Sample analyzer and analysis method, sample dispensing mechanism and dispensing method

Abstract

This application discloses a sample analyzer and analysis method, a sample dispensing mechanism and dispensing method. The sample analyzer includes a sample supply device, comprising a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component. The driving component drives the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing sample tubes at at least two preset positions. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The detection component is used to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly during the process of the clamping component closing the cap and / or after the clamping component has closed the cap of the sample tube. Therefore, the sample analyzer of this application can promptly check whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly, so as to avoid contaminants in the sample leaking into the sample analyzer due to the cap not being closed properly, affecting the accuracy of the test results of other samples, or leaking to the outside of the sample analyzer, posing a biosafety risk to medical laboratory personnel.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411931783.5, filed with the Chinese Patent Office on December 24, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application belongs to the field of medical device technology, and in particular relates to a sample analyzer and analysis method, a sample dispensing mechanism and dispensing method. Background Technology

[0003] Sample analyzers are used in the medical diagnostic field to perform procedures such as aspiration, sample addition, mixing, and measurement. Through such analytical devices, at least one diagnostic reagent can be added manually or automatically to human or animal bodily fluids or other fluids containing analytes, and finally, biological, chemical, or physical principles are used to detect the amount of certain substances or a specific function within the body.

[0004] In related technologies, sample analyzers are equipped with robotic arms to open and close sample tube caps. However, in actual operation, sample tube caps may not close properly, causing contaminants in the sample to leak into the analyzer, affecting the accuracy of test results for other samples inside the instrument, or leaking to the outside of the analyzer, posing a biosafety risk to medical laboratory personnel. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a sample analyzer and analysis method, and a sample distribution mechanism and distribution method to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a sample analyzer, comprising: a sample supply device, an extraction device, an amplification device, and a detection device. The sample supply device is used to hold a sample tube to supply the sample held in the sample tube. The extraction device is used to extract nucleic acid from the sample. The amplification device is used to amplify the extracted nucleic acid. The detection device is used to detect the amplified nucleic acid. The sample supply device includes a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component. The driving component is used to drive the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing the sample tube at at least two preset positions of the sample supply device. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The detection component is used to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place during the process of the clamping component closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component has closed the cover of the sample tube.

[0007] In some embodiments, the drive assembly has a movable component that can drive the movable component to move, thereby causing the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; The detection component is used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the closed state when the clamping component closes the cover of the sample tube.

[0008] In some embodiments, the detection component is also used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the placement state when the clamping component places the sample tube in the preset position.

[0009] In some embodiments, the at least two preset positions include an injection position and a suction position; wherein, the sample supply device further includes: A conveying assembly for conveying the sample tube so that the sample tube is moved to the injection position; and, A support assembly is used to fix the body of the sample tube to the sampling position so that the clamping assembly can open or close the cap of the sample tube.

[0010] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly includes a clamping unit and a driving unit. The clamping unit clamps the cap, and the driving unit is kinetically connected to the clamping unit. During the process of the moving component moving the clamping assembly away from the sampling position, the driving unit can drive the clamping assembly to rotate, thereby rotating the cap to separate it from the tube body, thus opening the cap. During the process of the moving component moving the clamping assembly closer to the sampling position, the driving unit can drive the clamping assembly to rotate, thereby screwing the cap onto the tube body, thus closing the cap; and / or, The sample analyzer also includes a sample dispensing assembly, which is used to aspirate the sample carried in the sample tube located at the aspiration position and transfer it to the extraction container so that the extraction device can extract the nucleic acid from the sample carried in the extraction container.

[0011] In some embodiments, during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, if the maximum travel of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes against the clamping assembly until it moves relative to the moving component; and / or, The conveying assembly is used to convey a sample holder carrying the sample tube, so that the sample holder moves the sample tube to the injection position; during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the injection position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset relative to the injection position, the sample tube collides with the sample holder and pushes the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part; and / or, During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the sampling position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset relative to the sampling position, the sample tube will collide with the bearing assembly and push the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part.

[0012] In some embodiments, the detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, the photoelectric sensor being used to detect the position of the trigger; The relative movement between the clamping assembly and the moving part can drive the trigger and the photoelectric sensor to move relative to each other, so that the photoelectric sensor can detect the relative movement between the moving part and the clamping assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly further includes a floating seat movably mounted to the moving part, such that the moving part is flexibly connected to the clamping assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the floating seat is slidably connected to the moving component; The clamping assembly further includes an elastic element that abuts against or connects to the moving component to restrict the sliding of the floating seat relative to the moving component.

[0015] In some embodiments, the detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, one of which is located on the moving part, and the other of which is located on the clamping component. The photoelectric sensor is used to detect the position information of the trigger. During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, if the maximum travel of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving component. During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset from the preset position, the sample tube will be impacted and push the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part.

[0016] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a sample analysis method applied to a sample analyzer. The sample analyzer includes a sample supply device, an extraction device, an amplification device, and a detection device. The sample supply device is used to hold a sample tube to supply the sample held in the sample tube. The extraction device is used to extract nucleic acid from the sample. The amplification device is used to amplify the extracted nucleic acid. The detection device is used to detect the amplified nucleic acid. The sample supply device includes a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component. The driving component is used to drive the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing the sample tube at at least two preset positions on the sample supply device. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The method includes: During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping assembly has closed the cover of the sample tube, the detection assembly is controlled to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place.

[0017] In some embodiments, the drive assembly has a movable component that can drive the movable component to move, thereby causing the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; controlling the detection assembly to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed in place includes: The detection component is controlled to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part; During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the closed state of the cover is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, the method further includes: During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, the placement state of the sample tube is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

[0019] In some embodiments, determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position includes: If the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than a second preset value, the detection component is controlled to determine that the sample tube has been hit and is misplaced.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least two preset positions include an injection position and a suction position; the sample supply device further includes a conveying component and a carrying component, the conveying component being used to convey the sample tube so that the sample tube moves to the injection position, and the carrying component being used to fix the tube body of the sample tube to the suction position so that the clamping component can open or close the cap of the sample tube. Wherein, the step of determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position includes: If, during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the injection position, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than a second preset value, it is determined that the sample tube has been hit and is incorrectly positioned. If, during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the sampling position, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than the second preset value, it is determined that the sample tube has been collided with and is incorrectly positioned.

[0021] In some embodiments, determining the closed state of the cover based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover includes: If, during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than a third preset value, then it is determined that the cover is not closed properly.

