Sample management system

Abstract

This utility model discloses a sample management system, including a rack, a sample loading area, a waste sample area, a sample loading pusher mechanism, a waste hook mechanism, a sample loading hook mechanism, a track changing mechanism, a fixed-line mechanism, and a return conveyor mechanism. The sample loading pusher mechanism pushes the sample rack onto the track changing mechanism, which then pushes the sample rack onto the sample loading conveyor belt of the fixed-line mechanism. The waste hook mechanism hooks the waste sample rack to the waste sample area. The re-inspection sample rack is conveyed to the track changing conveyor belt via the return conveyor mechanism, achieving self-weight re-inspection. This utility model installs a track changing mechanism, a fixed-line mechanism, and a return conveyor mechanism between the sample loading area and the waste sample area. The sample rack to be inspected can be quickly conveyed from the sample loading area to the track changing mechanism and the fixed-line mechanism to the testing instrument, optimizing the sample rack's conveying path, reducing unnecessary interactions, improving conveying efficiency, and thus meeting the testing requirements of high-speed testing instruments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of in vitro diagnostics, and in particular to a sample management system. Background Technology

[0002] Sample management systems are widely used in various external diagnostic testing equipment. Currently, with the increasing efficiency of diagnostic equipment such as biochemical immunoassay, chemiluminescence, and nucleic acid testing, the performance and functional requirements of sample management systems are becoming increasingly stringent. The speed and efficiency of sample loading and unloading directly affect the efficiency of instruments such as biochemical immunoassay, chemiluminescence, and nucleic acid testing. Improving the transmission efficiency of sample management systems remains a challenge.

[0003] Traditional sample management systems mainly consist of a sample rack loading channel and a loading channel, with a sampling line mechanism (equipped with a conveyor belt and sampling line pushers) installed between the two channels. The sample racks are pushed between the two channels using the pushers. During operation, the sample racks enter the sampling line conveyor belt from the loading channel, where they undergo high / low cup determination and barcode scanning sequentially. They then wait for the instrument's sample needle to collect the sample, after which they enter the loading channel for disposal, as illustrated in the applicant's earlier invention patent CN109387647A. This management system has the following drawbacks:

[0004] First, the entire process involves using a pusher to move the sample rack, resulting in low operating speed and numerous interactive actions. Furthermore, it requires waiting for samples to be collected on the sampling line, which leads to insufficient operating efficiency to support the overall operation. The transfer capacity is only 120 racks / hour, which is low and prevents the high-speed instrument from leveraging its rapid testing advantages.

[0005] In addition, sampling in the sampling line area cannot meet the needs of the laboratory testing line; during the testing process, retested samples can only be processed manually, which further reduces the transmission efficiency.

[0006] Furthermore, miniaturization is one of the main trends in the development of existing in vitro diagnostic instruments. Therefore, new sample management systems should maintain the original size or reduce the volume as much as possible while improving the sample rack transfer efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of this, this utility model proposes a sample management system with a compact structure, which greatly improves the transfer efficiency of sample racks (transfer capacity up to 240 racks / hour), meets the testing needs of high-speed instruments or high-speed laboratory testing lines, thereby enhancing the manufacturer's market competitiveness, and can also automatically retest.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0009] The sample management system of this utility model includes a frame and a sample inlet area and a waste sample area disposed on the frame. The sample inlet area is provided with a sample pusher mechanism, and the waste sample area is provided with a waste hook mechanism. It also includes a sample inlet hook mechanism disposed in the sample inlet area, a sample inlet hook mechanism disposed in the sample inlet area, and a track changing mechanism, a fixed line mechanism, and a return main line mechanism disposed at the connection position of the sample inlet area and the waste sample area. The track changing mechanism is located at the outlet end of the sample inlet area and has a track changing conveyor belt. The hand mechanism pushes the sample rack onto the track-changing conveyor belt; the fixed-line mechanism and the return large-line mechanism are spaced apart at the entrance end of the waste sample area, with the return large-line mechanism located outside the fixed-line mechanism. The track-changing mechanism pushes the sample rack on the track-changing conveyor belt onto the sample feeding conveyor belt of the fixed-line mechanism. The waste hook mechanism hooks the waste sample rack returned to the waste sample conveyor belt of the fixed-line mechanism and sends it to the waste sample area. The re-examination sample rack returns to the return conveyor belt of the return large-line mechanism, which then changes the track of the re-examination sample rack onto the track-changing conveyor belt. The beneficial effects are: This utility model changes the structure of the traditional sample management system. A track-changing mechanism, a fixed-line mechanism, and a return large-line mechanism are installed between the sample feeding area and the waste sample area. The sample rack to be tested can be quickly conveyed from the sample feeding area to the track-changing mechanism and the fixed-line mechanism to the testing instrument, optimizing the sample rack's conveying path, reducing unnecessary interactions, improving conveying efficiency, and thus meeting the testing requirements of high-speed testing instruments.

