Sample automatic processing and detection device and sample automatic processing and detection method

Abstract

This application relates to a fully automated sample processing and testing device and a fully automated sample processing and testing method, including a sample control module and a sample acquisition auxiliary module, a sample return module, a grinding module, a testing auxiliary module, a capping module, a drive module, a clamping module, and a control module, all connected to the control module circuit. The sample acquisition auxiliary module outputs sample tubes; the sample return module receives and stores sample tubes returned by the user; the grinding module shakes the sample tubes to grind the sample inside; the clamping module holds and fixes the ground sample tubes; the testing auxiliary module includes a pipette, a reagent plate dispensing assembly, and a camera assembly; the capping module picks up the sample tubes and unscrews them; the drive module drives the capping module to transfer the sample tubes between the sample return module, the grinding module, and the clamping module; the drive module is also connected to a pipette to drive the pipette to draw sample grinding solution from the unscrewed sample tubes and drop it onto the reagent plate; the camera assembly captures the testing results on the reagent plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of sample processing and testing equipment technology, and in particular to a fully automated sample processing and testing equipment and a fully automated sample processing and testing method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, both domestically and internationally, immunochromatographic colloidal gold technology, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) are mainly used for the detection and identification of blood, saliva, urine, and hair samples from drug users. Among these methods, hair collection is a relatively accurate and durable approach.

[0003] Current hair detection methods primarily rely on a combination of manual and machine testing. Manual testing involves professionals using tissue grinding equipment, reagent kits, colloidal gold detection devices, or fluorescence detection devices. While simple, this method, involving one-to-many manual testing, is inefficient and susceptible to human error, resulting in lower accuracy and reliability of the collected results. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a fully automated sample processing and testing device to reduce manual intervention, lower labor costs, and thus improve the accuracy and reliability of the collection results as well as increase testing efficiency.

[0005] A fully automated sample processing and testing device includes a sample collection auxiliary module, a sample return module, a grinding module, a clamping module, a testing auxiliary module, a capping module, a drive module, and a control module. The sample collection auxiliary module outputs sample tubes; the sample return module receives and stores sample tubes returned by the user; the grinding module shakes the sample tubes to grind the sample inside; the clamping module holds and fixes the ground sample tubes; the testing auxiliary module includes a pipette, a reagent plate dispensing assembly, and a camera assembly, the reagent plate dispensing assembly having the function of pushing out the reagent plate; the capping module grasps the sample tubes and unscrews them at the clamping module; the drive module drives the capping module to transfer the sample tubes between the sample return module, the grinding module, and the clamping module; the drive module is also connected to the pipette to drive the pipette to draw sample grinding solution from the unscrewed sample tubes and drop it onto the reagent plate; the camera assembly captures the testing results on the reagent plate; the control module is electrically connected to the sample collection auxiliary module, the sample return module, the grinding module, the testing auxiliary module, the capping module, the drive module, and the clamping module.

[0006] In one embodiment, the sample return module includes a sample return track and a pre-storage bracket. The sample return track has a sample return port and a storage port, and the pre-storage bracket has multiple storage positions. The sample return port is used to receive sample tubes returned by the user. The sample tubes can slide along the sample return track to the storage port. The capping module grabs the sample tubes at the storage port and moves the sample tubes to one of the storage positions.

[0007] In one embodiment, the capping module includes a capping gripper and at least two cap fingers connected to the capping gripper. The capping gripper can drive the at least two cap fingers to open and close to clamp or loosen the cap of the sample tube. The clamping module includes an electric gripper and at least two bottle body fingers connected to the electric gripper. The electric gripper can drive the at least two bottle body fingers to open and close to loosen or clamp the bottle body of the sample tube. Furthermore, the capping gripper can drive the at least two cap fingers to rotate so that when the clamping module clamps and fixes the bottle body of the sample tube, the capping module can cooperate with the clamping module to unscrew or tighten the cap of the sample tube.

[0008] In one embodiment, the grinding module includes a grinding motor assembly, a grinding adapter, and a grinding nut. The grinding adapter has multiple mounting slots, each for placing a sample tube. The grinding nut is used to fix the sample tube to the grinding adapter. The grinding motor assembly is connected to the grinding adapter and is used to drive the grinding adapter to shake.

[0009] In one embodiment, the grinding adapter has a threaded hole, and the grinding nut includes a cap and a screw connected to each other; the capping gripper can drive at least two cap fingers to open and close to clamp or release the cap; the capping module can also drive at least two cap fingers to rotate so that when the capping module clamps the cap, by driving at least two cap fingers to rotate, the screw can be screwed into the threaded hole and the cap can be pressed against the sample tube; or, the screw can be screwed out of the threaded hole and the grinding nut can be disassembled from the grinding adapter.

