Automatic analyzer and adapter for reagent container

Abstract

To reduce a cost and improve convenience related to operation of an automatic analyzer having a reagent automatic loading mechanism.SOLUTION: The automatic analyzer according to an embodiment includes an adapter, an input part, a reagent cabinet, and a transfer mechanism. The adapter can be attached to a reagent container. The input part receives the reagent container with an adapter, which is the reagent container with the adapter attached thereto. The reagent cabinet stores the reagent container with the adapter. The transfer mechanism transfers the reagent container with the adapter from the input part to the reagent cabinet via the adapter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in the specification and drawings relate to an automated analyzer and an adapter for a reagent container. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known an automatic analyzer having a mechanism (automatic reagent loading mechanism) that automatically transfers a reagent bottle from the input section to a reagent storage when the reagent container (reagent bottle) is input into the input section of the automatic analyzer. This automatic reagent loading mechanism can also automatically transfer the reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the input section when removing the reagent bottle.

[0003] In automated analyzers that have an automatic reagent loading mechanism, general-purpose reagent bottles that are common to all companies (general-purpose reagent bottles) cannot be used, and it is basic to use reagent bottles dedicated to each manufacturer of the automated analyzer (dedicated reagent bottles). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 4-36658 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Against the above background, the inventors have discovered that when operating an automated analyzer having an automatic reagent loading mechanism, increased running costs due to the use of dedicated reagent bottles and reduced convenience due to the limited variety of reagents provided in the dedicated reagent bottles can become problems. One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the cost of operating an automatic analyzer having an automatic reagent loading mechanism and to improve convenience. 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 an adapter, an input unit, a reagent storage, and a transfer mechanism. The adapter is attachable to a reagent container. The input unit receives a reagent container with an adapter, which is a reagent container with an adapter attached. The reagent storage stores the reagent container with the adapter. The transfer mechanism transfers the reagent container with the adapter from the input unit to the reagent storage via the adapter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a reagent bottle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a three-view diagram showing an example of the appearance of the general-purpose reagent bottle in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a three-sided view showing an example of the appearance of another general-purpose reagent bottle in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a three-view diagram showing an example of the appearance of the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the general-purpose reagent bottle and the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a three-sided view showing an example of the appearance of the reagent bottle in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 8(b) as viewed from a vertical direction. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an automatic loading mechanism seen from above, for explaining automatic loading of a reagent in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the cross section taken along line BB in FIG. 10 as viewed from the vertical direction. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the automatic loading mechanism seen from above, with regard to the locking between the arm and the reagent bottle in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the cross section taken along line CC in FIG. 12 as viewed from the vertical direction. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing vertical movement of the arm in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing the rotational movement of an arm that holds a reagent bottle in the first embodiment, as viewed from above of the automatic loading mechanism. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of the cross section taken along line DD in FIG. 15 as viewed from the vertical direction. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of the automatic loading mechanism seen from above, showing the movement of a positioner holding a reagent bottle in the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in the second modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in the third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the automatic analyzer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0009] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to embodiment 1. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to embodiment 1 includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a memory circuit 8 (memory unit), and a control circuit 9 (control unit).

[0010] The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample, such as a standard sample or a test sample, with a reagent used in various test items set for the sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixture of the sample and the reagent, and generates standard data and test data associated with, for example, absorbance. The analysis mechanism 2 also measures the mixture of the sample and the reagent, and generates standard data and test data associated with, for example, electrode potential.

[0011] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data, analysis data, etc. by analyzing the generated standard data and test data. The analysis circuit 3 reads an operation program from the storage circuit 8, and generates calibration data, analysis data, etc. according to the read operation program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data indicating the relationship between the standard data and a standard value previously set for the standard sample, based on the standard data. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analysis data based on the test data and the calibration data of the test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis data includes data that associates concentration values ​​with enzyme activity values ​​and data that records the concentration of a desired ion in a sample in a time series. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analysis data, etc. to the control circuit 9.

[0012] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, and a lead screw. For example, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 104 (described later) at a predetermined rotation angle. The predetermined rotation angle is, for example, an angle of rotation in one cycle (described later). The drive mechanism 4 also rotates a reagent rack in the reagent storage 102 (described later).

[0013] The input interface 5 receives settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a sample requested to be measured via the hospital network NW, for example, by an operator. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad that inputs instructions by touching the operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts the operation instructions input by the operator into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the control circuit 9.

[0014] In this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to an interface having physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the input interface 5 may be a processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 9.

[0015] The display 6 is connected to the control circuit 9, and displays data representing a display target received from the control circuit 9. The display 6 corresponds to, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, or the like.

[0016] The display 6 may be equipped with a touch panel. In this case, the display 6 may have the function of the input interface 5.

[0017] The communication interface 7 is connected to, for example, a hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with a hospital information system (HIS) via the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 may also perform data communication with the HIS via a testing department system connected to the hospital network NW.

[0018] The memory circuit 8 includes a processor-readable recording medium, such as a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The memory circuit 8 is not necessarily realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 8 may be realized by a plurality of storage devices.

