Automatic analysis device

Abstract

To improve throughput of an automatic analysis device.SOLUTION: An automatic analysis device comprises: a reagent storage having a first installation section capable of installing multiple reagent containers regarding a first periphery and a second installation section capable of installing multiple reagent containers regarding a second periphery positioned outside the first periphery; a reception section for receiving a reagent container installed by a user; and a conveyance mechanism that has an arm for holding the reagent container received by the reception section, and conveys the reagent container held by the arm to the first installation section through an area between reagent containers installed in the second installation section. The arm is formed such that a part put on the second installation section is positioned upper than a reagent container installed in the second installation section when a reagent container is installed in the first installation section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] An automated analyzer is an apparatus that analyzes 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 sample such as a standard sample for each measurement item with a reagent corresponding to each measurement item. Conventionally, automated analyzers have been widely used that have a mechanism (automatic reagent loading mechanism) that automatically transports reagent containers containing reagents into a reagent storage room in order to automatically replace the reagent containers. In particular, automated analyzers that have a mechanism that automatically transports reagent containers called combination bottles that contain a first reagent and a second reagent into a reagent storage room have been widely used.

[0003] In recent years, when reagent containers containing a first reagent and reagent containers containing a second reagent are stored in separate containers in a reagent vault, a larger number of reagent containers must be installed, and so a double reagent vault is sometimes adopted in which reagent containers can be installed in an inner reagent rack and an outer reagent rack in a double ring shape.For this reason, even in an automated analyzer equipped with such a double reagent vault, it is desirable to automatically transport the reagent containers into the reagent vault using a mechanism that automatically transports the reagent containers into the reagent vault. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-194072 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to improve the throughput of an automated analyzer. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The automatic analyzer according to the embodiment comprises a reagent storage unit having a first installation section capable of installing multiple reagent containers on a first circumference and a second installation section capable of installing multiple reagent containers on a second circumference located outside the first circumference, a receiving section that receives reagent containers installed by a user, and a transport mechanism having an arm that holds the reagent containers received in the receiving section and transports the reagent containers held by the arm to the first installation section through the reagent containers installed in the second installation section, the arm being formed so that when the reagent container is installed in the first installation section, the portion of the arm that covers the second installation section is positioned higher than the reagent containers installed in the second installation section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a reagent container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of a reagent storage according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a first reagent rack driving mechanism and a second reagent rack driving mechanism in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a transport mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a view of the reagent storage and the transport mechanism according to the first embodiment, viewed from the direction of a second side surface. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a reagent storage according to the first embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the transport mechanism places a reagent container in a first reagent rack, as viewed from above, in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a view from the fourth side showing the state in which the transport mechanism places a reagent container in the first reagent rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a reagent container setting process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a reagent container removal process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a reagent container setting process executed by an automatic analyzer according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a reagent container removal process executed by an automatic analyzer according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first reagent rack driving mechanism and a second reagent rack driving mechanism in Modification 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of 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 description will be given only when necessary.

[0009] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration 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 using the sample and a reagent corresponding to a measurement item of the sample. As shown in Fig. 1, 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.

[0010] 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."

[0011] 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.

[0012] 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.

[0013] The input interface 5 accepts, 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.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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. 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment. In Fig. 2, a first side surface 21, a second side surface 22, a third side surface 23, and a fourth side surface 24 define the outer boundary of the analysis mechanism 2. The first side surface 21 and the second side surface 22 face each other, and the third side surface 23 and the fourth side surface 24 face each other.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 is configured to include 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 photometric unit 209, a cleaning unit 210, a receiving section 211, a positioner 212, and a transport mechanism 213.

[0020] 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 an 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 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 disk 201 may be disposed adjacent to the reagent reservoir 203, for example, on the same plane as the reagent reservoir 203. The reaction vessels 2011 are formed of, for example, glass, polypropylene (PP), or acrylic.

[0021] The rack sampler 202 movably supports a sample rack 11 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers 111, and these sample containers 111 contain samples for which measurement has been requested. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a sample rack 11 capable of holding five sample containers 111 in parallel is shown. A sample label is affixed to the sample container 111. 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.

[0022] 2, the rack sampler 202 has a first track portion 2021 and a second track portion 2022 extending from the first side surface 21 side to the second side surface 22 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.

[0023] Furthermore, each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022 uses the drive mechanism 4 to move the sample rack 11 from an input position where the sample rack 11 is input to a sampling position where the sample contained in the sample container 111 held by the sample rack 11 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 11 after sampling has been completed from the sampling position to a recovery position where the sample rack 11 is recovered. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the input position and the recovery position are the same position.

[0024] 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 111 held in the sample rack 11 moved by each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022. Furthermore, 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 111 held in the sample rack 11 moved by each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022.

[0025] The reagent storage 203 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 12 refrigerated, including a reagent container 12 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 12 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 12. An optical mark representing reagent information is printed on the reagent label. The optical mark printed on the reagent label may be any pixel code, such as a one-dimensional pixel code or a two-dimensional pixel code.

[0026] 2, the reagent storage 203 has a structure that makes it difficult for the operator to directly access it, regardless of whether the device is operating or stopped, because the reaction disk 201 is located above it. The structure that makes it difficult for the operator to directly access it means that the operator cannot easily take the reagent container 12 in or out of the reagent storage 203 by hand.

[0027] The reagent storage 203 may contain a standard sample container for containing a standard sample. When the first reagent and the second reagent are not to be distinguished from each other, they may be simply referred to as "reagents."

[0028] 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the reagent container 12 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the reagent container 12 according to this embodiment is configured to include a reagent container body 121 and a reagent container body accommodating adapter 122.

[0029] The reagent container body 121 is a bottle that contains a reagent. The reagent container body 121 is, for example, a general-purpose reagent bottle. As shown in FIG. 3 , the reagent container body 121 according to this embodiment has a storage section 1211 and an opening 1213. The storage section 1211 stores a reagent. The opening 1213 is an opening through which a reagent dispensing probe (described later) aspirates the reagent stored in the storage section 1211.

