Nozzle unit, autoanalyzer, and method for controlling autoanalyzer

Abstract

To improve the reliability of measurement data, while preventing dripping of a medium from a nozzle.SOLUTION: A nozzle unit according to an embodiment comprises: a nozzle that discharges a medium into a reaction tube; a nozzle holding part that holds the nozzle; a medium inflow tube that causes the medium to flow into the nozzle holding part; a partition part that partitions the inside of the nozzle holding part into a first space on the medium inflow tube side and a second space on the nozzle side, and that is formed with an inflow port for causing the medium to flow in from the first space to the second space; a valve body that is housed in the nozzle holding part and opens and closes the inflow port; and an urging member that urges the valve body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a nozzle unit, an automatic analyzer, and a method for controlling an automatic analyzer. [Background technology]

[0002] An automated analyzer is an apparatus that analyzes components of a test sample corresponding to each test item by, for example, optically measuring a reaction solution obtained by mixing a test sample collected from a subject such as blood or a standard sample for each test item with a reagent corresponding to each test item. Conventionally, automated analyzers use a cleaning unit to clean reaction tubes used in measurements so that the reaction tubes can be reused. One method for cleaning reaction tubes using this cleaning unit involves repeatedly inserting a nozzle into the reaction tube, discharging cleaning water into the reaction tube through the nozzle, aspirating the internal liquid inside the reaction tube, and removing the nozzle from the reaction tube. Cleaning the reaction tube in this way can prevent contamination of the inner surface of the reaction tube.

[0003] However, in such a cleaning unit, the cleaning water discharge pipes of each of the multiple nozzles are connected to one cleaning water discharge pump via one solenoid valve. Therefore, due to differences in potential energy between the cleaning water in adjacent nozzles or vibration of the pipes, cleaning water may drip, mainly from nozzles with high tip heights, and the dripped cleaning water may unexpectedly mix with the reaction tube, affecting the measurement data. For this reason, in order to prevent the cleaning water from dripping from the nozzles, a solenoid valve or a check valve may be installed in each cleaning water discharge pipe.

[0004] However, providing a solenoid valve for each cleaning water discharge pipe requires an electrical circuit, resulting in increased costs. Furthermore, providing a check valve for each cleaning water discharge pipe results in unreliable opening and closing of the check valve, resulting in an unstable flow rate of cleaning water. This problem is not limited to cleaning units that discharge cleaning water, but also occurs in units having nozzles that discharge media other than cleaning water, such as reagents and standard samples, into reaction tubes. This problem also occurs in cleaning units in which the cleaning water discharge pipe for one nozzle is connected to one cleaning water discharge pump via one solenoid valve. Therefore, it is desirable to prevent dripping of media from the nozzles while improving the reliability of measurement data in automated analyzers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-030995 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-212324 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-137076 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

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

[0007] The nozzle unit according to the embodiment includes a nozzle that ejects a medium into a reaction tube, a nozzle holder that holds the nozzle, a medium inlet pipe that allows the medium to flow into the nozzle holder, a partition that separates the inside of the nozzle holder into a first space on the medium inlet pipe side and a second space on the nozzle side, the partition having an inlet through which the medium flows from the first space to the second space, a valve body that is housed in the nozzle holder and opens and closes the inlet, and a biasing member that biases the valve body. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [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 an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a cleaning unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a view of the cleaning unit according to the first embodiment, as seen from the direction A shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a cleaning process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the nozzle unit and the valve opening / closing control plate when the nozzle unit according to the first embodiment is raised (not being cleaned). [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit according to Modification 1. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a cleaning unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] 11 is a top view of the nozzle unit and the valve opening / closing control plate shown in FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a cleaning process executed by an automatic analyzer according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the nozzle unit and the valve opening / closing control plate when the nozzle unit according to the second embodiment is lowered (during cleaning). [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit according to Modification 2. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a cleaning unit according to a third embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a cleaning process executed by an automatic analyzer according to a third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit according to Modification 3. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between a cleaning unit according to a fourth embodiment and a valve opening / closing control plate. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a nozzle unit and a suction unit according to Modification 4. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a part of a cleaning unit according to Modification 5. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of a part of the cleaning unit according to the fifth modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of a nozzle unit, an automatic analyzer, and a control method for an automatic analyzer will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

[0010] 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 according to this embodiment is an apparatus that measures components in a sample by measuring, for example, a reaction solution between a standard sample and a reagent or a reaction solution between a test sample and a reagent. 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.

[0011] The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample, such as a standard sample or a test sample, with reagents used for each test item set for the sample. The analysis mechanism 2 measures a reaction liquid obtained by mixing a standard sample with a reagent, or a reaction liquid between a test sample and a reagent, and generates, for example, standard data and test data. In this embodiment, the analysis mechanism 2 measures, for example, a test sample, a reaction liquid between a standard sample and a reagent, or a reaction liquid between a test sample and a reagent, and generates standard data and test data. 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 a "sample."

[0012] 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 calibration data that indicates the relationship between the standard data and a predetermined standard value for the standard sample based on the standard data. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analytical data expressed as concentration values ​​and enzyme activity values ​​based on the test data and calibration data for the test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analytical data, etc. to the control circuit 9.

[0013] 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, etc. The drive mechanism 4 according to this embodiment includes a cleaning unit drive mechanism 41. The cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 drives the cleaning unit so as to raise and lower the cleaning unit, which will be described later. In other words, the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 raises and lowers the cleaning unit, thereby driving the nozzle unit, which will be described later, so as to raise and lower the nozzle unit. The cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 corresponds to the nozzle unit drive section according to this embodiment.

[0014] The input interface 5 receives, for example, settings such as analytical parameters for each test item related to a sample requested to be measured from a user or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 5 is realized, for example, by a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad where instructions are input by touching the operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts operation instructions input by the user into electrical signals, and outputs 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 electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to operation instructions input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 9 is also included as an example of the input interface 5.

[0015] The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is realized by, for example, a display circuit, a printed circuit, an audio device, etc. Display circuits include, for example, CRT displays, liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, LED displays, and plasma displays. Note that 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. Printed circuits include, for example, a printer, etc. Note that the printed circuit also includes an output circuit that outputs data representing a print object to the outside. Audio devices include, for example, a speaker, etc. Note that the audio device also includes an output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside.

[0016] 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.

[0017] The memory circuit 8 is configured by a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. 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.

[0018] The memory circuitry 8 also stores an analysis program executed by the analysis circuitry 3 and a control program executed by the control circuitry 9. The memory circuitry 8 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuitry 3 for each test item.

[0019] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the control circuit 9 outputs control signals to the drive mechanism 4 to drive each part of the analysis mechanism 2. The control circuit 9 also executes an operating program stored in the memory circuit 8 to realize functions corresponding to the operating program. The control circuit 9 may also include a storage area for storing at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0020] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment includes a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a rack sampler 203, a first reagent storage 204, a second reagent storage 205, a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a first reagent dispensing arm 208, a first reagent dispensing probe 209, a second reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, a first stirring unit 212, a second stirring unit 213, a photometry unit 214, a cleaning unit 215, a valve opening / closing control plate 216, and a supply pump 217.

[0021] The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 2011 arranged in a ring shape. The reaction disk 201 transports the plurality of reaction tubes 2011 along a predetermined path. Specifically, during the analysis operation of a reaction solution of a sample and a reagent, the reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction tubes 2011 are formed of, for example, glass, polypropylene (PP), or acrylic.

[0022] The thermostatic part 202 stores a heat transfer medium set to a predetermined temperature. The thermostatic part 202 immerses the reaction tube 2011 in the stored heat transfer medium, thereby raising the temperature of the reaction liquid contained in the reaction tube 2011 to a predetermined temperature and keeping the temperature constant.

