Sample processing system

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of in-vitro diagnostic equipment, and discloses a sample processing system, which comprises a sample processing device, a transmission mechanism and a positioning mechanism comprising a clamping assembly. The sample processing device is at least configured to process a sample located on a target position. A plurality of sample seats of the transmission mechanism are transmitted one by one in a transmission channel along the extension direction of the transmission channel. Each sample seat is configured to carry a sample container for containing a sample, and drive the carried sample container to transmit in the transmission channel along the extension direction and pass through the target position. When the positioning mechanism is in a first state, the positioning mechanism is configured to extend the clamping assembly into the transmission channel, clamp the sample container on the target position by the clamping assembly, and position the sample container on the target position. When the positioning mechanism is in a second state, the positioning mechanism is configured to release the clamping of the sample container on the target position, and withdraw the clamping assembly from the transmission channel. The application has low requirements for the space of the transmission channel and the sample seat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of in vitro diagnostic equipment technology, and more particularly to a sample processing system. Background Technology

[0002] A related technology provides a sample processing system in which sample containers carried by a sample carrier are transported one by one to the aspiration station in a streamlined track. The sample analyzer can then perform on-track sampling from the sample containers located at the aspiration station via a sampling mechanism. Because the streamlined track is continuously operating throughout the sample processing system's operation—meaning it continues to run even when the sampling mechanism is sampling the samples from the aspiration containers—it is typically necessary to ensure that the sample containers carrying the samples are accurately positioned at the aspiration station to facilitate on-track sampling and improve sampling accuracy.

[0003] Related technologies directly position the sample carrier using a positioning mechanism, such as using a blocking component to stop the sample carrier at the sampling position. However, because the pipeline track is still running, the sample carrier and its carrying sample container located upstream of the sampling position are still being transported forward. This can cause the sample carrier stopped at the sampling position to easily shake. Therefore, this solution has high requirements for the sample carrier. Alternatively, a clamping and positioning mechanism can be used to clamp and position the sample container. However, this solution requires a large amount of track space around the sampling position, which can also affect the sampling speed of the analyzer to some extent. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to solve the technical problem in the related art that the sample positioning mechanism used for on-orbit sampling in sample processing systems has high requirements for the sample carrier or orbital space.

[0005] This application provides a sample processing system that employs the following technical solution: The sample processing system includes: The sample processing device is configured at least to process a sample located at the target position; A transmission mechanism includes a transmission channel and multiple sample holders; the multiple sample holders are transmitted sequentially along the extension direction of the transmission channel; each sample holder is configured to carry a sample container for holding the sample, and to drive the carried sample container to be transmitted along the extension direction of the transmission channel and pass through the target position. A positioning mechanism includes a clamping component, and the positioning mechanism has a first state and a second state; when the positioning mechanism is in the first state, the positioning mechanism is configured to extend the clamping component into the transmission channel and clamp the sample container at the target position to position the sample container at the target position; when the positioning mechanism is in the second state, the positioning mechanism is configured to release the clamping of the sample container at the target position and remove the clamping component from the transmission channel.

[0006] In some embodiments, the positioning mechanism is located on the side of the transmission channel, and the clamping assembly extends into or out of the transmission channel from that side of the transmission channel in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction.

[0007] In some embodiments, the sample processing system further includes a limiting mechanism, which is configured at least to limit the sample holder and the sample container carried thereon that are being transferred to the target position at the target position, so that the positioning mechanism can clamp and fix the sample container. The limiting mechanism is also configured to release the limiting of the sample holder at the target position and the sample container it carries, so that the sample container, which has been processed by the sample processing device and released from clamping by the positioning mechanism, can be transferred downstream of the target position.

[0008] In some embodiments, the limiting mechanism is located at the bottom of the transmission channel, and the limiting mechanism includes a limiting component and a first driving component. Before the clamping component clamps the sample container at the target position, the limiting component is configured to extend into the transmission channel under the drive of the first driving component to block the sample holder and the sample container carried by it from being transmitted to the downstream of the target position. After the sample processing device processes the sample container and the clamping component releases its grip on the sample container, the limiting component is further configured to exit the transmission channel under the drive of the first driving component, thereby releasing the obstruction of the sample holder at the target position.

[0009] In some embodiments, the positioning mechanism and the limiting mechanism are connected by a connector at the position corresponding to the target position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly includes a first clamping arm and a second clamping arm disposed opposite to each other in the extending direction, wherein when the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm are within the transmission channel, a clamping space for accommodating a sample container is formed between the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm. The first and second clamping arms are configured to translate relative to each other in the extending direction to move closer or further apart, and when the sample container is contained within the clamping space, the first and second clamping arms move closer to each other to clamp the sample container together, and move further apart to release the clamping of the sample container.

[0011] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly further includes an elastic element, one end of which is connected to the first clamping arm and the other end of which is connected to the second clamping arm, for extending and retracting in the extension direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly further includes a base and a second drive assembly and a first transmission assembly disposed on the base, wherein the output end of the second drive assembly is connected to the first transmission assembly, and the first transmission assembly is connected to the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm; The first transmission component is configured to drive the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm to translate backwards and move away from each other under the drive of the second drive component, so that the sample container is accommodated in the formed clamping space or the clamping of the sample container is released, and to drive the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm to translate towards each other and move closer to each other so that the two clamp the sample container in the clamping space together.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first transmission assembly includes a driving wheel, a driven wheel, and a flexible transmission member. The driving wheel and the driven wheel are spaced apart along the extending direction and rotate around the flexible transmission member. The driving wheel is connected to the second drive assembly and is driven to rotate by the second drive assembly. The flexible transmission component includes a first transmission part and a second transmission part, the first transmission part and the second transmission part move in opposite directions, and both are located between the driving wheel and the driven wheel; The end of the first clamping arm facing away from the transmission channel is connected to the first transmission unit, and the end of the second clamping arm facing away from the transmission channel is connected to the second transmission unit.

[0014] In some embodiments, the positioning mechanism further includes a telescopic component connected to the base of the clamping component, the telescopic component being configured to drive the clamping component to move along the width direction of the transmission channel via the base, so that the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm extend into or exit the transmission channel.

