Medical analyzer and method of controlling the same

Abstract

This application discloses a medical analyzer and its control method, including a frame, a first dispensing assembly, and a second dispensing assembly. The frame has a mounting cavity containing a detection chamber, a sample chamber, a reagent chamber, a substrate chamber, a diluent chamber, and a cleaning chamber. The detection chamber is used to mount a microfluidic detection chip and to detect the sample within the chip. The first dispensing assembly is mounted on the frame and reciprocates between the detection chamber, sample chamber, reagent chamber, and cleaning chamber to inject samples and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. The second dispensing assembly includes independent first and second dispensing sections. The first dispensing section communicates with the diluent chamber, and the second dispensing section communicates with the substrate chamber. The first dispensing section injects diluent into the microfluidic detection chip, and the second dispensing section injects substrate into the chip. This application at least solves the problem of low detection efficiency in related medical analyzers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of analytical testing technology, and more specifically, to a medical analyzer and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, medical analyzers work with microfluidic detection chips to detect components in samples (blood). During the fluorescence detection of the sample, the sample loading module needs to inject the sample, diluent, substrate, and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. The sample loading module needs to be cleaned before each injection. The high frequency of cleaning leads to low detection efficiency of the medical analyzer. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this application is to provide a medical analyzer and its control method to solve the problem of low detection efficiency of medical analyzers in related technologies.

[0004] According to one aspect of this application, a medical analyzer is provided, comprising: The rack is provided with a mounting cavity, which contains a detection chamber, a sample chamber, a reagent chamber, a substrate chamber, a diluent chamber, and a cleaning chamber. The detection chamber is used to mount a microfluidic detection chip and to detect the sample inside the microfluidic detection chip. A first dispensing assembly is movably disposed on the rack and reciprocates between the detection chamber, the sample chamber, the reagent chamber, and the cleaning chamber to inject samples and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. The second dispensing assembly is disposed on the frame and includes a first dispensing section and a second dispensing section that are independent of each other. The first dispensing section is connected to the diluent chamber and the second dispensing section is connected to the substrate chamber. The first dispensing section is used to inject diluent into the microfluidic detection chip and the second dispensing section is used to inject substrate into the microfluidic detection chip.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first dispensing component includes: A first moving component is movably disposed on the frame and can reciprocate along a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; A dispensing component is disposed on the first moving component and is capable of reciprocating along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The dispensing component is used to aspirate and dispense samples and reagents. Both the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to the height direction of the medical analyzer.

[0006] In some embodiments, the dispensing component includes a first driving member and a dispensing member, the first driving member being connected to the first moving member, the dispensing member being connected to the first driving member, and the first driving member driving the dispensing member to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer.

[0007] In some embodiments, both the sample compartment and the reagent compartment are covered with a sealing membrane. The dispensing component further includes a second driving component and a puncture component. The second driving component is connected to the first moving component, and the puncture component is connected to the second driving component. The puncture component is located on the outer periphery of the end of the dispensing component opposite to the first driving component. The second driving component drives the puncture component to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, so that the puncture component punctures the sealing membrane covering the sample chamber and the reagent chamber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the filling member has an injection port on the side near the first driving member.

[0009] In some embodiments, a first slide rail is provided on the frame, the first slide rail extends along the second direction, and the first moving component includes: A first sliding member is slidably disposed on a first slide rail, and a second slide rail is disposed on the first sliding member, the second slide rail extending along the first direction; The second slider is slidably disposed on the second slide rail.

[0010] In some embodiments, the detection chamber includes a plurality of chambers, which are spaced apart along a first direction; The second dispensing assembly further includes a second moving component, which is disposed on the frame and can reciprocate along the first direction. Both the first dispensing part and the second dispensing part are disposed on the second moving component.

[0011] In some embodiments, the frame is provided with a third slide rail, the third slide rail extends along the first direction, and pulleys are provided at both ends of the third slide rail. A conveyor belt is fitted on the two pulleys. The medical analyzer also includes a third driving component, which is connected to the pulleys. The second moving component includes a third slider, which is clamped to the conveyor belt; The third driving member drives the pulley to cause the conveyor belt to drive the third sliding member to reciprocate in a first direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, a tensioning device is provided on the frame, the third drive member is connected to one of the two pulleys, the tensioning device is connected to the other of the two pulleys, and the tensioning device is used to adjust the relative distance between the two pulleys.

[0013] In some embodiments, the tensioning device includes a fixing member, a fixing block, a connecting member, and an adjusting member. The fixing block is fixedly connected to the frame, the connecting member is detachably connected to the frame via the fixing member, and a first end of the connecting member is connected to a pulley. The adjusting member passes through the fixing block and is connected to a second end of the connecting member. The adjusting member is used to adjust the relative distance between the connecting member and the fixing block, thereby changing the distance between the two pulleys.

[0014] In some embodiments, the medical analyzer further includes: A chip placement area is disposed in the mounting cavity, and the chip placement area includes a new chip compartment and a waste chip compartment that are independent of each other. A transport component is disposed on the first moving part and is reciprocating along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The transport component has a locking position for locking the microfluidic detection chip on the transport component and an unlocking position for releasing the microfluidic detection chip. The transport component is configured to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the new chip warehouse to the detection warehouse, and to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the detection warehouse to the waste chip warehouse.

