Pre-treatment module and sample processing system

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of pretreatment module and sample processing system, setting up from loading site corresponding to sample track by uncapping module, to integrate uncapping site and loading site into same physical site, and loading site can block sample seat, to carry sample tube on sample seat and stay on loading site, to carry out uncapping operation to the sample tube by uncapping module, loading site releases sample seat after the sample tube completes uncapping, realizes the sample tube of sample, without transferring sample tube between uncapping site and loading site;In this way, without setting two sets of sample transfer manipulator and two sets of transfer control process respectively complete sample tube uncapping travel and loading travel transfer, system architecture and control can be simplified, cost is reduced, and sample processing efficiency can be improved, while sample overflow and pollution can be avoided in the process of transferring completed uncapping sample tube from uncapping site to loading site, to improve the reliability of system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of biological sample processing and detection technology, specifically to the field of in vitro diagnostics, and particularly to a pre-processing module and sample processing system. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, the pretreatment module of TLA (Total Laboratory Automation) includes a sample loading module for loading and storing sample tubes, a capping module for opening sample tubes, and a transport unit for transferring the opened sample tubes from the pretreatment module to the sample analysis equipment. The capping module and the transport unit are separate and independently configured. In use, a sample transfer robot moves the sample tube from the sample loading module to the corresponding capping position on the capping module. The capping robot in the capping module opens the sample tube, and then another sample transfer robot transfers the opened sample tube to the sample holder on the loading position of the transport unit. The sample holder then carries the sample tube to the sample analysis equipment. The pre-processing module in related technologies requires two sets of sample transfer robots to complete the opening of the sample tube and the transfer of the sample tube to the loading position after opening. It also requires the sequential execution of two sets of transfer control processes, which is costly, complex to control and inefficient, affecting the sample processing throughput of the system. In addition, sample spillage and contamination are prone to occur during the process of transferring the opened sample tube from the opening position to the loading position, which reduces the reliability of the system. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of the shortcomings of the above-mentioned related technologies, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a preprocessing module and sample processing system to solve the problems of complex structure and control and high cost of preprocessing modules in the related technologies.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a pretreatment module for carrying and processing samples, including a control module, a sample injection module, a cap opening module, a waste cap container, a transfer module, and a sample injection track;

[0005] The sample injection module is configured to carry the sample tube, and the sample injection track is configured to carry the sample holder. The sample holder carrying the sample tube is transferred to the main track module to complete the sample injection. The main track module is used to transfer the sample holder carrying the sample tube to a position in the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed.

[0006] The sample introduction track is equipped with a loading position that can block and allow the sample holder to pass;

[0007] The opening module corresponds to the loading position setting;

[0008] The control module controls the sample holder carried on the sample inlet track to be transported and blocked at the loading position, controls the transfer module to transfer the sample tube from the sample inlet module to the sample holder at the loading position, controls the cap opening module to remove the cap of the sample tube at the loading position and transfer it into the waste cap container, and controls the loading position to release the sample holder carrying the sample tube with the cap opened.

[0009] This utility model also provides a sample processing system, which is a sample scheduling system, including a main rail module and a preprocessing module as described above. The main rail module is used to receive the sample holder from the preprocessing module and transfer the sample holder to a position in the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed; the sample holder carries the sample tube to be processed.

[0010] Alternatively, the sample processing system may be a sample analysis system, which includes a sample processing device, a main rail module, and a pre-processing module as described above. The main rail module receives the sample holder from the pre-processing module and transfers it to a position on the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed. The sample holder carries the sample tube to be processed. The sample processing device processes the sample in the sample tube to be processed.

[0011] The pretreatment module and sample processing system provided by this utility model integrate the capping module with the loading position on the sample injection track, thus combining the capping and loading positions into a single physical location. The loading position blocks the sample holder, allowing the sample tube on the sample holder to rest on the loading position for the capping module to open. After the sample tube is capped, the loading position releases the sample holder to allow sample injection, eliminating the need to transfer the sample tube between the capping and loading positions. This eliminates the need for two separate sample transfer robots and two separate transfer control processes to handle the sample tube opening and loading strokes, simplifying the system architecture and control, reducing costs, and improving sample processing efficiency, thereby increasing the system's sample throughput. Furthermore, it avoids sample spillage and contamination issues that can easily occur during the transfer of capped sample tubes from the capping to the loading position, as is common in related technologies, thus improving system reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the sample processing system provided in this embodiment of the utility model Figure 1 ;

[0013] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the sample processing system provided in this embodiment of the utility model Figure 2 ;

[0014] Figure 3Schematic diagram of the sample processing system provided in this embodiment of the utility model Figure 3 ;

[0015] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the preprocessing module structure provided in an embodiment of the present utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this utility model from the content disclosed in this specification. This utility model can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of this utility model.

[0017] It should be noted that the illustrations provided in this embodiment are only schematic representations of the basic concept of this utility model. Therefore, the drawings only show components related to this utility model and are not drawn according to the actual number, shape, and size of the components in implementation. In actual implementation, the form, quantity, and proportion of each component can be arbitrarily changed, and the layout of the components may also be more complex. The structures, proportions, sizes, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings are only used to complement the content disclosed in the specification for those skilled in the art to understand and read, and are not intended to limit the implementation conditions of this utility model. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportional relationships, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and purposes that this utility model can produce, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in this utility model. Meanwhile, the terms such as "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "middle" and "one" used in this specification are only for clarity of description and are not intended to limit the scope of implementation of this utility model. Changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, should also be considered as within the scope of implementation of this utility model.

[0018] Example 1

[0019] This embodiment provides a sample processing system. This system can be a pipeline system (e.g., TLA or cascaded system) comprising two or more sample processing devices, or a standalone system comprising only one sample processing device (e.g., a pre-processing module and a sample processing device working together). The system employs a saturation scheduling control mechanism during sample scheduling. This ensures that the sample processing device has sufficient samples to process (e.g., sample aspiration for analysis or sample preparation), without reducing the processing speed of the sample processing device. It also controls the number of samples entering the main track to be moderate (i.e., appropriate), leaving sufficient spare scheduling space for the main track channel to minimize "traffic jams." Simultaneously, it prevents each device unit of the sample processing system from being "overloaded," improving the overall system's flexibility, emergency response capability, and service life. Furthermore, it is more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient (e.g., the main track does not carry excessive samples, avoiding waste of energy required to drive the main track and controlling costs, and further extending the main track's service life). For ease of understanding, the sample processing system is described below with an example.

[0020] The sample processing system provided in this embodiment includes a control module, a preprocessing module, a main track, and at least one sample processing device, wherein:

[0021] The pretreatment module is configured to at least hold sample tubes to be processed. Each sample tube contains a sample to be tested, which may include, but is not limited to, at least one of blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and fecal samples. The pretreatment module has an injection track that holds the sample holder. The sample tubes to be processed are transferred to the sample holder and then transported to the main track via the injection track. In this embodiment, one sample holder holds only one sample tube, meaning sample scheduling is performed on a per-sample-tube basis, further enhancing the flexibility of sample scheduling control. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the sample holder may be a dual-tube sample holder capable of holding two sample tubes, differing from a single-tube sample holder in that sample scheduling is performed on a per-two-tube basis. Similarly, while meeting the flexible scheduling requirements of the current application scenario, the sample holder may also be a multi-tube sample holder capable of holding three or more sample tubes; these will not be elaborated upon further here, nor are they subject to rigid restrictions. Based on the above analysis, the basic function of the preprocessing module in this embodiment is to carry the sample tube to be processed and the sample holder, and to transfer the sample tube to the sample holder, and then use the sample holder as a carrier to transfer it into the main track through the sample injection track.

[0022] The main track includes at least one first track module, which is adapted to a sample processing device. The first track module includes a first track and a second track, with a connected inlet and outlet between the first track and the second track. A processing position is provided in the area near the outlet on the second track. At least a portion of the area of ​​the second track between the processing position and the inlet constitutes a first buffer area capable of holding at least N sample seats. In this embodiment, N is an integer greater than or equal to 3 and / or the value of N is configured based at least on the sample processing speed of the sample processing device.

[0023] The control module is configured to control the sample holder carrying the sample tube to be processed to be transferred into the first track, control at least one of the sample holders to enter the first buffer area through the above-mentioned entrance in sequence, control the sample holder in the first buffer area to be transferred to the processing position, control the processing position to block the sample holder so that the sample processing device can process the sample in the sample tube it carries, and control the processing position to release the sample holder after the sample on the sample holder has been processed.

[0024] The control module is also configured to perform flow limiting control on sample seats transferred into the first track and / or the second track when the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer is equal to M, wherein M is less than or equal to N and M is an integer greater than or equal to 2. In this embodiment, the flow limiting control on sample seats transferred into the first track and / or the second track includes only sample seats to be transferred into the first track and / or the second track, or includes sample seats transferred into the first track and / or the second track as well as sample seats currently being prepared to be transferred into the first track and / or the second track.

[0025] In other words, this embodiment intelligently controls the number of sample seats (mapped to the number of samples) cached in the first buffer area on the main track, so that the number of samples cached on the main track is moderate. This ensures that the sample processing equipment has enough samples to process without reducing the processing speed of the sample processing equipment, while also leaving enough spare scheduling space for the main track channel to minimize the occurrence of "traffic jams". At the same time, it keeps each equipment unit of the sample processing system in the best working condition as much as possible, which can improve the flexibility, emergency handling capability and service life of the entire system, and is more conducive to environmental protection and energy saving.

[0026] In this embodiment, when the current number of samples cached in the first buffer is saturated, flow limiting control can be immediately implemented on the sample holders transferred into the first track and / or the second track. This ensures that the sample processing device has enough samples to process without reducing its processing speed. For example, in some embodiments, the first buffer can cache a maximum of N sample holders, where M is equal to N (i.e., N minus M equals 0). In this embodiment, when the control module detects that the number of samples currently cached in the first buffer is equal to M (i.e., equal to N), meaning that the current number of sample holders cached in the first buffer is saturated, flow limiting control is implemented on the sample holders transferred into the first track and / or the second track.

[0027] In this embodiment, when the number of sample slots currently cached in the first buffer is not saturated but is about to saturate, the current flow control for sample slots transferred into the first and / or second tracks can be performed in advance. That is, in this embodiment, flow control can be performed in advance at the appropriate time when the sample slots cached in the first buffer are not saturated but are about to saturate, which can further avoid various problems caused by over-saturation of the main track. For example, in some examples, the maximum number of sample slots that the first buffer can cache is N, and the value of M is less than N, for example, N minus M equals 1, 2, or 3; of course, depending on the specific application scenario, the value of N minus M can also equal 4, 5, or 6, etc., which will not be elaborated here. In this example, when the control module detects that the number of samples currently cached in the first buffer is equal to M (but has not yet reached N), it performs flow control on the sample slots transferred into the first and / or second tracks.

