A sample analyzer

Abstract

A sample analyzer comprises a sampling device, a cleaning device and a drainage pipeline, the cleaning device comprises a cleaning tank, a filter and an ultrasonic generator; the inside of the cleaning tank is formed with a cleaning cavity for accommodating cleaning liquid, and a needle insertion port and a liquid outlet port in communication with the cleaning cavity, the sample needle can be inserted into the cleaning cavity through the needle insertion port; the vibration end of the ultrasonic generator abuts against the cleaning tank or is inserted into the cleaning cavity, and the ultrasonic wave vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator can be transmitted to the cleaning liquid; the filter is detachably connected between the liquid outlet port and the drainage pipeline, and the cleaning liquid discharged from the liquid outlet port passes through the filter and is then discharged by the drainage pipeline. Based on the ultrasonic wave vibration, the sample needle is comprehensively and effectively cleaned, the adhering matters cleaned from the sample needle are filtered and collected through the filter, not only the probability of the cleaning tank or the drainage pipeline being blocked by the adhering matters can be effectively reduced or even avoided, but also the adhering matters can be conveniently and quickly cleaned by detaching the filter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical devices, specifically to a sample analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] A sample analyzer is a medical device used to detect various analytical indicators in blood, urine, or other bodily fluids. When using a sample analyzer to perform these tests, sample needles are needed to process the samples or reagents. Since the sample needles come into contact with different liquid media during the analyzer's operation, a cleaning tank is typically used to clean and maintain them to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the accuracy of the test results. However, in scenarios where sample needles have solid substances such as mixing beads or sticky substances such as separating gel adhering to them, the residue washed off the sample needles often clogs the cleaning tank and drainage lines. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main technical problem addressed by this application is to provide a sample analyzer that can reduce the probability of clogging by filtering and collecting attached substances.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, one embodiment provides a sample analyzer, including a sampling device, a cleaning device, and a drain line. The sampling device includes a sample needle, and the cleaning device includes a cleaning tank, a filter, and an ultrasonic generator; wherein: The cleaning tank has a cleaning chamber for containing cleaning fluid, and an inlet and an outlet connected to the cleaning chamber. The sample needle can be inserted into the cleaning chamber through the inlet. The drain pipe is connected to the outlet to drain the cleaning fluid from the cleaning chamber. The vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator abuts against the cleaning tank or is inserted into the cleaning chamber, and the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator can be transmitted to the cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber. The filter is detachably connected between the outlet and the drain pipe so that the cleaning fluid discharged from the outlet passes through the filter and is then discharged through the drain pipe.

[0005] In one embodiment, the filter includes: A filter tank, wherein a filter chamber is formed inside the filter tank, and the filter tank is further provided with an inlet and an outlet communicating with the filter chamber. The inlet is connected to the outlet, and the outlet is connected to a drain pipe; and A filter element is disposed within the filter chamber; the filter element is located in the flow path between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet, so that the cleaning liquid discharged from the liquid outlet passes through the filter element and is discharged from the liquid outlet into the liquid outlet pipeline.

[0006] In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the filter chamber is larger than the inner diameter of the cleaning chamber.

[0007] In one embodiment, the projection of the filter element covers the drain port in the extending direction of the line connecting the inlet and the outlet.

[0008] In one embodiment, in the extending direction of the line connecting the inlet and the outlet, there is a gap between the filter element and the outlet, and / or a gap between the filter element and the inlet.

[0009] In one embodiment, the filter element is inclined relative to the drain port.

[0010] In one embodiment, the filter further includes a support member disposed within the filter chamber, and the filter member is disposed on the support member.

[0011] In one embodiment, the support has a flow channel and a sidewall surrounding the flow channel, one end of the flow channel is connected to the drain port, the filter covers the other end of the flow channel, and the sidewall of the support abuts against the cavity wall of the filter chamber.

[0012] In one embodiment, the cleaning device further includes an adapter, one end of which is connected to the cleaning tank and the other end of which is detachably connected to the filter tank. The adapter has an internal connecting channel that connects the liquid outlet and the liquid inlet, and the inner diameter of the connecting channel is greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the cleaning chamber.

[0013] In one embodiment, the cleaning tank further comprises an overflow chamber separate from the cleaning chamber and an overflow port connected to the cleaning chamber, wherein the cleaning liquid overflowing from the cleaning chamber is discharged into the overflow chamber through the overflow port.

[0014] In one embodiment, the sample analyzer further includes a liquid injection line, and the cleaning tank is further provided with a liquid injection port communicating with the cleaning chamber; the liquid injection line is connected to the liquid injection port and provides cleaning fluid to the cleaning chamber through the liquid injection port.

[0015] In one embodiment, the vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator is inserted into the cleaning chamber, and the cleaning chamber is provided with an ultrasonic reflection structure, which is arranged opposite to the vibrating end.

[0016] In one embodiment, the sampling device further includes a drive member coupled to the sample needle, the drive member driving the sample needle to rotate within the cleaning chamber.

