Automated analysis device

Abstract

The objective of this invention is to reduce the space occupied by an automated analyzer while ensuring the amount of reagent that can be stored in the reagent storage section. The automated analyzer of this embodiment includes multiple reagent storage sections. These multiple reagent storage sections hold reagent containers and are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction. Each of the multiple reagent storage sections has an overlapping area that overlaps with other reagent storage sections in the vertical direction.

Description

Cross-reference with other applications

[0001] This application is based on and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-054514, filed on March 27, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention typically relate to automated analysis devices. Background Technology

[0003] In automated analytical devices used in clinical examinations, a certain amount of biological samples such as blood and urine (hereinafter referred to as samples) are mixed with reagents and allowed to react. The amount of light is measured by irradiating the mixture with transmitted or scattered light, and the concentration, activity value, or time taken for the change of the analyte is determined. The automated analytical device has a reagent storage section (reagent library) that stores reagents in internal reagent bottles.

[0004] Conventionally, to ensure the quantity of reagent containers stored in the reagent storage section, for example, a reagent container row arranged in a circular outer perimeter and a reagent container row arranged in a circular inner perimeter are formed within a single reagent storage section. Alternatively, two reagent magazines with multiple reagent containers arranged in a circular shape are positioned at different locations on the same plane. In such configurations, the diameter and space occupied by the reagent storage section increase, potentially compressing the limited space in the testing room. Therefore, there is a need to reduce the size of the reagent storage section while ensuring the amount of reagent that can be stored.

[0005] Existing technical documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-267936 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and accompanying drawings is to ensure that the reagent library can maintain a certain amount of reagents while reducing the space occupied by the automated analysis device. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and accompanying drawings are not limited to the above-mentioned problems. Problems corresponding to the effects of the various configurations shown in the embodiments described below can also be identified as other problems.

[0007] The automated analysis apparatus of this embodiment includes multiple reagent storage sections. These multiple reagent storage sections hold reagent containers and are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction. Each of the multiple reagent storage sections has an overlapping area that overlaps with other reagent storage sections in the vertical direction.

[0008] Invention Effects The purpose of this invention is to reduce the space occupied by the automated analysis device while ensuring that the reagent library can maintain the required amount of reagents. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the automatic analysis device in the implementation method.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the analysis mechanism for implementing the method.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the structure of the reagent library in the implementation method.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the different implementation methods.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the automatic reading mechanism in the implementation method.

[0014] Figure 6 It means through Figure 5 The diagram shows the automatic reading mechanism performing the reading.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a variation of the automatic reading mechanism.

[0016] Figure 8 It means through Figure 7 The diagram shows the automatic reading mechanism performing the reading.

[0017] Figure 9 It means through Figure 7 The diagram shows the automatic reading mechanism performing the reading.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing a variation of the automatic reading mechanism.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a variation of the automatic reading mechanism.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing a variation of the automatic reading mechanism.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing a variation of the automatic reading mechanism.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0024] Figure 16This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0027] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0029] Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0030] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0031] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0032] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0033] Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the reagent library configuration.

[0034] Figure 26 This is a diagram showing a variation of the dispensing mechanism.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1…Automatic analysis device 2…Analysis Agency 3…Analysis of the circuit 4…Drive mechanism 5…Input Interface 6… Output Interface 7…Communication Interface 8… Storage circuit 9…Control Circuit 91…System control functions 100…sample container 101…Reagent Container 102…barcode 201…reaction disk 2011…reaction tube 202…Constant Temperature Section 203…Staff Sampler 2031…sample holder 204… Upper Reagent Storage 205… Lower-level reagent storage 206… Sample dispensing arm 207… Sample dispensing probe 207a… Cleaning tank 207b…Detergent storage containers 210…Reagent dispensing arm 211…Reagent dispensing probe 211a…washing tank 212…Electrode unit 213…Metering unit 214… Cleaning Unit 300…Reader 2041…Reagent Cap 2042…Opening 2043…through the region 2045…overlapping area 2051…Reagent Cap 2052…Opening 2055…overlapping region 2056… Non-overlapping region 231… Upper Layer Reader 232…lower-level reader 233… Shared Reader 221…light-blocking sheet 2211…gap section 222, 225, 226… shutter speed with light shield 223… Upper reflector 224…lower reflector 227…Visor 2101… Upper layer injection arm 2102…Lower layer injection arm 2111… Upper layer injection probe 2112…Lower layer injection probe Detailed Implementation

[0036] The automated analysis apparatus of this embodiment includes multiple reagent storage sections. These multiple reagent storage sections hold reagent containers and are arranged at different positions in the vertical direction. Each of the multiple reagent storage sections has an overlapping area that overlaps with other reagent storage sections in the vertical direction.

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic analysis device will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, constituent elements having substantially the same function and structure will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and will be repeated only where necessary.

[0038] (Implementation Method) Figure 1This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the automatic analysis device 1 according to the implementation method. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the automatic analysis device 1 includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control circuit 9. Furthermore, the control circuit can also be referred to as a processing circuit.

[0039] The analytical apparatus 2 mixes a standard sample or a test sample with reagents used in various tests specified for that sample. The analytical apparatus 2 measures the mixture of sample and reagents, for example, generating standard data and test data correlated with absorbance. Additionally, the analytical apparatus 2 measures the mixture of sample and reagents, for example, generating standard data and test data correlated with electrode potential.

[0040] The parsing circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data and analytical data by parsing the generated standard data and the test data. The parsing circuit 3 reads the operation program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data and analytical data according to the read operation program. For example, based on the standard data, the parsing circuit 3 generates calibration data that represents the relationship between the standard data and a pre-set standard value for a standard sample. Additionally, the parsing circuit 3 generates analytical data based on the test data and the calibration data for the corresponding test item. Analytical data includes data that establishes a correlation between concentration values ​​and enzyme activity values, and data that records the concentrations of desired ions in the sample in a time series. The parsing circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data and analytical data to the control circuit 9.

