Observation system and observation method

Abstract

To provide an observation system and an observation method capable of preventing contamination on a peripheral device such as a microscope or a conveying device component caused by leakage of an excessive solution from a side of overlapped sheets in continuous observation of a plurality of observation targets.SOLUTION: To solve the above problem, there is provided an observation system including: observation means configured to acquire observation data of an observation target; transfer means configured to continuously transfer the observation target; disposing means configured to dispose the observation target on a first sheet; and lamination means configured to laminate the first sheet and a second sheet. A width of the first sheet is greater than a width of the second sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an observation system and an observation method. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, improvements in information processing and observation techniques have made it possible to acquire and analyze large amounts of data. As a result, it has become increasingly important to acquire and analyze observation data on various objects, compile the data into a database, and make effective use of the data.

[0003] In particular, when obtaining observation data through microscopic observation, it is now possible to obtain not only image data relating to the shape of the object being observed, but also measurement data in combination with various optical analysis means, and the amount of information that can be used as observation data has increased dramatically.

[0004] While the technology for acquiring and analyzing various observation data has improved, the preparation of specimens (samples) to make the objects suitable for observation is largely done manually, and as the amount of objects to be observed increases, the labor costs and time required for preparing specimens of the objects to be observed become significant. In order to create a database of observation data and to effectively use the data, it is necessary to quickly perform the work of observing large amounts of objects to be observed, so improvements in the efficiency of sample preparation of objects to be observed are being considered.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an apparatus for automatically processing objects to be observed (biological specimens) that includes a slide tray for holding slides on which the objects to be observed are placed, a device for transporting the slide tray, a fluid module for supplying reagents, and an automatic cover glass mounting processing device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-92532 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] As described in Patent Document 1, it is known to automate the preparation of so-called slides using a cover glass and a slide glass in order to quickly observe a plurality of observation objects. However, preparation of a slide generally requires complicated steps as sample preparation operations, starting with placing an object to be observed on a slide glass, supplying reagents, placing a cover glass, transporting to the microscope stage, etc. For this reason, although the automation of slide preparation described in Patent Document 1 makes it possible to significantly reduce labor costs, there remain issues with regard to the preparation of a large number of samples and the efficiency of sample observation, such as the need to replace the prepared sample after sample observation when observing a sample using a slide glass.

[0008] In addition, with the recent advances in technology in the medical and biological fields, there has been an increase in the number of cells and microorganisms being handled as observation objects. In this case, there is a trend to observe living organisms such as live cells and living microorganisms (hereinafter simply referred to as "living organisms"), rather than dead cells or dead microorganisms, and to obtain the observation data. In the case of a conventional specimen such as a slide, the state or position of the observation object may change during the process of preparing the slide and moving it to the microscope stage, which makes the operation of obtaining observation data even more complicated and makes it difficult to obtain accurate observation data. In addition, when a living organism is used as the observation object, sample preparation using a multi-well plate having multiple wells (holes) is also known, but in this case, there is a problem that it is difficult to fix the living organism and make observation. For this reason, a new observation technique is required that does not rely on slides or multi-well plates used in conventional sample preparation.

[0009] The inventors have already discovered an observation system that enables sample preparation and observation without using slides or multi-well plates. By placing the objects to be observed on a sheet and moving the sheet, it is easy to carry out sample preparation and observation continuously, thereby further improving the work efficiency of observing large numbers of objects to be observed. On the other hand, when multiple observation objects are transported as in this observation system, excess solution leaks from the sides of the stacked sheets, causing problems such as soiling peripheral equipment such as microscopes and transport device parts. Although significant leakage can be prevented by adjusting the amount of solution supplied, the sheet width becomes extremely narrow when it comes into contact with a focus adjustment tool or a microscope, causing solution leakage. In particular, in the case of a mechanism that moves the sheet by pinching it, soiling is inevitable due to liquid leakage. It is necessary to prevent soiling and obtain reliable observation data.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide an observation system and an observation method that can prevent excess solution from leaking from the sides of overlapping sheets and causing damage to peripheral equipment such as microscopes and parts of a conveying device when continuously observing multiple objects to be observed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] As a result of thorough investigation into the above-mentioned problems, the inventors discovered that when continuously observing multiple objects, by devising the widths of the multiple sheets and the structure of the pinch portion that clamps the multiple sheets, it is possible to suppress leakage of excess solution from the sides of the sheets and to make it possible to observe without causing damage to peripheral equipment or conveying device parts, and thus completed the present invention. That is, the present invention relates to the following observation system and observation method.

[0012] In order to solve the above problem, the observation system of the present invention comprises an observation means for acquiring observation data of an object to be observed, a transport means for continuously transporting the object to be observed, a placement means for placing the object to be observed on a first sheet or a second sheet, and a stacking means for overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet, characterized in that the width of the first sheet is greater than the width of the second sheet. According to the observation system of the present invention, by placing the objects to be observed on a sheet and moving the sheet, it becomes easy to continuously perform sample preparation and sample observation, and the work efficiency for observing a large number of objects to be observed can be further improved. Furthermore, by stacking the first sheet and the second sheet with different widths, it becomes possible to prevent leakage of the objects to be observed. This makes it possible to prevent excess solution from leaking and causing damage to peripheral devices and transport device parts.

[0013] In order to solve the above problem, the observation system of the present invention comprises an observation means for acquiring observation data of an object to be observed, a transport means for continuously transporting the object to be observed, a placement means for placing the object to be observed on a first sheet or a second sheet, a stacking means for overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet, and a pinch portion for sandwiching the first sheet and the second sheet, wherein the pinch portion has a groove. According to the observation system of the present invention, by placing the object to be observed on the sheet and moving the sheet, it is easy to continuously perform sample preparation and sample observation, and the work efficiency for observing a large number of objects to be observed can be further improved. Furthermore, by providing a groove in the pinch part that holds the first sheet and the second sheet, the object to be observed enters the groove when the first sheet and the second sheet are pinched, so that the leakage of excess solution from the side of the sheet is suppressed, and observation can be performed without causing damage to peripheral devices and transport device parts.