[0010] This invention also features a return line mechanism. For samples requiring retesting, the return line mechanism returns the samples to the track-changing mechanism, allowing them to be reintroduced into the testing instrument via the path of the sample rack to be tested. This achieves automatic retesting of samples without manual intervention. During operation, a small number of sample racks can be placed directly on the exit side of the sample inlet area, or the sample racks can be directly removed from the waste sample area, thus enabling the insertion and removal of single or small quantities of samples.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, both the sample inlet area and the waste sample area have interconnected fixed trays and movable trays. The fixed trays and movable trays have guides for guiding the sample racks. Both the sample inlet area and the waste sample area have tray supports that cooperate with the movable trays. The movable trays are positioned and secured to the tray supports, and the tray supports are equipped with tray positioning sensors. The advantages are: This invention features both fixed trays and movable trays in both the sample inlet area and the waste sample area, meaning each area's tray is divided into two sections. This not only makes the movable trays lighter but also enables rapid insertion of sample racks and rapid removal of waste sample racks, shortening sample rack placement and removal time and further improving transfer efficiency.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the movable tray and the tray support are connected by a positioning structure; the sample inlet area is equipped with a first end recognition sensor and a first middle recognition sensor; the waste sample area is equipped with a second end recognition sensor and a second middle recognition sensor. In actual installation, the positioning structure uses positioning posts and positioning holes. The positioning posts can also be positioning blocks or positioning plates, and the positioning holes correspond to contour changes, enabling rapid positioning and installation of the movable tray. The combination of the end recognition sensor and the middle recognition sensor can remind operators to replace the movable tray in a timely manner, avoiding placing the sample rack behind the sample pusher of the sample inlet mechanism, ensuring the correct operation of the sample management system, and reducing unnecessary errors.

[0013] Preferably, the sample feeding pusher mechanism includes a first power mechanism installed below the sample feeding area and a sample feeding pusher driven by the first power mechanism. The sample feeding pusher is located above the sample feeding area, causing the sample rack to move from the inlet end to the outlet end of the sample feeding area, thereby transferring the sample rack to the track changing mechanism.

[0014] The waste hook mechanism includes a second power mechanism located below the waste sample area and a waste hook driven by the second power mechanism to move linearly back and forth. The waste hook moves the waste sample rack from the entrance of the waste sample area to its exit end. The hooking direction of the waste hook is opposite to the pushing direction of the pusher.

[0015] Both the first power mechanism and the second power mechanism are synchronous belt drive mechanisms or lead screw motors.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the track-changing mechanism further includes a first base, a third power mechanism disposed on the first base, and a standing seat driven by the third power mechanism to move along the X direction, and the track-changing conveyor belt is disposed on the side of the standing plate near the sample feeding area.

[0017] More preferably, the track-changing mechanism further includes a first stopper disposed on the stand, the first stopper being located at the tail end of the track-changing conveyor belt, the first stopper limiting the sample rack on the track-changing conveyor belt.

[0018] Preferably, the track-changing mechanism further includes a track-changing pusher mechanism, which includes a pusher support driven to move in the Y direction by a fourth power mechanism and a track-changing pusher disposed on the pusher support. A torsion spring is disposed on the mounting shaft of the track-changing pusher to allow the pusher to twist and avoid obstruction. During operation, the track-changing pusher is normally positioned above the track-changing conveyor belt, pushing the sample rack on the track-changing conveyor belt onto the sample feeding conveyor belt. When there is a sample rack behind the track-changing pusher, it can rotate to the outside of the track-changing conveyor belt to ensure the normal pushing of the next sample rack.