[0015] In some embodiments, the transport component includes: A support body is disposed on the first movable component and can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer; A drive mechanism is disposed on the support body and can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer; A clamping part is connected to the driving mechanism, and the clamping part has a clamping space for clamping the microfluidic detection chip; The drive mechanism reciprocates along the height of the medical analyzer to drive the clamping part to adjust the size of the clamping space, thereby switching the transport component between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0016] In some embodiments, the clamping portion includes a first clamping claw and a second clamping claw spaced apart, and the clamping space is formed between the first clamping claw and the second clamping claw. The drive mechanism includes a connecting rod and a fourth drive member, the fourth drive member being connected to the connecting rod, and the first gripper and the second gripper being connected to the end of the connecting rod away from the fourth drive member; When the fourth driving member drives the connecting rod to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting rod causes the first gripper and the second gripper to move closer to or further away from each other.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first gripper includes a first body and a first adapter, the first adapter being rotatably connected to the support body, and both ends of the first adapter being connected to the first body and the end of the connecting rod opposite to the fourth drive member, respectively. The second gripper includes a second body and a second adapter. The second adapter is rotatably connected to the support body, and both ends of the second adapter are respectively connected to the second body and the end of the connecting rod that is away from the fourth drive member. When the fourth driving member drives the connecting rod to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting rod drives the first adapter and the second adapter to rotate, so that the first adapter and the second adapter drive the first body and the second body to move closer to each other or further away from each other.

[0018] On the other hand, this application also provides a control method for a medical analyzer, wherein the control method is executed using the aforementioned medical analyzer, and the control method includes: Step S1: Control the first dispensing component to draw the sample from the sample chamber, control the first dispensing component to inject the sample into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber, and then control the first dispensing component to enter the cleaning chamber for cleaning; Step S2: Control the first dispensing component to draw reagent from the reagent chamber, control the first dispensing component to inject the reagent into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber, and then control the first dispensing component to enter the cleaning chamber for cleaning; Step S3: Control the first and second filling parts to inject the diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber, respectively, and then detect the sample in the microfluidic detection chip.

[0019] In some embodiments, the steps preceding step S1 include: step S0: controlling the transport component to transport the microfluidic detection chip from the new chip compartment to the detection compartment; and / or, The steps following step S3 include: Step S4: Controlling the transport component to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber to the waste chip chamber.

[0020] Compared to related technologies, this application's medical analyzer includes a first dispensing component and a second dispensing component. The first dispensing component can move between the detection chamber, sample chamber, reagent chamber, and cleaning chamber, and injects samples and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. Simultaneously, the second dispensing component includes independent first and second dispensing sections. The first dispensing section is used to inject diluent into the microfluidic detection chip, and the second dispensing section is used to inject substrate into the microfluidic detection chip. This configuration means that when injecting various liquids into the microfluidic detection chip, only the first dispensing component needs to be cleaned twice, and the second dispensing component does not need to be cleaned. Therefore, it shortens the detection time of the medical analyzer to a certain extent and improves its detection efficiency. Furthermore, the first filling section is directly connected to the diluent chamber, and the second filling section is directly connected to the substrate chamber. This means that the second filling component can directly inject the diluent or substrate into the microfluidic detection chip without first drawing liquid from the diluent or substrate chamber during operation. After the first filling component injects the reagent into the microfluidic detection chip, the second filling component can simultaneously inject the diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip without waiting for the first filling component to reset or be cleaned, making the workflow of the medical analyzer more concise and efficient. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, are illustrative and descriptive, serving to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the medical analyzer disclosed in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the medical analyzer disclosed in the embodiments of this application (excluding the first filling component, the second filling component, and part of the frame). Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the frame, first filling assembly, and second filling assembly of the medical analyzer disclosed in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first refueling component and the transportation component disclosed in the embodiments of this application from a first-view perspective; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first refueling component and the transportation component disclosed in the embodiments of this application from a second perspective; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the first refueling component and the transportation component disclosed in the embodiments of this application from a third-person perspective; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the first refueling component and the transport component disclosed in the embodiments of this application from a fourth-view perspective; Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the second refueling component disclosed in an embodiment of this application from a fifth-person perspective; Figure 9 for Figure 8 Enlarged view of region I; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the second refueling component disclosed in an embodiment of this application from a sixth-person perspective. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the second refueling component disclosed in an embodiment of this application from a seventh-angle perspective; Figure 12 This is a logical schematic diagram of the control method for a medical analyzer according to an embodiment of this application.

[0022] The above figures include the following reference numerals: 10. Frame; 11. Detection chamber; 12. Sample chamber; 13. Reagent chamber; 14. Cleaning chamber; 15. Diluent chamber; 16. Substrate chamber; 20. First dispensing assembly; 21. First moving part; 22. Dispensing component; 30. Second dispensing assembly; 31. Second moving part; 32. First dispensing part; 33. Second dispensing part; 40. Transport assembly; 41. Support body; 42. Drive mechanism; 43. Clamping part; 50. Tensioning device; 51. Fixing component; 52. Fixing block; 53. Connecting component; 54. Adjusting component; 60. Chip placement area; 61. New chip compartment; 62. Waste chip compartment; 101. Mounting cavity; 102. First slide rail; 103. Third slide rail; 104. Pulley; 05. Conveyor belt; 106. Third drive component; 211. First sliding component; 212. Second sliding component; 221. First drive component; 222. Filling component; 223. Second drive component; 224. Puncture component; 311. Third sliding component; 321. Fifth drive component; 322. First slider; 323. Diluent filling needle; 331. Sixth drive component; 332. Second slider; 333. Substrate filling needle; 421. Fourth drive component; 422. Connecting rod; 431. First gripper; 432. Second gripper; 2111. Second slide rail; 2221. Injection port; 4311. First main body; 4312. First adapter; 4321. Second main body; 4322. Second adapter. Detailed Implementation

[0023] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0024] 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.