[0014] In addition, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that the width of the first sheet is larger than the width of the second sheet, and a third sheet is stacked on the second sheet side and has a width larger than that of the second sheet. According to this feature, the object to be observed is placed between the first sheet and the second sheet, and further, a third sheet, which is wider than the second sheet, is placed over the first sheet on the side of the second sheet, which is narrower, thereby making it possible to further reduce leakage from the sides of the sheets.

[0015] The observation method of the present invention for solving the above problems includes an observation step of acquiring observation data of an object to be observed, a transport step of continuously transporting the object to be observed, a placement step of placing the object to be observed on a first sheet or a second sheet, and a lamination step of overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet, characterized in that the width of the first sheet is greater than the width of the second sheet. According to the observation method of the present invention, by placing the objects to be observed on a sheet and moving the sheet, it becomes easy to continuously perform sample preparation and sample observation, and the work efficiency for observing a large number of objects to be observed can be further improved. Furthermore, by stacking the first sheet and the second sheet with different widths, it becomes possible to prevent the objects to be observed from leaking. This makes it possible to prevent excess solution from leaking and causing damage to peripheral devices and transport device parts.

[0016] The observation method of the present invention for solving the above problems includes an observation step of acquiring observation data of an object to be observed, a transport step of continuously transporting the object to be observed, a placement step of placing the object to be observed on a first sheet or a second sheet, a stacking step of overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet, and a pinching step of sandwiching the first sheet and the second sheet with a pinch portion, wherein the pinch portion has a groove. According to the observation method of the present invention, by placing the object to be observed on the sheet and moving the sheet, it is easy to continuously perform sample preparation and sample observation, and the work efficiency for observing a large number of objects to be observed can be further improved. Furthermore, by providing a groove in the pinch part that holds the first sheet and the second sheet, the object to be observed enters the groove when the first sheet and the second sheet are pinched, so that the leakage of excess solution from the side of the sheet is suppressed, and observation can be performed without causing damage to peripheral devices and parts of the conveying device. Effect of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an observation system and an observation method that can prevent excess solution from leaking from the sides of overlapping sheets and causing contamination of peripheral equipment such as microscopes and parts of a conveying device when continuously observing multiple objects to be observed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram illustrating the width lengths of a first sheet and a second sheet of an observation system in a first embodiment of the present invention, and a schematic explanatory diagram illustrating the state in which the first sheet and the second sheet are stacked. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system in a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 13 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a state in which a first sheet and a second sheet of an observation system in a second embodiment of the present invention are stacked, and a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a pinch portion having a groove. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system in a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first sheet, second sheet and third sheet of the observation system in the third embodiment of the present invention are stacked, and a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a pinch portion having a groove. [Figure 7]FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram illustrating the width lengths of the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet of an observation system in a third embodiment of the present invention, and a schematic explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet are stacked. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the state of an observation object when the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet of an observation system in a fourth embodiment of the present invention are pinched by pinch portions. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the stacked state of the first sheet, second sheet and third sheet of the observation system in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a pinch portion having a groove (space). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of an observation system and an observation method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The observation method described in the embodiments should be replaced with an explanation of the configuration and operation of the observation system of the present invention. The observation system and observation method described in the embodiments are merely examples given to explain the observation system and observation method according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these.

[0020] In the observation system and observation method of the present invention, the object to be observed is not particularly limited, and can be anything that requires the accumulation and analysis of observation data through observation in various fields. The form of the object to be observed is preferably something that can be placed on a sheet, and examples of the form of the object to be observed include a liquid or solid, or a solution containing the object to be observed. With the recent progress in medicine and biology, the importance of accumulating and analyzing observation data related to cells, microorganisms, etc. is increasing. Therefore, the observation object of the present invention can be cells, microorganisms, etc., for which collection of observation data is considered important in medicine and biology. In particular, it is preferable to use as the observation object those living organisms such as living cells and living microorganisms that are difficult to observe by conventional sample preparation using a slide. Other examples of the observation object of the present invention include powders and solid flakes of metals and rocks, as well as fine particles of organic and inorganic substances. In the following embodiment, the observation subject will be mainly described as an aqueous solution containing a living organism, but the observation subject is not limited to this.

[0021] [First embodiment] (Observation System) FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system 1A in a first embodiment of the present invention. 1, the observation system 1A in this embodiment includes a first sheet 2a, a second sheet 2b, a lamination means for laminating the second sheet 2b on the first sheet 2a, a placement means 3 for placing an observation target S, an observation means 4 for acquiring observation data of a plurality of observation targets S, and a transport means 5 for continuously transporting a plurality of observation targets S. In addition, in FIG. 1, the dashed arrows indicate connections that enable input / output and control of data.

[0022] In the observation system 1A in this embodiment, the observation object S is arranged on the first sheet 2a by the arrangement means 3, and then the second sheet 2b is superimposed on the first sheet 2a by the stacking means, so that the observation object S is fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and in this state, image data is acquired (observed) by the observation means 4. That is, in the observation system 1A in this embodiment, instead of a conventional preparation consisting of a cover glass and a slide glass, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b superimposed in this embodiment are used as a sample and observation is performed. In addition, by moving the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b by the transport means 5 (sheet moving mechanism 50), it is possible to perform a series of operations from sample preparation to sample observation. This simplifies the work of adjusting and replacing the sample in conventional observation using a preparation, and makes it possible to improve the work efficiency related to the observation.

[0023] Each component of the observation system 1A will be described in detail below. (First sheet) The first sheet 2a is for supporting the observation object S placed thereon. The first sheet 2a may be any sheet on which the observation object S can be placed and on which observation data can be obtained by the observation means 4, and there are no particular limitations on the material or shape of the sheet. The shape of the first sheet 2a may be any shape having a width that can ensure a sufficient observation field by the observation means 4 described later. The shape of the first sheet 2a may be, for example, a roll-shaped film. This makes it easy to move the sheet by the transport means 5 (sheet moving mechanism 50) described later.

