Colorimetric device of automatic analyzer

Abstract

The utility model discloses a colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer, which comprises a main body structure provided with a colorimetric measurement optical module and a liquid level detection module, the inside of the main body structure is hollow and accommodates a colorimetric container, and two ends of the main body structure are respectively connected with a ventilation and overflow discharge module and a waste liquid discharge module. The ventilation overflow discharging module and the waste liquid discharging module are communicated with the two ends of the colorimetric container respectively, and the colorimetric measurement optical module and the liquid level detection module are arranged on the two opposite side faces of the main body structure. According to the colorimetric device provided by the utility model, the colorimetric container is communicated with the ventilation and overflow discharge module, so that a liquid path of the colorimetric device can be communicated with the atmosphere, negative pressure or overpressure of the liquid path and other bubbles are prevented from generating an environment, gas in the liquid path is favorably discharged, defoaming of the liquid path is promoted, and colorimetric measurement interference caused by the bubbles is eliminated; therefore, the problem of influence of bubbles on a colorimetric light path can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of colorimetric device technology, and in particular to a colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] In automated photometric analysis instruments, the colorimetric device, as a key component, is responsible for detecting the color change after the sample reacts with reagents, thereby quantifying the concentration of the target substance in the sample. Automated or online analyzers typically use a flow cell as the colorimetric container, a monochromatic light source as the light source for colorimetric measurements, and pump-based metering of samples and reagents.

[0003] However, the colorimetric devices in existing automatic or online analyzers have some problems.

[0004] 1. Using a flow cell as a colorimetric container presents the following problems:

[0005] Flow cells are prone to generating air bubbles. These bubbles can cause refraction and scattering of the measuring light, altering the path and intensity of the light and thus interfering with the colorimetric instrument's accurate measurement of the sample's color or absorbance.

[0006] The risk of residue and cross-contamination is high. After the sample flows in the flow cell, it is easy for residue to be generated in narrow optical path areas, especially corners. Conventional automatic cleaning methods are difficult to effectively remove the residue. The residual sample will interfere with the measurement of the next sample, resulting in cross-contamination and affecting the accuracy and repeatability of the measurement.

[0007] Maintenance is relatively complex. Since conventional automatic cleaning is difficult to completely clean the flow cell, manual cleaning is required at a high frequency. Furthermore, since humans cannot directly access the inside of the optical path of the flow cell, special power tools are usually needed to assist in cleaning.

[0008] 2. Using a monochromatic light source as the light source for colorimetric measurements has the following problems:

[0009] The issue of balancing accuracy and cost. If higher measurement accuracy is desired, the monochromaticity of the monochromatic light source must be high, and such monochromatic light sources are more expensive.

[0010] It has weak anti-interference ability. The monochromaticity of a monochromatic light source is limited to a single wavelength, making it more susceptible to interference from stray light and leading to measurement errors.

[0011] 3. The following problems exist with using pump metering:

[0012] Taking peristaltic pumps as an example, the accuracy of peristaltic pumps is easily affected by wear and aging of the pump tubing, as well as tolerances of components such as the pump head and motor. After long-term use, the flow accuracy will decrease and the flow fluctuation will increase, leading to inaccurate sample volume measurement. To ensure a certain level of measurement accuracy, a higher frequency of parts replacement is required, increasing maintenance time and costs.

[0013] When dealing with liquids of different fluid properties, pump metering may produce volume measurement errors of varying degrees due to the different liquid properties, thus affecting the accuracy of colorimetric measurements. Utility Model Content

[0014] Therefore, the purpose of this utility model is to at least partially address the shortcomings of the prior art, thereby proposing a colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0016] This utility model provides a colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer, including a main structure with a colorimetric measurement optical module and a liquid level detection module. The main structure is hollow and houses a colorimetric container. A venting and overflow module and a waste liquid discharge module are respectively connected to the two ends of the main structure, and the venting and overflow module and the waste liquid discharge module are respectively connected to the two ends of the colorimetric container. The colorimetric measurement optical module and the liquid level detection module are both disposed on two opposite sides of the main structure.

[0017] Furthermore, the main structure includes a colorimetric structure and a mixing structure that are interconnected. The interiors of both the colorimetric structure and the mixing structure are hollow, and the colorimetric container is housed within the colorimetric structure. The venting and overflow module is connected to the end of the colorimetric structure away from the mixing structure and is connected to the colorimetric container. The end of the mixing structure that is connected to the colorimetric structure is also connected to the colorimetric container, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid discharge module.