[0019] Preferably, the sample feeding hook mechanism includes a fifth power mechanism and a sample feeding hook driven by the fifth power mechanism. A sample rack limiting plate is provided on the outer side of the track-changing conveyor belt. The sample rack limiting plate has a through groove for the sample feeding hook to pass through. The sample feeding hook provides lateral support to the sample rack on the track-changing conveyor belt or hooks the sample rack back to the sample feeding area.

[0020] Preferably, the conveying direction of the return conveyor belt of the return line mechanism is consistent with the conveying direction of the waste sample conveyor belt, and the exit end of the return line mechanism is provided with a second limiter to limit the sample rack.

[0021] Preferably, the fixing line mechanism further includes a fixing line pusher mechanism disposed on one side of the sample feeding conveyor belt for pushing the sample rack. The fixing line pusher mechanism includes a reciprocating pusher driven by an eighth power mechanism and a limiting plate. The limiting plate has an inclined surface, and the moving part of the reciprocating pusher has a rolling part that cooperates with the inclined surface. The sample feeding conveyor belt and the waste sample conveyor belt are both Y-axis conveyors with opposite conveying directions. A barcode scanning component for scanning sample rack information and a high / low cup determination component for judging the height of sample cups are disposed between the sample feeding conveyor belt and the waste sample conveyor belt. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model.

[0023] Figure 2 This is an internal schematic diagram of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Top view.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the movable tray described in this utility model.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the tray support described in this utility model.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the installation position of the sample feeding pusher mechanism described in this utility model.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the discard hook mechanism described in this utility model.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the track-changing mechanism described in this utility model.

[0030] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 Enlarged schematic diagram of the intermediate track changing mechanism.

[0031] Figure 10It is an exploded view of the track changer pusher and pusher support.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the sample injection hook mechanism.

[0033] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the return line mechanism described in this utility model.

[0034] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the fixing line mechanism described in this utility model.

[0035] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Side view.

[0036] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Enlarged diagram of the back-and-forth pushing hands.

[0037] Figure 16 yes Figure 2 Enlarged schematic diagram of the fixed-line mechanism.

[0038] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the transmission mechanism of the track-changing mechanism of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are implemented based on the technical solution of this utility model and provide detailed implementation methods and specific operation processes. However, the protection scope of this utility model is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0040] It should be noted that in the description of this utility model, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations.

[0041] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0042] like Figure 1-3As shown, this utility model proposes a sample management system, including a frame 100 and a sample inlet area 200 and a waste sample area 300 disposed on the frame 100. It also includes a sample inlet pusher mechanism 600 disposed in the sample inlet area 200 and a waste hook mechanism 900 disposed in the waste sample area 300. It also includes a sample inlet hook mechanism 800 disposed in the sample inlet area 200, and a track changing mechanism 700, a fixed line mechanism 400 and a return line mechanism 500 disposed at the connection position of the sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300.

[0043] The sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300 are arranged in parallel and spaced apart. The track-changing mechanism 700 is located at the outlet end of the sample inlet area 200. It has a fifth power mechanism (the fifth power mechanism is a synchronous belt drive mechanism, which has a track-changing conveyor belt 701) and a track-changing pusher mechanism 702. The sample inlet pusher mechanism 600 pushes the sample holder F onto the track-changing conveyor belt 701. The fixed line mechanism 400 and the return line mechanism 500 are arranged at intervals at the entrance end of the waste sample area 300. The return line mechanism 500... Located outside the fixed line mechanism 400, the track-changing pusher mechanism 702 pushes the sample rack on the track-changing conveyor belt 701 to the sample feeding conveyor belt 401 of the fixed line mechanism 400. The discard hook mechanism 900 hooks the discarded sample rack that has returned to the waste sample conveyor belt 402 of the fixed line mechanism 400 and sends it to the waste sample area 300. The re-examination sample rack returns to the return conveyor belt 501 of the return line mechanism 500, and the return line mechanism 500 changes the track of the re-examination sample rack to the track-changing conveyor belt 701.

