Automatic analysis device and dispensing unit

Abstract

To ensure the accuracy of position control of a dispensing probe during dispensation.SOLUTION: An automatic analysis device according to an embodiment comprises a dispensing arm and an assistance unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe for dispensing liquid and conveys the dispensing probe to a dispensing position. The assistance unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists a vertical movement of the fixed dispensing probe.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an automated analyzer and a dispensing unit. [Background technology]

[0002] In automated analyzers for clinical testing, a certain amount of a biological sample such as blood or urine (hereinafter referred to as "sample") is mixed with a reagent to cause a reaction, and the concentration of the substance to be measured is determined by irradiating the mixture with light and measuring the amount of transmitted and / or scattered light.When dispensing a sample or reagent into a reaction vessel, the dispensing probe is transported to a dispensing position such as an aspirating position or a dispensing position by rotating a dispensing arm to which a dispensing probe is fixed at the tip.

[0003] In such an automated analyzer, if the operating radius of the dispensing arm is increased, if the dispensing arm is provided with multiple rotation axes to make it multi-axial, or if the dispensing operation is increased in speed, the tip of the dispensing probe will vibrate, preventing normal dispensing. For this reason, it is necessary to ensure accurate position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 61-88157 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve is to ensure the accuracy of position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The automated analyzer according to the embodiment includes a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe that dispenses liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position. The auxiliary unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists in the vertical movement of the fixed dispensing probe. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the dispensing unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of the dispensing process performed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the state in which the dispensing probe has moved to the aspirating position. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the state in which the dispensing probe descends from the state shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the dispensing probe rising from the state shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the dispensing probe moving from the state shown in FIG. 7 to the dispensing position. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the state in which the dispensing probe descends from the state shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the dispensing probe rising from the state shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a dispensing unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13]FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of the dispensing process performed by the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the state in which the dispensing probe has moved to the dispensing position. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a state in which the dispensing probe is separated from the state shown in FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the dispensing probe descending from the state shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the measuring tape and the automatic analyzer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

[0009] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a memory circuit 8, and a control circuit 9. The control circuit may also be referred to as a processing circuit.

[0010] The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample, such as a standard sample or a test sample, with a reagent used for 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, analytical data, etc. by analyzing the generated standard data and test data. The analysis circuit 3 reads an operating program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data, analytical data, etc. in accordance with the read operating program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data indicating the relationship between the standard data and a predetermined standard value for a standard sample based on the standard data. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analytical data based on the test data and calibration data for the test item corresponding to the test data. Analytical data includes data correlating concentration values with enzyme activity values and data recording the concentration of a desired ion in a sample in chronological order. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analytical 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, a lead screw, etc. For example, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 201 (described later) at a predetermined rotation angle. The predetermined rotation angle is, for example, the angle of rotation in one cycle.

[0013] The input interface 5 receives, for example, settings of analytical parameters for each test item related to a sample requested to be measured via the hospital network NW, through operation by an operator. The input interface 5 is realized, for example, by 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 one equipped with physical operation components 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 output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is realized by, for example, a display circuit, a printed circuit, an audio device, or the like.

[0016] Display circuits include, for example, CRT displays, liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, LED displays, and plasma displays. Display circuits may also be processing circuits that convert data representing a display object into a video signal and output the video signal to the outside. Printing circuits include, for example, printers. Printing circuits may also be output circuits that output data representing a print object to the outside. Audio devices include, for example, speakers. Audio devices may also be output circuits that output audio signals to the outside.

[0017] The communication interface 7 is connected to, for example, an intra-hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with an HIS (Hospital Information System) via the intra-hospital network NW. Note that the communication interface 7 may also perform data communication with the HIS via an examination department system connected to the intra-hospital network NW.

[0018] The memory circuitry 8 stores programs executed by the control circuitry 9, various data used in the processing of the control circuitry 9, and the like. As the programs, for example, programs that are installed in advance on a computer from a network or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and cause the computer to realize each function of the control circuitry 9 are used. Note that the various data handled in this specification are typically digital data. The memory circuitry 8 is an example of a storage means.

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

[0020] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 9 executes a program read from the memory circuit 8 to perform a system control function 91. The control circuit 9 uses the system control function 91 to comprehensively control each part of the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface 5. For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 drives the drive mechanism 4 to perform measurements according to the test items, and controls the analysis circuit 3 to analyze the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The control circuit 9 that realizes the system control function 91 is an example of a control unit.

[0021] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). For example, if the processor is a CPU, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in the memory circuit 8. On the other hand, if the processor is an ASIC, instead of storing a program in the memory circuit 8, the function is directly incorporated into the processor circuit as a logic circuit. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its function. Furthermore, multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its function. The above description of "processor" also applies to the following embodiments and modifications.

