Automatic analysis device and control method of automatic analysis device

Abstract

To provide an automatic analysis device capable of rapidly treating a specimen having high priority.SOLUTION: An automatic analysis device includes: a first turntable for holding multiple pretreatment containers; a first dispensation probe for creating a pretreatment specimen by dispensing a specimen and a pretreatment liquid to the pretreatment containers; a second turntable for holding multiple reaction containers; a second dispensation probe for sucking a pretreatment specimen from pretreatment containers and dispensing it to reaction containers; a measurement section for measuring a pretreatment specimen housed in reaction containers; a management section for determining order of dispensation of a pretreatment specimen to the second dispensation probe on the basis of priority of the pretreatment specimen when the pretreatment specimen housed in a pretreatment container can be dispensed to reaction containers; and a control section for dispensing a pretreatment specimen to the second dispensation probe in the order determined by the management section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer and a method for controlling an automatic analyzer. [Background technology]

[0002] Automated analyzers can perform qualitative and quantitative analysis of biological samples (specimens) such as blood and urine. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a biochemical analyzer that analyzes various components contained in specimens such as blood and urine. In Patent Document 1, the specimen is diluted and then dispensed into a reaction vessel, and the specimen is mixed with a reagent according to the analysis item in the reaction vessel to cause a reaction. Thereafter, the absorbance of the diluted specimen dispensed into the reaction vessel is measured, and the absorbance is converted into a concentration, thereby analyzing the substance to be measured contained in the specimen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-129393 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In such an automatic analyzer, samples are processed in the order in which they are loaded into the analyzer, making it difficult to process high-priority samples quickly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the automatic analyzer according to the present invention is a first turntable that holds a plurality of pretreatment containers; a first dispensing probe for dispensing a sample and a pretreatment solution into the pretreatment container to prepare a pretreated sample; a second turntable that holds a plurality of reaction vessels; a second dispensing probe that aspirates the pretreated sample from the pretreatment container and dispenses it into the reaction container; a measurement unit that measures the pretreated sample contained in the reaction vessel; a management unit that determines the order in which the pretreated specimens contained in the pretreatment containers are to be dispensed into the reaction containers based on the priority of the pretreated specimens; and a control unit that causes the second dispensing probe to dispense the pretreated sample in accordance with the order determined by the management unit; Includes.

[0006] In such an automated analyzer, when the pretreated samples contained in the pretreatment containers become available for dispensing into reaction containers, the management unit determines the order in which the second dispensing probes will dispense the pretreated samples based on the priority of the pretreated samples. Therefore, in such an automated analyzer, even if a lower-priority sample is dispensed into a pretreatment container before a higher-priority sample, the higher-priority sample can be dispensed into a reaction container before the lower-priority sample. Therefore, in such an automated analyzer, high-priority samples can be processed quickly.

[0007] One aspect of the control method for an automatic analyzer according to the present invention includes: a first turntable that holds a plurality of pretreatment containers; a first dispensing probe for dispensing a sample and a pretreatment solution into the pretreatment container to prepare a pretreated sample; a second turntable that holds a plurality of reaction vessels; a second dispensing probe that aspirates the pretreated sample from the pretreatment container and dispenses it into the reaction container; a measurement unit that measures the pretreated sample contained in the reaction vessel; A method for controlling an automatic analyzer, comprising: When the pretreatment specimens contained in the pretreatment containers become available for dispensing into the reaction containers, determining the order in which the pretreatment specimens are to be dispensed by the second dispensing probes based on the priority of the pretreatment specimens; dispensing the pretreated sample into the second dispensing probe in accordance with the determined order; Includes.

[0008] This control method for an automated analyzer includes a step of determining the order in which the second dispensing probes should dispense the pretreated samples when the pretreated samples contained in the pretreatment containers become available for dispensing into reaction containers, based on the priority of the pretreated samples. Therefore, even if a lower-priority sample is dispensed into a pretreatment container before a higher-priority sample, this control method for an automated analyzer can dispense the higher-priority sample into a reaction container before the lower-priority sample. Therefore, this control method for an automated analyzer can quickly process the higher-priority samples. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a basic cycle of an automatic analyzer. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the basic operation of the automatic analyzer. [Figure 5] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the dilution turntable. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the dilution turntable. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the dilution turntable. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a management register of the dilution turntable. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a development register; [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a development register; [Figure 11] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the dilution turntable. [Figure 12] A diagram showing the management registers and expansion registers in the third cycle. [Figure 13] A diagram showing the management registers and expansion registers in the 6th cycle. [Figure 14] A diagram showing the management register and expansion register in the 7th cycle. [Figure 15]A diagram showing the management registers and expansion registers in the 8th cycle. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a state of a management register. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers and the development registers in n cycles. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the states of the management registers and the development registers in the n+1 cycle. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the states of the management registers and the development registers at the n+2 cycle. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a state of a management register. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a management unit. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management register in n cycles. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers in the n+1 cycle. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers in the n+1 cycle. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers in the n+2 cycle. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers in the n+3 cycle. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a third embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the state of a deployment register. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management register in n cycles. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers in the n+1 cycle. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the management registers at the n+5 cycle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below do not unduly limit the content of the present invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described below are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0011] 1. First embodiment 1.1. Automated analyzer configuration First, an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0012] The automated analyzer 100 is a biochemical analyzer that automatically measures the amount of a specific component contained in a sample collected from a living body, such as blood or urine. The automated analyzer 100 may be configured to be capable of measuring not only biochemical items but also a wide range of items such as immune serum and tumor markers.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 100 includes a sample turntable 2, a dilution turntable 3 (an example of a first turntable), a first reagent turntable 4, a second reagent turntable 5, a reaction turntable 6 (an example of a second turntable), an original sample dispensing probe 7 (an example of a first dispensing probe), a diluted sample dispensing probe 8 (an example of a second dispensing probe), a dilution stirring mechanism 9, a dilution container cleaning mechanism 11, a first reagent dispensing probe 12, a second reagent dispensing probe 13, a first reaction liquid stirring mechanism 14, a second reaction liquid stirring mechanism 15, a multi-wavelength photometer 16 (an example of a measurement unit), a constant temperature bath 17, a reaction container cleaning mechanism 18, and a control device 40.

[0014] The sample turntable 2, dilution turntable 3, first reagent turntable 4, second reagent turntable 5, and reaction turntable 6 are supported rotatably in the circumferential direction by a drive mechanism not shown, and rotate at a predetermined speed within a predetermined angular range in the circumferential direction.

[0015] The sample turntable 2 holds a plurality of sample containers 21 containing specimens (original specimens). The sample containers 21 contain specimens such as blood and urine. A reading unit 20 for reading specimen identification information is arranged on the sample turntable 2. The reading unit 20 reads specimen IDs (identification information) from barcodes attached to the sides of the sample containers 21 held on the sample turntable 2. The identification information read by the reading unit 20 is sent to the control device 40. This allows the control device 40 to manage the specimens held in the sample containers 21.

[0016] The dilution turntable 3 holds a plurality of dilution containers 23 (an example of a pretreatment container). The dilution turntable 3 has a plurality of dilution containers 23 arranged in a circumferential direction. The dilution containers 23 contain original specimens that have been aspirated from sample containers 21 arranged on the sample turntable 2 and diluted, i.e., diluted specimens.

[0017] The first reagent turntable 4 holds a plurality of first reagent containers 24. The first reagent turntable 4 has a plurality of first reagent containers 24 arranged in a circumferential direction. The second reagent turntable 5 holds a plurality of second reagent containers 25. The second reagent turntable 5 has a plurality of second reagent containers 25 arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0018] The first reagent container 24 contains a first reagent, and the second reagent container 25 contains a second reagent. When there is no need to distinguish between the first reagent container 24 and the second reagent container 25, they are also simply referred to as "reagent containers."

[0019] The first reagent turntable 4 is provided with a first reagent barcode reader 27 that reads the barcodes attached to the side of the first reagent container 24. The second reagent turntable 5 is provided with a second reagent barcode reader 28 that reads the barcodes attached to the side of the second reagent container 25. The first reagent barcode reader 27 and the second reagent barcode reader 28 can identify the positions of the reagent containers used for the measurement items, so the reagent containers can be placed in any position.