[0030] The reagent container main body accommodating adaptor 122 is an adaptor that enables the reagent container main body 121 to be transported by the transport mechanism 213. The reagent container main body accommodating adaptor 122 is configured to be detachable from the reagent container main body 121. This reagent container main body accommodating adaptor 122 corresponds to the adapter in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3 , the reagent container main body accommodating adaptor 122 according to this embodiment has an adapter main body 1221 and a held portion 1223. The adapter main body 1221 accommodates the reagent container main body 121. The held portion 1223 is a portion that is held by the transport mechanism 213 when the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 into the reagent storage 203.

[0031] In this embodiment, the reagent container 12 is configured to include the reagent container body 121 and the reagent container body-accommodating adaptor 122, but the configuration of the reagent container 12 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the reagent container 12 is arbitrary, and for example, the reagent container 12 may be configured so that the reagent container body 121 is provided with a held portion 1223, or may be configured only with the reagent container body 121 without the reagent container body-accommodating adaptor 122.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the reagent storage 203 includes a first reagent rack 2031 and a second reagent rack 2032. The first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 are rotatably provided within the reagent storage 203. The first reagent rack 2031 can accommodate a plurality of reagent containers 12 along a first circumference. Specifically, the first reagent rack 2031 holds a plurality of reagent containers 12 arranged in a circular ring shape on the inner circumference side of the first circumference. The second reagent rack 2032 can accommodate a plurality of reagent containers 12 along a second circumference located outside the first circumference. Specifically, the second reagent rack 2032 holds a plurality of reagent containers 12 arranged in a circular ring shape on the outer circumference side of the first reagent rack 2031, which is the second circumference. For example, the first reagent rack 2031 holds a reagent container 12 containing a second reagent, and the second reagent rack 2032 holds a reagent container 12 containing a first reagent. Note that the first reagent rack 2031 may hold a reagent container 12 containing the first reagent, and the second reagent rack 2032 may hold a reagent container 12 containing the second reagent, or the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack may hold a reagent container 12 containing the first reagent and a reagent container 12 containing the second reagent, respectively. That is, the reagent containers 12 held by the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 are arbitrary. Note that the first reagent rack 2031 corresponds to the first installation unit in this embodiment. The second reagent rack 2032 corresponds to the second installation unit in this embodiment.

[0033] In an automatic analyzer 1 equipped with a reagent storage (double reagent storage) 203 including such a first reagent rack 2031 and a second reagent rack 2032, when a reagent container 12 is carried into the reagent storage 203 from the side of the reagent storage 203 and the reagent container 12 is automatically transported to the first reagent rack 2031 on the inner periphery of the reagent storage 203, it becomes necessary to stop the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 on the outer periphery, which reduces the throughput of the automatic analyzer 1. For this reason, when a reagent container 12 is automatically transported from the second reagent rack 2032 on the outer periphery of the reagent storage 203 to the first reagent rack 2031 on the inner periphery of the reagent storage 203, it is desirable to improve the throughput of the automatic analyzer 1 by minimizing the stop time of the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 on the outer periphery.

[0034] The first reagent rack 2031 is rotationally driven by a first reagent rack driving mechanism in the driving mechanism 4, and the second reagent rack 2032 is rotationally driven by a second reagent rack driving mechanism in the driving mechanism 4. The first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 can be rotationally driven independently by the first reagent rack driving mechanism and the second reagent rack driving mechanism. That is, the first reagent rack driving mechanism rotationally drives the first reagent rack 2031, and the second reagent rack driving mechanism rotationally drives the second reagent rack 2032. The first reagent rack driving mechanism corresponds to the first installation unit driving mechanism in this embodiment. The second reagent rack driving mechanism corresponds to the second installation unit driving mechanism in this embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the first reagent rack driving mechanism and the second reagent rack driving mechanism in the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the reagent storage 203 shown in Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 5, the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 has a first motor 411, a first belt 412, a first pulley 413, a first pinion gear 414, and a first bearing 415. The second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 has a second motor 421, a second belt 422, a second pulley 423, a second pinion gear 424, and a second bearing 425.

[0036] The first motor 411 drives a first belt 412. The first belt 412 transmits the rotation of the first motor 411 to a first pulley 413. The first pulley 413 rotates a first pinion gear 414 in accordance with the rotation of the first motor 411 transmitted by the first belt 412. The first pinion gear 414 abuts against the outer ring of a first bearing 415. The first pinion gear 414 rotates the outer ring of the first bearing 415 in accordance with the rotation of the first motor 411. The first bearing 415 rotates the first reagent rack 2031. Specifically, the outer ring of the first bearing 415 is connected to a first connecting member 2031_1 provided at the bottom of the first reagent rack 2031, and the inner ring of the first bearing 415 is fixed. The outer ring of the first bearing 415 rotates in response to the rotation of the first pinion gear 414, thereby rotating the first reagent rack 2031 via the first connecting member 2031_1.

[0037] Note that the description of the second motor 421, second belt 422, second pulley 423, second pinion gear 424, and second bearing 425 of the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 is omitted because it is the same as the description of the first motor 411, first belt 412, first pulley 413, first pinion gear 414, and first bearing 415 of the first reagent rack drive mechanism 41. Furthermore, although the first reagent rack drive mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 each include a motor, belt, pulley, pinion gear, and bearing, the configuration of each of the first reagent rack drive mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 is not limited to this. In other words, the configuration of the first reagent rack drive mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 is arbitrary.

[0038] 2, the reagent storage 203 is provided with a first opening 2033 and a second opening 2034. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the first opening 2033 and the second opening 2034 are provided on the top surface of the reagent storage 203. The first opening 2033 is an opening that allows a first reagent dispensing probe held by the first reagent dispensing arm 205 to access an opening 1213 of a reagent container 12 placed in a second reagent rack 2032. This first opening 2033 is provided at a position corresponding to a first reagent aspirating position, which will be described later. The second opening 2034 is an opening that allows a second reagent dispensing probe held by the second reagent dispensing arm 206 to access an opening 1213 of a reagent container 12 placed in the first reagent rack 2031. This second opening 2034 is provided at a position corresponding to a second reagent aspirating position, which will be described later.

[0039] A third opening 2035 is provided on the side surface of the reagent storage 203. This third opening 2035 is an opening through which the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032. The third opening 2035 corresponds to the opening in this embodiment.