[0017] The sample analyzer according to the above embodiment includes a sampling device, a cleaning device, and a drain pipe. The cleaning device includes a cleaning tank, a filter, and an ultrasonic generator. The cleaning tank has a cleaning chamber for containing cleaning fluid and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the cleaning chamber. The sample needle can be inserted into the cleaning chamber through the inlet. The vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator abuts against the cleaning tank or is inserted into the cleaning chamber, and the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator can be transmitted to the cleaning fluid. The filter is detachably connected between the outlet and the drain pipe. The cleaning fluid discharged from the outlet passes through the filter and is discharged through the drain pipe. Based on ultrasonic vibration, the sample needle is thoroughly and effectively cleaned. By filtering and collecting the deposits cleaned from the sample needle, the probability of the cleaning tank or drain pipe being blocked by deposits can be effectively reduced or even avoided. Furthermore, by disassembling the filter, the deposits can be easily and quickly cleaned. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the system architecture of a sample analyzer according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the structure of a sample analyzer according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the outer contour structure of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a filter element in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0023] In the picture: 10. Cleaning device; 11. Cleaning tank; 111. Cleaning chamber; 112. Overflow chamber; 113. Overflow port; 114. Injection port; 12. Ultrasonic generator; 121. Ultrasonic transducer; 122. Vibrating part; 13. Filter; 131. Filter tank; 1311. Filter chamber; 1312. Drain port; 132. Filter element; 133. Support element; 14. Adapter; 141. Adapter channel; 15. Ultrasonic reflector; 20. Sample unit; 30. Sample dispensing mechanism; 40. Reagent unit; 50. Reagent dispensing mechanism; 60. Mixing mechanism; 70. Reaction component; 80. Measurement component; 100. Functional module; 200. Input module; 300. Display module; 400. Alarm module; 500. Processor; 600. Memory. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Similar elements in different embodiments are referred to by related similar element reference numerals. In the following embodiments, many details are described to facilitate a better understanding of the present application. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that some features may be omitted in different situations, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, certain operations related to the present application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid obscuring the core parts of the present application with excessive description. For those skilled in the art, detailed description of these related operations is not necessary; they can fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and general technical knowledge in the art.

[0025] Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification can be combined in any suitable manner to form various embodiments. At the same time, the steps or actions in the method description can be rearranged or adjusted in a manner obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various orders in the specification and drawings are only for the clear description of a particular embodiment and do not imply a necessary order, unless otherwise stated that a particular order must be followed.

[0026] The serial numbers assigned to components in this document, such as "first" and "second," are used only to distinguish the described objects and have no sequential or technical meaning. The terms "connection" and "linkage" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (linkages).

[0027] This application provides a sample analyzer, which can be an immunoassay analyzer, biochemical analyzer, coagulation analyzer, blood rheology analyzer, etc. The sample processed and analyzed by this analyzer can be solutions derived from living organisms, such as serum, blood, plasma, bone marrow fluid, urine, gastric juice, intestinal juice, bile, saliva, tears, or cell extracts; it can also be solutions used in medicine, such as dialysis fluid, nutritional supplements, and pharmaceuticals. Please refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sample analyzer includes one or more functional modules 100, input modules 200, display modules 300, and other functional modules as needed (such as alarm modules 400, processors 500, memory 600, etc.); detailed descriptions are provided below.

[0028] The display module 300 is used to display information; in some embodiments, the sample analyzer itself may integrate the display module 300; in other embodiments, the sample analyzer may also be connected to a computer device (e.g., a computer) and display information through the display unit (e.g., a display screen) of the computer device, all of which fall within the scope of the display module 300 defined and protected herein.

[0029] The input module 200 is used to receive user input. For example, the input module 200 can be a mouse, keyboard, or a voice input device with voice recognition function. Alternatively, the input module 200 can also be a touch screen display, which has the function of allowing users to input and display information. Therefore, in some embodiments, the input module 200 and the display module 300 can be integrated into one unit.

[0030] Each functional module 100 is used to perform at least one function required in the sample analysis process. These functional modules 100 work together to complete the sample analysis and obtain the results. For example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 2 The functional module 100 includes a cleaning device 10, a sample unit 20, a sample dispensing mechanism 30, a reagent unit 40, a reagent dispensing mechanism 50, a mixing mechanism 60, a reaction component 70, and a measuring component 80, etc.

[0031] The sample unit 20 is used to carry samples; in some embodiments, the sample unit 20 may be a sample tray, which includes multiple sample positions for placing sample tubes, and the sample tray can be rotated to move the samples to the corresponding positions, such as the positions for the sample dispensing mechanism 30 to pick up samples. In other embodiments, the sample unit 20 may include a sample delivery module (SDM) and a front-end track.

[0032] The sample dispensing mechanism 30 is used to aspirate samples and dispense them into the reaction cup to be sampled. For example, the sample dispensing mechanism 30 may include a sampling needle, which moves in two or three dimensions in space through a two-dimensional or three-dimensional driving mechanism, thereby aspirating the sample carried by the sample unit 20 and moving it to the reaction cup to be sampled, and dispensing the sample into the reaction cup.

[0033] The reagent unit 40 can be one or more, used to carry reagents; in some embodiments, the reagent unit 40 can be a reagent tray, which is arranged in a disc-shaped structure and has multiple positions for carrying reagent containers. The reagent unit 40 can rotate and drive the reagent container it carries to rotate, so as to rotate the reagent container to a specific position, such as the position where the reagent is picked up by the reagent dispensing mechanism 50.