[0020] The reaction turntable 6 holds a plurality of reaction vessels 26. The reaction turntable 6 has a plurality of reaction vessels 26 arranged in a circumferential direction. The reaction turntable 6 moves the reaction vessels 26 intermittently. A diluted specimen sampled from a dilution vessel 23 on the dilution turntable 3, a first reagent sampled from a first reagent vessel 24 on the first reagent turntable 4, and a second reagent sampled from a second reagent vessel 25 on the second reagent turntable 5 are dispensed into the reaction vessels 26. In the reaction vessels 26, the diluted specimen, the first reagent, and the second reagent are stirred, and a reaction occurs.

[0021] The original specimen dispensing probe 7 dispenses the specimen and diluent into the dilution container 23. The original specimen dispensing probe 7 aspirates a predetermined amount of specimen from the sample container 21 and discharges the aspirated specimen and a predetermined amount of diluent (e.g., physiological saline) supplied from the original specimen dispensing probe 7 itself into the dilution container 23. As a result, the specimen is diluted to a predetermined concentration in the dilution container 23, and a diluted specimen is produced. The original specimen dispensing probe 7 is washed by an original specimen dispensing probe washing mechanism 31.

[0022] The diluted specimen dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted specimen from the dilution container 23 and dispenses it into the reaction container 26. The diluted specimen dispensing probe 8 aspirates a predetermined amount of diluted specimen from the dilution container 23 held on the dilution turntable 3 and dispenses the aspirated diluted specimen into the reaction container 26 held on the reaction turntable 6. The diluted specimen dispensing probe 8 is washed by a diluted specimen dispensing probe washing mechanism 32.

[0023] The dilution and stirring mechanism 9 inserts a stirring rod (not shown) into the dilution container 23 to stir the specimen and diluent. The dilution and stirring mechanism 9 has, for example, a first stirring rod and a second stirring rod, and stirs the diluted specimen with the first stirring rod, and then stirs the diluted specimen with the second stirring rod.

[0024] The dilution container cleaning mechanism 11 has an aspiration nozzle that aspirates the diluted sample or detergent from the dilution container 23, and an ejection nozzle that supplies the detergent to the dilution container 23. The dilution container cleaning mechanism 11 repeatedly supplies and aspirates the detergent using the aspiration nozzle and the ejection nozzle to clean the dilution container 23. This allows the dilution container 23 to be used repeatedly.

[0025] The first reagent dispensing probe 12 aspirates a predetermined amount of the first reagent from the first reagent container 24 and dispenses the aspirated first reagent into the reaction container 26. The first reagent dispensing probe 12 is washed by a first reagent dispensing probe washing mechanism 33.

[0026] The second reagent dispensing probe 13 aspirates a predetermined amount of the second reagent from the second reagent container 25 and dispenses the aspirated second reagent into the reaction container 26. The second reagent dispensing probe 13 is washed by a second reagent dispensing probe washing mechanism .

[0027] The first reaction solution stirring mechanism 14 inserts a stirring rod (not shown) into the reaction vessel 26 to mix the diluted sample and the first reaction solution. The first reagent is stirred. The second reaction liquid stirring mechanism 15 inserts a stirring rod (not shown) into the reaction vessel 26 and stirs the mixture of the diluted sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent. The reaction vessel washing mechanism 18 washes the inside of the reaction vessel 26 after the analysis has been completed.

[0028] The multi-wavelength photometer 16 uses a light source lamp that irradiates light onto the reaction vessel 26 to perform optical measurement (colorimetric measurement) on the diluted sample that has reacted with the first and second reagents. The multi-wavelength photometer 16 outputs the amounts of various components in the sample as absorbance and detects the reaction state of the diluted sample. Measurement data of the sample in the multi-wavelength photometer 16 is sent to the control unit 402.

[0029] The thermostatic bath 17 keeps the temperature of the reaction vessel 26 provided on the reaction turntable 6 constant at all times.

[0030] The control device 40 performs processes such as controlling the drive mechanisms of the components of the automatic analyzer 100 and acquiring measurement data of samples.

[0031] 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the control device 40. The control device 40 includes a processing unit 400, an operation unit 410, a display unit 420, and a storage unit 430, as shown in FIG.

[0032] The operation unit 410 acquires an operation signal corresponding to an operation by a user and transmits the signal to the processing unit 400. The operation unit 410 can be realized by input devices such as buttons, keys, a touch panel display, and a microphone, for example.

[0033] The display unit 420 outputs the image generated by the processing unit 400. The display unit 420 can be realized by a display such as an LCD (liquid crystal display), for example.

[0034] The storage unit 430 stores programs and data for the processing unit 400 to perform various calculation processes and various control processes. The storage unit 430 is also used as a work area for the processing unit 400. The storage unit 430 can be realized by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a hard disk.

[0035] Sample request information is stored in the storage unit 430. The sample request information includes information on the measurement items of the sample and information on the priority of the sample. Note that the priority of the sample may be set for each measurement item. The sample request information may be obtained from a host computer (not shown).

[0036] Furthermore, sample information for each sample is stored in the storage unit 430. The sample information includes information such as sample identification information and sample progress information including sample status.

[0037] The progress information is, for example, information relating to the progress of sample measurement, and includes information such as the sample status, sample location, measurement history, and the end time of sample measurement. The sample status is information indicating the current measurement status of the sample. The progress information also includes information such as information on dispensing errors, information indicating that measurement was stopped due to an error in the device, and information indicating that there are measurement items that require retesting.

[0038] Furthermore, measurement data, which is the measurement result of each specimen, is stored in the storage unit 430. For example, measurement data of the specimen in the multi-wavelength photometer 16 is sent to the control unit 402 and stored in the storage unit 430.

[0039] The processing unit 400 controls the components of the automatic analyzer 100, displays a user interface screen or the like on the display unit 420, and acquires measurement data of the sample. The processing unit 400 performs processing such as the above. The functions of the processing unit 400 can be realized by executing a program on various processors (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit)). At least a part of the functions of the processing unit 400 may be realized by a dedicated circuit such as an ASIC (gate array). The processing unit 400 includes a control unit 402 and a management unit 404.

[0040] The control unit 402 controls each unit constituting the automatic analyzer 100. The control unit 402 manages samples based on, for example, the sample identification information read by the reading unit 20 and the request information stored in the storage unit 430, and performs processing to perform measurements (tests) according to the measurement items of the samples.

[0041] When the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23 becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container 26, the management unit 404 determines the order in which the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 will dispense the diluted sample based on the priority of the diluted sample (sample).

[0042] The control unit 402 causes the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 to dispense the diluted sample into the reaction container 26 in the order determined by the management unit 404 .

[0043] 1.2. Operation of the Automated Analyzer Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining the basic cycle of the automatic analyzer 100. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining the basic operation of the automatic analyzer 100.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3, the dilution turntable 3, reaction turntable 6, original sample dispensing probe 7, diluted sample dispensing probe 8, dilution stirring mechanism 9, and dilution container cleaning mechanism 11 operate in cycles, with the basic cycle shown in Figure 3 being one cycle.

[0045] The basic cycle includes an X cycle and a Y cycle. In the X cycle, the dilution turntable 3 basically rotates in the circumferential direction by a predetermined number of cells and then stops for a certain period of time. While the dilution turntable 3 is stopped, predetermined operations are performed at each position of the dilution turntable 3.

[0046] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the dilution turntable 3 has 120 cells on its circumference. During the X cycle, the dilution turntable 3 basically rotates clockwise circumferentially by 41 cells. During the X cycle, the original sample dispensing probe 7 dispenses the original sample and diluent into the dilution container 23 at the dispensing position P1. The first stirring rod stirs the diluted sample at the first stirring position P42. The second stirring rod stirs the diluted sample at the second stirring position P45. The diluted sample dispensed at the dispensing position P1 passes through the first stirring position P42, position P83, position P4, and second stirring position P45, and reaches the dispensing position P86, where it can be dispensed into the reaction container 26. At the cleaning start position P50, the dilution container cleaning mechanism 11 starts cleaning the dilution container 23, and at the cleaning end position P77, cleaning of the dilution container 23 is completed.