[0028] For example, in other examples, the first buffer can cache a maximum of N+g sample slots, where g is an integer greater than or equal to 1; the value of M is equal to N. In this example, when the control module detects that the number of samples currently cached in the first buffer is equal to M (i.e., equal to N), it performs rate limiting control on the sample slots transferred into the first and / or second tracks. Although the value of M in this example is equal to N, it can still achieve rate limiting control on the sample slots transferred into the first and / or second tracks in advance when the number of sample slots currently cached in the first buffer is not yet saturated but is about to be saturated.

[0029] For example, in some other examples, the first buffer can cache a maximum of N+g sample seats, and the value of M is configured to be less than N, thereby realizing a dual-gradient oversaturation prevention mechanism and further improving the reliability of control.

[0030] In this embodiment, the configuration of N satisfies the basic principle that, given a sufficient sample size in the current application scenario, the sample processing device has enough samples to process without affecting its processing speed. Under this principle, in some implementations, the value of N can be user-configurable, or configured by the manufacturer by default and not adjustable by the user, or configured by the manufacturer by default for user selection. The value of N can be configured based on at least one of the following: the total number of samples in the current application scenario, user preference, and the maximum number of sample seats that the first buffer can physically support. In other implementations, the value of N can be configured based on the sample processing speed of the sample processing device corresponding to the processing position on the second track. For example, the value of N can be calculated and determined based on at least one of the following: the sample processing speed of the sample processing device, the time required to transmit sample seats in the first buffer to the processing position (or the speed corresponding to the transmission of sample seats on the second track), and the maximum number of sample seats that the first buffer can physically support. Optionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the sample processing speed of the sample processing device and the speed of the second track sample carrier can be set to have at least two different speed settings for configuration or user selection, and the corresponding N value changes based on the speed settings.

[0031] In this embodiment, the value of M can be flexibly configured based on whether rate limiting control is initiated at an appropriate time before the first buffer saturates, or when the first buffer is saturated, as described in the above example; and when rate limiting control is initiated at an appropriate time before the first buffer saturates, the specific advance time gradient required can be flexibly configured. Optionally, the value of M can be configured by the user to meet personalized needs (i.e., flexibility), or it can be configured by the manufacturer by default and not allowed to be changed arbitrarily by the user to ensure security and reliability; or the manufacturer can configure multiple default values ​​and support user selection, thereby achieving compatibility between security, reliability, and flexibility requirements.

[0032] It should be understood that the detection of the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer area in this embodiment can be achieved by at least one of the following methods, including but not limited to counting, setting a position detection sensor at the position corresponding to the M value in the first buffer area, and collecting images in the first buffer area by an image acquisition sensor to analyze the number of sample seats. No limitation is imposed here.

[0033] In some embodiments of this example, when the current limiting control conditions of the above example are met, the control module can only perform current limiting control on the sample holders transferred into the first track. Since the sample holders in the second track all originate from the first track, performing current limiting control on the sample holders transferred into the first track also achieves current limiting control from the source, which can ensure the reliability of the current limiting effect, as well as the convenience of control and the simplification of the control process.

[0034] In other embodiments of this example, when the flow limiting control conditions of the above example are met, the control module can only perform flow limiting control on the sample holders transferred into the second track, that is, the flow of sample holders in the first track is not restricted. In this embodiment, while limiting the flow of sample holders in the second track to prevent oversaturation, the normal and flexible scheduling of the first track is guaranteed, that is, the compatibility of anti-saturation scheduling and normal and flexible scheduling of sample holders in the main track is achieved.

[0035] In some other embodiments of this example, when the current limiting control conditions of the above example are met, the control module can perform current limiting control on both the sample holders transferred into the first track and the sample holders transferred into the second track. That is, a two-pronged approach is adopted to avoid the failure or instability of current limiting control caused by the bug or fault that exists when only one track is subjected to current limiting control. Therefore, the reliability of current limiting control can be improved.

[0036] In summary, this embodiment demonstrates that when performing flow limiting control, at least one of the first and second tracks can be flexibly selected for flow limiting control based on specific application requirements, thus balancing reliability, flexibility, and convenience. In some implementations of this embodiment, a flow limiting mode configuration interface can be provided. This interface can be a configuration screen, a physical switching button, or a combination of both. The interface can provide at least three flow limiting modes: Mode 1 for flow limiting the first track, Mode 2 for flow limiting the second track, and Mode 3 for flow limiting the first and second tracks. During use, the flow limiting mode configuration command can be monitored, and the appropriate flow limiting mode can be selected based on the command. This configuration command can be generated based on user configuration / selection or triggered by preset flow limiting conditions. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: Modes 1 to 3 correspond to different time periods; Modes 1 to 3 correspond to different application scenarios (e.g., ordinary testing scenarios, expedited testing scenarios, urgent testing scenarios; or physical examination sample scenarios, outpatient sample scenarios, inpatient sample scenarios, etc.).

[0037] In some embodiments of this example, the area between the processing position and the entrance on the second track constitutes a first buffer area. In this example, the processing position is also used to block the sample seat closest to the processing position in the first buffer area (i.e., the first sample seat currently at the front of the first buffer area), and can also block the sample seats after the first sample seat in the first buffer area. That is, in this embodiment, while the processing position blocks the sample seat on the processing position so that the sample processing device can process the sample in the sample tube on it, it also blocks the sample seat in the first buffer area at the same time. After the processing position releases the processed sample seat, the sample seat that was blocked by it automatically enters and is blocked at the processing position. The blocking and release of different sample seats are linked through one processing position, which is simple in structure and highly efficient in control.

[0038] In other embodiments of this example, a first release position for blocking and releasing sample seats is provided between the processing position and the entrance on the second track. The area of ​​the second track between the first release position and the entrance constitutes a first buffer area. The control module is further configured to control the first release position to block the sample seat closest to the processing position in the first buffer area (i.e., the first sample seat currently at the front of the first buffer area), and to control the first release position to release the blocked sample seat so that the sample seat is transmitted to the processing position for processing by the sample processing device. In this embodiment, by setting a first release position independent of the processing position to control the blocking and release of sample seats in the first buffer area, interference with the processing position is avoided. Furthermore, during application, the processing position and the first release position can be linked and controlled in certain time periods or application scenarios. For example, when the processing position blocks the sample holder, the first release position blocks the sample holder simultaneously. When the processing position releases the sample holder, the first release position can release the sample holder simultaneously or slightly earlier than the processing position. In certain time periods or application scenarios, the processing position and the first release position can be controlled independently, and their blocking and release of the sample holder can be controlled according to the current application requirements.

[0039] In some embodiments of this example, when the control module performs current limiting control on the sample holder transferred into the first track, the control method may include, but is not limited to, any one of the following:

[0040] Method 1.1: Before the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer is less than M, no sample seats are allowed to enter the first track. This control method is similar to the clearing control method, which can ensure that no new sample seats will enter the second track before the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer is less than M, thus avoiding interference from newly entered sample seats and enabling the first buffer to quickly change from a saturated or near-saturated state to the expected normal state (also known as the ideal state).

[0041] Method 1.2: Before the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer is less than M, sample seats carrying samples with the highest priority are not allowed to enter the first track, while sample seats carrying samples with a higher priority than the first priority are allowed to enter the first track. This control method, while achieving saturation control of the sample seats cached in the first buffer, also takes into account the normal or expedited testing needs of high-priority samples, making the control method more intelligent and more compatible.

[0042] Method 1.3: After releasing one sample seat at the first release position and / or processing position, one sample seat is allowed to enter the first track; this control method adopts a "one out, one in" system, which can keep the number of samples buffered in the first buffer area in an ideal and stable state as much as possible, so that the sample processing device always has samples to process, while avoiding overload.

[0043] In some embodiments of this example, the control module performs current limiting control on the sample holder transferred into the second track, including any one of the following:

[0044] Method 2.1: Before the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer is less than M, no sample seat is allowed to enter the second track; this processing method is similar to the effect of Method 1.1 above, and will not be described again here.

[0045] Method 2.2: Before the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer is less than M, sample seats carrying test samples with the first priority are not allowed to enter the second track, while sample seats carrying test samples with the higher priority than the first priority are allowed to enter the second track. This processing method is similar to the effect of Method 1.2 above, and will not be described again here.

[0046] Method 2.3: After releasing one sample seat at the first release position and / or processing position, one sample seat is allowed to enter the second track; this processing method is similar to the effect of Method 1.3 above, and will not be described again here.

[0047] In this embodiment, when the control module applies current limiting control to both the sample holders transferred into the first track and the sample holders transferred into the second track, the current limiting control method used for the first track can correspond to the current limiting control method used for the second track (e.g., methods 1.1 to 1.3 correspond one-to-one with methods 2.1 to 2.3 mentioned above), or they can not correspond. The user can choose as needed. Optionally, this embodiment can provide a specific current limiting control method configuration interface (which can also be a configuration interface or physical buttons, etc.) for the user to configure the current limiting control method as needed.

[0048] In this embodiment, when the current limiting control conditions of the above example are met, after the control module performs current limiting control on the sample holders transferred into the first track and / or the second track, it cancels the current limiting control on the sample holders in the first track and / or the second track when it detects that the current limiting release condition is triggered; wherein the current limiting release condition includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0049] Condition 1: When the number of sample seats currently cached in the first buffer decreases from M to K, the value of K is one of 0 to M-1. For example, the value can be 0 to M divided by 2 and rounded down. For example, when the value of M is 10, the value of K can be one of 0 to 5. When the value of M is 6, the value of K can be any one of 0 to 5 or 0 to 4. For example, the value of K can be fixed as 0, 1, 2 or 3, etc.

[0050] Condition 2: No sample holders are detected to be entering the first and / or second tracks within the subsequent preset time period;

[0051] Condition 3: Receive a command to cancel rate limiting control; this command can be issued by the user on demand, or it can be automatically generated when a preset condition for canceling rate limiting is detected.

[0052] In some embodiments of this example, the sample processing system may further include a post-processing module configured to receive a sample holder from the first track, the sample holder from the first track including at least one of the following:

[0053] The samples are transferred from the exit on the second track to the sample holders on the first track (including the sample holders of samples processed by the sample analysis equipment);

[0054] The sample is transferred from the preprocessing module to the first track, and only the first track is directly transferred to the postprocessing module (without the second track).

[0055] That is, in this embodiment, the first track can be directly connected to the post-processing module. After the sample holder on the second track is processed by the sample processing equipment, it is transferred to the first track through the outlet, and then continues to be transported to the post-processing module through the first track to achieve sample recovery. In this embodiment, the first track module may only include the first track and the second track, which is simple in structure and low in cost.