[0041] Drive mechanism 4 drives analysis mechanism 2 under the control of control circuit 9. Drive mechanism 4 is implemented by, for example, gears, stepper motors, belt conveyors, and lead screws. For example, drive mechanism 4 causes reaction disk 201 (described later) to rotate at a predetermined rotation angle. The predetermined rotation angle is, for example, the angle of rotation in one cycle.

[0042] Input interface 5, for example, accepts the setting of analytical parameters for various examination items related to the sample commissioned for testing via the hospital's intranet NW through the operator's operation. Input interface 5 is implemented, for example, through a mouse, keyboard, or touchpad for inputting instructions via a touch operation surface. Input interface 5 is connected to control circuit 9, converts the operation instructions input by the operator into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to control circuit 9.

[0043] Furthermore, in this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to having physical operating components such as a mouse and keyboard. For example, the input interface 5 may also be a processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to operation instructions input from an external input device that is separately located from the automatic analysis device 1 and outputs such electrical signals to the control circuit 9.

[0044] Output interface 6 is connected to control circuit 9 and outputs signals supplied from control circuit 9. Output interface 6 may be implemented, for example, by display circuitry, printed circuitry, and sound devices.

[0045] Display circuits include, for example, CRT monitors, liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, LED displays, and plasma displays. Alternatively, display circuits can also be processing circuits that convert data representing the displayed object into video signals and output those video signals externally. Printing circuits include, for example, printers. Alternatively, printing circuits can also be output circuits that output data representing the printed object to the outside. Sound devices include, for example, speakers. Alternatively, sound devices can also be output circuits that output sound signals to the outside.

[0046] Communication interface 7 is connected, for example, to the hospital intranet NW. Communication interface 7 communicates with the HIS (Hospital Information System) via the hospital intranet NW. Furthermore, communication interface 7 can also communicate with the HIS via the examination department system connected to the hospital intranet NW.

[0047] The storage circuit 8 stores the program executed by the control circuit 9, various data used in the processing of the control circuit 9, etc. The program, for example, is a program pre-installed on a computer using a network or non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which enables the computer to perform the functions of the control circuit 9. Furthermore, the various data processed in this specification are typically digital data. The storage circuit 8 is an example of a storage mechanism.

[0048] In addition, the storage circuit 8 stores inspection commands input by the operator or received via the hospital intranet NW through the communication interface 7. The command information includes the sample ID, the required inspection items for the sample to be tested, and the inspection sequence. Furthermore, the storage circuit 8 stores various setting values ​​for executing a series of actions of each part of the automatic analysis device 1 in a loop.

[0049] Control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the central hub of automatic analysis device 1. Control circuit 9 executes system control function 91 by executing programs read from storage circuit 8. Through system control function 91, control circuit 9 uniformly controls all parts of automatic analysis device 1 based on input information received from input interface 5. For example, in system control function 91, control circuit 9 drives drive mechanism 4 to perform measurements corresponding to the inspection items, and controls analysis circuit 3 to analyze standard data generated by analysis mechanism 2 and the data under inspection. Control circuit 9, which implements system control function 91, is an example of a control unit.

[0050] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and programmable logic devices (e.g., Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). For example, when the processor is a CPU, the processor implements its function by reading and executing the program stored in the storage circuit 8. On the other hand, when the processor is an ASIC, instead of storing the program in the storage circuit 8, the function is directly incorporated into the processor's circuitry as logic circuitry. Furthermore, the processors in this embodiment are not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor; multiple independent circuits can be combined to form a single processor to implement its function. Furthermore, it is also possible to... Figure 1 The multiple components are combined into a single processor to achieve its function. The description of the "processor" described above is the same in the following embodiments and variations.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each function is described as being implemented by a single processor, but this is not a limitation. For example, multiple independent processors may be combined to form a control circuit, with each processor executing a program to implement each function. Additionally, the system control function 91 may be referred to as a system control circuit, or it may be installed as a separate hardware circuit. The above description of the functions performed by the control circuit 9 is the same in the following embodiments and variations. Furthermore, the control circuit 9 may also have a storage area for storing at least a portion of the data stored by the storage circuit 8. The control circuit 9 may also be referred to as a control unit or a processing circuit.

[0052] Next, the composition of analysis unit 2 will be described in detail.

[0053] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows an example of the configuration of analysis mechanism 2. (See diagram for example.) Figure 2As shown, the analysis unit 2 includes a reaction plate 201, a constant temperature section 202, a support sampler 203, an upper reagent storage compartment 204, and a lower reagent storage compartment 205. Additionally, the analysis unit 2 includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a cleaning tank 207a, a detergent storage container 207b, a reagent dispensing arm 210, a reagent dispensing probe 211, a cleaning tank 211a, an electrode unit 212, a photometric unit 213, and a cleaning unit 214.

[0054] The reaction disk 201 arranges and holds multiple reaction tubes 2011 in a ring. The reaction disk 201 is rotated and stopped alternately by a drive mechanism 4 at predetermined time intervals (hereinafter referred to as a cycle), for example, 4.5 seconds. The reaction tubes 2011 are formed, for example, of glass, polypropylene (PP), or acrylic. Furthermore, the reaction tubes 2011 can also be referred to as reaction vessels or units. Additionally, the operation of the reaction disk 201 during inspection can also be referred to as a cyclic operation.

[0055] The thermostatic section 202 is a container for storing and maintaining water (constant temperature water) at a specified temperature (typically 37°C). The constant temperature water may contain additives, for example, for antibacterial purposes. The thermostatic section 202 maintains a constant temperature by immersing the reaction tube 2011 in the stored constant temperature water, thereby heating the liquid (e.g., a mixture) contained in the reaction tube 2011.

[0056] The sampler 203 supports the sample holder 2031, which holds multiple sample containers 100 that are entrusted to be tested, so that it is movable. Figure 2 The example shown illustrates a sample holder 2031 capable of holding five sample containers 100 side by side.

