Evaporation prevention containers, automatic analyzers, automatic analysis systems, and evaporation prevention racks

Abstract

The objective is to prevent the sample from evaporating. [Solution] The evaporation prevention container according to the embodiment comprises a container body on which a sample container for containing a sample can be installed and which can be inserted into the opening of a sample rack on which the sample container is placed, and a lid that covers the opening of the sample container installed on the container body and is removable using magnetic force.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in the present specification and drawings relate to an evaporation-preventing container, an automatic analyzer, an automatic analysis system, and an evaporation-preventing rack.

Background Art

[0002] An automatic analyzer is an apparatus that analyzes components of a test sample corresponding to each test item by, for example, optically measuring a reaction solution obtained by mixing a sample such as a test sample collected from a test object such as blood or a standard sample for each test item with a reagent corresponding to each test item. Conventionally, in an automatic analyzer, a sample container accommodating a sample is placed on a sample rack on which sample containers can be mounted, the sample rack is transported from a loading position where the sample rack is loaded to a sample suction position where the sample accommodated in the sample container is aspirated, and the sample accommodated in the sample container is dispensed to measure the sample.

[0003] Depending on the purpose of use, there are cases where it is desired to measure this sample after a certain period of time has elapsed since the sample container accommodating the sample was placed on the sample rack. However, if the sample container accommodating the sample is left placed on the sample rack for a period of time, the sample will evaporate. In particular, unlike reagents that are stored while kept cold in a reagent storage, the sample accommodated in the sample container is stored at normal temperature, so it is prone to evaporation, and the difference in concentration during measurement leads to a decrease in analysis accuracy. For this reason, sample containers with lids that prevent sample evaporation are available.

[0004] However, when using such lidded sample containers in automated analyzers, it is necessary to include mechanisms for opening the lid and for puncturing the lid, which increases costs. Furthermore, the operation of these mechanisms is complex, making the control of the automated analyzer, including the control of these mechanisms, complicated. In addition, it is difficult to retrofit these mechanisms to devices already in use on the market. For this reason, there is a need for automated analyzers that are low-cost, can be retrofitted to automated analyzers already in use on the market, and prevent sample evaporation. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-109403 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2019-525116 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is preventing the evaporation of a sample. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The evaporation prevention container according to the embodiment comprises a container body on which a sample container for containing a sample can be installed and which can be inserted into the opening of a sample rack on which the sample container is placed, and a lid that covers the opening of the sample container installed on the container body and is removable using magnetic force. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automated analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of the analytical mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of a sample rack supported by a rack sampler in an automated analyzer relating to the first implementation configuration. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of an evaporation prevention container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the process in an automated analyzer according to the first embodiment, from the insertion of an evaporation prevention container containing a sample container into the opening of a sample rack. [Figure 6] A diagram showing the positional relationship between the evaporation prevention container and the lid recovery device when the sample rack according to the first embodiment is located in the lid recovery position. [Figure 7] A flowchart illustrating the contents of the lid retrieval process performed by the automated analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] A diagram illustrating a method for retrieving the lid of the evaporation prevention container in an automated analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] A diagram showing the sample rack and sample containers related to the comparative example. [Figure 10] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automated analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] A schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analytical mechanism according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] A flowchart illustrating the contents of the lid retrieval process performed by the automated analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] A diagram illustrating a method for retrieving the lid of the evaporation prevention container in an automated analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automated analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] A schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analytical mechanism according to the third embodiment. [Figure 16]Flowchart for explaining the content of lid collection processing executed by the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] Flowchart for explaining the content of lid returning processing executed by the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18] Diagram for explaining a method of returning a lid to the container body of an evaporation-preventing container in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] Diagram showing an example of the configuration of an evaporation-preventing container according to Modification 4. [Figure 20] Diagram showing an example of another shape of a lid. [Figure 21] Diagram showing an example of another shape of an evaporation-preventing container. [Figure 22] Diagram showing an example of a sample rack according to Modification 7. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of an evaporation-preventing container, an automatic analyzer, an automatic analysis system, and an evaporation-preventing rack will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description will be given only when necessary.

[0010] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. The automatic analyzer according to the present embodiment is an apparatus that measures components in a sample, for example, by measuring a mixed solution of a standard sample and a reagent or a mixed solution of a test sample and a reagent. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment includes, for example, an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control circuit 9.

[0011] Analytical mechanism 2 mixes a sample, such as a standard sample or a test sample, with reagents used for each test item set for that sample. Analytical mechanism 2 measures the mixture obtained by mixing the reagent with the standard sample or the mixture obtained by mixing the reagent with the test sample, and generates, for example, standard data and test data. In this embodiment, analytical mechanism 2 measures, for example, the test sample, the mixture of the standard sample and the reagent, or the mixture of the test sample and the reagent, and generates standard data and test data. In the following, when standard samples and test samples are not distinguished, they may simply be referred to as "samples." Also, "sample" is also called a sample. Also, "standard sample" is also called a "standard sample," and "test sample" is also called a "test sample." In the following explanation, the case where the sample is a standard sample will be used as an example.

[0012] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data and analytical data by analyzing the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis circuit 3 reads an analysis program from the memory circuit 8 and generates calibration data and analytical data according to the read analysis program. For example, based on the standard data, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data that shows the relationship between the standard data and the standard values ​​set in advance for the standard sample. The analysis circuit 3 also generates analytical data expressed as concentration values ​​and enzyme activity values ​​based on the test data and the calibration data for the test items corresponding to this test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data and analytical data to the control circuit 9.

[0013] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 according to the control of the control circuit 9. For example, the drive mechanism 4 can be implemented using gears, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, and a lead screw.

[0014] The input interface 5 accepts settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a sample for which measurement has been requested, either from the user or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 5 is implemented by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad on which instructions are input by touching the operating surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, which converts the operation instructions input by the user into electrical signals and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 9. In this embodiment, the input interface 5 is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to operation instructions input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 9 is also included as an example of the input interface 5.

[0015] The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs signals supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is implemented by, for example, a display circuit, a printing circuit, and an audio device. The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, and a plasma display. A processing circuit that converts data representing the display target into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside is also included in the display circuit. The printing circuit includes, for example, a printer. An output circuit that outputs data representing the print target to the outside is also included in the printing circuit. The audio device includes, for example, a speaker. An output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside is also included in the audio device.

[0016] The communication interface 7 is connected, for example, to the hospital network NW, and connects the automated analyzer 1 to the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 communicates data with the HIS (Hospital Information System) via the hospital network NW. Alternatively, the communication interface 7 may communicate data with the HIS via the Laboratory Information System (LIS) connected to the hospital network NW.

[0017] The memory circuit 8 is composed of a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory, or other recording medium that can be read by the processor. Note that the memory circuit 8 does not necessarily need to be implemented by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 8 can be implemented by multiple storage devices.

[0018] Furthermore, the memory circuit 8 stores the analysis program executed by the analysis circuit 3 and the control program executed by the control circuit 9. The memory circuit 8 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each inspection item.