[0056] In another embodiment of this example, the preprocessing module also includes a sample unloading track for recovering the sample holder from the main track; that is, the preprocessing module in this embodiment can also realize the sample recovery function, which can realize at least a part of the functions of the postprocessing module in the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the setting of a separate postprocessing module can be omitted, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing costs. Of course, in other application examples, at least one additional postprocessing device can be set as needed to organically combine with the preprocessing device to improve the overall function and performance of the system.

[0057] In this example, the first track module also includes a third track. In some application scenarios, the third track is connected to the sample inlet track of the preprocessing module and the first track of the first track module. The control module is configured to transfer the sample holder on the sample inlet track into the first track through the third track, and control the sample holder on the second track to be transferred into the first track through the outlet, and then transferred to the sample unloading track of the preprocessing module through the first track. That is, in this application scenario, the third track is used as the sample loading track of the first track module. No operation related to changing the sample holder to the second track or performing corresponding flow limiting control will be performed on the third track. The third track is only responsible for simple sample loading and transfer. Therefore, external interference can be avoided as much as possible during the sample loading process, ensuring the smoothness of sample loading and transfer. Especially when applied to the production line scenario, it can ensure the stable and reliable transmission of the sample loading channel.

[0058] In other application scenarios, the third track is connected to the sample loading track of the pretreatment module and the first track of the first track module. The control module is configured to control the sample holder on the injection track to be transferred into the first track, and to control the sample holder on the second track to be transferred into the first track via the outlet, then into the third track via the first track, and finally into the sample loading track via the third track. In other words, in this application scenario, the first track is used as the sample loading track of the first track module, and the third track is used as the sample loading or recovery track of the first track module. The sample holder can be directly loaded onto the first track, which is the sample loading track, and then transferred to the second track as needed. The sample loading path is the shortest, which helps to improve the sample loading efficiency.

[0059] To further facilitate understanding, the following will be combined with... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The two sample processing systems shown are further illustrated with examples.

[0060] See Figure 1 The sample processing system shown includes a preprocessing module 100, a main track, at least one sample processing device 300, and a control module (not shown in the figure). The main track includes at least one first track module 200. Figure 1 The diagram shows two first track modules 200 connected in sequence, wherein:

[0061] The pretreatment module 100 includes a conveying unit 170 capable of carrying and transporting the sample holder 10, a loading unit capable of carrying sample tubes, and a transfer module (not shown in the figure); the conveying unit 170 includes an inlet track 171 and an outlet track 172; the loading unit includes at least one of an ordered inlet / outlet module 110 and a disordered inlet / outlet module 120, the ordered inlet / outlet module 110 is provided with a sample tube tray 30, the sample tube tray 30 having a plurality of sample holes for receiving sample tubes; the ordered inlet / outlet module 110 is configured to allow the sample tube tray 30 carrying sample tubes to be placed in and removed; the disordered inlet / outlet module 120 is configured to support the pouring of sample tubes carrying samples by tilting; the transfer module is configured to transfer at least the sample tubes on the loading unit to the sample holder carried by the inlet track 171.

[0062] The first track module 200 includes a first track 232, a second track 233, and a third track 231. The first track 232 and the second track 233 have the same transmission direction and a connected inlet I and outlet O. A processing position R36 is provided on the second track 233 near the outlet O. A first release position R37, which can block and release sample seats, is provided between the processing position R36 and the inlet I. The area of ​​the second track 233 between the first release position R37 and the inlet I constitutes a first buffer area C that can hold at least N sample seats. In this embodiment, the first buffer area C can buffer a maximum of 14 sample seats. Accordingly, the value of N can be 14, or it can be set to 13 or 12 as needed to perform early current limiting control, etc., when the first buffer area C is about to saturate. The transmission direction of the third track 231 is opposite to that of the first track 232. The input end of the third track 231 is connected to the sample inlet track 171, and the output end is connected to the first track 232. The output end of the first track 232 is connected to the sample outlet track 172.

[0063] In this embodiment, the control module controls the transfer module to transfer the sample tube to the sample holder 10 on the sample inlet track 171. The control module then controls the sample inlet track 171 to transfer the sample holder 10 carrying the sample tube to the third track 231 (either directly to the third track 231, or transferred to the end of the sample inlet track 171 and then transferred to the third track 231 via various transfer or track-changing components). The control module then controls the third track 231 to receive the sample holder 10 from the sample inlet track 171 and transfer it to the first track 232 via its output end. The control module then controls the first track 232 to transfer at least a portion of the sample holders into the first buffer area C via the inlet I. The control module controls the first release position R37 to block the sample holder 10 closest to the processing position R36 within the first buffer area C, and when the conditions are met, controls the first release position R37 to release the sample holder 10 and block the next sample holder 10, and so on. Of course, in some application examples, the first release position R37 can be controlled to remain in a release state for a long period or for a certain time period. The control module also controls the sample holder 10, carrying the sample tube, to be transferred to the processing position R36 after being released through the first release position R37, so that the sample processing device 300 can process the sample in the sample tube, such as including but not limited to sample aspiration and mixing. The control module also controls the sample carried by the sample holder 10 on the processing position R36 to be transferred to the first track 232 through the outlet O after being processed, and then to the sample unloading track 172 through the first track 232. The sample unloading track 172 transfers the sample holder 10 to the sample unloading position UL1. The control module controls the transfer module to transfer the sample on the sample holder 10 to the corresponding position in the sample loading unit to achieve sample recovery. The sample holder 10 can continue to circulate in the transport unit 170.

[0064] In this embodiment, when the control module detects that the number of sample seats 10 currently buffered in the first buffer area C is M, it can perform flow limiting control on the sample seats 10 transferred into the first track 232 and / or the second track 233 as shown in the above embodiments. Optionally, in this embodiment, when the control module detects that the flow limiting release condition is triggered, it cancels the flow limiting control on the sample seats 10 in the first track 232 and / or the second track 233. In addition, in some application scenarios of this example, the first release bit R37 can be canceled, and the processing bit R36 can be reused as the first release bit. At this time, the area between the processing bit R36 and the entry point I on the second track 233 constitutes the first buffer area.

[0065] See Figure 2 Another sample processing system shown includes a preprocessing module (not shown in the figure, which may be, but is not limited to, other types). Figure 1 The preprocessing module shown below, hereinafter referred to as Figure 1 The preprocessing module shown is illustrated as an example. The system includes a main track, at least one sample processing device 300, and a control module (not shown in the figure). The main track includes at least one first track module 200. Figure 1 The diagram shows two first track modules 200 connected in sequence, wherein:

[0066] The first track module 200 includes a first track 232, a second track 233, and a third track 231. The first track 232 and the second track 233 have the same transmission direction and a common inlet I and outlet O. A processing position R41 is provided on the second track 233 near the outlet O. The area between the processing position R41 and the inlet I on the second track 233 constitutes a first buffer area C that can hold at least N sample seats. In this embodiment, the first buffer area C can hold a maximum of 6 sample seats. Accordingly, the value of N can be 6, or it can be set to 5 or 4 as needed to perform early current limiting control, etc., when the first buffer area C is about to saturate. The transmission direction of the third track 231 is opposite to that of the first track 232. The input end of the third track 231 is connected to the output end of the first track 232, and the output end is connected to the sample feeding track 172 of the preprocessing module 100. The input end of the first track 232 is connected to the sample feeding track 171 of the preprocessing module.

[0067] In this embodiment, the control module controls the transfer module to transfer the sample tube to the sample holder 10 on the sample introduction track 171, controls the sample introduction track 171 to transfer the sample holder 10 carrying the sample tube to the first track 232 (which can be achieved through the track changing component), and controls the first track 232 to transfer at least a portion of the sample holder into the first buffer area C through the inlet I. The control processing position R41 blocks the sample holder currently in the processing position so that the sample processing device 300 can process the sample in the sample tube. Simultaneously, while blocking the sample holder currently in the processing position, the control processing position R41 also blocks the sample holder closest to the processing position R41 in the first buffer area C. When conditions are met, the control processing position releases the sample holder that has been processed by the sample processing device and receives and blocks the next sample holder from the first buffer area C. The control module also controls the sample holder on the processing position R41 to be processed and then transferred through the outlet O to the first track 232, then to the third track 231, and then to the unloading track 172. The unloading track 172 transfers the sample holder to the sample unloading position, and the control module controls the transfer module to transfer the sample from the sample holder to the corresponding position in the loading unit for sample recovery. Additionally, in some application scenarios of this example, a first release position can be added, for example... Figure 2 An additional first release position is set at the position corresponding to the sample seat of the processing position R41 in the upstream direction of the second track shown in the figure. This first release position can block and release the sample seat. At this time, the area between the newly added first release position on the second track 233 and the entrance I constitutes the first buffer area.

[0068] In some application scenarios of this embodiment, the sample introduction track and sample release track in the above embodiments can be composed of two physical tracks with opposite transmission directions; in other application scenarios, they can also be composed of a single physical track capable of bidirectional transmission.

[0069] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the main track of the sample processing system includes two first track modules 200 connected in sequence. It should be understood that other embodiments may also include three or more first track modules 200. The aforementioned saturation control scheme can be used for saturation control of each first track module 200, or saturation control can be applied to only a portion of the first track modules 200 as needed. In other embodiments, the main track of the sample processing system may also include at least one first track module 200 and at least one second track module. One second track module is adapted to at least one sample processing device, and the second track module may be a track with a different structure than the first track module.

[0070] This embodiment provides a sample scheduling system, which is a track system. The track system includes a control module and a main track as shown in the above embodiments. The main track is connected to the preprocessing module and the sample processing equipment respectively through the cooperation methods in the above embodiments. The control module can perform anti-oversaturation control on the number of samples buffered in at least one first buffer area included in the main track through the saturation control method in the above embodiments. The specific control process will not be described in detail here.

[0071] This embodiment provides another sample scheduling system, which is a scheduling system. The scheduling system includes the control module, preprocessing module and main track shown in the above embodiments. The main track is connected to the preprocessing module and the sample processing equipment respectively through the cooperation methods in the above embodiments. The control module can perform anti-oversaturation control on the number of samples buffered in at least one first buffer area included in the main track through the saturation control method in the above embodiments. The specific control process will not be described in detail here.

[0072] This embodiment also provides a sample scheduling method, which can be applied to the sample processing system or sample scheduling system shown above. The sample scheduling method includes:

[0073] Monitor the number of currently cached sample seats in the first cache area;

[0074] When the number of sample holders is detected to be equal to M, current limiting control is applied to the sample holders transferred into the first and / or second tracks. Specific current limiting control methods can refer to, but are not limited to, the methods shown in the above embodiments.

[0075] The sample scheduling method provided in this embodiment also includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the other control functions configured by the control module in the above embodiments and the method steps executed to implement the corresponding control functions, which will not be described in detail here.