[0025] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. 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 drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0026] As described in the background section, in related technologies, medical analyzers typically have only one dispensing component. This component is usually responsible for adding samples, reagents, substrates, and diluents to the microfluidic detection chip. However, each time a different liquid is injected into the microfluidic detection chip, the dispensing component needs to be cleaned in the cleaning chamber. This results in the time spent cleaning the dispensing component taking up too much of the medical analyzer's detection time, leading to low detection efficiency.

[0027] To address the problems existing in the relevant technologies, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the figure, this application provides a medical analyzer, which includes a frame 10, a first dispensing assembly 20 and a second dispensing assembly 30.

[0028] The rack 10 includes a mounting cavity 101, which houses a detection chamber 11, a sample chamber 12, a reagent chamber 13, a substrate chamber 16, a diluent chamber 15, and a cleaning chamber 14. The detection chamber 11 is used to mount the microfluidic detection chip and to detect the sample within the chip. A first dispensing assembly 20 is movably mounted on the rack 10 and reciprocates between the detection chamber 11, sample chamber 12, reagent chamber 13, and cleaning chamber 14 to inject samples and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. A second dispensing assembly 30 is mounted on the rack 10 and includes a first dispensing section 32 and a second dispensing section 33. The first dispensing section 32 communicates with the diluent chamber 15, and the second dispensing section 33 communicates with the substrate chamber 16. The first dispensing section 32 injects diluent into the microfluidic detection chip, and the second dispensing section 33 injects substrate into the chip.

[0029] When the medical analyzer is in operation, the microfluidic detection chip is first placed in the detection chamber 11. Then, the first dispensing component 20 is moved to the sample chamber 12 to aspirate the sample and inject it into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber 11. After sample injection, the first dispensing component 20 is moved to the cleaning chamber 14 to clean it, preventing the sample in the first dispensing component 20 from contaminating the reagents in the reagent chamber 13. Then, the first dispensing component 20 is moved to the reagent chamber 13 to aspirate the reagent and inject it into the microfluidic detection chip. The first dispensing component 20 is then cleaned again. Simultaneously, the first dispensing part 32 and the second dispensing part 33 of the second dispensing component 30 inject diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip, respectively. After the injection is complete, the substrate reacts with the sample, emitting light of a specific wavelength, and the medical analyzer begins fluorescence detection of the sample within the microfluidic detection chip.

[0030] Compared to related technologies, this application's medical analyzer includes a first dispensing component 20 and a second dispensing component 30. The first dispensing component 20 can move between the detection chamber 11, sample chamber 12, reagent chamber 13, and cleaning chamber 14, injecting samples and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. Simultaneously, the second dispensing component 30 includes independent first dispensing sections 32 and 33. The first dispensing section 32 is used to inject diluent into the microfluidic detection chip, and the second dispensing section 33 is used to inject substrate into the microfluidic detection chip. This configuration allows for cleaning of the first dispensing component 20 only twice when injecting various liquids into the microfluidic detection chip, eliminating the need to clean the second dispensing component 30. Therefore, it shortens the detection time of the medical analyzer to a certain extent and improves its detection efficiency. Furthermore, the first filling unit 32 is directly connected to the diluent tank 15, and the second filling unit 33 is directly connected to the substrate tank 16. This means that the second filling component 30 can directly inject diluent or substrate into the microfluidic detection chip without first drawing liquid from the diluent tank 15 or the substrate tank 16 during operation. After the first filling component 20 injects reagent into the microfluidic detection chip, the second filling component 30 can simultaneously inject diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip without waiting for the first filling component 20 to reset or be cleaned, making the workflow of the medical analyzer more concise and efficient.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first dispensing assembly 20 includes a first moving component 21 and a dispensing component 22. The first moving component 21 is movably disposed on the frame 10 and can move along a first direction (as shown in the attached figure). Figure 3 (in the X direction) and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction (as shown in the appendix) Figure 3 The dispensing component 22 is mounted on the first moving component 21 and can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The dispensing component 22 is used for aspirating and dispensing samples and reagents. Both the first and second directions are perpendicular to the height direction of the medical analyzer (as shown in the attached diagram). Figure 3 (Perpendicular to the Z-direction).

[0032] In this embodiment, the first moving component 21 enables the dispensing component 22 to move in the first and second directions. Simultaneously, the dispensing component 22 itself can move in the height direction. That is, the dispensing component 22 can move freely within the mounting cavity 101 under the action of the first moving component 21, so that the dispensing component 22 can enter the sample chamber 12, reagent chamber 13, cleaning chamber 14, or detection chamber 11 to complete its own cleaning or inject reagents or samples into the microfluidic detection chip.

[0033] In some embodiments, the dispensing component 22 includes a first driving member 221 and a dispensing component 222. The first driving member 221 is connected to the first moving component 21, and the dispensing component 222 is connected to the first driving member 221. The first driving member 221 drives the dispensing component 222 to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer.

[0034] Specifically, the first driving component 221 includes a linear motor, and the dispensing component 222 includes a connecting block and a dispensing needle. The dispensing needle is connected to the connecting block, and the linear motor is connected to the connecting block. When the linear motor drives the connecting block to move in the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting block drives the dispensing needle to move in the height direction, so that the dispensing needle can draw samples or reagents from the sample chamber 12 or reagent chamber 13, and enter the cleaning chamber 14 to complete the cleaning.

