Ultrasonic cleaning machine, method of injecting liquid into a liquid storage portion of an ultrasonic cleaning machine, and automatic analysis device

Abstract

This invention provides a technique that reduces the amount of cleaning fluid required during cleaning and improves cleaning and maintenance. This disclosure proposes an ultrasonic cleaner for ultrasonically cleaning dispensing nozzles, comprising: an ultrasonic transducer having a front mass; and a block component including an orifice and a cleaning tank recess. The orifice is disposed along its length and is used to insert the front mass. The cleaning tank recess is used to house a cleaning tank with a wall having an elastic body at least in a portion, into which the dispensing nozzle to be cleaned can be inserted. The cleaning tank recess is disposed in the block component along a direction different from the length direction in which the orifice is disposed. A liquid reservoir for storing a liquid different from the cleaning fluid is formed by a gap formed between the front mass inserted into the orifice, the orifice, and the wall of the cleaning tank. The cleaning fluid held in the cleaning tank and the liquid stored in the liquid reservoir are separated by the wall of the cleaning tank. The front end of the front mass is configured to irradiate ultrasonic waves from the side of the cleaning tank.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an ultrasonic cleaner, a method for injecting liquid into the liquid reservoir of the ultrasonic cleaner, and an automatic analysis device. Background Technology

[0002] The automated analyzer mixes samples such as serum and urine with reagents and measures the transmittance of light irradiated onto the mixture to perform component analysis. Because the same nozzle is repeatedly used to dispense samples in the automated analyzer, the nozzle tip is rinsed with water before aspirating other samples.

[0003] However, in high-throughput automated analyzers, the high-speed dispensing process leaves insufficient time for nozzle cleaning. Consequently, contaminants from sample components sometimes accumulate at the nozzle tip. This accumulation can lead to dispensing volume deviations, carryover of previous sample components into the next sample, and reduced measurement accuracy. Therefore, daily cleaning and maintenance are necessary to address this issue.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an ultrasonic cleaner with the following structure: In order to deal with the dirt at the nozzle tip, a bolt-fastened Langziwan vibrator (hereinafter referred to as "BLT") is installed on the side of the cleaning tank, and ultrasonic waves are directly irradiated onto the nozzle from the front mass of the BLT located in the cleaning tank via the liquid in the cleaning tank.

[0005] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses the following structure: as an example of an ultrasonic cleaner for nozzle cleaning, the liquid storage tank is set as a double layer, an ultrasonic transducer for excitation is installed in the outer tank, and different types of liquids are placed in the inner and outer tanks respectively for cleaning.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-034566

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-158426 Summary of the Invention

[0010] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0011] For example, in an automated analysis device that has already been delivered and put into use, when adding a new unit capable of cleaning and maintaining the nozzles, it is preferable to add a small cleaning unit in the narrow space remaining between the configured components, and to add it temporarily during maintenance. This is because large-scale hardware changes present problems such as increased modification costs and periods when analysis is impossible.

[0012] On the other hand, according to Patent Document 1, in the cleaning support, the front mass of the BLT irradiating with ultrasonic waves is located in the liquid within the cleaning tank. Because the ultrasonic waves are directly irradiated, strong cavitation (the phenomenon of bubble generation and disappearance caused by pressure differences in the liquid) can be efficiently generated on the nozzle for cleaning. To generate strong ultrasonic waves in the BLT, the amplitude of the ultrasonic irradiation surface (front mass) needs to be amplified. Therefore, in Patent Document 1, a seal (O-ring) to prevent liquid leakage from the cleaning tank is provided on the flange portion that forms the vibrating node, and the front mass portion of the BLT, located closer to the front end of the flange portion, is almost entirely disposed in the liquid. Furthermore, to vibrate with a large amplitude, the BLT is generally driven at a resonant frequency. In particular, to resonate at a frequency of approximately 20kHz to 50kHz, which is conducive to generating cavitation, the overall length is designed to be relatively long. Therefore, with the front mass having a slender shape and being disposed in the liquid as described above, the contact area with the liquid is larger, and the amount of cleaning liquid used also increases. Furthermore, for the liquid in the cleaning tank, new cleaning fluid is added before cleaning the nozzles and discarded after cleaning.

[0013] When the cleaning solution is discarded, areas that came into contact with the contaminated liquid require cleaning operations such as rinsing. In structures where the entire length of the elongated precursor body is immersed in the cleaning solution, as described above, cleaning is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Furthermore, since a gap forms between the slender precursor body and the cleaning tank, the liquid level can vary even when the same amount of liquid is added to the cleaning tank, depending on whether the liquid enters the gap, thus affecting the cleaning range.

[0014] Furthermore, in the example of ultrasonic cleaning described in Patent Document 2, the same structure as a conventional ultrasonic cleaner is used. In conventional ultrasonic cleaners where piezoelectric elements are incorporated, the amplitude of the ultrasonic waves irradiated is amplified by using a large area, such as the bottom surface of the cleaning tank, as a diaphragm, thereby generating standing waves in the liquid through this vibration. The standing waves have regions where the sound pressure is high (the antinodes of the standing waves), and cavitation occurs in these regions.

[0015] However, according to the cleaning principle described in Patent Document 2, compared with commercially available ultrasonic cleaners, when using a miniaturized (small area) support that requires a bottom (or side) surface, it is difficult to achieve a cleaning effect based on cavitation because it does not generate sufficient amplitude. In particular, the cleaning efficiency is reduced in order to concentrate on cleaning the tip of nozzles with a diameter of less than 1 mm.

[0016] Furthermore, in indirect tank systems (double-layer cleaning tanks) where a conventional ultrasonic cleaner places another tank into the cleaning tank, the inner tank (the indirect tank) is usually made of a harder material (such as stainless steel or glass). This is because the principle is to generate ultrasonic waves within the indirect tank by allowing vibrations from the outer tank to propagate through the vibrating surface in contact with the liquid and the indirect tank. This requires rigidity capable of propagating vibrations in a higher ultrasonic frequency band.

[0017] However, metals and glass readily reflect ultrasonic waves, causing ultrasonic waves from the outer tank to be reflected in the indirect tank. The ultrasonic waves generated within the indirect tank are generated by the indirect tank itself within the ultrasonic frequency band. Compared to the method of direct ultrasonic irradiation, the efficiency of cavitation generation (cleaning efficiency using cavitation) is reduced. Therefore, in the indirect tank method, which is based on the above cleaning principle, in a support-type cleaning machine configured in a confined space, the distance between the BLT and the indirect tank needs to be set relatively close. Consequently, the ultrasonic waves reflected from the indirect tank become the load driving the BLT, reducing the driving efficiency.