[0024] Examples of the material of the first sheet 2a in this embodiment include a material that is light-transmitting, insoluble in water, and does not transmit water. It is more preferable that the material is resistant to organic solvents. Examples of such materials include resin films and glass films. For example, by using a resin film such as a polyethylene film, a polypropylene film, or a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, which is widely available in the market and is inexpensive, the running costs associated with observation can be reduced. It is known that polyethylene films have high transmittance for terahertz waves, and can be particularly suitably used when obtaining observation data using an electron beam as the observation means 4. Moreover, the first sheet 2a is preferably made of a material that is light-transmitting and has little autofluorescence or light absorption. This can suppress the influence on the observation data acquisition by the observation means 4. Examples of such materials include resin films with little light absorption, such as cycloolefin films, and glass films. In particular, glass films are preferably used as a substitute for slides for optical observation. The autofluorescence and light absorption of the first sheet 2a may be dealt with by correcting them as background when the observation data is acquired by the observation means 4. Furthermore, the first sheet 2a is preferably resistant to various sterilization processes (electron beam sterilization, ultraviolet sterilization, heat sterilization, etc.). This makes it possible to suppress the inclusion of bacteria or microorganisms other than the object of observation when a living organism is used as the observation object S. Furthermore, when a living organism is used as the observation object S, the first sheet 2a may be selected or given oxygen permeability / non-permeability. For example, when the living organism is anaerobic, it is preferable to select a material that is oxygen non-permeable for the first sheet 2a. On the other hand, when the living organism is aerobic, it is preferable to select a material that is oxygen permeable for the first sheet 2a. This makes it possible to control the effect of oxygen on the living organism during the observation work.

[0025] The first sheet 2a may be subjected to a surface treatment, but the type of surface treatment is not particularly limited. For example, one example of the surface treatment is a treatment related to the surface properties against water, such as hydrophilic treatment or water repellency treatment. Note that the surface properties against water include those related to hydrophilicity / hydrophobicity, as well as wetting properties and the contact angle of water. At this time, the hydrophilic treatment or water-repellent treatment may be performed on the entire sheet, but the hydrophilic treatment or water-repellent treatment may be performed in a certain pattern. For example, the hydrophilic treatment is performed so that a square, rectangular, circular or elliptical pattern is arranged at a certain interval, and the observation object S made of an aqueous solution is placed on the hydrophilic treatment area by the placement means 3 described later. This makes it possible to stably place the observation object S on the surface-treated area.

[0026] Another example of the surface treatment is to apply a substance for immobilizing the observation object S. For example, when the observation object S is a living organism, the substance to be applied to the first sheet 2a may be an antibody against the living organism, or a protein, peptide, enzyme, nucleic acid, base, sugar chain, phospholipid, glycolipid, etc. that binds to the living organism. This makes it possible to stably position the observation object S at the location where the surface treatment has been performed. Another example of the surface treatment is to apply a reagent for observing the observation object S. Examples of such a reagent include a staining reagent, a fluorescent reagent, and various probes. This makes it easier to observe the observation object S at the site where the surface treatment has been performed by the observation means 4, and makes it possible to improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0027] In addition, the first sheet 2a may incorporate various types of identification information for easy identification during observation. Examples of such identification information include size-related identification information such as a grid or scale bar, markers provided at predetermined intervals, guides such as codes (numbering, character codes, bar codes, etc.), and identification information related to position information. Examples of means for incorporating the identification information include printing the identification information on the first sheet 2a in advance, or manually writing it in.

[0028] (Second sheet) The second sheet 2b is placed on the first sheet 2a on which the observation object S is arranged, thereby fixing the observation object S in place. The shape of the second sheet 2b, like the first sheet 2a, is not particularly limited, but as shown in FIG. 2(A), the width of the second sheet 2b is smaller than the width of the first sheet 2a. Since the width of the first sheet 2a is larger than the width of the second sheet 2b, when the second sheet 2b is stacked, leakage of excess solution from the sides of the second sheet 2b is suppressed, and contamination of peripheral devices and conveying device parts can be prevented. The "width" of a sheet means the length of the sheet in a direction perpendicular to the sheet transport direction, as shown in FIG. 2(A).

[0029] In the observation system 1A of the first embodiment, the first sheet 2a is placed on the bottom and the second sheet 2b is placed on the top, but the first sheet with a larger width may be placed on the top and the second sheet with a smaller width may be placed on the bottom. Excess solution leaking from the side of the second sheet is held by the first sheet placed on the top due to surface tension, and can be transported without dripping from the side of the sheets.

[0030] The material of the second sheet 2b may be the same as that of the first sheet 2a, and the details are not particularly limited. The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be made of the same material or different materials, and the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may have the same thickness or different thicknesses.

[0031] In addition, when the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are surface-treated, it is preferable that either one or some of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b have different surface properties against water. This allows the aqueous solution containing the observation object S to be appropriately spread between the sheets when the second sheet 2b is superimposed on the first sheet 2a after the aqueous solution containing the observation object S is placed on the first sheet 2a, and makes it easy to keep the gap between the sheets constant. This makes it possible to stably fix the observation object S and to improve the work efficiency related to the acquisition of observation data by the observation means 4.

[0032] (Lamination Means) The lamination means is for carrying out a lamination step of overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The lamination means is not particularly limited as long as it can overlap the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. For example, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be overlapped by using a sheet moving mechanism 50 described later. Fig. 2(B) shows the state in which the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are laminated. As shown in Fig. 2(B), by disposing the observation object S between the laminated first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b, it is possible to suppress the volatilization of the observation object S in a solution state and to spread the observation object thinly over a wide area.

[0033] The stacking means may include a mechanism for changing the spacing between the sheets. For example, the support mechanism 54 of the sheet moving mechanism 50 described below can be made vertically movable, thereby changing the spacing between the sheets.