[0019] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the central hub of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the control circuit 9 outputs control signals to the drive mechanism 4 to drive each part of the analysis mechanism 2. The control circuit 9 also realizes the functions corresponding to the operation program stored in the memory circuit 8 by executing the operation program stored in the memory circuit 8. The control circuit 9 may also have a memory area that stores at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0020] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the analysis mechanism 2 of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is configured to include a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a rack sampler 203, a first reagent storage unit 204, a second reagent storage unit 205, a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a first reagent dispensing arm 208, a first reagent dispensing probe 209, a second reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, a first stirring unit 212, a second stirring unit 213, a photometric unit 214, a washing unit 215, and a lid retriever 216.

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

[0022] The constant temperature unit 202 stores a heat transfer medium set to a predetermined temperature. The constant temperature unit 202 raises and maintains the temperature of the mixed liquid contained in the reaction vessel 2011 to a predetermined temperature by immersing the reaction vessel 2011 in the stored heat transfer medium.

[0023] The rack sampler 203 supports the sample rack 32 so that it can be transported. Figure 3 shows an example of a sample rack 32 supported by the rack sampler 203 in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the sample rack 32 has a sample container placed inside, and an evaporation prevention container 31 inserted into the opening of the sample rack 32 is placed on top of it. This evaporation prevention container 31 is a container for preventing the evaporation of the sample contained in the sample container that holds the sample. In the example shown in Figure 3, one evaporation prevention container 31 is placed on the sample rack 32. However, the number of evaporation prevention containers 31 placed on the sample rack 32 is not limited to one. That is, the number of evaporation prevention containers 31 placed on the sample rack 32 is arbitrary, and the sample rack 32 may be configured to hold two or more evaporation prevention containers 31. Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 3, five evaporation prevention containers 31 or sample containers can be placed on the sample rack 32, but the number of evaporation prevention containers 31 or sample containers that can be placed on the sample rack is not limited to five. In other words, the number of evaporation prevention containers 31 or sample containers that can be placed on the sample rack is arbitrary and may be four or fewer, or six or more.

[0024] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the evaporation prevention container 31 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the evaporation prevention container 31 according to this embodiment is configured to include a container body 311 and a lid 312.

[0025] The container body 311 is capable of housing a sample container 33 and can be inserted into the opening of the sample rack 32. The sample container 33 housed in this container body 311 contains, for example, a test sample such as blood requested for measurement, or standard samples such as calibrators and controls. Note that the evaporation prevention container 31 does not include the sample container 33. Furthermore, assuming that the sample container 33 in this embodiment contains a standard sample as described above, the following details will be explained. As shown in Figure 4, the container body 311 in this embodiment comprises a main body portion 3111 in which the sample container 33 can be housed, and an insertion portion 3112 that can be inserted into the opening of the sample rack 32. In the example shown in Figure 4, the outer diameter of the main body portion 3111 in this embodiment is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the insertion portion 3112.

[0026] Furthermore, the container body 311 has a mounting hole H1 for installing the sample container 33. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the mounting hole H1 is formed in the main body portion 3111 of the container body 311 according to this embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 4, this mounting hole H1 is a stepped hole. Also, in the example shown in Figure 4, the sample container 33 is installed in the mounting hole H1 of the container body 311. In this embodiment, the mounting hole H1 is a stepped hole, but the shape of the mounting hole H1 is not limited to a stepped hole. That is, the shape of the mounting hole H1 is arbitrary, and the mounting hole H1 may be a straight hole, a tapered hole, or the like, as long as the sample container 33 can be installed in it.

[0027] The lid 312 covers the opening of the sample container 33 installed in the container body 311 and is removable using magnetic force. The outer diameter of the lid 312 according to this embodiment is smaller than the diameter of the installation hole H1. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4, the lid 312 covers the opening of the sample container 33 installed in the container body 311 by being placed on top of the sample container 33 installed in the container body 311. In addition, since the lid 312 according to this embodiment is housed in the installation hole H1 of the container body 311, it is assisted to prevent the lid 312 from moving due to vibrations associated with the transport of the sample rack 32.

[0028] Furthermore, the lid 312 according to this embodiment is made of a metal material that reacts to the magnetic force of the magnet on the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery device 216, which will be described in detail later. As a result, the lid 312 according to this embodiment is configured to be removable using magnetic force.

[0029] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the process in the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment, from the insertion of the evaporation prevention container 31, in which the sample container 33 is placed, into the opening of the sample rack 32. As shown in Figure 5(a), the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31, in which the sample container 33 is not placed, is prepared. Next, as shown in Figure 5(b), the sample container 33 containing the sample is placed in the installation hole H1 formed in the main body portion 3111 of the container body 311. Next, as shown in Figure 5(c), the lid 312 is placed on top of the sample container 33 so as to cover the opening of the sample container 33. Then, as shown in Figure 5(d), the evaporation prevention container 31 is placed on the sample rack 32 by inserting the insertion portion 3112 of the evaporation prevention container 31 into the opening of the sample rack 32.

[0030] The evaporation prevention container 31 and the automated analyzer 1, which analyzes a sample by measuring the components within the sample using the sample contained in the evaporation prevention container 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31, constitute the automated analysis system according to this embodiment.

[0031] Returning to Figure 2, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2031 for transporting the sample racks 32. That is, using this transport area 2031, the sample racks 32 are transported from the input position where they are placed to the rack retrieval position where the sample racks 32 have been collected after suction is complete. The rack sampler 203 also includes a transport mechanism 2032. This transport mechanism 2032 transports the evaporation prevention container 31. Specifically, the transport mechanism 2032 according to this embodiment transports the evaporation prevention container 31 by holding and transporting the sample racks 32 that have been placed in the input position. Furthermore, the transport mechanism 2032 according to this embodiment moves the lid 312 vertically. Specifically, after transporting the sample racks 32 to the lid retrieval position, the transport mechanism 2032 according to this embodiment moves the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 placed on the sample racks 32 vertically at the lid retrieval position. This transport mechanism 2032 corresponds to the moving part according to this embodiment.

[0032] In this embodiment, in the transport area 2031, the sample rack 32, which has been inserted from the input position, is transported by, for example, the transport mechanism 2032 to a storage position until the sample is measured. This storage position is a position for temporarily storing the evaporation prevention container 31 placed on the sample rack 32. This storage position is provided, for example, near the input position or near the transport area 2031.

[0033] When sample measurement begins, the sample rack 32 is transported from the storage position to the lid retrieval position by, for example, the transport mechanism 2032. This lid retrieval position is the position where the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 is retrieved, and is located, for example, on the movement track of the evaporation prevention container 31, which is placed on the sample rack 32 held by the transport mechanism 2032 of the rack sampler 203.