[0018] In view of this situation, this disclosure provides a technology that enables the required amount of cleaning fluid to be reduced during cleaning and improves cleaning and maintainability.

[0019] Solution for solving the problem

[0020] To address the aforementioned issues, this disclosure proposes an ultrasonic cleaner for ultrasonically cleaning dispensing nozzles. The cleaner comprises: an ultrasonic transducer having a pre-mass body; and a block component including an orifice and a cleaning tank recess. The orifice is disposed along its length and is used to insert the pre-mass body. The cleaning tank recess is used to house a cleaning tank with a wall having an elastic body at least in a portion, into which the dispensing nozzle to be cleaned can be inserted. The cleaning tank recess is disposed in the block component along a direction different from the length direction in which the orifice is disposed. A liquid reservoir for storing a liquid different from the cleaning fluid is formed by a gap formed between the pre-mass body inserted into the orifice, the orifice, and the wall of the cleaning tank. The cleaning fluid held in the cleaning tank and the liquid stored in the liquid reservoir are separated by the wall of the cleaning tank. The front end of the pre-mass body is configured to irradiate ultrasonic waves from the side of the cleaning tank.

[0021] Other features associated with this disclosure will become clear from the description and drawings in this specification. Furthermore, this disclosure is achieved and implemented by means of elements, combinations of multiple elements, and the detailed description below and the appended claims.

[0022] The description in this specification is merely a typical example and does not limit the claims or applications of this disclosure in any way.

[0023] The effects of the invention are as follows.

[0024] According to this disclosure, an ultrasonic cleaner can be provided, which has a structure suitable for mounting in a narrow space such as a conveyor support, which enables the amount of cleaning fluid required during cleaning to be small, is easy to clean and maintain, and can irradiate the outer periphery of the nozzle with powerful ultrasonic waves. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the automatic analysis device 10 of this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2A This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the cleaning unit 200 of the ultrasonic cleaner according to this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2B It is shown Figure 2A A diagram of an example of an AA section structure.

[0028] Figure 2C It is Figure 2B The enlarged image is within the dashed box.

[0029] Figure 2D It is shown Figure 2A The diagram shows an example of the front structure of the cleaning section 200.

[0030] Figure 2E It is shown Figure 2A A diagram illustrating the side structure of the cleaning section 200.

[0031] Figure 2F It is shown Figure 2A The diagram shows an example of the overall appearance and structure of the cleaning unit 200.

[0032] Figure 2G It is shown that... Figure 2A A cross-sectional diagram of a cleaning tank is shown.

[0033] Figure 2H It is shown Figure 2A The diagram shows an example of the external structure of a cleaning tank.

[0034] Figure 3 It will be with Figure 2C An enlarged schematic diagram of the area around the front end of the front mass 206 (206A and 206B in the figure) of the same ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B (the black part is the liquid in the reservoir 216).

[0035] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram (viewed from above) showing a structural example of a cleaning tank 210 supported from the left and right sides, ensuring space (gap) between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass body 206.

[0036] Figure 4BThis is a schematic diagram (viewed from above) showing a structural example in which the cleaning tank 210 is supported by the groove of the cleaning unit base 202, and a space (gap) is ensured between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass body 206.

[0037] Figure 4C This is a schematic diagram showing a structural example in which the front end of the front mass 206 is located within the through hole 214 and a gap is ensured.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a structural example of the cleaning bracket 30 of the ultrasonic cleaner of this embodiment.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning action of the dispensing nozzle performed by the ultrasonic cleaner of this embodiment.

[0040] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of the functional structure of the automatic analysis device 10 according to this embodiment, corresponding to the case of using an ultrasonic cleaner built into a conveyor support. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The ultrasonic cleaner of this embodiment is characterized by a structure in which the cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank does not seep into the portion of the pre-receiving mass body containing the ultrasonic transducer. Hereinafter, embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] <Example of the structure of an automatic analysis device>

[0043] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a structural example of the automatic analysis device 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the automatic analysis device 10 includes: a reagent tray 12, which is provided with a plurality of reagent containers 11; a reaction tray 13, which mixes reagents with samples to determine the reaction; a reagent dispensing mechanism 14, which performs reagent aspiration and dispensing; and a sample dispensing mechanism 15, which performs sample aspiration and dispensing.

[0044] The reagent dispensing mechanism 14 is equipped with a reagent nozzle 21 for dispensing reagents. The sample dispensing mechanism 15 is equipped with a sample nozzle 22 for dispensing samples. Here, the nozzles such as the reagent nozzle 21 and the sample nozzle 22 are collectively referred to as "dispensing nozzles".

[0045] The sample is placed in a sample container (test tube) 23 on the support 24 and transported by the conveyor line 25. Multiple sample containers 23 are arranged on the support 24. The samples can be blood-derived samples such as serum or whole blood, or urine.

[0046] The sample dispensing mechanism 15 moves the sample nozzle 22 to the suction position for drawing samples from the sample container 23, the discharge position for dispensing samples into the container 26 (shown as an enlarged view in the figure, divided into smaller sections), and the cleaning position where the cleaning tank 27 for rinsing the tip of the sample nozzle 22 with water is located. Furthermore, the sample dispensing mechanism 15 lowers the sample nozzle 22 at the suction position (aligned with the height of the sample container 23), at the discharge position (aligned with the height of the container 26), and at the cleaning position (aligned with the height of the cleaning tank 27). In other words, the sample dispensing mechanism 15 is configured to move the sample nozzle 22 to each stop position through rotational and vertical movement. Moreover, the control of the sample dispensing mechanism 15, the conveyor line 25, and other devices is performed by a control unit (not shown).

[0047] The automatic analysis device 10 also includes a measuring unit (not shown) that analyzes the concentration of predetermined components contained in the sample by measuring the light of a mixture of sample and reagent contained in container 26. The measuring unit (not shown) includes, for example, a light source and a photometer. Here, an absorbance photometer or a scattering photometer can be used, for example.