[0015] In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly includes a base and a third drive assembly and a second transmission assembly disposed on the base, wherein the output end of the third drive assembly is connected to the second transmission assembly, and the second transmission assembly is connected to the base. The second transmission component is configured to drive the clamping component to move along the width direction under the drive of the third drive component, so that the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm extend into the transmission channel when the sample container is located at the target position, and the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm exit the transmission channel after the clamping component releases its grip on the sample container.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second transmission component includes a gear and a rack that mesh with each other. The gear is vertically disposed on the base and connected to the output end of the third drive component to rotate around the axis of the gear under the drive of the third drive component. The rack is disposed at the bottom of the base along the width direction to drive the clamping component to move along the width direction under the linkage of the gear. And / or, the telescopic assembly further includes a second linear guide, which is disposed on the base along the width direction; the base is located above the second linear guide and is slidably disposed on the second linear guide along the width direction; And / or, the telescopic assembly further includes a second position sensor disposed on the base, the second position sensor being configured to sense the movement distance of the base so that the clamping assembly can return to its initial position after the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm have exited the transmission channel.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the sample processing system provided in this application has the following advantages: This sample processing system transmits multiple sample holders online one by one along the extension direction of a transmission channel. Each sample holder carries a sample container containing the sample, which is then transported through the channel to a target location. When a sample container reaches the target location, a clamping component extending into the transmission channel uses a positioning mechanism to hold and fix the container at the target location. This ensures stable and precise positioning of the sample container during online sample processing, reducing the requirements on the sample holders. Furthermore, it facilitates rapid sample switching, thereby increasing sample processing speed. Specifically, while a sample container is positioned at the target location for online processing, other sample containers upstream of it can be successively transmitted to their corresponding positions upstream of the target location to queue for online processing, without waiting for other samples to be transported from a distance. Similarly, other sample containers downstream of the target container can continue to be transmitted to their corresponding positions downstream of the target location. This ensures that the transmission and processing of other samples are not affected, further improving sample processing speed.

[0018] On the other hand, after the sample processing device finishes processing the sample, the sample processing system can also promptly withdraw the part of the clamping component of the positioning mechanism that has entered the transmission channel and retract it to the periphery of the transmission channel, so that the sample container can be transmitted to the downstream of the target position, and other sample containers upstream of the sample container can be transmitted to the target position without occupying the upstream and downstream space of the transmission channel, and without affecting the operating space of the sample container, which helps to reduce the requirements for the size of the transmission channel. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the solutions in this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application or corresponding prior art. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort. Wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a partial three-dimensional structure of a sample processing system in one example of this application; Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of another part of the sample processing system in one example of this application; Figure 3 This is another partial three-dimensional exploded view of the sample processing system in one example of this application; Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the positioning mechanism of a sample processing system in one example of this application.

[0020] The labels in the attached diagram are as follows: 100. Sample processing system; 200. Sample container; 300. Extension direction; 400. Width direction; 1. Sample processing device; 11. Sampling needle; 2. Transmission mechanism; 21. Sample holder; 22. Transmission channel; 23. Target position; 24. Clearance hole; 3. Positioning mechanism; 31. Clamping assembly; 311. First clamping arm; 312. Second clamping arm; 313. Clamping space; 314. Elastic element; 315. Base; 316. Second drive assembly; 317. First transmission assembly; 3171. Drive wheel; 3172. Driven wheel; 3173. Flexible transmission element; 31731. First transmission part; 31732. Second transmission part; 318. First linear guide; 319. First position sensor; 32. Telescopic assembly; 321. Base; 322. Third drive assembly; 323. Second transmission assembly; 3231. Gear; 3232. Rack; 324. Second linear guide; 325. Second position sensor; 33. Accommodation space; 4. Limiting mechanism; 41. Limiting component; 411. Blocking part; 42. First driving component; 5. Connectors. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terms used in this specification are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present application. For example, terms such as “length,” “width,” “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” and “outer” indicate orientations or positions based on the orientations or positions shown in the accompanying drawings and are for ease of description only, and should not be construed as limiting the present technical solution.

[0022] The terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a particular order. "A plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0023] In the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application, when an element is referred to as "fixed to," "mounted to," "set on," or "connected to" another element, it can be directly or indirectly located on that other element. For example, when an element is referred to as "connected to" another element, it can be directly or indirectly connected to that other element. When the term "and / or" is used, it means including three parallel options; for example, "option A and / or option B" includes option A, or option B, or options that satisfy both A and B simultaneously.

[0024] Furthermore, the terms "embodiment," "implementation," "example," etc., used herein refer to specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with an embodiment that may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. These phrases appearing in various places throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are they independent or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0025] This application provides a sample processing system 100, which is an automated pipeline sample processing system. That is, in order to improve sample processing efficiency, the sample processing system 100 can process samples online.

[0026] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the sample processing system 100 includes a sample processing device 1, a transmission mechanism 2, and a positioning mechanism 3. The sample processing device 1 is configured to process samples located at target positions 23.

[0027] It should be noted that the sample processing device 1 described herein may include, but is not limited to, a sample analyzer, and the target position 23 described herein may include, but is not limited to, a sampling position, a sample dilution position, or a reagent addition position. The number of target positions 23 may be one or more, and the specific number can be determined according to actual needs, without particular limitation here. Furthermore, the sample processing device 1 may perform sample processing including, but not limited to, sampling, sample purification (e.g., centrifugation or magnetic bead separation), and detection analysis, which can be determined according to actual needs, without particular limitation here. For ease of description, this article mainly uses a sample analyzer as the sample processing device 1 and one target position 23 as the sampling position as an example for illustration.

[0028] It should also be noted that the samples mentioned in this article are usually biological or chemical samples, including but not limited to blood, urine, tissue fluid, etc., depending on actual needs, and are not specifically limited here.

[0029] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the transmission mechanism 2 includes a transmission channel 22 and multiple sample holders 21. The sample holders 21 sequentially transmit samples within the transmission channel 22 along its extension direction 300. Each sample holder 21 is configured to carry a sample container 200 for holding a sample, and to transport the carried sample container 200 within the transmission channel 22 along its extension direction 300 and past a target position 23. Understandably, the transmission mechanism 2 is primarily used to schedule the position of the carried sample container 200 within the transmission channel 22 via the sample holders 21, so as to transmit the sample contained in each sample container 200 to a corresponding position (e.g., target position 23) for processing by the sample processing device 1, or to continue transmitting the processed sample to the downstream of that corresponding position.

