Sample analyzer and control method of sample analyzer

Abstract

The application provides a sample analyzer and a control method of the sample analyzer, the sample analyzer has a sampling module with a movable sampling needle; at least part of a reagent storage module is located below the sampling needle, so that a sample inlet of the reagent storage module is located on a moving path of the sampling needle; the sample analyzer has a sample feeding module with multiple sample trays, the multiple sample trays are spaced apart along a height direction, and at least two sample trays independently move to below the sampling needle and make sample tubes of the sample trays located on the moving path of the sampling needle; the sample feeding module is located between a reaction processing module and the reagent storage module, and the reaction processing module is used for reaction analysis and processing of a reaction cup into which reagents and samples are injected. The application solves the problems of the prior art that the overall architecture of the sample analyzer is relatively complex, and the overall processing efficiency and emergency response capability are poor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of sample analysis equipment technology, and more specifically, to a sample analyzer and a control method for the sample analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] Sample analyzers are core devices in clinical diagnostics used to detect key indicators such as specific proteins, hormones, and tumor markers. Their performance directly affects the efficiency and accuracy of precision medicine. With the increasing demands for throughput, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness in clinical sample testing, the architectural design of sample analyzers faces significant challenges.

[0003] Currently, sample loading modules for medium- and high-speed large instruments on the market generally adopt a tabletop assembly line layout, with sample racks circulating within tracks. While this type of sample loading module can support high sample throughput, the overall system architecture is relatively complex, and the integration between modules is low. This not only increases the difficulty of processing, manufacturing, and assembly, but also increases maintenance costs. It also limits further optimization of the overall system architecture towards miniaturization and low cost, making it difficult to meet the needs of primary healthcare institutions or space-constrained scenarios.

[0004] For low-speed, small-sized sample analyzers, existing systems mostly employ rotary, single-row sample rack, or tray layouts. While these structures simplify mechanical transmission, they still suffer from inherent limitations in sample throughput and batch processing capabilities. Because the total sample volume loaded at one time is relatively small, users must frequently manually change sample racks when faced with intensive testing tasks, severely restricting continuous work efficiency. More critically, existing sample analyzers lack flexibility in handling additional testing needs, typically relying on software-inserted "sample loading pause" commands or requiring the sample loading module to be completely idle before executing a new task. This sequential processing mode not only disrupts the original testing workflow, causing users to wait long periods for the equipment to become ready, but also significantly reduces the overall processing efficiency and emergency response capabilities, failing to meet the practical application scenarios of rapid, efficient, and high-concurrency testing in modern clinical settings. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main objective of this invention is to provide a sample analyzer and a control method for the sample analyzer, so as to solve the problems of the complex overall architecture and poor overall processing efficiency and emergency response capability of the sample analyzer in the prior art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a sample analyzer is provided, comprising a sampling module, a reagent storage module, a sample injection module, and a reaction processing module, wherein the sampling module has a movable sampling needle; at least a portion of the reagent storage module is located below the sampling needle, such that the suction port of the reagent storage module is located on the movement path of the sampling needle; the sample injection module has multiple sample trays spaced apart along the height direction, at least two sample trays operating independently to move independently below the sampling needle, and to position the sample tubes of the sample trays on the movement path of the sampling needle; the sample injection module is located between the reaction processing module and the reagent storage module, the reaction processing module being used to perform reaction analysis on reaction cups containing injected reagents and samples.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment, the sample tray carries at least two sample trays, each sample tray having multiple sample positions arranged in an array, each sample position being used to accommodate a sample tube.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, the sample positions are arranged in a direction parallel to the horizontal movement path of the sampling needle.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the sample injection module includes a support frame, a sample tray group, and a drive group. The support frame has a receiving groove. There are at least two sample tray groups, each of which slides in cooperation with two opposite walls of the receiving groove. One sample tray group located on the same side of the receiving groove includes at least two sample trays, which are spaced apart along the height direction and move independently. There are at least two drive groups, each corresponding to one of the at least two sample tray groups. One drive group located on the same side of the receiving groove includes at least two drive mechanisms, which correspond to and drive the at least two sample trays on the corresponding side of the same group.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the sample injection module further includes a vision recognition module and a control module. The vision recognition module is mounted on the support frame and is used to identify whether there is a sample tube at the sample position and to obtain recognition information. The vision recognition module and the two sets of drive groups are connected to the control module. The control module is used to control the drive mechanism that drives the sample tray with the sample tube to move according to the recognition information, so as to schedule the sample tube to the movement path of the sampling needle.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, along the direction in which the sample tray moves toward the sampling module, a first notch and a second notch are sequentially formed on the support frame, with the second notch located between the visual recognition module and the first notch, and the first and second notches at the same height. The sample feeding module further includes a first position sensor, a second position sensor, and a baffle. The first position sensor is located at the first notch; the second position sensor is located on the same side of the receiving slot as the first position sensor, and the second position sensor is located at the second notch; the baffle is located on the sample tray. When the sample tray is in the initial position, the baffle engages with the first position sensor to enable the first position sensor to acquire the first position information of the sample tray; when the sample tray is in the detection position, the baffle engages with the second position sensor to enable the second position sensor to acquire the second position information of the sample tray. Both the first and second position sensors are connected to a control module, which controls the visual recognition module to start based on the second position information acquired by the second position sensor.