[0010] In one embodiment, the grinding module further includes a grinding nut holder for holding grinding nuts that have been removed from the grinding adapter.

[0011] In one embodiment, the capping module includes a capping motor and at least two cap fingers connected to the capping motor. The capping motor can drive the at least two cap fingers to open and close to loosen or clamp the cap of the sample tube. Furthermore, the capping motor can drive the at least two cap fingers to rotate so that when the clamping module clamps the body of the sample tube, the capping module can cooperate with the clamping module to screw the cap fingers.

[0012] In one embodiment, the drive module is provided with a mounting plate, on which the pipette, camera assembly and capping module are all mounted and can move synchronously.

[0013] In one embodiment, the pipette is provided with a mounting head, and the detection auxiliary module also includes a pipette tip holder on which multiple pipette tips are placed; wherein, as the pipette is pressed down along the z-axis, the mounting head can be inserted into the corresponding pipette tip and the pipette tip is installed on the mounting head.

[0014] In one embodiment, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a barcode scanning module, which is connected to the control module circuit and used to identify the barcode on the sample tube.

[0015] In one embodiment, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a module support, which has a worktable and a support. The sample return module, grinding module, reagent plate delivery assembly, clamping module and support are all fixedly installed above the worktable along the z-axis, and the drive module is installed on the support.

[0016] A fully automated sample processing and detection method, used in the fully automated sample processing and detection equipment of any of the above embodiments, the fully automated sample processing and detection method includes the following steps:

[0017] The sample collection assistance module outputs a sample tube, which the user can then collect the sample into.

[0018] The sample return module receives and stores the sample tubes returned by the user;

[0019] The capping module picks up the sample tube from the sample return module and moves it to the grinding module. The grinding module shakes the sample tube to grind the sample inside.

[0020] The capping module picks up the sample tube from the grinding module and moves it to the clamping module;

[0021] The clamping module holds and fixes the sample tube, while the capping module opens the cap of the sample tube.

[0022] Reagent plate shipment components have been launched for reagent plates;

[0023] The pipette draws sample homogenate from the open sample tube and drops it onto the reagent plate;

[0024] The camera module captures the test results of the reagent plate.

[0025] In one embodiment, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment further includes a barcode scanning module located between the grinding module and the clamping module; before the capping module picks up the sample tube from the grinding module and moves the sample tube to the clamping module, it first moves the sample tube to the barcode scanning module for barcode scanning.

[0026] The steps of the clamping module holding and fixing the sample tube, and the capping module opening the cap of the sample tube include:

[0027] The clamping module clamps the sample tube onto the bottle body;

[0028] The capping module clamps the cap of the sample tube and rotates the cap of the sample tube. At the same time, the drive module drives the capping module to move upward along the z-axis to unscrew the cap of the sample tube.

[0029] In one embodiment, the fully automated sample processing and detection device further includes a collection tank, and a pipette has a mounting head with a pipette tip attached to the mounting head; after the pipette draws sample grinding solution from the ground sample tube and drops it onto a reagent plate, the fully automated sample processing and detection method further includes:

[0030] The pipette tip is pushed into the collection box.

[0031] In one embodiment, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment further includes a collection box; after the camera component captures the test results of the reagent plate, the fully automated sample processing and testing method further includes:

[0032] After the capping module moves the cap of the sample tube above the clamping module along the z-axis, the capping module drives the cap of the sample tube to rotate, while the drive module drives the capping module to move downward along the z-axis to tighten the cap of the sample tube.

[0033] The capping module moves the sample tube to the collection box.

[0034] Compared with existing technologies, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment and method provided in this application, by setting up a sample collection auxiliary module, a sample return module, a grinding module, a testing auxiliary module, a capping module, a drive module, and a control module, can realize fully automated sample processing and testing after self-service sample collection, reducing manual intervention and thus reducing the impact of human factors. This is conducive to improving the accuracy and reliability of the collection results. Furthermore, fully automated sample processing and testing also helps to improve the efficiency of testing. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment provided in this application;

[0037] Figure 2 An exploded view of the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment provided in this application;

[0038] Figure 3An assembly diagram of the sample return module, grinding module, detection auxiliary module, drive module and module bracket provided for this application;

[0039] Figure 4 for Figure 3 An enlarged view at point A;

[0040] Figure 5 for Figure 3 An enlarged view at point B;

[0041] Figure 6 An exploded view of the drive module and module bracket provided in this application;

[0042] Figure 7 An exploded view of the sample module provided in this application;

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the grinding module provided in this application;

[0044] Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the capping module provided in this application;

[0045] Figure 10 A flowchart of a fully automated sample processing and detection method is provided for this application.