[0057] The sampler 203 includes a reader 300. The reader 300 is positioned, for example, to read optical markings affixed to the sample container 100. The optical markings are markings obtained by encoding identification information of the sample contained in the sample container 100, such as barcodes, one-dimensional pixel codes, and two-dimensional pixel codes. The reader 300 begins reading the optical markings upon receiving an instruction from the control circuit 9 to begin ID reading. When the sample container 100 reaches a position where the optical markings can be read, the reader 300 reads the sample's identification information from the optical markings. The reader 300 provides the read identification information to the control circuit 9. Alternatively, the reader 300 can be replaced by other sensors utilizing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or similar technologies.

[0058] The sampler 203 is provided with a transport area for transporting the sample holder 2031 from the input position of the sample holder 2031 to the retrieval position of the sample holder 2031 after the measurement is completed. In the transport area, multiple sample holders 2031 arranged along the short side direction are moved in direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0059] Furthermore, in the sampler 203, an introduction area is provided to guide the sampler 2031 from the transport area in order to move the sample container 100 held by the sample holder 2031 to a predetermined sample attraction position. The sample attraction position is, for example, located at the intersection of the rotation track of the sample dispensing probe 207 (described later) and the movement track of the opening of the sample container supported by the sampler 203 and held by the sample holder 2031. In the introduction area, the transported sample holder 2031 moves in direction D2 via the drive mechanism 4. Additionally, at a position where the optical mark of the introduction area can be read, the reader 300 reads the optical mark on the sample container held by the sample holder 2031 moving in direction D2.

[0060] Additionally, the sampler 203 is provided with a return area for returning the sample holder 2031, which holds the sample container that attracts the sample, to the transport area. In the return area, the sample holder 2031 moves in direction D3 via the drive mechanism 4.

[0061] The sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207 and transports it to the dispensing position. The sample dispensing arm 206 is positioned near the reaction plate 201 and the support sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is configured to move freely vertically and horizontally via the drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0062] The sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the sample. The sample dispensing probe 207 moves within the range of motion of the sample dispensing arm 206 as the arm is driven horizontally. The sample holder 2031 on the support sampler 203 holds the opening of the sample container within this range of motion.

[0063] A first reagent aspiration position is set at a predetermined location on the upper reagent magazine 204. Additionally, a second reagent aspiration position is set at a predetermined location on the lower reagent magazine 205. The first and second reagent aspiration positions are, for example, located within the movement range of the reagent dispensing probe 211, which will be described later.

[0064] A reagent dispensing arm 210 is positioned between the upper reagent reservoir 204 and the lower reagent reservoir 205 and the reaction plate 201. The reagent dispensing arm 210 is configured to move freely vertically and horizontally via a drive mechanism 4. A reagent dispensing probe 211 is held at one end of the reagent dispensing arm 210.

[0065] The reagent dispensing probe 211 moves as driven by the reagent dispensing arm 210. A first reagent aspiration position and a second reagent aspiration position are provided within the movement range of the reagent dispensing probe 211. Additionally, a reagent discharge position is provided within the movement range of the reagent dispensing probe 211 for discharging the reagent aspirated by the reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction tube 2011.

[0066] In addition, a sample discharge position is provided within the movement range of the sample dispensing probe 207 for discharging the sample attracted by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction tube 2011. The sample discharge position is located on the moving track of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction plate 201.

[0067] In addition, within the movement range of the sample dispensing probe 207, a cleaning position for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided at a location different from the sample aspiration position and the sample discharge position. A cleaning tank 207a for cleaning the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided at the cleaning position.

[0068] Alternatively, within the movement range of the sample dispensing probe 207, a detergent aspiration position may be provided at a location different from the sample aspiration position, sample discharge position, and cleaning position for the sample dispensing probe 207 to aspirate detergent. A detergent storage container 207b may also be provided at the detergent aspiration position to store detergent used for cleaning the electrode unit (described later).

[0069] The sample dispensing probe 207 moves vertically above the opening of the sample container held by the sample holder 2031 on the support sampler 203, at the sample discharge position, the cleaning position, or the detergent suction position, driven by the drive mechanism 4.

[0070] Additionally, the sample dispensing probe 207, under the control of the control circuit 9, draws the sample from the opening of the sample container. Furthermore, under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the drawn sample into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of dispensing actions once, for example, during one cycle.

[0071] Additionally, under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 draws cleaning fluid from the cleaning tank 207a located directly below the cleaning position on the rotating track of the sample dispensing probe 207. The cleaning fluid may be, for example, pure water, an alkaline detergent for probe cleaning, or an acidic detergent for probe cleaning. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the drawn cleaning fluid into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample discharge position. This cleans both the sample dispensing probe 207 and the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of cleaning actions once per cycle.

[0072] Furthermore, when the automatic analysis device 1 includes a detergent storage container 207b, the sample dispensing probe 207, under the control of the control circuit 9, draws detergent from the detergent storage container 207b, which is located directly below the detergent suction position on the rotating track of the sample dispensing probe 207. Additionally, under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the drawn detergent into the reaction tube 2011, located directly below the sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of dispensing operations once, for example, during one cycle.

[0073] The upper reagent storage compartment 204 keeps multiple reagent containers 101 cool. These containers store first reagents that react with specified components included in a standard sample or a test sample. The upper reagent storage compartment 204 is an example of a first reagent storage unit. A reagent rack is rotatably mounted within the upper reagent storage compartment 204. The rack arranges and holds the multiple reagent containers 101 in a circular shape. The rack is rotated by a drive mechanism 4. The upper reagent storage compartment 204 is positioned above the lower reagent storage compartment 205. The reagent containers 101 may also be referred to as reagent bottles.

[0074] The lower reagent storage compartment 205, for example, keeps refrigerated reagent containers 101 of multiple storage systems containing second reagents paired with the first reagent. The lower reagent storage compartment 205 is an example of a second reagent storage unit. A reagent rack is rotatably mounted within the lower reagent storage compartment 205. The reagent rack arranges and holds the multiple reagent containers 101 in a circular shape. Furthermore, the second reagent kept refrigerated in the lower reagent storage compartment 205 can also be a reagent of the same composition and concentration as the first reagent kept refrigerated in the upper reagent storage compartment 204. The lower reagent storage compartment 205 is located below the upper reagent storage compartment 204.