[0030] It should be noted that, in order to simplify the assembly line layout and reduce maintenance costs, the transmission channel 22 described herein can be a straight channel. To improve space utilization, the transmission channel 22 can also be a ring channel. Of course, to adapt to complex spatial layout requirements, the transmission channel 22 can also be a curved channel. No particular limitation is made here, and the specific design can be determined according to actual needs.

[0031] For example, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the transmission mechanism 2 may further include a belt conveyor component, which includes a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt is correspondingly disposed within the transmission channel 22. The transmission channel 22 contains a target position 23, and at least one belt conveyor component is located within the transmission channel 22. When multiple belt conveyor components are present, they can be joined together along the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel to ensure the continuity of the sample holder 21's transmission within the transmission channel 22. For ease of description, we will take a conveyor belt assembly in the transmission channel 22 as an example. Multiple sample holders 21 are placed above the conveyor belt and arranged side by side in the transmission channel 22 along the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel. When the conveyor belt is running, the multiple sample holders 21 can be sequentially transported to the corresponding position, such as the target position 23, driven by the conveyor belt. Correspondingly, the sample containers 200 carried on each sample holder 21 can be transported to the target position 23 so that the sample processing device 1 can process the samples contained in the sample containers 200 that are transported to the target position 23 one by one.

[0032] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, to facilitate online processing and improve the accuracy of sample processing, the positioning mechanism 3 includes a clamping component 31, and the positioning mechanism 3 has a first state and a second state. In the first state, that is, before the sample container 200 carried by the sample holder 21 is transferred to the target position 23 and before the sample processing device 1 processes the sample in the sample container 200, the positioning mechanism 3 can be configured to extend the clamping component 31 into the transmission channel 22 and clamp the sample container 200 at the target position 23, thereby positioning the sample container 200 at the target position 23. In the second state, that is, after the sample container 200 carried by the sample holder 21 at the target position 23 is clamped and fixed at the target position 23 by the clamping component 31, and after the sample processing device 1 has completed processing the sample in the sample container 200, the positioning mechanism 3 can be configured to release the clamp on the sample container 200 at the target position 23 and withdraw the clamping component 31 from the transmission channel 22.

[0033] Understandably, the positioning mechanism 3 is set at the position corresponding to the target position 23. When the sample holder 21 carrying the sample container 200 is transmitted online one by one to the target position 23 of the sample processing device 1 for sample processing in the transmission channel 22, the clamping component 31 extending into the transmission channel 22 by the positioning mechanism 3 can clamp and fix the sample container 200 on the target position 23, so that the sample processing device 1 can stably and accurately process the sample contained in the sample container 200 online. At the same time, the sample container 200 upstream of the sample container 200 will also stay at its corresponding position along with the sample container 200, but the sample container 200 downstream of the sample container 200 can still be transmitted in the transmission channel 22 without being affected by the sample container 200. After the sample processing device 1 has finished processing the sample, the clamping component 31 of the positioning mechanism 3 can release the clamp on the sample container 200 and exit the transmission channel 22 so that the sample container 200 can be transmitted to the downstream of the target position 23, and so that other sample containers 200 upstream of the sample container 200 can be transmitted to the target position 23.

[0034] In summary, when the sample processing system 100 transports multiple sample holders 21 within the transmission channel 22, carrying their respective sample containers 200, to the target position 23, the positioning mechanism 3 located on the periphery of the transmission channel 22 extends the clamping component 31, allowing the clamping component 31 to extend into the transmission channel 22 to clamp and fix the sample container 200 containing the sample at the target position 23. This ensures that the sample processing device 1 accurately positions the sample container 200 when processing the sample online, reducing the requirements on the sample holders 21 and not affecting other samples upstream of the sample that are queuing for online processing. It eliminates the need to wait for samples to be dispatched from a distance to the target position 23, facilitating rapid sample switching and thus improving sample processing speed. On the other hand, after the sample processing system 100 completes the sample processing at the target position 23, it can also promptly withdraw the part of the clamping component 31 of the positioning mechanism 3 that extends into the transmission channel 22 and retract it to the periphery of the transmission channel 22. This will not occupy the upstream and downstream space of the transmission channel 22, nor will it affect the operating space of the sample container 200, which will help reduce the requirements for the size of the transmission channel 22.

[0035] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the following will be discussed in conjunction with the appendix. Figures 1 to 4 The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application are clearly and completely described. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0036] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the positioning mechanism 3 is located on the side of the transmission channel 22. The clamping component 31 extends into or out of the transmission channel 22 from this side of the transmission channel 22 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel. Understandably, the entire positioning mechanism 3 is located on the side of the transmission channel 22 (e.g., the left or right side) and only extends into the transmission channel 22 when it is necessary to clamp and fix the sample container 200 on the target position 23. After sample processing is completed, it can exit the transmission channel 22. In this way, the positioning mechanism 3 does not occupy the upstream and downstream space of the transmission channel 22, nor does it occupy the height space of the transmission channel 22. Even when the height space of the transmission channel 22 is insufficient, it facilitates precise positioning of the sample container 200 on the target position 23.

[0037] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, target position 23 is the sampling position. The sample processing device 1 includes a sampling needle 11. The transmission mechanism 2 is connected to the sample processing device 1. The positioning mechanism 3 is connected to the transmission mechanism 2. The positioning mechanism 3 is located on one side (e.g., the left or right side) of the transmission channel 22 at the position corresponding to target position 23. For example, the positioning mechanism 3 is located in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel. When the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 it carries are transferred to the sampling position, the positioning mechanism 3 is located on the side of the transmission channel 22. The clamping assembly 31 can extend into the transmission channel 22 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel. It can be inserted into one side of the sample container 200 through the gap between the sample container 200 and the upstream sample container 200, and into the other side of the sample container 200 through the gap between the sample container 200 and the downstream sample container 200, so as to clamp and position the sample container 200 from the upstream and downstream. The sampling needle 11 then goes to the sampling position to sample the sample contained in the sample container 200 online. After sampling is completed, the clamping assembly 31 can release the clamp and exit the transmission channel 22 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel, retracting to the side of the transmission channel 22.

