Bioparticle sorting device, bioparticle sorting system, and information processing device

Abstract

A main object of the present disclosure is to provide a bioparticle sorting device that is easy to use or operate for both of two different types of users.SOLUTION: The present disclosure provides a biological particle sorting apparatus that operates in a first display mode or a second display mode based on identification information, the first display mode including accepting input of operation control data related to a biological particle sorting process, the second display mode including displaying a process execution operation screen.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a biological particle sorting device, a biological particle sorting system, and an information processing device. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a biological particle sorting device, a biological particle sorting system, and an information processing device that display a screen related to control and / or execution of a biological particle sorting process. [Background technology]

[0002] Flow cytometry involves multidimensional analysis of light originating from various fluorescent dyes. For this analysis, numerous graphs and / or tables of statistical values ​​are displayed on the screen of an information processing device, and gates, for example, are set or adjusted. The results of the analysis are also used to separate desired bioparticles. The device that performs this separation is also called a cell sorter. Recently, a device that separates bioparticles in a closed space has also been proposed, and this device is also called a closed sorter.

[0003] Several proposals have been made regarding closed sorters. For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a microparticle sorting device that includes a determination unit that determines whether to sort microparticles flowing in a flow path based on light generated by irradiating the microparticles with light, and the determination unit performs a first sorting determination to determine whether the microparticles belong to one of two or more different microparticle populations based on characteristics of the light, and then performs a second sorting determination to determine whether to sort microparticles that have been determined to belong to one of the microparticle populations in the first sorting determination based on particle constituent ratios specified for the two or more different microparticle populations. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-076736 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] For sorting processing using a bioparticle sorting device, sorting processing conditions such as gate settings are set. This setting is performed via various data displayed on the screen as described above. This setting often requires highly specialized knowledge (e.g., knowledge about bioparticles and about sorting devices). The user interfaces of commercially available devices such as flow cytometers and cell sorters have been designed on the assumption that the user has such specialized knowledge.

[0006] However, in order to sort a large amount of desired cells using a bioparticle sorting device, for example, for the production of cell therapy drugs, the sorting process conditions themselves will be set by a user who is accustomed to using the various data (e.g., a researcher or developer with the highly specialized scientific knowledge), while the actual sorting operation will likely be performed by a user who is less accustomed to using the various data than the device user (e.g., a worker or operator at a cell therapy drug manufacturing factory).

[0007] Therefore, a main object of the present disclosure is to provide a bioparticle sorting device that is easy to use or operate for both of these two types of users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present disclosure provides: a first display mode for receiving input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process; a second display mode in which a processing execution operation screen is displayed; having A biological particle sorting device is provided that operates in a first display mode or a second display mode based on identification information. The present disclosure also provides: the system is configured to accept input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process via a processing condition setting screen related to the bioparticle sorting process, and to transmit the operation control data to a bioparticle sorting device that executes the sorting process or an information processing device that operates the sorting device, The operation control data includes processing condition data adopted by the bioparticle sorting device. An information processing device for controlling the bioparticle sorting process is also provided. The present disclosure also provides: The apparatus is configured to receive operation control data relating to a bioparticle sorting process, and to display a process execution operation screen generated based on the operation control data, and The apparatus is configured to cause the bioparticle sorting device to execute the sorting process in accordance with instructions input by an operator via the operation screen for executing the process. the operation control data includes gate information for identifying bioparticles to be sorted in the processing; On the processing execution operation screen, adjustment of at least a part of the gate information is restricted. An information processing device for performing bioparticle sorting processing is also provided. The present disclosure also provides: a first bioparticle sorting device or information processing device operating in a first display mode that accepts input of operation control data related to a bioparticle sorting process; a second biological particle sorting device or information processing device that operates in a second display mode in which a processing execution operation screen is displayed; Also provided is a bioparticle sorting system comprising: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a situation in which the bioparticle sorting device is operated. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a biological sample analyzer according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] 1 is an example of a block diagram of a bioparticle sorting device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an example of a flow diagram of a process performed by the bioparticle sorting device of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a mode selection screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an identification information input screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing condition setting screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing condition setting screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first display area. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second display area. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a tab area. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a tab area. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a tab area. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow in a first display mode. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing condition setting screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing condition setting screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting information display area. [Figure 15A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a window that is displayed by selecting a matrix display button. [Figure 15B] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of adjustment status of each correction coefficient in a correction matrix. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a window that is displayed by selecting a gate tree display button. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a toolbox that is displayed by selecting the worksheet toolbox display button. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a toolbox that is displayed by selecting the plot toolbox display button. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a toolbox that is displayed by selecting a gate toolbox display button. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for controlling the sorting process. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a template property area. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an aliquot setting area screen. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an instruction data input area for an operator. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing execution operation screen. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a fourth display area. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing execution operation screen. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing execution operation screen. [Figure 28A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing execution operation screen. [Figure 28B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing execution operation screen. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing execution operation screen. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 shows an example of a window displayed when acquiring an aliquot. [Figure 31] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a bioparticle sorting system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 32A] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation panel. [Figure 32B] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation panel. [Figure 33A] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slider bar. [Figure 33B] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slider bar. [Figure 33C] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slider bar. [Figure 33D] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slider bar. [Figure 34A] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining an enlarged image displayed in gate adjustment. [Figure 34B] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining an enlarged image displayed in gate adjustment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Preferred embodiments for carrying out the present disclosure will be described below. Note that the embodiments described below are representative embodiments of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Note that the present disclosure will be described in the following order. 1. Basic Concept of This Disclosure 2. First Embodiment of the Present Disclosure (Bioparticle Sorting Apparatus) (1) Device configuration example (2) Processing example (2-1) Display mode selection (2-2) First display mode (2-2-1) Example of screen configuration displayed in the first display mode (2-2-2) Example of processing in the first display mode (2-3) Second display mode (2-3-1) Example of screen configuration displayed in the second display mode (2-3-2) Example of processing in the second display mode (3) Variations 3. Second Embodiment of the Present Disclosure (Bioparticle Sorting System)

[0011] 1. Basic Concept of This Disclosure

[0012] As described above, the setting of sorting processing conditions for sorting processing using a bioparticle sorting device is performed via various data displayed on a screen, and setting the sorting processing conditions often requires highly specialized knowledge. Therefore, it is considered difficult for users such as the above-mentioned workers or operators to properly use conventional user interfaces. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a user interface that is easy for users to use or operate.

[0013] It is conceivable that workers or operators operate bioparticle sorting devices while referring to a work procedure manual prepared by a researcher or developer. However, bioparticle-containing samples, such as cell-containing samples, have different particle compositions, requiring the sorting process conditions to be adjusted for each sample. In addition, preparing a work procedure manual is time-consuming for researchers and developers, and referring to the work procedure manual is also a burden for workers or operators. Furthermore, in environments such as clean rooms, workers or operators wear clean room wear and lab gloves, so it is often difficult to work while referring to the work procedure manual.

[0014] Furthermore, research, development, and manufacturing of cell therapy drugs are typically carried out in clean rooms to prevent contamination. Therefore, when using a bioparticle sorting device such as a closed sorter in a clean room, it is expected that a user U will operate the bioparticle sorting device A while wearing clean room work clothes and gloves, as shown in FIG. 1. The gloves are, for example, lab gloves made of a material such as latex. When wearing such gloves, fine manipulation is often difficult. For example, with regard to touch panels, fine manipulation is difficult while wearing the gloves. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a user interface that is easy to use or operate even in such a condition.

[0015] The present disclosure provides a bioparticle sorting device having a first display mode for accepting input of operation control data related to a bioparticle sorting process and a second display mode for displaying a process execution operation screen. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the bioparticle sorting device may be configured to operate in the first display mode or the second display mode based on identification information. By providing the bioparticle sorting device according to the present disclosure with these two display modes, for example, a researcher or developer can input operation control data using the first display mode, and a worker or operator can execute a sorting process using the bioparticle sorting device via a process execution operation screen in the second mode. This allows different user interfaces to be presented to the researcher or developer and the worker or operator, respectively, and makes it possible to provide a work environment suited to each user's needs, for example.

[0016] For example, in the first display mode, a researcher or developer inputs the operation control data (e.g., work procedure information) related to the preparative processing operation to be performed by a worker or operator via a processing condition setting screen. Then, in the second display mode, a processing execution operation screen generated based on the operation control data is presented to the operator. This allows the researcher or developer to easily create instructions for the operator, such as the correct work procedure and / or precautions for each preparative processing. The operator can then follow the instructions displayed on the processing execution operation screen, follow the specified work procedure, and refer to the precautions to perform the appropriate preparative processing.

[0017] In this specification, a user who operates the bioparticle sorting device in the first display mode is also referred to as a "first user," and a user who operates the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode is referred to as a "second user." The first user may be a user who designs and / or develops a preparative process to be executed in the second display mode, such as the above-mentioned researcher or developer. The second user may be a user who operates the biological particle sorting device to perform the sorting process in accordance with instructions input in the first display mode. The second user is, for example, the operator or worker described above.

[0018] Below, an example of the configuration of the device will be described first, and then an example of the operation of the bioparticle sorting device according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0019] 2. First Embodiment of the Present Disclosure (Bioparticle Sorting Apparatus)

[0020] (1) Device configuration example

[0021] A biological particle sorting device according to the present disclosure may be configured as a biological sample analyzing device as described below.

[0022] An example configuration of a biological sample analyzer according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 2A. The biological sample analyzer 6100 shown in FIG. 2A includes a light irradiation unit 6101 that irradiates light onto a biological sample S flowing through a flow path C, a detection unit 6102 that detects light generated by irradiating the biological sample S with light, and an information processing unit 6103 that processes information related to the light detected by the detection unit. Examples of the biological sample analyzer 6100 include a flow cytometer and an imaging cytometer. The biological sample analyzer 6100 may also include a sorting unit 6104 that sorts specific biological particles P from within the biological sample. An example of a biological sample analyzer 6100 that includes the sorting unit is a cell sorter.

[0023] (biological samples) The biological sample S may be a liquid sample containing biological particles. The biological particles may be, for example, cells or non-cellular biological particles. The cells may be living cells, and more specific examples include blood cells such as red blood cells and white blood cells, and reproductive cells such as sperm and fertilized eggs. The cells may be directly collected from a specimen such as whole blood, or may be cultured cells obtained after culturing. Examples of the non-cellular biological particles include extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes and microvesicles. The biological particles may be labeled with one or more labeling substances (e.g., dyes (particularly fluorescent dyes) and fluorescent dye-labeled antibodies). The biological sample analyzer of the present disclosure may also analyze particles other than biological particles, such as beads for calibration purposes.

[0024] (flow path) The flow channel C is configured to allow the biological sample S to flow. In particular, the flow channel C can be configured to form a flow in which biological particles contained in the biological sample are aligned in a substantially straight line. The flow channel structure including the flow channel C may be designed to form a laminar flow. In particular, the flow channel structure is designed to form a laminar flow in which the flow of the biological sample (sample flow) is surrounded by the flow of sheath liquid. The design of the flow channel structure may be appropriately selected by those skilled in the art, and a known design may be adopted. The flow channel C may be formed in a flow channel structure such as a microchip (a chip having flow channels on the order of micrometers) or a flow cell. The width of the flow channel C may be 1 mm or less, and in particular, 10 μm or more and 1 mm or less. The flow channel C and the flow channel structure including it may be made of a material such as plastic or glass.

[0025] The biological sample analyzer of the present disclosure is configured so that light from light irradiation unit 6101 is irradiated onto the biological sample flowing within flow channel C, and particularly onto biological particles within the biological sample. The biological sample analyzer of the present disclosure may be configured so that the interrogation point of light on the biological sample is within the flow channel structure in which flow channel C is formed, or so that the interrogation point of light is outside the flow channel structure. An example of the former is a configuration in which the light is irradiated onto flow channel C within a microchip or flow cell. In the latter, the light may be irradiated onto biological particles after they have left the flow channel structure (particularly its nozzle portion), and an example of this is a jet-in-air flow cytometer.

[0026] (Light irradiation part) The light irradiation unit 6101 includes a light source unit that emits light and a light-guiding optical system that guides the light to an irradiation point. The light source unit includes one or more light sources. The type of light source is, for example, a laser light source or an LED. The wavelength of the light emitted from each light source may be any of ultraviolet light, visible light, and infrared light. The light-guiding optical system includes optical components such as a beam splitter group, a mirror group, or an optical fiber. The light-guiding optical system may also include a lens group for focusing light, such as an objective lens. There may be one or more irradiation points where the light intersects with the biological sample. The light irradiation unit 6101 may be configured to focus light emitted from one or more different light sources to one irradiation point.

[0027] (Detection unit) The detection unit 6102 includes at least one photodetector that detects light generated by irradiating the bioparticles with light. The detected light is, for example, fluorescence or scattered light (e.g., one or more of forward scattered light, back scattered light, and side scattered light). Each photodetector includes one or more light-receiving elements, and has, for example, a photodetector array. Each photodetector may include, as the light-receiving element, one or more PMTs (photomultiplier tubes) and / or photodiodes such as APDs and MPPCs. The photodetector includes, for example, a PMT array in which multiple PMTs are arranged in a one-dimensional direction. The detection unit 6102 may also include an imaging element such as a CCD or CMOS. The detection unit 6102 can acquire images of the bioparticles (e.g., bright-field images, dark-field images, and fluorescence images) using the imaging element.