[0035] In some embodiments, both the sample compartment 12 and the reagent compartment 13 are covered with a sealing membrane. The dispensing component 22 further includes a second driving member 223 and a puncture member 224. The second driving member 223 is connected to the first moving component 21, and the puncture member 224 is connected to the second driving member 223, with the puncture member 224 located on the outer periphery of the end of the dispensing component 222 opposite to the first driving member 221. The second driving member 223 drives the puncture member 224 to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, so that the puncture member 224 punctures the sealing membrane covering the sample compartment 12 and the reagent compartment 13.

[0036] Specifically, the sample compartment 12 and reagent compartment 13 are covered with a sealing membrane to prevent external air or other substances from entering the sample compartment 12 or reagent compartment 13, thus preventing sample or reagent contamination. In this embodiment, the puncture device 224 includes a puncture needle, and the second drive device 223 includes a linear motor. When it is necessary to retrieve a sample or reagent, the linear motor first drives the puncture needle to pierce the sealing membrane on the sample compartment 12 or reagent compartment 13, and then the first drive device 221 drives the dispensing needle to pass through the puncture needle and enter the sample compartment 12 or reagent compartment 13 to aspirate the sample or reagent. In addition, in some embodiments, there are multiple sample compartments 12 and reagent compartments 13, each covered with a sealing membrane. The samples in each sample compartment 12 may be the same or different, and the reagents in each reagent compartment 13 may be the same or different. This design requires that each time the filling device 222 takes a sample, it needs to enter a different sample compartment 12 or reagent compartment 13 for sampling. This design can prevent the sample or reagent in the sample compartment 12 or reagent compartment 13 from being exposed to the air for a long time after the puncture device 224 punctures the sample compartment 12 or reagent compartment 13 during multiple tests, thus preventing the sample or reagent from being contaminated.

[0037] In some embodiments, the filling component 222 has an injection port 2221 on the side near the first driving component 221. Specifically, since the filling component 222 needs to be cleaned after adding samples or reagents to the microfluidic detection chip, cleaning fluid or water needs to be injected into the injection port 2221 during the cleaning process to clean the inner wall of the filling component 222. Simultaneously, when the filling component 222 is cleaned in the cleaning chamber 14, the cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber 14 cleans the outer wall of the filling component 222. Since the filling component 222 can also absorb the cleaning fluid from the cleaning chamber 14, the cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber 14 also cleans the inner wall. Injecting cleaning fluid or water into the injection port 2221 allows for a more thorough cleaning of the filling component 222, preventing residual samples or reagents from remaining on it.

[0038] In some embodiments, a first slide rail 102 is provided on the frame 10, the first slide rail 102 extends along a second direction, and the first moving component 21 includes a first sliding member 211 and a second sliding member 212. The first sliding member 211 is slidably disposed on the first slide rail 102, and the second slide rail 2111 is provided on the first sliding member 211, the second slide rail 2111 extends along a first direction, and the second sliding member 212 is slidably disposed on the second slide rail 2111.

[0039] Specifically, this embodiment employs a double-layer slide rail structure to achieve XY plane motion. The first sliding member 211 moves along the second direction (i.e., the Y-axis), and the second sliding member 212 moves along the first direction (i.e., the X-axis). This structure assigns different sliding members to the motion in the two directions, allowing the motion load to be distributed layer by layer, reducing the load weight of a single-layer slide rail, and improving the smoothness of motion and positioning accuracy. The double-layer slide rail structure also facilitates installation and maintenance, and the movement range of each layer of sliding members is independently adjustable, adapting to different sizes of the frame 10 layout. In some embodiments, the first sliding member 211 includes a support beam, and the second sliding member 212 includes a support block.

[0040] In related technologies, medical analyzers typically have only one detection chamber 11, which results in low detection efficiency when multiple samples need to be tested or a single sample needs to be tested multiple times. Therefore, to address the problems in related technologies, in some embodiments, the detection chamber 11 includes multiple chambers, which are spaced apart along a first direction. The second dispensing assembly 30 also includes a second moving component 31, which is disposed on the frame 10 and can reciprocate along the first direction. The first dispensing section 32 and the second dispensing section 33 are both disposed on the second moving component 31.

[0041] In other words, since the detection chambers 11 include multiple chambers, during the detection of one microfluidic detection chip, other microfluidic detection chips to be detected can be placed in the remaining detection chambers 11. Simultaneously, since the first dispensing assembly 20 is movably mounted on the frame 10, it can dispense samples and reagents into each microfluidic detection chip in each detection chamber 11. Furthermore, since the multiple detection chambers 11 are spaced apart along a first direction, the second moving component 31 can drive the first dispensing part 32 and the second dispensing part 33 to move on the second moving component 31. That is, the first dispensing part 32 and the second dispensing part 33 can inject diluent and substrate into each microfluidic detection chip being detected. This configuration in this embodiment improves the detection efficiency of the medical analyzer to a certain extent.

[0042] In some embodiments, a third slide rail 103 is provided on the frame 10, extending along a first direction. Both ends of the third slide rail 103 are provided with pulleys 104, and a conveyor belt 105 is fitted onto the two pulleys 104. The medical analyzer also includes a third drive member 106 connected to the pulleys 104. The second moving component 31 includes a third sliding member 311, which is held in place by the conveyor belt 105. The third drive member 106 drives the pulleys 104 to cause the conveyor belt 105 to reciprocate the third sliding member 311 in the first direction.