[0046] Figure reference numerals: 1. Fully automated sample processing and testing equipment; 100. Cabinet; 101. Recycling module; 102. Collection box; 105. Replenishment door; 106. Maintenance door; 10. Sample collection auxiliary module; 11. Replenishment component; 12. Interactive screen; 20. Sample return module; 21. Sample return track; 211. Sample return port; 212. Storage port; 22. Pre-storage bracket; 221. Storage position; 30. Grinding module; 31. Grinding motor assembly; 32. Grinding adapter; 321. Assembly slot; 322. Threaded hole; 33. Grinding nut; 331. Cover; 332. Screw; 333. Protrusion; 34. Grinding nut holder; 40. Testing auxiliary module; 411. Pipette; 4 12. Mounting head; 413. Pipe tip; 420. Reagent plate dispensing assembly; 421. Reagent plate; 430. Camera assembly; 440. Pipe tip holder; 50. Capping module; 51. Capping gripper; 52. Bottle cap finger; 60. Drive module; 61. X-axis; 611. First drive mechanism; 62. Y-axis; 621. Second drive mechanism; 63. Z-axis; 631. Third drive mechanism; 601. Drive motor; 602. Lead screw; 603. Slider; 64. Mounting plate; 70. Barcode scanning module; 80. Clamping module; 81. Electric gripper; 82. Bottle body finger; 90. Module bracket; 91. Worktable; 911. Recycling port; 92. Support; 93. Foot; 2. Sample tube. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0048] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intermediate component. When a component is considered to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intermediate component present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application's specification are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0049] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0050] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature and the second feature are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used in this application includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0052] Please see Figures 1 to 5This application provides a fully automated sample processing and testing device 1, which includes a sample collection auxiliary module 10, a sample return module 20, a grinding module 30, a testing auxiliary module 40, a capping module 50, a drive module 60, a clamping module 80, and a control module. The sample collection auxiliary module 10 is used to output the sample tube 2 to be used; the sample return module 20 is used to receive and store the sample tube 2 after sampling; the grinding module 30 is used to shake the sample tube 2 after sampling to grind the sample in the sample tube 2; the clamping module 80 is used to clamp and fix the ground sample tube 2; the detection auxiliary module 40 includes a pipette 411, a reagent plate delivery assembly 420 and a camera assembly 430, the reagent plate delivery assembly 420 has a reagent plate 421; the capping module 50 is used to grab the sample tube 2 and unscrew the sample tube at the clamping module 80; the drive module 60 is connected to the capping module 50 to drive the capping module 50 to transfer the sample tube 2 between the sample return module 20, the grinding module 30 and the clamping module 80; the drive module 60 is also connected to the pipette 411 to drive the pipette 411 to draw the sample grinding liquid from the unscrewed sample tube 2 and drop it onto the reagent plate 421; the camera assembly 430 is used to capture the detection results on the reagent plate 421. The control module is electrically connected to the sample acquisition auxiliary module 10, sample return module 20, grinding module 30, detection auxiliary module 40, capping module 50, drive module 60 and clamping module 80 respectively, so as to control the sample acquisition auxiliary module 10, sample return module 20, grinding module 30, detection auxiliary module 40, drive module 60 and clamping module 80 to work together to complete the fully automatic processing and detection of the sample.

[0053] The control module coordinates the sample collection auxiliary module 10, sample return module 20, grinding module 30, detection auxiliary module 40, drive module 60, and clamping module 80 to complete the fully automated sample processing and detection process as follows: The sample collection auxiliary module 10 stores multiple sample tubes 2 for use. The sample collection auxiliary module 10 outputs the sample tubes 2 for use to the window of the fully automated sample processing and detection device 1 via the control module. The sample collection auxiliary module 10 also has an interactive screen configured for the user to guide the user to collect samples into the sample tubes 2 independently; alternatively, the interactive screen can also be used for audio content playback. After sampling is completed, the sample return module 20 receives and stores the sample tubes 2 returned by the user. Next, the control module controls the drive module 60 to drive the capping module 50 to transfer the sample tubes 2 from the sample return module 20 to the grinding module 30. The grinding module 30 causes the sample tubes 2 to shake, thus grinding the sample in the sample tubes 2. After the sample tube 2 is ground, the control module controls the drive module 60 to drive the capping module 50 to transfer the sample tube 2 from the grinding module 30 to the clamping module 80. The control module then controls the clamping module 80 to fix the sample tube 2. The control module controls the capping module 50 to unscrew the sample tube at the clamping module 80. Afterward, the control module controls the drive module 60 to drive the pipette 411 to draw the sample grinding solution from the unscrewed sample tube and drop it onto the reagent plate 421. The camera component 430 captures the detection results on the reagent plate 421, thus completing the fully automated processing and detection of the sample.

