Sample analyzer and bubble recognition method for reagent container

Abstract

This application provides a sample analyzer and a method for identifying bubbles in reagent containers. The sample analyzer includes: a reagent device with at least one placement position for placing a reagent container; a dispensing device for performing a reagent dispensing operation, wherein the reagent dispensing operation is used to draw reagent from the reagent container and discharge it into a reaction container, so that the sample and reagent mix in the reaction container to form a reaction solution; a detection device for detecting the reaction solution to obtain corresponding detection data; an image acquisition mechanism for performing image acquisition to obtain corresponding image data; and a control device for at least: before the dispensing device draws reagent from the reagent container in the reagent device, controlling the image acquisition mechanism to acquire images of the reagent stored in the storage cavity of the reagent container to obtain reagent image data; and determining whether there are abnormal bubbles in the reagent container based on the reagent image data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a method for bubble recognition in a sample analyzer and reagent container. Background Technology

[0002] Sample analyzers are instruments used in the medical device field to detect and analyze biological chemical substances. Sample analyzers typically require the aspiration of reagents from containers. Air bubbles can easily form during the processes of reagent filling, transporting, and loading the reagent containers onto the instrument. These air bubbles can cause the reagent to be aspirated too little or too little, resulting in inaccurate reagent aspiration volumes and ultimately affecting the accuracy of the sample test results. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this application is to provide a bubble identification method for a sample analyzer and reagent container. The method aims to detect the reagent container before testing the sample using the reagent inside the container, thereby determining whether there are any abnormalities in the bubbles inside the reagent container based on the detection results, and then performing corresponding processing operations to reduce the possibility of empty or insufficient aspiration during reagent aspiration, thereby improving the accuracy of reagent aspiration and ultimately effectively improving the accuracy of the detection results.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a sample analyzer, comprising:

[0005] A reagent device is provided with at least one placement position for placing a reagent container, the reagent container having an opening and a storage cavity for storing reagents;

[0006] The dispensing device is at least used to perform a reagent dispensing operation, which is used to aspirate the reagent from the reagent container and discharge it into the reaction container so that the sample and the reagent are mixed in the reaction container to form a reaction solution.

[0007] A detection device is used to detect the reaction solution to obtain corresponding detection data;

[0008] An image acquisition mechanism is used to acquire images in order to obtain corresponding image data.

[0009] Control device, at least for:

[0010] Before the dispensing device draws the reagent from the reagent container, the image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent stored in the storage chamber of the reagent container to obtain reagent image data.

[0011] The presence of abnormal air bubbles in the reagent container is determined based on the reagent image data.

[0012] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for identifying air bubbles in a reagent container, applied to a sample analyzer, the method comprising:

[0013] When the reagent container is detected to be loaded into the preset loading position of the reagent loading device of the sample analyzer, the scheduling device of the sample analyzer is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble recognition position of the sample analyzer; the light source component of the sample analyzer is controlled to emit a first light signal to the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position, and the sample analyzer's signal acquisition component is received to output reagent image data based on the acquired second light signal, wherein the second light signal includes at least the light signal formed after the first light signal is emitted from the reagent container, or the second light signal includes at least the reflected light signal of the first light signal reflected by the liquid surface of the reagent container;

[0014] Based on the reagent image data, determine whether there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container, and if there is no abnormal bubble in the reagent container, control the scheduling device of the sample analyzer to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device of the sample analyzer.

[0015] The detection device of the sample analyzer controls the test of the target sample using the reagent in the reagent container located at the first target placement position.

[0016] In the above embodiments, before the dispensing device draws the reagent from the reagent container, the image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent stored in the storage chamber to obtain reagent image data. Based on the reagent image data, it can be determined whether there are abnormal air bubbles in the reagent container. Based on the detection results, the sample analyzer can be controlled to perform corresponding processing operations to reduce the possibility of empty or insufficient aspiration during the reagent dispensing process, thereby improving the accuracy of reagent aspiration and ultimately effectively improving the accuracy of the detection results.

[0017] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit the disclosure of the embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1This is a block diagram of the sample analyzer in one embodiment;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structural layout of a sample analyzer in one embodiment;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the sample dispensing device of a sample analyzer in one embodiment;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the reagent container used by the sample analyzer for sample testing in one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the reagent container in one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the reagent container in an open state in one embodiment;

[0025] Figures 7 to 9 This is a schematic diagram of a scenario in which multiple bubble states corresponding to bubbles exist within a reagent container in one embodiment;

[0026] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a scenario in which a sample analyzer acquires images of a reagent container in one embodiment;

[0027] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of reagent image data acquired by a sample analyzer when acquiring images of a reagent container in one embodiment;

[0028] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a scenario where the sample analyzer acquires images of the reagent container in another embodiment;

[0029] Figures 13 to 15 These are schematic diagrams illustrating different implementation methods of a sample analyzer removing air bubbles from a reagent container.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario in which the sample analyzer aspirates liquid from a reagent container by avoiding air bubbles.

[0031] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a bubble identification method for a reagent container provided in this application, as one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] 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 some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0033] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0034] The flowchart shown in the attached diagram is for illustrative purposes only and does not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor does it necessarily have to be performed in the order described. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, combined, or partially merged, so the actual execution order may change depending on the actual situation.

[0035] The following detailed description of some embodiments of this application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0036] Sample analyzers are instruments used in the medical device field to detect and analyze biological chemical substances. Sample analyzers typically require the aspiration of reagents from containers. Air bubbles can easily be generated during the processes of reagent filling, transporting, and loading the reagent containers onto the instrument. These air bubbles can cause the aspiration process to result in either empty aspiration or insufficient aspiration, leading to reduced accuracy of the test results.

[0037] This application attempts to address one or more of the above-mentioned pain points by analyzing whether there are air bubbles in the reagent container before using the reagent to test the sample and performing corresponding processing operations. This reduces the possibility of empty or insufficient aspiration during reagent aspiration, thereby improving the accuracy of reagent aspiration and ultimately effectively improving the accuracy of test results.

[0038] Please see Figures 1 to 2 This application provides a sample analyzer 100 for analyzing a sample to be tested to obtain corresponding analytical results. The sample analyzer 100 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a biochemical analyzer, an immunoassay analyzer, a coagulation analyzer, a urine analyzer, and a molecular diagnostic analyzer.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the sample analyzer 100 includes a dispensing device 10, a sample device 20, a reagent device 30, a reaction device 40, a detection device 50, and a control device 70.

[0040] The sample device 20 is used to provide a sample, and the reagent device 30 is used to provide reagents that react with the sample. For example, the reagent device 30 is provided with at least one placement position 301b for placing a reagent container 90. The reagent container 90 is used to store reagents, including but not limited to chromogenic reagents, diluents, substrate solutions, enzyme-labeled reagents, magnetic bead reagents, etc.

[0041] Dispensing device 10 is used to perform dispensing operations to dispense target liquid into a target container, wherein the target liquid includes at least one of a sample, a reagent, and a reaction solution, and the reaction solution is formed by at least a mixture of the sample and the reagent.

[0042] Optionally, the dispensing operation includes a reagent dispensing operation and a sample dispensing operation. The reagent dispensing operation involves drawing reagents from reagent container 90 and discharging them into a target container (e.g., a reaction container) to mix the sample and reagents within the reaction container, forming a reaction solution. The sample dispensing operation involves drawing samples from sample container and discharging them into a target container (e.g., a reaction container) to mix the sample and reagents within the reaction container, forming a reaction solution. For example, the dispensing device 10 can be used to draw samples from a sample container (e.g., a sample tube) supplied by the sample device 20, transfer the samples to a target container (e.g., a reaction container), and discharge the drawn samples into the target container, thereby completing the sample dispensing. As another example, the dispensing device 10 can be used to draw reagents from a reagent container 90 (e.g., a reagent bottle) supplied by the reagent device 30, transfer the reagents to a target container (e.g., a reaction container), and discharge the drawn reagents into the target container, thereby completing the reagent dispensing.

[0043] The reaction apparatus 40 is provided with at least one reaction position for placing a reaction container. This reaction container is used to receive samples and reagents and to provide a mixing space for the samples and reagents. The reaction container includes, but is not limited to, a reaction cup. For example, during sample and reagent mixing, the dispensing device 10 aspirates the sample supplied by the sample device 20 and the reagent supplied by the reagent device 30, and dispenses the aspirated sample and reagent into the reaction container placed in the preset operating position, so that the sample and reagent mix within the reaction container to form a reaction solution. Optionally, the reaction apparatus 40 is also used to incubate the reaction solution formed by the mixture of samples and reagents.

[0044] The detection device 50 is used to detect and analyze the reaction solution formed by mixing the sample and reagents to obtain detection data. For example, the detection device 50 is used to detect the reaction solution in the reaction vessel to obtain the sample detection data.

[0045] Optionally, the detection device 50 includes a photometric mechanism for detecting the luminescence intensity of the reaction liquid to obtain the luminescence intensity of the reaction liquid. Then, using a calibration curve and the luminescence intensity, the concentration of the analyte in the sample can be calculated. It is understood that the detection data acquired by the detection device 50 can be either the luminescence intensity of the reaction liquid or the concentration of the analyte in the reaction liquid. That is, calculating the concentration of the analyte in the sample using a calibration curve and the luminescence intensity can be performed by either the detection device 50 or the control device 70; no limitation is made here. Optionally, the detection device 50 is separately disposed around the reaction device 40.

