Automatic analyzer, dispensation method in automatic analyzer, and program

Abstract

To lengthen the time lasting from reagent dispensation to measurement completion in an automatic analyzer.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer comprises a transportation mechanism which transports a first reaction container and a second reaction container, a first dispensation probe, a second dispensation probe, a reagent dispensation unit, a first reaction container transportation unit, a fluid dispensation unit, and a second reaction container transportation unit. The first dispensation probe dispenses a reagent. The second dispensation probe dispenses a fluid containing a reagent. The reagent dispensation unit dispenses a reagent to the first reaction container located at a first dispensation position by the first dispensation probe. The first reaction container transportation unit transports the first reaction container dispensed with the reagent from the first dispensation position to a suction position by the transportation mechanism. The fluid dispensation unit dispenses a fluid containing a reagent from the first reaction container located at the suction position to the second reaction container located at the second dispensation position by the second dispensation probe. The second reaction container transportation unit transports the second reaction container in which the fluid is accommodated from the second dispensation position to the first dispensation position by the transportation mechanism.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an automatic analyzer, a dispensing method for an automatic analyzer, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, automated analyzers that perform qualitative and quantitative analysis of specimen samples such as blood and urine are known. When performing a two-reagent analysis, a first reagent is first dispensed into a reaction vessel containing the specimen sample. After a predetermined time has elapsed, a second reagent is dispensed into the reaction vessel. A predetermined measurement is performed in the measurement unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second reagent was dispensed. The time from dispensing the first reagent into the reaction vessel to dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel, and the time from dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel to performing a measurement in the measurement unit, are determined by the operation cycle of the reaction disk, which holds the reaction vessel and transports it to each dispensing position and measurement position. For example, it can take five minutes from dispensing the first reagent into the reaction vessel to dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel, and five minutes from dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel to performing a measurement in the measurement unit.

[0003] Depending on the type of measurement item, it may be desirable to secure a longer time (e.g., 10 minutes) between dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel and performing the measurement in the measurement unit. To achieve this, it is conceivable to advance the timing of dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel. However, conventional automated analyzers have not been able to advance the timing of dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel. In order to dispense the second reagent earlier than the predetermined timing, it is conceivable to provide an additional dispensing mechanism in the automated analyzer, but this would complicate the structure of the entire automated analyzer and increase costs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-053027 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to extend the time from reagent dispensing to measurement completion in an automated analyzer. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The automated analyzer according to the embodiment includes a transfer mechanism for transferring a first reaction vessel and a second reaction vessel, a first dispensing probe, a second dispensing probe, a reagent dispensing unit, a first reaction vessel transfer unit, a fluid dispensing unit, and a second reaction vessel transfer unit. The first dispensing probe dispenses a reagent. The second dispensing probe dispenses a fluid containing the reagent. The reagent dispensing unit dispenses the reagent into a first reaction vessel located at a first dispensing position using the first dispensing probe. The first reaction vessel transfer unit transfers the first reaction vessel, into which the reagent has been dispensed, from the first dispensing position to an aspirating position using the transfer mechanism. The fluid dispensing unit dispenses a fluid from the first reaction vessel located at the aspirating position to a second reaction vessel located at a second dispensing position using the second dispensing probe. The second reaction vessel transfer unit transfers the second reaction vessel containing the fluid from the second dispensing position to the first dispensing position using the transfer mechanism. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an example of an automatic analyzer. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the analysis control unit of the automatic analyzer. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the analysis unit of the automatic analyzer. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a dispensing method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of reaction containers by the transfer mechanism of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of the reaction vessel by the transfer mechanism. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of the reaction vessel by the transfer mechanism. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a dispensing method according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of reaction containers by the transfer mechanism of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of the reaction vessel by the transfer mechanism. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of the reaction vessel by the transfer mechanism. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a dispensing method according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of reaction containers by the transfer mechanism of the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 21]FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of the reaction vessel by the transfer mechanism. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the first dispensing probe of the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the first dispensing probe. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the first dispensing probe. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the first dispensing probe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings attached to this specification, the scale and aspect ratios of the actual objects have been appropriately changed and exaggerated for the sake of ease of illustration and understanding.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 10, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an analysis control unit 11 of the automatic analyzer 10, and FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis unit 20 of the automatic analyzer 10.

[0010] The automated analyzer 10 comprises an analysis unit 20, an analysis control unit 11, an analysis data processing unit 13, an output unit 15, an operation unit 17, and a system control unit 19. The analysis unit 20 measures and analyzes test samples and calibrators. The analysis control unit 11 controls the analysis unit 20. The analysis data processing unit 13 processes analysis signals output from the analysis unit 20 to calculate analysis data. The output unit 15 outputs the analysis data from the analysis data processing unit 13. The operation unit 17 accepts input of analysis conditions and various command signals. The system control unit 19 controls all of these units described above.

[0011] The analysis data processing unit 13 includes a calculation unit 131 that creates a calibration table and calculates analysis data from the calibration signal, analysis signal, etc. output from the analysis unit 20, and a memory unit 132 that stores the calibration table created by the calculation unit 131 and the calculated analysis data, etc.

[0012] The calculation unit 131 creates a calibration table for each item from the calibration signal for each item output from the analysis unit 20, outputs it to the output unit 15, and stores it in the memory unit 132. Furthermore, for each analysis signal for each item output from the analysis unit 20, the calculation unit 131 reads out from the memory unit 132 a calibration table corresponding to the item of the analysis signal, and then calculates analysis data using this calibration table, outputs it to the output unit 15, and stores it in the memory unit 132.

[0013] The storage unit 132 includes a hard disk or the like, and stores the calibration table, analysis data, and the like output from the calculation unit 131 for each test sample.

[0014] The output unit 15 comprises a printing unit 151 that prints out the calibration table, analytical data, etc. output from the analytical data processing unit 13, a display unit 152 that displays the same, and an online unit 153 for outputting the analytical data, etc. to an external information system, etc. The printing unit 151 comprises a printer or the like, and prints out the calibration table, analytical data, etc. output from the analytical data processing unit 13 on printer paper in accordance with a preset format. The display unit 152 comprises a monitor such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), a liquid crystal display monitor, or an organic electroluminescence display monitor, and displays the calibration table, analytical data, etc. output from the analytical data processing unit 13, as well as a screen for setting analytical conditions in accordance with instructions from the system control unit 19.

[0015] The operation unit 17 is equipped with input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, buttons, and touch panel, and is used to perform various operations such as setting analysis conditions, inputting subject information such as the subject ID and subject name of the subject, selecting measurement items for each test sample of the subject, performing calibration operations for each item, and performing test sample analysis operations.