[0022] In this embodiment, each function is described as being realized by a single processor, but this is not limiting. For example, a control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize each function. Furthermore, the system control function 91 may be called a system control circuit or may be implemented as a separate hardware circuit. The above description of each function executed by the control circuit 9 also applies to the following embodiments and modifications. Furthermore, the control circuit 9 may include a storage area for storing at least a portion of the data stored in the storage circuit 8. The control circuit 9 may also be called a control unit or a processing circuit.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 will be described in detail. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a rack sampler 203, a first reagent storage 204, and a second reagent storage 205. The analysis mechanism 2 also includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a washing tank 207a, a detergent storage container 207b, a first reagent dispensing arm 208, a first reagent dispensing probe 209, a washing tank 209a, a second reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, a washing tank 211a, an electrode unit 212, a photometry unit 213, and a washing unit 214.

[0024] The analysis mechanism 2 also includes a dispensing unit composed of a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe that dispenses liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position. The auxiliary unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and moves the fixed dispensing probe up and down. The liquid may be, for example, a sample, a reagent, pure water, a detergent, or a standard sample. The dispensing position may be, for example, a liquid aspirating position or a liquid dispensing position.

[0025] In this embodiment, the liquid is a sample, and the dispensing position is a sample discharge position (hereinafter referred to as the sample discharge position). In this embodiment, the sample dispensing arm 206 corresponds to the dispensing arm, the sample dispensing probe 207 corresponds to the dispensing probe, and the vertical movement unit 215 corresponds to the auxiliary unit. The detailed configuration of the dispensing unit will be described later.

[0026] First, the reaction disk 201, the constant temperature section 202, the rack sampler 203, the first reagent storage 204, and the second reagent storage 205 will be described.

[0027] The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 2011 arranged in a ring. The reaction disk 201 is rotated and stopped alternately at predetermined time intervals (hereinafter referred to as one cycle), for example, at 4.5 seconds, by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction tubes 2011 are made of, for example, glass, polypropylene (PP), or acrylic. The reaction tubes 2011 may also be called reaction vessels or cells. The operation of the reaction disk 201 during testing may also be called cyclic operation.

[0028] The thermostatic unit 202 is a container for storing water (thermal water) maintained at a predetermined temperature (usually 37°C). The thermostatic water contains an additive, for example, for antibacterial purposes. The thermostatic unit 202 heats the liquid (e.g., a mixed liquid) contained in the reaction tube 2011 by immersing the reaction tube 2011 in the stored thermostatic water, thereby maintaining the liquid at a constant temperature.

[0029] The rack sampler 203 movably supports a sample rack 2031 that can hold a plurality of sample containers 100 containing samples requested to be measured. In the example shown in Figure 2, the sample rack 2031 is capable of holding five sample containers 100 in parallel.

[0030] The rack sampler 203 has a reader 300. The reader 300 is provided at a position where it can read an optical mark attached to, for example, a sample container 100. The optical mark is a mark that encodes identification information of the sample contained in the sample container 100, such as a barcode, a one-dimensional pixel code, or a two-dimensional pixel code. The reader 300 starts reading the optical mark when it receives an instruction from the control circuit 9 to start ID reading. When the sample container 100 arrives at a position where it can read the optical mark, the reader 300 reads the sample identification information from the optical mark. The reader 300 supplies the read identification information to the control circuit 9. The reader 300 may be replaced with another sensor that uses RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification), etc.

[0031] The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area for transporting the sample rack 2031 from an input position where the sample rack 2031 is input to a recovery position where the sample rack 2031 is recovered after measurement has been completed. In the transport area, a plurality of sample racks 2031 aligned in the short side direction are moved in direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0032] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a retraction region that retracts the sample rack 2031 from the transport region in order to move the sample containers 100 held in the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample aspiration position. The sample aspiration position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207 (described later) intersects with the movement path of the openings of the sample containers supported by the rack sampler 203 and held in the sample rack 2031. In the retraction region, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4. Furthermore, at a position in the retraction region where the optical marks can be read, the reader 300 reads the optical marks written on the sample containers held in the sample rack 2031 that has been moved in direction D2.

[0033] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a return area for returning the sample rack 2031, which holds the sample container into which the sample has been aspirated, to the transport area. In the return area, the sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0034] The first reagent storage 204 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 101 refrigerated, each containing a first reagent that reacts with a predetermined component contained in a standard sample or a predetermined component contained in a test sample. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the first reagent storage 204 is covered with a removable reagent cover. A reagent rack is rotatably provided within the first reagent storage 204. The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular ring shape. The reagent rack is rotated by a drive mechanism 4.

[0035] A first reagent aspirating position is set at a predetermined position on the first reagent storage 204. The first reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of a first reagent dispensing probe 209 (described later) intersects with the movement path of the openings of the reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular pattern on the reagent rack.

[0036] The second reagent storage 205 keeps cold a plurality of reagent containers 101, each containing a second reagent that pairs with a first reagent of a two-reagent system. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the second reagent storage 205 is covered with a removable reagent cover. A reagent rack is rotatably provided within the second reagent storage 205. The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular ring shape. The second reagent stored cold in the second reagent storage 205 may be a reagent with the same components and concentration as the first reagent stored cold in the first reagent storage 204.