[0023] The rack sampler 203 movably supports a sample rack 2031 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers containing samples for which measurement has been requested. These sample containers contain specimens such as blood for which measurement has been requested. In the example shown in Figure 2, the sample rack 2031 is capable of holding five sample containers in parallel.

[0024] The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2032 for transporting the sample rack 2031. That is, using this transport area 2032, the sample rack 2031 is transported from an input position where the sample rack 2031 is input to a recovery position where the sample rack 2031 is recovered after measurement has been completed. In the transport area 2032, a plurality of sample racks 2031 aligned in the longitudinal direction are moved in direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0025] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a retraction region 2033 that retracts the sample rack 2031 from the transport region 2032 in order to move the sample container held in the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample suction position. The sample suction position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207 intersects with the movement path of the opening of the sample container supported by the rack sampler 203 and held in the sample rack 2031. In the retraction region 2033, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0026] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a return area 2034 for returning the sample rack 2031 holding the sample container into which the sample has been aspirated to the transport area 2032. In the return area 2034, the sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0027] The first reagent storage 204 keeps a plurality of reagent containers refrigerated, each containing a first reagent that reacts with a predetermined component contained in a standard sample and a test sample. The first reagent is, for example, a buffer solution containing bovine serum albumin (BSA). A reagent label is affixed to the reagent container. An optical mark representing reagent information is printed on the reagent label. The optical mark may be any pixel code, such as a one-dimensional pixel code or a two-dimensional pixel code. The reagent information is information about the reagent contained in the reagent container, and includes, for example, the reagent name, reagent manufacturer code, reagent item code, bottle type, bottle size, capacity, manufacturing lot number, and expiration date.

[0028] The first reagent storage 204 also stores a plurality of standard sample containers each containing a standard sample. Each of the standard sample containers contains a standard sample of the same component but at different concentrations. The standard sample containers may be held in a sample rack 2031.

[0029] A reagent rack 2041 is rotatably provided in the first reagent storage 204. The reagent rack 2041 holds a plurality of reagent containers and a plurality of standard sample containers arranged in a circular ring shape. The reagent rack 2041 is rotated by a drive mechanism 4. Also provided in the first reagent storage 204 is a reader (not shown) that reads reagent information from reagent labels attached to the reagent containers. The read reagent information is stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0030] A first reagent aspirating position is set at a predetermined position on the first reagent storage 204. The first reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 intersects with the movement paths of the openings of the reagent containers and standard sample containers arranged in a circular pattern on the reagent rack 2041.

[0031] The second reagent storage 205 keeps cold multiple reagent containers containing a second reagent that pairs with the first reagent of a two-reagent system. 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 rack 2051 is rotatably provided within the second reagent storage 205.

[0032] The reagent rack 2051 holds a plurality of reagent containers arranged in a circular ring. Note that a standard sample container containing a standard sample may be kept cold in the second reagent storage 205. The reagent rack 2051 is rotated by a drive mechanism 4. A reader (not shown) is provided in the second reagent storage 205 to read reagent information from the reagent label attached to the reagent container. The read reagent information is stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0033] A second reagent aspirating position is set at a predetermined position on the second reagent storage 205. The second reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 intersects with the movement paths of the openings of the reagent containers arranged in a circular pattern on the reagent rack 2051.

[0034] The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0035] The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arcuate rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm 206. A sample suction position for aspirating a sample from a sample container held in a sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203 is provided on this rotational path. In addition, a sample dispensing position for dispensing the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into a reaction tube 2011 is provided on the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207. The sample dispensing position is provided at a position where the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement path of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 intersect.

[0036] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at the sample suction position or the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates a sample from a sample container at the sample suction position under the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 also discharges the aspirated sample into a reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9.

[0037] The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided near the outer periphery of the first reagent storage 204. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 holds a first reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0038] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the first reagent dispensing arm 208. A first reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. The first reagent aspirating position is provided at which the first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates the first reagent or the standard sample. The first reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 intersects with the movement path of the openings of the reagent containers and the standard sample containers arranged in an annular shape on the reagent rack 2051. In addition, a first reagent dispensing position is set on the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 for dispensing the first reagent or the standard sample aspirated by the first reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction tube 2011. The first reagent dispensing position is provided at a position where the rotational path of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 intersects with the movement path of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0039] The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided near the outer periphery of the first reagent storage 204. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 holds a second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end.

[0040] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm 210. The aforementioned second reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. In addition, a second reagent dispensing position for dispensing the second reagent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction tube 2011 is set on the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211. The second reagent dispensing position is provided at a position where the rotational path of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement path of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 intersect.

[0041] The first stirring unit 212 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 212 has a first stirring arm 2121 and a first stirring bar provided at the tip of the first stirring arm 2121. The first stirring unit 212 uses the first stirring bar to stir the reaction liquid of the standard sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction tube 2011 located at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 212 also uses the first stirring bar to stir the reaction liquid of the test sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction tube 2011 located at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

[0042] The second stirring unit 213 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 213 has a second stirring arm 2131 and a second stirring bar provided at the tip of the second stirring arm 2131. The second stirring unit 213 uses the second stirring bar to stir the reaction solution of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction tube 2011 located at the second stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 213 also uses the second stirring bar to stir the reaction solution of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction tube 2011 located at the second stirring position.

[0043] The photometry unit 214 optically measures the reaction solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent dispensed into the reaction tube 2011. The photometry unit 214 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometry unit 214 irradiates light from the light source under the control of the control circuit 9. The irradiated light enters the first side wall of the reaction tube 2011 and exits from the second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photometry unit 214 detects the light exiting from the reaction tube 2011 with the photodetector.

[0044] Specifically, for example, the photodetector is disposed on the optical axis of light irradiated from the light source onto the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector detects light that has passed through the reaction solution of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates standard data represented by absorbance based on the intensity of the detected light. The photodetector also detects light that has passed through the reaction solution of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction tube 2011, and generates test data represented by absorbance based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit 214 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3 as measurement results.

[0045] The cleaning unit 215 cleans the inside of the reaction tube 2011 after the measurement of the reaction solution has been completed by the photometry unit 214. The configuration of this cleaning unit 215 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the cleaning unit 215 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram of the cleaning unit 215 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from direction A shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cleaning unit 215 according to this embodiment is configured to include a support shaft 2151, a connecting member 2152, a unit support part 2153, a unit fixing part 2154, a suction unit 2155, and a nozzle unit 50.

[0046] One end of the support shaft 2151 is connected to the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41, and supports the nozzle unit 50 and the suction unit 2155 so that they can move in the vertical direction via a connecting member 2152, a unit support portion 2153, and a unit fixing portion 2154. Specifically, the support shaft 2151 moves in the vertical direction by the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41, thereby moving the suction unit 2155 in the vertical direction and also moving the nozzle unit 50 in the vertical direction. In other words, the nozzle unit 50 moves up and down by moving the support shaft 2151 in the vertical direction by the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41.

[0047] The connecting member 2152 is a member that connects the unit support portion 2153 and the unit fixing portion 2154 to the support shaft 2151. The connecting member 2152 is a member that is provided between the support shaft 2151 and the unit support portion 2153.

[0048] The unit support portion 2153 supports the nozzle unit 50 and the suction unit 2155 fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the unit support portion 2153 is a separate member from the connecting member 2152, and therefore, by removing the unit support portion 2153 from the connecting member 2152, the nozzle unit 50 and the suction unit 2155 supported by the unit support portion 2153 via the unit fixing portion 2154 can be easily removed. This facilitates maintenance of the nozzle unit 50 and the suction unit 2155. Note that, although the unit support portion 2153 is a separate member from the connecting member 2152 in the present embodiment, the unit support portion 2153 and the connecting member 2152 may be configured as a single member.

