Reagent storage and automatic analyzer

Abstract

To improve the throughput of a system.SOLUTION: A reagent storage according to an embodiment comprises: a first unit including at least a housing formed to store a reagent container and a rotary table on which the reagent container is placed; and a second unit that includes at least one of a drive part for driving the rotary table and a cooling part for cooling the reagent container, and is configured to be separable from the first unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] An automated analyzer is a device that analyzes the components of a test sample corresponding to each measurement item by, for example, optically measuring a reaction solution obtained by mixing a test sample collected from a subject such as blood or a standard sample for each measurement item with a reagent corresponding to each measurement item. In such an automated analyzer, the reagents are stored in reagent containers in a reagent storage unit of the automated analyzer. This reagent storage unit includes a turntable on which the reagent containers are placed, a drive unit for driving the turntable, and a cooling unit for keeping the reagent containers cool.

[0003] Conventionally, when a reagent storage fails due to a malfunction of the drive unit or cooling unit, it may be impossible to access the failed part of the reagent storage because other parts and units other than the reagent storage are located around the reagent storage inside the automated analyzer, making it impossible to perform maintenance on the reagent storage while it is installed on the automated analyzer. In such cases, it is necessary to remove the reagent storage from the automated analyzer and replace it, or to replace the entire automated analyzer, which makes responding to a reagent storage failure time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0004] Therefore, if it were possible to improve the maintainability of the drive and cooling units in such reagent storage units, which are prone to failure due to initial defects or deterioration over time, it would be possible to reduce the cost required to replace the reagent storage unit or automatic analyzer, while also shortening the time required to respond when the drive or cooling unit of the reagent storage unit fails, thereby improving system throughput. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 02-269969 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to improve system throughput. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The reagent storage according to the embodiment comprises a first unit including at least a housing formed to store reagent containers and a turntable on which the reagent containers are placed, and a second unit configured to be separable from the first unit and including at least one of a drive unit for driving the turntable and a cooling unit for cooling the reagent containers. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a reagent storage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a reagent storage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of a reagent storage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a view of the reagent storage, the moving mechanism, and the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment, viewed from the direction of a third side surface. [Figure 8]FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism in the first embodiment, viewed from the direction of a first side surface. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism in the first embodiment, viewed from the direction of a first side surface. [Figure 10] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism in the first embodiment, viewed from the direction of a first side surface. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism in the first embodiment, viewed from the direction of a first side surface. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a reagent storage according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism according to a second embodiment, viewed from the first side. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism according to a second embodiment, viewed from the first side. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a view of the reagent storage, the moving mechanism, and the locking mechanism according to the third embodiment, viewed from the direction of a third side surface. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a view of a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism according to a third embodiment, viewed from the direction of a first side surface. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a view of a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism according to a third embodiment, viewed from the direction of a first side surface. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to Modification 1. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a reagent storage, a moving mechanism, and a locking mechanism in a second modification example, viewed from the first side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a reagent storage and an automatic analyzer will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations will be designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be given only when necessary.

[0010] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. The automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is an apparatus that analyzes a mixture of a sample and a reagent corresponding to a measurement item of the sample using the sample and the reagent. In other words, the automatic analyzer 1 is an apparatus that measures components in a sample by measuring a mixture obtained by adding a reagent to the sample to be measured. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 includes an apparatus main body 11. The apparatus main body 11 houses at least a moving mechanism 214 and a reagent storage, which will be described later. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the front of the apparatus main body 11 is designated as a first side surface 111, the rear of the apparatus main body 11 as viewed from the front of the first side surface 111 is designated as a second side surface 112, the side corresponding to the right side of the apparatus main body 11 is designated as a third side surface 113, and the side corresponding to the left side of the apparatus main body 11 is designated as a fourth side surface 114. As shown in FIG. 1, the third side surface 113 of the apparatus main body 11 is provided with a moving mechanism 214, which will be described in detail later.

[0011] Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is configured to include, for example, 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.

[0012] The analysis mechanism 2 adds a reagent corresponding to the measurement item of a sample, such as a standard sample or a test sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixture obtained by adding the reagent to the sample, and generates, for example, standard data and test data. In this embodiment, the standard data represents the measurement result of absorbance for a standard sample containing a known concentration of the analyte. The test data represents the measurement result of absorbance for the test sample. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between a standard sample and a test sample, they may be simply referred to as "sample."

[0013] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data, analytical data, etc. by analyzing the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis circuit 3 reads an analysis program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data, analytical data, etc. in accordance with the read analysis program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates standard data and calibration data that indicates a relationship with a predetermined standard value for a standard sample based on the standard data. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analytical data expressed as a concentration value and an enzyme activity value based on the test data and calibration data for a test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analytical data, etc. to the control circuit 9.

[0014] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. For example, the drive mechanism 4 is realized by a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, or the like.

[0015] The input interface 5 receives, for example, settings such as analytical parameters for each measurement item related to the sample for which measurement has been requested. The input interface 5 is realized, for example, by a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad where instructions are input by touching the operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts operation instructions input by the user into electrical signals, and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 9. Note that in this embodiment, the input interface 5 is not limited to those equipped with physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an example of the input interface 5 also includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to operation instructions input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 9.

[0016] 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, etc. The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, an LED display, and a plasma display. This display circuit corresponds to the display unit in this embodiment. The display circuit also includes a processing circuit that converts data representing a display object into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. The printed circuit includes, for example, a printer, etc. The printed circuit also includes an output circuit that outputs data representing a print object to the outside. The audio device includes, for example, a speaker, etc. The audio device also includes an output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside.

[0017] The communication interface 7 is connected to, for example, an intra-hospital network NW, and connects the automatic analyzer 1 to the 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 an HIS via a Laboratory Information System (LIS) connected to the intra-hospital network NW.

[0018] The memory circuit 8 is configured by a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. This memory circuit 8 stores an analysis program executed by the analysis circuit 3 and a control program executed by the control circuit 9. The memory circuit 8 also stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each measurement item. Note that the memory circuit 8 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 8 can be realized by multiple storage devices.

[0019] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 9 executes an operating program stored in the memory circuit 8 to realize a function corresponding to the operating program. The control circuit 9 may also include a storage area for storing at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0020] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is configured to include, for example, a reaction disk 201, a rack sampler 202, a reagent storage 203, a sample dispensing arm 204, a first reagent dispensing arm 205, a second reagent dispensing arm 206, a first stirring unit 207, a second stirring unit 208, a photometry unit 209, a cleaning unit 210, a receiving section 211, a positioner 212, a reagent container transport mechanism 213, a moving mechanism 214, and a locking mechanism 215.