[0076] This embodiment also provides a computer program that can be executed by a processor or controller (and some example implementations of the control module) to implement the scheduling method and / or the functions configured for the control module as shown above.

[0077] This embodiment also provides a computer storage medium storing the above-described computer program, which can be invoked and executed by a processor or controller (and some example implementations of control modules).

[0078] Example 2

[0079] This embodiment provides a main track module, that is, a main track. It should be understood that the main track provided in this embodiment can be applied to the sample processing system and / or sample scheduling system shown in Embodiment 1 above, and can also be applied to sample processing systems and / or sample scheduling systems with other structures (e.g., those without the saturation scheduling function and corresponding structure shown in Embodiment 1 above). In other words, the main track module provided in this embodiment can be implemented independently, or it can be applied to the sample processing system and / or sample scheduling system shown in Embodiment 1 above.

[0080] In related technologies, the first track module of the main track module includes a first track and a second track with the same transmission direction. The first track and the second track have a connected inlet and outlet. The second track is equipped with a processing position adapted to the sample analysis equipment. Samples enter the second track via the first track and the aforementioned inlet, are transmitted to the processing position on the second track for analysis by the sample analysis equipment, and then are transmitted back to the first track via the outlet, and subsequently transmitted to the sample recovery path via the first track. In this related technology, when there are samples requiring expedited analysis (referred to as expedited samples, and correspondingly, samples not requiring expedited testing are referred to as ordinary samples), after the expedited sample enters the second track via the first track and the aforementioned inlet, if there are ordinary samples to be analyzed between the expedited sample and the processing position, the following two processing methods apply:

[0081] Method 1: After each regular sample is analyzed and tested at the processing station, the expedited sample is then sequentially transferred to the processing station for analysis and testing. This method cannot meet the needs of expedited testing.

[0082] Method 2: Urgent samples and regular samples between the processing stations are sequentially output from the second track to the first track via the exit, making way for urgent samples (hereinafter referred to as overtaken samples). This allows urgent samples to be prioritized for analysis and testing at the processing station. Overtaken samples are then transported back to the recovery channel via the first track, processed, and then reloaded, entering the second track via the first track and the aforementioned entrance for re-queueing and testing. This method ensures that urgent samples receive priority analysis and testing, but it has the following problems:

[0083] Firstly, all urgent samples and ordinary samples between the processing positions need to be output to the first track through the outlet, and then recycled and processed by the first track and the recycling channel before being reloaded. This "big undertaking" results in poor sample scheduling flexibility and a significant delay in the analysis and testing time of overtaken samples, which is not conducive to the overall TAT control of the system sample testing. In addition, the main track needs to carry out a large number of back-and-forth transmissions of overtaken samples, which is not conducive to energy conservation and environmental protection. At the same time, the back-and-forth transmission of overtaken samples will also interfere with the transmission scheduling of other samples on the main track, further reducing scheduling efficiency and increasing the complexity of scheduling control.

[0084] Secondly, urgent samples need to wait until all ordinary samples between them and the processing position have been transferred to a position after the processing position before the urgent sample can be transferred and scheduled to the processing position. Although this can greatly speed up the analysis and testing of urgent samples compared to the first method, there is still room for further improvement in the speedup.

[0085] This embodiment provides a main track module that solves the above-mentioned technical problems. It includes at least one first track module, which can be adapted to a sample processing device. The first track module includes a first track and a second track with the same transmission direction. The first track is at least used to receive a sample holder carrying a sample tube to be processed (for example, the sample holder can be transmitted to the first track in a manner shown in Embodiment 1 above). The first track and the second track have a communicating inlet and outlet. A processing position adapted to the sample processing device is provided near the outlet on the second track. A first release position, capable of blocking and releasing sample holders, is provided between the processing position and the inlet. A first gap is communicating between the first track and the second track, located between the processing position and the first release position. The control module can be configured to control the sample holder entering the first track. When the sample to be tested carried on it is of the first priority (the sample of the first priority can be called the first sample, such as a normal sample), the control module controls the sample holder (hereinafter referred to as the first type of sample holder) to enter the second track through the entrance and be sequentially transmitted to the first release position, and then transmitted to the processing position through the first release position; the control module is also configured to control the sample holder (hereinafter referred to as the second type of sample holder) to enter the second track through the first gap when the sample to be tested carried on it is of the second priority (the sample of the second priority can be called the second sample, and the second priority is higher than the first priority, such as an urgent sample) entering the first track. That is, the second type of sample holder can directly bypass or exceed the first type of sample holder between the entrance and the first release position, and will be transmitted to the processing position with priority over the first type of sample holder for the sample processing equipment to process. This priority overtaking scheduling method, compared to the aforementioned related technologies, does not require clearing all first-type sample holders that entered the second track before the second-type sample holders to make way for them. It also eliminates the need for these first-type sample holders to be transferred through the first track to the recycling channel for recycling before being reloaded onto the first track for sample processing. This prioritizes the processing of samples on the second-type sample holders (e.g., for analysis and testing) while minimizing the impact on the first-type sample holders, thus improving the overall TAT (Total Time Acquisition) requirements of the system's sample processing. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for repeated transfers of first-type sample holders, making the system more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Simultaneously, second-type sample holders can directly bypass or exceed the first-type sample holders to reach the processing position. Compared to related technologies that require clearing samples between the urgent sample holders and the processing position before urgent samples can be transferred and scheduled to the processing position, this method is more efficient and the scheduling control process is simpler and more reliable. Moreover, there is no impact on the scheduling of other sample holders due to clearing sample holders.

[0086] In some embodiments of this example, in addition to the first gap, the first track and the second track also have a communicating second gap. Both the first gap and the second gap are located between the processing position and the first release position, and the second gap is closer to the processing position than the first gap. The control module can be configured to control the sample holder (i.e., the first type of sample holder) to enter the second track through the entrance and be sequentially transferred to the first release position when the sample to be tested carried on the sample holder entering the first track is of the first priority (i.e., the first sample, such as a normal sample). The control module is also configured to control the sample holder (i.e., the second type of sample holder) to enter the second track through the first gap when the sample to be tested carried on the sample holder entering the first track is of the second priority (i.e., the second sample, such as an urgent sample). The control module is also configured to control the sample holder (i.e., the second type of sample holder) to enter the second track through the second gap when the sample to be tested carried on the sample holder entering the first track is of the third priority (a sample of the third priority can be called a third sample, and the third priority is higher than the second priority, such as an urgent sample). In this embodiment, the second type of sample holder can bypass or exceed the first type of sample holder between the entrance and the first release position through the first gap, and will be transferred to the processing position with priority over this part of the first type of sample holder for priority processing by the sample processing equipment; the third type of sample holder can bypass or exceed the second type of sample holder and the first type of sample holder directly through the second gap, and will be transferred to the processing position with priority over this part of the second type of sample holder and the first type of sample holder for priority processing by the sample processing equipment. It can be seen that this embodiment further realizes the expedited scheduling of more than three priority samples, and the overtaking scheduling of the previous priority sample has a minimal impact on the normal scheduling of the subsequent priority sample and the normal scheduling of other samples (including the next lower priority sample and samples to be transferred to the first track and / or the second track), and can ensure that the higher the priority sample, the more timely it can be processed by the corresponding sample processing equipment; and there is no need to clear the low priority sample.

[0087] As can be seen from the above analysis, in this embodiment, the above-mentioned entrance allows the sample holder carrying the first sample on the first track to enter the second track and be sequentially transferred to the first release position, and then transferred to the processing position via the first release position; the above-mentioned first gap allows the sample holder carrying the second sample on the first track to enter the second track and be transferred to the processing position, and the above-mentioned second gap allows the sample holder carrying the third sample on the first track to enter the second track and be transferred to the processing position.

[0088] In some embodiments of this example, a third gap connects the first and second tracks. This third gap is located between the processing position and the second gap, allowing a sample holder (i.e., a fourth-type sample holder) carrying a fourth-priority sample (i.e., the fourth sample) on the first track to enter the second track and be transferred to the processing position. That is, this embodiment, based on the aforementioned example, further adds the scheduling overtaking of a higher-priority sample type. Similarly, when scheduling overtaking of samples with more priority levels is required, corresponding gaps can be set according to the above rules. For ease of understanding and description, subsequent examples will still be described using the setting of a first gap, or a first and a second gap. The implementation methods for setting more gaps can be deduced analogously and will not be repeated here.

[0089] In some embodiments of this example, the first track module may include at least one of the following three buffers:

[0090] The second track is located in the first buffer area formed by the track between the first release position and the exit, which can carry at least N sample seats; the first buffer area can be used to buffer the first type of sample seats; the value of N here can be referred to the value of N in Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here;

[0091] The second buffer area, located in the region between the second gap and the first gap on the second track, is configured to accommodate only one sample seat or L sample seats. The second buffer area can be used to cache the second type of sample seats, where L is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0092] The third buffer area, located in the region between the processing bit and the second gap on the second track, is configured to accommodate only one sample seat or J sample seats. The third buffer area can be used to cache the third type of sample seats, where J is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0093] The three caches in the above example can be configured on demand, further enhancing the flexibility of caching and scheduling samples with different priorities. For example:

[0094] In some application examples, the first track module may include the first buffer and the second buffer mentioned above, and the number of sample seats that the second buffer can cache is less than that of the first buffer.

[0095] In some other application examples, the first track module may include the first buffer, the second buffer, and the third buffer, and the number of sample seats that the second buffer can cache is less than that of the first buffer, and the number of sample seats that the third buffer can cache is less than or equal to that of the second buffer.

[0096] In some application examples, the first track module may include the first buffer and the third buffer mentioned above, and the number of sample seats that the third buffer can cache is less than that of the first buffer.

[0097] In some embodiments of this example, a second release position for blocking and releasing sample seats is configured in the area of ​​the second buffer near the second gap. The second release position can block and release the second type of sample seats, thereby facilitating flexible control over the blocking and release of the second type of sample seats in the second buffer.

[0098] And / or, the area of ​​the third buffer near the processing position is configured with a third release position that can block and release sample seats. This third release position can realize the blocking and release of third-type sample seats, thereby facilitating flexible control of the blocking and release of third-type sample seats in the third buffer. In some application examples, the blocking and release of the second release position and the first release position can be controlled in conjunction with or independently. The blocking and release of the third release position and the second release position can also be controlled in conjunction with or independently. The blocking and release of the third release position, the second release position and the first release position can also be controlled in conjunction with or independently. The method of linkage control can refer to, but is not limited to, the linkage control between the processing position and the first release position shown in Embodiment 1 above, and will not be elaborated here. In some embodiments, the control module is also configured to, when it detects that there is a sample with a priority of second priority to be released at the second release position and a sample with a priority of third priority to be released at the third release position, prioritize controlling the release of the sample at the third release position so that the sample passes through the second gap and enters the second track.