[0022] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a sample dispensing mechanism, including: a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component; The driving component is used to drive the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing the sample tube at at least two preset positions. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The detection component is used to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place during the process of the clamping component closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component has closed the cover of the sample tube.

[0023] In some embodiments, the drive assembly has a movable component that can drive the movable component to move, thereby causing the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; The detection component is used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the closed state when the clamping component closes the cover of the sample tube.

[0024] In some embodiments, the detection component is also used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the placement state when the clamping component places the sample tube in the preset position.

[0025] In some embodiments, the detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, the photoelectric sensor being used to detect the position of the trigger; The relative movement between the clamping assembly and the moving part can drive the trigger and the photoelectric sensor to move relative to each other, so that the photoelectric sensor can detect the relative movement between the moving part and the clamping assembly.

[0026] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly further includes a floating seat movably mounted to the moving part, such that the moving part is flexibly connected to the clamping assembly.

[0027] In some embodiments, the floating seat is slidably connected to the moving component; The clamping assembly further includes an elastic element that abuts against or connects to the moving component to restrict the sliding of the floating seat relative to the moving component.

[0028] In some embodiments, the detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, one of which is located on the moving part, and the other of which is located on the clamping component. The photoelectric sensor is used to detect the position information of the trigger. During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, if the maximum travel of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving component. During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset from the preset position, the sample tube will be impacted and push the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part.

[0029] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a sample dispensing method applied to a sample dispensing mechanism. The sample dispensing mechanism includes a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component. The driving component drives the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing sample tubes at at least two preset positions. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The method includes: During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping assembly has closed the cover of the sample tube, the detection assembly is controlled to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place.

[0030] In some embodiments, the drive assembly has a movable component that can drive the movable component to move, thereby causing the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; controlling the detection assembly to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed in place includes: The detection component is controlled to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part; During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the closed state of the cover is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

[0031] In some embodiments, during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position, the placement state of the sample tube is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

[0032] In some embodiments, determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position includes: If the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than a second preset value, the detection component is controlled to determine that the sample tube has been hit and is misplaced.

[0033] In some embodiments, determining the closed state of the cover based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover includes: If, during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than a third preset value, then it is determined that the cover is not closed properly.

[0034] Technical effects of the embodiments of this application: During the process of closing the sample tube cap using the clamping assembly and / or after the clamping assembly has closed the sample tube cap, the detection assembly can detect whether the sample tube cap is closed properly. This can promptly detect cases where the sample tube cap is not closed properly, thus preventing contaminants in the sample from leaking into the sample analyzer due to the cap not being closed properly. This would affect the accuracy of the test results of other samples inside the instrument, or leak to the outside of the sample analyzer, posing a biosafety risk to medical laboratory personnel. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The technical solution and its beneficial effects will become apparent from the following detailed description of specific embodiments of this application, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figure 1A schematic diagram of the structure of a sample analyzer provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structural schematics of the driving component, clamping component, and detection component in the sample analyzer.

[0037] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The exploded view shows the driving component, clamping component, and detection component.

[0038] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of the area at point X in the image.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the detection component when the cap of the sample tube is opened and then closed in place to hold the component.

[0040] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the state of the detection component when the cap of the sample tube is opened but not fully closed after the clamping component is used.

[0041] Figure 7 This is a first flowchart of the sample analysis method and sample allocation method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a second flowchart of the sample analysis method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a second flowchart of a sample allocation method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0044] The labels in the diagram are as follows: 100. Sample supply device; 11. Drive assembly; 111. Moving part; 1111. Second mounting part; 112. Guide rail; 12. Clamping assembly; 121. Clamping unit; 122. Drive unit; 123. Floating seat; 1231. First mounting part; 124. Elastic element; 13. Detection assembly; 131. Photoelectric sensor; 132. Trigger; 14. Conveying assembly; 141. Sample injection position; 142. Loading position; 15. Bearing assembly; 151. Sample suction position; 16. Sample dispensing assembly; 200. Extraction device; 300. Amplification device; 400. Detection device; 500. Transfer device. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a sample analyzer. The sample analyzer includes: a sample supply device 100, an extraction device 200, an amplification device 300, and a detection device 400.

[0047] The sample supply device 100 is used to hold sample tubes and supply the samples contained in the sample tubes. The extraction device 200 is used to extract nucleic acids from the samples. The amplification device 300 is used to amplify the extracted nucleic acids. The detection device 400 is used to detect the amplified nucleic acids. Thus, the sample supply device 100 can realize automated nucleic acid extraction, nucleic acid amplification, and nucleic acid detection of samples.

[0048] The sample supply device 100 may include a driving assembly 11, a clamping assembly 12, and a detection assembly 13. The driving assembly 11 drives the clamping assembly 12 to move, thereby picking up and placing sample tubes at at least two preset positions within the sample supply device 100. The clamping assembly 12 is also used to open or close the caps of the sample tubes. Furthermore, the driving assembly 11 can drive the clamping assembly 12 to move sample tubes within the sample supply device 100 and to perform opening and closing operations on the sample tubes. The detection assembly 13 is used to detect whether the caps of the sample tubes are properly closed during and / or after the clamping assembly 12 has closed the caps.

[0049] Based on this, it is possible to detect in a timely manner whether the cap of the sample tube is not closed properly, so as to avoid affecting the analysis results of the sample analyzer.

[0050] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 11 has a moving part 111. The clamping assembly 12 is kinetically connected to the moving part 111, enabling the drive assembly 11 to drive the moving part 111 to move, thereby moving the clamping assembly 12. The clamping assembly 12 is used to follow the movement of the moving part 111 to pick up and place sample tubes at at least two preset positions. The clamping assembly 12 is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. Therefore, the drive assembly 11 can drive the clamping assembly 12 to transfer sample tubes and perform opening and closing operations on the sample tubes.

[0051] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly 12 is flexibly connected to the moving part 111 so that the clamping assembly 12 can move relative to the moving part 111 under the action of external force.

[0052] Therefore, the detection component 13 can be used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111, so as to detect the closed state when the clamping component 12 closes the cover of the sample tube.

[0053] It is understandable that the flexible connection between the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111 allows the clamping component 12 to move relative to the moving part 111 under external force. Therefore, during the process of the clamping component 12 closing the cap of the sample tube, if the cap is not fully closed, the cap will push against the clamping component 12, causing the clamping component 12 to move relative to the moving part 111. Based on this, this embodiment of the application uses the detection component 13 to detect the relative movement between the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111, thereby realizing the detection of the closed state of the sample tube.