[0018] Furthermore, a through hole is provided on the side of the colorimetric structure near the venting and overflow module, and the venting and overflow module is connected to the colorimetric structure through the through hole and communicates with the colorimetric container through the through hole; the colorimetric measurement optical module and the liquid level detection module are respectively provided on the two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure.

[0019] Furthermore, the colorimetric measurement optical module includes a first connecting plate, a photodetector, and a colorimetric measurement light source. The photodetector is disposed on the first connecting plate and connected to one side of the colorimetric structure. The colorimetric measurement light source is disposed on the other side opposite to the photodetector. The colorimetric measurement light source includes an LED white light lamp and a filter connected to each other.

[0020] Furthermore, the liquid level detection module includes a liquid level detection light source and a photoelectric detector. The liquid level detection light source is also provided on the side of the colorimetric structure where the colorimetric measurement light source is located. The liquid level detection light source and the colorimetric measurement light source are spaced apart, and the liquid level detection light source is tilted relative to the colorimetric measurement light source. The colorimetric structure also has multiple mounting holes for mounting the photoelectric detector, the colorimetric measurement light source, and the liquid level detection light source.

[0021] Furthermore, a colorimetric tube illumination module and an observation window are respectively provided on the other two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure. The colorimetric tube illumination module includes a second connecting plate and an illumination source. The illumination source is disposed on the second connecting plate, and the second connecting plate is connected to the colorimetric structure. The observation window penetrates through and communicates with the interior of the colorimetric structure and is rotatably connected to a light-shielding cover. A right-angled U-shaped plate is also covered and connected to multiple sides of the colorimetric structure that are connected to the colorimetric measurement optical module, the liquid level detection module, and the colorimetric tube illumination module.

[0022] Furthermore, at least one reagent interface and a water sample interface are respectively provided on multiple sides of the hybrid structure, and at least one of the reagent interface and the water sample interface are respectively connected to a reagent tube and a water sample tube through a one-way valve; a waste liquid discharge port is also provided on the side of the hybrid structure near the waste liquid discharge module, and is connected to the waste liquid discharge module through the waste liquid discharge port.

[0023] Furthermore, the ventilation and overflow module includes a two-way connector and a three-way connector that are interconnected. One end of the two-way connector is connected to the through hole and communicates with the colorimetric container, and the other end is connected to the three-way connector. The outer surface of the two-way connector is also provided with an anti-slip structure. The two ends of the three-way connector that are away from the two-way connector are respectively connected to an overflow pipe and a ventilation pipe.

[0024] Furthermore, the waste liquid discharge module includes a waste liquid valve and a waste liquid pipe that are interconnected, with the end of the waste liquid valve away from the waste liquid pipe connected to the waste liquid discharge port.

[0025] Furthermore, the colorimetric container is a straight tube open at both ends, and the colorimetric container is made of a material with high optical performance and high chemical stability. The diameter of the colorimetric container is the same as the optical path length of the colorimetric container.

[0026] This invention provides a colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer, comprising a main structure with a colorimetric measurement optical module and a liquid level detection module. The main structure is hollow and houses a colorimetric container. A venting and overflow module and a waste liquid discharge module are respectively connected to the two ends of the main structure, and these modules are connected to the two ends of the colorimetric container. The colorimetric measurement optical module and the liquid level detection module are both located on two opposite sides of the main structure. With this colorimetric device, the venting and overflow module connecting the colorimetric container allows the liquid path of the device to be open to the atmosphere, preventing negative or overpressure conditions that could lead to bubble formation. It also facilitates the discharge of gas from the liquid path, promoting defoaming and eliminating colorimetric measurement interference caused by bubbles, thereby solving the problem of bubbles affecting the colorimetric optical path. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer of this utility model;

[0029] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer of this utility model.