[0044] This invention features a track-changing mechanism 700, a fixed-line mechanism 400, and a return-to-main-line mechanism 500 installed between the sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300. The sample rack to be tested can be rapidly conveyed from the sample inlet area 200 to the track-changing mechanism 700 and the fixed-line mechanism 400 to the testing instrument. This optimizes the sample rack path, reduces interaction between conveyor belts, and significantly improves the sample rack conveying efficiency, increasing the conveying capacity to 240 racks / hour (twice that of CN109387647A), meeting the testing requirements of high-speed testing instruments. Furthermore, this invention also includes a return-to-main-line mechanism 500. For samples requiring retesting, the return-to-main-line mechanism 500 returns the sample to the track-changing mechanism 700, allowing them to be reintroduced into the testing instrument along the same path as the sample rack, thus achieving automatic retesting of any sample.

[0045] Combination Figure 1-3 It can be seen that the frame 100 has a frame body 101 (a frame structure) and a base 102 (horizontally installed) set on the upper part of the frame body 101. The sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300 are both installed on the base 102. The sample inlet hook mechanism 800 and the sample inlet pusher mechanism 600 are installed on the base 102 corresponding to the sample inlet area 200, and the waste hook mechanism 900 is installed on the base 102 corresponding to the waste sample area 300.

[0046] A track-changing mechanism 700 is installed on a base 102 at the outlet of the sample inlet area 200, while a return line mechanism 500 and a fixed line mechanism 400 are installed on a base 102 on one side of the waste sample area 300. A first flip cover 103 and a second flip cover 104 are provided above the base 102, located in the area between the sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300. In use, the first flip cover 103 can be opened to place a single or a small number of sample holders directly at the outlet end of the sample inlet area 200 for emergency testing; the second flip cover 104 can be opened to remove a single or a small number of discarded sample holders. In other words, this invention allows for the insertion and removal of single or a small number of sample holders, enabling both emergency testing and the removal of single sample holders.

[0047] Combination Figure 1 It is known that a human-computer interaction unit M is installed on one side of the rack 100. The human-computer interaction unit M includes a robotic arm M1 (using an existing conventional omnidirectional robotic arm) mounted on the rack and a computer 202 (or tablet computer) for human-computer interaction. The computer M2 is mounted on the robotic arm M1 and can be stored in the frame 101 below the base 102 when not in use (the rack 100 has a dustproof shell and a door on its side for easy storage). Compared with the existing sample management system, this system enables random installation and storage of the human-computer interaction unit M, making it convenient to operate.

[0048] Combination Figure 4-5 It can be seen that both the sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300 are equipped with a movable tray F1 and a fixed tray F2 from right to left. A tray support F3 is provided on the right side of both the sample inlet area 200 and the waste sample area 300. One end of the tray support F3 has a positioning insert F4, and the end of the movable tray F1 has a corresponding positioning groove. A positioning hole is provided at the other end of the tray support F3, and a positioning post is provided at the other end of the movable tray F1, enabling rapid positioning and installation of the movable tray F1 on the tray support F3. Combined with... Figure 5 It is known that a pallet positioning sensor F5 is installed on the pallet bracket F3 near the positioning plate. When the movable pallet F1 is installed in place, the pallet positioning sensor F5 sends a pallet positioning signal to the computer 202 to ensure normal operation.

[0049] Combination Figure 4 It is known that both the fixed tray F2 and the movable tray F1 have guide components for guiding the sample rack, namely guide plates F11. In actual testing, the movable tray F1 in the sample loading area 200 is usually placed into the area as a whole after the sample rack is loaded. To prevent the sample rack from being placed upside down, a guide strip F12 connected to the guide plate F11 is also provided at one end of the movable tray F1. When the sample rack is facing backwards, it will be impossible to place it into the movable tray F1, fundamentally preventing the sample rack from being placed upside down.