[0047] In the Y cycle, if there is a dilution container 23 containing a diluted sample that can be dispensed into a reaction container 26, the dilution turntable 3 rotates in any direction and by any angle to move the dilution container 23 to the aspirating position P88. At the aspirating position P88, the diluted sample is aspirated by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8. In the Y cycle, the direction and amount of movement are set according to the position of the dilution container 23 containing the diluted sample that can be dispensed into the reaction container 26. In other words, regardless of the position of the dilution turntable 3 in the X cycle where the dilution container 23 containing the diluted sample that can be dispensed into the reaction container 26 is, the dilution container 23 can be moved to the aspirating position P88 in the Y cycle.

[0048] In the Y cycle, the original sample dispensing probe 7 dispenses the original sample from the sample container 21. The sample is aspirated. In the X cycle, the aspirated original sample is dispensed together with the diluent into the dilution container 23 located at the dispensing position P1.

[0049] The reaction turntable 6 rotates a predetermined number of times in the circumferential direction in one cycle. On the reaction turntable 6, the first reagent is dispensed, the second reagent is dispensed, the diluted sample and the reagent are mixed, and then the measurement is performed in the order in which they were dispensed into the reaction containers 26.

[0050] Here, if the dilution turntable 3 always rotates by 41 cells in X cycles, then 89 cycles after the diluted sample is dispensed into the dilution container 23 at dispensing position P1, the dilution container 23 will reach the cleaning start position P50 and be washed. That is, the dilution container 23 in which the diluted sample is prepared at dispensing position P1 in X cycles of n cycles (n is any natural number) will reach the cleaning start position P50 and be washed in X cycles of n+89 cycles.

[0051] If automatic retesting is enabled, samples whose initial test results satisfy the retesting conditions will be retested using the diluted sample used in the initial test. The retesting conditions include, for example, when the initial test results are outside the reference range.

[0052] 5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the operation of the dilution turntable 3. FIG.

[0053] A diluted sample contained in a dilution container 23 positioned at determination position P9 in cycle n basically reaches cleaning start position P50 in cycle n+1. Hereinafter, the dilution container 23 positioned at determination position P9 will also be simply referred to as the dilution container 23 at determination position P9. Hereinafter, the diluted sample contained in a dilution container 23 positioned at determination position P9 will also be simply referred to as the diluted sample at determination position P9. The same applies to other positions.

[0054] Here, if it is determined in cycle n that the diluted sample at determination position P9 does not require retesting, or if retesting is required but the diluted sample for retesting has already been dispensed, the diluted sample is transferred to cleaning start position P50 in cycle X of cycle n+1, as shown in Figure 5. Similarly, if the diluted sample is not contained in the dilution container 23 at determination position P9, the dilution container 23 is transferred to cleaning start position P50 in cycle X of cycle n+1.

[0055] On the other hand, if no initial dispensing has been performed on the diluted sample at the determination position P9 in cycle n, if the initial measurement data for the diluted sample at the determination position P9 has not been output, or if the diluted sample at the determination position P9 requires retesting and no retest dispensing has been performed on the diluted sample, the dilution turntable 3 will not rotate in cycle X of the n+1 cycle, as shown in Figure 6.

[0056] Hereinafter, when these conditions are not satisfied, it is also referred to as "the rotation condition is not satisfied." Similarly, when these conditions are satisfied, it is also referred to as "the rotation condition is satisfied." That is, when the diluted sample at the determination position P9 does not satisfy the rotation condition in the nth cycle, the dilution turntable 3 does not rotate in the Xth cycle of the n+1th cycle. Furthermore, when the diluted sample at the determination position P9 satisfies the rotation condition in the nth cycle, the dilution turntable 3 rotates by a predetermined number of cells in the Xth cycle of the n+1th cycle.

[0057] 1.3. Operation of the dilution turntable FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the dilution turntable 3. As shown in FIG.

[0058] In the example shown in FIG. 7, the operation of the dilution turntable 3 when measurement items a and b are requested for sample A and sample B, respectively, will be described. The priority of measurement item a of specimen A, the priority of measurement item b of specimen A, the priority of measurement item a of specimen B, and the priority of measurement item b of specimen B are the same.

[0059] In the Y cycle of the 0th cycle, the original specimen dispensing probe 7 aspirates the specimen A from the sample container 21.

[0060] In one cycle (X cycle), the original specimen dispensing probe 7 dispenses (discharges) specimen A and diluent into the dilution container 23. This produces diluted specimen A. In one cycle (Y cycle), the original specimen dispensing probe 7 aspirates specimen B from the sample container 21.

[0061] In the X cycle of the two cycles, the original sample dispensing probe 7 dispenses the sample B and the dilution solution into the dilution container 23. This creates the diluted sample B. Furthermore, in the X cycle of the two cycles, the dilution stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample A in the dilution container 23 with the first stirring rod.

[0062] In the X cycle of the three cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted specimen B in the dilution container 23 with the first stirring rod.

[0063] In the X cycle of the five cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample A in the dilution container 23 with the second stirring rod.

[0064] In the X cycle of the 6 cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample B in the dilution container 23 with the second stirring rod. In the 6 cycle, the diluted sample A can be dispensed into the reaction container 26. In the Y cycle of the 6 cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample A (diluted sample Aa) for measurement item a from the dilution container 23.

[0065] In cycle X of the seven cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses (discharges) diluted sample Aa into the reaction container 26. In cycle 7, diluted sample B can be dispensed into the reaction container 26. In cycle Y of the seven cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates diluted sample A (diluted sample Ab) for measurement item b from the dilution container 23.

[0066] In the X cycle of the eight cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses the diluted sample Ab into the reaction container 26. In the Y cycle of the eight cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample B (diluted sample Ba) for measurement item a from the dilution container 23.

[0067] In the X cycle of the nine cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses the diluted sample Ba into the reaction container 26. In the Y cycle of the nine cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample B (diluted sample Bb) for measurement item b from the dilution container 23.

[0068] In the X cycle of the 10 cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses the diluted sample Bb into the reaction container 26 .

[0069] In the X cycle of the 90th cycle, the dilution container cleaning mechanism 11 starts cleaning the dilution container 23 containing the diluted sample A. In the X cycle of the 117th cycle, the dilution container cleaning mechanism 11 finishes cleaning the dilution container 23 that contained the diluted sample A.

[0070] On the reaction turntable 6, the measurement of the diluted samples by the multi-wavelength photometer 16 is performed in the order in which the diluted samples are dispensed into the reaction vessels 26. Therefore, in the example shown in Fig. 7, the measurements are performed in the order of diluted sample Aa, diluted sample Ab, diluted sample Ba, and diluted sample Bb.

[0071] 1.4. Dilution Turntable Control Register 8 is a diagram for explaining the management register R3 of the dilution turntable 3. Note that Fig. 8 shows the state of the dilution turntable 3 in the sixth cycle of Fig. 7.

[0072] The management register R3 is used to manage the diluted samples on the dilution turntable 3. The management register R3 has memory areas corresponding to the cells of the dilution turntable 3. That is, the management register R3 has 120 memory areas corresponding to the 120 cells of the dilution turntable 3. Sample information is stored in each memory area. The management register R3 is controlled by the control unit 402.

[0073] In the management register R3, the data stored in the memory area is shifted by one step (one memory area) every time the dilution turntable 3 rotates by 41 cells in one X cycle. That is, when the dilution turntable 3 rotates by 41 cells, the data stored in the memory area A1 is stored in the memory area A2. The management register R3 is a circulating register, and the data stored in the memory area A120 is stored in the memory area A1 when it is shifted by one step. Note that if the dilution turntable 3 does not rotate in one X cycle, the state of the management register R3 does not change. That is, the data stored in each memory area does not shift.

[0074] Each storage area of ​​the management register R3 corresponds to a position of the dilution turntable 3 in the X cycle. Figure 8 shows the position of the dilution turntable 3 corresponding to each storage area and the status of the diluted sample at that position.