[0099] In some embodiments of this example, the first track module may consist only of the first track and the second track. In other embodiments, the first track module may further include a third track opposite to the transmission direction of the first track. The third track transfers the sample holder carrying the sample to the first track, and / or receives the sample holder from the first track; that is, one of the third track and the first track can be used as the sample loading track of the first track module, and the other track can be used as the sample unloading or retrieval track of the first track module. Specific details can be found in, but are not limited to, the arrangement shown in Embodiment 1 above, and will not be elaborated further here. Optionally, in this embodiment, the main bodies of the first track, the second track, and the third track can be arranged in parallel, with the second track connected in parallel to the first track, and the length of the second track being less than that of the first track and / or the third track. This parallel arrangement of the three tracks can minimize the overall width after the three tracks are combined, and the arrangement of the second track connected in parallel to the first track with a length less than that of the first track and / or the third track further reduces costs compared to a structure where the three tracks are of equal length.

[0100] In some application examples of this embodiment, the main track module includes at least two first track modules, and each first track module is connected in pairs in sequence. Different first track modules can be used to adapt to different sample processing devices. In different sample processing devices, the functions of each device may be different (e.g., biochemical detection, luminescence detection, hematology detection, urine dry detection, urine formed detection, etc.), or at least some of the devices may have the same function.

[0101] In some other application examples of this embodiment, the main track module may include only a first track module, which is used for a sample processing device. This application example is suitable for stand-alone (i.e., single sample processing device) application scenarios.

[0102] This embodiment also provides a sample processing system, including a control module, a preprocessing module, a main track module, and at least one sample processing device;

[0103] The preprocessing module is configured to carry the sample tube to be tested, which stores the sample to be tested. The preprocessing module has a transfer module and a sample inlet track that carries the sample holder. The sample tube to be tested is transferred to the sample holder by the transfer module and then transmitted to the main track module through the sample inlet track.

[0104] The main track module is the main track module shown above in this embodiment.

[0105] The control module is used to control the sample holder to enter the second track through the inlet and be sequentially transferred to the first release position after at least one sample holder carrying a sample tube to be tested is transferred into the first track. When the sample holder is carrying the first sample, the control module controls the sample holder to enter the second track through the first notch and be transferred to the processing position. When the sample holder is carrying the second sample, the control module controls the sample holder to enter the second track through the first notch and be transferred to the processing position. When the sample holder is carrying the third sample, the control module controls the sample holder to enter the second track through the second notch and be transferred to the processing position. The specific control process is shown in, but is not limited to, the examples above, and will not be repeated here.

[0106] The sample processing equipment processes the samples at the processing station.

[0107] This embodiment also provides a sample scheduling system, which is a track system. The track system includes the control module and the main track module of the sample processing system described above in this embodiment. The functions and connection relationships of the control module and the main track module will not be described in detail here.

[0108] This embodiment also provides a sample scheduling system, which is a scheduling system. The scheduling system includes the control module, preprocessing module and main track module of the sample processing system described above in this embodiment; the functions and connection relationships of the control module, preprocessing module and main track module will not be described in detail here.

[0109] This embodiment also provides a sample scheduling method, which can be applied to at least one of the main track module, sample scheduling system, and sample processing system described above in this embodiment, and includes:

[0110] The sample holder containing the sample tube to be tested is transferred into the first track;

[0111] When it is determined that the sample to be tested carried by the sample holder is the first sample, the sample holder is controlled to enter the second track through the above-mentioned entrance and be sequentially transferred to the first release position, and then transferred to the processing position through the first release position;

[0112] When it is determined that the sample to be tested carried by the sample holder is the second sample, the sample holder is controlled to enter the second track through the first notch and be transferred to the processing position.

[0113] When it is determined that the sample to be tested carried by the sample holder is the third sample, the sample holder is controlled to enter the second track through the second notch and be transferred to the processing position.

[0114] The sample scheduling method provided in this embodiment also includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the other control functions configured by the control module in the above embodiments and the method steps executed to implement the corresponding control functions, which will not be described in detail here.

[0115] This embodiment also provides a computer program that can be executed by a processor or controller (and some example implementations of the control module) to implement the scheduling method and / or the functions configured for the control module as shown above.

[0116] This embodiment also provides a computer storage medium storing the above-described computer program, which can be invoked and executed by a processor or controller (and some example implementations of control modules).

[0117] To further facilitate understanding, the following will be combined with... Figure 1 and Figure 3 The two sample processing systems shown are further illustrated with examples.

[0118] See an example. Figure 1 The sample processing system shown includes a preprocessing module 100, a main track (i.e., a main track module), at least one sample processing device 300, and a control module (not shown in the figure). The main track includes at least one first track module 200. Figure 1The diagram shows two sequentially connected first track modules 200, wherein: the first track module 200 includes a first track 232, a second track 233, and a third track 231. The first track 232 and the second track 233 have the same transmission direction and have a communicating inlet I and outlet O. A processing position R36 is provided on the second track 233 near the outlet O. A first release position R37, which can block and release sample holders, is provided between the processing position R36 and the inlet I. A communicating first gap Q1 is provided between the first track 232 and the second track 233, and the first gap Q1 is located between the processing position R36 and the first release position R37. The control module can be configured to control the sample entering the first track 232. When the sample to be tested on the sample holder 10 is the first sample, the control module controls the sample holder 10 (the first type of sample holder) to enter the second track 233 through the inlet I and be sequentially transferred to the first release position R37, and then transferred to the processing position R36 through the first release position R37. The control module is also configured to control the sample holder 10 (the second type of sample holder) to enter the second track 233 through the first gap Q1 when the sample to be tested on the sample holder entering the first track is the second sample. That is, the second type of sample holder can directly bypass or exceed the first type of sample holder between the inlet I and the first release position R37, and will be transferred to the processing position R36 with priority over the first type of sample holder for priority processing by the sample processing device 300.

[0119] See another example. Figure 3 The sample processing system shown includes a preprocessing module 100, a main track (i.e., a main track module), at least one sample processing device 300, and a control module (not shown in the figure). The main track includes at least one first track module 200. Figure 1The diagram shows two sequentially connected first track modules 200, wherein: the first track module 200 includes a first track 232, a second track 233, and a third track 231. The first track 232 and the second track 233 have the same transmission direction and have a communicating inlet I and outlet O. A processing position R36 is provided on the second track 233 near the outlet O. A first release position R37, which can block and release sample holders, is provided between the processing position R36 and the inlet I. A first gap Q1 and a second gap Q2 are communicating between the first track 232 and the second track 233. The first gap Q1 and the second gap Q2 are located between the processing position R36 and the first release position R37, with the second gap Q2 being closer to the processing position R36. The control module can be configured to control the sample holder 10 entering the first track 232, when the sample to be tested on it is a first sample, to enter the second track 233 through the inlet I and be sequentially transmitted to the first release position R37, and then transmitted to the processing position R37. The control module is further configured to control the sample holder 10 (second type sample holder) to enter the second track 233 through the first gap Q1 when the sample to be tested carried on the sample holder entering the first track is the second sample. The control module is also configured to control the sample holder 10 (third type sample holder) to enter the second track 233 through the second gap Q2 when the sample to be tested carried on the sample holder entering the first track is the third sample. That is, the third type sample holder can directly bypass or exceed the first type sample holder between the entrance I and the first release position R37 and the second type sample holder between the first release position R37 and the second gap Q2, and will be transferred to the processing position R36 for priority processing by the sample processing device 300 before the first type sample holder and the second type sample holder. The second type sample holder can directly bypass or exceed the first type sample holder between the entrance I and the first release position R37, and will be transferred to the processing position R36 for priority processing by the sample processing device 300 before the first type sample holder.

[0120] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the area on the second track 233 between the second gap Q2 and the first gap Q1 constitutes a second buffer area. The second buffer area is configured to accommodate L sample seats. A second release position R38 is configured in the area of ​​the second buffer area near the second gap Q2 to block and release the sample seats. The blocking and release control of the sample seats in the second buffer area can be realized through the second release position R38.

[0121] Example 3

[0122] This embodiment also provides a main track module (i.e., the main track). It should be understood that the main track provided in this embodiment can be applied to the sample processing system and / or sample scheduling system shown in Embodiment 1 and / or Embodiment 2 above, and can also be applied to sample processing systems and / or sample scheduling systems with other structures (e.g., those without the saturation scheduling function and corresponding structure shown in Embodiment 1 above, and / or those without the first gap and / or second gap shown in Embodiment 2 above). In other words, the main track module provided in this embodiment can be implemented independently, or it can be applied to the sample processing system and / or sample scheduling system shown in Embodiment 1 and / or Embodiment 2 above.

[0123] The main track module provided in this embodiment includes at least one first track module, which can be adapted to a sample processing device. The first track module includes a first track and a second track with the same transmission direction. The first track is used to receive and transmit sample holders carrying sample tubes to be processed. The first track and the second track have a connected inlet and outlet. A processing position adapted to the sample processing device is provided near the outlet on the second track. A first release position, capable of blocking and releasing sample holders, is provided between the processing position and the inlet. At least one waiting position is also provided on the second track near the processing position, located between the processing position and the first release position. The control module is further configured to, before the sample to be tested at the processing position is processed by the sample processing device, control the release of the current sample holder at the first release position so that the sample holder is transmitted to the waiting position when there is a sample holder to be released at the first release position, allowing the sample holder to be transmitted to the waiting position. Thus, by setting at least one waiting position after the processing position, after the sample at the processing position is processed and released, the prepared sample to be tested at the waiting position can be transmitted to the processing position immediately, thereby ensuring that the sample processing device does not slow down when there are sufficient samples to be tested. In some implementations, at least one sample can be pre-queued in a waiting position based on the remaining processing time of the sample currently in the processing position. In some implementations, only one waiting position may be set, thus ensuring that a higher-priority sample is scheduled to the processing position as quickly as possible when it needs to overtake and must wait for the samples in the waiting position to be processed. Of course, in other implementations, two or three waiting positions may be set as needed.

[0124] In this embodiment, the control module is configured to: when there is a sample with a higher priority than the sample on the waiting bit and the sample on the processing bit after the waiting bit, and / or when there is a sample with a higher priority than the sample on the waiting bit after the waiting bit, but the priority of this sample is the same as or lower than the priority of the sample on the processing bit, and / or when there is a sample with a higher priority than the sample on the processing bit after the waiting bit, but the priority of this sample is the same as or lower than the priority of the sample on the waiting bit, perform any one of the following controls:

[0125] The control system directly transfers samples from the processing and waiting positions to the first track through the exit, prioritizing higher-priority samples to the processing position, thereby ensuring that high-priority samples are dispatched to the processing position for analysis and processing as quickly as possible.