[0054] It is understood that by setting up a sample collection auxiliary module 10, a sample return module 20, a grinding module 30, a detection auxiliary module 40, a capping module 50, a drive module 60, a clamping module 80, and a control module, this application enables the fully automated sample processing and detection equipment to complete steps such as shipping, retrieval, transfer, grinding, detection, and result recording independently. This allows for fully automated sample processing and detection after self-service sample collection, reducing manual intervention and minimizing the impact of human factors. This is beneficial for improving the accuracy and reliability of the collection results. Furthermore, fully automated sample processing and detection also helps to improve detection efficiency.

[0055] The samples include, but are not limited to, hair. The following text will take the collection of hair samples as an example to introduce the specific structure and working process of the fully automated sample processing and detection equipment 1.

[0056] The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment 1 also includes a cabinet 100, which has a workroom and an operation room. The sample collection auxiliary module 10, sample return module 20, grinding module 30, testing auxiliary module 40, capping module 50, clamping module 80, and drive module 60 are all located in the workroom. The cabinet 100 has a maintenance door 106, which is used to open the workroom for maintenance of the equipment inside. The operation room is used for users to perform self-service hair collection.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, the sample collection auxiliary module 10 includes a replenishment component 11 and an interactive screen 12. The replenishment component 11 stores multiple test kits (not shown), each containing a sample tube 2. The replenishment component 11 ejects one test kit at a time. The user takes out the sample tube 2 from the test kit and, guided by the interactive screen 12, completes real-name authentication, payment, disinfection, and hair collection. The replenishment component 11 is equipped with a conveyor belt through which the test kits are ejected. The cabinet 100 has a replenishment door 105, which is used to open the workroom to replenish the test kits to the replenishment component 11. When the number of test kits in the replenishment component 11 is insufficient or less than a preset number, a sensor transmits the replenishment information to the control module, which then sends the replenishment information to the replenishment operator, or sends the replenishment information to the cloud server and synchronizes it to the replenishment operator. The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment 1 also includes a recycling module 101, which is used to collect used test kits.

[0058] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a module support 90, which has a worktable 91 and a support 92. The sample return module 20, grinding module 30, reagent plate delivery assembly 420, support 92, and clamping module 80 are all fixedly mounted on the worktable 91 along the z-axis. The drive module 60 is mounted on the support 92. The support 92 raises the drive module 60 along the z-axis to facilitate the drive module 60 in driving the capping module 50 to transfer the sample tube 2 between the sample return module 20, grinding module 30, and clamping module 80, and to drive the pipette 411 to draw sample grinding liquid from the ground sample tube 2 and drop it onto the reagent plate 421. The worktable 91 has multiple feet 93 at its bottom along the z-axis, which raise the worktable 91.

[0059] Optionally, in one embodiment, the drive module 60 is configured as a three-axis gantry (x, y, z). The drive module 60 includes an x-axis 61, a y-axis 62, and a z-axis 63 that are perpendicular to each other in space. There are two y-axis 62, which are arranged parallel to each other and mounted on supports 92. The x-axis 61 has a first drive mechanism 611, the y-axis 62 has a second drive mechanism 621, and the z-axis 63 has a third drive mechanism 631. The second drive mechanism 621 is connected to the x-axis 61 and drives it to move along the y-direction. The first drive mechanism 611 is connected to the z-axis 63 and drives it to move along the x-direction. The third drive mechanism 631 is connected to the capping module 50 and the pipette 411 to drive them to move along the z-direction. This allows the drive module 60 and the pipette 411 to have degrees of freedom to move in three directions (x, y, and z) within space.

[0060] The first drive mechanism 611, the second drive mechanism 621, and the third drive mechanism 631 are all configured to include a drive motor 601, a lead screw 602, and a slider 603. The drive motor 601 is connected to the lead screw 602, and the slider 603 is threadedly connected to the lead screw 602. The drive motor 601 is used to drive the lead screw 602 to rotate and drive the slider 603 to move along the lead screw 602. The x-axis is connected to the slider 603 of the second drive mechanism 621, and the z-axis is connected to the slider 603 of the first drive mechanism 611. The slider 603 of the third drive mechanism 631 is provided with a mounting plate 64. The slider 603, the lead screw 602, the pipette 411, the camera assembly 430, and the capping module 50 are all mounted on the mounting plate 64 and can move synchronously with the mounting plate 64.

[0061] Since the pipette 411 needs to draw sample grinding solution from the ground sample tube 2 and drop it onto the reagent plate 421, by mounting both the pipette 411 and the capping module 50 on the mounting plate 64, the pipette 411 and the capping module 50 are driven by the same drive module 60. This helps to simplify the components of the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment 1 and reduce its cost. Furthermore, since the camera assembly 430 needs to capture the test results on the reagent plate 421, by also mounting the camera assembly 430 on the mounting plate 64, it is convenient for the camera assembly 430 to capture the test results on the reagent plate 421 after the pipette 411 drops the sample grinding solution onto it.