[0046] In another embodiment, the detection device 50 includes an electrical detection mechanism (e.g., an impedance detection mechanism) or a detection mechanism based on other principles (e.g., an imaging detection mechanism).

[0047] Skilled technicians should understand that Figure 1 This is merely an example of a sample analyzer 100 and does not constitute a limitation on the sample analyzer 100. The sample analyzer 100 may include components such as... Figure 1 The sample analyzer 100 may include more or fewer components, or combinations of certain components, or different components. It may also include input / output devices, network access devices, etc.

[0048] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes a scheduling device 60, which is used to perform scheduling operations to achieve the scheduling of the target object. Specifically, the scheduling device 60 is used to move the target object in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space to achieve the scheduling of the target object. The target object includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a sample container, a reagent container 90, and a reaction container.

[0049] Optionally, the scheduling device 60 includes at least a first scheduling component and / or a second scheduling component. The first scheduling component may be a mechanical gripper used to schedule by gripping the target object. The second scheduling component is provided with a scheduling position. After the target object is placed in the scheduling position, it can move the target object in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space to achieve the scheduling of the target object.

[0050] It is understood that there can be one or more scheduling devices 60. The same target object can be scheduled in different areas through the same scheduling device 60, or the same target object can be scheduled in different areas through different scheduling devices 60. There are no restrictions here.

[0051] For example, the scheduling device 60 can serve as a reagent scheduling device to at least perform the scheduling of the reagent container 90. For instance, the scheduling device 60 can grasp the reagent container 90 and move it in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional space to achieve unidirectional or bidirectional reciprocating scheduling of the reagent container 90 between at least two different locations.

[0052] Alternatively, the scheduling device 60 can serve as a sample scheduling device to at least perform the scheduling of sample containers. For example, the scheduling device 60 can grasp a sample container and move it in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space to achieve unidirectional or bidirectional reciprocating scheduling of the sample container between at least two different locations.

[0053] In some embodiments, the reaction apparatus 40 has a support portion 401, and the support portion 401 is provided with at least one reaction position for placing a reaction container (such as a reaction cup 4011). The reaction container is used to receive samples and reagents and to provide a reaction site for the samples and reagents to mix and form a reaction solution. For example, the reaction container receives a sample obtained by the dispensing device 10 from the sample device 20 and a reagent obtained by the reagent device 30, so that the samples and reagents are mixed in the reaction container to form a reaction solution.

[0054] Optionally, the support portion 401 of the reaction apparatus 40 can be a reaction disk, such as... Figure 2 As shown, it is arranged in a disc-shaped assembly and has one or more reaction positions for placing reaction containers. The reaction disc can incubate the reaction liquid in the reaction container and can rotate to drive the reaction container placed in the reaction position to rotate, so as to realize the scheduling of the reaction container in the reaction disc in a preset area. For example, the reaction container located in the reaction position can be scheduled to the position for reagent addition so that the dispensing device 10 can discharge the aspirated reagent into the reaction container located at the reagent addition position.

[0055] It is understood that the reaction position used to support the reaction vessel can be located not only on the reaction plate of the reaction apparatus 40, but also independently of the reaction plate of the reaction apparatus 40. Setting the reaction position independently of the reaction plate means that the setting of the reaction position will not interfere with the rotation of the reaction plate itself.

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the sample device 20 may include a sample delivery module (SDM) and a front-end track; the sample is placed in the sample tube, and the sample rack carrying one or more sample tubes is dispatched to the corresponding injection position via the front-end track, and the sample delivery module transfers the sample rack located at the injection position to a preset position (such as the aspiration position).

[0057] In other examples, the sample device 20 may also be a sample tray, which includes multiple sample positions for placing sample tubes, and the sample tray can be rotated to move the sample to the appropriate position, for example, to the aspiration position of the dispensing device 10 for aspirating the sample in the sample tube located at the aspiration position and discharging it into the reaction vessel to be added.

[0058] In some embodiments, the reagent component 30 can be a disc-shaped structure or a linear structure. For example, the reagent component 30 includes a reagent carrying mechanism 301, which is disc-shaped (also called a reagent tray). The reagent carrying mechanism 301 is provided with a plurality of reagent positions 301b, which can rotate and drive the reagents carried by the reagent positions 301b to rotate. By rotating the reagent carrying mechanism 301, the reagent can be transferred to the reagent aspiration position so that the dispensing device 10 can aspirate the reagent from the reagent container 90 located at the reagent aspiration position. The reagent carrying mechanism 301 may have an openable and closable reagent tray cover, which allows the user to put reagents into or remove reagents from the reagent carrying mechanism 301 when the reagent tray cover is opened.

[0059] Optionally, the reagent carrying mechanism 301 may include at least one rotatable reagent track 301a, the reagent track 301a being provided with a plurality of placement positions 301b for carrying reagents, and the reagent track 301a rotating to drive the reagent container 90 on its placement position 301b to move.

[0060] Optionally, the reagent carrying mechanism 301 includes multiple reagent tracks 301a, each capable of independent rotation. The reagent tracks 301a can rotate and drive the reagent container 90 they carry to move, thereby rotating the reagent container 90 to the reagent aspiration position for the dispensing device 10 to aspirate the reagent.

[0061] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the dispensing device 10 includes a sample dispensing component 10a, which performs a sample dispensing operation. Specifically, the sample dispensing component 10a aspirates the sample supplied by the sample device 20 and transfers the sample to a preset location. For example, the sample device 20 carries a sample tube containing the sample to be tested, and the sample dispensing component 10a aspirates the sample to be tested from the sample tube carried by the sample device 20 and discharges the sample into the reaction container to be added.

[0062] Optionally, the sample dispensing component 10a includes a dispensing needle 101 and a first needle moving mechanism 102, which supports the dispensing needle 101 and drives it to move. For example, the dispensing needle 101 can move in two or three dimensions in space via the two-dimensional or three-dimensional first needle moving mechanism 102, thereby allowing the dispensing needle 101 to move and aspirate the sample carried by the sample device 20.

[0063] Optionally, the sample dispensing component 10a further includes a first power mechanism 103, which provides power for the dispensing needle 101 to perform sample aspiration and / or dispensing, thereby completing the sample aspiration and / or dispensing. For example, taking the dispensing needle 101 performing sample aspiration as an example, the dispensing needle 101 moves under the drive of the first needle moving mechanism 102 to the sample tube containing the sample to be tested on the sample device 20, and aspirates the sample to be tested under the drive of the first power mechanism 103, and delivers the sample to be tested to the reaction container located in the reaction position of the reaction device 40, so that the sample to be tested aspirated by the sample dispensing component 10a is mixed with the reagent provided by the reagent device 30 in the reaction container.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the first needle moving mechanism 102 includes a support frame 1021, which is fixed to a support rod 1022. The support rod 1022 is vertically movable and rotatable, and the support frame 1021 moves vertically and rotates horizontally under the drive of the support rod 1022. The sample dispensing needle 101 is mounted on the support frame 1021 and can reach the target position under the drive of the support frame 1021. Exemplarily, the first needle moving mechanism 102 also includes a driver 1023 for driving the support rod 1022 to move, such as a stepper motor, but is not limited to this. Optionally, the sample dispensing needle 101 is detachably connected to the first needle moving mechanism 102 or fixedly connected.

[0065] Optionally, the first power mechanism 103 includes a tubing 1031 and a power assembly 1033. The tubing 1031 is used to transport a fluid medium. One end of the tubing 1031 is connected to the sampling needle 101, and the other end is connected to the power assembly 1033, so that the flow direction of the fluid medium in the tubing 1031 can be changed under the action of the power assembly 1033, so that the sampling needle 101 can transfer samples and / or reagents. The power assembly 1033 includes, but is not limited to, a syringe, a pump, and a valve body disposed on the tubing 1031.

[0066] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the dispensing device 10 further includes a reagent dispensing component 10b, which is used to perform a reagent dispensing operation. That is, the reagent dispensing component 10b is used to draw the reagent supplied by the reagent device 30 and transfer the reagent to a preset position. For example, the reagent device 30 carries a reagent container 90 containing reagents, and the reagent dispensing component 10b draws the reagent from the reagent container 90 carried by the reagent device 30 and discharges the reagent into the reaction vessel to be added with the reagent.

[0067] In some embodiments, the reagent dispensing component 10b may include a reagent needle, a second needle moving mechanism, and a second power mechanism. The reagent needle moves in two or three dimensions in space via the two-dimensional or three-dimensional second needle moving mechanism, thereby allowing the reagent needle to move and cooperate with the second power mechanism to draw the reagent carried by the reagent carrying mechanism 301, and to move to the reaction container to which the reagent is to be added, and to discharge the reagent into the reaction container.

[0068] In some embodiments, the second needle moving mechanism and the first needle moving mechanism 102 have the same structure, and / or the second power mechanism and the first power mechanism 103 have the same structure, which will not be described in detail here.

[0069] In some embodiments, the reagent dispensing component 10b adds reagents not via a reagent needle, but through a dedicated tubing to add the reagent from the reagent tube into the reaction vessel. In these embodiments, only the sample dispensing needle 101 is used, without a reagent needle.