[0021] The reaction disk 201 supports a plurality of reaction vessels 2011 arranged in a circular shape at predetermined intervals. The reaction disk 201 transports the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 along a predetermined path. Specifically, during the analysis operation of a reaction solution of a sample and a reagent, the reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction disk 201 is also disposed above and spaced apart from the reagent reservoir 203. At least a portion of the installation area of ​​the reaction disk 201 overlaps with the installation area of ​​the reagent reservoir 203. The reaction vessels 2011 are formed of, for example, glass, polypropylene (PP), or acrylic.

[0022] The rack sampler 202 movably supports a sample rack 21 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers 22, and these sample containers 22 contain samples for which measurement has been requested. In the example shown in FIG. 3, a sample rack 21 capable of holding five sample containers 22 in parallel is shown. A sample label is affixed to the sample container 22. An optical mark representing sample information is printed on the sample label. The optical mark printed on the sample label may be any pixel code, such as a one-dimensional pixel code or a two-dimensional pixel code.

[0023] 3, the rack sampler 202 has a first track portion 2021 and a second track portion 2022 extending from the first side surface 111 side to the second side surface 112 side. The first track portion 2021 and the second track portion 2022 are configured by, for example, a belt and a chain. The first track portion 2021 and the second track portion 2022 are driven independently of each other.

[0024] Each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022 uses the drive mechanism 4 to move the sample rack 21 from an input position where the sample rack 21 is input to a sampling position where the sample contained in the sample container 22 held by the sample rack 21 is aspirated. Furthermore, each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022 uses the drive mechanism 4 to move the sample rack 21 after sampling has been completed from the sampling position to a recovery position where the sample rack 21 is recovered. In the example shown in Figure 3, the input position and the recovery position are the same position.

[0025] Here, the loading position and the recovery position are provided at positions where the rotational path of the arm of the positioner 212 intersects with the movement path of the opening of the sample container 22 held in the sample rack 21 moved by each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022. Also, the sampling position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe of the sample dispensing arm 204 intersects with the movement path of the opening of the sample container 22 held in the sample rack 21 moved by each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022.

[0026] The reagent storage 203 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 23 refrigerated, including a reagent container 23 containing a first reagent that reacts with a predetermined component contained in a standard sample or a predetermined component contained in a test sample, and a reagent container 23 containing a second reagent that pairs with the first reagent in a two-reagent system. The first reagent is, for example, a buffer solution containing bovine serum albumin (BSA). The second reagent is a solution containing an insoluble carrier, such as carrier particles, on which an antigen or antibody that binds to or dissociates from a predetermined antigen or antibody contained in the sample through a specific antigen-antibody reaction is immobilized. The substance that binds to or dissociates through a specific reaction may be an enzyme, substrate, aptamer, or receptor. A reagent label is affixed to the reagent container 23. An optical mark representing reagent information is printed on the reagent label. The optical mark may be any pixel code, such as a one-dimensional pixel code or a two-dimensional pixel code. The reagent storage 203 may also contain a standard sample container that contains a standard sample. Furthermore, when there is no need to distinguish between the first and second reagents, they may simply be referred to as "reagents."

[0027] The configuration of the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment. The reagent storage 203 in Figures 4 and 5 is shown in cross section along line AA in Figure 2. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment is configured to include a first unit 31, a second unit 32, and a turntable 33. The second unit 32 is configured to be separable from the first unit 31.

[0028] The first unit 31 includes at least a housing formed to be able to store the reagent container 23 and a turntable 33 on which the reagent container 23 is placed. The first unit 31 is fixed to the device main body 11. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first unit 31 according to this embodiment is configured to include a housing 311, a lid 312, a sealing member 313, and a recess 314.

[0029] The housing 311 is formed so as to be able to store the reagent containers 23 and the turntable 33 on which the reagent containers 23 are placed. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 5, a first opening 3111 is formed in the top of the housing 311, through which the reagent containers 23 and the turntable 33 can be removed. Furthermore, a second opening 3112 is formed in the bottom of the housing 311, through which a drive shaft of a drive unit included in the second unit 32, which will be described later, is disposed. The inner surface of the housing 311 is formed of a material such as aluminum, which has excellent thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the housing 311 has, for example, a heat insulating portion formed so as to cover the inner surface, and made of a heat insulating material.

[0030] Lid 312 covers first opening 3111 formed in the top of housing 311. Lid 312 is configured to be detachable from housing 311. Lid 312 also has a probe insertion hole into which a probe can be inserted. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, lid 312 has first insertion hole 3121 into which a first reagent-dispensing probe (described later) can be inserted. As shown in FIG. 2, lid 312 also has second insertion hole 3122 into which a second reagent-dispensing probe (described later) can be inserted.

[0031] The sealing member 313 is a member that prevents cold air generated by a cooling unit of the second unit 32 (described later) from leaking outside the reagent storage 203. The sealing member 313 is provided on the bottom of the housing 311 of the first unit 31. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the sealing member 313 according to this embodiment is configured as an O-ring and is provided on the bottom of the housing 311 by being fitted into a groove formed in the bottom of the housing 311. As shown in FIG. 4, when the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31 and the second unit 32 presses the sealing member 313, the sealing member 313 according to this embodiment prevents cold air generated by a cooling unit of the second unit 32 (described later) from leaking outside the reagent storage 203. In other words, the sealing member 313 is disposed between the first unit 31 and the second unit 32. As shown in FIG. 5, the sealing member 313 according to this embodiment is provided radially outward of the cooling unit of the second unit 32.

[0032] A convex portion provided on the second unit 32, which will be described later, is inserted into the recess 314. In this embodiment, the convex portion provided on the second unit 32 is formed by a positioning pin, and therefore the recess 314 according to this embodiment is a pin insertion hole into which the positioning pin that forms the convex portion is inserted. Furthermore, this recess 314 is formed in a shape that corresponds to the shape of the convex portion. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the tip of the convex portion has a triangular pyramid shape, and therefore a triangular pyramid-shaped hole is formed as the recess 314.

[0033] As described above, the second unit 32 is configured to be separable from the first unit 31. In other words, the second unit is configured to be detachable from the first unit 31, and is not fixed to the apparatus main body 11. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the second unit 32 has a drive unit 321, a cooling unit 322, a heat insulating material 323, a fixing plate 324, and a protrusion 325.

[0034] The drive unit 321 drives the turntable 33. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the drive unit 321 includes a motor 3211 and a drive shaft 3212. The motor 3211 drives the turntable 33 under the control of the control circuit 9. Specifically, under the control of the control circuit 9, the motor 3211 rotates the turntable 33 so that the opening 231 of the reagent container 23 placed on the turntable 33 is positioned corresponding to the first insertion hole 3121 or the second insertion hole 3122. The turntable 33 is attached to the drive shaft 3212. When the motor 3211 is driven, the drive shaft 3212 rotates, and the turntable 33 rotates. Note that in the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the drive unit 321 includes the motor 3211 and the drive shaft 3212, but the configuration of the drive unit 321 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the drive unit 321 is arbitrary, and for example, the drive unit 321 may include gears, pulleys, belts, and the like.