[0034] The reagent dispensing mechanism 50 is used to draw up the reagent and discharge it into the reaction cup to which the reagent is to be added. In some embodiments, the reagent dispensing mechanism 50 may include a reagent needle, which moves in two or three dimensions in space through a two-dimensional or three-dimensional driving mechanism, thereby drawing up the reagent carried by the reagent unit 40 and moving it to the reaction cup to which the reagent is to be added, and discharging the reagent into the reaction cup.

[0035] The mixing mechanism 60 can be one or more, used to mix the reaction liquid in the reaction vessel that needs to be mixed. For example, the mixing mechanism 60 is equipped with a stirring rod, which is used to mix and stir the reaction liquid in the reaction vessel.

[0036] The reaction component 70 has at least one placement position for placing a reaction cup and incubating the reaction liquid in the reaction cup. For example, the reaction component 70 can be a reaction disk, which is arranged in a disk-shaped structure and has one or more placement positions for placing reaction cups. The reaction disk can rotate and drive the reaction cups in its placement positions to rotate, for distributing the reaction cups and incubating the reaction liquid in the reaction cups within the reaction disk.

[0037] The measuring component 80 is used to perform photometric measurements on the incubated reaction solution to obtain the sample's reaction data. For example, the measuring component 80 detects the luminescence intensity of the reaction solution to be tested and calculates the concentration of the analyte in the sample using a calibration curve. In some embodiments, the measuring component 80 is separately disposed outside the reaction component 70.

[0038] The cleaning device 10 is used to clean the sample needle of the sampling device during the above-mentioned analysis process. The sampling device can be a sample dispensing mechanism 30, and the sample needle refers to the sampling needle. Alternatively, the sampling device can be a reagent dispensing mechanism 50, and the sample needle refers to the reagent needle. Of course, the sample needle can also be other medical components in the sample analyzer, such as reaction cups or sample tubes, that require cleaning. During the analysis process, cleaning the sample needle with the cleaning device 10 avoids cross-contamination of samples and reagents. For example, after sampling and sample dispensing, the sampling needle and reagent needle are cleaned so that the next sampling and sample dispensing operation can only be performed after cleaning.

[0039] The cleaning device 10 is connected to a liquid path support mechanism to provide cleaning fluid to the cleaning device 10 or to discharge cleaning waste fluid. For example, the liquid path support mechanism may include a drain line and an injection line. Based on the connection between the drain line and the cleaning device 10, it supports the discharge of cleaning waste fluid generated after cleaning the sample needle from the cleaning device 10. Based on the connection between the injection line and the cleaning device 10, it supports the injection of cleaning fluid into the cleaning device 10. The type of cleaning fluid is not limited; for example, the cleaning fluid can be water or a solution mixed with a cleaning agent.

[0040] Based on the functional structure of the sample analyzer described above, the cleaning device 10 and its related structures are mainly introduced below. Please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, the cleaning device 10 includes a cleaning tank 11, an ultrasonic generator 12, and a filter 13.

[0041] The cleaning tank 11 has a cleaning chamber 111 inside for containing cleaning fluid. For ease of distinction and description, the two opposite ends of the cleaning tank 11 in the extension direction of the cleaning chamber 111 are defined as the needle inlet end and the fluid outlet end of the cleaning tank 11, respectively. The needle inlet end is provided with a needle inlet port that communicates with the cleaning chamber 111, and the fluid outlet end is provided with a fluid outlet port that communicates with the cleaning chamber 111. The sample needle can enter and exit the cleaning chamber 111 through the needle inlet port, and the adhering material washed off the sample needle can be discharged from the cleaning chamber 111 with the cleaning fluid through the fluid outlet port.

[0042] In some embodiments, the needle inlet and the liquid outlet can be understood as two ports opposite to each other in the extending direction of the cleaning chamber 111. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Taking the cleaning device 10 shown as an example, the extending direction of the cleaning chamber 111 is roughly vertical, the needle inlet is the top port of the cleaning chamber 111, and the liquid outlet is the bottom port of the cleaning chamber 111. Furthermore, the cleaning chamber 111 (together with the needle inlet and the liquid outlet) can be configured as a structure with equal inner diameter.

[0043] In some embodiments, the outlet can be configured to penetrate the peripheral sidewall of the cleaning tank 11, so as to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 Taking the cleaning device 10 shown as an example, the extension direction of the cleaning chamber 111 is roughly vertical, the inlet is the top port of the cleaning chamber 111, and the outlet can be set on the bottom periphery of the cleaning tank 111 and connected to the cleaning chamber 111.

[0044] The vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator 12 is placed against the cleaning tank 11 or inserted into the cleaning chamber 111. The ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator 12 can be transmitted to the cleaning fluid to remove the deposits on the sample needle and achieve ultrasonic cleaning of the sample needle.

[0045] Specifically, the ultrasonic generator 12 can input ultrasonic waves of a certain frequency and power into the cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber 111 through its vibrating end. The microbubbles in the cleaning fluid can vibrate under the action of the sound field. When the sound pressure reaches a certain value, the bubbles rapidly increase in size and then rapidly collapse and cavitate. When the cavitated bubbles collapse, they generate micro-jet streams and shock waves, and generate physical and chemical effects such as high temperature, high pressure, light emission, and discharge around the sample needle. Thus, by utilizing the impact effect generated during the ultrasonic cavitation process, the deposits attached to the surface of the sample needle are peeled off from the sample needle, thereby achieving ultrasonic cleaning treatment of the sample needle.