[0034] (Arrangement means) The arrangement means 3 is for carrying out an arrangement step of arranging the observation object S on the first sheet 2a. The placement means 3 in this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it can place the observation object S. It is preferable to select the placement means 3 according to the form (liquid or solid) of the observation object S.

[0035] A specific example of the positioning means 3 is one that includes a dispensing unit 30, a supply unit 31 that supplies the object to be observed S to the dispensing unit 30, and a control mechanism 32 that controls the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30, as shown in Figure 1.

[0036] The dispensing unit 30 is used when the observation object S is a liquid, and dispenses the observation object S by dropping it onto the first sheet 2a. The dispensing unit 30 may be any device having a structure suitable for dripping and discharging liquid, such as a tip or a syringe. The material of the dispensing unit 30 is not particularly limited and can be selected according to the properties of the observation target S. Examples of the material of the dispensing unit 30 include plastic, metal, and glass.

[0037] It is preferable that the dispensing unit 30 has a replaceable structure. This allows the dispensing unit 30 to be replaced depending on the type of the observation object S or changes in the observation conditions, making it possible to suppress contamination such as the mixing of other observation objects S during observation. In addition, from the viewpoint of suppressing contamination, the dispensing unit 30 can be made washable and washed every time the type of observation object S is changed. Here, from the viewpoint of improving the efficiency of the observation work, it is preferable to make the dispensing unit 30 replaceable, and in this case, an inexpensive plastic tip is used as the dispensing unit 30 and can be replaced in a disposable form. This allows the next observation object S to be placed by a short operation of only replacing the tip, making it possible to perform observation in a substantially continuous state. On the other hand, when a metal or glass tip or syringe is used as the dispensing unit 30, it is preferable to provide a means for cleaning the dispensing unit 30. This allows the dispensing unit 30 to be used repeatedly, and the cost of replacing the dispensing unit 30 can be reduced.

[0038] The supply unit 31 supplies the observation object S to the dispensing unit 30 . The supply unit 31 may be any unit capable of supplying the observation target S to the dispensing unit 30, and the specific structure thereof is not particularly limited. The supply unit 31 in this embodiment may include, for example, a storage unit 31a for storing the observation object S, and a supply line 31b and a pump 31c for supplying the observation object S to the dispensing unit 30, as shown in FIG.

[0039] The storage section 31a in the supply section 31 is not particularly limited as long as it can store the observation target S (liquid). Examples include a water tank, a flask, a beaker, and a tube. When storing a solution containing the observation target S, a stirring mechanism may be provided in the storage section 31a. This can increase the dispersibility of the observation target S in the solution and prevent only the solution not containing the observation target S from being supplied to the dispensing section 30.

[0040] The supply line 31b and the pump 31c are not particularly limited as long as they can transport the observation object S (liquid). For example, the supply line 31b may be a tube made of resin or metal. The pump 31c may be a pump capable of accurately supplying a predetermined volume, such as various metering pumps or a pump provided with a flow rate control valve. This makes it easy to set conditions for the arrangement of the observation object S, thereby improving the efficiency of the observation work.

[0041] The control mechanism 32 is for controlling the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30 . The control mechanism 32 may include a support connected to the dispensing unit 30 and a drive mechanism for driving the support along the XYZ axes and the rotation axis. The drive mechanism may be operated manually, or may be provided with a control unit for controlling by inputting numerical values ​​or automatically by a program or the like. This makes it possible to adjust the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30 with respect to the first sheet 2a and place the observation target S at any position on the first sheet 2a.

[0042] One example of the position control of the dispensing unit 30 by the control mechanism 32 is to move the dispensing unit 30 to a position off the first sheet 2a when the observation work is temporarily stopped and then restarted, such as during or immediately after cleaning of the dispensing unit 30, or immediately after changing the type of observation target S, and then move the dispensing unit 30 onto the first sheet 2a and place the observation target S. This prevents waste liquid unsuitable for observation from being placed on the first sheet 2a, making it possible to improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0043] The arrangement means 3 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 1. For example, a plurality of arrangement means 3 may be provided. When a plurality of arrangement means 3 is provided, what is arranged on the first sheet 2a by the arrangement means 3 is not only the observation object S, but also a reagent required for observing the observation object S may be arranged. For example, when the observation object S is a solution containing a living organism, a staining reagent that is widely used in observing living organisms may be arranged by the arranging means 3. In addition, the things arranged by the arranging means 3 other than the observation object S are not limited to reagents (staining reagents) necessary for observing the observation object S, but may include chemical substances (reagents) for observing the effects of environmental changes on the observation object S. For example, when the observation object S is a solution containing a living organism, a solution with a high salt concentration or pH can be arranged by the arranging means 3 and mixed with the observation object S to observe the effects of the salt concentration or pH on the living organism. This makes it possible to quickly and easily obtain observation data accompanying environmental changes on the observation object S.

[0044] Moreover, it is preferable that the reagent other than the observation target S is not directly supplied to the observation target S arranged on the first sheet 2a, but that the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are overlapped to mix the observation target S and the reagent other than the observation target S. This makes it possible to suppress contamination in the dispensing unit 30. For example, the observation target S and the reagent other than the observation target S may be arranged adjacent to each other on the first sheet 2a so as not to come into contact with each other, or the angle of the dispensing unit 30 that arranges the observation target S and the angle of the dispensing unit 30 that arranges the reagent other than the observation target S may be made different from each other, and the observation target S and the reagent other than the observation target S may be arranged on the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, respectively.

