Automatic analysis device

Abstract

To automatically collect water blank data for all reaction vessels without affecting measurement processing.SOLUTION: An automatic analysis apparatus includes reaction vessel moving means, first dispensing means, second dispensing means, detector, storage means, and control means. The reaction vessel moving means movably holds a plurality of reaction vessels. The first dispensing means dispenses an analyte into the reaction vessels. The second dispensing means dispenses a reagent into the reaction vessels. The detector detects light transmitted through the reaction vessel by irradiating the reaction vessel with light. The storage means stores a test order. The control means controls the reaction vessel moving means, the first dispensing means, and the second dispensing means, on the basis of the test order. The control means determines the reaction vessel used for measuring the analyte on the basis of the test order, and controls to collect water blank data by dispensing water into the reaction vessels not used for measuring the analyte while the analyte is measured.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION An embodiment of the present invention relates to an automated analyzer. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, automated analyzers have been used in medical institutions to automatically measure the concentration and activity of various components in test samples collected from subjects. For example, automated analyzers mix a test sample, such as blood, urine, feces, or somatic cells, with a reagent appropriate for the test item, and measure the concentration and activity of a desired component by detecting changes in the optical properties of the mixed solution.

[0003] In an automated analyzer, in order to diagnose hardware abnormalities in a reaction system, water blank data is collected by filling a reaction vessel with only water and measuring the photometry. For example, a user's instruction is used as a trigger to cause a reagent probe to dispense wash water into a target reaction vessel, and the reaction vessel is then measured for photometry, thereby collecting water blank data for that reaction vessel. Furthermore, for example, a specific reaction vessel among multiple reaction vessels may be designated as a reaction vessel for collecting water blank data, and that reaction vessel may not be used for measuring a test sample, but wash water may always be dispensed into the reaction vessel to collect water blank data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-105239 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-101311 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to automatically collect water blank data for all reaction vessels without affecting the measurement process. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The automated analyzer according to the embodiment comprises a reaction vessel moving means, a first aliquot dispensing means, a second aliquot dispensing means, a detection unit, a memory means, and a control means. The reaction vessel moving means movably holds a plurality of reaction vessels. The first aliquot dispensing means dispenses a sample into the reaction vessel. The second aliquot dispensing means dispenses a reagent into the reaction vessel. The detection unit irradiates the reaction vessel with light and detects the transmitted light. The memory means stores a test order. The control means controls the reaction vessel moving means, the first aliquot dispensing means, and the second aliquot dispensing means based on the test order. The control means determines a reaction vessel in which a sample will be measured based on the test order, and controls the system so that, during the sample measurement, water is dispensed into a reaction vessel in which the sample will not be measured to collect water blank data. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining collection of water blank data in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining collection of water blank data in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of a water blank data retention table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a water blank data retention table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of a graph display of water blank data according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of a graph display of water blank data according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An automatic analyzer according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the automatic analyzer according to the present application is not limited to the following embodiment. Furthermore, the embodiment can be combined with other embodiments or conventional techniques as long as there is no contradiction in the processing content.

[0009] (First embodiment) An example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment will be described using Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, for example, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, a drive mechanism 3, an input interface 4, a display 5, a printer 6, a memory circuit 7, and a processing circuit 8. The analysis mechanism 2, drive mechanism 3, input interface 4, display 5, printer 6, memory circuit 7, and processing circuit 8 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other.

[0010] The analysis mechanism 2 includes various units for performing automatic analysis, and executes a series of operations related to the measurement of predetermined components contained in a test sample (specimen) according to a preset cycle time using a drive mechanism 3. The cycle time is one of the parameters that determine the measurement throughput of the automatic analyzer 1 (the number of tests that can be measured in a certain period of time).

[0011] The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a test sample collected from a subject with a reagent corresponding to a desired test item. The analysis mechanism 2 then measures the optical properties of the mixture of the test sample and the reagent, and generates test data expressed, for example, as absorbance. The analysis mechanism 2 also mixes a standard sample corresponding to a predetermined test item with a reagent corresponding to the test item. Here, the standard sample is, for example, a solution in which the concentration or activity of a component to be analyzed in the test item is known. The analysis mechanism 2 measures the optical properties of the mixture of the standard sample and the reagent, and generates standard data expressed, for example, as absorbance. The generated test data and standard data are output to the processing circuit 8. Note that, hereinafter, the test sample and standard sample may be collectively referred to as "sample" or "sample." Measuring optical properties may also be referred to as "photometry."

[0012] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 includes a reaction disk 201, a sample disk 202, a first reagent storage 203, a reagent container rack 203a, a reader 203b, a second reagent storage 204, a reagent container rack 204a, and a reader 204b. The analysis mechanism 2 also includes a sample dispensing arm 205, a sample dispensing probe 206, a first reagent dispensing arm 207, a first reagent dispensing probe 208, a second reagent dispensing arm 209, a second reagent dispensing probe 210, a first stirring unit 211, and a second stirring unit 212. The analysis mechanism 2 also includes a photometry unit 220 and a cleaning unit 230.

[0013] The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction vessels 2011 arranged in a ring shape. The reaction disk 201 is driven by a drive mechanism 3 to alternately rotate and stop at a predetermined time interval set as a cycle time. As the reaction disk 201 rotates and stops in this manner, the reaction vessels 2011 held on the reaction disk are moved, for example, in a predetermined direction by a predetermined angle. The reaction vessels 2011 are made of, for example, glass. The reaction disk 201 is an example of a reaction vessel moving means.

[0014] The sample disk 202 holds a plurality of sample containers 100 containing samples, and is rotated by a drive mechanism 3 .

[0015] The first reagent storage 203 keeps reagent containers 101, which contain a first reagent that reacts with a predetermined component contained in each of the standard sample and the test sample, cool. The first reagent storage 203 holds a plurality of reagent containers 101 in a circular arrangement using a reagent container rack 203a. The reagent container rack 203a is rotated by the drive mechanism 3 around the center of the first reagent storage 203. As the reagent container rack 203a rotates and stops, the reagent containers 101 are rotated and stopped for each cycle time with their back surfaces facing outward from the first reagent storage 203. As a result, the reagent containers 101, which contain the first reagent required for the test items instructed by the processing circuit 8, are moved to a predetermined position, for example, a position where the reagent is aspirated.

[0016] The reagent containers 101 held in the reagent container rack 203a contain, for example, a first reagent used in a basic test item. Here, a basic test item is, for example, a test item that is requested for almost all samples and is a test item that is frequently requested. For example, basic test items include test items that are commonly requested for all examinees in health checkups, etc. As an example, basic test items include GOT (Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase), GPT (Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase), HDL (High Density Lipoprotein), LDH (Low Density Lipoprotein), and Cre (Creatinine), etc.