[0048] The cleaning stand 30, equipped with an ultrasonic cleaner, includes a cleaning section (comprising a vibrating section, a cleaning section base, and a cleaning tank) 200 for cleaning the tip of the sample nozzle 22, which comes into contact with the sample. It is used during the daily maintenance of the automated analyzer 10, typically before and after analysis. When processing a large number of samples per day, the cleaning stand 30 can also be used on the conveyor line 25 during analysis intervals. This maintains the cleanliness of the sample nozzle 22.

[0049] The cleaning holder 30 can perform cleaning not only on sample nozzles, but also on reagent nozzles, as long as they are accessible to the sample nozzle 22 or reagent nozzle 21 of the delivery line 25. Furthermore, multiple sample nozzles 22 can be cleaned in a single delivery. Since reusing the cleaning solution that has become contaminated during cleaning may lead to re-adhesion of dirt, it is preferable to change the cleaning solution for each nozzle. In this case, methods include repeatedly passing one cleaning holder 30 through the delivery line 25 (after changing the cleaning solution) or passing multiple cleaning holders 30.

[0050] Furthermore, as a conveying method for the conveyor line 25, it is possible to use methods such as using a belt or pressure claw that moves along the conveyor line 25, or using electromagnetic force.

[0051] <Structural Example of the Cleaning Unit 200 of an Ultrasonic Cleaner>

[0052] Figure 2A This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the cleaning unit 200 of the ultrasonic cleaner according to this embodiment. Figure 2A The cleaning unit 200 includes two ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B (excitation units), a cleaning unit base 202, and a cleaning tank 210. Furthermore, the cleaning tank 210 has a cleaning fluid storage area 211.

[0053] Figure 2B It is shown Figure 2A A diagram illustrating an example of an AA section structure. Furthermore, Figure 2C It is Figure 2B The enlarged image within the dashed box. (Example) Figure 2B As shown, an upper block 203 with an opening for inserting a cleaning groove 210 is present on the cleaning base 202. Preferably, the upper end of the cleaning groove 210 is at or above the height of the upper block. Furthermore, the cleaning groove 210 is disposed in a recess located at the center of the cleaning base 202 and the upper block 203. A through hole 214 for inserting an ultrasonic transducer 201 is provided on the side of the cleaning base 202. Furthermore, a hole (cleaning groove insertion hole 215) for inserting the cleaning groove 210 is provided on the upper surface of the cleaning base 202. The through hole 214 extends from the outer wall of the cleaning groove 210... Figure 2B The left and right sides of the middle are formed into the recess (cleaning tank insertion hole 215).

[0054] Ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B are inserted into the two through holes 214, respectively. Ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B are fixed to the side of the cleaning unit base 202 by a flange 204 and a seal 205 (O-ring). The flange 204 can also be a different component from the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B. In practice, the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B can be fixed by pressing the flange 204 (or other fixing components for pressing the ultrasonic transducers 201) relative to the cleaning tank 210 using a threaded component or the like (where the front end of the front mass 206 does not contact the cleaning tank 210). This structure prevents liquid leakage from the through holes 214. In other words, liquid can be stored leaklessly from the O-ring pressed by the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B into the central cleaning tank insertion hole 215 (hereinafter, this liquid-storing part is referred to as the "liquid storage part 216," distinguishing it from the cleaning tank 210).

[0055] The ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B have the same structure as a typical bolt-clamped Langevin type transducer (BLT). That is, the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B are constructed by using bolts 209 to fasten multiple piezoelectric elements 208 and copper plates for multiple electrodes (not shown) between the front mass 206 (the metal block on the front surface) and the rear mass 207 (the metal block on the back). Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B include an elongated cylindrical metal section (front mass 206) at the front end. By removing the upper block 203 (containing the cleaning tank 210) from the cleaning base 202, the cylindrical section of the front mass 206 of the ultrasonic transducer 201 is exposed. Thus, the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B, like a typical BLT, are fixed by bolts. The structure of the BLT facilitates amplitude amplification, thus it is used in applications requiring powerful ultrasonic waves, including industrial ultrasonic cleaners that demand strong cleaning performance. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B are driven at a resonant frequency, thereby maximizing the amplitude at the front end of the front mass 206.

[0056] The ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B have vibration nodes (regions with consistently small amplitudes) near the flange 204. Furthermore, the seal 205 is made of an elastic material. Therefore, the impact of the contact between the front mass 206 and the seal 205 is minimal.

[0057] The through-hole 214 through which the front mass 206 passes is formed into a cylindrical shape by combining the cleaning section base 202 and the upper block 203 (an inclination or step may also be provided at the root of the through-hole 214 depending on the shape of the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B used). Furthermore, a roughly equal gap is formed between the wall of the through-hole 214 and the ultrasonic transducer 201. A seal 205 is disposed near the root of the cylindrical portion (front mass 206) to prevent liquid leakage from the through-hole 214. A gap exists between the front mass 206 and the cleaning tank 210; this gap is filled with liquid (a liquid that is difficult to evaporate, such as silicone oil), so that the ultrasonic transducer 201 is not hindered in its function due to deformation of the front end portion of the front mass 206 during operation, and can vibrate without contacting the wall of the through-hole 214.

[0058] Furthermore, regarding the liquid in the reservoir 216, by removing the upper block 203 or only removing the cleaning tank 210, as described above, the cylindrical portion of the front mass 206 is exposed, allowing liquid to be injected. Thus, the gap formed around the cylindrical portion of the front mass 206 inserted into the through hole 214 is filled with liquid. Since the liquid filling the reservoir 216 does not contact the nozzle 22 used for the sample being cleaned, liquid only needs to be replenished periodically, eliminating the need for daily injection and waste. Moreover, the liquid used to fill the reservoir 216 is preferably a liquid that is difficult to evaporate, such as silicone oil.

[0059] The cleaning fluid storage area 211 within the cleaning tank 210 ( Figure 2C The cleaning fluid is injected in such a way that the liquid level is above the upper end of the front end of the front mass body 206 (within the blackened area). For example, steps or marks (which can be called "liquid level marks") are set in advance inside the cleaning tank 210, and a certain amount of cleaning fluid is injected using a pipette or a special dispensing machine, etc., so that the cleaning fluid can be stored in the cleaning tank 210.