[0038] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the sample processing system 100 also includes a limiting mechanism 4, which is configured to at least limit the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 carried thereon, which are being transferred to the target position 23, at the target position 23, so that the positioning mechanism 3 can clamp and fix the sample container 200. The limiting mechanism 4 is also configured to release the limiting of the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 carried thereon at the target position 23, so that the sample container 200, which has been processed by the sample processing device 1 and released from clamping by the positioning mechanism 3, can be transferred downstream of the target position 23.

[0039] Understandably, before the positioning mechanism 3 clamps and fixes the sample container 200 transported to the target position 23, the limiting mechanism 4 can first limit the sample holder 21 carrying the sample container 200 transported to the target position 23, that is, perform preliminary positioning, so that the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 it carries remain on the target position 23. Then, the clamping component 31 of the positioning mechanism 3 extends into the transmission channel 22 to clamp and fix the sample container 200, that is, to perform stable and accurate positioning, so as to facilitate accurate online processing. After the online processing of the sample contained in the sample container 200 is completed and the clamping component 31 releases its grip on the sample container 200, the limiting mechanism 4 can also release its restriction on the sample holder 21, so that the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 it carries can continue to be transported to the downstream of the target position 23. It also makes it easier for the sample holder 21 to make room for the target position 23 for its upstream adjacent sample holder 21, so that the adjacent sample holder 21 can be transported to the target position 23 for the sample processing device 1 to perform online processing on the sample it carries.

[0040] It should be noted that the limiting mechanism 4 can release the limiting of the sample holder 21 on the target position 23 after the clamping component 31 releases its clamping of the sample container 200, but the clamping component 31 is still partially located within the transmission channel 22. Alternatively, it can be performed after the clamping component 31 has completely exited the transmission channel 22. The specific method can be determined according to actual needs, and no special limitation is made here, as long as the sample container 200 on the target position 23 does not interfere with the clamping component 31.

[0041] It should also be noted that the limiting mechanism 4 described here can limit the sample holder 21 on the target position 23 by means of blocking, adsorption, etc., which can be determined according to actual needs and is not particularly limited here. In addition, the structure of the limiting mechanism 4 can adopt existing structures or newly created structures, and is not particularly limited here.

[0042] For example, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in order to reduce the space requirements of the transmission channel 22 and to ensure the compactness of the overall structure of the sample processing system 100, the limiting mechanism 4 is located at the bottom of the transmission channel 22.

[0043] In addition, to reduce the cost of the sample processing system 100, simplify its structure, and ensure smooth transmission of the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 it carries, the limiting mechanism 4 includes a limiting component 41 and a first driving component 42. Before the clamping component 31 clamps the sample container 200 at the target position 23, the limiting component 41 is configured to extend into the transmission channel 22 under the drive of the first driving component 42 to prevent the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 it carries from being transmitted downstream to the target position 23. After processing by the sample processing device 1 and the clamping component 31 releasing the clamp on the sample container 200, the limiting component 41 is further configured to exit the transmission channel 22 under the drive of the first driving component 42 to release the obstruction of the sample holder 21 at the target position 23.

[0044] Understandably, the limiting mechanism 4 mainly uses the limiting component 41 to extend into the transmission channel 22 from the bottom of the transmission channel 22 to block the sample holder 21 on the target position 23, thereby limiting the sample holder 21 and initially positioning it at the target position 23. Correspondingly, the limiting mechanism 4 also mainly uses the limiting component 41 to withdraw from the transmission channel 22 and return to the bottom of the transmission channel 22 to release the limitation on the sample holder 21, which does not affect the passage space of the sample holder 21.

[0045] As further exemplarily, to block the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 carried by it from being transmitted to the target position 23, so as to limit and pause it at the target position 23, at least the following two specific implementation methods are available: In the first specific implementation, such as Figure 2 As shown, at the position corresponding to the target position 23, the transmission channel 22 is provided with at least one clearance hole 24 communicating with the outside. The limiting component 41 includes at least one blocking part 411, wherein the at least one blocking part 411 can pass through the corresponding clearance hole 24 into the transmission channel 22 to block the transmission of the sample holder 21 from downstream of the sample holder 21.

[0046] For example, the clearance hole 24 is located downstream of the target position 23, between the sample holder 21 at the target position 23 and another sample holder 21 adjacent downstream thereto. The limiting mechanism 4 is located at the bottom of the transmission channel 22 at the corresponding position of the target position 23 or near the downstream of the target position 23. When the limiting component 41 of the limiting mechanism 4 moves upward from the bottom of the transmission channel 22, it can pass through the corresponding clearance hole 24 into the transmission channel 22 to be located downstream of the sample holder 21 at the target position 23, so that the portion of the limiting component 41 extending out of the transmission channel 22 blocks the sample holder 21. It should be noted that, in order to ensure that the belt conveying component of the transmission mechanism 2 can always operate smoothly, the clearance hole 24 can be located on at least one side of the conveyor belt (e.g., the left and / or right side).

[0047] In a second specific embodiment, at the position corresponding to the target position, the transmission channel is provided with at least one clearance hole (not shown in the figure) communicating with the outside. The limiting component includes at least one limiting part, wherein at least one limiting hole is opened at the bottom of each sample holder, and each limiting part can pass through the clearance hole and enter the limiting hole to perform alignment and limiting with the sample holder.

[0048] For example, the clearance hole is located at the position corresponding to the target position, and the limiting hole on the sample holder to the target position is aligned with the clearance hole. The limiting mechanism is located at the bottom of the transmission channel at the corresponding position of the target position. When the limiting part of the limiting mechanism moves upward from the bottom of the transmission channel, it can pass through the clearance hole and enter the limiting hole. In this way, the part of the limiting part that enters the limiting hole can cooperate with the limiting hole to directly limit the sample holder, that is, to achieve preliminary positioning.