[0035] The cooling unit 322 cools the reagent container 23. The cooling unit 322 according to this embodiment is configured with a Peltier element. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the cooling side of the Peltier element, which is the cooling unit 322, is disposed in contact with the lower surface of the fixing plate 324. A heat sink (not shown) or the like is provided on the heat dissipation side of the Peltier element. Grease is applied to the cooling unit 322 and the fixing plate 324 to increase thermal conductivity. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in this embodiment, two cooling units 322 are attached to the fixing plate 324. In the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the second unit 32 includes two cooling units 322, but the number of cooling units 322 included in the second unit 32 is not limited to two. That is, the second unit 32 may include any number of cooling units, and may include one, three, or more cooling units 322.

[0036] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cooling unit 322 is configured by a Peltier element, but the configuration of the cooling unit 322 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the cooling unit 322 is arbitrary, and for example, the cooling unit 322 may be configured by an air conditioner and a duct.

[0037] The heat insulating material 323 is provided on the side surface of the cooling unit 322 and insulates the cooling unit 322. Specifically, the heat insulating material 323 insulates the cold air of the cooling unit 322, thereby preventing other components in the apparatus body 11 from being cooled.

[0038] Various components included in the second unit 32 are attached to the fixing plate 324. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the motor 3211 of the drive unit 321, the cooling unit 322, and the heat insulating material 323 are attached to the fixing plate 324 according to this embodiment. The fixing plate 324 is attached to the bottom of the housing 311 of the first unit 31, whereby the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit.

[0039] The protrusions 325 are inserted into the recesses 314 to position the second unit 32 relative to the first unit 31. That is, the second unit 32 is positioned relative to the first unit 31 by inserting the protrusions 325 into the recesses 314. The protrusions 325 are formed by, for example, positioning pins. In this embodiment, the protrusions 325 are provided on the second unit 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5 , two protrusions 325 are provided on the upper surface of the fixing plate 324, on the side that abuts against the bottom of the first unit 31. As described above, in this embodiment, the shape of the protrusions 325 is a triangular pyramid. Note that, in the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , two protrusions 325 are provided, but the number of protrusions provided on the second unit 32 is not limited to this. That is, the number of protrusions provided on the second unit 32 is arbitrary, and one protrusion or three or more protrusions may be provided on the second unit 32. In addition, in this embodiment, the shape of the convex portion 325 is a triangular pyramid, but the shape of the convex portion is not limited to this. That is, the shape of the convex portion 325 is arbitrary.

[0040] Furthermore, the configurations of the sealing member 313, the recessed portion 314, and the protruding portion 325 in the first unit 31 and the second unit 32 are not limited to those shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 5 described above. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the sealing member 313 is provided in the second unit 32. As shown in FIG. 6, the recessed portion 314 is provided in the second unit 32, and the protruding portion 325 is provided in the first unit 31. That is, it is sufficient that the sealing member 313 is provided in either the first unit 31 or the second unit 32. It is sufficient that the recessed portion 314 is provided in either the first unit 31 or the second unit 32, and the protruding portion 325 is provided in the other of the first unit 31 or the second unit 32.

[0041] The turntable 33 has reagent containers 23 placed thereon. The turntable 33 is rotated about the axis of a drive shaft 3212 by being driven by a drive unit 321. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the turntable 33 according to this embodiment has a first reagent rack 331 and a second reagent rack 332. The first reagent rack 331 has reagent containers 23 that contain a first reagent placed thereon. The second reagent rack 332 has reagent containers 23 that contain a second reagent placed thereon. The first reagent rack 331 may have reagent containers 23 that contain a second reagent placed thereon, and the second reagent rack 332 may have reagent containers 23 that contain a first reagent placed thereon. 4 and 5, the turntable 33 is provided with two reagent racks, a first reagent rack 331 and a second reagent rack, and the reagent containers 23 are placed in a double circular pattern, but the turntable 33 is not limited to being provided with two reagent racks and the reagent containers 23 are placed in a double circular pattern. For example, the turntable 33 may be provided with one reagent rack and the reagent containers 23 may be placed in a single circular pattern, or the turntable 33 may be provided with three or more reagent racks and the reagent containers 23 may be placed in three or more circular patterns.

[0042] Returning to Figure 3, the sample dispensing arm 204 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 202. The sample dispensing arm 204 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 204 holds a sample dispensing probe at one end.

[0043] The sample dispensing probe rotates along an arcuate rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm 204. A sampling position for aspirating a sample from a sample container 22 held in the rack sampler 202 is provided on this rotational path. In addition, a sample dispensing position for dispensing the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe into a reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 is provided on the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe. The sample dispensing position is provided at a position where the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe and the movement path of the reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 intersect.

[0044] The sample dispensing probe is driven by a drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at the sampling position or the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe also aspirates a sample from a sample container 22 held in a sample rack 21 at the sampling position under the control of a control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe also aspirates the aspirated sample into a reaction container 2011 located directly below the sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9.

[0045] The first reagent dispensing arm 205 is provided near the first reagent rack 331 in the reagent storage 203. The first reagent dispensing arm 205 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 205 holds a first reagent dispensing probe at one end.

[0046] The first reagent dispensing probe rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the first reagent dispensing arm 205. A first reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. The first reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe intersects with the movement paths of the openings 221 of the reagent containers 23 arranged in an annular shape in the first reagent rack 331. As shown in FIG. 3, a first insertion hole 3121 is provided in the top surface of the reagent storage 203 corresponding to the first reagent aspirating position.

[0047] Furthermore, a first reagent dispensing position is set on the rotational trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe for dispensing the reagent aspirated by the first reagent dispensing probe into the reaction vessel 2011. The first reagent dispensing position is provided at a position where the rotational trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 intersect.

[0048] The first reagent dispensing probe is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at a first reagent aspirating position or a first reagent dispensing position on the rotation orbit. The first reagent dispensing probe is held in the first reagent rack 331 and aspirates reagent from the reagent container 23 located directly below the first reagent aspirating position via the first insertion hole 3121 under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe also discharges the aspirated reagent into the reaction container 2011 located directly below the first reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The reagent aspirated by the first reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment is, for example, the first reagent. While the first reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment aspirates the first reagent, the target aspirated by the first reagent dispensing probe is not limited to this. In other words, the first reagent dispensing probe can aspirate any object, and if a reagent container 23 containing a second reagent or a standard sample container containing a standard sample is placed in the first reagent rack 331, the first reagent dispensing probe can aspirate the second reagent or the standard sample and dispense it into the reaction container 2011.

