Reagent container and automatic analysis device

Abstract

To enable appropriate reduction of bubbles generated in a reagent in a reagent container.SOLUTION: A reagent container according to an embodiment is designed to be placed in a rotating reagent storage of an automatic analysis device. The reagent container comprises obstructing parts. The obstructing parts partially separates between an inner diameter side and an outer diameter side inside the reagent container while rotating. Gaps between the obstructing parts and side surfaces of the reagent container are designed to increase from upper parts of the obstructing parts to lower parts.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, automated analyzers measure test items by dispensing a reagent and a sample into a reaction vessel and optically measuring changes in color, turbidity, etc., that occur due to the reaction of the mixed solution between the reagent and the sample. When dispensing a reagent, a reagent storage room in which the reagent container is placed is rotated, and the reagent container is moved to an aspirating position where the reagent is aspirated by a reagent dispensing probe.

[0003] Furthermore, conventional automated analyzers have been equipped with a liquid level detection function that detects the liquid level of the reagent so that the reagent dispensing probe can be appropriately lowered to the liquid level in the reagent container at the aspirating position. However, if bubbles form in the reagent in the reagent container when the reagent storage rotates or stops, the liquid level detection function may erroneously detect the bubbles as the liquid level. In this case, the reagent dispensing probe cannot be appropriately lowered to the liquid level, making it difficult for the reagent dispensing probe to appropriately aspirate the reagent.

[0004] Therefore, in order to reduce bubbles generated in the reagent, a baffle is sometimes provided in the reagent container, which reduces bubbles generated in the reagent by restricting the movement of the reagent in the reagent container. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2016-516990 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve is to appropriately reduce bubbles that form in a reagent in a reagent container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A reagent container according to an embodiment is installed in a rotating reagent storage of an automated analyzer. The reagent container includes an obstruction section. The obstruction section partially obstructs the inner diameter side and the outer diameter side of the reagent container during rotation. The gap between the obstruction section and the side surface of the reagent container is configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of a reagent container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a reagent container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front view showing an obstruction portion of the reagent container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of a reagent in a reagent container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of a reagent in a reagent container according to a comparative example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front view showing an obstruction section of a reagent container according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view showing an obstruction section of a reagent container according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an obstruction section of a reagent container according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a front view showing an obstruction section of a reagent container according to a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a front view showing a first obstruction part of a reagent container according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of a reagent in a reagent container according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an 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.

[0010] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. The automatic analyzer 1 shown in Fig. 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.

[0011] The analysis mechanism 2 adds reagents used for each test item set for the sample to a standard sample (i.e., a calibrator) and a test sample, etc., to obtain a mixture of the sample and the reagent (i.e., a reaction solution). The analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixture of the sample and the reagent, and generates standard data and test data expressed, for example, as absorbance or scattered light intensity. The standard data represents measurement data of absorbance, fluorescence intensity, or scattered light intensity, or measurement data of luminescence, phosphorescence, or a combination thereof, for a standard sample containing a known concentration of the analyte. The test data represents measurement data of absorbance, fluorescence intensity, or scattered light intensity for the test sample. In the following description, when there is no distinction between the standard sample and the test sample, they may be simply referred to as "sample."

[0012] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2 and generates calibration data, analytical data, etc. The calibration data indicates, for example, the relationship between the standard data and a standard calibration curve previously established for a standard sample. The standard calibration curve is, for example, a calibration curve with high measurement accuracy calculated by a reagent manufacturer using a standard sample. The analytical data is data expressed, for example, as concentration values ​​and enzyme activity values, obtained by analyzing the test data based on the calibration data.

[0013] The analysis circuit 3 executes an operating program stored in the memory circuit 8 and realizes functions corresponding to this operating program to generate calibration data, analysis data, etc. For example, the analysis circuit 3 calculates calibration data based on standard data obtained for a standard sample with a known absorbance or scattered light amount and a concentration of 0, and multiple standard samples with known absorbance or scattered light amount and known concentrations, a standard calibration curve previously set for these standard samples, and a preset photometric timing, etc. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analysis data based on test data, calibration data for test items corresponding to the test data, and a preset photometric timing, etc. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analysis 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. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like.

[0015] The input interface 5 receives, for example, settings such as analytical parameters for each test item related to a sample requested for measurement by an operator or via the hospital network NW. 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 the electrical signals to the control circuit 9. Note that in this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to an interface having physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, 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 the electrical signals to the control circuit 9 is also included as an example of the input interface 5.

[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 and a printed circuit. The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, and a plasma display. 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. The printed circuit also includes an output circuit that outputs data representing a print object to the outside.

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

[0018] The memory circuitry 8 is a non-transitory storage device that stores various information, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), an optical disk, a solid state drive (SSD), or an integrated circuit storage device. The memory circuitry 8 stores, for example, a control program that controls the automatic analyzer 1 and various data used to execute the control program. In addition to an HDD or SSD, the memory circuitry 8 may also be a drive device that reads and writes various information from / to portable storage media such as a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), or a flash memory, or a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM). Note that the memory circuitry 8 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuitry 8 may be realized by multiple storage devices.