[0054] In some embodiments, the detection component 13 is also used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111, so as to detect the placement state when the clamping component 12 places the sample tube in a preset position.

[0055] It is understood that the flexible connection between the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111 allows the clamping component 12 to move relative to the moving part 111 under external force. Therefore, during the process of the clamping component 12 placing the sample tube to a preset position, if the sample tube is misplaced and a collision occurs, the sample tube will push against the clamping component 12, causing the clamping component 12 to move relative to the moving part 111. Similarly, during the process of the clamping component 12 closing the cap of the sample tube, if the cap is not fully closed, the cap will push against the clamping component 12, causing the clamping component 12 to move relative to the moving part 111. Based on this, this embodiment of the application uses the detection component 13 to detect the relative movement of the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111, thus simultaneously detecting both the placement and capping states of the sample tube. Therefore, compared to using two different detection mechanisms to separately detect the placement and capping states of the sample tube, the sample analyzer of this embodiment has the advantages of a simpler structure and lower manufacturing cost.

[0056] Below, we will first illustrate the preset position with an example, taking into account the overall structure of the sample supply device.

[0057] In some embodiments, at least two preset positions may include an injection position 141 and a suction position 151. Accordingly, the sample supply device 100 may include a conveying assembly 14 and a carrying assembly 15. The conveying assembly 14 is used to convey the sample tube so that the sample tube moves to the injection position 141. The carrying assembly 15 is used to fix the body of the sample tube to the suction position 151 so that the clamping assembly 12 can open or close the cap of the sample tube.

[0058] Accordingly, the sample supply device 100 also includes a loading position 142 for loading sample tubes, and a transfer assembly 14 for transferring sample tubes between the loading position 142 and the injection position 141. Therefore, one possible operating procedure of the sample supply device 100 is as follows: First, the user can manually load the sample tube containing the sample to be tested from the loading position 142.

[0059] Then, the transfer component 14 moves the sample tube containing the sample to be tested from the loading position 142 to the injection position 141.

[0060] Next, the drive assembly 11 drives the clamping assembly 12 to move the sample tube carrying the sample to be tested from the injection position 141 to the aspiration position 151, and opens the cap of the sample tube to supply the sample carried in the sample tube, thereby facilitating the sample analyzer to perform subsequent nucleic acid extraction, nucleic acid amplification and nucleic acid detection operations.

[0061] Next, the clamping assembly 12 closes the cap of the sample tube after sample supply is completed and moves it back to the sample injection position 141 so that the transfer assembly 14 can transfer the sample tube after sample supply is completed back to the loading position 142 for the user to take out, or the transfer assembly 14 can transfer the sample tube after sample supply is completed to the sample tube recycling device.

[0062] In some embodiments, the conveying component 14 is used to convey sample tubes, or it may be used to convey a sample holder carrying sample tubes, so that the sample holder moves the sample tubes to the sample loading position 141. Furthermore, the user can preload the sample tubes into the sample holder, and then load a batch of samples at once by loading the sample holder into the loading position 142 of the sample supply device 100.

[0063] Of course, in some other embodiments, the conveying component 14 is used to convey the sample tube, or the sample tube can be placed directly on the conveying component 14 so that the conveying component 14 directly conveys the sample tube. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0064] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer further includes a sample dispensing assembly 16 for aspirating a sample carried in a sample tube located at the aspiration position 151 and transferring it to an extraction container for extraction device 200 to extract nucleic acids from the sample carried in the extraction container.

[0065] It is understood that the sample dispensing component 16 can be disposed in the sample supply device 100, that is, the sample supply device 100 may also include the sample dispensing component 16. Of course, in some other embodiments, the sample dispensing component 16 can also be disposed in any other device of the sample analyzer, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0066] The sample dispensing assembly 16 is used to clamp the pipetting component and drive the pipetting component to move between the aspiration position 151 and the corresponding extraction container. Thus, the sample dispensing assembly 16 can drive the pipetting component to the aspiration position 151 to aspirate the sample carried in the sample tube, and drive the pipetting component to the corresponding extraction container to discharge the sample into the corresponding extraction container.

[0067] The displacement component may include sample needles, TIP heads, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0068] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer also includes a transport device 500, and a sample dispensing assembly 16 is used to transfer the sample to an extraction container carried by the transport device 500. The transport device 500 then transports the extraction container carrying the sample to be tested to the extraction device 200, so that the extraction device 200 can extract nucleic acid from the sample carried in the extraction container.

[0069] Of course, in some other embodiments, the sample dispensing component 16 may also directly transfer the sample to the extraction container carried by the extraction device 200, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0070] The above is an overall introduction and description of the sample supply device 100 in the embodiments of this application. The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be further introduced and described below in conjunction with the clamping component 12.

[0071] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly 12 can be used to clamp the cap. Thus, the clamping assembly 12 can clamp the sample tube by clamping the cap.

[0072] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 3 and Figure 4 For example, the clamping assembly 12 includes a clamping unit 121 and a driving unit 122. The clamping unit 121 is used to clamp the cover, and the driving unit 122 is connected to the clamping unit 121 in a transmission manner. The driving unit 122 is used to drive the clamping unit 121 to rotate, so as to open or close the cover of the sample tube.

[0073] It is understandable that the cap and tube body of the sample tube can be threaded together, so that the cap can be unscrewed or tightened when the drive unit 122 drives the clamping unit 121 to rotate.

[0074] For example, as the moving part 111 moves the clamping assembly 12 away from the sampling position 151, the drive unit 122 can drive the clamping assembly 12 to rotate so that the cap is rotated to separate from the tube body, thereby opening the cap. As the moving part 111 moves the clamping assembly 12 closer to the sampling position 151, the drive unit 122 can drive the clamping assembly 12 to rotate so that the cap is screwed onto the tube body, thereby closing the cap.

[0075] The drive unit 122 may include a motor, a rotary cylinder, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.

[0076] In some embodiments, the drive unit 122 is flexibly connected to the moving part 111 of the drive assembly 11, thereby enabling the drive assembly 11 to drive the moving part 111 to move the clamping assembly 12 and allowing the clamping assembly 12 to move relative to the moving part 111.

[0077] Taking the example of how the drive assembly 11 can drive the drive unit 122 and the clamping unit 121 to move up and down: When the supporting component 15 clamps the cap of the sample tube, the driving component 11 can drive the driving unit 122 and the clamping unit 121 to move upward. At the same time, the driving unit 122 can drive the clamping unit 121 to rotate, so that the clamping unit 121 drives the cap to rotate and rise, thereby unscrewing the cap of the sample tube. Conversely, when the supporting component 15 clamps the tube body of the sample tube, the driving component 11 can drive the driving unit 122 and the clamping unit 121 to move downward. At the same time, the driving unit 122 can drive the clamping unit 121 to rotate, so that the clamping unit 121 drives the cap to rotate and fall, thereby tightening the cap of the sample tube to the tube body.