[0034] Furthermore, the sample rack 32 in the lid retrieval position is transported to the dispensing position (sample aspiration position) by the transport mechanism 2032. The dispensing position is the position where the sample is aspirated. This dispensing position is set at a location where, for example, the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 intersects with the movement trajectory of the opening of the sample container 33, which is supported by the rack sampler 203 and held by the sample rack 32. After the sample contained in the sample container 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31 is dispensed, the sample rack 32 in the dispensing position is transported to the rack retrieval position by the transport mechanism 2032.

[0035] The first reagent storage room 204 keeps multiple reagent containers refrigerated, containing the first reagent which reacts with predetermined components in standard samples and test samples. The first reagent is a buffer solution containing, for example, bovine serum albumin (BSA). Reagent labels are affixed to the reagent containers. The reagent labels are printed with optical symbols representing reagent information. The optical symbols can be any pixel code, such as a one-dimensional pixel code and a two-dimensional pixel code. The reagent information is information about the reagent contained in the reagent container and includes, for example, the reagent name, reagent manufacturer code, reagent item code, bottle type, bottle size, capacity, manufacturing lot number, and expiration date.

[0036] A reagent rack 2041 is rotatably mounted inside the first reagent storage room 204. The reagent rack 2041 holds multiple reagent containers arranged in a ring shape. The reagent rack 2041 is rotated by a drive mechanism 4. A reader (not shown) is also provided inside the first reagent storage room 204 to read reagent information from reagent labels attached to the reagent containers. The read reagent information is stored in a memory circuit 8.

[0037] A first reagent aspiration position is set at a predetermined location on the first reagent storage unit 204. The first reagent aspiration position is located, for example, at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the openings of the reagent containers arranged in a ring shape on the reagent rack 2041.

[0038] The second reagent storage room 205 keeps multiple reagent containers refrigerated, each containing a second reagent that pairs with the first reagent in a two-reagent system. The second reagent is a solution containing a predetermined antigen or antibody contained in the sample, and an insoluble carrier on which an antigen or antibody that binds or dissociates by a specific antigen-antibody reaction is immobilized, such as carrier particles. The antigen or antibody that binds or dissociates by the specific reaction may be an enzyme, substrate, aptamer, or receptor. A reagent rack 2051 is rotatably installed inside the second reagent storage room 205.

[0039] The reagent rack 2051 holds multiple reagent containers arranged in a ring shape. The reagent rack 2051 is rotated by the drive mechanism 4. A reader (not shown) is also provided inside the second reagent storage 205 to read reagent information from the reagent labels attached to the reagent containers. The read reagent information is stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0040] A second reagent aspiration position is set at a predetermined location on the second reagent storage unit 205. The second reagent aspiration position is located, for example, at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the openings of the reagent containers arranged in a ring shape on the reagent rack 2051.

[0041] The sample dispensing arm 206 is positioned between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0042] The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory as the sample dispensing arm 206 rotates. A dispensing position is provided on this rotational trajectory. Additionally, a sample discharge position is provided on the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 for discharging the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction vessel 2011. The sample discharge position is located at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held by the reaction disk 201.

[0043] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the dispensing position or sample ejection position. The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates a sample from the sample container 33 at the dispensing position, according to the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 also ejects the aspirated sample into the reaction vessel 2011 located directly below the sample ejection position, according to the control circuit 9.

[0044] The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is located near the outer periphery of the first reagent storage chamber 204. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 holds the first reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0045] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory as the first reagent dispensing arm 208 rotates. A first reagent aspiration position is provided on this rotational trajectory. Furthermore, a first reagent discharge position is set on the rotational trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 for dispensing the first reagent aspirationd by the first reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction vessel 2011. The first reagent discharge position is provided at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the first reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held by the reaction disk 201.

[0046] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the first reagent aspiration position or the first reagent discharge position on its rotational trajectory. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 also aspirates the first reagent from the reagent container located directly below the first reagent aspiration position, in accordance with the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 also discharges the aspirated first reagent to the reaction vessel 2011 located directly below the first reagent discharge position, in accordance with the control circuit 9.

[0047] The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is located near the outer periphery of the first reagent storage chamber 204. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 holds the second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end.

[0048] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory as the second reagent dispensing arm 210 rotates. A second reagent aspiration position is provided on this rotational trajectory. Furthermore, a second reagent discharge position is set on the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 for dispensing the second reagent aspirationd by the second reagent dispensing probe 211 into the reaction vessel 2011. The second reagent discharge position is provided at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe 211 and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held by the reaction disk 201.

[0049] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the second reagent aspiration position or the second reagent discharge position on its rotational trajectory. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 also aspirates the second reagent from the reagent container located directly below the second reagent aspiration position, according to the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 also discharges the aspirated second reagent into the reaction vessel 2011 located directly below the second reagent discharge position, according to the control circuit 9. As can be seen from this, the second reagent dispensing device according to this embodiment is composed of the second reagent dispensing arm 210 and the second reagent dispensing probe 211.

[0050] The first stirring unit 212 is located near the outer circumference of the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 212 has a first stirring arm 2121 and a first stirring bar located at the tip of the first stirring arm 2121. The first stirring unit 212 uses the first stirring bar to stir the mixture of the standard sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011, which is located at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 212 also uses the first stirring bar to stir the mixture of the test sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011, which is located at the first stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

[0051] The second stirring unit 213 is located near the outer circumference of the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 213 has a second stirring arm 2131 and a second stirring bar located at the tip of the second stirring arm 2131. The second stirring unit 213 uses the second stirring bar to stir the mixture of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the second stirring position on the reaction disk 201. The second stirring unit 213 also uses the second stirring bar to stir the mixture of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 located at the second stirring position.

[0052] The photometric unit 214 optically measures the reaction solution of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent discharged into the reaction vessel 2011. The photometric unit 214 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometric unit 214 irradiates light from the light source according to the control circuit 9. The irradiated light enters the reaction vessel 2011 from the first side wall and exits from the second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photometric unit 214 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011 using the photodetector.

[0053] Specifically, for example, the photodetector is positioned on the optical axis of the light irradiated from the light source onto the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector detects the light transmitted through the reaction solutions of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 2011, and generates standard data expressed in absorbance based on the intensity of the detected light. The photodetector also detects the light transmitted through the reaction solutions of the test sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction vessel 2011, and generates test data expressed in absorbance based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit 214 outputs the generated standard data and test data as measurement results to the analysis circuit 3.

[0054] The cleaning unit 215 cleans the inside of the reaction vessel 2011 after the photometric unit 214 has finished measuring the reaction solution.

[0055] The lid retriever 216 covers the opening of the sample container 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31 and retrieves the lid 312 which can be removed using magnetic force. The lid retriever 216 is attached to the base (not shown) of the automatic analyzer 1 and is configured to be detachable from the base. This lid retriever 216 corresponds to the lid retrieval unit in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the lid retriever 216 according to this embodiment has an upper surface portion 2161 and a side surface portion 2162.

