Rotating device for biological sample analysis system and pipe frame for storage pipe

Abstract

The utility model provides a pipe rack for a storage pipe, the storage pipe comprises a pipe body, pipe inner cavities and pipe body rotating parts, the pipe rack comprises a rack body, rack inner pipe cavities and rack body rotating matching parts, and the rack body rotating matching parts are arranged in the rack inner pipe cavities in a single array; the rack body rotating matching parts are of an annular structure and are arranged on the circumferential inner wall of the rack inner pipe cavity, or a plurality of rack body rotating matching parts are basically located at the same height and are annularly distributed on the circumferential inner wall of the rack inner pipe cavity, and the rack body rotating matching parts are clamped with the pipe body rotating parts on the storage pipe; when the storage pipes rotate under the action of rotating acting force, the frame body rotating matching parts are matched with the pipe body rotating parts on the storage pipes in a rotating mode, the bottoms of the frame bodies are basically flush, and the bottoms of all the storage pipes located in the in-frame pipe cavity are basically flush with the bottom of the frame bodies. The rotating device is used for the biological sample analysis system, and the multiple storage tubes in any one tube frame rotate at the same time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the technical field of biological sample analysis equipment, and in particular relates to a consumable management system for a biological analysis instrument, as well as a storage tube holder. Background Technology

[0002] The background information related to this utility model provided in this section may not all be prior art, and may contain content that does not constitute prior art.

[0003] A biosample analyzer is a management system for analyzing biological samples for experimental or medical purposes. It generally includes at least a sample introduction management system, a consumables management system, a reagent management system, a reaction management system, a detection management system, and a recovery management system.

[0004] Specifically, the aforementioned sample introduction management system is used to transfer external sample tubes containing sample solutions of biological samples into the biological sample analyzer; the aforementioned consumable management system is used to call up consumables to be used to store sample solutions extracted from the aforementioned sample tubes; the aforementioned reagent management system is used to add specified reagents to the consumables and mix them with the sample solutions in the sample tubes; the aforementioned reaction management system is used to induce a chemical reaction between the sample solutions and reagent solutions contained in the consumables; the aforementioned detection management system is used to detect the products of the completed chemical reaction; and the aforementioned recycling management system is used to recycle used consumables and other waste.

[0005] In existing biosample analyzers, some reagents used for sample testing are composed of several independent substances and must be homogenized before use. This homogenization process involves shaking the reagent, which consists of several substances physically and / or chemically mixed, to ensure homogenization.

[0006] A tube rack typically contains multiple storage tubes. In one scenario, it may be necessary to shake the reagent in one storage tube within the rack; in another scenario, it may be necessary to shake the reagents in multiple storage tubes within the rack simultaneously. However, existing solutions only consider one scenario and neglect the other, resulting in storage tubes containing reagents requiring shaking needing to be mounted on more different tube racks. This necessitates a robotic arm moving between different racks when extracting multiple different reagents requiring shaking, significantly increasing the difficulty of extraction. Utility Model Content

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a rotating device for a biological sample analysis system and a tube rack for storage tubes, which solves the problem that any one or more of the storage tubes mounted on multiple tube racks can rotate on their own in the rotating device, and only requires one driver.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model proposes a tube rack for storing tubes.

[0009] The storage tube includes:

[0010] tube body;

[0011] The inner lumen of the tube, which is opened inside the tube and has one end connected to the outside, is used to store one or more substances used in the operation of the biological sample analysis system.

[0012] The rotating part of the tube body is a ring structure located on the outer circumference of the tube body, or multiple parts are distributed in a ring at approximately the same height on the outer circumference of the tube body. When connected to the tube rack, it is engaged. The storage tube engaged on the tube rack rotates when subjected to a rotational force.

[0013] The tube rack includes:

[0014] Frame;

[0015] The rack contains multiple internal tubes arranged in a single row, with their tops and bottoms connected to the outside. The top of each tube is located on the top of the rack, and the bottom is located on the bottom of the rack, for inserting the storage tubes.

[0016] The frame rotation engagement part is provided in the inner cavity of each frame in the single arrangement; the frame rotation engagement part is either a ring structure provided on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity of the frame, or multiple parts are distributed in a ring at basically the same height on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity of the frame. When the frame is connected to the storage tube, it engages with the tube rotation part on the storage tube. When the storage tube is rotated by a rotational force, the frame rotation engagement part in a static state rotates with the tube rotation part on the storage tube in a dynamic state.

[0017] The bottom of the frame is basically flush.

[0018] When the storage tube is inserted into the inner cavity of the rack, the bottom of all the storage tubes located in the inner cavity of the rack is substantially flush with the bottom of the rack.

[0019] Based on the above objectives, this utility model proposes yet another storage tube rack.

[0020] The storage tube includes:

[0021] tube body;

[0022] The inner lumen of the tube, which is opened inside the tube and has one end connected to the outside, is used to store one or more substances used in the operation of the biological sample analysis system.

[0023] The rotating part of the tube body is a ring structure located on the outer circumference of the tube body, or multiple parts are distributed in a ring at approximately the same height on the outer circumference of the tube body. When connected to the tube rack, it is engaged. The storage tube engaged on the tube rack rotates when subjected to a rotational force.

[0024] The tube rack includes:

[0025] Frame;

[0026] The rack contains multiple tubes arranged in a single row. The top and bottom of each tube are connected to the outside. The top of each tube is located on the top of the rack and the bottom of each tube is located on the bottom of the rack. The tubes are used to insert the storage tubes.

[0027] The frame has a rotating engagement part, which is provided in the inner cavity of each frame in the single arrangement. This rotating engagement part can be a single annular structure located on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity, or multiple parts, generally at the same height, distributed in a ring on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity. When the frame is connected to the storage tube, it engages with the rotating part of the storage tube. When the storage tube rotates under a rotational force, the static rotating engagement part of the frame engages with the dynamic rotating part of the storage tube.