[0028] The detection unit 6102 includes a detection optical system that allows light of a predetermined detection wavelength to reach a corresponding photodetector. The detection optical system includes a spectroscopic unit such as a prism or a diffraction grating, or a wavelength separation unit such as a dichroic mirror or an optical filter. The detection optical system is configured to, for example, disperse light generated by irradiating bioparticles with light, and detect the dispersed light using a plurality of photodetectors, the number of which is greater than the number of fluorescent dyes with which the bioparticles are labeled. A flow cytometer that includes such a detection optical system is called a spectral flow cytometer. The detection optical system is also configured to, for example, separate light corresponding to the fluorescent wavelength range of a specific fluorescent dye from the light generated by irradiating bioparticles with light, and detect the separated light using a corresponding photodetector.

[0029] Furthermore, the detection unit 6102 may include a signal processing unit that converts the electrical signal obtained by the photodetector into a digital signal. The signal processing unit may include an A / D converter as a device that performs the conversion. The digital signal obtained by the conversion by the signal processing unit may be transmitted to the information processing unit 6103. The digital signal may be handled by the information processing unit 6103 as data related to light (hereinafter also referred to as "light data"). The light data may be light data including, for example, fluorescent light data. More specifically, the light data may be light intensity data, and the light intensity may be light intensity data of light including fluorescent light (which may include feature quantities such as area, height, and width).

[0030] (Information Processing Department) The information processing unit 6103 includes, for example, a processing unit that processes various data (e.g., optical data) and a storage unit that stores various data. When the processing unit acquires optical data corresponding to a fluorescent dye from the detection unit 6102, the processing unit may perform fluorescence spillover correction (compensation processing) on ​​the light intensity data. Furthermore, in the case of a spectral flow cytometer, the processing unit executes fluorescence separation processing on the optical data to acquire light intensity data corresponding to the fluorescent dye. The fluorescence separation processing may be performed, for example, according to the unmixing method described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-232259. When the detection unit 6102 includes an image sensor, the processing unit may acquire morphological information of bioparticles based on images acquired by the image sensor. The storage unit may be configured to store the acquired optical data. The storage unit may further be configured to store spectral reference data used in the unmixing processing.

[0031] If the biological sample analyzer 6100 includes a fractionating unit 6104 (described below), the information processing unit 6103 can determine whether to fractionate the biological particles based on the optical data and / or morphological information. The information processing unit 6103 can then control the fractionating unit 6104 based on the result of this determination, and the fractionating unit 6104 can collect the biological particles.

[0032] The information processing unit 6103 may be configured to output various data (e.g., optical data or images). For example, the information processing unit 6103 may output various data (e.g., two-dimensional plots, spectral plots, etc.) generated based on the optical data. The information processing unit 6103 may also be configured to accept input of various data, such as accepting gating processing on a plot by a user. The information processing unit 6103 may include an output unit (e.g., a display, etc.) or an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, etc.) for executing the output or input.

[0033] The information processing unit 6103 may be configured as a general-purpose computer, for example, as an information processing device including a CPU, RAM, and ROM. The information processing unit 6103 may be included in a housing that includes the light irradiation unit 6101 and the detection unit 6102, or may be located outside the housing. Furthermore, various processes or functions performed by the information processing unit 6103 may be realized by a server computer or a cloud connected via a network.

[0034] (Preparative separation section) The sorting unit 6104 sorts the bioparticles according to the determination result by the information processing unit 6103. The sorting method may be a method of generating droplets containing bioparticles by vibration, applying an electric charge to the droplets to be sorted, and controlling the direction of movement of the droplets with electrodes. The sorting method may also be a method of controlling the direction of movement of the bioparticles within the channel structure to perform sorting. The channel structure may be provided with a control mechanism using, for example, pressure (spray or suction) or electric charge. An example of such a channel structure is a chip (for example, the chip described in JP 2020-76736 A) having a channel structure in which a channel C branches into a recovery channel and a waste channel downstream, and specific bioparticles are recovered into the recovery channel.

[0035] (2) Processing example

[0036] A bioparticle sorting device according to the present disclosure may have a display unit D that allows touch input, as shown in FIG. 1, for example. The display unit may be located on any surface, particularly a side surface, of the housing of the device, as shown in the figure. For example, the screen of the display unit may be located in a position where a user standing (or sitting) near the device can perform touch input. A processing condition setting screen or a processing execution operation screen, described below, may be displayed on the display unit. Furthermore, as shown in the figure, a bioparticle sorting device according to the present disclosure may have an introduction unit I for introducing a bioparticle-containing sample into the device. For example, a container containing the sample is placed inside the device through the introduction unit, and the container is connected to a predetermined sample line. After this connection, various processes described below may be performed. In this specification, a touch operation may be, but is not limited to, a tap (single tap), a long tap, a double tap, or the like. A touch operation may also be, for example, a drag, a swipe, a pinch-in, or a pinch-out. The type of touch operation may be appropriately selected by a person skilled in the art.

[0037] An example of processing performed by a bioparticle sorting device according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to Figures 2B and 3. Figure 2B is an example of a block diagram of a bioparticle sorting device. As shown in the figure, a bioparticle sorting device 100 according to the present disclosure has a display unit 101 and an information processing unit 102. Figure 3 is an example of a flow diagram of processing performed by the bioparticle sorting device.

[0038] The display unit 101 outputs a screen according to the present disclosure. The screen may be a screen based on data transmitted from the information processing unit 102. The display unit 101 may include a display device known in the art. For example, the display unit 101 includes a display device having a rectangular screen, particularly a rectangular screen, and more particularly a horizontally long rectangular screen. The size of the screen may be, for example, 10 inches or more, preferably 11 inches or more, and more preferably 12 inches or more. There is no particular upper limit to the size of the screen, but it may be, for example, 30 inches or less, 25 inches or less, 22 inches or less, or 20 inches or less. Such a screen size is suitable for displaying the screens displayed in each mode described below.

[0039] The information processing unit 102 displays a screen on the display unit 101 according to the present disclosure. The information processing unit 102 is configured to output data for displaying the screen. The information processing unit 102 may be the information processing unit 6103 described in (1) above, or may be a separately prepared information processing unit. Furthermore, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may include, in addition to the display unit 101 and the information processing unit 102, the light irradiation unit 6101, the detection unit 6102, and the sorting unit 6104 described in (1) above.

[0040] In the following (2-1) to (2-3), screens displayed by the bioparticle sorting device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0041] (2-1) Display mode selection

[0042] In step S10, the bioparticle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit 102) starts processing.

[0043] In step S11, the information processing unit 102 outputs a mode selection screen that prompts the user to select a mode to the display unit 101. The mode selection screen includes a button for selecting a first display mode (First display mode button) and a button for selecting a second display mode (Second display mode button), as shown in Fig. 4, for example. The mode selection screen may further include a button for displaying the next processing screen after the mode is selected (Next button).

[0044] Each button displayed on the mode selection screen may display a more specific mode name. For example, the first display mode may be displayed as "preparative processing condition setting mode," or may be displayed as "setting mode," "process development mode," or "PD mode." Furthermore, the second display mode may be displayed as "process execution operating mode," or may be displayed as "operation mode," "operation mode," or "OP mode."

[0045] As shown in the figure, the mode selection screen may further display a button (Administrator button) for selecting an administrator mode. In the administrator mode, the information processing unit 102 can, for example, set or change user authority information.

[0046] In step S12, the information processing unit 102 causes the display unit 101 to output a screen prompting the user to input identification information. The identification information may include a user ID (or a user name) and may also include a password. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the screen has a user ID input field and a password input field. The user inputs the identification information into these fields.

[0047] The information processing unit 102 refers to the input identification information and determines whether operation of the device in the selected mode is permitted for the identification information. If permitted, the information processing unit 102 proceeds to step S13. If not permitted, the information processing unit 102 displays, for example, a screen indicating that operation is not permitted on the display unit 101, and returns the process to step S11 or S12.

[0048] In step S13, the process is executed in the selected mode. The process in each mode will be explained below in (2-2) and (2-3).

[0049] In the present disclosure, steps S12 and S13 may be omitted. In this case, the fact that one of the modes has been selected in step S11 may itself be used as identification information. Alternatively, only step S12 may be executed without executing step S11. That is, the information processing unit 102 may cause the display unit 101 to display a screen for accepting input of identification information, and may transition to the first display mode or the second display mode depending on the input identification information.

[0050] (2-2) First display mode

[0051] In the first display mode, the bioparticle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit 102) accepts input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process. To accept the input of the operation control data, the display unit 101 may be capable of touch input. The display unit 101 displays a processing condition setting screen that accepts input of operation control data related to the sorting process of the bioparticle-containing sample. The operation control data may be data used to execute the sorting process in the second display mode, and particularly includes data for generating a processing execution operation screen in the second display mode.

[0052] In the first display mode, the information processing unit 102 displays a processing condition setting screen for the bioparticle sorting process on the display unit 101. The information processing unit 102 accepts input of the operation control data via the processing condition setting screen. The processing condition setting screen may be displayed on another display device instead of the display unit 101 provided in the bioparticle sorting device 100. For example, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may display the screen on a display device or information processing device connected to the bioparticle sorting device 100 via a network in a wired or wireless manner.

[0053] (2-2-1) Example of screen configuration displayed in the first display mode

[0054] (Processing condition setting screen) Fig. 6 shows an example of the configuration of the processing condition setting screen that the bioparticle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit 102) displays on the display unit 101. The processing condition setting screen 200 shown in the figure includes a setting operation flow display area (hereinafter also referred to as the "first display area") 201 that displays the operation flow for setting processing conditions for sorting processing, and a measurement data display area (hereinafter also referred to as the "second display area") 251 that displays measurement data related to the bioparticle-containing sample, as shown in Fig. 7.

[0055] As shown in the same figure, the first display area may be arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area may be arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen. Alternatively, the first display area may be arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area may be arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen. In the first display mode, detailed setting of separation conditions is often required, which requires checking detailed measurement data or displaying a large number of plot data on a single screen. Meanwhile, it is also necessary to present the first user with the progress of the work or the next operation to be performed. Therefore, by arranging the two areas on the left and right as described above, a large second display area can be secured, which makes it easier for the first user to check the measurement data, and the first user can check the work status by viewing the operation flow.

[0056] In order to improve operability, when the first display area is positioned on the left side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is positioned on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, the first display area may be positioned so as to abut the left edge of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area may be positioned so as to abut the right edge of the processing condition setting screen. Conversely, when the first display area is positioned on the right side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is positioned on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, the first display area may be positioned so as to abut the right edge of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area may be positioned so as to abut the left edge of the processing condition setting screen.

[0057] The arrangement of the first display area and the second display area may be changeable. For example, the bioparticle sorting device may be configured to change the screen from a state in which the former area is arranged on the right side and the latter area is arranged on the left side to a state in which the former area is arranged on the left side and the latter area is arranged on the right side. The screen may also be configured to change in the opposite direction. This allows for compatibility with the user's dominant hand or convenience, improving operability.

[0058] (First display area) An example of the first display area is shown in Fig. 8. As shown in the figure, the first display area includes a procedure button area 202 and a setting information display area 203.

[0059] In the procedure button area, a plurality of processing buttons included in the operational flow are arranged in the order of processing. In the figure, the first display area is located at the left edge of the processing condition setting screen, and the procedure button area is located at the left edge of the first display area. Also, the procedure button area is located to the left of the first display area, and the setting information display area is located to the right of the first display area. Alternatively, the first display area may be located at the right edge of the processing condition setting screen, and the procedure button area may be located at the right edge of the first display area. Alternatively, the procedure button area may be located to the right of the first display area, and the setting information display area may be located to the left of the first display area. This makes it easier for the first user to find each button in the workflow. Also, because the procedure button area is located at the edge (especially the left edge) of the processing condition setting screen, the possibility of touching other buttons when touching a processing button is reduced, reducing the chance of erroneous operation caused by touching an unintended area. The user interface of conventional bioparticle sorting devices is often designed to be operated via the display of a desktop or laptop computer. In this case, the cursor is operated using a mouse, for example, and frequently selected tool buttons are located at the top of the screen, similar to a typical software window. However, as shown in Figure 1 described above, when a user operates a touch panel, if frequently selected tool buttons are located at the top of the screen, it is difficult for the user to touch those tool buttons. Also, when moving a finger toward those tool buttons, the possibility of touching other buttons increases. According to the present disclosure, by arranging the procedure button area on the left (or right) side of the screen, particularly on the left edge (or right edge), the buttons in the procedure button area are easily accessible and the possibility of touching other buttons is reduced, thereby providing a screen that is easy for the first user to use and operate.

[0060] The figure shows an example of a first display area when the first display area is positioned on the left side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is positioned on the right side of the processing condition setting screen. In addition, when the first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, the first display area may be arranged adjacent to the right edge of the processing condition setting screen, and the procedure button area may be arranged to the right of the first display area, and in particular, may be arranged at the right edge of the processing condition setting screen.