[0019] More specifically, the memory circuitry 8 stores an operating program executed by the analysis circuitry 3 and an operating program executed by the control circuitry 9. The memory circuitry 8 stores calibration curve information related to the reagents held in the analysis mechanism 2. The calibration curve information includes data related to a standard calibration curve previously set for the reagent for each test item. The calibration curve information is provided by the reagent manufacturer via the communication interface 7, for example, on a reagent lot basis. Note that the calibration curve information may also be provided by the reagent manufacturer together with the reagent, and input by the user via the input interface 5.

[0020] 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, thereby realizing functions corresponding to the operating program. The control circuit 9 may also include a memory area for storing at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Fig. 1. The analysis mechanism 2 shown in Fig. 2 includes a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a sample disk 203, a first reagent storage 204, and a second reagent storage 205.

[0022] The reaction disk 201 transports the reaction vessels 2011 along a predetermined path. Specifically, the reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction vessels 2011 arranged in a ring shape. The reaction disk 201 is rotated and stopped alternately at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4.

[0023] For example, the reaction vessel 2011 rotates in the direction of arrow R1 in Fig. 2 for each cycle time and stops at a different stop position than before the movement. For example, the reaction vessel 2011 rotates in the R1 direction for each cycle time due to the rotational drive of the reaction disk 201, and stops at the position of the reaction vessel 2011 adjacent in the R1 direction to the reaction vessel 2011 positioned at an angle of 90° in the R1 direction from the position before the movement. The reaction vessel 2011 stops at the same stop position for each round time, which is longer than one cycle time.

[0024] The reaction vessel 2011 can stop at a sample discharging position, a first reagent discharging position, a second reagent discharging position, a first stirring position, a second stirring position, and a washing position, which will be described later.

[0025] The reaction vessel 2011 is made of, for example, glass. The reaction vessel 2011 has a rectangular prism shape and an opening at the top. Of the first to fourth side walls forming the rectangular prism, light emitted from a light source provided in the photometric unit 214 is incident from the outer surface of the first side wall. Of the first to fourth side walls, the light incident from the outer surface of the first side wall is emitted from the outer surface of the second side wall opposite the first side wall.

[0026] The thermostatic unit 202 stores a heat medium set to a predetermined temperature. The thermostatic unit 202 raises the temperature of the mixed liquid contained in the reaction vessel 2011 by immersing the reaction vessel 2011 in the stored heat medium.

[0027] The sample disk 203 holds a plurality of sample containers for accommodating samples. The sample disk 203 is rotated and stopped by the driving mechanism 4 for each cycle time.

[0028] The first reagent storage 204 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 2042 refrigerated, each containing a first reagent that reacts with a standard sample and a predetermined component contained in a test sample. The first reagent may be, for example, a buffer solution containing bovine serum albumin (BSA). A reagent label is affixed to the reagent container 2042. 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 information is information about the reagent contained in the reagent container 2042, and includes, for example, the reagent name, reagent manufacturer code, reagent item code, bottle type, bottle size, capacity, manufacturing lot number, and expiration date.

[0029] The first reagent storage 204 also stores a plurality of standard sample containers for refrigerating standard samples. The standard sample containers may contain standard samples of the same component but with different concentrations. The standard sample containers may be held on the sample disk 203.

[0030] A reagent rack 2041 is rotatably provided in the first reagent storage 204. The reagent rack 2041 holds a plurality of reagent containers 2042 and a plurality of standard sample containers arranged in a circular ring shape. The reagent rack 2041 is rotated and stopped for each cycle time by the drive mechanism 4. In addition, a reader (not shown) is provided in the first reagent storage 204 to read reagent information from the reagent labels affixed to the reagent containers 2042. The read reagent information is stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0031] 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 the first reagent dispensing probe 209 intersects with the movement paths of the openings of the reagent containers 2042 and standard sample containers arranged in a circular pattern on the reagent rack 2041.

[0032] The second reagent storage 205 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 2052 refrigerated, each containing a second reagent that pairs with a first reagent of a two-reagent system. The second reagent may be, for example, a solution containing a predetermined antigen or antibody contained in the sample and an insoluble carrier, such as carrier particles, to which an antigen or antibody that binds or dissociates by a specific antigen-antibody reaction is immobilized. The substance that binds or dissociates by a specific reaction may also be an enzyme, a substrate, an aptamer, or a receptor. A reagent rack 2051 is rotatably provided within the second reagent storage 205.

[0033] The reagent rack 2051 holds a plurality of reagent containers 2052 arranged in a circular ring. Note that a standard sample container that holds a standard sample may be kept cold in the second reagent storage 205. The reagent rack 2051 is rotated and stopped for each cycle time by the drive mechanism 4. A reader (not shown) that reads reagent information from the reagent labels affixed to the reagent containers 2052 is provided in the second reagent storage 205. The read reagent information is stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0034] 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 2052 arranged in a circular pattern on the reagent rack 2051.

[0035] 2 includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a first reagent dispensing arm 208, a first reagent dispensing probe 209, a second reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, a first stirring unit 212, a second stirring unit 213, a photometry unit 214, and a cleaning unit 215. The sample dispensing probe 207 is an example of a first dispensing probe. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the second reagent dispensing probe 211 are examples of second dispensing probes.