[0017] Such basic test items are set in advance. In such a case, for example, a basic test item list indicating which test items are basic test items is stored in advance in the memory circuitry 7. Here, the basic test item list includes, for example, character strings representing the names of the test items that are basic test items. Note that the test items included in the basic test item list may be set by the operator via the input interface 4.

[0018] The reagent container 101 is provided with a recording medium on which identification information and the like of the reagent contained in the reagent container 101 are recorded. Here, the identification information of the reagent includes, for example, the name of the reagent, the name of the test item corresponding to the reagent, the lot number, the type of reagent container, the expiration date of the reagent, and the like. The recording medium is, for example, an optically readable optical mark, an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) tag that can be read by wireless communication, or the like. The optical mark is a mark that encodes the identification information and the like of the reagent contained in the reagent container 101, such as a barcode, a one-dimensional pixel code, or a two-dimensional pixel code.

[0019] The reader 203b is provided near the outside of the first reagent storage 203 so that it can read the optical mark attached to the back of the reagent container 101 held in the reagent container rack 203a through a detection window provided on the outer wall of the first reagent storage 203.

[0020] For example, when a reagent container 101 is loaded into the reagent container rack 203a, the reader 203b is triggered by a reading start instruction from the processing circuitry 8 to read the optical mark attached to the reagent container 101. The reader 203b supplies the processing circuitry 8 with the reagent identification information written on the read optical mark.

[0021] The second reagent storage 204 keeps reagent containers 102, which contain a second reagent that pairs with a first reagent in a two-reagent system, cool, for example. The second reagent storage 204 holds a plurality of reagent containers 102 in a circular arrangement using a reagent container rack 204a. The reagent container rack 204a is rotated by the drive mechanism 3 around the center of the second reagent storage 204. As the reagent container rack 204a rotates and stops, the reagent containers 102, like the reagent containers 101, are rotated and stopped for each cycle time with their back surfaces facing outward from the second reagent storage 204. As a result, the reagent containers 102, which contain the second reagent required for the order of test items instructed by the processing circuit 8, are moved to a predetermined position, for example, a position where the reagent is aspirated.

[0022] The reagent containers 102 held in the reagent container rack 204a include those containing, for example, a second reagent used in a basic test item.

[0023] The reagent container 102 is provided with a recording medium on which identification information and the like of the reagent contained in the reagent container 102 is recorded. The recording medium is, for example, an optically readable optical mark, an RFID tag that can be read by wireless communication, or the like.

[0024] The reader 204b is provided near the outside of the second reagent storage 204 so that it can read the optical marks on the back of the reagent containers 102 held in the reagent container rack 204a through a detection window provided on the outer wall of the second reagent storage 204.

[0025] For example, when a reagent container 102 is loaded into the reagent container rack 204a, the reader 204b is triggered by a reading start instruction from the processing circuitry 8 to read the optical mark attached to the reagent container 102. The reader 204b supplies the processing circuitry 8 with the reagent identification information written on the read optical mark.

[0026] The sample dispensing arm 205 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the sample disk 202 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The sample dispensing arm 205 holds a sample dispensing probe 206 at one end. The sample dispensing arm 205 is moved up and down and rotated by a drive mechanism 3. The sample dispensing probe 206 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path as the sample dispensing arm 205 rotates. A sample suction position where the sample dispensing probe 206 aspirates a sample from a sample container 100 is set on this rotational path. In addition, a sample discharge position where the sample dispensing probe 206 discharges the aspirated sample into the reaction container 2011 is set at a position different from the sample suction position on the rotational path and on the rotational path of the reaction container 2011.

[0027] The sample dispensing probe 206 is driven by the drive mechanism 3 and moves up and down between a sample suction position and a sample discharge position. The sample dispensing probe 206 also aspirates a sample from a sample container 100 positioned at the sample suction position under the control of the processing circuit 8. The sample dispensing probe 206 also discharges the aspirated sample into a reaction container 2011 positioned at the sample discharge position under the control of the processing circuit 8. The sample dispensing probe 206 can also discharge cleaning water into a reaction container 2011 positioned at the sample discharge position. Here, cleaning water refers to water for cleaning the inner surface of the sample dispensing probe 206. The sample dispensing probe 206 is an example of a first dispensing means.

[0028] The first reagent dispensing arm 207 is provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The first reagent dispensing arm 207 holds a first reagent dispensing probe 208 at one end. The first reagent dispensing arm 207 is moved up and down and rotated by the drive mechanism 3. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational orbit as the first reagent dispensing arm 207 rotates.

[0029] On this rotation orbit, a first reagent aspirating position where the first reagent dispensing probe 208 aspirates a first reagent corresponding to each test item from a reagent container 101 placed in the first reagent storage 203, and a first reagent dispensing position where the aspirated first reagent is dispensed into a reaction container 2011 are set. The rotation orbit of the first reagent dispensing probe 208 intersects with the rotation orbit of the reagent container 101 held in the reagent container rack 203a in the first reagent storage 203 and the rotation orbit of the reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201. The intersections with the respective rotation orbits are the first reagent aspirating position and the first reagent dispensing position.

[0030] The first reagent dispensing probe 208 is driven by the drive mechanism 3 and moves up and down between a first reagent aspirating position and a first reagent dispensing position on the rotation orbit. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 also aspirates the first reagent from the reagent container 101 located at the first reagent aspirating position under the control of the processing circuit 8. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 also dispenses the aspirated first reagent into the reaction container 2011 located at the first reagent dispensing position under the control of the processing circuit 8. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 can also dispense cleaning water into the reaction container 2011 located at the first reagent dispensing position. Here, the cleaning water is water for cleaning the inner surface of the first reagent dispensing probe 208.

[0031] The second reagent dispensing arm 209 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the second reagent storage 204 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction. The second reagent dispensing arm 209 holds a second reagent dispensing probe 210 at one end. The second reagent dispensing arm 209 is moved up and down and rotated by the drive mechanism 3. The second reagent dispensing probe 210 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation path as the second reagent dispensing arm 209 rotates.

[0032] On this rotation orbit, a second reagent aspirating position where the second reagent dispensing probe 210 aspirates a second reagent corresponding to each test item from a reagent container 102 held in a reagent container rack 204a arranged in the second reagent storage 204, and a second reagent dispensing position where the aspirated second reagent is dispensed into a reaction container 2011 are set. The rotation orbit of the second reagent dispensing probe 210 intersects with the rotation orbit of the reagent container 102 held in the reagent container rack 204a in the second reagent storage 204 and the rotation orbit of the reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201. The intersections with the respective rotation orbits are the second reagent aspirating position and the second reagent dispensing position.