[0019] The memory circuitry 8 also stores test orders input by an operator or test orders received via the hospital network NW by the communication interface 7. The order information includes a sample ID (reagent name), test items required for the sample to be measured, and a measurement sequence for the test. The memory circuitry 8 stores various setting values ​​for executing a series of operations of each part of the automatic analyzer 1 in one cycle. The memory circuitry 8 stores operating programs read out by the control circuitry 9.

[0020] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the control circuit 9 outputs a control signal to the drive mechanism 4 for driving each part of the analysis mechanism 2. The control circuit 9 executes an operation program stored in the memory circuit 8, thereby realizing a function corresponding to the operation program. The control circuit 9 may include a memory that stores at least a part of the data stored in the memory circuit 8. The function of the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment will be described later.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 shows a top view of the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis mechanism 2 includes a reagent storage 102, a reaction disk 104, an input unit 118, and a positioner 126. The reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104 are disposed in a first area, and the input unit 118 is disposed in a second area.

[0022] 2, the first region is defined by a first side surface 114 and a second side surface 116 extending in an X direction, which is the left-right direction when the automatic analyzer 1 is installed, and a third side surface 138 and a fourth side surface 140 extending in a Y direction, which is the depth direction when the automatic analyzer 1 is installed. The first side surface 114 and the second side surface 116 face each other, and the third side surface 138 and the fourth side surface 140 face each other. The second region is adjacent to the first region and is the front side of the automatic analyzer 1, with the first side surface 114 as the boundary.

[0023] The reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104 have different rotation axes as driving means. The reaction disk 104 is disposed above the reagent storage 102 (in the Z direction) at a distance. When the analysis mechanism 2 is viewed from above, at least a part of the installation range of the reaction disk 104 overlaps with the installation range of the reagent storage 102. The reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104 may be disposed adjacent to each other, for example, on the same plane.

[0024] The reagent storage 102 keeps cool a plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n (n is an arbitrary number) that contain reagents that react with a predetermined component contained in a standard sample or a predetermined component contained in a test sample. In the example of FIG. 2, a reagent bottle 300a, a reagent bottle 300b, a reagent bottle 300c, and a reagent bottle 300n are illustrated. Hereinafter, when there is no specification as to which of the plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n is to be referred to, it will be simply referred to as a reagent bottle 300. The reagent storage 102 has a structure that is difficult for an operator to directly access, for example, because a reaction disk 104 is arranged above it, regardless of whether the device is in operation or stopped. A structure that is difficult to directly access means a structure that the operator himself cannot easily take the reagent bottle 300 in and out of the reagent storage 102 by hand. An openable opening 103 is provided at the top of the reagent storage 102. An automatic loading mechanism described later takes in and out the reagent bottle 300 through this opening 103. A rotatable reagent rack is provided in the reagent storage 102. The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n arranged in a circular ring shape. The reagent rack is rotated by a drive mechanism 4.

[0025] Each of the multiple reagent bottles 300a-n has at least one type of reagent. In the case of a reagent bottle (combination bottle) having two types of reagents, one container (first container) contains a first reagent, and the other container (second container) contains a second reagent that pairs with the first reagent. In this specification, the case of a reagent bottle having one type of reagent will be described. Also, each of the multiple reagent bottles 300a-n has a code (reagent code) attached (for example, affixed or printed) corresponding to information (reagent bottle information) such as the reagent name and bottle type. Examples of the code include a barcode, a two-dimensional barcode, and a wireless tag (IC tag and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag). The reagent bottle 300 in this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 3 to FIG. 9.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a reagent bottle 300 in the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the reagent bottle 300 in the first embodiment is an integrated unit of a general-purpose reagent bottle 310 and a general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320. The general-purpose reagent bottle 310 is a reagent bottle that can be commonly used by various companies that manufacture automatic analyzers. By attaching the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 to the general-purpose reagent bottle 310, automatic reagent loading can be realized in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. In other words, the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 is an adapter that can be attached to the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 that is incorporated in the automatic analyzer 1 for use.

[0027] 3 shows the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 of the maximum size that can be attached to the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320, but this is not limiting. For example, the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 may be a size equal to or smaller than the maximum size. When using a general-purpose reagent bottle 310 of a size equal to or smaller than the maximum size, a bottle guide for adjusting the size together with the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 may be attached to the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320. Furthermore, the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 may be a multi-adapter to which general-purpose reagent bottles 310 of multiple sizes can be attached.

[0028] Fig. 4 is a three-view diagram showing an example of the appearance of the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 in the first embodiment. In Fig. 4, (a) is a front view, (b) is a top view, and (c) is a side view. Note that the front view is the surface of the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 with the largest projected area.

[0029] General-purpose reagent bottle 310 includes container body 311, opening 312, and cord 313. Opening 312 is provided on the top surface of container body 311 and serves as an entrance and exit for a reagent dispensing probe. Cord 313 is provided, for example, on the side surface of container body 311. At least one cord 313 may be provided on any surface of container body 311. For example, an example in which a cord is provided on the front surface of container body 311 will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0030] Fig. 5 is a three-view diagram showing an example of the appearance of another general-purpose reagent bottle 310A in the first embodiment. In Fig. 5, (a) is a front view, (b) is a top view, and (c) is a side view. Note that the front view is the surface with the largest projected area with respect to the general-purpose reagent bottle 310A.