[0012] In one exemplary embodiment, the visual recognition module includes a support plate and a visual recognition unit, wherein the support plate is disposed on a support frame; and the visual recognition unit is movably disposed on the support plate.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the reaction processing module includes a mixing module and a needle cleaning tank. The mixing module has at least one reaction cup position, and the at least one reaction cup position is located on the movement path of the sampling needle. The reaction cup at the reaction cup position is used to inject reagents and samples through the sampling needle. The needle cleaning tank is located between the mixing module and the sample injection module, and is located on the movement path of the sampling needle, for cleaning the sampling needle.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the reaction processing module further includes an incubation module, a magnetic separation module, and a photometric module. The incubation module is used to incubate the reaction cups after they have been mixed by the mixing module at a constant temperature. The magnetic separation module is located on one side of the incubation module and is used to clean and separate the reaction cups after one incubation. The photometric module is located on the side of the magnetic separation module away from the sampling module, and the photometric module and the magnetic separation module are located on the same side of the incubation module. The photometric module is used to read the optical signal of the reaction cups after substrate incubation.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the reaction processing module further includes a reaction cup feeding module and a cup gripping module. The reaction cup feeding module is located on the side of the incubation module away from the magnetic separation module, and is used to provide clean reaction cups to the reaction cup position. The cup gripping module is located on the side of the incubation module away from the sample injection module, and has a gripper. The reaction cup feeding module, mixing module, incubation module, magnetic separation module, and photometric module are all located on the moving path of the gripper.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, a control method for a sample analyzer is provided for the sample analyzer described above. The control method includes moving a sampling needle of a sampling module to the sampling port of a reagent storage module to draw up a reagent and discharge it into a reaction cup of a reaction processing module; independently moving a sample tray of a sample injection module below the sampling needle, and moving the sampling needle to the sample tube of the sample tray to draw up a sample and discharge it into a reaction cup; and performing reaction analysis processing on the injected reagent and the reaction cup of the sample by the reaction processing module.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, before the sample tray moves independently to below the sampling needle, the visual recognition module of the sample injection module identifies whether there is a sample tube in the sample position of the sample tray, and the control module controls the drive mechanism that drives the sample tray with the sample tube to move to start according to the recognition information of the visual recognition module.

[0018] By applying the technical solution of this invention, the sample injection module is positioned between the reaction processing module and the reagent storage module, enabling the sampling module to switch efficiently between the reagent storage module and the sample injection module. This simplifies the overall spatial layout, reduces the complexity of the mechanical structure and the assembly difficulty, thereby effectively reducing the size of the sample analyzer and lowering manufacturing costs. Simultaneously, the sample injection module employs multiple sample trays spaced apart along the height direction, with at least two trays capable of independent operation. This independent drive mechanism breaks the serial limitations of traditional turntables or single-row sample racks, ensuring that sample scheduling on different trays does not interfere with each other. This significantly improves sample loading capacity and system parallel processing capabilities, meeting the demands of high-throughput detection. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the layout of a sample analyzer according to an optional embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A top-down view of the structure of the sample analyzer;

[0022] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 Another structural diagram of the sample analyzer in the image;

[0023] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 A simplified diagram showing the top-down view of the sample analyzer in the image;

[0024] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the sample injection module of the sample analyzer in the image;

[0025] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the sample injection module.