[0033] The second reagent dispensing probe 210 is driven by the drive mechanism 3 and moves up and down between a second reagent aspirating position and a second reagent dispensing position on the rotation orbit. The second reagent dispensing probe 210 aspirates the second reagent from the reagent container 102 positioned at the second reagent aspirating position under the control of the processing circuit 8. The second reagent dispensing probe 210 also dispenses the aspirated second reagent into the reaction container 2011 positioned at the second reagent dispensing position under the control of the processing circuit 8. The second reagent dispensing probe 210 can also dispense cleaning water into the reaction container 2011 positioned at the second reagent dispensing position. The cleaning water is water for cleaning the inner surface of the second reagent dispensing probe 210. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 and the second reagent dispensing probe 210 are examples of second dispensing means.

[0034] The first stirring unit 211 and the second stirring unit 212 are provided near the outer periphery of the reaction disk 201. The first stirring unit 211 has a first stirring arm and a first stirring bar provided at the tip of the first stirring arm. The first stirring unit 211 uses the first stirring bar to stir the sample and first reagent contained in a reaction vessel 2011 placed at a first stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

[0035] The second stirring unit 212 further includes a second stirring arm and a second stirring bar attached to the tip of the second stirring arm. The second stirring unit 212 uses the second stirring bar to stir the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction vessel 2011 placed at the second stirring position on the reaction disk 201.

[0036] The photometry unit 220 is provided near the photometry position. The photometry position is set in advance on the reaction disk 201. The photometry unit 220 optically measures the components of the mixed liquid or the like contained in the reaction vessel 2011. The photometry unit 220 has a light source and a photodetector. The light source and the photodetector are provided at positions facing each other across the reaction vessel 2011 located at the photometry position.

[0037] The photometric unit 220 emits light from a light source under the control of the processing circuit 8. The photodetector detects the light emitted from the light source, for example, at a sampling period synchronized with the cycle time. This detects the light that has passed through the mixed liquid discharged into the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector generates standard data or test data expressed, for example, as absorbance, based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit 220 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the processing circuit 8. The photometric unit 220 is an example of a detection means.

[0038] The cleaning unit 230 includes a waste liquid nozzle, a cleaning nozzle, and a drying nozzle. The cleaning unit 230 uses the waste liquid nozzle to suck the mixed liquid from the reaction vessel 2011 positioned at the reaction vessel cleaning position as waste liquid. The cleaning unit 230 uses the cleaning nozzle to eject cleaning liquid into the reaction vessel 2011 positioned at the reaction vessel cleaning position, thereby cleaning the reaction vessel 2011. The cleaning unit 230 uses the drying nozzle to supply dry air to the reaction vessel 2011, thereby drying the reaction vessel 2011 that has been cleaned with the cleaning liquid.

[0039] 1, the drive mechanism 3 is realized by a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, etc. The drive mechanism 3 drives the analysis mechanism 2 based on the control of the processing circuit 8.

[0040] The input interface 120 is connected to the processing circuitry 8 and converts input operations received from a user into electrical signals and outputs the signals to the processing circuitry 8. For example, the input interface 4 may be realized by a trackball, switch buttons, a mouse, a keyboard, a touchpad that performs input operations by touching the operation surface, a touchscreen that integrates a display screen and a touchpad, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit, or the like. Note that the input interface 4 is not limited to those that have physical operation components such as a mouse or keyboard. For example, an example of the input interface 4 also includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device provided separately from the automated analyzer 1 and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuitry 8. For example, the input interface 4 receives settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a sample.

[0041] The display 5 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that allows the operator to input various setting requests using the input interface 11, and displays analysis data that shows the analysis results obtained by the automatic analyzer 10. For example, the display 140 is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, a touch panel, or the like.

[0042] The printer 6 prints the analysis data and the like supplied from the processing circuit 8 on printer paper or the like in accordance with a preset format.

[0043] The memory circuitry 7 stores various programs for performing automatic analysis and information used by the programs. The memory circuitry 7 also stores test orders and processing results by the processing circuitry 8. For example, the memory circuitry 7 stores water blank data for each reaction vessel 2011 and analysis data indicating the analysis results by the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the memory circuitry 13 is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The memory circuitry 7 is an example of a storage means.

[0044] The processing circuitry 8 controls the overall processing of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the processing circuitry 8 reads out and executes a control function 81, an analysis function 82, and a display control function 83 from the storage circuitry 7, thereby causing the automatic analyzer 1 to collect test data, obtain analytical data based on the test data, and display the analytical data. For example, the processing circuitry is realized by a processor. The control function 81 is an example of a control means. The display control function 83 is an example of a display control means.

[0045] In this embodiment, it is assumed that each of the processing functions described below is realized by a single processing circuit 8, but it is also possible to configure a processing circuit by combining multiple independent processors and realize the functions by each processor executing a program.

[0046] The control function 81 controls each component of the automated analyzer 1 in response to input operations received from an operator via the input interface 4. For example, the control function 81 controls the drive mechanism 3 to control the driving of each component in the analysis mechanism 2. The control function 81 also controls the photometry unit 220 to control the irradiation of light from the light source and the generation of standard data and test data by the photodetector. The control function 81 also controls the cleaning unit 230 to control the cleaning of the reaction vessel.

[0047] For example, the control function 81 controls each unit of the analysis mechanism 2 based on the test order to generate standard data and test data. The standard data and test data generated by the control function 81 are output to the analysis function 82, which generates analytical data. Here, the control function 81 controls to generate cell blank data used when generating analytical data. Here, the cell blank data is data for correcting variations among the reaction vessels 2011, and is generated by photometry of the reaction vessels into which water has been dispensed.

[0048] For example, the control function 81 washes the reaction vessel 2011 used to generate the standard data and test data, and then dispenses water into the washed reaction vessel 2011 to generate cell blank data. As an example, the control function 81 controls the washing unit 230 to suck in the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011 positioned at the reaction vessel washing position as waste liquid, and to discharge washing liquid into the reaction vessel 2011 positioned at the reaction vessel washing position to wash the reaction vessel 2011. Thereafter, the control function 81 discharges washing water into the washed reaction vessel 2011, and causes the photometric unit 220 to generate cell blank data represented by absorbance.

[0049] The control function 81 stores the generated cell blank data in the memory circuitry 7 in association with the ID of the reaction vessel 2011. The cell blank data stored in the memory circuitry 7 is used when generating analytical data from the standard data and test data generated by photometry using the corresponding reaction vessel 2011.

[0050] Furthermore, the control function 81 according to this embodiment controls the generation of water blank data for each reaction vessel 2011. The generation of water blank data by the control function 81 will be described in detail later. The above-described cell blank data is also used in the generation of water blank data.