[0060] The ultrasonic cleaner of this embodiment is used when a predetermined liquid has been injected into the liquid storage section 216 and the cleaning tank 210, respectively. Refer to the following... Figures 4A to 4C The configuration of the cleaning tank 210 is described in detail. A gap exists between the front mass 206 and the cleaning tank 210, and this gap is also filled with injected liquid. That is, the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass 206 are positioned opposite each other via the filled liquid. In this state, two ultrasonic transducers 201 are driven to irradiate ultrasonic waves into the liquid from their front ends. The transmittance varies depending on the material of the cleaning tank 210 (details below), but a certain amount of ultrasonic waves propagates through the walls of the cleaning tank 210 into the cleaning liquid inside the cleaning tank 210.

[0061] As described above, different types of liquids can be stored at different times for the cleaning fluid of the nozzle 22 for cleaning samples and the liquid around the pre-mass body 206.

[0062] Figure 2D It is shown Figure 2A A diagram illustrating the front structure of the cleaning section 200. (See diagram for example.) Figure 2D As shown, the upper part of the cleaning unit base 202 of the cleaning unit 200 is connected to the upper block 203. The upper block 203 can be two or more parts, and it is not a problem to integrate it with the cleaning tank 210 through welding, adhesive, etc. The integration makes disassembly and installation easier.

[0063] Figure 2E It is shown Figure 2A A diagram illustrating the side structure of the cleaning section 200. (See diagram for example.) Figure 2EAs shown, in this embodiment, the flange 204 is circular, but in order to be sized to fit within the cleaning tank 210, it can also be partially cut to a shape other than circular.

[0064] Figure 2F It is shown Figure 2A The figure shows an example of the overall appearance structure of the cleaning unit 200. As described above, the cleaning tank 210 can be configured to be integrally fixed with the upper block 203, or it can be configured to be a replaceable container. Furthermore, the cleaning tank 210 can be replaced each time it is used. Moreover, the cleaning tank 210 can be provided in a manner that allows it to be replaced while already containing cleaning fluid. Regarding the cleaning tank 210, besides using a container, the liquid storage section 216 can be separated from the cleaning tank 210 by a wall; the liquid storage section 216, which serves as the wall of the cleaning unit base 202, can also be configured as a partition wall.

[0065] Figure 2G and Figure 2H These are sectional and perspective views of the cleaning tank 210. (Example) Figure 2G As shown, the cleaning tank 210 can also have a thinner portion closest to the front mass 206. This improves the transmission efficiency of the ultrasonic waves. Furthermore, the cleaning tank 210 can be made of an elastic material. Figure 2G In this design, the distance between the walls of the cleaning tank 210 in the X direction is set to approximately 3 mm, for example, and the wall thickness of the thinner parts is set to approximately 0.5 mm. The thickness of other parts is set to approximately 2 to 3 mm, so that even when using elastic materials, rigidity that maintains the shape of the container can be obtained.

[0066] Furthermore, the size of the cleaning unit 200 is preferably the size that is housed within the rack 24. By setting it to this size, the cleaning unit 200 can be moved to the position of the sample nozzle 22 for cleaning.

[0067] <The Effects of Ultrasound>

[0068] Figure 3 It will be with Figure 2C An enlarged schematic diagram of the area around the front end of the front mass 206 (206A and 206B in the figure) of the same ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B (the black part is the liquid in the reservoir 216). Figure 3 In the diagram, the area marked with a dashed line represents the region where the sound pressure increases due to ultrasonic irradiation (the case of ultrasonic wave transmission). Especially when the left and right ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B are driven with the same phase, the sound pressure intensifies in the region where the ultrasonic waves overlap. The sample nozzle 22 is inserted into the area near the center of the cleaning tank 210 where the sound pressure intensifies, thereby enabling effective cleaning.

[0069] Ultrasonic waves have the characteristic that they are easily reflected when the difference in acoustic impedance is large and easily transmitted when the difference in acoustic impedance is small. In this embodiment, under the condition that the difference in acoustic impedance between the liquid surrounding the pre-mass 206 and the cleaning tank 210 is small, the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 201 are efficiently transmitted into the liquid in the cleaning tank 210, thereby achieving a higher cleaning effect.

[0070] Acoustic impedance is determined by the density of the material and the speed of sound; for water (liquid), it is 1.5 × 10⁻⁶. 6 Ns / m 3 Around 1.2 to 1.5 × 10⁻⁶ for elastomers such as silicone rubber. 6 Ns / m 3 The acoustic impedance difference between them is relatively small. On the other hand, the acoustic impedance of metal is about 10 to 40 times that of rubber, and its reflectivity is high, making it difficult for it to pass through. In other words, by using a wall made of an elastomer such as silicone rubber to separate the liquid (e.g., silicone oil) around the pre-mass 206 from the cleaning fluid, the cleaning fluid of the cleaning layer 210 can be prevented from seeping into the reservoir 216, thus preventing contamination of the liquid around the pre-mass 206, and enabling the generation of ultrasonic waves in the cleaning fluid into which the sample nozzle 22 is inserted.

[0071] The material of the wall separating the liquid from the cleaning fluid around the pre-mass body 206 of the cleaning tank 210 is preferably 1.5 × 10⁻⁶. 6 Ns / m 3 The range where the difference between the left and right sides is relatively small, for example, 1.2 to 1.9 × 10⁻⁶. 6 Ns / m 3 The characteristics of left and right.

[0072] <Positional relationship between cleaning tank 210 and fore-mass body 206>

[0073] Figures 4A to 4C This is a diagram schematically showing the positional relationship between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass body 206.

[0074] When the cleaning tank 210 comes into contact with the front mass 206, the thinner wall of the cleaning tank 210 becomes a driving load for the ultrasonic transducer 201. Therefore, in this embodiment, the following structure is adopted: a gap is provided between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass 206, and the gap is filled with liquid to propagate ultrasonic waves.

[0075] On the other hand, in conventional ultrasonic cleaning, adhesives (or welding) are used to firmly attach the ultrasonic transducer to the bottom or other walls of the cleaning tank (in this case, the outer tank, not the indirect tank). However, when a high-amplitude ultrasonic transducer is fixed to the cleaning tank, there is a higher possibility of adhesive peeling, cracking (including damage to the cleaning tank itself) (or the cleaning tank becoming a load and the amplitude of the ultrasonic transducer 201 decreasing). Furthermore, when the transducer is fixed using a high-rigidity cleaning tank (e.g., SUS material) instead of a high-rigidity cleaning tank, the vibrations of both ultrasonic transducers are simultaneously transmitted to the metal cleaning tank, and are transmitted through the cleaning tank in the same way as when ultrasonic waves are reflected towards each ultrasonic transducer, thus becoming a driving load. Therefore, the structure provided in this embodiment, which has a gap between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass 206 (so that they do not contact each other), has greater advantages.