[0026] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0027] 10. Sampling module;

[0028] 20. Reagent storage module; 21. Reagent tray;

[0029] 30. Sample injection module; 31. Sample tray; 311. Sample plate; 32. Support frame; 321. First notch; 322. Second notch; 323. Slide rail; 33. Drive mechanism; 331. Motor; 332. Belt; 333. Pulley; 34. Vision recognition module; 341. Support plate; 342. Vision recognition unit; 35. First position sensor; 36. Second position sensor; 37. Baffle;

[0030] 40. Reaction processing module; 41. Mixing module; 42. Incubation module; 43. Magnetic separation module; 44. Photometric module; 45. Reaction cup feeding module; 46. Cup gripping module; 47. Needle cleaning tank. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0032] To address the issues of complex overall architecture, poor overall processing efficiency, and inadequate emergency response capabilities in existing sample analyzers, this invention provides a sample analyzer and its control method.

[0033] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, the sample analyzer includes a sampling module 10, a reagent storage module 20, a sample injection module 30, and a reaction processing module 40. The sampling module 10 has a movable sampling needle. At least a portion of the reagent storage module 20 is located below the sampling needle, such that the suction port of the reagent storage module 20 is positioned on the movement path of the sampling needle. The sample injection module 30 has multiple sample trays 31 spaced apart along its height. At least two sample trays 31 operate independently, moving independently below the sampling needle and positioning the sample tubes of the sample trays 31 on the movement path of the sampling needle. The sample injection module 30 is located between the reaction processing module 40 and the reagent storage module 20. The reaction processing module 40 is used for reaction analysis of reaction cups containing injected reagents and samples.

[0034] By applying the technical solution of this invention, the sample injection module 30 is positioned between the reaction processing module 40 and the reagent storage module 20, enabling the sampling module 10 to switch efficiently between the reagent storage module 20 and the sample injection module 30. This simplifies the overall spatial layout, reduces the complexity of the mechanical structure and the difficulty of assembly, thereby effectively reducing the size of the sample analyzer and lowering manufacturing costs. Simultaneously, the sample injection module 30 employs multiple sample trays 31 spaced apart along the height direction, with at least two sample trays 31 capable of independent operation. This independent driving mechanism breaks the serial limitations of traditional turntables or single-row sample racks, ensuring that sample scheduling on different trays does not interfere with each other, significantly improving sample loading capacity and system parallel processing capabilities, and meeting the requirements of high-throughput detection.

[0035] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the sample tray 31 carries at least two sample discs 311, each with multiple sample positions arranged in an array. Each sample position is used to hold a sample tube. By setting up a sample tray 31 carrying at least two sample discs 311, and with the sample positions on each sample disc 311 arranged in an array, the sample carrying capacity of a single sample tray 31 is significantly increased. Compared to the traditional single-row sample introduction method, this effectively reduces the frequency of manual sample rack replacement by the user, improving the continuity of testing and batch processing capabilities. Simultaneously, the arrayed sample positions ensure that the sample tubes are arranged neatly and orderly, facilitating subsequent visual identification and precise positioning of the sampling needle, further improving sample introduction efficiency.

[0036] like Figures 4 to 6As shown, the sample positions are arranged parallel to the horizontal movement path of the sampling needle. By setting the sample position arrangement to be parallel to the horizontal movement path of the sampling needle, the sampling needle only needs to move along a single horizontal trajectory to cover all sample positions when collecting samples. This eliminates the need for complex two-dimensional planar path planning or additional rotational movements. This not only simplifies the motion control algorithm of the sampling module 10 and improves sampling speed and accuracy, but also reduces mechanical errors and failure rates caused by multi-axis linkage, ensuring the stability of the sampling process.

[0037] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the sample injection module 30 includes a support frame 32, a sample tray group, and a drive group. The support frame 32 has a receiving groove. There are at least two sample tray groups, and the at least two sample tray groups are slidably engaged with two groove walls opposite to the receiving groove. A sample tray group located on the same side of the receiving groove includes at least two sample trays 31. The at least two sample trays 31 in the same group are spaced apart along the height direction, and the at least two sample trays 31 in the same group move independently. There are at least two drive groups, and the at least two drive groups correspond one-to-one with the at least two sample tray groups. A drive group located on the same side of the receiving groove includes at least two drive mechanisms 33. The at least two drive mechanisms 33 in the same group correspond one-to-one with the at least two sample trays 31 in the same group on the corresponding side and drive them in engagement. In this way, by setting up a support frame 32 with a receiving groove and two sets of sample trays that slide together, and combining them with drive mechanisms 33 that correspond one-to-one with the sample trays 31, the modular design and independent and precise drive of the sample trays 31 are realized. The two sample trays 31 in the same group are spaced apart along the height direction and move independently. With the correspondence between the two sets of drive groups and the two sets of sample trays, it is ensured that each sample tray 31 can move independently and quickly to the designated position. This structure not only improves the reliability of mechanical transmission, but also makes the sample injection module 30 highly expandable and flexible, and the number or layout of trays can be adjusted according to needs.