[0030] The reference numerals in the diagram represent: 1. Main structure; 11. Colorimetric structure; 111. Through hole; 112. Right-angled U-shaped plate; 12. Mixed structure; 121. One-way valve; 122. Reagent tube; 123. Water sample tube; 2. Colorimetric container; 3. Ventilation and overflow module; 31. Two-way connector; 311. Anti-slip structure; 32. Three-way connector; 4. Waste liquid discharge module; 41. Waste liquid valve; 42. Waste liquid tube; 5. Colorimetric measurement optical module; 51. First connecting plate; 52. Photodetector; 53. Colorimetric measurement light source; 531. LED white light; 532. Filter; 6. Liquid level detection light source; 7. Colorimetric tube illumination module; 71. Second connecting plate; 72. Illumination source; 8. Observation window; 81. Light shield. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0032] It should be noted that the descriptions involving "first," "second," etc., in this utility model are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0033] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 This utility model provides a colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer, including a main structure 1 with a colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and a liquid level detection module. The main structure 1 is hollow inside and houses a colorimetric container 2. A venting and overflow module 3 and a waste liquid discharge module 4 are respectively connected to the two ends of the main structure 1, and the venting and overflow module 3 and the waste liquid discharge module 4 are respectively connected to the two ends of the colorimetric container 2. The colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and the liquid level detection module are both arranged on two opposite sides of the main structure 1.

[0034] In this embodiment, the colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer includes a main structure 1, which is hollow inside. A colorimetric container 2 is installed inside the hollow main structure 1, and one end of the container is connected to a venting and overflow module 3. The venting and overflow module 3 is also connected to the colorimetric container 2, so that the liquid path of the colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer can be connected to the atmosphere through the venting and overflow module 3, avoiding the generation of bubbles due to negative pressure or overpressure in the liquid path, and facilitating the discharge of gas in the liquid, promoting defoaming in the liquid path, and eliminating colorimetric measurement interference caused by bubbles.

[0035] The end of the main structure 1 away from the ventilation and overflow module 3 is connected to the waste liquid discharge module 4. That is, the waste liquid discharge module 4 is set at the bottom of the main structure 1, and the waste liquid discharge module 4 is also connected to the colorimetric container 2. When the liquid in the colorimetric container 2 needs to be discharged, the liquid in the colorimetric container 2 can be discharged through the waste liquid discharge module 4.

[0036] The main structure 1 also includes a colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and a liquid level detection module, both located on opposite sides of the main structure 1. Specifically, the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 is located on opposite sides of the main structure 1, and the liquid level detection module is also located on the opposite sides of the main structure 1. The colorimetric measurement optical module 5 determines the concentration of the reactant in the colorimetric container 2 based on its light absorption characteristics, converting the light signal into an electrical signal and processing and analyzing it to obtain the color concentration information of the reactant. The liquid level detection module is used for precise detection and control of the liquid level in the colorimetric container 2.

[0037] Specifically, the colorimetric container 2 is a straight tube with openings at both ends, which makes the cavity of the colorimetric container 2 single without narrow channels or dead corners, making it less likely to accumulate air bubbles, less likely to accumulate foreign matter, and easy to clean.

[0038] Colorimetric container 2 is made of a material with high optical performance and high chemical stability, which makes colorimetric container 2 have good light transmittance, corrosion resistance and wear resistance, such as quartz material.

[0039] The diameter of the colorimetric container 2 is determined according to the optical path required by the colorimetric measurement method. The diameter d of the colorimetric container 2 is equal to the optical path b. In this embodiment, the colorimetric container 2 is a colorimetric tube. Using a colorimetric tube with a larger cavity as the colorimetric container 2 can reduce the probability of bubble generation. The specific type of the colorimetric container 2 is not limited here and is set according to actual production needs.

[0040] Furthermore, the main structure 1 includes a colorimetric structure 11 and a mixing structure 12 that are interconnected. The interiors of both the colorimetric structure 11 and the mixing structure 12 are hollow, and the colorimetric container 2 is housed inside the colorimetric structure 11. The ventilation and overflow module 3 is connected to the end of the colorimetric structure 11 away from the mixing structure 12 and is connected to the colorimetric container 2. The end of the mixing structure 12 that is connected to the colorimetric structure 11 is also connected to the colorimetric container 2, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid discharge module 4.