[0075] In addition, a detergent discharge position is provided within the movement range of the reagent dispensing probe 211 for discharging the detergent attracted by the reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction tube. Furthermore, a cleaning position for cleaning the reagent dispensing probe 211 is provided within the movement range of the reagent dispensing probe 211. A cleaning tank 211a for cleaning the reagent dispensing probe 211 is provided at the cleaning position.

[0076] The reagent dispensing probe 211 is driven by the driving mechanism 4 and moves in the up and down direction at the first reagent aspiration position, the second reagent aspiration position, the reagent discharge position, the detergent discharge position, or the cleaning position.

[0077] The reagent dispensing probe 211, under the control of the control circuit 9, draws the first reagent from the reagent container located directly below the first reagent aspiration position. The reagent dispensing probe 211, also under the control of the control circuit 9, dispenses the drawn first reagent into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the reagent dispensing position. The reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of dispensing actions once, for example, during one cycle.

[0078] Additionally, under the control of the control circuit 9, the reagent dispensing probe 211 draws the second reagent from the reagent container located directly below the second reagent aspiration position. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the reagent dispensing probe 211 also dispenses the drawn second reagent into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the reagent dispensing position. The reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of dispensing actions once, for example, during one cycle.

[0079] Under the control of the control circuit 9, the reagent dispensing probe 211 draws cleaning fluid from the cleaning tank 211a located directly below the cleaning position on the rotating track of the reagent dispensing probe 211. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the drawn cleaning fluid into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the reagent discharge position. Thus, the reagent dispensing probe 211 and the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the reagent discharge position are cleaned. The reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of cleaning actions once, for example, during one cycle.

[0080] Electrode unit 212 measures the electrolyte concentration of the sample and reagent mixture discharged into reaction tube 2011. Electrode unit 212 has an ion-selective electrode (ISE) and a reference electrode. Under the control of control circuit 9, electrode unit 212 measures the potential between the ISE and the reference electrode for the mixture to be tested, thereby detecting the electrolyte of the ions (e.g., sodium ions, potassium ions, and chloride ions) to be tested. Electrode unit 212 outputs the measured potential data as standard data or test data to analysis circuit 3.

[0081] The photometer unit 213 uses a photodetector to detect the light emitted from the reaction tube 2011.

[0082] Specifically, for example, a photodetector detects light passing through the mixture of standard sample and reagent within the reaction tube 2011, and generates standard data, expressed as absorbance, based on the intensity of the detected light. Additionally, a photodetector detects light passing through the mixture of test sample and reagent within the reaction tube 2011, and generates test data, expressed as absorbance, based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometry unit 213 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0083] The cleaning unit 214 cleans the interior of the reaction tube 2011 after the measurement of the mixture in the electrode unit 212 or the photometric unit 213 is completed. The cleaning unit 214 is equipped with a cleaning fluid supply pump (not shown) that supplies cleaning fluid for cleaning the reaction tube 2011. Additionally, the cleaning unit 214 is equipped with a cleaning nozzle (not shown) that discharges the cleaning fluid supplied from the cleaning fluid supply pump into the reaction tube 2011 and draws the mixture and cleaning fluid from within the reaction tube 2011.

[0084] Additionally, the analysis unit 2 includes a stirring unit (not shown). The stirring unit is located near the outer periphery of the reaction pan 201. The stirring unit has a stir bar, which stirs the sample and the first reagent stored in the reaction tube 2011 located at the stirring position on the reaction pan 201, or the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent stored in the reaction tube 2011.

[0085] Next, the structure of the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 in this embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 from above. Figure 3 In the middle, it indicates that there is one reagent container 101 kept inside the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205, and other reagent containers 101 are omitted.

[0086] The upper reagent storage compartment 204 has a reagent cap 2041 that covers the reagent container 101 from above. The reagent cap 2041 is detachably mounted on the housing of the upper reagent storage compartment 204. The reagent cap 2041 has an opening 2042 for the reagent dispensing probe 211 to pass through. The opening 2042 is located at the first reagent aspiration position.

[0087] The lower reagent storage compartment 205 has a reagent cover 2051 that covers the reagent container 101 from above. The reagent cover 2051 is detachably mounted on the housing of the lower reagent storage compartment 205. The reagent cover 2051 has an opening 2052 for the reagent dispensing probe 211 to pass through. The opening 2052 is located at the second reagent aspiration position.

[0088] The reagent library in this embodiment consists of an upper reagent library 204 and a lower reagent library 205, configured as two layers in a vertical direction. By configuring the reagent library as two layers in a vertical direction, it is possible to ensure the amount of reagent that can be maintained in the overall reagent library, and to reduce the overall diameter and space occupied by the reagent library.

[0089] As described above, when using the reagent dispensing probe 211 to dispense reagent containers 101 in the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205, the reagent dispensing probe 211 is inserted from the top into the openings 2042 and 2052. Therefore, when the reagent library is configured as a two-layer structure based on the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205, a path needs to be prepared for the reagent dispensing probe 211 to access the reagent containers 101 held in the lower reagent library 205.

[0090] In this embodiment, the diameter of the upper reagent library 204 is smaller than the diameter of the lower reagent library 205, and the upper reagent library 204 is positioned inside the area where the lower reagent library 205 is positioned horizontally. Therefore, the lower reagent library 205 has an overlapping region 2055 that overlaps with the upper reagent library 204 in the vertical direction and a non-overlapping region 2056 that does not overlap with the upper reagent library 204 in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the entire area of ​​the upper reagent library 204 becomes the overlapping region 2045 that overlaps with the lower reagent library 205 in the vertical direction. The upper reagent library 204 is positioned directly above the overlapping region 2055 of the lower reagent library 205. The non-overlapping region 2056 of the lower reagent library 205 is the portion outside the overlapping region 2055, and the upper reagent library 204 is not positioned directly above it. Furthermore, by providing an opening 2052 in the non-overlapping area 2056 of the lower reagent library 205, the upper reagent library 204 is configured such that it does not overlap directly above the opening 2052. Additionally, the center A1 of the upper reagent library 204 and the center A2 of the lower reagent library 205 are located at different positions.