[0076] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram (viewed from above) showing a structural example of a cleaning tank 210 supported from the left and right sides, ensuring a space (gap) between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass body 206. The cleaning tank 210 has a container support 401 in its upper and lower portions (side surfaces in the Y-axis direction) shown in the drawing, which fixes the position of the cleaning tank 210 by contacting the wall surface of the cleaning tank insertion hole 215 of the cleaning unit base 202. This creates a gap between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass body 206.

[0077] Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram (viewed from above) showing a structural example in which the cleaning tank 210 is supported by the groove of the cleaning unit base 202, thus ensuring space (gap) between the cleaning tank 210 and the front mass body 206. The position of the cleaning tank 210 is fixed by inserting it into the groove of the cleaning tank insertion hole 215 provided in the cleaning unit base 202. Figure 4B Showing with Figure 4A The cleaning tank 210 can be fixed in different ways.

[0078] Figure 4C This is a schematic diagram showing a structural example in which the front end of the front mass 206 is located within the through hole 214 and a gap is ensured. When the cleaning tank 210 is placed into the cleaning tank insertion hole 215 of the cleaning unit base 202, the front end of the front mass 206 is located within the through hole 214 and a gap is provided between it and the cleaning tank 210 at a certain distance.

[0079] In the above structure, when the distance between the front mass 206 and the cleaning tank 210 is as close as possible (less than 1.0 mm), the sound pressure in the cleaning tank 210 becomes higher. For example, the distance from the front end face of the front mass 206 to the wall of the cleaning tank 210 is preferably about 0.1 to 0.3 mm.

[0080] As described above, in order to increase the sound pressure caused by the ultrasonic waves generated between the two precursor masses 206A and 206B, it is necessary to bring the precursor masses 206A and 206B as close as possible, reduce the width (length in the X direction) of the cleaning tank 210, and further reduce the wall thickness. Furthermore, by bringing the precursor masses 206A and 206B close to the cleaning tank 210, the sound pressure within the cleaning tank 210 can be increased. These conditions are independent of the material of the cleaning tank 210, but by using the cleaning tank 210 as an elastic material to increase its transmittance, the sound pressure can be further increased, thereby improving cleaning efficiency.

[0081] <Example of a cleaning support structure>

[0082] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a structural example of the cleaning bracket 30 of the ultrasonic cleaner according to this embodiment. Figure 5 As shown, the cleaning bracket 30 includes a cleaning unit 200, an ultrasonic transducer control unit 301, a drive power supply 302 (battery), and a transport base 303.

[0083] The ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 controls ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B (see reference). Figure 2A The ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 generates a sine wave with the resonant frequency of the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B to drive them. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 includes an impedance matching circuit for increasing the drive current and amplifying the amplitude of the ultrasonic transducers 201A and 201B, and a circuit for automatically tracking the resonant frequency. The drive power supply 302 is a rechargeable battery that is charged whenever the cleaning bracket 30 is used.

[0084] The transport base 303 has the same shape as the bottom of the support 24 for the sample container 23. Therefore, no changes are needed to the hardware of the transport line 25. Furthermore, the cleaning support 30, which includes the cleaning unit 200, the ultrasonic transducer control unit 301, and the drive power supply 302, is the same size as the support 24 in the state where the existing sample container 23 is installed.

[0085] The cleaning section 200 can also be covered by a cover 304. The cover 304 prevents liquid from splashing onto electrical components such as the piezoelectric element 208 and electrodes when liquid or waste liquid is injected into the cleaning tank 210 using a pipette or similar means. Furthermore, the volume of cleaning fluid required for cleaning depends on the shape of the cleaning tank 210 and is approximately several hundred μL (in this embodiment, it is assumed to be, for example, 150 μL or less). While water can achieve a cleaning effect, a liquid mixed with detergent or the detergent itself can also be used. A certain amount of cleaning fluid is injected into the cleaning tank 210 before the cleaning support 30 is placed into the device.

[0086] For example, by installing a sensor at the top of the cleaning unit 200 to detect the passage of the sample nozzle 22, the start and stop of the ultrasonic cleaning operation can be controlled.

[0087] As described above, the automatic analysis device 10 of this embodiment has a structure that achieves cleaning of the dispensing nozzle by conveying an ultrasonic cleaner.

[0088] <Example of a cleaning process for a dispensing nozzle>

[0089] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning operation of the dispensing nozzle of the ultrasonic cleaner according to this embodiment. Furthermore, during the cleaning operation of the dispensing nozzle, the cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank 210 can be changed daily. Also, the liquid (silicone oil) in the reservoir 216 can be filled at the factory and then replenished during maintenance of the ultrasonic cleaner (after several months or more).

[0090] (i) Step S601

[0091] The operator (user) injects a certain amount of cleaning fluid into the cleaning tank 210 of the cleaning unit 200. This fills the cleaning fluid storage area 211 of the cleaning tank 210 with cleaning fluid. At this time, by using a specially sized container that contains more than the amount of liquid needed to fill the cleaning fluid storage area 211, and by adjusting the dispensing rate with a pipette, the liquid level can be kept constant during each cleaning cycle. Alternatively, a dedicated dispensing machine can be used to inject the cleaning fluid. As described above, in the method of changing the cleaning tank 210, the cleaning fluid can also be pre-filled into the cleaning tank 210 and then placed in the cleaning unit 200.

[0092] (ii) Step S602

[0093] After the operator injects the cleaning fluid into the cleaning tank 210, the cleaning support 30 is positioned on the conveyor line 25. Alternatively, after positioning the cleaning support 30, which contains the cleaning tank 210 filled with cleaning fluid, on the conveyor line 25, the operator can use GUI702 (see reference). Figure 7 The automatic analysis device 10 is notified that the setting of the cleaning bracket 30 is complete (click the setting completion button (UI)).