[0016] The system control unit 19 is equipped with a CPU and memory circuit (not shown), and stores information such as the operator's command signals supplied from the operation unit 17, analysis conditions, specimen information, and measurement items for each test sample. Based on this information, the system control unit 19 controls the operation of each unit constituting the analysis unit 20 in a predetermined sequence at a fixed cycle, or controls the creation of a calibration table, the calculation and output of analysis data, and other aspects of the overall system.

[0017] The analysis unit 20 analyzes samples. In particular, the analysis unit 20 generates blank data through blank measurements, generates standard data through standard measurements that measure a mixture of a standard sample for each test item and a reagent used in the analysis of that test item, and generates test data through test measurements that measure a mixture of a test sample and a reagent. The analysis unit 20 includes a sample disk 21, a reagent storage 22, a reagent storage 23, a reaction disk 24, a first reagent dispensing mechanism 25, a second reagent dispensing mechanism 26, a sample dispensing mechanism 27, a first stirring mechanism 28, and a second stirring mechanism 29.

[0018] The sample disk 21 holds a plurality of sample containers 31, and these sample containers 31 contain samples 54 such as standard samples, test samples such as serum, etc. The sample containers 31 are placed on, for example, a sample rack and held on the sample disk 21. One or more sample containers 31 are placed on one sample rack.

[0019] The reagent storage 22 is provided with a reagent rack 35 that rotatably holds a plurality of reagent containers 32, and this reagent rack 35 keeps first reagents 51 contained in the reagent containers 32 cool. That is, the reagent containers 32 contain first reagents 51, for example, one-reagent system and two-reagent system, that react with components of test items contained in each sample 54, such as a standard sample or a test sample. The reagent storage 23 is provided with a reagent rack 36 that rotatably holds a plurality of reagent containers 33, and this reagent rack 36 keeps second reagents 52 contained in the reagent containers 33 cool. That is, the reagent containers 33 contain second reagents 52 that are paired with the first reagents 51. The reagent rack 35 may hold both reagent containers 32 containing first reagents 51 and reagent containers 33 containing second reagents 52.

[0020] The reaction disk (transfer mechanism) 24 detachably holds a plurality of fixtures on its circumference. The fixtures hold a plurality of reaction vessels 41 to 43 in an arc shape at predetermined intervals. That is, the reaction disk 24 is equipped with a plurality of fixtures as fixtures for the plurality of reaction vessels 41 to 43, and movably holds the plurality of reaction vessels 41 to 43.

[0021] The first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 includes a reagent dispensing probe (first dispensing probe) 251, an arm, and a washing pool. The reagent dispensing probe 251 aspirates the first reagent 51 in the reagent container 32 held in the reagent rack 35 and dispenses it into the reaction containers 41 to 43 from which the sample 54 has been dispensed. The arm holds the reagent dispensing probe 251 so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the reagent dispensing probe 251 every time the reagent dispensing probe 251 finishes dispensing one reagent.

[0022] The second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 includes a reagent dispensing probe, an arm, and a washing pool. The reagent dispensing probe aspirates the second reagent 52 from the reagent container 33 held in the reagent rack 36 and dispenses it into the reaction containers 41 to 43 from which the first reagent 51 was dispensed. The arm holds the reagent dispensing probe so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the reagent dispensing probe every time the reagent dispensing probe finishes dispensing one reagent.

[0023] The sample dispensing mechanism 27 includes a sample dispensing probe (second dispensing probe) 271, an arm, and a washing pool. The sample dispensing probe 271 aspirates the sample 54 contained in the sample container 31 held on the sample disk 21 and dispenses it into the reaction containers 41 to 43. The arm holds the sample dispensing probe 271 so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the sample dispensing probe 271 every time the sample dispensing probe 271 finishes dispensing one sample 54.

[0024] The first stirring mechanism 28 includes a stirring bar, an arm, and a washing pool. The stirring bar stirs the mixture of the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 dispensed into the reaction vessels 41 to 43. The arm holds the stirring bar so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the stirring bar every time stirring of the mixture is completed.

[0025] The second stirring mechanism 29 includes a stirring bar, an arm, and a washing pool. The stirring bar stirs the mixture of the sample 54, first reagent 51, and second reagent 52 dispensed into the reaction vessels 41 to 43. The arm holds the stirring bar so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the stirring bar every time stirring of the mixture is completed.

[0026] The automated analyzer 10 further includes a reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 and a measurement unit 39. The measurement unit 39 measures light that is transmitted through the reaction vessels 41-43, which contain solutions such as water and mixed liquids, out of the light irradiated onto the reaction vessels 41-43. The reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 performs a cleaning process to clean and dry the insides of the reaction vessels 41-43 after the measurement of the mixed liquid has been completed by the measurement unit 39. The reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 also discharges a blank liquid, such as pure water, into the cleaned reaction vessels 41-43 for blank measurement.

[0027] The measurement unit 39 also generates blank data by blank measurement, which detects light transmitted through the reaction vessels 41 to 43 into which a blank liquid has been dispensed. The measurement unit 39 also generates standard data by standard measurement, which detects light transmitted through the mixed liquid in the reaction vessels 41 to 43 into which a standard sample and a reagent have been dispensed. Furthermore, the measurement unit 39 generates test data by test measurement, which detects light transmitted through the mixed liquid in the reaction vessels 41 to 43 into which a test sample 54 and reagents 51 and 52 have been dispensed.

[0028] The analysis control unit 11 controls the various constituent units of the analysis unit 20. For example, in order to perform a test, the analysis control unit 11 sequentially assigns test items input for each test sample 54 to the reaction vessels 41 to 43 that have been cleaned by the reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38. Then, the analysis control unit 11 causes the reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 to dispense a blank liquid into the reaction vessels 41 to 43 to which the test item has been assigned, the total amount being the sum of the dispensed amount of sample 54 and the dispensed amount of reagents 51 and 52, which are set as analysis parameters for that test item. Next, the measurement unit 39 performs blank measurements of the reaction vessels 41 to 43 to which the blank liquid has been dispensed, thereby generating blank data.

[0029] The analysis control unit 11 includes a control circuit 110, a memory circuit 118, and a drive mechanism 120. The drive mechanism 120 drives the analysis unit 20 under the control of the control circuit 110. The drive mechanism 120 is realized by, for example, gears, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, etc. The drive mechanism 120 rotates the sample disk 21, the reagent rack 35, and the reagent rack 36 individually to move the sample container 31, the reagent container 32, and the reagent container 33, respectively. The drive mechanism 120 also rotates the transfer mechanism (reaction disk) 24 to move the reaction containers 41 to 43. Furthermore, the drive mechanism 120 drives each of the above-mentioned arms individually up and down and rotates to move the first dispensing probe (reagent dispensing probe) 251 and the second dispensing probe (sample dispensing probe) 271, respectively.