[0028] The frame fixing parts are a pair, suspended in the air, and symmetrically arranged on the outer sides of the frame, for engaging with an external component.

[0029] In one example, the frame fixing part includes:

[0030] The frame fixing pressing section is used for hand pressing, and the frame fixing pressing section undergoes elastic deformation when pressed; and

[0031] The frame fixing snap-fit ​​part is connected to the frame fixing pressing part and is located below the frame fixing pressing part, and is suspended in the air;

[0032] The position of the frame fixing pressing part must meet the following requirement: when the frame fixing part is engaged with an external component, the frame fixing pressing part is basically located above the external component.

[0033] In one example, the frame fixing pressing section is a thin structure, with its top side connected to the frame and the other sides not connected to the frame.

[0034] In one example, the bottom of the frame is essentially flush with the ground.

[0035] When the storage tube is inserted into the inner cavity of the rack, the bottom of all the storage tubes located in the inner cavity of the rack is substantially flush with the bottom of the rack.

[0036] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model also proposes a rotating device, comprising:

[0037] Rotational drive;

[0038] A rotary transmission component, the input end of which cooperates with the rotary driver;

[0039] A rotary carrier, wherein the output end of the rotary transmission component cooperates with it to drive its rotation, and the carrier surface thereon includes:

[0040] The first bearing surface; and

[0041] Second load-bearing surface;

[0042] A static gear ring, of which there is one, is arranged substantially coaxially with the rotating bearing component and is fixed in place;

[0043] There are multiple rotating tube components, each rotatably connected to the rotating support component, arranged in several single arrangements. Any two adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. The stationary gear ring and one of the adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. When the rotating support component rotates, one of the rotating tube components in the single arrangement adjacent to the stationary gear ring rotates, thereby driving the other rotating tube components in the single arrangement to rotate. The rotating tube component drives the corresponding storage tube in the externally inserted storage tube rack above it to rotate.

[0044] The height of the first bearing surface is different from the height of the second bearing surface; all the rotating parts for the tube are only provided on the one with a relatively smaller height of the two bearing surfaces; one part of the storage tube rack is located on the one with a relatively larger height of the two bearing surfaces, and the other part is suspended above the one with a relatively smaller height of the two bearing surfaces. When the storage tube is inserted into the other part in the suspended state, the inserted storage tube rotates with the rotating part for the tube located below it.

[0045] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model also proposes a rotating device, comprising:

[0046] Rotational drive;

[0047] A rotary transmission component, the input end of which cooperates with the rotary driver;

[0048] A rotating carrier, wherein the output end of the rotating transmission component cooperates with it to drive its rotation;

[0049] A static gear ring, of which there is one, is arranged substantially coaxially with the rotating bearing component and is fixed in place;

[0050] There are one or more rotating tube components, each rotatably connected to the rotating support component. When the rotating support component rotates, the stationary gear ring and any of the adjacent rotating tube components rotate to make the adjacent rotating tube component rotate, so as to drive the storage tube in the externally inserted storage tube rack located above it to rotate.

[0051] There are multiple rotating tube components, each rotatably connected to the rotating support component, arranged in several single arrangements. Any two adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. The stationary gear ring and one of the adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. When the rotating support component rotates, one of the rotating tube components in the single arrangement adjacent to the stationary gear ring rotates, thereby driving the other rotating tube components in the single arrangement to rotate. The rotating tube component drives the corresponding storage tube in the externally inserted storage tube rack above it to rotate.

[0052] Multiple pipe rack limiting components are provided on the rotating support component, including:

[0053] Limiting body; and

[0054] A limiting engagement portion is provided on the limiting body for engaging with the frame fixing portion on the storage tube rack; and

[0055] The pipe rack limiting area is the area formed between any two adjacent pipe rack limiting members on the rotating support member, for placing a pipe rack for storing pipes;

[0056] Each of these single arrangements is located within the corresponding limit area of ​​the pipe rack.

[0057] In one example, the locking part of the limiting member includes:

[0058] The limiting body latching first portion is disposed on the limiting body, and when it interacts with the frame fixing portion, the limiting body latching first portion undergoes elastic deformation; and

[0059] The second part of the limiting body clamp is connected to the first part of the limiting body clamp and is located below the first part of the limiting body clamp, and is suspended in the air. When it interacts with the frame fixing part, the second part of the limiting body clamp engages with the frame fixing clamp part on the frame fixing part.

[0060] In one example, the first portion of the retainer is a thin structure, with its top side connected to the retainer and the remaining sides not connected to the retainer.

[0061] In one example, the locking portion of the limiting member is located on the upper part of the limiting body.

[0062] In one example, each of the pipe rack limiting members is arranged along the radial direction of the rotary support member, and all the pipe rack limiting members are arranged in a ring on the rotary support member.

[0063] In one example, a bearing surface on the rotary support for bearing the tubular rotary member and the pipe support limiting member includes:

[0064] First load-bearing surface;

[0065] Second load-bearing surface;

[0066] The first and second bearing surfaces are located at different heights, and the height difference is basically the same as the height of the rotating pipe component on the bearing surface. All rotating pipe components are installed on the one with the lower height of the two bearing surfaces.

[0067] The height of the first bearing surface is different from that of the second bearing surface; all the rotating parts for the tube are only located on the one with a relatively lower height of the two bearing surfaces; one part of the storage tube rack is located on the one with a relatively higher height of the two bearing surfaces, and the other part is suspended above the one with a relatively lower height of the two bearing surfaces. When the storage tube is inserted into the other part in the suspended state, the inserted storage tube rotates with the rotating part for the tube located below it.

[0068] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0069] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the examples or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some examples of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure from one perspective, illustrating an example of a storage tube.

[0071] Figure 2 for Figure 1A structural diagram from another perspective.

[0072] Figure 3 An example of a pipe rack for storing pipes is shown in the example of... Figure 1 The diagram shows a front view of an example of a storage tube.