[0049] The second reagent dispensing arm 206 is provided near the second reagent rack 332 in the reagent storage 203. The second reagent dispensing arm 206 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 206 holds a second reagent dispensing probe at one end.

[0050] The second reagent dispensing probe rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in conjunction with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm 206. A second reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. The second reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe intersects with the movement paths of the openings of the reagent containers 23 arranged in an annular shape in the second reagent rack 332. As shown in FIG. 3, a second insertion hole 3122 is provided in the top surface of the reagent storage 203 corresponding to the second reagent aspirating position.

[0051] Additionally, a second reagent dispensing position is set on the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe for dispensing the reagent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe into the reaction vessel 2011. The second reagent dispensing position is provided at a position where the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 intersect.

[0052] The second reagent dispensing probe is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at a second reagent aspirating position or a second reagent dispensing position on the rotation orbit. The second reagent dispensing probe is held in the second reagent rack 332 and aspirates reagent from the reagent container 23 located directly below the second reagent aspirating position via the second insertion hole 3122 under the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe also discharges the aspirated reagent into the reaction container 2011 located directly below the second reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The reagent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment is, for example, the second reagent. While the second reagent dispensing probe according to this embodiment aspirates the second reagent, the target aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe is not limited to this. In other words, the second reagent dispensing probe can aspirate any object, and if a reagent container 23 containing the first reagent or a standard sample container containing a standard sample is placed in the second reagent rack 332, the probe can aspirate the first reagent or the standard sample and dispense it into the reaction container 2011.

[0053] The first stirring unit 207 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 207 has a first stirring arm 2071 and a first stirring bar provided at the tip of the first stirring arm 2071. The first stirring unit 207 uses the first stirring bar to stir a reaction liquid between a standard sample and a first reagent contained in a reaction vessel 2011 located at a first stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 207 also uses the first stirring bar to stir a reaction liquid between a test sample and a first reagent contained in a reaction vessel 2011 located at a first stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

[0054] The second stirring unit 208 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 208 has a second stirring arm 2081 and also has a second stirring bar provided at the tip of the second stirring arm 2081. The second stirring unit 208 uses the second stirring bar to stir the reaction solution of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the second stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 208 also uses the second stirring bar to stir the reaction solution of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the second stirring position.

[0055] The photometry unit 209 optically measures the reaction liquid of the sample, first reagent, and second reagent dispensed into the reaction vessel 2011. The photometry unit 209 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometry unit 209 irradiates light from the light source under the control of the control circuit 9. The irradiated light enters the reaction vessel 2011 from a first side wall and exits from a second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photometry unit 209 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011 with the photodetector.

[0056] Specifically, for example, the photodetector is disposed on the optical axis of light irradiated from the light source onto the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector detects light transmitted through the reaction solution of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The automatic analyzer 1 acquires photometric data represented by the intensity of the light detected by the photodetector. The automatic analyzer 1 then generates standard data represented by absorbance based on measurement data acquired at predetermined times from the photometric data. The photodetector also detects light transmitted through the reaction solution of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector acquires photometric data represented by the intensity of the light detected by the photodetector. The automatic analyzer 1 then generates test data represented by absorbance based on measurement data acquired at predetermined times from the photometric data. The photometric unit 209 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0057] The cleaning unit 210 cleans the inside of the reaction container 2011 after the measurement of the reaction solution by the photometry unit 209 has been completed.

[0058] The receiving unit 211 receives the reagent containers 23 installed by the user. The receiving unit 211 also receives the sample racks 21 that hold the sample containers 22 installed by the user. The receiving unit 211 also receives the sample racks 21 that have completed measurement and the reagent containers 23 that have been removed from the reagent storage 203. The receiving unit 211 is provided on the first side surface 111 side of the device body 11. The receiving unit 211 has a plurality of slots 2111 for receiving the sample racks 21 and the reagent containers 23. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the sample rack 21 and the reagent container 23 are inserted in one of the plurality of slots 2111. Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 3, the receiving unit 211 is provided with 16 slots, but the number of slots provided in the receiving unit 211 is not limited to 16. In other words, the number of slots provided in the receiving unit 211 is arbitrary and may be 15 or less, or 17 or more.

[0059] The positioner 212 transports the reagent container 23 received in the receiving unit 211 to a predetermined position. The positioner 212 also transports the sample rack 21 received in the receiving unit 211 to an input position of the rack sampler 202. The positioner 212 also transports the reagent container 23 that has been taken out of the reagent storage 203 by the reagent container transport mechanism 213 and transported to a predetermined position to the receiving unit 211. The positioner 212 also transports the sample rack 21 that has been moved to a recovery position of the rack sampler 202 after sampling has been completed to the receiving unit 211.

[0060] Specifically, the positioner 212 has a positioner body 2121, an arm 2122, and a positioner track 2123. The positioner body 2121 moves along the positioner track 2123 in a direction parallel to the first side surface 111 and the second side surface 112. The arm 2122 protrudes from the positioner body 2121 and engages with the sample rack 21 or the reagent container 23.

[0061] The positioner 212 has a reader for reading the sample labels affixed to each of the multiple sample containers 22 held in each sample rack 21 and the reagent labels affixed to each of the multiple reagent containers 23. For example, when the positioner 212 transports the sample rack 21, the reader reads the optical marks printed on the sample labels affixed to each of the multiple sample containers 22 held in the sample rack 21. Furthermore, for example, when the positioner 212 transports the reagent container 23, the reader reads the optical marks printed on the reagent labels affixed to the reagent container 23. Information on the read optical marks is output to the control circuit 9.

[0062] It should be noted that the marks attached to the sample containers 22 and the reagent containers 23 are not limited to optical marks. For example, IC tags using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) may be attached, and the positioner 212 or the like may have a reader compatible with these IC tags.

[0063] The reagent container transport mechanism 213 has an arm (not shown) that puts in and takes out the reagent container 23 through an opening provided in the reagent storage 203. As shown in Fig. 3, the arm of the reagent container transport mechanism 213 engages with the reagent container 23. The reagent container 23 is stored in the reagent storage 203 by the operation of the reagent container transport mechanism 213. Alternatively, the reagent container 23 is taken out from the reagent storage 203 by the operation of the reagent container transport mechanism 213. The positioner 212, the reagent container transport mechanism 213, etc. are collectively referred to as an automatic reagent loading mechanism.