[0037] A second reagent aspirating position is set at a predetermined position on the second reagent storage 205. The second reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 intersects with the movement paths of the openings of the reagent containers 101 arranged in a circular pattern on the reagent rack.

[0038] Next, we will explain the sample dispensing arm 206, sample dispensing probe 207, washing tank 207a, detergent storage container 207b, first reagent dispensing arm 208, first reagent dispensing probe 209, washing tank 209a, second reagent dispensing arm 210, second reagent dispensing probe 211, washing tank 211a, electrode unit 212, photometry unit 213 and washing unit 214.

[0039] The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 that dispenses a sample, and transports the sample dispensing probe 207 to a dispensing position. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided near the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and horizontally by a drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds the sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0040] The sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the sample. As the sample dispensing arm 206 is driven horizontally, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves within the movement range of the sample dispensing arm 206. The openings of the sample containers held in the sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203 are positioned within this movement range.

[0041] Within the movement range of the sample dispensing probe 207, a sample dispensing position is provided for dispensing the sample sucked by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction tube 2011. The sample dispensing position is located on the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held by the reaction disk 201.

[0042] Furthermore, within the movement range of the sample dispensing probe 207, a washing position for washing the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided at a position different from the sample suction position and the sample discharge position. A washing tank 207a for washing the sample dispensing probe 207 is provided at the washing position.

[0043] Furthermore, a detergent suction position for suctioning detergent by the sample dispensing probe 207 may be provided at a position different from the sample suction position, sample discharge position, and washing position within the movement range of the sample dispensing probe 207. A detergent reservoir 207b for storing detergent used to wash the electrode unit (described later) may be provided at the detergent suction position.

[0044] The sample dispensing probe 207 moves vertically directly above the opening of a sample container held in a sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203, at a sample discharge position, a cleaning position, or a detergent suction position, as the sample dispensing arm 206 is driven by the drive mechanism 4.

[0045] The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates the sample from the opening of the sample container under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 also discharges the aspirated sample into a reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample discharge position under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of dispensing operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0046] Furthermore, under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates a cleaning liquid from a cleaning tank 207a located immediately below the cleaning position on the rotation orbit of the sample dispensing probe 207. The cleaning liquid may be, for example, pure water, an alkaline detergent for cleaning a probe, or an acidic detergent for cleaning a probe. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the aspirated cleaning liquid into a reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample dispensing position. This cleans the sample dispensing probe 207 and the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of cleaning operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0047] Furthermore, if the automatic analyzer 1 is equipped with a detergent storage container 207b, the sample dispensing probe 207, under the control of the control circuit 9, aspirates detergent from the detergent storage container 207b located immediately below the detergent suction position on the rotation orbit of the sample dispensing probe 207. Furthermore, under the control of the control circuit 9, the sample dispensing probe 207 discharges the aspirated detergent into the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs this series of dispensing operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0048] The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the first reagent storage 204. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 holds a first reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0049] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the first reagent dispensing arm 208. A first reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. A first reagent dispensing position for dispensing the reagent aspirated by the first reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction tube 2011 is also set on the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209. The first reagent dispensing position corresponds to the intersection of the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement path of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201. Furthermore, a washing position for washing the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is provided at a position on the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 different from the first reagent aspirating position and the first reagent dispensing position. A washing tank 209a for washing the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is provided at the washing position.

[0050] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at a first reagent aspirating position, a first reagent discharging position, or a washing position on the rotation orbit.

[0051] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the first reagent from a reagent container located directly below the first reagent aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9. In other words, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 is an example of a reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment. Furthermore, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 discharges the aspirated first reagent into a reaction tube 2011 located directly below the first reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 performs this series of dispensing operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0052] The first reagent dispensing probe 209, under the control of the control circuit 9, aspirates cleaning liquid from a cleaning tank 209a located immediately below the cleaning position on the rotation orbit of the first reagent dispensing probe 209. The first reagent dispensing probe 209, under the control of the control circuit 9, dispenses the aspirated cleaning liquid into a reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the first reagent dispensing position. This cleans the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the first reagent dispensing position. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 performs this series of cleaning operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0053] The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the second reagent storage 205. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 holds a second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end.

[0054] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation path in accordance with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm 210. A second reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotation path.

[0055] Furthermore, a second reagent dispensing position for dispensing the reagent sucked by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction tube 2011 is set on the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The second reagent dispensing position corresponds to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0056] Furthermore, a detergent dispensing position for dispensing the detergent sucked by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into a reaction tube is set on the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The detergent dispensing position corresponds to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201, and is a position different from the second reagent dispensing position.

[0057] A washing position for washing the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is provided at a position on the rotation orbit of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 different from the second reagent aspirating position, the second reagent dispensing position, and the detergent dispensing position. A washing tank 211a for washing the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is provided at the washing position.

[0058] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down on the rotation orbit at a second reagent aspirating position, a second reagent discharging position, a detergent discharging position, or a washing position.