[0091] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the dispensing process based on reagent dispensing probe 211. In Figure 4In this diagram, one reagent container 101 is held inside the upper reagent storage 204 and the lower reagent storage 205, with other reagent containers 101 omitted. With this configuration, the reagent dispensing probe 211 moves downward from directly above the opening 2052, driven by the reagent dispensing arm 210, thereby reaching the reagent container 101 inside the lower reagent storage 205 through the opening 2052 and attracting the reagent from the container 101. That is, regardless of the movement of the upper reagent storage 204, the reagent dispensing probe 211 can access and retrieve the reagent container 101 inside the lower reagent storage 205, thus enabling dispensing from both the upper and lower reagent storage 204.

[0092] In addition, by positioning the center A1 of the upper reagent library 204 at a different position than the center A2 of the lower reagent library 205, the upper reagent library 204 does not overlap with the top of the opening 2052, and the diameter of the upper reagent library 204 is as large as possible.

[0093] An opening (not shown) is provided on the reagent cap 2041. When storing the reagent container 101 in the upper reagent compartment 204, the reagent container 101 is moved in from the top of the upper reagent compartment 204 through the opening of the reagent cap 2041. When removing the reagent container 101 stored in the upper reagent compartment 204, the reagent container 101 is moved out from the upper reagent compartment 204 through the opening of the reagent cap 2041. Similarly, an opening (not shown) is also provided on the reagent cap 2051 of the lower reagent compartment 205, and the reagent container 101 is transported through the opening of the reagent cap 2051. In the case of a two-layer configuration of upper reagent compartment 204 and lower reagent compartment 205, the upper reagent compartment 204 is positioned above the lower reagent compartment 205, therefore it is necessary to ensure a path for transporting the reagent container 101 held in the lower reagent compartment 205. The loading and unloading of reagent container 101 relative to the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can be performed automatically or manually.

[0094] In this embodiment, the upper reagent storage 204 is provided with a passage area 2043 for transporting reagent containers 101 housed in the lower reagent storage 205. The passage area 2043 is, for example, set to a size that allows a reagent container 101 to pass through. The passage area 2043 is a region that is provided in the circumferential direction of the upper reagent storage 204 within a certain angle range and extends outward from the center of the upper reagent storage 204.

[0095] No components or structures are disposed in passage area 2043. Furthermore, in passage area 2043, the reagent cap 2041 has an opening facing upwards. Additionally, in passage area 2043, the bottom surface of the housing has an opening facing downwards. Furthermore, the reagent rack holding the reagent container 101 has an opening of the same shape as in passage area 2043. When the opening of the reagent rack is moved to passage area 2043, there are no obstructions, forming a path for the reagent container 101 to pass through the upper reagent magazine 204 in the vertical direction.

[0096] With this configuration, reagent containers 101 can be moved out of the lower reagent library 205 or into the lower reagent library 205 using the passage area 2043 formed in the upper reagent library 204. Furthermore, the passage area 2043 can be set to a size that allows two or more reagent containers 101 to pass through.

[0097] Furthermore, the lower reagent storage 205 can also be configured to allow reagent containers 101 to be moved in or out from the side. For example, an opening allowing reagent containers 101 to pass through can be provided on the side of the lower reagent storage 205. In this case, reagent containers 101 can be moved in or out from the side of the lower reagent storage 205, so the passage area 2043 described above may not be necessary.

[0098] The analysis unit 2 is equipped with an automatic reading mechanism that automatically reads the barcode affixed to the reagent container 101. Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the structure of an automatic reading mechanism. Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent library 204, the lower reagent library 205, and the reader from the top. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent storage 204 and the lower reagent storage 205 viewed from the side.

[0099] Each reagent container 101 stored in the upper reagent storage 204 and the lower reagent storage 205 is equipped with a barcode for identifying the stored reagents. The barcode 102 is an optical mark that encodes the identification information of the reagents stored in the reagent container 101, the patient ID, etc. For example... Figure 6 As shown, an upper-level reader 231 for reading barcodes 102 stored in reagent containers 101 in the upper-level reagent library 204 and a lower-level reader 232 for reading barcodes 102 stored in reagent containers 101 in the lower-level reagent library 205 are disposed near the upper-level reagent library 204 and the lower-level reagent library 205, respectively. Both the upper-level reader 231 and the lower-level reader 232 are barcode readers capable of reading barcodes 102. The upper-level reader 231 and the lower-level reader 232 output the information from the read barcodes (barcode information) to the control circuit 9.

[0100] Furthermore, the affixed object to reagent container 101 is not limited to barcodes. For example, instead of barcode 102, an optical mark that encodes reagent identification information, such as a one-dimensional pixel code or a two-dimensional pixel code, or an IC tag for RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) can be affixed. Alternatively, a sensor used in RFID can be used instead of a barcode reader. The barcode 102 held on reagent container 101 in the upper reagent storage 204 is an example of first identification information, and the barcode 102 held on reagent container 101 in the lower reagent storage 205 is an example of second identification information. Furthermore, the upper reader 231 is an example of a first reader, and the lower reader 232 is an example of a second reader.

[0101] The upper-layer reader 231 and the lower-layer reader 232 begin reading the barcode 102 upon receiving the ID reading start instruction from the control circuit 9. When the reagent container 101 reaches a position where the barcode 102 can be read, the upper-layer reader 231 and the lower-layer reader 232 read the reagent identification information from the barcode 102. The upper-layer reader 231 and the lower-layer reader 232 then provide the read identification information to the control circuit 9.

[0102] exist Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The text describes the setup of multiple barcode readers (231, 232) corresponding to the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205, respectively. However, as... Figures 7 to 9 As shown, a shared reader corresponding to both the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can also be used. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 in this modified example as viewed from above. Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 in this modified example viewed from the side.