[0040] 2, an opening / closing door 2036 is provided on the side of the reagent storage 203. The opening / closing door 2036 is opened when the transport mechanism 213 transports a reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032, or when the reagent container 12 is removed from the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032. The opening / closing door 2036 is closed when the transport mechanism 213 has completed transporting the reagent container 12 or removing the reagent container 12. By providing this opening / closing door 2036, the reagent contained in the reagent container 12 is kept cool more efficiently. Note that the opening / closing door 2036 does not have to be provided in the analyzing mechanism 2.

[0041] Returning to Figure 2, 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.

[0042] 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 111 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.

[0043] 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 111 held in a sample rack 11 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.

[0044] The first reagent dispensing arm 205 is provided near the second reagent rack 2032 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.

[0045] 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 1213 of the reagent containers 12 arranged in an annular shape in the second reagent rack 2032. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a first opening 2033 is provided in the top surface of the reagent storage 203 corresponding to the first reagent aspirating position.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 second reagent rack 2032 and aspirates reagent from a reagent container 12 located directly below the first reagent aspirating position through a first opening 2033 under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe also dispenses the aspirated reagent into a 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 object 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 12 containing a second reagent or a standard sample container containing a standard sample is placed in the second reagent rack 2032, the first reagent dispensing probe can aspirate the second reagent or the standard sample and dispense it into the reaction container 2011.

[0048] The second reagent dispensing arm 206 is provided near the first reagent rack 2031 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.

[0049] The second reagent dispensing probe rotates along an arcuate rotation path in accordance with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm 206. A second reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotation path. The second reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotation path of the second reagent dispensing probe intersects with the movement paths of the openings 1213 of the reagent containers 12 arranged in a circular pattern in the first reagent rack 2031.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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 first reagent rack 2031 and aspirates reagent from a reagent container 12 located directly below the second reagent aspirating position through the second opening 2034 under the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe also dispenses the aspirated reagent into a 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 12 containing the first reagent or a standard sample container containing a standard sample is placed in the first reagent rack 2031, the second reagent dispensing probe can aspirate the first reagent or the standard sample and dispense it into the reaction container 2011.

[0052] 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. The first stirring unit 207 also has a first stirring bar 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.

[0053] 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. The second stirring unit 208 also has a second stirring bar 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] The receiving unit 211 receives the reagent containers 12 installed by the user. The receiving unit 211 also receives the sample racks 11 that hold the sample containers 111 installed by the user. The receiving unit 211 also receives the sample racks 11 that have completed measurement and the reagent containers 12 that have been removed from the reagent storage 203. The receiving unit 211 is provided on the second side surface 22 of the analyzing mechanism 2. The receiving unit 211 has a plurality of slots 2111 for receiving the sample racks 11 and the reagent containers 12. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the sample rack 11 and the reagent container 12 are inserted into one of the plurality of slots 2111. Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 2, the receiving unit 211 is provided with 16 slots 2111, but the number of slots provided in the receiving unit 211 is not limited to 16. In other words, the number of slots 2111 provided in the receiving unit 211 is arbitrary and may be 15 or less, or 17 or more.

[0058] The positioner 212 transports the reagent container 12 received in the receiving unit 211 to a predetermined position. The positioner 212 also transports the sample rack 11 received in the receiving unit 211 to an input position of the rack sampler 202. The positioner 212 also transports the reagent container 12 that has been taken out of the reagent storage 203 by the transport mechanism 213 and transported to a predetermined position to the receiving unit 211. The positioner 212 also transports the sample rack 11 that has been moved to a recovery position of the rack sampler 202 after sampling has been completed to the receiving unit 211.

[0059] Specifically, the positioner 212 has a positioner body 2121, a positioner 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 21 and the second side surface 22. The positioner arm 2122 protrudes from the positioner body 2121 and engages with the sample rack 11 or the reagent container 12 to hold the sample rack 11 or the reagent container 12.

[0060] The positioner 212 has a reader for reading the sample labels affixed to each of the multiple sample containers 111 held in each sample rack 11 and the reagent labels affixed to each of the multiple reagent containers 12. For example, when the positioner 212 transports the sample rack 11, the reader reads the optical marks printed on the sample labels affixed to each of the multiple sample containers 111 held in the sample rack 11. Furthermore, for example, when the positioner 212 transfers the reagent container 12, the reader reads the optical marks printed on the reagent labels affixed to the reagent container 12. Information on the read optical marks is output to the control circuit 9. This positioner 212 corresponds to the transport mechanism according to this embodiment.

[0061] It should be noted that the marks attached to the sample containers 111 and the reagent containers 12 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.

[0062] The transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 into the reagent storage 203. Specifically, the transport mechanism 213 according to this embodiment transports the reagent container 12 that has been transported to a predetermined position to the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 and installs the reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032, or removes the reagent container 12 that has been installed in the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 from the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 and transports it to a predetermined position outside the reagent storage 203, thereby removing the reagent container 12 from the reagent storage 203.

[0063] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the transport mechanism 213 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the transport mechanism 213 according to this embodiment is configured to include an arm 2131, an arm support portion 2132, and a base 2133.

[0064] The arm 2131 holds the reagent container 12. The arm 2131 according to this embodiment holds the reagent container 12 received in the receiving unit 211 and transported to a predetermined position by the positioner 212. As shown in FIG. 6 , the arm 2131 is slidable in the direction D1 relative to the arm support unit 2132. The arm 2131 is formed so that, when the reagent container 12 is placed in the first reagent rack 2031, a portion AR1 of the arm 2131 that overlaps the second reagent rack 2032 is positioned higher than the reagent container 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. In other words, the arm 2131 is formed so that, when the arm 2131 places the reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031, the arm 2131 does not interfere with the reagent container 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0065] The arm 2131 has a support arm 2131_1 and a holder 2131_2. The support arm 2131_1 is attached to the arm support part 2132 so as to be slidable in the D1 direction. In this embodiment, the support arm 2131_1 includes a portion AR1 that overlaps the second reagent rack 2032. That is, when the reagent container 12 is placed in the first reagent rack 2031, the support arm 2131_1 is formed so as to be positioned higher than the reagent container 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Furthermore, one end of the support arm 2131_1 is provided with a holder 2131_2 for holding the reagent container 12. In this embodiment, the holder 2131_2 is formed in a hook shape, and this hook-shaped holder 2131_2 engages with the held portion 1223 of the reagent container 12 to hold the reagent container 12. In this embodiment, the holding portion 2131_2 is formed in a hook shape, but the configuration of the holding portion 2131_2 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the holding portion 2131_2 is arbitrary, and it may be configured by an electric or pneumatic gripper, a pad for vacuum suction, or the like.