[0031] The general-purpose reagent bottle 310A includes a container body 311, an opening 312, and a cord 313A. The difference from the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 in Fig. 4 is that the cord 313A is provided on the front side of the container body.

[0032] Fig. 6 is a three-view diagram showing an example of the appearance of the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor 320 in the first embodiment. In Fig. 6, (a) is a front view, (b) is a top view, and (c) is a side view. Note that the front view is the surface with the largest projected area regarding the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor 320.

[0033] The adapter 320 for the general-purpose reagent bottle includes an adapter body 321 and a pull tab 322. The adapter body 321 has, for example, an opening 323a on the front, an opening 323b on the top, and an opening 323c on the side. The opening 323b is provided, for example, as an entrance for attaching and detaching the general-purpose reagent bottle 310. The opening 323c is provided for reading the code 313 of the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 while the adapter 320 for the general-purpose reagent bottle is attached. Note that the opening 323a is not necessarily required when the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 is attached to the adapter 320 for the general-purpose reagent bottle. However, for example, when the general-purpose reagent bottle 310A of FIG. 5 is used, the opening 323a may be provided for reading the code 313A of the general-purpose reagent bottle 310A.

[0034] The pull tab 322 is provided on the side surface of the adapter body 321. Specifically, the pull tab 322 is formed as a hook-shaped member consisting of a member extending outward from the upper part of the side surface of the adapter body 321 and a member whose tip protrudes downward. The pull tab 322 engages with an automatic loading mechanism, which will be described later. "Engaging" means that they are engaged with each other and fastened. The pull tab 322 may be formed as a recess in the side surface of the adapter body 321.

[0035] Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of a general-purpose reagent bottle 310 and a general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor 320 in the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, the reagent bottle 300 in Fig. 3 is configured by attaching a container body 311 of the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 to an adaptor body 321 of the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor 320.

[0036] 7 shows an example in which the container body 311 is attached from the top surface (opening 323b in FIG. 6) of the adapter body 321, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 may be configured so that the container body 311 is attached from the front or side of the adapter body 321. The general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 may also be configured so that it is attached by dividing it into a plurality of parts that can be assembled and attaching the plurality of parts to the general-purpose reagent bottle 310.

[0037] Fig. 8 is a three-view diagram showing an example of the appearance of the reagent bottle 300 in the first embodiment. In Fig. 8, (a) is a front view, (b) is a top view, and (c) is a side view. Note that the front view is the surface of the reagent bottle 300 with the largest projected area.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 8, the reagent bottle 300 has a configuration in which a general-purpose reagent bottle 310 is attached to a general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320, and an opening 323c of the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 makes it possible to read the code 313 attached to the general-purpose reagent bottle 310. That is, the opening 323c is located at a position corresponding to the code 313 attached to the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 when the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 is attached to the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320. Note that the configurations of the various parts of the reagent bottle 300 are similar to those of the general-purpose reagent bottle 310 in Fig. 4 and the general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320 in Fig. 6, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the cross section taken along line AA in Fig. 8(b) as viewed vertically.

[0039] The reaction disk 104 holds multiple reaction tubes 108a-n (n is an arbitrary number) arranged in a ring shape. The reaction disk 104 is rotated and stopped alternately at a predetermined time interval (hereinafter referred to as one cycle), for example, at 4.5 seconds, by the driving mechanism 4. The multiple reaction tubes 108a-n are made of, for example, glass. Hereinafter, the path along which the reaction tubes 108a-n move is referred to as the reaction tube ring path.

[0040] The input unit 118 receives a plurality of carriers 124a-n (n is an arbitrary number) for carrying a plurality of sample containers, and a plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n. The input unit 118 has a mounting rack 120 having a plurality of slots 122a-n (n is an arbitrary number) for receiving the plurality of carriers 124a-n and the plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n. In the example of FIG. 2, a carrier 124a, a carrier 124n, a reagent bottle 300b, a reagent bottle 300c, and a reagent bottle 300n are inserted in any of the slots in the mounting rack 120. Hereinafter, when it is not specified as any of the plurality of slots 122a-n, it will be simply referred to as a slot 122, and when it is not specified as any of the plurality of carriers 124a-n, it will be simply referred to as a carrier 124. The carrier may also be called a sample rack.

[0041] 2 holds six sample containers, the number of sample containers is not limited to this. Each of the multiple sample containers is provided with a code (sample code) associated with information such as a patient ID. The installation area of ​​the transport device 124 is approximately the same as that of the reagent bottle 300 (or the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor 320), and the transport device 124 has a pull tab similar to that of the general-purpose reagent bottle adaptor 320. This pull tab engages with an automatic loading mechanism, which will be described later.