[0030] The memory circuitry 118 stores at least a program for realizing the functions of the control circuitry 110. In addition to the program for realizing the functions of the control circuitry 110, the memory circuitry 118 may store other information such as other programs, data input via the operation unit 17, and data generated by the analysis unit 20. The memory circuitry 118 includes a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory. Note that the memory circuitry 118 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuitry 118 may be realized by multiple storage devices.

[0031] The control circuit 110 is a processor that functions as the central processing unit of the automated analyzer 10. The control circuit 110 executes a program stored in the memory circuit 118 to realize functions corresponding to the executed program. The control circuit 110 may also include a memory area that stores at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 118. The control circuit 110 shown in FIG. 2 executes a program stored in the memory circuit 118 to perform, for example, a reagent dispensing function 111, a fluid dispensing function 112, a first reaction vessel transfer function 113, and a second reaction vessel transfer function 114. While this embodiment describes a case in which the reagent dispensing function 111, the fluid dispensing function 112, the first reaction vessel transfer function 113, and the second reaction vessel transfer function 114 are realized by a single processor, this is not limiting. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and these various functions may be realized by each processor executing a program.

[0032] In each embodiment of this specification, the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110 constitutes the reagent dispensing section, the fluid dispensing function 112 constitutes the fluid dispensing section, the first reaction vessel transfer function 113 constitutes the first reaction vessel transfer section, and the second reaction vessel transfer function 114 constitutes the second reaction vessel transfer section.

[0033] The reagent dispensing function 111 is a function that dispenses a reagent into a reaction vessel by controlling a first dispensing probe (reagent dispensing probe) 251. For example, in the reagent dispensing function 111, the control circuit 110 controls the first dispensing probe 251 so as to dispense at least one of a first reagent 51 contained in a reagent vessel 32 and a second reagent 52 contained in a reagent vessel 33 into at least one of the reaction vessels 41 to 43.

[0034] The fluid dispensing function 112 is a function that controls the second dispensing probe (sample dispensing probe) 271 to dispense a fluid 56 containing a reagent into a reaction vessel. For example, in the fluid dispensing function 112, the control circuit 110 controls the second dispensing probe 271 to dispense a fluid 56 containing a first reagent 51 from a first reaction vessel 41 to a second reaction vessel 42.

[0035] The first reaction vessel transfer function 113 is a function that controls the transfer mechanism (reaction disk) 24 to transfer the first reaction vessel 41. For example, in the first reaction vessel transfer function 113, the control circuit 110 controls the transfer mechanism 24 to transfer the first reaction vessel 41 from a first dispensing position 241 (described later) to a suction position 245. Alternatively, in the first reaction vessel transfer function 113, the control circuit 110 may control the transfer mechanism 24 to transfer the first reaction vessel 41 from a second dispensing position 242 to the first dispensing position 241.

[0036] The second reaction vessel transfer function 114 is a function that controls the transfer mechanism (reaction disk) 24 to transfer the second reaction vessel 42. For example, in the second reaction vessel transfer function 114, the control circuit 110 controls the transfer mechanism 24 to transfer the second reaction vessel 42 from the second dispensing position 242 to the first dispensing position 241.

[0037] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0038] First embodiment Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a dispensing method according to this embodiment. Figs. 5 to 7 are diagrams illustrating the transfer of reaction vessels 41, 42 by the transfer mechanism (reaction disk) 24 of the automatic analyzer 10 according to this embodiment. Figs. 5 to 7 are plan views showing the transfer mechanism 24 as viewed from above. Figs. 8 to 12 are diagrams illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe (sample dispensing probe) 271 of the automatic analyzer 10.

[0039] The transfer mechanism 24, the first dispensing probe (reagent dispensing probe) 251, and the second dispensing probe (sample dispensing probe) 271 are controlled by the control circuit 110 via the drive mechanism 120, respectively.

[0040] In this embodiment, a reagent container 32 containing a first reagent 51 and a reagent container 33 containing a second reagent 52 are held in the reagent rack 35 of the reagent storage 22. The first dispensing probe 251 is configured to be able to aspirate the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52.

[0041] The transfer mechanism 24 transfers the multiple reaction vessels 41, 42. In particular, the multiple reaction vessels 41, 42 are held in an arc shape with a predetermined interval between them. In this embodiment, the transfer mechanism 24 can hold a first reaction vessel 41 and a second reaction vessel 42. In the illustrated example, the transfer mechanism 24 transfers the multiple reaction vessels 41, 42 counterclockwise.

[0042] The transfer mechanism 24 is provided with a first dispensing position 241, a second dispensing position 242, a third position 243, and an aspirating position 245. The first dispensing position 241 is a position where the first dispensing probe 251 of the first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 aspirates the reagents 51, 52 from the reagent containers 32, 33 into the reaction containers 41, 42. The aspirating position 245 is a position where the second dispensing probe 271 aspirates the fluid 56 contained in the first reaction container 41. The second dispensing position 242 is a position where the second dispensing probe 271 dispenses the fluid 56 into the second reaction container 42. The third position 243 is a position where the reaction containers 41, 42 located at the aspirating position 245 are located after one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24.

[0043] The suction position 245 and the second dispensing position 242 are adjacent to each other in the transfer direction (circumferential direction of the reaction disk 24) by the transfer mechanism 24. In the illustrated example, the second dispensing position 242 is located forward of the suction position 245 in the transfer direction by the transfer mechanism 24. However, this is not limited to this, and the second dispensing position 242 may be located rearward of the suction position 245 in the transfer direction by the transfer mechanism 24. In this embodiment, the second dispensing probe 271 is configured to be able to access the sample container 31 held on the sample disk 21, the first reaction container 41 located at the suction position 245, and the second reaction container 42 located at the second dispensing position 242. The first dispensing position 241 and the third position 243 are adjacent to each other in the transfer direction by the transfer mechanism 24. In the illustrated example, the first dispensing position 241 is located forward of the third position 243 in the transfer direction by the transfer mechanism 24.

[0044] The transfer mechanism 24 rotates approximately 90 degrees in one cycle, and makes approximately one rotation in four cycles. However, after four cycles, the reaction vessels 41, 42 held by the transfer mechanism 24 are positioned at a position shifted one position in the transfer direction from their original positions. In the illustrated example, after four cycles, the reaction vessels 41, 42 held by the transfer mechanism 24 are positioned at a position shifted one position backward in the transfer direction from their original positions. In other words, every four cycles, the positions of the reaction vessels 41, 42 are shifted one position along the transfer direction. Note that the transfer mechanism 24 transfers the reaction vessels 41, 42 four cycles, or approximately one rotation, in, for example, five minutes.