[0075] The memory area A1 of the management register R3 corresponds to the dispensing position P1 of the dilution turntable 3. That is, when information about the diluted sample A is stored in the memory area A1, the diluted sample A is located at the dispensing position P1.

[0076] Memory area A2 corresponds to the first mixing position P42. Memory area A5 corresponds to the second mixing position P45. The range from memory area A1 to memory area A5 corresponds to a preparation period for preparing the dilution turntable 3 for dispensing a diluted sample.

[0077] The range from memory area A6 to memory area A89 corresponds to the period during which a diluted sample can be dispensed into a reaction container 26 on the dilution turntable 3. As described above, regardless of the position on the dilution turntable 3 of a dilution container 23 containing a diluted sample that can be dispensed into a reaction container 26, the dilution container 23 can be moved to the aspirating position P88 in the Y cycle. Therefore, if information about the diluted sample is stored in the range from memory area A6 to memory area A89, the diluted sample can be dispensed into a reaction container 26. Memory area A89 corresponds to the determination position P9.

[0078] Memory area A90 corresponds to the cleaning start position P50. Memory area A117 corresponds to the cleaning end position P77. The range from memory area A90 to memory area A117 corresponds to the period for cleaning the dilution container 23. Therefore, a diluted sample identified from the diluted sample information stored in the range from memory area A90 to memory area A117 cannot be used at that time. Therefore, the diluted sample information is deleted after being stored in memory area A117. Note that the diluted sample information may be deleted after being stored in memory area A120. Hereinafter, a diluted sample identified from the diluted sample information stored in memory area A90 will also be simply referred to as the diluted sample in memory area A90. The same applies to the other memory areas.

[0079] 1.5. Reaction Vessel Deployment Register 9 and 10 are diagrams illustrating the reaction vessel deployment register R6 (deployment register R6). This is a diagram.

[0080] The developing register R6 manages the order in which the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses diluted samples into the reaction containers 26. The developing register R6 is controlled by the management unit 404.

[0081] For example, when a diluted sample is positioned at the dispensing position P86 and becomes available for dispensing, i.e., when information about the diluted sample is stored in the memory area A6 of the management register R3, the information about the diluted sample stored in the memory area A6 is stored in the expansion register R6. At this time, the memory area in which the information about the diluted sample newly stored in the expansion register R6 is stored is determined based on the priority of the diluted sample (original sample).

[0082] 9, the expansion register R6 has ten memory areas, from memory area B1 to memory area B10. Memory area B1 stores information on the diluted sample to be dispensed first into the reaction vessel 26, memory area B2 stores information on the diluted sample to be dispensed next after the diluted sample in memory area B1, and memory area B3 stores information on the diluted sample to be dispensed next after the diluted sample in memory area B2. In this way, the expansion register R6 stores information on diluted samples in the order in which they are dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8.

[0083] In the example shown in FIG. 9, information about diluted sample A is stored in memory area B1, and information about diluted sample B is stored in memory area B2. At this time, information about diluted sample C is added to expansion register R6. Here, the priority of diluted sample C is the same as or lower than the priorities of diluted sample A and diluted sample B. In this case, information about diluted sample C is stored in the last memory area in the row of memory areas where information about diluted samples is already stored. That is, information about diluted sample C is stored in memory area B3.

[0084] 10, information on diluted sample X is stored in memory area B1, information on diluted sample A is stored in memory area B2, and information on diluted sample B is stored in memory area B3. At this time, information on diluted sample Y is added to expansion register R6. Here, the priority of diluted sample Y is higher than the priorities of diluted samples A and B, but lower than the priority of diluted sample X. In this case, information on diluted sample Y is stored in a memory area located after the memory area in which information on diluted sample X is stored and before the memory area in which information on diluted sample A is stored. That is, information on diluted sample X is stored in memory area B1, information on diluted sample Y is stored in memory area B2, information on diluted sample A is stored in memory area B3, and information on diluted sample B is stored in memory area B4.

[0085] In this way, the expansion register R6 stores information on diluted samples in descending order of priority, or, if the priorities are the same, in the order in which they are stored in the expansion register R6. In the expansion register R6, the information on diluted samples is arranged in the order in which they are dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8.

[0086] The information of the diluted sample for which all the measurement items of the initial test have been measured is deleted from the expansion register R6. In this case, the information of the other diluted samples stored in the expansion register R6 is moved up. Note that even if the information of the diluted sample is deleted from the expansion register R6, it remains in the management register R3.

[0087] If it is determined from the measurement results of the diluted sample in the initial test that a retest is necessary, the information on the diluted sample that is determined to require a retest is stored again in the expansion register R6. This information on the diluted sample that is determined to require a retest is stored in the storage area of ​​the expansion register R6 based on the priority of the diluted sample.

[0088] The information of the diluted sample for which all retest measurement items have been measured is deleted from the expansion register R6. In this case, the information of other diluted samples stored in the expansion register R6 is moved up.

[0089] 1.6. Management Processing 1.6.1. First process When the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23 becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container 26, the management unit 404 determines the order in which the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 will dispense the diluted sample based on the priority of the diluted sample that can be dispensed into the reaction container 26.

[0090] As described above, the sample request information includes information on the measurement items and sample priority. Priority is expressed, for example, in three levels: high, medium, and low. Priority can be set arbitrarily. For example, the measurement priority of QC (Quality Control) samples for managing the quality of measurement may be set to "high." Furthermore, the priority of samples for calibration may be set to "high." This allows QC samples and calibration samples to be measured quickly.

[0091] After diluted specimen A dispensed into the dilution container 23 becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container 26, if diluted specimen B, which has a higher priority than diluted specimen A, becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container 26, the management unit 404 causes the diluted specimen dispensing probe 8 to dispense diluted specimen B before diluted specimen A. In other words, the management unit 404 causes the diluted specimen dispensing probe 8 to dispense a diluted specimen with a higher priority before a diluted specimen with a lower priority.

[0092] Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the dilution turntable 3. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in the third cycle. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in the sixth cycle. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in the seventh cycle. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in the eighth cycle.

[0093] Here, we will explain the case where samples A, B, and C are measured. Specifically, sample A has three measurement items (a, b, and c), one dilution condition, and one diluted sample is produced. Sample B has two measurement items (a and b), one dilution condition, and one diluted sample is produced. Sample C has two measurement items (x and y), one dilution condition, and one diluted sample is produced. Note that the priority of sample A's measurement items a and b and sample B's measurement items a and b are the same. Furthermore, the priority of sample C's measurement items x and y is higher than the priority of sample A's measurement items a and b and sample B's measurement items a and b.

[0094] In the Y cycle of the 0th cycle, the original specimen dispensing probe 7 aspirates specimen A from the sample container 21. In the X cycle of the 1st cycle, the original specimen dispensing probe 7 dispenses specimen A and diluent into the dilution container 23 to prepare diluted specimen A. In the Y cycle of the 1st cycle, the original specimen dispensing probe 7 aspirates specimen B from the sample container 21.

[0095] In the X cycle of the two cycles, the original specimen dispensing probe 7 dispenses specimen B and diluent into the dilution container 23 to prepare diluted specimen B. Furthermore, in the X cycle of the two cycles, the dilution stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted specimen A with the first stirring rod. In the Y cycle of the two cycles, the original specimen dispensing probe 7 aspirates specimen C from the sample container 21.

[0096] In the X cycle of the three cycles, the original sample dispensing probe 7 dispenses the sample C and the dilution solution into the dilution container 23 to prepare a diluted sample C. Furthermore, in the X cycle of the three cycles, the dilution stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample B with the first stirring rod.

[0097] 12, in the management register R3 for the third cycle, information on diluted sample C is stored in memory area A1, information on diluted sample B is stored in memory area A2, and information on diluted sample A is stored in memory area A3. Furthermore, since there is no diluted sample that can be dispensed on the dilution turntable 3, that is, there is no diluted sample information stored in memory area A6 or later, no diluted sample information is stored in the expansion register R6.

[0098] In the X cycle of the 4 cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample C with the first stirring rod. In the X cycle of the 5 cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample A with the second stirring rod.

