple specimens in the storage chute, the subsequent specimen movement and delivery process can be more orderly, further improving the specimen delivery efficiency and accuracy.

[0023] (4) By setting up a specimen lifting channel and constraining the width and length of the specimen channel, specimens passing through the lower end of the receiving slope can enter the specimen lifting channel one by one in the vertical direction, so that the tray passing through the specimen lifting channel can lift a specimen, and the excess specimens will not fall below the tray, which can significantly improve the specimen preparation efficiency.

[0024] (5) By combining the specimen rejection plate and the retrieval guide plate, specimens that are not in the lifting posture can be rejected and retrieved and guided into the specimen lifting channel, where they are lifted again by the tray. This can prevent specimens that are not in the lifting posture from being accidentally collided or damaged, and can also prevent specimens from being stuck.

[0025] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the application and to make other features, objects, and advantages of the application more apparent. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain the application and do not constitute an undue limitation of the application. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a front view structural diagram of the specimen sending device according to the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a side view of the specimen sending device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a side view structural diagram of the regularization unit according to the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the identification unit according to the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a side view structural diagram of the transmitting unit according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a top view of the transmitting unit according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a side view structural diagram of the transmitting unit according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a top view of the transmitting unit according to an embodiment of this application.

[0027] The components include: 1. Frame; 2. Organizing unit; 20. Specimen receiving section; 203. Receiving chamber; 2030. Receiving port; 201. Receiving ramp; 202. First sensor; 21. Specimen lifting section; 210. Lifting frame; 211. Lifting drive belt; 212. Support plate; 213. Drive shaft; 214. Drive wheel; 2140. Driving wheel; 2141. Driven wheel; 215. Lifting drive; 216. Specimen indexing inlet; 217a. Inlet front baffle; 271b. Inlet. Rear baffle, 217c Specimen transposition channel, 218 Specimen rejection plate, 219 Recovery guide plate, 2190 Vertical plate, 2191 Inclined plate, 22 Specimen storage section, 220 Second sensor, 221 Sample storage chute, 2210 Upper opening, 2211 Lower opening, 230 Specimen lifting channel, 3 Sending channel, 4 Manual delivery channel, 5 Delivery handle, 7 Identification unit, 70 Third sensor, 71 Barcode scanning module, 72 Rotation module, 7 20 Front washboard, 721 Rear washboard, 722 Front washboard driver, 723 Rear washboard driver, 8 Specimen moving unit, 80 Fourth sensor, 81 Specimen moving chamber, 810 Specimen moving chamber inlet, 811 Specimen moving chamber outlet, 82 Specimen moving module, 83 First trigger magnetic element, 84 Seventh sensor, 85 Sixth sensor, 86 Fifth sensor, 9 Dispatch unit, 90 Dispatch driver, 91 Telescopic baffle, 10 Specimen channel, 100 Eighth sensor, 101 Specimen inlet, 102 Specimen outlet, 11 Sending unit, 110 Sending housing, 1100 Specimen inlet port, 1101 Upper through-tube port, 1102 Lower through-tube port, 111 Moving slider, 1110 Common sidewall, 112 Slider moving driver, 113 Sending channel, 114 Bypass channel, 115 First sealing ring, 116 Second sealing ring, 117 Fence, 12 Recovery chamber. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this application will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore their detailed descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are merely illustrative of this application and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0029] Although relative terms such as "upper" and "lower" are used in this specification to describe the relative relationship of one component of an icon to another, these terms are used only for convenience, such as according to the orientation of the examples in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that if the device of the icon is flipped so that it is upside down, the component described as "upper" will become the component described as "lower." When a structure is "upper" of another structure, it may mean that the structure is integrally formed on the other structure, or that the structure is "directly" mounted on the other structure, or that the structure is "indirectly" mounted on the other structure through another structure.

[0030] The terms “a,” “one,” “the,” and “at least one” are used to indicate the existence of one or more elements / components / etc.; the terms “including” and “having” are used to indicate an open-ended inclusion and to mean that there may be other elements / components / etc. in addition to the listed elements / components / etc.; the terms “first” and “second” are used only as markers and are not a limitation on the number of objects.

[0031] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "equipped with," "connected," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0032] In addition, the term "multiple" should mean two or more.

[0033] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0034] To address the related technical problems, this embodiment provides a specimen delivery device. Figure 1 A front view structural diagram of the specimen sending device is shown. Figure 2 A side view of the specimen transfer device is shown. Figure 3 The side view of the conditioning unit in the specimen transfer device is shown. For example... Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the specimen delivery device includes a sizing unit 2, an identification unit 7, a specimen moving unit 8, a specimen channel 10, a delivery unit 9, and a specimen delivery unit 11. Each unit works together through mechanical or signal connections to complete the entire process of sizing, identifying, sorting, and delivering the specimen 6.

[0035] The conditioning unit 2, serving as the starting unit for specimen processing, is mounted on the frame 1 and configured to receive specimens and condition them along a first direction (in this embodiment, the first direction is set to an inclined downward direction, i.e.) Figure 1 The specimens are arranged sequentially along the X-direction, and each specimen can be transported outward through its end. The outward transport of the specimens can be achieved by the specimens' own gravity or by a pusher-like structure. The regularization unit 2 can perform orderly regularization and arrangement of the specimens, and the regularized specimens are arranged linearly along the first direction with the specimen cap on top.

[0036] The identification unit 7 is mounted on the frame 1 and located at the end of the conditioning unit 2. It is configured to identify the specimen at the end and generate an identification result. The specimen entering the end of the conditioning unit 2 is located within the identification window of the identification unit 7. The identification unit 7 can use a barcode scanning method, with its identification window facing the circumferential surface of the specimen to ensure that the identification unit 7 can stably scan the information code (such as a QR code or barcode containing information such as specimen type, testing items, and destination) pasted on the specimen. The identification unit 7 is connected to the control system to transmit the identification result to the control system in the form of an electrical signal. The control system determines the transmission route of the specimen based on the identification result.

[0037] The specimen moving unit 8 is mounted on the frame 1 and positioned downstream of the identification unit 7, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the specimen moving unit 8 is configured to receive the specimen discharged from the end of the regularization unit 2 and move the specimen at least between a first position and a second position based on the identification result. The specimen moving unit 8 is capable of moving horizontally, thereby moving between the first and second positions. The specimen moving unit 8 is signal-connected to the control system. After receiving the specimen from the end of the regularization unit 2 and identified by the identification unit 7, the control system controls the specimen moving unit 8 to move to the first or second position according to the specimen's transmission route. The position where the specimen moving unit 8 receives the specimen can be the first position, the second position, or other initial positions, without limitation. However, the first and second positions must each belong to at least two transmission routes.

[0038] Specimen channel 10 is fixedly installed on frame 1, such as Figure 2As shown, at least two specimen channels 10 are arranged at intervals along the second direction. Each specimen channel 10 has a hollow structure that extends vertically, forming a specimen inlet 101 and a specimen outlet 102. The specimen inlet 101 is located at the upper end, and the specimen outlet 102 is located at the lower end. Specifically, the specimen inlet 101 of one specimen channel 10 corresponds vertically to the first position of the specimen moving unit 8, and the specimen inlet 101 of the other specimen channel 10 corresponds vertically to the second position of the specimen moving unit 8, ensuring that when the specimen moving unit 8 moves the specimen to the corresponding position, the specimen can be accurately aligned with the specimen inlet 101. In this embodiment, the specimen channel 10 adopts a tubular structure made of rigid plastic with a smooth inner wall, reducing frictional resistance during the specimen's descent.