[0049] The unit fixing portion 2154 is a member for fixing the nozzle unit 50 and the suction unit 2155 to the unit support portion 2153. One nozzle unit 50 and one suction unit 2155 are fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154 according to this embodiment. This unit fixing portion 2154 corresponds to the fixing portion in this embodiment.

[0050] The suction unit 2155 sucks the reaction liquid in the reaction tube 2011 and the medium discharged from the nozzle unit 50. A suction pump (not shown) and a tank for storing the sucked reaction liquid, medium, etc. are connected to the suction unit 2155. As shown in Fig. 4, the suction unit 2155 according to this embodiment is configured to include a suction nozzle 2155_1, a suction nozzle holder 2155_2, and a suction tube 2155_3.

[0051] The suction nozzle 2155_1 is a nozzle for aspirating the reaction liquid and the medium in the reaction tube 2011. Specifically, the suction nozzle 2155_1 according to this embodiment aspirates the reaction liquid and the washing water in the reaction tube 2011 that is positioned below the suction nozzle 2155_1 among the reaction tubes 2011 supported on the reaction disk 201. An aspiration port is formed at one end of the suction nozzle 2155_1. As shown in FIG. 4, the other end of the suction nozzle 2155_1 is held by the suction nozzle holder 2155_2.

[0052] The suction nozzle holding portion 2155_2 holds the suction nozzle 2155_1. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the suction nozzle 2155_1 is attached to the lower surface of the suction nozzle holding portion 2155_2. One end of the suction nozzle holder 2155_2 is held by the suction nozzle holder 2155_3.

[0053] The suction pipe 2155_3 is a member for connecting the suction nozzle 2155_1 and the suction nozzle holder 2155_2 to a suction pump (not shown) or a tank for storing the suctioned reaction liquid, medium, etc.

[0054] The nozzle unit 50 dispenses a medium into the reaction tube 2011. In this embodiment, the medium dispensed by the nozzle unit 50 is cleaning water. That is, the nozzle unit 50 according to this embodiment is a nozzle unit used for cleaning. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the nozzle unit 50 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the nozzle unit 50 according to this embodiment is configured to include a nozzle 51, a nozzle holding portion 52, a partition portion 53, a medium inlet pipe 54, a valve body 55, a valve body holding shaft 56, a contact portion 57, a sealing portion 58, a sealing portion fixing portion 59, and a biasing member 510.

[0055] The nozzle 51 ejects the medium into the reaction tube 2011. Specifically, the nozzle 51 according to this embodiment ejects the cleaning water into the reaction tube 2011 that is positioned below the nozzle 51 among the reaction tubes 2011 supported by the reaction disk 201. One end of the nozzle 51 is held by a nozzle holder 52.

[0056] The nozzle holding part 52 holds the nozzle 51. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 5, the lower surface of the nozzle holding part 52 holds one end of the nozzle 51. In addition, a medium inlet pipe 54 is attached to the side surface of the nozzle holding part 52.

[0057] The partition part 53 divides the inside of the nozzle holding part 52 into a first space SP1 on the medium inlet pipe 54 side to which the medium inlet pipe 54 is attached, and a second space SP2 on the nozzle 51 side to which the nozzle 51 is held. The partition part 53 also has an inlet IP1 for allowing the cleaning water, which is the medium, to flow from the first space SP1 to the second space SP2. That is, the medium that has flowed into the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding part 52 through the medium inlet pipe 54 flows into the second space SP2 of the nozzle holding part 52 through the inlet IP1 and is discharged into the reaction tube 2011 through the nozzle 51.

[0058] The medium inlet pipe 54 causes the medium to flow into the nozzle holder 52. Specifically, the medium inlet pipe 54 causes the medium supplied from a medium container containing the medium stored in the automated analyzer to flow into the nozzle holder 52 by a supply pump 217 connected to the medium inlet pipe 54. As shown in FIG. 5 , the medium inlet pipe 54 according to this embodiment causes the medium to flow into the first space SP1 from diagonally above with respect to the axial direction of the nozzle holder 52. In this embodiment, the medium is cleaning water, and the medium inlet pipe 54 causes the cleaning water to flow into the first space SP1. In other words, the medium inlet pipe 54 causes cleaning water, supplied from a cleaning water container containing cleaning water, to flow into the nozzle holder 52 by the supply pump 217 connected to the medium inlet pipe 54.

[0059] The valve element 55 opens and closes an inlet port IP1 formed in the partition portion 53. The valve element 55 is housed in the nozzle holding portion 52. As shown in FIG. 5, the valve element 55 according to this embodiment is housed in a first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the valve element 55 is held at one end of a valve element holding shaft 56.

[0060] The valve element holding shaft 56 holds the valve element 55 at one end. The valve element holding shaft 56 also holds an abutment portion 57 at the other end. As shown in FIG. 5 , one end of the valve element holding shaft 56 passes through an opening OP1 formed in the upper surface of the nozzle holding portion 52 and holds the valve element 55 housed in the nozzle holding portion 52, and the other end of the valve element holding shaft 56 holds the abutment portion 57 provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52.

[0061] The contact portion 57 is held at the other end of the valve element holding shaft 56. When the nozzle unit 50 is raised relative to the reaction tube 2011, the upper surface of the contact portion 57 comes into contact with the valve opening / closing control plate 216, thereby pressing the valve element 55 downward via the valve element holding shaft 56.

[0062] The sealing portion 58 seals the opening OP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52. This sealing portion 58 is formed of an elastic member such as rubber. As shown in FIG. 5, the sealing portion 58 according to this embodiment is provided on the upper part of the nozzle holding portion 52. The sealing portion fixing portion 59 is a member that fixes the sealing portion 58. As shown in FIG. 5, the sealing portion fixing portion 59 according to this embodiment is provided above the sealing portion 58 and fixes the sealing portion 58 between itself and the nozzle holding portion 52.

[0063] The biasing member 510 biases the valve body 55. The biasing member 510 according to this embodiment biases the valve body 55 in the valve-opening direction. Specifically, the biasing member 510 according to this embodiment is a compression spring, and is provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5 , the biasing member 510 according to this embodiment is disposed between the abutment portion 57 and the sealing portion fixing portion 59, and is wound around the valve body holding shaft 56.

[0064] 5, the biasing member 510 of the nozzle unit 50 according to this embodiment biases the valve element 55 in the valve-opening direction, so that the valve element 55 opens the inlet IP1 when no external force is applied. Specifically, the valve element 55 opens the inlet IP1 when no external force, such as a force in the opposite direction to the biasing force of the biasing member 510, is applied to the biasing member 510 via the abutment portion 57, that is, a force in the direction to close the valve element 55, is applied to the biasing member 510 via the abutment portion 57. On the other hand, when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied to the valve element 55 via the abutment portion 57, the valve element 55 closes the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510. Specifically, the valve body 55 closes the inlet IP1 when an external force, for example, a force in the opposite direction to the force exerted by the biasing member 510, greater than or equal to a predetermined value, is applied to the biasing member 510 via the abutment portion 57, i.e., a force in the direction of closing the valve body 55, is applied to the biasing member 510 via the abutment portion 57.

[0065] Returning to FIG. 3 , the valve opening / closing control plate 216 is a member for controlling the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50. Specifically, the valve opening / closing control plate 216 according to this embodiment controls the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50 so as to open the inlet IP1 when the nozzle unit 50 is lowered by the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 and close the inlet IP1 when the nozzle unit 50 is raised by the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41. As shown in FIG. 3 , the valve opening / closing control plate 216 is provided near the cleaning unit 215. Also as shown in FIG. 3 , this valve opening / closing control plate 216 is attached to the base 20. Also as shown in FIG. 3 , the valve opening / closing control plate 216 according to this embodiment is provided so that the upper surface of the abutting portion 57 of the nozzle unit 50 abuts against the lower surface of the valve opening / closing control plate 216 when the nozzle unit 50 is raised. This valve opening / closing control plate 216 is an example of a control member according to this embodiment.