[0050] Combination Figure 4 It can be seen that the right end of the movable tray F1 is also equipped with a handle F13 for easy placement and removal. Combined with... Figure 6 It is known that a first end recognition sensor 201 and a first middle recognition sensor 202 are provided on one side of the sample injection area 200. The first middle recognition sensor 202 (two are installed) is used to identify whether there is a sample rack at the seam between the movable tray F1 and the fixed tray F2, which can serve as the basis for picking up and placing the movable tray F1. Only when the sample injection pusher 601 moves to the right side of the first end recognition sensor 201 can the sample rack be prevented, thereby avoiding placing the sample rack behind the sample injection pusher 601 and affecting the pushing of the sample rack on the newly placed tray.

[0051] Combination Figure 2 It is known that a second end recognition sensor 301 and a second middle recognition sensor 302 are provided on one side of the waste sample area 300. The waste hook 902 pushes the waste sample racks entering the waste sample area 300 onto the movable tray in this area. When the second middle recognition sensor 302 is triggered, the waste hook 902 pushes all the waste sample racks on the fixed tray onto the movable tray that is connected to it at once. When the second end recognition sensor 301 is triggered but the second middle recognition sensor 302 is not triggered, the movable tray on the waste sample area 300 can be taken out as a whole and placed into an empty movable tray. If both sensors are triggered at the same time, the movable tray of the waste sample area 300 is full, the waste sample area stops sample feeding, the full movable tray is taken out and replaced with an empty movable tray.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, combined with Figure 6 It is understood that the sample introduction pusher mechanism 600 includes a first power mechanism 601 (preferably a synchronous belt drive mechanism, installed below the two trays in the sample introduction area) installed below the sample introduction area 200 and a sample introduction pusher 602 driven by the first power mechanism 601. The sample introduction pusher 602 is located above the sample introduction area 200 and can push the sample rack from the inlet end to the outlet end of the sample introduction area 200, so that the sample racks move one by one onto the track-changing conveyor belt 701. The sample introduction pusher 602 preferably has a plate-like structure to ensure that it can pass under the handle of the movable tray F1, thereby pushing the sample rack in the movable tray F1 as a whole onto the fixed tray of the sample introduction area 200. When it is necessary to replace the movable tray F1, ensure that the sample introduction pusher 602 is located on the far right to avoid the new sample rack being located behind the sample introduction pusher 602 and affecting the pushing.

[0053] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 7It is understood that the waste hook mechanism 900 includes a second power mechanism 901 located below the waste sample area 300 and a waste hook 902 (whose hook is a horizontally arranged L-shaped structure) driven by the second power mechanism 901 to move back and forth in a straight line. The initial position of the waste hook 902 is located on the left side of the waste sample conveyor belt 402 of the fixed line mechanism 400, so as to hook the waste sample rack on the waste sample conveyor belt 402 into the fixed tray F2 of the waste sample area 300. This is repeated so that the waste sample rack moves from the entrance of the waste sample area 300 to its exit end. When the movable tray F1 in the area is full, it is taken out and replaced with an empty movable tray F1.

[0054] In actual installation, the waste hook 902 hooks and delivers the waste sample rack from left to right, while the sample feed pusher 602 pushes the sample rack from right to left; the two directions are completely opposite. Since both the waste sample area 300 and the sample feed area 200 have a certain length, the first power mechanism 601 and the second power mechanism 901 are preferably synchronous belt drive mechanisms.

[0055] Combination Figure 2 and 8 As can be seen from -10, the track-changing mechanism 700 also includes a first base 705, a third power mechanism 703 (preferably a synchronous belt drive mechanism) disposed on the first base 705, and a drive mechanism driven by the third power mechanism 703 along the X direction (i.e., Figure 1 The support 704 moves left and right (within the middle). The guide belt 701 is located on the side of the upright plate near the sample loading area 200, and the guide pusher mechanism 702 is located on the other side of the support 704. During operation, the third power mechanism 703 can drive the guide belt 701 and the guide pusher mechanism 702 to move left and right through the support 704, so that the guide belt 701 moves to the exit of the sample loading area 200, ensuring that the sample rack to be tested in the sample loading area 200 moves smoothly onto the guide belt 701. The third power mechanism 703 can drive the guide belt 701 and the sample rack to be tested to move so that they are aligned with the sample loading conveyor belt 401, ensuring the continuous transport of the sample rack to be tested.