[0039] The delivery unit 9 is located between the specimen inlet 101 and the specimen moving unit 8, fixed on the frame 1 and below the moving path of the specimen moving unit 8. It is configured to open and close the specimen inlet 101 and the outlet of the specimen moving unit 8. The delivery unit 9 is signal-connected to the control system, which controls its operation. When the specimen moving unit 8 moves the specimen to the target position (first position or second position), the control system controls the delivery unit 9 to open the specimen inlet 101 and the outlet of the specimen moving unit 8, allowing the specimen to fall from the specimen moving unit 8 into the corresponding specimen inlet 101 and into the corresponding specimen channel 10. After the specimen delivery is complete, the delivery unit 9 resets, closing the specimen inlet 101 and the outlet of the specimen moving unit 8 to prevent subsequent specimens from accidentally falling or external impurities from entering.

[0040] The specimen sending unit 11 is mounted on the rack 1 and includes at least two sending channels 3, which correspond to the specimen channels 10 respectively. The sending channels 3 are configured to move between a receiving position and a sending position. In response to being in the receiving position, the sending channel 3 receives the specimen discharged from the specimen outlet 102. In response to being in the sending position, the sending channel 3 moves to the sending position.

[0041] The specimen delivery unit 11 includes at least two delivery channels 3 (corresponding one-to-one with the number of specimen channels 10), and the two delivery channels 3 are respectively connected to the specimen outlets 102 of the two specimen channels 10. The delivery channels 3 are configured to move between a receiving position and a delivery position. When the delivery channel 3 is in the receiving position, its upper inlet is precisely connected to the specimen outlet 102 of the specimen channel 10 to receive the specimen discharged from the specimen outlet 102; when the delivery channel 3 is in the delivery position, its upper inlet is disengaged from the specimen outlet 102 of the specimen channel 10, and its lower outlet is aligned with an external delivery pipeline or receiving container, so that the specimen is moved to the delivery position and the delivery is completed.

[0042] The specimen sending device in this embodiment operates as follows, specifically including the following steps: 1. Specimen preparation stage: The specimen to be processed is placed into the preparation unit 2. Under the action of the preparation unit 2, the specimen is arranged in an orderly manner along the first direction. After being arranged, the specimen moves one by one to the end to the detection area of ​​the recognition unit 7.

[0043] 2. Specimen identification stage: The identification unit 7 scans the information code on the specimen, identifies the specimen type, detection destination and other information, generates identification results, and transmits the identification result signal to the control system.

[0044] 3. Specimen movement stage: After identification, the specimen enters the specimen movement unit 8. Under the control of the control system, the specimen movement unit 8 moves the specimen to the corresponding target position (e.g., moving the specimen sent to the No. 1 testing station to the first position, and moving the specimen sent to the No. 2 testing station to the second position).

[0045] 4. Specimen placement stage: After the specimen moves to the target position, the control system sends a signal to the placement unit 9. The placement unit 9 opens the exit of the specimen moving unit 8 and the specimen entrance 101 of the specimen channel 10. The specimen enters the specimen channel 10 under the action of gravity.

[0046] 5. Specimen Transmission Stage: When the transmission channel 3 in the specimen transmission unit 11 is aligned with the specimen channel 10 (i.e., the transmission channel 3 is in the receiving position), the specimen entering the specimen channel 10 falls into the transmission channel 3 under the influence of gravity. Then, the transmission channel 3 moves from the receiving position to the transmission position, and the specimen is transmitted outward under the action of compressed air. Different specimen channels 10 and transmission channels 3 point to different transmission routes.

[0047] Through the above structural design, this embodiment enables the sizing unit 2 to achieve automated and continuous sizing of specimens, significantly improving efficiency compared to manual sizing; the coordinated operation of the identification unit 7 and the specimen movement unit 8 achieves accurate diversion of multiple types of specimens; the corresponding design of the multiple specimen channels 10 and the multiple transmission channels 3 can handle different types of specimens, greatly improving the transmission efficiency of multiple types of specimens; at the same time, the setting of the delivery unit 9 ensures the accuracy of specimen delivery, avoids problems such as specimen falling or misalignment, and improves the stability of device operation.

[0048] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the organizing unit 2 includes a specimen receiving section 20, a specimen lifting section 21, and a specimen storage section 22 arranged sequentially. The specimen receiving section 20 is configured to receive specimens, the specimen lifting section 21 is configured to lift and transport the received specimens to a target location, and the specimen storage section 22 is configured to receive specimens at the target location and arrange the specimens one by one along a first direction. The arranged specimens are then transported outward through the end of the specimen storage section 22. The three components are sequentially connected along the specimen flow direction to form an integrated organizing link of "receiving-lifting-arranging," ensuring the continuity and orderliness of specimen processing and laying the foundation for subsequent identification, diversion, and transmission operations.

[0049] In one embodiment, a medical specimen preparation device is provided, including the specimen receiving section 20, the specimen lifting section 21, and the specimen storage section 22 described above.

[0050] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the specimen receiving unit 20 includes a receiving chamber 203. A receiving port 2030 is provided at the upper part of the receiving chamber 203. The receiving port 2030 adopts an open design, facilitating manual or automated equipment placement of specimens to be processed (such as test tubes containing test samples) into the receiving chamber 203. The lower part of the receiving chamber 203 has a downward-sloping receiving ramp 201. The inclination angle of the receiving ramp 201 can be set to 30°-60°. Utilizing gravity, the specimens placed in the receiving chamber 203 automatically slide down to the lower part of the receiving ramp 201 and accumulate, preventing the specimens from scattering and piling up within the receiving chamber 203, thus preparing for subsequent lifting operations. The specimen lifting unit 21 is configured to move upwards from below the receiving ramp 201 to receive specimens located below the receiving ramp 201 and lift the specimens to a discharge position for discharge into the specimen storage unit 22, achieving directional and efficient transport of specimens from the receiving area to the subsequent arrangement area.

[0051] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the specimen lifting section 21 is vertically erected and includes a lifting frame 210, a lifting transmission belt 211, transmission wheels 214, a lifting driver 215, and multiple trays 212. Transmission wheels 214 are located at the upper and lower ends of the lifting frame 210. The lifting transmission belt 211 is sleeved on the transmission wheels 214 at both ends. At least one transmission wheel 214 is connected to the lifting driver 215. The lifting driver 215 can be a servo motor, such as a DC geared motor, and achieves stable power transmission with the transmission wheels 214 through a coupling, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the transmission process. The trays 212 are fixed laterally on the lifting transmission belt 211. Multiple trays 212 are spaced apart along the length of the lifting transmission belt 211. When the transmission wheels 214 drive the lifting transmission belt 211 to move, the trays 212 can move vertically and horizontally, forming a reciprocating motion trajectory.