[0066] The supply pump 217 is a pump for supplying a medium to the reaction tube 2011. Specifically, the supply pump 217 is a pump for supplying cleaning water to the reaction tube 2011. For this reason, the supply pump 217 according to this embodiment is connected to a cleaning water storage container (not shown) that stores cleaning water stored in a reagent storage or the like. When the supply pump 217 is operated, cleaning water is supplied from the cleaning water storage container to the first space SP1 of the nozzle holder 52 via the medium inflow pipe 54.

[0067] 1 , the control circuit 9, for example, executes a control program to implement a system control function 91 and a drive control function 92. Note that, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the system control function 91 and the drive control function 92 are implemented 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 and the drive control function 92 may be implemented 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 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 drive control function 92 is a function that controls the drive mechanism 4. For example, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to control the cleaning unit 215. The drive control function 92 corresponds to the drive control section in this embodiment.

[0070] 6 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the cleaning process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. In this cleaning process, the nozzle unit 50 is lowered, cleaning water is discharged into the reaction tube 2011, the reaction liquid and cleaning water in the reaction tube 2011 are sucked, and the nozzle unit 50 is raised. For example, this cleaning process is executed when the cleaning unit 215 is lowered.

[0071] 6, the drive control function 92 implemented by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the nozzle unit 50 (step S11). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to lower the cleaning unit 215, thereby lowering the nozzle unit 50. When the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 lowers the nozzle unit 50, the valve opening / closing control plate 216 controls the valve element 55 to open the inlet IP1.

[0072] 3, in this embodiment, when the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to lower the nozzle unit 50, the valve opening / closing control plate 216 separates the abutment portion 57, releasing the downward pressure on the valve element 55, causing the valve element 55 to be urged in the valve opening direction by the urging member 510, thereby opening the inlet IP1. This enables the nozzle unit 50 to discharge cleaning water.

[0073] 6, the drive control function 92 realized by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 discharges the cleaning water (step S13). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the supply pump 217 to discharge the cleaning water into the reaction tube 2011 through the nozzle unit 50. More specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the supply pump 217 to discharge a predetermined amount of cleaning water into the reaction tube 2011.

[0074] 6, the drive control function 92 realized by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 causes the reaction liquid and washing water in the reaction tube 2011 to be sucked (step S15). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the suction pump to suck the reaction liquid and washing water in the reaction tube 2011 via the suction unit 2155.

[0075] 6, the drive control function 92 implemented by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 raises the nozzle unit 50 (step S17). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to raise the cleaning unit 215, thereby raising the nozzle unit 50. Then, when the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to raise the nozzle unit 50, the valve opening / closing control plate 216 controls the valve element 55 to close the inlet IP1.

[0076] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the nozzle unit 50 and the valve opening / closing control plate 216 when the nozzle unit 50 according to the first embodiment is raised (when not being cleaned). As shown in Fig. 7, in this embodiment, when the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to raise the nozzle unit 50, the upper surface of the abutting portion 57 abuts against the lower surface of the valve opening / closing control plate 216, and the valve opening / closing control plate 216 presses down the valve element 55 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510, thereby closing the inlet IP1.

[0077] In step S17, the nozzle unit 50 is raised, thereby completing the cleaning process according to this embodiment.

[0078] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the nozzle unit 50 includes the biasing member 510 that biases the valve element 55 in the valve opening direction, and the valve element 55 that is provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52 and that closes the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510 when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied. The valve opening / closing control plate 216 controls the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50 so that when the nozzle unit 50 rises, it presses the valve element 55 down against the biasing force of the biasing member 510 to close the inlet IP1, and when the nozzle unit 50 descends, the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50 is released from the pressed-down state, thereby biasing the valve element 55 in the valve opening direction by the biasing member 510 and opening the inlet IP1. This makes it possible to prevent cleaning water from dripping from the nozzle 51 due to vibration of the piping, and improves the reliability of the measurement data.

[0079] [Variation 1] In the nozzle unit 50 according to the first embodiment described above, the biasing member 510 is configured as a compression spring, but the biasing member 510 of the nozzle unit 50 can also be configured as a tension spring.

[0080] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a nozzle unit 50a according to Modification 1, and corresponds to Fig. 5 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 8, the nozzle unit 50a according to Modification 1 differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the urging member, and therefore in this embodiment, this is referred to as urging member 510a. Note that the configuration other than the urging member 510a is the same as Fig. 5 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0081] The biasing member 510a according to this modification biases the valve body 55 in the valve-opening direction. Specifically, the biasing member 510a according to this modification is a tension spring, and is housed in the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8 , the biasing member 510a according to this modification is disposed between the upper part of the nozzle holding portion 52 and the valve body 55, and is wound around the valve body holding shaft 56.

[0082] Thus, according to the nozzle unit 50a of this embodiment, even in a configuration in which the biasing member 510a is a tension spring and is housed in the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0083] Second Embodiment The automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above is provided with a nozzle unit 50 including a biasing member 510 that biases the valve element 55 in the valve opening direction, and a valve element 55 that is housed in the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52 and that closes the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510 when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied, and the valve opening / closing control plate 216 controls the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50 so that when the nozzle unit 50 rises, the valve element 55 is pressed down against the biasing force of the biasing member 510 to close the inlet IP1, and when the nozzle unit 50 descends, the valve element 55 is released from being pressed down, thereby biasing the valve element 55 in the valve opening direction by the biasing member 510 and opening the inlet IP1, but this is not limited to this. In the second embodiment, the automated analyzer 1 includes a nozzle unit including a biasing member that biases the valve element in a valve closing direction, and a valve element that is housed in the first space of the nozzle holder and that opens the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied, and the valve opening / closing control plate may control the valve element of the nozzle unit so that when the nozzle unit descends, it pulls up the valve element against the biasing force of the biasing member to open the inlet IP1, and when the nozzle unit ascends, it releases the pull-up of the valve element 55, causing the biasing member to bias the valve element in the valve closing direction and close the inlet IP1. Below, differences from the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0084] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of 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. 9, the analysis mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in the configuration of the cleaning unit and the valve opening / closing control plate, and therefore in this embodiment they are referred to as a cleaning unit 215a and a valve opening / closing control plate 216a. The configuration other than the cleaning unit 215a and the valve opening / closing control plate 216a is the same as that in Fig. 2 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0085] The cleaning unit 215a cleans the inside of the reaction tube 2011 after the measurement of the reaction solution by the photometric unit 214 has been completed. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the cleaning unit 215a according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 7 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 10, the cleaning unit 215a according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the nozzle unit, and therefore in this embodiment, it is referred to as a nozzle unit 50b. Note that the configuration other than the nozzle unit 50b is the same as that in FIG. 7 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0086] The nozzle unit 50b dispenses the medium into the reaction tube 2011. In this embodiment, the medium dispensed by the nozzle unit 50b is cleaning water. That is, the nozzle unit 50b according to this embodiment is a nozzle unit used for cleaning. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the nozzle unit 50b according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 5 in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the nozzle unit 50b according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configurations of the contact portion and the urging member. Therefore, in this embodiment, these are referred to as the contact portion 57a ​​and the urging member 510b. Note that the configurations other than the contact portion 57a ​​and the urging member 510b are the same as those in FIG. 5 in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described again.