[0042] The loading rack 120 may be composed of a plurality of partial racks. For example, if the loading rack 120 has 25 slots 122 as a whole and is composed of five partial racks, one partial rack has five slots. With such a configuration, when the user inputs the transport tool 124 and the reagent bottle 300 into the input unit 118, the user may set the transport tool 124 and the reagent bottle 300 in the partial rack in advance, and input the partial rack with the transport tool 124 and the reagent bottle 300 set therein into the input unit 118. The partial rack may be called a tray.

[0043] Furthermore, in the input section 118, a positioner 126 for transporting the plurality of transporters 124a-n and the plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n is provided. The positioner 126 corresponds to a part of the drive mechanism 4. The positioner 126 can move along a positioner track section 128 provided in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the first side surface 114. The positioner 126 also has an arm 130 that engages with a pull section provided on each of the plurality of transporters 124a-n and the plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n. The arm 130 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction (Z direction) and rotatable in the horizontal direction (XY plane) by the drive mechanism 4. The combination of the positioner 126 and the arm 130 may be called an "automatic loading mechanism" since it performs automatic sample loading and automatic reagent loading, or may simply be called a "transport mechanism." In addition, since the pull portion is the part that is held by the transport mechanism, it may be called the "held portion."

[0044] The positioner 126 and arm 130 operate to retrieve the plurality of carriers 124a-n and the plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n inserted into the slots 122a-n and transport the plurality of carriers 124a-n and the plurality of reagent bottles 300a-n to various locations along a positioner track portion 128 provided on the first side 114.

[0045] The positioner 126 has a code reader 127 for reading codes attached to the sample containers and the reagent bottles 300a-n held by the carriers 124a-n, respectively. For example, when the carrier 124 is inserted into the insertion unit 118, the code reader 127 reads the sample codes attached to the sample containers held by the carrier 124. For example, when the reagent bottle 300 is inserted into the insertion unit 118, the code reader 127 reads the reagent code attached to the reagent bottle 300. Information on the read codes (code information) is output to the control circuit 9. Note that a plurality of code readers 127 may be provided in the positioner 126. Note that the code reader 127 does not have to be provided in the positioner 126.

[0046] The analysis mechanism 2 has a first carrier shuttle 134 and a second carrier shuttle 136 in the vicinity of the third side surface 138 and in parallel to the third side surface 138. For example, after the carrier 124 is input into the input section 118, the arm 130 of the positioner 126 engages with the carrier 124. The carrier 124 engaged with the arm 130 is transferred to the first carrier shuttle 134 or the second carrier shuttle 136 by the arm 130 moving up and down in the vertical direction (Z direction) and rotating in the horizontal direction (XY plane) and the positioner 126 moving horizontally in one dimension (X direction). The transfer of the carrier 124 after it is input into the input section 118 may be called automatic sample loading.

[0047] The first transport shuttle 134 has a first track section 142 extending from the first side 114 to the second side 116. The first track section 142 has a track device, such as a belt and a chain. The first transport shuttle 134 has a first motor 146 for driving the first track section 142 on the second side 116 side. The first transport shuttle 134 has a first sensor 150 on the first side 114 side. For example, the transport 124 transferred to the first transport shuttle 134 is placed on the first track section 142. The first transport shuttle 134 can transport the transport 124 placed on the first track section 142 to any position on the first track section 142.

[0048] The second transport shuttle 136 is disposed adjacent to the first transport shuttle 134. The second transport shuttle 136 has a second track portion 144 extending from the first side 114 to the second side 116. The second track portion 144 has, for example, a track device. The second transport shuttle 136 has a second motor 148 on the second side 116 side for driving the second track portion 144. The second transport shuttle 136 has a second sensor 152 on the first side 114 side. For example, the transport 124 transferred to the second transport shuttle 136 is disposed on the second track portion 144. The second transport shuttle 136 can transport the transport 124 disposed on the second track portion 144 to any position on the second track portion 144.

[0049] The analysis mechanism 2 further includes a first pipetting mechanism, a second pipetting mechanism, and a third pipetting mechanism (none of which are shown). The first pipetting mechanism is a mechanism for dispensing a first reagent, and is provided, for example, in the inner peripheral region of the reagent storage 102 and the outer peripheral region of the reaction disk 104. The second pipetting mechanism is a mechanism for dispensing a second reagent, and is provided, for example, in the inner peripheral region of the reagent storage 102 and the inner peripheral region of the reaction disk 104. The third pipetting mechanism is a mechanism for dispensing a sample, and is provided, for example, in the outer peripheral region of the reagent storage 102. Note that the positions at which the first pipetting mechanism, the second pipetting mechanism, and the third pipetting mechanism are provided are not limited to the positions described above.

[0050] The first pipetting mechanism has a first reagent dispensing arm. The first reagent dispensing arm is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The first reagent dispensing arm holds a first reagent dispensing probe at one end.