[0070] It is understandable that, depending on the type of bodily fluid being tested and the specific test being performed, different methods of adding samples and reagents may be used. For example, both samples and reagents may be added using the sampling needle 101, or samples may be added using the sampling needle 101 and reagents using the reagent needle, or only samples may be added using the sampling needle 101 and reagents using other methods. That is, the sample dispensing component 10a of the dispensing device 10 is used for both sample transfer and reagent transfer; or the sample dispensing component 10a is used for sample transfer and the reagent dispensing component 10b is used for reagent transfer; or the sample dispensing component 10a is used for sample transfer, and the reagent is added to the reaction vessel via a dedicated tubing connected to the reagent container 90. Therefore, the sampling needle 101 and / or the reagent needle are also referred to as pipettes, meaning that a pipette includes at least one of the sampling needle 101 and the reagent needle.

[0071] As described above, the dispensing device 10 includes a pipette (e.g., a sample dispensing needle 101, a reagent needle), a needle moving mechanism (e.g., a first needle moving mechanism, a second needle moving mechanism), and a power mechanism (e.g., a first power mechanism, a second power mechanism). The pipette is used to transfer samples and / or reagents. The needle moving mechanism is used to drive the pipette to move. The power mechanism is used to provide power for the pipette to aspirate and dispense samples and / or reagents.

[0072] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes an image acquisition mechanism 81 for image acquisition to obtain corresponding image data. For example, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is used to acquire images of the reagents stored in the reagent container 90 to obtain corresponding reagent image data, and transmit the reagent image data to the control device 70, so that the control device 70 can analyze the reagent image data (also known as bubble detection) through a preset algorithm to obtain the corresponding bubble identification result. Based on the bubble identification result, it can be determined whether there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container 90. The abnormal bubble includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: the reagent container 90 has a bubble layer and the height of the bubble layer exceeds a height threshold; the reagent container 90 has bubbles and the liquid surface area covered by the bubbles exceeds an area threshold; or the liquid surface position corresponding to the liquid aspiration performed by the dispensing device 10 in the reagent container 90 has bubbles.

[0073] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes a reagent loading device 80, which is provided with at least one loading position 801 for carrying a reagent container 90. After the reagent container 90 is placed in the loading position 801, the image acquisition mechanism 81 can be used to acquire images of the reagents stored in the reagent container 90 to obtain corresponding reagent image data. The control device 70 can analyze the reagent image data through a preset algorithm to determine whether there are abnormal bubbles in the reagent container 90, and output corresponding abnormality handling instructions to control the sample analyzer 100 to perform corresponding bubble abnormality handling operations.

[0074] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes a bubble removal device 82 for performing a bubble removal operation to remove at least some of the bubbles within the reagent container 90. For example, if there is an abnormality in the presence of bubbles within the reagent container 90, the control device 90 can control the bubble removal device 82 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 to reduce or even eliminate the impact of the abnormality in the reagent container 90 on subsequent sample analysis.

[0075] Optionally, the bubble removal device 82 includes an ultrasonic component 821. In the event of an abnormality in the reagent container 90, the control device 70 can control the ultrasonic component to output ultrasonic waves to the bubble layer in the reagent container 90 to remove at least some of the bubbles in the reagent container 90.

[0076] Optionally, the bubble removal device 82 includes a pressure component 822. In the event of an abnormality in the reagent container 90, the control device 70 can control the pressure component to change the air pressure inside the reagent container 90 in order to remove at least some of the bubbles inside the reagent container 90.

[0077] Optionally, the bubble removal device 82 includes a dispensing device 10. In the event of an abnormality in the reagent container 90, the control device 70 can control the dispensing device 10 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 to remove at least some of the bubbles in the reagent container 90. For example, the dispensing device 10 can be controlled to draw in the bubbles in the reagent container 90 to cause the bubbles in the reagent container 90 to break, thereby achieving the removal of bubbles in the reagent container 90.

[0078] Please see Figures 4 to 6 In some embodiments, the reagent container 90 includes a container body 91 and a cap 92, wherein the container body 91 is formed with a storage cavity 912 having an opening 911 for storing reagents, and the cap 92 covers the opening 911 of the container body 91 to seal the opening 911.

[0079] Exemplarily, the cover 92 includes a cover portion 921, a connecting portion 922, and a sealing portion 923. The cover portion 921 is connected to the connecting portion 922 and is connected to the container body 91 via the connecting portion 922. The sealing portion 923 is connected to the cover portion 921 and is used to seal the opening 911 of the container body 91. For example, the connecting portion 922 and the container body 91 are detachably connected by means of threaded connection, structural engagement, interference fit, etc., and the connecting portion 922 forms a communicating hole 9221 communicating with the opening 911. The sealing portion 923 seals the opening 911 of the container body 91 by sealing the communicating hole 9221. Alternatively, the connecting portion 922 and the container body 91 are detachably connected by means of threaded connection, structural engagement, interference fit, etc., and the sealing portion 923 is adapted to the opening 911 of the container body 91 to seal the opening 911 of the container body 91.

[0080] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes a pretreatment device 83, which is used to release the sealing fit between the container body 91 and the cap 92 so that the dispensing device 10 can draw reagents from the reagent container 90. For example, the pretreatment device 83 includes a first pretreatment component and a second pretreatment component. The first pretreatment component is used to limit the container body 91, and the second pretreatment component is used to apply force to the cap 92 so that the sealing part 923 and the connecting part 922 or the opening 911 are disengaged from the sealing fit, thereby causing the body 91 and the cap 92 to disengage from the sealing fit.

[0081] like Figure 4As shown, exemplarily, to prevent contamination of the reagent in the reagent container 90 during transportation, the container body 91 and the cap 92 are typically in a sealed fit when the reagent container 90 is installed. At this time, the opening 911 of the container body 91 is sealed by the cap 92, and the dispensing device 10 cannot draw the reagent contained in the reagent container 90. Figure 4 As shown.

[0082] Therefore, to facilitate the dispensing device 10 in drawing reagents from the reagent container 90, the reagent container 90 needs to be pre-treated by the pre-treatment device 83 to at least disengage the container body 91 and the cap 92 from their sealed fit. To facilitate the dispensing operation of the reagent dispensing component 10b of the dispensing device 10 on the reagent container 90, the sample analyzer 100 further performs a cap-opening process on the reagent container 90 by the pre-treatment device 83, making it easier to open the cap 92 and expose the opening 911 so that the reagent dispensing component 10b can reach into the reagent container 90 through the opening 911 to draw reagents from it. Figure 6 As shown.

[0083] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes an information prompting device 84 for providing information prompts. The information prompting device 84 includes at least one of a display component, an indicator light component, and a sound output component. For example, the information prompting device 84 includes a display component, which may be a touch screen, an LCD screen, an LED screen, or an OLED screen, etc. In the event of an abnormal bubble condition in the reagent container 90, the control device 70 controls the display component to display corresponding prompt information on a preset display interface, so that the user can be informed of the abnormal bubble condition in the reagent container 90 through the prompt information displayed by the display component, and thus perform corresponding processing operations.

[0084] For example, the information display device 84 includes an indicator light component. If an abnormality is detected in the reagent container 90 due to air bubbles, the control device 70 controls the indicator light component to display a corresponding color and / or brightness, so that the user is aware of the abnormality in the reagent container 90 through the corresponding color and / or brightness. For example, if an abnormality is detected in the reagent container 90, the indicator light component displays red.

[0085] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the control device 70 may be one or more, and the control device 70 may be integrated into any structure, device or component of the sample analyzer 100, or it may be set independently, which is not limited here.

[0086] Optionally, the control device 70 includes at least a processor 701, a memory 702, a communication interface (not shown), and an I / O interface (not shown). The processor 701, memory 702, communication interface, and I / O interface communicate via a bus. The processor 701 can be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0087] The memory 702 contains various computer programs, such as the operating system and application programs, for the processor 701 to execute, as well as the data required to execute these programs. During the analysis of the sample under test, any data requiring local storage can be stored in the memory 702. The I / O interface includes, but is not limited to, serial interfaces such as USB, IEEE 1394, or RS-232C; parallel interfaces such as SCSI, IDE, or IEEE 1284; and analog signal interfaces composed of D / A converters and A / D converters. Input components are connected to the I / O interface, allowing users to directly input data to the control device 70. These input components include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, or control buttons. The display component can communicate with the control device 70 through the I / O interface to provide relevant information prompts. The communication interface can be any known communication protocol. The communication interface communicates with the outside world via a network, and the control device 70 can transmit data with any component connected through the network using a preset communication protocol.

[0088] In some embodiments, the control device 70 is at least used to perform the following operations: specifically, the processor 701 of the control device 70 calls a computer program stored in the memory 702 to perform the following operations:

[0089] Before the dispensing device 10 draws the reagent from the reagent container 90, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is controlled to acquire images of the reagent stored in the storage cavity of the reagent container 90 to obtain reagent image data.

[0090] Based on the reagent image data, determine whether there are abnormal air bubbles in the reagent container and output the corresponding control command to control the sample analyzer 100 to perform the corresponding processing operation.

[0091] Please see Figures 7 to 9 For example, in order to avoid the possibility that air bubbles in the reagent container 90 may cause the dispensing device 10 to draw liquid from the reagent container 90 in the reagent device 30, resulting in inaccurate liquid volume and ultimately affecting the accuracy of the sample test results.