[0061] The procedure button area 202 includes a plurality of process buttons 204a to 204e, each of which indicates a respective one of a plurality of steps performed from the start to the completion of the creation of operation control data. The plurality of process buttons may be arranged from top to bottom of the screen as shown in the figure. By arranging the plurality of process buttons in one direction in this way, it is possible to grasp the order of each step and also the progress of the work. A mark 205 (for example, a downward-pointing triangle or an arrow as shown in the figure) may be placed between two process buttons to indicate that the steps are in order.

[0062] Among the multiple process buttons, the color or shape of the button indicating the process in progress may be different from the color or shape of the other buttons. For example, as shown in the same figure, the process button 204a indicating the process in progress may be displayed in gray, and the process buttons 204b to 204e indicating the other processes may be displayed in white. This makes it easier to identify the process in progress.

[0063] The shape of the plurality of process buttons may be polygonal (e.g., rectangular) or circular. The size and spacing of the plurality of buttons may be set so that two or more buttons cannot be selected when touched with a fingertip, for example. If each button is rectangular, the long side (or one side) may be, for example, 0.3 cm or more, preferably 0.5 cm or more. Also, the long side (or one side) may be, for example, 5 cm or less, preferably 3 cm or less. If each button is circular, the diameter (or major axis) may be, for example, 0.3 cm or more, preferably 0.5 cm or more. Also, the diameter (or major axis) may be, for example, 5 cm or less, preferably 3 cm or less.

[0064] The setting information display area 203 displays the content corresponding to the step selected by each procedure button. More specifically, when one of the processing buttons is touched, the setting information display area 203 displays the setting information corresponding to that processing button. Examples of the displayed content will be described later.

[0065] (Second display area) The second display area 251 displays measurement data as shown in FIG. 9. The second display area may be configured to display one or more plots, and may include, for example, multiple plot data as shown in the same figure. The multiple plot data may be arranged in a grid. The display format of the multiple plot data may also be changed to a list format (for example, arranged from top to bottom). A gate can be set for each plot data. That is, the second display area may be configured to accept, via a touch operation, input of gate information that identifies the bioparticles to be sorted in the process.

[0066] The second display area may display one or more operation buttons, and may display one or more operation buttons for displaying data associated with the one or more plots. The associated data is, for example, fluorescence compensation matrix data. As an example of an operation button for displaying fluorescence compensation matrix data, a matrix display button 206 is shown in the same figure. The matrix display button (Matrix button) is a button for displaying a window for displaying and / or adjusting the fluorescence compensation matrix used to generate the plot data displayed in the measurement data area. Furthermore, the associated data may be, for example, background data used to generate the plot. The background data may include, for example, statistical information for each gate. As an example of an operation button for displaying the statistical information, a gate tree display button 207 is shown in the same figure. The gate tree display button (Gatetree button) is a button for displaying a window that displays a gate tree of the plot data displayed in the measurement data area. These operation buttons may be arranged in the measurement data display area, particularly in the right part (particularly the lower right part) of the second display area, as shown in the figure, so that they are easily accessible by the user's fingers. If the second display area is located on the left side of the screen, these operation buttons may be located on the left side (particularly the lower left part) of the second display area. These buttons may also be located within the operation button area described below. The windows that are displayed by touching these operation buttons will be described in detail later.

[0067] The second display area may further include an operation button area 208. The second display area may further include a tab area 209.

[0068] The operation button area is arranged on the right side of the second display area, particularly on the right edge of the second display area, which makes it easier for the first user to find each operation button. Furthermore, since the operation button area is located at the edge (right edge) of the processing condition setting screen 200, the possibility of touching other buttons when touching an operation button is reduced, thereby reducing the risk of erroneous operation caused by touching an unintended area. As mentioned above, when a user operates a touch panel, if frequently selected tool buttons are located at the top of the screen, it is difficult for the user to touch those tool buttons. Also, when moving a finger toward those tool buttons, the possibility of touching other buttons increases. According to the present disclosure, by arranging the operation button area on the right (or left) side of the screen, particularly on the right (or left) edge, the buttons in the operation button area are easily accessible and the possibility of touching other buttons is low, thereby providing a screen that is easy for the first user to use and operate.

[0069] The figure shows an example of the second display area when the first display area is positioned on the left side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is positioned on the right side of the processing condition setting screen. In addition, when the first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, the second display area may be arranged adjacent to the left edge of the processing condition setting screen, and the operation button area may be arranged to the left of the setting second display area, and in particular, may be arranged at the left edge of the processing condition setting screen.

[0070] A plurality of operation buttons 210a to 210h are displayed in the operation button area 208. Each operation button is a button for performing operations on the measurement data displayed on the screen. The plurality of operation buttons may be arranged in a line from top to bottom of the screen as shown in the figure, but may also be arranged in two or more lines, for example. In the figure, the operation buttons 210a to 210h are arranged in the operation button area, but one or more of these operation buttons may be arranged in the measurement data display area.

[0071] The shape of the plurality of operation buttons may be polygonal (e.g., rectangular) or circular. The size and spacing of the plurality of buttons may be set so that, for example, two or more buttons cannot be selected when touched with a fingertip. If each button is rectangular (rectangular or square), the long side (or one side) may be, for example, 0.3 cm or more, preferably 0.5 cm or more. Also, the long side (or one side) may be, for example, 5 cm or less, preferably 3 cm or less. If each button is circular, the diameter (or major axis) may be, for example, 0.3 cm or more, preferably 0.5 cm or more. Also, the diameter (or major axis) may be, for example, 5 cm or less, preferably 3 cm or less.

[0072] The plurality of operation buttons may include, for example, an Undo button 210a and a Redo button 210b. The former is a button for canceling an operation on the data on the screen, and the latter is a button for redoing an operation on the data on the screen or re-executing an operation that has been canceled.

[0073] The plurality of operation buttons may include one or more toolbox display buttons. Examples of toolbox display buttons include a worksheet toolbox display button 210c (Worksheet button), a plot toolbox display button 210d (Plot button), and a gate toolbox display button 210e (Gate button). The plurality of operation buttons may include one, two, or all three of these. The worksheet toolbox button is a button for displaying a toolbox including a plurality of buttons for controlling the display format of the plot data displayed in the measurement data area. The plot tool box display button is a button for displaying a tool box including a plurality of buttons for adjusting the contents of each plot data. The gate tool box display button is a button for displaying a tool box including a plurality of buttons for adjusting gate information set for each plot data. These toolboxes will be described in detail below.

[0074] The plurality of operation buttons may further include a plurality of buttons for changing the display magnification of the plot data displayed in the second display area. For example, the plurality of operation buttons may include a plurality of buttons 210f-210h for displaying each plot data at a predetermined magnification, as shown in Fig. 9. The plurality of operation buttons may also include a button for increasing the magnification and / or a button for decreasing the magnification.

[0075] The tab area 209 is an area where one or more tabs are displayed to display only one of the open worksheets in the second display area. By selecting a tab, that tab becomes active, and the worksheet associated with that tab is displayed in the second display area. Worksheets associated with inactive tabs are not displayed. In Figure 9, the tab for worksheet A is active, and the plot data group included in worksheet A is displayed. In the same figure, the same experimental file also includes worksheet B, but worksheet B is inactive, and the plot data group included in worksheet B is not displayed. In this specification, a worksheet associated with an active tab (also referred to as an active worksheet) may refer to a worksheet that is the target of a sorting process. The bioparticle sorting device may perform the sorting process of bioparticles according to gate information in the active worksheet. An inactive tab is a tab associated with a worksheet other than the active worksheet. A worksheet associated with an inactive tab is also referred to as an inactive worksheet. The inactive worksheet may be, for example, a worksheet of a previously performed fraction collection process and / or a reference worksheet. Inactive tabs may be grouped and displayed at an end (e.g., the right or left end) of tab area 209. Preferably, the display position of the active tab in the tab area is fixed. For example, the tab area may be displayed so that the tab selected by the first user is located at the left end (or right end) of the tab area. In this case, the inactive tabs are located at the right end (or left end).

[0076] The size of the tabs may be constant, but is preferably dynamically changed. For example, the information processing unit 102 displays the selected tab with a larger horizontal size (character arrangement direction) than the non-selected tabs. This allows the selected tab to be highlighted and presented to the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, the active tab 211 is displayed with a larger horizontal size than the non-active tabs 212. The size of the tab may change as the position of the tab changes, or may change depending on whether the tab is selected, regardless of the change in the tab position.

[0077] Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 may change the size of the active tab so that the entire worksheet name of the tab is displayed within that tab. This allows the selected tab to be highlighted and presented to the user. For example, in FIG. 10A, the active tab 211 displays its entire file name, "Worksheet_123456789." On the other hand, in FIG. 10B, the tab 211 is inactive, and therefore only part of the file name, "Worksheet_123," and an ellipsis "..." are displayed within the tab 211.

[0078] The information processing unit 102 may display, for example, one active tab and one or two other tabs in the tab area along with at least a portion of the worksheet name. The other one or more tabs may be configured to be displayed by a pull-down menu, for example, by touching or selecting a specific button. This allows intuitive understanding of which worksheet is active (especially the worksheet currently being measured). Furthermore, even when many worksheets are open on a small screen, the name of the worksheet to be compared or referenced can be easily confirmed, and worksheets can be switched with a single touch or click. For example, a pull-down button such as that indicated by reference numeral 213 in FIGS. 10A and 10B may be displayed in the tab area. By selecting the pull-down button, a pull-down menu may be displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 10C. The pull-down menu may list worksheets that are not displayed in the tab area. Note that although the pull-down button is located in an active tab in FIGS. 10A and 10B, it may also be located in an inactive tab or in another position in the tab area. In this way, the information processing unit 102 may display a pull-down button in the tab area that displays a list of worksheets that are not displayed by pulling down the menu.

[0079] (2-2-2) Example of processing in the first display mode

[0080] An example of a flow diagram for when the processing in the first display mode is performed in step S13 described in (2-1) above is shown in Fig. 11. With reference to this figure, the processing performed by the bioparticle sorting device in the first display mode, particularly an example of a screen displayed in this processing, will be described.

[0081] (File open process S101) When the processing in step S13 starts, the information processing unit 102 displays a processing condition setting screen shown in Fig. 12 on the display unit 101. At the start of the processing, as shown in Fig. 12, a processing button (shown as an Experiment button in Fig. 12) 204a for creating a new experiment file or opening an existing experiment file may be selected in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area).

[0082] When the Experiment button is selected, the information processing unit 102 displays, in the setting information display area, a file open area 214 (Open / New Experiment area) that displays a button for creating a new experiment file and a button for opening an existing experiment file, and a property area 215 (Experiment properties area) that displays the properties of the experiment file, as shown in the same figure.

[0083] When the first user selects a button for creating a new experimental file (shown as a New button in the figure) in the file open area, the information processing unit 102 clears the title box (box labeled "Title") and tag box (box labeled "Tag") in the property area and also clears the second display area. The title box is a field where the name data of the experimental file is entered. The tag box is a field where a tag (keyword) for searching for the experimental file is entered. The first user inputs title data and tag data in the property area, and the input title data and tag data may be included in the operation control data. When the first user selects a button for opening an existing experiment file (shown as an Open button in the figure), the information processing unit 102 displays a screen that allows the first user to select an existing experiment file. When the first user selects an existing experiment file on the screen, the information processing unit 102 outputs the title data and tag data included in the existing experiment file to the title box and tag box, respectively. For example, on the processing condition setting screen shown in FIG. 6, "Experiment A" is output as the experiment file name and "foo, bar, baz" are output as tags.

[0084] As shown in the figure, the property area may display other property data related to the operation control data. The other property data may include, for example, the creation date and last update date of the operation control data. The other property data may also be included in the operation control data.

[0085] The setting information display area may further display an export button (shown as an Export button in the same figure) for exporting open operation control data and / or a save button (shown as a Save button in the same figure) for saving the operation control data, as shown in the same figure.

[0086] For example, if a first user creates a new experimental file, after entering property data in the property area, or if the first user opens an existing experimental file, after checking the property data in the property area, the first user selects the Acquisition button in the procedure button area to acquire data on a sample containing bioparticles.

[0087] (Data acquisition process S102) In response to the Acquisition button being selected, the information processing unit 102 changes the color of the Acquisition button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) to indicate that the button is selected.

[0088] In response to the selection of the Acquisition button, the information processing unit 102 displays the screen shown in Fig. 13 in the setting information display area. This screen is a screen for controlling the process of acquiring data (light data, particularly scattered light data and / or fluorescence data) related to bioparticles in a bioparticle-containing sample. In this state, the information processing unit 102 displays a flow control area 216 and a record control area 217 in the setting information display area, as shown in the same figure.

[0089] As shown in the figure, the flow control area displays a group of buttons for controlling the operation of flowing a bioparticle-containing sample through a flow path where a sorting process is performed, and data showing the status of the operation. As shown in the figure, the group of buttons includes a Start button for starting the operation of flowing the sample (or restarting a paused operation), a Pause button for pausing the operation, a Stop button for ending the operation, and a Restart button for restarting the ended operation. The flow control area may also display the elapsed time of the operation, the number of events detected in the operation, and the detection rate (number of events detected per hour), etc.