[0051] The first reagent dispensing probe rotates along a first circular rotation orbit in association with the rotation of the first reagent dispensing arm. A first reagent aspirating position where the first reagent dispensing probe aspirates the first reagent from the reagent bottle 300 is provided on the first rotation orbit. The first reagent aspirating position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the first rotation orbit and the first circular path 209. Also, a first reagent dispensing position where the first reagent dispensing probe aspirates the first reagent into the reaction vessel is provided on the first rotation orbit. The first reagent dispensing position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the first rotation orbit and the reaction tube circular path. Note that, when a combination bottle is used instead of the reagent bottle 300, the first reagent dispensing probe aspirates the first reagent from a first opening of the first container. Also, the first opening of the combination bottle and the opening of the reagent bottle 300 coincide with each other at the first reagent aspirating position.

[0052] A washing position for washing the first reagent dispensing probe may be provided at a position on the first rotation orbit different from the first reagent aspirating position and the first reagent dispensing position. Also, a washing tank for washing the first reagent dispensing probe may be provided at the washing position.

[0053] The first reagent dispensing probe aspirates the first reagent from the reagent bottle 300 located immediately below the first reagent aspirating position, under the control of the control circuit 9. Then, the first reagent dispensing probe discharges the aspirated first reagent into the reaction tube located immediately below the first reagent dispensing position, under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe performs this series of operations of aspirating and dispensing (dispensing operation), for example, once per cycle.

[0054] The second pipetting mechanism has a second reagent dispensing arm. The second reagent dispensing arm is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The second reagent dispensing arm holds a second reagent dispensing probe at one end.

[0055] The second reagent dispensing probe rotates along a second circular arc rotation orbit in association with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm. A second reagent aspirating position is provided on the second rotation orbit, where the second reagent dispensing probe aspirates the second reagent from the second opening of the second container in the combination bottle. The second reagent aspirating position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the second rotation orbit and a second circular path (not shown) that is located on the inner side of the first circular path 209. In addition, a second reagent discharging position is provided on the second rotation orbit, where the second reagent dispensing probe discharges the aspirated second reagent into the reaction vessel. The second reagent discharging position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the second rotation orbit and the reaction tube circular path.

[0056] A washing position for washing the second reagent dispensing probe may be provided at a position on the second rotation orbit different from the second reagent aspirating position and the second reagent dispensing position. A washing tank for washing the second reagent dispensing probe may be provided at the washing position.

[0057] The second reagent dispensing probe aspirates the second reagent from the second container of the combination bottle located immediately below the second reagent aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9. Then, the second reagent dispensing probe discharges the aspirated second reagent into the reaction tube located immediately below the second reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe performs this dispensing operation, for example, once per cycle.

[0058] The third pipetting mechanism has a sample dispensing arm. The sample dispensing arm is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm holds a sample dispensing probe at one end.

[0059] The sample dispensing probe rotates along a third circular rotation orbit in association with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm. A first sample suction position and a second sample suction position are provided on the third rotation orbit, where the sample dispensing probe suctions a sample from a sample container. The first sample suction position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the third rotation orbit and the first track portion 142. The second sample suction position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the third rotation orbit and the second track portion 144. In addition, a sample discharge position is provided on the third rotation orbit, where the sample dispensing probe discharges the sample suctioned by the sample dispensing probe into a reaction container. The sample discharge position corresponds to, for example, an intersection of the third rotation orbit and the reaction tube circular path.

[0060] A washing position for washing the sample dispensing probe may be provided at a position on the third rotation orbit different from the first sample suction position, the second sample suction position, and the sample discharge position. A washing tank for washing the sample dispensing probe may be provided at the washing position.

[0061] The sample dispensing probe aspirates a sample from a sample container located immediately below the first sample aspirating position or from a sample container located immediately below the second sample aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9. Then, the sample dispensing probe discharges the aspirated sample into a reaction tube located immediately below the sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe performs this dispensing operation, for example, once per cycle.

[0062] Although not shown in FIG. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 further includes an electrode unit, a photometry unit, a cleaning unit, and a stirring unit. The electrode unit measures the electrolyte concentration of the mixture of the sample and the reagent dispensed into the reaction tube. The photometry unit optically measures a predetermined component in the mixture. The cleaning unit cleans the inside of the reaction tube after the electrode unit or the photometry unit has finished measuring the mixture. The stirring unit has a stirrer, and uses the stirrer to stir the sample, reagent, and mixture contained in the reaction tube located directly below the stirring position on the reaction disk 104.

[0063] Next, each function of the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9 shown in Fig. 1 executes an operation program stored in the memory circuit 8 to realize a function corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91 by executing the operation program.

[0064] In the first embodiment, a case where the system control function 91 is realized by a single processor will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a control circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may execute an operation program to realize the system control function 91. This also applies to the other embodiments described below.

[0065] Using the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 comprehensively controls each part of the automatic analyzer 1 based on, for example, input information input from the input interface 5. Specifically, the control circuit 9 controls the rotational movement of the reagent rack in the reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104, the rotational movement and dispensing movement of the sample dispensing probe, the rotational movement and dispensing movement of the first reagent dispensing probe, and the rotational movement and dispensing movement of the second reagent dispensing probe. The control circuit 9 also controls the movements of the positioner 126, the code reader 127, the arm 130, the first transport shuttle 134, and the second transport shuttle 136.