[0046] The residue washed off the sample needle can include liquid contaminants (such as reagents, liquid sample residues, etc.), solid contaminants (such as mixing beads, etc.), colloidal contaminants (such as separating gel, etc.), and other large foreign objects.

[0047] For example, please refer to Figure 4 The ultrasonic generator 12 includes an ultrasonic transducer 121 and a vibrating part 122 connected to the ultrasonic transducer 121. The vibrating part 122 can be understood as the vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator 12, with one end of the vibrating part 122 away from the ultrasonic transducer 121 inserted into the cleaning chamber 111. Through the contact relationship between the vibrating part 122 and the cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning chamber 111, the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic transducer 121 can be directly transmitted to the cleaning fluid, thereby helping to improve the input-output conversion efficiency of ultrasonic vibration, significantly increasing effective vibration, and thus improving cleaning efficiency and cleaning effect.

[0048] In some embodiments, the vibration part 122 may be an amplitude transformer, which can amplify the particle displacement or velocity of the mechanical vibration of the ultrasonic transducer 121 and concentrate the ultrasonic energy on the end face of the amplitude transformer 122 away from the ultrasonic transducer 121.

[0049] In some embodiments, the vibrating part 122 may be an amplitude-changing component that amplifies or reduces the amplitude of ultrasonic vibration by changing its geometry, such as a diaphragm connected to the ultrasonic transducer 121.

[0050] In some embodiments, the vibrating end (e.g., the vibrating part 122) of the ultrasonic generator 12 can abut against the cleaning tank 11, for example, against the outer wall of the cleaning tank 11; in this way, the ultrasonic generator 12 generates ultrasonic vibrations that can drive the cleaning tank 11 to vibrate, and the cleaning tank 11 transmits the ultrasonic vibrations to the cleaning fluid, thereby causing the cleaning fluid to clean the deposits on the sample needle under the action of the ultrasonic vibrations.

[0051] In some embodiments, the vibrating end (e.g., the vibrating part 122) of the ultrasonic generator 12 may be configured as part of the cavity wall of the cleaning chamber 111, so that the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator 12 is directly transmitted to the cleaning fluid.

[0052] The filter 13 is detachably connected between the cleaning tank 11 (specifically, the outlet end) and the drain pipe to filter and collect deposits discharged from the outlet, such as solid contaminants like mixing beads, sticky contaminants like separation gel, or other larger foreign objects. Filtering and collecting these deposits with the filter 13 not only reduces or even eliminates the likelihood of blockages in the cleaning chamber 111 and the drain pipe, but also allows for timely cleaning of the collected deposits by disassembling the filter 13, ensuring the reuse of the cleaning device 10 or the normal operation of the sample analyzer.

[0053] For example, please refer to Figure 4The filter 13 includes a filter tank 131 and a filter element 132. The filter tank 131 is connected to the cleaning tank 11 and the drain pipe by a detachable method including but not limited to screw connection, interference fit, and snap-fit. The filter tank 131 has a filter chamber 1311 inside. The filter tank 131 is also provided with an inlet and a drain port 1312 that connect the filter chamber 1311. The inlet of the filter tank 131 is connected to the outlet of the cleaning tank 11, and the drain port 1312 of the filter chamber 1311 is connected to the drain pipe, thereby establishing a liquid connection between the cleaning chamber 111, the filter chamber 1311, and the drain pipe. The filter element 132 is disposed in the filter chamber 1311 and located in the flow path between the inlet and the outlet 1312. The cleaning liquid discharged from the outlet of the cleaning tank 11 passes through the filter element 132 and is discharged into the drain pipe from the outlet 1312, thereby using the filter element 132 to filter and intercept the adhering substances in the cleaning liquid. The filter element 132 can be a filter screen structure or other structures with filtration functions, such as ultrafiltration membranes or other filter membrane structures.

[0054] Specifically, solid contaminants, viscous contaminants, or larger foreign objects from the residue cleaned from the sample needle are discharged into the filter chamber 1311 through the outlet and inlet under their own weight or the effect of liquid flow. The filter element 132 filters and intercepts these residues, thus trapping them within the filter chamber 1311 and achieving filtration and collection. When the cleaning device 10 is drained through the pipeline support mechanism, waste liquid not intercepted by the filter element 132 can be discharged from the drain outlet 1312 into the drain pipeline, and then discharged from the cleaning device 10 (specifically the cleaning chamber 111 and the filter chamber 1311) through the drain pipeline.

[0055] In this way, it is possible to avoid the accumulation of deposits in the cleaning chamber 111, which could clog the cleaning chamber 111, and also to prevent these deposits from entering the drain pipe and clogging the drain pipe or the pipe support mechanism. At the same time, based on the detachable connection between the filter tank 131, the cleaning tank 11, and the drain pipe, the filter 131 can be structurally separated from the cleaning tank 11 (or together with the drain pipe) as needed, thereby facilitating and quickly cleaning the deposits collected in the filter chamber 1311.