[0036] The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the sample disk 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 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 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0037] The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arcuate rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm 206. The opening of the sample container held by the sample disk 203 is positioned on this rotational path. In addition, a sample discharge position for discharging the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction container 2011 is provided on the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207. The sample discharge position corresponds to the intersection of the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement path of the reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0038] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically either directly above the opening of a sample container held by the sample disk 203 or at the sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the sample in accordance with the operation of a dispensing pump connected to the sample dispensing probe 207. That is, the sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates the sample from the sample container located directly below it by the suction operation of the dispensing pump in accordance with the control of the dispensing pump by the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 also dispenses the aspirated sample into a reaction container 2011 located directly below the sample discharge position by the discharge operation of the dispensing pump in accordance with the control of the dispensing pump by the control circuit 9.

[0039] The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided near the outer periphery of 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.

[0040] 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. In addition, a first reagent dispensing position for dispensing the first reagent or standard sample aspirated by the first reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction vessel 2011 is 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 vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0041] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 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 209 dispenses the first reagent or standard sample in accordance with the operation of a first reagent pump connected to the first reagent dispensing probe 209. That is, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the first reagent or standard sample from the reagent container 2042 located directly below the first reagent aspirating position by the aspirating operation of the first reagent pump in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9. Furthermore, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 discharges the aspirated first reagent or standard sample into the reaction container 2011 located directly below the first reagent dispensing position by the dispensing operation of the first reagent pump in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9.

[0042] The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided near the outer periphery of the first reagent storage 204. 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 a drive mechanism 4. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 holds a second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end.

[0043] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm 210. A second reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. In addition, a second reagent dispensing position for dispensing the second reagent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction vessel 2011 is set on the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The second reagent dispensing position corresponds to the intersection of the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement path of the reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0044] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 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 211 dispenses the second reagent in accordance with the operation of a second reagent pump connected to the second reagent dispensing probe 211. That is, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 aspirates the second reagent from the reagent container 2052 located immediately below the second reagent aspirating position by the aspirating operation of the second reagent pump in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9. Furthermore, the second reagent dispensing probe 211 discharges the aspirated second reagent into the reaction container 2011 located immediately below the second reagent dispensing position by the dispensing operation of the second reagent pump in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9.

[0045] The first stirring unit 212 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 212 has a first stirring arm 2121 and a first stirring bar provided at the tip of the first stirring arm 2121. The first stirring unit 212 uses the first stirring bar to stir the standard sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 212 also uses the first stirring bar to stir the sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

[0046] The second stirring unit 213 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 213 has a second stirring arm 2131 and a second stirring bar provided at the tip of the second stirring arm 2131. The second stirring unit 213 uses the second stirring bar to stir 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 213 also uses the second stirring bar to stir the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the second stirring position.

[0047] The photometry unit 214 optically measures the mixed liquid of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent dispensed into the reaction vessel 2011 at a photometry position. More specifically, the photometry unit 214 measures the photometry of the mixed liquid held in the reaction vessel 2011 that has passed the photometry position as a result of the rotation of the reaction disk 201 by the drive mechanism 4. The photometry unit 214 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometry unit 214 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 214 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011 with the photodetector.

[0048] 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 that has passed through a mixture of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 2011, and generates standard data represented by absorbance based on the intensity of the detected light. The photodetector also detects light that has passed through a mixture of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 2011, and generates test data represented by absorbance based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit 214 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0049] The cleaning unit 215 cleans the reaction vessel 2011 that has been measured and is located at the cleaning position. More specifically, the cleaning unit 215 cleans the inside of the reaction vessel 2011 after the photometry unit 214 has finished measuring the mixed solution.

[0050] 1 is a circuit that controls the overall operation of the automatic analyzer 1 in response to electrical signals of input operations input from the input interface 5. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91, a calibration control function 92, and a measurement control function 93.

[0051] Here, for example, the processing functions executed by the system control function 91, calibration control function 92, and measurement control function 93, which are components of the control circuit 9 shown in FIG. 1, are recorded in the storage circuit 8 in the form of programs executable by a computer. The control circuit 9 is, for example, a processor. The processor constituting the control circuit 9 reads each program from the storage circuit 8 and executes it to realize the function corresponding to each read program. In other words, the control circuit 9 in a state in which each program has been read has each function shown in the control circuit 9 of FIG. 1.

[0052] 1 shows a case where the processing functions of the system control function 91, the calibration control function 92, and the measurement control function 93 are each realized by a single control circuit 9, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the control circuit 9 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may realize each processing function by executing a respective program. Furthermore, each processing function of the control circuit 9 may be realized by being appropriately distributed or integrated into a single or multiple control circuits.

[0053] The system control function 91 is a function that controls all the parts of the automatic analyzer 1 based on the input information input from the input interface 5 .

[0054] The calibration control function 92 is a function that controls the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4 so as to generate standard data. Specifically, the control circuit 9 executes the calibration control function 92 at predetermined timings. Examples of predetermined timings include during initial setup, when the device is started up, during maintenance, and when a user inputs an instruction to start a calibration operation.