[0045] In this embodiment, first, the first reaction container 41 is placed at the first dispensing position 241 (step S1, see FIG. 5). Next, at the first dispensing position 241, the first reagent 51 is dispensed into the first reaction container 41 by the first dispensing probe 251 (step S2). In this embodiment, the dispensing of the first reagent 51 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0046] More specifically, in step S2, first, the first dispensing probe 251 moves to a reagent container 32 held in the reagent rack 35 of the reagent storage 22, and aspirates a predetermined amount of first reagent 51 from the reagent container 32. Next, the first dispensing probe 251 moves to the first reaction container 41 (see FIG. 5 ) located at the first dispensing position 241, and dispenses (dispenses) the first reagent 51 held in the first dispensing probe 251 into the first reaction container 41. As a result, the first reagent 51 is held in the first reaction container 41 as a fluid 56. The amount of first reagent 51 held in the first reaction container 41 may be more than the amount used for one measurement and less than the amount used for two measurements.

[0047] Thereafter, the transfer mechanism 24 transfers the first reaction vessel 41 to the suction position 245 (step S3, see FIG. 6). In this embodiment, this transfer of the first reaction vessel 41 is controlled and executed by the first reaction vessel transfer function 113 of the control circuit 110. In the illustrated example, after three cycles, the first reaction vessel 41 is positioned at the suction position 245. In parallel with this, the second dispensing probe 271 aspirates a predetermined amount of sample 54 from the sample vessel 31.

[0048] In the preparation state, the interior of the second dispensing probe 271 is filled with water 60, such as pure water. First, as shown in FIG. 8 , outside air is sucked into the second dispensing probe 271, forming an air gap 58 between the water 60 and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271. This prevents the water 60 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271. Furthermore, by forming the air gap 58, when the second dispensing probe 271 aspirates a sample 54, the water 60 and the aspirated sample 54 come into contact within the second dispensing probe 271, preventing the sample 54 from being diluted.

[0049] The second dispensing probe 271 is moved to the sample container 31 held on the sample disk 21 and lowered into the sample container 31, and as shown in FIG. 9, a predetermined amount of sample 54 is aspirated from the sample container 31 (step S4). In this embodiment, the aspirating of the sample 54 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. At this time, the sample 54 held in the second dispensing probe 271 may be mixed with water 60, thereby diluting the sample 54. Therefore, a slightly larger amount of sample 54 than the predetermined amount may be aspirated. The increased amount of sample 54 relative to the predetermined amount is sometimes called a dummy.

[0050] After the suction of the sample 54 is completed, the second dispensing probe 271 is raised from the sample container 31. Then, as shown in Fig. 10, outside air is sucked into the second dispensing probe 271, forming an air gap 58 between the sample 54 and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 (step S5). This makes it possible to prevent the sample 54 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271. In this embodiment, this suction of outside air is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0051] After aspirating the sample 54 and before aspirating the first reagent 51 described below, the outer surface 273 of the second dispensing probe 271 may be washed (step S6). This makes it possible to prevent the sample 54 adhering to the outer surface 273 of the second dispensing probe 271 from dripping. In this embodiment, the washing of the outer surface 273 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0052] Next, the second dispensing probe 271 holding the sample 54 therein is moved to the first reaction vessel 41 located at the first dispensing position 241 and lowered into the first reaction vessel 41, and as shown in Fig. 11, the fluid 56 (first reagent 51) contained in the first reaction vessel 41 is aspirated by the second dispensing probe 271 (step S7). In this embodiment, the aspirating of the fluid 56 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0053] After the suction of the fluid 56 is completed, the second dispensing probe 271 is raised from the first reaction container 41. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, outside air is sucked into the second dispensing probe 271, forming an air gap 58 between the fluid 56 (first reagent 51) and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 (step S8). This prevents the fluid 56 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271. In this embodiment, this suction of outside air is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. In parallel with steps S7 and S8, the second reaction container 42 is placed at the second dispensing position 242 (step S9, see FIG. 6).

[0054] Next, the second dispensing probe 271 holding the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 therein is moved to the second reaction vessel 42 positioned at the second dispensing position 242 and lowered into the second reaction vessel 42, and the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 are dispensed from the second dispensing probe 271 into the second reaction vessel 42 (step S10). As a result, the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 are held in the second reaction vessel 42. In this embodiment, the dispensing of the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0055] After one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24, the reaction vessel located at the suction position 245 is placed at the third position 243, which is one position shifted from the first dispensing position 241. In other words, after one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24, the reaction vessel located at the suction position 245 does not return to the first dispensing position 241.

[0056] After one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24 from the state shown in FIG. 6, the second reaction container 42 is placed at the first dispensing position 241 (step S11, see FIG. 7). In this embodiment, the transfer of the second reaction container 42 is controlled and executed by the second reaction container transfer function 114 of the control circuit 110. At the first dispensing position 241, the first dispensing probe 251 dispenses the second reagent 52 into the second reaction container 42 (step S12). As described above, the first dispensing probe 251 is configured to be able to aspirate the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52. After the first dispensing probe 251 aspirates the second reagent 52, the first dispensing probe 251 moves to the second reaction container 42 located at the first dispensing position 241 and dispenses (dispenses) the second reagent 52 held in the first dispensing probe 251 into the second reaction container 42. As a result, the first reagent 51, the second reagent 52, and the sample 54 are held in the second reaction container 42. In this embodiment, the dispensing of the second reagent 52 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0057] In subsequent cycles, the first reagent 51, the second reagent 52, and the sample 54 in the second reaction container 42 are stirred by the stirring mechanisms 28 and 29, and measurement is performed by the measurement unit 39 after a predetermined number of cycles.

[0058] The second reaction container 42 located at the first dispensing position 241 is placed at the third position 243 after being transferred by the transfer mechanism 24 for four cycles (approximately one rotation).

[0059] The automated analyzer 10 of this embodiment includes a transfer mechanism 24 that transfers a first reaction container 41 and a second reaction container 42, a first dispensing probe 251 that dispenses a reagent (first reagent) 51, a second dispensing probe 271 that dispenses a fluid 56 containing the reagent 51, a reagent dispensing unit that dispenses the reagent 51 into the first reaction container 41 located at a first dispensing position 241 using the first dispensing probe 251, and a transfer mechanism 24 that transfers the first reaction container 41 into which the reagent 51 has been dispensed. The reaction vessel transfer unit includes a first reaction vessel transfer unit that transfers the fluid from the first dispensing position 241 to the suction position 245, a fluid dispensing unit that dispenses a fluid 56 containing a reagent 51 from the first reaction vessel 41 located at the suction position 245 to a second reaction vessel 42 located at the second dispensing position 242 using a second dispensing probe 271, and a second reaction vessel transfer unit that transfers the second reaction vessel 42 containing the fluid 56 from the second dispensing position 242 to the first dispensing position 241 using a transfer mechanism 24.