[0073] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A structural diagram.

[0074] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A top-down view.

[0075] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the cross-section obtained after cutting along the AA direction.

[0076] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a rotating device.

[0077] Figure 8 for Figure 7 An enlarged schematic diagram of part B in the diagram.

[0078] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A top view of the rotating support component and the components above it.

[0079] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Enlarged schematic diagram of section C.

[0080] Figure 11 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a structural schematic of an example of a storage tube rack and an example of a tube rotating component thereon.

[0081] Figure 12 for Figure 3 A top view of an example of a storage tube rack in conjunction with an example of a tube swivel on it.

[0082] Figure 13 for Figure 6 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A in the diagram.

[0083] Figure 14 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram of an example structure of a rotating tube in a process.

[0084] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be drawn to scale. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same elements in the drawings. For simplicity, not every component is numbered in every drawing. Detailed Implementation

[0085] The present invention will be described below with reference to several examples. It should be understood that these embodiments are described in order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and implement the present invention, and do not imply any limitation on the scope of the present invention.

[0086] A biosample analyzer is a complete device used to test biological samples. It generally includes at least a sample administration system, a consumables administration system, a reagent administration system, a reaction administration system, and a detection administration system.

[0087] The storage tube of this invention may be used in one or more of the above systems. In addition to having the function of storing one or more substances like a regular test tube, the storage tube also has the following characteristics: when placed in the tube rack of this invention, the storage tube can rotate relative to the tube rack about its own axis under the action of an external rotational force.

[0088] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, an example of the storage tube is shown. The storage tube 41 includes a tube body 4101, a tube cavity 4102, and a tube body rotation groove 4103.

[0089] The tube body 4101 is not made of fragile materials (such as ordinary glass or ordinary ceramics), but is mostly made of plastic (preferably engineering plastics).

[0090] This is because the storage tube is frequently subjected to external rotational forces when the biosample analyzer is in operation. If it is made of a fragile material, the chance of it breaking during use will be greatly increased, which will significantly affect the normal operation of the instrument.

[0091] The inner cavity 4102 of the tube is opened inside the tube body 4101. One end of the tube is connected to the outside, and the other end is usually in a blocked state. This allows for the storage of one or more substances used in the operation of the biological sample analysis system. The substance can be a sample, a reagent used to analyze the sample, or other types of substances.

[0092] The rotating groove 4103 is arranged in a ring around the outside of the tube body 4101, with its opening facing outwards. It is designed to rotate and engage with the corresponding component in the tube rack described below in a locked state.

[0093] The rotating groove 4103 of the tube body is a structural type of the rotating part of the tube body; the rotating part of the tube body can also be a convex structure, that is, it can be a ring structure, protruding on the outside of the tube body 4101, or it can be a ring of several protrusions that are basically at the same height and are spaced apart, distributed in a ring on the outside of the tube body 4101. In this case, the corresponding component in the tube frame that cooperates with the rotating part of the tube body can be a ring-shaped groove structure.

[0094] The arrangement of the rotating part of the tube body and the corresponding components that cooperate with it in the tube frame, when connected, not only ensures that the storage tube is confined to the tube frame, reducing the possibility of the storage tube accidentally detaching from the tube frame during operation and causing the material stored in the storage tube to move outward; but also, under the condition of mutual engagement, the storage tube can rotate within the tube frame under the action of external rotational force, making it possible to automatically shake the material in the storage tube.

[0095] The rotating part of the tube is positioned at a height on the storage tube, which can be located at the lower part of the storage tube. This arrangement makes the external rotational force and the frictional force experienced by the storage tube during rotation as close as possible in height, which may reduce the chance of jamming during rotation and facilitate the normal rotation of the storage tube.

[0096] In one example, to better coordinate the storage tube with the external rotational force, a force-bearing portion can be provided at the bottom of the tube body 4101 to facilitate the application of the external rotational force. As an example of this force-bearing portion, such as... Figure 2 As shown, it is arranged coaxially with the storage tube, and several force-bearing ribs 4104 are arranged in different radial directions with the axis as the center.

[0097] In one or more of the above systems, a tube rack of this invention may also be used to store the aforementioned storage tubes. In addition to the function of ordinary tube racks for inserting test tubes, the tube rack of this invention also has functions not found in ordinary tube racks, specifically including: the function of engaging with the storage tube; and forming a rotational connection with the storage tube in the engaged state. That is, under the action of an external rotational force, the storage tube can rotate within the tube rack of this invention. This rotational function makes it possible to automatically mix the substance within the storage tube.

[0098] like Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figures 5 and 6, an example of the pipe rack in this utility model is shown. The pipe rack 42 includes a frame body 4201, an inner pipe cavity 4202, and a rotating convex ring 4203 of the frame body.

[0099] There are multiple internal cavities 4202 in the rack, and each internal cavity 4202 is used to insert only one of the aforementioned storage tubes. The multiple internal cavities 4202 are arranged in a single arrangement along the length of the rack body 4201.

[0100] The term "single arrangement" refers to either a single row or a single column, one of these two scenarios.

[0101] In one example, the axis of the inner cavity 4202 is set vertically (i.e., basically parallel to the direction of the object's gravity). This reduces the influence of friction caused by gravity on the storage tube inserted into the inner cavity 4202 when it rotates, thus greatly reducing the resistance encountered during rotation and effectively reducing the power consumption of the external driver.

[0102] The rotating ring 4203 is a ring-shaped structure that protrudes from the inner wall of the inner tube cavity 4202 of the rack. During the insertion of the storage tube into the inner tube cavity 4202 of the rack, the rotating groove 4103 in the storage tube moves closer to the rotating ring 4203, ultimately causing at least a portion of the outer side of the rotating ring 4203 to engage within the rotating groove 4103. This effectively reduces the possibility of the storage tube slipping out of the inner tube cavity 4202 after engagement. Furthermore, during rotation, the portion of the rotating ring 4203 engaged within the rotating groove 4103 moves cyclically along the annular path defined by the rotating groove 4103. Alternatively, the rotating ring can be composed of protrusions, approximately at the same height and spaced apart, arranged in a ring on the inner wall of the inner tube cavity 4202.