[0055] When the calibration control function 92 is executed, the control circuit 9 controls the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4. By controlling the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4, standard data is generated in the analysis mechanism 2. Specifically, for example, by being driven by the drive mechanism 4, the first reagent dispensing probe 209 of the analysis mechanism 2 aspirates a standard sample from the first reagent storage 204 and dispenses the aspirated standard sample into the reaction vessel 2011. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates a first reagent from the first reagent storage 204 and dispenses the aspirated first reagent into the reaction vessel 2011 from which the standard sample was dispensed. The first stirring unit 212 stirs a solution in which the first reagent has been added to the standard sample.

[0056] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 aspirates the second reagent from the second reagent storage 205 and dispenses the aspirated second reagent into a mixed solution obtained by mixing the standard sample and the first reagent. The second stirring unit 213 stirs the solution obtained by adding the second reagent to the mixed solution. The photometric unit 214 generates standard data by optically measuring the mixed solution obtained by stirring the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent. The photometric unit 214 outputs the generated standard data to the analysis circuit 3. The photometric unit 214 repeats measurement of the mixed solution a predetermined number of times at a predetermined cycle and outputs the generated standard data to the analysis circuit 3. The analysis mechanism 2 repeats the above operation for standard samples of multiple predetermined concentrations and outputs the generated standard data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0057] The measurement control function 93 is a function that controls the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4 so as to generate test data. Specifically, the control circuit 9 executes the measurement control function 93 in response to a predetermined instruction. The predetermined instruction is, for example, an instruction to start a measurement operation input by a user, an instruction indicating that a preset time has been reached, etc.

[0058] When the measurement control function 93 is executed, the control circuit 9 controls the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4. By controlling the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4, test data is generated in the analysis mechanism 2. Specifically, by being driven by the drive mechanism 4, the sample dispensing probe 207 of the analysis mechanism 2 aspirates the test sample from the sample disk 203 and dispenses the aspirated test sample into the reaction vessel 2011. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the first reagent from the first reagent storage 204 and dispenses the aspirated first reagent into the reaction vessel 2011 from which the test sample was dispensed. When the first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the first reagent, the control circuit 9 detects the liquid level of the first reagent in the reagent container 2042 based on the contact state of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 with the reagent in the reagent container 2042. For example, the control circuit 9 detects the liquid level of the first reagent based on a change in electrical characteristics (e.g., capacitance or resistance value) when the lower end of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 comes into contact with the first reagent. Then, the control circuit 9 causes the drive mechanism 4 to lower the first reagent dispensing probe 209 until the liquid level of the first reagent is detected, causing the first reagent dispensing probe 209 to aspirate the first reagent. The first stirring unit 212 stirs the solution in which the first reagent has been added to the test sample.

[0059] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 aspirates the second reagent from the second reagent storage 205 and dispenses the aspirated second reagent into a mixed solution obtained by mixing the test sample and the first reagent. As with the aspirating of the first reagent by the first reagent dispensing probe 209, when the second reagent dispensing probe 211 aspirates the second reagent, the control circuit 9 controls the drive mechanism 4 to lower the second reagent dispensing probe 211 until the liquid level of the second reagent is detected, causing the second reagent dispensing probe 211 to aspirate the second reagent. The second stirring unit 213 stirs the solution obtained by adding the second reagent to the mixed solution. The photometry unit 214 optically measures the mixed solution obtained by stirring the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent, thereby generating test data. The photometry unit 214 outputs the generated test data to the analysis circuit 3. The photometry unit 214 repeats measurement of the mixed solution a predetermined number of times at a predetermined cycle and outputs the generated test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0060] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that analyzes the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2 and generates calibration data, analytical data, etc. The calibration data indicates, for example, the relationship between the standard data and a standard calibration curve previously established for a standard sample. The standard calibration curve is, for example, a calibration curve with high measurement accuracy calculated by a reagent manufacturer using a standard sample. The analytical data is data expressed, for example, as concentration values ​​and enzyme activity values, obtained by analyzing the test data based on the calibration data.

[0061] The analysis circuit 3 executes an operating program stored in the memory circuit 8 and realizes functions corresponding to this operating program to generate calibration data, analysis data, etc. For example, the analysis circuit 3 calculates calibration data based on standard data obtained for a standard sample with a known absorbance or scattered light amount and a concentration of 0, and multiple standard samples with known absorbance or scattered light amount and known concentrations, a standard calibration curve previously set for these standard samples, and a preset photometric timing, etc. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analysis data based on test data, calibration data for test items corresponding to the test data, and a preset photometric timing, etc. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analysis data, etc. to the control circuit 9.