[0087] The contact portion 57a ​​is held at the other end of the valve element holding shaft 56. When the nozzle unit 50 is lowered relative to the reaction tube 2011, the lower surface of the contact portion 57a ​​comes into contact with the valve opening / closing control plate 216a, thereby pulling the valve element 55 upward via the valve element holding shaft 56.

[0088] The biasing member 510b according to this embodiment biases the valve body 55 in the valve closing direction. Specifically, the biasing member 510 according to this embodiment is a compression spring, and is housed in the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 11 , the biasing member 510b according to this embodiment is disposed between the upper part of the nozzle holding portion 52 and the valve body 55 housed in the first space SP1, and is wound around the valve body holding shaft 56.

[0089] 11 , the biasing member 510b of the nozzle unit 50b according to this embodiment biases the valve element 55 in the valve-closing direction, so that the valve element 55 closes the inlet IP1 when no external force is applied. Specifically, the valve element 55 closes the inlet IP1 when no external force is applied, such as a force in the opposite direction to the biasing force of the biasing member 510b via the abutment portion 57a, i.e., a force in the direction to open the valve element 55, to the biasing member 510b via the abutment portion 57a. On the other hand, when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied via the abutment portion 57a, the valve element 55 opens the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510b. Specifically, the valve body 55 opens the inlet IP1 when an external force, for example, a force in the opposite direction to the force exerted by the biasing member 510 of a predetermined value or greater is applied to the biasing member 510b via the abutment portion 57a, i.e., a force in the direction of opening the valve body 55, is applied to the biasing member 510b via the abutment portion 57a.

[0090] Returning to FIG. 9 , the valve opening / closing control plate 216a is a member for controlling the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50b. Specifically, the valve opening / closing control plate 216a according to this embodiment controls the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50b so as to open the inlet IP1 when the nozzle unit 50b is lowered by the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 and close the inlet IP1 when the nozzle unit 50b is raised by the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41. As shown in FIG. 10 , the valve opening / closing control plate 216a is provided near the cleaning unit 215a. The valve opening / closing control plate 216a according to this embodiment has a groove 2161 formed therein through which the valve element holding shaft 56 passes. FIG. 12 is a top view of the nozzle unit 50b and the valve opening / closing control plate 216a shown in FIG. 10 . 12, the valve opening / closing control plate 216a according to this embodiment is provided so that when the nozzle unit 50b is lowered, the lower surface of the abutting portion 57a ​​of the nozzle unit 50b comes into contact with the upper surface of the valve opening / closing control plate 216a. This valve opening / closing control plate 216a is an example of a control member according to this embodiment.

[0091] 13 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the cleaning process executed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 6 in the first embodiment. In this cleaning process, the nozzle unit 50b is lowered, cleaning water is discharged into the reaction tube 2011, the reaction liquid and cleaning water in the reaction tube 2011 are sucked, and the nozzle unit 50b is raised.

[0092] 13, the drive control function 92 implemented by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the nozzle unit 50b (step S21). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to lower the cleaning unit 215a, thereby lowering the nozzle unit 50b. When the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 lowers the nozzle unit 50b, the valve opening / closing control plate 216a controls the valve element 55 to open the inlet IP1. This enables the nozzle unit 50b to eject cleaning water.

[0093] 14 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the nozzle unit 50b and the valve opening / closing control plate 216a when the nozzle unit 50b according to the second embodiment is lowered (during cleaning), and corresponds to FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, in this embodiment, when the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to lower the nozzle unit 50b, the lower surface of the abutting portion 57 abuts against the upper surface of the valve opening / closing control plate 216a, and the valve opening / closing control plate 216a lifts the valve element 55 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510, thereby opening the inlet IP1. Note that the processing of steps S13 and S15 is similar to the content of the cleaning processing shown in FIG. 6 and therefore will not be described again.

[0094] 13, the drive control function 92 implemented by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 raises the nozzle unit 50b (step S23). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to raise the cleaning unit 215a, thereby raising the nozzle unit 50b. When the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 raises the nozzle unit 50b, the valve opening / closing control plate 216a controls the valve element 55 to close the inlet IP1.

[0095] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, when the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to raise the nozzle unit 50b, the valve opening / closing control plate 216a causes the abutment portion 57a ​​to separate, releasing the lifting of the valve body 55, whereby the valve body 55 is urged in the valve closing direction by the urging member 510b, thereby closing the inlet IP1.

[0096] In step S23, the nozzle unit 50b is raised, thereby completing the cleaning process according to this embodiment.

[0097] As described above, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the nozzle unit 50b also includes a biasing member 510b that biases the valve element 55 in the valve closing direction, and a valve element 55 that is housed in the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52 and that opens the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510 when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied. The valve opening / closing control plate 216a controls the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50b so that when the nozzle unit 50b descends, it pulls up the valve element 55 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510, thereby opening the inlet IP1, and when the nozzle unit 50b ascends, the valve element 55 of the nozzle unit 50b is released from the pulling up of the valve element 55, thereby biasing the valve element 55 in the valve closing direction with the biasing member 510b and closing the inlet IP1. This makes it possible to prevent cleaning water from dripping from the nozzle 51 due to vibration of the piping, and improves the reliability of the measurement data.

[0098] [Variation 2] In the nozzle unit 50b according to the second embodiment described above, the biasing member 510b is configured as a compression spring, but the biasing member 510b of the nozzle unit 50b can also be configured as a tension spring.

[0099] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit 50c according to Modification 2, and corresponds to FIG. 11 of the second embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 15, the nozzle unit 50c according to Modification 2 differs from the second embodiment in the configuration of the biasing member, and therefore in this embodiment, this will be referred to as a biasing member 510c. Furthermore, the nozzle unit 50c according to Modification 2 is configured by adding a biasing member fixing portion 511 to the nozzle unit 50b according to the second embodiment described above. Note that the configuration other than the biasing member 510c and the biasing member fixing portion 511 is the same as that of FIG. 11 of the second embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] The biasing member 510c according to this modification biases the valve body 55 in the valve closing direction. Specifically, the biasing member 510c according to this modification is a tension spring, and is provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 15 , the biasing member 510c according to this modification is disposed between the biasing member fixing portion 511 and the sealing portion fixing portion 59, and is wound around the valve body holding shaft 56.

[0101] The biasing member fixing portion 511 is provided on a portion of the valve body holding shaft 56 that protrudes to the outside of the nozzle holding portion 52, and fixes the biasing member 510c between the biasing member fixing portion 511 and the sealing portion fixing portion 59.

[0102] Therefore, in this embodiment, the nozzle unit 50c is positioned relative to the valve opening / closing control plate 216a by passing the valve body holding shaft 56a between the abutment portion 57a ​​and the biasing member fixing portion 511 through the groove 2161 of the valve opening / closing control plate 216a.

[0103] Thus, according to the nozzle unit 50c of this embodiment, even in a configuration in which the biasing member 510c is a tension spring and is provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52 of the nozzle holding portion 52, the same effects as those of the second embodiment can be achieved.

[0104] Third Embodiment In the automated analyzers 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, the valve opening / closing control plates 216, 216a are provided to control the valve elements 55 of the nozzle units 50, 50b, but this is not limiting. In the third embodiment, the automated analyzer 1 may be configured so that the supply pump controls the valve elements of the nozzle units. Differences from the first embodiment described above will now be described.