[0066] The above has described the configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. Next, automatic loading of reagents in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0067] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the automatic loading mechanism seen from above to explain automatic reagent loading in the first embodiment. Fig. 10 shows the input unit 118, the positioner 126, the code reader 127, the arm 130, and the opening 103, which are parts of the analysis mechanism 2 in Fig. 2. Fig. 10 also shows the reagent bottle 300a at the opening 103, and the reagent bottles 300b, 300c, and 300n at the input unit 118. In the following, an operation example of the automatic loading mechanism that transports the reagent bottle 300b input into the input unit 118 to the opening 103 will be described with regard to automatic reagent loading.

[0068] When the reagent bottle 300b is inserted into the insertion section 118, the positioner 126 moves to the vicinity of the reagent bottle 300b to read the code attached to the reagent bottle 300b. At this time, the position where the code is read may be, for example, the same position where the reagent bottle 300b is held by the arm 130. After the positioner 126 moves, the code reader 127 reads the code attached to the reagent bottle 300b.

[0069] Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section taken along line BB in Fig. 10 as viewed from a vertical direction. Fig. 11 shows how the code reader 127 reads the code on the reagent bottle 300b.

[0070] 12 is a schematic diagram of the automatic loading mechanism seen from above regarding the engagement between the arm and the reagent bottle in the first embodiment. After reading the code of the reagent bottle 300b, if the reagent bottle 300b needs to be immediately transferred to the reagent storage 102, the arm 130 is rotated horizontally to engage with the pull tab 322b of the reagent bottle 300b. When the arm 130 and the pull tab 322b are engaged, the arm 130 may move up and down and the positioner 126 may move. Moreover, "movement of the positioner 126" may be rephrased as "sliding of the positioner 126."

[0071] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram of the cross section taken along line CC in Fig. 12, viewed from the vertical direction. Fig. 13 shows the arm 130 engaging with the pull-tab portion 322b. After the arm 130 and the pull-tab portion 322b engage with each other, the arm 130 moves upward in the vertical direction while holding the reagent bottle 300b. Note that "moving upward" may be rephrased as "lifting up".

[0072] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing vertical movement of the arm in Fig. 13. Fig. 14 shows a state in which the arm 130 moves vertically upward while being engaged with the pull-tab portion 322b. After the arm 130 moves vertically upward, the arm 130 rotates horizontally.

[0073] 15 is a schematic diagram of the automatic loading mechanism from above, showing the rotational movement of the arm that holds the reagent bottle in the first embodiment. The arm 130 rotates horizontally while holding the handle 322b, thereby rotating the reagent bottle 300b 180 degrees around the positioner 126. FIG. 15 shows the arm 130 rotated 180 degrees counterclockwise. Also, in FIG. 15, in order to place the reagent bottle 300b in the reagent storage 102, the reagent storage 102 rotates the reagent rack so that the empty slot for placing the reagent bottle 300b is located directly below the opening 103. The reagent rack may be rotated at any timing.

[0074] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram of the cross section taken along line DD in Fig. 15, viewed from the vertical direction. Fig. 16 shows the state in which the arm 130 engaged with the pull-tab portion 322b has been rotated 180 degrees. After the arm 130 has been rotated 180 degrees, the positioner 126 moves to the vicinity of the opening 103.

[0075] 17 is a schematic diagram of the automatic loading mechanism seen from above, showing the movement of the positioner holding the reagent bottle in the first embodiment. The positioner 126 moves to the vicinity of the opening 103 in order to move the reagent bottle 300b held by the arm 130 to the opening 103. After the positioner 126 moves, the arm 130 moves downward in the vertical direction to place the reagent bottle 300b in the reagent storage 102 through the opening 103.

[0076] To summarize the above automatic reagent loading, when the reagent bottle 300 to which an adapter (general-purpose reagent bottle adapter 320) is attached is input into the input section 118, the automatic loading mechanism (positioner 126 and arm 130) can transfer the reagent bottle 300 from the input section 118 to the reagent storage 102 via the adapter. Specifically, the automatic loading mechanism can transfer the reagent bottle 300 from the input section 118 to the reagent storage 102 via the pull handle 322 of the reagent bottle 300 (by engaging with the pull handle 322 to hold the adapter). Note that the automatic loading mechanism can also transfer the reagent bottle 300 from the reagent storage 102 to the input section 118 via the adapter as a removal process.

[0077] As described above, the automated analyzer according to the first embodiment includes an adapter that can be attached to a reagent container, an input unit that receives an adapter-attached reagent container, which is a reagent container with an adapter attached, a reagent repository that stores the adapter-attached reagent container, and a transfer mechanism that transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input unit to the reagent repository via the adapter. The automated analyzer according to the first embodiment can also use general-purpose reagent bottles as reagent containers.

[0078] Therefore, the automatic analyzer of the first embodiment can perform automatic reagent loading even when, for example, a general-purpose reagent bottle is used as the reagent container, and can utilize the reagent provided in the general-purpose reagent bottle, thereby reducing the cost of operating an automatic analyzer having an automatic reagent loading mechanism and improving convenience.