[0051] The analysis function 82 generates analytical data using the cell blank data, the standard data, and the test data. For example, the analysis function 82 first subtracts the cell blank data from the standard data and test data generated for each reaction vessel 2011. That is, the analysis function 82 reads out the cell blank data stored in association with the ID of the reaction vessel 2011 that generated the standard data, and subtracts it from the standard data. Similarly, the analysis function 82 reads out the cell blank data stored in association with the ID of the reaction vessel 2011 that generated the test data, and subtracts it from the test data. This makes it possible to eliminate errors in photometric values ​​due to variations between reaction vessels 2011.

[0052] The analysis function 82 then generates a calibration curve corresponding to the test item based on the standard data. Here, the calibration curve is a graph that shows the relationship between the concentration or activity of the component analyzed in the test item and optical properties such as absorbance. For example, the analysis function 82 plots absorbance corresponding to each of a plurality of concentrations and generates a calibration curve based on the least squares method or the like. The analysis function 82 then applies the absorbance related to the test data to the generated calibration curve, thereby generating analytical data that shows the concentration or activity of the component corresponding to the absorbance. The analysis function 82 stores the generated analytical data in the memory circuitry 7.

[0053] The display control function 83 displays the processing results by the control function 81 and the analysis function 82 on the display 5. For example, the display control function 83 displays information on the analysis data generated by the analysis function 82 and the water blank data generated by the control function 81 on the display 5.

[0054] The overall configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment has been described above. With this configuration, the automatic analyzer 1 can automatically collect water blank data for all reaction vessels without affecting the measurement process. Specifically, while performing the measurement process, the automatic analyzer 1 collects water blank data for reaction vessels 2011 in which no test sample has been measured, thereby automatically collecting water blank data for all reaction vessels without affecting the measurement process.

[0055] As described above, a user instruction triggers the discharge of cleaning water into a target reaction vessel, and the reaction vessel is then photometrically measured, thereby collecting water blank data for that reaction vessel. However, in this case, the user must issue an instruction to collect water blank data, which places a heavy burden on the user in collecting water blank data for all reaction vessels. Furthermore, in this case, the target reaction vessel cannot be used for measurement, resulting in a significant decrease in measurement processing performance.

[0056] Furthermore, if a specific reaction vessel among multiple reaction vessels is designated as the reaction vessel for collecting water blank data, only the water blank data of the specific reaction vessel can be collected, making it impossible to deal with problems occurring in vessels other than the specific reaction vessel. Furthermore, the measurement processing performance decreases as the number of reaction vessels designated as reaction vessels for collecting water blank data increases.

[0057] Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment automatically collects water blank data for a reaction vessel 2011 to which no sample has been dispensed by dispensing water into the reaction vessel 2011 and measuring the photometry while performing a measurement process.

[0058] Specifically, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 to be used for sample measurement based on the test order, or to dispense water into the reaction vessel 2011 to collect water blank data. Here, after determining that the reaction vessel 2011 will be used for sample measurement based on the test order, the control function 81 determines again whether or not to use the reaction vessel 2011 for sample measurement based on the usage status of the reaction vessel 2011 or the sample measurement results using the reaction vessel 2011, and the water blank data, and if it is determined that the reaction vessel 2011 will be used for measurement again, the control function controls the reaction vessel 2011 to be used for sample measurement, or to dispense water into the reaction vessel 2011 for which sample measurement will not be performed to collect water blank data.

[0059] That is, when measurement starts, the control function 81 determines whether or not a sample is to be dispensed for each reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201 by determining whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied. Then, the control function 81 collects water blank data by dispensing water into reaction vessels 2011 into which a sample is not to be dispensed. Here, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 into which water has been dispensed so that photometry is performed for that reaction vessel 2011 each time the reaction vessel 2011 passes the photometry unit 220 until the reaction vessel 2011 reaches the cleaning unit 230. That is, the control function 81 rotates the reaction disk 201 a fixed amount per cycle time to move the reaction vessel 2011, and performs photometry each time the reaction vessel 2011 passes the photometry unit 220, thereby collecting multiple water blank data for one reaction vessel 2011.

[0060] Below, an example of the conditions for determining whether or not to dispense a sample will be described. For example, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which water blank data has not been collected for a predetermined period of time so that sample measurement is not performed and water blank data is collected. That is, the control function 81 calculates the period of time that has elapsed since the previous collection of water blank data for the reaction vessel 2011, and if the calculated period of time exceeds a predetermined threshold, it determines that sample measurement is not performed and that water blank data is to be collected. The threshold for the period of time can be set arbitrarily, for example, to 4 to 5 hours.

[0061] Furthermore, for example, the control function 81 determines whether the collected water blank data is normal or abnormal, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 determined to be abnormal to not measure a sample and to collect water blank data. As described above, the control function 81 collects multiple pieces of water blank data for one reaction vessel 2011. Therefore, to determine whether the water blank data is good or bad, the control function 81 determines, for example, whether the variability in the water blank data for the reaction vessel 2011 exceeds a separately specified threshold, and if the variability in the water blank data exceeds the threshold, does not use the reaction vessel 2011 for measurement and collects water blank data again.

[0062] As an example, the control function 81 calculates the coefficient of variation (CV) of a plurality of pieces of water blank data, and if the calculated coefficient of variation exceeds a predetermined range, the reaction vessel 2011 is not used for measurement, and water blank data is collected again. Note that the predetermined range can be set arbitrarily. Furthermore, the index for determining the variation in data is not limited to the coefficient of variation described above, and any index can be used as long as it can determine the variation in data. In this way, it is possible to avoid measuring a sample using a reaction vessel 2011 that may be abnormal, and to collect water blank data again.

[0063] Furthermore, for example, the control function 81 determines whether the collection of cell blank data was successful based on the collected water blank data, and controls the collection of water blank data without performing sample measurement for the reaction vessel 2011 for which the collection of cell blank data failed. As described above, the automated analyzer 1 collects cell blank data that serves as a basis for calculating standard data and test data. The cell blank data is also used to calculate the water blank data. That is, the control function 81 calculates the water blank data by subtracting the cell blank data from the photometric value obtained by photometry of the reaction vessel 2011 into which water has been dispensed.

[0064] Here, the control function 81 collects multiple pieces of water blank data by calculating the difference between the cell blank data and multiple photometric values ​​obtained for the reaction vessel 2011 into which water has been dispensed. The control function 81 determines whether the collection of the cell blank data has been successful by determining the accuracy of the cell blank data based on the multiple pieces of water blank data collected as described above. For example, the control function 81 determines that the collection of the cell blank data has failed if an unnatural offset occurs in the multiple pieces of water blank data (for example, if all of the multiple pieces of water blank data have a large negative value).

[0065] Then, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which collection of cell blank data has failed to perform sample measurement and collects water blank data, thereby making it possible to avoid measuring a sample using a reaction vessel 2011 that may be abnormal.