[0092] Based on this, before the dispensing device 10 draws reagents from the reagent container 90 in the reagent device 30, the control device 70 controls the image acquisition mechanism 81 to acquire images of the reagents stored in the storage cavity of the reagent container 90 to obtain reagent image data. After obtaining the reagent image data, the control device 70 can analyze the reagent image data through a preset algorithm to obtain the corresponding bubble recognition result. Based on the bubble recognition result, it can determine whether there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container 90 and output the corresponding control command to control the sample analyzer 100 to perform the corresponding processing operation. The processing operation includes a first processing operation for the presence of an abnormal bubble and a second processing operation for the absence of an abnormal reagent. This can effectively reduce the possibility of empty or insufficient aspiration during the reagent drawing process of the dispensing device 20 in the reagent container 90, thereby improving the accuracy of reagent drawing and ultimately improving the accuracy of the test results.

[0093] For example, the first processing operation includes, but is not limited to, removing air bubbles from the reagent container 90, or moving the reagent container 90 to a preset position to await further processing. The second processing operation includes moving the reagent container 90 to the placement position 301b of the reagent device 30 so that the dispensing device 10 can draw reagent from the reagent container 90 placed in the placement position 301b of the reagent device 30 and discharge it into the reaction vessel, thereby preparing a reaction solution for detection by the detection device 50.

[0094] Optionally, the image acquisition mechanism 81 can acquire images of the reagents stored in the storage cavity of the reagent container 90 in the following ways: the sample analyzer 100 is further provided with a bubble recognition position 62, and the image acquisition mechanism 81 moves to the position of the reagent container 90 to be image acquired and acquires an image of the reagent container 90. Alternatively, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to be image acquired to a preset position (such as the bubble recognition position 62), and the image acquisition mechanism 81 is set to correspond to the bubble recognition position 62 to acquire an image of the reagent container 90 in the bubble recognition position 62. Alternatively, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to be image acquired to a preset position (such as the bubble recognition position 62), and the image acquisition mechanism 81 moves to the bubble recognition position 62 and acquires an image of the reagent container 90 in the bubble recognition position 62. No limitation is made here.

[0095] Optionally, bubble anomalies include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: a bubble layer exists within the reagent container 90 and the height of the bubble layer exceeds a height threshold; bubbles exist within the reagent container 90 and the liquid surface area covered by the bubbles exceeds an area threshold; and bubbles are present at the liquid surface position corresponding to the liquid aspiration performed by the dispensing device 10 within the reagent container 90. The presence of bubbles at the liquid surface position corresponding to the liquid aspiration performed by the dispensing device 10 within the reagent container 90 can also be understood as the liquid surface position covered by bubbles within the reagent container 90 being a preset liquid surface position, and this preset liquid surface position at least includes the liquid surface directly below the opening 911 of the reagent container 90, i.e., the liquid surface area covered by the orthographic projection of the opening 911.

[0096] Optionally, the method for determining whether there is an abnormality of air bubbles in the reagent container 90 based on the reagent image data includes at least one of the following:

[0097] Based on the reagent image data, determine whether the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 exceeds the height threshold. If the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 exceeds the height threshold, determine that there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container 90.

[0098] Based on the reagent image data, determine whether the area of ​​the liquid surface covered by the bubbles in the reagent container 90 exceeds the area threshold. If the area of ​​the liquid surface covered by the bubbles in the reagent container 90 exceeds the area threshold, it is determined that there is an abnormality of bubbles in the reagent container 90.

[0099] Based on the reagent image data, determine whether the position of the liquid surface covered by the bubble in the reagent container 90 is the preset liquid surface position. If the position of the liquid surface covered by the bubble in the reagent container 90 is the preset liquid surface position, it is determined that there is an abnormality of the bubble in the reagent container 90. The preset liquid surface position includes at least the liquid surface directly below the opening 911 of the reagent container 90, that is, the liquid surface area covered by the orthographic projection of the opening 911.

[0100] In summary, in this embodiment, the bubble recognition results obtained by analyzing the reagent image data can acquire liquid surface information and bubble information within the reagent container 90. Based on the bubble information, at least one of the following can be obtained: bubble layer height information, bubble distribution information, and bubble morphology information within the reagent container 90. The bubble morphology information includes at least one of the bubble size and the area of ​​the liquid surface covered by the bubble. Thus, it can be determined whether there is an abnormality in the bubble within the reagent container 90 based on the bubble information, and corresponding processing operations can be performed.

[0101] like Figure 7As shown, analysis of the reagent image data reveals that the height of the bubble layer within reagent container 90 is H2, and the actual liquid level height is H1. If H2 is greater than the height threshold, it indicates an abnormal bubble formation within reagent container 90, and the corresponding first processing operation is executed. If H2 is less than or equal to the height threshold, it indicates no abnormal bubble formation within reagent container 90, and the corresponding second processing operation is executed. It can be understood that the height threshold can be set as needed, such as 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, etc.

[0102] like Figure 8 As shown, when the dispensing device 10 draws reagent from the reagent container 90, the area directly below the opening of the reagent container 90 is the aspiration area. If there is an abnormality in the liquid surface position of the aspiration area corresponding to the liquid aspiration performed by the dispensing device 10 in the reagent container 90, the corresponding first processing operation is performed.

[0103] like Figure 9 As shown, if there are no abnormal air bubbles at the liquid surface position of the liquid aspiration area corresponding to the liquid aspiration performed by the dispensing device 10 in the reagent container 90, it indicates that the impact on the reagent aspiration of the dispensing component 10 can be ignored. It is determined that there are no abnormal air bubbles in the reagent container 90, and the corresponding second processing operation is performed.

[0104] Please see Figure 10 In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism 81 acquires images of the reagent container 90 in the following manner: the sample analyzer 100 is further provided with a bubble recognition position 62 and a scheduling device 60. The image acquisition mechanism 81 includes a light source component 811 for emitting light signals and a signal acquisition component 812 for acquiring light signals. The light source component 811 and the signal acquisition component 812 are respectively arranged on opposite sides of the bubble recognition position 62 in the horizontal direction. The control device 70 is further used for:

[0105] The control and scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the bubble recognition position and controls the light source assembly 811 to emit a first light signal to the reagent container 90 located at the bubble recognition position 62.

[0106] The receiving signal acquisition component 812 outputs reagent image data based on the acquired second optical signal, wherein the second optical signal includes the optical signal formed by the first optical signal emitted through the reagent container;

[0107] Determine whether there are abnormal air bubbles in reagent container 90 based on reagent image data.

[0108] like Figure 10As shown, exemplarily, when the reagent container 90 needs to be detected for bubbles, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to be identified for bubble detection to the bubble detection position 62, and controls the light source component 811 to emit a first light signal to the reagent container 90 located at the bubble detection position 62, so that the first light signal passes through the reagent container 90 and is emitted to the signal acquisition component 812. Based on the different absorption, scattering, and refraction capabilities of the first light signal in the bubble-containing area and the bubble-free area within the reagent container 90, the signal acquisition component 812 collects the light signal emitted through the reagent container 90 and converts it to output corresponding reagent image data. By analyzing the reagent image data, bubble information within the reagent container 90 can be obtained, and then the presence of bubble abnormalities in the reagent container 90 can be analyzed based on the bubble information.

[0109] like Figure 11 As shown, after receiving reagent image data, the control device 70 can obtain at least one of the following as bubble information: height of the bubble layer, distribution of bubbles, and morphology of bubbles within the reagent container 90. For example, by analyzing the reagent image data, it can be determined that bubbles exist in the currently measured reagent container 90, and the bubble layer height is H, wherein the height of the dense bubble layer (first type of bubble layer) is x2, and the height of the sparse bubble layer (second type of bubble layer) is x1.

[0110] Please see Figure 12 In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism 81 acquires images of the reagent container 90 in the following ways: the sample analyzer 100 is further provided with a bubble recognition position 62 and a scheduling device 60. The image acquisition mechanism 81 includes a light source component 811 for emitting light signals and a signal acquisition component 812 for acquiring light signals. The signal acquisition component 812 and the light source component 811 are located on the same side of the reagent container 90 corresponding to the opening 911 of the reagent container 90, or the signal acquisition component 812 is located corresponding to the opening 911 of the reagent container 90, and the light source component 811 is located on the side of the reagent container 90 adjacent to the opening 911. The control device 70 is further used to: control the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 to the bubble recognition position 62, and control the light source component 811 to emit a first light signal to the reagent container 90 located at the bubble recognition position 62; receive reagent image data output by the signal acquisition component 812 based on the acquired second light signal, wherein the second light signal includes the reflected light signal of the first light signal reflected by the liquid surface of the reagent container 90; and determine whether there is an abnormality of bubbles in the reagent container based on the reagent image data.

[0111] For example, when reagent container 90 needs to be detected for bubbles, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to be identified for bubble detection to the bubble detection position 62, and controls the light source component 811 to emit a first light signal to the reagent container 90 located at the bubble detection position 62, so that the first light signal passes through the reagent container 90 and is emitted to the signal acquisition component 812. Based on the different reflection capabilities of the first light signal in the bubble-containing area and the bubble-free liquid surface area within the reagent container 90, the signal acquisition component 812 collects and converts the reflected light signal from the liquid surface of the reagent container 90, outputting corresponding reagent image data. By analyzing the reagent image data, the bubble detection result within the reagent container 90 can be obtained, and then the presence of bubble abnormalities in the reagent container 90 can be analyzed based on the bubble detection result. For example, by analyzing the reagent image data, at least one of the bubble distribution information and bubble morphology information within the reagent container 90 can be obtained as the bubble detection result.

[0112] In some embodiments, the control device 70 determines whether there are abnormal air bubbles in the reagent container based on the reagent image data, and controls the sample analyzer 100 to perform corresponding processing operations, including:

[0113] After analyzing the reagent image data to obtain the corresponding bubble recognition result, and determining that there is no bubble abnormality in the reagent container 90 based on the bubble recognition result, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 located at the bubble recognition position 62 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30.