[0079] (First Modification of the First Embodiment) The automated analyzer according to the first embodiment transports the reagent bottles by engaging the handle of the universal reagent bottle adapter with an arm. However, the means for transporting the reagent bottles is not limited to this. The automated analyzer according to the first modified example of the first embodiment transports the reagent bottles by placing them on a moving tray and moving the moving tray.

[0080] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in a first modified example of the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 18, the automatic analyzer according to the first modified example of the first embodiment has a movable tray 400. The movable tray 400 is configured to be transported between, for example, two predetermined points. Therefore, the automatic loading mechanism in the first modified example of the first embodiment may include the movable tray 400 that moves the reagent bottle 300 placed thereon.

[0081] (Second Modification of the First Embodiment) In the automated analyzer according to the second modification of the first embodiment, the reagent bottles are placed on a conveyor, and the conveyor is driven to transport the reagent bottles.

[0082] Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in the second modified example of the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 19, the automatic analyzer according to the second modified example of the first embodiment has a conveyor 500. The conveyor 500 is, for example, a roller conveyor or a belt conveyor. Therefore, the automatic loading mechanism in the second modified example of the first embodiment may include the conveyor 500 that moves the placed reagent bottle 300.

[0083] (Third Modification of the First Embodiment) The automated analyzer according to the third modification of the first embodiment adsorbs a reagent bottle onto a suction pad, and transports the reagent bottle adsorbed onto the suction pad.

[0084] Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in the third modified example of the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 20, the automatic analyzer according to the third modified example of the first embodiment has a suction pad 600. The suction pad 600 holds the reagent bottle 300 by suctioning the upper surface opposite to the surface on which the universal reagent bottle adapter 320 is placed. The suction pad 600 is attached to, for example, the tip of an orthogonal robot. Therefore, the automatic loading mechanism in the third modified example of the first embodiment may include the suction pad 600 that suctions the reagent bottle 300 and lifts or slides the adsorbed reagent bottle 300 to transport it.

[0085] (Fourth Modification of the First Embodiment) The automated analyzer according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment provides a protrusion on the top surface of a reagent bottle, grips the protrusion with a gripper, and transports the reagent bottle gripped by the protrusion. Note that the protrusion may be called a "held part" since it is a part that is held by a transport mechanism (automatic loading mechanism).

[0086] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram for explaining an automatic loading mechanism in the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 21, the reagent bottle 300 is further provided with a protrusion 324. Specifically, the protrusion 324 is provided to protrude from the upper surface opposite to the surface on which the universal reagent bottle adapter 320 is placed. The automatic analyzer according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment also has a gripper 700. The gripper 700 has, for example, a claw for gripping the protrusion 324 at the tip of an orthogonal robot. Therefore, the automatic loading mechanism in the fourth modified example of the first embodiment may include the gripper 700 that lifts or slides the reagent bottle 300 while gripping the protrusion 324 to transport it.

[0087] According to each of the above modifications, the automatic loading mechanism can also be realized by using a plurality of transport means.

[0088] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to reduce the cost of operating an automatic analyzer having an automatic reagent loading mechanism and to improve convenience.

[0089] The term "processor" used in the above description means a circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). When the processor is a CPU, for example, the processor realizes a function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. On the other hand, when the processor is an ASIC, for example, instead of storing the program in a memory circuit, the function is directly incorporated as a logic circuit in the circuit of the processor. Note that each processor in the embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as one processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize the function. Furthermore, multiple components in the figure may be integrated into one processor to realize the function.

[0090] In addition, each function according to the embodiment can be realized by installing a program for executing the above-mentioned processes in a computer such as a workstation and expanding the program in memory. In this case, the program for causing the computer to execute the above-mentioned method can be stored in a storage medium such as a magnetic disk (such as a hard disk), an optical disk (such as a CD-ROM or DVD), or a semiconductor memory and distributed.

[0091] Although some 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 and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0092] Regarding the above embodiment, the following supplementary notes are disclosed as one aspect and optional features of the invention.

[0093] (Appendix 1) An adapter that can be attached to a reagent container; an input section for receiving an adapter-attached reagent container, which is the reagent container with the adapter attached; A reagent storage for storing the adapter-attached reagent container; a transfer mechanism that transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage via the adapter; An automatic analyzer comprising:

[0094] (Appendix 2) The adapter has a pull tab, The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage via the handle section.

[0095] (Appendix 3) The pull tab is provided on a side surface of the adapter, The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by engaging with the handle portion and holding the adapter.

[0096] (Appendix 4) The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by lifting or sliding the adapter-attached reagent container via the adapter.

[0097] (Appendix 5) the adapter has a protrusion provided on an upper surface facing a surface on which the adapter-attached reagent container is placed, The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by gripping the protrusion and holding the adapter.

[0098] (Appendix 6) The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by lifting or sliding the adapter.

[0099] (Appendix 7) The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by adsorbing an upper surface of the adapter-attached reagent container opposite a surface on which the adapter-attached reagent container is placed and holding the adapter-attached reagent container.