[0066] Furthermore, for example, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 in which the number of sample measurements after collection of water blank data exceeds a predetermined number, so that sample measurement is not performed and water blank data is collected. That is, the control function 81 calculates the number of sample measurements performed for the reaction vessel 2011 after the previous collection of water blank data, and if the calculated number of measurements exceeds a predetermined threshold, it decides not to perform sample measurement and to collect water blank data. The threshold for the number of measurements can be set arbitrarily. This makes it possible to determine the accumulation of dirt in the reaction vessel 2011, etc.

[0067] Furthermore, for example, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 into which a predetermined reagent has been dispensed so that sample measurement is not performed and water blank data is collected. As one example, if a reagent that may contaminate the reaction vessel 2011 (for example, a highly viscous reagent) was used in the previous measurement, the control function 81 collects water blank data before using the reaction vessel 2011 for sample measurement. In other words, by collecting water blank data before using the reaction vessel 2011 for sample measurement, the control function 81 can determine whether or not contamination is present in the reaction vessel 2011, and can then perform sample measurement using the reaction vessel 2011 after confirming that no contamination is present. The reagent for which sample measurement is not performed and water blank data is collected can be set arbitrarily.

[0068] In the above example, a case has been described in which water blank data is collected without measuring a sample in a reaction vessel 2011 into which a predetermined reagent has been dispensed. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and a case in which water blank data is collected without measuring a sample when the previously performed test item is a predetermined item is also possible. In other words, since the reagent to be used is determined depending on the test item, it is also possible to control the collection of water blank data based on the test item.

[0069] In such a case, the control function 81 identifies the test item that was measured last time based on the test order, and if the identified test item is a specified item, it does not measure the sample and collects water blank data.

[0070] Furthermore, the control function 81 determines whether the sample measurement results are abnormal, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which the sample measurement results are determined to be abnormal to not measure the sample and to collect water blank data. In other words, when the test data of the previously measured sample is abnormal, the control function 81 collects water blank data to determine whether the abnormal value was obtained despite the device operating normally, or whether the abnormal value was obtained in the test data due to an abnormality in the device.

[0071] For example, if the recollected water blank data shows normal values, it can be determined that the device is operating normally but is showing abnormal values.On the other hand, if the recollected water blank data shows abnormal values, it can be determined that there is a possibility of an abnormality in the device.

[0072] Furthermore, for example, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which the collected cell blank data is outside a predetermined range not to measure the sample, but to collect water blank data. That is, when the control function 81 determines that the cell blank data is abnormal, the water blank data is collected, and the user can check the value to determine whether there is a problem with the reaction vessel 2011 itself, or whether the value of the collected cell blank data is just abnormal. The predetermined range applied to the cell blank data can be set arbitrarily.

[0073] As described above, when measurement starts, the control function 81 determines whether or not to dispense a sample by determining the above conditions for each reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201, and collects water blank data by dispensing water into reaction vessels 2011 into which a sample is not to be dispensed. Note that the reaction vessels 2011 that do not satisfy the above conditions are used for measuring the sample.

[0074] An example of water blank data collection in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 are diagrams for explaining the collection of water blank data in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. Here, Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 are schematic diagrams of the reaction disk 201 as viewed from above. In Fig. 3, "S" indicates the sample discharging position on the reaction disk 201, "R1" indicates the first reagent discharging position, "R2" indicates the second reagent discharging position, and "MIX" indicates the mixing position.

[0075] In the following description, an automatic analyzer 1 will be described as an example in which 165 reaction vessels 2011 are held on the reaction disk 201, and the reaction vessels 2011 move 41 positions clockwise (CW) for each cycle time of 4.5 seconds. In the case of such an automatic analyzer 1, as shown in the upper diagram of FIG. 3, the control function 81 makes a determination based on the above-mentioned conditions for the reaction vessel 2011 located at the sample discharging position. That is, the control function 81 determines whether or not to discharge a sample into the reaction vessel 2011 located at the sample discharging position. Here, if it is determined that the sample should be discharged, the control function 81 causes the sample to be discharged into the reaction vessel 2011 located at the sample discharging position.

[0076] On the other hand, when it is determined that water blank data should be collected by discharging water instead of discharging sample, the control function 81 does not discharge sample into the reaction vessel 2011 at the sample discharging position, but moves the reaction vessel 2011 clockwise by 41 vessels to the first reagent discharging position, as shown in the middle diagram of Figure 3. Then, the control function 81 discharges cleaning water from the first reagent dispensing probe 208 into the reaction vessel 2011 placed at the first reagent discharging position.

[0077] Thereafter, the control function 81 moves the reaction vessel 2011 clockwise by 41 vessels for each cycle time, as shown in the lower diagram of Fig. 3. By moving the reaction vessel 2011 clockwise by 41 vessels in this manner, the position of the reaction vessel 2011 after four cycle times is shifted one vessel counterclockwise (CCW: counterclockwise) from the sample discharge position, as shown in the lower diagram of Fig. 3. Therefore, in the automatic analyzer 1 in Fig. 3, the reaction vessel 2011 is shifted one vessel counterclockwise every four cycles, and returns to the original sample discharge position after 166 cycles have elapsed since the start of movement.

[0078] Here, in the automated analyzer 1, the first reagent is discharged at the first reagent discharging position and then reacted for a predetermined time, after which the absorbance is measured by the photometric unit 220. Therefore, the reaction vessel 2011 moves on the reaction disk 201 for the reaction time. That is, the reaction vessel 2011 rotates multiple times and passes through the photometric unit 220 multiple times. For example, if the cycle time is "4.5 seconds" and the reaction time is "10 minutes (600 seconds)", the reaction vessel 2011 passes through the photometric unit 220 every four cycles, and therefore the reaction vessel 2011 passes through the photometric unit 220 33 times, "600 / 18 (= 4.5 × 4) = 33.333".

[0079] Therefore, the control function 81 can collect water blank data 33 times by controlling the photometry to be performed every time the reaction vessel 2011 into which cleaning water has been dispensed passes through the photometry unit 220. After that, the control function 81 cleans the reaction vessel 2011 after measurement in the cleaning unit 230 before the reaction vessel 2011 makes one rotation and returns to the sample discharge position, and collects cell blank data for the reaction vessel 2011.

[0080] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the cleaning water of the first reagent dispensing probe 208 is used as the water for collecting water blank data has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the cleaning water of the sample dispensing probe 206 or the cleaning water of the second reagent dispensing probe 210 may be used. However, from the viewpoint of the amount of water required to collect water blank data and the number of measurements, it is desirable to use the cleaning water of the first reagent dispensing probe 208. That is, in the case of the cleaning water of the sample dispensing probe 206, the amount of water discharged per measurement is small, so it takes time to ensure a sufficient amount of water for measurement. Furthermore, when the cleaning water of the second reagent dispensing probe 210 is used, the number of subsequent measurements is reduced compared to when the first reagent dispensing probe 208 is used.