[0038] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the sample injection module 30 also includes a visual recognition module 34 and a control module. The visual recognition module 34 is mounted on the support frame 32 and is used to identify whether there is a sample tube at the sample position and acquire recognition information. The visual recognition module 34 and the two sets of drive groups are connected to the control module. The control module is used to control the drive mechanism 33 that moves the sample tray 31 with the sample tube according to the recognition information, so as to schedule the sample tube to the movement path of the sampling needle. In this way, by setting up the visual recognition module 34 and the control module, the automatic recognition and intelligent scheduling of the presence or absence of sample tubes in the sample position is realized. The control module accurately controls the drive mechanism 33 that moves the sample tray 31 with the sample tube according to the recognition information acquired by the visual recognition module 34, so that the sampling needle can be directly positioned to the position with the sample for aspiration, without the need for tedious manual setting of the sample position on the software interface. This not only reduces the difficulty of user operation and error rate, but also avoids reagent waste and detection abnormalities caused by empty aspiration, significantly improving the overall detection efficiency and user experience.

[0039] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, along the direction in which the sample tray 311 moves toward the sampling module 10, the support frame 32 has a first notch 321 and a second notch 322 sequentially formed. The second notch 322 is located between the visual recognition module 34 and the first notch 321, and the first notch 321 and the second notch 322 are at the same height. The sample injection module 30 also includes a first position sensor 35, a second position sensor 36, and a baffle 37. The first position sensor 35 is located at the first notch 321; the second position sensor 36 is located on the same side of the receiving groove as the first position sensor 35, and the second position sensor 36 is located at the second notch. At position 322, a baffle 37 is located on the sample tray 31. When the sample tray 31 is in the initial position, the baffle 37 engages with the first position sensor 35 to enable the first position sensor 35 to acquire the first position information of the sample tray 31. When the sample tray 31 is in the detection position, the baffle 37 engages with the second position sensor 36 to enable the second position sensor 36 to acquire the second position information of the sample tray 31. Both the first position sensor 35 and the second position sensor 36 are connected to the control module, which controls the visual recognition module 34 to start based on the second position information acquired by the second position sensor 36. In this way, by setting the first position sensor 35 and the second position sensor 36 at the first notch 321 and the second notch 322 respectively, and cooperating with the baffle 37 on the sample tray 31, the position status of the sample tray 31 can be accurately detected. In particular, when the sample tray 31 moves to the detection position, the second position sensor 36 triggers the control module to start the visual recognition module 34. This position-triggered visual recognition mechanism ensures that visual recognition is only performed when the tray reaches the optimal recognition position, avoiding recognition failure caused by tray shaking or position deviation, improving the accuracy of image acquisition and recognition efficiency, and reducing the invalid working time of the visual recognition module 34, thus extending its service life.

[0040] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the visual recognition module 34 includes a support plate 341 and a visual recognition unit 342. The support plate 341 is mounted on the support frame 32, and the visual recognition unit 342 is flexibly mounted on the support plate 341. By flexibly mounting the visual recognition unit 342 on the support plate 341, the visual recognition module 34 can adaptively adjust its height according to the different height layers of the sample tray 31, ensuring clear and accurate recognition of sample tubes on both the upper and lower layers of the sample tray 31. This lifting design adapts to the recognition needs of different batches or sample trays of different heights, improves the versatility and recognition accuracy of the vision system, avoids viewing angle deviations or occlusion problems caused by fixed heights, and further ensures the accuracy of sample positioning.

[0041] like Figure 6As shown, the two oppositely arranged groove walls of the receiving groove of the support frame 32 are provided with slide rails 323, and the sample tray 31 is slidably arranged on the slide rails 323. This application provides two sets of sample tray groups and two sets of drive groups. The two sets of sample tray groups are slidably engaged with the two oppositely arranged groove walls of the receiving groove. The sample tray group located on the same side of the receiving groove includes two sample trays 31. The two sample trays 31 in the same group are spaced apart along the height direction, and the two sample trays 31 in the same group move independently. The two sets of drive groups correspond one-to-one with the two sets of sample tray groups. The drive group located on the same side of the receiving groove includes two drive mechanisms 33. The two drive mechanisms 33 in the same group correspond one-to-one with the two sample trays 31 in the same group on the corresponding side and drive them. Each sample tray 31 is provided with a baffle 37.