[0066] The arm support section 2132 supports the arm 2131 so that it can slide in the D1 direction. The arm support section 2132 is provided so that it can move in the D1 direction relative to the base 2133. The arm support section 2132 is provided so that it can move in the D2 direction relative to the base 2133. The base 2133 supports the arm support section 2132 so that it can move in the D1 direction. The base 2133 supports the arm support section 2132 so that it can move in the D2 direction.

[0067] 1 , the control circuit 9, for example, executes a control program to realize a system control function 91, a transport mechanism control function 92, and a reagent rack control function 93. Note that, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the system control function 91, the transport mechanism control function 92, and the reagent rack control 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 transport mechanism control function 92, and the reagent rack control function 93 may be realized by each processor executing a control program.

[0068] 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.

[0069] The transport mechanism control function 92 is a function that controls the transport mechanism 213. For example, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 213 to transport the reagent container 12 received by the receiving unit 211 into the reagent storage 203. The transport mechanism 213 also controls the transport mechanism 213 to remove the reagent container 12 for which a removal command has been input from the reagent storage 203. The transport mechanism control function 92 according to this embodiment also controls the positioner 212. The transport mechanism control function 92 corresponds to the transport mechanism control unit in this embodiment.

[0070] The reagent rack control function 93 independently controls the rotational drive of each of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032. Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 independently controls the rotational drive of each of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 by independently controlling each of the first reagent rack drive mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42. The reagent rack control function 93 corresponds to the installation unit control unit in this embodiment.

[0071] 7 to 10, a series of steps in which the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 of the reagent storage 203 will be described. FIG. 7 is a view of the reagent storage 203 and the transport mechanism 213 according to this embodiment, viewed from the direction of the second side surface 22. FIG. 8 is a view of the reagent storage 203 according to this embodiment, viewed from above. FIG. 9 is a view of the reagent container 12 placed by the transport mechanism 213 in the first reagent rack 2031, viewed from above, according to this embodiment. FIG. 10 is a view of the reagent container 12 placed by the transport mechanism 213 in the first reagent rack 2031, viewed from the fourth side surface 24, according to this embodiment.

[0072] 7, when the positioner 212 moves the reagent container 12 to a predetermined position in the reagent storage 203, the base 2133 moves the arm support part 2132 in the vertical direction, causing the holding part 2131_2 of the arm 2131 to engage with the held part 1223 of the reagent container 12 to hold the reagent container 12 while floating the bottom surface of the reagent container 12. Then, the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 into the reagent storage 203 through the third opening 2035.

[0073] 8, the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 via the second reagent rack 2032. Specifically, the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to the first reagent rack 2031 through the spaces between the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Here, the spaces between the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032 are originally spaces in which the reagent containers 12 are placed, but when the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031, these spaces are empty spaces in the second reagent rack 2032 in which no reagent containers 12 are placed, or spaces in the second reagent rack 2032 that are dedicated to transport and in which no reagent containers 12 are placed. As shown in Figure 8, in the following description, the transport mechanism 213 of this embodiment is originally a space where the reagent container 12 is placed, but when the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031, it transports the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to the first reagent rack 2031 through an empty space in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is placed.

[0074] 9 and 10 , the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 through the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032, and installs the reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031. As shown in FIG. 10 , when the reagent container 12 is installed in the first reagent rack 2031, the arm 2131 is formed so that a portion AR1 of the support arm 2131_1 that overlaps the second reagent rack 2032 is located higher than the reagent container 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032. In other words, when the reagent container 12 is installed in the first reagent rack 2031, the arm 2131 does not interfere with the reagent container 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9 , the reagent rack control function 93 can execute rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 when the reagent container 12 is installed in the first reagent rack 2031.

[0075] 11 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the reagent container setting process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In this reagent container setting process, when the receiving unit 211 receives a reagent container 12, the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 received by the receiving unit 211 to the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 in the reagent storage 203. The reagent container setting process is executed when the receiving unit 211 receives a reagent container 12.

[0076] 11, first, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the positioner 212 (step S11). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the positioner main body 2121 along the positioner track 2123, thereby moving the positioner 212 to the position of the slot 2111 in the receiving section 211 that receives the reagent container 12.

[0077] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the reagent container 12 (step S13). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the positioner 212 to hold the reagent container 12 received by the receiving unit 211. In addition, in step S13, the transport mechanism control function 92 according to this embodiment controls the positioner 212 to read the optical mark printed on the reagent label attached to the reagent container 12.

[0078] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the reagent container 12 to a predetermined position (step S15). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the positioner 212 to move the reagent container 12 to a predetermined position that is near the outer periphery of the reagent storage 203 and on the transport track of the transport mechanism 213.

[0079] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 at a predetermined position (step S17). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the positioner 212 to place the reagent container 12 at a predetermined position.

[0080] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the reagent container 12 (step S19). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to hold the reagent container 12 that has been received by the receiving unit 211 and placed at a predetermined position in step S17. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the arm 2131 of the transport mechanism 213 to engage the holding portion 2131_2 of the arm 2131 with the held portion 1223 of the reagent container 12 placed at the predetermined position, thereby holding the reagent container 12.

[0081] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the reagent container 12 is to be placed in the first reagent rack 2031 (step S21). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the reagent container 12 held by the transport mechanism 213 in step S19 is to be placed in the first reagent rack 2031, based on the information of the optical mark printed on the reagent label attached to the reagent container 12. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 determines whether the reagent container 12 is to be placed in the first reagent rack 2031, based on the information of the optical mark on the reagent container 12, by allocating a position for the reagent container 12 to be placed in accordance with the availability of the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 in the reagent storage 203.

[0082] In step S21, the transport mechanism control function 92 may allocate the positions at which the reagent containers 12 are to be placed based on the balance of the weights of the reagent containers 12 placed in the reagent storage 203, in addition to the availability of the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 in the reagent storage 203. For example, the transport mechanism control function 92 may allocate the positions at which the reagent containers 12 are to be placed so that the reagent containers 12 are arranged at equal intervals in order to maintain the balance of the weights of the reagent containers 12 placed in the reagent storage 203.