[0045] As another example of the arrangement means 3, a dispensing tool such as a pipette may be used as the dispensing unit 30 and the supply unit 31, and the observation objects S may be arranged manually. This is particularly useful when the number of observation objects S to be arranged is small, such as when considering the setting of observation conditions, such as the material of the first sheet 2a and the selection of surface treatment conditions. In addition, the arrangement means 3 may be a pipette or a syringe pump in which the process from sucking up to discharging the observation objects S is automated. This makes it easy to automate the arrangement step by the arrangement means 3, and therefore makes it possible to improve the work efficiency related to observation. In addition, by performing position control by the control mechanism 32, it becomes possible to switch the object to be sucked up as the observation object S, and automatically and continuously switch between multiple observation objects S.

[0046] Another example of the arrangement means 3 is to provide a distribution section equipped with a pick-up device such as tweezers instead of the dispensing section 30. This makes it possible to arrange a solid slice as the observation target S on the first sheet 2a. Note that the pick-up device in the distribution section may be any structure capable of gripping and carrying the solid slice as the observation target S, and examples of such a structure include a structure for pinching a solid slice like general tweezers, and a structure for suction like suction tweezers.

[0047] (Method of observation) The observation means 4 is for performing an observation step of continuously observing the observation object S fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and more specifically, for continuously acquiring observation data of the observation object S. The observation means 4 is not particularly limited as long as it can continuously obtain observation data of the observation object S, but is preferably capable of obtaining at least image data as the observation data. Examples of the observation means 4 include those that perform image acquisition to obtain information related to the shape of the observation object S, and those that perform image acquisition to obtain information related to optical changes (color changes, the presence or absence of fluorescence, etc.) and temperature changes based on the reaction between the observation object S and a reagent, etc. The observation means 4 in this embodiment may be a microscope. In particular, it is preferable to use an optical microscope. This allows an enlarged image of the observation object S to be obtained, making it possible to observe the observation object S in detail based on the obtained image data.

[0048] The observation means 4 may be equipped with an objective lens 40 and a reflector (light source) that are generally used in observations using an optical microscope, and an image acquisition device 41 (CCD camera, CMOS camera, etc.) instead of an eyepiece, which enables automatic collection of image data. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of work related to the acquisition and analysis of observation data (image data). Note that FIG. 1 illustrates the objective lens 40 and the image acquisition device 41 as the main components of the observation means 4, and omits other components. In the observation system 1A of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a first sheet 2a held by a sheet moving mechanism 50 in a transport means 5 is placed below the objective lens 40, and an observation object S placed on the first sheet 2a is observed, so it is not necessary to provide a stage as in a general optical microscope. 1 shows the structure of an upright microscope in which the objective lens 40 is above the observation object S, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may also use the structure of an inverted microscope in which the objective lens 40 is below the observation object S. Also, a plurality of objective lenses 40 may be provided to observe the observation object S from a plurality of directions.

[0049] It is preferable to organize and analyze the image data obtained through the objective lens 40 as necessary. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, a data calculation unit 42 may be provided that is connected to an image acquisition device 41 and accumulates and analyzes the obtained image data. The data calculation unit 42 may be configured as a calculation device having a data storage unit and a data analysis unit, and equipped with a processor such as a CPU that performs necessary calculation processing by inputting image data from the image acquisition device 41. This makes it possible to create a database of observation data based on image data related to the observation target S and to effectively utilize the data.

[0050] The observation means 4 in this embodiment may be provided with a means for acquiring observation data other than image data. For example, as one of the observation data acquisition means for the observation object S, optical analysis means, radiation analysis means, magnetic field analysis means, electron beam diffraction means, etc. may be further provided to obtain information based on various analyses of the observation object S.

[0051] (transportation means) The transport means 5 is for performing a transport step of continuously transporting a plurality of observation objects S arranged on the first sheet 2a. More specifically, the transport means 5 is for supporting the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and for sequentially transporting the plurality of observation objects S fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to a position where observation data can be obtained by the observation means 4. By using the transport means 5, it is possible to use the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b on which multiple observation objects S are arranged as samples, instead of the conventional preparation consisting of a cover glass and a slide glass, and to perform a series of operations from sample preparation to sample observation. This simplifies the work of preparing and exchanging samples in conventional observations using preparations, and makes it possible to improve the work efficiency related to observation of multiple observation objects S.

[0052] The transport means 5 in this embodiment includes a sheet moving mechanism 50 that supports and moves the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. As shown in FIG. 1, the sheet moving mechanism 50 includes an unwinding roll 51a as an unwinding section 51 that unwinds and supplies the first sheet 2a, a winding roll 52a as a winding section 52 that winds and collects the first sheet 2a, an unwinding roll 51b as an unwinding section 51 that unwinds and supplies the second sheet 2b, and a winding roll 52b as a winding section 52 that winds and collects the second sheet 2b, and is provided with a drive section (not shown) for driving and rotating the winding section 52 (winding rolls 52a, 52b). 1 shows that the winding section 52 includes winding rolls 52a and 52b, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b unwound from the unwinding section 51 (unwinding rolls 51a and 51b) may be wound and collected by a single winding roll. This simplifies the structure of the device.

[0053] The sheet moving mechanism 50 preferably has a speed adjusting function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, the speed adjusting function 53 may be provided with a rotation drive control unit 53a capable of recording the number of rotations or measuring the winding diameter and controlling the number of rotations for a drive unit related to the rotation drive of the winding unit 52. This makes it possible to adjust the winding (recovery) speed of the sheet, and thus the moving speed of the sheet. The speed adjusting function 53 may also be provided with a function for controlling the acceleration of the sheet.

[0054] The sheet moving mechanism 50 in this embodiment may have a function of controlling the movement and stopping of the sheet in addition to a speed adjustment function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, the driving unit related to the rotational drive of the winding unit 52 may be controlled to move the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b a certain distance or for a certain time, and then stop them for a certain time. Here, this control may be performed by the rotational drive control unit 53a, or a separate control unit may be provided. As a result, when image data of the observation target S is acquired (observed) by the observation means 4, the observation target S can be moved intermittently and observed while the observation target S is in a stationary state, which makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the observation. Further, another example of the control related to the sheet movement in the sheet moving mechanism 50 is to switch between different operation modes, such as an operation of repeatedly moving and stopping the sheet as an operation mode for observing the observation object S, and an operation of moving the sheet at a constant speed as an operation mode for arranging the observation object S. This allows the observation data acquisition conditions in the observation means 4 to be set more freely, and allows the observation object S to be arranged more accurately. Furthermore, the seat moving mechanism 50 may be provided with a function for controlling the position of the seat in addition to the control related to the seat movement.