[0062] like Figure 3 and Figure 7As shown, the sample return module 20 includes a sample return track 21 and a pre-storage bracket 22, both of which are fixedly installed above the workbench 91. The sample return track 21 has a sample return port 211 and a storage port 212, and the pre-storage bracket 22 has multiple storage positions 221. The sample return port 211 is used to receive sample tubes 2 returned by users. The sample tubes 2 can slide along the sample return track 21 to the storage port 212. The capping module 50 grabs the sample tubes 2 at the storage port 212 and moves them to one of the storage positions 221. By setting up the pre-storage bracket 22, multiple sample tubes 2 can be temporarily stored, thereby preventing the sample tubes 2 from blocking the sample return track 21 and affecting the next user's return of sample tubes 2. This helps to improve the working efficiency of the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment.

[0063] Optionally, in one embodiment, the height of the sample return track 21 gradually decreases along the direction from the sample return port 211 to the storage port 212, so that the sample tube 2 can slide along the sample return track 21 from the sample return port 211 to the storage port 212 under its own gravity. The sample return port 211 is horizontally positioned, and the storage port 212 is vertically positioned. This allows the sample tube 2 to enter the sample return port 211 lying flat from one end of the bottle cap or from one end of the bottle body. Furthermore, the sample tube 2 can gradually adjust its posture as it slides along the sample return track 21 until it stops vertically at the storage port 212. This facilitates the subsequent capping module 50 in grasping the sample tube 2.

[0064] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, the capping module 50 grips the sample tube 2 in the following manner: The capping module 50 includes a capping gripper 51 and at least two cap fingers 52 connected to the capping gripper 51. The capping gripper 51 can drive the at least two cap fingers 52 to open and close to loosen or clamp the cap of the sample tube 2. When gripping the sample tube 2, the capping gripper 51 first drives the at least two cap fingers 52 to open, the drive module 60 drives the two cap fingers 52 to move to the outer periphery of the cap of the sample tube 2, and then the capping gripper 51 first drives the at least two cap fingers 52 to close to clamp the cap of the sample tube 2.

[0065] like Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the grinding module 30 includes a grinding motor assembly 31, a grinding adapter 32, and a grinding nut 33. The grinding adapter 32 has multiple mounting slots 321, each for placing a sample tube 2. The grinding nut 33 is used to fix the sample tube 2 to the grinding adapter 32. The grinding motor assembly 31 is connected to the grinding adapter 32 and is used to drive the grinding adapter 32 to shake. The grinding nut 33 is used to prevent the sample tube 2 from shaking relative to the grinding adapter 32 during grinding.

[0066] Among them, the grinding motor assembly 31 can adopt a cam structure, which controls the shaking of the grinding adapter 32, the sample tube 2 and the grinding nut 33.

[0067] It should be noted that sample tube 2 contains lysis buffer and grinding beads. When the grinding motor assembly 31 drives the grinding adapter 32 and sample tube 2 to shake, the grinding beads impact the hair and pulverize it. Sample tube 2 uses a 2ml leak-proof grinding tube with a gasket, and the negative pressure sealing test shows no leakage. The raw material components of the lysis buffer for internal grinding include: 50-100 nM alkaline protease AH101, 0.52% mercaptoacetic acid, 25-75 mM glycine, 30-60 mM tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane hydrochloride buffer, 40-80 mM sodium chloride-sodium hydroxide buffer, and 0.5% polyethylene glycol octylphenyl ether Triton X100; where nM is nanomoles per liter and mM is millimoles per liter; the grinding beads are mainly zirconia grinding beads.

[0068] The grinding adapter 32 has a threaded hole 322, and the grinding nut 33 includes a cap 331 and a screw 332 connected to it. The capping module 50 includes a capping claw 51 and at least two cap fingers 52 connected to the capping claw 51. The capping claw 51 can drive the at least two cap fingers 52 to open and close to clamp or release the cap 331. The capping module 50 can also drive the at least two cap fingers 52 to rotate. When the capping module 50 clamps the cap 331, by driving the at least two cap fingers 52 to rotate, the screw 332 can be screwed into the threaded hole 322, and the cap 331 can press against the sample tube 2; or, the screw 332 can be screwed out of the threaded hole 322, and the grinding nut 33 can be disassembled from the grinding adapter 32. In this way, the capping module 50 can not only be used to grip the moving sample tube 2, but also to tighten the grinding nut 33 to fix the sample tube 2 to the grinding adapter 32, thereby preventing the sample tube 2 from shaking during grinding. To facilitate the gripping of the capping module 50 and the screwing of the cap 331, a protrusion 333 is provided on the side of the cap 331 away from the screw 332, and the protrusion 333 is engraved with anti-slip texture.