[0090] As shown in the figure, the recording control area displays a group of buttons for controlling the recording of the fraction determination results based on the set gates, and data showing the status of the recording. As shown in the figure, the group of buttons includes a start button (Record button) for starting the recording (or restarting a paused recording), a pause button (Pause button) for pausing the recording, and a stop button (Stop button) for ending the recording. The recording control area may also display the elapsed time of the recording operation and the number of events that were analyzed.

[0091] Furthermore, when the Acquisition button is selected, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may display an area 218 for setting the gain and / or threshold in the setting information display area. The bioparticle sorting device 100 may be configured to allow the gain and / or threshold of the detection unit to be set in this area. These settings can control the type or range of events to be analyzed. Note that this area is closed in the figure. When the user selects this area, the area for making the settings is expanded. The first user inputs settings related to gain and / or threshold in this area. The input setting data related to gain and / or threshold may be included as part of the operation control data, and in particular may be treated as part of the "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode."

[0092] After a predetermined number of events of light detection data have been acquired, the first user selects the Analysis button 204c in the procedure button area. Alternatively, the information processing unit 102 may automatically transition to a state in which the Analysis button 204c is selected when a preset number of events of data have been acquired.

[0093] (Analysis step S103) In response to the selection of the Analysis button, the information processing unit 102 changes the color of the Analysis button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) so as to indicate that the button is selected.

[0094] In response to the selection of the Analysis button, the information processing unit 102 displays the screen shown in Fig. 14 in the setting information display area. This screen is for setting a gate for sorting target bioparticles based on the optical data acquired in the data acquisition step. When the Analysis button is selected, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a flow control area 219 and a fluorescence compensation setting area 220 (shown as Compensation control area in the figure) in the setting information display area.

[0095] The flow control area 219 is the same as the flow control area 216 described above in relation to the Acquisition step, and displays a group of buttons for controlling the operation of flowing a bioparticle-containing sample into the flow path where the sorting process is performed, as well as data showing the status of the operation.

[0096] As shown in the figure, the fluorescence compensation setting area 220 displays a check box (indicated as "Apply compensation" in the figure) for selecting whether to apply fluorescence compensation, and one or more correction coefficient input boxes (in the figure, the number 10.0 has been entered) for adjusting the correction coefficients included in the loaded correction matrix. The correction matrix is ​​adjusted by entering a number in the correction alphanumeric input box. In addition, the area may display the name of the correction matrix to be applied (shown as "default matrix for 4 laser" in the same figure), a button for loading the correction matrix (Load button), and a button for saving the adjusted correction matrix (Save button) if the loaded correction matrix is ​​adjusted. The first user inputs settings (such as correction coefficients) related to the correction matrix in this area. The input setting data related to the correction matrix may be included in the operation control data, and in particular may be included as part of the "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode."

[0097] With the Analysis button selected, the first user sets gates in the second display area and inputs gate information. The input gate information may be included in the operation control data, and in particular, may be included as part of the "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode."

[0098] The setting of the gate information may be performed by a first user as appropriate. For example, plot data may be generated from acquired light data, a gate may be set on the generated plot data, the gate may be expanded to generate further plot data, and a further gate may be set on the plot data. By appropriately repeating the operations of generating plot data, setting a gate, and expanding the plot data in this manner, gate information for sorting target bioparticles is generated. The generated plot data may be a two-dimensional plot or a one-dimensional plot, and the type of plot data may be selected as appropriate by the first user. In addition, the scattered light / fluorescence channel used as the axis of each plot data and the scale of the axis may also be selected as appropriate by the first user.

[0099] The information processing unit 102 displays, in the second display area, one or more plot data generated for setting the gate information. The one or more generated plot data may be included in the operation control data. For example, image data of any one or more of the generated one or more plot data may be included in the operation control data, particularly as part of the "operator instruction data directed to the operator operating the processing device in the second mode" in (c), and more particularly as data to be referenced by a second user.

[0100] In generating the gate information, a window displayed by selecting the matrix display button and / or the gate tree display button may be referenced. These will be described below.

[0101] (Matrix display button) FIG. 15A shows a window displayed by selecting the matrix display button. As shown in the figure, window 221 includes a correction matrix 222 applied to the displayed measurement data. The size of the window may be smaller than the size of the second display area. For example, the area of ​​the window may be, for example, 60% or less, preferably 50% or less, of the area of ​​the second display area. Alternatively, the area of ​​the window may be, for example, 20% or more, preferably 30% or more, of the area of ​​the second display area. This allows the parameters in the correction matrix to be adjusted while checking the measurement data displayed in the second display area. Also, as shown in the same figure, the window may include a file name display field (labeled File name in the same figure) that displays the file name of the correction matrix, a load button for loading the correction matrix, and a save button for saving the adjusted correction matrix. The window may further include a check box for selecting whether to apply a correction, a check box for selecting whether to make manual adjustments on the plot, a Calculate button for calculating a matrix from the acquired data, and a check box for selecting whether to use a Negative Value, as shown in the same figure. In response to the first user selecting any one of the correction coefficients in the correction matrix, the information processing device 102 may perform image processing to highlight the selected correction coefficient, such as displaying a cross-shaped indicator 223 for highlighting the selected correction coefficient, thereby making it easier for the first user to confirm the correction coefficient he or she has selected.

[0102] The information processing unit 102 may be configured to accept adjustment of each correction coefficient in the correction matrix. The state of the adjustment is shown in FIG. 15B. As shown in the figure, when the first user's finger selects the correction coefficient to be adjusted, the information processing device 102 displays a slider 224 near the selected position. In response to this, the information processing device 102 may perform image processing to emphasize the slider, such as by coloring the window 221 gray as shown in the figure. The slider may be an indicator that can move up and down as shown in the figure, or may be an indicator that can move left and right or in any other two directions. The information processing unit 102 may display a slider movement button 225 for moving the slider near the slider. When the button is selected, the slider may be moved. The information processing unit 102 may enlarge the box 226 displaying the selected correction coefficient and display it near the slider. This allows the first user to easily check the value of the correction coefficient selected by the first user. The information processing unit 102 changes the value of the correction coefficient in the box in response to movement of the slider or touching of the button.

[0103] The first user may adjust the correction matrix by operating the window. When the first user selects the save button after the adjustment, the information processing device 102 saves the adjusted correction matrix data. The adjusted correction matrix data may be included in the operation control data, and in particular, may be included as part of the "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the process in the second mode."

[0104] Preferably, the display or non-display of the window may be switched by touching a matrix display button, i.e., the matrix display button may be a toggle button. In response to the matrix display button being touched by the user, the information processing unit 102 displays the window within the processing condition setting screen, and thereafter, in response to the matrix display button being touched by the user again, the information processing unit 102 closes the displayed window. While it is expected that the window will be frequently checked by the first user, if the window is constantly displayed, it will be difficult to check the plot data in the measurement data display area. Therefore, by making the matrix display button a toggle button as described above, it is possible to make it easier to check the plot data and improve the convenience of the window. The matrix display button is preferably located at the edge of the processing condition setting screen, particularly at the edge of the second display area. This makes it easier for the user to touch the matrix display button. In Fig. 9, the matrix display button 206 is located in the measurement data display area of ​​the second display area, but the button may also be located in the operation button area.

[0105] (Gate tree display button) An example of a window displayed by selecting the gate tree display button is shown in FIG. 16. Window 227 shown in the figure displays statistical data for the displayed measurement data group. The size of this window may be smaller than the size of the second display area. For example, the area of ​​this window may be, for example, 60% or less, preferably 50% or less, of the area of ​​the second display area. The area of ​​this window may also be, for example, 20% or more, preferably 30% or more, of the area of ​​the second display area. This allows the parameters in the correction matrix to be adjusted while checking the measurement data displayed in the second display area.

[0106] The statistical data includes the name of each gate. Furthermore, the statistical data may include one, two, or all three of the following: the number of events included in each gate, the ratio of the number of events included in each gate to the total number of events displayed in a plot. The statistical data shown in the figure includes the name of each gate, the number of events corresponding to each gate, and the two ratios mentioned above.

[0107] The information processing unit 102 may be configured to change the statistical data in response to the adjustment of each gate. Since the statistical data is frequently checked in the bioparticle sorting process, changing the statistical data in conjunction with the gate adjustment allows the first user to efficiently check the effect of the gate adjustment.

[0108] Preferably, the display or non-display of the window may be switched by touching a gate tree display button, i.e., the gate tree display button may be a toggle button. In response to the gate tree display button being touched by the user, the information processing unit 102 displays the window within the processing condition setting screen, and then in response to the gate tree display button being touched by the user again, the information processing unit 102 closes the displayed window. While it is expected that the window will be frequently checked by the first user, if the window is constantly displayed, it will be difficult to check the plot data in the measurement data display area. Therefore, by making the gate tree display button a toggle button as described above, it is possible to make it easier to check the plot data and improve the convenience of the window. The gate tree display button is preferably located at the edge of the processing condition setting screen, particularly at the edge of the second display area. This makes it easier for the user to touch the gate tree display button. In Fig. 9, the gate tree display button 207 is located in the measurement data display area of ​​the second display area, but the button may also be located in the operation button area.

[0109] To generate the gate information, toolboxes displayed by selecting the Show Worksheet Toolbox button, the Show Plot Toolbox button, and the Show Gate Toolbox button can be used, as described below.

[0110] (Worksheet Toolbox) An example of a toolbox that is displayed by selecting the Show Worksheet Toolbox button is shown in Figure 17. The toolbox 228 shown in this figure includes a group of buttons for adjusting settings that apply to an entire worksheet or for performing operations on an entire worksheet. For example, as shown in the figure, the toolbox may include one, two, or three of area 229 containing one or more buttons for adjusting the number of events that the worksheet displays, area 230 containing one or more buttons for adjusting the display format of plot data in the worksheet, and area 231 containing one or more buttons for exporting the worksheet. The first user uses the toolbox to configure the worksheet. This generates worksheet configuration data. That is, the worksheet configuration data includes one or more pieces of data input via the toolbox. The data input in this manner may be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of “(b) display control data related to display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode.” For example, the display control data (b) may include event count data (data input via area 229) specifying the number of events to be displayed, display format data (data input via area 230) specifying the display format of plot data, or both. Note that these pieces of data may be treated as being included in the “(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode.”

[0111] (Plot Toolbox) An example of a toolbox that is displayed by selecting the plot toolbox display button is shown in Figure 18. The toolbox 232 shown in this figure includes a group of buttons for adjusting settings applied to each plot data or for manipulating each plot data. For example, as shown in the figure, the toolbox contains: an area 233 containing one or more buttons for manipulating the plot data (e.g., a button for creating a new plot, a button for changing the plot format, a button for copying plot data, and a button for pasting plot data (for overlay analysis)); an area 234 containing one or more buttons for adjusting the axes of the plotted data (e.g., a button to change the scale setting (logarithmic or linear) for each axis, a button to auto-adjust both axes, a button to copy / paste the axes, and a tool button for adjusting the axes); and Area 235 containing one or more buttons for exporting worksheets may include one, two, or three of: The first user uses the toolbox to configure each plot. This generates plot configuration data. That is, the plot configuration data includes one or more pieces of data input via the toolbox. The data input in this manner may be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of "(b) display control data related to display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode." For example, axis specification data (data input via area 234) specifying the display format of the axes of the plot data may be included in the display control data (b). Note that these pieces of data may be treated as being included in "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode."

[0112] (Gate Toolbox) An example of a toolbox that is displayed by selecting the gate toolbox display button is shown in Fig. 19. The toolbox 236 shown in the figure includes a group of buttons for setting gates for each plot data. For example, as shown in the figure, the toolbox contains: an area 237 containing one or more buttons for operating each gate (e.g., a button for creating a new gate, a button for changing the type of gate, a button for copying a gate, a button for pasting a gate, and a button for deleting a gate); An area 238 including one or more buttons for changing the display format of each gate (for example, a button for changing the color of the line defining the gate, a button for changing the width of the line, a button for changing the order of overlapping gates, a button for changing the statistical processing settings for the events included in each gate, etc.); and Area 239 containing buttons for exporting data (statistics, etc.) about each gate may include one, two, or three of: The first user uses the toolbox to set each gate. This generates gate setting data. That is, the gate setting data includes one or more pieces of data input via the toolbox. The data input in this manner may be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of "(b) display control data related to display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode." For example, gate specification data (data input via area 237) specifying the generated gate, data specifying the gate display format (data input via area 238), or both may be included in the display control data (b). Note that these pieces of data may be treated as being included in "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode."

[0113] (Operation panel displayed near the plot) In a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, when any plot in the second display area is touched, the information processing unit 102 displays an operation panel for operating the plot near the touched position. Examples of the operation panel are shown in Figures 32A and 32B.

[0114] As shown in Fig. 32A, a plurality of plots are displayed in the second display area. Suppose that one of these plots is touched by the finger F of the first user. In response to the touch on the plot, the information processing unit 102 displays an operation panel 260 near the plot, as shown in Fig. 32B. More specifically, the position where the operation panel is displayed may be near the touched position.

[0115] The information processing unit 102 may display the operation panel 260, for example, within 5 cm, preferably within 4 cm, more preferably within 3 cm, and even more preferably within 2 cm of the touched position. The distance may refer to the distance between the touched position and the point in the area of ​​the operation panel that is closest to the touched position.