[0041] In this embodiment, the main structure 1 includes an integrally formed colorimetric structure 11 and a hybrid structure 12. Both the colorimetric structure 11 and the hybrid structure 12 are hollow and interconnected. The connection method between the colorimetric structure 11 and the hybrid structure 12 is not limited and can be set according to actual production needs. A colorimetric container 2 is also installed inside the colorimetric structure 11. The end of the colorimetric structure 11 away from the hybrid structure 12 is connected to a venting and overflow module 3, which allows the colorimetric container 2 to communicate with the venting and overflow module 3, thereby allowing the liquid in the colorimetric container 2 to communicate with the atmosphere, which is beneficial for the discharge of air bubbles in the liquid. The bottom of the colorimetric container 2 is connected to the hybrid structure 12, and the end of the hybrid structure 12 away from the colorimetric container 2 is connected to a waste liquid discharge module 4. Waste liquid in the colorimetric container 2 can be discharged from the waste liquid discharge module 4 through the hybrid structure 12.

[0042] Furthermore, a through hole 111 is provided on the side of the colorimetric structure 11 near the venting and overflow module 3. The venting and overflow module 3 is connected to the colorimetric structure 11 through the through hole 111 and is also connected to the colorimetric container 2 through the through hole 111. A colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and a liquid level detection module are respectively provided on the two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure 11.

[0043] In this embodiment, the colorimetric structure 11 is also provided with a through hole 111, through which the colorimetric container 2 can be installed in the colorimetric structure 11, or through which the colorimetric container 2 can be removed from the colorimetric structure 11.

[0044] The colorimetric structure 11 is also connected to a venting and overflow module 3 through the through hole 111, and the venting and overflow module 3 is connected to the colorimetric container 2 through the through hole 111, so that the liquid in the colorimetric container 2 can be connected to the atmosphere through the venting and overflow module 3, which is conducive to the discharge of gas in the liquid, promotes defoaming of the liquid path, and eliminates colorimetric measurement interference caused by bubbles.

[0045] On the two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure 11, a colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and a liquid detection module are respectively provided. Since the colorimetric container 2 is located inside the colorimetric structure 11, the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and the liquid detection module are located on the two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure 11, which allows the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 and the liquid detection module to easily detect the reactants and liquid levels in the colorimetric container 2.

[0046] Furthermore, the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 includes a first connecting plate 51, a photodetector 52, and a colorimetric measurement light source 53. The photodetector 52 is disposed on the first connecting plate 51 and connected to one side of the colorimetric structure 11. The colorimetric measurement light source 53 is disposed on the other side opposite to the photodetector 52. The colorimetric measurement light source 53 includes an LED white light lamp 531 and a filter 532 connected to each other.

[0047] In this embodiment, the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 includes a first connecting plate 51, a photodetector 52, and a colorimetric measurement light source 53. The photodetector 52 is disposed on the first connecting plate 51, and the first connecting plate 51 connected to the photodetector 52 is connected to one side of the colorimetric structure 11. The colorimetric measurement light source 53 is disposed on the other side opposite to the photodetector 52. The positions of the two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure 11 are aligned with the center of the horizontal sectional circle of the colorimetric container 2, that is, the colorimetric measurement light source 53 and the photodetector 52 are directly opposite each other, so that the light from the colorimetric measurement light source 53 that penetrates the colorimetric container 2 can be normally received by the photodetector 52.

[0048] Using a monochromatic light source as the colorimetric measurement light source 53 presents challenges in balancing accuracy and cost, as well as weak anti-interference capabilities. Higher measurement accuracy necessitates a higher monochromaticity of the monochromatic light source, which is expensive. Furthermore, the monochromaticity of a monochromatic light source is limited, essentially a single wavelength band, making it more susceptible to stray light interference and resulting in measurement errors. The colorimetric measurement light source 53 in this application, composed of an LED white light lamp 531 and a filter 532, solves the monochromaticity issue. Specifically, in this embodiment, the filter 532 is a narrowband filter, allowing light of a single wavelength to pass through, with the transmitted wavelength matching the wavelength required in the colorimetric measurement method. In this embodiment, the narrowband filter transmits wavelengths between 510nm and 530nm.

[0049] Furthermore, the liquid level detection module includes a liquid level detection light source 6 and a photoelectric detector 52. The side of the colorimetric structure 11 where the colorimetric measurement light source 53 is located is also provided with a liquid level detection light source 6. The liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric measurement light source 53 are spaced apart, and the liquid level detection light source 6 is tilted relative to the colorimetric measurement light source 53. The colorimetric structure 11 is also provided with multiple mounting holes for mounting the photoelectric detector 52, the colorimetric measurement light source 53, and the liquid level detection light source 6.