[0062] Next, the details of the reagent container 2042 according to the first embodiment will be described. Note that, although the configuration of the reagent container 2042 installed in the first reagent storage 204 will be described below, the configuration of the reagent container 2052 installed in the second reagent storage 205 may also be similar to that of the reagent container 2042. FIG. 3 is a side view showing an example configuration of the reagent container 2042 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example configuration of the reagent container 2042 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view showing the obstruction blocking units 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D of the reagent container 2042 according to the first embodiment. In FIGS. 3 to 5, the D1 direction is defined as the inner side in the rotation radius direction of the first reagent storage 204, i.e., the inner diameter side. The D2 direction is defined as the outer side in the rotation radius direction of the first reagent storage 204, i.e., the outer diameter side. The D3 direction is defined as the upward direction. The D4 direction is defined as the downward direction.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the reagent container 2042 includes a plate-shaped lid 11 having a first reagent outlet 14 formed therein, and a main body 12 to which the lid 11 is fixed at the top. The reagent container 2042 is placed in a rotatable first reagent storage 204 of the automated analyzer 1. The reagent container 2042 includes four shielding sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, each of which is composed of a first shielding section 13A, a second shielding section 13B, a third shielding section 13C, and a fourth shielding section 13D. The number of shielding sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D is not limited to four. For example, the number of shielding sections may be one to three, or may be five or more.

[0064] The obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D partially block the inner diameter side and the outer diameter side of the first reagent storage 204 when the first reagent storage 204 rotates inside the reagent container 2042. The first obstruction section 13A is arranged on the innermost diameter side D1 of the four obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. The first obstruction section 13A is arranged on the inner diameter side D1 of the outlet 14. The first obstruction section 13A partially blocks the area on the inner diameter side D1 of the first obstruction section 13A and the area on the outer diameter side D2 of the first obstruction section 13A inside the reagent container 2042. The second obstruction section 13B is arranged on the outer diameter side D2 of the first obstruction section 13A. The second obstruction section 13B is arranged on the outer diameter side D2 of the outlet 14. The second obstruction part 13B partially blocks an area D1 on the inner diameter side of the second obstruction part 13B and an area D2 on the outer diameter side of the second obstruction part 13B inside the reagent container 2042. The third obstruction part 13C is arranged on the outer diameter side D2 of the second obstruction part 13B. The third obstruction part 13C partially blocks an area D1 on the inner diameter side of the third obstruction part 13C and an area D2 on the outer diameter side of the third obstruction part 13C inside the reagent container 2042. The fourth obstruction part 13D is arranged on the outer diameter side D2 of the third obstruction part 13C. The fourth obstruction part 13D partially blocks an area D1 on the inner diameter side of the fourth obstruction part 13D and an area D2 on the outer diameter side of the fourth obstruction part 13D inside the reagent container 2042.

[0065] Here, the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided to reduce bubbles generated in the first reagent R. However, unless the gaps G1 and G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 are appropriately maintained, bubbles may be generated in the first reagent R due to the structure of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0066] Therefore, in order to prevent bubbles from being generated in the first reagent R due to the structure of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, the first embodiment is configured to appropriately maintain gaps G1 and G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 5, the gaps G1 and G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 are configured to increase in size from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. More specifically, a gap G1 between one end 131 of each of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 of the first reagent storage 204 and one side surface 1221 of the reagent container 2042 in the rotation direction R1 of the first reagent storage 204 facing the end 131 is configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. Also, a gap G2 between the other end 132 of each of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 of the first reagent storage 204 and the other side surface 1222 of the reagent container 2042 in the rotation direction R1 of the first reagent storage 204 facing the end 132 is configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. At the same height, the sizes of the two gaps G1 and G2 may be the same.

[0067] 3, the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided on the inner upper surface 111 of the reagent container 2042 (i.e., the lower surface of the lid section 11) so as to extend downward D4, which is the direction toward the bottom surface 121 of the reagent container 2042. The obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are integrally molded with the lid section 11 using, for example, a mold.

[0068] The outlet 14 described above is provided at the position of the inner diameter side D1 in the inner upper surface 111 of the reagent container 2042 so as to penetrate the inner upper surface 111. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the bottom surface 121 of the reagent container 2042 is inclined so as to move away from the inner upper surface 111 as it approaches the outlet 14 in the rotation radius direction of the first reagent storage 204. By inclining the bottom surface 121 of the reagent container 2042 so as to move away from the inner upper surface 111 as it approaches the outlet 14, it is possible to reduce the dead volume, which is the space in the reagent container 2042 where the first reagent accumulates without being sucked up. As shown in FIG. 4, the dead volume can be further reduced by providing a recess 121a in the bottom surface 121 facing the outlet 14.

[0069] As described above, the four obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are spaced apart in the rotation radius direction of the first reagent storage 204. Of the four obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, the first obstruction section 13A and the second obstruction section 13B, which are closer to the outlet 14, extend downward D4 (i.e., toward the bottom surface 121) than the third obstruction section 13C and the fourth obstruction section 13D, which are farthest from the outlet 14. Note that the third obstruction section 13C, which is closer to the outlet 14 than the fourth obstruction section 13D, extends downward D4 than the fourth obstruction section 13D. The lower ends of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D may be in contact with the bottom surface 121 or may be spaced upward D3 from the bottom surface 121.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 5, the widths W of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 of the first reagent storage 204 decrease from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the widths W of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D decrease continuously from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. More specifically, the ends 131 and 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 of the first reagent storage 204 have linear shapes inclined with respect to the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222. That is, the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D have trapezoidal shapes (i.e., wedge shapes) when viewed from the rotation radius direction of the first reagent storage 204.