[0116] The operation panel may include one or more operation tool selection buttons. The operation tool selection buttons may include, for example, one or more tool buttons that are frequently used by the user. Preferably, the operation tool selection buttons included in the operation panel may be configured to be changeable by the user. The operation tool selection buttons may include, for example, one or more buttons included in the plot toolbox and / or one or more buttons included in the gate toolbox. The operation panel 260 shown in FIG. 32B includes, among the buttons mentioned in relation to the plot toolbox, a button for creating a new plot, a button for changing the plot format, a button for copying plot data, and a button for pasting plot data, and also includes, among the buttons mentioned in relation to the gate toolbox, a button for creating a new gate. Also, depending on the portion of the plot that is touched, a different operation panel may be displayed near the touch position. For example, in response to touching the X-axis portion of the plot, the information processing unit 102 may display an operation panel (tool box) for adjusting the X-axis near the touch position. In addition, in response to touching the Y-axis portion of the plot, the information processing unit 102 may display an operation panel (tool box) for adjusting the Y-axis near the touch position. Furthermore, in response to touching inside the frame of a gate, the information processing unit 102 may display an operation panel (tool box) for adjusting the gate near the touch position.

[0117] (Slider bar for axis operation) In a preferred embodiment, when an axis of any plot in the second display area is touched, the information processing unit 102 displays a slider bar for changing the display format of the axis. The slider bar is a slider bar for adjusting the numerical range or scale of each axis. The axes (X-axis and Y-axis) of each plot data may be biexponential, linear, or logarithmic.

[0118] For example, three slider bars are displayed for setting the biexponential axis. Examples of the slider bars displayed for setting the biexponential axis will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 33A, the first user touches an axis portion of one of the plot data. In response to the touch of the axis portion with the user's finger F, the information processing unit 102 displays three slider bars 270A, 270B, and 270C beside the axis of the plot data, as shown in FIG. 33B. Of these, slider bar 270A is used to adjust the maximum value of the axis, slider 270B is used to adjust the width of the axis near 0, and slider bar 270C is used to adjust the minimum value of the axis. In response to a drag operation of the knob of each slider bar, the information processing unit 102 changes the plot data (display of the axis and event data). Note that even if the drag operation is performed upward or downward beyond the display range of the slider bar, the change of the plot data may continue. This makes it easy to adjust the axis, for example, even when the plot data is displayed small. Although the above three types of slider bars are displayed in FIG. 33B, the information processing unit 102 may display any one or two of these three types. When an area other than the slider bar is touched, the information processing unit 102 makes the slider disappear.

[0120] As shown in Fig. 33C, the first user touches one of the slider bars. In response to the slider bar being touched by the user's finger F, the information processing unit 102 changes the display format of knob 271 of the slider bar, as shown in Fig. 33D. The change is preferably such that knob 271B after the touch is larger than knob 271A before the touch and / or the shape of knob 271B after the touch is different from the shape of knob 271A before the touch, as shown in Figs. 33C and 33D.

[0121] Furthermore, a single slider bar may be displayed to set the linear axis or the logarithmic axis, and the information processing unit 102 may change the numerical range of the axis in response to the movement of the knob of the single slider bar.

[0122] By employing the slider bar described above, the operability of axis operation by touch can be improved.

[0123] (View larger image) In response to a touch on a data display portion of any plot in the second display area, the information processing unit 102 may display an enlarged image of the touched portion. Preferably, in response to a user touching any gate set in the plot data (particularly a handle set on the gate), the information processing unit 102 displays an enlarged image of the touched position near the touched position. Display of the enlarged image will be described below with reference to Figures 34A and 34B.

[0124] A gate 280 is set in the plot data shown in FIG. 34A. Furthermore, a plurality of handles 281 (shown as rectangles) are also set in advance in the gate 280. When one of the handles is touched by the user's finger F, in response to the touch of the handle, as shown in FIG. 34B, the information processing unit 102 displays an enlarged image 282 centered on the position of the handle near the touched position or near the plot data. Furthermore, in conjunction with the display of the enlarged image 282, the information processing unit 102 enlarges the touched handle as shown by the reference numeral 283. Furthermore, when a portion of gate 280 other than the handle (the line defining the gate or the inside thereof) is touched, the entire gate is selected, and information processing unit 102 moves the entire gate by, for example, a drag operation.

[0125] The shape of each handle may be polygonal (particularly rectangular) or circular, or may be other shapes. The size of each handle (the long side of a rectangle or one side of a square, or the diameter of a circle) may be, for example, 5 dots to 25 dots, preferably 10 dots to 20 dots, when not touched, and may be, for example, 30 dots to 60 dots, preferably 40 dots to 55 dots, when touched (when displayed enlarged as described above). The size of the handle when touched may be 1.5 to 5 times, preferably 2 to 4 times, the size of the handle when not touched. By displaying the touched handle enlarged in this way, the user can easily identify the touched handle.

[0126] The content to be displayed on the processing condition setting screen is diverse, which limits the size of the area in which the plot data is displayed, and as a result, each plot data is often displayed small. On the other hand, precise adjustment of the gates set for the plot data is required. By displaying the enlarged image as described above, precise gate adjustment is possible even when the plot data is displayed small.

[0127] (Preparative separation step S104) For example, after the setting of the sorting gate information is completed in the Analysis step, when the first user selects the Sort button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the color of the Sort button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) to indicate that the button is selected.

[0128] In response to the first user selecting the Sort button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays, in the setting information display area, a screen for controlling the sorting process by the bioparticle sorting device 100, as shown in Fig. 20. When the Sort button is selected, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays, in the setting information display area, a flow control area 240, a recording control area 241, and a sorting control area 242.

[0129] The flow control area and the recording control area are the same as those described above for the Acquisition step.

[0130] As shown in the figure, the fraction collection control area includes a start button (Start button) for starting the fraction collection process, a pause button (Pause button) for temporarily stopping the fraction collection process, and a stop button (Stop button) for stopping the fraction collection process. The fraction collection control area also includes the elapsed time of the fraction collection operation and the number of fraction collections performed in the fraction collection operation (Gated event count). etc. may be displayed.

[0131] (Template creation process S105) When the user selects the Template button 204g at any timing, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the color of the Template button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) to indicate that the button is selected. In Fig. 11, the template creation step S105 is shown to be executed after the processing in the sorting step S104, for example, but the template creation step S105 may be executed after any of the other steps (S101, S102, S103, or S105).

[0132] In response to the user selecting the Template button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a template property area 242 in the setting information display area, as shown in Fig. 21. The template property area includes a template name input field (Template name field) and a description input field (Description field) related to the template. The template property area may also display, for example, the number of revisions of the template and / or the creation date. The first user inputs template property data (template name and / or template description) into the template property area. This generates template property data. That is, the template property data includes one or more pieces of data input via the template property area. The data input in this manner may be included in the operation control data, and in particular, may be included as part of the "(c) operator instruction data directed to the operator who operates the processing device in the second mode." For example, template-specific data including the template name and / or template description may be included in the operator instruction data of (c). The template-specific data may further include the number of revisions and / or the creation date of the template.

[0133] As shown in the figure, an aliquot setting button 243 is also displayed in the setting information display area. By selecting this button, an aliquot setting area (described later) is displayed in the setting information display area. This aliquot setting area may be displayed in advance in the setting information display area.

[0134] In this specification, an aliquot refers to a sample (especially a sample containing bioparticles) that has been collected up to the point at which the sorting process is paused at a predetermined timing during the process. The aliquot is then analyzed, for example, by a device or analysis kit separate from the bioparticle sorting device 100, or by a device or analysis kit attached to the bioparticle sorting device 100. If the analysis shows that the aliquot satisfies predetermined conditions, the sorting process is resumed. By obtaining and analyzing the aliquot, it is possible to confirm whether the bioparticles obtained by the sorting process satisfy the predetermined conditions, and to determine whether to continue the sorting process or adjust the sorting conditions. This also makes it possible to avoid unnecessary sorting processes.

[0135] An example of the aliquot setting area screen is shown in Figure 22. The aliquot setting area 259 shown in this figure includes a field for inputting instructions to the operator regarding aliquot acquisition, and a timing setting field for setting one or more timings for acquiring aliquots. The timing setting field includes a field for selecting whether to acquire aliquots at a specific time point or for a specific number of samples, and a field for specifying the time point or the number of samples. The first user inputs aliquot setting data (e.g., aliquot acquisition instruction data including instructions for an operator regarding aliquot acquisition and / or timing setting data for setting the timing) into the aliquot setting area. This generates aliquot setting data. That is, the aliquot setting data includes any one or more pieces of data input via the aliquot setting area. The data input in this manner may be included as part of the operation control data, for example, as part of the "(a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode" or "(c) operator instruction data directed to the operator operating the processing device in the second mode." For example, the aliquot acquisition instruction data may be included in the operator instruction data of (c). Furthermore, the timing setting data may be included in the processing condition data of (a).

[0136] When the Template button is selected, a grid display button 245 for arranging a plurality of measurement data (particularly plot data) in a grid form and a list display button 246 for arranging the plurality of measurement data in a list form are displayed in the second display area. Note that when the Template button is selected, either the grid display button or the list display button may be selected by default.

[0137] In response to the user selecting the grid display button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays an order designation field 247 for designating the adjustment order in the second display mode near each measurement data, as shown in Fig. 21. The order designation field may be displayed adjacent to each measurement data, as shown in the same figure. The order data input into the order designation field can control the order of plot data operated by the second user in the second display mode, allowing the second user to adjust the gates in an appropriate order.

[0138] The order designation field may be configured to allow, for example, any positive integer to be selected or any positive integer to be input. The positive integer corresponds to the adjustment order. For example, in the same figure, of the three plot data in the first row, "1" is selected for the left plot data, and "2" is selected for the center plot data. Furthermore, there may be measurement data that does not need to be displayed in the second display mode. To accommodate this case, the order designation field may be configured to allow selection of an option indicating that display is not required, such as "-" or "no display required." In FIG. 21, for example, "-" is selected for the right plot data of the three plot data in the first row, indicating that display is not required. Note that the order designation field may be configured to allow selection of an option indicating that display is required. The first user inputs or selects the adjustment order or whether or not to display (particularly, whether or not to display) in the order specification field for each measurement data (plot data) displayed in the second display area. This generates measurement data display setting data. That is, the measurement data display setting data includes the data input via the order specification field, such as adjustment order data or display necessity data. The generated measurement data display setting data may be included as part of the operation control data, particularly as part of "(b) display control data related to display on the processing execution operation screen in the second mode." Note that the measurement data display setting data may be treated as being included in "(c) operator instruction data directed to the operator operating the processing device in the second mode." Such measurement data display setting data is useful for accurately conveying instructions related to the fraction collection process to a user in the second display mode. Furthermore, the measurement data for which the adjustment order is specified in the order specification field, the measurement data specified as requiring display, or both of these may be included as part of the operation control data. Alternatively, image data of these measurement data may be included as part of the operation control data.

[0139] In response to the user selecting the list display button 246, the information processing device 102 displays one or more operator instruction data input areas 248, as shown in Figure 23, which include one measurement data and various instruction data input fields related to the measurement data.

[0140] Each operator instruction data input area may display an order designation field 249 for designating the adjustment order in the second display mode of the measurement data included in each area. The order designation field is the same as that described above.

[0141] The instruction data input area for the operator includes a note input field (Note field) for inputting a note (particularly an instruction note) for the operator and / or a selection area 250 for selecting data to be referred to by the operator.

[0142] The memo entered in the memo entry field is displayed together with the measurement data when the measurement data is displayed in the second display mode, allowing the second user to confirm instructions from the first user. The first user inputs a memo intended for the second user in the memo input field. This generates memo data. The generated memo data may be included in the operation control data, and in particular, may be included as part of the "(c) operator instruction data intended for the operator operating the processing device in the second mode." The memo data is useful for accurately conveying instructions from the user in the first display mode to the user in the second display mode.

[0143] When measurement data to be referenced (hereinafter also referred to as reference measurement data) is selected in the selection area, the reference measurement data is displayed in association with the selected measurement data when the measurement data is displayed in the second display mode, allowing the second user to adjust the fractionation conditions by referring to the reference measurement data. The selection area may include, for example, one, two, three, or all four of the following options: "No data to reference," "Gate list," "Ideal measurement data," and "Other measurement data (plot data)." The first user selects reference measurement data in the selection area, thereby generating reference measurement data. The reference measurement data may be included as part of the operation control data, and in particular may be included as part of "(c) operator instruction data directed to an operator who operates the processing device in the second mode." The reference measurement data is useful for adjusting processing conditions in the fractionation processing in the second display mode.

[0144] Each operator instruction data input area may display the data to be referenced (Reference Chart column) selected in the selection area. Also, the selection area may display a list box (in the figure, the box displaying Plot6 is the list box) for selecting the data to be referenced (particularly ideal measurement data or other measurement data) selected in the selection column.