[0056] In other embodiments, the filter 13 can also adopt other suitable structures to facilitate the filtration and collection of deposits discharged from the outlet and for easy cleaning. For example, the filter tank 131 can be omitted, and the filter element 132 can be disposed in the inlet end of the drain pipe, and the drain pipe can be detachably connected to the outlet end of the cleaning tank 11. In this way, the pipe space at the inlet end of the drain pipe can serve as the filter chamber 1311. The filter element 132 intercepts solid pollutants, viscous pollutants, and large foreign objects, trapping these deposits at the inlet end of the drain pipe, thus achieving the filtration and collection of deposits. This also avoids clogging of the cleaning chamber 111 or the drain pipe from becoming blocked due to deposits entering deeper into the drain pipe. At the same time, by disconnecting the drain pipe from the cleaning tank 11, the deposits trapped and collected by the filter element 132 can also be cleaned. All these aspects will not be elaborated further here.

[0057] As an example only, in some application scenarios (such as blood collection in special blood collection tubes in Russia, where mixing beads are present in the collection tubes), when the sampling needle aspirates blood proteins or separating gel, problems such as needle blockage, collision, or even the burning out of the sampling needle's drive motor may occur due to the mixing beads being carried in. Furthermore, during the cleaning process, problems such as poor drainage often arise due to the mixing beads clogging the cleaning tank or drainage pipes. The sample analyzer provided in this application embodiment can effectively solve the problems encountered in these scenarios.

[0058] Specifically, on the one hand, based on the ultrasonic generator 12 configured in the cleaning device 10, the impact effect generated during ultrasonic cavitation can be used to peel off the attached substances from the sampling needle and destroy some of the attached substances so that they are dispersed in the cleaning fluid, thereby achieving effective and comprehensive cleaning of the sampling needle; for example, the ultrasonic generator 12 can effectively remove the attached substances such as mixing beads on the sampling needle, thereby avoiding problems such as needle blockage, collision, or even motor stall and burnout caused by the mixing beads clogging the sampling needle orifice.

[0059] On the other hand, based on the filter 13 which is detachably connected between the cleaning tank 11 and the drain pipe, solid contaminants such as mixed beads, sticky contaminants, and large foreign objects in the washed-off deposits can be filtered and collected. In this way, not only can problems such as deposits clogging the cleaning tank 11 and the drain pipe be reduced or even avoided, but the mixed beads and other deposits collected by the filter 13 can also be cleaned in a timely manner by disassembling the filter 13.

[0060] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4The inner diameter of the filter chamber 1311 is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the cleaning chamber 111. Based on the size difference between the filter chamber 1311 and the cleaning chamber 111, it can be ensured that all the liquid in the cleaning chamber 111 (such as cleaning fluid and adhering substances washed off from the sample needle) can enter the filter chamber 1311, thereby avoiding the accumulation of adhering substances such as mixing beads in the cleaning chamber 111 or the liquid outlet, which would cause blockage.

[0061] For example, the mixing beads that are washed off during the cleaning process can smoothly enter the filter chamber 1311 through the liquid outlet, thereby avoiding the mixing beads from clogging the liquid outlet; and during the drainage process, the liquid in the cleaning chamber 111 can smoothly and completely enter the filter chamber 1311, so that some of the attached substances are intercepted and collected by the filter element 132.

[0062] On the other hand, the liquid discharged from the cleaning chamber 111 into the filter chamber 1311 can make uniform contact with the filter element 132, which can not only effectively filter the adhering substances such as the mixed beads, but also effectively improve the filtration efficiency.

[0063] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 Regarding filter 13, in the extending direction of the line connecting the inlet and outlet 1312 of filter tank 131, the projection of filter element 132 covers outlet 1312.

[0064] For example, with Figure 3 and Figure 4 Taking the cleaning device 10 shown as an example, the inlet and outlet of the filter tank 131 are located on opposite sides of the filter chamber 1311 in the vertical direction or at opposite ends of the filter tank 131 in the vertical direction. At this time, the extension direction of the line connecting the inlet and outlet 1312 is roughly in the vertical direction, while the filter element 132 is located above the outlet 1312 in the filter chamber 1311. Therefore, the projection of the filter element 132 can be understood as the projection on the plane where the outlet 1312 is located.

[0065] For example, the extending direction of the cleaning chamber 111 is... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The vertical direction of the cleaning device 10 shown, and the extension direction of the line connecting the inlet and outlet 1312, can be... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The left and right directions of the cleaning device 10 shown.

[0066] In other words, depending on the structural form of filter 131 or the connection method between filter 13 and cleaning tank 11, the extension direction of the line connecting the inlet and outlet 1312 can be the same as or different from the extension direction of cleaning chamber 111; or the extension direction of the line connecting the inlet and outlet 1312 can be understood as the direction of liquid flow along the flow path between the inlet and outlet 1312.

[0067] Thus, based on the structural relationship that the projection of the filter element 132 can cover the drain port 1312, it can be ensured that all the liquid discharged from the self-cleaning chamber 111 will be filtered by the filter element 132 before flowing to the drain port 1312 or being discharged into the drain pipeline through the drain port 1312, thereby ensuring the filtration efficiency of the filter element 132 for adhering substances such as mixing beads.