[0042] Furthermore, such as Figure 6 As shown, the drive mechanism 33 includes a motor 331, a belt 332, and a pulley 333. The motor 331 drives the pulley 333 to rotate, the belt 332 is sleeved on the pulley 333, and the sample tray 31 is fastened to the belt 332.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the reagent storage module 20 includes a reagent tray 21, which is rotatably arranged and has multiple reagent bottle positions arranged radially. Each reagent bottle position is used to hold a sample vial. By arranging the reagent tray 21 rotatably with radially distributed reagent bottle positions, the sample vials of the reagent bottles can be positioned sequentially along the movement path of the sampling needle as the tray 21 rotates. This allows the sampling needle to draw reagents from different bottles without significant horizontal movement. This layout greatly optimizes the space utilization for reagent storage and retrieval, shortens the time for transferring the sampling needle between reagents, and increases the sample dispensing speed. Simultaneously, the radial distribution makes the reagent tray 21 compact, facilitating the integration of refrigeration functionality and ensuring the stability and activity of the reagents.

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the reaction processing module 40 includes a mixing module 41 and a needle cleaning tank 47. The mixing module 41 has at least one reaction cup position, and each reaction cup position is located on the movement path of the sampling needle. The reaction cups at the reaction cup positions are used to inject reagents and samples through the sampling needle. In this way, by arranging the reaction cup positions of the mixing module 41 along the movement direction of the sampling needle and placing them on the movement path of the sampling needle, the sampling needle can move horizontally above the mixing module 41 for injection after completing sample and reagent aspiration, without the need for additional vertical gripping or complex path switching. This simplifies the flow logic of the reaction cups and improves the sample injection efficiency. At the same time, the reaction cups being located on the sampling path facilitates batch injection, laying an efficient foundation for subsequent continuous reaction analysis processing.

[0045] Of course, the mixing module 41 has multiple reaction cup positions, which are arranged along the moving direction of the sampling needle, and each reaction cup position is located on the moving path of the sampling needle.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the reaction processing module 40 also includes an incubation module 42, a magnetic separation module 43, and a photometric module 44. The incubation module 42 is used to incubate the reaction cup after it has been mixed by the mixing module 41 at a constant temperature. The magnetic separation module 43 is located on one side of the incubation module 42 and is used to clean and separate the reaction cup after one incubation. The photometric module 44 is located on the side of the magnetic separation module 43 away from the sampling module 10, and the photometric module 44 and the magnetic separation module 43 are located on the same side of the incubation module 42. The photometric module 44 is used to read the light signal of the reaction cup after substrate incubation. In this way, by integrating the incubation module 42, the magnetic separation module 43, and the photometric module 44, a complete post-processing workflow for immunoassay is constructed. The magnetic separation module 43 can clean and separate the reaction cups after one incubation and add substrate for mixing. The photometric module 44 reads the optical signal of the reaction cups after substrate incubation. This modular integrated design allows the reaction cups to flow smoothly between various functional areas, realizing fully automated continuous operation from mixing, incubation, separation to photometric measurement. This significantly improves the detection throughput and process consistency, and reduces errors caused by human intervention.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the reaction processing module 40 also includes a reaction cup feeding module 45, which is located on the side of the incubation module 42 away from the magnetic separation module 43. The reaction cup feeding module 45 is used to provide clean reaction cups to the reaction cup location. In this way, by setting the reaction cup feeding module 45 on the side of the incubation module 42 away from the magnetic separation module 43, a continuous supply of clean disposable reaction cups is provided to the entire reaction processing module 40, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of reaction cups and avoiding detection interruptions due to a shortage of reaction cups. This positional layout allows the reaction cup feeding module 45 to form a reasonable workflow with the mixing module 41 and the incubation module 42, facilitating the efficient grabbing of empty cups by the cup grabbing module 46 and its delivery to the mixing module 41, optimizing the initial scheduling path of the reaction cups, and improving the overall system operating efficiency.