[0056] The upper surface portion 2161 is located above the lid retrieval position. Figure 6 shows the positional relationship between the evaporation prevention container 31 and the lid retriever 216 when the sample rack 32 according to the first embodiment is located at the lid retrieval position. As shown in Figure 6, when the sample rack 32 on which the evaporation prevention container 31 is placed is transported to the lid retrieval position, the upper surface portion 2161 of the lid retriever 216 will cover the sample rack 32. The upper surface portion 2161 according to this embodiment is formed of a magnet. Specifically, the upper surface portion 2161 according to this embodiment is formed of a permanent magnet. Therefore, because the lid 312 is made of a metal material that reacts to magnetic force, the upper surface portion 2161 according to this embodiment can attract and remove the lid 312.

[0057] The side portion 2162 extends downward from the top portion 2161. The end of the side portion 2162 opposite to the top portion 2161 in this embodiment is attached, for example, to the base of the automatic analyzer 1. As shown in Figure 6, when the sample rack 32 on which the evaporation prevention container 31 is placed is transported to the lid collection position, the side portion 2162 of the lid collector 216 is positioned adjacent to the side of the sample rack 32. Furthermore, the side portion 2162 in this embodiment is made of, for example, a metal material. Although the side portion 2162 in this embodiment is made of a metal material, the material of the side portion 2162 is not limited to this. That is, the material of the side portion 2162 is arbitrary, and it may be made of a magnet, which is the same material as the top portion 2161, or it may be made of a resin material or the like.

[0058] Returning to Figure 1, the control circuit 9 shown in Figure 1, for example, implements a system control function 91 and a movement control function 92 by executing a control program. In this embodiment, the case in which the system control function 91 and the movement control function 92 are implemented by a single processor is described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and the system control function 91 and the movement control function 92 may be implemented by each processor executing a control program.

[0059] The system control function 91 is a function that comprehensively controls each part of the automatic analyzer 1 based on the input information received from the input interface 5. For example, the system control function 91 controls the drive mechanism 4 and the analysis mechanism 2 in the control circuit 9, and also controls the analysis circuit 3 to perform analysis according to the inspection items.

[0060] The movement control function 92 controls the movement of the evaporation prevention container 31. Specifically, the movement control function 92 according to this embodiment controls the transport mechanism 2032 to transport the sample rack 32 from the input position or storage position to the lid retrieval position or dispensing position. Furthermore, the movement control function 92 according to this embodiment controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 vertically at the lid retrieval position, thereby moving the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 vertically.

[0061] Furthermore, the system control function 91 and the movement control function 92 shown in Figure 1 constitute the system control unit and the movement control unit, respectively, in this embodiment.

[0062] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the lid retrieval process performed by the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. This lid retrieval process involves transporting the sample rack 32 to the lid retrieval position and moving the sample rack 32 vertically at the lid retrieval position. For example, this lid retrieval process is performed when sample measurement is started.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7, first, the system control function 91 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not to start sample measurement (step S11). Specifically, the system control function 91 determines whether or not to start sample measurement by determining whether or not it has received a sample measurement instruction. If sample measurement is not started (step S11: No), it waits until sample measurement is started.

[0064] On the other hand, if sample measurement is initiated (step S11: Yes), the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 causes the sample rack 32 to be held (step S13). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to hold the sample rack 32 on which the evaporation prevention container 31, which is located in the storage position, is placed.

[0065] Next, as shown in Figure 7, the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 transports the sample rack 32 to the lid retrieval position (step S15). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to transport the sample rack 32, which is held by the transport mechanism 2032 in the storage position, to the lid retrieval position.

[0066] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for retrieving the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 8(a), the transport mechanism 2032 transports the sample rack 32 to the lid retrieval position, so that the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216 is positioned above the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31.

[0067] Next, as shown in Figure 7, the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the sample rack 32 upward (step S17). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, thereby moving the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 upward. In other words, the transport mechanism 2032 moves the evaporation prevention container 31, which is placed on the sample rack 32 at the lid retrieval position, upward, thereby moving the lid 312 upward and allowing the lid retrieval device 216 to retrieve the lid 312. More specifically, as shown in Figure 8(b), the transport mechanism 2032 moves the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, bringing the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 into contact with the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216. Using the magnetic force of the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216, the lid retriever 216 retrieves the lid 312.

[0068] Next, as shown in Figure 7, the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the sample rack 32 downward (step S19). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 downward, thereby removing the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 from the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31. More specifically, as shown in Figure 8(c), the transport mechanism 2032 moves the sample rack 32 downward, so that the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 remains on the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery unit 216, and thus the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 is removed from the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31.

[0069] The downward movement of the sample rack 32 in step S19 completes the lid retrieval process according to this embodiment. After the downward movement of the sample rack 32 is complete, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 to the dispensing position and dispenses the sample contained in the sample container 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31 of the sample rack 32 into the reaction vessel 2011. Once the sample dispensing is complete, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 to the retrieval position. The user of the automatic analyzer 1 then removes the lid retriever 216 from the base of the automatic analyzer 1 and retrieves the lid 312 that has been pulled onto the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216. The movement control function 92 then controls the transport mechanism 2032 to hold the next sample rack 32 and the next lid retrieval process is executed.

[0070] Figure 9 shows a sample rack and sample container related to a comparative example. As shown in Figure 9, the sample rack 320 related to the comparative example can accommodate a sample container 330. If the sample container 330 placed in the sample rack 320 related to this comparative example is not covered with a lid, the sample contained in the sample container 330 will evaporate, reducing the accuracy of the analysis. Furthermore, if a sample container 330 with a lid is placed in the sample rack 320, a mechanism for opening the lid or a mechanism for perforating the lid will be necessary.

[0071] On the other hand, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the evaporation prevention container 31 comprises a container body 311 on which a sample container 33 can be placed and which can be inserted into the opening of the sample rack 32, and a lid 312 made of a metal material that covers the opening of the sample container 33 placed in the container body 311 and can be removed using the magnetic force of a permanent magnet formed on the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery device 216. Thus, even if the sample container 33 is left on the sample rack 32 for a period of time, evaporation of the sample can be prevented.

[0072] Furthermore, existing products can be used for the sample rack 32 and sample container 33, and by using the evaporation prevention container 31 and attaching only the lid retriever 216 to an already existing automated analyzer, it can be applied to an already existing automated analyzer at low cost. The transport mechanism 2032 provided in the automated analyzer 1 moves the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, thereby allowing the lid 312 to be retrieved by the lid retriever 216.

[0073] Furthermore, since the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 can be removed by the magnetic force of the magnet formed on the upper surface of the lid recovery unit 216, the automatic analyzer 1 can easily open the lid 312 without requiring a complex mechanism, while preventing the evaporation of the sample.

[0074] [Second Embodiment] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the transport mechanism 2032 moves the sample rack 32 vertically at the lid retrieval position to retrieve the lid 312 into the lid retriever 216, but the invention is not limited to this. In the second embodiment, we will describe a case in which the lid retriever 216 moves vertically to retrieve the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 placed on the sample rack that has been transported to the lid retrieval position. The differences from the first embodiment described above will be explained below.