[0049] It should be noted that, to ensure the smooth operation of the conveyor belt assembly of the transmission mechanism, the clearance hole may be located on at least one side of the conveyor belt (e.g., the left and / or right side), and the sample holder protrudes from the conveyor belt in an extension direction perpendicular to the transmission channel. The limiting hole is located on the bottom of the portion of the sample holder that protrudes from the conveyor belt in this extension direction. For example, if the sample holder is a disc-shaped holder, its diameter is greater than the width of the conveyor belt.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, to ensure the relative position between the positioning mechanism 3 and the limiting mechanism 4, and to improve the structural stability and compactness of the sample processing system 100, the positioning mechanism 3 and the limiting mechanism 4 are connected by a connector 5 at the position corresponding to the target position 23, so as to connect the positioning mechanism 3 and the limiting mechanism 4 in series. The connector 5 mentioned here includes, but is not limited to, a positioning pin.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, to achieve clamping and fixing of the sample container 200 on the target position 23 by the clamping component 31, the clamping component 31 includes a first clamping arm 311 and a second clamping arm 312. The first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are arranged opposite to each other in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel. When the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are within the transmission channel 22, a clamping space 313 for accommodating the sample container 200 can be formed between the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312.

[0052] Understandably, when the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are located outside the transmission channel 22, or after the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 have retracted from the transmission channel 22, there may be no gap between the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 in the extension direction 300. After the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 extend into the transmission channel 22, in order to avoid interference between the extended first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 and the sample container 200 on the target position 23 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300, there must be a gap between the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300, so that the two can jointly form a clamping space 313 to avoid the sample container 200. When the first clamping arm 311 extends into the transmission channel 22, it can be inserted directly into the gap between the sample container 200 and another adjacent sample container 200 downstream, so as to be located downstream of the sample container 200. When the second clamping arm 312 extends into the transmission channel 22, it can be inserted directly into the gap between the sample container 200 and another adjacent sample container 200 upstream, so as to be located upstream of the sample container 200. In this way, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 form a clamping space 313 between the upstream and downstream of the sample container 200, which can accommodate the sample container 200. Obviously, the size of the clamping space 313 can be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the sample container 200. Of course, when the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 jointly clamp the sample container 200, the clamping space 313 between them can be adapted to the sample container 200, that is, the size of the clamping space 313 is adjustable.

[0053] In addition, to reduce the space requirements of the transmission channel 22 and further ensure the structural compactness of the sample processing system 100, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can be configured to translate relative to each other in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel to move closer to or further away from each other. When the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are located in the transmission channel 22 and the sample container 200 is housed in the clamping space 313, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can move closer to each other to jointly clamp the sample container 200 and move further away from each other to release the clamping of the sample container 200.

[0054] For example, when it is necessary to clamp and fix the sample container 200 on the target position 23, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can be relatively translated to move away from each other before extending into the transmission channel 22, or after extending into the transmission channel 22 but before reaching the sample container 200, so as to jointly form a clamping space 313 that can accommodate the sample container 200. After the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are located downstream and upstream of the sample container 200 respectively, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can move closer to each other by translating to complete the clamping of the sample container 200, thereby achieving the straightening and positioning of the sample container 200.

[0055] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the clamping assembly 31 also includes an elastic element 314, wherein one end of the elastic element 314 is connected to the first clamping arm 311, and the other end of the elastic element 314 is connected to the second clamping arm 312, so as to extend and retract in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel. In this way, when the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 jointly clamp the sample container 200 on the target position 23, on the one hand, the elastic deformation of the elastic element 314 can buffer the clamping force on the sample container 200, which helps to reduce the probability of damage to the sample container 200. On the other hand, the size of the clamping space 313 can be adjusted according to the size of the sample container 200 through the elastic deformation, which can help to reduce the impact of the tube diameter manufacturing error of the sample container 200 on the positioning accuracy, and also help to ensure that the clamping assembly 31 can be adapted to sample containers 200 of different sizes, thereby improving the versatility of the sample processing system 100.

[0056] It should be noted that the elastic element 314 mentioned here includes, but is not limited to, a straight spring. The specific type can be determined according to actual needs, and no particular limitation is made here.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, to enable the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 of the clamping assembly 31 to translate relative to each other and move closer or further apart, the clamping assembly 31 further includes a base 315, a second drive assembly 316, and a first transmission assembly 317. The second drive assembly 316 and the first transmission assembly 317 are disposed on the base 315. The output end of the second drive assembly 316 is connected to the first transmission assembly 317, and the first transmission assembly 317 is connected to the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312. The first transmission assembly 317 can be configured to, under the drive of the second drive assembly 316, drive the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 to translate backwards and move further apart, so that the sample container 200 is accommodated in the formed clamping space 313 or the clamping of the sample container 200 is released, and to drive the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 to translate towards each other and move closer together, so that both clamp the sample container 200 within the clamping space 313.

[0058] For example, when it is necessary to clamp and fix the sample container 200 on the target position 23, the first transmission component 317 is driven by the second drive component 316. Under the drive of the first transmission component 317, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can move away from each other to ensure that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 extending into the transmission channel 22 can jointly form a clamping space 313 larger than the sample container 200 and capable of accommodating the sample container 200. Under the drive of the second transmission component 323, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can move towards each other to move closer to each other, so that the two clamp the sample container 200 from the downstream and upstream of the sample container 200 respectively in the clamping space 313. At this time, the size of the clamping space 313 can be adapted to the sample container 200. Conversely, when sample processing is complete and clamping of the sample container 200 is no longer required, the first transmission component 317 can still be driven by the second drive component 316. Under the drive of the first transmission component 317, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can move backward to move away from each other, thereby expanding the clamping space 313 between them and releasing the clamping of the sample container 200. Then, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can be retracted to exit the transmission channel 22 to the side of the transmission channel 22.

[0059] It should be noted that the structure of the first transmission component 317 described herein can be an existing structure or a newly created structure, and no particular limitation is made here. For example, the first transmission component 317 may include, but is not limited to, a belt drive structure, a gear 3231 and rack 3232 structure, etc.

[0060] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, in order to simplify the structure of the positioning mechanism 3 and ensure its compactness to reduce space requirements, the first transmission component 317 includes a driving wheel 3171, a driven wheel 3172, and a flexible transmission member 3173. The driving wheel 3171 and the driven wheel 3172 are spaced apart along the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel, and the driving wheel 3171 and the driven wheel 3172 rotate around the flexible transmission member 3173. The driving wheel 3171 is connected to the second drive component 316 and is driven to rotate by the second drive component 316. That is, a belt drive structure can be formed between the driving wheel 3171, the driven wheel 3172, and the flexible transmission member 3173.