[0083] Then, in step S21, if the reagent container 12 is not placed in the first reagent rack 2031 (step S21: No), that is, if the reagent container 12 is placed in the second reagent rack 2032, the automated analyzer 1 stops the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S23). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 to stop the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032. In step S23, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 so that the position at which the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the second reagent rack 2032 is placed corresponds to the third opening 2035 provided in the side surface of the reagent storage 203. When the reagent container 12 is placed in the second reagent rack 2032, the reagent rack control function 93 may continue to execute the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 without stopping the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031.

[0084] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reagent container 12 to the second reagent rack 2032 (step S25). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to transport the reagent container 12 to the second reagent rack 2032 through the third opening 2035.

[0085] 11 , the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 in the second reagent rack 2032 (step S27). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to place the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the second reagent rack 2032. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the arm support part 2132 of the transport mechanism 213 at the position in the second reagent rack 2032 where the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 is to be placed, to lower the arm 2131 so that the bottom surface of the reagent container 12 comes into contact with the second reagent rack 2032. Then, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the arm support part 2132 to further lower the arm 2131 in a state where the bottom surface of the reagent container 12 comes into contact with the second reagent rack 2032, thereby removing the arm 2131 from the held part 1223. As a result, the transport mechanism control function 92 places the reagent container 12 in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0086] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the arm 2131 to a predetermined position (step S29). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to move the arm 2131 of the transport mechanism 213 from inside the reagent storage 203 to a predetermined position. Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 213 to move the arm 2131 to the predetermined position.

[0087] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 resumes the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S31). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to execute the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032, thereby resuming the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 that was stopped in step S23.

[0088] On the other hand, if the reagent container 12 is placed in the first reagent rack 2031 (step S21: Yes), the automated analyzer 1 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 (step S33). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to stop the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032.

[0089] More specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 so that the position where the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the first reagent rack 2031 is to be placed and the empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is placed are positioned corresponding to a third opening 2035 provided in the side surface of the reagent storage 203. In other words, when the reagent container 12 is placed in the first reagent rack 2031, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 so that the position where the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the first reagent rack 2031 is to be placed and the space between the reagent container 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032 are positioned corresponding to the third opening 2035 of the reagent storage 203. In step S33, if there are multiple empty spaces 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, the nearest empty space 2032_2 where no reagent container 12 is installed may be positioned at a position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided on the side of the reagent storage 203.

[0090] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 (step S35). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to transport the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to the first reagent rack 2031 through an empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, which is between the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0091] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the reagent container 12 has passed the second reagent rack 2032 (step S37). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 has passed the second reagent rack 2032 based on the detection result of the sensor provided in the reagent storage 203 or the control amount of the transport mechanism 213. If the reagent container 12 has not passed the second reagent rack 2032 (step S37: No), the automatic analyzer 1 waits until the reagent container 12 has passed the second reagent rack 2032. In other words, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotation of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 while the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 through the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0092] On the other hand, if the reagent container 12 has passed the second reagent rack 2032 (step S37: Yes), the automated analyzer 1 resumes the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S39). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 controls the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 to execute the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032, thereby resuming the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10 described above, the portion AR1 of the support arm 2131_1 that covers the second reagent rack 2032 is formed to be positioned higher than the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Therefore, even if the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 is resumed, the arm 2131_1 does not interfere with the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032, and the second reagent rack 2032 can be rotated.

[0093] 11 , the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 (step S41). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to place the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the first reagent rack 2031. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the arm support part 2132 of the transport mechanism 213 at a position in the first reagent rack 2031 where the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 is to be placed, to lower the arm 2131, thereby bringing the bottom surface of the reagent container 12 into contact with the first reagent rack 2031. Then, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the arm support part 2132 to further lower the arm 2131 in a state where the bottom surface of the reagent container 12 is in contact with the second reagent rack 2032, thereby removing the arm 2131 from the held part 1223. As a result, the transport mechanism control function 92 places the reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031.

[0094] In step S41, even when the transport mechanism control function 92 lowers the arm 2131, the portion AR1 of the support arm 2131_1 that overlaps the second reagent rack 2032 is formed to be positioned higher than the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. In other words, even when the transport mechanism control function 92 lowers the arm 2131 in step S41, the arm 2131 does not interfere with the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 can place the reagent containers 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 without stopping the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032.

[0095] 11, the automated analyzer 1 stops the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S43). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 to stop the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032. In step S43, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 so that a space between the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032, i.e., an empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is placed, is positioned at a position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided in the side surface of the reagent storage 203. In step S43, if there are multiple empty spaces 2032_2 in which no reagent container 12 is installed in the second reagent rack 2032, the empty space 2032_2 in which no reagent container 12 is installed may be positioned so as to be closest to the position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided in the side surface of the reagent storage 203. Furthermore, the empty space 2032_2 positioned at the position corresponding to the third opening 2035 in step S33 and the empty space 2032_2 positioned at the position corresponding to the third opening 2035 in step S43 may be the same as or different from each other.

[0096] As shown in steps S39 to S43 described above, the reagent rack control function 93 resumes rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 while the transport mechanism 213 places the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the first reagent rack 2031.

[0097] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the arm 2131 to a predetermined position (step S45). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to move the arm 2131 of the transport mechanism 213 from inside the reagent storage 203 to a predetermined position. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 213 to move the arm 2131 to the predetermined position through an empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, which is between the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0098] 11, the automatic analyzer 1 resumes the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 (step S47). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls each of the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to resume the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 stopped in step S33 and the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 stopped in step S43.

[0099] As shown in steps S43 to S47 described above, after the reagent container 12 is placed in the first reagent rack 2031, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 while the arm 2131 moves to a predetermined position in the second reagent rack 2032 through the empty space 2032_2 where no reagent container 12 is placed.

[0100] By executing the process of step S31 or step S47, the reagent container setting process according to this embodiment is completed.

[0101] 12 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the reagent container removal process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In this reagent container removal process, when an instruction to remove the reagent container 12 is received from the user, the transport mechanism 213 removes the reagent container 12 stored in the reagent storage 203. The reagent container removal process is executed when an instruction to remove the reagent container 12 is received from the user.