[0069] The grinding module 30 also includes a grinding nut holder 34, which is used to hold the grinding nuts 33 that have been removed from the grinding adapter 32. When grinding of the sample tube 2 is not required, the grinding nuts 33 are placed on the grinding nut holder 34.

[0070] The clamping module 80 includes an electric gripper 81 and at least two bottle-body fingers 82 connected to the electric gripper 81. The electric gripper 81 can drive the at least two bottle-body fingers 82 to open and close to loosen or clamp the bottle body of the sample tube 2.

[0071] The clamping module 80 is used in conjunction with the capping module 50 to open or tighten the cap of the sample tube 2. Specifically: the electric gripper 81 is controlled to drive at least two bottle-body fingers 82 to open; the capping module 50 is controlled to clamp the cap of the sample tube 2 and place the bottle body of the sample tube 2 between the at least two bottle-body fingers 82; the drive module controls the electric gripper 81 to drive the at least two bottle-body fingers 82 to close and clamp the bottle body of the sample tube 2; the control module controls the capping electric gripper 51 to drive the at least two cap fingers 52 to rotate and open the cap of the sample tube 2. The capping module 50 then opens the cap of the sample tube 2 to facilitate the subsequent aspirator 411 to draw the sample grinding solution from the opened sample tube 2. When it is necessary to tighten the cap, the control module only needs to control the capping electric gripper 51 to drive the at least two cap fingers 52 to rotate in the opposite direction.

[0072] The clamping module 80 can be positioned between the grinding module 30 and the reagent plate delivery assembly 420 to reduce the travel distance of the capping module 50 and the pipette 411.

[0073] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the pipette 411 is equipped with a mounting head 412, and the detection auxiliary module 40 also includes a pipette tip holder 440, on which multiple pipette tips 413 are placed. As the pipette 411 is pressed down along the z-axis, the mounting head 412 can be inserted into the corresponding pipette tip 413, thus installing the pipette tip 413 onto the mounting head 412. This facilitates the replacement of pipette tips 413 with the pipette 411.

[0074] like Figure 3 As shown, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a barcode scanning module 70, which is connected to the control module circuit and used to identify the barcode on the sample tube 2. The barcode on the sample tube 2 can contain data such as the sample number, user identification information, and extraction time. The barcode on the sample tube 2 is uniquely linked to the user and the reagent plate 421. This ensures that each item has a unique code and that the entire sampling, processing, and testing process is traceable. This helps improve the accuracy and reliability of the test results.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown, the fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a collection box 102, which is used to collect used pipette tips 413 and sample tubes 2 after testing. Specifically, a return port 911 is provided on the workbench 91, and the collection box 102 is placed below the workbench 91 and facing the return port 911.

[0076] Please see Figure 10 This application also provides a fully automated sample processing and detection method for use in the fully automated sample processing and detection device 1 described in any of the above embodiments. The fully automated sample processing and detection method includes the following steps:

[0077] Step S1: The sample collection auxiliary module 10 outputs sample tube 2, and the user collects the sample into sample tube 2 by himself.

[0078] Step S2: The sample return module 20 receives and stores the sample tube 2 returned by the user.

[0079] Specifically, step S2 includes:

[0080] S21, Sample tube 2 slides from sample return port 211 along sample return track 21 to storage port 212;

[0081] S22, the capping module 50 picks up the sample tube 2 from the storage port 212 and moves the sample tube 2 to a corresponding storage position 221. In this way, the sample tube 2 is temporarily stored in the pre-storage bracket 22.

[0082] Step S3: The capping module 50 picks up the sample tube 2 from the sample return module 20 and moves the sample tube 2 to the grinding module 30. The grinding module 30 shakes the sample tube 2 to grind the sample in the sample tube 2.

[0083] Specifically, step S3 includes:

[0084] S31, the capping module 50 picks up the sample tube 2 and places the sample tube 2 into the assembly slot 321 of the grinding adapter 32;

[0085] S32, the capping module 50 grabs the grinding nut 33 from the grinding nut holder 34 and extends the screw 332 into the threaded hole 322. While screwing the cap 331 into the threaded hole 322, the cap 331 presses the sample tube 2.

[0086] S33, the grinding motor assembly 31 drives the grinding adapter 32, the sample tube and the grinding nut 33 to shake, so as to grind the sample in the sample tube 2;

[0087] S34. After the capping module 50 screws the cap body 331 so that the screw 332 is screwed out of the threaded hole 322, the capping module 50 puts the grinding nut 33 back into the grinding nut holder 34.

[0088] Step S4: The capping module 50 picks up the sample tube 2 from the grinding module 30 and moves the sample tube 2 to the clamping module 80;

[0089] S41, The capping module 50 picks up the sample tube 2 that has been ground from the grinding module 30;

[0090] S42, the capping module 50 moves the finished grinding sample tube 2 to the barcode scanning module 70 for barcode scanning.