[0094] (iii) Step S603

[0095] Automatic analysis device control unit 701 of automatic analysis device 10 (see reference) Figure 7The system (e.g., composed of a processor) delivers the cleaning holder 30 to the cleaning position (the location of the nozzle (sample nozzle 22) of the object) and begins the automatic cleaning operation. Furthermore, the bottom of the cleaning holder 30 has the same shape as the delivery section of the holder 24. Therefore, the installation of the cleaning holder 30 to the delivery line 25 can be performed in the same way as the holder 24 for delivering the sample container (blood collection tube) 23. Moreover, since the volume of liquid placed in the cleaning tank 210 is only a few hundred μL, the risk of cleaning liquid splashing out due to shaking during the delivery of the cleaning holder 30 is also low.

[0096] (iv) Step S604

[0097] When the automatic analysis device control unit 701 completes the conveying of the cleaning bracket 30 to the cleaning position (the cleaning bracket 30 stops), the ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 (refer to...) Figure 5 (For example, a processor) responds to a delivery completion notification received from the automatic analysis device control unit 701, causing the sample nozzle 22 to descend.

[0098] (v) Step S605

[0099] The sensor (nozzle detection device 721: reference) provided by the cleaning bracket 30 Figure 7 When the passing of the descending sample through the nozzle 22 is detected, the ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 controls the transducer drive device 722 to start ultrasonic driving. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 controls the timer control device 723 (see reference 723). Figure 7 The instruction causes the timer (not shown) to start time measurement.

[0100] When transporting the normal support 24, the subsequent analysis and transport processing can be initiated by reading the barcode affixed to the side of the support 24. Therefore, by also affixing a barcode to the cleaning support 30 in the same position as the normal support 24, the automatic analysis device 10 can distinguish between the inspection support 24 and the cleaning support 30. Thus, step S603 and subsequent cleaning maintenance actions can be performed differently from the normal inspection operation.

[0101] (vi) Step S606

[0102] After the cleaning action begins, the ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 immerses the front end of the nozzle 22 of the sample in the cleaning solution for cleaning.

[0103] (vii) Step S607

[0104] The ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 receives a notification of the time measurement result from the timer control device 723. When it identifies that the sample nozzle 22 has been cleaned for a certain period of time, it notifies the automatic analysis device control unit 701 that the cleaning operation is complete. In response to this notification, the automatic analysis device control unit 701 instructs the dispensing arm control device 704 to raise the sample nozzle 22.

[0105] (viii) Step S608

[0106] The ultrasonic transducer control unit 301 controls the transducer drive to stop the ultrasonic drive after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the ultrasonic transducer drive (based on time measurement information from the timer). Alternatively, a method exists where the nozzle detection device 721 detects nozzle rise and stops the ultrasonic transducer drive accordingly. However, by using the timer function, it is possible to avoid erroneous actions such as repeated stopping and starting during cleaning due to the nozzle detection device 721 mistakenly detecting nozzle rise.

[0107] (ix) Step S609

[0108] According to the instructions of the automatic analysis device control unit 701, the support conveying control device 707 (refer to...) Figure 7 ) Control bracket conveying device 708 (refer to) Figure 7 This allows the cleaning bracket 30 to be transported to the recycling location.

[0109] (x) Step S610

[0110] The operator retrieves the cleaning support 30 and drains the cleaning fluid.

[0111] The above describes the cleaning process for the dispensing nozzles performed by the ultrasonic cleaner. However, the cleaning fluid can be replaced as needed to continuously clean other sample nozzles 22. If no cleaning is required, the cleaning fluid is drained and the process ends.

[0112] <Example of the functional structure of the automatic analysis device 10>

[0113] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of the functional structure of the automatic analysis device 10 according to this embodiment, corresponding to the case of using an ultrasonic cleaner built into a conveyor support.

[0114] The automatic analysis device 10 is controlled by the automatic analysis device control unit 701. The user (operator) of the automatic analysis device 10 can give instructions for analysis and cleaning processes through the graphical user interface 702 (GUI). The normal analysis process and the cleaning and maintenance mode of this embodiment are performed by the maintenance control unit 703 under the control of the automatic analysis device control unit 701, and the sample dispensing mechanism 15 and the conveyor line 25 are controlled.

[0115] The sample dispensing mechanism 15 is controlled by a dispensing arm control device 704 (dispensing arm control unit) via a dispensing arm horizontal movement device 705 (dispensing arm horizontal movement unit) and a dispensing arm vertical movement device 706 (dispensing arm vertical movement unit). In maintenance mode, the horizontal and vertical positions of the sample nozzle 22 are controlled (positioned at the depth to which the object being cleaned is immersed in the cleaning liquid) so that the cleaning range of the front end of the sample nozzle 22 is immersed in the liquid in the cleaning liquid storage area 211 within the cleaning tank 210. The horizontal position of the sample nozzle 22 is preferably at the center of the cleaning liquid storage area 211, but it can also move horizontally while immersing. The conveyor line 25 is driven by a support conveying control device 707 (support conveying control unit) via a support conveying device 708 (support conveying unit).

[0116] The cleaning bracket 30, independent of the automatic analysis device control unit 701, includes a nozzle detection device 721, a vibrator drive unit 722 (vibrator drive unit) for detecting and driving the resonant frequency of the ultrasonic transducer 201, and a timer control unit 723 for managing the ultrasonic drive time. The nozzle detection device (sensor) 721 detects the sample nozzle 22, and the timer control unit 723 starts counting and stops ultrasonic cleaning after a certain number of counts. As described above, the start and end of the drive of the ultrasonic transducer 201 are controlled by the vibrator drive unit 722.

[0117] According to the above structure, the cleaning bracket 30 is transported to a position on the transport line 25 that is accessible to the sample nozzle 22, and the ultrasonic transducer 201 mounted on the cleaning bracket 30 is driven to immerse the sample nozzle 22 in the liquid in the cleaning tank 210, thereby cleaning the cleaning area of ​​the sample nozzle 22.

[0118] Furthermore, regarding the reagent nozzle 21, it can be implemented with the same structure as long as it is accessible to the delivery line 25. In this embodiment, the reagent nozzle 21 and sample nozzle 22 are described as being provided separately, but depending on the analytical apparatus, there are also cases where a single common nozzle is used for dispensing reagents and samples. In such apparatus, cleaning with water is performed each time reagents and samples are dispensed, but this requires daily maintenance. By performing the ultrasonic cleaning of this invention, dispensing accuracy can be maintained.