[0056] Combination Figure 8 It is understood that the track-changing mechanism 700 also includes a first stopper 706 disposed on the stand 704. The first stopper 706 is located at the tail end of the track-changing conveyor belt 701 and has a first motor 706a and a first stopper arm 706b driven by the first motor 706a. When the first stopper arm 706b is located above the tail end of the track-changing conveyor belt 701, it can limit the sample holder. At this time, the first stopper arm limits the rear side of the sample holder.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the track-changing pusher mechanism 702 includes a pusher support 702b driven by a fourth power mechanism 702a to move linearly back and forth in the Y direction, and a track-changing pusher 702c disposed on the pusher support 702b. A torsion spring 702d is disposed on the mounting shaft of the track-changing pusher 702c to allow the track-changing pusher 702c to twist and avoid obstruction. To prevent the track-changing mechanism from tipping over the next sample rack to be inspected, the track-changing pusher 702c of this utility model can push the sample rack to be inspected along the Y direction to one end of the track-changing conveyor belt 701 and limit it with a first blocking arm 706b, providing room for the sample inlet hook 802 to move. See details below. Figure 17 a-17b; the track changer 702c pushes the sample rack to be inspected. Figure 17 After resetting the position of b, see details. Figure 17 c; The sample injection hook 802 moves a certain distance to block the next sample holder from its current position. The sample injection hook 802 should be in close contact with the next sample holder or have a very small gap. See details... Figure 17 c; The third power mechanism 703 of the track-changing mechanism moves the track-changing conveyor belt 701 to align it with the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. The power mechanism of the track-changing conveyor belt 701 is activated, driving the sample holder to be tested to move towards the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. When the sample holder passes the track-changing pusher 702c, an external force is applied to it, causing the track-changing pusher 702c to rotate at a certain angle. The sample holder passes through and is conveyed onto the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. See details. Figure 17 d. In actual work, repeating this process can achieve continuous transfer of the sample rack to be tested.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, combined with Figure 8-9 As shown in section 11, the sample feeding hook mechanism 800 is installed below the fixed tray F2 in the sample feeding area 200, including the fifth power mechanism 801 and the sample feeding hook 802 driven by the fifth power mechanism 801 (its hook is a horizontally arranged L-shaped structure to ensure that it can hook the sample rack); the outer side of the track changing conveyor belt 701 is provided with a sample rack limiting plate 707 (the sample rack limiting plate 707 and the stand 704 are an integral structure). The sample rack limiting plate 707 has a through groove for the sample feeding hook 802 to pass through. The initial position of the sample feeding hook 802 is to pass through the through groove of the sample rack limiting plate 707 and be located on the outer side of the sample rack limiting plate 707. When the sample rack to be inspected enters the track changing conveyor belt 701, the sample feeding hook 802 moves to the through groove to provide support for the sample rack to be inspected. The sample rack on the track changing conveyor belt 701 can also be hooked to the sample feeding area 200 by the sample feeding hook 802.

[0059] Combination Figure 12It can be seen that the return conveyor 500 is a synchronous belt drive mechanism. The conveying direction of its return conveyor belt 501 is the same as that of the waste sample conveyor belt 402 (both return from the instrument end). The outlet end of the return conveyor 500 is provided with a second limiter 502 to limit the sample rack. The second limiter 502 has a second motor 502a and a second blocking arm 502b driven by the second motor 502a. When the second blocking arm 502b is above the return conveyor belt 501, it is in a blocking and limiting state. When the second blocking arm 502b rotates to a vertical state, the sample rack can be released to meet the conveying requirements of the sample rack.

[0060] Combination Figure 13-16 It is known that the fixed line mechanism 400 also includes a fixed line pusher mechanism 403 disposed on one side of the sample feeding conveyor belt 401 for pushing the sample rack. The fixed line pusher mechanism 403 includes a reciprocating pusher 403a driven by the eighth power mechanism 403c and a limiting plate 403b. The reciprocating pusher 403a includes a guide rail 403a1 disposed in the left and right direction and a slider 403a2 slidably disposed on the guide rail 403a1. The power output of the eighth power mechanism is a sliding seat. The upper part of the sliding seat is fixedly connected to the slider 403a2 by a tension spring 403a4. A rolling element (rolling bearing 403a3) is disposed on the slider 403a2. The limiting plate 403b has an inclined surface. When the rolling bearing 403a3 moves to the limiting plate 403b, the reaction force of the limiting plate 403b causes the rolling bearing 403a3 to roll and drive the moving part to extend above the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. This can block and push the sample rack. When blocking the sample rack at the front, it can unify the position of the sample rack, improve the conveying accuracy, and facilitate the determination of height and reading of information. When blocking the sample rack at the rear, it can push the sample rack together with the sample feeding conveyor 401 to achieve efficient conveying.