[0091] S43. After scanning the code, the capping module 50 places the ground sample tube 2 into the clamping module 80.

[0092] Step S5: The clamping module 80 clamps and fixes the sample tube 2, and the capping module 50 opens the cap of the sample tube 2;

[0093] Specifically, step S5 includes:

[0094] S51, Clamping module 80 clamps the bottle body of sample tube 2;

[0095] S52, the capping module 50 clamps the cap of the sample tube 2 and drives the cap of the sample tube 2 to rotate. At the same time, the drive module 60 drives the capping module 50 to move upward along the z-axis to unscrew the cap of the sample tube 2.

[0096] Step S6: The reagent plate shipping assembly 420 ejects the reagent plate 421.

[0097] Step S7: Pipette 411 draws sample grinding solution from sample tube 2 and drops it onto reagent plate 421.

[0098] Step S8: The pipette 411 pushes the pipette tip 413 on the mounting head 412 into the collection box 102. It should be noted that the pipette 411 has an automatic pipette ejection mechanism. The automatic pipette ejection mechanism pushing the pipette tip 413 away from the mounting head 412 is a conventional structure and will not be described in detail here.

[0099] Step S9: After the sample grinding solution is dropped onto the reagent plate 421 by the pipette 411 and allowed to stand for a preset time, the data is compared with the system data. The preset time can be set according to specific needs, for example, it can be 3-5 minutes.

[0100] Step S10: After the capping module 50 moves the cap of the sample tube 2 above the clamping module 80 along the z-axis, the capping module 50 drives the cap of the sample tube 2 to rotate. At the same time, the driving module 60 drives the capping module 50 to move downward along the z-axis to tighten the cap of the sample tube 2.

[0101] The capping module 50 moves the sample tube 2 to the collection box 102. In this way, the automatic recycling of the used sample tube 2 is completed.

[0102] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0103] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fully automated sample processing and detection apparatus, characterized by, The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment includes: Sample collection auxiliary module (10) is used to output the sample tubes to be used (2); The sample return module (20) is used to receive and store the sample tubes (2) after sampling is completed. The grinding module (30) is used to shake the sample tube (2) after sampling in order to grind the sample in the sample tube (2); Clamping module (80) is used to clamp and fix the sample tube (2) after grinding. The detection assistance module (40) includes a pipette (411), a reagent plate dispensing assembly (420), and a camera assembly (430), wherein the reagent plate dispensing assembly (420) has a reagent plate (421). The capping module (50) is used to grip the sample tube (2) and unscrew the sample tube (2) at the clamping module (80); A drive module (60) is connected to the capping module (50) to drive the capping module (50) to transfer the sample tube (2) between the sample return module (20), the grinding module (30), and the clamping module (80); the drive module (60) is also connected to the pipette (411) to drive the pipette (411) to draw sample grinding liquid from the unscrewed sample tube (2) and drop it onto the reagent plate (421); the camera assembly (430) is used to capture the detection results on the reagent plate (421); The control module is connected to the sample acquisition auxiliary module (10), the sample return module (20), the grinding module (30), the detection auxiliary module (40), the capping module (50), the driving module (60), and the clamping module (80) respectively.

2. The fully automated sample processing and testing apparatus of claim 1, wherein The sample return module (20) includes a sample return track (21) and a pre-storage bracket (22). The sample return track (21) has a sample return port (211) and a storage port (212). The pre-storage bracket (22) has multiple storage positions (221). The return port (211) is used to receive the sample tube (2) returned by the user. The sample tube (2) can slide along the return track (21) to the storage port (212). The capping module (50) grabs the sample tube (2) at the storage port (212) and moves the sample tube (2) to one of the storage positions (221).

3. The fully automated sample processing and testing apparatus of claim 1, wherein The capping module (50) includes a capping claw (51) and at least two cap fingers (52) connected to the capping claw (51). The capping claw (51) can drive the at least two cap fingers (52) to open and close to clamp or release the cap of the sample tube (2). The clamping module (80) includes an electric gripper (81) and at least two bottle body fingers (82) connected to the electric gripper (81). The electric gripper (81) can drive the at least two bottle body fingers (82) to open and close to loosen or clamp the bottle body of the sample tube (2). Furthermore, the capping claw (51) can drive at least two of the capping fingers (52) to rotate so that when the clamping module (80) clamps and fixes the bottle body of the sample tube (2), the capping module (50) can cooperate with the clamping module (80) to open or tighten the cap of the sample tube (2).