[0059] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 aspirates the second reagent from a reagent container located directly below the second reagent aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9. That is, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 is an example of a reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment. Furthermore, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the aspirated second reagent into a reaction tube 2011 located directly below the second reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of dispensing operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0060] The second reagent dispensing probe 211, under the control of the control circuit 9, aspirates cleaning liquid from a cleaning tank 211a located immediately below the cleaning position on the rotation path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The second reagent dispensing probe 211, under the control of the control circuit 9, dispenses the aspirated cleaning liquid into the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the second reagent dispensing position. This cleans the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the reaction tube 2011 located immediately below the second reagent dispensing position. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 performs this series of cleaning operations, for example, once per cycle.

[0061] The electrode unit 212 measures the electrolyte concentration of the mixture of the sample and reagent dispensed into the reaction tube 2011. The electrode unit 212 has an ion selective electrode (ISE) and a reference electrode. Under the control of the control circuit 9, the electrode unit 212 measures the potential between the ISE and the reference electrode for the mixture to be measured, thereby detecting the electrolyte of the ions (e.g., sodium ions, potassium ions, and chlorine ions) that are the test items. The electrode unit 212 outputs the measured potential data to the analysis circuit 3 as standard data or test data.

[0062] The photometry unit 213 detects the light emitted from the reaction tube 2011 with a photodetector.

[0063] Specifically, for example, the photodetector detects light that has passed through a mixture of a standard sample and a reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates standard data represented by absorbance or the like based on the intensity of the detected light. The photodetector also detects light that has passed through a mixture of a test sample and a reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates test data represented by absorbance or the like based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit 213 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0064] The cleaning unit 214 cleans the inside of the reaction tube 2011 after the measurement of the mixed solution has been completed by the electrode unit 212 or the photometry unit 213. The cleaning unit 214 includes a cleaning solution supply pump (not shown) that supplies a cleaning solution for cleaning the reaction tube 2011. The cleaning unit 214 also includes a cleaning nozzle (not shown) that discharges the cleaning solution supplied from the cleaning solution supply pump into the reaction tube 2011 and sucks up the mixed solution and the cleaning solution inside the reaction tube 2011.

[0065] The analysis mechanism 2 also includes an agitation unit (not shown), which is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The agitation unit has a stirrer, and uses the stirrer to agitate the sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction tube 2011 located at the agitation position on the reaction disk 201, or the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction tube 2011.

[0066] The vertical movement unit 215 detachably fixes the sample dispensing probe 207 above the sample discharge position and assists in the vertical movement of the fixed sample dispensing probe 207. In this case, the vertical movement unit 215 functions as a guide to ensure the accuracy of position control of the sample dispensing probe 207. The vertical movement unit 215 may be driven vertically actively or passively. For example, the sample dispensing probe 207 is moved using both the drive mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206 and the drive mechanism 4 of the vertical movement unit 215. In this case, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 together (in cooperation with) the sample dispensing probe 207. Alternatively, the sample dispensing probe 207 may be moved using only the drive mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0067] The vertical movement unit 215 is supported at a position different from the sample dispensing probe 207 near the sample dispensing position. In this embodiment, the vertical movement unit 215 is disposed inside the reaction disk 201. Therefore, the reaction disk 201 and the sample rack 2031 are disposed between the vertical movement unit 215 and the sample dispensing arm 206. The vertical movement unit 215 may be disposed near the sample dispensing position, or may be disposed outside the reaction disk 201 between the reaction disk 201 and the sample rack 2031. The vertical movement unit 215 fixes the sample dispensing probe 207 held at the tip of the sample dispensing arm 206 under the control of the control circuit 9, and assists in controlling the position of the sample dispensing arm 206 during sample dispensing. In this embodiment, when dispensing a sample, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 up and down together with the sample dispensing arm 206 while the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0068] The sample dispensing probe 207 may be fixed to the vertical movement unit 215, for example, by attaching a magnet to the sample dispensing probe 207 to attract the sample dispensing probe 207. Alternatively, the vertical movement unit 215 may be provided with a gripping mechanism that grips the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0069] Next, the configuration of the dispensing unit of this embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the dispensing unit. The dispensing unit includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, and a vertical movement unit 215. Here, a configuration will be described in which a magnet is provided in the vertical movement unit 215 and the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 using the magnet. The sample dispensing probe 207 is also formed so as to be attracted to the magnet. For example, a metal material that attracts a magnet may be attached to the inside or exterior of the sample dispensing probe 207, or the sample dispensing probe 207 may be made of a metal material that attracts a magnet.

[0070] The sample dispensing arm 206 includes a base 2061, a first rotation shaft 2062, and an arm portion 2063. A sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the tip of the arm portion 2063.

[0071] The base 2061 is fixed to the opposite side of the reaction disk 201 across the rack sampler 203. The base 2061 supports a first rotation shaft 2062, an arm portion 2063, and a sample dispensing probe 207.