[0078] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 11 can be used to drive the moving part 111 to perform three-dimensional movement, thereby cooperating with the clamping assembly 12 to complete the transfer of the sample tube and the opening and closing of the cover.

[0079] For example, the drive assembly may include a first linear module, a second linear module, and a third linear module. The second linear module is mounted on the first linear module such that the first linear module can drive the second linear module to move along a first direction. The third linear module is mounted on the second linear module such that the second linear module can drive the third linear module to move along a second direction. The third linear module has a moving part such that the third linear module can drive the moving part to move along a third direction. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect each other.

[0080] The first linear module, the second linear module, and the third linear module can all be ball screw linear modules, cylinder linear modules, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit them.

[0081] It should also be noted that the first direction can be the front-back direction, the second direction can be the left-right direction, and the third direction can be the vertical direction. Of course, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction can also be interchanged. This application does not limit this, and any technical solution in which the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect each other is within the protection scope of this application.

[0082] In some implementations, the closed state may include the maximum travel distance of the cover during the closing process of the clamping assembly 12. Therefore, the maximum travel distance of the cover can be used to determine whether the clamping assembly is fully closed.

[0083] For example, during the process of closing the cover by the clamping assembly 12, if the maximum travel of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes the clamping assembly 12 to move relative to the moving part 111.

[0084] It is understandable that during the process of the clamping assembly 12 closing the cover, the maximum stroke of the cover moving to the sealing tube may be greater than or equal to the first preset value. Therefore, during the process of the clamping assembly 12 closing the cover, the maximum stroke of the moving part 111 should also be greater than or equal to the first preset value. Thus, when the cover interferes with the tube or other components during its downward movement and cannot move to the sealing tube, the cover will press against the clamping assembly 12, preventing the clamping assembly 12 from moving downward as well. At this time, the moving part 111 continues to move downward, which will cause relative movement between the clamping assembly 12 and the moving part 111.

[0085] In some implementations, the first preset value is less than or equal to the maximum stroke of the moving part 111 during the process of the clamping assembly 12 closing the cover.

[0086] In some implementations, the placement state may include the position of the sample tube. Therefore, the placement position of the sample tube can be used to determine whether it is placed in a preset position.

[0087] For example, if the sample tube is placed in a preset position by the clamping assembly 12, and the sample tube is offset from the preset position, the sample tube will be hit and push the clamping assembly 12 to move relative to the moving part 111.

[0088] It is understandable that during the process of the clamping component 12 placing the sample tube in the preset position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset from the preset position and the sample tube collides, the sample tube will not be able to continue to descend to be placed in the preset position, and the clamping component 12 will also not be able to continue to descend. At this time, the moving part 111 continues to descend, which will cause the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111 to move relative to each other.

[0089] For example, during the process of the clamping assembly 12 placing the sample tube in the injection position 141, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset relative to the injection position 141, the sample tube collides with the sample holder and pushes the clamping assembly 12 to move relative to the moving part 111.

[0090] For example, during the process of the clamping assembly 12 placing the sample tube in the suction position 151, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset relative to the suction position 151, the sample tube will collide with the bearing assembly 15 and push the clamping assembly 12 to move relative to the moving part 111.

[0091] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be introduced and explained below, taking into account the flexible connection between the clamping assembly 12 and the moving part 111.

[0092] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly 12 further includes a floating seat 123, which is movably mounted on the moving part 111 so that the moving part 111 is flexibly connected to the clamping assembly 12.

[0093] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly 12 may further include an elastic element 124 that abuts against or is connected to the moving part 111 to limit the movement of the floating seat 123 relative to the moving part 111.

[0094] Furthermore, on the one hand, when the cover is not tightened properly, or when a collision occurs during the placement of the sample tube, the elastic element 124 can be compressed to allow the floating seat 123 to move relative to the moving part 111, thereby pushing the clamping assembly 12 to move relative to the moving part 111, thus enabling the clamping assembly 12 to have a better buffering effect to avoid damage to the sample tube and / or the clamping assembly 12 after collision.

[0095] On the other hand, during the process of the clamping component 12 scheduling the sample tube between different preset positions, the elastic element 124 can elastically recover to limit the movement of the floating seat 123 (or clamping component 12) relative to the moving part 111, thereby ensuring that the clamping component 12 and the sample tube it clamps are not easily shaken during the process of the clamping component 12 scheduling the sample tube, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the clamping component 12.

[0096] In some embodiments, the floating seat 123 can be slidably connected to the moving part 111. This slidable connection makes the movement of the floating seat 123 relative to the moving part 111 more stable and reliable. Correspondingly, the elastic element 124 can be used to limit the sliding of the floating seat 123 relative to the moving part 111.

[0097] For example, one of the floating seat 123 and the moving part 111 is provided with a guide rail 112, and the other of the floating seat 123 and the moving part 111 is slidably mounted on the guide rail 112, so that the floating seat 123 is slidably mounted on the moving part 111.

[0098] In some embodiments, the number of elastic elements 124 can be at least two, with elastic elements 124 provided on each side of the guide rail 112 in the width direction. Therefore, compared to providing elastic elements 124 on only one side of the guide rail 112 in the width direction, the embodiments of this application can make the floating seat 123 more evenly and reasonably subjected to force on both sides of the guide rail 112, thereby making the relative sliding of the floating seat 123 and the moving part 111 more stable and reliable.

[0099] For example, the floating seat 123 has a first mounting portion 1231 protruding on each side of the guide rail 112 along its width direction, and the moving part 111 has a second mounting portion 1111 protruding on each side of the guide rail 112 along its width direction. An elastic member 124 is provided between the first mounting portion 1231 and the second mounting portion 1111 on the same side of the guide rail 112 along its width direction.

[0100] The elastic element 124 may include tension springs, compression springs, disc springs, and leaf springs, etc. Of course, the elastic element 124 may also include any other elastic element made of elastic material, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0101] For example, when the elastic element 124 is a compression spring, the compression spring can be compressed and disposed between the first mounting part 1231 and the second mounting part 1111.

[0102] It is also understood that the first mounting part 1231 and / or the second mounting part 1111 may be provided with mounting holes to accommodate the corresponding ends of the elastic member 124, thereby making the installation of the elastic member 124 more stable.