[0064] The moving mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32, which is separated from the first unit 31, to a predetermined position. Specifically, the moving mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32 to a predetermined position by manual operation by a user or under control of the control circuit 9. In the following description, the moving mechanism 214 is described as moving the second unit 32 to a predetermined position by manual operation by a user. The specific configuration of this moving mechanism 214 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 7 in addition to FIG. 3. FIG. 7 is a view of the reagent storage 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 according to this embodiment, viewed from the direction of the third side surface 113. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the moving mechanism 214 according to this embodiment is configured to include a rail portion 2141, a mounting table 2142, and a cover portion 2143.

[0065] The rail portion 2141 slidably supports the mounting base 2142. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the rail portion 2141 according to this embodiment slidably supports the mounting base 2142 in a direction parallel to the first side surface 111 and the second side surface 112. The rail portion 2141 is fixed to the device body 11. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the rail portion 2141 according to this embodiment is configured with two rails. Note that the number of rails is not limited to two. In other words, the number of rail portions is arbitrary, and the rail portion may be configured with one rail, or three or more rails.

[0066] The mounting base 2142 is a base on which the second unit 32 separated from the first unit 31 is placed. The mounting base 2142 is provided below the reagent storage 203. The mounting base 2142 is configured to be slidable relative to the rail portion 2141. Specifically, the mounting base 2142 according to this embodiment is configured to slide relative to the rail portion 2141 in a direction parallel to the first side surface 111 and the second side surface 112 by manual operation by the user. The mounting base 2142 slides relative to the rail portion 2141 by manual operation by the user, thereby moving the second unit 32 placed on the mounting base 2142 to a predetermined position. The number of mounting bases 2142 provided corresponds to the number of rails. In this embodiment, the rail portion 2141 has two rails, and therefore two mounting bases 2142 are also provided.

[0067] The cover portion 2143 is a member that covers an opening provided on the side surface of the device body 11 in order to pull out the second unit 32 from inside toward the side surface of the device body 11. This cover portion 2143 is attached to the mounting base 2142. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7 , the cover portion 2143 is formed with a grip portion 2143_1 that allows a user to grip the cover portion 2143. When the user manually moves the second unit 32 to a predetermined position, the user grips the grip portion 2143_1 and pulls out the cover portion 2143 from the side surface of the device body 11, whereby the mounting base 2142 attached to the cover portion 2143 slides along the rail portion 2141.

[0068] The locking mechanism 215 is a mechanism that locks the second unit 32 relative to the first unit 31. When the second unit 32 is locked relative to the first unit 31 by the locking mechanism 215, the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31, and the first unit 31 and the second unit 32 function as the reagent storage 203. The specific configuration of this locking mechanism 215 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8 in addition to FIG. 3. FIG. 8 is a view of the reagent storage, the movement mechanism, and the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment, as seen from the direction of the first side. The reagent storage, the movement mechanism, and the locking mechanism in FIG. 8 are shown in cross section B-B in FIG. 7. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 8, the locking mechanism 215 according to this embodiment has an operator 2151, a fixed portion 2152, and a sliding portion 2153.

[0069] The operator 2151 switches between locking and unlocking the locking mechanism 215. The operator 2151 according to this embodiment is provided on the top of the reagent storage 203, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 8. By providing the operator 2151 on the top of the reagent storage 203, the user can access the reagent storage 203 from above, and can directly operate the operator 2151. The fixed portion 2152 is a member that is fixed to the device main body 11 or the first unit 31.

[0070] The sliding portion 2153 is a member that can slide vertically within the fixed portion 2152 in response to operation of the operator 2151. Specifically, when locking the second unit 32 to the first unit 31, the sliding portion 2153 according to this embodiment slides upward within the fixed portion 2152 in response to operation of the operator 2151, moving the second unit 32 upward. By moving the second unit 32 upward, the sliding portion 2153 presses the second unit 32 against the first unit 31. In other words, when locking the second unit 32 to the first unit 31 in response to operation of the operator 2151, the locking mechanism 215 presses the second unit 32 against the first unit 31. On the other hand, when unlocking the second unit 32 from the first unit 31, the sliding portion 2153 according to this embodiment slides downward within the fixed portion 2152 in response to operation of the operating element 2151, thereby moving the second unit 32 downward. Then, by the sliding portion 2153 moving the second unit 32 downward, the second unit 32 is released from being pressed against the first unit 31.

[0071] 2, the control circuit 9, for example, executes a control program to realize a system control function 91, a dispensing control function 92, and a reporting function 93. Note that, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the system control function 91, the dispensing control function 92, and the reporting function 93 are realized by a single processor, but this is not limiting. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and the system control function 91, the dispensing control function 92, and the reporting function 93 may be realized by each processor executing a control program.

[0072] The system control function 91 is a function that controls all parts of the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface 5. For example, the system control function 91 controls the drive mechanism 4 and the analysis mechanism 2 in the control circuit 9, and also controls the analysis circuit 3 so as to perform analysis according to the measurement items. The system control function 91 corresponds to the system control unit in this embodiment.

[0073] The dispensing control function 92 controls the dispensing of samples and reagents into reaction tubes. For example, in this automatic analyzer 1, the dispensing control function 92 controls the dispensing of a standard sample into the reaction vessel 2011, the dispensing of a test sample into the reaction vessel 2011, and the dispensing of a reagent into the reaction vessel 2011. This dispensing control function 92 corresponds to the dispensing control unit in this embodiment.

[0074] The reporting function 93 reports to the user via the output interface 6 that a component included in the second unit 32 has failed. Specifically, the reporting function 93 reports to the user via the output interface 6 that the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 has failed. This reporting function 93 corresponds to the reporting unit in this embodiment.

[0075] 9 to 11, a series of flows in which the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment is divided and the second unit 32 is moved to a predetermined position by the moving mechanism 214 will be described. Figures 9 to 11 are views of the reagent storage 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 according to this embodiment, viewed from the direction of the first side surface 111. In Figures 9 to 11, the reagent storage 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 are shown in cross section along line BB in Figure 7.

[0076] First, as shown in Fig. 9, when separating the second unit 32 from the first unit 31, the operator 2151 is lifted. This unlocks the locking mechanism 215, that is, the second unit 32 is unlocked relative to the first unit 31. This allows the sliding portion 2153 of the locking mechanism 215 to slide, allowing the second unit 32 to move downward. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9, unlocking the locking mechanism 215 allows the lid portion 312 to be removed from the first unit 31.

[0077] 10 , the cover 312 is removed from the housing 311 of the first unit 31, and the rotary table 33 stored in the first unit 31 is removed from the drive shaft 3212 of the drive unit 321 through the first opening 3111 of the housing 311. As a result, the second unit 32 moves downward, the drive shaft 3212 is removed from the second opening 3112 of the first unit 31, and the fixed plate 324 of the second unit 32 is placed on the mounting table 2142.