[0071] 3, the reagent container 2042 further includes a reinforcing portion 15 connected to the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and reinforcing the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the reinforcing portion 15 protrudes from the center of the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 toward the outer diameter side D2. The reinforcing portion 15 may also protrude from the center of the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 toward the inner diameter side D1.

[0072] Each of the cover part 11 and the main body part 12 provided with the obstruction parts 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D may be formed by, for example, resin molding using a mold.

[0073] Next, an example of the movement of the reagent in the reagent container 2042 configured as above will be described. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of the reagent in the reagent container 2042 according to the first embodiment.

[0074] When the reagent container 2042 placed in the first reagent storage 204 is moved to the first suction position, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the first reagent storage 204 in a rotation direction R1. When the first reagent storage 204 is rotated, a centrifugal force due to the rotation of the first reagent storage 204 acts on the first reagent R in the reagent container 2042. Due to the action of the centrifugal force, the first reagent R in the reagent container 2042 is moved to the outer diameter side D2 of the reagent container 2042, as shown in FIG. 6 (step S1).

[0075] When the first reagent storage 204 reaches the first suction position, the drive mechanism 4 stops the rotation of the first reagent storage 204. When the rotation of the first reagent storage 204 stops, the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the first reagent storage 204 is no longer applied to the first reagent R in the reagent container 2042. As the centrifugal force is no longer applied, the first reagent R that has been moved to the outer diameter side D2 of the reagent container 2042 attempts to return to the inner diameter side D1.

[0076] At this time, the gaps G1 and G2 between the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 become larger from the top to the bottom of the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, so that, as shown by arrow A1 in Figure 6, the first reagent R located on the lower D4 side where the gaps G1 and G2 are wider returns to the inner diameter side D1 before the first reagent R located on the upper D3 side where the gaps G1 and G2 are narrower (step S2).

[0077] The first reagent R on the lower D4 side returns to the inner diameter side D1 first, allowing the first reagent to return smoothly to the inner diameter side D1. This makes it possible to prevent the first reagent R on the upper D3 side from being caught in the first reagent R (step S3). Note that the arrow A2 with the symbol "x" superimposed in FIG. 6 indicates that the catchment of the first reagent R indicated by the arrow A2 is prevented. Note that the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D may also prevent the catchment of the first reagent R that occurs when the first reagent storage 204 rotates from a stopped state. Because the catchment of the first reagent R can be prevented, it is possible to reduce bubbles, i.e., air bubbles, that are generated in the first reagent R.

[0078] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of the reagent in the reagent container 2042 according to the comparative example. On the other hand, if the gaps G1 and G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 become smaller from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, the first reagent R on the upper D3 side where the gaps G1 and G2 are wider will return to the inner diameter side D1 first, as indicated by arrow A3 in FIG. 7 (Step S2). Since the first reagent R on the upper D3 side returns to the inner diameter side D1 first, entrainment of the first reagent R on the upper D3 side occurs, as indicated by arrow A4 in FIG. 7 (Step S3). Entrainment of the first reagent R causes bubbles to form in the first reagent R.

[0079] As described above, in the first embodiment, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 are configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D.

[0080] As a result, when the first reagent R moves in association with the rotation or stoppage of the first reagent storage 204, the first reagent R on the lower D4 side moves first, thereby preventing the first reagent R from being engulfed. Since the engulfment of the first reagent R can be prevented, the generation of bubbles in the first reagent R can be appropriately reduced. Since the generation of bubbles can be appropriately reduced, the measurement control function 93 can appropriately detect the liquid level of the first reagent R using the first reagent dispensing probe 209. Since the liquid level of the first reagent R can be appropriately detected, the first reagent R can be appropriately dispensed by the first reagent dispensing probe 209. Even if the measurement control function 93 is configured to detect abnormalities associated with the generation of bubbles (for example, detecting abnormal pressure of the first reagent R in the flow path connected to the first reagent dispensing probe 209 or detecting abnormal measurement results), the detection of such abnormalities and the occurrence of error processing associated therewith can be reduced. This improves the throughput of the automated analyzer 1.

[0081] In the first embodiment, the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided on the inner upper surface 111 of the reagent container 2042 so as to extend toward the bottom surface 121 of the reagent container 2042.

[0082] This allows for cost reduction by changing the design of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D provided on the lid section 11 depending on the conditions for rotation and stopping of the first reagent storage 204, while keeping the configuration of the main body section 12 of the reagent container 2042 the same. Furthermore, because the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D do not contact the bottom surface 121 of the reagent container 2042, it is possible to reduce corners on the bottom surface where reagent is likely to remain, compared to a configuration in which the obstruction sections are provided on the bottom surface (for example, the comparative example in FIG. 7), and it is possible to reduce dead volume.