[0145] Furthermore, the data that can be input in the operator instruction data input area is not limited to those described above. For example, the operator instruction data input area may include an area for specifying gate operations that can be performed by the second user. Examples of gate operations include moving the gate position, changing the gate size (enlarging or reducing the gate), and changing the gate shape. More specific examples of the gate shape changes include changing the gate inclination; changing the gate diameter or axis (e.g., changing the diameter of a circular gate or changing the length of the major axis and / or minor axis of an elliptical gate); changing the ratio of the gate diameter or axis (e.g., changing a circular gate to an elliptical gate or vice versa, or changing the ratio of the length of the major axis and minor axis of an elliptical gate); and changing the eccentricity or flattening of the gate. For example, when the first user specifies a gate operation in the area, the information processing unit 102 generates gate operation restriction data. Based on the gate operation restriction data, the information processing device 102 restricts some of the gate operations by the second user in the second display mode. This prevents unnecessary gate adjustments from being performed in the second display mode. In addition, when an area for specifying a gate operation is not displayed, the information processing unit 102 may have gate operation restriction data in advance, and for example, the gate operation restriction data may be data that restricts any gate operation in the second display mode (e.g., changing the size of the gate and / or changing the shape of the gate). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the gate operation restriction data may be operation restriction data that restricts changing the shape of the gate, for example, data that restricts changing the shape of the gate but does not restrict changing the size of the gate. Furthermore, the gate operation restriction data may be inputtable in another area (e.g., the first display area), for example.

[0146] As described above, the bioparticle sorting device of the present disclosure displays a screen for inputting measurement data (particularly plot data) obtained by a predetermined gate setting and instruction data for an operator related to the measurement data obtained by the gate setting. In this specification, this screen is also referred to as a template generation screen. The bioparticle sorting device of the present disclosure is configured to allow input of operation control data via the template generation screen, thereby improving the convenience for a first user to generate instruction data for a second user. Furthermore, the bioparticle sorting device of the present disclosure displays a process execution operation screen for a second user in a second display mode described below based on the operation control data. Displaying the process execution operation screen based on the operation control data makes it easier for the second user to perform adjustments or operations when performing sorting.

[0147] As shown in the figure, the setting information display area displays an area 244 including buttons for saving or previewing the generated operation control data. In this area, a save button for saving the operation control data and a preview button for previewing a screen (particularly a screen displayed in the second display mode) generated based on the operation control data are displayed. The information processing unit 102 executes each of the above-mentioned functions in response to the selection of each button.

[0148] (Closing process S105) For example, after the sorting process is completed in the Sort step, when the user selects the Closing button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the color of the Closing button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) to indicate that the button is selected.

[0149] In response to the user selecting the Closing button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a screen for finishing setting the sorting process conditions or a screen for finishing the first display mode in the setting information display area. These screens may display buttons for closing open experiment files and a logout button for finishing the first display mode.

[0150] (Cytometer process) Processing in the first display mode may optionally include a cytometer step, which is a step for adjusting the settings of the instrument.

[0151] For example, when the user selects the Cytometer button at any timing during processing in the first display mode, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the color of the Cytometer button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) to indicate that the button is selected. When the user selects the Cytometer button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may display a screen for adjusting the settings of the device in the setting information display area. The bioparticle sorting device 100 may be configured to accept adjustments of the device settings via the screen.

[0152] (correction process) The processing in the first display mode may optionally include a correction step, which is a step for adjusting the fluorescence correction conditions.

[0153] For example, when the user selects the Compensation button at any timing during processing in the first display mode, the bioparticle sorting device 100 changes the color of the Compensation button in the first display area (particularly the procedure button area) to indicate that the button is selected. When the user selects the Compensation button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may display a screen for adjusting fluorescence compensation settings in the setting information display area. The bioparticle sorting device 100 may be configured to accept adjustments of the fluorescence compensation settings via the screen.

[0154] Although the above description has been given of steps being executed in the order listed in the procedure button area, the order in which steps are executed may be freely selected by the user. For example, after completing a step, the user may return to one of the previous steps, such as returning to the Acquisition step after the Sort step. Also, the user may skip one or more steps and proceed to another step, such as proceeding to the Template step after the Analysis step. Also, one or more steps may be omitted, such as omitting the Compensation step.

[0155] The first user executes the processes in each step as described above to input operation control data. The information processing unit 102 stores the input operation control data. After the data is stored, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may end its operation in the first display mode.

[0156] (Operation Control Data) The operation control data input in the steps described above can be summarized as follows, for example: As explained above, the operation control data is (a) processing condition data adopted by the processing device that executes the processing in the second mode (hereinafter also referred to as "(a) data"); (b) display control data related to the display on the process execution operation screen in the second mode (hereinafter also referred to as "(b) data"); and (c) operator instruction data (hereinafter also referred to as “(c) data”) directed to an operator who operates the processing device in the second mode; may include one or more of:

[0157] For example, the operation control data includes at least (a) data, and more preferably includes (a) data and (b) data, or includes (a) data and (c) data. Alternatively, the operation control data includes at least the (b) data, and more preferably includes the (b) data and the (a) data, or includes the (b) data and the (c) data. Alternatively, the operation control data includes at least the (c) data, and more preferably includes the (c) data and the (a) data, or includes the (c) data and the (b) data. In a preferred embodiment, the operation control data may include (a) data, (b) data, and (c) data. By using operation control data including such data, it is possible to generate a process execution operation screen that is more appropriate for the user who uses the device in the second display mode.

[0158] The (a) data is processing condition data that is adopted in the sorting process by the bioparticle sorting device 100 in the second display mode. The (a) data may include instruction data directed to the bioparticle sorting device, such as gate settings.

[0159] The (a) data includes data for identifying bioparticles to be sorted in the second display mode, and more specifically, includes gate information for identifying the bioparticles to be sorted in the sorting process. The data may be, for example, data specifying a range of optical data generated from the bioparticles to be sorted. For example, the processing condition data may include data defining a range of bioparticles to be sorted on one or more plot data. The processing condition data may be set appropriately by a person skilled in the art, or may be set appropriately by a user (e.g., a researcher or developer) who uses the bioparticle sorting device 100 in the first display mode.

[0160] (a) The data may include data regarding device settings employed by the bioparticle sorting device 100 in the sorting process. For example, the data may include data regarding the settings of the light irradiation unit, the detection unit, and the sorting unit. The data regarding the settings of the light irradiation unit may be data specifying the type of light to be irradiated. The data regarding the settings of the detection unit may include data regarding the operating settings of a detector and / or data regarding the identification of the detector to be operated. The data regarding the settings of the sorting unit may include data regarding the pressure and / or charge to be applied for the sorting operation, or data regarding the voltage to be applied for the sorting operation.

[0161] The (a) data may include one or more of the data described above as being included (or treated as) the (a) data. For example, the (a) data may include any one or more of the setting data regarding the gain and / or threshold, the setting data regarding the correction matrix, the adjusted correction matrix data, the gate information, and the timing setting data.

[0162] The (b) data is display control data related to the display on the process execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode. The (b) data may include, for example, data related to control of the display of plot data displayed in the second display mode, and more specifically, may include one or more of data related to the display position of the plot data, data related to the adjustment order of the plot data, and data related to identification of the plot data to be displayed.

[0163] The (b) data may include one or more of the data described above as being included (or treated as) (b) data, for example, the (b) data may include any one or more of the worksheet setting data, the plot setting data, the gate setting data, the gate operation limit data, and the measurement data display setting data.

[0164] Particularly preferably, the (b) data includes data regarding operation restrictions on the plot data displayed in the second display mode. The data regarding operation restrictions may include data regarding prohibition of changes to the plot data itself. The prohibition data may prohibit, for example, changes to the plot axes and / or changes to the display range of the plot. This prevents a user in the second display mode from changing the plot data and thereby preventing the fraction collection process intended by the user in the first display mode from being executed.

[0165] The data (c) is operator instruction data directed to an operator who operates the bioparticle sorting device in the second display mode, and the operator instruction data allows instructions from a user in the first display mode to be conveyed to a user in the second display mode.

[0166] (c) Data may be input for each processing step in the second display mode, for example, so that the user in the second display mode can be informed of the work to be performed in each processing step.

[0167] (c) The data may be input for each plot data, more specifically, may be gate adjustment instructions input for each plot data, which enable appropriate gate setting for each sample.

[0168] (c) The data may include reference data for verifying and / or adjusting the processing condition data, which may include, for example, (c1) identification data for identifying plot data changed by the adjustment, (c2) confirmation graph data for the operator to refer to, (c3) statistical data for each gate, and (c4) image data associated with the processing condition data.

[0169] (c1) The identification data is, for example, data that associates the plot data to be adjusted with the plot data that will be changed as a result of the adjustment. In response to the adjustment of the plot data to be adjusted, the bioparticle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit) can identify the plot data that will be changed as a result of the adjustment based on the identification data and adjust the plot data. This allows the bioparticle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit) to adjust the plot data in real time in response to the adjustment, for example, in the second display mode.

[0170] (c2) The confirmation graph data is, for example, reference plot data to be referred to when the operator adjusts a gate set for certain plot data in the second display mode. By having the biological particle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit) display the reference plot data, the operator can confirm whether the sorted particles and data are as desired, particularly in the second display mode.

[0171] (c3) The statistical data for each gate is, for example, data on the number and / or proportion of events included in each gate. By having the biological particle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit) display the statistical data, the operator can confirm whether the sorted particles and data are as desired, particularly in the second display mode.

[0172] (c4) The image data associated with the processing condition data may be, for example, data measured by another device or image data generated or processed as ideal data. Furthermore, the image data may be image data for showing the operator countermeasures to be taken when abnormal data is acquired, such as an image showing which part of the bioparticle sorting device 100 should be checked and / or operated. Furthermore, the image data associated with the processing condition data may be image data for providing instructions to the operator. Such image data allows the bioparticle sorting device 100 to provide instructions to the operator, particularly in the second display mode.

[0173] The (c) data may include one or more of the data described above as being included (or treated as) (c) data, for example, the (c) data may include any one or more of the plot data, the template property data, the aliquot taking instruction data, the memo data, and the reference measurement data.

[0174] (2-3) Second display mode

[0175] In the second display mode, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a process execution operation screen. The process execution operation screen is a screen for executing a process to sort predetermined bioparticles. At least a part of the process execution operation screen may be generated based on the operation control data input in the first display mode.

[0176] Preferably, the bioparticle sorting device 100 controls the display of the process execution operation screen in the second display mode based on the operation control data, so that the intention of the first user regarding the sorting process is reflected in the sorting operation performed by the second user.

[0177] Preferably, in the second display mode, the operator can adjust the processing condition data in accordance with the operator instruction data. Bioparticle sorting processing often requires fine adjustment for each sample. Since the bioparticle sorting device 100 allows for such adjustment, the fine adjustment is possible.

[0178] Preferably, in the second display mode, adjustment of at least a portion of the gate information is restricted. The preparative processing conditions set by the first user often include conditions that should not be adjusted by the second user. Therefore, by restricting adjustments in this manner, it is possible to prevent undesirable adjustments of processing conditions by the second user.

[0179] (2-3-1) Example of screen configuration displayed in the second display mode

[0180] (Operation screen for processing) An example of the processing execution operation screen displayed on the display unit 101 by the biological particle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit 102) in the second display mode is shown in Fig. 24. The processing execution operation screen 300 shown in Fig. 24 includes a third display area (also referred to as a processing operation flow display area) 301 that displays the operation flow of the sorting process, and a fourth display area (also referred to as an operation content display area) 302 that displays the operation content of each step included in the processing operation flow, as shown in Fig. 25.

[0181] As shown in the same figure, the third display area may be arranged on the upper side of the operation screen for processing execution, and the fourth display area may be arranged on the lower side of the operation screen for processing execution. Alternatively, the third display area may be arranged on the lower side of the process execution operation screen, and the fourth display area may be arranged on the upper side of the process execution operation screen. In the processing condition setting screen in the first display mode, two areas (the first display area and the second display area) are displayed separated horizontally, whereas in the second display mode, as described above, two areas (the third display area and the fourth display area) are displayed separated vertically. In this way, by arranging the two main areas separated horizontally in the first display mode and by arranging the two main areas separated vertically in the second display mode, the user can clearly distinguish the operating modes of the bioparticle sorting device. Furthermore, it is expected that the second user will have less knowledge about the processing conditions of the bioparticle sorting device than the first user. Additionally, in the second display mode, it is preferable that only the information necessary for the sorting operation be displayed on the screen to prevent confusion during the sorting operation. Furthermore, it is preferable that this information be displayed larger to prevent errors in the sorting operation. By arranging the information separately above and below as described above in the second display mode, it is possible to display only the necessary information larger, which helps prevent errors in the sorting operation.

[0182] The arrangement of the third display area and the fourth display area may be changeable. For example, the bioparticle sorting device may be configured to change the screen from a state in which the former area is arranged on the upper side and the latter area is arranged on the lower side to a state in which the former area is arranged on the lower side and the latter area is arranged on the upper side. Alternatively, the screen may be configured to change in the opposite direction.

[0183] (Third display area) In the third display area 301, steps to be executed in the second display mode (and marks indicating those steps) are arranged in a line from left to right. Also, marks indicating the processing being executed (gray-filled circle marks) are shown. Thus, in the present disclosure, the third display area displayed in the second display mode may have marks indicating the steps to be executed in the second display mode arranged in one direction. Also, in the third display area, a mark indicating the step being executed may be displayed at the position of that step.