[0105] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism 2 according to a third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 16, the analysis mechanism 2 according to the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in the configuration of the washing unit and the function of the supply pump, and therefore in this embodiment, these are referred to as a washing unit 215b and a supply pump 217a. Furthermore, this differs from the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment described above in that it does not include a valve opening / closing control plate. Note that the configuration other than the washing unit 215b, the supply pump 217a, and the valve opening / closing control plate is the same as that shown in FIG. 2 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0106] The cleaning unit 215b cleans the inside of the reaction tube 2011 after the measurement of the reaction solution by the photometric unit 214 has been completed. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the cleaning unit 215b according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 7 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 17, the cleaning unit 215b according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the nozzle unit, and therefore in this embodiment, it is referred to as a nozzle unit 50d. Note that the configuration other than the nozzle unit 50d is the same as that in FIG. 7 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The nozzle unit 50d dispenses the medium into the reaction tube 2011. In this embodiment, the medium dispensed by the nozzle unit 50d is cleaning water. That is, the nozzle unit 50d according to this embodiment is a nozzle unit used for cleaning. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the nozzle unit 50d according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 5 in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, the nozzle unit 50d according to the third embodiment is configured to include a nozzle 51, a nozzle holding portion 52, a partition portion 53, a medium inlet pipe 54, a valve body 55a, a valve body holding shaft 56a, a sealing portion 58a, a biasing member 510d, a biasing member fixing portion 511a, and a second partition portion 512. Note that the configurations of the nozzle 51, the nozzle holding portion 52, the partition portion 53, and the medium inlet pipe 54 are similar to those of the nozzle unit 50 according to the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0108] The valve element 55a opens and closes the inlet port IP1 formed in the partition portion 53. The valve element 55a is housed in the nozzle holding portion 52. As shown in FIG. 18, the valve element 55a according to this modification is housed in the second space SP2 of the nozzle holding portion 52. Also, as shown in FIG. 18, the valve element 55a is held at one end of a valve element holding shaft 56a.

[0109] The valve element holding shaft 56a holds the valve element 55a at one end. As shown in Fig. 18, the valve element holding shaft 56a according to this modification is housed in the nozzle holding portion 52. Specifically, one end of the valve element holding shaft 56a passes through the inlet IP1 and holds the valve element 55a housed in the second space SP2, and the other end of the valve element holding shaft 56a passes through an opening OP2 formed in the second partition portion 512 and is slidably supported by the sealing portion 58a housed in the third space SP3 provided above the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52.

[0110] The sealing portion 58a seals the opening OP2 of the second partition portion 512. The sealing portion 58a is formed of an elastic material such as rubber. As shown in FIG. 18 , the sealing portion 58a according to this embodiment is housed in the third space SP3 of the nozzle holding portion 52.

[0111] The biasing member 510d according to this embodiment biases the valve body 55a in a direction to close the valve. Specifically, the biasing member 510d according to this embodiment is a tension spring, and is housed in the first space SP1. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 18 , the biasing member 510d according to this embodiment is disposed between the biasing member fixing portion 511a and the second partition portion 512, and is wound around the valve body holding shaft 56a.

[0112] 18, the biasing member 510d of the nozzle unit 50d according to this embodiment biases the valve element 55a in the valve closing direction, so that the valve element 55a closes the inlet IP1 when no pressure of the wash water is applied. On the other hand, when the pressure of the wash water flowing into the first space SP1 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the valve element 55a opens the inlet IP1 by the pressure of the wash water against the biasing force of the biasing member 510d.

[0113] The biasing member fixing portion 511a is provided on a portion of the valve body holding shaft 56a that is positioned in the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding portion 52, and fixes the biasing member 510d between the biasing member fixing portion 511a and the second partition portion 512.

[0114] The second partition part 512 is a partition for providing a third space SP3 in which the sealing part 58a is disposed above the first space SP1 in the nozzle holding part 52. The second partition part 512 has an opening OP2 formed therein for the valve body holding shaft 56a to pass from the first space SP1 to the third space SP3.

[0115] 16, the supply pump 217a according to this embodiment causes cleaning water to flow into the first space SP1 via the medium inflow pipe 54, and controls the valve body 55a of the nozzle unit 50d so that the pressure of the cleaning water that has flowed into the first space SP1 opens the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510d, and stops the flow of cleaning water into the first space SP1 via the medium inflow pipe 54, thereby closing the inlet IP1. This supply pump 217a corresponds to the pump in this embodiment, and is an example of the control member in this embodiment.

[0116] 19 is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning process performed by the automated analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 6 in the first embodiment. In this cleaning process, the nozzle unit 50d is lowered, cleaning water is discharged into the reaction tube 2011, the reaction solution and cleaning water in the reaction tube 2011 are aspirated, and the nozzle unit 50d is raised. For example, this cleaning process is performed when the cleaning unit 215b is lowered.

[0117] 19, the drive control function 92 realized by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the nozzle unit 50d (step S31). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to lower the cleaning unit 215b, thereby lowering the nozzle unit 50d.

[0118] 19, the drive control function 92 realized by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 discharges the cleaning water (step S33). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the supply pump 217a to discharge the cleaning water into the reaction tube 2011. At this time, the supply pump 217a controls the valve body 55a to open the inlet IP1.

[0119] The supply pump 217a causes the cleaning water to flow into the first space SP1 through the medium inflow pipe 54, and opens the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510d by the pressure of the cleaning water that has flowed into the first space SP1. As a result, the supply pump 217a discharges the cleaning water into the reaction tube 2011 through the nozzle unit 50d.

[0120] After the predetermined amount of cleaning water has been discharged into the reaction tube 2011, the supply pump 217a stops its operation, thereby stopping the inflow of the medium into the first space SP1 through the medium inflow pipe 54, and the valve element 55a is biased in the valve closing direction by the biasing member 510d to close the inlet IP1. As a result, the supply pump 217 stops discharging the cleaning water into the reaction tube 2011 through the nozzle unit 50d. Note that the process of step S15 after step S33 is the same as the cleaning process in the first embodiment described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0121] 19, the drive control function 92 realized by the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 raises the nozzle unit 50d (step S35). Specifically, the drive control function 92 controls the cleaning unit drive mechanism 41 to raise the cleaning unit 215b, thereby raising the nozzle unit 50d.

[0122] In step S35, the nozzle unit 50d is raised, thereby completing the cleaning process according to this embodiment.

[0123] As described above, also in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the nozzle unit 50d includes the biasing member 510d that biases the valve body 55a in the valve closing direction, and the valve body 55a that is housed in the second space SP2 of the nozzle holder 52 and that opens the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510d by the pressure of the cleaning water when the pressure of the cleaning water flowing into the first space SP1 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value. The supply pump 217a flows the cleaning water into the first space SP1 through the medium inflow pipe 54, and closes the inlet IP1 in response to the pressure of the cleaning water that has flowed into the first space SP1. Therefore, the valve element 55a of the nozzle unit 50d is controlled so that the inlet IP1 is opened against the biasing force of the biasing member 510d, and after a predetermined amount of cleaning water has been discharged into the reaction tube 2011, the operation is stopped to stop the inflow of the medium into the first space SP1 through the medium inlet pipe 54, and the valve element 55a is biased in the valve closing direction by the biasing member 510d to close the inlet IP1, thereby making it possible to prevent cleaning water from dripping from the nozzle due to vibration of the piping and improving the reliability of the measurement data.

[0124] [Variation 3] In the nozzle unit 50d according to the third embodiment described above, the biasing member 510d is configured as a tension spring, but the biasing member 510d of the nozzle unit 50d can also be configured as a compression spring.