[0103] In this modified example, a shared reader 233 corresponding to both the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 is disposed at the reading position. The shared reader 233 is a barcode reader that reads the barcodes 102 of both the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205. The shared reader 233 is disposed above the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205. In addition, an upper reflector 223 is disposed at the same height as the upper reagent library 204, and a lower reflector 224 is disposed at the same height as the lower reagent library 205.

[0104] The upper reflector 223 is a semi-transparent, semi-reflective mirror used to switch between being able to read the state of the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204 via the shared reader 233 and being able to read the state of the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205 via the shared reader 233. The upper reflector 223 reflects a portion of the incident light, allowing a portion of the incident light to pass through. The upper reflector 223 is disposed below the shared reader 233, with its mirror surface facing the upper reagent library 204 and above it. The upper reflector 223 is positioned so that the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204 can be read via the shared reader 233.

[0105] The lower reflector 224 reflects all incident light. The lower reflector 224 is positioned with its mirror surface facing both the lower reagent library 205 and the upper side. The lower reflector 224 is located below the upper reflector 223 and the shared reader 233. The lower reflector 224 is positioned so that the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205 can be read by the shared reader 233.

[0106] A light-shielding plate 221 is provided between the upper reagent storage 204 and the lower reagent storage 205. The light-shielding plate 221 is a disc-shaped plate with light-shielding properties. The light-shielding plate 221 rotates about a rotation axis via a drive mechanism 4. In addition, the light-shielding plate 221 has a notch (slit) 2211. The notch 2211 is provided on the outer periphery of the light-shielding plate 221 and its position changes with the rotation of the light-shielding plate 221. Figure 7 as well as Figure 9 This indicates that the notch 2211 is in the read position. Figure 8 This indicates that the notch 2211 is located outside the read position.

[0107] Additionally, a light-shielding shutter 222 is installed at the notch 2211. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the light-blocking shutter 222 is installed between the upper reflector 223 and the upper reagent library 204 with the notch 2211 in the reading position.

[0108] When reading the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204, the light-shielding plate 221 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4, causing the notch 2211 to move to a position different from the reading position. In this state, as... Figure 8 As shown, a light-shielding plate 221 is arranged between the upper reflector 223 and the lower reflector 224, so the shared reader 233 cannot read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205, but can read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204 reflected by the upper reflector 223.

[0109] On the other hand, when reading the barcode 102 of the lower-level reagent library 205, such as Figure 7As shown, the light-shielding plate 221 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4, causing the notch 2211 to move to the reading position. In this state, as... Figure 9 As shown, the light-blocking plate 221 moves between the upper reflector 223 and the lower reflector 224, and the light-blocking shutter 222 moves between the upper reflector 223 and the upper reagent library 204. Therefore, the shared reader 233 cannot read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204, but can read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205, which is reflected by the lower reflector 224 and transmitted through the upper reflector 223.

[0110] In addition, Figures 7 to 9 The text describes the case where a shared reader 233 is configured above the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205, but... Figure 10 As shown, a shared reader 233 can also be configured below the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205. In this case, the upper reflector 223 is configured with a reflector that reflects all incident light, and the lower reflector 224 is configured with a semi-transparent and semi-reflective mirror. In addition, the upper reflector 223 and the lower reflector 224 are configured with their mirror surfaces facing the reagent library side and the lower side, respectively.

[0111] When reading the barcode 102 of the lower-level reagent library 205, and... Figure 8 Similarly, a light-shielding sheet 221 is disposed between the upper reflector 223 and the lower reflector 224. The shared reader 233 cannot read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204, but can read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205 reflected by the lower reflector 224.

[0112] On the other hand, when reading the barcode 102 of the upper-level reagent library 204, such as Figure 10 As shown, the light-blocking shutter 225 moves between the lower reflector 224 and the lower reagent library 205. The shared reader 233 cannot read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205, but can read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204 that is reflected by the upper reflector 223 and passes through the lower reflector 224.

[0113] Alternatively, you can use only Figure 11 The shutter 226 shown is used instead Figures 7 to 9 Such a light-blocking sheet 221. Figure 11 This is a side view of the upper reagent magazine 204 and the lower reagent magazine 205 in this modified example. The light-blocking shutter 226 is installed between the lower reflector 224 and the lower reagent magazine 205 at the reading position via the drive mechanism 4 in an insertable manner. Figure 11 This indicates the status when reading barcode 102 from the upper-level reagent library 204.

[0114] When reading barcode 102 from the upper-level reagent library 204, such as Figure 11 As shown, the light-blocking shutter 226 is inserted between the lower reflector 224 and the lower reagent library 205. In this state, the shared reader 233 cannot read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205, but can read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204 reflected by the upper reflector 223.

[0115] On the other hand, when reading the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205, the light-blocking shutter 226 moves between the lower reflector 224 and the lower reagent library 205, and... Figure 9 Similarly, the light-blocking shutter 225 is inserted between the upper reflector 223 and the upper reagent library 204. Therefore, the shared reader 233 cannot read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204, but can read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205 that is reflected by the lower reflector 224 and passes through the upper reflector 223.

[0116] In addition, alternative Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The light-shielding sheet 221 in the middle, such as Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 As shown, the light-shielding plate 227 can also be placed inside the lower reagent library 205. Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 This is a view of the interior of the lower reagent storage 205 in this modified example, viewed from above. The light-shielding plate 227 is a plate with light-shielding properties. The light-shielding plate 227 is installed in an insertable manner between the reagent container 101 at the reading position and the side wall of the lower reagent storage 205 via the drive mechanism 4. Figure 12 This indicates the status when reading barcode 102 from the upper-level reagent library 204. Figure 13 This indicates the status when reading barcode 102 from the lower-level reagent library 205.

[0117] When reading barcode 102 of the upper-level reagent library 204, such as Figure 12 As shown, the light shield 227 is inserted between the reagent container 101 at the reading position and the inner wall of the lower reagent library 205. In this state, the lower reader 232 cannot read the barcode 102 of the reagent container 101 in the lower reagent library 205, but can read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204 reflected by the upper reflector 223.