[0119] <Summary of Implementation Methods>

[0120] (i) The ultrasonic cleaner of this embodiment includes a block component (cleaning base 202 and upper block 203), which includes a hole (through hole 214) and a cleaning tank placement recess (cleaning tank insertion hole 215). The hole is used to insert a front mass 206, and the cleaning tank placement recess is used to provide a cleaning tank (at least part of which has an elastic wall) into which a dispensing nozzle (sample nozzle 22) that is to be cleaned is inserted. The through hole 214 is provided along the length direction (horizontal direction) of the block component, and the cleaning tank insertion hole 215 is provided along the vertical direction. Furthermore, in this ultrasonic cleaner, a reservoir 216 for storing a liquid different from the cleaning fluid (e.g., silicone oil) is formed by the gap formed between the front mass 206, the through hole 214, and the wall of the cleaning tank 210. Moreover, the cleaning fluid held in the cleaning tank 210 and the liquid (silicone oil) stored in the reservoir 216 are separated by the wall of the cleaning tank 210 (see reference). Figure 2C This ultrasonic cleaner became... Figure 2B and Figure 2C In the configuration shown, the front end of the front mass 206 is irradiated with ultrasonic waves from the side of the cleaning tank 210. Thus, since the front mass 206 is not immersed in the cleaning fluid, cleaning labor and time can be reduced, and further cleaning can be completed with a small amount of cleaning fluid. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, as... Figures 2A to 2F As shown, the block component is constructed by combining the cleaning unit base 202 and the upper block 203, which facilitates the construction and disassembly of the ultrasonic cleaner. However, it can also be used by forming a through hole 214 in a single (monolithic) block component. Furthermore, when the two components are combined to form the block component, the upper and lower block components (cleaning unit base 202 and upper block 203) can be combined (overlapping), or the left and right block components (not shown) can be combined into a single block component.

[0121] (ii) such as Figure 2B As shown, the front mass bodies 206 are inserted from both sides of the through hole 214. In this case, the cleaning tank 210 is positioned between the two front mass bodies 206. Because ultrasonic waves are irradiated from both sides of the cleaning tank 210, the dispensing nozzles can be cleaned efficiently.

[0122] (iii) The front end of the front mass 206 does not contact the wall of the cleaning tank 210, and is positioned within 1 mm of the wall of the cleaning tank 210. Furthermore, the space between the front end of the front mass 206 and the wall of the cleaning tank 210 is filled with liquid (silicone oil). That is, ultrasonic waves emitted from the front end of the front mass 206 propagate to the cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank 210 via the liquid (silicone oil) in the liquid reservoir 216. Since the front mass 206 does not directly contact the cleaning tank 210, the possibility of damage to the cleaning tank 210 is reduced. Furthermore, the wall of the cleaning tank 210, which faces the front end of the front mass 206, is made of material with an acoustic impedance of 1.2 × 10⁻⁶. 6 ~1.9×10 6 Ns / m 3 Materials with specific properties (e.g., silicone rubber). The acoustic impedance relative to the cleaning fluid is set to (1.5 × 10⁻⁶). 6 Ns / m 3 The wall material with a small difference in thickness (left and right) allows ultrasonic waves to propagate efficiently into the cleaning fluid. In addition, in order to propagate ultrasonic waves into the cleaning fluid more efficiently, the wall of the cleaning tank 210, which is opposite (directly opposite) the front end of the front mass 206, is made thinner than the other walls that are not opposite the front end of the front mass 206.

[0123] (iv) The cleaning tank 210 may also be equipped with a cleaning fluid level that is near or above the upper end of the pre-mass body 206 (see reference). Figure 2C The symbol is used to indicate this. This allows the user (operator) to use it as a reference when injecting cleaning fluid into the cleaning tank 210.

[0124] (v) such as Figure 2G and Figure 2H As shown, the cleaning tank 210 has a lower portion and an upper portion with a larger distance between its lower portion and its outer wall in the length direction. The cleaning unit base (first block) 202 has a cleaning tank lower portion fixing hole for fixing the position of the lower portion of the cleaning tank 210 (allowing a gap of a certain distance to be provided between it and the front end of the front mass body 206). Furthermore, the upper block (second block) 203 has a through hole for restricting the position of the upper portion of the cleaning tank 210. The through hole and the aforementioned cleaning tank lower portion fixing hole constitute the aforementioned cleaning tank mounting recess (cleaning tank insertion hole 215).

[0125] (vi) The method of injecting liquid (e.g., silicone oil) into the reservoir 216 will be described. First, the user places the front mass 206 on the cleaning unit base (first block) 202 and covers it with the upper block (second block) 203. Thus, the front mass 206 is inserted into the through hole 214. Before inserting the cleaning tank 210 into the cleaning tank insertion hole (cleaning tank setting recess) 215 formed by combining the first block and the second block, the user injects liquid (silicone oil) into the reservoir 216 through the cleaning tank setting recess. Then, after injecting liquid (silicone oil) into the reservoir 216, the user inserts the cleaning tank 210 into the cleaning tank setting recess.

[0126] Alternatively, it can be described as follows: The user combines the cleaning unit base (first block) 202 with the upper block (second block) 203, and inserts the front mass body 206 of the ultrasonic cleaner into the through hole 214 formed therefrom. Before inserting the cleaning tank 210 into the cleaning tank insertion hole (cleaning tank setting recess) 215 formed by combining the first and second blocks, the user injects liquid (silicone oil) into the liquid reservoir 216 through the cleaning tank setting recess. Then, after injecting the liquid (silicone oil) into the liquid reservoir 216, the user inserts the cleaning tank 210 into the cleaning tank setting recess.

[0127] (vii) This embodiment also discloses an automatic analysis device equipped with the ultrasonic cleaner described above. This automatic analysis device includes: a cleaning support 30 on which the ultrasonic cleaner is mounted; a conveyor line 25 that conveys the cleaning support 30 to a predetermined cleaning position; and a control unit (automatic analysis device control unit 701, etc.) that controls the conveying operation of the conveyor line 25 and the cleaning operation of the sample nozzle (dispensing nozzle) 22. The automatic analysis device control unit 701, etc., performs the following processes: lowering the sample nozzle 22 relative to the cleaning support 30 located at the cleaning position and inserting it into the cleaning tank 210; starting ultrasonic cleaning of the sample nozzle 22 inserted into the cleaning tank 210 using the ultrasonic cleaner; and stopping the ultrasonic cleaning.