4. The fully automated sample processing and testing apparatus of claim 3, wherein The grinding module (30) includes a grinding motor assembly (31), a grinding adapter (32), and a grinding nut (33). The grinding adapter (32) is provided with multiple mounting slots (321), each of which is used to place one sample tube (2). The grinding nut (33) is used to fix the sample tube (2) to the grinding adapter (32). The grinding motor assembly (31) is connected to the grinding adapter (32) and is used to drive the grinding adapter (32) to shake.

5. The fully automated sample processing and testing apparatus of claim 4, wherein, The grinding adapter (32) has a threaded hole (322), and the grinding nut (33) includes a cover (331) and a screw (332) connected to each other. The cap screw-on gripper (51) can drive at least two cap fingers (52) to open and close to clamp or release the cap (331). The capping module (50) can also drive at least two of the cap fingers (52) to rotate so that when the capping module (50) clamps the cap body (331), by driving at least two of the cap fingers (52) to rotate, the screw (332) can be screwed into the threaded hole (322) and the cap body (331) can press against the sample tube (2); or, the screw (332) can be screwed out of the threaded hole (322) and the grinding nut (33) can be disassembled from the grinding adapter (32).

6. The fully automated sample processing and testing apparatus of claim 4, wherein, The grinding module (30) also includes a grinding nut holder (34) for holding the grinding nut (33) that has been removed from the grinding adapter (32).

7. The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive module (60) is provided with a mounting plate (64), and the pipette (411), the camera assembly (430) and the capping module (50) are all mounted on the mounting plate (64) and can move synchronously.

8. The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The pipette (411) is provided with a mounting head (412), and the detection auxiliary module (40) also includes a pipette tip holder (440), on which multiple pipette tips (413) are placed. As the pipette (411) is pressed down along the z-axis, the mounting head (412) can be inserted into the corresponding pipette tip (413) and the pipette tip (413) is mounted to the mounting head (412).

9. The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a barcode scanning module (70), which is connected to the control module circuit and used to identify the barcode on the sample tube.

10. The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a module support (90), which has a worktable (91) and a support (92). The sample return module (20), the grinding module (30), the reagent plate delivery assembly (420), the clamping module (80) and the support (92) are all fixedly installed on the worktable (91) along the z-axis. The drive module (60) is installed on the support (92).

11. A fully automated sample processing and detection method, used in the fully automated sample processing and detection equipment as described in any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The fully automated sample processing and detection method includes the following steps: The sample collection auxiliary module (10) outputs a sample tube (2), and the user collects the sample into the sample tube (2) by himself. The sample return module (20) receives and stores the sample tube (2) returned by the user; The capping module (50) grabs the sample tube (2) from the sample return module (20) and moves the sample tube (2) to the grinding module (30). The grinding module (30) causes the sample tube (2) to shake to grind the sample in the sample tube (2). The capping module (50) grabs the sample tube (2) from the grinding module (30) and moves the sample tube (2) to the clamping module (80); The clamping module (80) clamps and fixes the sample tube (2), and the capping module (50) opens the cap of the sample tube (2); The reagent plate delivery assembly (420) ejects the reagent plate (421); The pipette (411) draws sample grinding solution from the open sample tube (2) and drops it onto the reagent plate (421). The camera assembly (430) captures the test results of the reagent plate (421).

12. The fully automated sample processing and detection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a barcode scanning module (70), which is located between the grinding module (30) and the clamping module (80); Before the capping module (50) grabs the sample tube (2) from the grinding module (30) and moves the sample tube (2) to the clamping module (80), it first moves the sample tube (2) to the scanning module (70) for scanning.

13. The fully automated sample processing and detection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The clamping module (80) clamps and fixes the sample tube (2), and the capping module (50) opens the cap of the sample tube (2) in the following steps: The clamping module (80) clamps the body of the sample tube (2); The capping module (50) clamps the cap of the sample tube (2) and drives the cap of the sample tube (2) to rotate. At the same time, the drive module (60) drives the capping module (50) to move upward along the z-axis to unscrew the cap of the sample tube (2).

14. The fully automated sample processing and detection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a collection box (102). After the camera assembly (430) captures the detection results of the reagent plate (421), the fully automated sample processing and detection method further includes: The capping module (50) moves the cap of the sample tube (2) above the clamping module (80) along the z-axis. Then the capping module (50) drives the cap of the sample tube (2) to rotate. At the same time, the driving module (60) drives the capping module (50) to move downward along the z-axis to tighten the cap of the sample tube (2). The capping module (50) moves the sample tube (2) to the collection box (102).

15. The fully automated sample processing and detection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fully automated sample processing and testing equipment also includes a collection box (102), and the pipette (411) has a mounting head (412) on which a pipette tip (413) is mounted. After the pipette (411) draws sample homogenate from the homogenized sample tube (2) and drops it onto the reagent plate (421), the fully automated sample processing and detection method further includes: The pipette (411) pushes the pipette tip (413) on the mounting head (412) into the collection box (102).

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