[0072] The first rotating shaft 2062 has its lower end supported by the base 2061 and extends vertically. An arm 2063 is fixed to the first rotating shaft 2062. The arm 2063 extends horizontally. The first rotating shaft 2062 is driven by the drive mechanism 4, and moves up and down relative to the base 2061 and rotates horizontally. When the first rotating shaft 2062 moves up and down, the arm 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 move up and down together with the first rotating shaft 2062. When the first rotating shaft 2062 rotates relative to the base 2061, the arm 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 rotate horizontally around the first rotating shaft 2062 as the axis of rotation.

[0073] The arm portion 2063 also includes a second rotation shaft 2064 extending in the vertical direction. The arm portion 2063 is configured to be rotatable in the horizontal direction around the second rotation shaft 2064. The arm portion 2063 is driven by the drive mechanism 4, and rotates in the horizontal direction around the second rotation shaft 2064 as the rotation axis.

[0074] The control circuit 9 controls the driving of the first rotating shaft 2062 and the second rotating shaft 2064 individually, and moves the sample dispensing probe 207 attached to the tip of the sample dispensing arm 206 to a desired position by combining the rotation, bending, and extension movements of the arm portion 2063. A cable for supplying power to drive the sample dispensing probe 207 is also provided inside the sample dispensing arm 206. The control circuit 9 controls the driving of the sample dispensing probe 207 via this cable, thereby controlling the dispensing operation of the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0075] The vertical movement unit 215 includes a base 2151 , a support portion 2152 , and a fixing portion 2153 . The base 2151 is disposed near the sample discharge position. In this embodiment, the base 2151 is installed inside the reaction disk 201. The base 2061 supports the support portion 2152.

[0076] The lower end of the support portion 2152 is supported by the base 2151. The support portion 2152 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down relative to the base 2151.

[0077] The support portion 2152 supports the fixing portion 2153. The fixing portion 2153 extends toward the sample dispensing position. When dispensing a sample, the sample dispensing probe 207, which is moved by the drive of the sample dispensing arm 206, is fixed to the fixing portion 2153. A magnet is attached inside the fixing portion 2153. In addition, a magnet having the opposite polarity to the magnet provided in the fixing portion 2153 is attached to the sample dispensing probe 207. When the sample dispensing probe 207 comes into contact with the fixing portion 2153, the attractive force between the magnets causes the sample dispensing probe 207 to be attracted to the fixing portion 2153 and fixed thereto.

[0078] The magnet may be attached to the exterior of the sample dispensing probe 207, or may be disposed inside the sample dispensing probe 207. Alternatively, instead of a magnet, a metal material that is attracted to a magnet may be attached to the sample dispensing probe 207. Alternatively, the sample dispensing probe 207 may be made of a metal material that is attracted to a magnet.

[0079] Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment will be described. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a process (hereinafter referred to as a sample dispensing process) executed by the automatic analyzer 1 when dispensing a sample using the sample dispensing probe 207. Each process described below is executed by driving each drive mechanism 4 under the control of the control circuit 9, but the description of this process will be omitted. Note that the process procedure for each process described below is merely an example, and each process can be modified as appropriate as possible. Furthermore, steps can be omitted, replaced, or added to the process procedure described below as appropriate depending on the embodiment. The above description of the process procedure for each process also applies to the following embodiments and modified examples.

[0080] (Sample dispensing process) (Step S101) When dispensing a sample, first, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 to a sample suction position on the rack sampler 203. Figure 5 shows the state in which the sample dispensing probe 207 has moved to the sample suction position.

[0081] (Step S102) When the sample dispensing probe 207 moves to the sample aspirating position, the sample is aspirated. At this time, as shown in FIG. 5, the first rotating shaft 2062 is driven downward, causing the arm 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 fixed to the tip of the arm 2063 to descend together. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the sample dispensing probe 207 in a descended state. The sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates the sample from the opening of a sample container housed in the rack sampler 203. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 7, the first rotating shaft 2062 is driven upward, causing the arm 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 supported by the arm 2063 to ascend together.

[0082] (Step S103) When a series of sample aspirating operations is completed, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 to a sample dispensing position on the reaction disk 201. Figure 8 shows the state in which the sample dispensing probe 207 has moved to the sample dispensing position.

[0083] (Step S104) At the sample dispensing position, a fixing part 2153 of the vertical movement unit 215 is disposed. When the sample dispensing probe 207 moves to the sample dispensing position, the sample dispensing probe 207 is attracted to the fixing part 2153 by the attraction force of a magnet disposed inside the fixing part 2153. As a result, the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215.

[0084] (Step S105) When the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215, the sample dispensing arm 206 or the vertical movement unit 215 lowers the sample dispensing probe 207 toward the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample discharge position. At this time, as shown in Figure 9, the first rotating shaft 2062 and the support part 2152 are driven downward together, so that the arm part 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 are lowered together.

[0085] (Step S106) The sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the sample into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 descends while being fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 installed near the sample dispensing position, so it can be accurately moved to directly above the reaction tube 2011, allowing for accurate sample dispensing.