[0061] For example Figure 4 As shown, the flexible transmission member 3173 includes a first transmission part 31731 and a second transmission part 31732. The first transmission part 31731 and the second transmission part 31732 move in opposite directions and are located between the driving wheel 3171 and the driven wheel 3172. The first clamping arm 311 is connected to the first transmission part 31731 at one end away from the transmission channel 22, and the second clamping arm 312 is connected to the second transmission part 31732 at one end away from the transmission channel 22. Thus, when the second drive assembly 316 drives the driving wheel 3171 to rotate, the flexible transmission member 3173 can rotate around the driving wheel 3171 and the driven wheel 3172. Correspondingly, the first clamping arm 311 connected to the first transmission part 31731 and the second clamping arm 312 connected to the second transmission part 31732 can move in opposite directions.

[0062] For example, when the first transmission unit 31731 moves upstream of the sample container 200 at the target position 23, the second transmission unit 31732 simultaneously moves downstream of the sample container 200, so that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can translate relative to each other to move closer. Conversely, when the first transmission unit 31731 moves downstream of the sample container 200 at the target position 23, the second transmission unit 31732 simultaneously moves upstream of the sample container 200, so that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can translate in opposite directions to move away from each other.

[0063] It should be noted that the flexible transmission component 3173 mentioned here includes, but is not limited to, belt components (such as timing belts) or chain components (such as chains), etc., which can be determined according to actual needs and are not specifically limited here.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, to ensure that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can be stably translated along the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel, the clamping assembly 31 further includes a first linear guide 318. The first linear guide 318 is disposed above the base 315 along the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel, and the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are located above the first linear guide 318. That is, in the height direction of the sample processing system 100, the first linear guide 318 is located between the base 315 and the first clamping arm 311 (second clamping arm 312). The first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 are slidably disposed on the first linear guide 318 along its length direction.

[0065] It should be noted that the sliding connection structure between the first clamping arm 311, the second clamping arm 312, and the first linear guide 318 can be an existing structure or a newly created structure. No particular limitation is made here, and the specific structure can be determined according to actual needs.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, to ensure that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 of the clamping assembly 31 do not interfere with other sample containers 200 upstream or downstream of the target position 23 when they are relatively far away from the clamping space 313 that forms the accommodation of the sample container 200, and to facilitate smooth entry into the transmission channel 22, the clamping assembly 31 also includes a first position sensor 319 disposed on the base 315. The first position sensor 319 can be configured to sense the movement distance of the first clamping arm 311 or the second clamping arm 312 in order to limit the maximum clamping space 313 and avoid excessive opening between the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312.

[0067] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in order to enable the clamping component 31 in the positioning mechanism 3 to extend into or exit the transmission channel 22, the positioning mechanism 3 also includes a telescopic component 32. The telescopic component 32 is connected to the base 315 of the clamping component 31. The telescopic component 32 can be configured to drive the clamping component 31 to move along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel through the base 315, so that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 extend into or exit the transmission channel 22.

[0068] For example, the positioning mechanism 3 can move the entire clamping assembly 31 in the width direction 400 of the transmission channel by being driven by the telescopic component 32, thereby enabling the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 of the clamping assembly 31 to be simultaneously extended into or out of the transmission channel 22.

[0069] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, to reduce the space requirements of the transmission channel 22, generally only the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can extend into the transmission channel 22, while other components of the clamping assembly 31 can remain located on the side of the transmission channel 22, not just entering the transmission channel 22. Of course, in other embodiments, only the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 may move along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel and may extend into or retract from the transmission channel 22; the specific structure of such implementation is not particularly limited here.

[0070] It should also be noted that the width direction 400 of the transmission channel mentioned here can be a direction perpendicular to the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel.

[0071] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, to enable the entire clamping assembly 31 to move along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel via the telescopic component 32, the telescopic component 32 includes a base 321, a third drive component 322, and a second transmission component 323. The third drive component 322 and the second transmission component 323 are disposed on the base 321. The output end of the third drive component 322 is connected to the second transmission component 323, and the second transmission component 323 is connected to the base 315. The second transmission component 323 can be configured to drive the clamping assembly 31 to move along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel under the drive of the third drive component 322, so that when the sample container 200 is located at the target position 23, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 extend into the transmission channel 22, and after the clamping assembly 31 releases its grip on the sample container 200, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 exit the transmission channel 22.

[0072] For example, when it is necessary to clamp and fix the sample container 200 on the target position 23, the first transmission component 317 can be driven by the second drive component 316 first. Under the drive of the first transmission component 317, the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can be translated backwards to move away from each other, so that a clamping space 313 for accommodating the sample container 200 is formed between them. Then, the second transmission component 323 is driven by the third drive component 322. Under the drive of the second transmission component 323, the entire clamping component 31 can move towards the sample container 200 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, and the opened first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can gradually extend into the transmission channel 22 to enter the downstream and upstream of the sample container 200, respectively. Then the first clamping arm 311... The first and second clamping arms 311 and 312 can move towards each other and approach each other under the drive of the first transmission component 317 to jointly clamp the sample container 200. After the sample processing is completed, the first and second clamping arms 311 and 312 can move away from each other under the drive of the first transmission component 317 to release the clamping of the sample container 200. Then, the entire clamping component 31 can move away from the sample container 200 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel under the drive of the second transmission component 323 via the base 315, so that the first and second clamping arms 311 and 312 gradually exit the transmission channel 22 to the side of the transmission channel 22. Finally, the first and second clamping arms 311 and 312 can move towards each other and approach each other under the drive of the first transmission component 317 to return to the initial position.

[0073] Of course, since the sample container 200 on target position 23 and its upstream adjacent sample container 200 are not far apart, when the sample container 200 on target position 23 is released from clamping and transferred to the downstream target position 23 to vacate the target position 23, the adjacent sample container 200 can be transferred to target position 23. Therefore, after the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 exit the transmission channel 22, they do not need to be restored to their initial positions. After the adjacent sample container 200 enters the target position 23, they can be directly extended into and out of the channel. The specifics can be determined according to actual needs, and no special restrictions are made here.