[0125] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a nozzle unit 50e according to Modification 3, corresponding to FIG. 17 of the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, the nozzle unit 50e according to Modification 3 includes a nozzle 51, a nozzle holder 52, a partition 53, a medium inlet pipe 54, a valve body 55a, a valve body holder shaft 56b, a sealing portion 58, a sealing portion fixing portion 59, a biasing member 510e, and a biasing member fixing portion 511b. The configurations of the nozzle 51, the nozzle holder 52, the partition 53, the medium inlet pipe 54, the sealing portion 58, and the sealing portion fixing portion 59 are similar to those of the nozzle unit 50 according to the first embodiment, and therefore their description will be omitted. The configuration of the valve body 55a is similar to that of the nozzle unit according to the third embodiment, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0126] One end of the valve body holding shaft 56b in this modified example passes through the opening OP1 and the inlet IP1 formed on the upper surface of the nozzle holding portion 52 and holds the valve body 55a housed in the second space SP2 of the nozzle holding portion 52, and the other end of the valve body holding shaft 56b holds the spring member fixing portion 511b provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52.

[0127] The biasing member 510e according to this modification biases the valve body 55 in the valve closing direction. Specifically, the biasing member 510e according to this modification is a compression spring, and is provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 20, the biasing member 510e according to this modification is disposed between the biasing member fixing portion 511b and the sealing portion fixing portion 59, and is wound around the valve body holding shaft 56b.

[0128] The biasing member fixing portion 511b is held at the end of the valve body holding shaft 56b opposite to the end where the valve body 55a is provided. The biasing member fixing portion 511b fixes the biasing member 510e between the biasing member fixing portion 511b and the sealing portion fixing portion 59.

[0129] Thus, according to the nozzle unit 50e of this modified example, even in a configuration in which the biasing member 510e is a compression spring and is provided outside the nozzle holding portion 52, the same effects as those of the third embodiment can be achieved.

[0130] [Fourth embodiment] Although the automated analyzers 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above are provided with one nozzle unit, the automated analyzer 1 may be provided with multiple nozzle units. Below, a fourth embodiment will be described in which this modified example is applied to the first embodiment, and differences from the first embodiment will be described. This modified example can also be applied to the second and third embodiments described above.

[0131] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between a cleaning unit according to the fourth embodiment and a valve opening / closing control plate. As shown in FIG. 21, two nozzle units 50 are fixed to a unit fixing portion 2154a of a cleaning unit 215c according to this embodiment. Note that, although two nozzle units 50 are fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a according to this embodiment, the number of nozzle units 50 fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a is not limited to two. In other words, the number of nozzle units fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a is arbitrary, and three or more nozzle units may be fixed. Furthermore, the unit fixing portion 2154a corresponds to the fixing portion in this embodiment. Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 21, the suction unit 2155 is not shown.

[0132] 21 , the abutment portions 57 of the two nozzle units 50 fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a are in contact with the valve opening / closing control plate 216. That is, the valve bodies 55 of the two nozzle units 50 fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a close the inlet IP1 against the biasing force of the biasing member 510. The cleaning unit driving mechanism 41 then lowers the cleaning unit 215, thereby lowering the unit fixing portion 2154a and lowering the two nozzle units 50 fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a. As a result, the valve bodies 55 of the two nozzle units 50 fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154a are released from being pressed down, and the biasing member 510 biases the valve bodies 55 in the valve opening direction, opening the inlet IP1.

[0133] With this configuration, cleaning water can be ejected into or sucked into the plurality of reaction tubes 2011 supported on the reaction disk 201, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency of the automatic analyzer 1.

[0134] [Variation 4] In the automated analyzers 1 according to the first to fourth embodiments described above, the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 and the suction nozzle 2155_1 of the suction unit 2155 are arranged side by side, but it is also possible for the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 and the suction nozzle 2155_1 of the suction unit 2155 to have a double-tube structure. Below, the case where this modification is applied to the first embodiment will be referred to as Modification 4, and differences from the first embodiment will be described. Note that this modification can also be applied to the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and Modifications 1 to 3 in the same manner.

[0135] Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a nozzle unit and a suction unit according to Modification 4. As shown in Fig. 22, a nozzle unit 50f according to Modification 4 has a nozzle configuration different from that of the first embodiment described above, and therefore is referred to as a nozzle 51a in this modification. Note that the configuration other than the nozzle 51a is the same as that of Fig. 5 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. As shown in Fig. 22, the nozzle 51a according to this modification includes a nozzle main body 51_1 and a connecting pipe 51_2.

[0136] One end of the nozzle main body 51_1 is attached to the suction nozzle holding part 2155_2. An outlet 51_3 for discharging a medium is formed on the side of the nozzle main body 51_1. The nozzle main body 51_1 according to this modification is provided outside the suction nozzle 2155_1. A connecting pipe 51_2 is attached to the side of the nozzle 51a.

[0137] The connecting pipe 51_2 causes the medium to flow into the nozzle main body 51_1. Specifically, the connecting pipe 51_2 causes the medium, which has flowed into the first space SP1 of the nozzle holding part 52, to flow into the nozzle 51a. As shown in Fig. 22, the connecting pipe 51_2 according to this modification causes the medium to flow into the first space SP1 from obliquely above with respect to the axial direction of the nozzle main body 51_1.

[0138] The configuration of the nozzle unit 50f and the suction unit 2155 according to Modification 4 allows for more space savings than when the nozzle and the suction nozzle are arranged side by side, allowing for a smaller opening of the reaction tube 2011 and a more compact device. Note that the nozzle unit 50f according to Modification 5 has a double-tube structure in which the nozzle 51a is provided outside the suction nozzle 2155_1, but this is not limiting. The automated analyzer 1 according to Modification 4 may also have a double-tube structure in which the nozzle 51a is provided inside the suction nozzle 2155_1.

[0139] [Variation 5] By applying the above-described Modification 4 to the above-described fourth embodiment, it is also possible to provide a plurality of nozzle units 50f and suction units 2155, each having a nozzle 51a and a suction nozzle 2155_1 in a double-tube structure. A case in which Modification 4 is applied to the fourth embodiment will be described as Modification 5. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a portion of a cleaning unit according to Modification 5. As shown in FIG. 23, a plurality of nozzle units 50f and suction units 2155, each having a nozzle 51a and a suction nozzle 2155_1 in a double-tube structure, are provided. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 23, of the plurality of nozzle units 50f according to this modification, a nozzle unit 50f in which an outlet 51_3 provided on the side surface of the nozzle main body 51_1 is formed at a height H1 from the tip of the suction nozzle 2155_1, and a nozzle unit 50f in which an outlet 51_3 provided on the side surface of the nozzle main body 51_1 is formed at a height H2 from the tip of the suction nozzle 2155_1 are fixed to the unit fixing portion 2154b.

[0140] As described above, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the fifth modification, a plurality of nozzle units 50f and suction units 2155 are provided, each having a double-tube structure including a nozzle 51a and a suction nozzle 2155_1. This allows cleaning water to be ejected into or sucked into a plurality of reaction tubes 2011 supported on the reaction disk 201, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency of the automatic analyzer 1.

[0141] Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer 1 relating to variant example 5, each of the multiple nozzle units 50f is provided with a valve body 55, and the valve body 55 closes the inlet IP1 when the nozzle unit 50f is not being cleaned (when raised). This prevents cleaning water from dripping mainly from nozzles with higher tip heights due to differences in potential energy of the medium in adjacent nozzles 51a of the multiple nozzle units 50f, which arise due to differences in height from the tip of the suction nozzle 2155_1 of each outlet 51_3 of the multiple nozzle units 50f. This reduces the possibility of affecting the measurement data and improves the reliability of the measurement data.

[0142] In the above-described fifth modification, a plurality of nozzle units 50f and suction units 2155 each having a nozzle 51a and a suction nozzle 2155_1 in a double-tube structure may be provided, and the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 and the suction nozzle 2155_1 of the suction unit 2155 may be arranged side by side. FIG. 24 shows another example of the configuration of a portion of the cleaning unit according to the fifth modification. FIG. 24(a) is a front view of the configuration of a portion of the cleaning unit according to the fifth modification, and FIG. 24(b) is a view of the nozzle unit 50 as seen from the direction A shown in FIG. 24(a). In the example shown in FIG. 24, the unit fixing portion 2154b is provided with a plurality of nozzle units 50f and suction units 2155 each having a nozzle 51a and a suction nozzle 2155_1 in a double-tube structure, and the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 and the suction nozzle 2155_1 of the suction unit 2155 are arranged side by side.