[0114] If the bubble identification result is obtained by analyzing the reagent image data, and it is determined that there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container 90 based on the bubble identification result, the control scheduling device 60 will schedule the reagent container 90 located at the bubble identification position 62 to be outside the sample analyzer 100; or, the control scheduling device 60 will schedule the reagent container 90 located at the bubble identification position 62 to the bubble removal position 63 of the sample analyzer 100, and control the bubble removal device 82 of the sample analyzer 100 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63.

[0115] Optionally, the first target placement position is at least one of the placement positions 301b, and is used to store the reagent container 90 that has no bubble abnormalities after bubble detection, and / or to store the reagent container 90 that has been treated by bubble removal operation.

[0116] For example, taking the bubble recognition result as including at least the height information of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 as an example, the control device 70 can determine whether there is an abnormality of bubbles inside the reagent container based on the reagent image data and perform the corresponding processing operation as follows:

[0117] If the control device 70 confirms that the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 is greater than the first height threshold based on the height information, the control device 70 controls the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 outside the sample analyzer 100, or the control device 70 controls the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 to a preset unloading position (e.g., the reagent unloading position).

[0118] Optionally, if the reagent container 90 is moved outside the sample analyzer 100, or if the reagent container 90 is moved to a preset unloading position, the control information prompting device 84 outputs corresponding prompt information.

[0119] When the control device 70 confirms that the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 is greater than the second height threshold and less than or equal to the first height threshold based on the height information, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the bubble removal position 63 and controls the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63.

[0120] When the control device 70 confirms that the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 is less than or equal to the second height threshold based on the height information, the control device 70 controls the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 to the reagent device 30, where the first height threshold is greater than the second height threshold.

[0121] That is, when the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 exceeds the first height, the time required for the bubble removal device 82 to remove the bubbles inside the reagent container 90 is too long, or the bubble removal effect may be poor. Therefore, the control scheduling device 60 will schedule the reagent container 90 outside the sample analyzer 100, or the control device 70 will control the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 to a preset unloading position, and the information prompting device 84 will output the corresponding prompt information to prompt the user to remove the bubbles manually to ensure the bubble removal effect inside the reagent container 90.

[0122] When the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container 90 is less than or equal to the second height threshold, the bubbles present inside the reagent container 90 have a low, or even negligible, impact on the dispensing device 10's absorption of the reagent inside the reagent container 90. Therefore, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30 so that the dispensing device 10 can absorb the reagent from the reagent container 90 placed in the placement position 301b and discharge it into the reaction container, thereby preparing the corresponding reaction solution for the detection device 50 to detect.

[0123] If the height of the bubble layer in the reagent container 90 is greater than the second height threshold and less than or equal to the first height threshold, the bubble removal device 82 can remove the bubbles in the reagent container 90 to reduce at least some of the bubbles in the reagent container 90, thereby reducing the amount or density of bubbles in the reagent container 90, which facilitates the dispensing device 30 to draw the reagent.

[0124] It is understood that the first height threshold and the second height threshold can be set as needed. For example, the first height threshold is 6mm and the second height threshold is 2mm, or the first height threshold is 5mm and the second height threshold is 1mm, or the first height threshold is 5mm and the second height threshold is 0.5mm, etc., and no limitation is made here.

[0125] Please see Figure 13 In some embodiments, the bubble removal device 82 includes an ultrasonic component 821, and the control device 70 performs a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63, including controlling the ultrasonic component 821 to output ultrasonic waves to the bubble layer in the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63 to remove at least a portion of the bubbles in the reagent container 90.

[0126] like Figure 13 As shown, exemplarily, after the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to be subjected to bubble removal operation to the bubble removal position 63, the ultrasonic component 821 is controlled to emit ultrasonic waves toward the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63, so as to remove at least part of the bubbles in the reagent container 90 by ultrasonic vibration.

[0127] Please see Figure 14 In some embodiments, the bubble removal device 82 includes a pressure component 822, and the control device 70 controls the bubble removal device 82 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63, including: controlling the pressure component 822 to change the air pressure inside the reagent container 90 to remove at least a portion of the bubbles inside the reagent container 90.

[0128] like Figure 14 As shown, exemplarily, after the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to be subjected to bubble removal operation to the bubble removal position 63, the control pressure component 822 seals the opening 911 of the reagent container 90 to perform a pressurization or depressurization operation into the reagent container 90, so as to change the air pressure inside the reagent container 90, thereby causing the air pressure inside and outside the bubble to become unbalanced, causing the bubble to burst, so as to remove at least part of the bubble in the reagent container 90.

[0129] Please see Figure 15In some embodiments, the bubble removal device 82 is a dispensing device 10, and the control device 70 controls the bubble removal device 82 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63, including: controlling the dispensing device 10 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63 to remove at least a portion of the bubbles in the reagent container 90.

[0130] Optionally, the control device 70 controls the dispensing device 10 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63, including: controlling the dispensing device 10 to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63 according to the reagent image data, so as to remove the bubbles in the reagent container 90; after the liquid aspiration operation is completed, controlling the dispensing device 10 to move to the cleaning position and perform a liquid drainage operation.

[0131] Optionally, the control device 70 controls the dispensing device 10 to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63 based on the reagent image data, including:

[0132] Based on reagent image data, a liquid aspiration control strategy is determined for controlling the dispensing device 10 to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63. The dispensing device 10 is then controlled to perform the liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63 according to the liquid aspiration control strategy, so as to cause bubble bursting by aspirating bubbles. The liquid aspiration control strategy includes at least one of the following: the number of times the dispensing device 10 performs a liquid aspiration operation, the single liquid aspiration volume corresponding to each liquid aspiration operation performed by the dispensing device 10, the total liquid aspiration volume corresponding to each liquid aspiration operation performed by the dispensing device 10, the liquid aspiration speed of the pipette during the liquid aspiration operation, and the liquid aspiration height of the pipette during the liquid aspiration operation.

[0133] like Figure 15 As shown, exemplarily, the bubble removal device 82 can reuse the dispensing device 10, and the sample analyzer 100 stores a first correlation between target data and aspiration control strategy. That is, the first correlation records the target data and the aspiration control strategy matching the target information, whereby the target data includes reagent image data and / or bubble recognition results. The example of reagent image data as the target data will be used for illustration.

[0134] After obtaining the reagent image data, a liquid aspiration control strategy can be determined based on the reagent image data and the first correlation to control the dispensing device 10 to perform liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63. According to the liquid aspiration control strategy, the needle moving mechanism is controlled to move the pipette to the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63, and the power mechanism is controlled to drive the pipette to perform the liquid aspiration action, thereby causing the bubbles to burst by aspirating them. After the liquid aspiration action is completed, the needle moving mechanism is controlled to move the pipette to the preset discharge position, and the power mechanism is controlled to drive the pipette to perform the discharge action.

[0135] For example, if the height (thickness) of the bubble layer is determined to be in the first height range based on the bubble recognition result obtained from the analysis of the reagent image data, it is determined that the dispensing device 10 needs to perform one liquid aspiration operation on the bubble layer. If the height (thickness) of the bubble layer is determined to be in the second height range based on the reagent image data, it is determined that the dispensing device 10 needs to perform at least two liquid aspiration operations on the bubble layer.

[0136] For example, based on the bubble recognition results obtained from analyzing reagent image data, if the bubble layer is determined to include a first type of bubble layer and a second type of bubble layer, with the first type of bubble layer located above the reagent liquid surface in the reagent container and the second type of bubble layer located on the side of the first type of bubble layer away from the reagent liquid surface, and the bubble density of the second type of bubble layer is less than that of the first type of bubble layer, then it is determined that the dispensing device 10 needs to aspirate the first type of bubble layer and the second type of bubble layer separately using different aspiration speeds. It can be understood that the dispensing device 10 can aspirate the first type of bubble layer and the second type of bubble layer separately in a single aspiration operation, or it can aspirate the first type of bubble layer and the second type of bubble layer separately in two different aspiration operations; this is not limited here. For example, the aspiration control strategy at least includes the aspiration height of the pipette needle during the aspiration operation performed by the dispensing device 10.

[0137] When it is necessary to remove air bubbles from reagent container 90, control device 70 determines the liquid level of reagent in reagent container 90 based on the bubble recognition result obtained by analyzing reagent image data, and determines the first distance between pipette and reagent liquid surface during liquid aspiration based on the liquid level and aspiration height. For example, the aspiration height can be the distance Δh between the tip of pipette and the reagent liquid surface in reagent container 90.

[0138] During the bubble removal process, the control device 70 controls the needle moving mechanism to move the pipette to the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63 and at a distance Δh from the reagent liquid surface, and controls the power mechanism to drive the pipette to perform the liquid aspiration action.

[0139] For example, the liquid aspiration control strategy includes at least the number of times the dispensing device 10 performs liquid aspiration operations. When it is necessary to remove air bubbles from the reagent container 90, the dispensing device 10 is controlled to perform a target number of liquid aspiration operations on the reagent container 90. The liquid aspiration operation includes controlling the needle moving mechanism to move the pipette to the reagent container 90 located at the air bubble removal position 63 and at a first distance Δh from the reagent liquid surface, and controlling the power mechanism to drive the pipette to perform the liquid aspiration action. After the liquid aspiration action is completed, the needle moving mechanism moves the pipette to a preset dispensing position and controls the power mechanism to drive the pipette to perform the dispensing action.