[0048] like Figure 4As shown, the reaction processing module 40 also includes a cup-gripping module 46, which is located on the side of the incubation module 42 away from the sample injection module 30. The cup-gripping module 46 has a gripper, and the reaction cup loading module 45, mixing module 41, incubation module 42, magnetic separation module 43, and photometric module 44 are all located on the movement path of the gripper. In this way, by setting the cup-gripping module 46 on the side of the incubation module 42 away from the sample injection module 30 and the movement path of the gripper covering the reaction cup loading module 45, mixing module 41, incubation module 42, magnetic separation module 43, and photometric module 44, efficient and flexible scheduling of reaction cups among various functional modules is achieved. As a core handling unit, the cup-gripping module 46 can accurately transfer reaction cups between various stations according to control commands, ensuring the orderly execution of steps such as mixing, incubation, separation, and photometric measurement. At the same time, its single gripper design reduces mechanical complexity, improves scheduling speed and reliability, and realizes automated closed-loop control of the entire process.

[0049] It should be noted that this application provides a control method for a sample analyzer, used in the sample analyzer described above and below. The control method includes moving the sampling needle of the sampling module 10 to the sampling port of the reagent storage module 20 to draw reagents and discharge them into the reaction cup of the reaction processing module 40; the sample tray 31 of the sample injection module 30 independently moves to below the sampling needle, and the sampling needle moves to the sample tube of the sample tray 31 to draw samples and discharge them into the reaction cup; the reaction processing module 40 performs reaction analysis on the injected reagents and the reaction cup of the sample. In this way, by first drawing reagents into the reaction cup through the sampling module 10, and then independently controlling the sample tray 31 of the sample injection module 30 to move to below the sampling needle to draw samples and discharge them into the reaction cup, this reagent-first-sample or independently scheduled sample addition strategy, combined with the automated processing of the reaction processing module 40, achieves efficient mixing and reaction of samples and reagents; in particular, the independent movement characteristic of the sample tray 31 means that there is no need to wait for the entire injection module to be idle during the sample addition process, which greatly shortens the single detection cycle and improves the overall processing efficiency and response speed of the instrument.

[0050] Furthermore, before the sample tray 31 moves independently to below the sampling needle, the visual recognition module 34 of the sample injection module 30 identifies whether there is a sample tube in the sample position of the sample tray 31. The control module then controls the drive mechanism 33, which moves the sample tray 31 with the sample tube, based on the recognition information from the visual recognition module 34. In this way, by using the visual recognition module 34 to pre-identify whether there is a sample tube in the sample position before the sample tray 31 moves independently to below the sampling needle, and controlling the drive mechanism 33 accordingly, intelligent sample positioning and scheduling are achieved. This "identify first, then drive, then sample" control logic ensures that the sampling needle only aspirates from the position where there is sample, avoiding empty aspiration errors, reducing reagent waste and potential contamination. At the same time, by replacing manual intervention with automated identification, the operational threshold is lowered, and the accuracy of the test results and the intelligence level of the system are improved.

[0051] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0052] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0053] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0054] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0055] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0056] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, include: A sampling module (10) having a movable sampling needle; A reagent storage module (20) is provided, at least a portion of which is located below the sampling needle, such that the sampling port of the reagent storage module (20) is located on the movement path of the sampling needle. The sample injection module (30) has multiple sample trays (31) which are spaced apart along the height direction. At least two sample trays (31) can move independently to move the sample trays (31) to the underside of the sampling needle and place the sample tubes of the sample trays (31) on the moving path of the sampling needle. The reaction processing module (40) is located between the sample injection module (30) and the reagent storage module (20). The reaction processing module (40) is used to perform reaction analysis on the reaction cup containing the injected reagent and sample.

2. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample tray (31) carries at least two sample trays (311), each of the sample trays (311) has multiple sample positions, the multiple sample positions are distributed in an array, and each sample position is used to accommodate the sample tube.

3. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The arrangement direction of the sample positions is parallel to the horizontal movement path of the sampling needle.

4. The sample analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sample injection module (30) includes: A support frame (32) having a receiving groove; The sample tray group consists of at least two groups, and the at least two groups of sample trays are slidably engaged with two opposite walls of the receiving groove. A group of sample trays located on the same side of the receiving slot includes at least two sample trays (31), at least two sample trays (31) in the same group are spaced apart along the height direction, and at least two sample trays (31) in the same group operate independently; The drive group is at least two groups, and the at least two drive groups correspond one-to-one with the at least two sample tray groups. The drive group located on the same side of the receiving slot includes at least two drive mechanisms (33). The at least two drive mechanisms (33) in the same group correspond one-to-one with the at least two sample trays (31) in the same group on the corresponding side and drive each other.