[0083] In the first embodiment, the outlet 14 for the first reagent R is provided on the inner upper surface 111. The bottom surface 121 is inclined so as to move away from the inner upper surface 111 as it approaches the outlet 14. A plurality of the obstructing portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided at intervals in the rotation radius direction of the first reagent storage 204. Of the plurality of obstructing portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, the obstructing portion closest to the outlet 14 extends to a position D4 below the obstructing portion farther from the outlet 14 than the obstructing portion of the plurality of obstructing portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0084] As a result, each of the blocking portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D can appropriately suppress the sudden movement of the first reagent R, and therefore bubbles generated in the first reagent R can be further appropriately reduced.

[0085] In the first embodiment, the width W of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction of the first reagent storage 204 is reduced from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0086] This allows the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 to be formed so as to increase in size from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D by a simple configuration in which the width W decreases from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D.

[0087] In the first embodiment, the width W of the obstructing portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D is continuously reduced from the top to the bottom of the obstructing portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0088] This allows for a simpler configuration in which the width W of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D is continuously reduced from the top to the bottom, thereby making it possible to form the gaps G1 and G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 so that they become larger from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0089] In the first embodiment, the ends 131 and 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D in the rotation direction of the first reagent storage 204 have a linear shape that is inclined with respect to the side surfaces 1221 and 1222 of the reagent containers.

[0090] This allows for a simpler configuration in which the ends 131, 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D have an inclined linear shape, and the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 can be formed so as to increase in size from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D.

[0091] In the first embodiment, the reagent container 2042 further includes a reinforcing portion 15 connected to the obstruction portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0092] As a result, even if the width W of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D is partially reduced as the size of the gaps G1 and G2 is changed in the vertical direction, the reinforcing section 15 can ensure appropriate strength of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0093] (First Modification) Next, a first modification of the first embodiment in which the widths W of the blocking sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are different will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the blocking sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D of a reagent container 2042 according to the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0094] 8, the gaps G1 and G2 between the shielding portions on the outer diameter side D2 of the plurality of shielding portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 are larger than the gaps G1 and G2 between the shielding portions on the inner diameter side D1 of the plurality of shielding portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222. Specifically, at the same height, the gaps G1 and G2 between the second shielding portion 13B and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 are larger than the gaps G1 and G2 between the first shielding portion 13A and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222. At the same height, the gaps G1 and G2 between the third obstruction portion 13C and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 are larger than the gaps G1 and G2 between the second obstruction portion 13B and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222. At the same height, the gaps G1 and G2 between the fourth obstruction portion 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222 are larger than the gaps G1 and G2 between the third obstruction portion 13C and the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222.

[0095] 8, the width W of the shielding portion on the outer diameter side D2 of the plurality of shielding portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D is smaller than the width W of the shielding portion on the inner diameter side D1 of the plurality of shielding portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. Specifically, at the same height, the width W of the second shielding portion 13B is smaller than the width W of the first shielding portion 13A. Also, at the same height, the width W of the third shielding portion 13C is smaller than the width W of the second shielding portion 13B. Also, at the same height, the width W of the fourth shielding portion 13D is smaller than the width W of the third shielding portion 13C.

[0096] 8, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction portion and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 can be increased on the outer diameter side D2 where the flow velocity and flow rate of the first reagent R are high, making it easier for the first reagent R to move, thereby effectively reducing the occurrence of entrainment and the resulting generation of bubbles. Furthermore, with a simple configuration such as reducing the width W of the obstruction portion on the outer diameter side D2, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction portion and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 on the outer diameter side D2 can be increased.

[0097] (Second Modification) Next, modified shapes of the ends 131 and 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D of a reagent container 2042 according to a second modified example of the first embodiment.

[0098] 5 has been described as an example in which the ends 131, 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the rotation direction R1 of the reagent container 2042 have a linear shape that is inclined with respect to the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222. In contrast to this, in the example shown in Fig. 9, the ends 131, 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D have a curved shape that is inclined with respect to the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222. More specifically, in the example shown in Fig. 9, the ends 131, 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D have a curved shape that is curved outward.

[0099] In the second modified example as well, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 can be configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, thereby appropriately reducing bubbles generated in the first reagent R. Furthermore, the degree of freedom in designing the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D can be improved.

[0100] (Third Modification) Next, other modified examples of the shapes of the ends 131 and 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-mentioned embodiment. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D of a reagent container 2042 according to a third modified example of the first embodiment.

[0101] In the example shown in Fig. 10, the ends 131 and 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D have curved shapes that are inclined with respect to the reagent container side surfaces 1221 and 1222. Unlike Fig. 9, in the example shown in Fig. 10, the ends 131 and 132 of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D have curved shapes that are curved inward.

[0102] In the third modified example as well, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 can be configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, thereby appropriately reducing bubbles generated in the first reagent R. Furthermore, the degree of freedom in designing the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D can be improved.

[0103] (Fourth Modification) Next, modifications of the width W of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D of a reagent container 2042 according to a fourth modification of the first embodiment.

[0104] 5, an example has been described in which the widths W of the blocking portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are continuously reduced from the top to the bottom of the blocking portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D. In contrast, in the example shown in FIG. 11, the widths W of the blocking portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are reduced in stages from the top to the bottom of the blocking portions 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D.