[0103] Of course, the first mounting part 1231 and / or the second mounting part 1111 may be provided with positioning posts, and the corresponding end of the elastic member 124 may be sleeved on the positioning posts of the first mounting part 1231 or the second mounting part 1111, thereby making the installation of the elastic member 124 more stable. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0104] Of course, in some other embodiments, the clamping component 12 can also be connected to the moving component 111 through a flexible member, a flexible member, an elastic member, etc., so as to realize the flexible connection between the clamping component 12 and the moving component 111. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0105] In some embodiments, the detection component 13 includes a photoelectric sensor 131 and a trigger 132, wherein the photoelectric sensor 131 is used to detect the position of the trigger 132. The relative movement between the clamping component 12 and the moving component 111 can drive the trigger 132 to move relative to the photoelectric sensor 131, so that the photoelectric sensor 131 can detect the relative movement between the moving component 111 and the clamping component 12.

[0106] Therefore, by taking advantage of the high sensitivity and accuracy of the photoelectric sensor 131, the relative movement between the moving part 111 and the clamping assembly 12 can be detected in a timely and accurate manner, so as to detect the placement state when the clamping assembly 12 places the sample tube in the preset position and the closing state when the clamping assembly 12 closes the cover of the sample tube.

[0107] For example, the detection component 13 includes a photoelectric sensor 131 and a trigger 132, one of the photoelectric sensor 131 and the trigger 132 is disposed in the moving component 111, and the other of the photoelectric sensor 131 and the trigger 132 is disposed in the clamping component 12.

[0108] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 5 and Figure 6 ;in, Figure 5 In the diagram, 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, and 5e represent the initial state with the cover closed, the state with the cover open to release the seal of the pipe, the state with the cover moving upward to expose the pipe opening, the state with the cover moving downward to cover the pipe opening, and the state with the cover closed again. Figure 6 In the diagram, 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e represent the initial state with the cover closed, the state with the cover open to release the pipe seal, the state with the cover moving upward to expose the pipe opening, the state with the cover moving downward to block the pipe opening, and the state with the cover unable to close properly.

[0109] As can be seen from the attached diagram, if the sample tube cap cannot be closed properly during the process of the clamping assembly 12 closing the cap, when the clamping assembly 12 stops moving while the moving part 111 continues to move, the moving part 111 will drive the connected photoelectric sensor 131 or trigger 132 to continue moving, and the clamping assembly 12 and the connected photoelectric sensor 131 or trigger 132 will stop moving, ultimately causing the photoelectric sensor 131 and the trigger 132 to move relative to each other.

[0110] It is also understood that the photoelectric sensor 131 or trigger 132 disposed on the clamping assembly 12 may be the driving unit 122 disposed on the clamping assembly 12 or the floating seat 123. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0111] In some implementations, the photoelectric sensor 131 may include a photogate, a distance sensor, etc., but this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0112] Taking the photoelectric sensor 131 including a photoelectric gate as an example, when the clamping assembly 12 moves relative to the moving part, the trigger 132 can move into the photoelectric gate, so that the trigger 132 blocks the light signal of the photoelectric gate. Alternatively, when the clamping assembly 12 moves relative to the moving part 111, the trigger 132 can exit the photoelectric gate to release the blocking of the light signal of the photoelectric gate by the trigger 132. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0113] In some other embodiments, the detection component 13 may also include a Hall sensor, a micro switch, an image detection device, a capacitive sensor, and a mechanical detection device, etc., which are not limited in this application embodiment.

[0114] Taking a Hall sensor as an example, it can detect magnetic field information and determine whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly, the placement status of the sample tube when it is placed in a preset position, and so on.

[0115] For example, one of the clamping assembly 12 and the moving part 111 is provided with a Hall sensor, and the other of the clamping assembly 12 and the moving part 111 is provided with a magnetic element that cooperates with the Hall sensor. When the clamping assembly 12 moves relative to the moving part 111, the relative position of the magnetic element and the Hall sensor changes, so that the Hall sensor can detect the movement of the clamping assembly 12 relative to the moving part 111.

[0116] Taking a microswitch as an example, it is possible to determine whether the cover of the sample tube is closed properly, the placement status of the sample tube when it is placed in a preset position, and so on, by whether the microswitch is triggered.

[0117] For example, the micro switch is triggered when the clamping assembly 12 moves relative to the moving part 111.

[0118] Taking an image detection device as an example, the image detection device may include a camera, which takes a target photo of the sample tube, and then the target photo is processed by an image recognition algorithm to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed properly, the placement status of the sample tube when it is placed in a preset position, and so on.

[0119] Taking a capacitive sensor as an example, the change in capacitance of the sensor can be used to determine whether the cover of the sample tube is closed properly, the placement status of the sample tube when it is placed in a preset position, and so on.

[0120] For example, the movement of the clamping assembly 12 relative to the moving part 111 causes a change in the capacitance of the capacitive sensor, thereby enabling the capacitive sensor to detect the movement of the clamping assembly 12 relative to the moving part 111.

[0121] Taking the mechanical detection device as an example, the motor of the clamping component 12 used to open or close the cover of the sample tube can be a torque motor. Then, the working parameters of the torque motor can be detected by the detection function of the torque motor itself, so as to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place, the placement status of the sample tube when it is placed in the preset position, etc., based on the working parameters of the torque motor.

[0122] That is to say, the detection component 13 can determine whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place and the placement state of the sample tube when it is placed in the preset position by detecting the movement of the clamping component 12 relative to the moving part 111. The detection component 13 can also determine whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place and the placement state of the sample tube when it is placed in the preset position by any other means such as image recognition. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0123] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 7 Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a sample analysis method. The sample analysis method is applied to a sample analyzer, the specific structure of which can be found in the specific structure of the sample analyzer described in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. The method may include: during the process of the clamping component closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component has closed the cover of the sample tube, controlling the detection component to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place.

[0124] For example, controlling the detection component to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly may include: controlling the detection component to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part; and determining the closed state of the cap based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping component closing the cap.

[0125] In some implementations, the method further includes: determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in a preset position.

[0126] It is understandable that the flexible connection between the clamping component and the moving part allows the clamping component to move relative to the moving part under external force. Therefore, during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube into a preset position, if the sample tube is misplaced and a collision occurs, the sample tube will push against the clamping component, causing the clamping component to move relative to the moving part. Similarly, during the process of the clamping component closing the sample tube cap, if the cap is not fully closed, the cap will push against the clamping component, causing the clamping component to move relative to the moving part. Based on this, this embodiment of the application detects the relative movement of the clamping component and the moving part using a detection component, thus simultaneously detecting both the placement and capping states of the sample tube. Therefore, compared to using two different detection mechanisms to separately detect the placement and capping states of the sample tube, the sample analyzer of this embodiment has the advantages of a simpler structure and lower manufacturing cost.