[0086] (Step S107) When the sample has been dispensed, the sample dispensing arm 206 or the vertical movement unit 215 raises the sample dispensing probe 207, as shown in Fig. 10. At this time, the first rotating shaft 2062 and the support portion 2152 are driven upward together, so that the arm portion 2063 and the sample dispensing probe 207 rise together.

[0087] When lowering and raising the sample dispensing probe 207, both the drive mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206 and the drive mechanism 4 of the vertical movement unit 215 may be driven simultaneously, or only one of the drive mechanisms 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206 and the vertical movement unit 215 may be driven. When the sample dispensing probe 207 is moved up and down using only the drive mechanism 4 of the sample dispensing arm 206, the drive mechanism 4 does not need to be provided on the vertical movement unit 215.

[0088] As described above, the sample dispensing operation by the sample dispensing probe 207 is performed through a series of processes in steps S101-S107. The sample dispensing probe 207 performs the series of dispensing operations described above and a cleaning operation that is performed after the dispensing operation, for example, once per cycle. In the cleaning operation, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves to the cleaning position and aspirates cleaning liquid, and then moves again to the sample dispensing position and dispenses the aspirated cleaning liquid into the reaction tube 2011 for which measurement has been completed. This cleans the sample dispensing probe 207 and the reaction tube 2011.

[0089] The automated analyzer of this embodiment is equipped with a dispensing unit including a dispensing arm and an auxiliary unit. The dispensing arm holds a dispensing probe that dispenses liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position. The auxiliary unit detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists in the vertical movement of the fixed dispensing probe. The liquid is a sample, a reagent, pure water, a detergent, or a standard sample. The dispensing position is a position for aspirating or dispensing the liquid. By fixing the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and providing an auxiliary unit that moves up and down together with the dispensing probe when the dispensing operation is performed, the dispensing operation can be stabilized.

[0090] For example, the automated analyzer 1 of this embodiment includes a sample dispensing arm 206 as a dispensing arm and a vertical movement unit 215 as an auxiliary unit. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207. The vertical movement unit 215 detachably fixes the sample dispensing probe 207 near the sample dispensing position and moves the fixed sample dispensing probe 207 up and down. The vertical movement unit 215 is installed near the sample dispensing position and is installed at a position different from the position where the sample dispensing arm 206 is installed. When dispensing a sample, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 up and down while the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0091] With the above configuration, by separating the functions of the dispensing arm, it is possible to ensure the accuracy of position control during dispensing. For example, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, by providing a vertical movement unit 215 that is installed near the sample dispensing position, fixes (chuches) the sample dispensing probe 207 above the sample dispensing position, and moves the sample dispensing probe 207 up and down while fixed, it is possible to suppress positional deviation and vibration of the sample dispensing probe 207 during dispensing, suppress sample scattering during dispensing, stabilize the dispensing operation, and improve the accuracy of position control during dispensing.

[0092] Generally, increasing the operating radius of the dispensing arm or providing multiple rotation axes on the dispensing arm reduces the rigidity of the dispensing arm, resulting in unstable dispensing operations. Furthermore, increasing the speed of the dispensing arm's operation also results in unstable dispensing operations. On the other hand, in this embodiment, providing an auxiliary unit ensures accurate dispensing positioning, allowing the dispensing arm's operating radius to be increased and installed at a location farther away from the dispensing position. This allows for high layout flexibility independent of the operating radius of the dispensing arm. Furthermore, providing an auxiliary unit ensures accurate dispensing positioning, thereby enabling the dispensing arm to operate at higher speeds and improving throughput. In this case, the dispensing arm can ensure movement speed, while the auxiliary unit can ensure positional accuracy. Furthermore, providing an auxiliary unit ensures accurate dispensing positioning, allowing the dispensing arm to have multiple axes, thereby improving the degree of freedom in the movement range of the dispensing probe. The dispensing arm may have one or more rotation axes, and may have three or more rotation axes. Increasing the number of rotation axes improves the degree of freedom in the movement range of the dispensing probe fixed to the dispensing arm. Furthermore, even if the rigidity of the dispensing arm is low, the manufacturing cost of the dispensing arm can be reduced because the auxiliary unit can ensure the accuracy of the dispensing position.

[0093] In this embodiment, the case where the auxiliary unit is installed at the sample discharge position has been described, but the auxiliary unit may also be installed near the sample suction position to assist the sample suction operation by the sample dispensing probe 207. Also, the auxiliary unit may be installed near the reagent suction position or discharge position to assist the dispensing operation by the reagent dispensing probe. Furthermore, when dispensing probes that dispense pure water, detergent, or standard samples are provided, the auxiliary unit may be installed near these dispensing positions to assist the dispensing operation by the dispensing probe. Furthermore, auxiliary units may be provided at multiple or all of the above dispensing positions.