[0055] As the transfer means 5 (sheet moving mechanism 50), it is preferable to provide a plurality of support rollers 54a that can move up and down as a support mechanism 54 for overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. This allows the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to be moved stably. Furthermore, by providing the support mechanism 54, the accuracy of position adjustment for overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be improved, and the distance between the two sheets can be easily adjusted. Note that, although FIG. 1 shows the support mechanism 54 provided on the second sheet 2b side, this is not limiting, and it may be provided on the first sheet 2a side, or it may be provided on both the first sheet 2a side and the second sheet 2b side. Furthermore, there is no particular limit to the location or number of the support mechanism 54. 1, support mechanisms 54 may be provided on both the upstream and downstream sides of the objective lens 40 in the observation means 4 in the direction of sheet transport by the transport means 5, and on the upper side of the sheet (above the second sheet 2b), enabling stable support of the sheet. As another example, the support mechanism 54 may be provided on the lower side of the sheet (below the first sheet 2a) or on the side of each sheet where the observation target S is placed. Also, the number of support mechanisms 54 may be reduced to simplify the structure.

[0056] The transport means 5 (sheet moving mechanism 50) may have a function of appropriately controlling the rotational drive of either or both of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, thereby making it possible to move the observation target S to an appropriate observation position in the observation means 4. For example, information on the observation position is acquired from the observation means 4, and the number of rotations of the drive unit related to the rotational drive of the winding unit 52 (winding rolls 52a, 52b) is controlled based on the information on the observation position. This makes it possible to control the number of rotations of the winding unit 52 (winding rolls 52a, 52b) and control the movement of the sheets (first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b) so that the observation target S can be moved to an appropriate observation position in the observation means 4 when acquiring observation data of the observation target S.

[0057] In addition, the observation system 1A in this embodiment is preferably provided with a control means C that adjusts various operations in the placement means 3, observation means 4, and transport means 5. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 1, a control unit C1 is provided that is connected to the placement means 3, observation means 4, and transport means 5 and enables data input / output and control. A control unit C1 may be provided for each of the various means, but as shown in Fig. 1, it is preferable to connect multiple means to one control unit C1 and enable comprehensive control. This makes it possible to easily and efficiently adjust the various operations and perform operations related to the adjustments. Here, examples of the operations to be controlled by the control unit C1 include operations related to the operation of the observation means 4, the operation of placing the observation object S on the sheet (first sheet 2a) by driving control of the supply unit 31 and the control mechanism 32, and operations directly related to the horizontal movement of the sheet, such as the sheet movement speed control and the movement and stopping of the sheet in the transport means 5 (sheet moving mechanism 50). In addition, it is preferable to control not only individual operations of each means, but also operations resulting from a combination of multiple operations of each means. For example, it is possible to control a series of operations such as acquiring image data by the observation means 4 in accordance with the timing when the sheet movement mechanism 50 stops the movement of the sheet, and to control a series of operations related to the placement means 3, observation means 4, and transport means 5 for each observation object S for multiple observation objects S. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the observation data acquired by the observation system 1A and the work efficiency related to the observation.

[0058] The observation method using the observation system 1A of the first embodiment includes an observation step of acquiring observation data of the object to be observed, a transport step of continuously transporting the object to be observed, an arrangement step of placing the object to be observed S on a first sheet 2a or a second sheet 2b, and a lamination step of overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and is characterized in that the width of the first sheet 2a is greater than the width of the second sheet 2b. This makes it easy to continuously prepare and observe samples by placing the objects to be observed on the sheet and moving the sheet, and further improves the efficiency of the work involved in observing a large number of objects to be observed. Furthermore, by stacking the first sheet and the second sheet with different widths, it becomes possible to prevent the objects to be observed from leaking. This makes it possible to prevent excess solution from leaking and causing damage to peripheral devices and transport device parts.

[0059] [Second embodiment] FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system 1B in a second embodiment of the present invention. The observation system 1B according to the second embodiment uses a first sheet 2d and a second sheet 2e having approximately the same width instead of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b having different widths in the observation system 1A in the first embodiment, and includes a pinch unit 9 that pinches these sheets 2d and 2e. Also, the speed adjustment function 53 of the sheet moving mechanism 50 includes a pinch roller 9a of the pinch unit 9 and a rotation drive control unit 53a that controls the rotation of the winding rolls 52a and 52b instead of controlling the rotation of the winding rolls 52a and 52b. Note that the description of the same components as those of the observation system 1A in the first embodiment will be omitted, and part of the arrangement means 3 is omitted in FIG. 3. More specifically, the observation system 1B has a groove in the pinch portion that clamps the first sheet and the second sheet. When the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e are clamped, the observation object S enters the groove, thereby preventing excess solution from leaking from the sides of the sheets and enabling observation without causing damage to peripheral equipment or conveying device parts.

[0060] (Pinch part) The pinching section 9 is for performing a pinching step in which the first sheet and the second sheet are pinched together. Fig. 4(A) is a schematic explanatory diagram showing an enlarged structure of the pinch unit 9 (see Fig. 3) that pinches the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e. As shown in Fig. 4(A), the pinch unit 9 in the observation system 1B according to the second embodiment includes pinch rollers 9a and 9b, and can bring the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e into close contact with each other by passing them between the pinch rollers 9a and 9b.