[0103] In one example, to reduce wear caused by collision between the frame rotating convex ring 4203 and the tube rotating groove 4103 during engagement, or to reduce resistance during engagement, or to consider the resistance encountered when releasing the storage tube from the engaged state. Figure 6 , 13 As shown, the part of the rotating convex ring 4203 on the frame that engages with the rotating groove 4103 of the tube body is an arc-shaped structure. In addition, the opening side of the rotating groove 4103 of the tube body is also set as an arc-shaped structure.

[0104] The rotating convex ring 4203 of the frame is a structural type of the frame rotating mating part; the frame rotating mating part can also be a ring-shaped groove structure. Correspondingly, the tube rotating part on the storage tube that mates with the frame rotating mating part can be a convex structure, that is, it can be a ring structure, or it can be a ring-shaped distribution of several convex parts that are basically at the same height and are spaced apart.

[0105] One example of this pipe rack, such as Figure 3 ,4 As shown in Figures 5 and 6, each of the inner cavities 4202 of the tube rack 42 is provided with a rack rotation fitting part. In this way, the storage tube installed in any of the inner cavities 4202 of the rack can rotate relative to the tube rack under the action of external rotational force, so as to achieve the mixing of the substance in the storage tube.

[0106] In the aforementioned scenario where "each cavity 4202 within the tube rack is equipped with a rotating fitting part," it is possible to position multiple rotating fitting parts within the tube rack at approximately the same height. This enhances the versatility of the storage tubes. Furthermore, to ensure that the bottoms of multiple storage tubes inserted into their respective cavities 4202 within the tube rack are at approximately the same height, it facilitates that each external component applying a rotational force to the storage tube is positioned at approximately the same height. This also allows for the identical structure and size of multiple external components applying a rotational force to the storage tube, further enhancing the versatility of the components. Of course, depending on specific needs, it is also possible to set the height of the rotating fitting part within a designated cavity 4202 to be different from the height of other rotating fitting parts on the tube rack.

[0107] One example of this pipe rack, such as Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the bottom of the tube rack 42 is basically flush. Unlike existing tube racks that have a rotating function, the bottom of the tube rack needs to be uneven to achieve this rotation function (specifically, the patent published on November 21, 2017, patent number CN201720331852.8, patent name: magnetic bead liquid mixing device, in vitro diagnostic equipment, magnetic bead bottle). The relatively high bottom is to provide installation space for the external component that applies a rotational force to the storage tube, while the test tubes placed on the relatively low bottom do not need to have a shaking function.

[0108] The reason why the bottom of the tube rack in the above-mentioned utility model is basically flush is not only to prevent it from tipping over during placement, but more importantly, it is because: in order for multiple identical storage tubes to rotate simultaneously in the tube rack of this utility model, it is necessary to install multiple components that apply rotational force to the storage tubes. This is to ensure that the positions of the multiple components that apply rotational force to the storage tubes are basically at the same height. In addition, it also allows the structure and size of each of the multiple external components that apply rotational force to the storage tubes to be the same, thereby enhancing the versatility of the components.

[0109] In one example of this pipe rack, such as Figure 3 , 4As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the bottom of the tube rack 42 is not only basically flush with the bottom, but the bottom of the storage tube inserted into the tube rack also does not protrude beyond the bottom of the tube rack. That is, the bottom of the storage tube inserted into the tube rack is either located inside the tube cavity 4202 of the rack, or is basically flush with the bottom of the tube rack. This not only makes the tube rack with the storage tube less prone to tipping over, but also ensures that the height of multiple external components that apply rotational forces to the storage tube can be the same or basically the same, thereby enhancing the versatility of the component.

[0110] Since the storage tube is the object of operation and is engaged within the tube rack, from the perspective of facilitating the insertion of the storage tube into the tube cavity 4202 within the tube rack, as follows: Figure 6 , 13 As shown, the rotating part of the tube is configured as an annular groove structure, namely the tube rotating groove 4103, while the rotating mating part of the frame is configured as an annular convex structure, namely the frame rotating convex ring 4203, or it is composed of several convex bodies that are basically at the same height and are spaced apart and arranged in an annular distribution.

[0111] In one or more of the aforementioned systems, the rotating device of this invention (also known as a rotating device for a biological sample analysis system) may also be used. This rotating device not only drives multiple tube racks containing the storage tubes, which are supported on it, to rotate around the axis of the rotating device, but also simultaneously drives multiple storage tubes on at least one of the tube racks to rotate independently. This achieves the goal of placing multiple storage tubes requiring mixing on a single tube rack, instead of setting the multiple storage tubes requiring mixing on different tube racks, which could increase the difficulty of operation when an external robotic arm extracts substances from multiple storage tubes requiring mixing.

[0112] like Figure 7 , 8 As shown in 9, 10, 11, 12, and 14, an example of the rotating device in this utility model is shown. The rotating device 43 includes a rotating drive motor 4301, a rotating transmission pulley 43021, a rotating transmission belt 43022, a rotating transmission shaft 43023, a rotating transmission pinion 43024 and a rotating transmission gear 43025, a rotating bearing surface, a stationary gear ring 4305 disposed on the outer circumferential side of the stationary ring 4304, and a tubular rotating bearing 43061, a tubular rotating shaft 43062, a tubular rotating gear 43063, and a tubular rotating force-applying part 43064.