[0099] In the X cycle of the 6 cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted specimen B with the second stirring rod. In the 6 cycle, the diluted specimen A can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 26. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 13, the management unit 404 stores information on the diluted specimen A (diluted specimen Aa) for measurement item a in the memory area B1 of the development register R6, stores information on the diluted specimen A (diluted specimen Ab) for measurement item b in the memory area B2, and stores information on the diluted specimen A (diluted specimen Ac) for measurement item c. Note that since the measurement items a, b, and c have the same priority, the management unit 404 stores the priorities of the diluted specimen Aa, diluted specimen Ab, and diluted specimen Ac in any order.

[0100] In the Y cycle of the 6 cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample Aa in accordance with the information on the diluted sample Aa stored in the storage area B1 of the development register R6.

[0101] In the X cycle of the seven cycles, the dilution and stirring mechanism 9 stirs the diluted sample C with the second stirring rod. Furthermore, in the X cycle of the seven cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses the diluted sample Aa into the reaction container .

[0102] In the Xth cycle of the seventh cycle, diluted sample Aa was dispensed into the reaction vessel 26. Therefore, the management unit 404 deletes the information of diluted sample Aa from the expansion register R6 and advances the information of the diluted sample stored in each memory area. That is, the information of diluted sample Ab stored in memory area B2 in the sixth cycle is stored in memory area B1 in the seventh cycle. Similarly, the information of diluted sample Ac stored in memory area B3 in the sixth cycle is stored in memory area B2 in the seventh cycle.

[0103] Furthermore, in the seventh cycle, diluted specimen B can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 26. Here, the measurement priority of each measurement item of diluted specimen A is the same as the measurement priority of each measurement item of diluted specimen B. When the priorities are the same, the management unit 404 stores the data in each memory area of ​​the expansion register R6 in the order in which they become available for dispensing. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14, the management unit 404 stores information on diluted specimen B (diluted specimen Ba) for measurement item a in memory area B3 of the expansion register R6, and stores information on diluted specimen B (diluted specimen Bb) for measurement item b in memory area B4.

[0104] In this way, the management unit 404 determines the order in which the diluted specimens Ab, Ac, Ba, and Bb are to be dispensed into the diluted specimen dispensing probe 8 based on the priorities of the diluted specimens Ab, Ac, Ba, and Bb.

[0105] In the Y cycle of the seven cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample Ab according to the information on the diluted sample Ab stored in the storage area B1 of the development register R6.

[0106] In the X cycle of the 8 cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses the diluted sample Ab into the reaction container 26. The management unit 404 deletes the information on the diluted sample Ab from the expansion register R6 and advances the information on the diluted sample stored in each memory area.

[0107] In the 8th cycle, diluted sample C can be dispensed. Here, measurement item x of sample C and measurement item y of sample C have the highest priority among the diluted samples in each memory area of ​​the expansion register R6. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 15, the management unit 404 stores information on diluted sample C for measurement item x (diluted sample Cx) in memory area B1 of the expansion register R6, and stores information on diluted sample C for measurement item y (diluted sample Cy) in memory area B2. Accordingly, the management unit 404 moves down the diluted sample information stored in each memory area. Therefore, information on diluted sample Ac is stored in memory area B3, information on diluted sample Ba is stored in memory area B4, and information on diluted sample Bb is stored in memory area B5.

[0108] In the Y cycle of the eight cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample Cx in accordance with the information of the diluted sample Cx stored in the storage area B1 of the development register R6.

[0109] In the X cycle of the 9 cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 dispenses the diluted sample Cx into the reaction container 26. In the Y cycle of the 9 cycles, the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 aspirates the diluted sample Cy according to the information of the diluted sample Cy stored in the memory area B1 of the development register R6. The same process is performed for the 10th cycle and onwards.

[0110] 1.6.2. Secondary Processing When the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23 reaches a predetermined position but the diluted sample is not dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample from the first priority to a second priority higher than the first priority.

[0111] In the first process described above, when there are many diluted samples with high priority, there is a problem that the diluted samples with low priority are not measured.

[0112] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the management register R3.

[0113] If the diluted sample X stored in the memory area A89 does not satisfy the rotation condition in the nth cycle (n is any natural number), the state of the management register R3 does not change until the diluted sample X satisfies the rotation condition. That is, in the nth cycle and subsequent cycles, the dilution turntable 3 does not rotate until the diluted sample X satisfies the rotation condition.

[0114] In the n+x cycle (x is any natural number), if the diluted sample X satisfies the rotation condition, the data stored in each memory area of ​​the management register R3 is shifted by one step. This frees up memory area A1, allowing information about the next diluted sample F to be stored. That is, in the n+x cycle, the diluted sample F is dispensed into the dilution container 23 located at the dispensing position P1 on the dilution turntable 3.

[0115] In this way, even though a measurement request has been made for sample F, which is the original sample of diluted sample F, if the diluted sample X, whose information is stored in memory area A89, does not satisfy the rotation conditions, processing on the dilution turntable 3 will stop until the diluted sample X satisfies the rotation conditions.

[0116] Therefore, when a diluted sample contained in a dilution container 23 reaches a predetermined position but the diluted sample has not been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample to the highest priority. Here, when a diluted sample has not been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8, this includes when an initial test has not been dispensed to the diluted sample and when a retest is required but a retest has not been dispensed to the diluted sample. In the following, a diluted sample to which the diluted sample has not been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 is also simply referred to as an undispensed diluted sample.

[0117] Figure 17 is a diagram showing the state of the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in cycle m (m is any natural number), Figure 18 is a diagram showing the state of the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in cycle m+1, and Figure 19 is a diagram showing the state of the management register R3 and the expansion register R6 in cycle m+2.

[0118] When a diluted sample contained in a dilution container 23 reaches the priority change position P20 but the diluted sample has not been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample to the highest priority. The priority change position P20 corresponds to the memory area A60 of the management register R3.

[0119] As shown in Figure 17, in cycle m, in management register R3, information on diluted sample Z is stored in memory area A6, information on diluted sample Y is stored in memory area A7, information on diluted sample X is stored in memory area A8, information on diluted sample B is stored in memory area A58, and information on diluted sample A is stored in memory area A59.

[0120] Here, diluted specimens A, B, X, Y, and Z have not been dispensed for the initial test. Furthermore, diluted specimens X, Y, and Z have the same priority, and are higher than diluted specimens A and B. Therefore, in the expansion register R6, diluted specimen X is stored in memory area B1, diluted specimen Y is stored in memory area B2, diluted specimen Z is stored in memory area B3, diluted specimen A is stored in memory area B4, and diluted specimen B is stored in memory area B5.

[0121] 18, in the m+1 cycle, the information on the diluted sample stored in each memory area in the management register R3 is shifted by one step, and the diluted sample X is dispensed into the reaction vessel 26 and deleted from the development register R6.

[0122] Here, in the m+1 cycle, information about diluted sample A is stored in memory area A60. That is, the dilution container 23 containing diluted sample A reaches priority change position P20 on the dilution turntable 3. At this time, the management unit 404 changes the priority of diluted sample A to the highest priority and stores information about diluted sample A in memory area B1 of the development register R6. Therefore, diluted sample A is dispensed into the reaction container 26 and measured before diluted sample Y and diluted sample Z.

[0123] 19, in the m+2 cycle, the information on the diluted sample stored in each memory area in the management register R3 is shifted by one step. Also, diluted sample A is dispensed into the reaction vessel 26 and deleted from the development register R6. In the m+2 cycle, information on diluted sample B is stored in memory area A60. Therefore, the management unit 404 changes the priority of diluted sample B to the highest priority and stores information on diluted sample B in memory area B1 of the development register R6. Therefore, diluted sample B is dispensed into the reaction vessel 26 and measured before diluted sample Y and diluted sample Z.

[0124] Here, the priority change position is set to position P20, but the priority change position can be set to any position. Also, here, the priority of the diluted sample is changed to the highest priority at priority change position P20, but it does not have to be the highest priority as long as the priority is changed to a higher priority.

[0125] 1.6.3. Tertiary Processing FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the management register R3.