[0068] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 In the extension direction of the line connecting the inlet and outlet 1312 of the filter tank 131, there are gaps between the filter element 132 and the outlet 1312, as well as between the filter element 132 and the inlet.

[0069] Based on the gap formed between the filter element 132, the drain port 1312, and the inlet, it is equivalent to dividing the cavity space of the filter chamber 1311 into two spaces located on both sides of the filter element 132. In this way, the space between the filter element 132 and the inlet can provide ample temporary storage space for the deposits filtered and trapped by the filter element 132, avoiding the blockage of the drain port 1312 and the outlet (or cleaning chamber 111) due to the accumulation of deposits on the filter element 132. At the same time, during the process of draining the cleaning device 10, the liquid in the cleaning chamber 111 and the filter chamber 1311 can also flow smoothly into the drain pipe through the drain port 1312.

[0070] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The filter element 132 is inclined relative to the drain port 1312. Exemplarily, the filter 13 also includes a support element 133 disposed within the filter chamber 1311. The support element 133 is generally tubular in shape, having side walls and a drainage channel enclosed by the side walls. One end of the drainage channel communicates with the drain port 1312, and the other end of the drainage channel has an inclined surface structure relative to the drain port 1312. The filter element 132 covers the other end of the drainage channel and is disposed on the support element 133, while the side wall of the support element 133 abuts against the wall of the filter chamber 1311 (e.g., sealing abutment). For example, the tubular support element 133 can be inserted into the filter chamber 1311 using an interference fit.

[0071] Firstly, by setting the filter element 132 at an angle relative to the drain port 1312 within the filter chamber 1311, it is possible to prevent the deposits filtered and trapped by the filter element 132 from accumulating in the area of ​​the filter element 132 or the filter chamber 1131 corresponding to the center of the drain port 1312. This ensures that the liquid in the cleaning chamber 111 flows smoothly through the filter element 132 and prevents the filter element 132 itself from being blocked by the deposits it traps, thereby improving filtration efficiency. At the same time, it can also effectively improve the space utilization of the filter chamber 1311 and increase the amount of deposits collected.

[0072] Secondly, by using the support member 133 as the mounting carrier for the filter element 132 in the filter chamber 1311, the filter element 132 can be stably restricted to the preset position in the filter chamber 1311, avoiding the filter element 132 from being deformed by the impact of water flow, which would affect the filtration effect. It also makes it easier for the filter 13 to be disassembled and maintained.

[0073] Third, the support member 133 stabilizes the filter element 132 in a preset position within the filter chamber 1311, which helps to form or maintain a stable structural gap between the filter element 132 and the drain port 1312, as well as between the filter element 132 and the cleaning chamber 111, so as to provide sufficient temporary storage space for the deposits filtered and trapped by the filter element 132, thereby preventing the deposits from clogging the drain port 1312 and the outlet.

[0074] Fourth, by utilizing the abutting relationship between the side wall of the support member 133 and the cavity wall of the filter chamber 1311, the structural gap between the side wall of the support member 133 and the cavity wall of the filter chamber 1311 can be reduced or eliminated, ensuring that all the liquid discharged from the self-cleaning chamber 111 can be filtered through the filter member 132, thereby ensuring filtration efficiency.

[0075] Of course, the support member 133 can also adopt other suitable structures. For example, the support member 133 can be a frame structure, or the support member 133 can be an annular protrusion protruding from the cavity wall of the filter cavity 1311, as long as it can support and fix the filter member 132 and ensure that all liquid flows through the filter member 132.

[0076] In some embodiments, the support member 133 may be omitted, and the filter element 132 may be fixed in the filter cavity 1311 in other suitable ways; for example, the filter element 132 itself has a rigid frame surrounding its filter structure, and the filter element 132 is fixed in the filter cavity 1311 by connecting the rigid frame to the filter tank 131; or, the filter element 132 may be fixed in the filter cavity 1311 by adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, or other methods. These variations will not be elaborated upon here.

[0077] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4The cleaning device 10 also includes an adapter 14, which is connected between the cleaning tank 11 and the filter tank 132. For example, one end of the adapter 14 can be connected to the cleaning tank 11 in a detachable or non-detachable manner, while the other end of the adapter 14 can be connected to the filter tank 131 in a detachable manner, including but not limited to screw connection, interference fit, snap-fit, etc. The adapter 14 has a connecting channel 141 inside that connects the cleaning chamber 111 (specifically the liquid outlet) and the filter chamber 1311 (specifically the liquid inlet).

[0078] Firstly, the inner diameter of the transfer channel 141 can be set to be greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the cleaning chamber 111, so that the adhering material cleaned from the sample needle can be smoothly discharged from the cleaning chamber 111 with the cleaning fluid and enter the filter chamber 1311 through the transfer channel 141, thereby avoiding the accumulation of adhering material in the cleaning chamber 111 and causing blockage.

[0079] Secondly, based on the detachable connection between the adapter 14 and the filter 13, the filter 13 can be easily disassembled and assembled, thereby cleaning the deposits collected by the filter 13.

[0080] Third, the adapter 14 can extend the distance between the filter element 132 or filter chamber 1311 and the cleaning chamber 111, which helps to increase the temporary storage space for the deposits and prevent the deposits filtered and intercepted by the filter element 132 from clogging the cleaning chamber 111 (e.g., the liquid outlet).