[0078] 11, the second unit 32 moves to a predetermined position as the mounting base 2142 slides on the rail portion 2141 in the direction D1. In this embodiment, the user pulls out the cover portion 2143 in the direction D1, causing the mounting base 2142 to slide on the rail portion 2141 in the direction D1. This causes the movement mechanism 214 to move the second unit 32, which is separated from the first unit 31, from the mounting position to the drawn-out position. The mounting position is a position on the movement mechanism 214 where the second unit 32, which is separated from the first unit 31, is mounted. The drawn-out position is a position where the second unit 32 is drawn out from inside the device body 11 to outside the device body 11. In other words, as shown in FIG. 11, the drawn-out position is a position where the entire second unit 32 is drawn out from inside the device body 11 to outside the device body 11. In this way, by pulling out the second unit 32 to the pulled-out position, the user can replace the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322, or replace the second unit 32 itself.

[0079] After the replacement of the drive unit 321 and / or the cooling unit 322 or the replacement of the second unit 32 is completed, the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31. The work of attaching the second unit 32 to the first unit 31 is performed by reversing the procedure of moving the second unit 32 to the predetermined position described above.

[0080] In other words, when replacement of the drive unit 321 and / or the cooling unit 322 or replacement of the second unit 32 is completed, the user presses the cover portion 2143 in the direction opposite to the direction D1, causing the mounting base 2142 to slide on the rail portion 2141 in the direction opposite to the direction D1. This causes the movement mechanism 214 to move the second unit 32 placed on the mounting base 2142 in the direction opposite to the direction D1. Then, after the movement mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32 from the drawn-out position to the mounting position, the turntable 33 is attached to the drive shaft 3212 of the drive unit 321 included in the second unit 32, and the lid portion 312 is attached to the housing 311 of the first unit 31. Then, when the user operates the operation element 2151, the locking mechanism 215 presses the second unit 32 against the first unit 31, thereby locking the second unit 32 with respect to the first unit 31. In this manner, the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31.

[0081] As described above, according to the automated analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the reagent storage 203 can be separated into the first unit 31 and the second unit 32, and the moving mechanism 214 can move the second unit 32 separated from the first unit 31 from the loading position to the withdrawn position. Therefore, even if the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 in the reagent storage 203 breaks down, the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 included in the second unit 32 can be replaced without replacing the reagent storage 203 or the automated analyzer 1, thereby improving the maintainability of the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322. Therefore, the time required to respond to a breakdown of the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 can be shortened, and the throughput of the system can be improved.

[0082] In the first embodiment described above, a user may be able to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the placement position. Specifically, a ball plunger is provided on one of the rail portion 2141 and the placement base 2142, and a groove for engagement with the ball plunger is provided on the other of the rail portion 2141 and the placement base 2142. When the second unit 32 moves to the placement position, the ball plunger engages with the groove, thereby stopping the movement of the placement base 2142 relative to the rail portion 2141. This may allow the user to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the placement position. Alternatively, a protrusion may be provided on the rail portion 2141, so that when the second unit 32 moves to the placement position, the placement base 2142 hits the protrusion of the rail portion 2141, thereby stopping the movement of the placement base 2142 relative to the rail portion 2141. This may allow the user to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the placement position. The configuration for allowing the user to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the placement position is not limited to the example described above. That is, any configuration may be used to enable the user to recognize that second unit 32 has moved to the loading position. In the first embodiment described above, the above-described configuration may be used to enable the user to recognize that second unit 32 has moved to the drawn-out position.

[0083] Second Embodiment In the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, a second opening for passing the turntable 33 may be formed in the bottom of the housing 311 of the first unit 31. Below, the second embodiment will be described by taking the case where this modification is applied to the first embodiment described above as an example, and the differences from the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0084] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a reagent storage 203 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 4 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 12, the casing of the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment is different from the casing 311 according to the first embodiment described above, and is therefore referred to as casing 311a. The configuration and functions other than the casing 311a are the same as those of the reagent storage 203 according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0085] A second opening 3112a for allowing the turntable 33 to pass through is formed in the bottom of the housing 311a according to this embodiment. That is, the second opening 3112a is formed in the bottom of the housing 311a and is larger in the radial direction than the turntable 33. Specifically, since the turntable 33 according to this embodiment is circular, the second opening 3112a is formed in the bottom of the housing 311a and has a diameter larger than that of the turntable 33.

[0086] 13 and 14, a series of steps in which the reagent storage unit according to this embodiment is divided and the second unit 32 is moved to a predetermined position by the moving mechanism 214 will be described. Figures 13 and 14 are views of the reagent storage unit 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 according to this embodiment as viewed from the direction of the first side surface 111, and correspond to Figures 9 and 10 in the first embodiment described above. In Figures 13 and 14, the reagent storage unit 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 are shown in cross section along line BB in Figure 7.

[0087] First, as shown in Fig. 13, when separating the second unit 32 from the first unit 31, the operator 2151 is lifted. This unlocks the locking mechanism 215, that is, the second unit 32 is unlocked relative to the first unit 31. This allows the sliding portion 2153 of the locking mechanism 215 to slide, allowing the second unit 32 to move downward. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 13, unlocking the locking mechanism 215 allows the lid portion 312 to be removed from the first unit 31.

[0088] 14, the operator 2151 is lifted, allowing the second unit 32 to move downward, and while the second unit 32 moves downward, the rotary table 33 passes through the second opening 3112a formed in the bottom of the housing 311a, and the fixed plate 324 of the second unit 32 is placed on the mounting base 2142. That is, in this embodiment, the user can place the second unit 32 on the moving mechanism 214 without removing the lid portion 312 and the rotary table 33. Note that the series of steps from the procedure shown in FIG. 16 onwards, in which the second unit 32 moves to a predetermined position, are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described again.

[0089] Then, when replacement of the drive unit 321 and / or the cooling unit 322 or replacement of the second unit 32 is completed, the user presses the cover portion 2143 in the direction opposite to the direction D1, causing the mounting base 2142 to slide on the rail portion 2141 in the direction opposite to the direction D1. This causes the movement mechanism 214 to move the second unit 32 mounted on the mounting base 2142 in the direction opposite to the direction D1. After the movement mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32 from the pulled-out position to the mounting position, the user operates the operating element 2151 to press the second unit 32 against the first unit 31, thereby locking the second unit 32 relative to the first unit 31. In this way, the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31. That is, in this embodiment, the user does not need to remove and attach the cover portion 312 and the turntable 33.

[0090] As described above, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment described above, the reagent storage 203 can be separated into the first unit 31 and the second unit 32, and the moving mechanism 214 can move the second unit 32 separated from the first unit 31 from the loading position to the withdrawn position. Therefore, even if the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 in the reagent storage 203 breaks down, the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 included in the second unit 32 can be replaced without replacing the reagent storage 203 or the automated analyzer 1, thereby improving the maintainability of the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322. Therefore, the time required to respond to a breakdown of the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 can be shortened, and the throughput of the system can be improved.