[0043] Specifically, the third driving component 106 includes a motor. When the motor rotates, it drives the pulley 104 to rotate, thereby causing the conveyor belt 105 on the pulley 104 to move. Simultaneously, since the third sliding member 311 is clamped onto the conveyor belt 105, the movement of the conveyor belt 105 drives the third sliding member 311 to move, causing the first filling part 32 and the second filling part 33 on the third sliding member 311 to reciprocate in a first direction. This allows the first filling part 32 and the second filling part 33 to inject diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip in each detection chamber 11. Furthermore, the design of the pulley 104 and the conveyor belt 105 in this embodiment can reduce the manufacturing cost of the medical analyzer to a certain extent. Moreover, compared to the combination of a lead screw and a motor, the conveyor belt 105 generates less friction and heat, has a longer service life, and lower maintenance costs.

[0044] It is understandable that, since this application uses a conveyor belt 105 to drive the third sliding member 311, the conveyor belt 105 may loosen after working for a certain period of time, thereby affecting the movement accuracy of the third sliding member 311. To solve the above problem, in some embodiments, a tensioning device 50 is provided on the frame 10. The third driving member 106 is connected to one of the two pulleys 104, and the tensioning device 50 is connected to the other of the two pulleys 104. The tensioning device 50 is used to adjust the relative distance between the two pulleys 104. That is, by adjusting the relative distance between the two pulleys 104 through the tensioning device 50, the magnitude of the tension applied by the pulleys 104 to the conveyor belt 105 is changed, thereby changing the tension of the conveyor belt 105, so as to prevent the conveyor belt 105 from being too loose and affecting the movement accuracy of the third sliding member 311.

[0045] In some embodiments, the tensioning device 50 includes a fixing member 51, a fixing block 52, a connecting member 53, and an adjusting member 54. The fixing block 52 is fixedly connected to the frame 10, and the connecting member 53 is detachably connected to the frame 10 via the fixing member 51. The first end of the connecting member 53 is connected to the pulley 104, and the adjusting member 54 passes through the fixing block 52 and is connected to the second end of the connecting member 53. The adjusting member 54 is used to adjust the relative distance between the connecting member 53 and the fixing block 52, thereby changing the distance between the two pulleys 104.

[0046] Specifically, the fixing block 52 can be connected to the frame 10 by welding or screwing. The connecting member 53 has a protrusion that passes through the central fixing hole of the pulley 104, thereby fixing the pulley 104 to the connecting member 53. The connecting member 53 has a slotted hole. The fixing member 51 includes a first bolt that passes through the slotted hole and the frame 10 to fix the connecting member 53 to the frame 10. The adjusting member 54 includes a second bolt. When it is necessary to adjust the distance between the two pulleys 104, the first bolt is first loosened, and then the second bolt is tightened or loosened, causing the connecting member 53 to move towards or away from the fixing block 52, thereby changing the relative distance between the two pulleys 104.

[0047] In some related technologies, medical analyzers manually install or remove microfluidic detection chips from the detection chamber 11 during testing. This results in high labor costs and time-consuming manual installation. Therefore, in some embodiments, the medical analyzer further includes a chip placement area 60 and a transport component 40. The chip placement area 60 is located in the mounting cavity 101 and includes a new chip compartment 61 and a waste chip compartment 62. The transport component 40 is located on the first moving part 21 and can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The transport component 40 has a locking position for locking the microfluidic detection chip onto the transport component 40 and an unlocking position for releasing the microfluidic detection chip. The transport component 40 is configured to transport the microfluidic detection chip from the new chip compartment 61 to the detection chamber 11 and to transport the microfluidic detection chip from the detection chamber 11 to the waste chip compartment 62.

[0048] When testing is required, the transport component 40 moves into the new chip compartment 61, contacts the microfluidic detection chip, and switches to the locked position. At this point, the microfluidic detection chip is locked onto the transport component 40. The transport component 40 then moves to the testing compartment 11 and switches to the unlocked position, allowing the microfluidic detection chip to enter the testing compartment 11. After testing is completed, the transport component 40 moves to the testing compartment 11 and contacts the microfluidic detection chip again, switching to the locked position. The transport component 40 then moves the tested microfluidic detection chip to the waste chip compartment 62 and switches to the unlocked position, placing the microfluidic detection chip in the waste chip compartment 62. This setup, using the transport component 40 instead of manual loading and unloading, can reduce labor costs to some extent and is more efficient and convenient.

[0049] In some embodiments, the transport assembly 40 includes a support body 41, a drive mechanism 42, and a clamping part 43. The support body 41 is disposed on the first moving component 21 and is reciprocating along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The drive mechanism 42 is disposed on the support body 41 and is reciprocating along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The clamping part 43 is connected to the drive mechanism 42 and has a clamping space for clamping the microfluidic detection chip. The drive mechanism 42 reciprocates along the height direction of the medical analyzer to drive the clamping part 43 to adjust the size of the clamping space, thereby switching the transport assembly 40 between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0050] Specifically, the clamping part 43 is used to clamp the microfluidic detection chip. When the microfluidic detection chip needs to be clamped, the driving mechanism 42 moves downward in the height direction, thereby increasing the clamping space of the clamping part 43. This causes the clamping part 43 to abut against the inner wall of the clamping groove at the center of the microfluidic detection chip, thus locking the microfluidic detection chip onto the clamping part 43. When the microfluidic detection chip is transported to its position, the driving mechanism 42 moves upward in the height direction, thereby reducing the clamping space of the clamping part 43. The clamping part 43 then disengages from the inner wall of the clamping groove, separating the clamping part 43 from the microfluidic detection chip.