[0127] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 8 The following provides a detailed description of each step. It should be noted that the order of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the preferred order of the embodiments. The sample analysis method may include the following steps 101 to 108: 101. Control the drive component to drive the moving part to move, so that the moving part drives the clamping component to move to at least two preset positions past the sample supply device.

[0128] In some implementations, at least two preset positions may include an injection position and a suction position. This facilitates the clamping component to perform corresponding operations as it passes through the suction position and the injection position.

[0129] Of course, the preset position can also be any other position on the sample supply device, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0130] 102. Control the clamping assembly to pick up and place sample tubes at at least two preset positions of the sample supply device, and open or close the cover of the sample tube at at least one preset position to supply the sample carried in the sample tube.

[0131] Furthermore, the clamping assembly can move the sample tube to a preset position (such as the aspiration position) and open the cap of the sample tube, thereby facilitating the specific mechanism of the sample analyzer (such as the sample dispensing mechanism) to accurately dispense the sample into the corresponding extraction container at the preset position (such as the aspiration position), which can improve the reliability of the sample dispensing mechanism.

[0132] For example, controlling the clamping assembly to pick up and place sample tubes at at least two preset positions of the sample supply device, and to open or close the cap of the sample tube at at least one preset position, may include: The control clamping component picks up the sample tube carrying the sample to be tested at the injection position, and after moving with the moving part, places the sample tube carrying the sample to be tested at the aspiration position; the control clamping component opens and then closes the cap of the sample tube at the aspiration position to supply the sample carried in the sample tube; the control clamping component picks up the sample tube at the aspiration position after the cap is closed, and after moving with the moving part, places it at the injection position.

[0133] In some embodiments, the method further includes, before controlling the clamping assembly to grip the sample tube carrying the sample to be tested at the injection position: The control and delivery components transport the sample tube containing the sample to be tested from the loading position to the injection position.

[0134] Furthermore, users can load sample tubes or sample racks in the loading area; at the same time, the clamping component can simultaneously move the sample tube at the sample inlet position so that the sample tube can complete sample dispensing at the aspiration position, thereby improving the detection efficiency of the sample analyzer.

[0135] In some implementations, controlling the clamping assembly to open and then close the cap of the sample tube at the aspiration position to supply the sample carried in the sample tube may include: The control clamping component opens the cap of the sample tube at the aspiration position so that the sample dispensing component can dispense the sample from the sample tube into the corresponding extraction container; the control clamping component closes the cap of the sample tube after the sample dispensing component has completed the sample dispensing.

[0136] In some implementations, controlling the clamping assembly to open the cap of the sample tube at the sampling position may include: When the driving component drives the driving unit and the clamping unit to move upward, it controls the clamping unit to clamp the cover of the sample tube and controls the driving unit to drive the clamping unit to rotate.

[0137] Furthermore, the clamping unit can clamp the cap of the sample tube and spiral it upwards, thereby unscrewing the cap of the sample tube.

[0138] In some implementations, controlling the clamping assembly to close the cap of the sample tube after the dispensing assembly has completed sample dispensing may include: When the driving unit and the clamping unit move downwards, the driving unit is controlled to drive the clamping unit to rotate, so that the clamping unit causes the cap of the clamped sample tube to spiral down.

[0139] Furthermore, the clamping unit can clamp the cap of the sample tube and screw it down, thereby tightening the cap of the sample tube.

[0140] In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling the transfer assembly to transfer a sample tube from the aspiration position to the loading position or a sample tube recovery device.

[0141] 103. Control the detection component to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part.

[0142] 104. During the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in the preset position, the placement status of the sample tube is determined based on the detection results of the detection component.

[0143] Furthermore, the detection component can detect whether the sample tubes are placed correctly, thereby improving the reliability and stability of the sample analyzer.

[0144] In some implementations, during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in a preset position, determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection assembly may include: If, during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in the preset position, the distance that the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than the second preset value, it is determined that the sample tube has been collided with and is incorrectly placed.

[0145] Correspondingly, during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in the preset position, if the distance that the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is less than or equal to the second preset value, then the sample tube is determined to be placed in the correct position.

[0146] It is understandable that during the manufacturing process of the sample tube, both the tube body and the cap typically have manufacturing tolerances, and assembly tolerances also exist between the tube bodies during the tightening of the cap to the tube body. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is less than or equal to a second preset value, the sample tube is still judged to be correctly positioned. This avoids the cap pushing the clamping component to a slight movement relative to the moving part due to the form and position tolerances of the sample tube itself when the sample tube is correctly positioned, thereby improving the reliability and accuracy of the detection results of the detection component.

[0147] In some implementations, the second preset value is 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

[0148] For example, the second preset value can be 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.61 mm, 0.65 mm, 0.735 mm, 0.85 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.97 mm or 1 mm, and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.

[0149] In some implementations, if the distance the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part exceeds a second preset value during the process of placing the sample tube in a preset position, it is determined that the sample tube has been impacted and its placement is incorrect. This may include: If the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than the second preset value during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in the injection position, it is determined that the sample tube has been hit and the placement position is incorrect; if the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than the second preset value during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in the aspiration position, it is determined that the sample tube has been hit and the placement state is incorrect.

[0150] Furthermore, the detection component can detect the placement status of the sample tube at the aspiration and injection positions, making the clamping component more stable and reliable when placing the sample tube at each preset position.

[0151] 105. During the process of closing the cover using the clamping component, determine the closing state of the cover based on the detection results of the detection component.

[0152] In some implementations, determining the closed state of the cover based on the detection result of the detection component during the closing process of the clamping component may include: If the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than a third preset value during the process of closing the cover, it is determined that the cover is not closed properly.

[0153] Correspondingly, during the process of the clamping component closing the cover, if the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is less than or equal to the third preset value, then the cover is determined to be closed in place.

[0154] As mentioned above, during the manufacturing process of the sample tube, both the tube body and the cap typically have manufacturing tolerances, and assembly tolerances also exist between the tube bodies during the tightening of the cap to the tube body. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is less than or equal to a third preset value, it is still determined that the sample tube is closed in place. This avoids the cap pushing the clamping component to slight movement relative to the moving part due to the form and position tolerances of the sample tube itself when the sample tube is closed in place, thereby improving the reliability and accuracy of the detection results of the detection component.