[0052] The tray 212 is configured to move upwards below the receiving ramp 201 and receive specimens located below the receiving ramp 201 from the first side, allowing the specimens to enter the tray 212. The tray 212 is a trough-shaped tray, meaning its cross-section is "V"-shaped or arc-shaped. The specimens within the tray 212 are in a horizontal position. The second side of the tray 212 is fixedly connected to the lifting conveyor belt 211, which does not obstruct specimen discharge. Because the second side of the tray 212 is connected to the lifting conveyor belt 211, when the tray 212 changes from vertical to horizontal movement (i.e., when the tray 212 rises from the side to the top), the specimens, under their own gravity, detach from the tray 212 and are discharged downwards into the specimen storage section 22, completing the specimen lifting and transfer operation. The entire process requires no manual intervention, improving processing efficiency.

[0053] In one implementation, such as Figure 3 As shown, the conditioning device also includes a specimen lifting channel 230, which is vertically arranged and whose upper end is connected to the lower end of the receiving inclined surface 201. The specimen lifting channel 230 can be formed by a gap between two opposing vertical plates 2190. A lifting conveyor belt 211 is located between the two vertical plates 2190, allowing the support plate 212 mounted on the lifting conveyor belt 211 to pass through the lifting channel from bottom to top and move upward. The upper end of the specimen lifting channel 230 is connected to the lower end of the receiving inclined surface 201, that is, the upper end of the right vertical plate 2190 is connected to the lower end of the receiving inclined surface 201, so that the specimen passing through the lower end of the receiving inclined surface 201 can smoothly enter the specimen lifting channel 230. The width of the specimen lifting channel 230 is (1, 2) times the diameter of the specimen, so that the specimen lifting channel 230 can only accommodate one specimen in the horizontal direction. When a specimen enters the specimen lifting channel 230 in a horizontal position, it is supported horizontally by the upward-moving tray 212 due to the width constraint of the channel 230, thus being lifted upwards. When a specimen enters the specimen lifting channel 230 in an inclined position, it is also supported inclinedly by the upward-moving tray 212 due to the width constraint of the channel 230. As the tray 212 moves upwards, the specimen automatically adjusts from an inclined position to a horizontal position under the influence of gravity and falls onto the tray 212.

[0054] Based on this, the depth of the specimen lifting channel 230 is less than the distance between adjacent trays 212, so that the specimen will not fall below the tray 212. The specimen entering the specimen lifting channel 230 will definitely move upward under the action of the tray 212, and the specimen can be prevented from entering the specimen lifting channel 230 in a vertical position.

[0055] With this configuration, multiple specimens may be arranged vertically within the specimen lifting channel 230. After the tray 212 enters the specimen lifting channel 230 from below, it can receive the lowest specimen and push all specimens upwards. Specimens that move upwards out of the specimen lifting channel 230 accumulate at the lower part of the receiving ramp 201. When the tray 212 continues to lift upwards and detaches from the upper part of the specimen lifting channel 230, the previously accumulated specimens re-enter the specimen lifting channel 230, and the next tray 212 will receive one specimen and continue moving upwards. In this embodiment, the tray 212 is guaranteed to lift one specimen during the lifting process, and excess specimens will not fall below the tray 212, significantly improving the efficiency of specimen preparation.

[0056] In one implementation, such as Figure 3 As shown, the lower drive wheel 214 is connected to the lifting drive 215 and serves as the driving wheel 2140. In the horizontal movement direction of the lifting drive belt 211, two drive wheels 214 are provided at the upper end, serving as driven wheels 2141. The gap between the two driven wheels 2141 provides space for the specimen to fall from the tray 212. The distance between the left end face of the left driven wheel 2141 and the right end face of the right driven wheel 2141 is equal to the diameter of the driving wheel 2140.

[0057] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the lifting drive belts 211 and drive wheels 214 are arranged in two parallel sets. The two sets of lifting drive belts 211 are respectively sleeved on the two sets of drive wheels 214. The distance between the two sets of lifting drive belts 211 is greater than the length of the specimen. A connecting plate is fixed between the two sets of lifting drive belts 211, and a support plate 212 is mounted on the connecting plate. The length of the support plate 212 is less than the distance between the two sets of lifting drive belts 211. It should be noted that the two sets of drive wheels 214 are arranged perpendicular to the direction of movement of the lifting belts. This double-set drive belt and drive wheel 214 structure effectively improves the stability of the support plate 212 during movement, preventing tilting, offsetting, or shaking when carrying the specimen, ensuring stable specimen reception and transport. The support plate 212 is connected between the two sets of lifting drive belts 211. This arrangement allows the specimen to be accurately aligned with the subsequent receiving structure when discharged, further preventing specimen drop or misalignment and ensuring smooth specimen flow.

[0058] Based on the fact that there are two driven wheels 2141 at the upper end in the horizontal movement direction of the lifting transmission belt 211, the upper end of the lifting frame 210 includes a total of four driven wheels 2141, which are distributed in pairs. The lower end includes two driving wheels 2140. The two driving wheels 2140 can be connected by a transmission shaft 213, which is connected to the lifting drive 215.

[0059] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the specimen receiving unit 20 also includes a first sensor 202. The first sensor 202 can be an infrared sensor, fixed to one side of the lower end of the receiving ramp 201, with its detection direction facing the specimen gathering area at the lower part of the receiving ramp 201. It is configured to detect whether the lower part of the receiving ramp 201 passes over the specimen to be lifted. It can be understood that the specimen passing over the lower part of the receiving ramp 201 will enter the specimen lifting channel and be received by the tray 212, or directly by the tray 212 located at the lower end of the receiving ramp 201. When the first sensor 202 detects that the lower part of the receiving ramp 201 passes over the specimen to be lifted, it immediately sends a start signal to the lifting driver 215. The lifting driver 215 starts and drives the tray 212 to perform the lifting operation. If the first sensor 202 does not detect the specimen to be lifted, the lifting driver 215 remains in standby mode, thereby achieving energy-saving operation of the equipment, reducing the wear and tear on equipment components caused by ineffective operations, and extending the service life of the equipment.

[0060] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the upper end of the lifting frame 210 is provided with a specimen transfer inlet 216. The position of the specimen transfer inlet 216 corresponds to the lower side of the tray 212 during horizontal movement, specifically located below the lower side of the tray 212, for accurately receiving specimens falling from the tray 212. The upper end of the lifting frame 210 is also provided with an inlet front baffle 217a and an inlet rear baffle 217b. Both the inlet front baffle 217a and the inlet rear baffle 217b are located below the specimen transfer inlet 216, and are arranged parallel to each other, forming a specimen transfer channel 217c. The width of the specimen transfer channel 217c is adapted to the diameter of the specimen, which can limit and guide the specimen during the falling process, ensuring that the specimen moves smoothly along the preset trajectory. The lower end of the specimen transposition channel 217c is connected to the upper end of the specimen storage section 22. The specimen enters the specimen transposition channel 217c through the specimen transposition inlet 216 using its own gravity, and then smoothly enters the specimen storage section 22 through the specimen transposition channel 217c, realizing a smooth transition of the specimen from the lifting section to the storage section, and avoiding collisions or posture deviations of the specimen during the transfer process.

[0061] It should be noted that the specimen is discharged horizontally from the tray 212 and also falls freely in a roughly horizontal posture within the specimen transposition channel 217c. The opening on the specimen storage section 22 is for specimen entry; its opening size is slightly larger than the diameter of the specimen body but smaller than the diameter of the specimen cap, allowing the specimen body to enter the specimen storage section 22 through the opening, while the specimen cap is secured to the opening of the specimen storage section 22, causing the specimen to move in a horizontal position within the specimen storage section 22. Figure 1 The uniform posture shown is: specimen cap on top, specimen body inside specimen storage section 22.