[0102] 12, first, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not a reagent container 12 is to be removed from the first reagent rack 2031 (step S51). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not a reagent container 12 held in the first reagent rack 2031 is to be removed, based on a removal instruction received from a user.

[0103] Then, in step S51, if the reagent container 12 is not removed from the first reagent rack 2031 (step S51: No), that is, if the reagent container 12 is removed from the second reagent rack 2032, the automated analyzer 1 stops the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S53). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to stop the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032. More specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 so that the position at which the reagent container 12 to be removed is placed in the second reagent rack 2032 is positioned at a position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided on the side of the reagent storage 203. When the reagent container 12 is removed from the second reagent rack 2032, the reagent rack control function 93 may continue to execute the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 without stopping the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031.

[0104] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the arm 2131 to the second reagent rack 2032 (step S55). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to move the arm 2131 via the third opening 2035 to a position in the second reagent rack 2032 where the reagent container 12 to be removed is placed.

[0105] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 removes the reagent container 12 (step S57). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 at the position where the reagent container 12 to be removed is placed to engage the holder 2131_2 of the arm 2131 with the held portion 1223 of the reagent container 12, and further raises the reagent container 12 from the state in which the holder 2131_2 is engaged with the held portion 1223 of the arm 2131, thereby removing the reagent container 12 from the second reagent rack 2032.

[0106] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reagent container 12 to a predetermined position (step S59). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to transport the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to the predetermined position.

[0107] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 resumes the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S61). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to resume the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032.

[0108] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 at a predetermined position (step S63). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to place the reagent container 12 at a predetermined position.

[0109] On the other hand, in step S51, if the reagent container 12 is removed from the first reagent rack 2031 (step S51: Yes), the automated analyzer 1 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 (step S65). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls each of the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to stop the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032.

[0110] More specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotation of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 so that the gap between the position of the reagent container 12 to be removed from the first reagent rack 2031 and the reagent container 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032 in the second reagent rack, i.e., the empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, is positioned corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided on the side surface of the reagent storage 203. In other words, when the reagent container 12 is removed from the first reagent rack 2031, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotation of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 so that the gap between the position of the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 in the first reagent rack 2031 and the reagent container 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032 is positioned corresponding to the third opening 2035 of the reagent storage 203. In step S65, if there are multiple empty spaces 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, the nearest empty space 2032_2 where no reagent container 12 is installed may be positioned at a position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided on the side of the reagent storage 203.

[0111] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the arm 2131 to the first reagent rack 2031 (step S67). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to move the arm 2131 to the first reagent rack 2031.

[0112] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the arm 2131 has passed the second reagent rack 2032 (step S69). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether the holder 2131_2 of the arm 2131 has passed the second reagent rack 2032 based on the detection result of the sensor provided in the reagent storage 203 or the control amount of the transport mechanism 213. If the arm 2131 has not passed the second reagent rack 2032 (step S69: No), the automatic analyzer 1 waits until the arm 2131 has passed the second reagent rack 2032. In other words, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 while the arm 2131 of the transport mechanism 213 moves to the first reagent rack 2031 through the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0113] On the other hand, if the arm 2131 has passed the second reagent rack 2032 (step S69: Yes), the automated analyzer 1 resumes the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S71). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 to resume the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10 described above, the portion AR1 of the support arm 2131_1 that covers the second reagent rack 2032 is formed to be positioned above the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Therefore, even if the rotation of the second reagent rack 2032 is resumed, the arm 2131 does not interfere with the reagent containers 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032, and the second reagent rack 2032 can be rotated.

[0114] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 removes the reagent container 12 (step S73). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 at the position where the reagent container 12 to be removed is placed to engage the holding portion 2131_2 of the arm 2131 with the held portion 1223 of the reagent container 12, and further raises the reagent container 12 from the state in which the holding portion 2131_2 is engaged with the held portion 1223 of the arm 2131, thereby removing the reagent container 12 from the first reagent rack 2031.

[0115] 12, the automated analyzer 1 stops the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 (step S75). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automated analyzer 1 controls the second reagent rack drive mechanism 42 to stop the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 that was resumed in step S71. More specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 so that a space between the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032, i.e., an empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, is positioned at a position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided in the side surface of the reagent storage 203. In step S43, if there are multiple empty spaces 2032_2 in which no reagent container 12 is installed in the second reagent rack 2032, the empty space 2032_2 in which no reagent container 12 is installed may be positioned so as to be closest to the position corresponding to the third opening 2035 provided in the side surface of the reagent storage 203. Furthermore, the empty space 2032_2 positioned at the position corresponding to the third opening 2035 in step S65 and the empty space 2032_2 positioned at the position corresponding to the third opening 2035 in step S75 may be the same as or different from each other.

[0116] As shown in steps S71 to S75 described above, the reagent rack control function 93 resumes rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 while the transport mechanism 213 removes the reagent container 12 placed in the first reagent rack 2031 from the first reagent rack 2031.

[0117] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reagent container 12 to a predetermined position (step S77). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to transport the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to a predetermined position. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 213 to transport the reagent container 12 to the predetermined position through an empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, which is between the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032.

[0118] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 resumes the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 (step S79). Specifically, the reagent rack control function 93 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 to resume the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032.

[0119] As shown in steps S75 to S79 ​​described above, the reagent rack control function 93 stops the rotational driving of the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 while the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 from the first reagent rack 2031 through the empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed.

[0120] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 at a predetermined position (step S81). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to place the reagent container 12 at a predetermined position.

[0121] After step S63 or step S81, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the positioner 212 to a predetermined position (step S83). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the positioner 212 to a predetermined position where the reagent container 12 is placed.

[0122] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the reagent container 12 (step S85). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the positioner 212 to hold the reagent container 12.

[0123] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the reagent container 12 to the receiving section 211 (step S87). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the positioner 212 to the receiving section 211, and moves the reagent container 12 to the receiving section 211.

[0124] 12, the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 on the receiving section 211 (step S89). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the positioner 212 to place the reagent container 12 on the receiving section 211.

[0125] By executing step S89, the reagent container removal process according to this embodiment is completed.