[0118] On the other hand, when reading the barcode 102 of the lower-level reagent library 205, such as Figure 13 As shown, the light-shielding plate 227 moves between the reagent container 101 at the reading position and the inner wall of the lower reagent storage 205, and... Figure 9Similarly, a light-shielding plate is inserted between the upper reflector 223 and the upper reagent library 204. Therefore, the lower reader 232 cannot read the barcode 102 of the upper reagent library 204, but can read the barcode 102 of the lower reagent library 205 that is reflected by the lower reflector 224 and passes through the upper reflector 223.

[0119] The effects of the automatic analysis device 1 in this embodiment will be explained below.

[0120] The automatic analysis apparatus 1 of this embodiment includes multiple reagent storage sections arranged at different positions in the vertical direction. Specifically, the automatic analysis apparatus 1 includes an upper reagent storage section 204 and a lower reagent storage section 205, with the lower reagent storage section 205 disposed below the upper reagent storage section 204. The upper reagent storage section 204 is an example of a first reagent storage section, and the lower reagent storage section 205 is an example of a second reagent storage section. Furthermore, the diameter of the upper reagent storage section 204 is smaller than the diameter of the lower reagent storage section 205. Additionally, the upper reagent storage section 204 is arranged horizontally within the area where the lower reagent storage section 205 is disposed. Therefore, the entire area of ​​the upper reagent storage section 204 overlaps with the lower reagent storage section 205 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, a portion of the lower reagent storage section 205 overlaps with the upper reagent storage section 204 in the vertical direction. That is, the upper reagent storage section 204 has an overlapping region 2045 that overlaps with the lower reagent storage section 205, and the lower reagent storage section 205 has an overlapping region 2055 that overlaps with the upper reagent storage section 204.

[0121] Based on the above configuration, the automatic analysis device 1 of this embodiment, by arranging the reagent storage into two overlapping layers, ensures the amount of reagent that can be held within the entire reagent storage and reduces the overall diameter and space occupied by the reagent storage. This reduces the space (area) occupied by the analysis unit 2 and the automatic analysis device 1. Furthermore, it is not necessary for the centers of the upper reagent storage 204 and the lower reagent storage 205 to be located at the same position, thus allowing for flexible arrangement of the upper and lower reagent storage 204 and 205.

[0122] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by making the diameter of the upper reagent magazine 204 smaller than the diameter of the lower reagent magazine 205, a non-overlapping region 2056 that does not overlap with the upper reagent magazine 204 is provided in the lower reagent magazine 205. The non-overlapping region 2056 is a region where the upper reagent magazine 204 is not located above it. By providing an opening 2052 for dispensing in the non-overlapping region 2056, a path for the reagent dispensing probe 211 to access the opening 2052 can be formed without providing a notch or the like in the upper reagent magazine 204. As a result, the reagent container 101 in the lower reagent magazine 205 can be dispensed by the reagent dispensing probe 211 without being affected by the operation of the upper reagent magazine 204.

[0123] Furthermore, the upper reagent storage 204 is provided with a passage area 2043 for transporting reagent containers 101 stored in the lower reagent storage 205. No internal structures such as reagent containers 101 are disposed in the passage area 2043, forming a path for transporting the reagent containers 101. Using this path, reagent containers 101 held in the lower reagent storage 205 can be moved in or out from the upper side of the lower reagent storage 205.

[0124] Alternatively, reagent containers 101 held in the lower reagent storage 205 can be moved in or out from the side. For example, an opening is provided on the side of the lower reagent storage 205 to allow reagent containers 101 to pass through. In this case, the passage area 2043 of the upper reagent storage 204 is not required.

[0125] (Variation example) In this embodiment, the case where the reagent library is configured as a two-layer structure with an upper reagent library 204 and a lower reagent library 205 has been described. However, it is also possible to configure the reagent library as a multi-layer structure with three or more layers. In this case, by providing a non-overlapping area in the reagent library located below the other reagent libraries that does not overlap with the other reagent libraries located above, the dispensing path can also be ensured.

[0126] Furthermore, the position of the reagent library relative to reaction disk 201 is not limited. For example, as... Figure 14 As shown, the upper reagent library 204 can also be positioned at the same height as the reaction plate 201, and the lower reagent library 205 can be positioned below the reaction plate 201. Additionally, as... Figure 15 As shown, the lower reagent library 205 can also be positioned at the same height as the reaction plate 201, and the upper reagent library 204 can be positioned above the reaction plate 201. Additionally, as... Figure 16 As shown, the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can also be positioned directly below the reaction tray 201. Additionally, as... Figure 17 As shown, the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can also be configured such that the reaction disk 201 is located between the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205.

[0127] In addition, such as Figure 18 As shown, the upper reagent library 204 can be positioned inside the reaction disk 201, and the lower reagent library 205 can be positioned below the upper reagent library 204 and the reaction disk 201. Alternatively, it can be as follows: Figure 19 As shown, the lower reagent library 205 is arranged inside the reaction plate 201, and the upper reagent library 204 is arranged above the lower reagent library 205 and the reaction plate 201.

[0128] In this embodiment, a non-overlapping region 2056 is formed in the lower reagent library 205 by making the diameter of the upper reagent library 204 smaller than the diameter of the lower reagent library 205. However, a non-overlapping region 2056 can also be formed in the lower reagent library 205 by offsetting the center positions of the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205. In this case, the diameter of the upper reagent library 204 can be the same as, smaller than, or larger than the diameter of the lower reagent library 205.

[0129] For example, such as Figure 20 As shown, it can also be configured such that the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 have different center positions, and the lower reagent library 205 overlaps with both the upper reagent library 204 and the reaction disk 201. Additionally, as... Figure 21 As shown, it can also be configured such that the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 have different center positions, and the upper reagent library 204 overlaps with the lower reagent library 205 and the reaction disk 201. Additionally, as... Figure 22 As shown, it can also be configured such that the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 have different center positions, and the lower reagent library 205 is located inside the reaction disk 201, with the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 overlapping with the reaction disk 201. Additionally, as... Figure 23 As shown, the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can also be configured with different center positions, and the upper reagent library 204 is located inside the reaction disk 201, and the lower reagent library 205 overlaps with both the upper reagent library 204 and the reaction disk 201.