[0062] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the lifting frame 210 is also equipped with a specimen rejection plate 218, which is located below the upper drive wheel 214 and close to the lifting side of the lifting drive belt 211. The gap between the specimen rejection plate 218 and the lifting drive belt 211 is precisely set to allow only a single specimen in the correct posture to pass through. When specimens in non-lifting postures, such as stacked, tilted, or inverted specimens, move upwards during the lifting process, the specimen rejection plate 218 will effectively block them, preventing such unqualified specimens from entering the subsequent lifting stage, thereby preventing equipment jamming, blockage, or malfunction, and significantly improving the stability and reliability of equipment operation.

[0063] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the lifting frame 210 is also equipped with a recovery guide plate 219, which is located between the two sides of the lifting transmission belt 211 and includes an integrally formed vertical plate 2190 and an inclined plate 2191. The vertical plate 2190 is located to the left of the specimen rejection plate 218 and extends downward. The inclined plate 2191 is fixed to the lower end of the vertical plate 2190. The upper end of the specimen lifting channel 230 is connected to the lower end of the inclined plate. The inclination direction of the inclined plate 2191 is adapted to the inclination direction of the receiving inclined surface 201. It is configured to guide the part of the specimen blocked by the specimen rejection plate 218 to move downward and enter the specimen lifting channel 230, and then be lifted upward again by the support plate 212, so as to realize the recovery and re-lifting of the blocked specimen, and at the same time improve the overall processing efficiency of the equipment for specimens. Furthermore, the lower end of the inclined plate 2191 is flush with or lower than the lower end of the receiving inclined surface 201. This design ensures that the recovered specimen can smoothly slide down to the lower gathering area of ​​the receiving inclined surface 201 and reintegrate into the lifting process, thus ensuring the effective reuse of the recovered specimen.

[0064] In this embodiment, some specimens enter the tray 212 from the first side in a standard posture and are lifted by the tray 212, while some specimens are stuck on the tray 212 in a non-standard posture and are lifted by the tray 212, for example, stuck on the tray 212 longitudinally. Specimens in non-standard postures fall after being lifted to contact the specimen rejection plate 218, where they are blocked. Some of the falling specimens fall back onto the receiving ramp 201 and are caught again by the tray 212, while others fall under the blocking and guiding effect of the vertical plate 2190 and fall onto the ramp 2191. Specimens that fall onto the ramp 2191 then enter the specimen channel and are lifted upwards again by the tray 212.

[0065] Therefore, in this embodiment, the specimen can enter the specimen lifting channel from two directions: one direction is from the lower end of the receiving slope (i.e., from the right side), and the other direction is from the lower end of the slope (i.e., from the left side). This setting can significantly improve the specimen lifting efficiency and avoid specimen retention.

[0066] Figure 4 The partial structure of the specimen storage section is shown, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen storage section 22 includes a specimen storage chute 221, which is composed of two opposing vertical plates forming a specimen storage space for storing multiple specimens. The specimen storage chute 221 has an upper opening 2210 and a lower opening 2211. The upper opening 2210 communicates with the lower end of the specimen transfer channel and is used to receive specimens discharged from the lower end of the specimen transfer channel. The lower opening 2211 serves as the end outlet of the regularization unit 2, allowing the arranged specimens to be discharged to the specimen moving unit 8. The specimen storage chute 221 is inclined in a first direction. By means of gravity, the specimens entering the specimen storage chute 221 through the upper opening 2210 slide downwards along the first direction, thereby achieving the orderly arrangement of specimens one by one along the first direction. The opening width of the sample storage slide 221 is smaller than the diameter of the specimen cap. Through the limiting fit between the specimen cap and the opening of the sample storage slide 221, the specimen can be effectively prevented from falling off the side of the slide. At the same time, it ensures that all specimens are neatly arranged along their own axis, providing good preconditions for subsequent identification and movement operations.

[0067] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the specimen storage section 22 also includes a second sensor 220. The second sensor 220 can be a photoelectric or infrared sensor, fixed in the upper area of ​​the sample storage chute 221, and configured to detect whether the number of specimens in the sample storage chute 221 has reached a preset number. When the number of specimens in the sample storage chute 221 reaches the preset number, the second sensor 220 sends a stop signal to the control system, controlling the lifting driver 215 to stop running, thus preventing excessive accumulation of specimens in the sample storage chute 221 and causing blockage. When the specimens in the sample storage chute 221 are gradually removed by subsequent units and the number decreases to a preset lower limit, the second sensor 220 sends a signal to the control system again, controlling the lifting driver 215 to restart, realizing dynamic replenishment of specimens in the sample storage chute 221, and ensuring that the equipment can continuously and stably operate.

[0068] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1As shown, the specimen delivery device also includes a manual delivery channel 4, which is vertically positioned and its lower end connects to the upper opening 2210 of the sample storage slide 221. The manual delivery channel 4 is located outside the lifting frame 210. This manual delivery channel 4 is primarily used in emergency situations, such as when the automatic lifting mechanism malfunctions or when some specimens need to be delivered quickly. Staff can directly deliver specimens to the sample storage slide 221 via the manual delivery channel 4, ensuring uninterrupted specimen processing and enhancing the device's emergency response capabilities and practicality. A delivery handle 5 is located at the upper end of the manual delivery channel 4, and the handle 5 is hinged to the upper opening of the manual delivery channel 4, configured to operatively open and close the manual delivery channel 4. The device also includes an eleventh sensor, which can be a limit switch, fixed to the upper side wall of the manual delivery channel 4, configured to detect the opening and closing status of the delivery handle 5. When the dispensing handle 5 is opened, the eleventh sensor sends a stop signal to the control system, controlling the lifting driver 215 to stop operating, thus avoiding interference between the manual dispensing of the specimen and the lifted specimen, ensuring the safety of the operator and the smooth dispensing of the specimen; when the dispensing handle 5 is closed, the eleventh sensor sends a recovery signal to the control system, controlling the lifting driver 215 to resume normal operation.

[0069] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the identification unit 7 is fixedly installed at the end of the specimen storage section 22 of the regularization unit 2 (i.e., at the lower opening 2211 of the sample storage slide 221), and is connected to the end of the sample storage slide 221 to ensure that the specimen discharged from the sample storage slide 221 can directly enter the identification area of ​​the identification unit 7, ensuring the continuity of specimen flow. Its core configuration is to identify the specimen at the end and generate identification results, providing a basis for the subsequent diversion and transportation of specimens.

[0070] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 4 As shown, the identification unit 7 includes a rotation module 72 and a scanning module 71. The rotation module 72 is configured to drive the specimen at its end to rotate around axis L1, where axis L1 is the axis of the specimen. The scanning module 71 is configured to scan the information code (such as a QR code or barcode) on the specimen during the rotation of the specimen around axis L1. By driving the specimen to rotate through the rotation module 72, it is ensured that the scanning module 71 can fully scan the outer circumference of the specimen. Even if the information code is misaligned or tilted, the information code image can still be accurately captured, effectively avoiding scanning failures caused by information code position issues. This significantly improves the success rate and accuracy of identification, ensuring that key information such as specimen type, detection items, destination, and number can be accurately obtained.