[0081] In some embodiments where the vibrating end (specifically, the vibrating part 122) of the ultrasonic generator 12 is inserted into the cleaning chamber 111, considering that when the sample needle is inserted into the cleaning chamber 111, the vibrating end is located on one side of the sample needle in the radial direction of the sample needle, the side of the sample needle facing the vibrating end in the radial direction can usually be cleaned well by the impact of ultrasonic vibration, while the side of the sample needle facing away from the vibrating end in the radial direction is less affected by ultrasonic vibration due to the shielding of the sample needle itself (that is, the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator 12 can hardly reach the side of the sample needle facing away from the vibrating end due to the shielding of the sample needle), resulting in poor surface cleaning effect on the side of the sample needle facing away from the vibrating end.

[0082] Therefore, in some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cleaning chamber 111 is further provided with an ultrasonic reflection structure for reflecting ultrasonic vibrations, which is disposed opposite to the vibration end of the ultrasonic generator. Exemplarily, the ultrasonic generator 12 includes an ultrasonic transducer 121 and a vibration section 122, the ultrasonic reflection structure includes an ultrasonic reflector 15, and the cleaning tank 11 includes a tank wall surrounding the cleaning chamber 111, the tank wall including a bottom wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall opposite to the first side wall; Figure 4Taking the cleaning device 10 shown as an example, the first sidewall and the second sidewall are two opposite sidewalls of the cleaning tank 11 in the left-right direction; wherein, the liquid outlet can be set through the bottom wall, the first sidewall is provided with a first mounting port, the second sidewall is provided with a second mounting port, the end of the vibrating part 122 away from the ultrasonic transducer 121 passes through the first mounting port and is inserted into the cleaning chamber 111 (for example, the ultrasonic transducer 121 can be fixed to the first sidewall by sealing the first mounting port), while the ultrasonic reflector 15 is sealed and fixed to the second sidewall by sealing the second mounting port.

[0083] After the sample needle is inserted into the cleaning chamber 111 through the inlet, it is positioned between the vibrating part 122 and the ultrasonic reflecting structure (specifically, the ultrasonic reflector 15). That is, the vibrating part 122 and the ultrasonic reflector 15 are located on opposite sides of the sample needle in the radial direction. In this way, the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator 12 can effectively act on the side of the sample needle facing the vibrating part 122. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator 12 can be transmitted to the ultrasonic reflector 15 through the cleaning fluid. The ultrasonic reflector 15 reflects the ultrasonic vibration, and the ultrasonic vibration reflected by the ultrasonic reflector 15 can effectively act on the side of the sample needle away from the vibrating part 122. Therefore, with the cooperation of the ultrasonic generator 12 and the ultrasonic reflector 15, uniform cleaning of the sample needle surface can be achieved, improving the cleaning effect.

[0084] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 The ultrasonic reflector 15 can be hollow. Specifically, the interior of the ultrasonic reflector 15 has a cavity for containing gas, that is, an air interlayer is formed inside the ultrasonic reflector 15. The air interlayer can enhance the reflection effect of the ultrasonic reflector 15 on ultrasonic vibration, thereby helping to enhance the cleaning effect on the surface of the sample needle away from the vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator 12.

[0085] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic reflector 15 may also be a solid structure, and the ultrasonic reflector 15 may be made of a material with an acoustic impedance value greater than that of the cleaning fluid. When ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted from the cleaning fluid to the ultrasonic reflector 15, there may be a significant acoustic impedance difference at the interface between the ultrasonic reflector 15 and the cleaning fluid, thereby obtaining a better ultrasonic reflection effect. This allows the ultrasonic reflector 15 to reflect more ultrasonic vibrations back into the cleaning fluid, improving the cleaning effect of the sample needle.

[0086] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic reflector 15 can be made of metal, and the wall of the cleaning tank 11 can be made of plastic. The ultrasonic reflector 15 made of metal can achieve better ultrasonic wave reflection, while the cleaning tank made of plastic is less likely to generate noise during ultrasonic vibration, which helps to reduce noise during the cleaning process.

[0087] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic reflection structure may also adopt other suitable structural forms to reflect the ultrasonic vibrations emitted by the ultrasonic generator 12 or the ultrasonic vibrations transmitted by the cleaning fluid.

[0088] In other embodiments, the ultrasonic reflection structure may be omitted, and uniform and comprehensive ultrasonic cleaning of the sample needle can also be achieved by driving the sample needle to rotate within the cleaning chamber 111 during the cleaning process.

[0089] Specifically, the sampling device also includes a driving component coupled to the sample needle. For example, the driving component can be a driving mechanism in the sample dispensing mechanism 30 used to drive the sampling needle to perform two-dimensional or three-dimensional movement in space; or the driving component can be a driving mechanism in the reagent dispensing mechanism 50 used to drive the reagent needle to perform two-dimensional or three-dimensional movement in space. The driving component can drive the sample needle to enter and exit the cleaning chamber 111 through the needle inlet, and can also drive the sample needle to rotate relative to the ultrasonic generator 12 (specifically, the vibrating part 122) in the cleaning chamber 111, so that the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator 12 can act on the sample needle through the cleaning fluid, thereby achieving all-round ultrasonic cleaning treatment of the sample needle surface.