[0060] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the fluid dispensing unit uses the second dispensing probe 271 to aspirate the sample 54 from the sample container 31, aspirate the reagent 51 in the first reaction container 41 while holding the sample 54 inside, and dispense the sample 54 and reagent 51 into the second reaction container 42.

[0061] In the automated analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the reagent dispensing unit dispenses the second reagent 52 using the first dispensing probe 251 into the second reaction vessel 42 that has been transferred to the first dispensing position 241 by the second reaction vessel transfer unit.

[0062] The dispensing method in the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is a dispensing method in an automatic analyzer equipped with a transfer mechanism 24 that transfers a first reaction vessel 41 and a second reaction vessel 42, a first dispensing probe 251, and a second dispensing probe 271, and includes the steps of dispensing a reagent 51 into a first reaction vessel 41 located at a first dispensing position 241 using the first dispensing probe 251, transferring the first reaction vessel 41 into which the reagent 51 has been dispensed from the first dispensing position 241 to an aspiration position 245 using the transfer mechanism 24, dispensing a fluid 56 containing the reagent 51 from the first reaction vessel 41 located at the aspiration position 245 to a second reaction vessel 42 located at a second dispensing position 242 using the second dispensing probe 271, and transferring the second reaction vessel 42 containing the fluid 56 from the second dispensing position 242 to the first dispensing position 241 using the transfer mechanism 24.

[0063] The program of this embodiment is for an automatic analyzer 10 equipped with a transfer mechanism 24 for transferring a first reaction container 41 and a second reaction container 42, a first dispensing probe 251 for dispensing a reagent 51, and a second dispensing probe 271 for dispensing a fluid 56 containing the reagent 51, and includes a step of dispensing a reagent 51 into a first reaction container 41 located at a first dispensing position 241 by the first dispensing probe 251, and a step of dispensing a fluid 56 containing the reagent 51 by the transfer mechanism 24. The control system performs the following steps: transferring the first reaction vessel 41 containing the fluid 56 from the first dispensing position 241 to the suction position 245; dispensing the fluid 56 from the first reaction vessel 41 located at the suction position 245 to the second reaction vessel 42 located at the second dispensing position 242 by the second dispensing probe 271; and transferring the second reaction vessel 42 containing the fluid 56 from the second dispensing position 242 to the first dispensing position 241 by the transfer mechanism 24.

[0064] In conventional automated analyzers, a first reagent is dispensed into a reaction vessel containing a sample, and then a second reagent is dispensed into the reaction vessel approximately five minutes later, and then a measurement is performed approximately five minutes later. However, depending on the type of measurement item, it may be desirable to allow a longer time (e.g., 10 minutes) between dispensing the second reagent into the reaction vessel and performing the measurement. To achieve this, it is possible to advance the timing at which the second reagent is dispensed into the reaction vessel. However, conventional automated analyzers have not been able to advance the timing at which the second reagent is dispensed into the reaction vessel. In order to dispense the second reagent earlier than the specified timing, it is possible to provide an additional dispensing mechanism in the automated analyzer, but this would complicate the overall structure of the automated analyzer and increase costs.

[0065] According to the automated analyzer 10 and the dispensing method and program for the automated analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the first reagent 51 can be dispensed into the second reaction container 42 before the timing of dispensing the first reagent 51 in a conventional automated analyzer, and the second reagent 52 can be dispensed into the second reaction container 42 at the timing of dispensing the first reagent 51 in a conventional automated analyzer. Therefore, the time from dispensing the first reagent 51 to dispensing the second reagent 52 in a conventional automated analyzer can be used for the reaction time between the sample 54 and the reagents 51 and 52 after dispensing the second reagent 52. In a conventional automated analyzer, if the time from dispensing the first reagent 51 to dispensing the second reagent 52 is approximately 5 minutes and the time from dispensing the second reagent 52 to completing the measurement (reaction time) is approximately 5 minutes, according to the automated analyzer 10 and the dispensing method and program for the automated analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the time from dispensing the second reagent 52 to completing the measurement (reaction time) can be extended to approximately 10 minutes. Therefore, the time from dispensing the reagent to completing the measurement in the automatic analyzer can be extended. Note that the above-mentioned descriptions of "5 minutes" and "10 minutes" are merely examples, and the specific times are not limited to these.

[0066] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the fluid dispensing section uses the second dispensing probe 271 to draw in outside air into the second dispensing probe 271 after drawing in the sample 54 and before drawing in the reagent 51, thereby forming an air gap 58 between the sample 54 and the reagent 51.

[0067] According to this automatic analyzer 10, it is possible to prevent the sample 54 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 after the sample 54 has been aspirated.

[0068] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the fluid dispensing unit cleans the outer surface 273 of the second dispensing probe 271 after aspirating the sample 54 and before aspirating the reagent 51.

[0069] According to this automatic analyzer 10, after the sample 54 is aspirated, it is possible to prevent the sample 54 adhering to the outer surface 273 of the second dispensing probe 271 from dripping down.

[0070] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the fluid dispensing section aspirates the reagent 51 using the second dispensing probe 271, and then aspirates outside air into the second dispensing probe 271, forming an air gap 58 between the reagent 51 and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271.

[0071] According to this automatic analyzer 10, it is possible to prevent the reagent 51 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 after the reagent 51 has been aspirated.

[0072] Various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment. Other embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings as appropriate. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-described embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the above-described embodiment, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0073] Second embodiment Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a dispensing method according to this embodiment. Figs. 14 to 16 are views illustrating the transfer of reaction vessels 41, 42 by the transfer mechanism 24 of the automatic analyzer 10 according to this embodiment. Figs. 14 to 16 are plan views showing the transfer mechanism 24 as viewed from above. Figs. 17 and 18 are views illustrating the operation of the second dispensing probe 271 of the automatic analyzer 10.