[0126] After the samples at the processing station are processed by the sample processing equipment, the samples at the processing station and the samples at the waiting station are transferred to the first track through the exit, with higher priority samples being transferred to the processing station first. This processing method can, on the one hand, ensure that high priority samples are dispatched to the processing station for analysis and processing as quickly as possible, and on the other hand, ensure that the samples being processed at the processing station are processed normally and complete the processing. It avoids the situation where half-processed samples are not processed normally due to overtaking and need to be reprocessed, which would reduce efficiency, or even if the sample is contaminated due to previous processing or insufficient sample volume, it may not be able to be processed normally.

[0127] After the sample at the processing position is processed by the sample processing equipment, the sample at the processing position is transferred to the first track through the exit. In this way, the samples at the waiting position are transferred to the processing position, and samples with higher priority are transferred to the waiting position first.

[0128] Example 4

[0129] This embodiment also provides a preprocessing module. It should be understood that the preprocessing module provided in this embodiment can be applied to the sample processing system and / or sample scheduling system and / or main track module shown in Embodiments 1 to 3 above, and can also be applied to sample processing systems and / or sample scheduling systems with other structures (e.g., those without the saturation scheduling function and corresponding structure shown in Embodiment 1 above, and / or without the first gap and / or second gap shown in Embodiment 2 above, and / or without the waiting position shown in Embodiment 3 above). In other words, the preprocessing module provided in this embodiment can be implemented independently, or it can be applied to the sample processing system and / or sample scheduling system and / or main track module shown in Embodiments 1 to 3 above.

[0130] In related technologies, the pretreatment module includes a sample loading module for loading and storing sample tubes, a capping module for opening the sample tubes, and a transport unit for transferring the opened sample tubes from the pretreatment module to the sample analysis equipment. The capping module and the transport unit are separate and independently configured. During use, a sample transfer robot moves the sample tube from the sample loading module to the corresponding capping position on the capping module. The capping robot then opens the sample tube, and another sample transfer robot moves the opened sample tube to the sample holder on the loading position of the transport unit. The sample holder then carries the sample tube to the sample analysis equipment. The pretreatment module in these related technologies requires two sets of sample transfer robots and two sets of transfer control processes to complete the capping and loading of the sample tubes. This results in high cost, complex control, and low efficiency, affecting the system's sample processing throughput. Furthermore, sample spillage and contamination are prone to occur during the transfer of the opened sample tubes from the capping position to the loading position, reducing the system's reliability.

[0131] This embodiment provides a pretreatment module that can solve the above-mentioned technical problems, which includes a control module, a sample injection module, a cap opening module, a waste cap container, a transfer module, and a sample injection track, wherein:

[0132] The injection module is configured to carry the sample tube; in some embodiments, the injection module may include at least one of a disordered injection module and an ordered injection / exit module.

[0133] The sample introduction track is configured to carry the sample holder, which transports the sample holder containing the sample tube to the main rail module to complete the sample introduction. The main rail module is used to transfer the sample holder containing the sample tube to the sample processing device at the position where the sample in the sample tube can be processed. The sample introduction track is equipped with loading positions that can block and release the sample holder.

[0134] The cap-opening module corresponds to the loading position setting and can open the cap of the sample tube at the loading position;

[0135] The control module controls the sample holders carried on the injection track to be transported and blocked at the loading position. The control transfer module transfers the sample tubes from the injection module to the sample holders at the loading position. The control cap opening module removes the caps from the sample tubes at the loading position and transfers them into the waste cap container. The control loading position releases the sample holders carrying the sample tubes that have been opened.

[0136] Compared to preprocessing modules in related technologies, the preprocessing module provided in this embodiment sets the capping module to correspond to the loading position on the sample injection track, thus integrating the capping position and the loading position into a single physical location. The loading position can block the sample holder, allowing the sample tube on the sample holder to rest on the loading position for the capping module to open. After the sample tube is capped, the loading position releases the sample holder to allow sample injection, eliminating the need to transfer the sample tube between the capping and loading positions. This eliminates the need for two sets of sample transfer robots and two separate transfer control processes to handle the sample tube opening and loading strokes, simplifying the system architecture and control, reducing costs, and improving sample processing efficiency, thereby increasing the system's sample throughput. Furthermore, it avoids sample spillage and contamination that can easily occur during the transfer of capped sample tubes from the capping position to the loading position, as is common in related technologies, improving system reliability.

[0137] In one embodiment of this example, the sample injection track includes a main sample injection track, the main sample injection track being used to transport sample holders to the main track module, and a loading position is configured on the main sample injection track. In some embodiments, only one loading position is configured on the main sample injection track for simplified control. In other embodiments, two loading positions can be configured on the main sample injection track, each corresponding to a capping module, thereby enabling parallel capping of two sample tubes and further improving the system's sample processing throughput. When two loading positions are configured, these two loading positions can also reuse one capping module; for example, the stroke of the capping robot in the capping module can cover both loading positions. After the capping robot completes capping at one loading position, it can switch to the other loading position to perform the capping operation. Of course, in other application examples, three or more loading positions can also be configured on the main sample injection track, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0138] In another embodiment of this example, the sample injection track includes a main sample injection track and an auxiliary sample injection track connected in parallel with the main sample injection track. The parallel connection method can refer to, but is not limited to, the method in which the second track is connected in parallel with the first track in the above embodiments. The transmission direction of the auxiliary sample injection track is the same as that of the main sample injection track, and the transmission direction of the main sample injection track is to transmit the sample holder to the main track module. The loading position is configured on the auxiliary sample injection track. The empty sample holder on the main sample injection track can be transferred to the auxiliary sample injection track and then transmitted through the auxiliary sample injection track and blocked at the loading position for the cap opening module to perform the cap opening operation. After the sample holder is released by the loading position, it is transferred back to the main sample injection track through the auxiliary sample injection track and then transmitted to the main track module through the main sample injection track. In this embodiment, the loading position is set on the auxiliary injection rail to ensure the smooth flow of the main injection rail. For example, the main injection rail can directly and synchronously transmit sample tubes that do not need to be opened to the main rail module. In other words, in this embodiment, sample tubes that do not need to be opened can be transmitted directly to the main rail module through the main injection rail without going through the auxiliary injection rail and the loading position on the auxiliary injection rail. Therefore, the sample processing throughput of the system can be further improved.

[0139] In some embodiments of this implementation, the auxiliary sample inlet rail is also equipped with an unloading position for blocking and releasing sample holders. The sample holder carrying the sample tube on the main sample inlet rail can be transferred to the auxiliary sample inlet rail and then blocked at the unloading position. The control module controls the transfer module to transfer the sample tube blocked at the unloading position (e.g., to the sample recovery area of ​​the sample inlet module, or to the capping module for capping), and controls the unloading position to release the sample holder after the sample tube transfer is complete. That is, the unloading position for sample recovery in this embodiment can also be set on the auxiliary sample inlet rail, thereby ensuring the smoothness of the main sample inlet rail. This ensures that the unloading and loading of samples will not affect the main sample inlet rail path, resulting in a more scientific and reasonable layout, which can further improve the sample processing throughput of the system.

[0140] In one embodiment, the pretreatment module further includes at least one of a sample loading track, a capping module, a centrifugation module, a mixing module, and a refrigeration module, wherein:

[0141] The sample drop track is connected to the main track module to receive the sample holder from the main track module, and can transfer the sample holder to the above-mentioned main injection track and / or auxiliary injection track. That is, the sample drop track and the sample loading track can form a circulation path.

[0142] The transfer module transfers the sample tubes to be capped from the injection module and / or unloading position to the capping module. The capping module caps the sample tubes, and the transfer module transfers the capped sample tubes back to the injection module.

[0143] The transfer module transfers the sample tube to be centrifuged from the injection module to the centrifugation module; the centrifugation module centrifuges the sample tube to be centrifuged, and the transfer module transfers the centrifuged sample tube to the empty sample holder on the loading position.

[0144] The transfer module transfers the sample tubes to be mixed to the mixing module for mixing.

[0145] The transfer module transfers the sample tubes to be refrigerated to the refrigeration module for refrigeration. The sample tubes to be refrigerated may include sample tubes containing quality control samples.

[0146] In some implementations, the sample introduction module includes an ordered sample introduction / exit module, or includes an ordered sample introduction / exit module and a disordered sample introduction module.

[0147] In some implementations, the transfer module included in the pretreatment module is a single robotic arm whose stroke fully covers the stroke of the pretreatment module. For example, when the pretreatment module includes a centrifugation module, a mixing module, a capping module, a capping module, and a refrigeration module, the stroke of the single robotic arm can cover these modules as well as the loading and unloading positions. Achieving the above stroke coverage with a single robotic arm is more cost-effective than achieving it with multiple robotic arms, and it eliminates the need for coordinated control between multiple robotic arms, making control simpler and more reliable.

[0148] In some embodiments, the cap-opening module includes a cap-opening robot and a tube-holding mechanism. In some embodiments, the tube-holding mechanism can hold the sample tube on the sample holder at the loading position, and the cap-opening robot can hold the tube cap and pull it away from the sample holder and / or rotate it spirally away from the sample holder to unscrew the tube cap. Of course, in other embodiments, the tube-holding mechanism can also rotate the sample tube while holding it to cooperate with the cap-opening robot to open the cap.

[0149] In some implementations, the transfer module is a single robotic arm, which can serve as the opening robotic arm for the opening module and / or the sealing robotic arm for the sealing module. Alternatively, the opening module and / or sealing module may not require additional robotic arms and can reuse the single robotic arm to complete the opening process, thereby further simplifying the system architecture.

[0150] It should be understood that, in this embodiment, the sample tubes held by the sample holder on the loading position are not required to be sample tubes that need to be opened. For example, in some application scenarios, the sample tubes from the sample injection module are without caps, or the user directly places the capless sample tubes onto the sample holder on the loading position. In this case, the cap opening module does not perform the cap opening operation on these sample tubes.

[0151] This embodiment also provides a sample processing system, which is a sample scheduling system, including a main rail module and a preprocessing module as described above. The main rail module is used to receive the sample holder from the preprocessing module and transfer the sample holder to a position in the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed; the sample holder carries the sample tube to be processed.

[0152] Alternatively, the sample processing system may be a sample analysis system, which includes a sample processing device, a main rail module, and a pre-processing module as described above. The main rail module receives the sample holder from the pre-processing module and transfers it to a position on the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed. The sample holder carries the sample tube to be processed. The sample processing device processes the sample in the sample tube to be processed.

[0153] In this embodiment, the control module may also be configured to perform at least one of the following controls:

[0154] When the preprocessing module includes an ordered loading module and an unordered loading module, samples from the ordered loading module are processed first.