[0061] In actual installation, the fixed line mechanism 400 also includes a sixth power mechanism and a seventh power mechanism. Both the sixth power mechanism and the seventh power mechanism are synchronous belt drive mechanisms. The conveyor belt of the sixth power mechanism is the sample feeding conveyor belt 401, and the conveyor belt of the seventh power mechanism is the waste sample conveyor belt 402.

[0062] Between the sample infeed conveyor belt 401 and the waste sample conveyor belt 402, there is a barcode scanner 404 (i.e., barcode scanner) for scanning information about sample cups and sample racks, and a height / low cup determination component 405 for determining the height of sample cups (the height / low cup determination component 405 includes a high cup sensor and a low cup sensor; the height / low cup determination component 405 can also be a CCD vision camera). The barcode scanner can scan the sample cups on the sample rack one by one, and after the sample cups are scanned, it scans the sample rack and records the information of the sample rack and each sample on the sample rack.

[0063] In actual operation, the initial position of the reciprocating pusher 403a is to extend above the sample feeding conveyor belt 401 and be located at the output end of the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. When the sample holder to be inspected on the variable track conveyor belt 701 is conveyed to the sample feeding conveyor belt 401, the reciprocating pusher 403a has a limiting function, blocking the sample holder, unifying the position of the sample holder, and improving the conveying accuracy of the sample holder. Because the limiting plate 403b has a certain length, the reciprocating pusher 403a can extend a certain distance on the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. As the reciprocating pusher 403a continues to move forward, it acquires the height information of the sample cups on the sample holder one by one. When the sample holder passes the barcode scanner, it identifies the barcode information of each sample cup one by one, and finally reads the barcode information of the sample holder. During this process, the sample feeding conveyor belt 401 conveys, and the reciprocating pusher 403a moves forward with the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. After the barcode scanning is completed, the bearing of the reciprocating pusher 403a loses the restriction of the limiting plate 403b and exits the sample feeding conveyor belt 401. The sample feeding conveyor belt 401 continues to convey, and the reciprocating pusher 403a extends again and is located at the rear end of the sample holder, working together with the sample feeding conveyor belt 401 to... The sample rack is pushed to the instrument end; the discarded sample rack returned from the instrument end travels back and forth on the waste sample conveyor belt 402. When the sample rack is in place, the waste hook 902 hooks the sample rack to the waste sample area 300 and then resets, waiting for the next discarded sample rack to be delivered; for samples that need to be re-examined, the instrument end sends the re-examined sample rack to the return conveyor belt 501 of the return line mechanism 500, and the second stopper limits the re-examined sample rack; when the track-changing conveyor belt 701 moves to the position aligned with the return conveyor belt 501... When there is no sample holder on the track-changing conveyor belt 701 at this time, the second blocking arm 502b of the second blocker rotates to the vertical position, the return conveyor belt 501 is in the passable state, and then the re-examination sample holder is conveyed to the track-changing conveyor belt 701. The track-changing conveyor belt 701 moves to the position aligned with the sample injection conveyor belt 401, and the re-examination sample holder is conveyed to the sample injection conveyor belt 401. The cup reading and barcode scanning operations are repeated, and then the re-examination sample holder is sent to the instrument end to realize automatic re-examination without the need for manual operation.