[0074] In this embodiment, first, in the state shown in FIG. 14 , a sample 54 is dispensed into a first reaction container 41 placed at the second dispensing position 242. The second dispensing probe 271 is moved to a sample container 31 held by the sample disk 21 and lowered into the sample container 31, and a predetermined amount of sample 54 is aspirated from the sample container 31 (step S21). In this embodiment, this aspirating of the sample 54 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. After the aspirating of the sample 54 is completed, the second dispensing probe 271 is raised from the sample container 31. Thereafter, outside air may be aspirated into the second dispensing probe 271, forming an air gap 58 between the sample 54 and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 (step S22). In this embodiment, this aspirating of the outside air is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. After the sample 54 is aspirated, the outer surface 273 of the second dispensing probe 271 may be washed (step S23). In this embodiment, the washing of the outer surface 273 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. In parallel with steps S21 to S23, the first reaction vessel 41 is placed at the second dispensing position 242 (step S24, see FIG. 14). Next, the second dispensing probe 271, which holds the sample 54 therein, is moved to the first reaction vessel 41 located at the second dispensing position 242 and lowered into the first reaction vessel 41, and the sample 54 is dispensed from the second dispensing probe 271 into the first reaction vessel 41 (step S25). As a result, the sample 54 is held in the first reaction vessel 41. In this embodiment, the dispensing of the sample 54 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0075] After one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24, as shown in FIG. 15, the first reaction vessel 41 is placed at the first dispensing position 241 (step S26). In this embodiment, the transfer of the first reaction vessel 41 is controlled and executed by the first reaction vessel transfer function 113 of the control circuit 110. Here, the first reagent 51 is dispensed into the first reaction vessel 41 by the first dispensing probe 251 (step S27). In this embodiment, the dispensing of the first reagent 51 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110. The dispensing step of the first reagent 51 can be performed in the same manner as the dispensing step of the first reagent 51 in the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0076] In subsequent cycles, the stirring mechanisms 28, 29 stir the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 to form a fluid 56 containing the sample 54 and the first reagent 51. After the first reaction container 41 has been transported three cycles from the first dispensing position 241 by the transfer mechanism 24, the first reaction container 41 is positioned at the aspirating position 245 (step S28, see FIG. 16 ). In this embodiment, this transfer of the first reaction container 41 is controlled and executed by the first reaction container transfer function 113 of the control circuit 110. The first reaction container 41 positioned at the aspirating position 245 holds the fluid 56 containing the sample 54 and the first reagent 51.

[0077] 16, the second dispensing probe 271 dispenses the fluid 56 from the first reaction vessel 41 into the second reaction vessel 42 located at the second dispensing position 242. The second dispensing probe 271 is moved to the first reaction vessel 41 located at the suction position 245 and lowered into the first reaction vessel 41, and as shown in FIG. 17, the second dispensing probe 271 aspirates the fluid 56 (sample 54 and first reagent 51) contained in the first reaction vessel 41 (step S29). In this embodiment, the suction of the fluid 56 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0078] After the suction of the fluid 56 is completed, the second dispensing probe 271 is raised from the first reaction container 41. Then, as shown in FIG. 18, outside air is sucked into the second dispensing probe 271, forming an air gap 58 between the fluid 56 and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 (step S30). This prevents the fluid 56 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271. In this embodiment, this suction of outside air is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. In parallel with steps S29 and S30, the second reaction container 42 is placed at the second dispensing position 242 (step S31).

[0079] Next, the second dispensing probe 271 holding the fluid 56 therein is moved to the second reaction vessel 42 (see FIG. 16) located at the second dispensing position 242 and lowered into the second reaction vessel 42, and the fluid 56 is dispensed from the second dispensing probe 271 into the second reaction vessel 42 (step S32). As a result, the fluid 56 (sample 54 and first reagent 51) is held in the second reaction vessel 42. In this embodiment, the dispensing of the fluid 56 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110.

[0080] After one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24 from the state shown in FIG. 16, the second reaction vessel 42 is placed at the first dispensing position 241 (step S33, see FIG. 7). In this embodiment, the transfer of the second reaction vessel 42 is controlled and executed by the second reaction vessel transfer function 114 of the control circuit 110. At the first dispensing position 241, the first dispensing probe 251 dispenses the second reagent 52 into the second reaction vessel 42 (step S34). In this embodiment, the dispensing of the second reagent 52 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110. The dispensing step of the second reagent 52 can be performed in the same manner as the dispensing step of the second reagent 52 in the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0081] In subsequent cycles, the first reagent 51, the second reagent 52, and the sample 54 in the second reaction container 42 are stirred by the stirring mechanisms 28 and 29, and measurement is performed by the measurement unit 39 after a predetermined number of cycles.

[0082] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the reagent dispensing unit uses a first dispensing probe 251 to dispense a reagent 51 into a first reaction vessel 41 containing a sample 54, and the fluid dispensing unit uses a second dispensing probe 271 to dispense a fluid 56 containing the sample 54 and the reagent 51 from the first reaction vessel 41 located at the suction position 245 to a second reaction vessel 42 located at the second dispensing position 242.

[0083] With this automated analyzer 10, the first reagent 51 can be dispensed into the second reaction container 42 before the timing of dispensing the first reagent 51 in a conventional automated analyzer, and the second reagent 52 can be dispensed into the second reaction container 42 at the timing of dispensing the first reagent 51 in a conventional automated analyzer. Therefore, the time from dispensing the first reagent 51 to dispensing the second reagent 52 in a conventional automated analyzer can be used for the reaction time between the sample 54 and the reagents 51 and 52 after dispensing the second reagent 52. Therefore, the time from dispensing the reagent to completing the measurement in the automated analyzer 10 can be extended.

[0084] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the fluid dispensing unit aspirates the fluid 56 using the second dispensing probe 271, and then aspirates outside air into the second dispensing probe 271 to form an air gap 58 between the fluid 56 and the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271.

[0085] According to such an automatic analyzer 10, it is possible to prevent the fluid 56 from dripping from the tip 272 of the second dispensing probe 271 after the fluid 56 has been aspirated.

[0086] Third embodiment Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a dispensing method according to this embodiment. Figs. 20 and 21 are views illustrating the transfer of reaction containers 43 by the transfer mechanism 24 of the automatic analyzer 10 according to this embodiment. Figs. 20 and 21 are plan views showing the transfer mechanism 24 as viewed from above. Figs. 22 to 25 are views illustrating the operation of the first dispensing probe 251 of the automatic analyzer 10.