[0051] In some embodiments, the clamping part 43 includes a first gripper 431 and a second gripper 432 spaced apart, forming a clamping space between the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432. The driving mechanism 42 includes a connecting rod 422 and a fourth driving member 421, the fourth driving member 421 being connected to the connecting rod 422, and both the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 being connected to the end of the connecting rod 422 opposite to the fourth driving member 421. When the fourth driving member 421 drives the connecting rod 422 to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting rod 422 causes the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 to move closer to or further away from each other.

[0052] Specifically, when the fourth driving member 421 drives the connecting rod 422 to move downwards along the height direction, the end of the connecting rod 422 opposite to the fourth driving member 421 is connected to the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 respectively. This causes the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 to move away from each other, thereby increasing the clamping space. Conversely, when the fourth driving member 421 drives the connecting rod 422 to move upwards along the height direction, the connecting rod 422 causes the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 to move closer together. In this embodiment, the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 are symmetrically arranged, applying clamping force from both sides of the chip. This ensures balanced force on the chip, avoiding tilting, shifting, or deformation that may occur with unilateral clamping, and guaranteeing the stability and positioning accuracy of the chip during transportation. Meanwhile, the linear motion of the fourth driving component 421 is converted into the lateral opening and closing motion of the two grippers through the connecting rod 422. This motion conversion method has a simple structure and reliable transmission. Furthermore, the clamping stroke can be amplified or reduced through the design of the geometric parameters of the connecting rod to meet the clamping requirements of chips of different sizes.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first gripper 431 includes a first body 4311 and a first adapter 4312. The first adapter 4312 is rotatably connected to the support body 41, and its two ends are respectively connected to the first body 4311 and the end of the connecting rod 422 opposite to the fourth drive member 421. The second gripper 432 includes a second body 4321 and a second adapter 4322. The second adapter 4322 is rotatably connected to the support body 41, and its two ends are respectively connected to the second body 4321 and the end of the connecting rod 422 opposite to the fourth drive member 421. When the fourth driving member 421 drives the connecting rod 422 to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting rod 422 drives the first adapter 4312 and the second adapter 4322 to rotate, so that the first adapter 4312 and the second adapter 4322 drive the first body 4311 and the second body 4321 to move closer to each other or further away from each other.

[0054] That is, the opening and closing of the first gripper 431 and the second gripper 432 are achieved by rotating the first adapter 4312 and the second adapter 4322, forming a lever-type force amplification effect. The driving force of the fourth drive member 421 is transmitted to one end of the first adapter 4312 and the second adapter 4322 via the connecting rod 422. The first adapter 4312 and the second adapter 4322 rotate around the pivot on the support body 41, converting the smaller axial driving force into a larger radial clamping force, ensuring the reliability of clamping, and reducing the power requirements of the fourth drive member 421. In addition, the two ends of the adapter are connected to the connecting rod 422 and the gripper body respectively, converting the vertical driving motion into the horizontal clamping motion. The entire mechanism occupies little space in the height direction, which is suitable for the compact space layout inside the medical analyzer.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first dispensing unit 32 includes a fifth driving member 321, a first slider 322, and a diluent dispensing needle 323. A fourth slide rail is provided on the second moving member 31, extending along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The first slider 322 is slidably disposed on the fourth slide rail and is connected to the fifth driving member 321. The diluent dispensing needle 323 is disposed on the first slider 322. The second dispensing unit 33 includes a sixth driving member 331, a second slider 332, and a substrate dispensing needle 333. A fifth slide rail is provided on the second moving member 31, extending along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The second slider 332 is slidably disposed on the fifth slide rail and is connected to the sixth driving member 331. The substrate dispensing needle 333 is disposed on the second slider 332.

[0056] In other words, when it is necessary to add diluent or substrate to the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber 11, the fifth driving member 321 can drive the first slider 322 to move in the height direction or the sixth driving member 331 can drive the second slider 332 to move in the height direction, so that the diluent injection needle 323 or the substrate injection needle 333 reaches above the injection chamber of the microfluidic detection chip, so as to add diluent or substrate to the microfluidic detection chip.

[0057] Understandably, in some detection processes, the substrate or diluent needs to be heated to a specific temperature before it can be mixed with the sample or reagents or react. In related technologies, a heating element is typically installed in the diluent chamber 15 or substrate chamber 16 to heat the diluent or substrate to a predetermined temperature. However, with this design, the substrate or diluent needs to be added to the microfluidic detection chip via a dispensing needle. As the liquid flows through the channel, it exchanges heat with the external environment, causing the liquid temperature to drop. Ultimately, this results in a temperature difference between the diluent or substrate entering the microfluidic detection chip and the predetermined temperature. To address this issue, in some embodiments, the first dispensing unit 32 further includes a first heating element and a first conduit. The first conduit connects the diluent chamber 15 and the diluent dispensing needle 323. The first heating element is disposed on the first slider 322 to heat the first conduit. The second dispensing unit 33 also includes a second heating element and a second conduit. The second conduit connects the substrate chamber 16 and the substrate dispensing needle 333. The second heating element is disposed on the second slider 332 to heat the second conduit.