[0050] In this embodiment, the liquid level detection module includes a liquid level detection light source 6 and a photodetector 52. The liquid level detection module and the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 use the same photodetector 52. The photodetector 52 in this embodiment is a common device on the market and will not be described in detail here.

[0051] Traditional automated or online analyzers use pump-based metering for sample and reagent measurement in their colorimetric devices. However, pump metering presents several challenges. For instance, the accuracy of peristaltic pumps is susceptible to wear and aging of the pump tubing, as well as tolerances in components like the pump head and motor. Over time, flow accuracy decreases, and flow fluctuations increase, leading to inaccurate sample volume measurements. Maintaining a certain level of metering accuracy requires frequent replacement of parts, increasing maintenance time and costs. Furthermore, pump metering can introduce significant or minor volumetric errors depending on the liquid's properties, thus affecting the accuracy of colorimetric measurements.

[0052] Therefore, in this embodiment, a liquid level detection light source 6 is used to replace the peristaltic pump to measure the liquid volume in the colorimetric container 2. It is not affected by factors such as pump wear, nor is it limited by the properties of the sample fluid, resulting in higher accuracy and stability. Furthermore, the liquid level detection light source 6 has high reliability and a long service life, reducing maintenance workload and costs, thereby solving the cost problem caused by the complexity of maintenance due to the flow cell and pump metering technical solutions.

[0053] Specifically, the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric measurement light source 53 are disposed on the same side of the colorimetric structure 11, while the photoelectric sensor 52 is disposed on the other side opposite to the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric measurement light source 53. This ensures that the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric measurement light source 53 are disposed opposite to the photoelectric sensor 52, thereby enabling the light transmitted through the colorimetric container 2 by the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric measurement light source 53 to be normally received by the photoelectric sensor 52.

[0054] Specifically, the colorimetric structure 11 has multiple mounting holes for mounting the liquid level detection light source 6, the colorimetric measurement light source 53, and the photoelectric detector 52. The mounting hole of the liquid level detection light source 6 is located horizontally and at least 5 mm away from the mounting hole of the colorimetric detection light source 53, that is, the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric detection light source 53 are spaced apart; and the mounting hole of the liquid level detection light source 6 has a certain tilt angle relative to the mounting hole of the colorimetric detection light source 53. In this embodiment, the mounting holes of the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric detection light source 53 are located on the same side and are horizontally spaced apart. The mounting hole of the colorimetric detection light source 53 extends into the colorimetric structure 11 and is positioned facing the colorimetric container 2. The mounting hole of the liquid level detection light source 6 extends into the colorimetric structure 11 and faces the colorimetric container 2 and is inclined relative to the colorimetric detection light source 53. This allows the end of the liquid level detection light source 6 located inside the colorimetric structure 11 to be inclined relative to the colorimetric detection light source 53, thereby ensuring that the light transmitted through the colorimetric container 2 by both the liquid level detection light source 6 and the colorimetric detection light source 53 can be normally received by the photoelectric sensor 52 on the other side.

[0055] Among them, the liquid level detection light source 6 is a monochrome lamp with an emission wavelength in the range of 620nm-1400nm.

[0056] Furthermore, on the other two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure 11, a colorimetric tube illumination module 7 and an observation window 8 are respectively provided. The colorimetric tube illumination module 7 includes a second connecting plate 71 and an illumination source 72. The illumination source 72 is disposed on the second connecting plate 71, and the second connecting plate 71 is connected to the colorimetric structure 11. The observation window 8 penetrates through and communicates with the interior of the colorimetric structure 11 and is rotatably connected to a light-shielding cover 81. On the multiple sides of the colorimetric structure 11 that are connected to the colorimetric measurement optical module 5, the liquid level detection module and the colorimetric tube illumination module 7, a right-angled U-shaped plate 112 is also covered and connected.

[0057] In this embodiment, the colorimetric structure 11 includes two sets of oppositely arranged sides, as well as a top and a bottom. The top is connected to a ventilation and overflow module 3, and the bottom is connected to a mixing structure 12. The liquid level detection module and the colorimetric measurement optical module 5 are both arranged on the two oppositely arranged sides of one set, while the other set of oppositely arranged sides are respectively provided with a colorimetric tube illumination module 7 and an observation window 8.