[0155] In the preprocessing module, which includes an ordered sample loading module and a centrifugation module, and where the ordered sample loading module contains samples to be retested that do not require centrifugation, first urgent samples that do not require centrifugation, and centrifugation modules contain samples that have already been centrifuged, the following priority is given to scheduling the samples to be retested, then the urgent samples, and finally the samples that have already been centrifuged; or the following priority is given to scheduling the samples to be retested, then the second urgent samples among the samples that have already been centrifuged, then the first urgent samples, and finally the other samples among the samples that have already been centrifuged; the samples that have already been centrifuged include samples with a priority of at least one of the first priority, second priority, and third priority, with the second priority being higher than the first priority and the third priority being higher than the second priority; the first urgent samples and the second urgent samples include samples with a priority of at least one of the second priority and the third priority;

[0156] When the pretreatment module includes a capping module, the sample injection track includes a loading position, and the control module is also configured to control the transfer of the sample holder on the sample injection track to the loading position, control the transfer of the sample tube to the sample holder on the loading position, and control the capping module to open the sample on the sample holder.

[0157] Example 5

[0158] For ease of understanding, this embodiment provides two specific sample processing systems as examples for illustration. The sample processing system includes a preprocessing module, a main track module, a sample processing device, and a control module. Each module has at least one of the structures and functions shown in the above embodiments. This embodiment mainly introduces the specific applications of these structures and functions.

[0159] See one embodiment of the sample processing system. Figure 1 and Figure 4 Its specific components include:

[0160] Sample holder 10: It is a carrier for regular sample tubes 20 and emergency sample tubes 21 (which can be second priority and / or third priority sample tubes). It can be moved within each module of the system to realize the transfer of the physical position of the sample tubes and cooperate with each module to complete the business functions.

[0161] Sample tube tray 30: Serves as the carrier for regular sample tubes 20 and emergency sample tubes 21, and is the main component that interacts with the operator to realize sample injection and effusion.

[0162] The pretreatment module 100 is used to complete the sample injection and effluent. It contains functional units such as an ordered sample injection / effluent module 110, an unordered sample injection module 120, a centrifugation module 130, a capping module 140, a capping module 150, a refrigeration module 160, a transport unit 170, and a robotic arm unit 180 (i.e., the transfer module of the pretreatment module), as well as a frame unit 190 that carries these functional units. It realizes interaction with the operator (sample placement and retrieval) and completes one or more processing actions for samples, quality control materials, and calibrators, such as centrifugation, information identification, serum volume and serum quality identification, capping, refrigeration, mixing, and capping. It also transfers and transports sample tubes into and out of the main rail module.

[0163] First track module 200: connects preprocessing module 100 and sample processing device 300 (e.g., analyzer), transports preprocessed conventional sample tubes 20 and emergency sample tubes 21 loaded on sample holder 10 to processing position R36 (e.g., aspiration point) of sample processing device 300 for processing (e.g., sampling test), and transports the sampled sample back to preprocessing module 100. First track module 200 consists of third track 231, first track 232 and second track 233.

[0164] Sample processing equipment 300: may include sample analysis equipment for collecting samples, testing them, and outputting test results. Figure 1 The two sample processing devices 300 shown can be the same type of analyzer or different types of analyzers. This embodiment supports a single analyzer and multiple analyzers of the same or different types connected together. This embodiment only illustrates the form of two analyzers connected together.

[0165] In this embodiment, the control module of the sample processing system can specifically control the execution of the following work steps (the steps performed manually are not within the functional scope of the control module):

[0166] 1) The operator manually places the regular sample tube 20 and / or the emergency sample tube 21 into the pretreatment module 100. Specifically, two injection methods can be selected: ① The operator places the regular sample tube 20 and / or the emergency sample tube 21 into the sample tube tray 30 in the ordered sample entry / exit module 110. In this embodiment, the sample tube tray of the ordered sample entry / exit module 110 is tentatively divided into five areas: regular sample entry area, emergency sample entry area, sample exit area, error sample area, and sample temporary storage area; ② The operator pours the regular sample tube 20 and / or the emergency sample tube 21 directly into the sample chamber of the unordered sample entry module 120. In particular, the unordered sample entry module 120 cannot accept sample tubes without caps.

[0167] 2) The vision system 181 mounted on the robotic arm unit 180 begins to identify relevant information about the sample tube tray 30 and the regular sample tubes 20 and / or emergency sample tubes 21 on it, such as the number of the sample tube tray 30, the position of the regular sample tubes 20 and / or emergency sample tubes 21, the presence or absence of tube caps, and the color of the tube caps.

[0168] 3) The robotic arm unit 180, according to the system scheduling rules after visual recognition by the vision system 181, begins to sequentially grasp the regular sample tubes 20 or the emergency sample tubes 21 and place them into the adapters 131 of the centrifuge module 130. During the process, the barcode information of the sample tubes is scanned. When the sample tubes in the four adapters 131 meet the conditions for starting centrifugation (e.g., the four adapters 131 are fully loaded or the preset time is reached, and there may be a balancing operation during the process), the robotic arm unit 180 sequentially places the four adapters 131 into the centrifuge 132 and removes the four adapters 131 from the centrifuge 132 to start sample centrifugation. After centrifugation is completed, the robotic arm unit 180 sequentially removes the four adapters 131 from the centrifuge 132 and places them into the adapter tray 133, while simultaneously placing four new adapters 131 (if any) into the centrifuge 132.

[0169] 4) The robotic arm unit 180 picks up the centrifuged sample tube and places it on the sample holder 10 in the capping module 140 to complete the sample tube capping action. At this time, the sample holder 10 is also located at the loading position DL1 of the sample inlet track 171 of the delivery unit 170. That is, the sample capping position and the sample loading position are the same physical position. During this process, the serum volume and serum quality can be identified.

[0170] 5) The robotic arm unit 180 puts the sample tube cap into the waste cap channel, and at the same time, the conveying unit 170 transports the sample holder 10 to the first track module 200.

[0171] 6) The first track module 200 transports the sample tube (carried on the sample holder 10) to the processing position R36 of the previous sample processing device 300 and / or the next sample processing device for processing according to the system scheduling rules. After processing, the first track module 200 transports the sample tube back to the sample unloading position UL1 of the conveying unit 170 of the preprocessing module 100.

[0172] 7) The robotic arm unit 180 grasps the sample tube and places it into the sample tube tray 30 in the sample temporary storage area for temporary storage, waiting for the sample processing equipment 300 to output the test results.

[0173] 8) Sample tubes that have already received test results and require retesting are picked up by the robotic arm unit 180 and placed on the sample holder 10 at the sample loading position, repeating steps 5) to 7); sample tubes that have already received test results and do not require retesting are picked up by the robotic arm unit 180 using the secondary cap on the capping module 150 for capping, and then the robotic arm unit 180 picks up the capped sample tube and places it into the sample tube tray 30 in the sample outlet area.

[0174] 9) The operator manually removes the sample tube containing the test results to complete the sample removal.

[0175] In this embodiment, when the regular sample tube 20 or the emergency sample tube 21 does not require centrifugation or opening (i.e., centrifugation and opening are completed offline), the control module can skip the relevant actions in steps 3) and 4) above. The robotic arm unit 180 grabs the sample tube and directly places it into the sample holder 10 of the sample loading position. During this process, the barcode information, serum volume, and serum quality of the sample tube can be scanned. When the regular sample tube 20 or the emergency sample tube 21 does not require centrifugation, the control module can skip step 3) and directly proceed to step 4). The barcode information of the sample tube can be scanned during the transfer of the sample tube. In some embodiments, unopened sample tubes are not allowed to enter the first track module 200. Therefore, in principle, sample tubes that are centrifuged but not opened are not allowed to be injected. If this function is necessary (e.g., the user only wants to complete the centrifugation using the centrifugation function of the centrifugation module and does not need to transfer the sample to the main track module for processing), the sample tube will directly enter the sample discharge area or the error sample area after centrifugation.

[0176] In this embodiment, when the sample tube being injected carries quality control samples and / or calibrator samples, the robotic arm unit 180 grasps the quality control sample tube and / or calibrator sample tube and places it directly into the sample holder 10 of the sample loading position. During this process, the barcode information of the sample tube is scanned, completing steps 5) and 6) above. Then, the robotic arm unit 180 grasps the quality control sample tube and / or calibrator sample tube and places it directly into the original sample tube tray 30. If the quality control samples in the refrigeration module 161 are used, the rewarming and mixing actions of the quality control samples can be completed by the mixing component 162.

[0177] In this embodiment, according to the necessary functional requirements, all functional units of the pretreatment module 100, except for the orderly sample entry and exit module 110, the conveying unit 170 and the robot arm unit 180, can be selected as optional units.

[0178] The following is an example illustrating the settings and specific steps related to the saturation scheduling control process in this embodiment:

[0179] For ease of understanding, all sample tube trays 30 are numbered below. The regular sample injection area, sample discharge area, sample storage area, and error sample area use the same type, starting from N001, while the emergency sample injection area starts from E001. For simplicity, this example tentatively designates the sample tube tray 30 in the regular sample injection area as N001, the sample discharge area as N002, the sample storage area as N003, the error sample area as N004, and the emergency sample injection area as E001. At the same time, the well positions of each sample tube tray 30 are numbered from 1 to m, which are tentatively set from 1 to 50 in this scheme.

[0180] Number all adapters 131 (the adapter tray 133 and adapter 131 are numbered the same). In this example, there are 8 adapters 131, numbered A1 to A8. At the same time, number the holes of each adapter 131 from 1 to m. In this example, they are numbered 1 to 14.

[0181] The upper tube position of the unordered sample injection module 120 is numbered U1, the cap opening position and sample loading position are numbered DL1, and the sample unloading position is numbered UL1.

[0182] During sample injection, sample tubes inserted from the ordered sample injection module 110 are processed first, followed by sample tubes transported from the unordered sample injection module 120 to the ordered sample injection module 110; the ordered sample injection module 110 prioritizes sample tubes from the emergency sample injection area, followed by sample tubes from the regular sample injection area; other optimized samples are processed according to the well position number of the sample tube tray 30 from smallest to largest, i.e.:

[0183] E001.1 > ... > E001.50 > N001.1 > ... > N001.50 > U1. When transferring sample tubes to the loading position DL1, i.e., when sample tubes are brought online, priority is given to sample tubes that need to be retested in the sample storage area (sample tubes that do not need to be retested in the sample storage area are transferred to the sample discharge area when the robotic arm unit 180 is idle), then sample tubes that have completed centrifugation are processed, and finally sample tubes in the sample loading area are processed. However, the priority principle for emergency sample tubes is retained, i.e., retested sample tube N003.1 > emergency sample tube A1.E.1 that has completed centrifugation > emergency sample tube E001.1 in the sample loading area (if this sample tube does not need centrifugation) > regular sample tube A2.N.1 that has completed centrifugation > regular sample tube N001.1 in the sample loading area (if this sample tube does not need centrifugation). When a sample tube needs to be transferred from the sample unloading position to the ordered sample loading / unloading module 110, i.e., when a sample tube is taken offline, the offline sample tube is processed first, followed by the online sample tube, with the offline sample tube having the highest priority. In summary, the priority order of the 100 samples scheduled by the preprocessing module is: UL1 > N003.1 > A1.E.1 > E001.1 > A2.N.1 > N001.1 > U1.