[0058] Unlike related technologies, this application provides a first heating element on the first slider 322. When the diluent flows through the first pipe to the position of the first slider 322, the first heating element heats the diluent. The heated diluent can then directly enter the microfluidic detection chip through the diluent injection needle 323, thereby preventing the temperature of the diluent from dropping excessively. Similarly, a second heating element is provided on the second slider 332. When the substrate flows through the second pipe to the position of the second slider 332, the second heating element heats the substrate. The heated substrate then directly enters the microfluidic detection chip through the substrate injection needle 333, thereby preventing the temperature of the substrate from dropping excessively.

[0059] On the other hand, this application also provides a control method for a medical analyzer. This control method is used to execute the aforementioned medical analyzer and includes the following steps: Step S1: Controlling the first dispensing component 20 to draw a sample from the sample chamber 12, controlling the first dispensing component 20 to inject the sample into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber 11, and then controlling the first dispensing component 20 to enter the cleaning chamber 14 for cleaning. Step S2: Controlling the first dispensing component 20 to draw a reagent from the reagent chamber 13, controlling the first dispensing component 20 to inject the reagent into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber 11, and then controlling the first dispensing component 20 to enter the cleaning chamber 14 for cleaning. Step S3: Controlling the first dispensing section 32 and the second dispensing section 33 to inject diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber 11 respectively, and then detecting the sample in the microfluidic detection chip.

[0060] Understandably, during steps S1 and S2, the first dispensing component 20 undergoes a process of sample aspiration, sample dispensing, cleaning, reagent aspiration, reagent dispensing, and re-cleaning. This prevents reagent from contaminating the sample chamber 12 or the reagent chamber 13 during sample aspiration or reagent aspiration, thus avoiding sample or reagent contamination. In step S2, the first dispensing section 32 and the second dispensing section 33 can directly inject diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip without the need for cleaning the first dispensing section 32 and the second dispensing section 33. In other words, in the control process of this application, only the first dispensing component 20 needs to be cleaned twice, without the need to clean the second dispensing component 30, which can improve the detection efficiency of the medical analyzer to a certain extent. In addition, it is worth mentioning that when the first dispensing section 32 and the second dispensing section 33 dispense diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip, there is no need to wait for the first dispensing component 20 to be cleaned; the two steps can be performed simultaneously.

[0061] In some embodiments, the steps preceding step S1 include: Step S0: Controlling the transport component 40 to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the new chip compartment 61 to the detection compartment 11. In some embodiments, the steps following step S3 include: Step S4: Controlling the transport component 40 to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the detection compartment 11 to the waste chip compartment 62. That is, during the sample testing process of the medical analyzer, operators do not need to manually install or remove chips within the detection compartment 11; instead, they can directly load and unload chips via the transport component 40, significantly improving operational convenience and biosafety.

[0062] 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.

[0063] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application.

[0064] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A medical analyzer characterized by, include: A frame (10) is provided with a mounting cavity (101), and the mounting cavity (101) is provided with a detection chamber (11), a sample chamber (12), a reagent chamber (13), a substrate chamber (16), a diluent chamber (15), and a cleaning chamber (14). The detection chamber (11) is used to install a microfluidic detection chip and to detect the sample in the microfluidic detection chip. The first dispensing component (20) is movably disposed on the rack (10). The first dispensing component (20) reciprocates between the detection chamber (11), the sample chamber (12), the reagent chamber (13), and the cleaning chamber (14) to inject samples and reagents into the microfluidic detection chip. The second filling assembly (30) is disposed on the frame (10). The second filling assembly (30) includes a first filling section (32) and a second filling section (33) that are independent of each other. The first filling section (32) is connected to the diluent tank (15), and the second filling section (33) is connected to the substrate tank (16). The first filling section (32) is used to inject diluent into the microfluidic detection chip, and the second filling section (33) is used to inject substrate into the microfluidic detection chip.

2. The medical analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first refueling component (20) includes: The first moving component (21) is movably disposed on the frame (10) and can reciprocate along a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; The dispensing component (22) is disposed on the first moving component (21) and can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The dispensing component (22) is used to aspirate and dispense samples and reagents. Both the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to the height direction of the medical analyzer.

3. The medical analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The dispensing component (22) includes a first driving member (221) and a dispensing component (222). The first driving member (221) is connected to the first moving component (21), and the dispensing component (222) is connected to the first driving member (221). The first driving member (221) drives the dispensing component (222) to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer.

4. The medical analyzer according to claim 3, characterized in that, Both the sample compartment (12) and the reagent compartment (13) are covered with a sealing membrane. The dispensing component (22) also includes a second driving component (223) and a puncture component (224). The second driving component (223) is connected to the first moving component (21), and the puncture component (224) is connected to the second driving component (223). The puncture component (224) is located on the outer periphery of the end of the dispensing component (222) opposite to the first driving component (221). The second driving member (223) drives the puncture member (224) to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer so that the puncture member (224) punctures the sealing membrane covering the sample chamber (12) and the reagent chamber (13).

5. The medical analyzer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The filling component (222) has a liquid inlet (2221) on the side near the first driving component (221).

6. The medical analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame (10) is provided with a first slide rail (102), the first slide rail (102) extends along the second direction, and the first moving component (21) includes: A first sliding member (211) is slidably disposed on the first slide rail (102), and a second slide rail (2111) is disposed on the first sliding member (211), the second slide rail (2111) extending along the first direction; The second slider (212) is slidably disposed on the second slide rail (2111).