[0074] In some embodiments, to enable the telescopic component 32 to be driven by the second transmission component 323, ensuring that the entire clamping component 31 can move along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, and to simplify the structure of the telescopic component 32, the second transmission component 323 includes a meshing gear 3231 and a rack 3232. The gear 3231 is vertically disposed on the base 321 and connected to the output end of the third drive component 322, so as to rotate around the axis of the gear 3231 under the drive of the third drive component 322. The rack 3232 is disposed at the bottom of the base 315 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, so as to drive the clamping component 31 to move along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel under the linkage of the gear 3231.

[0075] For example, when it is necessary to clamp the sample container 200 at target position 23, the third drive component 322 can drive the gear 3231 to rotate. Under the linkage of the gear 3231, the rack 3232 can move synchronously with the base 315 toward the sample container 200 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, so that the entire clamping component 31 moves toward the sample container 200 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, and ensures that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 extend into the transmission channel 22. Conversely, the rack 3232 can move synchronously with the base 315 away from the sample container 200 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, so that the entire clamping component 31 moves away from the sample container 200 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, and ensures that the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 can exit the transmission channel 22. Of course, in other embodiments, other existing or newly created structures can also be used, which will not be described in detail here.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, to ensure that the clamping assembly 31, mainly the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312, can move stably along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, so as to improve the safety and reliability of the sample processing system 100, the telescopic assembly 32 also includes a second linear guide 324. The second linear guide 324 is disposed on the base 321 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel. The base 315 is located above the second linear guide 324, and the base 315 is slidably disposed on the second linear guide 324 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel.

[0077] It should be noted that the sliding connection structure between the base 315 and the second linear guide 324 can be an existing structure or a newly created structure. No special limitation is made here, and the specific structure can be determined according to actual needs.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, in order to ensure that the clamping assembly 31 moves to the correct position and improve the safety and reliability of the sample processing system 100, the telescopic assembly 32 also includes a second position sensor 325 disposed on the base 321. The second position sensor 325 can be configured to sense the moving distance of the base 315 so that the clamping assembly 31 can return to the initial position after the first clamping arm 311 and the second clamping arm 312 exit the transmission channel 22, thereby preventing the clamping assembly 31 from disengaging from the telescopic assembly 32.

[0079] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, to further improve the structural compactness of the positioning mechanism 3, facilitate further reduction of the space requirements of the transmission channel 22, and further ensure the miniaturization design of the sample processing system 100, the base 315 of the clamping component 31 is located above the base 321 of the telescopic component 32, and the projections of the base 315 and the base 321 on the horizontal plane partially overlap, so that the base 315 and the base 321 have a projection overlap area, and a accommodating space 33 is formed between them at the position corresponding to the projection overlap area. It should be noted that, considering that the base 315 can move relative to the base 321 along the width direction 400 of the transmission channel, the overlapping area of ​​their projections on the horizontal plane will change accordingly. Therefore, the projection overlap area mentioned here refers to the projection overlap area between the entire active area of ​​the base 315 and the base 321.

[0080] In one example, to make the positioning mechanism 3 more compact, the second transmission assembly 323 (e.g., gear 3231 and rack 3232) and the second linear guide 324 are both located within the accommodating space 33.

[0081] In another example, to make the positioning mechanism 3 more compact in the height direction, the second drive component 316 is located at the bottom of the base 315 and outside the projection overlap area.

[0082] In another example, in order to make the positioning mechanism 3 more compact in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel and to ensure the balance of the positioning mechanism 3 in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel, the second linear guide 324 is located between the second transmission assembly 323 and the second drive assembly 316 in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel.

[0083] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the base 315 and the base 321 are staggered in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel, but they have the aforementioned projection overlap area and a gap in the height direction, so that the aforementioned accommodating space 33 is formed between them. The second drive assembly 316 and the base 321 are located side by side below the base 315, and the second drive assembly 316 is located outside the accommodating space 33, which makes the positioning mechanism 3 more compact in the height direction. In addition, the second linear guide 324 is located between the second transmission assembly 323 and the second drive assembly 316, which can make the positioning mechanism 3 more compact in the extension direction 300 of the transmission channel and help maintain balance and stability.

[0084] It should be noted that both the second drive component 316 and the third drive component 322 in this article can be motors. Of course, they can also be other suitable drive components, which are not specifically limited here.

[0085] In summary, the sample processing system 100 can clamp and fix sample containers 200 of different specifications and models on the target position 23 through the telescopic positioning mechanism 3 set on the side of the transmission channel 22, so as to achieve precise positioning of the sample container 200. This facilitates the sample processing device 1 to accurately process the sample on the target position 23. For example, it can facilitate the sampling needle 11 to perform precise sampling at the target position 23, without affecting the normal transmission of other sample containers 200 downstream of the sample container 200, nor affecting the gradual gathering of other sample containers 200 upstream of the sample container 200 to the upstream of the target position 23 to queue up and wait to enter the target position 23, which helps to improve the sample processing efficiency. Moreover, after the sample processing is completed, the clamping component 31 of the positioning mechanism 3 can be withdrawn from the transmission channel 22 to the side of the transmission channel 22, without affecting the passage space of the sample container 200, which helps to reduce the requirements for the upstream and downstream space and height space of the transmission channel 22.

[0086] In addition, when the sample holder 21 and the sample container 200 it carries are transferred to the target position 23, the positioning mechanism 3 can also cooperate with the limiting mechanism 4 set at the bottom of the transmission channel 22. The limiting mechanism 4 extends into the transmission channel 22 from the bottom to limit the sample holder 21 on the target position 23, thereby achieving the initial positioning of the sample container 200 carried on the sample holder 21. Then, the clamping component 31 of the positioning mechanism 3 extends into the transmission channel 22 from the side to clamp the sample container 200 itself, so as to perform the final precise positioning of the sample container 200, so as to ultimately ensure the positional accuracy of the sample container 200, which is conducive to further ensuring the accuracy and stability of sample processing.