[0126] The management unit 404 is configured to move from the dispensing position P1 to the second mixing position P45, which is one position before the dispensing position P86. If diluted samples are placed between the first position P85 and the second position (determination position) P9, the priority of the diluted samples placed between the first position P85 and the second position (determination position) P9 is changed from the first priority to a second priority higher than the first priority.

[0127] The diluted sample X dispensed at the dispensing position P1 of the dilution turntable 3 passes through the first mixing position P42, position P83, position P4, and second mixing position P45, and when it reaches the dispensable position P86, it can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 26. That is, the diluted sample X at the dispensing position P1 can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 26 after passing through five positions. Therefore, in the management register R3, the information on the diluted sample X stored in the memory area A1 is shifted by five steps to be stored in the memory area A6, and the diluted sample X can be dispensed.

[0128] The diluted sample positioned at position P85 on the dilution turntable 3 passes through positions P6, P47, P88, and determination position P9 before reaching cleaning start position P50. Here, position P85 on the dilution turntable 3 is defined as the first position P85, and position P9, which is the position immediately before reaching cleaning start position P50, is defined as the second position P9. The diluted sample reaches cleaning start position P50 after reaching second position P9. Therefore, the diluted sample information stored in memory area A85 corresponding to first position P85 is shifted by five steps and stored in memory area A90.

[0129] At this time, if there is an undispensed diluted sample between the first position P85 and the second position P9, it may be determined that the rotation condition is not satisfied at the determination position P9, and the dilution turntable 3 may not rotate before the diluted sample at the dispensing position P1 reaches the dispensing position P86. This may result in a long time being required to make the diluted sample at the dispensing position P1 ready for dispensing.

[0130] 20, if diluted sample A located at second position P9 does not satisfy the rotation condition, the dilution turntable 3 will not rotate until diluted sample A satisfies the rotation condition. Therefore, processing of diluted sample X will not proceed on the dilution turntable 3. Diluted sample X cannot reach the dispensing position P86 until diluted sample A, diluted sample B, diluted sample C, diluted sample D, and diluted sample E all satisfy the rotation condition.

[0131] Therefore, when diluted samples are placed between the dispensing position P1 and the second mixing position P45, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted samples placed between the first position P85 and the second position P9 to the highest priority. That is, the management unit 404 changes the priority of diluted samples A, B, C, D, and E to the highest priority. This reduces the possibility of a waiting time occurring between the time when diluted sample X moves from the dispensing position P1 to the dispensing position P86, allowing diluted sample X to be dispensed quickly into the reaction vessel 26.

[0132] Although the priority of the diluted sample is changed to the highest priority here, it does not have to be the highest priority as long as the priority is changed to a higher priority.

[0133] 1.6.4. Management Department Processing Flow 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the management unit 404. Here, the processing of the management unit 404 for one cycle will be described.

[0134] The management unit 404 determines whether information about the diluted sample is stored in the memory area A6 of the management register R3 (step S100). That is, the management unit 404 determines whether the dilution container 23 containing the diluted sample is placed at the dispensing position P86.

[0135] If information about the diluted sample is stored in the memory area A6 (Yes in step S100), the management unit 404 acquires information about the priority of the diluted sample from the memory area A6 (step S102). The information about the priority of the diluted sample is included in the request information. The management unit 404 acquires information about the priority of the diluted sample from the memory area A6 (step S102). Priority information is obtained from the request information stored in 0.

[0136] The management unit 404 determines the order in which these diluted samples are to be dispensed into the diluted sample dispensing probe 8 based on the priority of the diluted samples in each memory area of ​​the expansion register R6 and the priority of the diluted samples in the memory area A6, and updates the expansion register R6 (step S104).

[0137] The management unit 404 acquires information on the priority of the diluted samples in each memory area of ​​the expansion register R6 before updating from the request information stored in the memory unit 430. The management unit 404 compares the priority of the diluted samples in each memory area of ​​the expansion register R6 with the priority of the diluted sample to be newly added to the expansion register R6, and updates the expansion register R6 so that these diluted samples are arranged in descending order of priority.

[0138] The processes in steps S100, S102, and S104 described above correspond to the first process described above.

[0139] If information about a diluted sample is not stored in memory area A6 (No in step S100), or after updating expansion register R6 (after step S104), management unit 404 determines whether information about an undispensed diluted sample is stored in memory area A60 of management register R3 (step S106). That is, management unit 404 determines whether a dilution container 23 containing an undispensed diluted sample is placed at priority change position P20.

[0140] If information about an undispensed diluted sample is stored in memory area A60 (Yes in step S106), the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample in memory area A60 to the highest priority (step S108). The management unit 404 changes the storage location in the expansion register R6 of the diluted sample information in memory area A60 according to the updated priority, and updates the expansion register R6 (step S110). The management unit 404 changes the storage location in the expansion register R6 of the diluted sample information stored in memory area A60 to memory area B1, and moves down the diluted sample information stored in other memory areas. The update process of the expansion register R6 in step S110 may be performed, for example, in the same manner as the update process of the expansion register R6 in step S104.

[0141] The processes in steps S106, S108, and S110 correspond to the second process described above.

[0142] If information about an undispensed diluted sample is not stored in memory area A60 (No in step S106), or after updating expansion register R6 (after step S110), management unit 404 determines whether information about the diluted sample is stored in the range from memory area A1 to memory area A5 of management register R3 (step S111). If information about the diluted sample is stored in the range from memory area A1 to memory area A5 (Yes in step S111), management unit 404 determines whether information about an undispensed diluted sample is stored in the range from memory area A85 to memory area A89 of management register R3 (step S112). That is, management unit 404 determines whether a dilution container 23 containing an undispensed diluted sample is arranged between first position P85 and second position P9.

[0143] If information on an undispensed diluted sample is stored in the range from memory area A85 to memory area A89 (Yes in step S112), the management unit 404 identifies the diluted sample from the information on the undispensed diluted sample stored in the range from memory area A85 to memory area A89 and changes its priority to the highest priority (step S114). The management unit 404 changes the storage location in the expansion register R6 of the information on the diluted sample stored in the range from memory area A85 to memory area A89 according to the changed priority, and updates the expansion register R6 (step The management unit 404 changes the storage locations in the expansion register R6 of the diluted sample information stored in the range from memory area A85 to memory area A89 so that the information is arranged in order starting from memory area B1, and moves down the number of memory areas corresponding to the number of added diluted sample information stored in the other memory areas. The update process of the expansion register R6 in step S116 may be performed, for example, in the same manner as the update process of the expansion register R6 in step S104.

[0144] The management unit 404 terminates the processing if information on the diluted sample is not stored in the range from memory area A1 to memory area A5 (No in step S111), if information on the diluted sample is not stored in the range from memory area A85 to memory area A89 (No in step S112), or after updating the expansion register R6 (after step S116).

[0145] The processes of steps S111, S112, S114, and S116 described above correspond to the third process described above.

[0146] The management unit 404 repeats the above process as one cycle. The order of the processes shown in Fig. 21 is not particularly limited, and the order of the processes may be changed. In the example shown in Fig. 21, the first process, the second process, and the third process are all performed, but at least one of the first process, the second process, and the third process may be performed.

[0147] Effects The automated analyzer 100 includes a dilution turntable 3 that holds a plurality of dilution containers 23, an original sample dispensing probe 7 that prepares a diluted sample by dispensing a sample and a diluent into the dilution container 23, a dilution / stirring mechanism 9 that stirs the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23, a reaction turntable 6 that holds a plurality of reaction containers 26, a diluted sample dispensing probe 8 that aspirates the diluted sample from the dilution container 23 and dispenses it into the reaction container 26, and a multi-wavelength photometer 16 that measures the diluted sample contained in the reaction container 26. The automated analyzer 100 further includes a management unit 404 that, when diluted samples contained in the dilution containers 23 become available for dispensing into the reaction containers 26, determines the order in which the diluted sample dispensing probes 8 dispense the diluted samples based on the priority of the diluted samples, and a control unit 402 that causes the diluted sample dispensing probes 8 to dispense the diluted samples in accordance with the order determined by the management unit 404.