[0071] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 4As shown, the rotation module 72 includes a front rubbing plate 720 and a rear rubbing plate 721 distributed along a first direction, and a front rubbing plate driver 722 and a rear rubbing plate driver 723 respectively connected to the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 for transmission. The front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 may be made of rubber material with anti-slip texture on the surface to enhance the friction with the outer peripheral surface of the specimen and ensure stable rotation of the specimen. The distance between the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 in the first direction is equal to the diameter of the specimen, ensuring that the specimen can smoothly enter between them and that both make full contact with the outer peripheral surface of the specimen. The front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 are configured to reciprocate along a third direction, which is tangential to the outer peripheral surface of the specimen. The reciprocating motion of the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 along the tangential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the specimen generates torque to drive the specimen to rotate, thereby causing the specimen to rotate around its own axis. The barcode scanning module is installed between the front washboard 720 and the rear washboard 721.

[0072] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the third direction is perpendicular to the first direction. This direction setting allows the movement direction of the front and rear washboards 720 and 721 to be perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the specimen, avoiding interference with the axial position of the specimen during movement, ensuring that the specimen is always within the scanning area of ​​the barcode scanning module during rotation, and improving the stability of the recognition process.

[0073] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a movement channel is provided along a third direction on the specimen storage section 22 for the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 to pass through. The movement channel penetrates the side wall of the sample storage slide 221, ensuring that the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 are not interfered with by the structure of the sample storage slide 221 during reciprocating motion, thus ensuring the normal operation of the rotating module 72. When the specimen is identified and needs to be discharged to the subsequent specimen moving unit 8, the front rubbing plate 720 is located in the movement channel during the forward extension movement, and the rear rubbing plate 721 is disengaged from the movement channel during the contraction movement movement. At this time, the specimen at the end of the sample storage slide 221 is no longer blocked by the rear rubbing plate 721 and is discharged outward from the end of the specimen storage section 22 to the specimen moving unit 8 under its own gravity or the push of the subsequent specimen, realizing the smooth flow of the identified specimen.

[0074] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, the identification unit 7 also includes a third sensor 70, which can be an infrared sensor, fixed above the sample storage slide 221, capable of downward detection, and configured to detect whether the sample is within the scanning area of ​​the barcode scanning module 71. When the third sensor 70 detects a specimen in the scanning area, it immediately sends a signal to the control system. The control system then sends start signals to the front rubbing plate driver 722, the rear rubbing plate driver 723, and the barcode scanning module. The front rubbing plate driver 722 and the rear rubbing plate driver 723 drive the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721 to rotate the specimen. The barcode scanning module starts scanning simultaneously. When the third sensor 70 detects no specimen in the scanning area, it sends a signal to the control system. The control system then controls the front rubbing plate driver 722 and the rear rubbing plate driver 723 to reset the front rubbing plate 720 and the rear rubbing plate 721. At this time, the rear rubbing plate 721 is in an extended state and partially located in the movement channel, while the front rubbing plate 720 is in a retracted state and disengaged from the movement channel. The rear rubbing plate 721 can block and limit subsequent specimens in the sample storage chute 221, preventing premature specimen discharge and ensuring orderly identification.

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the specimen moving unit 8 is located downstream of the identification unit 7. Its core function is to receive the specimen discharged from the end of the regularization unit 2 and move the specimen between different positions based on the identification result generated by the identification unit 7, so as to realize the classification and diversion of the specimen and prepare for subsequent delivery to different specimen channels 10.

[0076] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the specimen moving unit 8 is configured to receive the specimen discharged from the end of the regularization unit 2 and move the specimen at least between an initial position, a first position, and a second position based on the recognition result. The initial position is the specimen receiving position, and in response to the initial position, the specimen discharged from the end of the regularization unit 2 is received. After the specimen is received at the initial position, the specimen moving unit 8 determines the target channel corresponding to the specimen based on the recognition result, and then moves the specimen to the corresponding first or second position, thereby achieving preliminary classification of different types of specimens and meeting basic diversion requirements.

[0077] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the specimen moving unit 8 is configured to receive the specimen discharged from the end of the regularization unit 2 and move the specimen at least between an initial position, a first position, a second position, and a third position based on the identification result. Compared to a scheme with only three positions, a third position is added as a retrieval position. In response to the third position, the specimen moving unit 8 moves the specimen to the retrieval inlet of the retrieval chamber 12, and the specimen enters the retrieval chamber 12 through the retrieval inlet. This design is mainly used to handle unqualified specimens such as those with identification failures, abnormal information, or specimen damage, to prevent unqualified specimens from entering the normal delivery process and affecting the detection results or causing equipment failure, thereby improving the standardization and reliability of specimen processing.

[0078] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the specimen moving unit 8 includes a specimen moving chamber 81 and a specimen moving module 82. The specimen moving chamber 81 is vertically arranged, with a specimen moving chamber inlet 810 on one side facing the end of the regularization unit 2 for receiving specimens; the lower end of the specimen moving chamber 81 has a specimen moving chamber outlet 811 for discharging specimens. The delivery unit 9 is configured to simultaneously open the specimen moving chamber outlet 811, the recovery inlet, and the specimen inlet 101 to ensure that specimens can be smoothly delivered from the specimen moving chamber 81 to the corresponding recovery chamber 12 or specimen channel 10. The specimen moving module 82 is configured to drive the specimen moving chamber 81 to move at least between the initial position, the first position, the second position, and the third position. The specimen moving module 82 can be a linear module, a cylinder drive mechanism, or a lead screw transmission mechanism, etc., and has precise positioning capabilities to ensure that the specimen moving chamber 81 can accurately stop at each target position.

[0079] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a fourth sensor 80 is also included. The fourth sensor 80 can be a photoelectric sensor or an infrared sensor, fixed at the entrance or inside the specimen movement chamber 81, and configured to detect whether a specimen has entered the specimen movement chamber 81. When the fourth sensor 80 detects a specimen entering the specimen movement chamber 81, it immediately sends a signal to the specimen movement module 82, triggering the specimen movement module 82 to move the specimen movement chamber 81. This eliminates the need for manual triggering, achieving automated control of specimen movement and improving operational efficiency.

[0080] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2As shown, the system also includes a fifth sensor 86, a sixth sensor 85, and a seventh sensor 84. These sensors are respectively positioned at preset docking points at the first, second, and third positions, and are configured to sequentially detect the specimen moving chamber 81 at these positions. When the specimen moving chamber 81 moves to a target position, the corresponding sensor detects it and sends a positioning signal. Upon receiving the positioning signal, the specimen moving module 82 stops driving, ensuring precise docking of the specimen moving chamber 81 and guaranteeing the accuracy of subsequent specimen delivery. Furthermore, the specimen moving chamber 81 is equipped with a first trigger magnetic element 83 that cooperates with the sensors. The corresponding fifth, sixth, and seventh sensors 84 are Hall effect sensors. Magnetic induction enables precise detection and coordination between the sensors and the specimen moving chamber 81, improving positioning accuracy and detection stability, and avoiding positioning deviations caused by mechanical errors.

[0081] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the delivery unit 9 is located between the specimen inlet 101 and the specimen moving unit 8. It is a key unit for controlling the timing and path of specimen delivery. Its core configuration is to open and close the specimen inlet 101 and the outlet of the specimen moving unit 8 to ensure that the specimen can be delivered to the corresponding specimen channel 10 or the recovery chamber 12 at the correct time, so as to avoid misdelivery, missed delivery or incorrect delivery.