[0184] (Fourth display area) The content displayed in the fourth display area 302 may be changed for each step. The content may include, for example, explanatory data regarding the operation to be performed by the second user in each step and / or data indicating the status of the operation. At least a part of the content may be generated based on the operation control data input in the first display mode.

[0185] (2-3-2) Example of processing in the second display mode

[0186] (Operation start process) When processing in the second display mode is started, the biological particle sorting device 100 (particularly the information processing unit 102) causes the display unit 101 to display a processing execution operation screen 300 shown in FIG.

[0187] In the figure, the operation start process is displayed as "New Experiment." The operation start process includes a template selection process (displayed as "Template selection" in the figure). The information processing unit 102 displays an indication mark (a gray circle mark) indicating the process to be executed by the bioparticle sorting device 100 at the position of the template selection process in the third display area. In this way, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays the indication mark at a position indicating the process currently being executed among the series of processes in the second display mode.

[0188] Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen relating to the operation content in the template selection step in the fourth display area. For example, as shown in the figure, the fourth display area displays a template selection field 303 and a template explanation field 304 that provides an overview of the selected template.

[0189] The information processing unit 102 displays a list of selectable templates in the template selection field. This field may display, for example, the template name based on the template property data, and in particular, the template name entered in the template property area in the Template step of the first display mode. In the figure, "Template A (Granulocyte)" is selected.

[0190] The information processing unit 102 displays in the template description field a detailed description field 305 (displayed as "Description" in the figure) regarding the selected template, and a reference data field 306 (displayed as "Reference Plot Data") that displays an example of measurement data (plot data) obtained when a fractionation process is performed according to the selected template.

[0191] The detailed description field displays a description of the selected template. This field may display, for example, a description of the template entered in the template property area in the Template step of the first display mode. That is, the information processing unit 102 displays a description of the template in the detailed description field based on the template property data. For example, as shown in the figure, the detailed description field displays a description of Template A such as "template for separating granulocytes."

[0192] The information processing unit 102 displays, in the reference data field, an example of measurement data (plot data) obtained when a fractionation process is performed according to the selected template. The example of measurement data may be, for example, measurement data, particularly image data, for which an adjustment order has been specified in the Template step of the first display mode. In this way, the information processing unit 102 displays the measurement data in the reference data field based on the operation control data, particularly based on the image data included in the operation control data. For example, as shown in the same figure, multiple plot data may be displayed in the reference data field.

[0193] In response to the selection of the Select button located at the bottom right of the operation screen for processing execution, the bioparticle sorting device 100 advances the processing to the next step. In response to the selection of the Back button located at the bottom right of the operation screen for processing execution, the bioparticle sorting device 100 returns the processing to the previous step. These buttons may also be displayed on other screens. Note that the characters in each button may be changed to other characters or marks as appropriate.

[0194] (Setup process) In response to the selection of a template in the operation start process, the bioparticle sorting device proceeds to the setup process. The setup process may include, for example, an attachment process (indicated as "SUD setup" in FIG. 24) for attaching a microchip for bioparticle sorting to the bioparticle sorting device, and a priming process (indicated as "Priming" in the same figure) for priming the flow path of the microchip. Note that in the same figure, "SUD" is the name of a consumable kit (particularly a sterilized kit) including the microchip, and other names may also be used. The steps included in the setup process and the screens displayed in each step may be changed as appropriate depending on the type of bioparticle sorting device and the type of attached microchip.

[0195] (Sample introduction process) After the setup process is completed, the bioparticle sorting device proceeds to a sample introduction process. The sample introduction process may include, for example, a sample connection step (shown as "Sample Connection" in FIG. 24) in which a container containing a biological sample to be subjected to the sorting process is connected to the bioparticle sorting device, and an optical adjustment step (shown as "Optical Adjustment" in FIG. 24) in which a sorting operation is performed using a portion of the biological sample to perform optical adjustment of the bioparticle sorting device. The steps included in the sample introduction process and the screens displayed in each step may be changed as appropriate depending on the type of bioparticle sorting device. The bioparticle sorting device may execute these steps based on the operation control data (particularly, based on processing condition data).

[0196] (Gating processing) After the sample introduction process is completed, the bioparticle sorting device proceeds to the gating process, which includes, for example, a gate adjustment step (shown as "Gate Adjustment" in FIG. 27) of adjusting the gates set for each plot data in the first display mode for the measurement data, as shown in FIG.

[0197] In the gate adjustment step, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may acquire plot data by irradiating and detecting a part of the sample with light. The acquisition of the plot data is performed according to the processing condition data input in the first display mode.

[0198] 27, in the gate adjustment step, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays an instruction mark indicating the process to be performed by the bioparticle sorting device 100 at the position of the gate adjustment step in the third display area. In this way, by moving the instruction mark to the position of each step, the second user can understand the work status. In addition, in the third display area, completed processes may be displayed differently from incomplete processes. For example, in Figure 27, completed processes are displayed in gray, and incomplete processes are displayed in white.

[0199] Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen relating to the operation content in the gate adjustment process in the fourth display area. For example, as shown in the figure, the fourth display area may include an adjustment order display field 307 (displayed as "Order" in the figure), an instruction field 308 for the second user, and a data display field 309.

[0200] The information processing unit 102 displays a list of plot data to be adjusted in the adjustment order display field as shown in the figure, based on the operation control data (particularly, measurement data display setting data, more particularly, data related to the adjustment order) input in the first display mode. In the list, the names of the plot data may be displayed in accordance with the adjustment order.

[0201] The information processing unit 102 displays instructions to the second user in the instruction field for the second user as shown in the figure based on the operation control data (particularly instruction data for the operator) input in the first display mode.

[0202] As shown in the figure, the information processing unit 102 displays, in the data display field, a plot data group generated by executing a fractionation process on a sample. The information processing unit 102 may identify the plot data group to be displayed based on operation control data (particularly display control data, more particularly measurement data display setting data) input in the first display mode. The plot data group may include, for example, one or more plot data corresponding to the list of plot data to be adjusted. The plot data group may further include one or more plot data not to be adjusted.

[0203] The second user confirms the plot data group according to the instructions displayed in the instruction field. Next, the second user adjusts gates in one or more plot data according to the adjustment order. For this adjustment, the second user selects plot data to be adjusted first from the plot data list displayed in the adjustment order display field. The selected state is shown in FIG. 28A.

[0204] In response to the second user selecting plot 1, which is the plot data to be adjusted first, the information processing unit 102 displays the plot data of plot 1 in the data display field 310, as shown in the figure. Gate A, which is set in accordance with the processing condition data, is also displayed in the plot data.

[0205] In response to the second user selecting plot 1, which is the plot data to be adjusted first, the information processing unit 102 displays instructions regarding gate adjustment for plot 1 in an instruction field 311, as shown in the same figure. The bioparticle sorting device 100 may display the instructions based on operation control data (particularly instruction data for the operator) input in the first display mode, and particularly displays memos (particularly instruction memos) input in the memo input field. The second user can accurately perform gate adjustment by referring to the instruction field.

[0206] Furthermore, in response to the second user selecting plot 1, which is the plot data to be adjusted first, the bioparticle sorting device 100 may display a gate operation button field 312 next to the data display field.

[0207] The gate operation button field includes a "Default" button for returning the gate to the state before adjustment by the second user, a "Redo" button for redoing an operation performed on the gate or performing an undone operation again, and an "Undo" button for undoing an operation performed on the gate. The gate operation button field may also include a group of buttons for operating the gate position and / or a group of buttons for changing the size or shape of the gate.

[0208] The bioparticle sorting device 100 may be configured to restrict some gate operations in the second display mode. For example, it may be configured to prevent the size or shape of the gate, or both, from being changed. The information processing unit 102 may restrict the operations based on the operation control data. In one embodiment, the information processing unit 102 restricts changes to the shape of the gate but allows changes to the size of the gate based on the operation control data (particularly, display control data, more particularly, gate operation restriction data). For example, the information processing unit 102 may change the size of gate A in response to the second user touching and dragging gate A. For example, the information processing unit 102 may change the size of gate A in response to the second user touching and dragging a specific position (e.g., a size change mark displayed in gate A or on a line defining gate A, or a line defining gate A). Furthermore, the information processing unit 102 may allow the position of the gate to be changed based on the operation control data. For example, in response to the second user touching and dragging gate A, the information processing unit 102 may change the position of gate A. For example, in response to the second user touching and dragging another specific position (for example, an arbitrary position change mark displayed in gate A or on a line defining gate A, or the center of gate A)), the information processing unit 102 may move the position of gate A in the drag direction.

[0209] After completing the gate adjustment for plot 1, the second user selects the next plot to be adjusted from the group of plots listed in the adjustment order display field, and then performs gate adjustment for the selected plot. This gate adjustment may be performed in accordance with the operator instructions included in the operation control data, just like for plot 1.

[0210] An example of a screen in which other plot data to be adjusted has been selected is shown in Figure 28B, in which plot 3 has been selected as the plot data to be adjusted.

[0211] In response to the second user selecting plot 3, the information processing unit 102 displays the plot data of plot 3 in the data display field 310, as shown in the figure. The plot data also displays gate C, which is set in accordance with the processing condition data.

[0212] Furthermore, as shown in the same figure, the information processing unit 102 may display, in the data display field 310, confirmation graph data (Reference Plot) to be referenced for adjusting gate C. The information processing unit 102 may display the confirmation graph data based on the operation control data (particularly, instruction data for the operator, more particularly, reference data). As shown in the same figure, the confirmation graph data may include an image of the plot data acquired in the first display mode and a gate set for the plot data by the user in the first display mode. Outputting such confirmation graph data on the screen helps the user in the second display mode to accurately adjust the gate in the plot data.

[0213] When all gate adjustments for one or more plots to be adjusted are completed, the bioparticle sorting device 100 proceeds to the sorting process.

[0214] (preparative processing)

[0215] After the gate adjustment process is completed, the bioparticle sorting device proceeds to the sorting process, which may include, for example, a sorting step (indicated as "Sorting" in Fig. 29) for sorting the bioparticles and a result review step (indicated as "Result Review") for reviewing the results of the sorting, as shown in Fig. 29.

[0216] Furthermore, the bioparticle sorting device may execute an aliquot acquisition step during the sorting step to confirm whether the sorted bioparticles are the target bioparticles based on the operation control data (especially the aliquot setting data). By confirming in the aliquot acquisition step, the second user can confirm whether the target bioparticles have been sorted, and if the target bioparticles have not been sorted, the sorting process can be interrupted or the processing conditions adjusted to prevent the waste of valuable sample. For the confirmation, analysis by another bioparticle analysis device may be performed, as described above.

[0217] In the fraction collection step, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen 313 showing the fraction collection status in the fourth display area, as shown in the figure. The screen may also display an area 314 displaying the number of events and / or the event acquisition rate (eps), as well as the number of fractions collected and / or the fraction collection rate (eps), as shown in the figure.

[0218] The information processing unit 102 may display on the screen an image 315 (in the figure, a bar is displayed as the image) indicating the progress of the fraction collection operation. The bar may be accompanied by an image 316 indicating the timing at which the aliquot acquisition step will be performed. This allows the second user to know when the time to perform the aliquot acquisition step has arrived and allows the second user to perform, for example, preparatory work or other work until that time, thereby improving convenience for the second user. The information processing unit 102 may display the image indicating the timing based on control data input in the first display mode, particularly based on the aliquot setting data.

[0219] When the time arrives to execute the aliquot acquisition step, the bioparticle sorting device 100 pauses the sorting process and displays, for example, window 317 shown in Fig. 30. As shown in the figure, the window may display a confirmation method for the aliquot and / or the current sorting status. The window also displays a button for proceeding to the next step.

[0220] In response to the selection of the button, the information processing unit 102 displays a screen prompting the second user to select whether to continue the sorting process. The screen includes a continue button for causing the information processing unit 102 to continue the sorting process and a stop button for stopping the sorting process. In response to the second user selecting the continue button, the information processing unit 102 continues the sorting process. In response to the second user selecting the stop button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 stops the sorting process. Note that the screen may also include a readjustment button for performing gate adjustment again. In response to the second user selecting the readjustment button, the bioparticle sorting device 100 returns the process to the gate adjustment process.

[0221] In the result confirmation step, the bioparticle sorting device 100 displays a screen showing the sorting results in the fourth display area. The screen may display the number of events and / or the number of sorts.

[0222] (Termination process) After the sorting process is completed, the bioparticle sorting device 100 proceeds to an end process. As shown in Fig. 24, the end process may include, for example, a collection container removal step (indicated as "Collection Off" in the figure) for recovering a container containing the sorted bioparticles from the bioparticle sorting device 100, and a tip removal step (indicated as "SUD Off") for removing the microchip used for sorting from the bioparticle sorting device 100. The screens displayed in the fourth display area for these steps may be appropriately selected by those skilled in the art.

[0223] By the above-described processing, the fraction collection process in the second display mode is executed.