[0081] As described above, during measurement, the control function 81 discharges cleaning water into reaction vessels 2011 that are not used for sample measurement, and collects water blank data. Therefore, as shown in the lower diagram of Figure 4, the reaction vessels 2011 in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment are not empty (empty cells in the diagram) during measurement, and all reaction vessels 2011 are filled with either sample, detergent, or water. Note that the state shown in the lower diagram of Figure 4 does not include the case where there are reaction vessels 2011 that have not yet been cleaned, such as immediately after the start of measurement.

[0082] The control function 81 calculates water blank data by subtracting the cell blank data from 33 photometric values ​​obtained by measuring the photometry of the reaction vessel 2011 into which the cleaning water has been dispensed 33 times. The control function 81 then stores the calculated 33 points of water blank data in the memory circuit 7 in association with the ID of the reaction vessel 2011.

[0083] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing an example of a water blank data retention table according to the first embodiment. Here, Fig. 5A shows a retention table that retains the latest water blank data for each reaction vessel 2011. Also, Fig. 5B shows a retention table that retains the history of water blank data for a specific reaction vessel 2011.

[0084] For example, the memory circuitry 7 stores the water blank data collected by the control function 81 in a storage table shown in Fig. 5A. That is, as shown in Fig. 5A, the memory circuitry 7 stores a storage table in which the "water blank update date and time," "absorbance," "cell blank," and "measurement usage count" are associated with the "reaction vessel number" indicating the ID of the reaction vessel 2011. The storage table of Fig. 5A stored in the memory circuitry 7 is updated with the latest data for the corresponding reaction vessel 2011 each time water blank data is collected.

[0085] Here, "Water Blank Update Date and Time" in FIG. 5A indicates the most recent update date and time of the water blank data. Also, "Absorbance" in FIG. 5A indicates all absorbance values ​​(e.g., 33 absorbance values) measured when collecting the water blank data. Here, as shown in FIG. 5A, the absorbance in the retention table can also include a coefficient of variation "CV." In such a case, the control function 81 calculates the coefficient of variation based on the collected multiple absorbance values.

[0086] In addition, "Cell Blank" in Fig. 5A indicates the cell blank data collected after cleaning, and "Measurement Number" in Fig. 5A indicates the number of times the cell was used to measure a sample after the most recent water blank data was collected.

[0087] Furthermore, for example, the memory circuitry 7 stores the water blank data collected by the control function 81 in a storage table shown in Fig. 5B. As an example, as shown in Fig. 5B, the memory circuitry 7 stores a storage table in which the "water blank update date and time," "absorbance," "cell blank," and "measurement usage count" are associated with each other for the reaction vessel 2011 with "reaction vessel number: 1." The latest data is added to the storage table of Fig. 5B stored in the memory circuitry 7 each time water blank data for the corresponding reaction vessel 2011 is collected.

[0088] Here, the "Water Blank Update Date and Time" in FIG. 5B indicates the latest update date and time of the water blank data. Also, the "Absorbance" in FIG. 5B indicates all absorbance values ​​(e.g., 33 absorbance values) measured when collecting the water blank data. Here, as shown in FIG. 5B, the absorbance in the retention table can also include a coefficient of variation "CV." In such a case, the control function 81 calculates the coefficient of variation based on the collected multiple absorbance values.

[0089] In addition, "Cell Blank" in Fig. 5B indicates the cell blank data collected after cleaning, and "Measurement Number" in Fig. 5B indicates the number of times the cell was used to measure a sample after the most recent water blank data was collected.

[0090] The display control function 83 controls the display of information related to the collected water blank data. For example, the display control function 83 displays the collected water blank data for all of the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 in at least one of a list and a graph. Furthermore, for example, the display control function 83 displays the history of water blank data collected in a specific reaction vessel among the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 in at least one of a list and a graph.

[0091] Here, as a display of the list, for example, the display control function 83 can display the holding tables shown in Figures 5A and 5B on the display 5. Note that the display control function 83 can also extract data from the holding tables shown in Figures 5A and 5B and display only the extracted data in a list. Note that the extracted data may be predetermined or may be arbitrarily selected by the user.

[0092] As for the display of a graph, for example, the display control function 83 can display the graphs shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B on the display 5. FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing an example of a graph display of water blank data according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the display control function 83 generates a graph in which the vertical axis indicates absorbance and the horizontal axis indicates photometric points, and displays the graph on the display 5. That is, the display control function 83 acquires the latest 33 points of water blank data for a specific reaction vessel 2011, and generates and displays the graph shown in FIG. 6A using the acquired water blank data. For example, the display control function 83 generates and displays the graph shown in FIG. 6A for the reaction vessel 2011 specified by the user via the input interface 4.

[0093] 6B, the display control function 83 can generate a three-dimensional graph showing the latest water blank data of all reaction vessels 2011 and display it on the display 5. That is, the display control function 83 generates a graph showing the ID of the reaction vessel 2011 on the first axis (horizontal axis), the photometric point on the second axis (depth axis), and the absorbance on the third axis (height axis), and displays it on the display 5.

[0094] Here, because the water blank data measures the absorbance of water, its values ​​are theoretically all constant and close to +0. Therefore, if the water blank data values ​​vary or an unnatural offset occurs, it can be determined that there may be an abnormality in the photometry system. For example, as shown in area a1 in Figure 6B, if the absorbance of the water blank data is negative at all photometry points, it can be inferred that the cell blank data values ​​are significantly lower than the photometry values ​​at each photometry point (P1 to P33). In other words, this indicates that the cell blank data measurement failed. If multiple reaction vessels 2011 like this appear frequently, it is suspected that the cleaning system for the reaction vessels 2011 is not functioning properly. Furthermore, if this situation occurs frequently only in a specific reaction vessel 2011, it is suspected that the reaction vessel 2011 in question is scratched or heavily soiled.

[0095] 6B occurs frequently only in a specific reaction vessel 2011, or the CV value of a specific reaction vessel 2011 is very high, it is suspected that there is a problem with that reaction vessel 2011. On the other hand, if the above situation occurs in multiple reaction vessels 2011, it is suspected that the light source is deteriorated, that there is an abnormality in the holding mechanism of the reaction disk 201, or that the solution filling the thermostatic chamber is dirty, etc.

[0096] Furthermore, for example, if the above situation occurs only in a plurality of consecutive reaction vessels 2011, it is suspected that the unit including the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 has not been properly set on the reaction disk 201. Furthermore, if noise such as that shown in region a2 is observed in a small number of photometric points (for example, one point) among the plurality of photometric points, the influence of dust, air bubbles, etc. may be considered.