[0155] In some implementations, the third preset value can be the same as the second preset value.

[0156] In some implementations, the third preset value is 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

[0157] For example, the third preset value can be 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.61 mm, 0.65 mm, 0.735 mm, 0.85 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.97 mm or 1 mm, and this application embodiment does not limit it.

[0158] 106. Control the extraction device to extract nucleic acids from the sample.

[0159] In some embodiments, controlling the extraction device to extract nucleic acids from the sample includes: The sample dispensing assembly dispenses the sample from the sample tube into the corresponding extraction container when the clamping assembly opens the cap of the sample tube; the extraction device extracts the nucleic acid from the sample in the extraction container.

[0160] 107. Control the amplification device to amplify the extracted nucleic acid.

[0161] 108. Control the detection device to detect the amplified nucleic acid.

[0162] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a sample dispensing mechanism, including a driving component 11, a clamping component 12, and a detection component 13. The driving component 11 is used to drive the clamping component 12 to move, thereby picking up and placing sample tubes at at least two preset positions. The clamping component 12 is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The detection component 13 is used to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed in place during the process of the clamping component 12 closing the cap of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component 12 has closed the cap of the sample tube.

[0163] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 11 has a moving part 111. The clamping assembly 12 is kinetically connected to the moving part 111, enabling the drive assembly 11 to drive the moving part 111 to move, thereby moving the clamping assembly 12. The clamping assembly 12 is used to follow the movement of the moving part 111 to pick up and place sample tubes at at least two preset positions. The clamping assembly 12 is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. Therefore, the drive assembly 11 can drive the clamping assembly 12 to transfer sample tubes and perform opening and closing operations on the sample tubes.

[0164] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly 12 is flexibly connected to the moving part 111 so that the clamping assembly 12 can move relative to the moving part 111 under the action of external force.

[0165] Therefore, the detection component 13 can be used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component 12 and the moving part 111, so as to detect the closed state when the clamping component 12 closes the cover of the sample tube.

[0166] In some embodiments, the specific structures of the driving component 11, the clamping component 12, and the detection component 13 can be referred to the specific structures of the driving component 11, the clamping component 12, and the detection component 13 described in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here in the embodiments of this application.

[0167] In some implementations, the sample dispensing mechanism can be used in a sample analyzer. The specific structure of the sample analyzer can be found in the sample analyzer described in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here in the embodiments of this application.

[0168] Fourthly, this application also provides a sample allocation method, which is applied to a sample allocation mechanism. The specific structure of the sample allocation mechanism can be referred to the specific structure of the sample allocation mechanism described in the third aspect, and this application does not limit it. The method includes: during the process of the clamping component closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component closes the cover of the sample tube, controlling the detection component to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place.

[0169] For example, controlling the detection component to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly may include: controlling the detection component to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part; and determining the closed state of the cap based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping component closing the cap.

[0170] In some implementations, the method further includes: determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in a preset position.

[0171] It is understandable that the flexible connection between the clamping component and the moving part allows the clamping component to move relative to the moving part under external force. Therefore, during the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube into a preset position, if the sample tube is misplaced and a collision occurs, the sample tube will push against the clamping component, causing the clamping component to move relative to the moving part. Similarly, during the process of the clamping component closing the sample tube cap, if the cap is not fully closed, the cap will push against the clamping component, causing the clamping component to move relative to the moving part. Based on this, the embodiments of this application detect the relative movement of the clamping component and the moving part using a detection component, thus simultaneously detecting both the placement and capping states of the sample tube. Therefore, compared to using two different sets of detection components to separately detect the placement and capping states of the sample tube, the sample analyzer of the embodiments of this application has the advantages of a simpler structure and lower manufacturing cost.

[0172] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 9 The following provides a detailed description of each step. It should be noted that the order of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the preferred order of the embodiments. The sample analysis method may include the following steps 201 to 205: 201. Control the drive component to drive the moving part to move, so that the moving part drives the clamping component to move through at least two preset positions.

[0173] 202. Control the clamping assembly to pick up and place the sample tube at at least two preset positions, and open or close the cover of the sample tube at at least one preset position to supply the sample carried in the sample tube.

[0174] 203. Control the detection component to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part.

[0175] 204. During the process of the clamping component placing the sample tube in the preset position, the placement status of the sample tube is determined based on the detection results of the detection component.

[0176] 205. During the process of closing the cover using the clamping component, determine the closing state of the cover based on the detection results of the detection component.

[0177] In some embodiments, the specific processes of steps 201 to 205 described above can be referred to steps 101 to 105 in the third aspect, and will not be repeated here in the embodiments of this application.

[0178] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0179] The sample analyzer and analysis method, sample distribution mechanism and distribution method provided in the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, include: The sample supply device includes an extraction device, an amplification device, and a detection device. The sample supply device is used to hold a sample tube to supply the sample held in the sample tube. The extraction device is used to extract nucleic acid from the sample. The amplification device is used to amplify the extracted nucleic acid. The detection device is used to detect the amplified nucleic acid. The sample supply device includes a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component; The driving component is used to drive the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing the sample tube at at least two preset positions of the sample supply device. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The detection component is used to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place during the process of the clamping component closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component has closed the cover of the sample tube.

2. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly has a movable component, and the drive assembly can drive the movable component to move, thereby driving the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; The detection component is used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the closed state when the clamping component closes the cover of the sample tube.

3. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The detection component is also used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the placement state when the clamping component places the sample tube in the preset position.

4. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least two preset positions include an injection position and a suction position; wherein, the sample supply device further includes: A conveying assembly for conveying the sample tube so that the sample tube is moved to the injection position; and, A support component is provided to fix the body of the sample tube to the sampling position so that the clamping component can open or close the cap of the sample tube.

5. The sample analyzer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The clamping assembly includes a clamping unit and a driving unit. The clamping unit is used to clamp the cover, and the driving unit is pulsatorically connected to the clamping unit. During the process of the moving component moving the clamping assembly away from the sampling position, the driving unit can drive the clamping assembly to rotate to separate the cover from the tube body, thereby opening the cover. During the process of the moving component moving the clamping assembly closer to the sampling position, the driving unit can drive the clamping assembly to rotate to screw the cover onto the tube body, thereby closing the cover; and / or, The sample analyzer also includes a sample dispensing assembly, which is used to aspirate the sample carried in the sample tube located at the aspiration position and transfer it to the extraction container so that the extraction device can extract the nucleic acid from the sample carried in the extraction container.