[0113] During operation, the rotary drive motor 4301 drives the rotary transmission pulley 43021 to rotate. The rotating rotary transmission pulley 43021 rotates with a rotary transmission shaft 43023 coaxial with it. A rotary transmission pinion 43024 is mounted on the rotary transmission shaft 43023. The rotary transmission shaft 43023 drives the rotary transmission pinion 43024 to rotate. The rotating pinion 43024 meshes with the rotary transmission gear 4302, causing the rotary transmission gear 4302 to also rotate. The upper surface of the rotary transmission gear 4302 serves as the rotary bearing surface. Thus, the tubular rotary gear 43063 mounted on the rotary bearing surface meshes with the stationary gear ring 4305, causing the tubular rotary gear 43063 and several other tubular rotary gears 43063 that mesh with each other in sequence to rotate. The storage tube located above the rotating gear 43063, corresponding to it, is driven by the rotating force application part 43064 on the rotating gear 43063 below it to rotate the force part (such as the force rib 4104) on the storage tube, so as to agitate the material in the rotating storage tube for extraction.

[0114] The rotary drive motor 4301 is a type of rotary driver. It can be a DC motor or an AC motor; it can also be a combination of other devices with rotary driving effect, such as a drive cylinder and a corresponding component that can convert linear motion into rotary motion (such as a rack and pinion).

[0115] As one structural form of this rotating transmission component, it is composed of the aforementioned rotating transmission pulley 43021, rotating transmission belt 43022, rotating transmission shaft 43023, rotating transmission pinion 43024, and rotating transmission gear 43025. Of course, this rotating transmission component can also be composed of one or more of a chain drive mechanism, a belt drive mechanism, and a gear drive mechanism.

[0116] Here, the large rotary transmission gear 43025 serves not only as part of the rotary transmission component but also as a structural element of the rotary bearing component. In this case, the large rotary transmission gear 43025 is arranged in a stepped shape, including two stepped surfaces, such as... Figure 9 , 10 As shown in Figure 11, there is a first bearing surface 43031 with a relatively lower height and a second bearing surface 43032 with a relatively higher height, forming a height difference. The lower first bearing surface 43031 is used for bearing loads, as shown in Figure 11. Figure 14The diagram shows a structural form of a tubular rotating component consisting of a tubular rotary bearing 43061, a tubular rotary shaft 43062, a tubular rotary gear 43063, and a tubular rotary force-applying part 43064.

[0117] One structural form of the aforementioned rotating tube component achieves rotational engagement between two adjacent rotating tube components through gear meshing. The speed can also be adjusted by changing the gear ratio of the two rotating gears 43063 on the adjacent rotating tube components. Of course, while fulfilling the function of driving the storage tube to rotate, the rotating tube component can also have other structural forms, such as a combination of one or more of belt drive mechanisms, chain drive mechanisms, and gear drive mechanisms.

[0118] like Figure 9 , 11 As shown in Figure 12, all the rotating pipe components are mounted on the relatively low first bearing surface 43031. These rotating pipe components are arranged in multiple single columns or rows, with two components in each column or row. Each pair of rotating pipe components corresponds to a storage pipe in the pipe rack above. One of the two components meshes with the stationary gear ring 4305. Driven by the rotating transmission gear 43025, the rotating pipe component meshing with the stationary gear ring 4305 rotates, sequentially driving the rotation of its adjacent rotating pipe component.

[0119] The number of rotating tubes set in this column or row is not limited to the two mentioned above, and can be set to more as needed, so as to drive the storage tube in the tube rack located thereon that needs to achieve automatic shaking function to rotate.

[0120] like Figure 9 , 11 As shown, the rotating component is mounted on the rotating component mounting hole 43065 opened on the rotating transmission gear 43025. As can be seen from the figure above, the rotating component mounting hole 43065 is a single circular hole. In one example, the rotating component mounting hole can also be an elongated hole, which may play a certain role in adjusting the installation position of the rotating component.

[0121] like Figure 9 , 11As shown in Figure 12, the stationary gear ring 4305 and the rotating transmission gear 43025 are coaxially arranged. The radius of the stationary gear ring 4305 can be smaller than the radius of the rotating transmission gear 43025. In this case, the first bearing surface 43031 located radially inside is lower than the second bearing surface 43032 located radially outside. Alternatively, the radius of the stationary gear ring can be larger than the radius of the rotating transmission gear, that is, the stationary gear ring is coaxially fitted around the circumferential outer side of the rotating transmission gear. In this case, the first bearing surface located radially inside is higher than the second bearing surface located radially outside.

[0122] like Figure 9 , 11 As shown in Figure 12, the rotary support member and the rotary transmission gear 43025, which is part of the rotary transmission member, are integrated into one unit. In other words, the rotary transmission gear 43025 simultaneously functions as both part of the rotary transmission member and the rotary support member. This arrangement simplifies the structure. Alternatively, the rotary support member can be a structure independent of the rotary transmission gear 43025, detachably connected to it. Another scenario involves a rotary support component comprising two parts. One part is mounted on the rotary transmission gear 43025, forming a portion of the gear itself, such as the first support surface 43031. The other part is independent of the rotary transmission gear 43025, such as a rotary support ring 43033. The second support surface 43032 is mounted on the rotary support ring 43033 and detachably fixed to the rotary transmission gear 43025, serving as the second support surface 4303. Alternatively, a portion of the rotary transmission gear itself serves as the second support surface, while the other part is independent of the rotary transmission gear structure, such as a rotary support disc (not shown in the figure), with the second support surface mounted on the rotary support disc. These alternative scenarios may help expand the size of the rotary support surface, making it possible to install pipe racks of different sizes on this rotary support component.

[0123] In one example of this pipe rack in this utility model, such as Figure 3 , 4As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the cross-section of each cavity 4202 within the tube rack 42 can be set according to the different sizes of the storage tubes. This setting may be applied in the following scenarios: when an external robotic arm is extracting material from all the storage tubes in the tube rack, the amount of material extracted at one time from different storage tubes may be different. If all the storage tubes in the tube rack are of the same size, the robotic arm will not be able to extract all the required material from one tube rack and will have to extract from the corresponding storage tubes in another tube rack, which will greatly increase the difficulty of the robotic arm's operation.