[0058] The observation window 8 is an opening located on one side of the colorimetric structure 11. The observation window 8 extends through and connects to the interior of the colorimetric structure 11, allowing observation of the colorimetric container 2 inside the colorimetric structure 11. For example, it can be used to check for foreign objects, dirt on the pipe walls, or blockages in the pipes. A light-shielding cover 81 is also rotatably connected to the observation window 8. When it is necessary to check the colorimetric container 2, the light-shielding cover 81 can be opened; when not in use, the light-shielding cover 81 can be closed onto the observation window 8.

[0059] The colorimetric tube illumination module 7 includes a second connecting plate 71 and an illumination source 72. The illumination source 72 is mounted on the second connecting plate 71, which is connected to the colorimetric structure 11. Specifically, the colorimetric tube illumination module 7 is located on the opposite side of the observation window 8. When the illumination source 72 is turned on, it allows the operator to observe the interior of the colorimetric container 2 under any lighting conditions. The illumination source 72 is a white LED.

[0060] A right-angled U-shaped plate 112 is also connected to the colorimetric structure 11. The right-angled U-shaped plate 112 is U-shaped and covers the colorimetric structure 11, covering the colorimetric tube illumination module 7, liquid level detection module and colorimetric measurement optical module 5 on multiple sides of the colorimetric structure 11, forming a closed structure.

[0061] Furthermore, at least one reagent interface and a water sample interface are respectively provided on multiple sides of the hybrid structure 12, and at least one reagent interface and a water sample interface are respectively connected to a reagent tube 122 and a water sample tube 123 through a one-way valve 121; a waste liquid discharge port is also provided on the side of the hybrid structure 12 near the waste liquid discharge module 4, and is connected to the waste liquid discharge module 4 through the waste liquid discharge port.

[0062] In this embodiment, the hybrid structure 12 includes four sides, a top and a bottom. The top is connected to the colorimetric structure 11 and communicates with the bottom of the colorimetric container 2. A waste liquid discharge port is provided on the bottom, and a waste liquid discharge module 4 is connected through the waste liquid discharge port, so that the waste liquid in the colorimetric container 2 can be discharged through the waste liquid discharge module 4.

[0063] At least one reagent port and one water sample port are provided on each of the four sides. The reagent port and the water sample port are distributed separately and are not located on the same side. That is, the water sample port is located on one side, while the at least one reagent port is located on the other side, either on the same side or on different sides. Each reagent port and water sample port is connected to the reagent tube 122 and the water sample tube 123 respectively through a one-way valve 121 to prevent liquid backflow. The one-way valve 121 is a connector with a one-way function.

[0064] Furthermore, the ventilation and overflow module 3 includes a two-way connector 31 and a three-way connector 32 that are interconnected. One end of the two-way connector 31 is connected to the through hole 111 and communicates with the colorimetric container 2, and the other end is connected to the three-way connector 32. The outer surface of the two-way connector 31 is also provided with an anti-slip structure 311. The two ends of the three-way connector 32 that are away from the two-way connector 31 are respectively connected to an overflow pipe and a ventilation pipe.

[0065] In this embodiment, the venting and overflow module 3 includes a two-way connector 31 and a three-way connector 32. The two-way connector 31 has two interfaces, and the three-way connector 32 has three interfaces. One interface of the two-way connector 31 is connected to the colorimetric structure 11 through a through hole 111 and communicates with the colorimetric container 2 inside the colorimetric structure 11. The other interface of the two-way connector 31 is connected to the three-way connector 32, thereby allowing the two-way connector 31 to seal the colorimetric structure 11. When manual cleaning of the colorimetric container 2 is required, only the two-way connector 31 needs to be removed to expose the colorimetric container 2, facilitating manual cleaning without the need to disconnect the pipes connected to the venting and overflow module 3. The surface of the two-way connector 31 is also provided with an anti-slip structure 311, which may be threaded. The anti-slip structure 311 increases friction to facilitate user installation and disassembly.

[0066] The three-way connector 32 has three interfaces. One interface connects to the two-way connector 31, and the other two interfaces connect to the overflow pipe and the venting channel, respectively, so that the liquid path in the colorimetric container 2 is connected to the atmosphere, avoiding the generation of bubbles such as negative pressure or overpressure in the liquid path, and facilitating liquid venting and promoting defoaming in the liquid path.