[0061] Furthermore, the pinch unit 9 has a driving unit (not shown) provided on the pinch roller 9a to move the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e, thereby enabling the pinch unit 9 to synchronize the moving speeds of the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e and adjust the moving speeds of the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e. If the pinch unit 9 is not provided, it is necessary to detect the moving speed of each sheet in order to synchronize the moving speeds of the first sheet and the second sheet. Also, the winding unit for winding up the first sheet and the second sheet has a problem that the moving speeds of the first sheet and the second sheet fluctuate because the winding diameter of the winding roll increases as the first sheet and the second sheet are wound up. In the observation system 1B in the second embodiment, the pinch unit 9 is provided to bring the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e into close contact with each other, thereby synchronizing their moving speeds. In addition, the rotation of the pinch roller of the pinch unit 9 is controlled to adjust the moving speed of the sheets, thereby solving the problem that the moving speed of the sheets varies depending on the winding status of the winding unit. Furthermore, it is possible to omit the mechanism for detecting the moving speed of each sheet.

[0062] Fig. 4(B) is a schematic explanatory diagram of the pinch roller 9b seen from above. As shown in Fig. 4(B), a groove 91 is formed in the pinch roller 9b of the pinch section 9. By having the groove 91, when the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e are pinched, the observation object S enters the groove 91, so that leakage of excess solution from the side of the sheets can be suppressed. Fig. 4(C) is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the state in which the observation object S enters the groove 91 in the simplified diagram of Fig. 4(A).

[0063] The position, number, shape, etc. of the groove 91 are not particularly limited. The shape of the groove 91 of the observation system 1B in the second embodiment is an arc-shaped cross section, but may be a rectangular or triangular cross section. Also, the pinch roller 9b has one groove formed at approximately the center of the circumferential surface of the pinch roller 9b, but multiple grooves may be formed at positions other than approximately the center. Also, the grooves do not have to be continuous, and may be scattered along the sheet transport direction. Also, multiple pinch rollers may be arranged with intervals between them, and the spaces between them may be grooves.

[0064] The pinch section 9 of the observation system 1B in the second embodiment has a groove 91 formed in the pinch roller 9b, but a groove may be formed in the pinch roller 9a, or in either of the pinch rollers 9a and 9b.

[0065] The sheet that has been brought into close contact with the pinch portion 9 may be sealed with a sealing means such as heat sealing. This allows the observation target S to be contained in the sheet and collected. The sealing means is not particularly limited, and in addition to heat sealing, clips or the like may be used.

[0066] The observation method using the observation system 1B of the third embodiment includes an observation step of acquiring observation data of the object to be observed, a transport step of continuously transporting the object to be observed, a placement step of placing the object to be observed on the first sheet 2d or the second sheet 2e, a stacking step of overlapping the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e, and a pinching step of sandwiching the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e with a pinch portion 9, wherein the pinch portion 9 is characterized by having a groove 91. This makes it easy to continuously prepare and observe samples by placing the objects to be observed on the sheet and moving the sheet, and further improves the efficiency of the work involved in observing a large number of objects to be observed. Furthermore, by providing a groove in the pinch part that holds the first and second sheets, the objects to be observed enter the groove when the first and second sheets are pinched together, which prevents excess solution from leaking from the sides of the sheets and enables observation without soiling peripheral devices or parts of the transport device.

[0067] [Third embodiment] FIG. 5 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system 1C according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The observation system 1C according to the third embodiment is characterized in that a third sheet 1c, which is wider than the second sheet 2b, is stacked on the second sheet 2b side in the observation system 1A in the first embodiment. Also, like the observation system 1B in the second embodiment, a pinch section 9 having a groove 91 for sandwiching the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c is provided. Note that the description of the same components as those of the observation system 1A in the first embodiment or the observation system 1B in the second embodiment will be omitted. Also, a part of the arrangement means 3 and the control means C are omitted from FIG. 5.

[0068] Fig. 6(A) is a schematic explanatory diagram enlarging the structure of the pinch section 9 (see Fig. 5) that pinches the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c. As shown in Fig. 5, the observation system 1C in this embodiment further includes an unwinding roll 51c that unwinds the third sheet 2c, in addition to the sheet moving mechanism of the second embodiment. Then, as shown in Fig. 6(A), the third sheet 2c unwound from the unwinding roll 51c passes between the pinch rolls 9a and 9b of the pinch section 9, and is wound up on the winding roll 52c of the winding section 52 (see Fig. 5) together with the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.

[0069] 6(B) and 7(A) are schematic diagrams of the pinch roller 9b viewed from above. As shown in FIG. 6(B), in addition to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, a third sheet 2c is laminated on the second sheet 2b side and has a width greater than that of the second sheet 2b. As shown in FIG. 7(A), the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c have approximately the same width, and the second sheet 2b has a width smaller than that of the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c. By providing the third sheet 2c, it is possible to further suppress leakage of excess solution from the sides of the sheets.

[0070] Moreover, by laminating the third sheet 2c, which is wider than the second sheet 2b, on the second sheet 2b side, the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c can be pinched by the pinch portion 9 outside the second sheet 2b, so that the moving speeds of the sheets can be synchronized and adjusted. Also, an area for sealing the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c can be formed outside the second sheet 2b. With this configuration, the second sheet 2b prevents excess solution from leaking from the sides of the sheets during the observation step, and further, when sealing the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c, the surface tension of the object to be observed S prevents the object to be observed S from spreading outside the second sheet 2b, ensuring reliable sealing.

[0071] The third sheet 2c is the same as the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b in both material and shape. Like the first sheet 2a, the third sheet 2c is wider than the second sheet 2b. The width of the third sheet 2c may be different from that of the first sheet 2a.

[0072] The third sheet 2c is unwound from an unwinding roll 51c as the unwinding section 51, passes between pinch rollers 9a, 9b, and is sandwiched together with the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b in the pinch section 9. At this time, the side edges of the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c may be sealed by heat sealing or the like. The stacked first sheet 2a, second sheet 2b, and third sheet 2c are wound up around a winding roll 52c to form a winding section 52.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 6(B), the observation system 1C in this embodiment also includes a pinch portion 9 having a groove 91 for pinching the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c. In addition to the feature that the width of the first sheet 2a is larger than the width of the second sheet 2b, the pinch portion 9 has a groove 91, which further suppresses leakage of excess solution from the sides of the sheets. Fig. 7(B) is a schematic explanatory diagram showing how the observation object S enters the groove 91 in the simplified diagram of Fig. 6(A).