[0148] In this way, in the automated analyzer 100, when diluted samples contained in the dilution containers 23 become available for dispensing into the reaction containers 26, the management unit 404 determines the order in which the diluted samples are to be dispensed into the diluted sample dispensing probes 8 based on the priority of the diluted samples. Therefore, even if a low-priority sample is dispensed into the dilution container 23 before a high-priority sample, the automated analyzer 100 can dispense the high-priority sample into the reaction container 26 before the low-priority sample. Therefore, the automated analyzer 100 can quickly process high-priority samples.

[0149] For example, by setting high priority to QC samples and calibration samples, the QC samples and calibration samples can be measured quickly.

[0150] In the automatic analyzer 100, the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23 is stirred by the dilution stirring mechanism 9, and then can be dispensed into the reaction container 26.

[0151] In the automatic analyzer 100, when diluted specimen A (an example of a first pretreated specimen) dispensed into the dilution container 23 becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container 26, and then diluted specimen X (an example of a second pretreated specimen) having a higher priority than diluted specimen A becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container 26, the management unit 404 places diluted specimen X before diluted specimen A. Therefore, in the automatic analyzer 100, even if diluted specimen A is dispensed into the dilution container 23 before diluted specimen X, the management unit 404 places diluted specimen X before diluted specimen A. X can be dispensed into the reaction vessel 26 before the diluted sample A.

[0152] In the automatic analyzer 100, when diluted sample A contained in a dilution container 23 reaches a predetermined position (priority change position P20) but is not dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample A from the first priority to a second priority higher than the first priority. Therefore, in the automatic analyzer 100, even when there are many diluted samples with high priority, the possibility of processing being stopped for a long time can be reduced.

[0153] For example, if an undispensed diluted sample is at the determination position P9 and does not satisfy the rotation condition, processing will be halted for a long time until the rotation condition is satisfied. In the automated analyzer 100, the priority of the diluted sample is increased at the priority change position P20, reducing the possibility that the undispensed diluted sample will reach the determination position P9. Therefore, even if there are many high-priority diluted samples, the possibility of processing being halted for a long time can be reduced.

[0154] In the automated analyzer 100, the dilution container 23 moves from a dispensing position P1, where a diluted sample is dispensed into the dilution container 23, through a predetermined number of positions on the dilution turntable 3 to a dispensing position P86, where the diluted sample can be dispensed into a reaction container 26. Also, on the dilution turntable 3, the dilution container 23 moves from a first position P85 through the predetermined number of positions to a cleaning start position P50, where cleaning of the dilution container 23 begins. The dilution container 23 reaches the cleaning start position P50 after the second position P9. When a diluted sample is placed between the dispensing position P1 and the second mixing position P45, which is immediately before the dispensing position P86, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample placed between the first position P85 and the second position P9 from the first priority to a second priority, which is higher than the first priority. Therefore, in the automated analyzer 100, when a diluted sample is dispensed into the dispensing position P1, the diluted sample can be quickly dispensed into a reaction container 26.

[0155] The control method for the automatic analyzer 100 includes the steps of: when diluted samples contained in the dilution containers 23 become available for dispensing into the reaction containers 26, determining the order in which the diluted samples are to be dispensed into the diluted sample dispensing probes 8 based on the priority of the diluted samples; and dispensing the diluted samples into the diluted sample dispensing probes 8 in accordance with the determined order. Therefore, even if a low-priority sample is dispensed into the dilution containers 23 before a high-priority sample, the control method for the automatic analyzer 100 can dispense the high-priority sample into the reaction containers 26 before the low-priority sample. Therefore, the control method for the automatic analyzer 100 can quickly process high-priority samples.

[0156] 1.8. Variations In the second process of the first embodiment described above, when a diluted sample contained in a dilution container 23 reaches the priority change position P20 but has not been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8, the management unit 404 changes the priority of the diluted sample to the highest priority. In contrast, the management unit 404 may change the priority of a diluted sample to the highest priority when a predetermined number of cycles (e.g., 60 cycles) have elapsed since the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23 has been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8. Furthermore, the management unit 404 may change the priority of a diluted sample to the highest priority when a predetermined time has elapsed since the diluted sample contained in the dilution container 23 has not been dispensed by the diluted sample dispensing probe 8. Here, the priority of a diluted sample is changed to the highest priority, but it need not be the highest priority as long as the priority is changed to a higher value.

[0157] 2. Second embodiment 2.1. Automated analyzer configuration Next, an automatic analyzer according to a second embodiment will be described. The analyzer has the same configuration as the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0158] 2.2. Operation When sample measurements are requested consecutively, a large number of diluted samples are held on the dilution turntable 3 while waiting for a determination as to whether the rotation conditions are met at the determination position P9. In this situation, even if the diluted sample with the highest priority is dispensed into the dilution container 23 at the dispensing position P1, it takes a considerable amount of time before the diluted sample can be dispensed into the reaction container 26.

[0159] Therefore, the control unit 402 designates positions P88 to P9 on the dilution turntable 3 as spare cells and uses them for samples for emergency measurement. If there is a diluted sample that requires emergency measurement between dispensing position P1 and second mixing position P45, the control unit 402 uses the spare cells from positions P88 to P9. However, if there is no diluted sample that requires emergency measurement between dispensing position P1 and second mixing position P45, the control unit 402 does not use the spare cells from positions P88 to P9. In this case, the diluted sample being measured waits in the range from position P86 to position P91.

[0160] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the state of the management register R3 in the nth cycle.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 22, in the nth cycle, information on diluted sample X is stored in the memory area A1, and information on diluted sample A is stored in the memory area A83.

[0162] 23 is a diagram showing the state of the management register R3 in the n+1 cycle. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the priority of the diluted sample X is the same as that of the diluted sample A.

[0163] 23, when the priority of diluted sample X is the same as that of diluted sample A, the information of the diluted sample stored in each memory area of ​​the management register R3 is not shifted. That is, the information of diluted sample X remains stored in memory area A1.

[0164] Figure 24 is a diagram showing the state of management register R3 in cycle n+1. Figure 25 is a diagram showing the state of management register R3 in cycle n+2. Figure 26 is a diagram showing the state of management register R3 in cycle n+5. In the examples shown in Figures 24, 25, and 26, diluted sample X has the highest priority.

[0165] As shown in FIG. 22, in cycle n, information on diluted sample X is stored in memory area A1, and information on diluted sample A is stored in memory area A83. Diluted sample A has not been dispensed in the initial test. If diluted sample X has the highest priority among the diluted samples in the memory areas of management register R3, then in cycle n+1, as shown in FIG. 24, the information on the diluted sample stored in each memory area of ​​management register R3 is shifted by one step. That is, information on diluted sample A is stored in memory area A84, which is a spare area, and information on diluted sample X is stored in memory area A2. The spare areas correspond to spare cells.

[0166] As shown in Figure 25, in the n+2 cycle, the diluted sample information stored in each memory area of ​​the management register R3 is similarly shifted by one step. By repeating this process, in the n+5 cycle shown in Figure 26, the information on the diluted sample X is stored in the memory area A6. That is, in the n+5 cycle, the diluted sample X is positioned at the dispensable position P86 and can be dispensed. Therefore, the diluted sample X can be measured quickly.

[0167] When the information of the diluted sample X is stored in the storage area A6, the control unit 402 In other words, when the diluted sample X is positioned at the dispensing position P86, the rotation of the dilution turntable 3 is stopped.

[0168] 3. Third embodiment 3.1. Automated analyzer configuration Next, an automatic analyzer according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 200 according to the third embodiment. Hereinafter, in the automatic analyzer 200 according to the third embodiment, components having the same functions as those of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0169] In the above-described automatic analyzer 100, the reaction turntable 6 has one line, as shown in Fig. 4. In contrast, the automatic analyzer 200 has two lines (a first line 6A and a second line 6B), as shown in Fig. 27. The automatic analyzer 200 also has a first diluted sample dispensing probe 8A for dispensing diluted samples into a plurality of first reaction containers 26A held in the first line 6A, and a second diluted sample dispensing probe 8B for dispensing diluted samples into a plurality of second reaction containers 26B held in the second line 6B. Measurement of diluted samples is performed by a multi-wavelength photometer 16 on each of the first line 6A and the second line 6B.