[0140] Optionally, in order to minimize the amount of air bubbles aspirated by the pipette and reduce the amount of reagent aspirated, during N aspiration operations, the volume of liquid aspirated for the Nth aspiration action is less than the volume of liquid aspirated for the (N-1)th aspiration action, and / or the aspiration speed for the Nth aspiration action is less than the aspiration speed for the (N-1)th aspiration action.

[0141] It is understood that the bubble recognition position 62 and the bubble removal position 63 can be set as needed. For example, at least one of the bubble recognition positions 62 and the bubble removal position 63 can be set in the reagent device 30. That is, the bubble recognition position 62 and / or the bubble removal position 63 can be implemented by reusing the placement position 301b, or the corresponding bubble recognition position 62 and bubble removal position 63 can be set in the reagent device 30.

[0142] In some embodiments, the bubble recognition result obtained by the control device 70 from analyzing the reagent image data includes at least the morphological information and / or the distribution information of the bubbles within the reagent container 90. The control device 70 is also used for:

[0143] If the bubble identification result indicates that reagent container 90 has an abnormal bubble condition, the control scheduling device 60 schedules reagent container 90 located at bubble identification position 62 to the second target placement position of reagent device 30. Based on the bubble identification result, the control dispensing device 10 avoids at least some bubbles in reagent container 90 located at the second target placement position and performs a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent in reagent container 90. The control dispensing device 10 also discharges the aspirated reagent into the reaction container to mix the reagent in reagent container 90 with the sample to form the second target reaction solution. The control detection device 50 then detects the second target reaction solution to obtain corresponding detection data. The second target placement position can be at least one of the placement positions 301b.

[0144] Please see Figure 16Based on the morphological and / or distribution information of bubbles in the reagent container 90, if it is determined that there is an abnormality in the bubble in the reagent container 90, and if the type of abnormality is determined to be consistent with the liquid aspiration operation performed by the dispensing device 10 (such as the reagent dispensing component 10b), the dispensing device 10 is controlled to avoid at least some of the bubbles in the reagent container 90 located at the second target placement position and to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent in the reagent container 90, so as to effectively reduce the risk of empty aspiration or insufficient aspiration caused by the dispensing device 10 aspirating liquid on the liquid surface where the bubble area of ​​the reagent container 90 is located, improve the liquid aspiration accuracy of the dispensing device 10, and after the dispensing device 10 completes the liquid aspiration, the dispensing device 10 is controlled to discharge the aspirated reagent into the reaction container so that the reagent and sample in the reagent container 90 are mixed to form the second target reaction liquid, and the detection device 50 is controlled to detect the second target reaction liquid to obtain the corresponding detection data.

[0145] It is understandable that determining whether the abnormal bubble type matches the liquid aspiration operation performed by the dispensing device 10 (such as the reagent dispensing component 10b) based on morphological information and / or bubble distribution information can be done by judging whether the area without bubbles or the area with sparse bubbles in the reagent container 90 is located directly below the opening 911. If the area without bubbles or the area with sparse bubbles is located directly below the opening 911, it indicates that controlling the pipette of the dispensing device 10 to aspirate liquid from the area without bubbles or the area with sparse bubbles can effectively reduce or even avoid empty aspiration or under-aspiration by the pipette, thereby effectively improving the accuracy of reagent aspiration.

[0146] Please refer to the following: Figure 2 In some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes a reagent loading device 80, which has multiple loading positions 801 for holding reagent containers 90. The reagent loading device 80 includes, but is not limited to, a reagent tray. For example, when a test reagent container 90 is loaded, it is placed in the reagent loading device 80 for buffering and awaiting bubble detection.

[0147] In some embodiments, the control device 100 is further configured to: control the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 located in the reagent loading device 80 to the bubble recognition position 62, and control the image acquisition mechanism 81 to acquire images of the reagent container 90 located in the bubble recognition position 62, and output the corresponding reagent image data.

[0148] If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is no abnormality of air bubbles in the reagent container 90, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30.

[0149] If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is an abnormality of air bubbles in the reagent container 90, the bubble removal device 82 is controlled to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90.

[0150] Optionally, the control device 70 is also used to: when the reagent container 90 is detected to be loaded into the preset loading position of the reagent loading device 80, control the scheduling device 60 to schedule the reagent container 90 located in the preset loading position to the bubble recognition position 62, and control the image acquisition mechanism 81 to acquire images of the reagent container 90 located in the bubble recognition position 62, and output the corresponding reagent image data.

[0151] For example, the preset loading position is at least one of the loading positions 801 of the reagent loading device 80. After the reagent container 90 is loaded into the preset loading position, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 located in the preset loading position to the bubble recognition position 62, and controls the image acquisition mechanism 81 to acquire images of the reagent container 90 located in the bubble recognition position 62 and output the corresponding reagent image data. Thus, the control device 70 can analyze the reagent image data to determine whether there is a bubble abnormality in the reagent container 90. If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is no bubble abnormality in the reagent container 90, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30. If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is a bubble abnormality in the reagent container 90, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the bubble removal position 63, and controls the bubble removal device 82 to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located in the bubble removal position 63. After the bubble removal operation is completed, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 that has completed the bubble removal operation to the first target placement position.

[0152] Alternatively, after the bubble removal operation is completed in the reagent container 90, the image acquisition mechanism 81 performs image acquisition again. The control device 70 analyzes the reagent image data acquired by the image acquisition mechanism 81 again and performs the corresponding processing operation until the bubbles in the reagent container 90 meet the preset requirements. Then, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90, which has completed the bubble removal operation and meets the preset requirements, to the first target placement position.

[0153] It is understood that the method for detecting whether the reagent container 90 has been loaded into the preset loading position can be by setting a sensor and detecting whether the sensor is triggered to determine whether the reagent container 90 has been loaded into the preset loading position. The sensor can be set inside the preset loading position, or around the preset loading position, or on the path on which the reagent container 90 is scheduled to the preset loading position. There is no limitation here.

[0154] In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is disposed in the reagent loading device 80 or in the reagent loading port of the reagent loading device 80, wherein the bubble detection position 62 is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism 81 and is located in the reagent loading device 80. For example, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is disposed inside the reagent loading device 80, so that bubble detection can be quickly performed on the reagent container 90 after it is loaded into the reagent loading device 80.

[0155] In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is disposed on the reagent device 30, and the bubble recognition position 62 is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism 81 and located on the reagent device 30. For example, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is disposed above the placement position 301b corresponding to the reagent device 30 or on opposite sides in the horizontal direction.

[0156] In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is disposed on the reagent container 90 scheduling path between the reagent loading device 80 and the reagent device 30, and the bubble recognition position 62 is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism 81 and located on the reagent container 90 scheduling path, so as to facilitate bubble detection during the scheduling process of the reagent container 90.

[0157] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the sample analyzer 100 further includes a pretreatment device 83, which is used to release the sealing fit between the container body 92 and the cap 91 so that the dispensing device 10 can draw reagents from the reagent container 90; the control device 70 is also used for:

[0158] Before the image acquisition mechanism 81 acquires images of the reagents stored in the storage cavity 912, the preprocessing device 83 preprocesses the reagent container 90 to at least release the sealing fit between the container body 92 and the cover 91.

[0159] Optionally, the image acquisition mechanism 81 is disposed in the preprocessing device 83.

[0160] For example, after the reagent container 90 is loaded into the preset loading position, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 located in the preset loading position to the pre-processing position 64. The pre-processing device 83 pre-processes the reagent container 90 located in the pre-processing position to at least release the sealing fit between the container body 92 and the cap 91. The scheduling device 60 schedules the pre-processed reagent container 90 to the bubble recognition position 62 and controls the image acquisition mechanism 81 to acquire images of the reagent container 90 located in the bubble recognition position 62 and output the corresponding reagent image data. Thus, the control device 70 can analyze the reagent image data to determine whether there is an abnormality of bubbles in the reagent container 90. If it is determined from the reagent image data that the reagent container 90 does not have an abnormality of bubbles, the control device 70 can analyze the reagent image data to determine whether there is an abnormality of bubbles in the reagent container 90. In the event of an abnormal bubble condition, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30. If the reagent container 90 is determined to have an abnormal bubble condition based on the reagent image data, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the bubble removal position 63 and controls the bubble removal device 82 to perform bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63. After the bubble removal operation is completed on the reagent container 90, the control scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 that has completed the bubble removal operation to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30, so that the dispensing device 10 (e.g., reagent dispensing component 10b) can perform reagent dispensing operation on the reagent container 90 located at the first target placement position.

[0161] In some embodiments, the pretreatment device 83 is further configured to open the reagent container 90 in the first target placement position of the reagent device 30, so as to expose the opening 911 of the reagent container 90, facilitating the dispensing component 10 to perform a reagent dispensing operation on the reagent container 90 located in the first target placement position through the opening 911 of the reagent container 90, such as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0162] It is understood that, in the embodiments of this application, at least two of the bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, and pretreatment position 64 can be provided in the same structure, component, or device of the sample analyzer 100. Alternatively, the bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, and pretreatment position 64 can be provided in different structures, components, or devices, which is not limited here.

[0163] Furthermore, if at least two of the bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, and preprocessing position 64 can be set in the same structure, component, or device of the sample analyzer 100, the same position can be used as the bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, or preprocessing position 64 by time-division multiplexing, or different positions can be used as the bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, or preprocessing position 64 respectively.