[0130] Alternatively, multiple reagent container columns can be set up in the upper reagent library 204 or the lower reagent library 205. For example, such as Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 As shown, the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 may also be provided with an outer peripheral row of reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular shape along the outer periphery and an inner peripheral row of reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular shape inside the outer peripheral row of reagent containers. Figure 24 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 of this modified example as viewed from above. Figure 25 This is a diagram showing the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 of this modified example viewed from the side.

[0131] The reagent cap 2041 has an opening 2042A through which the reagent dispensing probe 211 passes when dispensing reagents from the outer peripheral side of the reagent container row, and an opening 2042B through which the reagent dispensing probe 211 passes when dispensing reagents from the inner peripheral side of the reagent container row. The reagent cap 2051 has an opening 2052A through which the reagent dispensing probe 211 passes when dispensing reagents from the outer peripheral side of the reagent container row, and an opening 2052B through which the reagent dispensing probe 211 passes when dispensing reagents from the inner peripheral side of the reagent container row. The openings 2052A and 2052B of the lower reagent magazine 205 are located in a non-overlapping area directly above the upper reagent magazine 204, which does not overlap with the upper reagent magazine 204.

[0132] In the above Figures 15 to 23 In any of them, by setting a non-overlapping area in the reagent library located below the other reagent libraries that does not overlap with the other reagent libraries located above, the dispensing path can be ensured.

[0133] Alternatively, the upper reagent magazine 204 may have a structure such as a hole or hollow area through which the reagent dispensing probe 211 can dispense reagents from the lower reagent magazine 205. This allows a non-overlapping region to be formed in the lower reagent magazine that does not overlap with the upper reagent magazine 204. In this case, the diameter of the upper reagent magazine 204 may be the same as, smaller than, or larger than the diameter of the lower reagent magazine 205.

[0134] Additionally, a reader for reading the optical markings attached to reagent container 101 can be used as follows: Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The dedicated readers (231, 232) shown are respectively set up for the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205. Alternatively, they can be used as follows... Figures 7 to 9 As shown, a shared reader (233) is used to read the optical markings of both the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205.

[0135] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, with dedicated readers (231, 232) provided for the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 respectively, the reading operations for the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can be performed in parallel, thus shortening the reading time. Furthermore, in... Figures 7 to 9 By setting up a shared reader (233), the number of readers and the number of components connected to the reader can be reduced.

[0136] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 4The diagram illustrates the use of a shared reagent dispensing probe 211 to dispense reagents into both the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205. However, dedicated reagent dispensing probes can also be used for each of the upper and lower reagent libraries 205. For example, as shown... Figure 26 As shown in the modified example of the dispensing mechanism, an upper dispensing probe 2111 for dispensing reagents to the upper reagent library 204, an upper dispensing arm 2101 for holding the upper dispensing probe 2111, a lower dispensing probe 2112 for dispensing reagents to the lower reagent library 205, and a lower dispensing arm 2102 for holding the lower dispensing probe 2112 may also be provided. The upper dispensing probe 2111 is an example of a first reagent dispensing probe, and the lower dispensing probe 2112 is an example of a second reagent dispensing probe.

[0137] In such Figure 4 By setting up a shared reagent dispensing probe (211), the number of required reagent dispensing probes can be reduced while maintaining the number of reagent dispensing arms for the reagent dispensing probes. Additionally, as... Figure 26 As shown, with dedicated reagent dispensing probes (2111, 2112) set in the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 respectively, dispensing operations for the upper reagent library 204 and the lower reagent library 205 can be performed in parallel, thus shortening the time spent on dispensing operations.

[0138] According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to ensure that the reagent library can maintain the amount of reagents and to reduce the space occupied by the automated analysis device.

[0139] While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In fact, the novel embodiments described herein can be implemented in many other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the forms of the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover various forms or modifications falling within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. An automatic analysis device, comprising: Multiple reagent storage compartments, holding reagent containers, are arranged in different positions vertically. Each of the plurality of reagent storage sections has an overlapping area that overlaps with other reagent storage sections in the vertical direction.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1, The plurality of reagent storage sections include a first reagent storage section disposed on the upper side and a second reagent storage section disposed on the lower side of the first reagent storage section. The first reagent storage section and the second reagent storage section are configured to access the reagent container stored in the second reagent storage section.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, The second reagent storage section has a non-overlapping area that does not overlap with the first reagent storage section in the vertical direction.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, The first reagent storage section and the second reagent storage section are arranged in different positions in the horizontal direction.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 4, The center position of the first reagent storage section and the center position of the second reagent storage section are arranged at different positions in the horizontal direction.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, The diameter of the first reagent storage section is smaller than the diameter of the second reagent storage section.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, further comprising: A first reader reads first identification information installed in the first reagent storage section; and The second reader reads the second identification information installed in the second reagent storage unit.

8. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, further comprising: The reader reads both the first identification information installed in the first reagent storage section and the second identification information installed in the second reagent storage section; and A semi-transparent mirror is used to switch between a state in which the reader can read the first identification information and a state in which the reader can read the second identification information.

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, The second reagent storage section has an opening on its upper surface for the reagent container to pass through.

10. The automatic analysis device according to claim 9, The first reagent storage section has a passage area through which the reagent container stored in the second reagent storage section can pass.

11. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, The second reagent storage section has an opening on its side for the reagent container to pass through.

12. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, further comprising: A first reagent dispensing probe dispenses reagent from the first reagent storage compartment; and The second reagent dispensing probe dispenses the reagent from the second reagent storage compartment.

13. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2, further comprising: A reagent dispensing probe dispenses reagents from both the first reagent storage compartment and the second reagent storage compartment.

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