[0126] As described above, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, in the reagent storage 203 having the first reagent rack 2031 capable of accommodating a plurality of reagent containers 12 in a first circumference and the second reagent rack 2032 capable of accommodating a plurality of reagent containers 12 in a second circumference located outside the first circumference, when placing a reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 or removing a reagent container 12 from the first reagent rack 2031, the portion AR1 of the arm 2131 that overlaps the second reagent rack 2032 is formed above the reagent container 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Therefore, the arm 2131 of the transport mechanism 213 can perform rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 when placing a reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 or removing a reagent container 12 from the first reagent rack 2031. This minimizes the downtime of the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032, thereby improving the throughput of the automated analyzer 1.

[0127] Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, a positioner 212 is provided that transports the sample rack 11 and the reagent container 12 from the receiving unit 211 to a predetermined position, in addition to the transport mechanism 213 that transports the reagent container 12 placed in a predetermined position to the reagent storage 203. Therefore, the sample rack 11 can be transported to the rack sampler 202 even while the transport mechanism 213 is placing the reagent container 12 in the reagent storage 203. Therefore, the sample rack 11 can be analyzed without waiting for the reagent container 12 to be placed, thereby improving the throughput of the automatic analyzer 1.

[0128] Second Embodiment In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the transport mechanism 213 can transport the sample rack 11 and the reagent container 12 received in the receiving section 211 without providing the positioner 212. Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described taking as an example the case where this modified example is applied to the first embodiment described above.

[0129] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an analysis mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 13, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is configured by additionally including a transport mechanism track 2134. Furthermore, since the function of the transport mechanism differs from that of the first embodiment described above, it is referred to as transport mechanism 213a.

[0130] The transport mechanism 213a according to this embodiment transports the reagent container 12 received in the receiving unit 211 into the reagent storage 203. The transport mechanism 213a also transports the sample rack 11 received in the receiving unit 211 to an input position of the rack sampler 202. The transport mechanism 213a also removes the reagent container 12 from the reagent storage 203 and transports the removed reagent container 12 to the receiving unit 211. The transport mechanism 213a also transports the sample rack 11 that has been moved to a recovery position of the rack sampler 202 after sampling has been completed to the receiving unit 211. Here, the input position and the recovery position are provided at positions where the rotation path of the arm of the transport mechanism 213a intersects with the movement path of the opening of the sample container 111 held in the sample rack 11 moved by each of the first track unit 2021 and the second track unit 2022.

[0131] Furthermore, the transport mechanism 213a according to this embodiment has a reader for reading the sample labels affixed to each of the multiple sample containers 111 held in each sample rack 11, and the reagent labels affixed to each of the multiple reagent containers 12. When transporting the sample rack 11, the reader reads the optical marks printed on the sample labels affixed to each of the multiple sample containers held in the sample rack 11. Furthermore, for example, when transporting a reagent container 12, the reader reads the optical marks printed on the reagent labels affixed to the reagent container 12. Information on the read optical marks is output to the control circuit 9.

[0132] It should be noted that what is affixed to the reagent container 12 is not limited to an optical mark. For example, an IC tag using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) may be affixed, and the transport mechanism 213a or the like may have a reader compatible with these IC tags.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 13, the transport mechanism 213a according to this embodiment includes an arm 2131a, an arm support 2132a, a base 2133a, and a transport mechanism track 2134.

[0134] The arm 2131a according to this embodiment is provided to be slidable relative to the arm support section 2132a in a direction perpendicular to the first side surface 21 and the second side surface 22. The arm 2131a according to this embodiment is provided to be rotatable relative to the arm support section 2132a. Furthermore, the arm 2131a according to this embodiment holds the reagent container 12 received in the receiving section 211. The other configurations of the arm 2131a are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0135] The arm support section 2132a according to this embodiment supports the arm 2131a so that it can slide in a direction perpendicular to the first side surface 21 and the second side surface 22. The arm support section 2132a also supports the arm 2131a so that it can rotate. The rest of the configuration of the arm support section 2132a is the same as in the first embodiment described above, so a description thereof will be omitted. The base 2133a according to this embodiment moves along the transport mechanism track 2134 in a direction parallel to the first side surface 21 and the second side surface 22. The rest of the configuration of the base 2133a is the same as in the first embodiment described above, so a description thereof will be omitted. The transport mechanism track 2134 supports the base 2133a so that it can move in a direction parallel to the first side surface 21 and the second side surface 22.

[0136] 14 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the reagent container setting process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 11 in the first embodiment described above. As with the reagent container setting process according to the first embodiment described above, in this reagent container setting process, when the receiving unit 211 receives a reagent container 12, the transport mechanism 213 transports the reagent container 12 to the first reagent rack 2031 or the second reagent rack 2032 in the reagent storage 203. The reagent container setting process is executed when the receiving unit 211 receives a reagent container 12.

[0137] 14, first, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the transport mechanism 213 (step S91). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the base 2133a along the transport mechanism track 2134, thereby moving the transport mechanism 213 to the position of the slot 2111 where the receiving unit 211 has received the reagent container 12.

[0138] 14, the automatic analyzer 1 holds the reagent container 12 (step S93). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213 to cause the arm 2131a to hold the reagent container 12 received by the receiving unit 211. Also, in step S93, the transport mechanism control function 92 according to this embodiment controls the transport mechanism 213 to read the optical mark printed on the reagent label affixed to the reagent container 12. The processes from step S21 to step S47 after step S93 are the same as the reagent container setting process according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described again. Then, the process of step S31 or step S47 is executed, thereby ending the reagent container setting process according to this embodiment.

[0139] 15 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the reagent container removal process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 12 in the first embodiment described above. As with the reagent container removal process according to the first embodiment described above, in this reagent container removal process, when an instruction to remove the reagent container 12 is received from the user, the transport mechanism 213 removes the reagent container 12 stored in the reagent storage 203. The reagent container removal process is executed when an instruction to remove the reagent container 12 is received from the user. Note that the processes from step S51 to step S57 are the same as the reagent container removal process according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0140] 15, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reagent container 12 to the receiving unit 211 (step S101). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213a to transport the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to the receiving unit 211. More specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 213a to transport the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131 to the receiving unit 211 through an empty space 2032_2 in the second reagent rack 2032 where no reagent container 12 is installed, which is between the reagent containers 12 installed in the second reagent rack 2032. Note that the processing of step S61 and steps S65 to S75 after step S101 is the same as the reagent container removal processing according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0141] 15, the automatic analyzer 1 transports the reagent container 12 to the receiving unit 211 (step S103). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213a to transport the reagent container 12 held by the arm 2131a to the receiving unit 211. The process of step S79 after step S103 is the same as the reagent container removal process according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described again.