[0075] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 10, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the function of the movement control function in the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore, in this embodiment, it is referred to as the movement control function 92a. The configuration and functions other than this movement control function 92a are the same as in Figure 1 in the first embodiment described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0076] The movement control function 92a according to this embodiment controls the movement of the lid retriever 216. Specifically, the movement control function 92a according to this embodiment controls the movement mechanism, which will be described in detail later, to move the lid retriever 216 in the vertical direction. In addition, the movement control function 92a according to this embodiment controls the transport mechanism 2032a, which will be described later, to transport the sample rack 32 from the input position or storage position to the lid retrieve position or dispensing position.

[0077] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 11, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is configured by adding a moving mechanism 217 to the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, since the configuration of the transport mechanism in the rack sampler of the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment, it is referred to as the rack sampler 203a and the transport mechanism 2032a in this embodiment. The configuration other than the rack sampler 203a, the transport mechanism 2032a, and the moving mechanism 217 is the same as in Figure 2 in the first embodiment described above, so its explanation is omitted.

[0078] The transport mechanism 2032a of the rack sampler 203a according to this embodiment transports the evaporation prevention container 31 by holding and transporting the sample rack 32 that has been placed in the input position. Specifically, the transport mechanism 2032a according to this embodiment transports the evaporation prevention container 31 to the storage position or lid collection position by transporting the sample rack 32 that has been placed in the input position to, for example, the storage position or lid collection position. Note that the transport mechanism 2032a according to this embodiment does not move the sample rack 32 in the vertical direction at the lid collection position.

[0079] The moving mechanism 217 moves the lid retriever 216 vertically. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the transport mechanism 2032a transports the sample rack 32 to the lid retrieve position, that is, when the evaporation prevention container 31 is located at the lid retrieve position, the moving mechanism 217 moves the lid retriever 216 downward to retrieve the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31. This moving mechanism 217 can be implemented, for example, by gears, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, and a lead screw.

[0080] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the lid retrieval process performed by the automated analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 7 in the first embodiment described above. In the lid retrieval process according to this embodiment, the sample rack 32 is transported to the lid retrieval position, and the lid retriever 216 is moved vertically. For example, this lid retrieval process is performed when sample measurement is started. Note that the processes from step S11 to step S15 are equivalent to those in Figure 7 in the first embodiment described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0081] Next, as shown in Figure 12, the movement control function 92a in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the lid retriever 216 downward (step S31). Specifically, the movement control function 92a controls the movement mechanism 217 to move the lid retriever 216 downward. In other words, the movement mechanism 217 moves the lid retriever 216 downward, causing the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31, which has been transported to the lid retriever position and placed on the sample rack 32, to be retrieved by the lid retriever 216.

[0082] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating a method for recovering the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 8 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 13(a), the transport mechanism 2032 transports the sample rack 32 to the lid recovery position, so that the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery unit 216 is positioned above the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31. Then, as shown in Figure 13(b), when the evaporation prevention container 31 is positioned at the lid recovery position, the moving mechanism 217 moves the lid recovery unit 216 downward, bringing the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 into contact with the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery unit 216, and using the magnetic force of the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery unit 216, the lid recovery unit 216 recovers the lid 312.

[0083] Next, as shown in Figure 12, the movement control function 92a in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the lid retriever 216 upward (step S33). Specifically, the movement control function 92a controls the movement mechanism 217 to move the lid retriever 216 upward, thereby removing the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 from the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31. More specifically, as shown in Figure 13(c), the movement mechanism 217 moves the lid retriever 216 upward, so that the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 remains on the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216, and thus the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 is removed from the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31.

[0084] The upward movement of the lid retriever 216 in step S33 completes the lid retrieval process according to this embodiment. After this, once the downward movement of the sample rack 32 is complete, the movement control function 92a controls the transport mechanism 2032a to move the sample rack 32 to the dispensing position and dispenses the samples contained in the sample containers 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31 of the sample rack 32 into the reaction vessel 2011. Once the sample dispensing is complete, the movement control function 92a controls the transport mechanism 2032a to move the sample rack 32 to the retrieval position. The user of the automatic analyzer 1 then removes the lid retriever 216 from the base of the automatic analyzer 1 and retrieves the lid 312 that has been pulled onto the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216. The movement control function 92a then controls the transport mechanism 2032a to hold the next sample rack 32 and the next lid retrieval process is executed.

[0085] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment described above, the evaporation prevention container 31 comprises a container body 311 on which a sample container 33 can be placed and which can be inserted into the opening of the sample rack 32, and a lid 312 made of a metal material that covers the opening of the sample container 33 placed in the container body 311 and can be removed using the magnetic force of a permanent magnet formed on the upper surface 2161 of the lid recovery device 216. This makes it possible to prevent the evaporation of the sample even if the sample container 33 is left on the sample rack 32 for a period of time.

[0086] Furthermore, existing products can be used for the sample rack 32 and sample container 33, and by using the evaporation prevention container 31 and attaching only the lid retriever 216 and the moving mechanism 217 to an already existing automatic analyzer, it can be applied to an already existing automatic analyzer at low cost. The moving mechanism 217 provided in the automatic analyzer 1 moves the lid retriever 216 downward at the lid retrieval position, thereby allowing the lid retriever 216 to retrieve the lid 312.

[0087] Furthermore, since the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 can be removed by the magnetic force of the magnet formed on the upper surface of the lid recovery device 216, similar to the first embodiment described above, it is possible to easily open the lid 312 without providing a complex mechanism, while preventing the evaporation of the sample.

[0088] [Variation 1] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, the lid retriever 216 is configured to be detachable from the base, but the lid retriever 216 does not have to be configured to be detachable. In this case, the user of the automatic analyzer 1 may retrieve the lid 312 that has been pulled onto the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216 without removing the lid retriever 216 from the base of the automatic analyzer 1.

[0089] Furthermore, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, the user of the automatic analyzer 1 is responsible for collecting the lid 312 that has been attracted to the upper surface 2161 of the lid collector 216, but the device is not limited to this. In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, a collection mechanism may be provided for collecting the lid 312 that has been attracted to the upper surface 2161 of the lid collector 216, and the lid 312 may be automatically collected by the collection mechanism collecting the lid 312 that has been attracted to the upper surface 2161 of the lid collector 216. With such a configuration, the burden on the user of the automatic analyzer 1 can be reduced.

[0090] [Third Embodiment] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216 is formed by a permanent magnet, but is not limited to this. In the third embodiment, a case in which the upper surface of the lid retriever is formed by an electromagnet will be described. The following describes the parts that differ from the first embodiment described above, but this embodiment is also applicable to the second embodiment.