7. The medical analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The detection chamber (11) includes a plurality of chambers, which are spaced apart along a first direction; The second dispensing assembly (30) further includes a second moving part (31), which is disposed on the frame (10) and can reciprocate along the first direction. The first dispensing part (32) and the second dispensing part (33) are both disposed on the second moving part (31).

8. The medical analyzer according to claim 7, characterized in that, The frame (10) is provided with a third slide rail (103), which extends along the first direction. Both ends of the third slide rail (103) are provided with pulleys (104), and a conveyor belt (105) is fitted on the two pulleys (104). The medical analyzer also includes a third drive unit (106), which is connected to the pulleys (104). The second moving component (31) includes a third slider (311) which is clamped to the conveyor belt (105). The third driving member (106) drives the pulley (104) to cause the conveyor belt (105) to drive the third sliding member (311) to reciprocate in a first direction.

9. The medical analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, A tensioning device (50) is provided on the frame (10). The third drive member (106) is connected to one of the two pulleys (104), and the tensioning device (50) is connected to the other of the two pulleys (104). The tensioning device (50) is used to adjust the relative distance between the two pulleys (104).

10. The medical analyzer according to claim 9, characterized in that, The tensioning device (50) includes a fixing member (51), a fixing block (52), a connecting member (53), and an adjusting member (54). The fixing block (52) is fixedly connected to the frame (10). The connecting member (53) is detachably connected to the frame (10) through the fixing member (51). The first end of the connecting member (53) is connected to the pulley (104). The adjusting member (54) passes through the fixing block (52) and is connected to the second end of the connecting member (53). The adjusting member (54) is used to adjust the relative distance between the connecting member (53) and the fixing block (52), thereby changing the distance between the two pulleys (104).

11. The medical analyzer according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The medical analyzer also includes: A chip placement area (60) is disposed in the mounting cavity (101), and the chip placement area (60) includes a new chip compartment (61) and a waste chip compartment (62) that are independent of each other. The transport component (40) is disposed on the first moving part (21) and the transport component (40) can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer. The transport component (40) has a locking position for locking the microfluidic detection chip on the transport component (40) and an unlocking position for releasing the microfluidic detection chip. The transport component (40) is configured to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the new chip compartment (61) to the detection compartment (11), and to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the detection compartment (11) to the waste chip compartment (62).

12. The medical analyzer according to claim 11, characterized in that, The transport component (40) includes: A support body (41) is disposed on the first moving part (21) and can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer; A drive mechanism (42) is provided on the support body (41), and the drive mechanism (42) can reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer; The clamping part (43) is connected to the driving mechanism (42) and has a clamping space for clamping the microfluidic detection chip. The drive mechanism (42) reciprocates along the height direction of the medical analyzer to drive the clamping part (43) to adjust the size of the clamping space, so that the transport component (40) switches between the locked position and the unlocked position.

13. The medical analyzer according to claim 12, characterized in that, The clamping part (43) includes a first clamping claw (431) and a second clamping claw (432) spaced apart, and the clamping space is formed between the first clamping claw (431) and the second clamping claw (432); The drive mechanism (42) includes a connecting rod (422) and a fourth drive member (421). The fourth drive member (421) is connected to the connecting rod (422). The first gripper (431) and the second gripper (432) are both connected to the end of the connecting rod (422) away from the fourth drive member (421). When the fourth driving member (421) drives the connecting rod (422) to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting rod (422) causes the first gripper (431) and the second gripper (432) to move closer to or further away from each other.

14. The medical analyzer according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first gripper (431) includes a first body (4311) and a first adapter (4312). The first adapter (4312) is rotatably connected to the support body (41), and the two ends of the first adapter (4312) are respectively connected to the first body (4311) and the end of the connecting rod (422) away from the fourth driving member (421). The second gripper (432) includes a second body (4321) and a second adapter (4322). The second adapter (4322) is rotatably connected to the support body (41), and the two ends of the second adapter (4322) are respectively connected to the second body (4321) and the end of the connecting rod (422) away from the fourth drive member (421). When the fourth driving member (421) drives the connecting rod (422) to reciprocate along the height direction of the medical analyzer, the connecting rod (422) drives the first adapter (4312) and the second adapter (4322) to rotate, so that the first adapter (4312) and the second adapter (4322) drive the first body (4311) and the second body (4321) to move closer to each other or further away from each other.

15. A control method for a medical analyzer, characterized in that, The control method for the medical analyzer is used to execute the medical analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 14, the control method comprising: Step S1: Control the first dispensing component (20) to draw the sample from the sample chamber (12), control the first dispensing component (20) to inject the sample into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber (11), and then control the first dispensing component (20) to enter the cleaning chamber (14) for cleaning; Step S2: Control the first dispensing component (20) to draw reagent from the reagent chamber (13), control the first dispensing component (20) to inject the reagent into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber (11), and then control the first dispensing component (20) to enter the cleaning chamber (14) for cleaning; Step S3: Control the first injection unit (32) and the second injection unit (33) to inject the diluent and substrate into the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber (11) respectively, and then detect the sample in the microfluidic detection chip.

16. The control method for the medical analyzer according to claim 15, characterized in that, The steps preceding step S1 include: Step S0: Controlling the transport component (40) to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the new chip compartment (61) to the detection compartment (11); and / or, The steps following step S3 include: Step S4: Control the transport component (40) to transport the microfluidic detection chip in the detection chamber (11) to the waste chip chamber (62).

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