[0082] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the delivery unit 9 is configured to simultaneously open the specimen inlet 101, specimen movement chamber outlet 811, and retrieval inlet of at least two specimen channels 10. The specimens are always delivered one by one during the delivery process. Therefore, opening all specimen inlets 101, specimen movement chamber outlet 811, and retrieval inlet simultaneously by the delivery unit 9 will not affect the delivery of specimens to the target location. Furthermore, it can simplify the structure of the delivery unit 9 itself and reduce the cost of use.

[0083] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1As shown, the dispensing unit 9 includes a telescopic baffle 91 and a dispensing driver 90. The dispensing driver 90 is configured to drive the telescopic baffle 91 to reciprocate. The telescopic baffle 91 is configured to selectively open and close the specimen inlet 101, the specimen movement chamber outlet 811, and the retrieval inlet during the reciprocating movement. The telescopic baffle 91 is made of metal with a smooth surface to reduce friction with the specimen. The dispensing driver 90 can be an electromagnetic push rod, a cylinder, or a servo motor. By driving the linear reciprocating motion of the telescopic baffle 91, it can block and avoid each inlet and outlet, thereby completing the opening and closing actions. When a specimen needs to be dispensed, the dispensing driver 90 drives the telescopic baffle 91 to retract, opening the corresponding specimen inlet 101 and specimen movement chamber outlet 811. When dispensing is complete or not required, the dispensing driver 90 drives the telescopic baffle 91 to extend, closing each inlet and outlet. The structure is simple, the control is precise, and the response is rapid.

[0084] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The second direction is the arrangement direction of the specimen channel 10, and the first direction is the arrangement direction of the specimens. The perpendicular arrangement of the two can make the specimen moving unit 8 move the specimens in the same direction as the arrangement direction of the specimen channel 10, shorten the movement path of the specimens, improve the diversion efficiency, and at the same time make the overall structure of the device more reasonable and compact, saving installation space.

[0085] The specimen sending unit 11 is set up in correspondence with the specimen channel 10. Its core function is to receive the specimens transported by the specimen channel 10 and move the specimens to the sending position to complete the final sending operation. It is the key unit for achieving efficient specimen sending.

[0086] Figure 5 The side view of the movable slider in the receiving position of the specimen sending device is shown. Figure 6 The top view of the movable slider at the receiving position is shown. Figure 7 The side view of the moving slider at the sending position is shown. Figure 8 The top view of the moving slider at the sending position is shown.

[0087] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figures 5 to 8As shown, the specimen delivery unit 11 includes a delivery housing 110, a movable slider 111, and a slider movement driver 112. The movable slider 111 is disposed inside the delivery housing 110 and can reciprocate along a fourth direction under the drive of the slider movement driver 112. The fourth direction is perpendicular to the second direction. The upper end of the delivery housing 110 is provided with at least two specimen inlet ports 1100, at least two upper through-tube ports 1101, and at least two lower through-tube ports 1102. The upper through-tube ports 1101 and lower through-tube ports 1102 are vertically corresponding and connected to the delivery pipeline. The delivery pipeline is used to transport the specimen to the final destination (such as various testing departments or testing equipment). The movable slider 111 is provided with a delivery channel 3 and a bypass channel 114. The number of bypass channels 114 corresponds to the number of delivery channels 3, and the bypass channels 114 and delivery channels 3 are distributed along the fourth direction.

[0088] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, when the slider 111 is in the receiving position, the transmitting channel 3 is connected to the specimen inlet port 1100, and the bypass channel 114 is connected to the upper through-tube port 1101 and the lower through-tube port 1102. At this time, the specimen enters the transmitting channel 3 through the specimen inlet port 1100 to complete the receiving process. When the slider 111 is in the transmitting position, the transmitting channel 3 is connected to the upper through-tube port 1101 and the lower through-tube port 1102. At this time, the specimen in the transmitting channel 3 enters the transmitting pipe through the upper through-tube port 1101 and the lower through-tube port 1102 to complete the transmitting process. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when the slider 111 moves from the sending position to the receiving position, at least one of the sending channel 3 and the bypass channel 114 is connected to the upper through-pipe port 1101 and the lower through-pipe port 1102 to ensure that the sending pipeline is always connected, avoid airflow interruption or pressure fluctuation in the sending pipeline, and ensure the stability of specimen sending.

[0089] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, the bypass channel 114 and the transmitting channel 3 share a common sidewall 1110. The minimum wall thickness of the common sidewall 1110 is less than the diameter of the upper through-pipe port 1101 and the lower through-pipe port 1102. This design minimizes the distance between the bypass channel 114 and the transmitting channel 3 while ensuring the structural strength of the moving slider 111, making the overall size of the moving slider 111 more compact. Simultaneously, it ensures that during the movement of the moving slider 111, the upper through-pipe port 1101 and the lower through-pipe port 1102 can quickly switch and connect with either the bypass channel 114 or the transmitting channel 3, improving channel switching efficiency.

[0090] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the width of the bypass channel 114 in the fourth direction is more than twice the diameter of the transmission channel 3. This sufficient width design ensures that the communication area between the bypass channel 114 and the upper through-pipe port 1101 and the lower through-pipe port 1102 is large enough to guarantee smooth airflow within the transmission pipe and prevent increased airflow resistance due to narrow channels, which could affect the transmission speed and stability of the specimen.

[0091] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the single stroke of the movable slider 111 between the receiving position and the transmitting position is equal to the diameter of the bypass channel 114. This stroke setting allows the movable slider 111 to complete the switching between the receiving and transmitting positions with only a short distance, shortening the channel switching time, improving the specimen transmission efficiency, and reducing the energy consumption and mechanical wear of the slider movement driver 112.

[0092] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the cross-section of the bypass channel 114 is configured as an elliptical hole, an oblong hole, or a semi-oblong hole. Compared to a circular hole, the elliptical hole, oblong hole, or semi-oblong hole has a longer length in the fourth direction, which can further increase the overlapping area with the upper through-pipe port 1101 and the lower through-pipe port 1102, ensuring smooth airflow, and at the same time, better adapting to the channel switching during the movement of the moving slider 111, avoiding airflow leakage caused by communication gaps.

[0093] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the sending unit 11 further includes a seal disposed between the movable slider 111 and the sending housing 110, configured to prevent compressed air from entering the sending channel 3 when it is in the receiving position. The specimen sending process is typically driven by compressed air. The seal prevents compressed air from leaking into the sending channel 3 when it is in the receiving position, avoiding interference with the specimen entering the sending channel 3, ensuring the specimen enters the sending channel 3 smoothly and accurately, and simultaneously ensuring stable compressed air pressure, thus improving the reliability of specimen sending.

[0094] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a seal is disposed between the common sidewall 1110 and the delivery housing 110. This arrangement can specifically enhance the sealing performance at the connection between the bypass channel 114 and the delivery channel 3, prevent compressed air from leaking from the gap between them, further improve the sealing effect, ensure that all compressed air can be used for specimen delivery, and improve energy utilization.