[0090] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cleaning tank 11 also has an overflow chamber 112 and an overflow port 113 inside. The overflow chamber 112 is set independently of the cleaning chamber 111, while the overflow port 113 connects the cleaning chamber 111 and the overflow chamber 112. The liquid overflowing from the cleaning chamber 111 (including cleaning fluid) can be discharged into the overflow chamber 112 through the overflow port 113, thereby avoiding contamination of the cleaning device 10 or other functional components in the sample analyzer due to the overflow of liquid inside the cleaning device 10 to the outside.

[0091] For example, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cleaning tank 11, which forms the cleaning chamber 111, also includes a third sidewall connected between the first and second sidewalls. An overflow port 113 is located on the third sidewall near the needle inlet or above the ultrasonic generator 12 (or ultrasonic reflection structure) in the extending direction of the cleaning chamber 111. This ensures that the liquid level in the cleaning chamber 111 is higher than that of the ultrasonic generator 12 (or together with the ultrasonic reflection structure) when overflow occurs, so that the ultrasonic generator 12 (e.g., the vibrating part 122) and the ultrasonic reflection structure are substantially or completely submerged in the cleaning liquid, thereby improving the utilization rate of ultrasonic vibration and ensuring the cleaning effect on the sample needle.

[0092] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4The cleaning tank 11 is also provided with an injection port 114 that connects to the cleaning chamber 111. The injection port 114 can be set on the side wall or bottom wall of the cleaning tank 11 and is used to connect to the injection pipeline of the pipeline support mechanism so as to provide cleaning fluid to the cleaning chamber 111. Of course, the injection port 114 can also be omitted, and the cleaning fluid can be injected into the cleaning chamber 111 through the needle port or the like before the cleaning operation.

[0093] The above examples illustrate this application only to aid understanding and are not intended to limit its scope. Those skilled in the art to which this application pertains can make various simple deductions, modifications, or substitutions based on the ideas presented.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer, characterized in that, The system includes a sampling device, a cleaning device, and a drainage pipeline. The sampling device includes a sample needle, and the cleaning device includes a cleaning tank, a filter, and an ultrasonic generator. The cleaning tank has a cleaning chamber for containing cleaning fluid, and an inlet and an outlet connected to the cleaning chamber. The sample needle can be inserted into the cleaning chamber through the inlet. The drain pipe is connected to the outlet to drain the cleaning fluid from the cleaning chamber. The vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator abuts against the cleaning tank or is inserted into the cleaning chamber, and the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic generator can be transmitted to the cleaning fluid in the cleaning chamber. The filter is detachably connected between the outlet and the drain pipe so that the cleaning fluid discharged from the outlet passes through the filter and is then discharged through the drain pipe.

2. The sample analyzer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The filter includes: A filter tank, wherein a filter chamber is formed inside the filter tank, and the filter tank is further provided with an inlet and an outlet communicating with the filter chamber. The inlet is connected to the outlet, and the outlet is connected to a drain pipe; and A filter element is disposed within the filter chamber; the filter element is located in the flow path between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet, so that the cleaning liquid discharged from the liquid outlet passes through the filter element and is discharged from the liquid outlet into the liquid outlet pipeline.

3. The sample analyzer as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the filter chamber is larger than the inner diameter of the cleaning chamber.

4. The sample analyzer as described in claim 2, characterized in that, In the extending direction of the line connecting the inlet and the outlet, the projection of the filter element covers the outlet.

5. The sample analyzer as described in claim 2, characterized in that, In the extending direction of the line connecting the inlet and the outlet, there is a gap between the filter element and the outlet, and / or a gap between the filter element and the inlet.

6. The sample analyzer as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The filter element is inclined relative to the drain port.

7. The sample analyzer as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The filter further includes a support member disposed within the filter chamber, and the filter element is disposed within the support member.

8. The sample analyzer as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The support has a flow channel and a sidewall surrounding the flow channel. One end of the flow channel is connected to the drain port. The filter covers the other end of the flow channel. The sidewall of the support abuts against the wall of the filter chamber.

9. The sample analyzer as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The cleaning device also includes an adapter, one end of which is connected to the cleaning tank and the other end of which is detachably connected to the filter tank. The adapter has an internal connecting channel that connects the liquid outlet and the liquid inlet. The inner diameter of the connecting channel is greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the cleaning chamber.

10. The sample analyzer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning tank also has an overflow chamber separate from the cleaning chamber and an overflow port connected to the cleaning chamber. The cleaning liquid overflowing from the cleaning chamber is discharged into the overflow chamber through the overflow port.

11. The sample analyzer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sample analyzer also includes a liquid injection pipeline, and the cleaning tank is further provided with a liquid injection port that connects to the cleaning chamber; the liquid injection pipeline is connected to the liquid injection port and provides cleaning fluid to the cleaning chamber through the liquid injection port.

12. The sample analyzer as described in any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The vibrating end of the ultrasonic generator is inserted into the cleaning chamber, and the cleaning chamber is provided with an ultrasonic reflection structure, which is arranged opposite to the vibrating end.

13. The sample analyzer as described in any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The sampling device further includes a driving component coupled to the sample needle, which drives the sample needle to rotate within the cleaning chamber.

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