[0094] Alternatively, an elastic member may be attached to the magnet to reduce the impact when the dispensing arm contacts the contact surface. In this case, the magnet and elastic member are provided inside the auxiliary unit, and an elastic member such as a spring is placed between the contact surface with the dispensing probe and the magnet provided inside. When the dispensing probe contacts the magnet, the magnet is pulled toward the dispensing probe, causing the spring to contract and the magnet to move toward the dispensing probe. Because the magnet approaches the dispensing probe after it contacts the contact surface, the speed at which the dispensing probe contacts the contact surface is reduced, reducing the impact when fixing the dispensing probe to the auxiliary unit and enabling soft chucking.

[0095] Furthermore, a magnet may be fixed inside the auxiliary unit so that it can move up and down, and the dispensing probe may slide on the contact surface of the auxiliary unit in accordance with the movement of the magnet.

[0096] Alternatively, an electromagnetic electromagnet may be used, and the magnetic force of the electromagnet may be switched on and off to switch the attachment and detachment of the dispensing probe to the auxiliary unit.

[0097] Furthermore, the impact caused when the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit may be reduced by switching the polarity of the electromagnet in the auxiliary unit when the dispensing probe is fixed. For example, when the dispensing probe contacts the contact surface of the auxiliary unit, the polarity of the magnet in the dispensing probe and the polarity of the electromagnet in the auxiliary unit are controlled so that they are opposite to each other, and after the dispensing probe contacts the auxiliary unit, the polarity of the electromagnet in the auxiliary unit is switched so that it has the same polarity as the magnet in the dispensing probe. This allows for smooth chucking.

[0098] Furthermore, when the dispensing probe is moved horizontally above the dispensing position to contact the auxiliary unit, the dispensing probe may be lowered slightly at the same time as the horizontal movement, which allows some of the liquid that splashes from the tip of the dispensing probe when the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit to be guided into a container placed directly below the dispensing position, thereby preventing the liquid from splashing to locations other than the intended location.

[0099] In addition, although the present embodiment has been described as using a magnet to fix the dispensing probe to the auxiliary unit, other means for fixing the dispensing probe to the auxiliary unit may be used. For example, the auxiliary unit may be provided with a gripping mechanism that clamps and holds the dispensing probe.

[0100] (Second embodiment) A second embodiment will be described. This embodiment is a modification of the configuration of the first embodiment as follows. Description of the same configuration, operation, and effects as those of the first embodiment will be omitted. In this embodiment, a single dispensing arm is used to distribute dispensing probes to auxiliary units provided at multiple dispensing positions. Specifically, the dispensing arm detachably holds the dispensing probe and separates the dispensing probe from the dispensing arm based on the dispensing probe being fixed to the auxiliary unit. With the dispensing probe separated from the dispensing arm, the auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe up and down. After separating the dispensing probe, the dispensing arm holds another dispensing probe and transports that dispensing probe to a predetermined dispensing position.

[0101] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 of this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 11, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a plurality of vertical movement units 215. Although two vertical movement units 215 are shown in Fig. 11, three or more vertical movement units 215 may be provided.

[0102] The analysis mechanism 2 further includes a probe storage section 216. The probe storage section 216 stores a plurality of sample dispensing probes 207. The probe storage section 216 is disposed within the range of movement of the tip of the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0103] 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the dispensing unit of this embodiment. In this embodiment, the sample dispensing probe 207 is detachable from the sample dispensing arm 206, and the sample dispensing arm 206 detachably holds the sample dispensing probe 207. For example, the sample dispensing arm 206 includes a gripping mechanism as the drive mechanism 4 that grips the sample dispensing probe 207, and attaches and detaches the sample dispensing probe 207 under the control of the control circuit 9.

[0104] A cable 2071 is connected to the sample dispensing probe 207 to supply power for driving the sample dispensing probe 207. In this embodiment, the cable 2071 is disposed outside the sample dispensing arm 206. The cable 2071 is connected to a pump (not shown) or the like for causing the sample dispensing probe 207 to perform a dispensing operation.

[0105] The sample dispensing arm 206, under the control of the control circuit 9, removes the sample dispensing probe 207 based on the fact that the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215. When the sample dispensing probe 207 is removed, the sample dispensing arm 206 holds another sample dispensing probe 207 stored in the probe storage section 216.

[0106] When dispensing a sample, the vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 up and down while the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the sample dispensing arm 206 .

[0107] Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment will be described. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the sample dispensing process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment. Each process described below is executed by driving each drive mechanism 4 under the control of the control circuit 9, but a description thereof will be omitted. The processes of steps S201-S204 and steps S207-S208 are the same as the processes of steps S101-S104 and steps S106-S107 in FIG. 4, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0108] (Step S205) 14 is a diagram showing the state in which the sample dispensing probe 207 has moved to the sample discharge position. When the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 in step S204, the sample dispensing arm 206 separates the sample dispensing probe 207 from the arm portion 2063, as shown in FIG.

[0109] (Step S206) When the sample dispensing probe 207 separates from the sample dispensing arm 206, the vertical movement unit 215 lowers the sample dispensing probe 207 toward the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample dispensing position. At this time, as shown in FIG. 16 , the support part 2152 and the sample dispensing probe 207 lower together. The sample is then dispensed by the sample dispensing probe 207. Because the sample dispensing probe 207 is lowered while fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 installed near the sample dispensing position, it can be moved accurately to directly above the reaction tube 2011, allowing for accurate sample dispensing.