[0091] Furthermore, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the second unit 32 can be separated from the first unit 31 without removing the lid portion 312 and the turntable 33. Therefore, in cases where other components are provided around the reagent storage 203 and the reagent storage 203 cannot be accessed without removing the other components, the user's effort in maintaining the reagent storage 203 can be reduced, and the maintainability of the reagent storage 203 can be improved.

[0092] Third Embodiment In the automated analyzers 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, the locking mechanism 215 can also be configured using a drive unit such as a motor. Below, a third embodiment will be described, taking as an example a case where this modification is applied to the first embodiment described above, and the differences from the first embodiment described above. This modification may also be applied to the second embodiment.

[0093] Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism 2 according to a third embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 3 of the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 15, the locking mechanism in the analysis mechanism according to this embodiment differs from the locking mechanism 215 according to the first embodiment described above, and is therefore referred to as locking mechanism 215a. The configuration and functions other than locking mechanism 215a are the same as those of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0094] The locking mechanism 215a locks the second unit 32 relative to the first unit 31. When the locking mechanism 215a locks the second unit 32 relative to the first unit 31, the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31, and the first unit 31 and the second unit 32 function as the reagent storage 203. The specific configuration of this locking mechanism 215a will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17 in addition to FIG. 15. FIG. 16 is a view of the reagent storage 203, the movement mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215a according to this embodiment, viewed from the direction of the third side surface 113, and corresponds to FIG. 7 in the first embodiment described above. FIG. 17 is a view of the reagent storage 203, the movement mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215a according to this embodiment, viewed from the direction of the third side surface 113. The reagent storage 203, the movement mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215a in FIG. 17 are shown in cross section CC in FIG. 16. 15 to 17, the locking mechanism 215a according to this embodiment is configured to include a pressing member 2154, a pressing member drive unit 2155, and a guide 2156. Note that although the locking mechanism 215a according to this embodiment is configured to include the pressing member 2154, the pressing member drive unit 2155, and the guide 2156, the configuration of the locking mechanism 215a is not limited to this. In other words, the configuration of the locking mechanism 215a is arbitrary.

[0095] When locking the second unit 32 to the first unit 31, the pressing member 2154 comes into contact with the fixing plate 324 of the second unit 32 and presses the second unit 32 against the first unit 31. The pressing member 2154 is provided on the lower part of the second unit 32.

[0096] The pressing member driving unit 2155 moves the pressing member 2154. Specifically, the pressing member driving unit 2155 moves the pressing member 2154 in the vertical direction. This pressing member driving unit 2155 includes a drive shaft 2155_1 and a motor 2155_2. The pressing member 2154 is screwed onto the drive shaft 2155_1, and when the motor 2155_2 is driven, the pressing member 2154 can be moved in the vertical direction along the drive shaft 2155_1. The guide 2156 guides the movement of the pressing member 2154 in the vertical direction. Specifically, the guide 2156 is inserted into a hole formed in the pressing member 2154, and guides the movement of the pressing member 2154 in the vertical direction.

[0097] Next, with reference to Fig. 18, a series of steps in which the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment is divided and the second unit 32 is moved to a predetermined position by the moving mechanism 214 will be described. Fig. 18 is a view of the reagent storage 203, moving mechanism 214, and locking mechanism 215a according to this embodiment as seen from the direction of the first side, and corresponds to Fig. 10 in the first embodiment described above. The reagent storage 203, moving mechanism 214, and locking mechanism 215a in Fig. 18 are shown in cross section CC in Fig. 16.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 18 , in a state where the pressing member 2154 is pressing the second unit 32, that is, in a state where the second unit 32 is locked to the first unit 31 by the locking mechanism 215a, the user removes the cover 312 from the housing 311 and removes the turntable 33 stored in the first unit 31 from the drive shaft 3212 of the drive unit 321 through the first opening 3111 of the housing 311. Then, the user presses a button (not shown) provided on the analysis mechanism 2 to drive the pressing member drive unit 2155. As a result, the pressing member 2154 moves downward along the drive shaft, and the drive shaft 3212 is removed from the second opening 3112 of the first unit 31, and the fixing plate 324 of the second unit 32 is placed on the mounting table 2142. Note that the series of steps from the procedure shown in FIG. 18 onwards in which the second unit 32 moves to a predetermined position are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described again.

[0099] Then, when replacement of the drive unit 321 and / or the cooling unit 322 or replacement of the second unit 32 is completed, the user presses the cover portion 2143 in the direction opposite to the direction D1 shown in Fig. 11, causing the mounting base 2142 to slide on the rail portion 2141 in the direction opposite to the direction D1 shown in Fig. 11. This causes the movement mechanism 214 to move the second unit 32 mounted on the mounting base 2142 in the direction opposite to the direction D1. Then, after the movement mechanism 214 has moved the second unit 32 from the pulled-out position to the mounting position, the user presses a button (not shown), causing the locking mechanism 215a to move the second unit 32 upward and lock the second unit 32 relative to the first unit 31 while pressing the second unit 32 against the first unit 31. Then, the rotary table 33 is attached to the drive shaft 3212 of the drive unit 321 included in the second unit 32, and the lid unit 312 is attached to the housing 311 of the first unit 31. In this way, the second unit 32 is attached to the first unit 31 and functions as the reagent storage 203.

[0100] As described above, according to the automated analyzer 1 of this embodiment, even when the locking mechanism 215a is configured to include a drive unit such as a motor, the reagent storage 203 can be separated into the first unit 31 and the second unit 32, as in the first embodiment described above, and the moving mechanism 214 can move the second unit 32 separated from the first unit 31 from the loading position to the withdrawn position. Therefore, even if the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 in the reagent storage 203 malfunctions, the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 included in the second unit 32 can be replaced without replacing the reagent storage 203 or the automated analyzer 1, thereby improving the maintainability of the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322. Therefore, the time required to respond to a malfunction of the drive unit 321 or the cooling unit 322 can be shortened, and the system throughput can be improved.

[0101] [Modification 1 of the first to third embodiments] In the above-described automatic analyzers 1 according to the first to third embodiments, an example has been described in which the reaction disk 201 is provided above the reagent storage 203. However, the reagent storage 203 and the reaction disk 201 may be arranged adjacent to each other, for example, on the same plane. FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism 2 according to Modification 1. As shown in FIG. 19, the analysis mechanism 2 according to Modification 1 is configured by arranging the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage 203 on the same plane. Even when the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage 203 are arranged in this manner, the first to third embodiments are applicable.