5. The sample analyzer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The sample injection module (30) also includes: A visual recognition module (34) is disposed on the support frame (32). The visual recognition module (34) is used to identify whether the sample tube is present at the sample position and to obtain recognition information. The control module is connected to the visual recognition module (34) and the two sets of drive groups. The control module is used to control the drive mechanism (33) that drives the sample tray (31) with the sample tube to move according to the recognition information, so as to schedule the sample tube to the moving path of the sampling needle.

6. The sample analyzer according to claim 5, characterized in that, Along the direction in which the sample tray (311) moves toward the sampling module (10), the support frame (32) is provided with a first notch (321) and a second notch (322) in sequence, and the second notch (322) is located between the visual recognition module (34) and the first notch (321), and the first notch (321) and the second notch (322) are located at the same height. The sample injection module (30) further includes: A first position sensor (35) is located at the first notch (321); The second position sensor (36) is located on the same side of the receiving groove as the first position sensor (35), and the second position sensor (36) is located at the second notch (322). A baffle (37) is located on the sample tray (31); When the sample tray (31) is in the initial position, the baffle (37) engages with the first position sensor (35) to enable the first position sensor (35) to acquire the first position information of the sample tray (31); When the sample tray (31) is in the detection position, the baffle (37) engages with the second position sensor (36) to enable the second position sensor (36) to acquire the second position information of the sample tray (31); The first position sensor (35) and the second position sensor (36) are both connected to the control module. The control module is used to control the visual recognition module (34) to start according to the second position information obtained by the second position sensor (36).

7. The sample analyzer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The visual recognition module (34) includes: A support plate (341) is disposed on the support frame (32); A visual recognition unit (342) is mounted on the support plate (341) in a height-adjustable manner.

8. The sample analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reaction processing module (40) includes: A mixing module (41) has at least one reaction cup position, and at least one of the reaction cup positions is located on the movement path of the sampling needle. The reaction cup at the reaction cup position is used to inject reagents and samples through the sampling needle. Needle cleaning pool (47) is located between the mixing module (41) and the sample injection module (30) and on the moving path of the sampling needle, for cleaning the sampling needle.

9. The sample analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, The reaction processing module (40) also includes: An incubation module (42) is used to incubate the reaction vessel after it has been mixed by the mixing module (41) at a constant temperature. A magnetic separation module (43) is located on one side of the incubation module (42). The magnetic separation module (43) is used to clean and separate the reaction cup after one incubation. The photometric module (44) is located on the side of the magnetic separation module (43) away from the sampling module (10), and the photometric module (44) and the magnetic separation module (43) are located on the same side of the incubation module (42). The photometric module (44) is used to read the light signal of the reaction cup after substrate incubation.

10. The sample analyzer according to claim 9, characterized in that, The reaction processing module (40) also includes: The reaction cup feeding module (45) is located on the side of the incubation module (42) away from the magnetic separation module (43). The reaction cup feeding module (45) is used to provide a clean reaction cup to the reaction cup position. The cup-grabbing module (46) is located on the side of the incubation module (42) away from the sample injection module (30). The cup-grabbing module (46) has a gripper. The reaction cup loading module (45), the mixing module (41), the incubation module (42), the magnetic separation module (43), and the photometric module (44) are all located on the moving path of the gripper.

11. A control method for a sample analyzer, characterized in that, The control method for a sample analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 10 includes: The sampling needle of the sampling module (10) moves to the sampling port of the reagent storage module (20) to draw up the reagent and discharge it into the reaction cup of the reaction processing module (40); The sample tray (31) of the sample injection module (30) moves independently to below the sampling needle, and the sampling needle moves to the sample tube of the sample tray (31) to draw up the sample and discharge it into the reaction cup; The reaction processing module (40) performs reaction analysis on the injected reagents and samples in the reaction cup.

12. The control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Before the sample tray (31) moves independently to below the sampling needle, the visual recognition module (34) of the sample injection module (30) identifies whether there is a sample tube in the sample position of the sample tray (31). The control module controls the drive mechanism (33) that drives the sample tray (31) with the sample tube to move to start according to the recognition information of the visual recognition module (34).

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