[0124] In this utility model, the tube rack is fixed to the rotating transmission gear 43025 in one way: by opening corresponding connection holes on both and then connecting them with screws and nuts. With this connection method, when loading reagents, the tube rack does not need to be removed from the rotating transmission gear 43025. Instead, the storage tube on it can be directly removed, the required substance refilled into the removed storage tube, and then reinserted into the tube rack and engaged. Alternatively, another storage tube loaded with the required substance can be inserted into the tube rack and engaged.

[0125] Another way in which the pipe rack is fixed to the rotating transmission gear 43025 in this utility model is by setting a frame fixing part on the pipe rack, and correspondingly setting a component on the rotating transmission gear 43025 that engages with the frame fixing part.

[0126] like Figure 3 , 4 Figures 5, 11, and 12 show an example of the frame fixing part, which includes a frame fixing pressing part 42041 and a frame fixing engaging part 42042. The frame fixing pressing part 42041 is arranged from top to bottom, with its upper side connected to the pipe rack, and the other sides being free sides (i.e., sides not connected to other components). Its lower side is connected to the frame fixing engaging part 42042, thus enabling the frame fixing engaging part 42042 to be suspended.

[0127] The design of the frame fixing pressing portion 42041 allows for a certain degree of elastic deformation during pressing. This elastic deformation enables the engagement or disengagement of the frame fixing engaging portion 42042 and the frame fixing part. Furthermore, considering both strength and working capacity, the thickness of the frame fixing pressing portion 42041 can be set to be relatively small (i.e., a thin structure), thus requiring less pressure during pressing and achieving a labor-saving effect.

[0128] like Figure 6 , 13As shown, in one example of the tube rack, the locking portion 42042 for fixing the rack body is a convex structure, that is, it is set as a locking head. Of course, it can also be set as a concave structure, which forms a corresponding concave-convex structure with the part on the rotating part of the tube body on the storage tube that engages with it.

[0129] like Figure 6 , 13 As shown, in one example of this pipe rack, when the frame fixing engagement part 42042 is a convex structure, a hook-shaped structure is adopted to improve the connection firmness after engagement.

[0130] like Figure 6 , 13 As shown in one example of the pipe rack, the pressing surface of the pressing portion 42041 for fixing the rack body is provided with a plurality of spaced pressing protrusions 42043. This not only helps to increase the pressing area and reduce the required pressing force when pressing, but also provides an anti-slip effect when pressing. Thus, the operation of locking or unlocking the pipe rack is more effortless and easier.

[0131] When the aforementioned pipe rack is equipped with the rack fixing part, the pipe rack can be fixed to the rotating bearing surface of the rotating device by forming a bayonet. In one example, the bayonet is formed on a relatively high bearing surface. Of course, the bayonet can also be formed on a relatively low bearing surface.

[0132] In the case where the aforementioned pipe rack has a frame fixing part, in addition to opening a bayonet on the rotating bearing surface as described above, in one example, several pipe rack limiting members can also be provided on the rotating bearing surface.

[0133] like Figure 7 , 8 As shown in Figure 9, an example of the pipe rack limiting component is provided on the rotating bearing surface. Several pipe rack limiting components 4307 are arranged, each including a limiting body 43071. A pipe rack limiting area 4309 is formed between every two limiting bodies 43071. A single-row or single-column arrangement of the pipe rack is provided on each pipe rack limiting area 4309, meaning the setting direction of the limiting bodies 43071 is basically the same as the setting direction of the pipe rack. The setting of the limiting bodies 43071 pre-sets the positions of the pipe racks on the rotating bearing surface, so each pipe rack only needs to be installed on the rotating bearing surface according to the pre-set position, facilitating the installation of the pipe rack.

[0134] In one example of the pipe rack limiting component, a limiting component engaging part is also provided. When the pipe rack is installed on the rotating bearing surface, the limiting component engaging part engages with the frame fixing part provided on the pipe rack.

[0135] In one example of the locking part of this limiting component, such as Figure 7 , 8 As shown, the limiting member engaging portion 4308 includes a first engaging portion 43081 and a second engaging portion 43082. The first engaging portion 43081 is disposed on the limiting body 43071. When interacting with the frame fixing portion 4204, the first engaging portion 43081 undergoes elastic deformation. The second engaging portion 43082 is connected to the first engaging portion 43082 and is located below the first engaging portion 43081, suspended in mid-air. When interacting with the frame fixing portion 4204, the second engaging portion 43082 engages with the frame fixing engaging portion 42042 on the frame fixing portion 4204.

[0136] like Figure 8 As shown, the second part 43082 of the limiting body is a bayonet-type structure, but it can also be a slot-type or other types of structure.

[0137] The second portion 43082 of the limiting body and the fixing portion 42042 of the frame are a concave-convex combination. In one example, the fixing portion of the frame can be an open or concave structure, and the second portion of the limiting body can be a convex structure accordingly.

[0138] In one example of the rotating device, the pipe rack limiting member and the locking part of the limiting member are provided on the pipe rack limiting member. The frame fixing pressing part 42041 on the frame fixing part 4204 is basically located above the pipe rack limiting member 4307. This arrangement facilitates the pressing operation of the frame fixing pressing part 42041 when locking.

[0139] Of course, in one example of the locking part of the limiting body, the upper and lower positions of the second part of the locking body and the second part of the locking body can be interchanged. In this case, the second part of the locking body is still only connected to the first part of the locking body, and one side of the first part of the locking body is only connected to the limiting body.

[0140] The number of engaging portions of the limiting member on the pipe rack limiting member is set as needed. In one example, such as... Figure 7 , 8 As shown in Figure 9, each of the pipe rack limiting members 4307 has a limiting member engaging portion 4308 on each of its two transverse sides. Correspondingly, as... Figure 11 , 12As shown, a frame fixing part 4204 is also provided on each of the two transverse sides of the pipe rack 42. In this way, when they are engaged, the locking part 4308 on the adjacent side of the two pipe rack limiting members 4307 engages with the frame fixing parts 4204 provided on the two transverse sides of the pipe rack 42.