[0164] For example, bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, and pretreatment position 64 are all located in reagent loading device 80 and are implemented through time-division multiplexing loading position 801. Alternatively, bubble recognition position 62, bubble removal position 63, and pretreatment position 64 are all located in reagent device 30 and are implemented through time-division multiplexing placement position 301b.

[0165] For example, taking the multiplexing loading position 801 as an example, the loading position 801 in the first time period is used as the bubble recognition position 62, the loading position 801 in the second time period is used as the bubble removal position 63, and the loading position 801 in the third time period is used as the preprocessing position 64. The first time period, the second time period, and the third time period are three different time periods, that is, the start time of any time period is different from the end time of another time period.

[0166] It can also be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the image acquisition mechanism 81 can be fixedly set corresponding to the bubble recognition position 62, or it can be displaced relative to the bubble recognition position 62 to move closer to or away from the bubble recognition position 62. Similarly, the bubble removal device 82 can be set corresponding to the bubble removal position 63, or it can be displaced relative to the bubble removal position 63 to move closer to or away from the bubble removal position 63. Similarly, the preprocessing device 83 can be fixedly set corresponding to the preprocessing position 64, or it can be displaced relative to the preprocessing position 64 to move closer to or away from the preprocessing position 64.

[0167] This application also provides a method for identifying air bubbles in a reagent container. This method can be applied to the aforementioned sample analyzer 100 and is executed by the processor 701 in the control device 70 of the sample analyzer 100. For example, the sample analyzer 100 stores data such as corresponding programs or instructions in the memory 702. The processor 701 executes the method steps corresponding to the method for identifying air bubbles in a reagent container provided in this application embodiment by calling the program stored in the memory 702.

[0168] It should be noted that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the steps of the reagent container bubble identification method described below can be referred to the working process of the control device 70 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0169] Please see Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a schematic flowchart of a bubble identification method for a reagent container provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0170] like Figure 17 As shown, the method for identifying air bubbles in a reagent container includes steps S101 to S104.

[0171] Step S101: When it is detected that the reagent container has been loaded into the preset loading position of the reagent loading device of the sample analyzer, the scheduling device of the sample analyzer is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble recognition position of the sample analyzer.

[0172] Step S102: Control the light source component of the sample analyzer to emit a first light signal to the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position, and receive the reagent image data output by the signal acquisition component of the sample analyzer based on the acquired second light signal, wherein the second light signal includes at least the light signal formed after the first light signal is emitted from the reagent container, or the second light signal includes at least the reflected light signal of the first light signal reflected by the liquid surface of the reagent container.

[0173] Step S103: Determine whether there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container based on the reagent image data, and if there is no abnormal bubble in the reagent container, control the scheduling device of the sample analyzer to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device of the sample analyzer.

[0174] Step S104: Control the detection device of the sample analyzer to test the target sample using the reagent in the reagent container located at the first target placement position.

[0175] For example, after the reagent container 90 is loaded into the preset loading position, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the bubble recognition position 62 and controls the image acquisition mechanism 81 to acquire images of the reagent container 90 located at the bubble recognition position 62 and output the corresponding reagent image data. The control device 70 can then analyze the reagent image data to determine whether the reagent container 90 has any bubble abnormalities. If the reagent image data determines that the reagent container 90 does not have any bubble abnormalities, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30. If the reagent image data determines that the reagent container 90 has any bubble abnormalities, the scheduling device 70 controls the scheduling device 70 to schedule the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30. If the reagent image data determines that the reagent container 90 has any bubble abnormalities, the scheduling device 70 schedules the reagent container 90 to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30. The device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 to the bubble removal position 63 and controls the bubble removal device 82 to perform bubble removal operation on the reagent container 90 located at the bubble removal position 63. After the bubble removal operation is completed on the reagent container 90, the scheduling device 60 schedules the reagent container 90 that has completed the bubble removal operation to the first target placement position of the reagent device 30, so that the dispensing device 10 can perform reagent dispensing operation on the reagent container 90 located at the first target placement position. In this way, the reagent in the reagent container 90 is mixed with the target sample to be tested to form the first target reaction solution. The first target reaction solution is then detected by the detection device 50 to obtain the detection data or detection result of the target sample.

[0176] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer further includes a reagent loading device and a scheduling device, and the sample analyzer is also provided with a bubble recognition position. The method further includes:

[0177] The scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located in the reagent loading device to the bubble recognition position, and the image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent container located in the bubble recognition position and output the corresponding reagent image data.

[0178] If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is no abnormal bubble in the reagent container, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device;

[0179] If the reagent container is found to have an abnormality of air bubbles based on the reagent image data, the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to remove air bubbles from the reagent container.

[0180] In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism is disposed on the reagent loading device or on the reagent loading port of the sample analyzer, wherein the bubble recognition position is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and is located on the reagent loading device;

[0181] Alternatively, the image acquisition mechanism is disposed on the reagent device, and the bubble recognition position is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and located on the reagent device;

[0182] Alternatively, the image acquisition mechanism is located on the reagent container scheduling path between the reagent loading device and the reagent device, and the bubble recognition position is located corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and is located on the reagent container scheduling path.

[0183] In some embodiments, the reagent container includes a container body and a cap, wherein the container body forms a storage cavity with an opening for storing reagents, and the cap closes to the opening of the container body to seal the opening. The sample analyzer further includes a pretreatment device for releasing the sealing fit between the container body and the cap, so that the dispensing device can draw reagents from the reagent container. The method further includes:

[0184] Before the image acquisition mechanism acquires images of the reagents stored in the storage cavity, the preprocessing device preprocesses the reagent container to at least release the sealing fit between the container body and the lid.

[0185] In some embodiments, the image acquisition mechanism is disposed on the preprocessing device, and the bubble recognition position is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and located on the preprocessing device.

[0186] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer is provided with a bubble recognition position, and the sample analyzer further includes a scheduling device; the method further includes:

[0187] The scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble recognition position;

[0188] The image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position to obtain corresponding reagent image data;

[0189] If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is no bubble abnormality in the reagent container, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble identification position to the first target placement position of the reagent device.

[0190] If the reagent container is found to have an abnormal bubble based on the reagent image data, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble identification position to be moved outside the sample analyzer; or, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble identification position to the bubble removal position of the sample analyzer, and the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position.

[0191] In some embodiments, the method further includes: analyzing the reagent image data to obtain corresponding bubble recognition results, wherein the bubble recognition results include at least one of the following: height information of the bubble layer in the reagent container, morphological information of the bubbles in the reagent container, and distribution information of the bubbles in the reagent container.

[0192] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0193] If the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container is confirmed to be greater than a first height threshold based on the height information, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container outside the sample analyzer.

[0194] If, based on the height information, it is confirmed that the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container is greater than the second height threshold and less than or equal to the first height threshold, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble removal position, and the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position.

[0195] If the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container is confirmed to be less than or equal to the second height threshold based on the height information, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device, where the first height threshold is greater than the second height threshold.

[0196] In some embodiments, the bubble removal device includes an ultrasonic component, and controlling the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position includes: controlling the ultrasonic component to output ultrasonic waves to the bubble layer in the reagent container located at the bubble removal position to remove at least a portion of the bubbles in the reagent container;

[0197] Alternatively, the bubble removal device includes a pressure component, which controls the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position, including: controlling the pressure component to change the air pressure inside the reagent container to remove at least a portion of the bubbles inside the reagent container;

[0198] Alternatively, the bubble removal device includes the dispensing device, and controlling the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position includes: controlling the dispensing device to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position to remove at least a portion of the bubbles in the reagent container.

[0199] In some embodiments, controlling the dispensing device to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position includes:

[0200] The dispensing device is controlled to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position according to the reagent image data, so as to remove at least part of the bubbles in the reagent container;

[0201] After the liquid aspiration operation is completed, the dispensing device is controlled to move to the cleaning position and perform the liquid drainage operation.

[0202] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer further includes an information prompting device, and the method further includes:

[0203] If, based on the reagent image data, it is determined that there is an abnormality of air bubbles in the reagent container, the information prompting device is controlled to output a corresponding prompt message; or...

[0204] When the reagent container is moved outside the sample analyzer, the information prompting device is controlled to output corresponding prompt information.

[0205] In some embodiments, both the bubble recognition position and the bubble removal position are located in the reagent device, or the bubble removal position is located in the reagent device.

[0206] In some embodiments, the sample analyzer further includes a scheduling device and a bubble recognition position, and the method further includes: analyzing the reagent image data to obtain a corresponding bubble recognition result, wherein the bubble recognition result includes at least the morphological information and / or the distribution information of the bubbles in the reagent container, and the method further includes:

[0207] If the reagent container is found to have an abnormal bubble structure based on the bubble recognition result, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position to the second target placement position of the reagent device. Based on the bubble recognition result, the dispensing device is controlled to avoid at least some of the bubbles in the reagent container located at the second target placement position and to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent in the reagent container. The dispensing device is also controlled to discharge the aspirated reagent into the reaction container so that the reagent and sample in the reagent container are mixed to form the second target reaction solution. The detection device is then controlled to detect the second target reaction solution to obtain the corresponding detection data.

[0208] It should be understood that the terminology used in this application specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application. As used in this application specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0209] It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used in this application specification and the appended claims refers to any combination and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, and includes such combinations. It should be noted that in this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or system that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or system. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or system that includes that element.