[0095] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 6 and Figure 8As shown, the sealing element includes a first sealing ring 115 and a second sealing ring 116. The first sealing ring 115 is located at the upper and lower ends of the movable slider 111. The sending channel 3 and the bypass channel 114 are located within the area enclosed by the first sealing ring 115. The first sealing ring 115 achieves overall sealing of the upper and lower ends of the movable slider 111, preventing compressed air from leaking from the upper and lower gap between the movable slider 111 and the sending housing 110. The bypass channel 114 is located within the area enclosed by the second sealing ring 116. The second sealing ring 116 strengthens the sealing of the bypass channel 114 area, further improving the sealing reliability. The dual sealing design can effectively ensure the sealing effect and adapt to the sending scenario driven by high-pressure compressed air.

[0096] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a barrier 117 is provided at the upper end of the bypass channel 114, and the gaps in the barrier 117 are smaller than the diameter of the specimen. The barrier 117 prevents the specimen from accidentally entering the bypass channel 114 during transmission, avoiding the specimen from blocking the bypass channel 114 or falling out of the bypass channel 114, and ensuring that the specimen can only enter the transmission pipe along the transmission channel 3, the upper through-pipe port 1101, and the lower through-pipe port 1102, thus ensuring the uniqueness and smoothness of the specimen transmission path.

[0097] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the specimen delivery device also includes an eighth sensor 100, which can be an infrared sensor configured to detect whether a specimen exists in the specimen channel 10. When the eighth sensor 100 detects the presence of a specimen in the specimen channel 10, it sends a signal to the slider movement driver 112 to control the slider 111 to move to the receiving position, ready to receive the specimen. When the eighth sensor 100 detects the absence of a specimen in the specimen channel 10, it sends a signal to the slider movement driver 112 to control the slider 111 to move to the delivery position, completing the specimen delivery operation. This achieves automatic switching of the slider 111's position and improves the automation level of the device.

[0098] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, in response to the presence of a specimen in any specimen channel 10, the delivery unit 9 closes the specimen inlet 101 and the outlet of the specimen moving unit 8. This design avoids specimen accumulation and blockage caused by the continued delivery of subsequent specimens when there are still specimens in a certain specimen channel 10 that have not been delivered, ensuring that specimens in each specimen channel 10 can be delivered sequentially and orderly, thus improving the stability of equipment operation.

[0099] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a ninth sensor is also included, configured to detect whether the movable slider 111 is in the sending position. When the ninth sensor detects that the movable slider 111 is in the sending position, it indicates that the sending channel 3 is connected to the sending pipe. At this time, the compressed air system is started, and the specimen is sent out through the sending pipe under the action of compressed air. When the ninth sensor detects that the movable slider 111 has been in the sending position for a period of time exceeding a preset value, it indicates that the specimen has been sent. At this time, a signal is sent to the slider movement driver 112 to control the movable slider 111 to move to the receiving position to prepare to receive the next specimen, thereby realizing automated control of specimen sending and slider reset and improving work efficiency.

[0100] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a tenth sensor is also included. The tenth sensor is configured to detect whether the movable slider 111 is in the receiving position. The movable slider 111 is provided with a second trigger magnetic element that cooperates with the ninth and tenth sensors. Through the cooperation of the second trigger magnetic element with the ninth and tenth sensors, the position status of the movable slider 111 can be accurately detected, ensuring that the movable slider 111 can accurately stop at the sending or receiving position. This provides accurate positional assurance for subsequent specimen sending and receiving operations, and also facilitates the equipment control system to monitor the working status of the movable slider 111 in real time, and promptly detect and handle positional anomalies.

[0101] The specimen sending device in this embodiment operates as follows, achieving fully automated operation of the specimen sorting, identification, sorting, and sending process: The first step, specimen preparation stage: The specimen to be processed is placed into the receiving chamber 203 through the receiving port 2030. Under the guidance of gravity on the receiving ramp 201, the specimen slides down and gathers at the lower part of the receiving ramp 201. After the first sensor 202 detects the specimen to be lifted, it triggers the lifting driver 215 to start, driving the lifting transmission belt 211 and the pallet 212 to move. The pallet 212 moves upward from below the receiving ramp 201 to receive the specimen and lifts the specimen to the upper end of the lifting frame 210. When the pallet 212 changes from vertical movement to horizontal movement, the specimen is lifted from the pallet 210. 2. The specimen falls into the specimen transposition inlet 216 and enters the sample storage slide 221 through the specimen transposition channel. Under the gravity of the sample storage slide 221, the specimen slides along the first direction and is arranged one by one. When the second sensor 220 detects that the number of specimens in the sample storage slide 221 has reached the preset value, the lifting driver 215 stops. When the number of specimens is lower than the preset lower limit, the lifting driver 215 restarts to replenish the material. If emergency delivery is required, the delivery handle 5 is opened and the specimen is delivered through the manual delivery channel 4. At this time, the eleventh sensor triggers the lifting driver 215 to stop. After delivery is completed and the handle is closed, the lifting driver 215 resumes operation.

[0102] The second step is the specimen identification stage: the specimen at the end of the sample storage slide 221 enters the scanning area of ​​the identification unit 7. After the third sensor 70 detects the specimen, it triggers the front washboard driver 722, the rear washboard driver 723 and the barcode scanning module to start. The front washboard 720 and the rear washboard 721 reciprocate along the third direction, causing the specimen to rotate around its own axis. The barcode scanning module scans the information code on the specimen and generates the identification result. After the identification is completed, the front washboard 720 extends forward and the rear washboard 721 retracts, and the specimen is discharged from the end of the sample storage slide 221 to the specimen moving unit 8.

[0103] The third step is the specimen diversion stage: the specimen enters the specimen movement chamber 81 through the specimen movement chamber inlet 810. After the fourth sensor 80 detects the specimen, it triggers the specimen movement module 82 to start. According to the recognition result, it moves the specimen movement chamber 81 to the corresponding position (first position, second position or third position). After the fifth, sixth and seventh sensors detect the specimen movement chamber 81 accurately stopping through the first trigger magnetic element 83, the delivery driver 90 drives the telescopic baffle 91 to retract, opening the corresponding specimen inlet 101 and specimen movement chamber outlet 811 (or recovery inlet). The specimen is delivered to the corresponding specimen channel 10 or recovery chamber 12. After delivery, the telescopic baffle 91 extends to close each inlet / outlet.

[0104] Step 4, Specimen Sending Stage: After the eighth sensor 100 detects a specimen in the specimen channel 10, it triggers the slider movement driver 112 to move the slider 111 to the receiving position. The specimen enters the sending channel 3 through the specimen entry port 1100. Subsequently, the slider 111 moves to the sending position. After the ninth sensor detects the sending position, compressed air is activated, and the specimen is sent out through the upper through-pipe port 1101, the lower through-pipe port 1102, and the sending pipe. After the sending time exceeds the preset value, the slider 111 resets to the receiving position. After the tenth sensor detects the receiving position, it prepares to receive the next specimen.