[0097] As described above, the display control function 83 can display information about the water blank data, information about the cell blank data, and the like in the form of a list, graph, or the like. Here, the display control function 83 not only displays this information, but can also perform display control, such as highlighting information that suggests the occurrence of an abnormality. For example, the display control function 83 can issue an error notification for a reaction vessel 2011 whose cell blank value is not within a predetermined range. Furthermore, for example, the display control function 83 can color-code a reaction vessel 2011 that suggests the occurrence of an abnormality in a list display such as FIG. 5A. Furthermore, for example, the display control function 83 can change the color of the regions a1 and a2 in the right graph display such as FIG. 6B.

[0098] Next, the processing of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figures 7 and 8 are flowcharts for explaining the processing procedure of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. Here, Figure 8 is a flowchart for explaining the details of the processing in step S102 in Figure 7.

[0099] Steps S101 to S108 shown in FIG. 7 and steps S10201 to S10210 shown in FIG. 8 are steps that are realized by the processing circuitry 8 reading out a program corresponding to the control function 81 from the storage circuitry 7 and executing it.

[0100] 7, in the automatic analyzer 1, the processing circuitry 8 first determines whether or not measurement has started (step S101). For example, the processing circuitry 8 determines whether or not a measurement start button or the like has been pressed via the input interface 4, thereby determining whether or not measurement has started. If it is determined that measurement has started (Yes in step S101), the processing circuitry 8 determines the use of the reaction vessel 2011 placed at the sample discharge position (step S102). Note that the automatic analyzer 1 is in a standby state until measurement starts (No in step S101).

[0101] Next, the processing circuit 8 determines whether the determined use is for a water blank (step S103). If the use is for a water blank (Yes at step S103), the processing circuit 8 dispenses water into the reaction vessel 2011 (step S104) and controls the photometry unit 220 to measure the photometry every time the reaction vessel 2011 passes by (step S105).

[0102] Then, the processing circuitry 8 determines whether the reaction vessel 2011 has reached the photometry end position (step S106). For example, the processing circuitry 8 determines whether the reaction vessel 2011 has reached the photometry end position by determining whether the reaction vessel 2011 has reached the cleaning unit 230. Here, if the reaction vessel 2011 has not reached the photometry end position (No in step S106), the processing circuitry 8 performs photometry when the reaction vessel 2011 passes the photometry unit 220.

[0103] On the other hand, if the reaction vessel 2011 has reached the photometry end position (Yes in step S106), the processing circuitry 8 determines whether the measurement has ended (step S107). For example, the processing circuitry 8 determines whether the measurement has ended by determining whether a measurement end button or the like has been pressed via the input interface 4.

[0104] If the measurement has not yet been completed (No in step S107), the processing circuitry 8 returns to step S102 and determines the use of the reaction vessel 2011. On the other hand, if the measurement has been completed (No in step S107), the processing circuitry 8 ends the process. Note that, in step s103, if the reaction vessel 2011 is not for use as a water blank (No in step S103), the processing circuitry 8 performs cell blank measurement, sample measurement, or cleaning according to the determined use (step S108).

[0105] Next, the details of the process in step S102 will be described. For example, in the automatic analyzer 1, as shown in Fig. 8, first, the processing circuitry 8 determines whether or not a cell blank value has been measured for the reaction vessel 2011 placed at the sample discharge position (step S10201). Here, if the cell blank value has not been measured (No at step S10201), the processing circuitry 8 sets no dispensing to the reaction vessel 2011 (step S10202).

[0106] On the other hand, if the cell blank value has been measured (Yes at step S10201), the processing circuit 8 determines whether the cell blank value is within a predetermined range (step S10203). If the cell blank value is not within the predetermined range (No at step S10203), the processing circuit 8 issues an error notification of a reaction vessel abnormality (step S10204) and sets a cleaning water amount in the reaction vessel 2011 (step S10209).

[0107] On the other hand, if the cell blank value is within the predetermined range (Yes at step S10203), the processing circuit 8 determines whether or not washing of the reaction vessel 2011 is necessary (step S10205). If washing of the reaction vessel 2011 is necessary (Yes at step S10205), the processing circuit 8 sets detergent dispensing to the reaction vessel 2011 (step S10206).

[0108] On the other hand, if the reaction vessel 2011 does not need to be cleaned (step S10205: No), the processing circuit 8 determines whether or not there is a measurement request (step S10207). If there is no measurement request (step S10207: No), the processing circuit 8 sets a cleaning water amount in the reaction vessel 2011 (step S10209).

[0109] On the other hand, if there is a measurement request (Yes in step S10207), the processing circuitry 8 determines whether or not it is necessary to reacquire water blank data (step S10208). For example, the processing circuitry 8 determines whether or not it is necessary to reacquire water blank data by determining whether or not the various conditions described above are met. Here, if it is necessary to reacquire water blank data (Yes in step S10208), the processing circuitry 8 sets a cleaning water injection in the reaction vessel 2011 (step S10209). On the other hand, if it is not necessary to reacquire water blank data (No in step S10208), the processing circuitry 8 sets a sample measurement in the reaction vessel 2011 (step S10210).

[0110] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the reaction disk 201 movably holds a plurality of reaction vessels 2011. The sample dispensing probe 206 dispenses a sample into the reaction vessel 2011. The first reagent dispensing probe 208 dispenses a reagent into the reaction vessel 2011. The photometry unit 220 irradiates the reaction vessel 2011 with light and detects the transmitted light. The memory circuitry 7 stores the test order. The control function 81 controls the reaction disk 201, the sample dispensing probe 206, and the first reagent dispensing probe 208 based on the test order. The control function 81 determines the reaction vessel 2011 in which the sample will be measured based on the test order, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 in which the sample will not be measured to dispense water to collect water blank data during the sample measurement. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to automatically collect water blank data for all reaction vessels without affecting the measurement process.

[0111] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 determines the reaction vessel 2011 in which sample measurement will be performed based on the usage status of the reaction vessel 2011 or the measurement results using the reaction vessel 2011, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 in which sample measurement will not be performed to dispense water and collect water blank data. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to automatically collect water blank data for reaction vessels 2011 that require collection of water blank data, while prioritizing sample measurement.

[0112] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 performs control so that water blank data is collected without measuring the sample for the reaction vessel 2011 for which collection of water blank data has not been performed for a predetermined period of time. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to automatically collect water blank data for all reaction vessels 2011.

[0113] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 has a determination function for determining whether the collected water blank data is normal or abnormal, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which the water blank data is determined to be abnormal to not perform sample measurement and to collect water blank data. For example, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which the variation in the collected water blank data exceeds a predetermined range to not perform sample measurement and to collect water blank data. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to perform a water blank test again for a reaction vessel 2011 that may be abnormal, without using it for sample measurement.

[0114] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 determines whether the collection of cell blank data has been successful based on the collected water blank data, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which the collection of cell blank data has failed to collect so that the sample measurement is not performed and the water blank data is collected. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to detect the reaction vessel 2011 for which the collection of cell blank data has failed.