[0141] In one example of the locking mechanism of this limiting component, such as Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 11, the locking portion 4308 of the limiting member is basically located in the middle of the pipe rack 42 in the height direction. This may produce the following effect: during operation, the downward vibration generated above the frame fixing portion 4204 and the upward vibration generated below the frame fixing portion 4204 in the pipe rack limiting member 4307 will at least partially cancel each other out at the middle of the pipe rack limiting member 4307, which is beneficial to the stability of the locking connection between the locking portion 4308 and the frame fixing portion 4204 after locking. This reduces the probability of disengagement due to the vertical vibration of the pipe rack limiting member 4307 during the locking process.

[0142] In another example, such as the locking part of the limiting member Figure 7 , 8 As shown, the thickness of the first portion 43081 of the limiting body engaging at the upper end of the limiting member engaging portion 4308 can be set to be smaller (i.e., a thin structure) after taking into account the firmness and working strength. When engaging, the engaging portion 42042 of the frame fixing can generate elastic deformation when it acts on it, which helps to reduce the amount of force used when engaging or disengaging.

[0143] In one example of the locking mechanism of this limiting component, such as Figure 7 , 9 As shown, each of the tube rack limiting members 4307 is arranged radially along the rotary bearing surface, and all the tube rack limiting members 4307 are distributed in a ring on the rotary bearing surface. This arrangement facilitates the extraction of the substance from the storage tube in the tube rack by an external robotic arm.

[0144] In one application scenario, the aforementioned rotating device can be a reagent management system. The storage tubes in the tube rack are used to hold various reagents required for testing and analysis. The number, size, and reagent type of the storage tubes in each tube rack are identical. The reagent extraction operation path of the external robotic arm is pre-set. It only performs reagent extraction operations on the storage tubes in the adjacent tube rack. After the operation is completed, the rotating bearing surface rotates all the tube racks on it by a preset angle. At this time, another tube rack is adjacent to the external robotic arm, and the external robotic arm then performs reagent extraction operations on the other tube rack.

[0145] In this reagent management system, the substances in two or more storage tubes in each tube rack need to be shaken before extraction. At this time, it is only necessary to insert these multiple storage tubes that need to be shaken into the corresponding positions in the tube rack. After the tube rack is fixed on the rotating bearing surface, the multiple storage tubes located in the corresponding positions in the tube rack correspond one-to-one with the multiple tube rotating parts below them, realizing the automatic shaking requirement of multiple storage tubes.

[0146] It should be noted that the above-mentioned examples of the tube rack can be combined with each other if there is no structural contradiction; similarly, the above-mentioned examples of the rotating device can also be combined with each other if there is no structural contradiction.

[0147] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other units or steps; the words "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. The use of ordinal numbers such as "first" or "second" to modify a claim element does not imply that one claim element has priority, order, or chronological sequence of action over another claim element, but is merely for the purpose of distinguishing one claim element from another. Although certain specific technical features are recited in different dependent claims, this does not mean that these specific technical features cannot be combined. Various aspects of this invention can be used individually, in combination, or in various arrangements not specifically discussed in the foregoing examples, thus not limiting its application to the details and arrangements of the components described above or shown in the drawings. For example, multiple aspects described in one example can be combined in any way with multiple aspects described in other examples. Steps, functions, or features recited in multiple modules or units can be performed or satisfied by one module or unit. The steps of the methods disclosed herein are not limited to being performed in any particular order; it is possible to perform some or all of the steps in other orders. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0148] Although the present invention has been described by way of accompanying drawings and examples, such description and illustration should be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, additions, and substitutions are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention as disclosed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pipe rack for storing pipes, characterized in that, The storage tube includes: tube body; The inner lumen of the tube, which is opened inside the tube and has one end connected to the outside, is used to store one or more substances used in the operation of the biological sample analysis system. The rotating part of the tube body is a ring structure located on the outer circumference of the tube body, or multiple parts are distributed in a ring at approximately the same height on the outer circumference of the tube body. When connected to the tube rack, it is engaged. The storage tube engaged on the tube rack rotates when subjected to a rotational force. The tube rack includes: Frame; The rack contains multiple internal tubes arranged in a single row, with their tops and bottoms connected to the outside. The top of each tube is located on the top of the rack, and the bottom is located on the bottom of the rack, for inserting the storage tubes. The frame rotation engagement part is provided in the inner cavity of each frame in the single arrangement; the frame rotation engagement part is either a ring structure provided on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity of the frame, or multiple parts are distributed in a ring at basically the same height on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity of the frame. When the frame is connected to the storage tube, it engages with the tube rotation part on the storage tube. When the storage tube is subjected to rotational force and rotates, the frame rotation engagement part in a static state rotates with the tube rotation part on the storage tube in a dynamic state. The bottom of the frame is basically flush. When the storage tube is inserted into the inner cavity of the rack, the bottom of all the storage tubes located in the inner cavity of the rack is substantially flush with the bottom of the rack.

2. A pipe rack for storing pipes, characterized in that: The storage tube includes: tube body; The inner lumen of the tube, which is opened inside the tube and has one end connected to the outside, is used to store one or more substances used in the operation of the biological sample analysis system. The rotating part of the tube body is a ring structure located on the outer circumference of the tube body, or multiple parts are distributed in a ring at approximately the same height on the outer circumference of the tube body. When connected to the tube rack, it is engaged. The storage tube engaged on the tube rack rotates when subjected to a rotational force. The tube rack includes: Frame; The rack contains multiple tubes arranged in a single row. The top and bottom of each tube are connected to the outside. The top of each tube is located on the top of the rack and the bottom of each tube is located on the bottom of the rack. The tubes are used to insert the storage tubes. The frame has a rotating engagement part, which is provided in the inner cavity of each frame in the single arrangement. This rotating engagement part can be a single annular structure located on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity, or multiple parts, generally at the same height, distributed in a ring on the circumferential inner wall of the inner cavity. When the frame is connected to the storage tube, it engages with the rotating part of the storage tube. When the storage tube rotates under a rotational force, the static rotating engagement part of the frame engages with the dynamic rotating part of the storage tube. The frame fixing parts are a pair, suspended in the air, and symmetrically arranged on the outer sides of the frame, for engaging with an external component.