[0091] Figure 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 14, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is configured by adding a magnetic force generation control function 93 to the control circuit 9 compared to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above. The magnetic force generation control function 93 corresponds to the magnetic force generation control unit in this embodiment. The configuration and functions other than this magnetic force generation control function 93 are the same as those in Figure 1 in the first embodiment described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0092] The magnetic force generation control function 93 controls the generation of magnetic force from the electromagnet, which will be described in detail later. Specifically, the magnetic force generation control function 93 controls the generation of magnetic force from the electromagnet so that the electromagnet generates magnetic force when the evaporation prevention container 31, which is equipped with a lid 312, is in the lid retrieval position. Furthermore, the magnetic force generation control function 93 according to this embodiment controls the generation of magnetic force from the electromagnet so that the generation of magnetic force from the electromagnet is stopped when the evaporation prevention container 31, in which the sample container in which the sample has been aspirated is placed, is in the lid retrieval position.

[0093] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 15, the configuration of the upper part of the lid retriever in the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment, so in this embodiment, it is referred to as the lid retriever 216a and the upper part 2161a. The configuration other than the lid retriever 216a and the upper part 2161a is the same as in Figure 2 in the first embodiment described above, so its explanation is omitted.

[0094] The upper surface portion 2161a of the lid retriever 216a according to this embodiment is formed by a magnet. Specifically, the upper surface portion 2161a according to this embodiment is formed by an electromagnet. Therefore, since the lid 312 is made of a material that reacts to magnetic force, when the magnetic force of the electromagnet is generated, the upper surface portion 2161a according to this embodiment can attract and remove the lid 312 from the container body 311. Furthermore, when the magnetic force of the electromagnet is not generated, the upper surface portion 2161a according to this embodiment can return the lid 312 to the container body 311. The configuration of the upper surface portion 2161a other than that described above is the same as the configuration of the upper surface portion 2161 according to the first embodiment described above, so its description is omitted.

[0095] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the lid retrieval process performed by the automated analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment. In the lid retrieval process according to this embodiment, the sample rack 32 is transported to the lid retrieval position, the sample rack 32 is moved vertically at the lid retrieval position, and the magnetic force of the electromagnet is generated. For example, this lid retrieval process is performed when sample measurement is started. Note that the processes from step S11 to step S15 are the same as those shown in Figure 7 of the first embodiment described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0096] Next, as shown in Figure 16, the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the sample rack 32 upward (step S17a). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, thereby moving the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 upward. More specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 upward at the lid retrieval position, thereby bringing the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 into contact with the upper surface 2161a of the lid retriever 216a. In this step S17a, the lid 312 is not yet retrieved by the lid retriever 216a.

[0097] Next, as shown in Figure 16, the magnetic force generation control function 93 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 generates magnetic force in the electromagnet (step S41). Specifically, the magnetic force generation control function 93 generates magnetic force in the electromagnet by passing an electric current through the electromagnet forming the upper surface portion 2161a, thereby causing the lid retrieval device 216a to retrieve the lid 312. More specifically, the magnetic force generation control function 93 generates magnetic force in the electromagnet while the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 and the upper surface portion 2161a of the lid retrieval device 216a are in contact, thereby using the magnetic force of the upper surface portion 2161a of the lid retrieval device 216a to retrieve the lid 312. The process in step S19 following step S41 is equivalent to that of the first embodiment described above, so its explanation is omitted.

[0098] The downward movement of the sample rack 32 in step S19 completes the lid retrieval process according to this embodiment. After the downward movement of the sample rack 32 is complete, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 to the dispensing position, and the sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates the sample contained in the sample container 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31 of the sample rack 32, and the sample dispensing probe 207 dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction vessel 2011.

[0099] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the lid-returning process performed by the automated analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment. This lid-returning process involves transporting the sample rack 32 from the dispensing position to the lid retrieval position, moving the sample rack 32 vertically, and releasing the magnetic force of the electromagnet. For example, the lid-returning process is performed when the sample aspiration is complete.

[0100] As shown in Figure 17, first, the system control function 91 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the aspiration of the sample contained in the sample container 33 installed in the evaporation prevention container 31 of the sample rack 32 has been completed (step S51). Then, in step S51, if the aspiration of the sample has not been completed (step S51: No), the system waits until the aspiration of the sample is completed.

[0101] On the other hand, if the sample aspiration is completed in step S51 (step S51: Yes), the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 transports the sample rack 32 to the lid retrieval position (step S53). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to transport the sample rack 32, which is held by the transport mechanism 2032, from the dispensing position to the lid retrieval position. Each of the evaporation prevention containers 31 placed on this sample rack 32 does not have a lid 312 because the lid retriever 216a retrieves the lid 312 in the lid retrieval process described above.

[0102] Next, as shown in Figure 17, the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the sample rack 32 upward (step S55). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, thereby moving the evaporation prevention container 31 upward.

[0103] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the method for returning the lid 312 to the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 18(a), the transport mechanism 2032 transports the sample rack 32 from the dispensing position to the lid retrieval position, so that the upper surface 2161a of the lid retriever 216a to which the lid 312 is attached is positioned above the evaporation prevention container 31. Then, as shown in Figure 18(b), the transport mechanism 2032 moves the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, bringing the upper surface of the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31 into contact with the upper surface 2161a of the lid retriever 216a.

[0104] Next, as shown in Figure 17, the magnetic force generation control function 93 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 stops generating magnetic force (step S57). Specifically, the magnetic force generation control function 93 controls the generation of magnetic force from the electromagnet so as to stop supplying current to the electromagnet that forms the upper surface portion 2161a. As a result of the magnetic force generation control function 93 stopping the generation of magnetic force from the electromagnet, the lid 312 is removed from the upper surface portion 2161a of the lid retriever 216a. As a result, as shown in Figure 18(c), the lid 312 falls onto the container body 311 and is placed on the upper surface of the sample container 33 installed on the container body 311, thereby returning it to the evaporation prevention container 31.

[0105] Next, as shown in Figure 17, the movement control function 92 in the control circuit 9 of the automatic analyzer 1 moves the sample rack 32 downward (step S59). Specifically, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 downward, thereby moving the evaporation prevention container 31 downward.

[0106] The downward movement of the sample rack 32 in step S59 completes the lid return process according to this embodiment. After the downward movement of the sample rack 32 is complete, the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 to the retrieval position or storage position. The movement control function 92 then controls the transport mechanism 2032 to hold the next sample rack 32, and the next lid retrieval process or lid return process is executed.

[0107] As described above, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the upper surface portion 2161a of the lid recovery unit 216a is formed by an electromagnet. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment described above, the automatic analyzer 1 can prevent the evaporation of the sample without providing a complex mechanism.

[0108] Furthermore, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the lid 312 collected by the lid collector 216a is returned to the evaporation prevention container 31, thus reducing the effort required for the user of the automatic analyzer 1 to collect the lid 312 attached to the lid collector 216a each time the lid collector 216a collects a lid.

[0109] [Variation 2] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment described above, the lid 312 collected by the lid retriever 216a is returned to the evaporation prevention container 31 by performing a lid return process, but the device is not limited to this. The user of the automatic analyzer 1 may collect the lid 312 collected by the lid retriever 216a, or a collection mechanism may be provided for collecting the lid 312 that has been attracted to the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216, and the lid may be automatically collected by the collection mechanism collecting the lid 312 that has been attracted to the upper surface 2161 of the lid retriever 216.