6. The sample analyzer according to claim 4, characterized in that, During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, if the maximum travel distance of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes against the clamping assembly until it moves relative to the moving component; and / or, The conveying assembly is used to convey a sample holder carrying the sample tube, so that the sample holder moves the sample tube to the injection position; during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the injection position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset relative to the injection position, the sample tube collides with the sample holder and pushes the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part; and / or, During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the sampling position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset relative to the sampling position, the sample tube will collide with the bearing assembly and push the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part.

7. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, wherein the photoelectric sensor is used to detect the position of the trigger. The relative movement between the clamping assembly and the moving part can drive the trigger and the photoelectric sensor to move relative to each other, so that the photoelectric sensor can detect the relative movement between the moving part and the clamping assembly.

8. The sample analyzer according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The clamping assembly further includes a floating seat, which is movably mounted on the moving part so that the moving part is flexibly connected to the clamping assembly.

9. The sample analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, The floating seat is slidably connected to the moving component; The clamping assembly further includes an elastic element that abuts against or connects to the moving component to restrict the sliding of the floating seat relative to the moving component.

10. The sample analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, The detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, one of which is located on the moving part, and the other of which is located on the clamping component. The photoelectric sensor is used to detect the position information of the trigger. During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, if the maximum travel of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving component. During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset from the preset position, the sample tube will be impacted and push the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part.

11. A sample analysis method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a sample analyzer, which includes a sample supply device, an extraction device, an amplification device, and a detection device. The sample supply device carries a sample tube to supply the sample carried by the sample tube. The extraction device extracts nucleic acids from the sample. The amplification device amplifies the extracted nucleic acids. The detection device detects the amplified nucleic acids. The sample supply device includes a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component. The driving component drives the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing the sample tube at at least two preset positions on the sample supply device. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The method includes: During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping assembly has closed the cover of the sample tube, the detection assembly is controlled to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place.

12. The sample analysis method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The drive assembly has a movable component, and the drive assembly can drive the movable component to move, thereby driving the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; The control of the detection component to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly includes: The detection component is controlled to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part; During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the closed state of the cover is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

13. The sample analysis method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, the placement state of the sample tube is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

14. The sample analysis method according to claim 13, characterized in that, During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position, determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection assembly includes: If the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than a second preset value, the detection component is controlled to determine that the sample tube has been hit and is misplaced.

15. The sample analysis method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The at least two preset positions include an injection position and a suction position; the sample supply device further includes a conveying component and a carrying component, the conveying component is used to convey the sample tube so that the sample tube moves to the injection position, and the carrying component is used to fix the tube body of the sample tube to the suction position so that the clamping component can open or close the cap of the sample tube. Wherein, the step of determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection component during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position includes: If, during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the injection position, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than a second preset value, it is determined that the sample tube has been hit and is incorrectly positioned. If, during the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the sampling position, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than the second preset value, it is determined that the sample tube has been collided with and is incorrectly positioned.

16. The sample analysis method according to claim 12, characterized in that, During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, determining the closed state of the cover based on the detection result of the detection assembly includes: If, during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than a third preset value, then it is determined that the cover is not closed properly.

17. A sample distribution mechanism, characterized in that, include: Drive components, clamping components, and detection components; The driving component is used to drive the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing the sample tube at at least two preset positions. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. The detection component is used to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place during the process of the clamping component closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping component has closed the cover of the sample tube.

18. The sample distribution mechanism according to claim 17, characterized in that, The drive assembly has a movable component, and the drive assembly can drive the movable component to move, thereby driving the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; The detection component is used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the closed state when the clamping component closes the cover of the sample tube.

19. The sample distribution mechanism according to claim 18, characterized in that, The detection component is also used to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part, so as to detect the placement state when the clamping component places the sample tube in the preset position.

20. The sample allocation mechanism according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that, The detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, wherein the photoelectric sensor is used to detect the position of the trigger. The relative movement between the clamping assembly and the moving part can drive the trigger and the photoelectric sensor to move relative to each other, so that the photoelectric sensor can detect the relative movement between the moving part and the clamping assembly.

21. The sample allocation mechanism according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that, The clamping assembly further includes a floating seat, which is movably mounted on the moving part so that the moving part is flexibly connected to the clamping assembly.

22. The sample distribution mechanism according to claim 21, characterized in that, The floating seat is slidably connected to the moving component; The clamping assembly further includes an elastic element that abuts against or connects to the moving component to restrict the sliding of the floating seat relative to the moving component.

23. The sample distribution mechanism according to claim 22, characterized in that, The detection component includes a photoelectric sensor and a trigger, one of which is located on the moving part, and the other of which is located on the clamping component. The photoelectric sensor is used to detect the position information of the trigger. During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, if the maximum travel of the cover is less than a first preset value, the cover pushes the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving component. During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, if the placement position of the sample tube is offset from the preset position, the sample tube will be impacted and push the clamping assembly to move relative to the moving part.

24. A sample allocation method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a sample dispensing mechanism, which includes a driving component, a clamping component, and a detection component. The driving component drives the clamping component to move, thereby picking up and placing sample tubes at at least two preset positions. The clamping component is also used to open or close the cap of the sample tube. During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover of the sample tube and / or after the clamping assembly has closed the cover of the sample tube, the detection assembly is controlled to detect whether the cover of the sample tube is closed in place.

25. The sample allocation method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The drive assembly has a movable component, and the drive assembly can drive the movable component to move, thereby driving the clamping assembly to move. The clamping assembly is flexibly connected to the moving component, so that the clamping assembly can move relative to the moving component under the action of external force; The control of the detection component to detect whether the cap of the sample tube is closed properly includes: The detection component is controlled to detect the relative movement between the clamping component and the moving part; During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the closed state of the cover is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

26. The sample allocation method according to claim 25, characterized in that, During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube in the preset position, the placement state of the sample tube is determined based on the detection result of the detection assembly.

27. The sample allocation method according to claim 26, characterized in that, During the process of the clamping assembly placing the sample tube at the preset position, determining the placement state of the sample tube based on the detection result of the detection assembly includes: If the distance the clamping component moves relative to the moving part is greater than a second preset value, the detection component is controlled to determine that the sample tube has been hit and is misplaced.

28. The sample allocation method according to claim 25, characterized in that, During the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, determining the closed state of the cover based on the detection result of the detection assembly includes: If, during the process of the clamping assembly closing the cover, the distance that the clamping assembly moves relative to the moving part is greater than a third preset value, then it is determined that the cover is not closed properly.

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