[0105] According to another aspect of this application, a method for sending a specimen is provided, comprising the following steps: S1: The specimen is well-organized. The specimen to be processed is placed into the receiving chamber 203, and the specimen slides down and gathers on the receiving ramp 201. After the first sensor 202 detects the specimen to be lifted, it triggers the lifting driver 215 to start. The lifting conveyor belt 211 drives the tray 212 to receive the specimen and lift it. The specimen is discharged from the tray 212 and enters the sample storage chute 221 through the indexing channel and is arranged along the first direction. The second sensor 220 controls the lifting driver 215 to start and stop replenishing the material according to the number of specimens in the sample storage chute 221. S2: Specimen identification. When the specimen enters the scanning area at the end of the sample storage slide 221, the third sensor 70 detects the specimen and triggers the start of the washboard driver and barcode scanning module. The washboard drives the specimen to rotate, and the barcode scanning module scans the information code to generate the identification result. After the identification is completed, the washboard 721 moves to discharge the specimen. S3: Specimen diversion, the discharged specimen enters the specimen movement chamber 81, the fourth sensor 80 triggers the movement module to start, and the movement chamber is moved to the target position according to the recognition result; after the sensor detects accurate docking, the delivery driver 90 drives the baffle to open the corresponding channel, and the specimen is delivered to the specimen channel 10 or the recovery chamber 12. After delivery, the baffle is closed. S4: Specimen transmission. After the eighth sensor 100 detects a specimen in the specimen channel 10, it moves the slider 111 to the receiving position to receive the specimen. Then the slider moves to the transmission position, and after the ninth sensor confirms, it starts compressed air to transmit the specimen. After the transmission timeout, the slider resets, and the tenth sensor confirms that the reset is complete and prepares to receive the next specimen.

[0106] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, in step S4, the movable slider 111 is further provided with a bypass channel 114 corresponding to the number of transmitting channels 3, and the bypass channel 114 and the transmitting channel 3 are distributed along the fourth direction; when the movable slider 111 is in the receiving position, the transmitting channel 3 is connected to the specimen inlet port 1100, and the bypass channel 114 is connected to the upper through-tube port 1101 and the lower through-tube port 1102; when the movable slider 111 moves from the transmitting position to the receiving position, at least one of the transmitting channel 3 and the bypass channel 114 remains connected to the upper through-tube port 1101 and the lower through-tube port 1102.

[0107] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, step S1 further includes an emergency delivery sub-step: when an emergency delivery is required, the delivery handle 5 at the upper end of the manual delivery channel 4 is opened. After the eleventh sensor detects that the delivery handle 5 is opened, it sends a stop signal to the lifting driver 215, and the lifting driver 215 stops running. After the specimen is delivered to the sample storage slide 221 through the manual delivery channel 4, the delivery handle 5 is closed. After the eleventh sensor detects that the delivery handle 5 is closed, it sends a recovery signal to the lifting driver 215, and the lifting driver 215 resumes operation.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, in step S3, the target location includes a first location, a second location, and a third location. The third location is the retrieval location. When the specimen identification result is unqualified, the specimen moving chamber 81 moves to the third location, and the specimen enters the retrieval chamber 12 through the retrieval inlet.

[0109] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, in step S4, when a specimen is present in any specimen channel 10, the delivery unit 9 keeps the specimen inlet 101 and the specimen moving unit 8 outlet closed until the specimen in the specimen channel 10 is sent.

[0110] Other embodiments of this application will readily conceive of by those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments thereof. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not claimed in this application. The specification and embodiments are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this application are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A medical specimen preparation device, characterized in that, include: The specimen receiving section is configured to receive specimens. The specimen lifting unit is configured to lift and transport the received specimen upwards in a horizontal orientation to a target position, where the specimen falls downwards at the target position. The specimen storage unit includes a storage space for storing multiple specimens. The specimen storage unit is configured to receive specimens that fall from the target location, arrange the specimens one by one in the storage space along a first direction, and transport the arranged specimens outward one by one.

2. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The specimen storage section includes a sample storage slide, the sample storage space is located inside the sample storage slide, the sample storage slide includes an upper opening and a lower opening, the upper opening is used to receive specimens falling from the target position, and the lower opening is used to transport specimens outward. The sample storage slide is inclined downward along the first direction so that the specimen entering the sample storage slide through the upper opening slides downward by gravity.

3. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper opening extends through in the first direction, and the width of the upper opening is smaller than the diameter of the specimen cap. The projection of the axis of the specimen at the target location onto the horizontal plane is located within the projection of the upper opening onto the horizontal plane.

4. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The specimen receiving section includes a receiving compartment with a receiving port at its upper part and a downwardly sloping receiving ramp at its lower part. The specimen lifting section is configured to move at least part of itself upwards and downwards along the receiving ramp to receive the specimen located below the receiving ramp and lift the specimen to the target position.

5. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The specimen lifting section includes a lifting frame, a lifting transmission belt, transmission wheels, a lifting driver, and multiple trays. The transmission wheels are located at the upper and lower ends of the lifting frame, and the lifting transmission belt is sleeved on the transmission wheels at both ends. At least one end of the transmission wheel is connected to the lifting driver. The trays are fixed laterally on the lifting transmission belt, and multiple trays are spaced apart along the length of the lifting transmission belt. The transmission wheels drive the lifting transmission belt to move and drive the trays to perform vertical and horizontal movements. The tray is configured to move upward below the receiving slope and receive the specimen located at the lower part of the receiving slope. In response to the tray changing from vertical movement to horizontal movement to the target position, the specimen is discharged downward from the tray and falls into the sample storage space.

6. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a specimen lifting channel, which is arranged vertically and whose upper end is connected to the lower end of the receiving inclined surface. The tray moves upward through the specimen lifting channel, and the specimen enters the specimen lifting channel through the lower end of the receiving inclined surface and is lifted by the tray. The width of the specimen lifting channel is (1, 2) times the diameter of the specimen, and the depth of the specimen lifting channel is less than the distance between adjacent trays.

7. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The specimen receiving unit further includes a first sensor configured to detect whether the lower part of the receiving ramp passes over the specimen to be lifted, and the lifting driver is activated in response to the lower part of the receiving ramp passing over the specimen to be lifted.

8. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The upper end of the lifting frame is provided with a specimen transposition inlet, which is located below the tray when the tray moves horizontally to the target position. The projection of the center line of the specimen transposition inlet onto the horizontal plane is located within the projection of the upper opening onto the horizontal plane. The upper end of the lifting frame is also provided with an inlet front baffle and an inlet rear baffle. The inlet front baffle and the inlet rear baffle are located below the specimen transposition inlet. The inlet front baffle and the inlet rear baffle form a specimen transposition channel. The lower end of the specimen transposition channel is connected to the upper opening. The specimen enters the specimen transposition channel through the specimen transposition inlet by its own gravity and enters the sample storage space through the upper opening.

9. The medical specimen preparation device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The lifting frame is also provided with a specimen rejection plate, which is located below the upper drive wheel and close to the lifting side of the lifting drive belt. The specimen rejection plate is configured to prevent specimens in non-lifting postures from moving upward. The lifting frame is also provided with a retrieval guide plate, which is located between the two sides of the lifting transmission belt. The retrieval guide plate includes a vertical plate and an inclined plate. The vertical plate is located on one side of the specimen rejection plate and extends downward. The inclined plate is fixed to the lower end of the vertical plate. The upper end of the specimen lifting channel is connected to the lower end of the inclined plate. The inclined plate is configured to guide a portion of the specimen blocked by the specimen rejection plate to move downward into the specimen lifting channel.

10. A specimen delivery device, characterized in that, The device includes a medical specimen preparation apparatus and a sending unit as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sending unit is configured to send the prepared specimen in a directional manner.

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