[0110] [Example 3] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above, the entire upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a of the lid retrievers 216 and 216a are formed from magnets. However, the upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a of the lid retrievers 216 and 216a may be constructed by embedding magnets in a part of the upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a of the lid retrievers 216 and 216a. For example, the upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a of the lid retrievers 216 and 216a may be formed from a metal material or a resin material, and magnets may be embedded in the upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a formed from a metal material or a resin material. In other words, the lid 312 may be formed from a material that includes magnets.

[0111] Furthermore, in the evaporation prevention container 31 and automatic analyzer 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above, the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 is formed of a metal material that reacts to magnetic force, and the upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a of the lid recoverers 216 and 216a are formed of magnets, so that the lid 312 can be removed using magnetic force. However, the entire lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 may be formed of magnets, and the upper surfaces 2161 and 2161a of the lid recoverers 216 and 216a may be formed of a metal material. Alternatively, both the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 and the lid recoverers 216 and 216a may be formed of magnets.

[0112] Although the entire lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 is formed from magnets, the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 may be formed from a metal or resin material, and magnets may be embedded in the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 that is made of a metal or resin material. In other words, the lid 312 may be made from a material that includes magnets. Furthermore, even if both the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 and the lid recoverers 216, 216a are formed from magnets, both the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 and the lid recoverers 216, 216a may be formed from a metal or resin material, and magnets may be embedded in either the lid 312 of the evaporation prevention container 31 and the lid recoverers 216, 216a that are made from a metal or resin material. In other words, the top surfaces 2161, 2161a and the lid 312 may be made from a material that includes magnets.

[0113] [Variation 4] Furthermore, in the evaporation prevention container 31 according to the first to third embodiments described above, the lid 312 is housed in the installation hole H1 of the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31, thereby assisting in preventing the lid 312 from moving due to vibrations associated with the transport of the sample rack 32. However, a magnet may be embedded in the container body, and the lid 312 may be fixed to the container body 311 using the magnetic force of the magnet. Below, a modification in which this modification is applied to the first embodiment will be described as Modification 4, and the differences from the first embodiment will be explained, but this modification is also applicable to the second and third embodiments described above.

[0114] Figure 19 shows an example of the configuration of an evaporation prevention container 31 according to Modification 4. As shown in Figure 19(a), the evaporation prevention container 31a according to this modification includes a container body 311a and a lid 312a. The main body portion 3111a of the container body 311a according to this modification includes a magnet 111. Specifically, the magnet 111 is embedded in the main body portion 3111a of the container body 311a according to this modification. The lid 312a is made of a metal material. Also, as shown in Figure 19(a), the lid 312a includes a magnet 121. That is, the magnet 121 is embedded in the lid 312a. In this modification, the magnetic force of the magnet 111 embedded in the main body portion 3111a of the container body 311a is configured to be weaker than the magnetic force of the magnet 121 embedded in the lid 312a.

[0115] Then, as shown in Figure 19(b), the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 upward at the lid retrieval position, thereby bringing the lid 312a into contact with the upper surface 2161 of the lid retrieval unit 216, and retrieving the lid 312a into the lid retrieval unit 216. Then, as shown in Figure 19(c), the movement control function 92 controls the transport mechanism 2032 to move the sample rack 32 downward. At this time, since the magnetic force of the magnet 111 is configured to be weaker than the magnetic force of the magnet 121, the lid 312a is removed from the container body 311a and retrieved into the lid retrieval unit 216.

[0116] In the evaporation prevention container 31 according to the above-described modification, the container body 311a and the lid 312a are fixed by embedding a magnet 111 in the container body 311a. However, instead of providing the magnet 111 in the container body 311a, the magnet 111 for fixing to the container body 311 may be embedded in the lid 312a. In other words, the lid 312a may be provided with a magnet 121 for collection by the lid recovery device 216 and a magnet 111 for fixing to the container body 311.

[0117] [Variation 5] In the evaporation prevention container 31 according to the first to third embodiments described above, the lid 312 can also be made into a different shape. Figure 20 shows an example of another shape for the lid. As shown in Figure 20, the lid 312b comprises a lid body 312b_1 and a protrusion 312b_2 provided at the bottom of the lid body 312b_1. As shown in Figure 20, the lid 312b may be attached to the container body 311 such that the protrusion 312b_2 is housed in the mounting hole H1, the lower surface of the protrusion contacts the upper surface of the sample container 33, and the lower surface of the lid body 312b_1 contacts the upper surface of the main body portion 3111 of the container body 311. With this shape of the lid 312b shown in Figure 20, it is possible to prevent the lid 312b from shifting relative to the container body 311 due to vibrations during transport of the evaporation prevention container 31.

[0118] [Variation 6] In the evaporation prevention container 31 according to the first to third embodiments described above, the evaporation prevention container can also be made into other shapes. Figure 21 shows an example of another shape of the evaporation prevention container. As shown in Figure 21, the evaporation prevention container 31a has a smaller outer shape of the main body portion 3111b of the container body 311b, and the sample container 33 can be installed in the evaporation prevention container 31a so that the top of the sample container 33 catches on the upper surface of the main body portion 3111b of the container body 311b of the evaporation prevention container 31a. Also, as shown in Figure 21, the lid 312c covers the top of the sample container 33, that is, the opening of the sample container 33 is covered by attaching a lid that covers the top surface and upper sides of the top of the sample container 33. Even with the shape of the evaporation prevention container 31a shown in Figure 21, it is possible to prevent the lid 312c from shifting relative to the container body 311b due to vibrations during transport of the evaporation prevention container 31a.

[0119] [Variation 7] In the first to third embodiments described above, the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31 is configured to be insertable into the sample rack 32. However, the container body 311 of the evaporation prevention container 31 can also be integrally formed with respect to the sample rack 32. The case in which this modification is applied to the first embodiment described above will be referred to as Modification 7, and the parts that differ from the first embodiment described above will be explained. Figure 22 is a diagram showing an example of a sample rack according to Modification 7. As shown in Figure 22, the sample rack 32a comprises a sample rack body 321 and an evaporation prevention container 322. This sample rack 32a corresponds to the evaporation prevention rack according to this modification.

[0120] The sample rack body 321 is configured to accommodate a sample container 33. Specifically, as shown in Figure 22, the sample rack body 321 in this modified example has four openings into which a sample container 33 can be placed. Furthermore, the sample rack body 321 in this modified example has the container body 3221 of the evaporation prevention container 322 integrally formed, and the sample container can be placed via the container body 3221.

[0121] The evaporation prevention container 322 is a container that prevents the evaporation of the sample contained in the sample container 33. As shown in Figure 22, the evaporation prevention container 322 according to this modified example comprises a container body 3221 and a lid 3222. The configuration of the lid 3222 is the same as that of the lid 312 according to the first embodiment described above, so its explanation is omitted.