[0210] The sequence numbers of the embodiments in this application are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments. The above descriptions are merely specific implementations of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer characterized by, include: A reagent device is provided with at least one placement position for placing a reagent container, the reagent container having an opening and a storage cavity for storing reagents; The dispensing device is at least used to perform a reagent dispensing operation, which is used to aspirate the reagent from the reagent container and discharge it into the reaction container so that the sample and the reagent are mixed in the reaction container to form a reaction solution. A detection device is used to detect the reaction solution to obtain corresponding detection data; An image acquisition mechanism is used to acquire images in order to obtain corresponding image data. Control device, at least for: Before the dispensing device draws the reagent from the reagent container, the image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent stored in the storage chamber of the reagent container to obtain reagent image data. The presence of abnormal air bubbles in the reagent container is determined based on the reagent image data.

2. The sample analyzer of claim 1, wherein, The sample analyzer is equipped with a bubble recognition position. The image acquisition mechanism includes a light source component for emitting light signals and a signal acquisition component for acquiring light signals. The light source component and the signal acquisition component are respectively located on opposite sides of the bubble recognition position in the horizontal direction. The control device is further used for: The light source assembly is controlled to emit a first light signal toward the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position; The system receives reagent image data output by the signal acquisition component based on the acquired second optical signal, wherein the second optical signal includes the optical signal formed by the first optical signal emitted through the reagent container; The presence of air bubbles in the reagent container is determined based on the reagent image data.

3. The sample analyzer of claim 1, wherein, The sample analyzer is equipped with a bubble detection position. The image acquisition mechanism includes a light source component for emitting light signals and a signal acquisition component for acquiring light signals. The signal acquisition component and the light source component are positioned on the same side of the reagent container corresponding to the opening of the reagent container; alternatively, the signal acquisition component is positioned corresponding to the opening of the reagent container, and the light source component is positioned on the side of the reagent container adjacent to the opening. The control device is further configured to: The light source assembly is controlled to emit a first light signal toward the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position; The system receives reagent image data output by the signal acquisition component based on the acquired second light signal, wherein the second light signal includes the reflected light signal of the first light signal reflected by the liquid surface of the reagent container; The presence of air bubbles in the reagent container is determined based on the reagent image data.

4. The sample analyzer of claim 1, wherein, The sample analyzer also includes a reagent loading device and a scheduling device, and the sample analyzer is also equipped with a bubble recognition position. The control device is further used for: The scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located in the reagent loading device to the bubble recognition position, and the image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent container located in the bubble recognition position and output the corresponding reagent image data. If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is no abnormal bubble in the reagent container, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device; If the reagent container is found to have an abnormality of air bubbles based on the reagent image data, the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to remove air bubbles from the reagent container.

5. The sample analyzer of claim 4, wherein, The image acquisition mechanism is disposed on the reagent loading device or on the reagent loading port of the sample analyzer, wherein the bubble recognition position is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and is located on the reagent loading device; Alternatively, the image acquisition mechanism is disposed on the reagent device, and the bubble recognition position is disposed corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and located on the reagent device; Alternatively, the image acquisition mechanism is located on the reagent container scheduling path between the reagent loading device and the reagent device, and the bubble recognition position is located corresponding to the image acquisition mechanism and is located on the reagent container scheduling path.

6. The sample analyzer of claim 1, wherein, The reagent container includes a container body and a cap, wherein the container body forms a storage cavity with an opening for storing reagents, and the cap closes to the opening of the container body to seal the opening. The sample analyzer further includes a pretreatment device for releasing the sealing fit between the container body and the cap, so that the dispensing device can draw reagents from the reagent container. The control device is further used for: Before the image acquisition mechanism acquires images of the reagents stored in the storage cavity, the preprocessing device preprocesses the reagent container to at least release the sealing fit between the container body and the lid.

7. The sample analyzer of claim 6, wherein, The image acquisition mechanism is disposed in the preprocessing device, and the bubble recognition position is disposed in accordance with the image acquisition mechanism and located in the preprocessing device.

8. The sample analyzer of claim 1, wherein, The sample analyzer is equipped with a bubble recognition position, and the sample analyzer also includes a scheduling device. The control device is further used for: The scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble recognition position; The image acquisition mechanism is controlled to acquire images of the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position to obtain corresponding reagent image data; If it is determined from the reagent image data that there is no bubble abnormality in the reagent container, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble identification position to the first target placement position of the reagent device. If the reagent container is found to have an abnormal bubble based on the reagent image data, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble identification position to be moved outside the sample analyzer; or, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble identification position to the bubble removal position of the sample analyzer, and the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position.

9. The sample analyzer of claim 8, wherein, The control device is further configured to: analyze the reagent image data to obtain corresponding bubble recognition results, wherein the bubble recognition results include at least one of the following: height information of the bubble layer in the reagent container, morphological information of the bubbles in the reagent container, and distribution information of the bubbles in the reagent container.

10. The sample analyzer of claim 9, wherein, The control device is also used for: If the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container is confirmed to be greater than a first height threshold based on the height information, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container outside the sample analyzer. If, based on the height information, it is confirmed that the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container is greater than the second height threshold and less than or equal to the first height threshold, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble removal position, and the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position. If the height of the bubble layer inside the reagent container is confirmed to be less than or equal to the second height threshold based on the height information, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device, where the first height threshold is greater than the second height threshold.

11. The sample analyzer of claim 8, wherein, The bubble removal device includes an ultrasonic component. The control device controls the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position, including: controlling the ultrasonic component to output ultrasonic waves to the bubble layer in the reagent container located at the bubble removal position to remove at least a portion of the bubbles in the reagent container. Alternatively, the bubble removal device includes a pressure component, and the control device controls the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position, including: controlling the pressure component to change the air pressure inside the reagent container to remove at least a portion of the bubbles inside the reagent container; Alternatively, the bubble removal device includes the dispensing device, and the control device controls the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position, including: controlling the dispensing device to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position to remove at least a portion of the bubbles in the reagent container.

12. The sample analyzer of claim 11, wherein, The control device controls the dispensing device to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position, including: The dispensing device is controlled to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent container located at the bubble removal position according to the reagent image data, so as to remove at least part of the bubbles in the reagent container; After the liquid aspiration operation is completed, the dispensing device is controlled to move to the cleaning position and perform the liquid drainage operation.

13. The sample analyzer of claim 8, wherein, The sample analyzer also includes an information prompting device, and the control device is further used for: If the reagent container is found to have an abnormality in terms of air bubbles based on the reagent image data, the information prompting device is controlled to output a corresponding prompt message; or, if the reagent container is moved outside the sample analyzer, the information prompting device is controlled to output a corresponding prompt message.

14. The sample analyzer of claim 8, wherein, Both the bubble recognition position and the bubble removal position are located in the reagent device, or the bubble removal position is located in the reagent device.

15. The sample analyzer of claim 1, wherein, The sample analyzer further includes a scheduling device and a bubble recognition position. The control device is also used to: analyze the reagent image data to obtain corresponding bubble recognition results, wherein the bubble recognition results include at least the morphological information and / or distribution information of the bubbles in the reagent container. The control device is also used to: If the reagent container is found to have an abnormal bubble structure based on the bubble recognition result, the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position to the second target placement position of the reagent device. Based on the bubble recognition result, the dispensing device is controlled to avoid at least some of the bubbles in the reagent container located at the second target placement position and to perform a liquid aspiration operation on the reagent in the reagent container. The dispensing device is also controlled to discharge the aspirated reagent into the reaction container so that the reagent and sample in the reagent container are mixed to form the second target reaction solution. The detection device is then controlled to detect the second target reaction solution to obtain the corresponding detection data.

16. A method of bubble recognition of a reagent container, characterized by, Applied to a sample analyzer, the method includes: When the reagent container is detected to be loaded into the preset loading position of the reagent loading device of the sample analyzer, the scheduling device of the sample analyzer is controlled to schedule the reagent container to the bubble recognition position of the sample analyzer; the light source component of the sample analyzer is controlled to emit a first light signal to the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position, and the sample analyzer's signal acquisition component is received to output reagent image data based on the acquired second light signal, wherein the second light signal includes at least the light signal formed after the first light signal is emitted from the reagent container, or the second light signal includes at least the reflected light signal of the first light signal reflected by the liquid surface of the reagent container; Based on the reagent image data, determine whether there is an abnormal bubble in the reagent container, and if there is no abnormal bubble in the reagent container, control the scheduling device of the sample analyzer to schedule the reagent container to the first target placement position of the reagent device of the sample analyzer. The detection device of the sample analyzer controls the test of the target sample using the reagent in the reagent container located at the first target placement position.

17. The bubble recognition method of claim 16, wherein, The method further includes: In the event of an abnormality in the reagent container, the bubble removal device of the sample analyzer is controlled to perform a bubble removal operation on the reagent container, and the scheduling device is controlled to schedule the reagent container after the bubble removal operation to the first target placement position of the reagent device of the sample analyzer.

18. The bubble recognition method of claim 16, wherein, The reagent container includes a container body and a lid, wherein the container body forms a storage cavity with an opening for storing reagents, and the lid closes to the opening of the container body to seal the opening; the method further includes: Before the light source assembly of the sample analyzer emits a first light signal to the reagent container located at the bubble recognition position, the pre-processing device of the sample analyzer is controlled to pre-process the reagent container to at least release the sealing fit between the container body and the cap. The scheduling device controls the pre-processed reagent container to be scheduled to the bubble recognition position.

Images