[0170] In cycle Y of the basic cycle, the first diluted sample dispensing probe 8A aspirates the diluted sample, and the second diluted sample dispensing probe 8B aspirates the diluted sample. In cycle X of the basic cycle, the first diluted sample dispensing probe 8A dispenses the diluted sample into the first reaction container 26A, and the second diluted sample dispensing probe 8B dispenses the diluted sample into the second reaction container 26B. Other operations are the same as those in the example of the automatic analyzer 100, and therefore will not be described here.

[0171] 3.2. Operation of the Automated Analyzer 28 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the expansion register R6. Note that diluted specimens X and Y have a "high" priority, diluted specimens A and B have a "medium" priority, and diluted specimen C has a "low" priority.

[0172] The control unit 402 causes the first diluted sample dispensing probe 8A to dispense diluted samples A, B, and C, which have a priority lower than "high." That is, diluted samples A, B, and C are dispensed into the first reaction container 26A of the first line 6A. The control unit 402 also causes the second diluted sample dispensing probe 8B to dispense diluted samples X and Y. That is, diluted samples X and Y are dispensed into the second reaction container 26B of the second line 6B. In this way, the automated analyzer 200 uses the second line 6B as a line dedicated to high-priority diluted samples. Therefore, the automated analyzer 200 can quickly measure high-priority diluted samples.

[0173] 4. Variations The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention.

[0174] 4.1. First Variant In the first, second, and third embodiments described above, a diluent such as physiological saline is used as the pretreatment liquid, but the pretreatment liquid is not limited to the diluent. For example, a hemolytic agent may be used as the pretreatment liquid when measuring hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

[0175] 4.2. Second Variant Figure 29 is a diagram showing the state of management register R3 in cycle n. Figure 30 is a diagram showing the state of management register R3 in cycle n+1. Figure 31 is a diagram showing the state of management register R3 in cycle n+5. In the examples shown in Figures 29, 30, and 31, diluted sample X has the highest priority.

[0176] When diluted sample X is stored in the range from memory area A1 to memory area A5, the control unit 402 shifts the information of the diluted sample stored in each memory area by one step. When diluted sample X is not stored in the range from memory area A1 to memory area A5, the control unit 402 does not shift the information of the diluted sample stored in each memory area by one step.

[0177] 29, the information on the diluted sample X stored in the memory area A1 in the nth cycle is stored in the memory area A6 in the nth cycle. That is, the diluted sample X at the dispensing position P1 in the nth cycle is positioned at the dispensing position P86 in the nth cycle. Therefore, the diluted sample X can be dispensed quickly.

[0178] At this time, diluted specimens A, B, C, D, and E reach the cleaning start position P50, are cleaned, and cannot be used for retesting. When a situation arises in which the specimens cannot be used for retesting, an alarm or the like is issued to notify the user.

[0179] The above-described embodiment and modifications are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate.

[0180] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. For example, the present invention includes configurations that are substantially identical to the configurations described in the embodiments. A substantially identical configuration means, for example, a configuration with the same function, method, and result, or a configuration with the same purpose and effect. The present invention also includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects or purposes as the configurations described in the embodiments. The present invention also includes configurations in which publicly known technology is added to the configurations described in the embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0181] 2...Sample turntable, 3...Dilution turntable, 4...First reagent turntable, 5...Second reagent turntable, 6...Reaction turntable, 6A...First line, 6B...Second line, 7...Original sample dispensing probe, 8...Diluted sample dispensing probe, 8A...First diluted sample dispensing probe, 8B...Second diluted sample dispensing probe, 9...Dilution stirring mechanism, 11...Dilution container washing mechanism, 12...First reagent dispensing probe, 13...Second reagent dispensing probe, 14...First reaction liquid stirring mechanism, 15...Second reaction liquid stirring mechanism, 16...Multi-wavelength photometer, 17...Incubation bath, 18...Reaction container washing mechanism, 20...Reading unit , 21...sample container, 23...dilution container, 24...first reagent container, 25...second reagent container, 26...reaction container, 26A...first reaction container, 26B...second reaction container, 27...first reagent barcode reader, 28...second reagent barcode reader, 31...original sample dispensing probe washing mechanism, 32...diluted sample dispensing probe washing mechanism, 33...first reagent dispensing probe washing mechanism, 34...second reagent dispensing probe washing mechanism, 40...control device, 100...automatic analyzer, 200...automatic analyzer, 400...processing unit, 402...control unit, 404...management unit, 410...operation unit, 420...display unit, 430...storage unit

Claims

1. a first turntable that holds a plurality of pretreatment containers; a first dispensing probe for dispensing a sample and a pretreatment solution into the pretreatment container to prepare a pretreated sample; a second turntable that holds a plurality of reaction vessels; a second dispensing probe that aspirates the pretreated sample from the pretreatment container and dispenses it into the reaction container; a measurement unit that measures the pretreated sample contained in the reaction vessel; a management unit that determines the order in which the pretreated specimens contained in the pretreatment containers are to be dispensed into the reaction containers based on the priority of the pretreated specimens; and a control unit that causes the second dispensing probe to dispense the pretreated sample in accordance with the order determined by the management unit; An automated analyzer comprising:

2. In claim 1, a stirring mechanism for stirring the pretreated specimen contained in the pretreatment container, The pretreated specimen contained in the pretreatment container can be dispensed into the reaction container after being stirred by the stirring mechanism.

3. In claim 1 or 2, An automatic analyzer in which, after a first pre-treated sample dispensed into the pre-treatment container becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container, when a second pre-treated sample having a higher priority than the first pre-treated sample becomes available for dispensing into the reaction container, the management unit places the second pre-treated sample before the first pre-treated sample.

4. In claim 1 or 2, The management unit of the automatic analyzer changes the priority of the first pretreated sample from a first priority to a second priority higher than the first priority when the first pretreated sample contained in the pretreatment container reaches a predetermined position but the first pretreated sample is not dispensed by the second dispensing probe.

5. In claim 1 or 2, The management unit changes the priority of the first pretreated sample from a first priority to a second priority higher than the first priority when the first pretreated sample has not been dispensed by the second dispensing probe even after a predetermined number of cycles have elapsed since the first pretreated sample was dispensed into the pretreatment container.

6. In claim 1 or 2, On the first turntable, the pretreatment container moves from a dispensing position where the pretreatment specimen is dispensed into the pretreatment container to a dispensing position where the pretreatment specimen can be dispensed into the reaction container via a predetermined number of positions; On the first turntable, the pretreatment container passes through the predetermined number of positions from the first position and reaches a cleaning start position where cleaning of the pretreatment container is started; the pretreatment container reaches the cleaning start position after the second position, The management unit, when a pretreated sample is placed between the dispensing position and the position immediately preceding the dispensing position, changes the priority of the pretreated sample placed between the first position and the second position from a first priority to a second priority higher than the first priority, in an automatic analyzer.

7. In claim 1 or 2, the second turntable has a first line on which a plurality of first reaction vessels are arranged and a second line on which a plurality of second reaction vessels are arranged; The control unit dispenses pretreated samples having a priority lower than a first priority into the first reaction container, and dispenses pretreated samples having a priority equal to the first priority and higher than the first priority into the second reaction container.

8. a first turntable that holds a plurality of pretreatment containers; a first dispensing probe for dispensing a sample and a pretreatment solution into the pretreatment container to prepare a pretreated sample; a second turntable that holds a plurality of reaction vessels; a second dispensing probe that aspirates the pretreated sample from the pretreatment container and dispenses it into the reaction container; a measurement unit that measures the pretreated sample contained in the reaction vessel; A method for controlling an automatic analyzer, comprising: When the pretreatment specimens contained in the pretreatment containers become available for dispensing into the reaction containers, determining the order in which the pretreatment specimens are to be dispensed by the second dispensing probes based on the priority of the pretreatment specimens; dispensing the pretreated sample into the second dispensing probe in accordance with the determined order; A method for controlling an automatic analyzer, comprising:

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