[0102] [Modification 2 of the First to Third Embodiments] Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments described above, the moving mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32 separated from the first unit 31 from the loading position to the pull-out position, but the moving mechanism 214 may also move the second unit 32 to an accessible position within the device main body 11, which is a position where the user can access the second unit 32.

[0103] 20 is a view of the reagent storage 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 in Modification 2 as viewed from the direction of the first side surface 111, and corresponds to FIG. 11 in the first embodiment described above. The reagent storage 203, the moving mechanism 214, and the locking mechanism 215 in FIG. 20 are shown in cross section along line BB in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 20, the moving mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32 from the placement position to the accessible position. The accessible position is a position within the device body 11 where the user can access the second unit 32 separated from the first unit 31. In other words, the accessible position is a position where the user can access the second unit 32 when all or part of the second unit 32 is located within the device body 11.

[0104] In the above-described second modification, the user may be able to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the accessible position. Specifically, a ball plunger may be provided on one of the rail portion 2141 and the mounting base 2142, and a groove for engagement with the ball plunger may be provided on the other of the rail portion 2141 and the mounting base 2142. When the second unit 32 moves to the accessible position, the ball plunger engages with the groove, thereby stopping the movement of the mounting base 2142 relative to the rail portion 2141. This may allow the user to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the accessible position. Alternatively, a protrusion may be provided on the rail portion 2141, so that when the second unit 32 moves to the accessible position, the mounting base 2142 abuts against the protrusion of the rail portion 2141, thereby stopping the movement of the mounting base 2142 relative to the rail portion 2141. This may allow the user to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the accessible position. The configuration for allowing the user to recognize that the second unit 32 has moved to the accessible position is not limited to the above-described example. That is, any configuration may be used to enable the user to recognize that second unit 32 has been moved to an accessible position.

[0105] [Other Modifications of the First to Third Embodiments] In the above-described automatic analyzers 1 according to the first to third embodiments, the moving mechanism 214 is configured to include the rail portion 2141, the mounting base 2142, and the cover portion 2143, but the configuration of the moving mechanism 214 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the moving mechanism 214 is arbitrary, and for example, the moving mechanism 214 may be configured with a linear shaft, a linear bushing, or the like instead of the rail portion 2141, and when the moving mechanism 214 moves the second unit 32 under the control of the control circuit 9, it may be configured with a linear guide and a ball screw equipped with a motor.

[0106] In the above-described first and second embodiments of the automatic analyzer 1, the locking mechanism 215 includes the operator 2151, the fixed portion 2152, and the sliding portion 2153, but the configuration of the locking mechanism 215 is not limited to this. In other words, the configuration of the locking mechanism 215 is arbitrary.

[0107] Furthermore, in the automated analyzers 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above, the second unit 32 includes both the drive unit 321 and the cooling unit 322. However, the second unit 32 may include at least one of the drive unit 321 and the cooling unit 322. Specifically, the drive unit 321 may be included in the second unit 32, and the cooling unit 322 may be included in the first unit 31. That is, the drive unit 321 may be attached to the fixing plate 324 of the second unit 32, and the cooling unit 322 may be attached to the housing 311 of the first unit 31. Furthermore, the cooling unit 322 may be included in the second unit 32, and the drive unit 321 may be included in the first unit 31. That is, the cooling unit 322 may be attached to the fixing plate 324 of the second unit 32, and the drive unit 321 may be attached to the housing 311 of the first unit 31.

[0108] Furthermore, although the application of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first to third embodiments to an automatic analyzer that performs biochemical tests has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the first to third embodiments can be applied to any of an automatic analyzer that performs blood coagulation analysis tests, an automatic analyzer that performs immunoassays, and an automatic analyzer that performs two or more of biochemical tests, blood coagulation analysis tests, and immunoassays.

[0109] 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), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). A processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. Instead of storing a program in a memory circuit, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. A processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may also be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its functions. Furthermore, multiple components may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0110] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and method described herein may be embodied in various other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made to the forms of the apparatus and method described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms and modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 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, 11...apparatus main body, 21...sample rack, 22...sample container, 23...reagent container, 31...first unit, 32...second unit, 33...rotary table, 91...system control function, 92...dispensing control function, 93...reporting function

Claims

1. a first unit including at least a housing formed to be able to store a reagent container and a turntable on which the reagent container is placed; a second unit including at least one of a drive unit that drives the rotary table and a cooling unit that cools the reagent containers, the second unit being separable from the first unit; A reagent storehouse equipped with:

2. The reagent repository according to claim 1 , wherein the first unit has a probe insertion hole into which a probe can be inserted, and further includes a lid portion that covers a first opening formed in an upper portion of the housing.

3. The reagent repository according to claim 1 , wherein when the second unit includes the drive unit, a second opening is formed in the bottom of the housing for accommodating a drive shaft of the drive unit.

4. The reagent repository according to claim 1 , wherein a second opening is formed in the bottom of the housing, through which the rotary table passes.

5. a protrusion is provided on one of the first unit and the second unit, a recess into which the protrusion is inserted is provided on the other of the first unit and the second unit, The reagent repository according to claim 1 , wherein the second unit is positioned relative to the first unit by inserting the convex portion into the concave portion.

6. The protrusion is formed by a positioning pin, The reagent repository according to claim 5 , wherein the recess is a pin insertion hole into which the positioning pin is inserted.

7. The reagent repository according to claim 1 , wherein one of the first unit and the second unit further comprises a sealing member disposed between the first unit and the second unit.

8. A reagent storage according to any one of claims 1 to 7; a moving mechanism that moves the second unit separated from the first unit to a predetermined position; An automatic analyzer comprising:

9. further comprising an apparatus body that accommodates at least the reagent storage and the moving mechanism; the predetermined position is a drawn-out position where the second unit is drawn out from inside the device body to outside the device body, 9. The automated analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the moving mechanism moves the second unit separated from the first unit from a loading position where the second unit separated from the first unit is loaded on the moving mechanism to the extraction position.

10. further comprising an apparatus body that houses the reagent storage and the moving mechanism; the predetermined position is an accessible position in the device body where a user can access the second unit separated from the first unit, The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the moving mechanism moves the second unit separated from the first unit from a placement position where the second unit separated from the first unit is placed on the moving mechanism to the accessible position.

11. The automated analyzer according to claim 8 , further comprising a locking mechanism that locks the second unit relative to the first unit.

12. The locking mechanism is an operator that is operated by a user to switch between locking and unlocking the locking mechanism; pressing the second unit against the first unit when locking the second unit with respect to the first unit in response to an operation of the operating element; The automatic analyzer according to claim 11.

13. The automated analyzer according to claim 12 , wherein the operator is provided on an upper portion of the reagent storage.

Images