[0100] (Appendix 8) The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by lifting or sliding the adapter-attached reagent container.

[0101] (Appendix 9) The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by sliding the adapter-attached reagent container using a conveyor.

[0102] (Appendix 10) The transfer mechanism may transfer the adapter-attached reagent container from the reagent storage to the input section via the adapter.

[0103] (Appendix 11) The reagent container has a code corresponding to information on the reagent attached to at least one side surface, The adapter has an opening on at least one side; The opening may be located at a position that corresponds to the code attached to the reagent container when the reagent container is attached to the adapter.

[0104] (Appendix 12) The transport mechanism may include a code reader for reading the code.

[0105] (Appendix 13) the input unit receives a carrier for carrying a plurality of reagent containers; The transport mechanism may transport the carrier from the input section to a carrier shuttle for transporting the carrier to a desired location.

[0106] (Appendix 14) The reagent container may be a general-purpose reagent bottle.

[0107] (Appendix 15) The transfer mechanism may include an arm that engages with the adapter, and a positioner that transports the reagent container with the adapter.

[0108] (Appendix 16) An adapter attachable to a reagent container, the adapter being incorporated in and used with an automated analyzer having an input unit for receiving a reagent container, a reagent storage unit for storing the reagent container, and a transfer mechanism for transferring the reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage unit, the adapter comprising: A held portion is provided which is held by the transfer mechanism, When the adapter is attached to the reagent container, the transfer mechanism can hold the reagent container via the held portion and transfer the reagent container from the input portion to the reagent storage. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1 Automatic analyzer 2 Analysis mechanism 3 Analysis circuit 4. Drive mechanism 5 Input Interface 6 Display 7 Communication Interface 8 Memory circuit 9 Control Circuit 91 System Control Functions 102 Reagent Storage 103 Opening 104 Reaction Disk 108a~n Reaction tube 114 First Aspect 116 The Second Aspect 118 Input section 120 Mounting Rack 122,122a~n Slots 124, 124a~n Transportation equipment 126 Positioner 127 Code Reader 128 Positioner track section 130 Arm 134 First Vehicle Shuttle 136 Second Vehicle Shuttle 138 The Third Aspect 140 The Fourth Aspect 142 First Track Section 144 Second Track Section 146 First Motor 148 Second Motor 150 First Sensor 152 Second Sensor 209 First circular route 300,300a~n Reagent bottles 310,310A General-purpose Reagent Bottle 311 Container body 312 Opening 313,313A Code 320 General-purpose reagent bottle adapter 321 Adapter body 322 Handle 322b Handle 323a opening 323b opening 323c opening 324 Protrusion 332b Handle 400 Mobile Tray 500 Conveyor 600 Suction Pad 700 Gripping part

Claims

1. an adapter that can be attached to a reagent container; an input section for receiving a reagent container with an adapter, the reagent container having the adapter attached thereto; A reagent storage for storing the adapter-attached reagent container; a transfer mechanism that transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage via the adapter; An automatic analyzer comprising:

2. The adapter has a pull tab, The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage via the handle section. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

3. The pull tab is provided on a side surface of the adapter, The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by engaging with the handle portion and holding the adapter. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2 .

4. The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by lifting or sliding the adapter-attached reagent container via the adapter. The automatic analyzer according to claim 3.

5. the adapter has a protrusion provided on an upper surface facing a surface on which the adapter-attached reagent container is placed, The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage by gripping the protrusion and holding the adapter. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

6. The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by lifting or sliding the adapter. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5.

7. the transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage by adsorbing an upper surface of the adapter-attached reagent container that faces a surface on which the adapter-attached reagent container is placed and holding the adapter-attached reagent container. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

8. The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input section to the reagent storage by lifting or sliding the adapter-attached reagent container. The automatic analyzer according to claim 7.

9. The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage by sliding the adapter-attached reagent container using a conveyor. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

10. The transfer mechanism transfers the adapter-attached reagent container from the reagent storage to the input part via the adapter. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

11. The reagent container has a code corresponding to information on the reagent attached to at least one side surface, The adapter has an opening on at least one side; the opening is located at a position corresponding to the code attached to the reagent container when the reagent container is attached to the adapter; The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

12. The transport mechanism has a code reader for reading the code. The automated analyzer according to claim 11.

13. the input unit receives a carrier for carrying a plurality of reagent containers; The transport mechanism transports the carrier from the input section to a carrier shuttle for transporting the carrier to an arbitrary position. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

14. The reagent container is a general-purpose reagent bottle. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

15. The transfer mechanism includes an arm that engages with the adapter and a positioner that transports the adapter-attached reagent container. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

16. An adapter attachable to a reagent container, the adapter being incorporated in and used with an automated analyzer having an input unit for receiving a reagent container, a reagent storage unit for storing the reagent container, and a transfer mechanism for transferring the reagent container from the input unit to the reagent storage unit, the adapter comprising: A held portion is provided which is held by the transfer mechanism, When the adapter is attached to the reagent container, the transfer mechanism can hold the reagent container via the held portion and transfer the reagent container from the input portion to the reagent storage.

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