[0115] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 performs control so that water blank data is collected without measuring the sample for a reaction vessel 2011 in which the number of sample measurements after collection of water blank data has exceeded a predetermined number. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to automatically collect water blank data for a reaction vessel 2011 in which dirt may have accumulated.

[0116] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 performs control so that water blank data is collected without measuring the sample for the reaction vessel 2011 into which a predetermined reagent has been dispensed. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to automatically collect water blank data for the reaction vessel 2011 that may be contaminated.

[0117] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 determines whether the sample measurement results are abnormal, and controls the reaction vessel 2011 in which the sample measurement results are determined to be abnormal to not perform sample measurement and to collect water blank data. Therefore, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to determine whether the abnormality in the sample measurement results is caused by the device.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the control function 81 controls the reaction vessel 2011 for which the collected cell blank data is outside a predetermined range so that sample measurement is not performed and water blank data is collected instead. Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to determine the cause of an abnormality in the cell blank data. For example, the automatic analyzer 1 makes it possible to detect the adhesion of dirt to the reaction vessel 2011.

[0119] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the display control function 83 controls the display of information related to the collected water blank data. Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment provides information to the user, enabling the user to understand the status of the automatic analyzer 1.

[0120] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the display control function 83 displays the collected water blank data in at least one of a list and a graph for all of the multiple reaction vessels 2011. Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to grasp the status of all of the reaction vessels 2011 in the automatic analyzer 1.

[0121] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the display control function 83 displays, in at least one of a list and a graph, the history of water blank data collected in a specific reaction vessel 2011 among the multiple reaction vessels 2011. Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to grasp in detail the state of a specific reaction vessel 2011 in the automatic analyzer 1.

[0122] In the first embodiment described above, the measurement of the sample may be postponed and the collection of water blank data may be started depending on the determination result of the use of the reaction container 2011. In such a case, the automated analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment may perform the following process to notify the user that the measurement is postponed. For example, when the control function 81 postpones the start of the sample measurement and controls the start of the collection of water blank data, it causes the display control function 83 to display that the start of the sample measurement has been postponed.

[0123] (Other embodiments) In addition to the above-described embodiments, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms.

[0124] For example, in the above embodiment, the automatic analyzer 10 is described as including an input interface 4, a display 5, a printer 6, a memory circuit 7, and a processing circuit 8, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the functions of the input interface 4, the display 5, the printer 6, the memory circuit 7, and the processing circuit 8 can be replaced by the functions of an information processing device such as a personal computer or a workstation and an external printer connected to the automatic analyzer 1. For example, when an information processing device and an external printer are connected to the automatic analyzer 1, the functions of the input interface 4, the display 5, the printer 6, the memory circuit 7, and the processing circuit 8 can be replaced by the input interface, the display, the memory circuit, and the processing circuit of the information processing device, respectively, and the function of the printer 6 can be replaced by the external printer. Furthermore, when the functions of the information processing device and the external printer are replaced, the automatic analyzer 1 does not necessarily have to include the input interface 4, the display 5, the printer 6, the memory circuit 7, and the processing circuit 8.

[0125] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. Note that instead of storing the program in the memory circuit 7, the program may be directly embedded in the processor circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its function. Furthermore, multiple components in each figure may be integrated into a single processor to realize its function.

[0126] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional units and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown, and all or part of each device can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, all or any part of the processing functions performed by each device can be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0127] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using a known method.In addition, the information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified.

[0128] The automatic analysis method described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a prepared control program on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This control program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. This control program can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, flexible disk (FD), CD-ROM, MO, or DVD, and executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer.

[0129] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, water blank data for all reaction vessels can be collected automatically without affecting the measurement process.

[0130] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1 Automatic analyzer 7 Memory circuit 81 Control Functions 83 Display control function 201 Reaction Disk 206 Sample Dispensing Probe 208 First reagent dispensing probe 220 photometric unit

Claims

1. A reaction vessel moving means for movably holding a plurality of reaction vessels by alternately rotating and stopping at a predetermined angle at a predetermined time interval; A first dispensing means for dispensing a sample into the reaction vessel; A second dispensing means for dispensing a reagent into the reaction vessel; A detection means for irradiating the reaction vessel with light and detecting the transmitted light; A storage means for storing an inspection order; an automatic analyzer including a control unit that controls the reaction container moving unit, the first aliquot dispensing unit, and the second aliquot dispensing unit based on the test order, The control means determines which reaction vessels will measure the sample and which will not measure the sample depending on whether or not a measurement request has been made based on the test order, and controls the automatic analyzer to dispense water into the determined reaction vessels that will not measure the sample during the measurement of the sample, thereby collecting water blank data.

2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the control means determines which reaction vessels will measure the sample and which will not measure the sample based on the usage status of the reaction vessels or the measurement results using the reaction vessels, and controls the reaction vessels not to measure the sample by dispensing water into the reaction vessels not to measure the sample, thereby collecting water blank data.

3. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means performs control so as not to measure the sample in a reaction vessel for which collection of the water blank data has not been performed for a predetermined period of time, and to collect the water blank data.

4. 3. The automated analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means includes a determination means for determining whether the collected water blank data is normal or abnormal, and for a reaction vessel for which the water blank data is determined to be abnormal, the control means controls so as not to perform measurement of the sample and to collect the water blank data.

5. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means determines whether or not collection of cell blank data has been successful based on the collected water blank data, and controls the reaction vessel for which collection of the cell blank data has failed to be performed so as not to measure the sample and to collect the water blank data.

6. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls so that, for a reaction vessel in which the number of measurements of the sample after collection of the water blank data has exceeded a predetermined number, the measurement of the sample is not performed and the water blank data is collected.

7. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls the reaction vessel into which a predetermined reagent has been dispensed so as not to measure the sample and to collect the water blank data.

8. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means determines whether or not the measurement result of the sample is abnormal, and for a reaction vessel for which the measurement result of the sample is determined to be abnormal, controls the reaction vessel not to measure the sample and to collect the water blank data.

9. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the control means performs control so as not to measure the specimen in a reaction vessel for which collected cell blank data exceeds a predetermined range, and to collect the water blank data.

10. 10. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, further comprising a display control means for controlling the display of information relating to the collected water blank data.

11. The automated analyzer according to claim 10 , wherein the display control means displays the collected water blank data for all of the plurality of reaction vessels in at least one of a list and a graph.

12. The automatic analyzer according to claim 10 , wherein the display control means displays a history of the water blank data collected in a predetermined reaction vessel among the plurality of reaction vessels in at least one of a list and a graph.

13. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the control means, when controlling to postpone the start of measurement of the sample while starting collection of water blank data, causes the display control means to display that the start of measurement of the sample has been postponed.

Images