[0224] (3) Variations

[0225] In the above (1) and (2), a bioparticle sorting device has been described that performs a sorting process on bioparticles contained in a biological sample flowing through a flow channel (particularly bioparticles flowing in a line within the flow channel). However, the present disclosure may also be applied to a bioparticle sorting device that performs a sorting process on a group of bioparticles that exist two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally. That is, the bioparticle sorting device of the present disclosure may be configured to perform a sorting process on a group of bioparticles that exist two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally. Examples of bioparticle sorting devices configured in this manner include a bioparticle sorting device that performs a sorting process on a group of bioparticles that exist in wells that are arranged two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally, a bioparticle sorting device that performs a sorting process on a group of bioparticles that exist two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally on any support (e.g., a cell culture surface or a cell immobilization surface), and a bioparticle sorting device that performs a bioparticle sorting process on a group of bioparticles that form a three-dimensional structure (e.g., biological tissue).

[0226] An example of a bioparticle sorting device that performs a sorting process on a group of bioparticles present in the well is a bioparticle sorting device that performs a bioparticle sorting process using a particle capture chip described in JP 2020-174598 A. An example of a bioparticle sorting device that performs sorting processing on a group of bioparticles that exist two-dimensionally on any given surface is a bioparticle sorting device that sorts specific bioparticles from a group of bioparticles (cells) that are fixed to a certain surface via a degradable linker (e.g., a photodegradable linker). These devices may be configured to acquire fluorescent signals or fluorescent images of bioparticles using optical detectors, including, for example, microscopes, and identify the bioparticles to be sorted based on the acquired fluorescent signals or fluorescent images. These devices may be configured to remove only the identified bioparticles from the wells, or to de-immobilize only the identified bioparticles (e.g., by cleaving the linkers that immobilize the bioparticles).

[0227] These devices may be configured to have the first and second display modes described in (1) and (2) above. For example, in the first display mode, operation control data for identifying bioparticles to be sorted is input. Then, in the second display mode, a processing execution operation screen is displayed based on the operation control data.

[0228] 3. Second Embodiment of the Present Disclosure (Bioparticle Sorting System)

[0229] The present disclosure also provides a bioparticle sorting system including a first information processing device operating in a first display mode that accepts input of operation control data related to a bioparticle sorting process, and a second information processing device operating in a second display mode that displays an operation screen for executing the process. The bioparticle sorting system further includes a bioparticle sorting device operated by the first information processing device or the second information processing device. The bioparticle sorting device may have the configuration described in 2. above.

[0230] The present disclosure also provides a first information processing device included in the bioparticle sorting system. The first information processing device may include, for example, a touch-sensitive display unit that displays a processing condition setting screen that accepts input of operation control data related to the sorting process of a bioparticle-containing sample. The processing condition setting screen may be as described in 2. above, and this description also applies to this embodiment. The present disclosure also provides the second information processing device included in the bioparticle sorting system.

[0231] The second information processing device may include, for example, a display unit that displays a process execution operation screen and allows touch input. The process execution operation screen may be as described in 2. above, and this description also applies to this embodiment.

[0232] An example of a bioparticle sorting system according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 31. This figure shows an example configuration of a bioparticle sorting system according to the present disclosure. The bioparticle sorting system 400 shown in this figure includes a bioparticle sorting device 401 that performs a bioparticle sorting process, and multiple information processing devices 402a to 402c configured to operate the bioparticle sorting device. The number of information processing devices included in the system is not limited to three as shown in this figure, and may be one or more. The multiple information processing devices are connected to the bioparticle sorting device via a network 403, for example.

[0233] In the following, a case will be described in which the information processing device 402a shown in the drawing operates in the first display mode described above, and the information processing device 402b operates in the second display mode described above.

[0234] First, the information processing device 402a executes steps S10, S11, and S12 described in 2.(2-1) above. Next, the information processing device 402a executes the processing in the first display mode described in 2.(2-2) above to generate operation control data. More specifically, the information processing device 402a operates as the information processing unit 102 described in 2.(2-2) above. The information processing device 402a outputs the processing condition setting screen described in 2.(2-2) above to a display unit attached to or connected to the device, and accepts input of the operation control data via the screen. In addition, in generating the operation control data, a sorting process may be performed by the bioparticle sorting device 401.

[0235] The information processing device 402 a transmits the generated operation control data to the bioparticle sorting device 401 .

[0236] Next, the information processing device 402b executes steps S10, S11, and S12 described in 2.(2-1) above. Next, the information processing device 402b receives the operation control data from the bioparticle sorting device 401. Then, based on the operation control data, the information processing device 402b executes the processing in the second display mode described in 2.(2-3) above, causing the bioparticle sorting device 401 to execute the sorting process. More specifically, the information processing device 402b operates as the information processing unit 102 described in 2.(2-3) above. The information processing device 402b outputs the processing execution operation screen described in 2.(2-3) above to a display unit attached to or connected to the device, and causes the bioparticle sorting device 401 to execute sorting processing via the screen.

[0237] By the above-described series of procedures, the bioparticles are separated.

[0238] The present disclosure may also be configured as follows. [1] a first display mode for receiving input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process; a second display mode in which a processing execution operation screen is displayed; having The biological particle sorting device operates in a first display mode or a second display mode based on the identification information. [2] In the first display mode, a screen for setting processing conditions for the bioparticle sorting processing is displayed, accepting input of the operation control data via the processing condition setting screen; The bioparticle sorting device according to [1]. [3] The operation control data is (a) processing condition data to be adopted in the sorting process by the biological particle sorting device in the second display mode; (b) display control data related to the display on the process execution operation screen in the second display mode; and (c) operator instruction data directed to an operator who operates the biological particle sorting device in the second display mode; The bioparticle sorting device according to [1] or [2], comprising one or more of the following: [4] The bioparticle sorting device according to [3], wherein the processing condition data includes gate information that identifies the bioparticles to be sorted in the sorting process. [5] In the first display mode, the gate information can be adjusted; The adjustment of the gate information includes performing one or more of moving the position of the gate, enlarging or reducing the gate, and changing the inclination of the gate. The bioparticle sorting device according to [4]. [6] The bioparticle sorting device according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the bioparticle sorting device controls the display of the process execution operation screen in the second display mode based on the operation control data. [7] The bioparticle sorting device according to [3], wherein in the second display mode, the operator can adjust the processing condition data in accordance with the instruction data for the operator. [8] The bioparticle sorting device according to [4], wherein in the second display mode, adjustment of at least a portion of the gate information is restricted. [9] The bioparticle sorting device according to [8], wherein the gate information restricts changes to the shape of the gate.

[10] The bioparticle sorting device according to any one of [3] to [7], wherein the instruction data for the operator includes reference data for checking and / or adjusting the processing condition data.

[11] The reference data is Identification data for identifying plot data to be changed by the adjustment; confirmation graph data for the operator to refer to; Statistics for each gate, and Image data associated with the processing condition data The bioparticle sorting device according to

[10] , comprising one or more of the following:

[12] The bioparticle sorting device according to [3], wherein the display control data includes data relating to control of display of plot data displayed in the second display mode.

[13] The bioparticle sorting device described in [3], wherein the display control data includes adjustment order data that specifies the adjustment order of the plot data in the second display mode and / or display necessity data that specifies whether or not the plot data needs to be displayed in the second display mode.

[14] The bioparticle sorting device according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein the first display mode is configured to include aliquot acquisition instruction data regarding aliquot acquisition in the sorting process in the operation control data.

[15] The process execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode includes: a third display area that displays the operation flow of the fraction collection process; a fourth display area that displays the operation details of each step included in the processing operation flow; The bioparticle sorting device according to any one of [1] to

[14] , comprising:

[16] the third display area is arranged in an upper part of the process execution operation screen, and the fourth display area is arranged in a lower part of the process execution operation screen, or the third display area is arranged in a lower part of the process execution operation screen, and the fourth display area is arranged in an upper part of the process execution operation screen. The bioparticle sorting device according to

[15] .

[17] The processing condition setting screen displayed in the first display mode includes: a first display area that displays an operation flow for setting processing conditions for the preparative fractionation processing; a second display area for displaying measurement data relating to the bioparticle-containing sample; The bioparticle sorting device according to [2], comprising:

[18] The first display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, or The first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, or The bioparticle sorting device according to

[17] .

[19] the biological particle sorting device includes a display device that displays a process execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode, The bioparticle sorting device according to any one of [1] to

[18] .

[20] the system is configured to accept input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process via a processing condition setting screen related to the bioparticle sorting process, and to transmit the operation control data to a bioparticle sorting device that executes the sorting process or an information processing device that operates the sorting device, The operation control data includes processing condition data adopted by the bioparticle sorting device. Information processing device for controlling bioparticle sorting processing. 〔twenty one〕 The apparatus is configured to receive operation control data relating to a bioparticle sorting process, and to display a process execution operation screen generated based on the operation control data, and The apparatus is configured to cause the bioparticle sorting device to execute the sorting process in accordance with instructions input by an operator via the operation screen for executing the process. the operation control data includes gate information for identifying bioparticles to be sorted in the processing; On the processing execution operation screen, adjustment of at least a part of the gate information is restricted. An information processing device for executing bioparticle sorting processing. 〔twenty two〕 a first bioparticle sorting device or information processing device operating in a first display mode that accepts input of operation control data related to a bioparticle sorting process; a second biological particle sorting device or information processing device that operates in a second display mode in which a processing execution operation screen is displayed; A bioparticle sorting system comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0239] 100 Bioparticle Sorting Device 101 Display section 102 Information Processing Department

Claims

1. a first display mode for receiving input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process; a second display mode in which a processing execution operation screen is displayed; having The biological particle sorting device operates in a first display mode or a second display mode based on the identification information.

2. In the first display mode, a screen for setting processing conditions for the bioparticle sorting processing is displayed, accepting input of the operation control data via the processing condition setting screen; The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 1 .

3. The operation control data is (a) processing condition data to be adopted in the sorting process by the biological particle sorting device in the second display mode; (b) display control data related to the display on the process execution operation screen in the second display mode; and (c) operator instruction data directed to an operator operating the biological particle sorting device in the second display mode; The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 1 , comprising one or more of the following:

4. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 3 , wherein the processing condition data includes gate information for specifying the bioparticles to be sorted in the sorting process.

5. In the first display mode, the gate information can be adjusted; The adjustment of the gate information includes performing one or more of moving the position of the gate, enlarging or reducing the gate, and changing the inclination of the gate. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 4 .

6. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 1 , wherein the bioparticle sorting device controls display of the process execution operation screen in the second display mode based on the operation control data.

7. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 3 , wherein in the second display mode, the operator can adjust the processing condition data in accordance with the instruction data for the operator.

8. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 4 , wherein adjustment of at least a part of the gate information is restricted in the second display mode.

9. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 8 , wherein the gate information includes restrictions on changing the shape of the gate.

10. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 3 , wherein the operator instruction data includes reference data for checking and / or adjusting the processing condition data.

11. The reference data is Identification data for identifying plot data to be changed by the adjustment; confirmation graph data for the operator to refer to; Statistics for each gate, and Image data associated with the processing condition data The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 10, comprising one or more of the following:

12. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 3 , wherein the display control data includes data relating to control of display of plot data displayed in the second display mode.

13. The bioparticle sorting device of claim 3, wherein the display control data includes adjustment order data that specifies the adjustment order of the plot data in the second display mode and / or display necessity data that specifies whether or not the plot data needs to be displayed in the second display mode.

14. 2. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 1, wherein the first display mode is configured so that the operation control data can include aliquot acquisition instruction data regarding aliquot acquisition in the sorting process.

15. The process execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode includes: a third display area that displays the operation flow of the fraction collection process; a fourth display area that displays the operation details of each step included in the processing operation flow; The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 1 , comprising:

16. the third display area is arranged in an upper part of the process execution operation screen, and the fourth display area is arranged in a lower part of the process execution operation screen, or the third display area is arranged in a lower part of the process execution operation screen, and the fourth display area is arranged in an upper part of the process execution operation screen. The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 15.

17. The processing condition setting screen displayed in the first display mode includes: a first display area that displays an operation flow for setting processing conditions for the preparative fractionation processing; a second display area for displaying measurement data relating to the bioparticle-containing sample; The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 2 , comprising:

18. The first display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, or the first display area is arranged on the right side of the processing condition setting screen, and the second display area is arranged on the left side of the processing condition setting screen; The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 17.

19. the biological particle sorting device includes a display device that displays a process execution operation screen displayed in the second display mode, The bioparticle sorting device according to claim 1 .

20. the system is configured to accept input of operation control data related to the bioparticle sorting process via a processing condition setting screen related to the bioparticle sorting process, and to transmit the operation control data to a bioparticle sorting device that executes the sorting process or an information processing device that operates the sorting device, The operation control data includes processing condition data adopted by the bioparticle sorting device. Information processing device for controlling bioparticle sorting processing.

21. The apparatus is configured to receive operation control data relating to a bioparticle sorting process, and to display a process execution operation screen generated based on the operation control data, and The operator inputs instructions via the operation screen for executing the process, and the bioparticle sorting device sorts the bioparticles. configured to perform a processing operation, the operation control data includes gate information for identifying bioparticles to be sorted in the processing; On the processing execution operation screen, adjustment of at least a part of the gate information is restricted. An information processing device for executing bioparticle sorting processing.

22. a first bioparticle sorting device or information processing device operating in a first display mode that accepts input of operation control data related to a bioparticle sorting process; a second biological particle sorting device or information processing device that operates in a second display mode in which a processing execution operation screen is displayed; A bioparticle sorting system comprising:

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