[0128] Furthermore, the cleaning stand 30 has a sensor (nozzle detection device 721) for detecting the insertion of the sample nozzle 22. The automatic analysis device control unit 701 receives a signal from the sensor indicating that the sample nozzle 22 has been inserted into the cleaning tank 210, and starts ultrasonic cleaning in response to the signal. The cleaning stand 30 also has a timer that measures the time from the detection of the insertion of the sample nozzle 22. The automatic analysis device control unit 701 stops ultrasonic cleaning when the timer has completed the measurement of a predetermined time (obtaining the measurement value from the timer control device 723).

[0129] Symbol Explanation

[0130] 10—Automatic analysis device; 11—Reagent container; 12—Reagent tray; 13—Reaction tray; 14—Reagent dispensing mechanism; 15—Sample dispensing mechanism; 21—Reagent nozzle; 22—Sample nozzle; 23—Sample container; 24—Support; 25—Conveyor line; 26—Container; 27, 210—Cleaning tank; 30—Cleaning support; 201—Ultrasonic transducer; 202—Cleaning section base; 203—Upper block; 204—Flange; 205—Seal; 206—Front mass; 207—Rear mass; 208—Piezoelectric element Components: 209—bolt, 211—cleaning fluid storage area, 214—through hole, 215—cleaning tank insertion hole, 401—container support, 701—automatic analysis device control unit, 702—graphical user interface, 703—maintenance control device, 704—dispensing arm control device, 705—dispensing arm horizontal movement device, 706—dispensing arm vertical movement device, 707—support conveying control device, 708—support conveying device, 721—nozzle detection device, 722—oscillator drive device, 723—timer control device.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic cleaning machine for ultrasonic cleaning of a dispensing nozzle, characterized by have: An ultrasonic transducer having a premass; and The block component includes an orifice and a recess for a cleaning tank. The orifice is provided along the length direction and is used to insert the pre-mass body. The recess for the cleaning tank is used to provide a cleaning tank with a wall that is at least partially elastic and into which a dispensing nozzle, which is the object to be cleaned, can be inserted. The aforementioned cleaning tank recess is provided in the aforementioned block component in a direction different from the length direction in which the aforementioned hole is provided. The gap formed between the aforementioned pre-mass body inserted into the aforementioned hole, the aforementioned hole, and the wall of the aforementioned cleaning tank constitutes a liquid storage section for storing a liquid different from the cleaning liquid. The cleaning fluid held in the cleaning tank and the liquid stored in the liquid reservoir are separated by the wall of the cleaning tank. The front end of the aforementioned pre-mass body is configured to irradiate ultrasonic waves from the side of the aforementioned cleaning tank.

2. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned precursor masses of the two aforementioned ultrasonic transducers are respectively inserted into the aforementioned holes of the aforementioned block component from corresponding positions along the aforementioned length direction. The aforementioned cleaning tank is positioned between the aforementioned premass bodies of the two aforementioned ultrasonic transducers.

3. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front end of the aforementioned ultrasonic transducer's front mass does not contact the wall of the aforementioned cleaning tank, and is positioned within 1 mm of it. The space between the front end of the aforementioned front mass and the wall of the aforementioned cleaning tank is filled with the aforementioned liquid.

4. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material of the wall of the cleaning tank opposite to the front end portion of the front mass has an acoustic impedance of 1.2 x 10 6 ~ 1.9 x 10 6 Ns / m 3 .

5. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The wall of the cleaning tank opposite the front end of the aforementioned pre-mass body is not thinner than the walls of the other pre-mass bodies opposite the front end of the aforementioned pre-mass body.

6. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned block component has a first block portion that fixes the ultrasonic transducer and a second block portion that covers the preceding mass body, and is constructed by combining the first block portion and the second block portion. When the first part and the second part are combined, the recess for setting the cleaning tank is formed.

7. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The aforementioned cleaning tank has a mark indicating that the height of the cleaning fluid to be injected is above the upper end of the aforementioned precursor mass.

8. The ultrasonic cleaning machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The aforementioned cleaning tank has a lower portion and an upper portion with a larger distance between the lower portion and the outer wall in the aforementioned length direction. The first part described above has a lower fixing hole for the cleaning tank, which fixes the lower part of the cleaning tank and allows for a certain distance gap between it and the front end of the pre-mass body. The second part has a through hole that restricts the position of the upper part of the cleaning tank.

9. A method of injecting the liquid into the above-mentioned liquid storage portion of the ultrasonic cleaner according to claim 6, characterized by, include: The aforementioned precursor mass is placed on the aforementioned first block portion, and the aforementioned precursor mass is covered by the aforementioned second block portion; The aforementioned pre-mass body of the ultrasonic cleaner is inserted into the aforementioned hole formed by combining the aforementioned first part and the aforementioned second part; Before inserting the cleaning tank into the cleaning tank recess formed by combining the first part and the second part, the liquid is injected into the liquid storage section through the cleaning tank recess; and After injecting the liquid into the above-mentioned liquid storage section, insert the above-mentioned cleaning tank into the above-mentioned cleaning tank setting recess.

10. An automatic analyzing apparatus characterized by comprising: have: A cleaning bracket, which is equipped with the ultrasonic cleaner as described in claim 1 that holds the cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank; A conveyor line that transports the aforementioned cleaning brackets to a predetermined cleaning position; and The control unit controls the conveying operation of the aforementioned conveyor line and the cleaning operation of the aforementioned dispensing nozzles. The above control unit performs the following processes: The process of lowering the dispensing nozzle relative to the cleaning bracket located at the predetermined cleaning position and inserting it into the cleaning tank. The ultrasonic cleaning process is initiated using the ultrasonic cleaning machine described above to clean the dispensing nozzles inserted into the cleaning tank; and Stop the ultrasonic cleaning process described above.

11. The automatic analysis device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The aforementioned cleaning bracket has a sensor for detecting the insertion of the aforementioned dispensing nozzle. The control unit receives a signal from the sensor indicating that the dispensing nozzle has been inserted into the cleaning tank, and responds to the signal to start the ultrasonic cleaning.

12. The automatic analysis device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The aforementioned cleaning bracket also includes a timer that measures the time from the detection of the insertion of the aforementioned dispensing nozzle. The control unit stops the ultrasonic cleaning when the timer has completed the measurement of the predetermined time.

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