[0110] When the sample dispensing probe 207 is removed, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves the tip of the sample dispensing probe 207 to the probe storage section 216 while the sample dispensing probe 207 is being lowered and the sample is being dispensed, and holds the sample dispensing probe 207 stored in the probe storage section 216. The sample dispensing arm 206 then executes the processes of steps S201-S205 again, transporting the held sample dispensing probe 207 to the sample suction position, and then to the next sample dispensing position. Another vertical movement unit 215 is installed at the sample dispensing position. After the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215 at the sample dispensing position, it is separated from the sample dispensing arm 206 and dispenses the sample.

[0111] The effects of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0112] In this embodiment, the dispensing arm detachably holds the dispensing probe and separates the dispensing probe from the dispensing arm when the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit. The auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe up and down while the dispensing probe is separated from the dispensing arm. After separating the dispensing probe, the dispensing arm holds another dispensing probe. For example, in this embodiment, the sample dispensing arm 206 detachably holds the sample dispensing probe 207 and, after the sample dispensing probe 207 is fixed to the vertical movement unit 215, separates the sample dispensing probe 207 from the sample dispensing arm 206, and after separating the sample dispensing probe 207, holds another sample dispensing probe 207. The vertical movement unit 215 moves the sample dispensing probe 207 up and down while the sample dispensing probe 207 is separated from the sample dispensing arm 206.

[0113] With the above configuration, when a dispensing probe is chucked to an auxiliary unit, the dispensing arm separates the dispensing probe and then operates another dispensing probe. This allows a single dispensing arm to distribute dispensing probes to auxiliary units installed at multiple dispensing positions, thereby stabilizing dispensing operations with the auxiliary units and improving throughput.

[0114] An auxiliary unit may be installed near the reagent aspirating position or dispensing position to assist the dispensing operation of the reagent dispensing probe. In this case, the cable connected to the reagent dispensing probe may be connected to a reagent tank that stores the reagent. In this case, the reagent aspirating operation is unnecessary, and the reagent tank supplies a fixed amount of reagent to the dispensing probe via the cable at a predetermined timing.

[0115] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to ensure the accuracy of the position control of the dispensing probe during dispensing.

[0116] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1…Automatic analyzer 2…Analysis mechanism 3…Analysis circuit 4...Drive mechanism 5...Input interface 6...Output interface 7...Communication interface 8…Memory circuit 9...Control circuit 91...System control function 100...Sample container 101...Reagent container 201...Reaction disk 2011…Reaction tube 202… Constant temperature section 203...Rack sampler 2031...Sample rack 204...Reagent storage 205...Reagent storage 206...Sample dispensing arm 2061...Foundation 2062...Pivot shaft 2063...Arm 2064...Pivot shaft 207...Sample dispensing probe 2071…Cable 207a...Cleaning tank 207b... Detergent storage container 208...Reagent dispensing arm 209...Reagent dispensing probe 209a...Cleaning tank 210...Reagent dispensing arm 211...Reagent dispensing probe 211a...Cleaning tank 212...Electrode unit 213...Photometric unit 214...Cleaning unit 215...Up / down unit 2151…Base 2152...Support part 2153…Fixed part 216...Probe storage section 300...Leader

Claims

1. a dispensing arm that holds a dispensing probe that dispenses a liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position; an auxiliary unit that detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving up and down; An automatic analyzer comprising:

2. The liquid is a sample, a reagent, pure water, a detergent, or a standard sample. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

3. The dispensing position is a position for aspirating or discharging the liquid. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

4. the auxiliary unit is installed near the dispensing position and at a position different from the dispensing arm; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

5. the auxiliary unit includes a magnet; The dispensing probe is attracted to the magnet. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

6. the magnet is provided inside the auxiliary unit, The auxiliary unit further includes a contact surface with which the dispensing probe comes into contact, and an elastic member provided between the contact surface and the magnet. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5 .

7. the auxiliary unit includes a gripping mechanism that grips the dispensing probe; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

8. the dispensing arm moves the dispensing probe in a vertical direction while the dispensing probe is fixed to the auxiliary unit; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

9. the auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe in the up and down direction together with the dispensing arm; The automatic analyzer according to claim 8.

10. the dispensing arm detachably holds the dispensing probe, and separates the dispensing probe from the dispensing arm based on the dispensing probe being fixed to the auxiliary unit; the auxiliary unit moves the dispensing probe in a vertical direction while the dispensing probe is separated from the dispensing arm; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

11. the dispensing arm holds another dispensing probe after separating the dispensing probe; The automatic analyzer according to claim 10.

12. a dispensing arm that holds a dispensing probe that dispenses a liquid and transports the dispensing probe to a dispensing position; an auxiliary unit that detachably fixes the dispensing probe above the dispensing position and assists the fixed dispensing probe in moving up and down; A dispensing unit comprising:

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