[0067] Furthermore, the waste liquid discharge module 4 includes a waste liquid valve 41 and a waste liquid pipe 42 that are interconnected, with the end of the waste liquid valve 41 away from the waste liquid pipe 42 connected to the waste liquid discharge port.

[0068] In this embodiment, the waste liquid discharge module 4 includes a waste liquid valve 41 and a waste liquid pipe 42. One end of the waste liquid valve 41 is connected to the waste liquid pipe 42, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid discharge port at the bottom of the mixing structure 12. When the colorimetric device is in a non-discharge state such as sample injection detection, the waste liquid valve 41 is closed. In the waste discharge state, the waste liquid valve 41 is open, and the liquid flows from the colorimetric container 2 into the waste liquid pipe 42.

[0069] Furthermore, this application provides a specific embodiment of the colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer, as follows:

[0070] Setting the usage scenario: This colorimetric device is used in an analyzer that automatically detects free chlorine. Therefore:

[0071] Colorimetric container 2: A colorimetric tube with a diameter between 10mm and 30mm, made of quartz;

[0072] The narrowband filter 532 used in the colorimetric measurement light source 531 passes through wavelengths between 510nm and 530nm.

[0073] The main structure 1, consisting of a hybrid structure 12, has four sides, three of which have openings for connecting liquid tubing. These three openings connect to a water sample tube, a reagent 1 (buffer) tube, and a reagent 2 (DPD colorimetric reagent) tube, respectively. The flow of the water sample and reagents is powered by a peristaltic pump.

[0074] After the colorimetric apparatus is connected to its external circuitry and liquid circuitry, it operates according to the following procedure:

[0075] 1. Water sample inlet reaches preset level: The water sample pump runs and water sample is introduced. At this time, the liquid level detection module operates to detect whether the water level meets the preset value. If the water level meets the set value, the water sample pump shuts down, stopping the sample introduction, and the liquid level detection light source 6 in the liquid level detection module is turned off.

[0076] 2. Zeroing with water sample: The colorimetric measurement optical module 5 is running, and the signal value of the photodetector 52 is read and recorded as the zeroing value.

[0077] 3. Draining the colorimetric liquid path: When the waste liquid discharge module 4 is running, the waste liquid valve 41 is opened to drain the liquid in the colorimetric container 2 inside the colorimetric device.

[0078] 4. Simultaneous mixing of water sample and reagent: The water sample pump and reagent pump operate, and the water sample is fed in while the reagent is added simultaneously. Under the influence of cross-phase flow, the water sample and reagent mix. At this time, the liquid level detection module operates, detecting whether the liquid level meets the preset value using the liquid level detection light source 6. If the liquid level meets the set value, the water sample pump and reagent pump shut down, stopping the liquid feeding, and the liquid level detection light source 6 is turned off.

[0079] 5. Water sample and reagent reaction: Wait 10-30 seconds to ensure that the water sample and reagent react fully.

[0080] 6. Read the free chlorine concentration of the water sample: The colorimetric measurement optical module 5 is running, and the signal value of the photodetector 52 is read and recorded as the result value. The result value is then calculated by substituting it into the calibration curve formula built into the analyzer.

[0081] 7. Abnormal Handling: If the liquid level detection module detects that the water level does not meet the set value within the preset injection time, it will mark it as water shortage and the system will issue a water shortage warning.

[0082] 8. When manual cleaning is required, simply unscrew the two-way connector 31 of the ventilation and overflow module 3 to clean the colorimetric tube.

[0083] This invention provides a colorimetric device for an automatic analyzer, comprising a main structure with a colorimetric measurement optical module and a liquid level detection module. The main structure is hollow and houses a colorimetric container. A venting and overflow module and a waste liquid discharge module are respectively connected to the two ends of the main structure, and these modules are connected to the two ends of the colorimetric container. The colorimetric measurement optical module and the liquid level detection module are both located on two opposite sides of the main structure. With this colorimetric device, the venting and overflow module connecting the colorimetric container allows the liquid path of the device to be open to the atmosphere, preventing negative or overpressure conditions that could lead to bubble formation. It also facilitates the discharge of gas from the liquid path, promoting defoaming and eliminating colorimetric measurement interference caused by bubbles, thereby solving the problem of bubbles affecting the colorimetric optical path.