3. The storage tube rack according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame fixing part includes: The frame fixing pressing section is used for hand pressing, and the frame fixing pressing section undergoes elastic deformation when pressed; and The frame fixing snap-fit ​​part is connected to the frame fixing pressing part and is located below the frame fixing pressing part, and is suspended in the air; The position of the frame fixing pressing part must meet the following requirement: when the frame fixing part is engaged with an external component, the frame fixing pressing part is basically located above the external component.

4. The storage tube rack according to claim 3, characterized in that: The pressing section for fixing the frame is a thin structure, with its top side connected to the frame and the other sides not connected to the frame.

5. The storage tube rack according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: in, The bottom of the frame is basically flush. When the storage tube is inserted into the inner cavity of the rack, the bottom of all the storage tubes located in the inner cavity of the rack is substantially flush with the bottom of the rack.

6. A rotating device for a biological sample analysis system, characterized in that, The rotating device includes: Rotational drive; A rotary transmission component, the input end of which cooperates with the rotary driver; A rotary carrier, wherein the output end of the rotary transmission component cooperates with it to drive its rotation, and the carrier surface thereon includes: The first bearing surface; and Second load-bearing surface; A static gear ring, of which there is one, is arranged substantially coaxially with the rotating bearing component and is fixed in place; Multiple rotating tube components are rotatably connected to the rotating support component and arranged in several single arrangements. Any two adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. The stationary gear ring and one of the adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. When the rotating support component rotates, one of the rotating tube components adjacent to the stationary gear ring in the single arrangement rotates, thereby driving the other rotating tube components in the single arrangement to rotate. The rotating tube component in the rotating state drives the storage tube in the storage tube rack of claim 1, which is located above it and inserted externally, to rotate. The height of the first bearing surface is different from the height of the second bearing surface; all the rotating parts for the tube are only provided on the one with a relatively smaller height of the two bearing surfaces; one part of the storage tube rack is located on the one with a relatively larger height of the two bearing surfaces, and the other part is suspended above the one with a relatively smaller height of the two bearing surfaces. When the storage tube is inserted into the other part in the suspended state, the inserted storage tube rotates with the rotating part for the tube located below it.

7. A rotating device for a biological sample analysis system, characterized in that, The rotating device includes: Rotational drive; A rotary transmission component, the input end of which cooperates with the rotary driver; A rotating carrier, wherein the output end of the rotating transmission component cooperates with it to drive its rotation; A static gear ring, of which there is one, is arranged substantially coaxially with the rotating bearing component and is fixed in place; One or more rotatable tube components are rotatably connected to the rotatable support. When the rotatable support rotates, the stationary gear ring and any of the adjacent rotatable tube components rotate to cause the adjacent rotatable tube component to rotate, thereby driving the storage tube in the storage tube rack of any of claims 2 to 5, which is located above it and inserted externally, to rotate. Multiple rotating tube components are rotatably connected to the rotating support component and arranged in several single arrangements. Any two adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. The stationary gear ring and one of the adjacent rotating tube components in the single arrangement are rotatably engaged. When the rotating support component rotates, one of the rotating tube components adjacent to the stationary gear ring in the single arrangement rotates, thereby driving the other rotating tube components in the single arrangement to rotate. The rotating tube component in the rotating state drives the storage tube in the storage tube rack of claim 1, which is located above it and inserted externally, to rotate. Multiple pipe rack limiting components are provided on the rotating support component, including: Limiting body; and A limiting member engaging portion is provided on the limiting body for engaging with the frame fixing portion on the storage tube rack; and The pipe rack limiting area is the area formed between any two adjacent pipe rack limiting members on the rotating support member, for placing a pipe rack for storing pipes; Each of these single arrangements is located within the corresponding limit area of ​​the pipe rack.

8. The rotating device for the biological sample analysis system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The locking part of the limiting component includes: The limiting body latching first portion is disposed on the limiting body, and when it interacts with the frame fixing portion, the limiting body latching first portion undergoes elastic deformation; and The second part of the limiting body clamp is connected to the first part of the limiting body clamp and is located below the first part of the limiting body clamp, and is suspended in the air. When it interacts with the frame fixing part, the second part of the limiting body clamp engages with the frame fixing clamp part on the frame fixing part.

9. The rotating device for the biological sample analysis system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first part of the limiting body is a thin structure, with its top side connected to the limiting body and the other sides not connected to the limiting body.

10. The rotating device for the biological sample analysis system according to claim 7, characterized in that: in, The locking part of the limiting component is located on the upper part of the limiting body.

11. The rotating device for the biological sample analysis system according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that: in, Each of the pipe rack limiting members is arranged along the radial direction of the rotary support member, and all the pipe rack limiting members are distributed in a ring on the rotary support member.

12. The rotating device for the biological sample analysis system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The bearing surface on the rotary bearing member for bearing the tubular rotary member and the pipe support limiting member includes: First load-bearing surface; Second load-bearing surface; The first and second bearing surfaces are located at different heights, and the height difference is basically the same as the height of the rotating pipe component on the bearing surface. All rotating pipe components are installed on the one with the lower height of the two bearing surfaces. The height of the first bearing surface is different from that of the second bearing surface; all the rotating parts for the tube are only located on the one with a relatively lower height of the two bearing surfaces; one part of the storage tube rack is located on the one with a relatively higher height of the two bearing surfaces, and the other part is suspended above the one with a relatively lower height of the two bearing surfaces. When the storage tube is inserted into the other part in the suspended state, the inserted storage tube rotates with the rotating part for the tube located below it.

Images