[0105] In the fourth modified example as well, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 can be configured to increase from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, thereby appropriately reducing bubbles generated in the first reagent R. Furthermore, the degree of freedom in designing the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D can be improved.

[0106] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment in which obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided on bottom surface 121 will be described, focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D of a reagent container 2042 according to the second embodiment.

[0107] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided on the inner upper surface 111 of the reagent container 2042. In contrast to this, in the example shown in Fig. 12, the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are provided on the bottom surface 121 of the reagent container 2042 so as to extend in a direction toward the inner upper surface 111 of the reagent container 2042 (i.e., upward D3). In other respects, the configuration of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D is similar to the configuration shown in Fig. 5 of the first embodiment.

[0108] 13 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of the reagent in the reagent container 2042 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, in the second embodiment as well, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 become larger from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, so that when the rotation of the first reagent storage 204 stops, the first reagent R on the lower D4 side returns to the inner diameter side D1 first (step S2). This makes it possible to prevent the first reagent R on the upper D3 side from being caught in the first reagent R (step S3).

[0109] As in the first embodiment, the first to fourth modified examples described above may be applied to the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D in the second embodiment.

[0110] In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the gaps G1, G2 between the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the reagent container side surfaces 1221, 1222 are formed to become larger from the top to the bottom of the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D. This allows the first reagent R on the lower D4 side to move first, preventing the first reagent R from being sucked in, thereby appropriately reducing bubbles generated in the first reagent R. Furthermore, the degree of freedom in designing the obstruction sections 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D can be improved.

[0111] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, bubbles generated in the reagent in the reagent container 2042 can be appropriately reduced.

[0112] The term "processor" used in the description of the embodiments 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)). The processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit 8. Note that instead of storing a program in the memory circuit 8, the program may be directly embedded in the processor circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. Note that each processor in each of the above embodiments 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 the above embodiments may be integrated into a single processor to realize its function.

[0113] Although several embodiments of the present invention 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, and modifications 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 described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1 Automatic analyzer 111 Internal top surface 121 bottom 1221 Reagent container side 1222 Reagent container side 13A 1st obstruction section 13B 2nd obstruction section 13C 3rd obstruction section 13D 4th barrier 131 End 132 End 14 Outlet 15 Reinforcement 204 Reagent Storage No. 1 2042 Reagent container

Claims

1. A reagent container to be placed in a rotating reagent storage of an automatic analyzer, a blocking portion provided inside the reagent container for partially blocking an inner diameter side from an outer diameter side during the rotation; The reagent container is configured so that a gap between the obstruction portion and a side surface of the reagent container becomes larger from the top to the bottom of the obstruction portion.

2. The reagent container according to claim 1 , wherein the obstruction portion is provided on an inner upper surface of the reagent container so as to extend toward a bottom surface of the reagent container.

3. The reagent container according to claim 1 , wherein the obstruction portion is provided on the bottom surface of the reagent container so as to extend toward an inner upper surface of the reagent container.

4. a reagent outlet is provided on the inner upper surface; the bottom surface is inclined so as to move away from the inner upper surface as it approaches the outlet, a plurality of the blocking units are provided at intervals in a rotation radius direction of the reagent storage unit, The reagent container according to claim 2 , wherein the obstructing portion closer to the outlet of the plurality of obstructing portions extends further downward than the obstructing portion farther from the outlet of the plurality of obstructing portions of the plurality of obstructing portions.

5. a plurality of the blocking units are provided at intervals in a rotation radius direction of the reagent storage unit, The reagent container according to claim 1 , wherein a gap between the outer diameter side obstructing portion of the plurality of obstructing portions and the side surface of the reagent container is larger than a gap between the inner diameter side obstructing portion of the plurality of obstructing portions and the side surface of the reagent container.

6. The reagent container according to claim 1 , wherein a width of the blocking portion in a rotation direction of the reagent container decreases from an upper portion to a lower portion of the blocking portion.

7. a plurality of the blocking units are provided at intervals in a rotation radius direction of the reagent storage unit, The reagent container according to claim 6 , wherein the width of the outer diameter side of the plurality of obstructing portions is smaller than the width of the inner diameter side of the plurality of obstructing portions.

8. 7. The reagent container according to claim 6, wherein the width of the blocking portion is continuously reduced from the top to the bottom of the blocking portion.

9. The reagent container according to claim 8 , wherein an end of the obstruction part in the rotation direction of the reagent storage has a linear shape inclined with respect to a side surface of the reagent container.

10. The reagent container according to claim 8 , wherein an end of the obstruction part in the rotation direction of the reagent storage has a curved shape that is inclined with respect to a side surface of the reagent container.

11. The reagent container according to claim 6 , wherein the width of the blocking portion is gradually reduced from the top to the bottom of the blocking portion.

12. The reagent container according to claim 1 , further comprising a reinforcing part connected to the obstruction part.

13. A rotating reagent storage; a reagent container to be placed in the reagent storage; The reagent container comprises: a blocking portion provided inside the reagent container for partially blocking an inner diameter side from an outer diameter side during the rotation; An automatic analyzer configured such that the gap between the obstruction portion and the side surface of the reagent container increases from the top to the bottom of the obstruction portion.

Images