[0087] In this embodiment, in the dispensing step of a first reagent 51 in a conventional automatic analyzer, a first reagent 51 and a second reagent 52 are dispensed into a reaction vessel 43. First, the reaction vessel 43 is placed at the second dispensing position 242 (step S41, see FIG. 20). Next, in the state shown in FIG. 20, a sample 54 is dispensed into the reaction vessel 43 placed at the second dispensing position 242 (step S42). In this embodiment, the dispensing of the sample 54 is controlled and executed by the fluid dispensing function 112 of the control circuit 110. The dispensing step of the sample 54 can be performed in the same manner as the dispensing step of the sample 54 in the second embodiment, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] After one cycle of transfer by the transfer mechanism 24 from the state shown in FIG. 20, the reaction vessel 43 is placed at the first dispensing position 241 (step S43, see FIG. 21). In this embodiment, this transfer of the reaction vessel 43 is controlled and executed by the first reaction vessel transfer function 113 of the control circuit 110. At the first dispensing position 241, a first reagent 51 and a second reagent 52 are dispensed into the reaction vessel 43 by a first dispensing probe (dispensing probe) 251. More specifically, first, the first dispensing probe 251 moves to a reagent vessel 32 held in a reagent rack 35 of the reagent storage 22, and as shown in FIG. 22, aspirates a predetermined amount of the first reagent 51 from the reagent vessel 32 (step S44). In this embodiment, this suction of the first reagent 51 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110. The first reagent 51 may be a substance that does not react with the sample 54 and the second reagent 52, a so-called dummy reagent.

[0089] 23, outside air is sucked into the first dispensing probe 251, and an air gap 58 is formed between the first reagent 51 and the tip 252 of the first dispensing probe 251 (step S45). This makes it possible to prevent the first reagent 51 from dripping from the tip 252 of the first dispensing probe 251. In this embodiment, this suction of outside air is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0090] After the first reagent 51 is aspirated and before the second reagent 52, which will be described later, is aspirated, the outer surface 253 of the first dispensing probe 251 may be washed (step S46). This prevents the first reagent 51 adhering to the outer surface 253 of the first dispensing probe 251 from dripping. It also prevents the first reagent 51 adhering to the outer surface 253 of the first dispensing probe 251 from mixing with the second reagent 52 in the reagent container 33. In this embodiment, the washing of the outer surface 253 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0091] Next, the first dispensing probe 251 holding the first reagent 51 therein moves to the reagent container 33 held in the reagent rack 35 of the reagent storage 22, and aspirates a predetermined amount of the second reagent 52 from the reagent container 33, as shown in Fig. 24 (step S47). In this embodiment, the aspirating of the second reagent 52 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0092] 25, outside air is sucked into the first dispensing probe 251, and an air gap 58 is formed between the second reagent 52 and the tip 252 of the first dispensing probe 251 (step S48). This makes it possible to prevent the second reagent 52 from dripping from the tip 252 of the first dispensing probe 251. In this embodiment, this suction of outside air is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0093] Next, the first dispensing probe 251 holding the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 therein is moved to the reaction vessel 43 located at the first dispensing position 241 (see FIG. 21 ) and lowered into the reaction vessel 43, and the first dispensing probe 251 dispenses the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 into the reaction vessel 43 (step S49). As a result, the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 are held in the reaction vessel 43. In this embodiment, the dispensing of the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 is controlled and executed by the reagent dispensing function 111 of the control circuit 110. As a result, the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 43 in the dispensing step of the first reagent 51 in a conventional automatic analyzer. In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the first dispensing probe 251 first aspirates the first reagent 51 and then aspirates the second reagent 52, but this is not limiting, and the first dispensing probe 251 may first aspirate the second reagent 52 and then aspirate the first reagent 51. When the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 are dispensed into the reaction vessel 43, the reagent that is later aspirated by the first dispensing probe 251 will first come into contact with the sample 54 in the reaction vessel 43. Therefore, when the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 are dispensed into the reaction vessel 43, the reagent that is to be first brought into contact with the sample 54 may be later aspirated by the first dispensing probe 251.

[0094] The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment includes a dispensing probe 251 that dispenses a first reagent 51 and a second reagent 52, and a reagent dispensing unit that aspirates the first reagent 51 using the dispensing probe 251, aspirates the second reagent 52 while holding the first reagent 51 inside, and dispenses the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 into a reaction vessel 43 containing a sample 54.

[0095] The dispensing method in the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is a dispensing method in an automatic analyzer 10 equipped with a dispensing probe 251, and includes the steps of aspirating a first reagent 51 using the dispensing probe 251, aspirating a second reagent 52 using the dispensing probe 251 while the first reagent 51 is held inside the dispensing probe 251, and dispensing the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 into a reaction vessel 43 containing a sample 54 using the dispensing probe 251.

[0096] The program of this embodiment causes an automatic analyzer 10 equipped with a dispensing probe 251 that dispenses a first reagent 51 and a second reagent 52 to perform the following steps: aspirating the first reagent 51 using the dispensing probe 251; aspirating the second reagent 52 using the dispensing probe 251 while the first reagent 51 is held inside the dispensing probe 251; and dispensing the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52 using the dispensing probe 251 into a reaction vessel 43 containing a sample 54.

[0097] With this automated analyzer 10, the first reagent 51 can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 43 before the timing of dispensing the first reagent 51 in a conventional automated analyzer, and the second reagent 52 can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 43 at the timing of dispensing the first reagent 51 in a conventional automated analyzer. Therefore, the time from dispensing the first reagent 51 to dispensing the second reagent 52 in a conventional automated analyzer can be used for the reaction time between the sample 54 and the reagents 51 and 52 after dispensing the second reagent 52. Therefore, the time from dispensing the reagents to completing the measurement in the automated analyzer 10 can be extended.

[0098] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the reagent dispensing section uses the dispensing probe 251 to draw in outside air into the dispensing probe 251 after aspirating the first reagent 51 and before aspirating the second reagent 52, thereby forming an air gap 58 between the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52.

[0099] According to this automatic analyzer 10, after the first reagent 51 is aspirated, it is possible to prevent the first reagent 51 from dripping from the tip 252 of the first dispensing probe 251.

[0100] In the automated analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the reagent dispensing unit cleans the outer surface 253 of the dispensing probe 251 after aspirating the first reagent 51 and before aspirating the second reagent 52.

[0101] Such an automatic analyzer 10 can prevent the first reagent 51 adhering to the outer surface 253 of the first dispensing probe 251 from dripping down. In addition, it can prevent the first reagent 51 adhering to the outer surface 253 of the first dispensing probe 251 from mixing with the second reagent 52 in the reagent container 33.

[0102] In the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment, the reagent dispensing section aspirates the second reagent 52 using the dispensing probe 251, and then aspirates outside air into the dispensing probe 251, forming an air gap 58 between the second reagent 52 and the tip 252 of the dispensing probe 251.

[0103] According to this automatic analyzer 10, it is possible to prevent the second reagent 52 from dripping from the tip 252 of the first dispensing probe 251 after the first reagent 51 has been aspirated.

[0104] In the above description, the term "processor" refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). If the processor is a CPU, the processor executes a program stored in a memory circuit to implement each processing function. On the other hand, if the processor is an ASIC, the program is not stored in a memory circuit, but the processing function is directly incorporated into the processor circuit as a logic circuit. In this embodiment, each processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit. Alternatively, the processor may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to implement its processing function. Furthermore, the multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to implement its processing function.