[0064] Finally, it should be emphasized that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit this utility model. Although this utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still make modifications to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments without creative effort, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A sample management system, comprising a frame and a sample inlet area and a waste sample area disposed on the frame, wherein the sample inlet area is provided with a sample inlet pusher mechanism and the waste sample area is provided with a waste hook mechanism, characterized in that: It also includes a sample feeding hook mechanism located in the sample feeding area, and a track changing mechanism, a fixed line mechanism, and a return line mechanism located at the junction of the sample feeding area and the waste sample area. The track changing mechanism is located at the exit end of the sample feeding area and has a track changing conveyor belt. The sample feeding pusher mechanism pushes the sample rack onto the track changing conveyor belt. The fixed line mechanism and the return line mechanism are spaced apart at the entrance end of the waste sample area. The return line mechanism is located outside the fixed line mechanism. The track changing mechanism pushes the sample rack on the track changing conveyor belt onto the sample feeding conveyor belt of the fixed line mechanism. The waste hook mechanism hooks the waste sample rack that has returned to the waste sample conveyor belt of the fixed line mechanism and sends it to the waste sample area. The re-examination sample rack returns to the return conveyor belt of the return line mechanism, and the return line mechanism changes the track of the re-examination sample rack onto the track changing conveyor belt.

2. The sample management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: Both the sample inlet area and the waste sample area have interconnected fixed trays and movable trays, and the fixed trays and movable trays have guides for guiding the sample rack; both the sample inlet area and the waste sample area have tray supports that cooperate with the movable trays, the movable trays are positioned and locked onto the tray supports, and the tray supports are equipped with tray positioning sensors.

3. The sample management system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The movable tray and the tray support are connected by a positioning structure; the sample feeding area is equipped with a first end recognition sensor and a first middle recognition sensor; the waste sample area is equipped with a second end recognition sensor and a second middle recognition sensor.

4. The sample management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sample injection pusher mechanism includes a first power mechanism installed below the sample injection area and a sample injection pusher driven by the first power mechanism. The sample injection pusher is located above the sample injection area, causing the sample rack to move from the inlet end to the outlet end of the sample injection area. The waste hook mechanism includes a second power mechanism located below the waste sample area and a waste hook driven by the second power mechanism to move linearly back and forth. The waste hook moves the waste sample rack from the entrance of the waste sample area to its exit end. The hooking direction of the waste hook is opposite to the pushing direction of the pusher. Both the first power mechanism and the second power mechanism are synchronous belt drive mechanisms or lead screw motors.

5. The sample management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The track-changing mechanism also includes a first base, a third power mechanism disposed on the first base, and a standing seat driven by the third power mechanism to move along the X direction. The track-changing conveyor belt is disposed on the side of the standing plate near the sample feeding area.

6. The sample management system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The track-changing mechanism also includes a first stopper disposed on the stand, the first stopper being located at the tail end of the track-changing conveyor belt.

7. The sample management system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The track-changing mechanism also includes a track-changing pusher mechanism, which includes a pusher support that is driven to move linearly back and forth in the Y direction by a fourth power mechanism and a track-changing pusher disposed on the pusher support. A torsion spring is disposed on the mounting shaft of the track-changing pusher.

8. The sample management system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The sample feeding hook mechanism includes a fifth power mechanism and a sample feeding hook driven by the fifth power mechanism. A sample rack limiting plate is provided on the outer side of the track-changing conveyor belt. The sample rack limiting plate has a through groove for the sample feeding hook to pass through. The sample feeding hook provides lateral support to the sample rack on the track-changing conveyor belt or hooks the sample rack back to the sample feeding area.

9. The sample management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The return conveyor belt of the return line mechanism is in the same direction as the waste sample conveyor belt, and a second limiter is provided at the exit end of the return line mechanism to limit the sample rack.

10. The sample management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixed line mechanism also includes a fixed line pusher mechanism disposed on one side of the sample feeding conveyor belt for pushing the sample rack. The fixed line pusher mechanism includes a reciprocating pusher driven by an eighth power mechanism and a limiting plate. The limiting plate has an inclined surface, and the moving part of the reciprocating pusher has a rolling part that cooperates with the inclined surface. Both the sample infeed conveyor belt and the waste sample conveyor belt are Y-axis conveyors with opposite conveying directions. Between the sample infeed conveyor belt and the waste sample conveyor belt, there is a barcode scanning component for scanning information about the sample cups and sample racks, and a high / low cup determination component for judging the height of the sample cups.

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