[0074] The observation method using the observation system 1C of the third embodiment includes, in addition to the observation method of the first embodiment, a second lamination step of laminating a third sheet 2c, which is wider than the second sheet 2b, on the second sheet 2b side. In addition, this embodiment includes a pinching step in which the first sheet 2d and the second sheet 2e are pinched by the pinch portion 9 in the observation method of the second embodiment, and further has the feature that the pinch portion 9 has a groove 91. This reduces leakage from the sides of the seats and reduces damage to peripheral devices and conveyor parts.

[0075] [Fourth embodiment] FIG. 8 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a pinch portion of an observation system in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the fourth embodiment, the pinch unit 9 of the observation system of the third embodiment is provided with a pinch roller 9c without a groove instead of the pinch roller 9b with a groove. Also, the width of the pinch roller 9c without a groove is smaller than the width of the first sheet 2a or the third sheet 2c. Due to this feature, as shown in FIG. 8, the object to be observed S flowing outside the pinch roller 9c is held by the surface tension of the first sheet 2a or the third sheet 2c arranged up to the outside of the pinch roller 9c, and is prevented from dripping off the sheet and soiling the device.

[0076] [Fifth embodiment] FIG. 9 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a pinch portion of an observation system in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the fifth embodiment, in the pinch section 9 of the observation system of the third embodiment, instead of the pinch roller 9b having a groove, multiple pinch rollers 9d, 9e are arranged at intervals, and the space between them becomes a groove 91. The pinch section of the fifth embodiment, like the pinch roller 9b of the third embodiment, has a feature that when the first sheet 2a and the third sheet 2c are pinched in the pinch section, the object to be observed S flows into the groove 91 (space), thereby preventing the object to be observed S from dripping outside the sheets and soiling the device.

[0077] The above-described embodiment shows an example of the observation system and observation method. The observation system and observation method according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the observation system and observation method according to the above-described embodiment may be modified without departing from the gist of the claims.

[0078] For example, the observation system and observation method in this embodiment may include a recovery means that performs a recovery step of recovering the observation target S after observation by the observation means 4. Note that the recovery means is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of recovering the observation target S. An example of the recovery means is a means for removing the observation target S fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b after peeling the sheets. Another example of the recovery means is a means for cutting the sheet with the observation target S fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. By collecting the observation target S after observation, it becomes possible to store the observation target S as a specimen together with the observation data. In particular, it becomes possible to collect observation targets S that are rare or have high value as specimens, such as living organisms. Furthermore, the collected observation target S can be used as a sample to supplement a database of observation data, or the observation target S itself can be reused.

[0079] Furthermore, with regard to the supply and recovery of sheets in the observation system and observation method of this embodiment, a sheet supply and recovery mechanism other than the unwinding rolls 51a, 51b, 51c as unwinding section 51 that unwinds and supplies the first sheets 2a, 2d, the second sheets 2b, 2e, and the third sheet, and the winding rolls 52a, 52b, 52c as winding section 52 that winds and recovers the first sheets 2a, 2d, the second sheets 2b, 2e, and the third sheet 2c, may be provided. An example of such a sheet supply / recovery mechanism is a cartridge type that houses the functions related to sheet supply and recovery in a casing. By using a cartridge type mechanism for sheet supply / recovery, it becomes easy to replace and store the sheet. In addition, since the sheet is inside the casing, it becomes easy to prevent foreign matter from being mixed in or attached to the sheet before supply or after recovery during observation or sheet movement. [Industrial Applicability]

[0080] The observation system and observation method of the present invention can be used for observing various observation objects, and are particularly suitable for use in observing a living body as an observation object. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 1A, 1B observation system, 2a, 2d first sheet, 2b, 2e second sheet, 2c third sheet, 3 placement means, 30 dispensing section, 31 supply section, 31a storage section, 31b supply line, 31c pump, 32 control mechanism, 4 observation means, 40 objective lens, 41 image acquisition device, 42 data calculation section, 5 transfer means, 50 sheet moving mechanism, 51 unwinding section, 51a, 51b, 51c unwinding roll, 52 winding section, 52a, 52b, 52c winding roll, 53 speed adjustment function, 53a rotation drive control section, 54 support mechanism, 54a support roller, C control means, C1 control section, S observation object

Claims

1. Observation means for acquiring observation data of an object to be observed; A transport means for continuously transporting the observation object; A placement means for placing the object to be observed on the first sheet or the second sheet; a lamination means for laminating the first sheet and the second sheet together; An observation system, wherein the width of the first sheet is greater than the width of the second sheet.

2. An observation means for acquiring observation data of an object to be observed; A transport means for continuously transporting the observation object; A placement means for placing the object to be observed on the first sheet or the second sheet; a lamination means for laminating the first sheet and the second sheet; An observation system comprising: a pinch portion that pinches the first sheet and the second sheet, the pinch portion having a groove.

3. The width of the first sheet is greater than the width of the second sheet, 3. The observation system according to claim 1, further comprising a third sheet that is stacked on the second sheet side and has a width greater than that of the second sheet.

4. An observation step of acquiring observation data of an observation object; a transport step of continuously transporting the observation object; A placement step of placing the observation object on a first sheet or a second sheet; A lamination step of overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet, An observation method, characterized in that the width of the first sheet is larger than the width of the second sheet.

5. An observation step of acquiring observation data of an observation object; a transport step of continuously transporting the observation object; A placement step of placing the observation object on a first sheet or a second sheet; a lamination step of overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet; a pinch step for pinching the first sheet and the second sheet with a pinch portion; The observation method, wherein the pinch portion has a groove.

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