[0105] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which analysis is performed using two types of reagents, first reagent 51 and second reagent 52, has been described, but this is not limiting, and analysis may be performed using three or more types of reagents in the first to third embodiments. For example, analysis may be performed using three types of reagents, first reagent 51, second reagent 52, and third reagent. In this case, for example, the third reagent may be dispensed into the reaction vessel using second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 at the timing of dispensing the second reagent in a conventional automatic analyzer.

[0106] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the inventions described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 10 Automatic analyzer 11 Analysis control section 13 Analysis data processing section 15 Output section 17 Control section 19 System control section 20 Analysis Department 21 Sample Disc 24 Reaction disk (transfer mechanism) 25 First reagent dispensing mechanism 26 Second reagent dispensing mechanism 27 Sample dispensing mechanism 31 Sample container 32 Reagent container 33 Reagent container 41 First reaction vessel 42 Second Reaction Vessel 43 Reaction vessel 51 Reagent 1 52 Second Reagent 54 samples 56 Fluid 58 Air Gap 60 water 110 control circuit 111 Reagent dispensing function 112 Fluid dispensing function 113 First reaction vessel transfer function 114 Second reaction vessel transfer function 118 Memory circuit 120 Drive mechanism 241 First dispensing position 242 Second dispensing position 243 3rd position 245 Suction position 251 First reagent dispensing probe (first dispensing probe, dispensing probe) 252 Tip 253 External surface 271 Sample dispensing probe (second dispensing probe) 272 Tip 273 Exterior

Claims

1. A transfer mechanism for transferring the first reaction vessel and the second reaction vessel; a first dispensing probe for dispensing a reagent; A second dispensing probe that dispenses a fluid containing the reagent; a reagent dispensing unit that dispenses the reagent into the first reaction container located at a first dispensing position by the first dispensing probe; a first reaction container transfer unit that transfers the first reaction container into which the reagent has been dispensed from the first dispensing position to a suction position by the transfer mechanism; a fluid dispensing unit that dispenses the fluid from the first reaction vessel located at the suction position to the second reaction vessel located at a second dispensing position by the second dispensing probe; a second reaction vessel transfer section that transfers the second reaction vessel containing the fluid from the second dispensing position to the first dispensing position by the transfer mechanism; An automatic analyzer comprising:

2. The automatic analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fluid dispensing unit aspirates a sample from a sample container using the second dispensing probe, aspirates the reagent in the first reaction container while holding the sample inside, and dispenses the sample and the reagent into the second reaction container.

3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2 , wherein the fluid dispensing unit aspirates outside air into the second dispensing probe after aspirating the sample and before aspirating the reagent, thereby forming an air gap between the sample and the reagent.

4. The automated analyzer according to claim 2 , wherein the fluid dispensing section cleans an outer surface of the second dispensing probe after aspirating the sample and before aspirating the reagent.

5. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the fluid dispensing unit, after aspirating the reagent with the second dispensing probe, aspirates outside air into the second dispensing probe, forming an air gap between the reagent and the tip of the second dispensing probe.

6. The reagent dispensing unit dispenses the reagent into the first reaction container containing a sample using the first dispensing probe; The automatic analyzer of claim 1 , wherein the fluid dispensing unit uses the second dispensing probe to dispense the fluid containing the sample and the reagent from the first reaction vessel located at the suction position to the second reaction vessel located at the second dispensing position.

7. The automatic analyzer according to claim 6, wherein the fluid dispensing section, after aspirating the fluid with the second dispensing probe, aspirates outside air into the second dispensing probe to form an air gap between the fluid and the tip of the second dispensing probe.

8. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 , wherein the reagent dispensing unit dispenses the second reagent by the first dispensing probe into the second reaction vessel that has been transferred to the first dispensing position by the second reaction vessel transport unit.

9. a dispensing probe for dispensing a first reagent and a second reagent; a reagent dispensing unit that aspirates the first reagent by the dispensing probe, aspirates the second reagent while holding the first reagent therein, and dispenses the first reagent and the second reagent into a reaction vessel containing a sample; An automatic analyzer comprising:

10. 10. The automated analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the reagent dispensing unit aspirates outside air into the dispensing probe after aspirating the first reagent and before aspirating the second reagent, thereby forming an air gap between the first reagent and the second reagent.

11. The automated analyzer according to claim 9 , wherein the reagent dispensing section cleans an outer surface of the dispensing probe after aspirating the first reagent and before aspirating the second reagent.

12. The automated analyzer according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the reagent dispensing unit, after aspirating the second reagent with the dispensing probe, aspirates outside air into the dispensing probe to form an air gap between the second reagent and the tip of the dispensing probe.

13. A dispensing method for an automatic analyzer including a transfer mechanism for transferring a first reaction container and a second reaction container, a first dispensing probe, and a second dispensing probe, the method comprising the steps of: dispensing a reagent into the first reaction container located at a first dispensing position by the first dispensing probe; transferring the first reaction container into which the reagent has been dispensed from the first dispensing position to an aspirating position by the transfer mechanism; dispensing the fluid containing the reagent from the first reaction vessel located at the aspiration position to the second reaction vessel located at a second dispensing position by the second dispensing probe; and transferring the second reaction container containing the fluid from the second dispensing position to the first dispensing position by the transfer mechanism.

14. A dispensing method for an automatic analyzer equipped with a dispensing probe, comprising: aspirating a first reagent by the dispensing probe; a step of aspirating a second reagent by the dispensing probe while the first reagent is held inside the dispensing probe; and dispensing the first reagent and the second reagent into a reaction vessel containing a sample by the dispensing probe.

15. A transfer mechanism for transferring the first reaction vessel and the second reaction vessel; a first dispensing probe for dispensing a reagent; A second dispensing probe that dispenses a fluid containing the reagent; An automatic analyzer equipped with dispensing the reagent into the first reaction container located at a first dispensing position by the first dispensing probe; transferring the first reaction container into which the reagent has been dispensed from the first dispensing position to an aspirating position by the transfer mechanism; dispensing the fluid from the first reaction vessel located at the aspiration position to the second reaction vessel located at a second dispensing position by the second dispensing probe; a program for executing a step of transferring the second reaction vessel containing the fluid from the second dispensing position to the first dispensing position by the transfer mechanism.

16. An automatic analyzer having a dispensing probe for dispensing a first reagent and a second reagent, aspirating the first reagent by the dispensing probe; aspirating the second reagent by the dispensing probe while the first reagent is held inside the dispensing probe; and a program for executing a step of dispensing the first reagent and the second reagent into a reaction vessel containing a sample by the dispensing probe.

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