[0084] It should be noted that the various embodiments in this utility model are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0085] It should also be noted that, in the present invention, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0086] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to implement or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined in the present invention may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer, characterized by, The utility model provides a colorimetric measuring device, including the main body structure that is provided with colorimetric measuring optical module and liquid level detection module, the inside hollow of main body structure and accommodate a colorimetric container, the both ends of main body structure are connected with a ventilation overflow module and waste liquid discharge module respectively, and ventilation overflow module and waste liquid discharge module are communicated with the both ends of colorimetric container respectively, and colorimetric measuring optical module and liquid level detection module are all arranged on the two sides of main body structure opposite arrangement.

2. The colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body structure includes a colorimetric structure and a mixing structure that are in communication with each other. The interiors of the colorimetric structure and the mixing structure are hollow. The colorimetric container is accommodated in the colorimetric structure. The ventilation overflow module is connected to one end of the colorimetric structure away from the mixing structure and is in communication with the colorimetric container. The end of the mixing structure in communication with the colorimetric structure is also in communication with the colorimetric container, and the other end is connected with the waste liquid discharge module.

3. The colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The colorimetric structure is provided with a through hole on the side close to the ventilation overflow module. The ventilation overflow module is connected to the colorimetric structure through the through hole and is in communication with the colorimetric container. The colorimetric measuring optical module and the liquid level detection module are respectively arranged on the opposite two sides of the colorimetric structure.

4. The colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The colorimetric measuring optical module includes a first connecting plate, a photodetector, and a colorimetric measuring light source. The photodetector is arranged on the first connecting plate, and the first connecting plate is connected to one side of the colorimetric structure. The colorimetric measuring light source is arranged on the other side opposite to the photodetector. The colorimetric measuring light source includes an LED white light lamp and a filter connected to each other.

5. The colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The liquid level detection module includes a liquid level detection light source and the photodetector. The side of the colorimetric structure provided with the colorimetric measuring light source is also provided with the liquid level detection light source. The liquid level detection light source is arranged in a spaced manner with the colorimetric measuring light source and is arranged in an inclined manner relative to the colorimetric measuring light source. A plurality of mounting holes for mounting the photodetector, the colorimetric measuring light source, and the liquid level detection light source are arranged on the colorimetric structure.

6. The colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer according to claim 3, characterized in that, Colorimetric tube illumination modules and observation windows are respectively arranged on the other two opposite sides of the colorimetric structure. The colorimetric tube illumination module includes a second connecting plate and an illumination light source. The illumination light source is arranged on the second connecting plate, and the second connecting plate is connected to the colorimetric structure. The observation window penetrates the interior of the colorimetric structure and is rotationally connected with a light shielding cover. A plurality of sides of the colorimetric structure connected with the colorimetric measuring optical module, the liquid level detection module, and the colorimetric tube illumination module are also covered with a right-angle U-shaped plate.

7. The colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer according to claim 2, characterized in that, A plurality of sides of the mixing structure are respectively provided with at least one reagent interface and a water sample interface. At least one reagent interface and the water sample interface are respectively connected with a reagent tube and a water sample tube through a one-way valve. The side of the mixing structure close to the waste liquid discharge module is also provided with a waste liquid discharge port, and the waste liquid discharge module is connected through the waste liquid discharge port.

8. The colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The venting and overflow module comprises a two-way connector and a three-way connector which are in communication with each other, one end of the two-way connector is connected to the through hole and communicates with the colorimetric container, the other end communicates with the three-way connector, and an anti-skid structure is further arranged on the outer surface of the two-way connector; the two ends of the three-way connector away from the two-way connector are further connected with overflow pipelines and venting pipelines respectively.

9. The colorimetric device of an automatic analyzer according to claim 7, characterized in that, The waste liquid discharge module comprises a waste liquid valve and a waste liquid pipe which are in communication with each other, and one end of the waste liquid valve away from the waste liquid pipe communicates with the waste liquid discharge port.

10. The colorimetric device of the automatic analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The colorimetric container is in the shape of a straight pipe with both ends open, the colorimetric container is made of a material with high optical performance and high chemical stability, and the diameter of the colorimetric container is the same as the optical path of the colorimetric container.

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