[0184] The sample injection position of the first track module 200 is numbered R1, and the stop positions of the part connected to the sample processing device 300 are numbered R31 to R37. Among them, R36 is the processing position, the position immediately adjacent to R36 is the waiting position W, and R37 is the first release position.

[0185] The processing priority for sample tubes at intersections of the first track module 200 is as follows: For R1 and R35, R35 changing tracks is processed first, followed by R1 going straight; for R34 and R36, R36 changing tracks is processed first, followed by R34 going straight; for R33 and R37, R33 changing tracks is processed first, followed by R37 going straight; for R31 on the previous third track and R35 on the next first track, R35 going straight or changing tracks is processed first, followed by R31 changing tracks or going straight. This principle of prioritizing higher-priority samples (such as emergency sample tubes) means that samples with higher priority are processed at each intersection.

[0186] After the pre-processed sample tube (carried on the sample holder 10) reaches the injection position R1 and the sample tube information is read, it enters the third track 231. At the stop position R31 of the third track 231, the flow direction of the sample tube is determined:

[0187] A1. Sample tubes that need to be processed by the first sample processing device 300 should change track to enter the first track 232. At the stop position R32, it should be determined whether the sample tube is an emergency sample (e.g., a second priority and / or third priority sample). If it is not an emergency sample, it should directly change track to enter the first buffer area of ​​the second track 233 to queue for sampling and testing, i.e., queue after the first release position R37. If it is an emergency sample, it should proceed straight to the next stop position R33, change track through the first gap Q1 to enter the second track 233, and queue after the processing position R36, completing the emergency overtaking. Figure 3 The control process shown with the first gap Q1 and the second gap Q2 is similar and will not be described again here;

[0188] B1. The sample tube that needs to be sampled and tested in the second sample processing device 300 goes straight into the second third track 231. The process scheduling method of the sample tube in the second third track 231, the second first track 232 and the second second track 233 connected to the sample processing device 300 is similar to the process scheduling method in the third track 231, the first track 232 and the second track 233 corresponding to the previous sample processing device 300, and will not be described again.

[0189] In this embodiment, the sample tubes that enter the second track 233 are queued for sampling and testing. After the sampling and testing is completed at the processing position R36, the tubes change tracks and enter the first track 232.

[0190] Determine the sample tube flow direction when it reaches the stop position R35 after processing:

[0191] A2. The sample tube that needs to be processed by the second sample processing device 300 changes track to the third track 231, then enters the second third track 231 via the third track 231. After completing the sampling test at the processing position R36 according to the aforementioned scheduling process, it changes track to the second first track 232, then enters the first track 232 via the second first track 232, and reaches the stop position R35.

[0192] B2. The sample tube that has completed all tests is returned to the sample unloading position UL1 of the preprocessing module 100.

[0193] In this embodiment, the number of sample tubes entering the first track module 200 is controlled to prevent saturation. The number of sample seats 10 that can be buffered by the two second tracks 233 is 28 (14 each). When the number of sample seats 10 buffered in the first buffer area C of any second track 233 reaches the upper limit, the regular sample tubes 20 are scheduled according to a "one out, one in" schedule (for example, the first release position R37 releases one sample seat before a new sample seat is allowed to enter the first buffer area C of the first track 232 or the second track 233). For emergency sample tubes 2... 1. Without restriction, it can enter the first track 232 and overtake through the first gap Q1; when multiple emergency sample tubes 21 are queuing to enter, in order to ensure the smooth flow of the transportation channel, the emergency sample tubes 21 that are processed by the sample processing equipment 300 and cannot enter the second track 233 can be queuing in a loop between the third track 231 and the first track 232; correspondingly, the emergency sample tubes 21 that are sampled and tested by the sample processing equipment 300 and cannot enter the second second track 233 can be queuing in a loop between the second third track 231 and the second first track 232.

[0194] When the number of sample tubes in the first track module 200 is saturated, the control robot unit 180 begins to scan and register the sample tube information of the ordered sample entry / exit module 110, the unordered sample entry module 120, and the centrifugation module 130, in coordination with the "one-out-one-in" scheduling control of the first track module 200. Of course, sample tubes with higher priority will still be processed first.

[0195] The sample processing system provided in this embodiment has at least the following advantages: it has all the sample pre- and post-processing functions and sampling and testing functions of a large-scale production line except for refrigeration, and achieves functional integration and minimizes the footprint.

[0196] By connecting multiple analyzers of different types together, diverse testing needs can be met.

[0197] After connecting to the batch sample injection and output system, the transport track subsystem, and the refrigerator refrigeration subsystem, a fully functional automated laboratory sample processing system can be formed to meet various sample business scenarios.

[0198] The pretreatment module uses only one robotic arm to perform operations such as loading, unloading, opening, and sealing of sample tubes. It enables the transfer of sample tubes between the disordered sample injection area, the ordered sample injection area, the centrifugation area, the quality control cold storage area, the sample tube loading position, and the sample tube unloading position, reducing manufacturing and usage costs. It is also simpler to control and avoids dynamic interference between multiple robotic arms.

[0199] Using a single-tube sample holder carrier for sample delivery and transfer allows for more flexible scheduling of sample tubes, enabling functions such as emergency overtaking, upgrading regular samples to emergency samples, and tracking the location of a specific sample.

[0200] An anti-saturation control mechanism is adopted to supply samples to the analyzer, which ensures that the analyzer has enough samples for sampling and testing without reducing the analyzer's testing speed, while controlling the number of samples entering the analyzer's transport track to a minimum, leaving enough space for the main channel to avoid "traffic jams". At the same time, it prevents the execution units of the preprocessing from being "overworked", thereby improving the emergency handling capability and service life of the entire system.

[0201] This embodiment also provides a computer program that can be executed by the control module to achieve the functions of the control module as shown above.

[0202] This embodiment also provides a computer storage medium that stores the above-mentioned computer program, and the computer program can be called and executed by the control module.

[0203] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or some of the steps, systems, or apparatuses disclosed above, and their functional modules / units, can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof. In hardware embodiments, the division between functional modules / units mentioned in the above description does not necessarily correspond to the division of physical components. Computer-readable media can include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or temporary media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, it is known to those skilled in the art that communication media typically contain computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and can include any information delivery medium.

[0204] The above-described embodiments are merely preferred embodiments provided to fully illustrate the present invention, and the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the present invention are all within the scope of protection of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A preprocessing module for carrying and processing samples, characterized in that, Includes a control module, a sample injection module, a cap opening module, a waste cap container, a transfer module, and a sample injection track; The sample injection module is configured to carry the sample tube, and the sample injection track is configured to carry the sample holder. The sample holder carrying the sample tube is transferred to the main track module to complete the sample injection. The main track module is used to transfer the sample holder carrying the sample tube to a position in the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed. The sample introduction track is equipped with a loading position that can block and allow the sample holder to pass; The opening module corresponds to the loading position setting; The control module controls the sample holder carried on the sample inlet track to be transported and blocked at the loading position, controls the transfer module to transfer the sample tube from the sample inlet module to the sample holder at the loading position, controls the cap opening module to remove the cap of the sample tube at the loading position and transfer it into the waste cap container, and controls the loading position to release the sample holder carrying the sample tube with the cap opened.

2. The preprocessing module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sample introduction track includes a main sample introduction track, the main sample introduction track is used to transmit the sample holder to the main track module, and the loading position is configured on the main sample introduction track.

3. The preprocessing module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sample introduction track includes a main sample introduction track and an auxiliary sample introduction track connected in parallel with the main sample introduction track. The transmission direction of the auxiliary sample introduction track is the same as that of the main sample introduction track, and the transmission direction of the main sample introduction track is to transmit the sample holder to the main track module. The loading position is configured on the auxiliary sample introduction track. An empty sample holder on the main sample introduction track can be transferred to the auxiliary sample introduction track and then transmitted through the auxiliary sample introduction track and blocked at the loading position. After being released by the loading position, it can be transferred back to the main sample introduction track through the auxiliary sample introduction track and then transmitted to the main track module via the main sample introduction track.

4. The preprocessing module as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The sample injection auxiliary rail is also equipped with an unloading position that can block and release the sample holder. The sample holder carrying the sample tube on the sample injection main rail can be transferred to the sample injection auxiliary rail and then blocked at the unloading position. The control module controls the transfer module to transfer the sample tube blocked at the unloading position and controls the unloading position to release the sample holder after the sample tube transfer is completed.

5. The preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes a sample feeding track, which is connected to the main track module to receive a sample holder from the main track module.

6. The preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes a capping module, wherein the transfer module transfers the sample tube to be capped on the injection module to the capping module, the capping module performs the capping operation on the sample tube, and the transfer module transfers the capped sample tube to the injection module.

7. The preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes a centrifugation module, wherein the transfer module transfers the sample tube to be centrifuged from the injection module to the centrifugation module; the centrifugation module performs centrifugation on the sample tube to be centrifuged, and the transfer module transfers the centrifuged sample tube to the empty sample holder on the loading position.

8. The preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The transfer module is a single robotic arm, and the stroke of the single robotic arm fully covers the pre-processing module; and / or, the single robotic arm serves as the opening robotic arm of the opening module.

9. The preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes at least one of a mixing module and a refrigeration module; The transfer module transfers the sample tube to be mixed to the mixing module for mixing. The transfer module transfers the sample tubes to be refrigerated to the refrigeration module for refrigeration storage. The sample tubes to be refrigerated include sample tubes containing quality control samples. And / or, the injection module includes an ordered injection / exit module, or includes an ordered injection / exit module and a disordered injection module.

10. A sample processing system, characterized in that, The sample processing system is a sample scheduling system, including a main track module and a preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-9. The main track module is used to receive the sample holder from the preprocessing module and transfer the sample holder to a position in the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed. The sample holder carries the sample tube to be processed. Alternatively, the sample processing system may be a sample analysis system, which includes a sample processing device, a main rail module, and a preprocessing module as described in any one of claims 1-9. The main rail module receives a sample holder from the preprocessing module and transfers the sample holder to a position on the sample processing device where the sample in the sample tube can be processed. The sample holder carries the sample tube to be processed. The sample processing device processes the sample in the sample tube to be processed.

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