[0122] The container body 3221 is integrally formed with the sample rack body 321 and is configured to accommodate a sample container. The container body 3221 has mounting holes for accommodating the sample container. The configuration of the container body 3221 other than that described above is the same as that of the container body 311 in the first embodiment described above, so a description is omitted. As described above, even if the sample container is left on the sample rack 32a for a period of time, evaporation of the sample can be prevented.

[0123] In the modified sample rack 32a, four openings for placing sample containers and one container body 3221 for placing sample containers are formed, but the number of openings and container bodies 3221 formed in the sample rack 32a is not limited to this. That is, the number of openings and container bodies 311b formed in the sample rack 32a is arbitrary, and it is sufficient that at least one container body 3221 is formed.

[0124] [Other variations] In the evaporation prevention container 31 according to the first to third embodiments, an elastic member may be provided on the lid 312 or the container body 311. Specifically, an elastic member may be provided on the side or bottom surface of the lid 312, or on the top or inner side surface of the container body 311. By providing an elastic member on the lid or the container body 311 in this way, evaporation of the sample from the sample container 33 can be further prevented, that is, the airtightness of the evaporation prevention container 31 can be improved. The elastic member can be any member that has elasticity, and the material is not particularly limited; it can be a single material or a mixture. For example, various resins such as rubber and silicone, and composite materials thereof can be used as elastic members.

[0125] The automated analyzer 1 of the first to third embodiments described above has been described as an automated analyzer for performing biochemical tests, but the embodiments are not limited to this. In other words, the first to third embodiments can also be applied to automated analyzers for performing blood coagulation analysis tests, immunoassays, and various chromatographic analyses.

[0126] Furthermore, although the automated analyzer 1 of the first to third embodiments described above has been explained in the case where a two-reagent system of test items is applied, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, a one-reagent system of test items may also be applied. In this case, neither the first reagent nor the second reagent is present and is not dispensed.

[0127] In the above explanation, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor functions by reading and executing a program stored in the memory circuit 8. Alternatively, instead of storing the program in the memory circuit 8, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuitry. In this case, the processor functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuitry. The processor is not limited to being a single circuit; it may also be composed of multiple independent circuits combined to form a single processor and achieve its functions. Furthermore, the multiple components shown in Figure 1 may be integrated into a single processor to achieve its functions.

[0128] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and methods described herein can be implemented in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments of the apparatus and methods described herein, without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and equivalents are intended to include such embodiments and modifications that are included in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0129] 1...Automatic analyzer, 2...Analysis mechanism, 3...Analysis circuit, 4...Drive mechanism, 5...Input interface, 6...Output interface, 7...Communication interface, 8...Memory circuit, 9...Control circuit, 31, 31a...Evaporation prevention container, 32, 32a...Sample rack, 33...Sample container, 91...System control function, 92, 92a...Movement control function, 93...Magnetic force generation control function, 111...Magnet, 121...Magnet, 201...Reaction disk, 202...Constant temperature section, 203...Rack sampler, 203a...Rack sampler, 204...First reagent storage 205...Second reagent storage, 206...Sample dispensing arm, 207...Sample dispensing probe, 208...First reagent dispensing arm, 209...First reagent dispensing probe, 210...Second reagent dispensing arm, 211...Second reagent dispensing probe, 212...First stirring unit, 213...Second stirring unit, 214...Photometric unit, 215...Washing unit, 216, 216a...Lid retriever, 217...Moving mechanism, 311, 311a, 311b...Container body, 312, 312a, 312b, 312c...Lid, 312b_1...Lid body, 312b_2...Protrusion

Claims

1. A container body that can accommodate a sample container for holding a sample, and that can be inserted into the opening of a sample rack on which the sample container is placed, A lid that covers the opening of the sample container installed on the container body and is removable using magnetic force, An evaporation-preventing container equipped with the following features.

2. The evaporation prevention container according to claim 1, wherein the container body has an installation hole formed therein for installing the sample container.

3. The lid is fixed to the container body using magnetic force, as described in claim 1, for the evaporation prevention container.

4. The lid is formed of a metal material that reacts to magnetic force, as described in claim 1, for the evaporation prevention container.

5. The lid is formed of a material containing a magnet, as described in claim 1, for the evaporation prevention container.

6. The container body comprises a main body portion on which the sample container can be placed and an insertion portion that can be inserted into the opening of the sample rack. The evaporation prevention container according to claim 1, wherein the outer diameter of the main body is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the insertion portion.

7. A lid retrieval unit for retrieving a lid that covers the opening of a sample container and is removable using magnetic force, which is installed in an evaporation prevention container that prevents evaporation of the sample contained in the sample container containing the sample, The lid collection unit or the moving unit that moves the lid in the vertical direction, An automated analyzer equipped with the following features.

8. The automatic analyzer according to claim 7, wherein the lid retrieval unit has an upper surface portion provided above the lid retrieval position, which is the position for retrieving the lid, and a side portion extending downward from the upper surface portion.

9. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the upper surface portion is formed by a magnet.

10. The aforementioned magnet is an electromagnet, The automatic analyzer according to claim 9, further comprising a magnetic force generation control unit that controls the generation of magnetic force by the electromagnet so that the electromagnet generates magnetic force when the evaporation prevention container equipped with the lid is located in the lid retrieval position.

11. The automatic analyzer according to claim 10, wherein the magnetic force generation control unit controls the generation of the magnetic force of the electromagnet so as to stop the generation of the magnetic force of the electromagnet when the evaporation prevention container in which the sample container, in which the sample has been aspirated, is placed is in the lid collection position.

12. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the upper surface portion is formed of a metallic material that reacts to magnetic force.

13. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the moving unit moves the evaporation prevention container located at the lid collection position upward, thereby moving the lid upward and allowing the lid to be collected by the lid collection unit.

14. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the moving part moves the lid collection unit downward when the evaporation prevention container is located at the lid collection position, and the lid is collected by the lid collection unit.

15. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, further comprising a transport mechanism for transporting the evaporation prevention container at the lid retrieval position.

16. An evaporation prevention container for preventing the evaporation of the sample contained in the sample container that holds the sample, An automated analysis system comprising an automated analyzer for analyzing a sample contained in a sample container installed in the evaporation prevention container, The aforementioned evaporation prevention container is A container body on which the sample container can be installed and which can be inserted into the opening of a sample rack on which the sample container is placed, The container body is equipped with a lid that covers the opening of the sample container and is removable using magnetic force, The aforementioned automated analyzer is A lid collection unit for collecting the aforementioned lid, The system includes the lid collection unit or the moving unit for moving the lid in the vertical direction, Automated analysis system.

17. A sample rack body on which sample containers for storing samples can be installed, An evaporation prevention container comprising a container body integrally formed with the sample rack body and capable of holding the sample container, and a lid that covers the opening of the sample container placed on the container body and is removable using magnetic force, Evaporation prevention rack equipped with this feature.

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