[0087] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A sample processing system, characterized in that, The sample processing system includes: The sample processing device is configured at least to process a sample located at the target position; A transmission mechanism includes a transmission channel and multiple sample holders; the multiple sample holders are transmitted sequentially along the extension direction of the transmission channel; each sample holder is configured to carry a sample container for holding the sample, and to drive the carried sample container to be transmitted along the extension direction of the transmission channel and pass through the target position. A positioning mechanism includes a clamping component, and the positioning mechanism has a first state and a second state; when the positioning mechanism is in the first state, the positioning mechanism is configured to extend the clamping component into the transmission channel and clamp the sample container at the target position to position the sample container at the target position; when the positioning mechanism is in the second state, the positioning mechanism is configured to release the clamping of the sample container at the target position and remove the clamping component from the transmission channel.

2. The sample processing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positioning mechanism is located on the side of the transmission channel, and the clamping assembly extends into or out of the transmission channel from this side of the transmission channel in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction.

3. The sample processing system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sample processing system further includes a limiting mechanism, which is configured to at least limit the sample holder and the sample container carried thereon to the target position at the target position so that the positioning mechanism can clamp and fix the sample container. The limiting mechanism is also configured to release the limiting of the sample holder at the target position and the sample container it carries, so that the sample container, which has been processed by the sample processing device and released from clamping by the positioning mechanism, can be transferred downstream of the target position.

4. The sample processing system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The limiting mechanism is located at the bottom of the transmission channel, and the limiting mechanism includes a limiting component and a first driving component. Before the clamping component clamps the sample container at the target position, the limiting component is configured to extend into the transmission channel under the drive of the first driving component to block the sample holder and the sample container it carries from being transmitted to the target position downstream of the target position. After the sample processing device processes the sample container and the clamping component releases its grip on the sample container, the limiting component is further configured to exit the transmission channel under the drive of the first driving component, thereby releasing the obstruction of the sample holder at the target position.

5. The sample processing system according to claim 4, characterized in that, At the position corresponding to the target position, the transmission channel is provided with at least one clearance hole that communicates with the outside; The limiting component includes at least one blocking part, which can pass through the corresponding clearance hole into the transmission channel to block the transmission of the sample holder from downstream of the sample holder; And / or, the limiting component includes at least one limiting part, and at least one limiting hole is provided at the bottom of each sample holder, and each limiting part can pass through the clearance hole and enter the limiting hole to be aligned and limited with the sample holder.

6. The sample processing system according to claim 4, characterized in that, At the position corresponding to the target position, the positioning mechanism and the limiting mechanism are connected by a connector.

7. The sample processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The clamping assembly includes a first clamping arm and a second clamping arm disposed opposite to each other in the extending direction. When the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm are within the transmission channel, a clamping space for accommodating the sample container is formed between the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm. The first and second clamping arms are configured to translate relative to each other in the extending direction to move closer or further apart, and when the sample container is contained within the clamping space, the first and second clamping arms move closer to each other to clamp the sample container together, and move further apart to release the clamping of the sample container.

8. The sample processing system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The clamping assembly further includes an elastic element, one end of which is connected to the first clamping arm and the other end of which is connected to the second clamping arm, for extending and retracting in the extension direction.

9. The sample processing system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The clamping assembly further includes a base and a second drive assembly and a first transmission assembly disposed on the base. The output end of the second drive assembly is connected to the first transmission assembly, and the first transmission assembly is connected to the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm. The first transmission component is configured to drive the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm to translate backwards and move away from each other under the drive of the second drive component, so that the sample container is accommodated in the formed clamping space or the clamping of the sample container is released, and to drive the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm to translate towards each other and move closer to each other so that the two clamp the sample container in the clamping space together.

10. The sample processing system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first transmission assembly includes a driving wheel, a driven wheel, and a flexible transmission element. The driving wheel and the driven wheel are spaced apart along the extending direction and rotate around the flexible transmission element. The driving wheel is connected to the second drive assembly and is driven to rotate by the second drive assembly. The flexible transmission component includes a first transmission part and a second transmission part, the first transmission part and the second transmission part move in opposite directions, and both are located between the driving wheel and the driven wheel; The end of the first clamping arm facing away from the transmission channel is connected to the first transmission unit, and the end of the second clamping arm facing away from the transmission channel is connected to the second transmission unit.

11. The sample processing system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The flexible transmission component is a belt or a chain; And / or, the clamping assembly further includes a first linear guide, which is disposed above the base along the extending direction; the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm are located above the first linear guide, and are slidably disposed on the first linear guide in the length direction of the first linear guide; And / or, the clamping assembly further includes a first position sensor disposed on the base, the first position sensor being configured to sense the movement distance of the first clamping arm or the second clamping arm in order to limit the maximum clamping space.

12. The sample processing system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The positioning mechanism further includes a telescopic component connected to the base of the clamping component. The telescopic component is configured to drive the clamping component to move along the width direction of the transmission channel via the base, so that the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm extend into or exit the transmission channel.

13. The sample processing system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The telescopic component includes a base and a third drive component and a second transmission component disposed on the base. The output end of the third drive component is connected to the second transmission component, and the second transmission component is connected to the base. The second transmission component is configured to drive the clamping component to move along the width direction under the drive of the third drive component, so that the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm extend into the transmission channel when the sample container is located at the target position, and the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm exit the transmission channel after the clamping component releases its grip on the sample container.

14. The sample processing system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The second transmission component includes a meshing gear and a rack. The gear is vertically disposed on the base and is connected to the output end of the third drive component so as to rotate around the axis of the gear under the drive of the third drive component. The rack is disposed at the bottom of the base along the width direction, so as to drive the clamping assembly to move along the width direction under the linkage of the gear; And / or, the telescopic assembly further includes a second linear guide, which is disposed on the base along the width direction; the base is located above the second linear guide and is slidably disposed on the second linear guide along the width direction; And / or, the telescopic assembly further includes a second position sensor disposed on the base, the second position sensor being configured to sense the movement distance of the base so that the clamping assembly can return to its initial position after the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm have exited the transmission channel.

15. The sample processing system according to claim 14, characterized in that, The base is located above the base, and the projections of the base and the base on the horizontal plane partially overlap, so that the two have a projection overlap area, and a accommodating space is formed between them at the position corresponding to the projection overlap area. Both the second transmission assembly and the second linear guide are located in the accommodating space; And / or, the second drive component is disposed at the bottom of the base and outside the projection overlap area; And / or, in the extension direction of the transmission channel, the second linear guide is located between the second transmission assembly and the second drive assembly.

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