[0142] 15, after step S61 or step S79, the automatic analyzer 1 places the reagent container 12 on the receiving section 211 (step S105). Specifically, the transport mechanism control function 92 of the automatic analyzer 1 controls the transport mechanism 213a to place the reagent container 12 on the receiving section 211. By executing step S105, the reagent container removal process according to this embodiment is completed.

[0143] As described above, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment described above, in the reagent storage 203 having the first reagent rack 2031 capable of accommodating a plurality of reagent containers 12 in a first circumference and the second reagent rack 2032 capable of accommodating a plurality of reagent containers 12 in a second circumference located outside the first circumference, when placing a reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 or removing a reagent container 12 from the first reagent rack 2031, the portion AR1 of the arm 2131a that covers the second reagent rack 2032 is formed above the reagent container 12 placed in the second reagent rack 2032. Therefore, the arm 2131a of the transport mechanism 213a can perform rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032 when placing a reagent container 12 in the first reagent rack 2031 or removing a reagent container 12 from the first reagent rack 2031. This minimizes the downtime of the rotational driving of the second reagent rack 2032, thereby improving the throughput of the automated analyzer 1.

[0144] Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the sample rack 11 and reagent container 12 received by the receiving section 211 are transported by the transport mechanism 213a to the rack sampler 202 and the reagent storage 203, so the automatic analyzer 1 does not need to be provided with a positioner 212, and the automatic analyzer 1 can be made smaller.

[0145] [Modification 1 of the first and second embodiments] Although the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 of the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above have the first bearing 415 and the second bearing 425, the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 may be configured with a single common bearing. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the first reagent rack driving mechanism and the second reagent rack driving mechanism according to Modification 1, and corresponds to FIG. 5 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 16, the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 have a third bearing 417 instead of the first bearing 415 and the second bearing 425. As shown in FIG. 16, the third bearing 417 is configured with an inner ring portion 4171, a first ball 4172, an inner / outer ring portion 4173, a second ball 4174, and an outer ring portion 4175. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the inner / outer ring portion 4173 is fixed. When the first pinion gear 414 is driven, the inner ring portion 4171 rotates relative to the inner / outer ring portion 4173 via the first ball 4172 arranged between the inner ring portion 4171 and the inner / outer ring portion 4173. This causes the first reagent rack 2031 connected to the inner ring portion 4171 via the first connecting member 2031_1 to rotate. Furthermore, when the second pinion gear 424 is driven, the outer ring portion 4175 rotates relative to the inner / outer ring portion 4173 via the second ball 4174 arranged between the outer ring portion 4175 and the inner / outer ring portion 4173. This causes the second reagent rack 2032 connected to the outer ring portion 4175 via the second connecting member 2032_1 to rotate. Therefore, in the configuration of the first reagent rack driving mechanism 41 and the second reagent rack driving mechanism 42 according to this modified example, the first reagent rack 2031 and the second reagent rack 2032 can be rotated independently.

[0146] [Modification 2 of the First and Second Embodiments] Furthermore, although the application of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second 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 and second 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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]

[0149] 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...sample rack, 12...reagent container, 41...first reagent rack drive mechanism, 42...second reagent rack drive mechanism, 91...system control function, 92...transport mechanism control function, 93...reagent rack control function

Claims

1. a reagent storage including a first installation section capable of installing a plurality of reagent containers around a first circumference, and a second installation section capable of installing a plurality of reagent containers around a second circumference located outside the first circumference; a receiving section for receiving a reagent container placed by a user; a transport mechanism having an arm for holding the reagent container received in the receiving section, and transporting the reagent container held by the arm to the first installation section through the reagent containers installed in the second installation section; Equipped with The arm is formed so that when a reagent container is placed in the first placement section, the portion that overlaps the second placement section is positioned higher than the reagent container placed in the second placement section.

2. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 , further comprising a placement unit control unit that independently controls the rotational driving of the first placement unit and the second placement unit.

3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2 , wherein the installation unit control unit resumes rotational driving of the second installation unit while the transport mechanism is installing the reagent container held by the arm on the first installation unit.

4. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the installation section control section stops rotational driving of the first installation section and the second installation section while the transport mechanism transports the reagent container to the first installation section through the reagent containers installed in the second installation section.

5. 3. The automated analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the installation unit control unit stops the rotational driving of the first installation unit and the second installation unit while the arm moves to a predetermined position through the reagent containers installed in the second installation unit after the reagent container is installed in the first installation unit.

6. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2 , wherein the installation section control section resumes rotational driving of the second installation section while the transport mechanism is removing the reagent container installed in the first installation section from the first installation section.

7. The automated analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the installation section control section stops rotational driving of the first installation section and the second installation section while the arm moves to the first installation section through the reagent containers installed in the second installation section.

8. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the installation section control section stops rotational driving of the first installation section and the second installation section while the transport mechanism transports the reagent container from the first installation section through the reagent containers installed in the second installation section.

9. an opening is provided on a side surface of the reagent storage, through which the transport mechanism transports the reagent container to the first installation section or the second installation section; 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the installation unit control unit stops the rotational driving of the first installation unit and the second installation unit so that, when the reagent container is installed in the first installation unit, the position where the reagent container held by the arm in the first installation unit is installed and the space between the reagent container installed in the second installation unit are positioned at a position corresponding to the opening of the reagent storage.

10. 10. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the reagent container comprises a reagent container body that contains a reagent, and an adapter that enables the reagent container body to be transported.

11. a transport mechanism for transporting the reagent container received in the receiving section to a predetermined position; 10. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the arm holds the reagent container that has been received by the receiving unit and transported to a predetermined position by the transport mechanism.

12. a first installation unit drive mechanism for driving the first installation unit; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 , further comprising: a second installation unit driving mechanism for driving the second installation unit.

13. 10. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the arm has a support arm including a portion that hangs over the second installation portion, and a holder provided at one end of the support arm for holding the reagent container.

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