[0143] Also, as shown in Figure 24(b), the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 and the suction nozzle 2155_1 of the suction unit 2155 are arranged side by side so that the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 is arranged at the back side in Figure 24(a) and the suction nozzle 2155_1 of the suction unit 2155 is arranged at the front side in Figure 24(a). In the example shown in Figure 24, nozzle unit 50f in which the outlet 51_3 on the side of nozzle body 51_1 is formed at a position of height H1 from the tip of suction nozzle 2155_1, and nozzle unit 50f in which the outlet 51_3 on the side of nozzle body 51_1 is formed at a position of height H2 from the tip of suction nozzle 2155_1 are fixed to unit fixing portion 2154b, and nozzle 51 of nozzle unit 50 and suction nozzle 2155_1 of suction unit 2155 are fixed to unit fixing portion 2154b so that the outlet of nozzle 51 is positioned at a position of height H3 from the tip of suction nozzle 2155_1.

[0144] Even in such a case, as in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the fifth modification, cleaning water can be ejected into or sucked into the multiple reaction tubes 2011 supported on the reaction disk 201, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency in the automatic analyzer 1.

[0145] In addition, each of the multiple nozzle units 50f and the nozzle unit 50 is provided with a valve body 55, and the valve body 55 closes the inlet IP1 when the nozzle unit 50 and the nozzle unit 50f are not being cleaned (when raised).This prevents cleaning water from dripping mainly from the nozzle with a higher tip height due to the difference in potential energy of the medium in the nozzle 51 of the nozzle unit 50 and the adjacent nozzles 51a of the multiple nozzle units 50f, which occurs when the outlets of the nozzles 51 of the nozzle unit 50 are at different heights from the tip of the suction nozzle 2155_1 and when the outlets 51_3 of the multiple nozzle units 50f are at different heights from the tip of the suction nozzle 2155_1.This reduces the possibility of the measurement data being affected and improves the reliability of the measurement data.

[0146] [Other Modifications] In the above-described automatic analyzers 1 according to the first to fourth embodiments, the medium ejected from the nozzles 51 of the nozzle unit 50 is cleaning water, but the medium ejected from the nozzles 51 of the nozzle unit 50 is not limited to cleaning water. That is, the medium ejected from the nozzles 51 of the nozzle unit 50 is arbitrary, and for example, a standard sample, a reagent, or the like may be ejected. That is, the nozzle unit is not limited to being used for cleaning, and may also be used for dispensing a sample or a reagent.

[0147] Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, it is also possible to arbitrarily set the timing at which the valve body 55 opens and closes the inlet IP1 depending on the height of the valve opening / closing control plates 216, 216a.

[0148] Furthermore, although the above-described automatic analyzer 1 according to the first to fourth embodiments has been described as being applied to an automatic analyzer that performs biochemical tests, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the first to fourth embodiments can be applied to both an automatic analyzer that performs immunoassays and an automatic analyzer that performs both biochemical and immunoassays.

[0149] 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)). The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in the memory circuit 8. Instead of storing the program in the memory circuit 8, 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. The 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 in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0150] 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]

[0151] 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, 20...base, 41...cleaning unit drive mechanism, 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e, 50f...nozzle unit, 51, 51a...nozzle, 52...nozzle holding portion, 53...partition portion, 54...medium inlet pipe, 55, 55a...valve body, 56, 56a, 56b...valve body holding shaft, 57, 57a...abutment portion, 58, 58b...sealing portion, 59...sealing portion fixing portion, 91...system control function, 92...drive control function

Claims

1. a nozzle for discharging the medium into the reaction tube; a nozzle holding portion that holds the nozzle; a medium inlet pipe for causing the medium to flow into the nozzle holding portion; a partition section that divides the interior of the nozzle holding section into a first space on the medium inlet pipe side and a second space on the nozzle side, the partition section having an inlet port formed therein for allowing the medium to flow from the first space into the second space; a valve body accommodated in the nozzle holding portion and configured to open and close the inlet; a biasing member that biases the valve body; A nozzle unit comprising:

2. the medium is wash water; The nozzle unit according to claim 1 , wherein the medium inlet pipe causes the cleaning water to flow into the first space.

3. The nozzle unit according to claim 1 , wherein the medium inlet pipe causes the medium to flow into the first space from an obliquely upward direction with respect to an axial direction of the nozzle holding portion.

4. the biasing member biases the valve body in a valve opening direction, The nozzle unit according to claim 1 , wherein the valve body is accommodated in the first space, and closes the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied to the valve body.

5. the biasing member biases the valve body in a valve closing direction, The nozzle unit according to claim 1 , wherein the valve body is housed in the first space, and opens the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied to the valve body.

6. the biasing member biases the valve body in a valve closing direction, 2. The nozzle unit according to claim 1, wherein the valve body is accommodated in the second space, and when a pressure of the medium flowing into the first space reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the pressure of the medium opens the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member.

7. The nozzle unit according to claim 1 , wherein the biasing member is housed in the first space.

8. The nozzle unit according to claim 1 , wherein the biasing member is provided outside the nozzle holding portion.

9. A nozzle unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3; a nozzle unit driving section that drives the nozzle unit so as to raise and lower the nozzle unit; a control member for controlling the valve body of the nozzle unit; An automatic analyzer comprising:

10. The nozzle unit is provided in plurality, The automated analyzer according to claim 9 , further comprising a fixing unit that fixes the plurality of nozzle units.

11. the biasing member biases the valve body in a valve opening direction, the valve body is accommodated in the first space, and when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied, the valve body closes the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member; The control member When the nozzle unit is raised, the valve body is pressed down against the biasing force of the biasing member to close the inlet port, and The automatic analyzer according to claim 10, wherein the valve opening / closing control plate controls the valve body of the nozzle unit so that, when the nozzle unit descends, the valve body is urged in an opening direction by releasing the pressure on the valve body, thereby opening the inlet.

12. the biasing member biases the valve body in a valve closing direction, the valve body is accommodated in the first space, and when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied, the valve body opens the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member; The control member When the nozzle unit is lowered, the valve body is pulled up against the biasing force of the biasing member to open the inlet, and The automatic analyzer according to claim 10, wherein the valve opening / closing control plate controls the valve body of the nozzle unit so as to close the inlet by releasing the lifting of the valve body when the nozzle unit is raised.

13. the biasing member biases the valve body in a valve closing direction, the valve element is accommodated in the second space, and when the pressure of the medium flowing into the first space reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the pressure of the medium opens the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member, The control member The medium is introduced into the first space through the medium inlet pipe, and the pressure of the medium introduced into the first space opens the inlet against the biasing force of the biasing member; and The automatic analyzer according to claim 10 , wherein the pump controls the valve body of the nozzle unit so as to stop the inflow of the medium into the first space through the medium inflow pipe and close the inlet.

14. A nozzle unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3; a nozzle unit driving section that drives the nozzle unit so as to raise and lower the nozzle unit; a control member that controls the valve body of the nozzle unit so as to open the inlet when the nozzle unit is lowered by the nozzle unit drive unit and close the inlet when the nozzle unit is raised by the nozzle unit drive unit; A control method for an automatic analyzer comprising: opening the inlet by the control member when the nozzle unit is lowered by the nozzle unit drive unit; closing the inlet by the control member when the nozzle unit is raised by the nozzle unit drive unit; A method for controlling an automatic analyzer, comprising:

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